THURSDAY 28TH SEPTEMBER 2023

Afreximbank Taps Oil Traders to Finance

$3bn

Emmanuel Addeh and Peter Uzoho with agency report

The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) is currently tapping some oil traders to enable the

Cash-for-crude Loan to NNPC

financing of the $3 billion emergency cash-for-crude oil repayment loan to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC), a loan that was adjudged central to the country's efforts to support the

falling naira.

Nigeria's currency has continued its downward spiral with the naira hitting an all-time low of N1,000 to the dollar on the black market on Tuesday.

NNPC had on August 16, 2023 announced that it had secured a $3 billion emergency crude oil repayment loan from the Afreximbank with both parties signing a commitment letter and term sheet for the loan

to help in stabilising the country’s volatile foreign exchange market.

At the signing, which took place at the bank’s headquarters in Cairo, Egypt, NNPC had stated that the deal would provide some

immediate disbursement that would enable the company to support the federal government in its ongoing fiscal and monetary policy reforms

Continued on page 14

Eid-el-Maulud: Abbas, Minister, Obi, Governors, PDP, Preach Peace... Page 6

www.thisdaylive.com

Wike Sacks Nine fCTA MDs, ES fCT Primary Healthcare board, Others... Page 14

NiMet Predicts 48-hour Heavy Rainfall in Bayelsa, Kogi, Anambra, 22 Others

Katsina, Kano, Jigawa, Bauchi, Gombe, Plateau, Borno, Adamawa, Taraba, Kaduna, Niger, Nasarawa, Enugu, Edo, Delta, Abia, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Ebonyi, Kwara, Benue State, FCT

affected

Abia, Anambra, Akwa Ibom,

Continued on page 14

Ganduje: Kwankwaso Will Remain Serial Loser in Presidential Elections

deceiving people

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

National Chairman of the ruling

All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, has said his former boss and presidential candidate of New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, would remain a serial loser in presidential contests because he is always driven by personal ambition.

Ganduje spoke in Abuja, Tuesday night, when he received the Bauchi State NNPP governorship candidate in the 2023 general election, Senator Haliru Jika, who formally returned to APC during an event at the national secretariat of the party.

In a symbolic act to mark the political shift, Ganduje, while receiving Jika and his group into APC, removed the characteristic red cap of the Kwankwasiyya group and replaced it with President Bola Tinubu’s signature cap bearing the unbroken chain insignia.

Alleging that Kwankwaso’s personal ambition had seen him

Continued on page 14

IMPrOVED SECUrITy TO bOOST INVESTOrS' CONfIDENCE...

National President of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Dele Kelvin Oye, Esq. (right) with the Minister of Defence, Alh Badaru Abubakar, during Oye’s visit to the Defence Minister, at the Ministry’s Headquarters in Abuja...recently

The Kwankwasiyya head, who wears a red cap, is the person, who prefers to be a king in hell than be a servant in paradise. He specialises in

SANWO-OLU INSPECTS RED LINE RAIL INFRASTRUCTURE...

Access Bank Establishes Dedicated

Desk to Enhance Agric Lending Says it has invested over N200bn in agro businesses

Dike Onwuamaeze

Access Bank Plc has launched a dedicated Agriculture Desk that would support agribusiness and boost food security in Nigeria as part of its commitment to the realisation of “From Farm to Table” policy of the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN). The Agriculture Desk, which was designed to serve as a specialised unit within the bank, would offer financial and advisory services and provide support to prospective and existing operators in the Nigerian agribusiness value chain.

The bank said the desk would also provide services in the areas of input and supply, primary production, storage, processing, marketing and mechanised agriculture among others in a way that would facilitate the actualisation of the “From Farm to Table” policy thrust of the CBN, which it stressed aligns with its vision of contributing to the country’s achievement of sustainable food security.

Speaking on Tuesday, during a press conference that marked the unveiling of the Agriculture Desk at the Access Towers, the Executive Director, Commercial Banking, Ms. Hadiza Ambursa, said, “the Agriculture Desk is not

only about financing. It is about driving transformational change within the agricultural landscape.”

“Our commitment extends beyond monetary support to encompass capacity building, technology adoption, and market access for our clients,” she added.

Ambursa, added that “the Agriculture Desk's impressive track record has been built on partnerships with key stakeholders, including government agencies, international organisations, and industry associations. This collaborative approach has reinforced our reputation as a reliable driver of growth in Nigeria's agricultural sector.”

She said Access Bank has positively contributed to the nation’s quest to achieve self-sustained food security.

“So far, the bank’s investment in agribusiness is over N200 billion, which has benefitted over 10,000 agribusinesses, across Small Holder Farms (SHFs), Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), organised farmer associations/cooperatives and corporates who are financed under bank’s various product and government schemes.

“The support for these projects has had impacts such as increase in food security, job creation, growth in customers’ businesses and increased

revenue,” she added. Access Bank said with its steadfast commitment to sustainable agricultural business and strategic stakeholders’ partnerships, it has steered Nigeria and the African continent toward greater selfsufficiency in food production and global prominence.

It further noted that by strategically aligning its services with the evolving needs in the agricultural industry, Access Bank has enhanced

its capacity to provide tailored financial solutions that address the unique challenges faced by farmers, agribusinesses and other stakeholders in the value chain with the value addition services, including provision of financial and advisory services, market linkages to support sales, capacity building with special focus on women and youth), stakeholders’ engagement, project monitoring and reporting, just to name a few.

Access Bank also assured its clients that its Agriculture desk would offer seamless and simplified process for accessibility of its services within two weeks.

Assessing these services, it said, would begin with, “being our customer, submit loan application and documentations such as feasibility report, acceptable credit checks and other others, then the loan request is reviewed, farm / factory / site inspection is done. If a customer

meets all loan requirements, upon receipt of complete documentation and depending on the amount, the process takes between one to two weeks.

“Also, the loan tenor is aligned with project gestation period and customer cash flow and repayment plan allows monthly or quarterly repayment in line with the customer’s cashflow while our interest rate is highly competitive and in line with market realities.

Mark Zuckerberg Unveils Quest 3, Unfolds Other Innovations By Meta

Obinna Chima

The Chief Executive Officer of Meta, Mark Zuckerberg, yesterday launched the new improved Meta virtual reality headset, the Quest 3, just as he outlined innovations by the technology company as it strives to remain ahead of its peers.

Speaking at the Meta Connect event at the company’s head office at Menlo Park, California, pointed

out that the Quest 3, offers improved performance, immersive new mixedreality features and a sleeker, more comfortable design.

With its cost put at $499 and shipping expected to commence from October 10, Zuckerberg said: “We are incredibly proud to introduce Quest 3. Quest 3 is the most powerful headset that we have ever shipped and it allows you to blend the digital and the physical

Lokpobiri, Alake Listed as Key Speakers as Angola Embassy Hosts Nigeria Business Community

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri and the Minister of Solid Mineral Resources, Dele Alake, have accepted to give key notes addresses at the first Angolan Embassy dinner for business community in Nigeria. This initiative was part of efforts to enhance business relationship between both countries.

The two ministers have accepted to honour the invitation extended to them by the Angola ambassador to Nigeria, Dr. Jose Bamoquina Zau.

President Ahmed Tinubu and his Angolan counterpart Joao Manuel, on the sidelines of the just concluded United Nations 78th General Assembly in New York, had explored

opportunities on how to solidify relationships between the two nations.

Sequel to the meeting, the Angola embassy in Nigeria had said it would host Nigeria's business community in October in Abuja

The new Angolan Ambassador to Nigeria, Zau, in a letter to Lokpobiri, explained that the embassy was preparing to host an interactive Diplomatic dinner between business leaders in Nigeria and their counterparts coming from Angola

The new Angolan ambassador said Angola and Nigeria share very similar stories with the abundance of natural resources available to both nations and the interactive section would be an opportunity for the industry players to share experiences and explore business partnerships.

According to the Angolan Embassy in Abuja, the interactive session which would be held at the Transcorp Hilton on October 19, would be under the theme of "Introducing a New Era of Sustainable Business Partnership."

Zau, said that top Angolan officials expected at the Business dinner "are Senior Executives from the Public Sector, the National Bank/of Angola, Private Bankers, State and Private Companies and the Angolan Nigeria Chamber of Commerce and Industry while the Nigeria guests expected are Governors, Bankers, Oil and Gas executives and the extractive industry players"

The Embassy stated that/business dinner was also an opportunity for the new Ambassador to be

introduced to the Nigeria business community as well as avail both countries a new vista of business relationships.

The letter signed by the new Angolan ambassador added: "With the presence of all these Executives from Angola and the sincere dedication of the new Ambassador to this cause, we believe that we are about to witness the birth of a new era: A Sustainable Business Partnership between Angola and Nigeria.

"We therefore humbly request that Your Excellency reserves this date to honour us with your presence and to make a brief remark of about five to Seven minutes at the event.", Zau stated.

The two ministers have accepted the invitation.

world together. You can navigate it with your hands or with brand new precision control designed for work or games. It completely stands alone with battery pack and nothing that can break your head. Quest 3 understands your space and so you can play with the world around you.”

Zuckerberg also introduced an AI personal assistant people could interact with using any of Meta’s messaging apps — along with a smattering of AI characters he called “a bit more fun,” such as “Max the sous chef,” who can help come up with ideas for dinner, or Lily, a “personal editor and writing partner.”

According to him, “These are just a few we have trained, there are a lot more coming.”

He also introduced the next version of Meta’s Ray Ban Stories smart glasses, which let people record video or photos, livestream, listen to music and interact with the Meta AI assistant.

“Smart glasses are the ideal form factor for you to let an AI assistant see what you are seeing and hear what you are hearing,” Zuckerberg said. The glasses will launch Oct. 17 and cost $299.

Speaking further, he told participants at the conference: “We have a whole lot of new experience. We have been on it for a while and I am really very excited to show you what we have been building. At Meta, we are focused on building the future of human connections.

“What that means is that we build products to help people connect with friends, colleagues, families and people we care about, anywhere in the world we actually are. We do this because we believe that strengthens our relationship, helps us bond together, improves our learning, gives us more opportunity.

“One of lives greatest joy is getting to go out, be active and enjoy. But at same time, over the last few decades our industry has been building this incredible digital world. It is funny when people say the digital world is not the real world. Increasingly, the real world is the combination of the physical world that we have and the digital world that we are building.

L-R: Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotoso; Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Hon. Sola Giwa; Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat; Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; ;Managing Director, Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), Mrs. Abimbola Akinajo, and Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Seun Osiyemi, briefing the media during an inspection tour of the Red Line Rail infrastructure in Lagos… yesterday

Mark Zuckerberg

foursquare gospel ChurCh visits oyebanji...

Eid-el-Maulud: Abbas, Ganduje, Obi, Governors, PDP, Preach Peace

Urge Muslims to emulate Holy Prophet, remain tolerant Task wealthy individuals to support the poor

our Correspondents

The Speaker of the House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen and the National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, have urged Muslims to emulate the Holy Prophet, remain tolerant and imbibe the culture of peaceful coexistence.

Also, governors of Ondo State Governor, Mr. Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, Umar Namadi of Jigawa State, Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, Uba Sani of Kaduna, Godwin Obaseki of Edo State, Hyacinth Alia of Benue, Duoye Diri of Bayelsa, and the presidential candidate of Labour Party in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, have urged Muslims across the country to offer prayers for the peace and prosperity of Nigeria on the occasion of Eid-El Maulud.

They all sent their greetings in separate statements yesterday, on this year’s Eid-el-Maulud, which marks the birth of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW).

Abbas, in his statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Musa Krishi, urged Islamic adherents to emulate the Prophet, noting that his life and teachings would continue to inspire more generations to come.

He said the period calls for sober reflection on the life and time of the Holy Prophet, whom he said was the most peace-loving human being to have ever lived on earth.

The Speaker urged not only Muslims but all Nigerians to imbibe virtues such as charity, forgiveness, honesty and patriotism, saying these are some of the qualities that leaders, and followers alike, should have to be able to have peace and progress in their country.

On his part, Ganduje used the occasion to appeal to all Nigerians to continue to support and pray for President Bola Tinubu as he tackles the economic and security challenges besetting the country.

The chairman in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Edwin Olofu, called on Nigerians irrespective of their religions and political leanings to remain tolerant, and imbibe the culture of peaceful coexistence required for the unity and progress of the country.

He noted: "Warmest wishes to you and your loved ones on this day. May Allah fill your heart with lots of joy, peace, and good health.

"Let us also use the occasion to pray for our country and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as he takes

very bold steps to reposition the country on the path of growth and prosperity.

“The APC-led administration needs your support, understanding and indeed sacrifice to end the present economic downturn. This will engender our path to economic revival and rejuvenation of the well-being of all citizens."

Akeredolu Congratulates Muslims, Calls for Unity, Love

Akeredolu, congratulated all Muslims in the state and beyond on the occasion of Eid-El-Maulud, marking the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad.

The Governor said the Eid-ElMaulud was not just a celebration, but an essential moment for introspection, reflection, and a recommitment to the spiritual virtues exemplified by the Holy Prophet Muhammad.

Akeredolu, in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Richard Olatunde, implored the people to imbibe the spirit of Unity, love, patience, tolerance, and perseverance, which are the cornerstones of the Prophet's teachings and life.

"Let us embrace the act of sacrifice and love, as exhibited by the Holy Prophet during his time. His birth represents a gift of love and peace to all of humanity. It is a beacon of hope, and we should use this occasion to show kindness and extend love to one another, as well as work towards the peace and unity of our dear state and nation."

Akeredolu, assured that his administration would continue to prioritise the welfare of the people and the development of the state.

“In the spirit of the Prophet's teachings, we reaffirm our commitment to the pursuit of the greater good for all our citizens. We will ensure that every action taken by our administration is driven by love for our state and the desire to improve the lives of our people.

“Together, we can continue to build an Ondo State that is prosperous, peaceful, and a place where every citizen feels valued and cared for,” the governor said.

Namadi Tasks Wealthy Individuals to Support the Poor

Governor Namadi of Jigawa State urged wealthy individuals to extend their helping hands to the needy in the spirit of the Maulud celebration in the Muslim world.

In his Maulud message signed by his Chief press secretary Hamisu Gumel, said Namadi enjoined the rich to work together to uplift one another by supporting the poor to build the future.

"This is a period for a renewal of commitment to the principles of unity and cooperation in our state, our people must work together to uplift one another, support those in need, and collectively build a brighter future for all."

While underscoring the teaching of Prophet Muhammad, Namadi emphasised the importance of strengthening bonds of brotherhood friendship by showing kindness and respect for all.

“May this Maulud bring peace, happiness, and blessings to all of us. May it remind us of our duty to follow in the footsteps of the Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.) and strive to be the best versions of ourselves"

"Governor Namadi extended his message with prayers for peace, happiness, and blessings for all and a reminder of the duty to follow in the footsteps of the Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.) and strive to be the best versions of ourselves."

“May this Maulud bring peace, happiness, and blessings to all of us. May it remind us of our duty to follow in the footsteps of the Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.) and strive to be the best versions of ourselves" the statement added.

Abiodun Urges Prayer for Nigeria

Abiodun of Ogun Stateh urged Muslims across the country to offer prayers for the peace and prosperity of Nigeria on the occasion of Eid-El Maulud.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Lekan Adeniran, the governor emphasised the need for Nigerians to come together and pray for the country's progress, unity and development.

Abiodun also called on Muslims to emulate the virtues of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), which include love, tolerance, peace, and humility.

He urged Muslims to use the occasion of Eid-El Maulud to reflect on the teachings of the Prophet and strive to live a life of righteousness and selflessness.

The governor expressed his commitment to providing good and effective governance to the people of Ogun State as he called on Muslims to continue to support his administration and pray for its success.

PDP, Peter Obi Preach Peace, Unity

Peter Obi and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) celebrated with Nigerians, especially the Muslim Ummah on the occasion of the Eid-el Maulud, urging them to use the day for intensive and fervent prayers to the Almighty Allah for His divine intervention in the affairs of the Nation.

In a statement by the National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, the PDP called on Nigerians to use the occasion to reinforce the bond of unity, love and respect for one another, especially at this critical time in the life of the nation.

According to the spokesman of the PDP, "Eid-el Maulud, the celebration of the birth of Holy Prophet Mohammed (SAW), offers humanity an anchor in God’s love and willingness to guide mankind through obedience to His Will, righteousness, peace and eternal redemption."

The PDP therefore called on Nigerians, especially those holding sensitive public offices and whose decisions were central to the entrenchment of Justice, Equity and the Rule of Law in Nigeria, to use the occasion to imbibe the fear of God in line with the teachings of the Holy Prophet, as this is the only to guarantee peace and stability in the polity.

Ologunagba added, "Such officials must note that positions are given by the Almighty Allah and that all their actions will be accounted for before Him."

Likewise, Obi sent a message of goodwill and felicitation to Muslims as they celebrate the birthday of Holy Prophet Mohammed.

In a message, he signed, Obi asked Muslims to use the period to reflect and seek Prophet Mohammed's intercession on the many challenges of the country.

''I heartily Felicitate all the Muslim Faithful in Nigeria, as they celebrate the Eid-El Maulud, to honor the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad.

“The ceremony once again provides us an opportunity for sober reflections as we seek the prophet's intercessions for divine intervention on the many challenges facing our nation on all fronts.

“Nigeria has continued to contend with many challenges, some of which are obvious disunity among the people, extreme poverty, a high rate of unemployment, and a high level of insecurity. Let us, today, pray for

lasting peace in our nation, and in keeping with the Holy Prophet's teachings, continually extend brotherly love to our countrymen and women, especially the poor, in our midst irrespective of their tribe or religious beliefs", he stated

The former Anambra state Governor finally wished all the Muslim Faithful a Happy Eid el Maulud celebration.

Sani Pledges Support for Peace Commission to Resolve Age-long Conflicts

Kaduna Governor, Sani, said his administration would provide the required support for the State’s Peace Commission to resolve age-long conflicts.

In a statement marking Eid-ElMaulud celebrations, the governor said his administration would continue to encourage interfaith dialogue to promote peace in the state.

Sani called on muslims to pray for peace and progress in the country.

He said the Eid-El-Maulud celebration was an opportunity for citizens to imbibe the virtues of the Holy Prophet Mohammed in order to heal communities and rebuild the badly damaged local economy.

He said the state government has been engaging with security agencies and boosting the capacity of the Kaduna Vigilance Service (KADVS) to fight against the security challenges.

“We thank the Almighty Allah for His blessings, protection, and guidance. We glorify Him for being our shield in these difficult and challenging times”, the statement reads.

“This is our first Eid-El-Maulud celebration since assuming office on May 29, 2023. We have settled down to the business of governance.

“We have committed ourselves fully to rebuilding trust in our ravaged and divided communities.

“Our people deserve peace and a harmonious environment so that they can rebuild their lives and contribute to the economic development of our dear state”.

According to him, “This year’s Eid-El-Maulud celebration is an opportunity for our citizens to imbibe the virtues of the Holy Prophet Mohammed (peace be upon him) to heal our communities and rebuild our badly damaged local economies.

“Our administration will continue to encourage interfaith dialogue. We

shall give the Kaduna State Peace Commission all the support it needs to help resolve age-long conflicts and forge understanding among our people.”

Alia, Benue Muslim Leaders Call for Peace, Religious Tolerance

Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State called on the Muslim ummah in Nigeria to imbibe the exemplary leadership of the Holy Prophet Mohammed by promoting peaceful co-existence among the various segments of the society.

The governor who sent out greetings to Muslims in the state in a press release by his Press Secretary, Mr. Tersoo Kula, urged them to shun ethnic, political and religious differences and work towards building a safer and better Benue and Nigeria in general.

Similarly, leader of the Hausa community in Benue Alhaji Garba Baba in an interaction with journalists in his office along Lafia road, North Bank, Makurdi, also called on all Muslims to imbibe the virtues of peace and pray for leaders.

Baba, said it was only through patience and tolerance that the religious and cultural diversity of Nigeria could be turned to advantage.

In his own message, governor Alia charged the Muslim community that as they “rejoice in the celebration of the birth of Prophet Mohammed, be mindful of the need to pray for peace and unity amongst the citizens, which form the fulcrum for the progress of our dear Benue State and nation.

“You are once again reminded of the need to show love and be at peace with one another for the development and progress of our dear state and country," he said.

Also, a popular politician in the state Alhaji Dahiru Shaibu called on Benue people and Nigerians to support Governor Alia and Bola Ahmed Tinubu to succeed as governor and president of the country.

Obaseki Urges Peaceful Co-existence

Godwin Obaseki felicitated Muslims on the celebration of the Eid-el Maulud, urging for peaceful co-existence.

The governor in a statement, said “I celebrate with the Muslim faithful on the occasion of the commemoration of the birth of Prophet

The General Overseer, Foursquare Gospel Church, Rev. Sam Aboyeji (left) with Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, during a courtesy visit to the Governor’s Office, Ado-Ekiti… on Tuesday

AnnuAl MEEtinG of thE WorlD fEDErAtion of ExchAnGEs (WfE)...

L–R:Global

Tinubu Rejoices with Gbenga Komolafe at 60

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu has sent warm greetings to the Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Upstream Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Engineer Gbenga Komolafe on his 60th birthday, which was on September 26, 2023.

The president felicitated the engineer and reputable technocrat in the oil industry who has served the nation meritoriously in various capacities.

The president, in a statement issued yesterday by his Media Adviser, Ajuri Ngelale, joined family, friends and associates of Komolafe to celebrate the former banker for attaining the Diamond Age and his many years of dedicated service to the nation in the Oil and Gas sector at various levels.

Tinubu, affirmed that Komolafe's deep knowledge of the oil and gas sector, and his other contributions in engineering, economy and human resource management were highly

appreciated and would keep him relevant as the nation strives for excellent service delivery and better living standard for her citizens.

The president prayed for more years of greater accomplishments for Komolafe and wished him good health and continued service to the nation.

Meanwhile, the NUPRC has cancelled a surprise thanksgiving service and the reception planned for him by his family and friends after he got wind of it.

While thanking the organisers

for their thoughts and prayers, he said the mood of the country at this time does not allow for any such celebrations and urges everyone to work and pray for Nigeria.

Since 2021 when he was appointed the CEO of NUPRC, Komolafe, has been taking gradual, but steady steps towards reforming the commission in line with his promise when he assumed office.

He has shown that he is a round peg in a round hole as he continues to take critical decisions to ensure that NUPRC’s mandates were achieved.

A Fellow of Nigerian Society of Engineers, Council of Registered Engineers of Nigeria and member of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Komolafe’s expertise as a seasoned engineer and lawyer have no doubt been instrumental in giving the regulatory body the needed impetus to achieve its mandate.

In line with the Vision of the NUPRC which is ‘To be Africa’s Leading Regulator’; and the Mission Statement which is ‘Promoting Sustainable Value Creation from Nigeria’s Petroleum Resources

for Shared Prosperity,’ the Commission under his leadership has taken regulatory steps to attract investments in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, increasing oil and gas production, enhancing peace in Host Communities in line with the PIA, 2021, reducing the unit cost per barrel of crude oil, achieving operational efficiency and enhancing transparency in hydrocarbon accounting among others. He has shown that he is a round peg in a round hole in all his policy actions.

LASG, Knowledge Exchange Centre Target

1,500

Youths with Employability Skills

The Lagos State Government (LASG) has gone into partnership with Knowledge Exchange Centre (KEC) to empower over 1500 Lagos youths with employability skills. The move according to both parties was aimed at developing their employability skills as well as increasing their chances of securing employment opportunities.

Speaking on the sidelines of a job fair organised by the Lagos State Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment, tagged "Connecting youths with job opportunities," the Executive Secretary, Knowledge Exchange Centre, Mr Oluwatosin Ogunsanya, explained that its five

year partnership with the State have so far exposed young graduates and job seekers to employment organisations that can help them find career guidance and opportunities and even to get employed.

"We are looking at in excess of over 500 to 1500 youths to attend this event and success will be that over 30 per cent of them get employed or get opportunities to learn how they can be employed," he said.

In his words, "The Ministry has about a target of over 10,000 in the last five years and we have been able to work with them to get some numbers out of that. The ministry is very aggressive with their approach to reducing

2024 HAJJ: NAHCON Allocates 1,764 Slots to Osun

Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo

Preparatory to the 2024 Hajj religious exercise to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Osun State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has been officially allocated a total of 1764 seats by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).

The chairman of the Board, Dr Moruf lshola disclosed this while featuring on an Osun State Broadcasting corporation (OSBC) radio program tagged 'Akanse eto.'

Ishola on the program explained that due to the current economic

realities in Nigeria, especially the exchange rate, the fare for this year's Hajj would be N4.5 million.

To this end, he implored all intending Pilgrims from Osun state to top up their deposits and await the next official announcement of the final hajj fare by the Osun State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board. While promising a hitch-free Hajj 2024, Moruf Ishola told listeners on the radio program that Osun State Muslim pilgrims Welfare Board had commenced registration of intending Pilgrims for the year 2024 holy pilgrimage to the

kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

While highlighting that all categories of age were allowed to perform Hajj operation as an act of worship to Allah, he maintained that intending pilgrims who are elderly should be accompanied by those who are relatively younger and stronger so as to assist in taking good care of them, because of the rigours of the spiritual activities . Also speaking during the radio programme, the Administrative Secretary of the Board, Mr Muritala Fakunle, who assured that the coming 2024 Hajj would

be a success story, used the opportunity to assure all intending Pilgrims who have already made some financial deposits with the Board of its readiness to fair and transparent in the final selection processes as the principle of first come, first served would be strictly enforced.

In order to ensure smooth Operations, the Board Secretary also announced that international passports of the Intending Pilgrims and their initial minimum Hajj deposit of 4.5M should be ready on or before February 5, 2024.

unemployment in Lagos State."

Advising the present administration on the best way forward to tackle unemployment in the country, he advocated a diversification of strategy to meet the tailoring needs of the nation, lamenting that there is a lot of skill gaps in vocational skills

"It is time we have a diversification of our strategy to meet the needs of the country. There is a lot of shortage in vocational skills, skills of artisans in the country are dying and they are businesses that can thrive. I think vocational training and access to after school education will help with employability," he stressed.

Also speaking, the Commissioner, Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment Akinyemi Bankole Ajigbotafe, said the direct connection between job seekers and employers provided by the fair would greatly reduce unemployment in the State.

"This is why we organised this job fair because we believe it can be a great chance for some people to connect with an organisation and start a successful future together.

"The fair is one of the many opportunities in Lagos State because of the State's enormous human and material potentials. We must all work together as stakeholders to fully realise these potentials for the benefit of the State and its residents," he urged.

According to him, the world was changing quickly with increasing needs for job creators while expressing hopes that the job fair would

empower youths with vocational skills that are marketable.

"I will also urge you to keep thinking creatively and work towards starting your own businesses to become employers of labour while also helping Lagos rise.

"We want you to use this job fair as a stepping stone to excellence in your respective fields of interest.

"I want to implore job seekers and employers to widely use this platform to change the dynamics of employment creation in our beloved State," he averred.

On his part, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment, Dr. Biodun Onayele, said the job fair was established to link the unemployed and underemployed with employers of labour.

He assured that the Lagos State government would continue to provide an enabling environment for businesses and initiatives to thrive while also reiterating the commitments of the present administration to work with all groups and interest to achieve the overall policy thrust of wealth creation, generation and employment strategies for the sustainability of economic growth of the State.

"This fair alone is not a magic solution to tackling unemployment, but however serves as a crucial step towards addressing unemployment and provides a platform for collaboration between the job seekers, employers and the government to tackle the challenge of unemployment," Onayele added.

Gilbert Ekugbe

Head of Index-Linked Products, Bloomberg; Umesh Gajria, Global Head of Equity Trading and Transition, Norges Bank Investment Management; Emil Framnes,Asset Manager & Board Director/Principal-Credit Suisse; Jim McCaughan, and Group Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Exchange Group; Oscar N. Onyema, at a panel session during the 62nd General Assembly and Annual Meeting of the World Federation of Exchanges (WFE), in Bermuda recently.

Komolafe

Wike Sacks Nine FCTA MDs, ES FCT Primary Healthcare Board, Others

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has relieved the Chief Executive Officer/Group Managing Director of the Abuja Investment Company Ltd and eight other Managing Directors of some parastatals, agencies and government companies of the FCT Administration of their appointments with immediate effect.

Some other high profile officers affected by the gale of sack also included the Executive Secretary, FCT Primary Healthcare Board, GM FCT Waterboard and Director General, Hospital Management Board.

The Director of Press Office of the Minister, Anthony Ogunleye, in a statement yesterday, explained

that the affected officers were to hand over the affairs of their offices to the most senior officers in rank. He said the appointments into the offices would be made in due course. The statement listed the 21 officers sacked by the minister for reasons that were not specified as follows: Group MD/CEO, Abuja investment Company Ltd; CEO/ MD, Abuja Markets Management Ltd; MD/CEO, Abuja Urban Mass Transport Company; CEO/MD, Abuja Property Development Company; CEO/MD Abuja Technology Village Free Trade Zone Company; CEO/MD Abuja Film Village International; CEO/ MD Powernoth AICL Equipment Leasing Company Ltd; MD Abuja Broadcasting Corporation and MD,

Air Strikes Hit IPOB’s Locations in Anambra, Imo

Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja

The Nigerian Air Force Headquarters, yesterday, said fighter jets struck locations of the Indeginous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB) in Anambra and Imo States.

A statement by the spokesman of the Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, said the air interdiction was aimed at dislocating the group and denying them the liberty to carry out their destructive acts and killing of innocent and law-abiding Nigerians.

It said the aircraft under the Air Component of Operation UDO KA II, on Tuesday 26 September, 2023, carried out several air strikes on IPOB/ESN locations at Mother Valley Orsumughu in Nnewi South Local Government Area of Anambra State and at Aku Ihube in Okigwe Local Government Area of Imo State.

"The air strikes at both locations achieved their intended outcome and deemed effective. Acting on credible intelligence that IPOB/ESN terrorists had perfected plans to disrupt civic activities lined up in the coming days in Anambra State and other states in South-east Nigeria from their concealed bunkers/hideouts at Mother Valley Orsumughu, air strikes

were authorised in conjunction with ground troops and other security agencies on the location believed to also house some of their weapons and ammunitions," it said.

The statement affirmed that the air strikes hit the target and were deemed successful following the ball of fire, fleeing terrorists at the location as well as feedback received.

It said the air interdiction was also conducted, same day, in close coordination with surface forces at IPOB/ESN hideout camps in Aku Ihube in Imo State after detailed analysis of intelligence on the terrorists converging for a likely rendezvous at their hideout.

Consequently, he said air strikes were authorised to hit the hideout, and the targets were acquired and attacked in succession, with a high degree of success.

"Efforts by the NAF and other security agencies at ensuring all Nigerians, irrespective of where they reside were safe and free to conduct their activities without fear or being threatened will continue.

"While the determination of the security agencies is unwavering, the support of all Nigerians to the security agencies remains critical to defeating these criminal elements who's only intent is to sow fear and division among the citizenry," it said.

Afrex IMBANK TAPS oI l Tr AD er S To fINAN ce $3 BN cASH -for-cru D e loAN To NNP c

aimed at stabilising the exchange rate market.

The deal was expected to boost foreign exchange liquidity into the country and prop up the value of the naira against the dollar.

However, one month after the deal, Reuters quoted three anonymous sources to have revealed that Afreximbank approached traders in recent weeks seeking their interest in funding the oil-backed loan to the NNPC.

The sources said the bank was working to craft terms to offer to the trading houses.

"There is a lot of interest, but they need to see terms," Reuters quoted one oil executive close to the talks as saying, noting that the executive, who could not be named because he was not authorised to speak publicly on the issue, added that oil prices climbing past $90 per barrel would help drive interest.

According to another Reuters' source, traders who put up cash would be repaid in physical cargoes of oil, even as the bank was working to determine how much oil to offer those traders in exchange for the financing.

An NNPC spokesman did not respond to a request for comment. Afreximbank did not immediately comment.

During his confirmation hearing on Tuesday, Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Olayemi Cardoso, had said clearing unsettled foreign exchange obligations to local

Abuja Enterprise Agency. Others include the GM, FCT Water Board; DG, FCT Emergency Management Agency; Executive Secretary, FCT Primary Healthcare

Board; Director General, Hospital Management Board; Director, Abuja Environmental Protection Board; Director, FCT Scholarship Board; Director FCT Christian Pil-

grims Welfare Board and Director, Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board.

Also affected were the Coordinator, Abuja Infrastructure Investment Center; Director, FCT Health

Insurance Scheme; Coordinator, Satellite Towns Development Department and Coordinator, Abuja Metropolitan Management Council.

NESG Seeks Human Capital Devt to Tackle Brain Drain, Unemployment

The Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) has urged public and private sector stakeholders to prioritise human capital development as a critical step in addressing the challenges of brain drain and unemployment in Nigeria.

The think tank, whose 29th summit (NES 29) scheduled to hold from October 23rd to 24th, 2023, would explore the subject as a sub-theme, observed that the emigration of highly skilled professionals deprives Nigeria of valuable human capital assets, while high levels of youth unemployment hinder the utilisation of human capital, thus ultimately contributing

to economic underperformance.

Against this backdrop, Chairperson, NES 29 Central Organising Committee, Amina Maina, in a statement obtained yesterday, said this year's summit seeks to galvanise bold ideas from the public and private sectors to keep the youth productive and minimise the brain drain affecting the economy.

She added: "Wherever you go around the world, you hear that the best people – whether in education, healthcare, the financial industry or even in infrastructure, are Nigerians. “We must find a way to

keep and retain our best brains in-country.

"We hope that at NES 29, the private sector community will be able to give us bold ideas, which will be a way of turning things around. From the public sector side, we hope to find a synergy that brings the public and private sectors together to help us reduce our unemployment rate, ensure our youths are gainfully employed and have something to look forward to.

“We desire to use the human capital we are blessed with to put Nigeria back on the trajectory where it should be. We should be able to take our place amongst

the comity of nations because we do have the best and brightest, and with the right system, we can retain them back home."

Recently, the NESG announced it would anchor its 29th Summit on 'Pathways for Sustainable Economic Transformation and Inclusion', in light of the urgency of translating economic growth into improved and sustainable living standards for all citizens.

This year's summit theme hints at Nigeria's potential for sustainable development, leveraging innovative policies, robust institutions, strategic infrastructural investments, and human capital development.

Defence Chief Reaffirms Loyalty of Armed Forces to Constitutional Democracy

Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja

Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, yesterday, reaffirmed the unalloyed loyalty of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) to constitutional democracy.

Musa made the assertion in a message to the armed forces on the occasion of the Muslim EidEl-Maulud celebration.

Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, also felicitated with Nigerians and personnel of the Nigeria Police on the Muslim festival. Musa said members of the armed forces would remain committed to ensuring peace and stability of the country.

A statement signed by Director, Defence Information (DDI), Brig-Gen. Tukur Gusau, said, "As a very important segment of the society, the AFN, we will continue to commit ourselves towards ensuring peace and stability in our country. It is our prayer that through the commitment of all Nigerians the Almighty God will see us through our daunting security challenges.

"The CDS uses this opportunity to once again, on behalf of members of the AFN, affirm our unalloyed loyalty to the constitutional democracy under His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, President/Commander-in-Chief of the Federal Republic of Nigeria."

The statement also said, "The Chief of Defence Staff heartily greets members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria as we celebrate Eid-ElMaulud.

"It is an opportunity to thank the

“I think one of the most interesting question for our industry over the coming decades is going to be how do we unify these experiences – the physical that we have with this vibrant digital world to have something better than what we have today? Not too far from now, you are going to walk into a room and there would be many holograms of digital things as well as physical objects. So, this is a quick glimpse

Almighty Allah for His blessings, protection and guidance, especially as He continues to protect us through these difficult and challenging times."

A statement issued by Force Headquarters quoted the IGP as saying, in his message to the Muslim faithful, "This auspicious occasion reminds us of the virtues of love, compassion, and unity that the Holy Prophet Muhammad exemplified throughout his life. It is a time for reflection, gratitude, and rededica-

of the future of how this idea of the physical and the digital coming together to create the idea that is called the metaverse.

“Mixed reality allows you bring digital objects into the physical world; advances in artificial intelligence (AI) allows us to create different AIs that helps us to accomplish different things and smart glasses eventually allows us to bring us to bring all of these together. Now, the

tion to the principles of peace and harmony."

The IGP charged the Muslim faithful to use the occasion to preach and promote peace, unity, and tolerance within the society, and be beacons of hope and understanding, fostering goodwill among Nigerians.

"May this Eid bring blessings, joy, and prosperity to our homes, and may our nation continue to thrive in peace and unity," the police statement said.

big point of these innovations is about making sure that these technologies are accessible to everyone.

“Sometimes we innovate and release some of the things that have never been seen, but sometimes we innovate by taking something that is awesome and super-expensive and make it affordable for everyone. Innovations that bring the future to millions and billions of people is what we do.”

lenders, which could be as high as $7 billion, was his top priority.

Experts believe that the backlog was limiting the availability of dollars on the official market, forcing businesses and individuals to seek them on the black market.

Shortly after taking office on May 29, 2023, President Bola Tinubu had announced long-sought reforms that allowed the official naira rate to fall versus the dollar, while fuel prices roughly tripled. In June, the naira was close to the black market level, but the gap has widened.

Tinubu also allowed petrol pump prices to more than triple, which cut fuel smuggling and relieved pressure on the NNPC to import petrol.

But NNPC is still using oil cargoes to repay some of the oil trading firms that had contracts to supply petrol in exchange for crude, otherwise known as the Direct-Sale-Direct-Purchase (DSDP) arrangement, which is limiting its immediate access to oil.

THISDAY understands that the new emergency cash-for-crude oil deal between Afreximbank and NNPC came over a year after the national oil company similarly secured a $5 billion corporate finance commitment from the bank to fund major investments in Nigeria’s upstream sector.

The previous agreement was to be funded through a Forward Sale Arrangement with the delivery of 90,000 to 120,000 barrels per day to be delivered to the lender over a four to eight-year period.

change political parties a number of times, Ganduje stressed that the founder of Kwankwasiyya would prefer to be "a king in hell than be a servant in paradise" because he prioritised his personal ambition over national interest.

The APC national chairman said when he learnt Jika was coming to see him at his residence to discuss the way forward, he knew he was about to meet a formidable politician and a household name in Bauchi State.

According to Ganduje, Jika is returning to a party that is very progressive and focused, “when we look at where he is coming from. He is coming from a party that used to be a decent party and highly respected but was later hijacked and polluted by the Kwankwasiyya group”.

was defeated twice.

“He is a professional contestant for presidential elections and would remain a professional failure. He loves himself so much. I am happy you have dumped the red cap. It is a very sensible action that you have taken."

Cross River, Ebonyi, Kwara, Benue State and the Federal Capital Territory.

This is contained in the agency’s weekly heavy rainfall forecast bulletin issued.

The bulletin reads: “Moderate to Heavy rainfall is expected within the forecast period (Thursday 28th and Friday 29th September 2023) over parts of Katsina, Kano, Jigawa, Bauchi, Gombe, Plateau, Borno, Adamawa, Taraba, Kaduna, Niger, Nasarawa, Kogi, Enugu, Edo, Delta, and Bayelsa.

“Other States are; “Abia, Anambra, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Ebonyi, Kwara, Benue State and the Federal Capital Territory.”

The agency said other parts of the country will experience light to moderate rainfall.

On the likely impact of the rains, NiMet stated: “The

expected moderate to heavy rainfall is expected to cause some flash flooding over their areas of occurrence.

“Strong winds should accompany the rains with the strongest winds expected over parts of Adamawa, Borno, Gombe, Bauchi, Yobe, Jigawa, Kano, Katsina, Zamfara, Sokoto, and Kebbi State.”

The agency advised people in the States that may be affected not to drive through surface runoff waters, as they have strong undercurrents.

It added that other likely hazards include slippery road surfaces and reduced visibility during the rain which can disrupt road traffic.

“Strong winds are a threat to weak structures, trees, and masts. Disconnect electrical appliances before and not during the rains.”

Ganduje said they were happy that the original NNPP was taking back its proper position and leaving the Kwankwasiyya group deserted and thrown out completely.

He stated, "The Kwankwasiyya group headed by the former Kano State governor was forced to go into a sabbatical leave for eight years before it found its way back to Government House in Kano.

"The Kwankwasiyya head, who wears a red cap, is the person, who prefers to be a king in hell than be a servant in paradise. He specialises in deceiving people. He was first in PDP and came back to APC, when it was formed. That was when the nPDP merged with the legacy parties to form the APC.

"Instead of staying in APC, because of his ambition, he decided to leave APC, after failing to pick the presidential ticket, to go back to the PDP. He could not stay there, again, when he failed to pick up the ticket.

"He still went on his own to contest the presidential poll and

Ganduje assured the returnees of inclusiveness in the running of APC in Bauchi State as part of an ongoing effort to reposition the party ahead of the 2027 polls. He said the party regretted its performance in the state at the last general election.

Addressing newsmen after meeting with Ganduje, the former NNPP candidate said the interest of his teeming supporters in Bauchi State was behind his decision to return to APC.

Jika stated, "My dumping NNPP for APC has nothing to do with the presidential candidate of NNPP. I have no issue with Kwankwaso. The interest of Bauchi State informed my returning to APC."

Jika, a ninth National Assembly senator, disclosed that Vice President Kashim Shettima and the first lady, Senator Remi Tinubu, also influenced his decision to return to the APC fold. He pledged to remain loyal to APC and ensure its victory in 2027, both in the state and at the federal level.

Shaibu Still at Obaseki’s Mercy in Edo

Adibe Emenyonu writes that since Edo state deputy governor, Philip Shaibu, dragged his principal, Governor Godwin Obaseki, to court on alleged impeachment move, the atmosphere in the state has been laced with one exciting drama after the other.

It is not always good to instigate trouble because once it starts, no one knows how it will end. Since the drama of going to court to stop what many believed is a phantom impeachment story by the Edo State deputy governor, Philip Shaibu, unfolded, his political life has never remained the same.

Hardly a week passes without Shaibu suffering one political misfortune or the other. Week one was the demonization of Shaibu by Obaseki using all manner of tactics to make him look like king cobra whose head must be crushed to weaken the venom in its poisonous spit.

The next move against him was the removal of Shaibu from overseeing local government administration in the state and collection of state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR). The move was aimed at ensuring that he was no longer empowered as against an Igbo saying “Nwangwi puo eze ya atagbuo onye zuru ya” (when an ophan grows teeth, he bites the person that trained him).

Another move launched against Shaibu was the removal of his sister-in-law, Mrs. Sabina Okere, a Permanent Secretary with the state Sports Commission as well as others whose rise to position of prominence either in the civil or public service were believed to have been influenced by him.

The next was the disbandment of his media team. As it is today, the deputy governor has no one to report his activities unlike in the past. This was strategic because of the importance of publicity in governance.

But now he cannot make any public statement using the state media apparatus.

This step was taken following the alleged security breach caused during the celebration of 60 years anniversary of referendum that culminated in the creation of Midwest Region, and the 30 years anniversary of the creation of Edo State.

Apparently under pressure, Shaibu, on September 5, 2023, issued a statement withdrawing the law suit saying his decision was to respect the intervention of several prominent individuals including traditional and religious leaders, and also appreciated the governor for agreeing on the peace initiatives.

The statement read: “Re: Suit No. FHC/ABJ/ CS/1027/2023 between: – Rt. Hon. Comrade Philip Shaibu and Inspector General of Police, State Security Service, The Governor of Edo State and The Chief Judge of Edo State.

“Arising from the series of meetings held with me and also with Mr. Governor by well-meaning Edolites and indeed Nigerians including Party Leaders, Traditional Rulers, and my Archbishop, His Grace Most Rev’d Dr. Augustine Akubeze, the Archbishop of Benin Archdiocese on the issues that led to my going to Court on the above-named suit and with due respect to these eminent personalities and leaders whose persuasions and persons I cannot ignore, I, Rt. Hon. Comrade Philip

Shaibu have authorized and instructed my Solicitors to withdraw the Suit forthwith.

“I wish to sincerely thank and appreciate these well-meaning Nigerians, party leaders, traditional rulers, and my archbishop, His Grace Most Rev. Dr. Augustine Akubeze for their kind words, advice and encouragement thus far in ensuring peace and unity in our dear state. I also wish to place on record my special thanks to Mr. Governor, my boss and senior brother for this path of peace,” he said.

Despite the suit withdrawal, Shaibu was still kicked out of Government House to an inconsequential location. His new office is now at No. 7, Dennis Osadebey Avenue, while the state Government House is at No. 1, Dennis Osadebey Avenue. The place previously house the State Procurement Agency the signpost of which was replaced with that of Office of Edo State Deputy Governor.

To effect the movement, a letter from the office of the Head of Service (HoS) had already directed the deputy governor and staff working with him, to relocate to the new office. This directive was carried out despite Shaibu’s withdrawal of the suit he instituted against his boss governor Godwin Obaseki and others in Abuja over a purported plan to impeach him.

A visit to the new office complex meant for the deputy governor, saw some staff moving into the newly renovated office. There were also some plain cloth security aides to the deputy governor who drove into the facility and later left.

An aide to Shaibu while confirming the development said, “we have been told to move and we have started movement today. “The memo was

sent directly to the Permanent Secretary, it was a two-paragraph memo from the HoS but the civil servants are the ones moving right now, the letter was sent to the PS so we are waiting for directives. The civil servants are moving today but we may move before the end of the week”

With previous political dexterity associated with Shaibu, many analysts believed the suit withdrawal was too early in coming. They believed that first there was a move to impeach him otherwise the court option to stop the process would have been unnecessary.

According to one of the analysts, with Shaibu’s position as the deputy governor of the state, there is no way intelligence report on plan to impeach him wouldn’t have reached his ears, hence the need to stop it through a court process.

“That court move was his trump card. Unfortunately, he has filtered it away by withdrawing the case. That will not stop his impeachment because those who want him out will now hing their intentions to do away with him, using all manner of means”, the political observer who preferred anonymity said.

Besides, the analyst said “Has the withdrawal stopped the witch-hunt? The answer is no! Otherwise this latest move of relocating his office would have been unnecessary since from the tone of the letter of withdrawal, there was negotiation because of the intervention of some prominent individuals both traditional and religious. For me, it was a trick to completely disarm him before the sledge hammer will finally fall on him.”

Another analyst stressed that for the state chairman of the PDP, Dr Tony Azeigbemi, to describe the withdrawal of the case as a step in the right direction and a good thing for the party, means there was a dialogue involving prominent personalities and certain agreements reached.

He quoted Aziegbemi as saying: “This is the right thing to do. Things have to happen for other things to happen. But since this has hap-

Another move launched against Shaibu was the removal of his sister-in-law, Mrs. Sabina Okere, a Permanent Secretary with the state Sports Commission as well as others whose rise to position of prominence either in the civil or public service were believed to have been influenced by him.

The next was the disbandment of his media team. As it is today, the deputy governor has no one to report his activities unlike in the past. This was strategic because of the importance of publicity in governance. But now he cannot make any public statement using the state media apparatus.

pened, we have a 50-50 chance of better things to come.” He said for Obaseki to have acted differently after the truce of suit withdrawal shows he has something else in mind rather that good fate.

This, according to the analyst, is a booby trap which Shaibu has fallen into and very soon he will be singing his own farewell song as deputy governor.

However, another commentator and immediate past state Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chris Azebamwan, described the entire scenario playing out presently as nemesis.

He said the meteoric rise of Shaibu from his cluster of modest dwellings in Jattu-Uzairue, Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State to the dizzying heights of the Deputy Governor’s palatial mansion fronting the highbrow Benin Golf Course sounds like a perfect fairy tale.

Azebamwan said Shaibu had a shining role model in the former governor of the state, Adams Oshiomhole and became a unionist and a comrade, and gleefully told all who cared to listen that the now Senator Oshiomhole was his father which prompted Oshiomhole gladly and joyfully mentored Philip and in that role, paved the way for Philip to become a member of the Edo State House of Assembly.

“He became the Majority Leader of the House, and he thrived and flourished. For eight unbroken years, he enjoyed the trappings, privileges and largesse of his position and office. He was the surefire and unfailing liaison with Government House in Osadebe Avenue, Benin City where his adopted father, Oshiomhole, was governor.

“After an eventful and highly rewarding eight years in the House of Assembly, and riding on Oshiomhole’s goodwill, benevolence and magic touch, Philip easily and effortlessly breasted the tape in an election that elevated him to the hallowed green chambers of the House of Representatives.

“Hardly had he settled down in Abuja when he was invited to pick up the highly coveted ticket of being running mate to the governorship candidate and his current boss, Mr. Godwin Obaseki. Thus, Philip became the deputy governor of Edo State and served at a point as Acting Governor.

“As our elders say in the immortal words of Chinua Achebe, “those whose palm kernels were cracked by benevolent spirits should not forget to be humble”.

“This aptly describes the eventual macabre dance of Shaibu who became arrogant and perfidious. He did not just bite the fingers that fed him, he voraciously chewed those fingers and when he was done, he maliciously threw the bones to the ravaging dogs”, he enthused.

Obaseki

Shaibu

Oguntuwase: Tinubu’s Bogus Cabinet Makes No Economic Management Sense

Former chairman of people’s democratic party in Ekiti state, Gboyega oguntuwase, in this interview with Gbenga Sodeinde, speaks on salient national issues including the recent verdict of the Election petition tribunal that affirmed the election of president Bola tinubu, composition of the Federal Executive council and the crisis rocking the pdp in the state.

You are a leader of the PDP... (Cuts in) I am a member of the PDP..(smiles)

By virtue of your position, you are qualified to comment about the current position of your party chieftain and former governor of Rivers state Nyesom Wike who worked for APC and now has been appointed Minister

I want to be very careful the way I talk about Wike. When a thing is beyond definition, you have to be a little bit reserved in the way you comment. The membership of Wike is beyond easy definition. He claims he is PDP but equally claimed he worked for APC and he has taken up an appointment with the APC without the permission of the party or even the courtesy of informing the party.

In terms of definition where he belongs, with my little understanding, I find it difficult to know whether Wike is still a PDP person. I would rather say his association and effective participation in the campaign against PDP Presidential candidate makes more of APC than PDP.

He has a complicated identity and when somebody has a complicated identity, I find it difficult to comment about such a person. Somebody claims he is a PDP person and the same person claims he worked for APC. There is no APC member who will openly say that he worked for PDP. Decency and party discipline will not allow them to do that.

There is no agent of darkness that would openly evangelise for God’s kingdom.

As far as we are concerned, I’m a little bit confused about the identity which Wike wants to give himself but serious minded PDP leaders and followers believe what he said that he didn’t work for PDP and he worked for APC.

My opinion is that we have to be radical about all these. We ought to have taken decision earlier than now but the leadership will review the entire thing and will take appropriate decision at the right time.

If he is still a PDP person, let the leadership say it clear and loud. The possibility of determining the identity of Wike is not mine but that of the leadership of the party and majority of followers are waiting anxiously for the leadership of the party to take a stand.

Your party is currently enmeshed in leadership crisis, who should we recognize as the leader of PDP in Ekiti now?

We have collegiate leadership in Ekiti for now. The leaders of PDP in Ekiti include all former Senators in Ekiti, including Awoyelu, s Kila, Olujumi, Faseyi and those who have been Senators in the PDP and who have not taken any stand against the position of the party at the National convention.

I consider them as part of the leaders, and I equally want to say that former members of the House of Representatives, all former state chairmen. All former national officers and present national officers, zonal officers. Former speakers of the House of Assembly, former House of Assembly officers, former Deputy Governors, former respectable and uncontroversial Governors, and Segun Oni belongs to this group.

What about Governor Ayo Fayose, is he still your leader?

He was a former Governor of Ekiti state, I worked under him faithfuly as a commissioner and I equally served as state chairman of our party within and beyond his regime. He has openely declared that he worked for APC, so I find it impossible to associate with his position, because I will not want my membership of the party to be jeopardized.

I have my respect for Fayose, I love his zeal and agility. He is good looking and sociable but I dissociate with his stand against the party. There is no genuine member of PDP no matter his grouse with the party who should openly, unrepentantly and consistently claim that he

worked against his own party. That is sure anti-party. I don’t believe in that.

Fayose said openly on television that he supported and worked for Tinubu, because Tinubu is a notable and respectable Yoruba man. Fayose should remember that he was one of the plotters against Chief Bode George when he wanted to become the National chairman of the party. Is Bode George a less notable or respectable Yoruba man than Tinubu?

It is obvious that his decision was informed by other things outside Yoruba nationalism.

For in politics, the constitution only recognizes the party as fielding the candidate and a campaign against the candidate of the party is a stand against the party.

And a campaign for the candidate of another party is an admittance of loyalty to that other political party. So Fayose logically did not campaign for Tinubu, he only campaigned for APC.

Talking further on the leadership of the party in the state, we have a caretaker committee. Obedient, lawful and loyal members of the party must support the caretaker committee as set up by the National Working Committee of the Party.

I don’t agree there are factions. We only have differences.

Your party, the PDP in Ekiti state is obviously dead, what is your take

on this?

Lukewarmness and being dead are different. You cannot blame the seaming passivity in PDP in Ekiti State on members. We have just coming out of series of betrayers and disappointments, so we shall definitely pick up, it is true that we lost to APC at the state level because some leaders undermined us and our predicament at the presidential election is caused by a combination of betrayers and outright fraud. Definitely that has dampened the interest of many people in the state but the song among genuine PDP members is: rebuilding the PDP is a task that must be done.

We must equally not forget that the advantage that APC has for now is transcient. Those who are bread and butter politicians would move to APC, while those of us who believe in the unfailing word of God that He shall supply our need according to His riches in glory, we shall stay in PDP and survive this period.

And to make PDP formidable, the zonal and the state leadership have been working round the clock to get former Governor, Segun Oni and other leaders back to PDP.

However, I wish to say that It is nightmarish, illogical, absolutely unreasonable for a people that were under the enormous yoke of Buhari to have supported an election that will bring another APC person to the presidency, it means we have learnt nothing and that we have agreed with the oppression.

How would you rate the governor of Ekiti State, Biodun Oyebanji whom many of your party members have been praising and commending his performance?

The number of Ministers appointed by Tinubu is too large for the economic reality of the country. If you are withdrawing fuel subsidy because of lack of money, and at the same time putting together the largest Ministers, Special Advisers, and personal aides since 1999 is in conflict with sound economic management. Furthermore, having some members of his cabinet still having some cases to answer with the EFCC is a danger sign to integrity and probity. And whoever may be advising the President to plunge this country into war with Niger Republic at this time of hardship is a deservice to the masses of this country and this war will put the lives of the people in the states that share border with Niger republic in danger.

The governor of Ekiti State is a very handsome and neat man. He rarely laughs but appears lovable and he equally wears well tailored dresses. He believes in the praises of palace jesters and would have missed his ways several kilometers before discovering himself.

Governor Oyebanji should carefully listen to me as a brother, it it too early to start taking the praise worshippers seriously, he should tell me whether in his town, local government, or any part of Ekiti state whether poverty has improved, has he not heard the loud voice of poverty in the land?

Does he not know that his membership of APC makes him as guilty as Buhari and those that have just withdrawn our oil subsidy that workers and every salary earner to know that the value of their salary has diminished seriously?

What the APC government of Kayode Fayemi did in Ekiti state, how Fayemi wrecked Ekiti, we are victims of Fayemi’s recklessness and lack of commitment to duty.

Oyebanji has a lot of work to do. So, I personally congratulate him for joining hands with others to rescue APC chairman from kidnappers recently, and that is to let him know that he has a lot of work to do on security. I congratulate him also on his choice of commissioners but suspending one of them within two weeks shows that his capacity to appoint round peg in round hole is in question and makes his tolerance level questionable.

What is your take on appointment of Tinubu’s Ministers?

The number of Ministers appointed by Tinubu is too large for the economic reality of the country. If you are withdrawing fuel subsidy because of lack of money, and at the same time putting together the largest Ministers, Special Advisers, and personal aides since 1999 is in conflict with sound economic management. Furthermore, having some members of his cabinet still having some cases to answer with the EFCC is a danger sign to integrity and probity. And whoever may be advising the President to plunge this country into war with Niger Republic at this time of hardship is a deservice to the masses of this country and this war will put the lives of the people in the states that share border with Niger republic in danger.

Members of your party are not coming out for local government election that is around the corner in the state, are you people afraid or what?

Whoever knows history of local government elections will not blame PDP for not showing enthusiasm. If at the federal level we are saying they have rigged the election, if at the state level we say you have won because you collaborated with rebels of PDP, we can safely say that we are not too sure of fair play, and that there is no need for participation.

Already a few of us are praying to regain the state in the next election and we have two or three years to prepare for that election, and that is our focus, not embarking on a preditermined local government elections in the state.

What is your reaction to the Election Tribunal’s verdict that affirmed President BolaTinubu’s election?

I am adopting in its entirety the position of my party and the position so clearly stated by our Presidential candidate in the last election, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar. There is no way that judgement can pass judiciary and logical test. Aside orchestrated jubilation nobody could say he has noticed any genue happiness on the streets of Nigeria over the judicial pronouncement made by the presidential election tribunal.

It is advisable for all of us in Nigeria to believe that the judiciary is making itself flawless and having capacity to be described as the last hope of the common man.

The judiciary, more than any arm of government, has the duty to strengthen our democracy with legitimacy.

Oguntuwase

Makinde Consolidating on Delivering Democracy Dividends in Oyo

Kemi Olaitan writes that the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde, has been geared towards delivering dividends of democracy to the people of Oyo State through its numerous legacy projects

Since the inception of the present democratic dispensation in 1999, Nigerians most especially in the states have continued to be at the mercy of the governors in having the dividends of democracy with many of them coming to power and failing to meet the expectations of the people.

Indeed, the states except for a few were always in the news for the wrong reason, no thanks to the governors, who most of the time start projects that would later be abandoned without any thought for the electorate who voted them into power.

However Oyo State under the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde may be an exception as between 2019 that he assumed office as the helmsman of the pacestter state and now he has continued to commission project upon projects with the recent being the 34.85 kilometres Oyo-Iseyin Road and the College of Agriculture and Renewable Natural Resources, Iseyin, a campus of the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso, receiving accolades within and outside the state.

Former President of Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, while speaking at the commissioning of the two projects, lauded Makinde for delivering the benefits of democracy to the people of the state through building of infrastructure, education and restoration of the glory of abandoned projects such as the historical Fasola Farms, Oyo, among others.

While maintaining that the essence of democracy is about the wellbeing and welfare of the people, he noted that the governor "is doing extremely well" and that the people of the state have given their mandate to the "right person."

Obasanjo, who also joined the governor to inspect the nearly completed Fasola Agribusiness Industrial Hub, Oyo, said governance should bring about development, peace, wealth creation and stability, calling on residents of the state to continue to support the governor.

The former president commended the governor for restoring the glory of Fasola Farms, stating that though Oyo State is already number one in cassava production, it should complement that with investments in livestock production and other crops.

Governor Makinde, in his speeches at the two events, said with the completion of the Oyo-Iseyin Road and the LAUTECH Campus projects, his administration had delivered on its promises to build infrastructure that targets the economy and to make Oyo State the education hub of the country.

Speaking in Oyo, the governor said the Oyo-Iseyin Road is a key project that will open up the zone through connectivity of roads, noting that his administration would continue to prioritise interconnectivity through road constructions. He further noted that the development would increase the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of the state and also expand the economy, thereby creating more opportunities for industries to establish their businesses in Oyo State.

Makinde added that the 34.85km Oyo-Iseyin road is of economic significance not only to the people of Oyo, but also to all citizens of the state, as the communities and businesses located in and around the area would be impacted massively.

He then called on the Ministry of Culture and Tourism to synergise with the Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA) to explore the tourism potentials in Fasola Industrial Hub, while he also assured that the government would proceed to fix inner roads across the local government areas in the state. The governor speaking shortly before the commissioning of the LAUTECH College of Agriculture and Renewable Natural Resources, Iseyin, said he had also fulfilled his promise to make Oyo State an education hub, saying though he met only Tech-U and a jointly-owned LAUTECH, the state now has three universities. According to him, the building of the college and other infrastructure around the ancient town also meant that his administration has completed the needed infrastructure, which successive administrations can build on.

Governor Makinde also used the occasion to congratulate residents of Iseyin over the appointment of the new Aseyin, noting that his critics who insulted the state government for the long time it had taken to fill vacant royal stools could see that he had

been working.

He called on princes and interested parties in Oyo to stop bickering over the selection of a new Alaafin of Oyo, while also firing warning shots to all parties that the respected stool would not go to the highest bidder and that anyone with intent to sell the throne would meet his waterloo.

The governor said, "It gives me great joy to be here today as we commission one of the key projects that will open Oyo and Oke-Ogun zones to further investments and economic stimulation. When our administration came in a little over four years ago, we had plans for accelerated development in our dear state through improving our road infrastructure. We knew that if we were to compete favourably with other states in Nigeria and become key players in the West Africa sub-region, we had to interconnect all the zones by road.

"We are able to quickly identify where our competitive advantage lies and we came out with a strategy to address that advantage. Oyo is the biggest by landmass in the entire South West zone of Nigeria and we have arable land for Agriculture. The question for us then was how do we get the big players to come and site their investments in agribusiness on our land. The answer was to open up the zones through a road project.

"Yes, we had a choice between doing what the previous governments had done. We can concentrate efforts on Ibadan to repair inner roads, which will be easily visible to the people in the capital but we said we won't do that.

We concluded that we would rather let our infrastructural development go after our economy. But we chose to take the path less traveled, but people are criticising me up until this moment and they are complaining that all the inner roads are bad. Well, I have good news for them, we will start fixing the inner roads in a matter of weeks.

"These days, when I see or read people complain about the bad roads in Ibadan, I smile because the people doing business in Ibadan know what we are doing, and our investors too know what we are doing. The people who used to avoid going to Oyo through the Oyo-Iseyin road or to Iseyin through the MoniyaIseyin Road know what we are doing and what we have done. Commuters and businesses located in these areas know that they are cost-savings and they know that it is impacting."

The governor added that his administration would address the yearning of the people to fix internal roads, calling on the local government chairmen to come

up with sustainable templates that would help the third tier of government to deliver road infrastructure in the state.

“I can assure you that the inner roads will be fixed in Ibadan, Ogbomoso, Oyo and other zones but first, we have done what we promised the people we were going to do, which is to stem rural-urban migration. People can stay in Iseyin and work in Ibadan now and there are people staying in Oyo and working in Ibadan. And for businesses, Oyo and Iseyin are now one.

"We prioritised interconnectivity through roads such as the 65km Moniya -Iseyin Road, 76.67km Iseyin-Fapote-Ogbomoso Road, 48km Ido-Eruwa Road and this 34.85km Oyo-Iseyin Road. With industries moving to this area, we quickly increased our IGR and generated funds to do the last miles of road.

As I mentioned earlier, this road has high economic significance not just to the people of Oyo and Iseyin but to the entire state and region. The fact that it is a federal road highlights its importance.

“This road hosts one of our biggest assets in Oyo State. Our first agribusiness industrial hub, which I have been told will be completed in about two months, is domiciled on this route. I do not want to preempt what will be seen there but going by what I have been told, our vision of creating an industrial hub in this zone is becoming a reality. We already have at least five agribusinesses operating out of the hub and we should expect more.

"Our vision is to have an agrotourism site here and I look forward to seeing the Ministry in charge working with the Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA) to make this place a tourist destination in the shortest possible time. I look forward to seeing how horizontal synergies can be created between the ministry and OYSADA and we are set out to achieve this," he added.

The state Commissioner for Public Works and Transport, Prof. Dahud Shangodoyin, speaking on the Oyo-Iseyin Road project, said the reconstruction of the road cost N9.99 billion and that it was funded through the Alternative Project Funding Approach (APFA), which is the state's Public Private Partnership Model alternative.

The Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, who was represented by the Director of Federal Highways,

South-West, Engr. Adedamola Kuti, in his goodwill message, lauded Governor Makinde for the quality of the job on the road, stating that the project was done in line with federal standards.

A Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Barrister Ahmed Raji, in his remarks, hailed Governor Makinde on the Oyo-Iseyin Road, saying, “We know how to describe Governor ‘Seyi Makinde. This is his second term in office and he is still firing on with regards to projects. When the Moniya-Iseyin Road was completed and the government started the Ogbomoso-Iseyin Road, I told him I said Your Excellency, the Oyo-Iseyin Road is of more importance to our people and the situation of that road is quite worrisome. But he told me, SAN we will fix the road.

“Today, by completing this project, you have made life easy for our people. You have made life easy for the peasants, the farmers, business owners and even those trying to access healthcare. We need people like you in power. If infrastructure development can be made to go round everywhere like you are doing in Oyo State, then Nigeria would have become a better place.”

Similarly, Archbishop Ayo Ladigbolu (rtd), who appreciated the governor on behalf of the people of Oyo, described him as a promise-keeper, stating that the Oyo-Iseyin Road is an arterial road that holds great importance to the economy of Oyo.

A resident of Fasola Village, Mr Saliu Akano, who explained the plight of residents of villages on the Oyo-Iseyin and road users prior to its construction said, “life was quite unbearable for us because of this road. During dry season, we had no respite from dust. We could not even sit in front of our houses due to the dust. And when it is rainy season, we were always helping one motorist after another push their vehicles from swamps on the road.

“The worst experience is on the Odo-Ogun River. The bridge on that river is more than 50 years-old and it can only take one vehicle at a time. But this governor has changed our story forever. We never thought we would see this day. When they said they wanted to do the road, we didn’t believe them, because we felt there was nothing to attract them to do the road. I heard that the governor did the road because of Fasola (Farms) and we have seen developments on that farm too. This governor has placed Fasola on the world map. We are forever grateful to him.”

The two events were attended by top government functionaries including the state Deputy Governor, Barrister Bayo Lawal; members of the state Executive Council, traditional rulers and Otunba Oyewole Fasawe, who was in company of the former president, among others.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo unveiling the plaque to commission the reconstructed 34.85km Oyo-Iseyin road

Bridging the Gender Skills Gap

The 1,500 women who graduated from the VFD Group sponsored Women in Tech Nigeria 2023 Makeathon, a remarkable achievement, marks a significant step towards advancing gender diversity and inclusivity in the tech industry across Nigeria after the first edition which graduated 1,000 beneficiaries.

This is a groundbreaking initiative aimed at empowering girls and women to pursue careers in technology-related fields.

Throughout the 3-month intensive free capacity-building, and digital literacy exercise in Product Design, Product Management, Digital Marketing, and Data Analytics, the participants were provided with hands-on training and capacity-building lessons to gather the requisite skills and knowledge they need to launch successful careers in tech.

The graduation ceremony held at The Nest Innovation Technology Park, Yaba, was a testament to the dedication and hard work of the program's participants. The girls and women, from diverse backgrounds and experiences, demonstrated their commitment to breaking barriers and making a lasting impact in the tech industry.

The Women in Tech Nigeria 2023 Makeathon aligns with global insights that emphasise the importance of diversity in the technology sector.

A diverse workforce not only fosters innovation but also addresses critical challenges and brings different perspectives to the table. By providing women with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in tech-related careers, this programme contributes to the broader goal of creating a more inclusive and equitable technology ecosystem.

Commenting, Country Director of Women in Tech Nigeria, Solape Akinpelu, expressed enthusiasm for the Makeathon's achievements and the potential it holds for the future.

“The graduation of 1,500 girls and women from the Women in Tech Nigeria 2023 Makeathon is a significant milestone in our mission to bridge the gender gap in technology. The dedication and passion displayed by these graduates are truly inspiring. We believe that they are poised to make a substantial impact in the tech industry and contribute to Nigeria's technological growth”, she said.

“The tech industry is one of the most important and fastest-growing sectors in the world. We are proud to partner with VFD

Group to provide girls and women with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in this exciting field. We are confident that our graduates will make significant contributions to the tech industry and Nigeria as a whole.

“These women have worked incredibly hard to learn new skills and knowledge, and we are confident that they will make significant contributions to the tech industry and Nigeria as a whole. We are committed to continuing to empower women and girls through our programmes, and we hope that our graduates will inspire other women to pursue careers in tech”, Akinpelu added.

In his remarks, the Managing Director, VBank, Gbenga Omolokun said; “The Makeathon is part of our goal to increase the participation of women in the tech industry. We are committed to sponsoring the Makeathon to close the gender gap in the tech industry by

Mary Nnah

In the dynamic world of entrepreneurship, few figures shine as brightly as Dr. Oluwatosin Olatujoye. With a career spanning over two decades, Olatujoye has emerged as a prominent entrepreneur, businessman, and humanitarian, leaving an indelible mark on various industries. His journey is a testament to unwavering dedication, visionary leadership, and a commitment to making a positive impact on society.

Oluwatosin Olatujoye's journey began in 2007 when he embarked on a career at the American International Insurance Company (AIICO) as a sales representative. His dedication and unwavering commitment to excellence quickly propelled him through the ranks, leading to his promotion to branch manager within a remarkably short period.

During his impressive 13-year tenure at AIICO, Dr. Olatujoye showcased exceptional leadership skills and an innate understanding of the insurance industry. He played a pivotal role in developing and executing innovative sales and marketing strategies that contributed significantly to the company's substantial growth and success. His adept negotiation skills and ability to lead large teams made him an invaluable asset to AIICO.

Venturing into Real Estate:

As an astute entrepreneur, Dr. Olatujoye possesses an innate ability to identify opportunities and create value. Recognising the housing deficit in Nigeria, he embarked on a mission to address this issue. Armed with

determination and a vision, he founded Oga for Property Investment Limited. Starting with a humble N500,000, he transformed it into an impressive real estate empire worth over $350 million, eventually rebranded as Zylus Homes and Property. Dr Olatujoye's success in the real estate sector is a testament to his keen eye for opportunities and his ability to transform challenges into innovative solutions. Olatujoye's commitment to excellence extends to his education and professional development. His accolades include an honorary Doctorate of Science in Entrepreneurship and Strategic Business Management from the prestigious

event providing girls and women with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed. This partnership reflects VFD Group's dedication to fostering positive change and contributing to creating a more diverse and inclusive tech industry, which will benefit everyone.”

To provide intensive skills training for the beneficiaries, Women in Tech Nigeria partnered with The Nest Incubation Hub and Girl Code Academy.

Also commenting at the graduation ceremony, a beneficiary of the Makeathon, Dami Ajayi who got training in Product Management said; “I am extremely happy to have benefited from this intensive 3-month tech capacity building program. I enjoyed the tremendous opportunity to learn new skills, gain experience, and eventually graduate to embark on a successful career in the tech industry. I am grateful to everyone who played a significant role in making this possible.”

About Women In Tech (WIT)

Women in Tech® Global is an international organisation represented in 31 countries with a double mission: to close the gender gap and help women embrace technology.

WIT has a mandate to empower 5,000,000 women to play an important part in the ecosystem by 2030, and, as a result, boost the sector.

The initiative has a mandate to Create Impact Through Actions to Build Skills and Confidence, Setting Women Up for Success. To deliver the mandate of upskilling and equipping women to be more contributive to the country’s economic growth, and be more valuable to themselves and their family/ society, the initiative majorly focuses on four areas: Education, Social Inclusion, Advocacy and Business.

The global initiative has set its footprint in 31 Countries in six Continents, building a community of strong women and currently having more than 200,000 women as members.

Dr. Oluwatosin Olatujoye: Visionary Entrepreneur, Philanthropic Trailblazer

International Entrepreneurship University and a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and Management from the University of Science and Applied Management, Porto-Novo.

Additionally, he has honed his expertise through a variety of prestigious institutions, including the London Business School, the School of Estate, and the Metropolitan School of Business and Management in the UK. Dr. Olatujoye is a fellow of the Institute of Credit Administration and has actively participated in numerous local and international seminars and summits, consistently broadening his knowledge and skills.

He holds memberships in several esteemed professional bodies, including The Chartered Institute of Directors (CIOD, Nigeria), the Project Management Professional Institute (PMPI), and the International Strategic Management Institute (ISMI)-UK. Dr. Olatujoye's impressive roster of certifications includes a Professional Post-graduate Certificate in Real Estate and asset Valuation Management, Proficiency in Human Resources Management, Certified International Strategic Management (CISM), Proficiency in International Strategic Management (PISM), and Certificate in Entrepreneur Management (CEM) from the Enterprise Development Center, PAN Atlantic University, and Lagos Business School. Olatujoye's success has not deterred him from his commitment to giving back to society. Under his leadership, Zylus Homes conducted several Community Social Responsibility initiatives during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, aimed at assisting the most affected

and vulnerable individuals and communities. Through his foundation, the Tosin Olatujoye Foundation, he has contributed to feeding over 1000 less privileged people in Abeokuta, Lagos, and Oyo.

Beyond feeding the less privileged, Dr. Olatujoye is deeply invested in youth capacity development, dedicating his time and resources to providing opportunities for young people to succeed. His philanthropic efforts have earned him recognition, including the Icon of Humanity Award.

Olatujoye's contribution to the real estate industry and society has not gone unnoticed. He has received numerous awards and recognitions for his outstanding work, including AIICO's Best Unit Manager (2016), AIICO Top 10 Agency Manager in Revenue (2017), Nigeria Achievers Award (2020), Top 50 Entrepreneurs in Nigeria, and Nigeria Property Merit Awards. Recently, in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the industry within a limited time, Dr Oluwatosin was honoured with the Under40Ceo Award.

Olatujoye's remarkable journey from insurance to real estate, his commitment to excellence, philanthropic endeavours, and numerous accolades stand as a testament to what can be achieved with the right mindset, determination, and a clear vision. He is a shining example of a visionary leader who not only excels in business but also gives back to the community, leaving a legacy of excellence and impact for generations to come.

He is more than a successful entrepreneur; he is a beacon of inspiration and change in the business world.

In furtherance of its commitment to bridging the gender skills gap, 1,500 girls and women have graduated from the second cohort of Women In Tech Nigeria’s 2023 Makeathon. Mary Nnah reports

L-R: Events and Activation Manager, VFD Microfinance Bank, Seun Ogunmodede; Co-founder, The Nest, Joba Oloba; CEO and Co-founder, HerVest and Country Director, Women in Tech Nigeria, Solape Akinpelu; Brand Strategist, VFD Microfinance Bank, Abraham Martins; Team Lead, Strategy and Partnership/ Principal Consultant/CEO Nubi Consulting, Nsikan Obi and Co-founder, The Nest, Peter Ogedengbe at the

Dr. Oluwatosin Olatujoye

www.thisdaylive.com

CARDOSO AS GOVERNOR OF CENTRAL BANK OF NIGERIA

SONNY IROCHE argues that it is an appointment well made

See page 25

MEDIA, POWER, FAMILY AND SOCIETY

The media is a connection platform in every society, argues RUFAI OSENI

See page 25

EDITORIAL

THE ABDUCTION OF VARSITY STUDENTS

Thursday September 28, 2023

Governments’ attempts to assuage the consequences of oil subsidy removal are too disorganised to succeed, writes

MONDAY PHILIPS EKPE

POLITICS AND PATHOS OF PALLIATIVES

If things were to be anywhere near well, the people would have been grateful to the three tiers of government. And thankful to the God they cry to constantly mainly because of the serial failure of governance even in little things. Palliatives are temporary by nature, stopgap measures taken to ameliorate dire, despondent conditions while waiting for the ultimate and more enduring solutions. When they’re being administered, the recipient and giver are aware of the limitations. The sense of expectancy particularly on the part of the beneficiary is managed in such a way that the expected outcomes are not exaggerated. The expertise and sincerity of the administrator determine to a large extent the success of the exercise. This occurs in medicine and other fields. Pain-relieving drugs usually hold back the hurt as efforts are made to get to the root of the illness.

The present situation in Nigeria is a lot more distressing than what obtains in medical circles. On May 29 this year, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu who had just been sworn in as president, casually told his bewildered audience that the subsidy on fuel had ended. He didn’t initiate the scheme, of course, neither was it a popular concept because of the opaqueness of its management. Its scrapping was actually one point that united the main candidates in the last presidential election even when they differed on the procedures.

Four months after what was supposed to be a brave (many Nigerians see it as mean, hurried and ill-conceived) policy declaration on inauguration day, some analysts are still at a loss about its real value. Many more are now saddled with counting the cost at macro and micro levels. One may need the services of necromancers, soothsayers, witches and marabouts to determine the positives, if any. Political economists must be finding it difficult to relate the current sad realities with the pledges made during the campaigns and the capacity of the citizens to bear the biting brunt. That we’ve now woken up to the shock of the government returning to its vomit, paying the same subsidies unannounced through the back door, hasn’t helped our understanding of the web we’re in.

Four dictionary meanings of the word, palliate, the lexical root of palliative, take us straight into the heart of what majority of the Nigerian people are compelled to hope for at this very trying period of their lives: “to reduce the violence of (a disease)”; “to ease (symptoms) without curing the underlying disease”; “to cover by excuses and apologies” and “to moderate the intensity of”. Successive governments have augmented the prices of petroleum products for as long as most living Nigerians can remember. Despite the fact that periodic increment in the charges has been registered over and over again which has become worse in recent times, since no administration before now, except briefly by that of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, terminated it, Tinubu’s pronouncement has left a unique deep cut for which some

alleviation is being sought.

So far, the steps said to have been taken are viewed more through accounts from the media which largely sound either eerily familiar or distant; but aren’t designed to mitigate poverty. Truck-loads of rice headed for state capitals and Abuja with warehouses as their destinations remind everyone of the Covid19 era when the effects of that pandemic were worsened by the disorder and cruelty that characterised the distribution of the materials meant to soothe largescale human suffering. Storages suspected to contain muchneeded commodities were vandalised and looted. Not minding the risks involved, both young and old struggled to secure bags and cartons of essential goods. Limbs were broken. Lives were lost. And many of the items were destroyed in the course of those savage scrambles. Such shameful scenes have already been recorded all in the name of relieving the despair caused by the subsidy removal.

Those sights that resemble pictures from unruly refugee camps don’t portray the government as implementing well thoughtout programmes. Even though they’re not meant to achieve lasting results, the palliative packages - plans and execution - should serve as indicators of better things to come. Unfortunately, critical areas like data sourcing and management, logistics, fairness and probity are grossly inadequate. Sadly, there isn’t much in our immediate past to give hope for sterling performances this time.

Excuses and apologies. I’ve witnessed some of the battles of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC); some epic, others not so gallant. The ongoing rancorous engagements with the government over how best to cushion the negative impact of the proclaimed disposal of subsidy are among their most daunting and wearying actions taken so far in the public interest. If they secure appreciable bargains for workers and, hopefully, the other chunk of Nigeria’s desperate population, we’ll all join

Institutional loopholes have complicated our snowballing dilemma. What should we be resolving now? Whether the subsidy has truly returned? Or whether to prosecute both the promised and released palliative stuff judiciously? Or, even, to genuinely probe how the country descended to this level of penury and pity?

in shouting that a true glorious moment for the downtrodden is here!

But before then, like the rest of the people, the labour leaders are left to their own devices to figure out the actual intentions of government in this matter. As time drags on, the zeal of the citizens to protest peacefully in order to vent their grievances wanes. So is the capacity of the unions to embark on industrial strikes successfully, thereby undermining the credibility and clout of their executives. The government may then go to town to congratulate itself for taming dissent. Such gloating would, however, be unfortunate as that could signal the decline, if not demise, of the nation’s socio-political engineering, a condition no one would gain from in the end.

Like in music, cacophony can’t be a virtue in public affairs. Tens of millions of Nigerians who look forward to what could keep them alive for just a day more have had to contend with conflicting information from government people. The $800million loan secured by the then outgoing administration of President Muhammadu Buhari primarily for onward transfer to the country’s “poorest of the poor” to shield them from the anticipated harshness occasioned by this gruelling economic transition has remained a subject of speculation, especially in terms of the qualified beneficiaries and modalities for disbursement. Is it N5000 or N8000 monthly for six months per indigent individual or family? Let’s assume, for the sake of storytelling, that this amount can sustain an ant for that long. Don’t even bother about the current state of the naira, the worst since its debut in 1973, a status unthinkable only a year ago. Somehow, the number of the homes/people to benefit from the scheme has grown from the initial 12 million to above 15 million. How do these figures fare in comparison to the confirmed over 100 million multidimensionally poor Nigerians? What has changed to make Nigerians trust the national social register that was used by the Buhari government for its Conditional Cash Transfer programme, even with the announced review? It was perceived to lack transparency then and so it is now.

The very act of sharing monies and materials equally to states betrays federal government’s unreadiness to rise above throwing resources at challenges, a clear invitation to corruption and ineptitude. Outside constitutional equality, the federating units possess uneven profiles. Dependable data, proper procurement and safe distribution chains are still problematic.

These institutional loopholes have complicated our snowballing dilemma. What should we be resolving now? Whether the subsidy has truly returned? Or whether to prosecute both the promised and released palliative stuff judiciously? Or, even, to genuinely probe how the country descended to this level of penury and pity?

Dr Ekpe is a member of THISDAY Editorial Board

SONNY IROCHE argues that it is an appointment well made

CARDOSO AS GOVERNOR OF CENTRAL BANK OF NIGERIA

The appointment of a qualified and competent individual as the Governor of a Central Bank is very crucial for the stability and growth of a country’s economy. This has become imperative in the particular case of Nigeria, where the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) had been run aground in the last decade, with the consequence of the adverse economic situation that the country now finds itself.

Further, in the case of the Central Bank of Nigeria, the recent appointment of Dr Yemi Cardoso, who from his reputation and experience, is seen in the banking and finance sector as a perfect fit for the job at this critical time in the history of Nigeria, has however been met with

controlling inflation. A qualified governor should have a strong understanding of monetary policy tools and their implications. Commercial bankers often deal with monetary policy decisions and their impact on the banking sector. Cardoso’s experience in executive management positions would have exposed him to these policy decisions, making him well-versed in this area.

Thirdly, Dr Cardoso’s leadership qualities and experience as the Lagos State Minister of Budget and Planning, during the Bola Tinubu’s administration in Lagos State, are clear indications of his management skills.

As the head of the Central Bank, he undoubtedly possesses strong leadership and management skills. Commercial bankers, especially those who have held executive positions, are accustomed to managing teams, making strategic decisions, and handling complex financial matters.

Cardoso’s experience as Chairman of Citibank also demonstrates his ability to lead and manage effectively. His combined experience in private sector banking and public sector budget and planning, makes him an excellent choice for the governor of the CBN.

Those criticizing the appointment of a commercial banker as the Governor of CBN, may be reminded of precedents of outstanding commercial bankers who have held such positions in the past:

The media is a connection platform in every society, argues

RUFAI OSENI

MEDIA, POWER, FAMILY AND SOCIETY

From the earliest times there has always been a dichotomy between information flow from areas of higher concentration to lower concentration.

The Russian involvement in the American elections through the use of Facebook raises a lot of dust as regards the hegemony of information against global power.

Throughout history societal changes has always been hinged on crusades, History teaches us about the crusade for the Holy land in 1095; we can’t all forget the hard work of Bernard of Clairvaux in upholding his faith through various crusades. We live in an era where the media must be a crusader for societal balance and development.

The media is a connection platform in every society. It connects the habits, behaviors, antecedent, societal evolution and strata of societal fabric. Every expressive form is media. The biggest media platform is the family. The parents are the great television sets in the eye of the children before they come in contact with the wider world. The prospect of a society is the sum total of its media interactions and anything that a society becomes is reflective of its media.

a few criticisms from some analysts, who argue that Cardoso is not a central banker. However, it is important to recognize that being a commercial banker with executive management experience in a reputable bank, such as Citibank, and having served as Chairman of the bank, are strong enough professional prerequisites for the role of Governor. Reading a few comments of the critics of his appointment, it should assuage such concerns, if I try and elucidate the professional qualifications necessary for a commercial banker, such as Dr Cardoso with his self-effacing demeanor to be a qualified Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, and argue that his appointment is justified based on his experience and temperament.

The role of a Governor of a Central Bank requires a deep understanding of the banking system, monetary policy, and economic stability. While there have been instances where individuals from commercial banks or even outside the banking system have been appointed as Governors, it is essential to assess their professional qualifications and experience. Cardoso’s background as an executive in a first-class bank and his previous role as Chairman demonstrate his expertise in the banking sector, making him a suitable candidate for the position of Governor.

First, from his over 30-year experience as a banker, he possesses an in-depth knowledge of the banking system. So for him as a commercial banker he possess a comprehensive understanding of the banking system which includes his knowledge and experience of banking operations, risk management, financial regulations, and the ability to analyze market trends. Cardoso’s experience as an executive in Citibank and his role in Executive Management and Chairman of Citibank, indicates his familiarity with these aspects of the banking system.

Secondly, going by Cardoso’s academic credentials and the rigorous in-house trainings and programs that he undertook in the banking sector, he must have acquired clear understanding of treasury management, credit and monetary policy, which are some of the prerequisites of being the CBN governor. Monetary policy plays a crucial role in maintaining economic stability and

Paul Oguma and Joseph Sanusi.

In Nigeria, previous Governors of the Central Bank, such as Oguma, Sanusi, and Emir Sanusi Lamido Sanusi were appointed from commercial banks. Their experience in the banking sector equipped them with the necessary skills to effectively manage the Central Bank. This precedent supports the appointment of commercial bankers as qualified governors.

Other examples of Central/Reserve Banks Governors being appointed from outside the system in other countries abound.

Italy: In 2019, Ignazio Visco was reappointed as the Governor of the Bank of Italy. Visco, an economist, had previously served as the DirectorGeneral of the Treasury in Italy’s Ministry of Economy and Finance. His appointment as the Governor of the Bank of Italy was seen as a departure from the tradition of promoting from within the central bank.

Canada: In 2008, Mark Carney was appointed as the Governor of the Bank of Canada. Carney, an economist, had previously worked in various roles in the Canadian Department of Finance and the Bank of Canada. His appointment from outside the central bank was seen as a fresh perspective to lead the institution.

South Africa: In 2014, Lesetja Kganyago was appointed as the Governor of the South African Reserve Bank. Kganyago, an economist, had previously served as the Director-General of the National Treasury in South Africa. His appointment as the Governor of the central bank was seen as a recognition of his expertise in economic policy and financial management.

Brazil: In 2016, Ilan Goldfajn was appointed as the Governor of the Central Bank of Brazil. Goldfajn, an economist, had previously worked in various roles in academia and the private sector. His appointment from outside the central bank was seen as a move to bring fresh ideas and perspectives to the institution.

Iroche

is an Investment Banker of over 30 years with International Merchant Bank (an affiliate of First National Bank of Chicago)

The media has a powerful appeal to every generation, technology has just its cascading impact. The discovery and the evolution of the printing press by Johanne Gutenberg is an indication of the rapid movement and developmental impact media has on society. Every media will bring about a shift, a shift will bring about oscillations, oscillations will make a revolution. It is sad that the media has also been a tool in destroying the society, and this is not just the social media but the traditional media is also suspect in moral decadence.

The Radio and Television platforms that are supposed to help in shaping society are now a tool for hate speech and all sorts of nefarious vices. We have to say, the society is always on the journey of fine tuning and balancing out but with the journey of balancing comes many twists and turns albeit a ferocious gyration in some cases, but caution is of great importance in a bid not to lose equilibrium.

In understanding this function is the war leaders have used media for - good and evil. We must constantly ensure that good trumps evil and that is why it is good to X-ray the harmful play of information using Donald Trump as a study. More shocking is the habit and trends of President Trump.

An article in The Economist states this about the former President:

The president’s dearest supporters and bitterest opponents are united in their wish that less attention be paid to his social-media habit.

Stephen Miller, a policy adviser, and Sarah Sanders, the press secretary, have tried valiant defences, but many Republicans prefer to feign ignorance. Some of Mr Trump’s critics detect a more insidious motive, “a weapon to control the news cycle”, as George Lakoff, a professor

emeritus at Berkeley, puts it. In this reading, the president is a puppet-master whose tweets distract from scandal and divert attention from substantive issues. These critics have it backwards: Mr Trump is actually taking cues from the media, specifically Fox News, an entertainment channel, rather than attempting to lead them.

Matthew Gertz of Media Matters, a progressive watchdog, has documented nearly 60 cases in the past three months where Mr Trump appears to be tweeting in response to Fox News segments. The alarming North Korea tweet came 12 minutes after a report on the channel about Mr Kim’s “nuclear button”. Michael Wolff’s new book says the president has three television screens installed in his bedroom; the New York Times reports that he has a “Super TiVo” device, allowing him to record cable news and watch it later; private schedules obtained by Axios show the president takes hours of “executive time”—a delightful euphemism for telly, tweeting and telephoning. The bulk of Mr Trump’s tweets as president have come in the early morning when “Fox & Friends”, a fawning programme, airs .

Information has always been a buffer to the proliferation of various forms of power.

In Rousseau’s social contract a compelling argument is made.

The public force therefore needs an agent of its own to bind it together and set it to work under the direction of the general will, to serve as a means of communication between the State and the Sovereign, and to do for the collective person more or less what the union of soul and body does for man. Here we have what is, in the State, the basis of government, often wrongly confused with the Sovereign, whose minister it is. What then is government? An intermediate body set up between the subjects and the Sovereign, to secure their mutual correspondence, charged with the execution of the laws and the maintenance of liberty, both civil and political. The members of this body are called magistrates or kings, that is to say governors, and the whole body bears the name prince. Thus those who hold that the act, by which a people puts itself under a prince, is not a contract, are certainly right. It is simply and solely a commission, an employment, in which the rulers, mere officials of the Sovereign, exercise in their own name the power of which it makes them depositaries. This power it can limit, modify or recover at pleasure; for the alienation of such a right is incompatible with the nature of the social body, and contrary to the end of association.

I call then government, or supreme administration, the legitimate exercise of the executive power, and prince or magistrate the man or the body entrusted with that administration. In government reside the intermediate forces whose relations make up that of the whole to the whole, or of the Sovereign to the State. This last relation may be represented as that between the extreme terms of a continuous proportion, which has government as its mean proportional. The government gets from the Sovereign the orders it gives the people, and, for the State to be properly balanced, there must, when everything is reckoned in, be equality.

Excerpts from a paper delivered by Rufai Oseni of Arise News

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA

Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com

EDITORIAL

THE ABDUCTION OF VARSITY STUDENTS

The authorities should do more to safeguard students

The killings, abductions of staff and students as well as the wanton destruction of school structures have impacted negatively on education, especially in many northern states. While many secondary schools have in recent years been target of these criminal gangs, that they would carry their dastardly operation to a tertiary institution is why the authorities should be concerned. On 22 September, according to the police, suspected bandits, riding on motorcycles, armed with sophisticated weapons invaded three students’ rented apartments in Sabon Gida Village near the Federal University Gusau and kidnapped an unspecified number of students.

Unfortunately, at a time when Zamfara officials and their federal counterparts should be working together to secure the release of the students, they are engaging in war of words. Yet, the governor of Zamfara State must understand that incidents like this explain why many parents would rather keep their children out of school. “Attacks on education create a ripple effect and set in motion a range of negative impacts,” according to the Chief Executive of Teachers’ Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN), Josiah Ajiboye, “such as loss of education, early marriage, early pregnancy, and stigma associated with sexual violence and children born from rape, all of which can dramatically affect female students’ futures.” Indeed, Manuel Fotaine, United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) director for Emergency Programmes has long noted that when schools are under repeated attacks and students become targets “not only are their lives shattered, but the future of the nation is also stolen.”

It all started with the 25th February 2014 brutal attacks on Federal Government College, Buni Yadi, Yobe State. It was designed to instill fear in the minds of children and their teachers and to discourage the parents from sending their wards to school. On

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Letters to the Editor

that tragic night, no fewer than 51 students were murdered. Attacks on other schools were to follow across many states. Thousands of boys and girls abducted from several schools, particularly at the peak of the conflict, were used as suicide bombers, while the girls were also subjected to all kinds of indignities, including forced “marriages” and sexual violence.

In 2018, some criminal gangs abducted 108 schoolgirls from Dapchi before most were eventually returned after a controversial deal in which a Christian girl (Leah Sharibu) was left behind reportedly on account of her faith. In 2019, gunmen killed three people at the College of Agriculture and Animal Science in Bakura, Zamfara State, and kidnapped 15 students and four staff. In December 2020, motorbikeriding bandits attacked Government Secondary School, Kankara in Katsina State to ferry away about 300 students. Some weeks later, they also snatched pupils and a teacher of an Islamic seminary heading home after school in the same state. In February 2021, a school pupil was killed, and 27 others were abducted by armed men from their school in Kagara, Niger State.

The spate of violence has prompted many to look out for ways of safeguarding students and teachers from physical threats and generally making the schools safe for study. The Safe Schools Initiative launched in 2014 after the Chibok kidnap was meant to counter the growing attacks on the right to education and to build community security groups to promote safe zones for education, consisting of teachers, parents, police, and community leaders. Endorsed by the federal government in May 2015, the Safe School Initiative, with the support of national and international organisations, has developed several measures to rebuild schools and provide improved security for schools. Now that these criminal gangs are targeting universities in the North, critical stakeholders must find workable solution to deal with the challenge.

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

LETTERS

OBSERVATIONS ON THE KANO-MARADI RAIL PROJECT

The Minister of Transportation, Senator Sa’idu Alkali, has testified that the Kano-Daura-Maradi railway project which took-off during the APC-led administration of past President Muhammadu Buhari is going on smoothly. This is pleasing.

The Minister reportedly drove along the cleared path for the rail tracks from Dawanau to Kazaure emirate. The project monitoring trip appropriately ended at the University of Transportation, Daura. The $1.95 billion project was awarded in 2021. Physical work started in late 2022. The Minister was happy that earthwork and bush clearance have reached 80 percent completion. The contractor has delivered numerous heavy-duty equipment to a huge project marshaling area in Kazaure, Jigawa State.

The Minister said that because the earth work has reached 80 percent completion, the assurance given by the contractor that the project would be timely completed in 2025 is credible. This affirms that this legacy project of the APC-led administration of President Buhari is on course.

The scope of work on the project involves a new railway line of 1435mm (standard) gauge on which passenger and goods trains can run on a maximum speed of 150 kilometers per hour. The

length of the tracks is 400 kilometers. The project design, if it remains unmodified, includes 20 railway stations, five maintenance workshops and yards; a total 52 railway bridges; 75 road overpasses and six road underpasses.

The Minister of Transportation in the administration of President Buhari, Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, has told Nigerians that, the Kano-Maradi railway project has a branch component linking Kano to Dutse Gadawur, the capital of Jigawa State. One of the observations on the project is that so far, there is no visible physical work on the Dutse branch.

Another observation is that the minister did not comment on its start-date during his project monitoring visit. Is the Dutse branch still on the cards?

Members of the National Assembly from Kano, Jigawa and Katsina States, all ministers from the three states, the Governors of the three states and the national chairman of the APC may jointly work to ensure that the Kano-Dutse branch is not dropped from the Kano-Maradi railway project.

Work on the Dutse branch is not the only aspect of the project that is still on paper. It is observed that not a single of the 52 bridges and the 81 under and overpasses was seen along the cleared track

path.

It was observed that none of the five maintenance workshops and yards is on ground. The location for the station in my home town, Dambatta, one of 20 in the project, is still unknown to the residents who welcomed the railway to their door step.

The Kano-Maradi rail project is part of our country’s ambitious railway modernisation and expansion master plan, in which all state capitals and other principal cities in the country would be linked by railway. The plan envisaged linking all sea ports, major international airports and the main economic centres of the country by rail. The planners believed this can make Nigeria the hub of an intermodal transportation network for the West African subregion. It is because of the desire to achieve that regional-hub status that the Railways Master Plan includes linking appropriate border towns in Cameroon, Niger and the Republic of Benin by rail.

On the Kano-Maradi line, a document says: “An agreement between Nigeria and Niger in 2015, coordinated by the Nigeria-Niger Joint Commission for Cooperation, has a plan for Kano-Katsina-Maradi Corridor Master Plan, (K2M).”

Salisu Na’inna Dambatta, Dambatta

When schools are under repeated attacks and students become targets not only are their lives shattered, but the future of the nation is also stolen

27,2023

Mobile GSM Technology Leads in Internet Connectivity as Subscribers Prioritises 2G Ahead 5G Services

Emma Okonji

The percentage of subscribers that are utilising telecommunications services per the various mobile phone generations like 2G, 3G, 4G and 5G currently deployed in Nigeria, shows that telecoms subscribers are utilising more of the 2G technology service offering than the 5G technology service offering.

This is just as Mobile GSM technology tops other technologies like the Fixed Wired, Wired/ Wireless and VoIP technologies currently deployed for internet connectivity by licensed internet service providers in Nigeria.

The recent statistics released by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), which THISDAY obtained from its official website, showed that the percentage of subscribers that utilised 2G services in the months of May, June and July 2023, was 58.36 per cent, 59.24 per cent and 60.85 per cent respectively, while the percentage of subscribers that utilised 5G services within the same period was 0.12 per cent, 0.14 per cent and 0.13 per cent respectively.

The statistics further revealed that the percentage of subscribers that utilised 3G services in the months of May, June and July 2023, was 16.46 per cent, 15.46 per cent

and 14.85 per cent respectively, while the percentage of subscribers that utilised 4G services within the same period was 25.06 per cent, 25.16 per cent and 24.16 per cent respectively.

The NCC statistics also revealed that a total of 159,534,913 active internet subscribers in the country, connected to the internet via the various technology platforms such as the Mobile GSM, Fixed Wired, Wired/Wireless and VoIP technologies deployed by licensed service providers, in the month of July, 2023.

The statistics further revealed that out of the total number of 159,534,913 active internet

subscribers in the month of July 2023, 158,982,962 subscribers connected to the internet via Mobile GSM technology, while 326,241 subscribers connected to the internet via Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP technology), and only 208,612 subscribers connected to the internet via Wired/wireless technology, while a paltry 17,098 subscribers connected to the internet via Fixed wired technology in July 2023.

The statistics revealed that Mobile GSM technology maintained a leading position in the number of subscribers that connected to the internet via various technologies provided by licensed internet

service providers, since January 2023.

According to the statistics, in January 2023, 155,675,178 subscribers connected to the internet, via Mobile GSM technology, 348,236 connected to the internet via VoIP technology, 204,810 connected via Wired/wireless technology, while only 16,144 connected to the internet via Fixed wired technology.

In February 2023, 156,420,881 subscribers connected to the internet, via Mobile GSM technology, 345,422 connected to the internet via VoIP technology, 204,810 connected via Wired/wireless technology, while only 16,320 connected to the internet via Fixed wired technology.

In March 2023, 156,898,223 subscribers connected to the internet, via Mobile GSM technology, 340,614 connected to the internet via VoIP technology, 204,810 connected via Wired/wireless technology, while only 16,457 connected to the internet via Fixed wired technology.

In April 2023, 157,667,708 subscribers connected to the internet, via Mobile GSM technology, 338,693 connected to the internet via VoIP technology, 208,612 connected via Wired/wireless technology, while only 16,531 connected to the internet via Fixed wired technology.

The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

National Assembly Gives Legislative Backing to Advertising Industry on Local Content

Raheem Akingbolu

The National Assembly has thrown its weight behind the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON), on various policies being championed by the council to protect and improve the ethical advertising business environment and practice in Nigeria.

Delivering his keynote address at the 50th anniversary conference

of the Association of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria (AAAN), held in Abuja, the Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Information, Hon. Olusola Fatoba, commended the players in the advertising industry for their constant commitment to position Nigeria and give her a voice, despite all odds.

While assuring Ad practitioners of unbridled support of the

parliament, in whatever way necessary, he said he would engage with the leadership of the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria to see to the full implementation of the local content requirements in its new Act.

He commended AAAN members for the effort they have made over the years to impact the country through their creative ingenuity.

“I recall, several years back, most

of the trending advertisements on television in Nigeria were foreign adverts, with faces that did not look like us and voices that sounded very foreign, marketing products that were both made at home and abroad. This means that if an advert was not produced abroad, then it will not trend and it will not be impactful.

“However, I am impressed with the fight back that came

from AAAN and its members. They stepped up their creativity, ingenuity, innovation and investment. Today, the story is different. I travel to some other African countries and I see Nigerian made adverts on their television, side by side, with our movies and our music,” Fatoba stated.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, in a keynote address urged

AAAN to support the information ministry in its quest to promote value orientation in the country. Represented by the Director of Public Communication and National Orientation, Sunday Baba, the minister pledged the government’s commitment to delivering good governance.

The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

Tale of Brands in 2023

Akingbolu reports

The need for brand strength has become a critical success factor for sustainability, whether indigenous or a conglomerate, as it increases customer loyalty, confidence, public perception, and ultimately market dominance.

In Nigeria, there are avalanche of successful indigenous brands cutting across various sectors whose origins are deep-rooted in their wholly Nigerian heritage despite their consistent pursuit of the attainment of international status and global best practices. A few examples include Globacom (telecoms) and Dangote Group (Manufacturing and Commodity) among others.

Their efforts in building brand equity despite the challenges in the economic sector have not remained unnoticed as they lead in the top 50 ranking of valuable brands in Nigeria, in 2023.

Conducted by Top 50 Brands Nigeria, an independent firm involved in the evaluation and rating of corporate brands in the country, the evaluation and ratings were carried out using the Brand Strength Measurement tool with variables such as top-of-mind survey, online engagement, quality elements, process innovation, category leadership, national spread, and corporate social responsibility.

The highlights of the brands rating have Dangote Industries Limited as the Most Valuable Brand in Nigeria in 2023, MTN Communications Nigeria as the Most Valuable Telecoms and Multinational Brand in 2023, Globacom, as the Most Popular Brand; and Rite Foods Limited, the Highest Gainer Year-On-Year, for being a beacon of innovation and nourishment with quality food and beverage brand.

Dangote Industries Limited topped the list of the top 10 organisations as the Most Valuable Brand in Nigeria in 2023, with six local brands on the growth ladder, comprising Globacom, Access Bank, Zenith Bank, Guaranty Trust Company (GTCO), First Bank of Nigeria, and BUA Group, ahead of age-long multinationals.

Dangote Industries Limited is an integrated conglomerate with operations in Nigeria and Africa, in sectors such as cement, sugar, salt,

condiments, packaging, energy, port operations, fertiliser, and petrochemicals, with 650,000 barrels per day refinery, and has maintained the top position for six consecutive years since 2018.

Globacom was fourth on the top 10 list as the ‘Most Popular Brand’, after MTN and Airtel which were rated second and third respectively. A Nigerian multinational telecoms brand, Globacom, with over 61 million subscribers, and about 28 per cent of the total mobile lines in Nigeria, had the highest number of mentions during the Top of the Mind (TOM) survey.

Zenith Bank emerged sixth as the biggest bank in the country by capitalisation; while Guaranty Trust Company (GTCO) took the eighth position as one of the foremost financial institutions in Nigeria. Ranked ninth on the list, First Bank was rated the oldest existing, yet dynamic financial institution; while Bua Group, a leading food,

infrastructure, mining, and manufacturing conglomerate was the last on the Top 10 ranking. It would also be recalled that Dangote Industries Limited, Globacom Zenith Bank, First Bank of Nigeria, and GTCO also dominated the top 10 positions for five consecutive years.

Remarkably, on the Top 50 brand ranking, 24 are Nigerian companies, while 26 are international organisations, and not left out in the Top 50 Brands 2023 Report are 10 Brands to watch this year including Opay, Fairmoney, Palmpay, Helium Health, Piggybank, Thrive Agric, Trade Depot, Providus Bank, SunTrust Bank, and Premium Trust Bank. Interestingly, eight of the brands are indigenously owned and would be on the Top 50 list as they continue to strive for market excellence.

Perhaps, the most remarkable highlight of the 2023 Top 50 Brands Nigeria Audit is Rite Foods’ performance on the index.

IXPN, Medallion DC Harp on Internet Peering, Interconnectivity

Emma Okonji

Internet eXchange Point of Nigeria (IXPN), a membership-based organisation that provides network interconnectivity platform and Medallion Datacenters, West Africa’s most connected facilities, last week in Abuja, had stakeholders workshop on internet peering and interconnectivity. The workshop was centered around the impact of Internet eXchange Point of Nigeria and Medallion Datacenters on the

ICT industry, and ultimately, the benefits of peering and interconnection to prospective organisations.

Explaining what peering and interconnectivity between various stakeholders will bring to the industry, the Chief Executive Officer of IXPN, Mr. Muhammed Rudman, noted that peering would enhance Internet connections for citizens and organisations alike, which would at the end of the day, help the economy to thrive.

“Peering and interconnectivity

through internet exchanges address the challenges of traffic by ensuring the shortest possible route is used to reach a given destination. It keeps traffic as local as possible, which improves performance and enables faster connections between networks, facilitating high-speed data transfer, lower latency, increased bandwidth and improved fault tolerance,” he said at the workshop that attracted over 100 stakeholders, mostly network engineers and administrators.

He also called for a concerted

effort to host of content locally, stressing that doing so will provide additional revenue opportunities to local Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and Datacenters, which in turn creates more jobs and serves as a driver for economic growth.

“Nigeria cannot continue to pay money to foreign hosting companies as it constitutes capital flight, puts more strain on Nigeria’s foreign earnings, slows the growth of local data centers and delays the development of new ones,” he said.

Konga Pioneers Africa’s First Buyer, Seller Tv in October

Emma Okonji

Konga is set to pioneer a 24-hour buyers and sellers’ television viewing that will be launched next month to celebrate Nigeria’s 63rd Independence anniversary.

The initiative is expected to address the high cost of living, including the suffocating cost of

fund to do business in Nigeria. Konga TV, an Internet Protocol TV (iPTV) channel widely reputed as Africa’s first buyers and sellers’ TV, will go live early in October 2023, according to Konga.

The development, which has sparked excitement among media watchers and stakeholders in Nigeria’s manufacturing,

distribution and retail sectors, is set to further revolutionise the online broadcasting and commerce space in Nigeria, Africa’s biggest market.

A staff of Konga Customer Experience Team, confirmed that internal test-run has commenced and is sure that within days, Konga TV will go live to the public.

According to the staff who pleaded anonymity, the TV station shall create democracy in pricing of goods and services in Nigeria, no matter where the buyers and sellers are located, but for genuine products only. She disclosed that both sellers and buyers in Nigeria lack true freedom because of lack of market intelligence.

Techeconomy Holds Special Session on Media Innovation

Emma Okonji

Techeconomy, a leading digital media startup in Nigeria, has said it will organise a special session at the forthcoming #StartupSouth8 in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on October 5-6, 2023.

The eighth edition of #StartupSouth’s annual event has as its central theme: ‘Deep & Bold:

5IR, Emerging Realities, Regional Economic Imperatives & The Role of Innovation’.

Through the session hosting programme, Techeconomy will delve into the sub-theme: ‘5IR: Media Innovation for Regional and Economic Growth’.

The panellists include Editor, Techeconomy, Peter Oluka; General Manager, RedCloud

Technologies Nigeria, Ebere Ogwumoyi; Managing Director, Shimol Services Limited, Victor Siokwu, and Founder/Creative Director, CapitalTV, Ndume Green.

Commenting on the objectives of the media session at #StartupSouth8, Oluka said the development of any innovation relied heavily on public perception which means

that people’s understanding of any technology was shaped, majorly, by the media.

“The media also keeps a check on public policy by throwing a spotlight on government action. They let people voice diverse opinions on governance and reform and help build public consensus to bring about change,” Oluka said.

The company was rated as the highest gainer as it moved from its 44th position in the previous year’s rating to 30th, leaping 14 steps up the ladder of consumer rating according to the Rating organization. For a relatively unknown indigenous brand five years ago, it is quite astounding for a brand that didn’t appear in any top index a few years ago to have grown rapidly within such a short period. It is indeed a phenomenal feat for Rite Foods to have gained such remarkable brand traction within such a short duration.

Speaking on the brand equity growth trajectory of the company, a marketing and product marketing analyst, Dr. Ini Asuquo, attributed the company’s rapid growth to a combination of factors which includes its disruptive innovation with which Bigi Soft drinks and its Energy drink Fearless were brought into the market.

This is coming at the heels of a media review conducted and published on the Tribune online Newspaper platform under the title: ‘’Why Strategy Fails’’, the publication quoted thus:

“Strategy is vital to the actualisation of corporate objectives because it bridges the gap between means and end. Strategy involves the deployment of resources at the disposal of an organisation for the actualisation of corporate goals.

“But through creative marketing and competitive pricing, Bigi Cola has forced itself into the consciousness of fizzy drink consumers and now poses a serious threat to both Coke and Pepsi’s dominance of the market. Bigi has penetrated areas that the giants sparsely serviced and has made them its strongholds. It has also surreptitiously sneaked into the major markets. So much is the threat posed by the new drink that both Coke and Pepsi have been forced to revert to packaging their products in glass bottles, after several years of moving into plastic, just to be able to compete with Bigi on prices.

to Increase Adopted

Airtel, UNICEF

Schools across Nigeria to 1,220

Pleased with the performance of pupils in all its 620 adopted schools across Nigeria, under the Re-imagine Education Programme, initiated by Airtel Africa and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the duo have said they would adopt additional 600 schools to the existing 620 adopted schools across Nigeria, in order to extend the benefits to more pupils in Nigeria.

Both Airtel and UNICEF made the promise in Lagos this week, when they visited Oremeji Primary School II, in Ajegunle, Lagos State, one of the adopted schools in the state.

During the visit to assess the impact of the programme on the learning outcomes of the students, Airtel and UNICEF expressed their satisfaction and delight at the progress rate of the Re-imagine Education programme in Nigeria, describing the pupils’ enthusiasm and improved learning outcomes as proof to the effectiveness of the initiative.

The delegation, which was led by the Group Chief Executive Officer, Airtel Africa, Segun Ogunsanya, had Chief Executive Officer, Airtel Nigeria, Carl Cruz; UNICEF Chief of Lagos Field Office, Celine Lafoucriere; and other corporate

leaders from Airtel and UNICEF, engaged teachers, pupils, and school administrators to evaluate the impact of the program on the learning outcomes of the students.

In his remark at event, Ogunsanya described the pace of activity witnessed at Oremeji Primary School as impressive.

“As a business, we have focused on education as a key area of our Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), and this far-reaching partnership with UNICEF helps us to accelerate results. So far, we are pleased that this partnership which is aimed at advancing the education agenda on the continent through facilitating connectivity and online access, is also driving change,” he said.

Corroborating Ogunsanya’s thoughts, Cruz noted that the visit to the school was a testament to Airtel’s commitment to ensuring the impact of the Re-Imagine Education project, while the pupils’ enthusiasm and improved learning outcomes are proof to the efficacy of the initiative.

“Our commitment is the reason we have come as a full team, to pay a visit and be well acquainted with how much this project has impacted both the teachers and students of Oremeji Primary School, and we are delighted to see the tangible impact of the Re-

In a recent evaluation and rating of corporate brands in the country by Top 50 Brands, an independent firm, using top-of-mind survey, online engagement, national spread, among other factors, Dangote and MTN, consolidated on their past records while Rite Foods made a significant leap to be among the highly rated brands. Raheem

Emma Okonji

Report: Cloud Adoption Will Yield $30.2tn to Nigerian Economy by 2033

Ugo Aliogo

Amazon Web Services (AWS)

has commissioned a new report quantifying the relationship between public cloud computing adoption, national productivity, and economic growth in Nigeria.

The report highlighted the potential for the Nigerian market to unlock NGN $30.2 trillion of additional economic value over the next decade (2023-2033), representing 0.36 percent of Nigeria’s cumulative gross domestic product (GDP) by accelerating adoption of cloud.

The study, performed by Telecom Advisory Services LLC, and directed by Raul Katz, Director of Business Strategy Research at the Columbia Institute for Tele-information (Columbia Business School), provided a cutting-edge econometrical method for calculating the aggregate productivity gains realized by economies that adopt

cloud computing.

The report extended previous economic research focused on firmlevel productivity by establishing cloud adoption as a driver of national productivity and economic growth.

The report said unleashing the economic power of cloud computing in Nigeria in 2021, cloud adoption made a significant impact on the Nigerian economy.

According to the report, “cloud adoption contributed 0.02% to the regional GDP, generating an economic value of N82.9 billion. Over 71% of this impact can be attributed to the national productivity gains or so-called ‘spillover effects’ on the economy. The remaining 29% is driven by cloud spending from both public and private organisations.”

The report further explained that on average, Nigeria experienced a 0.01 percent increase in GDP for every 1 percent

increase in cloud adoption by Nigerian organizations, adding that this is behind the SSA regional leader, South Africa, where a 1 percent increase in cloud penetration yields a 0.06 percent increase in Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

The report espoused that extrapolating this data, a 10% increase in cloud penetration across the entire SSA region, would result in economic spillover effects amounting to an estimated $3.8 billion per year.

General Manager for SubSaharan Africa at AWS, Amrote Abdella, said: “This report underscores the immense potential for Nigeria, and the SSA region, to harness cloud computing and expedite economic growth. By increasing the current average cloud penetration, the region can unlock additional economic value. AWS is committed to

Tech Talent Development Gets Boost with New Partnerships

Emma Okonji

supporting its customers and partners in Nigeria throughout their cloud journey. We firmly believe that cloud technology will be crucial in driving innovation, boosting productivity, and scaling businesses in the region over the next decade.”

The report demonstrated that the economic impact of cloud computing is guided by returns to scale, while adding that greater adoption of cloud computing would lead to proportionally greater productivity gains and economic impact.

The report averred: “In 2021, only 27 percent of organisations in Nigeria adopted cloud computing, significantly lower than the adoption rates of 49 percent in Western Europe and North America. This presents an opportunity for the country to enhance its cloud penetration and reap substantial benefits.”

In line with the resolve of the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy to build a robust framework for the training of one million technical talents over the next three years and the presidency’s goal of creating two million digital jobs. Nithub University of Lagos, in partnership with Moniepoint Inc, Africa’s leading digital financial services provider, has announced the graduation of the pioneer cohort from its HatchDev programme.

The nine-month specialised training, sponsored by Moniepoint, is designed to produce hundreds of market-ready software engineers every year.

In Nigeria, where the digital economy is rapidly expanding, there is a pressing need for skilled tech talent. According to estimates, there are only around 115,000 developers in Nigeria, highlighting a significant talent shortage that hampers the growth of the tech sector. Recognising this challenge,

Moniepoint in partnership with Nithub is taking proactive steps to bridge the gap and empower the youth with valuable skills for a brighter future. The highly competitive programme with a strict recruitment policy, which began in October 2022, aspires to yearly shape 300 junior software engineers, 100 intelligent systems developers, and 100 IoT/ embedded systems engineers. These professionals, upon completion of the course, will be readily absorbed into a market eager for their expertise. The programme’s structure is such that it starts with nine months of classroom-based training, culminating in a three-month industry-specific internship.

NItHub envisions a transformative approach to the use and creation of digital technology in Nigeria. This vision encompasses up-skilling, startup incubation, product development, all aimed at setting new benchmarks for digital proficiency and innovation in Nigeria.

NCS Recovers N1.6bn in 2 Months, Reads Riot Act to Economic Saboteurs

Gilbert Ekugbe

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Zone C has stated that it has successfully recovered a cumulative sum of N1,634,794,571 in two months in 2023.

The Acting Comptroller of the commend, DC Kayode Kolade, stated this while addressing newsmen at the government Warehouse, Aduwawa, Benin City, Edo state, recently.

According to him, in its drive to curb smuggling within its areas of jurisdiction, the Zone also intercepted cannabis sativa, raw materials for production of explosive devices, as well as other contraband with a Duty Paid Value (DPV) N1,648,494,571.00) only.

He pointed out that the Zone also arrested nine suspects in connection with the seizures within the period under review from July 25 to September 23rd 2023.

In addition to the 417 sacks of cannabis sativa also known as Indian hemp weighing 9,194kg and 627 compressed parcels of same Indian hemp 1kg each totaling 627kg, and 9 sacks 50kg each of explosives’ raw materials, he listed other seized products to include 1,329 bags, 50kg each of smuggled foreign parboiled rice ; 5 cartons of DSP Cough Syrup with codeine 100mg containing 1000 bottles ; 1 unit of armored Bullion Van ; 761 jumbo bales of second hand clothing ; 883 cartons of various unregistered/expired medicaments including tramadol;

100 cartons of various wines; 5,737 pieces of used pneumatic tyres ; 335 cartons of smuggled foreign tomato paste; 300 cartons of foreign spaghetti.

“Based on prompt intelligence and sting operation, the rice was intercepted along Calabar/Akwa Ibom axis and okada/benin expressway, the 417 sacks and 627 parcels of Indian hemp were intercepted at Okada-Benin and Ewu-Auchi Expressway respectively. 761 Jumbo bales of used clothing mostly concealed in trucks and buses were intercepted along Umeikaa/Aba Road and Okada-Benin road,” he said.

“The 5 cartons of DSP cough syrup with codeine, and 883 cartons of unregistered medicaments were intercepted along Benin/Asaba/ Onitsha Expressway.

Osun Telecoms Installations Audit Targets Safety

Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo

Global Transactions Nigeria Limited (GTNL), over the weekend noted that the company would ensure that telecommunications infrastructure complies with the environmental laws of Osun State, just as it’s said that the standard control activities is not a money making venture, but an obligatory duty of the state government to ensure the safety of the residents of the state and the environment.

The company’s Director of Projects and Data Management, Morenike George-Taylor while Speaking with journalists in Osogbo, reiterated that the audit and inspections of existing installations within the state is to

ensure total compliance with relevant the Osun Environmental Protection Law, 2022.

Reacting to a report credited to the ALTON Chairman, Gbenga Adebayo, asking the Minister of Communication to call Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke to order on this issue, George-Taylor noted that such a statement from the highly respected personality was pre-emptive at this stage of the project.

According to her, “the state governor, Ademola Adeleke has the obligation in accordance with the constitution, as the state governor to protect the people of his state and their environments who freely gave him their mandate.”

She responded to the insinuation that the audit and inspections are meant to generate revenue mainly into the coffers of the state saying such assertion shows that those who are peddling the information must have been misinformed about the nitty-gritty of what the governor has in mind which revolves around safety of the people and their environment.

According to her, the state is carrying out audits and inspections of existing installations within the state to ensure compliance with relevant laws and enforce notices, guidelines and regulations where there are contraventions against owners and developers of installations.

“The regulation is not a money making venture, but aimed at

The armored Bullion Van without customs documents and End User Certificate was intercepted along Okada/Benin Expressway. 100 cartons of wine and 335 tomatoes paste were intercepted along Ewu/Ibilo axis, 5,737 pieces of used pneumatic tyres were also intercepted along Cross River waterside and Okada-Benin Expressway,” he added. He further expressed worry over the smuggling of explosives even as the country continued grappling with the challenges associated with insecurity and called on smugglers to desist forthwith in the interest of humanity or have the law to contend with.

“More worrisome is the interception of 9 sacks 50kg each of explosive materials (fertilizer, device cables and superpower90

of Residents

ensuring all the telecommunications companies and others using telecom equipment comply with the laid down rules and regulations in accordance with Osun State Environmental Protection Law, 2022.

“There is nothing that the government can do if you obey the laws. The audit is to ensure the masts are in line with safety and environmental protocols and if they are, there would be no issues. The laws are there to be obeyed so if you don’t want to obey the laws of course there would be a penalty.

“In addition, it is not only telecoms that use telecommunications equipment, banks and insurance companies are also using telecommunications equipment, so this affects all installations affecting the environment related to telecommunications within the state, “she said.

chemicals). We all know the security implication if these explosives components get to their destination unchecked. It may interest you to know that Superpower 90 is designed for priming applications and as a column explosive in surface and underground mining and general blasting. The high detonation velocity and the robust nature of Superpower 90 make it an ideal primer for the initiation

of column charge. Lets us not just imagine if dynamites and landmines are detonated using these items,” he said.

He seized the opportunity to congratulate the Ag. ComptrollerGeneral of the Nigeria Customs Service, Adewale Adeniyi, on his appointment to oversee the affairs of the service describing it as “well deserved considering his pedigree, dedication and commitment to the service

Ranganath Wins Technology Person of the Year 2023

Emma Okonji

The Regional Executive, West Africa at Africa Data Centres, Dr. Krishnan Ranganath, has been crowned the ‘Technology Person of the Year’, at the Tech Innovation Awards, organised by Digital Economy Magazine, which held in Lagos last week. This is coming a few months after he was crowned the ‘Man of the Year’ at Africa’s Beacon of Information and Communications Technology Merit and Leadership Award 2023.

According to Digital Economy Magazine, Ranganath was chosen for the recognition based on his expertise in helping to champion the growth recorded in Nigeria’s Information and Communications Technology, especially in the evolving data center and cloud computing space.

CEO of Instinctwave Group, publisher of Digital Economy Magazine, Mr. Akin Naphtal, said: “We have looked at your work in Information and

Communications Technology in Nigeria and West Africa in the last two decades. As an organisation, we came to the conclusion that you have done well to help grow the industry. Thus, we have no option but to crown you the Technology Person of the Year.” Ranganath who appreciated the organisers for the recognition, said the recognition would go a long way to encourage him to work harder to help grow the industry, which presently accounts for 17.47 per cent of Nigeria’s total GDP, amounting to $6.7 billion (₦3.1 trillion) in the first quarter of 2023 according to the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics (NBS).

“First, I want to thank Digital Economy Magazine for recognizing me as the ‘Technology Person of the Year’. I do not take this for granted. Secondly, this recognition is an assurance that various stakeholders are noticing my little contribution. Thus, it is expedient on me to do more for the industry,” he told Journalists on the sideline.” Ranganath said.

Understanding, Preventing the Outbreak of Diphtheria

of

On July 6, 2023, Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) confirmed an outbreak of the deadly diphtheria disease in the capital Abuja, following the death of a four-year-old patient. Nearly 800 cases of the disease were confirmed through a statement by NCDC as of June 30, with most of the patients being children aged between 2 and 14 years.

According to the Director General (DG) of NCDC, Ifedayo Adetifa, “As of June 30, 2023, there have been 798 confirmed diphtheria cases, from 33 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in eight states, including the FCT.

“Most of the cases were recorded in Kano. Other States with cases are Lagos, Yobe, Katsina, Cross River, Kaduna, and Osun.

“The majority (71.7 per cent) of the 798 confirmed cases occurred among children aged 2 to 14 years. So far, a total of 80 deaths have been recorded among all confirmed cases (case fatality rate of 10.0).”

Understanding Diphtheria

Speaking more to THISDAY about the disease, Hospitals and Specialty Clinic Specialist, with Regions Healthcare, Dr Malachi Ezegbogu, said, “Diphtheria, coined from the Greek word ‘diphthera’ – meaning leather, is so named because of the tough ‘pseudomembrane’ that forms in the patient’s throat.

“Diphtheria is known to be a severe infection caused by strains of the aerobic gram-positive bacteria called Corynebacterium diphtheriae that make an exotoxin (a toxin). It is the toxin that primarily causes people to get very sick.

“The three isolated strains of C diphtheria include gravis, intermedium, and mitis. Diphtheria manifests commonly as a localized upper respiratory tract (parts of the body involved in breathing) infection and in some cases as a localized cutaneous (skin) infection.

“Reports of epidemics of ‘throat distemper’ began to appear in the 1500s, but before the 19th century, diphtheria was known around the world by many different names, such as Syrian ulcer, membranous angina, malignant croup, and Boulogne sore throat.

“Diphtheria bacteria spread from person to person, usually through respiratory droplets and nasopharyngeal secretions after an infected person has coughed or sneezed.

“Occasionally, transmission occurs from skin sores and rarely through fomites (articles soiled with discharge from the sores of infected persons). Human carriers are the main reservoir of the infection; however, case reports have linked diphtheria to livestock.”

Signs and Symptoms

Speaking on the symptoms, Dr Ezegbogu noted that initially, its symptoms are general and nonspecific, often resembling a typical viral upper respiratory tract infection.

“The Diphtheria bacteria adhere to the mucosal epithelial membrane of the infected individual from where exotoxins are released after localized tissue destruction. The toxins

disease

in the respiratory system and on the skin and other parts of the body.

“People with diphtheria are usually no longer able to infect others 48 hours after they begin taking antibiotics. However, it is essential to finish taking the full course of antibiotics to make sure the bacteria are completely removed from the body. After the patient finishes the full treatment, the doctor will run tests to make sure the bacteria are not in the patient’s body anymore.

“For some people, respiratory diphtheria can lead to death. Even with treatment, about 1 in 10 patients with respiratory diphtheria die. Without treatment, up to half of patients can die from the disease.”

Similarly while speaking on treatment, the NCDC boss, Adetifa, said, “Diphtheria infection is caused by a toxin produced by the bacteria Corynebacterium diphtheria. It is a vaccine-preventable disease covered by one of the vaccines provided routinely through Nigeria’s childhood immunisation schedule.

“Despite the availability of a safe and cost-effective vaccine in the country, the majority i.e., 654 (82 per cent) of 798 confirmed diphtheria cases in the ongoing outbreak were unvaccinated. Unfortunately, this also included the recently announced FCT case.” Adetifa concluded by saying, “So far, a total of 80 deaths have been recorded among all confirmed cases.”

are carried via the lymph and blood to other parts of the body where their effects can be seen, such as in the myocardium (heart muscles), kidneys and nervous system.

“People who are exposed to diphtheria usually start having symptoms in 2–5 days (incubation period) if they get sick. Within this period, the dead tissue forms a thick, grey coating that can build up in the throat or nose; this thick grey coating is medically known as a pseudomembrane.”

He, therefore, concluded that diphtheria can infect the respiratory tract (respiratory diphtheria) and skin (cutaneous diphtheria), as its symptoms depend on the body part that is affected.

Respiratory and Cutaneous Diphtheria

According to Dr Ezegbogu, “The bacteria most commonly infect the respiratory system, which includes parts of the body involved in breathing.

“When the bacteria get into and attach to the lining of the respiratory system, it may cause low-grade (mild) fever and chills, weakness, malaise, headaches, discharges from the nose (serosanguinous or seropurulent), sore throat, cervical lymphadenopathy (swollen glands in the neck), difficulty with swallowing, difficulty with breathing, wheezing and cough.

“The bacteria can also infect the skin, causing open sores or ulcers. However, diphtheria skin infections rarely result in severe disease.”

Diagnosis and Treatment

Speaking on diagnosis, Dr Ezegbogu said, “Diagnosis depends on the type of diphtheria

Lagos Postpones HPV Vaccine Introduction

Rebecca Ejifoma

The Lagos State government has postponed the introduction of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine campaign.

It was initially scheduled for Monday, 25 September 2023 but was postponed, according to the Federal Ministry of Health (FMoH).

The Commissioner for Health in Lagos, Prof. Akin Abayomi, shared the development in a statement on Friday, 22 September.

The statement read in part: “The State Government regrets any inconveniences that may occur due to the postponement.

“As soon as a new date is communicated to Lagos, members of the public will be informed accordingly.”

Human Papillomavirus is a sexually transmitted disease that causes cervical cancer and other HPV-related diseases, such as skin and vaginal warts.

The National Demographic Health Survey (NDHS) 2018 shows that 19 per cent of women initiate sexual intercourse by age 15, which increases the risk of HPV infection.

Nigeria’s HPV vaccine introduction for girls aged nine to 14 years will potentially prevent 71,000 deaths annually.

HPV vaccination at an early age is essential as it provides the best protection.

Abayomi noted that the objective of the HPV vaccination is to give all eligible girls the vaccine into the arm against cervical cancer.

Schools, churches, mosques, primary health centres, hospitals,

outreach posts, markets, gated estates, and other designated posts within the community have been earmarked as vaccination centres.

“In view of this, we solicit with all parents, guardians’ community leaders, pastors, and imams to ensure that all eligible girls are vaccinated during the campaign.

He outlined that routine immunisation services will also be available at the Primary Healthcare Centres all over the 20 Local Governments and 37 Local Council Development Areas in the state during the HPV vaccination campaign.

While insisting that the HPV vaccine is free, safe, highly effective, and a lifesaver, he called on residents to contact the Primary Health Care Department of their LCDAs or any nearby PHCs.

someone has, either respiratory or cutaneous. Doctors usually decide if a person has diphtheria by looking for common signs and symptoms. They can swab the back of the throat or nose and test it for the bacteria that cause diphtheria.

“A doctor can also take a sample from an open sore or ulcer and try and grow the bacteria. If the bacteria grow and make the diphtheria toxin, the doctor can be sure a patient has diphtheria. However, it takes time to grow the bacteria, so it is important to start treatment right away if a doctor highly suspects respiratory diphtheria.”

On treatment, he said, “management of diphtheria involves a multidisciplinary approach which may include consultations to CDC/NCDC (for surveillance and antitoxin medication), infectious disease services and neurology, cardiology (for assistance in managing cardiac complications), critical care services (for possible ICU admission), ENT/anaesthesia (for airway control), and CTU (for bronchoscopy for pseudomembrane removal or obstruction).

“It involves using diphtheria antitoxin to stop the bacteria toxin from damaging the body. This treatment is very important for respiratory diphtheria infections, but it is rarely used for diphtheria skin infections.

“Using antibiotics to kill and get rid of the bacteria is also another option. This is important for diphtheria infections

Prevention

Speaking on prevention, Dr Ezegbogu noted that keeping up to date with recommended vaccines is the best protection against diphtheria.

“With the widespread vaccination (immunization) of children, diphtheria is now rare in many parts of the world. However, childhood immunity wanes, requiring an updated booster vaccine.

“The NCDC recommends either Tdap or Td at least every 10 years to maintain immunity.

“There are four vaccines used to prevent diphtheria, DTaP, Tdap, DT, and Td. Each of these vaccines prevents diphtheria and tetanus. DTaP and Tdap also help prevent pertussis (whooping cough).

“The NCDC diphtheria vaccination recommendations are DTap for young children between 2, 4 and 6 months; 15 through 18 months; and 4 through 6 years.

“It recommends Tdap for pre-teens, that is, 11 through 12 years. Td or Tdap for adults every 10 years.

“The NCDC also recommends that anyone that had close contact with someone infected by diphtheria should receive antibiotics to prevent them from getting sick.

“In addition to getting antibiotics, close contacts of someone with diphtheria should be monitored for possible illness for 7 to 10 days from the time they were last exposed, tested for diphtheria with a sample collected from the nose and throat, and given a diphtheria booster shot if they are not up to date with their vaccines.”

Ghana, Turkey, Others Eye Nigeria’s Medical Tourism Market at Akwaaba

Rebecca Ejifoma

To scale and strengthen Nigeria’s economy and healthcare system alongside Africa’s, Ghana and Turkey are determined to give Nigerian patients seeking medical treatment abroad a taste of their curative and preventive medical procedures.

While Turkey has become a popular destination for African elites seeking healthcare services thanks to its advanced healthcare system and status as a tourist destination, Ghana boasts modern facilities, improved technology, and

skilled multispecialists in various surgical procedures.

These pointers highlighted the second medical tourism expo at the 19th Akwaaba African Travel Market, held for three days in Lagos.

Through the medical tourism expo at the event, guests were inundated with the various quality healthcare services the hospitals offer to African countries.

According to research, some medical needs that take Nigerians abroad include cosmetics, dentistry, interventional cardiology, In Vitro Fertility (IVF), breast surgery, cancer, and gynaecol-

ogy, among others.

Thus, the Chief Executive of The Bank Hospital, Accra in Ghana, Koby AppiahSakyi, underscored the significance of the Nigerian market following its 214 million estimated population, which is more than half of West Africa.

“Most hospitals in Ghana attract organic traffic flow of patients from Nigeria and Benin, Ivory Coast, and others.

“As a result, the African Medical Tourism Council was established early this year to ease the accessibility of tourists who often grumble about journeying to their destinations,” he added.

In this report, Sunday Ehigiator reflects on the recent outbreak

the deadly diphtheria

in Nigeria, and precautions to take to prevent its recurrence

Clafiya Launches Healthcare Solutions for Employers, Employees

Rebecca Ejifoma

Clafiya, a digital healthcare platform, has introduced Clafiya for Business, designed to empower employers and provide their employees with unparalleled access to comprehensive healthcare services.

The CEO/Founder of Clafiya, Jennie Nwokoye, made known to the press at the launch event in Lagos. She said the launch recognises the increasing challenges associated with access to quality and affordable healthcare and wellness in Nigeria.

“Clafiya for Business is to help employers to build a healthier team and grow their business, and experience a world of wellness benefits that will transform the way they approach healthcare,” she added.

While describing Clafiya as community wellness, Nwokoye admitted that it became necessary owing to their experiences seeking primary healthcare in Nigeria and the challenges

Mary Nnah

Medical Doctor and musician, Chiemezie Ibe, a UK-based Nigerian popularly known as Star Doc, has said that music has a strong place in mental health where it has been infused in the management of mood disorders.

Buttressing the therapeutic effect of music on mental health, Ibe noted that several studies have shown that music can affect the secretion of hormones and subsequently affect physical health in various ways. The medical doctor said his interest in music started in secondary school, even though his interest was first in poetry.

“Back in secondary school I was amazed by the way one of my friends, Oliver, played on words and I asked him to teach me how to. He did and that was how I fell in love with writing lyrics.

“Around the same period was when 2 Face Idibia released his Grass 2 Grace Album and I fell in love with every song and lyric on the album. This was when I started writing songs and adding melody to it. Ever since then, I have not looked back.”

Speaking on the uniqueness of his music, he said, “The uniqueness of my music is that I use my music for health education. Music is a universal language. I can infuse health education into my music. With my music, I’m able to break down complex medical terms in a manner the common man can understand. In addition, I’m able to address everyday issues and life experiences with my music. These make me unique.”

On how he juggles being a practising medical doctor and music, he said, “Honestly, being a doctor comes with having to deal with a busy schedule and even more for me working in a highly demanding oncology department, however, proper time management is the

we faced.

“It was such a profound experience that we felt we had to approach this problem from a system perspective –prevent, respond, and cover,” she outlined.

Speaking on the one-time registration fee, which she tagged ‘Taking control of your finances,’ the founder said, “No cumbersome monthly premiums and unpredictable healthcare costs.

According to her, Clafiya for Business allows employers to pay a simple one-time registration fee, granting them complete control over their healthcare finances.

She is also confident that the product would halt recurring expenses. Adding that, it would bring about a streamlined financial approach that empowers businesses of all sizes.

On essential care, she stated, “We understand the frustrations and challenges associated with hospital visits: the long waits, the inconvenience, and the stress.

“Clafiya for Business eliminates these obstacles

Fertility

by bringing essential care directly to employees’ doorsteps through a seamless and user-friendly interface.”

Nwokoye also pointed out that employees can schedule appointments and have qualified healthcare professionals arrive at their homes or offices, ensuring a hassle-free experience that maximises productivity and well-being.

Speaking on the comprehensive range of healthcare services it offers, the Operations Manager at Clafiya, Nnenna West, highlighted their standard for providing holistic care that caters to the diverse needs of employees.

She emphasised: “Our platform offers a wide range of healthcare services, covering every aspect of well-being.

“From therapy services that promote mental health and emotional balance to personalised nutrition and fitness plans that foster physical vitality, our platform covers the full range of wellness.”

SEPSIS (Part 2)

Last week, we started a topic on Sepsis. We discussed the symptoms, causes and some of the risk of sepsis. Today, we will be concluding with the diagnosis, management, and prevention of sepsis.

• Intravenous drug use: People who use intravenous drugs have a higher risk of developing infections, including bloodstream infections (septicemia), which can lead to sepsis.

• Malnutrition: Poor nutrition weakens the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections and increasing the risk of sepsis. Malnutrition is often seen in individuals with chronic illnesses, older adults, or those living in resource-limited settings.

• Retained products of conception (placenta or fetal tissue): The retained fetal or placental tissue provides a potential site for bacterial colonization and growth. Bacteria can enter the uterus through the open cervix or other compromised areas, such as lacerations or surgical incisions. If the infection spreads beyond the uterus, it can cause sepsis.

• The use of invasive devices like intrauterine devices (IUDs): When an IUD is inserted into the uterus, there is a small risk of introducing bacteria into the reproductive tract, leading to an infection. If the infection is not promptly treated, it can spread and potentially lead to sepsis.

DIAGNOSIS OF SEPSIS

sepsis cases stem from infections. Preventing infections is crucial in reducing the risk of sepsis. Following these guidelines have been found to be beneficial:

Chiemezie Ibe, UK-based Nigerian Doctor

key. I will also say that music comes to me naturally so I don’t struggle to write songs. I could be taking a walk and I get inspired. I quickly pen it down and later develop it into a proper song. Also, music takes me away from the pressure of work. The studio is where I let off the steam of everyday challenges.”

Speaking further on the therapeutic effects of music, Ibe said, “In today’s world where mental health has taken centre stage, I’ll say music is my therapy.”

Talking about some of his songs, he said, “I’ve done a couple of songs, covers, as well as freestyles and also shot some music videos that are out on digital music platforms.

In 2021 I did a song “STD” where I featured my brother Obynodaddymuna. In that song we musically addressed sexually transmitted diseases, highlighting the signs, symptoms, preventive measures and treatment options.”

“In 2022 I did another song titled “Imaramma” featuring Jez. It’s a love song we dedicated to beautiful ladies. “Ndi Igbo” is another one I did in my native Igbo language dedicated to the Igbo people where I preached about the need for unity as a people. This particular one is a cover of a song originally done by Igbo language indigenous rapper Lopo.

Before these times, Ibe has done songs addressing Rape, Sickle Cell, Diabetes, Hyperten-

sion, Covid 19, Depression, Poor Health Systems, Breast Cancer, and Cervical Cancer, to mention a few.

In a few weeks, the medical doctor-cum-musician will be dropping a new single titled “Fall in Love” featuring his high school classmate Klef Banty - a masterpiece he says he can not wait to share with his numerous fans.

He noted further that some of his highlights in music are getting recognised during the COVID-19 pandemic for his use of music in creating awareness about the pandemic.

He said, “I’ll say I’ve had several highlights since making music and I will mention some of them.

Ibe who was featured by China Global TV Network and some other TV stations, was named a COVID-19 Hero the same year for being on the front line as a healthcare provider and also using music to create awareness.

“Another highlight was when I partnered with Medicaid Foundation in the biggest Breast Cancer Awareness walk in Nigeria involving over 2000 people in 2020. The walk ended with musical performances by notable artists and I was one of the musical artists that performed in that event. My mother was in the crowd that very day, cheering me on. Apart from these, I’ll say my greatest achievement is touching lives with my talent”, he added.

Ibe who has a Master of Science Degree in Public Health and Health Promotion from Swansea University, United Kingdom, believes that in five years, his music will be bigger than what it is today.

He said, “I believe in living life one day at a time, taking each step as it comes while also working hard to better myself. Five years ago, my music was known to me, close friends and family alone. However, it is not the case today and five years from now it’s going to be bigger than what it is today.”

• Medical history and physical examination: The doctor will review your medical history, including any recent infections or illnesses, and perform a thorough physical examination. Signs and symptoms that may indicate sepsis, such as high fever, rapid heart rate, rapid breathing, low blood pressure, altered mental status, or signs of infection at a specific site will be looked out for.

• Blood tests: Blood tests are essential in diagnosing sepsis. They help identify the presence of infection, assess organ function, and evaluate markers of inflammation.

Common blood tests include:

Complete blood count (CBC): This test measures the levels of different blood cells, including white blood cells. An elevated white blood cell count may indicate an infection.

Blood culture: This test involves taking a sample of blood and culturing it in a laboratory to identify the specific bacteria or fungi causing the infection.

•C-reactive protein (CRP) and procalcitonin: These are markers of inflammation that can be elevated in sepsis.

• Lactate level: High levels of lactate in the blood may indicate tissue hypoxia, which is often seen in sepsis.

• Imaging studies: In some cases, imaging studies such as X-rays, ultrasounds, or CT scans may be ordered to identify the source of the infection or to assess organ damage.

MANAGEMENT OF SEPSIS

Sepsis is a life threatening medical issue that needs to be treated immediately in a hospital. The main objectives of treatment are to manage the body’s inflammatory response, support crucial organ function, and control the infection. Administering drugs, intravenous fluids, oxygen treatment, and antibiotics are used to regulate blood pressure and enhance organ function. Sepsis can develop into severe sepsis or septic shock, which are much more serious illnesses, if it is not rapidly identified and treated. When sepsis causes a dramatic drop in blood pressure, there is insufficient blood flow to essential organs, which results in organ failure, and this condition is known as Septic shock.

PREVENTION OF SEPSIS

Preventive measures are important to reduce the risk of sepsis in reproductive health. These include:

Infection prevention: The majority of

• Practice good hand hygiene by washing your hands regularly with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

• Keep your immunizations up to date, including vaccines for influenza, pneumonia, and other preventable diseases.

• Avoid close contact with individuals who have contagious infections, such as flu or other respiratory illnesses.

• Take care of any wounds or injuries promptly, cleaning them thoroughly and applying appropriate dressings.

• Practice safe food handling and preparation to prevent foodborne illnesses.

Early recognition and treatment of infections: If you suspect an infection, it is crucial to seek prompt medical attention. Early diagnosis and treatment of infections can help prevent them from progressing to sepsis. Look out for symptoms such as fever, increased heart rate, rapid breathing, pain or discomfort, or signs of localized infection like redness, swelling, or discharge.

Antimicrobial stewardship: Misuse or overuse of antibiotics can contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant infections, making them harder to treat and increasing the risk of sepsis. To prevent this

• Only take antibiotics prescribed by the clinician, and complete the full course as directed

• Do not share antibiotics or use leftover antibiotics from previous treatments.

• Follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations for the appropriate use of antibiotics.

Chronic Condition Management: Individuals with chronic health conditions, such as diabetes, lung disease, or kidney disease, are at higher risk of developing infections that can lead to sepsis. Proper management of these conditions, including regular medical check-ups and following prescribed treatments, can help reduce the risk

CONCLUSION

Any organ system, including the reproductive system, is susceptible to the potentially fatal illness, sepsis. While infections of the lungs, urinary tract, or abdomen are the ones most frequently linked to sepsis, diseases of the reproductive organs and system can also cause sepsis.Prompt recognition, early diagnosis, and appropriate treatment of infections are crucial in preventing the progression to sepsis. If you have any questions about sepsis or other issues relating to reproductive health, you should always speak with your gynecologist/fertility specialist.

‘Music has a Strong Place in Mental Health’, Says Chiemezie Ibe, UK-based Nigerian Doctor

Sanofi Partners Delta State Government in Nigeria to Improve Access to Diabetes Care

Sanofi is continuing to strengthen its long-standing commitment to access to diabetes care in low- and middle-income countries and underserved communities, where comprehensive care has not been widely available, through a series of innovative partnerships with healthcare authorities.

Sanofi, on September 21, 2023, signed a two-year collaboration agreement with the Delta State government in Nigeria, a milestone marked at a ceremony held in Asaba, the capital city of Delta State. Under the collaboration agreement, the healthcare authorities in Delta State can purchase affordable Sanofi analogue insulin products. In addition, Sanofi will provide a digital solution to support physicians, nurses, pharmacists, and community healthcare practitioners to engage with, educate and monitor patients to improve diabetes management and support a targeted medical training program for 700 healthcare professionals.

Speaking on the collabora-

tion, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, Honourable Commissioner for Health, Delta State, said: “We face unique healthcare challenges, and the growing burden of diabetes is indeed a matter of great concern.

“Our region bears a heavy burden when it comes to diabetes. Addressing this challenge is a shared responsibility that transcends boundaries and sectors. The government of Delta State welcomes this partnership with Sanofi and we remain committed to the success of the initiative.”

Also commenting, Dr. Stephane GOKOU, Global Affordable Strategy Lead, Sanofi General Medicines said: “We see delivering better care and improving the quality-of-life of those living with diabetes as part of our shared responsibility with healthcare systems.

“ We are committed to playing our part to address significant unmet need and are proud to work closely with the Delta State government in Nigeria. The partnership we now begin

in Delta State builds on a model already deployed in Ghana. This allows us to learn from previous experience. Working with the health authorities in Delta State means the interventions we make will be tailored to address specific local needs and have the greatest impact for those with diabetes or at risk.”

This joint approach to developing comprehensive diabetes care with Delta State government becomes imperative as Africa is predicted to experience the highest increase in diabetes cases globally.

The number of people on the continent living with the disease is predicted by the International Diabetes Federation to rise by 129 per cent from 24m in 2021 to 55m by 2045. Underdiagnosis is also widespread.

IDF estimates suggest 3,623,500₁ adults in Nigeria live with diabetes (3.7 per cent prevalence of diabetes in adults), the majority being Type 2 while an estimated 51,035² children and adoles-

cents (0-19 years) live with Type 1 diabetes.

The partnership in Nigeria aligns with the Affordable Access pillar of Sanofi’s approach to corporate social responsibility (CSR). The CSR strategy is one of three major elements of the company’s multi-tiered approach to social impact.

This also includes Sanofi Global Health, a non-profit unit aiming to increase access to healthcare in the lowest income countries, and Foundation S, the Sanofi collective dedicated to philanthropy.

Sanofi is an innovative global healthcare company, driven by one purpose: chase the miracles of science to improve people’s lives.

With team across some 100 countries, they are dedicated to transforming the practice of medicine by working to turn the impossible into the possible, providing potentially life-changing treatment options and life-saving vaccine protection to millions of people globally, while putting sustainability and social responsibility at the center of their ambitions.

120m Nigerians with Poor Dentition: NAO Recommend Proper Oral Care

Rebecca Ejifoma

The Nigerian Association of Orthodontists (NAO) in Lagos recommended proper care for the teeth to address the over 120 million Nigerians (60 per cent) who have poor dentition and jaw.

The association also raised alarm on the shortage of professionals in the orthodontics practice. Orthodontists are specialists trained in correcting all manners of malalignment of the teeth and the jaws.

Research shows that they are crucial in delivering optimal oral health care. They correct and manage malocclusions which, most of the time, if not treated, can be debilitating both functionally and mentally.

This was a highlight at the opening of the 17th Annual Conference themed, “Aesthetic Orthodontics: Rising to The Next Level in Nigeria”.

The President of NAO, Dr Modupe Adeyinka, told journalists they have only 69 registered orthodontic specialists.

She lamented: “With a teeming population of over 200 million and less than 100 practising orthodontists, there is a dearth of orthodontists in this great country of ours.”

According to Adeyinka, most practitioners have moved abroad for various reasons. “The country has less than that; some are in general hospitals, and the fewest are in private units.’’ Adeyinka admitted that Orthodontics treatment was expensive because it requires surgery and is not a one-time treatment.

She acknowledged Smile Train for empowering 24 Orthodontists on Basic Life Support as part of the conference sponsorship.

Creating awareness of certain conditions, Adeyinka said sucking the tongue would affect children’s dentition, hence, should be discouraged.

The NAO president called the federal government to include orthodontists as primary providers under the Health Insurance Authority (NHIA).

In her view, it would help many people who don’t have the resources to access orthodontics treatment.

The Vice President of NAO, Prof Idia Ize-Iyamu, lamented that the Japa syndrome affected the number of practitioners in the country.

She said Nigeria has only 65 qualified professional orthodontists, most of whom left the country to seek greener pastures abroad.

Ize-Iyamu added that with over 200 million people, an orthodontist has two million people to attend to.

He emphasised: “One orthodontist to two million Nigerians. This is a big burden to the association and Nigeria.”

Alive&ThriveChampionsInterventionforMaternal,InfantNutrition

Rebecca Ejifoma

Alive and Thrive (A&T) is advocating for the implementation of Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF) interventions and Maternal Infant and Young Child Nutrition (MIYCN). This campaign partners with community-based organisations (CBOs) to promote good maternal and child health for national development.

Speaking at the media briefing, the Programme Officer of Chamagne Foundation, Chidinma Okoye, said A&T projects focus on critical maternal infant and young child nutrition.

“It looks at reducing low birth rate in babies. This

project is their resolve for breastfeeding women to start early initiation and do exclusive breastfeeding,” she added.

The project aims to reduce obesity while enabling iron and folic acid (IFA) and multiple micronutrient supplementation (MMS) to monitor growth in children under five.

According to Okoye, while they want to ensure no child is malnourished, Alive and Thrive staff have trained primary health centres at the local government level.

At another engagement, the Good Women Association (GWA) outlined a significant challenge in providing nutrition alternatives in rural communities.

The Monitoring and

Evaluating Officer of GWA, Omolayo Ogunyemi, explained how traditional beliefs could be modified to incorporate modern nutrition and practices.

In her words, “Challenges have been cultural beliefs; they have set norms in the community, and sometimes, they are nonchalant about nutrition.”

She maintained that stakeholders in the community could be another challenge to crack as they hold a very high influence on the people.

Okoye emphasised: “It’s not like we are trying to change the norm in the community, but we are just trying to incorporate our services to benefit them.”

Unanimously, the NGOs

emphasised the significance of advocacy. According to the Nigeria Demographic Health Survey in 2018, over half of women of childbearing age are anaemic.

“There are so many indicators that show alarming data, and 31.7 per cent of children are malnourished,” says Esther Wiwor, the Programme Officer of The New Child Initiative (TNCI).

She also insisted on the power of continuity for beneficial maternal and child health information to reach its target audience.

“We are now involving the government, the community, and mothers who have successfully done some of the services we’ve discussed,” Wiwor listed.

Ize-Iyamu regretted that the majority of the practitioners are in Lagos. “Lagos is the major beneficiary of this programme because 90 per cent of these doctors are in Lagos due to development.

According to the VP, although the orthodontics problem is more prevalent in the North and South-South, “The association intends to cover the entire country”.

“At the moment, there are several doctors in training in several teaching hospitals across the country.

“When young dentists are coming out, even after training, they go to other countries for better opportunities.

Over the years, NAO filed programmes including free health checks, education and advocating.

She suggested the implementation of a policy that provides access to orthodontics treatment.

“There are diseases like gum disease that can lead to heart disease; therefore, it’s necessary to take care of our teeth through proper cleaning by brushing teeth often,” says Ize-Iyamu.

Orthodontics play a significant and critical role in the management and rehabilitation of babies born with cleft lip and palate.

While most of these patients come from low-income families, orthodontics manages them through their childhood, adolescence into adulthood along with other specialists.

L-R: Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, Honourable Commissioner for Health, Delta State; Dr. Philomena Okeowo, Permanent Secretary, Delta State Ministry of Health and Dr. Stephane GOKOU, Global Affordable Strategy Lead, Sanofi General Medicines at the partnership agreement between Sanofi and Delta State Ministry of Health in Asaba, Delta State, recently

Governor Sanwo-Olu, Now is the Time to Declare a Marshall Plan on Lagos Roads

Ayoola Ajanaku

His Excellency, this treatise to your quarter comes as a concerned resident of Lagos State who’s deeply troubled by the state of road infrastructure in the good old city of Lagos nestled by the Atlantic Ocean. The current condition of Lagos roads is a matter of great concern, and I believe that now is the time for decisive action in the form of a “Marshall Plan” for our roads.

Lagos, as the economic and commercial hub of Nigeria, plays a vital role in the nation’s growth and prosperity. Our roads are the arteries of this great city, facilitating the movement of people, goods, and services. However, the deplorable state of many roads has not only resulted in inconveniences for residents, but has also had a negative impact on our economy, environment, and overall quality of life. The torrential downpour and rain bombs - Which are no fault of yours thanks to fangs of climate change that has been unleashed in this part of the world and other places. Naysayers and do no good entities might egg you on that these drawbacks are not your fault thanks to rain that makes roads a no go area. Woe betides you, if you find yourself on the roads when the floodgates are opened.

It’s no rocket science therein, as you have done it before and you can do it again. Reminiscent of the bandwidth you employed in your early days in 2019 when you engineered a consortia of construction companies like Reynolds Construction Company (RCC), Julius Berger Nigeria (JBN) Plc China Civil Engineering and Construction Company (CCECC), Craneburg Construction, Hitech Construction, Arab Contractors amongst others to address 116 roads then – It was a delight to see you drive this initiative earlier with a televised press conference on the well manicured lawns of the Marina House where you laid bare your plans that restored sanity on the roads. Lest we forget, Lagos State has peculiar characteristics, which experts say is less than two meters above sea, in a precarious state, given that a chunk of Nigeria’s coastline is low-lying. Remediation can be engineered on these roads that are in a pathetic state with a huge toll on the vehicles that ply these roads. Sanwo-Olu is implored to advance a supplementary budget to shoulder these costs and its not too much to address the potholes and deterioration that holds all and sundry to ransom. Many roads are riddled with potholes and are in a state of severe disrepair.

NEWS

This not only damages vehicles but also poses risks to road users. It’s heartwarming to see you as the helmsman in polo shirt and jeans pants while reading the riot act to individuals and business owners acting as impediments on the Mile 2-Badagry Corridor.

The rains expose the lipstick of ugliness in when the rains pour and it’s not a bad idea to pave roads in the good old city of Lagos in the manner that Dangote Group through Hitech Construction paved the Apapa-Oshodi Expressway to the Ojota Interchange with concrete. That stretch of road looks like a Formula One track that makes drivers and vehicles glad whenever they navigate that key arterial infrastructure therein.

After all the cement and concrete majors such as Dangote, BUA and Lafarge are nestled

in the economic nerve centre of Nigeria –Never say never, PPP initiatives can be crafted to advance this development. Your administration has implemented this novel initiative through Craneburg Construction in the Lekki-Epe corridor -These milestones should be extended to other parts of Lagos to save the perennial headaches of pothole ridden roads when torrential downpour is experienced. It’s also commendable that the mint fresh Special Works and Adviser reports to the quarter of the Deputy Governor – That constitutes eyes on the ball appointment to ensure executive oversight(s) at all times.

In addition, road safety concerns arising from these drawbacks at key transport touch points contribute to accidents and road safety concerns - In fact, no area in

Lagos is spared from these lacunae from highbrow areas like Ikoyi, VI, Lekki (That’s now a huge swimming pool), Ikeja GRA, CBD, Alausa to suburbs that dot the whole city. It’s ridden with tales about the poor state of roads. Lives are lost in road mishaps and families are devastated as a result. Then the economic impact is beyond comprehension, as our economy suffers due to delays in transportation and the high cost of vehicle maintenance caused by bad roads cannot be understated. These factors impacts businesses and job creation.

Then lastly, the environmental impact of traffic congestion and air pollution from these deficiencies has severe environmental consequences. We must address these issues to ensure a sustainable future and a Marshall Plan for Lagos roads should encompass the following elements such as comprehensive road rehabilitation that’s hinged on systematic approach to repairing and maintaining our road infrastructure, including the use of modern construction and maintenance techniques. Thankfully the colossal Opebi Interchange that’s close to completion by JBN Plc will change the state of transportation on the Mainland.

In a nutshell, road initiatives that prioritize road safety through improved signage, road markings, and the enforcement of traffic regulations should come on stream across board with multi-sectoral advocacy campaigns that involve LSPWC, LAWMA, VIO, LASTMA, LIRS, MoE, MVAA, FRSC amongst others to educate the public to desist from dumping refuse via drains amongst others.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, your leadership and commitment to the development of Lagos State are commendable, and I believe that a Marshall Plan for our roads is not only necessary, but also achievable. This plan should be seen as an investment in the future of Lagos, one that will improve the lives of its residents and strengthen its position as a global city amongst it’s peers.

I urge you to prioritize this initiative and work collaboratively with relevant stakeholders, including the federal government, local governments, private sector partners, and civil society organizations. Together, we can transform the state of our roads and pave the way for a brighter, more prosperous Lagos. Thank you for your attention to this critical issue in advance, as we look forward to witnessing positive changes in our road infrastructure in the near future.

•Ayoola Ajanaku is a Communications and Advocacy specialist based in Lagos

Uzodimma Graduates Another 15,000 Imo Youths on Digital Skills Acquisition

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State yesterday oversaw the graduation of 15,000 youths under the state’s Cohort 2 Skill-up Project, promising that the third phase will soon start with the training of 40,000 young people on different digital skills.

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary and Media Adviser to the governor, Oguwike Nwachuku, noted that during the programme which held at the Dan Anyiam Stadium Owerri, the graduates were given an HP brand new laptop to enable them put what they had learnt into practice.

The governor who put the total number of youths so far trained under the programme at 20,000,

said the aim of the project was to up-skill, re-skill and train 300,000 Imo youths.

“The prospects are simply endless. It is impossible to overemphasise this. Digital literacy will make you better no matter your profession or trade. As a teacher with digital skills, you can create personalised learning for your pupils so that you leave no one behind.

“As an artisan with digital skills, you can easily respond with new concepts to the changing needs of your clients. As a trader with digital skills, you can collapse physical barriers with e-commerce.

“As a doctor with digital skills, you can reach more patients leveraging telemedicine. As a content creator, the world becomes your

audience. Even as a government, we can, through digitalisation, deepen inclusion and break the mould of unemployment and unrest, which is exactly what we are doing today through Skill-up Imo,” he said.

The governor explained that the young men and women were put through very intense and hands-on digital entrepreneurial and literacy training, covering entry, intermediate, and advanced level courses over the past four to 12 weeks.

At the event, the Chairman of Zinox Technologies Ltd, Mr. LeoStan Ekeh challenged the 15,000 youths who graduated from the project to take advantage of the training they had acquired.

Ekeh noted that with the project, he looked forward to

seeing billionaires emerging in no time from the graduates who had embraced technological innovations.

“I am not a politician. But I can tell you this is not politics. I come from here, from one remote community here in Imo State. If I was given an opportunity like this many years ago, I would have been one of the five richest men in the world.

“Nobody has done what Governor Uzodimma is doing in Imo,” Ekeh whose Zinox Technologies Ltd dominates the market in Africa said.

In his remarks, the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani described the project as a bold step to impact the lives of

the youths.

Tijani said that going by what he had seen, Imo State was emerging as the digital headquarters of Nigeria.

The minister, who admonished the graduates not to misuse the opportunity which had been given to them promised that his ministry will partner with the governor and government in all areas that concern the welfare and empowerment of the youths.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Imo State Commissioner for Digital Economy and e- Government, Dr. Chimezie Amadi, argued that in the history of Nigeria, no governor or government had invested as much as Uzodimma in one single swoop for a graduation programme like the one under

review.

Some of the graduates who gave testimonies of their experiences regarding the programme, on behalf of their colleagues, noted that through it the governor had turned their lives around for the better.

The event was attended by many dignitaries including the wife of the governor, Chioma Uzodimma, the Minister of Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji and the Minister of State, Labour and Employment, Nkiruka Onyejiocha.

Others were the Director General of South-east Governors Forum, Senator Uche Ekwunife, the Speaker of the Imo State House of Assembly, Chike Olemgbe, the Chief Judge of Imo State, Justice Theresa Chikeka, among others.

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu

FOREIGN DESK

French Ambassador to Niger Leaves as Relations Nosedive After Coup

France’s ambassador to Niger left the country early on Wednesday morning, around one month after the military government ordered his expulsion and days after President Emmanuel Macron said the diplomat would be pulled out and French troops withdrawn.

Relations between Niger and France, its former colonial ruler, which maintained a military presence in the country to help fight Islamist insurgents, have broken down since army officers seized power in Niamey in July.

The junta had ordered French ambassador Sylvain Itte to leave the country within 48 hours at the end of August in response to what they described as actions by France that were “contrary to the interests of Niger.”

France initially ignored the order, sticking to its stance that the military government was illegitimate and calling for the reinstatement of elected President Mohamed Bazoum, who was toppled in the July coup.

But Macron announced on Sunday that the ambassador would return to Paris and French troops would leave.

Two security sources in Niger said Itte had flown out of the country. The president’s office in Paris later confirmed the news.

There have been almost daily protests against France in Niamey since the military took power.

US Sanctions Iran Drone Procurement Network for Aiding Russia

The United States on Wednesday imposed sanctions on a network it said was helping procure sensitive parts for Iran’s drone programme and accused Tehran of supplying Russia with drones to support Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine.

The network has facilitated shipments and financial transactions in support of the powerful Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps’ (IRGC) procurement of a critical component used in Iran’s Shahed-136 drones, the Treasury Department said in a statement.

The move is the latest in a series of recent sanctions on Iran. Wednesday’s action targets entities and individuals in Iran, China, Turkey and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the department said.

“Iranian-made UAVs continue to be a key tool for Russia in its attacks in Ukraine, including those that terrorize Ukrainian citizens and attack its critical infrastructure,” Treasury official Brian Nelson said in a statement.

US, Latin America Seek to Boost Cybersecurity

Countries up and down the Western Hemisphere are looking to eliminate weaknesses in their cyber infrastructure that could give potential adversaries, including China and Russia, the ability to do extensive damage by exploiting a single vulnerability.

The United States and 20 partner countries from across the Americas will meet at the Organization of American States (OAS) in Washington Wednesday and Thursday for what US officials are calling a first-of-its-kind summit designed to strengthen their individual and collective cyber defences.

“We need to partner with one another to strengthen the cybersecurity of the region, as well as the individual countries,” US Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas told reporters Tuesday, adding that many countries are still in the “formative stages” when it comes to developing and deploying cyber defences. Cyberattacks have victimised at least a handful of Latin American countries.

Just last month, Ecuadorian officials said cyberattacks targeted voting systems used by Ecuadorians while voting overseas in China, India and Bangladesh. In 2022, Costa Rica was beset by a series of cyberattacks attributed to the Russian-based Conti ransomware gang, which resulted in a state of emergency.

Russia Accuses US, Britain of Helping Ukraine in Crimea Missile Attack

Russia Wednesday accused the United States and Britain of helping Ukraine carry out an attack last week against the headquarters of the Russian Black Sea fleet in Russia-occupied Crimea.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said at a briefing that the attack was “planned in advance using Western intelligence means, NATO satellite assets, and reconnaissance planes.”

Zakharova also said US and British intelligence helped coordinate the missile strike.

While the US and other Western partners have provided military equipment and training to Ukraine, US officials have previously denied playing a direct role in Ukraine’s defence against the Russian invasion.

When Russia accused the United States of being involved in a May drone attack on the Kremlin, White House National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby called the claim “ludicrous.”

China Evergrande Chairman Put Under Police Watch; Liquidation Risk Looms

The chairman of China Evergrande Group has been placed under police surveillance, Bloomberg News reported on Wednesday, raising more doubts about the embattled developer’s future as it grapples with the mounting threat of liquidation.

Citing people with knowledge of the matter, the report said Hui Ka Yan, who founded Evergrande in 1996 in the southern city of Guangzhou, was taken away by police earlier this month and is being monitored at a designated location.

Evergrande is the world’s most indebted developer, with more than $300 billion in total liabilities and has been at the centre of an unprecedented liquidity crisis in China’s property sector, which accounts for roughly a quarter of the economy.

Adding to its woes, Evergrande’s offshore debt restructuring plan, the key to its survival amid a stifling cash crunch, looks set to falter, and the prospects of the firm being liquidated are gathering momentum.

The company is “very likely to fail on debt restructuring, and with negative equity, Evergrande may go into bankruptcy, which includes bankruptcy reorganisation and bankruptcy liquidation,” UOB Kay Hian wrote in a note on Wednesday.

Taliban: 200 Anti-Pakistan Militants Arrested in Afghanistan

Afghanistan’s Taliban says it has captured 200 suspected militants for staging deadly cross-border attacks against Pakistan and has implemented other “concrete steps” to “neutralise” the terrorist activity, VOA learned from Pakistani officials privy to the process.

The de facto Afghan rulers shared the details about the crackdown on the outlawed Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan, or TTP, in bilateral talks they hosted last week in Kabul with a high-level delegation

from Islamabad.

The dialogue came two weeks after hundreds of heavily armed militants assaulted two Pakistani security posts in the northern border district of Chitral.

The September 6th raid killed four soldiers and 12 assailants, with the TTP claiming responsibility.

The Taliban “arrested 200 TTP cadres returning from the Chitral attack. They are now behind bars,” said an official who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to interact with the media publicly. He added that de facto Afghan authorities were in the process of relocating other TTP members away from the border with Pakistan.

American Soldier in US Custody

After Fleeing to North Korea

The Pentagon says an American soldier who illegally crossed into North Korea in July is now in US custody.

A senior Biden administration official told reporters that King was transferred out of the DPRK and crossed the border to China with the help of the government of Sweden. The official said the US received him in China and transferred him home.

DPRK is an acronym for North Korea’s official name, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea.

“We thank the government of Sweden for its diplomatic role serving as the protecting power for the United States in the DPRK and the government of the People’s Republic of China for its assistance in facilitating the transit of Private King,” National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan said in a statement Wednesday.

Pentagon Press Secretary Brig Gen Pat Ryder praised “the hard work of personnel in the Army, United States Forces Korea, and across the Department of Defense to bring Private King home.”

There were no concessions given to North Korea for this exchange, a senior administration official told VOA during a briefing to reporters Wednesday.

Indonesia Bans Goods Transactions on Social Media Platforms

Indonesia has banned goods transactions on social media platforms in a new regulation, its trade minister said Wednesday, as Jakarta aims to rein in direct sales by major tech firms it says are harming millions of small businesses.

Government officials in recent weeks called for social media and e-commerce to be decoupled, targeting platforms they say engage in monopolistic practices that threaten offline sellers, with some specifically blaming Chinese-owned short video app TikTok.

“This trade regulation has been in force (since yesterday),” Trade Minister Zulkifli Hasan told a press conference in Jakarta. He said social commerce platforms

would have a week to comply with the new rule.

The regulation means social media firms will not be able to conduct direct transactions but only promote products on their platforms.

Slovakia’s Election Threatens to Upend Western Unity on Ukraine

Slovakia is due to hold parliamentary elections Saturday amid fears in Kyiv and Western capitals that the result could jeopardize unity on support for Ukraine following Russia’s full-scale invasion last year.

The populist Smer, or Direction, party, led by former prime minister Robert Fico, is leading the polls with around 18 per cent of the vote. He has campaigned on a platform of ending military support for Ukraine and blocking the country’s path to NATO membership while opposing sanctions on Russia.

Speaking at a campaign rally on September 6 in Michalovce, close to the Ukrainian border, Fico called for an end to Western weapons supplies for Kyiv.

“Peace is the only solution. I refuse to get criticised and labelled as a warmonger just for talking about peace, whereas those who support war and killing are being called peace activists. We have it all messed up in our heads. We will not send a single bullet to Ukraine from the state stocks,” Fico told cheering supporters.

Slovakia has until now been a strong supporter of Ukraine, donating its fleet of Soviet-era MiG-29 fighter jets and an S-300 air defence system.

Fico served as Slovakia’s prime minister between 2006 to 2010 and again from 2012 to 2018.

He was forced to resign after the murder of journalist Jan Kuciak and his fiancée, Martina Kusnirova, in 2018 prompted mass protests. Kuciak had been investigating alleged tax fraud among top Slovakian business leaders with close links to politicians.

US, Germany Call for Observers in Nagorno-Karabakh

The United States and Germany added to calls for international observers to be allowed into the Nagorno-Karabakh region, as Azerbaijan said Wednesday that 192 of its soldiers were killed in an operation to retake the area from ethnic Armenian separatists.

The US State Department said Secretary of State Antony Blinken urged Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev in a phone call to assure people in Nagorno-Karabakh their rights will be protected and to allow for humanitarian access to the region.

“The secretary urged President Aliyev to commit to broad amnesty and allow an international observer mission into Nagorno-Karabakh, and noted the President’s public commitments to help build a future for all those in Nagorno-Karabakh based on peace, mutual understanding, and mutual respect,” State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said in a statement.

Aliyev’s office said he told Blinken “that respective activities are underway to ensure the rights of Armenian residents living in the Karabakh region” and that Azerbaijan’s forces targeted only military facilities in the 24-hour operation last week.

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said Wednesday that allowing monitors into the region “would be proof of confidence that Azerbaijan is serious about its commitments on the security and the wellbeing of people in Nagorno-Karabakh.”

Baerbock also announced Germany would more than double the humanitarian aid it is providing through the International Red Cross, boosting the funding to more than $5 million.

A Mutual fund (Unit Trust) is an investment vehicle managed by a SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) registered Fund Manager. Investors with similar objectives buy units of the Fund so that the Fund Manager can buy securities that willl generate their desired return.

An ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) is a type of fund which owns the assets (shares of stock, bonds, oil futures, gold bars, foreign currency, etc.) and divides ownership of those assets into shares. Investors can buy these ‘shares’ on the

floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange. A REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) is an investment vehicle that allows both small and large investors to part-own real estate ventures (eg. Offices, Houses, Hospitals) in proportion to their investments. The assets are divided into shares that are traded on the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

GUIDE TO DATA:

Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira as at 25Sept-2023, unless otherwise stated.

Offer price: The price at which units of a trust or ETF are bought by investors.

Bid Price: The price at which Investors redeem (sell) units of a trust or ETF.

Yield/Total Return: Denotes the total return an investor would have earned on his investment. Money Market Funds report Yield while others report Year- to-date Total Return.

NAV: Is value per share of the real estate assets held by a REIT on a specific date.

DAILY PRICE LIST FOR MUTUAL FUNDS, REITS and ETFS

INFRASTRUCTURE FUND

First Half 2023: When Access Holdings Continues to Reap from Diversified Portfolio

For Access Holdings Plc, the bigger the merrier is the driving principle, as its solid performance keeps improving judging by the outstanding result of its half-year 2023 performance, which shows its sustained effort to generate value from a diversified business portfolio, spanning banking, asset management, and payment services, operational in 20 countries across four continents, writes Festus

From the beginning of September, many blue chip companies have begun to roll out impressive results for the half-year 2023 operation. Analysts said more of it will be offloaded in the coming weeks as companies adjust to the realities of the final quarter of the year.

One of such top players is Access Holdings Plc, which announced its audited half-year ended June 30, 2023, financial statement during the week. According to financial analysts, it is a result that will make the shareholders of the company happy because of the dividend implication and the assurance that their company is making significant progress both at home and in other jurisdictions where it maintains a solid presence. As for the board, management, and staff of the company, the result is a confirmation of the appropriateness of several decisions taken to expand its bouquet of offerings as well as its reach beyond Nigeria.

Access Holdings Half-year Performance

Key extracts of the audited report and accounts of Access Holdings for the first half ended June 30, 2023, showed that profit before tax jumped by 71.4 per cent to N167.6 billion in the first half of 2023 as against N97.79 billion recorded in the first half of 2022.

Profit after tax increased by 52.6 per cent from N88.94 billion in the first half of 2022 to N135.4 billion in the first half of 2023.

Top-line analysis showed that gross earnings increased from N591.80 billion to N940.31 billion. Earnings per share thus improved from N2.52 in the first half of 2022 to N3.74 in the first half of 2023. The headline growth was driven by a combination of a 63 per cent growth in interest income and a 51.9 per cent increase in non-interest income.

The balance sheet size rose by 39 per cent to N20.9 trillion by June 2023 while shareholders’ funds grew by 40.6 per cent from N1.23 trillion by December 2022 to N1.73 trillion in June 2023. Customers’ deposits rose by 35 per cent to N12.5 trillion.

This growth was inclusive of all business segments, firmly solidifying the Group’s stature as the largest financial institution in Nigeria by total assets. In a demonstration of the trust and confidence reposed in the institution by its customers, Access Holdings also witnessed a significant 35 per cent year-to-date growth in customer deposits, concluding the half-year at a commendable N12.5 trillion.

Analysts believed these striking figures underscore the efficacy of the Group’s strategic approach and its ability to generate value from a diversified business portfolio, spanning banking, asset management, and payment services, operational in 20 countries across four continents.

This position was confirmed by the management of the company, which explained that the growth in deposits underlined the trust and confidence reposed in the institution by its customers, noting that the deposit growth was inclusive of all business segments.

The Making of Strong Global Franchise

In July this year, Access Holdings sealed a deal to buy Standard Chartered Bank subsidiaries in four African countries. The move is said to have signalled Access Holdings’ most aggressive push for expansion beyond its home market Nigeria, ever since it began operation in Nigeria in 1989 as Access Bank.

The company has also entered into various pacts with Standard Chartered Bank (StanChart) to acquire the British Bank’s subsidiaries in four African markets.

From the records of the company’s annual report, African subsidiaries of Access Holdings Plc include Access Bank Sierra Leone, a subsidiary of Access Bank Plc, which operates six branches across the country. The list also includes Access Bank (Rwanda) Ltd, a commercial bank that operates in Rwanda and was officially launched in January 2009 after fulfilling all regulatory requirements.

Others include Access Bank Zambia, a subsidiary

akanbi

of Access Bank Plc with six branches across the country. There is Access Bank Ghana Plc, established in 2009 and it operates from 51 locations across the country. Others are Access Bank Kenya, formerly known as Transnational Bank Kenya; Access Bank South Africa, established in 1947 as The South African Bank of Athens; Access Bank Botswana, formerly called BancABC Botswana and Access Bank United Kingdom, a wholly owned subsidiary of Access Bank Plc which was incorporated in October 2007.

Access Bank Plc also has other smaller subsidiaries in other African countries such as Access Bank Cameroon with 100% equity, Access Bank Mozambique with a 99.98% stake, Access Bank Guinea S.A with 100% equity, Access Bank R.D. Congo with 99.98% ownership, Access Bank Gambia Limited with 88% stake.

In Nigeria, its subsidiaries include Access Pensions Limited and Hydrogen Payment Services Company Limited.

Hydrogen Pay is the fintech subsidiary of Access Holdings. It’s a technology company dedicated to addressing payment challenges for aspiring businesses.

“For Access Bank, these transactions represent a key step in our journey to build a strong global franchise focused on serving as a gateway for payments, investment, and trade within Africa and between Africa and the rest of the world as we continue to deliver on our vision to be

the World’s Most Respected African Bank,” said Access Bank CEO Roosevelt Ogbonna.

Similarly, the Tanzania government has approved the deal involving the buyout of BancABC Tanzania as Access Holdings is looking to the Central Bank of Nigeria to approve the transactions.

Generating Value from Diversi- fied Portfolio

Group Chief Executive Officer, of Access Holdings Plc, Mr. Herbert Wigwe said the first half performance underscores the efficacy of the group’s strategic approach and its ability to generate value from a diversified business portfolio, spanning banking, asset management, and payment services, operational in 20 countries across four continents.

He said Access Holdings’ synergies across its business verticals yielded remarkable results as shown by growths in incomes and the balance sheet of the group.

“Our growth plans for the African continent remain firm and clear, driven by the strong longterm growth prospects and trade opportunities seen across many of the countries.

“Continuing with our five-year cyclical strategy, our primary objective remains to transform Access Holdings Plc into a leading financial and ecosystem player, fostering opportunities for shared prosperity` among all stakeholders,”

Wigwe said.

He outlined that the group’s pensions business surpassed the N1.0 trillion in assets under management (AUM) milestone, thereby ranking as the fourth largest pension fund administrator (PFA) by AUM and the second largest by the number of registered retirement savings accounts (RSAs).

According to him, the group’s payments vertical, Hydrogen, processed over N3.0 trillion in transactions, achieving a 407 per cent month-on-month growth in point of sale (POS) transactions and 99 per cent system uptime on account switching within the period.

He pointed out that despite operating in a high inflationary environment, Access Holdings improved its cost-to-income ratio (CIR) by 4.9 per cent, through prudent adjustments in personnel costs, effective management of regulatory fees, and continued investments in technology to enhance cost efficiency and improve the overall user experience.

Wigwe noted that the group’s regulatory ratios displayed a robust liquidity position and capital adequacy, surpassing regulatory thresholds with a liquidity ratio (LR) of 50 per cent and a capital adequacy ratio (CAR) of 19.1 per cent.

He said the results generally showed the group’s steadfast commitment and prominent industry standing in delivering sustainable returns to stakeholders.

Herbert Wigwe

Graduation ceremony of Skillup imo project...

UNICEF Raises the Alarm Over Unprecedented Diphtheria Outbreak in Nigeria, Claims 453 Lives Calls

for urgent vaccination

onyebuchi ezigbo in Abuja

UNICEF Nigeria has called for an urgent need for widespread vaccination to arrest the rising spread of diphtheria outbreak in the country.

To respond effectively to the outbreak, UNICEF Nigeria said it needs to raise an additional $ 3.3

million before the end of the year. It said the outbreak has so far resulted in over 11,500 suspected cases, more than 7,000 confirmed cases, and has claimed the lives of 453 people, mostly children.

A statement by UNICEF-Nigeria, yesterday, explained that most of the cases were children aged between four to 15 years, who have not

received even a single dose of the vital vaccine, laying bare the urgency of the vaccination situation in Nigeria.

UNICEF said it was providing urgent support to the Nigerian government in its efforts to combat the outbreak.

"A crucial part of this support includes the procurement of vaccines to

support the government’s response. So far, on behalf of the government, UNICEF has deployed 9.3 million doses of diphtheria vaccines to affected states including Kano, Bauchi, Borno, Yobe, Katsina, Kaduna and Jigawa. "Of these, 4 million doses have been dispatched to Kano, the epicentre of the outbreak. Another 4 million doses of vaccines are being

ICRC, NIPC, NOA, Lead Other MDAs on FoI Compliance Ranking

onyebuchi ezigbo in Abuja

The Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC), the Nigeria Investment Promotion Council (NIPC) and the National Orientation Agency, have emerged the top three most compliant institutions in terms of the Freedom of Information Act (Fol) in 2023.

Over 175 federal government ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) out of the 238 assessed government institutions were found to be flouting the provisions of the FoI by not actively responding to requests made in compliance with the law.

The findings were contained in the National FOI transparency Ranking report released on Tuesday in Abuja.

Whereas the New Partnership For Africa's Development (NEPAD), the Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC), Nigerian Airspace Management Agency, Radiographers Registration Council took the rear positions on the ranking chart, others institutions like the Central Bank of Nigeria, National Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Nigeria Tourism Development Corporation and Economic and Financial Crimes Commission all took knocks for not responding adequately to requests for information by members of the public.

The 24-page '2023 National FOI transparency ranking,' was jointly produced by the Public and Private Development Centre (PPDC) BudgiT, Basic Rights Watch (BRW), Right to Know and Media Rights Agenda (MRA) and formally presented in Abuja.

In the new report, an analysis of 238 public institutions ranked by their responsiveness, disclosure and proactive disclosure level showed that the National Population Commission (NPC), the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, Nigerian Correctional Services, Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and 136 other agencies did not attempt a response to FOI requests. The study showed that the ICRC, the NIPC, NOA emerged as the most compliant public institutions with 70.3 points, 64.6 points, and 63 points respectively, ahead of 136 MDAs who scored below 15 points.

According to the FOI ranking, the responsiveness of ministries declined to 47 percent from 70.4 per cent recorded in 2022.

The report showed that only two institutions had full proactive disclosure of public information in 2023.

Among the challenges identified by the study group were resource constraints, inadequate tech-savvy staff, outdated information, and disregard for requests without valid reasons.

It recommended electronic means of communication as a solution.

The National Coordinator, Open Government Partnership (OGP), Gloria Ahmed, in her keynote at the event themed, 'The importance of the online space for access to information', stated that the FIOA had kept Nigeria steadily on the path of giving its citizens more access to information despite the prevalent challenges.

She also urged the representatives of agencies to make use of technology to enjoy the benefits

that freedom of information brings.

“Over the past 12 years, despite the prevalent challenges, FOI Act has kept Nigeria steadily on the path of giving its citizens, more access to information granting the right to request information and mandating public institutions to make such information readily available, with stipulated sanctions for erring institutions.

“While citizens can walk into an office or any public institution to request access to information of interest, it is worthy to mention that it is a lot easier to get this information online and for the institutions to publish information about their institutions online, so as to reduce the traffic of people who come into their offices ask for information," Ahmed said.

Also, the Head of Investigations

at the International Centre for Investigative Reporting, Olugbenga Adanikin, charged all MDAs to proactively disclose and disseminate information to Nigerians on their portals or websites.

He said this was to promote a more transparent and accountable government, increase citizen participation and improve public service delivery.

“Civil Society Organisations and other stakeholders in the media space including journalists have had reasons to utilise the FOI Act to demand information of public interests, such as road contract details, loan agreements, and budget releases to public institutions to mention but few. Agencies of government can proactively disclose information to Nigerians through their respective websites.

procured and will be handed over to government in the coming weeks.

“The devastating impact of this diphtheria outbreak is a grim reminder of the importance of vaccination. Nigeria is home to a staggering 2.2 million children who haven’t received even a single dose of vaccine - the second largest such cohort in the world. We must collectively take urgent actions to drastically reduce this number. Every child deserves protection

from preventable diseases. This is not negotiable”, said UNICEF Representative , Dr Rownak Khan, C UNICEF also urged partners, stakeholders, and the international community to rally together to ensure that every child in Nigeria is reached with life-saving vaccines. The children’s agency emphasises the importance of strengthening routine immunisation, community engagement, and health systems to avoid similar outbreaks in the future.

TD Jakes, Daughter to Headline House on the Rock Conference

The Spirit Life Conference 2023 of the House on The Rock is gearing up to be an unforgettable event with the announcement of three prolific and internationally acclaimed ministers, Bishop TD Jakes, his daughter Sarah Jakes Roberts and Dr. Mensa Otabil.

According to a statement yesterday, noteworthy was the fact that this would be the first time Sarah Jakes Roberts would be visiting Africa.

The Conference is hosted by Senior Pastor of House on the Rock, Paul Adefarasin.

“The inclusion of Pastor Sarah Jakes Roberts as one of the guest ministers in this year’s conference is one that is set to elevate the conference, through her unique and authentic delivery during her sessions.

“The combination of Bishop TD Jakes and Dr Mensa Otabil during their sessions is one that promises to deliver on the theme of the Conference tagged ‘Unshaken’.

“The theme is deemed very apt for the times we are in as a generation of people faced with diverse struggles but with a strength to remain steadfast in our beliefs,” the statement added.

The conference 2023 would take place at the House on the Rock, Lagos, from Thursday 28th, September through to 1st of October.

“For ease of movement to the grounds of the Conference, the organisers have made available free transportation at strategic locations within the Lagos State Metropolis to convey attendees to the location of the conference.

Creditswitch Emerges Unified VAS Solutions Provider

In recognition of its impact and contributions to the telecom and fintech sector, Creditswitch Limited has emerged winner of two prestigious awards: 'VAS Provider of the Year' and 'VAS Team of the Year.'

The awards were presented at the 7th Technology Innovation Awards ceremony, held recently in Lagos.

The 7th Tech Innovation Awards, powered by Digital Economy Magazine in partnership with the Africa Digital Economy Forum, serves as a beacon for commemorating exceptional innovation and individuals who are reshaping the technological landscape with groundbreaking solutions that will inspire the next generation.

In a remarkable turn of events, the 'VAS Team of the Year' category was introduced this year. Creditswitch clinched the inaugural award, solidifying its status as a pioneering force within the industry.

With the theme, Celebrating Excellence in Digital Innovations, this year's TECH Innovation Awards provided a platform to honour and commend outstanding achievements in the realm of technology.

Head of Marketing and Communications at Creditswitch, Enitan Kuton, shared the company's excitement about the prestigious accolade, coinciding with Creditswitch's 10th-anniversary milestone.

“This achievement will serve as a

catalyst to further inspire our team to persist in delivering cutting-edge solutions and innovative approaches tailored to the distinct needs of our valued partners,” she said.

Chief Information Officer at Creditswitch, Michael Elue, said the awards do not only acknowledge Creditswitch as a leader in the VAS industry but also reaffirmed the company's significant contribution to innovation in the financial and telecommunications industry and its use of innovative technology solutions to shape Nigeria's future.

"Creditswitch has consistently been at the forefront of driving innovation within the IT and telecom industry.

"They have been champions of value-added services and have harnessed innovative technological solutions to shape the future of Value-Added Service delivery for every Nigerian," a statement from the organisation explained.

The 7th Tech Innovation Awards, presented in partnership with the Africa Digital Economy Forum (ADEF), was as a prestigious platform for honouring exceptional leadership and innovative accomplishments within diverse organisations operating in the ICT industry. This event attracts top-tier executives from the global ICT and Telecommunication sectors, representing the continent and beyond.

R-L: Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma; his Wife, Chioma Uzodimma, Minister for Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, A Skillup Graduate, Abiakam Nora Ihuoma, and CEO of Zinox Technologies, Chief Leo stan Ekeh at the Graduation ceremony of Skillup IMO Project COHORT 2 held at Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri

COMMEMORATING 2023 WORLD CLEAN UP EXERCISE...

L-R: Finance Manager, Geocycle and Wapsila, Lafarge Africa Plc, Olalekan Sowunmi; Head, Engineering Services, Ogun State Waste Management Authority (OGWAMA), Engr. Abdul Olutayo; Director, Compliance, Monitoring and Enforcement, OGWAMA, Mrs. Temitope Babatunde; Director, Hazardous Waste, Ogun State Environmental Protection Agency (OGEPA), Mrs. Yemisu Oshinaike; Director, OGWAMA, Mr. Toyin Obatosin; Business Development Manager, Geocyle, Lafarge Africa Plc, Sessy Anjorin; and Mr. Director, Planning, Research and Statistics, OGWAMA, Babatunde Bolarinwa, during the Clean-Up Exercise to Commemorate 2023 World Clean Up at Olabisi Onabanjo Market, Ijebu , Ogun State …recently

FG: No Plan to Unveil Wage Award on Independence Day

Labour mobilises for indefinite nationwide strike

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

The Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, yesterday, disowned report that President Bola Tinubu was planning to announce wage awards and palliatives to workers during his October 1st Independence Day speech.

This was as the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), have concluded plans to mobilise Nigerian workers for a nationwide indefinite strike, starting October 3, 2023, over fuel subsidy removal.

A statement signed by the Director of Information, Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, Olajide Oshundun, described the report as false and not emanating from the Ministry.

Oshundun said, "We wish to categorically state that the report is false and misleading as at no time did the Director of Information make such disclosure of either announcement of wage awards or a scheduled meeting.

"The report, which is said to have emanated from a purported ‘interview’ with the Director of Information at the ministry also claimed that a last minute meeting has been scheduled for Tuesday between federal government and Labour to avert the proposed strike.

"Members of the public are enjoined to ignore the report as it is a total fabrication of an interview by the reporter to suit the narrative of the interests best-known to the newspaper.

"For the benefit of doubt, it is important to stress that the Director of Information at the Ministry of Labour does not speak for the president nor is he involved in writing his speech to warrant him making any categorical statement on its content.

"If and when the minister sched-

ules a meeting with labour, the public will be adequately notified through verified channels," the statement ministry’s statement stated.

Meanwhile, the TUC President, Festus Osifo, Osifo, who confirmed the proposed nationwide indefinite strike, while speaking on the Morning Show on ARISE News Channel, said, “The National Executive Council (NEC) of both TUC and NLC, met and resolved to mobilise workers to go on indefinite strike action nationwide, beginning from October 3, 2023.

“Both councils resolved that in the spirit of the forthcoming Independent Day celebration and to demonstrate our resolve for a truly independent Nigeria and to take our destinies in our hands and rescue our nation.

“We also resolved to embark on an indefinite nationwide strike for a total shutdown of Nigeria, beginning

from Tuesday, October 3, 2023, and to direct all workers in Nigeria to withdraw their services from their respective work places, commencing from October 3, 2023.

“We also resolved to direct all state council and affiliates to immediately begin street protest and rallies until the federal government respond positively to our demands, and to enjoin all patriotic Nigerians to join this government in putting back the people at the centre of its policies and programmes.”

Asked if the federal government would change its tactics and decide otherwise, Osifo said the struggle to protect workers and to cushion the adverse effect of fuel subsidy removal on Nigerian workers, started long ago from the very day of inauguration and swearing-in of this current government on May 29, 2023, when the government

October 3

announced the removal of fuel subsidy.

He said before now, labour was quick to go on strike for every anti-people’s policy of government, but explained that they decided to embrace full negotiation with the federal government, since the time it announced the removal of fuel subsidy.

“Since then, we have had several engagements with the government. Both management of NLC and TUC have met with the government on several occasions and the government kept promising us positive results, and its intention to cushion the adverse effect of fuel subsidy on Nigerian workers, but it has refused to keep to its promises,” Osifo said.

He explained that although government came with some policies, the NLC and TUC, had

to turn them down, because they were not far-reaching.

“We suggested to government to freeze taxes of low income earners in the private and public sectors and to stimulate those working in the informal economy and these were things that could be done by government in the short term, but government refused to heed to our suggestions.

“Assurances were made even from the Senate and from the Minister of Labour and Productivity and nothing was done by government, hence we decided to embark on the indefinite strike,” Osifo further said.

According to him, Nigerian workers, who lived in the suburb of Abuja and Lagos, went to work on Monday, did not return to their homes until Friday after work, because of the hike in transportation, due to fuel subsidy removal and they

slept in their offices because they could not afford to be paying high transportation fare on a daily basis.

He said the strike action became the last resort after all deliberations with the federal government failed, adding that, for 120 days, labour deliberated with government, yet there had been no tangible results from government. He insisted that labour did not demand new minimum wage, but for policies that would ameliorate the sufferings of the Nigerian workers.

He therefore, challenged the federal government to deploy the revenue it claimed to have saved from fuel subsidy, if government was really sincere to itself. Osifo also clarified that NLC and TUC were together in the struggle, hence the joint statement issued by both congresses on the indefinite strike.

NGE Commends South-East Governors on Security Initiative

Applauds Diri for proactive measures Denounces killing of journalist in Zamfara

The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has expressed worry over the prevailing lawlessness and general state of insecurity in the country, especially in the South –East, and commended governors of the South-East geopolitical zone for the ongoing initiatives to collectively address the challenges.

Similarly, the Guild also applauded the efforts of the Bayelsa State governor, Douye Diri, for his infrastructure development and for improving security in the state.

In a statement after its Standing Committee meeting in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital, and signed by the NGE President, Eze Anaba and

the General Secretary, Dr Iyobosa Uwugiaren, the professional body of editors in Nigeria, said government at all levels have the primary purpose of securing lives and property, and noted that the prevailing situation in some states was an abdication of that sacred responsibility.

“The Guild has observed that the insecurity in these areas has led to the needless loss of hundreds of innocent lives, and has adversely affected social activities, as well as the nation’s economy.

‘’We hope that the security summit, which has been initiated by the governors in the zone slated for Owerri, the Imo State capital,

between Thursday, September 28, and Friday September 29 - expected to feature major stakeholders in the zone, will help to address the issues’’, the statement added.

The statement said that the situation in the geopolitical zone remains a threat to the entire country and hoped that the security summit will proffer lasting solution to the menace.

The editors, who were in Bayelsa State for three days noted that Governor Diri has in the past few years prioritized security and construction of roads to connect all the local government areas, including areas that were hitherto

unreachable by road.

Among the key road projects completed or ongoing, according to the Guild, are the Nembe-Brass road with huge commercial values, the Yenagoa- Southern Ijaw road, the Ekeremor-Sagbama road and the Igbogene-Ojopa dual carriageway recently commissioned by the Sultan of Sokoto in the state capital.

The Guild hoped that the improved road network will catalyze development across the state, which in turn provide jobs and reducing militancy and youth restiveness.

The Guild also commended the Bayelsa State Government for employing technology in the

Edo 2024: Job Creation, Quality Education My Priorities, Says Imansuangbon

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

A frontline Labour Party (LP) governorship aspirant in the September 21,2024 Edo State governorship election, Mr Kenneth Imansuangbon, yesterday, promised to create jobs for Edo youths and provide qualitative education for every Edo child.

Imansuangbon, who made the pledge in Benin City, Edo State when he paid homage to the Oba of Benin to declare his intention to contest the governorship election and to seek for royal blessings from the Benin Monarch, also pledged his

allegiance to the traditional institution in the state if given the opportunity to govern Edo.

The governorship aspirant who was accompanied by top LP chieftains in the state, insisted that a state wherein the youths were gainfully employed would be a secured state.

He added: “Mine is to create jobs for the younger ones, enough is enough for joblessness. If you create jobs, you have created a secured state. I will swiftly and quickly secure the state through job creation.

"I am from the private sector,

what I have learnt over the years in the private sector is how to create jobs; how to fix schools; how to make people happy through regular payment of salaries.”

The governorship aspirant, popularly known as 'Riceman' because of his yearly free distribution of rice to the needy, further promised to make education accessible to all Edo children if given the opportunity to govern the state.

“I want to make sure that education is not a burden to parents in Edo State. Children who should be in school must be in school under

my watch as governor. Also, I want to make sure our teachers are well paid as at when due. This is what I have been doing as a proprietor of a private school,” he said.

Promising to return the state to the good days of General Samuel Ogbemidia of blessed memory, the Edo governorship hopeful further said: “My priority is to take away the suffering we are experiencing today in Edo State; the bad roads that are in every nook and cranny of the state; the pains and shame of bad roads in our state, I am concerned in fixing them in the

first one year in office.”

Responding, the Oba of Benin, Ewuare II, while declaring that the Benin throne was apolitical, said: “We have heard all you have said. We’ll pray for you; I have mandated the Chiefs to pray for you.”

According to the Oba, “The Benin throne remains apolitical. We cannot accept one and leave the other. So, we will endeavour to pray quietly for a man that will respect the people, make them happy and put food on their table. A man that will respect the traditional institution."

distribution of medicine in the state, with the use of drones, in partnership with Zipline, an innovation which has made distribution of needed medicines to hospitals and health centres in rural areas seamless, effective and in real time.

The editors described the abduction and subsequent killing of a reporter with Voice of Nigeria (VON), in Zamfara State, Hamisu Danjibga, as frightening and tasked all security agencies to investigate the matter.

The Guild also expressed concern over the capturing of 33 persons, including 24 students of Federal University, Gusau, recently.

“Though 16, including 14 students were said to have been released as on Monday, we call on the federal government to spare no effort in ensuring the release of the remaining abducted persons, and finding a lasting solution to such menace.

“We commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's marching order to security agencies in this regard and we look forward to the actualisation of the directive”, the Guild added.

The Guild called for improved security measures to protect Nigerians, especially journalists carrying out their legitimate and constitutional duties, saying the VON reporter was one of the resourceful journalists reporting the activities of the deadly terrorists and other criminal elements in the state before he was killed.

PHOTO: SUNDAY ADIGUN

Newly opeNed UK Visa applicatioN sUbmissioN

Afenifere to FG: Be More Proactive to End Nigeria's Insecurity

Urges govt to avert NLC strike Demands apology from Obasanjo for humiliating Oyo obas

A pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, has called on the federal government to take proactive steps to curtail the growing insecurity in Nigeria and by extension, give the people hope.

Afenifere also urged the govern- ment to listen to the demands of the Nigerian Labour Congress to

avoid the planned industrial action.

In a communique issued after its monthly meeting held at the residence of its leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, in Akure, the Ondo State capital, yesterday, Afenifere also demanded apology from former president Olusegun Obasanjo for recently humiliating some traditional rulers from Oyo State.

The communique, signed by its

National Publicity Secretary, Jare Ajayi read: "The meeting called on the federal government and security agencies to be more decisive and more pro-active. Four approaches are hereby recommended for immediate consideration and action. Immediate deployment of anti-terrorism devices and proper motivation of security personnel.

"Immediate engagement of local

leaders in areas, where insecurity is rife. Reports have it that leaders in those areas are somehow complicit in how bandits succeed in their nefarious activities. Deliberate efforts be made to get the youths gainfully engaged so as to make them unavailable for anti-social and inhuman activities. Cases of banditry and terrorism be discharged expeditiously. Perpetrators of banditry be

Oyebanji Re-unites With 90-year-old Ex-principal, Teacher

gbenga sodeinde in Ado Ekiti

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, on Monday re-united with his former secondary school principal, Chief Daniel Ogboja and his wife, Mrs Dorcas Ogboja, who was also his English and Literature teacher at Christ Apostolic Church Grammar School, (CAPOSTO), Efon

Alaaye, after leaving the school some 40 years ago.

The governor, who had earlier during his town hall meeting at Usi Ekiti seen the former English teacher directed the event’s Master of ceremony to recognise and invite her to the high table.

Oyebanji, after the town hall meeting accompanied her home

Akwa Ibom Tribunal Dismisses Akpanudoedehe’s Suit against Eno

okon bassey in Uyo

The Governorship Election Petition

Tribunal sitting in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State capital, has thrown out the election petition instituted by the governorship candidate of the NNPP, Senator James Akpan Ùdoedehe against the election of Governor Umo Eno of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)

The panel dismissed suit number EPW/AKS/GOV/03/23, in a unanimous decision, declaring that the petition by Akpanudoedehe and his party against Eno, the PDP and INEC lacked merit.

The governorship election petition by the former Senator followed the defective trajectory of two previous cases dismissed by the tribunal two weeks ago, by virtue of the attempt to resurrect the subject matter of certificate forgery leveled against Eno, which was previously buried by the Supreme Court.

Counsel to the PDP had told the tribunal that the petition was "most unambitious", as the petitioners neglected and or refused to declare what they really wanted.

Akpanudoedehe of the NNPP had in his arguments claimed that Eno was a convict by the Wuse Magistrate Court, Abuja, thereby robbing him of the qualification to have contested the March 18, 2023 governorship election.

He prayed the Tribunal to order the election cancelled, and a fresh one conducted within 90 days.

He also alleged that the governor was born in Enugu, even though he declined to show proof of the claim as he neither front loaded nor relied upon any document to back it.

Of the over 5000 voting units in the state, the NNPP candidate had called only 2 witnesses with himself as one of the two.

Under cross examination, the NNPP gubernatorial candidate admitted, when shown the enrolled order of the Wuse Magistrate Court repudiating its judgement orders, that he lacked knowledge of the existence of the order before his petition.

Counsel to the PDP and Eno, noted in their submission that the NNPP petition was most unambitious, as the petitioner has not only failed to prove the criminal allegation of forgery, but also failed to state what he wanted.

The tribunal, presided over by Justice Adekunle Adeleye, ruled that lacking in merit, the petition had to be confined to the trash can.

Reacting, counsel to the PDP, Emmanuel Enoidem, told journalists the judgement was in strong agreement with the position of the law.

Enoidem said the petitioners failed to prove that Eno did not meet the constitutional entry requirements for office of the governor, adding that most of their claims were pre-election matters, which they could not also substantiate.

to visit her husband, who was his principal.

During the visit to the principal, the governor described the nonagenarian as his mentor, saying he imbibed the principles of hard-work, honesty, fear of God, contentment, and tenacity from the training he got from the old man during his days as principal of CAC Grammar School, Efon Alaaye. Oyebanji, who relished his former principal and teacher with old memories, recalled how the old man took time, during morning devotions, to give them lectures which according to the governor, helped in shaping the lives of all the old students.

While appreciating him for being so good to him and for his selfless labour on all his students, the governor prayed God to grant him long life as he continued to eat the fruit of his labour.

“I still recall vividly my sojourn at CAPOSTO. Daddy was a disciplinarian but daddy will discipline you in love. Most of the things I leant about hard work, about been truthful, about fear of God, about contentment, I learnt from daddy, because at every morning devotion, daddy will take

his time to lecture us.

“Daddy took each and every one of us as his children and that is why every old student of CAPOSTO will refer to daddy and mummy as their parent,” he said.

He however, promised to organise a visit by the old students of the school to Chief Ogboja.

“We will come and spend an afternoon with you one of these days. Just to appreciate you sir,” he assured the retired nonagenarian. Responding, Ogboja, who expressed his profound gratitude to the governor for remembering him and for deeming it fit to visit him, said he was very proud of him and his achievements in less than one year in office, saying Ekiti has never had it so well.

His wife, Mrs Ogboja narrated how she rolled on the floor in excitement whe she heard the news of Oyebanji’s election as governor of the state in June 2022, said she was happy and grateful to God to meet face-to-face with the governor, who was once her student.

She also said she was happy that Oyebanji was already exhibiting the qualities he imbibed early in life.

made to pay heavy prices."

The group, after carefully reviewing the present situation on social, economic, security and political situation in Nigeria, particularly in Yorubaland, it called on all the state governors in the zone to improve regional co-operation in order to enhance the standard of living of the people.

"The meeting observed that the Development Agenda for the South West of Nigeria (DAWN) and the Yoruba Agenda launched at Ibadan in 2017 provide a roadmap that the state governments can use to transform Yorubaland.

"Afenifere appeals to the government and Labour leaders to engage more in consultation view a to quickly resolve the issues surrounding the fuel subsidy removal and the attendant difficulties Nigerians are facing. Afenifere calls on the government to redouble its efforts in finding a lasting solution to the intractable problem of exchange rate in order to bring succour to the teeming population of our people, in no distant future," it stated.

Afenifere also reiterated its support for President Bola Tinubu and hailed the Presidential Election Petitions Court (PEPC) judgment that affirmed his victory in the 2023 presidential election.

According to the group, "After a careful study of the verdicts of the Presidential Election Tribunal, Afenifere commended the five Honourable Justices for their industry, erudition and attention to details as reflected in the 738-page judgment, which has enriched our jurisprudence on law and adjudication of electoral disputes.

"Afenifere reaffirms its support for the current government ably led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and

calls on all well-meaning Nigerians to support the government in the onerous task of resuscitating our economy and improving the quality of life of all citizens."

The group, therefore, asked former President Olusegun Obasanjo, to apologise to Oyo traditional rulers for ridiculing them, the Yoruba culture and tradition, at Iseyin, Oyo State on Friday, September 15, 2023, where Obasanjo commanded the royal fathers at the gathering to stand up (and after complying), were ordered to sit down.

"Afenifere was taken aback by the avoidable and unwarranted incident that took place at Iseyin, Oyo State on Friday, September 15, 2023, where former President Olusegun Obasanjo commanded Royal Fathers at the gathering to stand up (and after complying), were ordered to sit down. It was as though a military commander was giving orders to his troops.

"We Yoruba respect our traditional institutions, the arrowhead of which, are our traditional rulers, who, traditionally and spiritually, have acquired the status of deities. It's not surprising that they are referred to as 'Igbakeji Orisa'!

"In view of the attempt to ridicule the respected Obaship institution in Yorubaland, Afenifere hereby demands an unreserved public apology to Obas from former President Olusegun Obasanjo. Our tradition describes, who we are.

“As such, no effort must be spared to prevent the rubbishing of our noble tradition. In that wise, it's hereby recommended that Royal Fathers are spared the trouble to stand up at public functions as obtained in the United Kingdom among others," Afenifere added.

DSS Arrests Ex-Shiites Spokesperson, Ibrahim Musa

The Department of State Services (DSS) has reportedly arrested Ibrahim Musa, a former spokesperson of the Sheikh Ibraheem Zakzaky-led Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN), also known as Shiites.

Musa, Editor-in-Chief of "Almizan", a weekly Hausa news magazine published by the IMN, was said to have been arrested at the Aminu Kano International Airport yesterday morning while on his way to Saudi Arabia for Umrah (lesser Hajj).

His arrest was contained in a statement by Abdullahi Usman, a family friend, who condemned his arrest and called for his immediate release.

"This is announcing the arrest

of the Editor-in-Chief of Almizan newspaper, a weekly news magazine, published in Hausa, Malam Ibrahim Musa, by the Department of State Service.

"Ibrahim Musa, who was with a family member, Binta Sulaiman, was ‘abducted’ by Nigeria's secret police at the Aminu Kano International Airport on Wednesday morning while on his way to Saudi Arabia for lesser Hajj (Umrah)," the statement read.

The statement added that no reason was given by the DSS for his arrest.

Musa was the spokesperson of the IMN throughout the trial of Zakzaky, who was arrested in December 2015, following a bloody clash between the Nigerian army and Shiites members in Zaria,

Kaduna State.

Zakzaky, who stood trial in the court alongside his wife, Zeenat, on an eight-count charge of culpable homicide, among others, were discharged and acquitted by a Kaduna High Court in 2021, after spending over five years in detention.

Musa, as the spokesperson of the Islamic group, championed the campaign for the release of the duo.

In 2016, a former governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, ordered his arrest and prosecution for issuing a statement on behalf of the IMN after it was proscribed by the state government.

It was gathered that Musa operated underground throughout El-Rufai’s tenure as governor, issuing statements on behalf of the Islamic

group. The statement noted that Musa might have been picked up for being part of the campaign for the release of Zakzaky throughout the crisis.

"Musa is known for speaking against the acts of state terrorism, extrajudicial killings and marginalisation of a minority group of Muslims by the Nigerian government under president Muhammadu Buhari.

"We want to believe that the current government of President Bola Tinubu would not want to identify itself with the abuse of democratic tenets, human rights abuses and intimidation through genocide perpetrated by the immediate past regime. Hence, we reiterate the call for Musa's immediate and unconditional release," the statement said.

ceNtre iN eNUgU...

L-R: UK Operations Manager, Lagos, TLS contact, UK Visa Centre, Mrs. Uchenna Chris-Ogbeide; Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah; and the Head of Enugu Office/Regional Co-ordinator Southern Nigeria, FCDO, British High Commission, Dr. Olachi Chuks-Ronnie, during the governor's visa application visit to the newly opened UK Visa Application Submission Centre in Enugu... on Tuesday.

John shiklam in Kaduna

Fidelis david in Akure

StrategiC partNerShip...

L-R Chairman, The Divine Smiles Foundation International, Prince Eerik Odigie; President, Dotmount Communication, Otunba

Media Publicist,

Saraki, Peter Obi Celebrate Bishop Oyedepo at 69

founder of the Living Faith Church, on his 69th birthday, saying the man of God has always been a courageous and vocal man of faith.

"As he celebrates his 69th birthday today, I pray that the Almighty continues to bless him with good health and longevity so that he may continue to serve

NDDC MD Urges Directors to Shun Tribalism, Nepotism, Political Tendencies

Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja

The acting Managing Director of Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, has admonished the directors of the Commission to avoid tribalism, nepotism and other negative tendencies capable of derailing the vision of the new management to deliver and positively change the narrative in the Niger Delta region.

Ogbuku, gave the admonition during his closing remarks in Abuja, yesterday, at the end of a two-week workshop on strategic management and leadership for directors of the agency organised by the Administrative Staff College of Nigeria (ASCON).

He stressed that his expectation was to see directors who understand that they were career civil servants, and aspiring to get to their peak as professionals.

According to him, nepotism does not complement but was alien to administration, adding that administration was all about excellence.

"So, since administration is about excellence, you must speak the language of administration, and in speaking the language of administration, you must act the language of administration.

"So, when you speak and act the language of administration, those antibodies to administration must never be in you; meaning that you purge yourselves of anything that negates administration."

He commended the directors of the Commission for their exemplary conduct in the course of the training as testified by the Director General of ASCON, Mrs. Cecilia Gayya.

According to him, the whole idea of sending them for the training was to ensure they take the administrative knowledge acquired back to the agency in order to make a difference in the Commission for the overall benefit of the region.

"The whole idea of sending you for this programme is to ensure you bring back your experience back, improve the administration and ensure that things were done differently.

"The new directors need to understand your roles, you need to understand your boundaries, they need to understand their strengths. They need to understand when to

use them and when not to.

"They need to understand that they are public servants and not civil servants. So, these are some of the things we thought you ought to be equipped with to know," he said.

Ogbuku, urged them to understand that they were not politicians and should therefore not dabble into political activities in order not to destabilise the Commission.

He noted that there had been instances in the past where staff of the NDDC were enmeshed in political antics.

Ogbuku, stated that by virtue

Mohammed (S.A.W), as we mark this year’s Eid-el-Maulud.

“This celebration offers an opportunity for thoughtful reflection as a people and reinforces the need for tolerance and peaceful co-existence.”

Obaseki noted, “Despite our religious, tribal, ethnic and political affiliations, the prophet's message of peace and good neighbourliness should motivate us all to work together towards building a strong, united and prosperous Nigeria.”

“I also urge the Muslim faithful to use the occasion of the celebration to pray for peace and the progress of our dear nation.

“As a government, we will continue to make policy decisions that reflect our diversity as a people and sustain the peaceful co-existence of all residents in Edo State.

Diri Congratulates Muslims, Pledges More Developmental Milestones if Re-elected

Governor of Bayelsa State, Diri felicitated Muslim faithful on the celebration of the birth of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

Diri, in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Daniel Alabrah, noted that the Feast of Eid-el-Maulud was a celebration of love and a time to reflect on the Prophet’s teachings on unity, compassion and peace.

He enjoined adherents of Islam in the state to always strive to be their brother’s keeper, show practical love and ensure peaceful co-existence with others.

“On this auspicious moment of the celebration of the Feast of

of their training and induction by ASCON, the directors should not only avail NDDC of their experience but become worthy ambassadors of ASCON.

ASCON, he added, was a reputable institution that trained many senior citizens of the country and officials of top organisations, adding that the directors were fortunate to be among the beneficiaries of the top-notch knowledge imparted by the college.

Ogbuku advised the directors that in their conduct and actions, they should understand their roles, and

Eid-el-Maulud, I felicitate with my Muslim brothers in the state and across Nigeria.

“As they mark the birth of Prophet Muhammad, it is also a time of reflection on his great ideals and teachings on love, unity. compassion and peace.

“I implore adherents of the faith to demonstrate practical love, patriotism and ensure peaceful co-existence with others. The principles of good neighbourliness and being a brother’s keeper are best manifested at a season as this.

“Bayelsa remains a home for all.

It is a state where, as stipulated in the Nigerian Constitution, everyone freely practices their religion without hindrance or let. And our administration has been consistent in encouraging freedom of worship and association.

“As the November 11 governorship election approaches, let us eschew every form of violent conduct and continue to maintain the existing peace in the state,” he added.

Meanwhile, the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Daniel Alabrah, says the prosperity government of senator Douye Diri will do more in the development of the state if given the second term mandate.

Alabrah while speaking with members of the Federated Correspondent's Chapel of the "NUJ" bayelsa state council during a "Correspondent's Forum" organised by the chapel, said the governor if re-elected would continue with the urban renewal he has started already.

Alabrah, while enumerating his principal achievements, said in

know their boundaries, stressing that what mattered was not the duration of the training.

According to him, what mattered most was that they were taught by experienced people, expressing the belief that the directors would see some of the teachers as role models as well as mentors.

He stressed that one of the things lacking in the public service was the paucity of public mentor for servants.

The acting NDDC boss expressed the hope that by the time the directors would resume next week, he

the areas of education, six more additional new schools had been built in Yenagoa while several others have been renovated with updated internet facilities.

Foreign Affairs Minister Calls for Global Peace

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar yesterday, called for global peace and harmony on the occasion of Eid al Maulud.

The Minister, in a statement signed by his Special Assistant on Media and Communications Strategy, Alkasim Abdulkadir, enjoined the Muslim Ummah to embrace the noble and exemplary life of Prophet Muhammad SAW (Peace Be Upon Him) in their daily lives.

He also prayed for peace and security in Nigeria, most especially in the ECOWAS sub-region and other parts of the world going through conflicts and strife; while also calling on all to imbibe tolerance, love, and compassion.

According to him, “The lesson from the life of Prophet Muhammad Peace Be Upon Him is one of inspiration to be pious and humane. His dedication to love, compassion, humility, and teaching tolerance are needed in these times.

“May the occasion of Eid al Maulud bring our country and the entire world peace and tranquillity. Have a wonderful celebration.”

Furthermore, he wished Muslims all over the world a joyful celebration.

Omo-Agege Greets Muslims, Urges Prayers for Country

Former Deputy President of the

would be seeing a rejuvenated staff strength directors who will understand their boundaries and not directors warming up to be acting CEOs of the Commission.

In her closing address, the Director General of ASCON, Mrs. Cecilia Gayya noted that the programme was carefully designed and implemented to provide the needed knowledge, skills and capacity to adequately and promptly discharge their responsibilities and thus, make meaningful contributions towards the attainment of the mission and vision of the NDDC.

Senate and Delta State Governorship candidate of the All Progressive Congress, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, felicitated the Muslim faithful on the occasion of the Maulud-Un-Nabiyy, the birthday of the Holy Prophet Muhammad.

In a message to mark this year’s Eid-el-Maulud, Senator Omo-Agege urged all Muslims to imbibe the noble life, virtues and teachings of the Holy Prophet which include love, forgiveness, peaceful coexistence and selfless sacrifice.

A statement by his Media Adviser, Sunny Areh, said Omo-Agege used the occasion to appeal to all Nigerians to continue to support and pray for President Bola Tinubu as he tackles the nation’s problems, especially the economic and security challenges.

He said: “I felicitate Muslim faithful in the country on this occasion of Eid-el-Maulud. I urge them to imbibe the noble life, virtues and teachings of Holy Prophet Muhammad, which include love, forgiveness, peaceful co-existence and selfless sacrifice, and to exhibit those attributes as we relate with one another.

“Let us also use the occasion to pray for our country and for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as he takes very bold steps to confront the multifarious challenges facing the country, especially the economic and security challenges.

“The government needs our support, understanding and indeed sacrifice to end the present economic downturn. This will engender our path to economic revival and rejuvenation of the wellbeing of

his maker and humanity for many more years,” Saraki stated.

Obi, in a statement by his Media aide, described Oyedepo as a great clergy, who is forthright and courageous in his spread of the message of salvation.

“Obi, on behalf of his family, joined millions of his followers and admirers worldwide to celebrate with him as marks his 69th birthday today.

“Obi noted that he deserved all the accolades especially, for the many ways God has continued to use him to positively impact our society, particularly our generation.”

According to the former Anambra State Governor, “Oyedepo has stood out courageously as a fearless soldier of Christ as he has demonstrated enormous wisdom and consistency in speaking against the many ills that pervade our society.”

all citizens.

“I wish all Muslim faithful happy Eid-el-Maulud celebration.”

Ningi: Time for Reflection, Devotion, Celebration of Virtues of Prophet Muhammad

The Senator representing Bauchi Central of Bauchi State, Senator Abdul Ahmad Ningi, has described Maulud as a time of reflection, devotion, and celebration.

Senator Ningi made the declaration in a statement he signed and made available to journalists in Bauchi.

He wrote: "Dear respected Citizens of Bauchi Central and Fellow Muslims, on the commemoration of the auspicious occasion of Maulud Nabiy, I extend my warmest greetings and heartfelt wishes to Muslims across the world."

According to him, "On this blessed day, let us not only remember the profound lessons of compassion, tolerance, and unity that the Prophet's life exemplified, but also reaffirm our commitment to practicing these values in our daily lives."

The Senator stressed that, "It is through the embodiment of these principles that we can contribute to a more harmonious and prosperous society."

"I also wish to extend my prayers for the peace, prosperity, and well-being of our beloved country, Nigeria, and specifically, our dear Bauchi State. May our nation continue to progress towards greater unity, peace, and development, and may Bauchi State thrive in all its endeavors,"he added.

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

A former senate president, Dr. Bukola Saraki, has congratulated Bishop David Oyedepo, the

Also, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general election, Peter Obi, has congratulated Oyedepo on his 69th birthday anniversary.

According to Saraki, "His leadership and devotion have touched countless lives and brought spiritual nourishment to many.

Olaoluwa Adedotun; Face of Edo Beauty Queen, Blessing Oaikhena; with

Adeniyi ifetayo; during a strategic partnership meeting with Dotmount Communication in Abuja. .. recently

PHOTO: KINGSLEY ADEBOYE

E ID - E l-M A ulu D : Abb AS , G A n D uj E , Ob I , G O v E rn O r S , PDP, Pr EA c H P EA c E

aCCEss BaNK LaUNCHEs sPECiaL dEsK...

L-R: Team Lead, Agric Business Commercial Banking Division, Access Bank, Emmanuel Oluwole Makinwa; Group Head, Commercial Banking Division, Nsika Nnana Usoro; Executive Director, Commercial Banking, Hadiza Ambursa; Head Development Banking Desk, Commercial Banking, Ambur Sule, and Group Head, Marketing and Communication, Toyin Henry-Ajayi, at a press conference on Access Bank’s Agriculture and Development Desk launch in Lagos… yesterday SUNDAY ADIGUN

Bandits Invade Kaduna Community, Kill Six People

Two killed, three injured as gunmen attack Kwara community

John shiklam in Kaduna and Hammed shittu in Ilorin

Six people have been reportedly killed by suspected bandits in an attack on Takanai community in Zangon Kataf Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

Similarly, two persons have been reportedly killed while three others sustained serious degrees of gunshot injuries on

Tuesday night when a gang of gunmen stormed Alalubosa community, Oko Olowo in the Asa Local Government Area of Kwara State.

A Takanai community leader, Samson Markus, confirmed the Kaduna incident yesterday in a telephone call.

He said the bandits invaded the community at about 7 p.m. last Tuesday, killing six people,

Sagamu Killings: DSS Moves to Unravel Masterminds

James sowole inabeokuta

Security Operatives in Ogun

State said that there would be no sacred cows in the ongoing investigations into the causes and persons behind the recent cult clashes in the Sagamu area of the state.

Sources in the Department of State Service (DSS), explained that the ongoing investigations were being conducted without bias, even as one of the sources added that suspects so far questioned in connection with the recent mayhem have given very useful information

that will assist in unravelling the kingpins and their collaborators.

A source close to the agency confirmed inviting high-profile persons for interrogation, stressing that both the remote and immediate causes of the mayhem, were being thoroughly examined, assuring the public that the agencies were determined to get to the roots of the cult activities in the ancient town and its environs.

“We had questions for two individuals and we invited them accordingly. They were invited as part of our investigations into the cult killings.”

Rivers Set to Create a New City

Blessing ibunge inportharcourt

The Rivers State Governor, Mr. Siminalayi Fubara, has disclosed that every arrangement has been put in place to achieve the development of new cities in the state that would help to decongest Port Harcourt and Obio/Akpor cities.

Fubara said that the new cities would end the one city status of Rivers State and attract more investors into the state.

The governor stated this yesterday when he inspected the Greater Port Harcourt City Development Authority’s (GPHCDA) office and project sites in Ikwerre Local Government Area of the state. Fubara said that

his administration is determined to do more by adding to what it has inherited in order to establish more cities in Rivers State.

“I can assure you that in our time, we might not achieve the dream of that big city in four years, but we will add a few things that would also help us in getting at that target.

“This is because, we are thinking of decongesting the present one city state that we have, which is Port Harcourt and Obio Akpor. We are thinking of developing other parts of the state and our coming here is to see what the agency has been doing, what you have done already and what we can also do to make us achieve more new cities in our state.”

UNESCO Harps on Youths’ Digital Skills

James sowole in abeokuta

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) has said Nigerian youths are in a better position to transform the country through digital tools, describing them as game changers.

The organisation made the remark during a sensitisation programme organised for secondary school students in Abeokuta, the Ogun

including two children.

According to him, residents of the community were going about their normal

activities that evening when suddenly the bandits arrived in the community, shooting sporadically, and people started

running for their dear lives.

He said: “The bandits came around 7 p.m. when we least expected that such a thing

could happen. We were going about our usual activities when suddenly we heard sporadic gunshots.

Oyebanji Wants More Christians to Embrace Politics

Gbenga

sodeinde in ado ekiti

The Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has advocated for greater involvement of Christians in partisan politics, as a way of deepening democracy and development in the country.

Governor Oyebanji stated this

on Tuesday in his office in Ado Ekiti when he received the General Overseer of Foursquare Gospel Church, Rev. Sam Aboyeji, and his wife, Rev (Mrs.) Olabisi Aboyeji. He said that more inclusive political landscape would lead to policies that better reflect the values and concerns for the

people.

The governor said that a good number of Christians who could add value to the system would rather stay out of politics, because of their belief that politics is a dirty game, meant for a certain group of people. But he said that those who

avoid politics are not removed from the effect of bad policies. Rather than see politics as a dirty game, Oyebanji said that Christians should consider it a viable opportunity to contribute to nation building, make positive impact on the society and promote the values aligned with God.

Otti Reopens Two Specialist Hospitals, Promises Efficient Social Services

Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogoin umuahia

Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has declared that he came to bring about an era of functional and efficient social services in the state.

Otti expressed this resolve yesterday at the reopening of

two renovated and equipped specialist hospitals in Amachara and Umuahia, adding that he would extend the same turnaround to other hospitals across the state. In addition, the governor flagged off the expansion of the 3.5km main road entry into the capital city, off the Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway

into six-lane dual carriageways, and the Abia Tower to Okpara Square.

Otti said that the state of dilapidation in the two strategic health facilities located within the capital territory was negating the health care needs of the people, hence the priority he gave to their rehabilitation.

“We are determined to rehabilitate and retrofit our existing hospitals and make them serve the people,” he said.

The Abia State’s governor said that his administration “invested huge amount” not only to renovate the physical structure but also to equip the health facilities.

IYC Threatens Shutdown of NNPCL, Oil Activities over Alleged Sack of Indigenes

sylvester idowu inWarri

The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) has threatened to shut down the Nigerian National Company Limited (NNPCL) and oil activities across the country over an alleged sack of some indigenes by federal government owned company.

The group said that it would resist any move to sack Ijaws in employ of NNPCL with an attempt to replace them with northerners and Yorubas.

The IYC Worldwide, an umbrella body covering all Ijaws across the country and abroad, in a statement that was signed by its

Spokesperson, Mr. Binebai Yerin Prince, said that it is aware, through newspaper publications and other broadcast outlets, about the forceful sack of its kinsmen and women in NNPCL over cooked and manipulated retirement.

“The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide, an umbrella body

covering all Ijaw Youths in Nigeria and across the world have read on the pages of newspapers and other broadcast outlets in Nigeria weeks ago the purported sack of Ijaw sons and daughters in the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited over cooked and manipulated story of retirement.

Plateau APC Stakeholders: We’re Treated as Lepers over Muslim-Muslim Ticket

adedayo akinwale in abuja

Stakeholders and party leaders of the All progressives Congress (APC) from Plateau state said they were treated as lepers over the Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket in the state.

The stakeholders led by the

former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Ahmed Wase, disclosed this during a courtesy call on the national working committee (NWC) of APC led by Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje in Abuja. They said the over 300,000 votes secured by President

Tinubu at the poll in Plateau state was akin to squeezing blood out of stone.

Wase stated: “As far as we are concerned, the Plateau state APC chapter has done very well. We performed beyond expectation by coming third with 300,000 votes.

“We squeezed blood out

of stone considering the demography in Plateau state due to the Muslim Muslim ticket. Yet we sacrificed so much even when religious sentiments were whipped against us. The religious factor affected us so much that we were looked at as a leper. Yet we survived it.”

Govt Tasked to Revive, Fund Technical Education

Tracy amusa

State capital, by its Institute for African Culture and International Understanding (IACIU) located within the premises of the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) in Abeokuta.

The theme of the event was: ‘The Role of Young People in the Promotion of the UNESCO Convention on the Protection and Promotion of Diversity of Cultural Expressions and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)’.

The federal and state governments have been tasked to urgently revive technical education in the country by adequately funding the existing ones and building new ones.

An Isoko socio-cultural group, Okugbe Enyaharo

Emo Isoko(OEEI), from Delta State, who made the call, also asked governments to prioritise technological innovations as antidote to Nigeria’s current reliance on imported technology that comes at a very high cost. The group equally said that there was enough technologically

sound brains in the country to help out if only the right infrastructure and environment are created.

The President of OEEI, Mr. Amos Iwary, spoke on behalf of the members at a ceremony in Lagos to celebrate the academic achievements of three Isoko youngsters The first is

Miss Orevaoghene Whiskey of Topfaith International Secondary School, Essien Udim, Akwa Ibom, who scored straight 9-As in her WAEC result and the second, Miss Michelle Ogheneserome Amarie of Lead-Forte Gate College, Lekki, Lagos, who also scored straight 8-As in her WAEC.

Air Force Chief Lauds DEPOWAS’ Humanitarian Initiatives

Kingsley Nwezeh in a buja

The Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has lauded the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA) for its humanitarian

initiatives which have won hearts and minds thereby contributing immensely to the non-kinetic approach to counterinsurgency operations.

The air force chief spoke when President of DEPOWA,

Mrs Oghogho Gwabin Musa, paid him a courtesy call at Headquarters Nigerian Air Force (NAF) in Abuja.

A statement by NAF Headquarters also noted that non-kinetic warfare or soft power, which is the ability

to influence others through attraction, persuasion, and diplomacy rather than through force, was an essential compliment used in holistically addressing the current security impasse in the country.

INNOVATION MAKERS CHALLENGE...

L-R: Chief Executive Officer, Nigeria Climate Innovation Centre, Mr. Bankole Oloruntoba; Deputy Director, National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure(NASENI), Mr. Kola Oyeniran; General Manager, Quomodo Systems Africa, Adedoyin Segun-Noibi; Sustainability Manager, IHS Towers, Mr. John Isiekwene, and Chief Executive Officer, Mobile Software Solutions and Board Member, Telecommunication and Technology Sustainability Working Group, Mr. Chris Uwaje, at the Innovation Makers Challenge 2023 press conference in Lagos… recently ETOP UKUTT

Strike: Labour Party Identifies with Nigerian Workers

Chuks Okocha inabuja

The leadership of the Labour Party(LP) yesterday said that it is in support of any legitimate means to be deployed by Nigerian workers to press for better generations.

The party in a statement by the National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, said it fully supports the resolution of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) to embark on an

industrial action slated to commence as of Tuesday, October 3, 2023.

According to the LP, “We have followed with keen interest, in the last four months, various meetings between organised labour and various government bodies including the President of the Senate, the presidency, and the Ministers of Labour as well as all the efforts made by the labour leadership to get the government understand the magnitude of sufferings government

Nigeria Ranked Sixth in World for Organised Crime

Nigeria is ranked sixth in the world for organised crime, according to the 2023 Global Organised Crime Index. The report stated that Nigeria continues to face a series of security challenges, corruption and other criminal activities.

According to the survey done by the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organised Crime, which was released yesterday, the status of organised criminality in Nigeria increased by 0.13 points.

Nigeria, according to Premium Times, scored 7.28 of 10 points which makes it the sixth in the world and second highest in Africa behind the Democratic Republic of Congo (7.35) and ahead of South Africa (7.18).

In 2021, the last time the report was released, Nigeria was ranked fifth with a score

of 7.14 points.

Myanmar has the highest criminality score (8.15), followed by Colombia (7.75) and Mexico (7.57).

The report noted that “levels of criminality are increasing worldwide while resilience measures are falling short of meeting the threat..”

In the criminal actors category, Nigeria has 7.20 points with an increase of 0.5 while it scored 8.50 points in the criminal network score. The survey also shows an increase in the number of foreign criminal actors active in the country as its score increased by 0.50 in that category.

The country also scored 5.50 points for the presence of mafia-style groups, 7.00 points for private-sector actors and 7.50 points for state-embedded actors.

Wema Selar Partner to Empower Africa’s Creative Space

Wema Bank has partnered with Selar, a creator platform, to empower African creatives and bridge the prevalent gaps in the African creative space. This revolutionary partnership has birthed a power-packed webinar titled, “The Digital Economy and the Future of Work,” a learning and problem-solving webinar.

The webinar was aimed at helping Africans, especially Nigerian, creators to maximise their potential and leverage available resources to transform their creativity into sustainable streams of income.

Scheduled for September 29, 2023, this webinar promises to illuminate the challenges and prospects that creators encounter as they navigate this exhilarating terrain. It offers invaluable insights

policies have thrown Nigerian Workers and the entire populace into since the enthronement of this administration. “LP is not in any

way surprised at the government’s apparent indifference, insensitivity, intransigence, and recalcitrant posture towards the genuine demands of

the labour bodies because their usurpation of power was not sanctioned by both the workers and generality of Nigerians. Nigerians

went to the polls with clear conviction of the government they wanted but this was denied them through institutional conspiracy. “

Olawepo-Hashim Canvasses Reforms for Truly Independent INEC

Deji Elumoye in abuja

Former presidential candidate and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Mr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, has canvassed a further reform of the 2022 Electoral Act that will address the recruitment of

the leadership of the nation’s electoral umpire, the Independent Electoral Commission (INEC) and make it truly “independent” of “external control and influence” before the 2027 general election. INEC was established via the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to, among

other things, organise elections into various political offices in the country.

The functions of INEC are as contained in Section 15, Part 1 of the Third Schedule of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Section 2 of the Electoral Act 2010 (as amended).

Speaking to newsmen in Abuja yesterday, OlawepoHashim recommended that the position of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and National Commissioners should be advertised and not appointed by the President.

‘Adedayo’s Allegation against Abiodun Politically Motivated’

JamesSowoleinabeokuta

The Chief Consultant on Media to Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, Hon. Kayode Akinmade, yesterday said the allegation of diversion of local government allocations against the governor by Mr. Wale Adedayo, was politically motivated.

He asserted that contrary to

the false claim, the governor had augmented several shortfalls in allocations to local governments from the Federation Account to the tune of N17 billion from the inception of his administration in 2019 till date. Speaking in an interview on Raypower FM programme, Facts File, as well as the Yoruba version on Faaji FM, Akinmade noted that Adedayo was out to tarnish the image

of Abiodun, for parochial political motives. He noted that allocations to local governments remain practically inaccessible by any state governor, going by the recent amendment to extant laws regarding allocations to the third tier of government. This, he said, followed agitation by some local government chairmen.

The media expert explained that a special committee, known as the

Joint Account Allocation Committee (JAAC), which comprises all the 20 councils’ chairmen across the state, members of Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT), and Traditional Institutions among others were statutorily saddled with the responsibility of deciding on the sharing formula without any interference from the governor.

Biden’s Nomination of Two Nigerian-Americans into Advisory Council on Africa Diaspora Hailed

Michael Olugbodeinabuja Chairman/CEO, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa has congratulated the duo of Chinenye Ogwumike and Osagie Imasogie on their nomination into the Advisory

Council on Africa Diaspora Engagement by United States President Joe Biden.

In a statement by the Commission’s Head of Media and Public Relations, Abdur-Rahman Balogun yesterday, Dabiri-Erewa said the nomination of the two great

Nigerians into the advisory council is a welcome development.

The NIDCOM boss said their recognition and appointment into the 12-member advisory council is a motivation for other Nigerians and Africans in general.

Chinenye Ogwumike is a two-

time WNBA All-Star for the Los Angeles Sparks and a full-time, multi-platform ESPN commentator and NBA analyst.

She is one of the only full-time professional athletes to also currently hold a full-time regular national sports media broadcast position.

Diphtheria: UNICEF Calls for Urgent Vaccination in Nigeria

MichaelOlugbodeinabuja

United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has called for immediate widespread vaccination in Nigeria to combat the growing diphtheria outbreak in the country.

The UN agency in a statement

yesterday said in the midst of the most severe diphtheria outbreak in recent global history, there is urgent need for widespread vaccination in Nigeria. UNICEF revealed that the outbreak has so far resulted in over 11,500 suspected cases, more

than 7,000 confirmed cases, and has claimed the lives of 453 people, mostly children. It lamented that most cases are children aged between four and 15 years who have not received even a single dose of the vital vaccine, laying bare the urgency of the vaccination situation

in Nigeria.

UNICEF, in the statement, said it is providing urgent support to the Nigerian government in its efforts to combat the outbreak, noting that a crucial part of this support includes the procurement of vaccines to support the government’s response.

into effectively tapping into its potential.

According to a survey conducted by Selar, one in every four creators is an employer, a testament to the potential for creators not only to earn but to create job opportunities, thus bolstering the African Creator Economy as a stable and lucrative source of income. This, in turn, promises to reduce unemployment rates in Africa, contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals(SDGs).

Head of Innovation & Corporate Transformation at Wema Bank and one of the speakers at the event, Solomon Ayodele, commended the bank’s commitment to innovation, recounting the bank’s storied history of resilience and technological advancement.

CHRICED Flays Sneaky Return of Petrol Subsidy Payment

Adedayo

Akinwale in abuja and Segun James in Lagos

Following media reports that the federal government had surreptitiously resumed the payment of subsidy of petrol since August 2023, Resource Centre for Human Rights & Civic

Education (CHRICED), has said it was difficult to understand why Bola Tinubu’s administration was taking a contradictory stance.

Its Executive Director, Ibrahim Zikirullahi, in a statement issued yesterday, said if the reports, which the government was yet to deny were accurate, it was

evident that the citizens had again been deceived and duped.

It noted that the Federation Accounts Allocation Committee (FAAC) records, according to media reports, indicated that the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) paid a subsidy of N169.4 billion in

August.

It emphasised that despite professing for several weeks that it made a courageous and bold decision to end the subsidy regime, it was now evident that the government had reinstated the scheme in a manner that is opaque and lacks transparency.

Edo Group Raises the Alarm over Ordeal Faced from Lagdo Dam Flood

Raheem Akingbolu

A pressure group, The Edo Concerned Stakeholders Development Initiative (ECSDI), has lamented the ordeal of the people of Edo State occasioned by the release of water from Lagdo Dam in Cameroon

and said the situation is often under-reported.

President of ECSDI, Oluwafemi Scufield Idiakhoa, who stated this in a statement made available to newsmen in Lagos, disclosed that, while the headlines frequently spotlight the devastation in

Kogi, Niger and others, that of Edo State is not often heard, noting that, the state, with its rich cultural heritage and agricultural prowess, has seen thousands of its inhabitants displace, farmlands submerged, and a cultural fabric strained under the weight of repeated

flooding.

According to him, “the construction of the Lagdo Dam began in 1977 and was completed in 1982, with the initial aim of providing electricity and supporting irrigation in Northern Cameroon.”

Says workers have shown enough patience

Gamin G Week

Edited by n seobon G o kon- e kon G | ikotibok@gmail.com | Tel: 08114495324

Lucky b et announces e xciting Partnership with Portable

writes that the choice of Afrobeats artiste, Habeeb Olalomi, aka Portable, as ambassador to a sports betting brand recognises bettors’ desire to identify with a relatable popular figure who inspires hope and fuels dreams

Positioning itself at a vantage point to compete fairly in Nigeria’s cutthroat sports betting sector, LuckyBet has undertaken a significant path

of transformation. At a recent engagement at its Lagos office in Ojota, the sports betting company signed afrobeats artiste Habeeb Olalomi, aka Portable, as a brand

To LuckyBet, the signing transcends marketing strategy. It elevates the sports betting experience through the power of betting and entertainment, converging both sectors seamlessly for punters. In this strategic move, LuckyBet acknowledged that Portable brings more than just promotional value. It signified a fundamental shift in how they approach sports betting. The company said that it recognises today’s bettors are not merely seeking odds and wagers but also want to identify with a relatable popular figure who inspires hope that fuels dreams.

Marketing Manager, LuckyBet, Necca Nnaji, elaborated on

Ronaldo, Messi’s Transatlantic Shift: A Betting Game-changer

The footballing world has experienced a seismic tremor as two legends embark on their new adventures: Cristiano Ronaldo’s relocation to Saudi Arabia and Lionel Messi’s journey to Inter Miami in the United States mark a pivotal moment, not only in their illustrious careers but also in the realm of sports betting, writes Davidson Abraham

Before Ronaldo’s extraordinary move to Saudi Arabia’s Al Nassr and Messi’s transfer to the United States Inter Miami, football bettors predominantly centred their wagers on matches in the prominent European leagues and international fixtures. These leagues, regarded as the epicentres of top-tier football, were irresistible to betting enthusiasts, largely due to the magnetism of stars like Ronaldo and Messi.

However, the footballing world experienced a seismic tremor as these two legends embarked on their new adventures. Ronaldo’s relocation to Saudi Arabia and Messi’s journey to Inter Miami in the United States marked a pivotal moment in their illustrious careers and the realm of sports

betting. The prospect of Ronaldo and Messi competing in leagues outside Europe sparked immense interest among bettors. Gamers diligently followed the performances of these iconic players and other well-funded Saudi teams. This shift in focus allowed them to diversify their betting portfolios, incorporating matches from the Saudi Professional League and Major League Soccer into their wagering options.

The sudden surge in attention and engagement within these previously less-explored leagues translated into a plethora of new betting opportunities. Bettors, perpetually searching for lucrative prospects,

enthusiastically embraced the fresh possibilities presented by Ronaldo and Messi’s move away from Europe. Consequently, these monumental transfers reshaped

the footballing landscape and revolutionized the world of sports betting, infusing it with renewed vigour and excitement for punters worldwide.

Davi D son a braham’s forecast for 21/22 s eptember 2023 fixtures

Date f ixture betting tips

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the choice of Portable as a brand ambassador, especially during economic hardship.

“We did our survey of who reflects our customer base, and LuckyBet decided to touch base with the grassroots level,” said Nnaji. “So, we decided to choose someone that shares the same story of grass to grace. Someone who can inspire the average person.”

Nnaji added, “He is someone who mirrors the vision of an average Nigerian who aspires to become something even when they feel like there is nothing they can be. This is our journey to inspire youths because that’s part of our community project.”

This collaboration highlights the deep-rooted impact of the Nigerian culture, which consistently pursues greatness in the face of adversity. The theme is aptly reflected in Portable’s career journey, which gained momentum after the release of his breakout hit ‘Zazoo Zeh’, featuring rapper Olamide and Poco Lee. LuckyBet’s selection of Portable as an artiste is a clear testament to the brand’s grasp of this grass-to-grace narrative. Filled with excitement about the upcoming collaboration, Portable urged his fans to take a chance and place their bets. He believed this partnership would add an extra layer of thrill, encouraging them to be part of the excitement.

Driven by the slogan ‘Get Lucky, Get Rich’, the partnership, aside from increasing LuckyBet’s market shares, reach, and presence seeks to introduce responsible gambling practices to a broader audience by leveraging the artiste’s influence and resonance among the youth. Underscoring LuckyBet’s commitment to responsible gambling and community engagement to create an environment where players can enjoy the thrill of betting while ensuring responsible practices.

“We are working with some NGOs on the initiative of responsible gaming,” Head of Commercial, LuckyBet, Foye Johnson, disclosed strategic plans to curb underage betting.

“We are passionate about responsible gaming, and we won’t tolerate any underage betting. This is something that, if we find out, would not allow it,” said Johnson.

He added, “We are going to the extent of making sure that if anybody is trying to be addicted because betting is supposed

He added, “We are going to the extent of making sure that if anybody is trying to be addicted because betting is supposed to be entertainment, we have those NGOs to help. We can suspend accounts and things like that to make sure it doesn’t get out of hand.”

“He is someone who mirrors the vision of an average Nigerian who aspires to become something even when they feel like there is nothing they can be. This is our journey to inspire youths because that’s part of our community project.”

CAF Snubs Nigeria’s Bid to Host AFCON 2027

Morocco to host AFCON 2025 while Uganda, Tanzania, Kenya co-host in 2027

Duro Ikhazuagbe

Nigeria’s dream of co-hosting the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament with neighbors Benin Republic failed to fly yesterday as the Confederation of African Football (CAF) voted for the joint bid of Uganda, Tanzania and Kenya

to stage that edition.

The country’s delegation led by Sports Minister, Senator John Owan Enoh and the President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Ibrahim Gusau and other senior football personalities, made a presentation of the joint bid to CAF yesterday but the executive committee members

appear unimpressed.

CAF instead settled for the East Africans to host the 2027 edition.

After Algeria pulled out of contention to host AFCON 2027, the Nigeria/Benin Republic joint bid faced serious competitions from other interested countries like Senegal, Egypt, Botswana and the tripartite

bid by Uganda, Tanzania and Kenya. Nigeria’s only time as host of the AFCON was in 1980 when Christian Chukwu led the Green Eagles to win the title in front of passionate home fans, including former President Shehu Shagari at the National Stadium I’m Lagos.

The joint hosting with Ghana in

2000 ended in tears for Eagles as Cameroon’s Indomitable Lions ran away with the trophy at the same Sportscity in Lagos.

For the 2025 edition, Morocco scaled the hurdle to host with no competition from any other country. With several modern facilities scattered all over Morocco and

also flaunting the Atlas Lions semi final finish at the last World Cup in Qatar, the North African nation were sure-bet to get the nod and that was what CAF executive committee members did.

The North African country amassed 22 votes for their bid to be successful. Morocco staged the 1988 AFCON.

Things Fall Apart Between Osimhen and Napoli

Trolled Nigerian deletes videos, pictures of him in Napoli shirts on Instagram

Duro Ikhazuagbe

Aston

Blackburn

Bournemouth

Brentford

Chelsea

Fulham

Newcastle 1-0

Cagliari

Empoli 1-0

Verona 0-1 Atalanta

Inter

Lazio 2-0 Torino

Napoli 4-1 Udinese

Athletic

Villarreal

Iwobi, Vinicius Fire Fulham into Fourth Round of Carabao Cup

Newcastle knockout Manchester City in Third Round

Fulham advanced into the Carabao Cup fourth round after they fought hard to beat Norwich 2-1 at Craven Cottage.

Goals from Carlos Vinicius and Alex Iwobi were enough for Marco Silva’s men who responded well after the weekend’s lacklustre 0-0 draw with Crystal Palace.

Fulham found success early on down the left flank through Willian and Fode Ballo-Toure, who created a 10th-minute chance for Vinicius that the striker headed over.

Vinicius justified a run out after his winner against Luton

two weeks ago and he opened the scoring in the 10th minute.

Willian’s floated delivery found Iwobi at the back stick and he headed it across goal to Vinicius who tapped home. Silva had called for more chances to be created during games and Fulham did just that through Harry Wilson, Willian and Tom Cairney.

Elsewhere, Alexander Isak scored a second-half winner as last season's finalists Newcastle United dumped eight times winners Manchester City out of

the League Cup 1-0 in a third round clash at St James' Park on Wednesday.

The Premier League champions dominated possession in the first half but Newcastle soaked up the pressure and came out fighting after the break, with Isak firing in at the far post off a cross from Joelinton in the 53rd.

It was also sad news for Kelechi Iheanacho and Wilfred Ndidi who were in action as Liverpool came from behind to beat Leicester City 3-1 to qualify for the fourth round of the Carabao Cup.

Dominik Szoboszlai's stunning second-half strike helped Liverpool come from behind to beat Leicester City.

Kasey McAteer gave Leicester the lead just three minutes in as the Championship leaders hit their Premier League hosts on the counter-attack.

Cody Gakpo was the man who got the Reds' equaliser with a welltaken finish just after half-time, having earlier been denied by Conor Coady's goalline clearance. Diogo Jota added the third in the 89th minute.

Benue Sports Stakeholders Visit Ailing Coach Tenger

The Benue State Sports Stakeholders Forum has come to the aid of one of their own, Coach Justin Tenger, who is presently battling for life at the Federal Medical Centre in Keffi, Nasarawa State.

A two-man delegation made up of Coaches Andrew Iornongo and Emma Orsar who are among the oldest and vastly experienced

football tactician in Benue State traveled to Keffi to donate N100,000 to Tenger on behalf of the stakeholders as a token of moral and financial support.

The leader of delegation, Coach Iornongo conveyed the sympathy and get well-wishes of the members to the former Sir Akpoo System, BCC Lions, Lobi Stars, Niger

Tornadoes and Kwara United coach and wished him quick recovery.

He charged his colleague to remain unwavering in his faith in God who is the greatest physician and can heal all ailments.

Iornongo also assured the family of Tenger of the stakeholders’ continuous support just as he urged members who are close to Keffi

Nigerian international, Victor Osimhen, and his management team, have threatened legal action against Napoli for trolling the striker on the club’s official TikTok account yesterday.

Osimhen’s agent, Roberto Calenda, issued the threat on Wednesday afternoon after Napoli’s official TikTok account, which has 4.5 million followers, trolled the underpressure striker with a voiceover high-pitched message mimicking him saying ”gimme penalty please” during his missed penalty against Bologna last Sunday.

Although the offensive social media message was deleted, several followers of the club saw it and expressed their unhappiness over the post.

In his reaction, Osimhen deleted all photos and videos featuring him in a Napoli shirt on his Instagram.

Calenda in a statement on his X handle yesterday said his client could take legal action against Napoli.

“What happened today (Wednesday) on Napoli’s official profile on the TikTok platform is not acceptable. A video mocking Victor was first made public and then, but now belatedly, deleted.

“A serious fact that causes very serious damage to the player and adds to the treatment that the boy is suffering in the last period between media trials and fake news. We reserve the right to take legal action and any useful initiative to protect Victor,” stressed the message

from Osimhen’s agent.

Osimhen, cult-hero among Napoli fans has been unable to hit the form that made him the highest goals scorer in the Italian Serie A last season, helping the Neapolitans to their first Scudetto in 33 years. He scored 26 goals.

But yesterday, Osimhen ended his goal-drought as he was on target as Napoli defeated Udinese 4-1 in a midweek clash at the Maradona Stadium. Before that goal, he went three games without hitting the net with the missed penalty last Sunday at the centre of the present row. He now have four goals in the sevenweek old Serie A season.

The Ballon d’Or nominee’s contract is due to run out in the summer of 2024. It has become unlikely that Osimhen will renew it and may leave in January transfer window.

Lagos' Gains from NYG Beyond Winning Medals, Says Aiyepeku

When the Federal Government of Nigeria through the then Ministry of Youth and Sports Development conceived the idea of the National Youth Games, it was designed to focus on the development of young talents that the nation would begin to use in replacing the ageing athletes.

However, some states through official overzealousness feature overaged athletes in a bid to win laurels.

Aiyepeku reiterated that Lagos State's focus in catch them young, and this has been given the state value added gains from the organisation of the youth games.

"For Lagos, National Youth Games has been helping us. After every edition, we always count our blessings as we used to get new pool of talents. For example, at the end of last edition, it on record that we got 40 percent fresh talents.

to endeavour to find time to visit the coach.

Responding on behalf of his father, Timothy Tersoo Tenger, appreciated the financial assistance and said with prayers from loved ones like the Benue State Sports Stakeholders, his father will pull through the present health challenge.

"In Lagos, we are mindful of the objective of the National Youth Games and we do adhere strictly to the rules of the games. We see the Games as a developmental based platform than competition based," said Executive Chairman of Lagos State Sports Commission, Sola Aiyepeku, while speaking with the media at the venue of swimming events at the ongoing 7th National Youth Games in Asaba, Delta State.

"We have been using the youth games to try out talent.

It is unfortunate for those states featuring overage athletes in the National Youth Games."

They are not helping the children, but destroying the athletes, and also inflicting injury to the nation's sports development.

"The National Youth Games is not about winning gold medals, but for the athletes to enjoy sports at this level," Aiyepeku said.

Alex Iwobi (right) celebrating his goal with Willian and Calvin Bassey (left) as Fulham defeated Norwich 2-1 to advance to the fourth round of the Carabao Cup...last night

Victor Osimhen who scored in Napoli’s 4-1 defeat of Udinese last night has threatened legal action against the Italian Serie A champions

President Tinubu to HONLAF Chiefs

“Thecommitmenttothefightagainstdrugtraffickingandsubstanceabuseisnot justamatterofpolicy;itisamoralimperative.Werecognisethatapopulationatwar withdrugsisnotadividendbutaliability.Webelievethatthefutureofouryouth, thestrengthofourinstitutions,andthewell-beingofourcommunitiesdependon ourabilitytoeradicatethisthreat”—RemarksattheHeadsofNationalDrugLaw EnforcementAgenciesAfrica(HONLAF)meetinginAbuja.

olusegun AD e NIYI

The Temperament of a Judge

Addressing newly appointed judges in Wollongong, Australia at their national orientation on 13th October 1996, the then Chief Justice of Australia, Sir Gerard Bennan spoke about what was expected of the men and women who were being elevated to the bench. “A trial - including a criminal trial - is not the occasion for diminishing the dignity of any person in the courtroom. It is an occasion for the dispassionate finding of facts and application of law,” Bennan told the gathering. “At the end of the trial - even a trial in which an accused has been convicted and sentenced - the participants in the trial should be able to leave the courtroom with their dignity unaffronted.”

That speech by Bennan, ‘The Role of a Judge’, is reproduced in the United Nations Office of Drugs and Crime (UNODC) publication, ‘Judicial Ethics Training Manual for the Nigerian Judiciary’. Foreword to the document was written by the late Justice Timothy Oyeyipo who served as Chief Judge of Kwara State for 21 years (from 1984 to 2005) before his appointment as administrator for the National Judicial Institute where the training manual was prepared. Although most of our Judges have gone through the training sessions, it is obvious that not all have imbibed the lessons. Nor have they acquainted themselves with Rule 5 of the ‘Revised code of conduct for judicial officers of the Federal Republic of Nigeria’. The National Judicial Council (NJC) Rule provides that whereas a Judge, like any other citizen, is entitled to freedom of expression; “but in exercising such rights, a Judge shall always conduct himself in such manner as to preserve the dignity of the judicial office and the impartiality and independence of the judiciary.”

The foregoing is important against the background that democracy in Nigeria is now anchored on “what can be regarded as an electoral college”, according to a former All Progressives Congress (APC) national vice chairman, Salihu Lukman. As he put it, citizens can vote but winners are decided in the courtroom by conclaves of Judges. Yet, as I once wrote on this page, we cannot continue with a situation in which neither those who cast ballots nor those who count them matter due to the antics of politicians who have perfected the art of using courts to shortchange the peoples will.

It is because Judges now determine who wins election in our country that has encouraged all manner of electoral petitions from politicians, including those who may not have participated in the process beyond filing papers. But it would be unfair to blame our Judges for the aberration, since they only deal with cases brought before them, though there are ways in which they are increasingly becoming the problem. Last week, the Kano State election petition tribunal nullified the election of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) and declared Nasir Yusuf Gawuna of the APC as the rightful winner. However, in his consenting judgment, Justice Benson Anya sent a curious message to “bandits in politics who want to take power by force.”

As the Yoruba would say, ‘Olopa e wo ni tie pe?’. I have expressed my inability to properly translate Yoruba into English but here is the point: The duty of a police officer is to arrest but when he tells the accused, ‘You will not get out of this’, then that is beyond the call of duty. That is precisely the problem with the Kano State gubernatorial petition judgement. The (in)famous line: “I use this opportunity to condemn the gang of Red Cap wearers who like a violent and terrorist cult chased us out of Kano and put us in the fear of our lives. We believe that only Allah is the giver of power. Those who believe in Allah must bow to his will and submit to the authority of Governmental power. Resort to anarchy, violence and killing can never be a source of lawful power. Threatening to put Honourable Judges in danger of their life as done in Kano by some disgruntled bandits parading as politicians is hereby condemned.”

I am aware of the background to the tribunal ruling in Kano, especially the threat of violence if the verdict did not go a certain way. But where others would ‘set up a probe panel’ to investigate the trending video, the governor acted with dispatch by sacking his errant commissioner. He also affirmed his belief in democracy and the rule of law. So, there was no justification for name calling or stigmatizing people who were not in court. Besides, if power comes only from the Divine, as we are often told in our very religious country and the Judge has affirmed, why do we bother to vote? And then, we have another line in the judgment that reeks of pre-determined bias: “Instead of some Kano politicians to be allowed to use banditry and violence to abort democracy

in Kano State, justice will be used to stop them from destroying democracy in Kano and upward, we do not want anarchy and terrorism as being promoted in Kano State and as threatened by them.”

The concern being expressed by many Nigerians is that the latest case in Kano is becoming a pattern. In January this year, the Chairman of the Osun State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal, Terste Kume, mocked Governor Ademola Adeleke of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) while delivering the majority judgement which declared the then incumbent Adegboyega Oyetola of the APC as the rightful winner of the gubernatorial election held last year. Adeleke, according to the Tribunal Chairman, “cannot ‘go lo lo lo lo’ and ‘Buga won’ as the duly elected Governor of Osun State in the election conducted on 16h day of July 2022. See Kizz Daniel’s song BUGA.” Aside the inelegance of a Judge going so lo(w) in a crucial judgment, the bias was evident. It is noteworthy, of course, that the Court of Appeal would later quash the judgment and reinstated Adeleke and the Supreme Court subsequently affirmed that the governor was indeed validly elected.

Meanwhile, let me express my sympathy with our Judges. The President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensen, said on Monday that as of 31st August, the appellate court has 39,526 pending cases. With 98 panels constituted to hear a total of 1,209 election petition cases across the country, it is obvious that the Judges are being overworked in a nation where politicians don’t lose election (they either ‘win’ or are ‘rigged out’). According to Dongban-Mensem, “the entire Nigerian judicial system is inundated with electoral litigation and adjudication almost all year round,” noting that of the 28 states where governorship elections held this year, only Kwara, Niger, Yobe, and Katsina did not result in litigation. “It is a matter of concern that many judges of the trial court have been engaged for six months in the exclusive management of electoral cases.”

On top of that, we still saddle our Supreme Court with ‘Isi Ewu’ (pepper soup) cases such as “an incident of arson where 12 goats were set ablaze,” according to Justice Amina Augie at a valedictory session held in her honour, following her retirement last week. These are some of the issues we must

deal with. For now, let me return to the speech with which I started this intervention. Justice Bannon referenced a journal paper, ‘Why Write Judgment?’ by Sir Frank Kitto, a retired legendary Justice of the High Court of Australia and Chancellor of The University of New England, who died two years earlier in 1994. It is a reminder to the Judges of their difficult assignment and the sacrifices it entails. Kitto wrote: “Every Judge worthy of the name recognises that he must take each man’s censure; but neither in preparing a judgment nor in retrospect may it weigh with him that the harvest he gleans is praise or blame, approval or scorn. He will reply to neither; he will defend himself not at all.”

While we need to confront the myriad of challenges hampering justice administration in Nigeria, we must also appreciate the fact that Judges are human. And to that extent, I join in condemning attempts to denigrate them. Threats of violence as displayed by the sacked Kano State Commissioner should also have no place in a democracy. But the role of the courts as interpreter of the law, resolver of disputes and defender of the Constitution requires that Judges abide by their oath. If this democracy is to survive, their impartiality must be imperative. And those who appear before them, as well as the wider public, must have confidence that cases—including those pertaining to elections—will be decided fairly and only in accordance with the law.

NOTE: The second piece in my column of lastweek,‘EndorsingtheDaveUmahiProtocol’ hascontinuedtogenerateconsiderableinterest. I have received calls and messages from several prominent people and professionals in road construction on their take on the issue. Supporting the choice of concrete by Umahi, a former Minister told me that road construction in Nigeria has become another ‘recurrent expenditure’ given the frequency with which contracts are awarded for same roads. To that extent, we must do away with roads that last no more than two rainyseasons,hereasoned.Butanotherformer minister warned that Umahi should be wary of being captured by the ‘Cement cartel’. The consensus that I see emerging is that we should deploy both concrete and bitumen for road construction in Nigeria. While the conversation will continue, below are two of the several mails I received on the issue.

On ‘Dave Umahi Protocol’

By Dapo Fakorede

Dear Segun, It will be a disservice to the engineering profession if I fail to respond to your last column which endorsed what you described as the ‘Dave Umahi Protocol’. But before I do, I would wish to appreciate the Minister for Works, and your humble self for expressing concerns on the distasteful failures of Nigerian roads and the need to take a hard look at our road design templates. Now to the issue. There are no hard and fast rules to building a road that will stand the test of time. Both asphalt and

concrete roads do have their failings. The eternal rule to building a good road is a rock-solid determination by stakeholders to construct the ‘best in the world’, only the best and nothing but the best. A road where a term like ‘lack of fund’ will be off the table and replaced by ‘national pride’. This philosophy is sadly absent in most of our public undertakings. Interestingly, if the minister cares to know, a lot of inter-regional roads in Europe now combine the attributes of concrete and asphalt together in road construction.

NOTE: Concluded in the online edition at www.thisdaylive.com

Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf