SATURDAY 28TH SEPTEMBER 2024

Urges Nigerians to be patient with Tinubu Yerima says banditry test from God

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

The Minister of Budget and National Planning, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, has urged Nigerians to celebrate the country’s 64th

anniversary and not to be despondent by the prevailing economic hardships biting the country. He also noted that citizens from other countries, particularly the United Kingdom (UK) and the

United States (US) are passing through similar harrowing phases Nigerians are experiencing.

He made the appeal yesterday while addressing the media after the Special Jumaat prayer held at the

National Mosque, Abuja, to celebrate the country's 64th Independence Anniversary.

President Bola Tinubu, former Head of State, Gen Abdulsalami Abubakar and the National Security

Adviser, Huhu Ribadu, were among the dignitaries that attended the special prayer.

Bagudu, pleaded with Nigerians to be patient with Tinubu and embrace his Renewed Hope Agenda. He said

the President has the experience and determination to transform the economic fortunes of the country. "Some of the things our country

Stock Market Defies Odds, Gains

Okon Bassey in Uyo, Deji Elumoye, Chuks Okocha, Adedayo Akinwale, Sunday Aborisade, Linus Aleke in Abuja, Segun Awofadeji in Gombe, James Sowole in Abeokuta, Ibrahim

Oyewale in Lokoja

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has led other well-meaning

Trump Meets Zelensky, Says it's Time to End Russia's War

Donald Trump met Ukraine's president, Volodymyr Zelensky at his New York base in Trump Tower yesterday, and said it was time Russia's war in Ukraine was settled.

The Republican presidential nominee had repeatedly criticised the Ukrainian leader on the US campaign trail, and a meeting between the pair had seemed unlikely until hours before.

As the two men stood side by side, Zelensky said he thought they had a "common view that the war has to be stopped and Putin can't win", adding that he would discuss with Trump details of his "victory plan".

Despite years of differences, Trump insisted he had a very good relationship with Zelensky.

"I also have a very good relationship as you know with President Putin and I think if we win [the election] we’re going to get it resolved very quickly," he said.

Afterwards, Trump and Zelensky spoke to Fox News and the former president said he “learned a lot” from the meeting.

“We both want to see this end, and we both want to see a fair deal made,” he said. “It should stop and the president (Zelensky) wants it to stop, and I’m sure President Putin wants it to stop and that’s a good combination.”

BBC quoted Zelensky to have

said: “Putin killed so many people and of course we need to do everything to pressure him to stop this war. He’s on our territory.”

Zelensky invited Trump to visit Ukraine, and Trump replied: “I will”.

The Ukrainian president later posted on his Telegram channel that the pair had a “very meaningful meeting”.

“We have a common view that the war in Ukraine must be stopped. Putin cannot win. Ukrainians must win,” he wrote.

Trump, meanwhile, said on his Truth Social account that if he is not elected president, "that war will never end, and will phase into WORLD WAR III".

The pair have long had a tumultuous relationship. Trump was impeached in 2019 over accusations that he pressured Zelensky to dig up damaging information on the Biden family.

A rough transcript of the call revealed Trump had urged Zelensky to investigate Joe Biden, as well as Biden's son Hunter.

Standing beside Zelensky yesterday, he praised the Ukrainian leader's handling of the issue.

Since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Trump has frequently repeated Moscow's talking points about the war.

Israel Attacks Lebanon as Beirut Suffers BombardmentUnprecedented

The Israeli military said it struck the central headquarters of Hezbollah in Beirut. The series of explosions yesterday evening were the most powerful yet seen in the Lebanese capital the past year.

According to the Associated Press, the series of gigantic blasts at around nightfall reduced six buildings to rubble in the Haret Hreik neighborhood of Beirut’s Dahiyeh suburbs, according to Lebanon’s national news agency.

The shock wave rattled windows and shook houses some 30 kilometers (18 miles) north of Beirut. TV footage showed several craters — one with a car toppled into it — amid collapsed buildings in the densely populated, predominantly Shiite neighborhood.

The Israeli army spokesman, Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, said it targeted the main Hezbollah headquarters, located beneath residential buildings.

Prime Minister Benjamin

Netanyahu abruptly cut short a visit to the United States and was returning home instead of waiting until the end of Sabbath today, his office said. Hours earlier, Netanyahu addressed the U.N., vowing that Israel’s campaign against Hezbollah would continue — further dimming hopes for an internationally backed cease-fire.

More than 720 people have been killed in Lebanon this week, according to Lebanon’s health ministry. Israel has dramatically escalated strikes, saying it is targeting Hezbollah’s military capacities and senior Hezbollah commanders.

The International Organization for Migration estimated Thursday that more than 200,000 people have been displaced in Lebanon since Hezbollah began firing rockets into northern Israel in support of Hamas after it stormed into Israel, sparking the Israel-Hamas war.

During September's presidential debate, he sidestepped a question on whether he wanted Ukraine to emerge victorious in the conflict.

Ahead of yesterday's meeting, Trump repeated his long-standing claim that he would be able to "work out something" to settle

STOCK MARKET DEFIES ODDS,

the naira exchange rate against the dollar closed yesterday at N1,637.69/$.

Also, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has increased the MPR by 850 basis points to 27.25 per cent from 18.75 per cent last year with a focus on moderating inflation.

Despite these challenges, the overall market capitalisation of the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) as of September 27, 2024, closed at N56.578 trillion, which was an increase of N15.66 trillion or 38.27 per cent when compared to the N40.918 trillion it closed for trading at the end of 2023.

In addition, the NGX All-Share Index (NGX ASI), an indicator that tracks the general market movement of all listed equities on Exchange, including those listed on the Growth Board, regardless of capitalisation closed yesterday, at 98,458.68 basis points, about 31.7per cent average investors return from 74,773.77 basis points the stock market closed for trading 2023.

The reported 31.7 per cent Yeartill-Date (YtD) gain in NGX ASI meant the Nigerian stock market was one of the best Exchanges in Africa, ahead of Johannesburg Stock Exchange, and Egypt Stock Market.

Analysts also argued that some reforms by the federal government and the CBN a critical role in the stock market performance in nine months. Specifically, the noted that reforms in the foreign exchange market, and hikes in MPR impacted trading in the fundamentals of companies listed on the Exchange and contributed to foreign investors' uptick in the market.

Foreign investors' participation in the stock market stood at 18.86 per cent as of August 2024 when compared to 9.22 per cent, reducing domestic investors’ dominance to 81.14 per cent as of August 2024 from 90.78 per cent as of August 2023.

The aggressive foreign investors' participation impacted on highly capitalised stocks such as Dangote Cement Plc, and Airtel Africa Plc, among others that triggered the N15.66 trillion market capitalisation in nine months of 2024.

As at September 27, 2024, the share price of Dangote Cement closed at N532 per share, an increase of 66.3per cent from N319.9 it closed in 2023, while Airtel Africa closed at N2,200 per share as of September 27, 2024, about 17per cent hike from N1,887.00 per share it closed 2023.

The gain in Dangote Cement, among others stocks, impacted on the NGX Industry Index that

BAGUDU: UK, US CITIZENS ALSO FACING COST OF LIVING CRISIS

is going through are similar to what other countries in the world are also experiencing particularly the cost of living crisis.

"We have seen in the rich world, including the UK and US where people are struggling to pay mortgages. In fact people are losing their homes, people moving from their homes to the street, people choosing between feeding and eating and some of these challenges have also affected us,'' Bagudu said.

He conceded that Nigeria's economic growth has not matched by its population growth which had ballooned from 45 million at independence in 1960 to about 230 million 64 years after.

He said Tinubu used his collective experience in public life and in private life to campaign on his Renewed Hope agenda mantra to remind Nigerians that they were not where they wanted to be and to confront their reality and embrace pleasant and unpleasant choices that can translate into a better future.

The minister also added the reforms were already bearing positive results in the form of macroeconomic stability as many state governors and

local government authorities were now in a position to pay salaries because of available resources.

Bagudu said: "They have more revenues at their disposal. Today we have innovative programmes, consumer credit funds, student loan funds, mortgage system, support for agriculture, training of our youth in technology jobs so that they can compete and participate in the jobs of the future as well as supporting our women with women-centric programmes as well as supporting Medium and Small Scale Enterprises, Nano credit and ensuring that we are respected in the world.

"Mr President has engaged with leadership around the world and they have acknowledged the kind of reforms and efforts we are doing. Nigeria is the hope of Africa, and much as sometimes we feel angry that we could have done something faster than we have done, but we are a great nation, we are a blessed nation and we should have reason to celebrate our blessing. We have a leader who is determined, who is experienced and who has reassured everyone that God has blessed him in every way, shape, or form. What

closed September 2024 at 3,847.83 basis points, a growth of 42per cent from 2,712.27 basis points it opened for trading 2024.

Also, the ongoing banking sector recapitalisation as directed by the CBN, coupled with impressive 2024 half year corporate earnings also influenced investors’ decisions in taking position in banking stocks.

For instance, Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc recently completed a N400.5 billion public offer which saw its stock price at N47.4 per share as of September 27, 2024, about 17per cent increase from N40.50 it opened for trading.

The contribution of this stock impacted on NGX Banking Index which increased to 933.79basis points as of September 27, 2024, 4.1per cent YtD growth from 897.2basis points it closed 2023.

THISDAY further gathered that reforms in the Oil and Gas sector was also driving the NGX Oil & Gas Index performance. With the gain in Seplat Energy Plc to N4,103.10 per share as at September 27, 2024 from N 2,310.00 per share it opened this year, the NGX Oil & gas Index closed September 27, 2024 at 1,990.84 basis points, representing an increase of 91per cent from 1,043.06basis points

Commenting on the stock market performance in the first nine months of 2024, the Vice President, Highcap Securities Limited, Mr. David Adnori, argued that investors were trading based on sentiment.

He stated that the emergence of President Bola Tinubu further energised the stock market, arguing that market participants have hope in his ability to rejig the economy and implement economy-friendly policies.

Adnori, however, was optimistic that the stock may maintain its positive momentum on the backdrop of banking sector recapitalisation and expected positive first half 2024 corporate earnings to be released by banks to further strengthen the performance of the bourse.

Amid the hike in MPR to 27.25 per cent, capital market experts stated that its impact has created sentiment trading among investors who see the fixed-income market as an alternative investment opportunity to hedge against double-digit inflation. Investment Banker & Stockbroker, Mr. Tajudeen Olayinka, stated that the N15.66 trillion market capitalisation gain in nine months of 2024 tells us the presence of huge liquid funds in the hands of institutional investors who currently dominate activities

the war if he won the presidential election, long before Joe Biden leaves office in January. He has refused to elaborate

in the stock market.

“It also holds the fact that the future is bright for some of the listed companies, hence, investors are positioning their portfolios for that brighter future. This is also the reason the market remains resilient in spite of the high interest rate regime,”

when asked whether he believes Ukraine should cede territory to Russia as a means of ending the war.

he said.

On the stock market projection for the rest of the year, he said, “It is going to be more of a balanced market, with investors exercising their rights to additional shares and/or taking new shares to maintain a balance.”

he wants to be remembered for is how he transited Nigeria from where it is to a place of pride.

“That is the kind of leader President Bola Tinubu is, so let's rally around him. Let us support him and with God's blessings we will be there".

Also a former Governor of Zamfara State, Senator Ahmed Sani Yerima, attributed banditry and the gale of insecurity sweeping the North-west state as test from God.

Sani, made this ascription when he spoke to journalists at the National Mosque.

He described the independence anniversary as a very important occasion for all Nigerians, that also calls for celebration and prayers. "May God Almighty grant our President good health. And may he give Nigeria peace and harmony. I see the continuous security challenges in the country as a test from God. And I'm sure the federal government is doing its best. You can see that the bandit leaders are being eliminated. I'm sure things are going to be well, in sha Allah,

" Yerima said.

The Special Jumaat Khutbar (sermon) was delivered by the Imam National Mosque, Abuja, Dr Ahmed Kabir Adam.

He asked Nigerians to show gratitude to Allah for the opportunity to celebrate this year's anniversary as well reflect on independence, respect one and other and be keepers of one another.

"We should be there for one and other and be united so that we can tackle the current challenges that the country is facing, socially, economically, even security-wise. With unity, definitely we will progress," Adam said.

The cleric ascribed some of the escalating challenges hurting the country to "negligence of those who are in charge of leadership and the result of sins that many Nigerians have committed".

"Some of the challenges are there to test our ability. Are we going to be resilient so that we can overcome what we are having? Yes, of course, we are going to be resilient. I call on the Nigerians to be united. With unity, we will overcome this series of challenges, insha Allah," he said.

The statement signed by the State Commissioner for Information, Ini Ememobong, stated that she passed away peacefully at the hospital, on 26th September, 2024.

"It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of the Wife of the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Her Excellency, Pastor Mrs. Patience Umo Eno, following an illness.

"She passed away peacefully at the hospital, on 26th September, 2024, in the presence of her family.

"The family submits to the will of the Almighty and asks for the prayers and support of kind-hearted individuals during this difficult time.

"Further details will be provided by the family as necessary. In the meantime, the family kindly requests privacy as they mourn their beloved wife, mother and grandmother.

"His Excellency, the Governor, Pastor Umo Eno appreciates all who have stood by the first family in this period and assures all the citizens that despite this huge personal loss, his commitment to the service of the state is unwavering.", Ememobong stated in the statement

Tinubu, in a statement, extended condolence to Governor Eno. The President, in the statement issued by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, commiserated with the Eno family, the government, and the people of Akwa Ibom State during this grim time.

Tinubu joined them in mourning the painful and profound loss of the state's First Lady, who has supported Governor Eno's administration.

The President affirmed that Patience Eno, as the wife to a visionary governor and an ordained gospel minister, embodied humility, resilience, and loyalty.

Tinubu acknowledged that through her 'Golden Initiative for All,' she demonstrated her passion for serving the people and residents of Akwa Ibom State with love, honesty, and dedication, leaving a positive impact that will continue to inspire future generations.

He expressed belief that her selfless service to improve the lives of women, children, and the vulnerable will forever remain an important part of Akwa Ibom’s history, a legacy that will continue to inspire and be appreciated by future generations.

Tinubu committed the grieving family, friends, and relatives to the comfort of the eternal God, who is the source of life and holds the future of all creation in his hands. He expressed his trust in their resilience and strength during this challenging time, offering reassurance and support.

Also, the wife of the President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, mourned the passing of the wife of Akwa Ibom State governor.

The First Lady, in a condolence message personally signed by her yesterday, stated: "It is with a heavy heart that I extend my deepest condolences to the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, the children, family and the good people of Akwa Ibom on the passing of the First Lady and Renewed Hope Initiative State Coordinator, Pastor Mrs. Patience Umo-Eno.

"Her Excellency was a God-fearing remarkable woman, full of grace and compassion, who was committed to her family, the people of Akwa Ibom State and our dear nation. Her kindness, humility, and dedication to her people will continue to inspire those whose lives she touched. Her demise is indeed a painful one.

"My thoughts and prayers are with His Excellency, children, family, and the entire people of Akwa Ibom State at this difficult time.

"I pray Almighty God grant you strength, comfort to bear this irreplaceable loss and may her gentle soul rest peacefully in the bossom of our Lord."

Akpabio, commiserated with Governor Eno over the death of his wife. Akpabio, in a condolence message signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Hon. Eseme Eyiboh, said he was immensely saddened by the death of the wife of the governor.

He said the late Mrs Patience Umo Eno's kindness, compassion and commitment to the cause of the Akwa Ibom people will be greatly missed.

"My heart goes out to you and your family during this incredibly difficult time. I knew Pastor Patience Umo Eno closely and she was an incredible partner and an exceptional woman, whose kindness, compassion, and dedication to the family and people of Akwa Ibom State will never be forgotten. Her support and partnership with you throughout your journey were invaluable. Her legacy will continue to inspire and uplift us.

"My family, the people of Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District and the Senate and the 10th National Assembly stand in solidarity with you, sharing in your grief and offering our heartfelt condolences. May God grant you and the entire family the strength and courage to bear this irreparable loss,” it added.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar yesterday condoled with the family of Governor Eno and the government and people of Akwa Ibom Stat.

Atiku, in a statement by his Media Adviser, Paul Ibe, said the news about the death of the Awka Ibom First Lady early in the day was devastating news.

Atiku shared in the grief of Akwa Ibom people and urged Governor Eno to stand firm in the belief that his beloved wife has only gone to rest in a place of eternal peace. Atiku, while praying for the gentle repose of Mrs. Eno’s soul, affirms that he stands with the governor and his people in this difficult time.

The PDP stated that it was heartbroken and devastated by the news of the death of the wife of Akwa Ibom State Governor. Also, the PDP governors expressed grief over the wife of the Akwa Ibom State governor. Emmanuel Udom, the immediate past governor has also consoled the governor for the loss of wife.

In a statement by the National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba, the PDP stated, "Our hearts bleed. Words are not enough to convey the anguish, sorrow and pain we bear at this moment as a Party and a family.

TINUBU, FIRST LADY, AKPABIO, ABBAS, ATIKU, GOVERNORS, PDP, APC, OTHERS MOURN PATIENCE ENO

DANGOTE AT INVEST AFRICA FORUM…

Chairman and Founder of the Milken Institute, USA, Michael Milken (left) and Founder and President/Chief Executive of the Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote at an Invest Africa event – ‘Africa at an inflection point, organised by the Milken Institute, at the Rockefeller Centre, New York…yesterday

Access Holdings Donates N1bn to Support Borno Flood Victims NEWS

federal government for establishing the Disaster Relief Fund which has received a nod from the Federal Executive Council.

In demonstration of its commitment to community support, Access Holdings Plc yesterday, announced a donation of over N1 billion to assist with relief and recovery efforts in Maiduguri, through its subsidiary, Access Bank Plc.

The announcement by the holding company was made during a visit of the Group’s delegates, led by Bolaji Agbede, Acting Group Chief Executive Officer, to the Borno State Government House in Maiduguri. This comes as ECOWAS Commission also donated N640 million to Nigeria to support victims of flood disasters in Borno and Bauchi states.

Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, commended the

The donation by Access Holdings, which comes in response to the devastating floods that have severely impacted the region, was aimed at providing both immediate and longterm respite.

Access Holdings explained in a statement yesterday, that its contribution would be allocated as N500 million in cash to support the state government’s on-the-ground response efforts, N500 million for the restoration of critical infrastructure damaged by the flood, as well as essential food supplies to ensure the most vulnerable receive care.

Speaking at the meeting, Agbede, reaffirmed the Group’s commitment

FG Launches Project Phoenix to Boost Revenue Drive in Lottery, Gaming

Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja

The federal government has launched Project Phoenix, an initiative fashioned to enhance revenue generation and collection in the lottery and gaming sector.

The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, who spoke at an inaugural meeting of the Joint Committee for the Implementation of Revenue Assurance Platform (RAP), which will oversee reforms in Nigeria's lottery and gaming sector, disclosed that Project Phoenix aims to establish a transparent and efficient revenue collection system that maximises government earnings and protects citizens from fraud.

to supporting the people of Borno, restating a pledge to impact lives of communities where the institution operates.

“At Access Holdings, we believe in positively impacting the communities we serve, not only as a financial institution, but as a family that cares deeply for its people. We recognise the resilience of the people of Borno, and we are committed to providing

the support necessary to overcome this difficult time.

“This donation is not merely about the funding; it is about offering immediate succour to families and individuals, who have been affected, while also contributing to local economic resurgence and long-term resilience through the restoration of essential infrastructure,” Agbede said.

Governor Babagana Zulum,

who received the Access Holdings delegation, expressed appreciation for the donation and the company’s swift response to the crisis.

“We are moved by the generosity and commitment shown by Access Holdings and Access Bank during this critical time. This donation of N1 billion is appreciated during this challenging time and will be judiciously utilised to impact the lives of all those who have been affected by the incident. The restoration of our hospitals and essential services will strengthen our resilience, while the food relief will provide immediate comfort to families and individuals in distress. Truly, this support speaks to the importance of cooperation between the government, and the private sector in improving the lives of our local communities,” Zulum said.

Former Taraba Governor, Ishaku in EFCC's Custody over Alleged N8 Billion Fraud

moment from now, following the filing of the charges against him at a High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

In a statement, the Director, Information and Public Relations, Ministry of Finance, Mohammed Manga, said the project’s key deliverables include the successful implementation of the Revenue Assurance Platform (RAP), recovery of outstanding revenues, and policy recommendations to further improve the sector.

The minister emphasised the importance of boosting domestic resources to support Nigeria’s economy and social programmes.

He explained that the lottery and gaming sector, through RAP, will ensure transparent revenue collection while protecting consumers from fraudulent activities.

Edun, therefore, urged all committee members to work collaboratively, assuring them of the government's support in achieving the project's goals.

The project, he added, will also strengthen regulation, ensure compliance, recover outstanding revenues from operators, and implement advanced monitoring systems to safeguard consumers.

The immediate past Governor of Taraba State, Mr. Darius Ishaku, has been arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for alleged breach of trust and misappropriation of funds belonging to local government areas of the state.

Ishaku, who was governor of Taraba State between 2015 and 2023, was said to have committed the act between 2016 and 2021.

A source, at the headquarters of the anti-graft agency confirmed Ishaku was arrested yesterday morning at his Abuja residence and would be arraigned any

When contacted, the spokesman of the Commission, Mr. Dele Oyewale, who refused to comment on the issue however confirmed the arrest of the former governor.

Ishaku and a former Permanent Secretary, Bureau for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Bello Yero, are to answer to charges of criminal breach of trust and misappropriation of funds belonging to LGAs in Taraba state, during the administration of Ishaku.

The suit marked: CR/792/2024, filed by the Commission's lawyer, Mr. Rotimi Oyedepo, was dated September 26, but filed September 27.

A copy seen by THISDAY, showed that the count one read: “That you Darius Dickson Ishaku whilst being the Governor of Taraba State and Bello Yero, whilst being the Permanent Secretary, Bureau for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Taraba State between August 25, 2015, and March 21, 2016, in Abuja, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, and in such capacity entrusted with dominion over

certain property, to wit: an aggregate sum of N1, 010, 000, 000 (One Billion and Ten Million Naira), which sum formed part of the 25% contingency funds belonging to Bureau of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Taraba State committed criminal breach of trust in respect of the said property, when you dishonestly diverted the said sum to your use and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 315 of the Penal Code Act, Cap 532, Laws of the Federal Capital Territory of Nigeria 2007 and punishable under the same section.

Wike Knocks Chinese Contractors over Slow Pace of Road Project

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has fumed at the slow pace of work by China Geo-Engineering Corporation (CGC) on the ongoing rehabilitation and expansion of the 10-lane Outer Southern Express Way Ring Road 1 project from Apo Roundabout to Wassa District.

He expressed dissatisfaction with

the work of the Chinese contractors on the strategic OSEX project during an inspection tour yesterday.

The minister wondered why the company had only completed less than 50 per cent of the job despite receiving over 80 per cent of the contract sum.

"I am not encouraged. We have paid over 80 per cent of this contract, and the job, as far as I am concerned, they have not done up to 50 per cent," Wike said.

He warned that his administration would not tolerate non-performing contractors, regardless of their background.

The minister stressed the importance of the project, stating that the completion OSEX would reduce traffic congestion and boost economic activities in the area.

"We don't have any relationship with non-performing contractors.

"If you don't perform, we kick you

out. There is no sentiment about it... If you don't do the work, we kick you out, and we make you pay for it; and there will be sanctions," Wike threatened. He was also sceptical about CGC assurance to complete the project by May, 2025, asking the contractor to "go and commit themselves and tell us by May they are going to finish this project. That's the only way I am going to accept it."

Presidential Reform Committee to Use FCT as Pilot for National Tax Harmonisation

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

The Chairman, Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reform Committee, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, has stated the plan of his committee to use the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) as a model in the implementation of harmonisation of taxes in the country.

He asserted this yesterday at a meeting on harmonisation of revenue administration organised by the Federal Capital Territory Internal Revenue Service (FCT-IRS) for the Area Council Chairmen of the FCT Administration. He asserted that the FCT has all it takes to be number one in the Ease of Doing Business in the country. Oyedele also noted that the harmonisation and simplification of taxes would not reduce revenue as people erroneously perceived in some quarters but rather would enhance

revenue generation.

He also expressed support for the steps taken by the FCT-IRS towards this course.

The chairman of the presidential fiscal policy reform committee, charged sub nationals and the FCT authorities to discourage unorthodox means of collecting taxes, levies and fees, especially on the high way, roads and streets.

He described it as unacceptable and

embarrassing, stressing that technology could be better used in the collection of revenue as it is capable of eradicating tax evasion, leakages and improving transparency.

He called on all stakeholders to work in tandem to ensure the success of the harmonisation drive, calling for collective will to fight the challenge of multiple taxation in the country.

In his remarks, the Acting Executive Chairman, FCT-IRS, Mr. Michael Ango,

lauded the area council chairmen for their commitment to the project, saying their open mindedness during the meeting showed their determination and willingness to achieve full harmonisation in FCT as soon as possible. He assured to brief the FCT Minister on every step taken towards boosting the revenue of the territory with a view to providing more infrastructure and social services for the people of the FCT. The Mandate Secretary for Economic Planning, Revenue Generation, and Public-Private Partnerships in the FCTA, Mr. Ubokutom Nyah, who was also at the event, lauded FCT-IRS chairman for reviving the initiative which has been pending. He encouraged the area council chairmen to fully support the initiative to ensure the success of the harmonisation of taxes in the FCT.

Michael Olugbode in Abuja and Ferdinand Ekechukwu in Lagos

JUMA’AT PRAYER TO FOR NIGERIA’S 64TH INDEPENDENCE ANNIVERSARY…

L-R: His Royal Highness, Etsu Nupe, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar; Former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar; President Bola Tinubu; Speaker House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abass; former Vice President Namadi Sambo, and others, during the Juma’at prayer ahead of Nigeria’s 64th Independence Anniversary held at the National Mosque, Abuja…yesterday

Tunji-Ojo: We Have Over 80,000 Passport Booklets in Reserve, Nigerians Need Not

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

The Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo has said Nigerians should not fear of delays in collection of international passport as at present there are over 80,000 passport booklets waiting to be issued.

The minister who was speaking at a media parley in Abuja yesterday, said in recent time the passport booklets in reserve have not gone below 50,000. He said all backlogs of passports have been cleared, noting that the

Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) no longer owes its service providers regarding printing and supply of passports.

Tunji-Ojo said: “We now have about 80,000 passports in stock, both the 32 pages and the 70 pages.”

He promised that Nigerians in

diaspora would henceforth enjoy seamless acquisition of passports, especially those in United States, Canada and United Kingdom, disclosing that this would come into effect as the federal government activates automated application system by October.

Tinubu Appoints Six New Executive Directors for NTA

Re-appoints Ayo Adewuyi ED News

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu has appointed seven executive directors for the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA).

Of the seven, Ayo Adewuyi was reappointed Executive Director,

News.

According to a statement issued yesterday by the Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the six new Executive Directors include Ibrahim Aliyu, Special Duties; Malam

Muhammed Fatuhu Mustapha, Administration and Training; Mrs. Apinke Effiong (Finance) and an expert in financial marketing with treasury, management accounting and reporting skills; Mrs Tari Taylaur (Programme) and an

audio/visual creator, producer and showrunner; Mr. Sadique Musa Omeiza (Engineering) and Mrs. Oluwakemi Fashina (Marketing) who is an integrated marketing communications professional and chartered marketer.

Experts Advocate Prison Reforms, Provide Clarity on Bobrisky’s Separation from Other Inmates

Sunday Ehigiator

The recent six-month sentencing of Nigerian cross-dresser Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, has sparked intense debate as prison experts are urging the federal government to revamp the prison system, while also providing clarity on possible reasons Bobrisky was separated from other inmates.

Speaking on Arise TV’s ‘Morning Show’, the Director General of the Prison Rehabilitation Mission, Bishop Kayode Williams, explained that the accommodations provided for inmates are based on different gender categories that may not have catered for Bobrisky’s gender identification. According to him, “Let me go straight to the issue of prison and I will start from the area of giving a private accommodation to Mr. Idris.

“First of all let me explain the categorisation of the prison setup because, the prison which we now call correctional service, has buildings that accommodate convicted criminals and awaiting trials, including condemned criminals.

“This man we are discussing today is neither here or there as a man or woman to be recognised.

“Now thank God he openly confessed to the judge that tried her at the Magistrate Court.

“Accommodation is for condemned prisoners, those who have been sentenced to death, they are apart, they should not mingle with other inmates.

“The second accommodation is for convicted inmate who are the owner of the prison.

“The accommodation that is provided for all males; are they going

to bring Idris with her trans-gender body look to sleep in the general cell with general prisoners?

“That is where it comes in that, the first thing the record will do is to say how do we treat this type of woman, she’s not a woman neither a man, so they now look for a way not to disturb because she can cause heavy riot in prison.

“I was in the prison day before yesterday, I was at the Kirikiri Maximum not for his or her problem, but for the correctional message you mention now which they are introducing.

“Now they said, okay, how do we do it. They now said okay let us give him a special place it is like that in the custody because they will tear him to pieces because of his body looks.

“He looks like a woman, so for her to go to any cell there are chronic

homosexual inmates that are very hungry to go to any lent to tear anybody even the ones that are not transgender.”

Also speaking on the situation, and the federal government’s reaction to the trailing controversy, former National PRO Nigeria Prison, Francis Enobore, highlighted that there is nothing like separate or private apartment or anything special in the prison.

“The honourable minister, what he has done just demonstrated that he’s someone that is courageous, he’s methodical in his approach, and he is a system person.

“To that extent I want to commend his effort, because this is how systems are built all over the world by galvanising the support and participation of the public in running a credible system.

Court Remands Four Bloggers for Cyberbullying Segun Agbaje

Wale Igbintade

Justice Ayokule Faji of the Federal HIgh Court sitting in Lagos, yesterday, remanded four bloggers over alleged cyberstalking and spreading false information aimed at insulting the Chief Executive Officer of Guaranty Trust Holding PLC , Mr. Segun Agbaje. Justice Faji remanded the four accused persons, Precious Eze, male (38), Olawale Rotimi male (47), Rowland Olonishu and Seun Odunlami in Ikoyi

facility of the Nigeria Correctional Service Centre after they were arraigned before the court on a two-count charge, of cyberstalking and spreading false information by men of the Police Special Fraud Unit, Milverton, Ikoyi, Lagos. The police had in the amended charge dated the the 26th day of September, 2024, alleged among others, that the four defendants, sometimes in August 2024 in Lagos did conspired amongst themselves to commit felony to wit: cyberstalking

and thereby committed an offence punishable under Section 27 of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention,etc) Act 2015 as amended in 2024.

The four defendants were also alleged to have knowingly sent false massages or publications in the social media, through a computer or network to the general public with the title 'EFCC, FRIS Storms GTBank over Segun Agbaje's N1 Trillion Scam' and 'Whistle Blowers Exposes Segun Agbaje Nepotism, Power Play, and

Sister' among other publications, for the purpose of insulting the Group Chief Executive Officer of Guaranty Trust Holding Company PLC, Mr. Segun Agbaje or for the purpose of causing criminal intimidation, annoyance, I'll - will, needless anxiety, injury or hatred to him and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 24 (1) (b) of the Cybercrimes ( Prohibition/ Prevention,etc) Act, 2015, as amended in 2024.

Entertain Fear

The minister said: “Henceforth Nigerians in the diaspora would not need to travel from one country to another to obtained passports," saying the era of wasting working hours, resources and risking their lives on long journey is gone.

“We are going to do a pre-launch of this automated systems very soon. And by October they will be fully operational. We have a situation in London where we have 16,000 Nigerians applying for passports, and the capacity of our systems in the Embassy is about 200.

“But now that we have this systems in place, Nigerians would not have to embark on different journeys across the world for

passport acquisition,” Tunji-Ojo said.

Tunji-Ojo while justifying the increase in passports fees, said it is a matter of cost benefits analysis especially “when you look at the rate of dollar compared to naira”. He also said the increase didn’t affect the cost of passports outside Nigeria, adding that the increase was only about 45 per cent. He noted that the government is not exploiting Nigerians but only increased to cover the cost of procurement of passports.

“If at all government should subsidise anything, I don’t think it should be passports. The increase is just from N35,000 to N50,000. No increase outside Nigeria.”

At UNGA 79, Nigeria, Mastercard Partner to Support One Million African Farmers To boost financial inclusion through contactless payments

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

Nigeria and Mastercard yesterday announced a partnership aimed at supporting one million African farmers to improve yield and agricultural productivity.

The project plan includes support for one million agricultural workers across Nigeria, Kenya and Tanzania, with a focus on enhancing financial inclusion and digital access to critical services, as well as support from the African Development Bank (AfDB).

The partnership deal was sealed during a meeting between Vice President Kashim Shettima and executives of Mastercard Corporation on the sidelines of the ongoing 79th Session of the UN General Assembly in New York.

Speaking during the meeting, the Vice President who is representing President Bola Tinubu at the annual global event, noted that the initiative has transformative potential for Africa's food security drive.

According to him, "This partnership is an important milestone in our quest for comprehensive financial inclusion and agricultural empowerment.

"By leveraging Mastercard's global expertise, we're set to create unprecedented opportunities for farmers across Nigeria, Kenya, and Tanzania."

Earlier, Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. 'Bosun Tijani, explained that the partnership will provide digital access to critical financial services for agricultural workers, which he said is expected to significantly boost productivity and economic growth in the sector.

"We're not just introducing new technologies; we're reimagining the entire agricultural value chain. Our goal is to ensure that every farmer, regardless of their location, has access to modern financial tools."

He disclosed that the initiative also addresses existing challenges in Nigeria's digital payment ecosystem.

"We're aware of the trust deficits that have hindered the full activation of contactless payments by some acquirers and banks. This partnership includes specific measures to bridge these gaps and ensure widespread adoption," Tijani added.

Also speaking, the Country Manager for West Africa at Mastercard, Dr. Folasade FemiLawal, said a key component of the partnership is the rollout of contactless payment systems.

"We're planning 160 contactless payment seminars starting next February. These seminars are crucial in educating stakeholders and preparing the market for this technological leap," she stated.

PHOTO: GODWIN OMOIGUI

What if Tinubu doesn’t contest in 2027? asks JOSHUA OCHEJA

Irecently stumbled on a concept. It is called counterfactual history. “It is a form of historiography that attempts to answer the What if? questions that arise from counter-factual conditions,” according to Wikipedia. The dynamics of politics in Nigeria are counter-factual. There is always the what-if question in analysis and outcomes. It is easy to see many claiming to have won the election. Then, the slogan of “he will contest again” is the medium of solace in waiting for the next electoral circle. What if Tinubu doesn’t contest in 2027?

Counter-factual history is “conjecturing on what did not happen, or what might have happened, to understand what did happen.” How would the election play out? President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had a single ambition to become president and not necessarily a two-term president. He worked assiduously towards it for many years. He built bridges across the divide. He negotiated. He made pledges. He granted concessions. And he became president. Even when the odds were against him. He would want to replicate the Nelson Mandela example to make history as the only president who didn’t seek a second term in office.

I was in a conversation with a friend, and he mentioned that he saw a billboard that had President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his wife with the 2027 slogan. I told him it might not necessarily be the idea of the president, but an attempt by political merchants to lure him into the race again. The president sees and recognizes obstacles from a distance and he is not known to go into any fight he can’t come out victorious. In 2027 many variables would play out. A glimpse could be seen at the end bad governance protest. It was a message to the president about his rating in the north. In 2027, the third force would come from the north. This is why he won’t go into the race.

His strategy for the All Progressives Congress (APC) to win the presidential election is getting a young and bustling candidate from the north and not a (HausaFulani). But a northerner whom the Hausa-Fulani cannot reject. The vice presidential candidate would be a brilliant mind from the southeast who is well respected and known as an advocate of south-eastern interests.

We might see regular faces as standard bearers of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party (LP). There would be a third force party from the North as a protest. The implication is that the North and the East would be in a dilemma—the dilemma of choice. The south-east would likely go for the bird at hand, recognizing the incumbency advantage the APC has. It would be

a case of once bitten twice shy. After Nnamdi Azikiwe and Alex Ekwueme, the south-east have not been lucky despite several attempts.

The PDP would try to balance their equation by going for a counter-strategy by picking a south-easterner as a vice presidential candidate, too. That would leave the LP in a dilemma. Picking a northerner as a vice presidential candidate would be of little impact because of the limited choices. The third-force from the North might jettison the idea given the prevailing circumstances and with the tendency that their lot would be better with the APC for religious reasons. The APC still had the advantage and won the election. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ate his cake and had it. He retires to Lagos, and life continues for him. His involvement in national politics would be greatly reduced. At least, he has joined the league of former presidents with the benefits accrued for life.

It would signal a new era of politics. The majority of the old order would retire. 60 years and above might struggle to make an impact. The agitation for youth involvement would be rife. The new president, himself a young person, would easily relate to the demands and pressure to score good political points to advance the acceptability of the administration. There is also the psychological aspect to it, and the excitement would be palpable among young people below the 60-year age bracket.

The losers would be sensational, and that would usher in a gale of retirements from active politics. The narrative would change completely, and the aces of the LP candidate would reduce tremendously because the youth constituency, a critical support base, would have switched camps. There would be no need for another shot at it. It might also bring about a retirement.

Please don’t forget that this is counter-factual history. It might be the case or not the case. But my instincts tell me it might be the case because of the many battles the president is fighting. He must have bruised many egos with his style of governance and possibly the political choices he must have made. He doesn’t seem apologetic about it. He had what he always wanted. He created history and it cannot be reversed.

TTHE PRESIDENT SEES AND RECOGNIZES OBSTACLES FROM A DISTANCE AND HE IS NOT KNOWN TO GO INTO ANY FIGHT HE CAN’T COME OUT VICTORIOUS. IN 2027 MANY VARIABLES WOULD PLAY OUT

The 2027 presidential elections will be very interesting and tenacious politics will play out. There would be a winner and losers, and lawyers would be disappointed. This is the counter-factual history of the 2027 presidential election.

Ibidapo Balogun urges the former Kogi State governor submit to the rule of law

hat the former governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello, alias White Lion, is a crafty and dodgy character is an under statement. His character traits are easily discernible in an encounter with him. He ruled over the hapless people of Kogi State with a iron hand. He trampled upon them and their rights. He oppressed them and dipped his hands in the till as he wished. He silenced the opposition and the people only to turn round to present himself as the oppressed, the innocent one. When he was done with them, he imposed his cousin on the state as governor, the same crooked and oppressive manner he had emerged their governor.

Yahaya Bello lived to this billing recently with his infamous show at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s headquarters in Abuja.

In a Gestapo style, the former governor emerged at the EFCC office, saying he was there to finally honour the commission’s invitation. He claimed he surrendered himself to EFCC because he has respect for the law and constituted authority, and that he has nothing to hide. This was months after the anti-graft body had declared him wanted over allegations of money laundering and financial impropriety while in office as governor. However, what he came to do at EFCC office actually was to taunt the commission’s officials and create a drama of sort,

while demonstrating he is repentant and now law-abiding. The former governor appeared at EFCC Car Park September 18 in a convoy of vehicles and security escort with Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo in tow. Although Yahaya Bello claimed he presented himself at a holding facility of the EFCC, officials of the commission said he was actually in the car park and left after a short while with the same convoy he came in. Yahaya Bello deployed the governor and the immunity he enjoys to shield himself from the law yet again. Governor Ododo and his security convoy did not leave him throughout his brief stay.

Not a few analysts and commentators have asked- why didn’t EFCC arrest the most-wanted fugitive on whose trail it had been and who now presented himself before it? Truth, however, is Yahaya Bello did not surrender himself to EFCC. Eyewitnesses at EFCC office said the commission’s operatives even attempted to block the gates, forcibly arrest him and prevent him from leaving the car park where he was sighted. But Kogi State Government security men forcefully removed the EFCC barricade and drove away with the former governor.

Arresting him by force and taking him into custody would have resulted in a dangerous exchange of gunfire between the EFCC operatives and Kogi State security men, which is precisely what Yahaya Bello wanted. This would have been unhelpful and counter-productive. It is useful that

a more prudent EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede had reportedly warned his officials to exercise restraint and to not fall into the trap being set for them by the former governor by engaging in a gun duel with Kogi State security men in a bid to arrest him. This would have complicated the matter and diverted attention from the corruption case against him.

Importantly, Olukoyede, a lawyer of no mean repute, is mindful of the rule of law and does not want to flout the provisions of the law, particularly the one around immunity, which Ododo, who was glued to Yahaya Bello during the encounter, enjoys. It was the same strategy Yahaya Bello had employed to evade arrest either at the Kogi State Governor’s Lodge in Asokoro, Abuja or at the Government House in Lokoja, the state capital, where he has been hiding. The strategy is-hide under the cloak of Governor Ododo’s immunity.

The EFCC had instituted a case against the former governor alongside Ali Bello, Dauda Suleiman and Abdulsalam Hudu on 19-count charges bordering on money laundering to the tune of N80. 2 billion. On April 23, Bello was served the charges through his counsel, Abdulwahab Muhammad (SAN).

This was after Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court sitting in Maitama, Abuja ruled that Yahaya Bello should be served through his counsel, especially as he failed to appear before the court, yet again. And after he failed to appear in court,

shunned series of invitations extended to him by EFCC and resisted arrest, the anti-graft commission declared him wanted in April. EFCC officials stormed his residence in Abuja to arrest him but all efforts to apprehend him have been met with a brick wall. Since then, the commission has been on his trail to arrest him even with a subsisting court warrant.

Now, a few words for the EFCC, Yahaya Bello and Governor Ododo who has been shielding his predecessor from prosecution. The EFCC must show clearly that it can bite and not a toothless bulldog. It must now do everything possible under the law to bring Yahaya Bello to book.

On his part, what Governor Ododo is doing is wrong and disgraceful. It is unacceptable. Helping a wanted fugitive to evade arrest and prosecution for alleged corrupt practices is akin to aiding and abetting corruption. It also constitutes an affront on the rule of law and social justice. This governor must desist from such a dishonourable act and demonstrate he is worthy of the high office he occupies.

As for Yahaya Bello, it is high time he showed maturity and turned himself in for the trial. He must show he is now truly repentant and ready to respond to the allegations against him. He must now face prosecution. Indeed, no matter how fast or far he can run or how adept he is at hiding from the law, the law will surely catch up with him sooner than later!

GASTECH 2024 CONFERENCE.…

L-R: Executive Assistant to the MD, Oando Energy Resources Nigeria Limited (OERNL), Olamide Temowo; Former United States Secretary of State & Former Senator from Massachusetts, John Kerry, and Managing Director, Oando Energy Resources Nigeria Limited (OERNL), Dr. Ainojie ‘Alex’ Irune, at the leadership roundtable held at the Gastech 2024 which took place in Houston, Texas, USA…recently

RECOGNITION FOR CLIMATE CHANGE ACTION.…

L-R: CEO/Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Sustainable Energy for All and CoChair of UN-Energy, Damilola Ogunbiyi (left) and UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, when Ogunbiyi received the First Class Order of Zayed II, with nine other dignitaries, for their contribution to the overall success of COP28 held in the UAE in 2023; on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York… recently

Asue Ighodalo: I’ll Reclaim My Mandate, Claims PDP Didn’t Engage in Vote Buying

Blame your internal failures not INEC for your loss, Nwagwu tells political parties

Asue Ighodalo, candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the recently concluded Edo governorship poll, has expressed confidence that he would reclaim his mandate at the tribunal.

Ighodalo said this as Peering Advocacy and Advancement Center in Africa (PAACA) urged political parties to address their internal failures rather than blaming the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for their loss in the recently concluded Edo governorship election.

Speaking on Politics Today, a

programme in one of the national television stations, Ighodalo said his party did not partake in vote buying during the election.

Ighodalo explained that his legal team identified over 160 polling units where the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) was not deployed.

“There is a lot of data, information,

evidence that we have. We are fully confident that going through the tribunal, we will win the case,” he said.

“We will regain our mandate and we are clear without any doubt that we were the winners of the election last Saturday.

“We didn’t rig. When APC and INEC saw that APC was losing

Ondo Poll: LP Guber Aspirant Collapses Structure for PDP, Plans Grand Declaration Event

A governorship aspirant in Ondo State Labour Party, Prince Eniola Ojajuni, has collapsed his structure for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), ahead of the November off-cycle election in the state.

Ojajuni is National President, Afenifere National Youths Council, former LP gubernatorial aspirant and Obi/Datti South West election coordinator. He conveyed the decision to collapse his structure in a letter delivered to the PDP's gubernatorial candidate, Agboola Ajayi, at the PDP

secretariat.

The Afenifere chieftain mentioned another former Labour Party gubernatorial aspirant in the state,Otunba Charles Fanimoyo, as part of the collaborative effort with the PDP.

He added that the arrangement also involves some of the party's stakeholders across the state's 18 local government areas.

According to the letter, the LP guber aspirant agreed to collapse his structure for the major opposition party in the scheduled election, after due consultations among his own supporters in the LP across the 18

LGAs.

The letter also mentioned that preparations are in top gear for a public declaration of the decision, at an event the LP leader said would be grand.

In a similar development, the trend of movements of members of opposing parties to the PDP heightened yesterday when members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) from across the 10 wards of Akoko North West LGA, defected to the PDP at a carnival-like cross over ceremony which took place at Oke -Agbe Akoko.

The decampees include Hon.

Omojola, the immediate past councilor of Arigidi Ile Ward, who led hundreds of members to the PDP from the APC. Omojola lamented the failure of the APC to deliver on its campaign promises, thus making members subjects of ridicule in the state.

Mr. Danladi Abu who spoke on behalf of the decampees from Ward 2 likened the APC to "a secret cult that treats members unfairly."

Registering his optimism of a PDP victory in the November election, Abu said the mass defection exercise is a significant setback for the APC in the state, ahead of the forthcoming elections.

Embrace Digital Technology for Operational Efficiency, Glo Urges Oyo Tertiary Institutions

Digital Solutions Company, Globacom, has urged tertiary institutions in Oyo State to adopt its digital offerings to enhance productivity, security, and operational efficiency.

woefully, they then subverted the electoral laws and the guidelines.

“Collation is done at the polling units, and then you go to the ward, and then the local government collation centre, and then the state. There was a jump, from ward straight to the state.

“There was a collusion between the INEC and the police to suppress the will of the people of Edo State. People of Edo State purposely voted for us. We won the election clearly.

“It is painful because you have many young people who felt that they were disenfranchised in the past; they feel that their votes were not counted and they asked what kind of democracy we run.

“I had been trying to encourage them to make sure your votes count but we have serious collusion by INEC and the APC working towards votes not counting.

“But this time around we will go through the judicial process and the vote will count. We are quite clear that with the evidence we have,

we will show clearly that we won the election. And the mandate of the people will be upheld.”

Ighodalo said the PDP frowned at the vote buying that became the story of the election.

“I can state categorically, we were not involved in vote buying at all. APC agents came with minted notes straight from the CBN and they were offering N25,000, N30,000 and N50,000 per vote,” he added.

“What our guys did was to go to them and harass them and tell them that you can’t come here to buy votes. But we were not engaged in vote buying in any way. I’m clear about that.

“We didn’t even need to go and buy votes. The people of Edo State were solidly with us. It’s only when you’re not sure of your capabilities… when you cannot perform, that’s when you do underhand things.

“And APC, through this election, with the connivance, complicity and support of INEC, undermined the whole democratic process.”

Police assure of adequate security, govt restrict movement

Also, Globacom’s Enterprise Business Head, West Region, Mr. Adeniyi Odejobi, restated the company’s readiness to collaborate with higher institutions in Oyo State on such digital solutions as connectivity services, e-governance, smart learning, data vending, security

At a meeting with representatives of various private tertiary institutions in the state held in Ibadan on Thursday, Globacom's Head of Enterprise Business, Zakari Usman, emphasised the importance of embracing digital technology in the education sector.

surveillance, sponsored data, Glo Smart Health and closed user group serialised numbers.

He explained that these solutions would promote administrative effectiveness, seamless service delivery, and ease of internet connectivity, adding that Oyo State's education sector would benefit immensely by embracing digital technology.

Speaking at the meeting which was attended by representatives of various private tertiary institutions, Oyo State's Commissioner for Education, Prof. Waheed Adelabu, expressed gratitude to Globacom for its consistent support, and hoped their digital packages would boost the ministry's efforts to establish best practices in education.

Gov Mbah Awards Scholarships, Cash to Enugu Students for Winning President’s National Debate Championship

Says administration's investments in education paying off

Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, has awarded scholarships up to university level as well as cash rewards on the four representatives of the state, who also won the 25th edition of the President’s Inter-Secondary School Debate Championship in Abuja. This was even as the victorious students predicated their victory on the governor’s commitment and huge investment in education, noting that Enugu State was hitherto unable to

particulate in the competition for over ten years due to lack of support.

The victorious contingent is made up of Emmanuella Chukwuma of Holy Rosary College, Enugu; Chiamaka Okwuibe of Queen’s School, Enugu; Goodness Chinedu Chiemerie of St. Patrick's College, Emene, Enugu; and Chibuikem Ukadike of the College of the Immaculate Conception, CIC, Enugu. Mr. Malachi Eze of CIC and Mrs. Joy Agbala of the Post Secondary

School Management Board (PPSMB), coordinated and prepared the team. Receiving the team, which was at the Government House, Enugu, to present the trophy to him, Thursday evening, Mbah said the victory showed that his administration’s investment in education was paying off, reiterating his government’s wealth creation drive and the non-kinetic aspect of the war on insecurity were heavily dependent on education.

“When we made the pronouncement that we were going to spend 33 per cent of our budget on education; that for every N100, we will spend N33 on education, a lot of people thought it was mere posturing or perhaps to earn public acclaim. But we knew that if we are to achieve a zero per cent rate on poverty headcount index, we must do something that is radical in our education sector.

Police in Anambra State have assured of adequate security in today's local government elections in the state, saying that residents of areas prone to insecurity will vote in local government headquarters.

Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, CP Nnaghe Obono Itam, stated this in a press conference yesterday.

He said: "Places like Lilu, Iseke, Ubuluisiuzo, Mbosi where there is insecurity would vote at their local government council headquarters, and there will be provided security and facilities there.

"We have deployed enough manpower in the state to ensure adequate security, and we are assuring people of their safety."

He said there will be restriction of movement, and that police will enforce it from 8a.m. to 4p.m., while enjoining the citizens and residents of the state to take the restriction seriously.

He continued: "We are calling the attention of the public, Anambra people and residents as they have always done in the past to come out and cast their votes for the candidates of their choice.

"For us we are on ground to provide security and ensure everywhere is safe and ensure that as much as possible the will of the people will prevail.

"We hope that everyone will conduct themselves with dignity. All the entry points into Anambra State would be blocked and there will be restriction and we hope people conduct themselves responsibly.

"It is not a do or die affair and we hope that everyone cooperates with us to ensure a seamless exercise," Itam said.

Meanwhile, Anambra State government has announced restriction of movements in the state today from the hours of 8a.m. to 4p.m.

A statement by the state Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, said the restriction is to ensure a seamless local government election in the state.

He said: "Ndi Anambra are hereby informed that there is a movement restriction throughout Anambra State on Saturday, September 28, 2024, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., as the Anambra State Independent Electoral Commission (ANSIEC) requested.

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka

Chuks Okocha and Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

INTER-SECONDARY SCHOOL DEBATE CHAMPION…

Constitution Review: Draft Bill Ready December 2025, Senate Panel Reveals

Lawmakers plan joint session with governors, state assemblies, others to hasten process Lawan wants monarchs accountable for security breaches

Sunday Aborisade and Ahmad

in Kano

The Senate Adhoc Committee on Constitution Review at the opening of its two-day retreat in Kano yesterday, disclosed that the National Assembly will produce a new draft bill on further amendments to the 1999 constitution in December 2025.

Speakers at the event, jointly organised with the Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC), wanted the

proposed reviews to focus on local government autonomy, state police, women rights and the specific roles for traditional rulers in order to tackle issues of insecurity, among others.

The forum agreed that the National Assembly panels at both chambers should hold joint engagements with the state governors, state assemblies, judiciary, civil society organisations and other critical stakeholders to guide against bills rejection at state levels. This was as the President of the 9th

MNJTF Nabs Wanted Terrorist Logistics Supplier in Borno

Francis Sardauna in Katsina and Linus Aleke in Abuja

Troops of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) deployed under Sector 3 have apprehended a high-profile Boko Haram logistics courier, identified as Garba Buda, in Guzamala, Borno State.

A statement by Chief Military Information Officer, HQ MNJTF N'djamena, Chad, Lt. Col. Olaniyi Osoba, also disclosed that the 30-year old suspect, has been on the wanted list of MNJTF for a while following the crucial role he played in supplying logistics to the terrorist group.

According to him, "The suspect has been closely monitored with human intelligence and surveillance efforts resulting to his arrest while he was on transit in Monguno town after a successful intelligence operation.

Buda's arrest is a significant blow to Boko Haram's operations in the Lake Chad region, as he was known for facilitating the movement of supplies between Monguno town and the Southern Tumbus in the Lake Chad area. Items recovered from him shed light on his activities, including a lighter, pocket mirror, comb, cap, and wristwatch.

Osoba noted that the suspect is currently in custody, undergoing thorough profiling investigation.

In a related development, the spokesperson said that MNJTF troops carried out a raid on a Boko Haram/ ISWAP enclave in Kukawa Local Government Area in Borno State, disrupting the terrorists' operations in the area.

The terrorists, he said fled upon the troops' arrival, leaving behind their logistics, which were subsequently destroyed.

"This successful operations represent a significant step forward in the ongoing fight against terrorism in the Lake Chad region, demonstrating the commitment of security forces to dismantle terrorist networks and ensure the safety of the local population," the statement concluded.

Meanwhile, six farmers who were abducted by terrorists in Jibia Local Government Area of Katsina State while harvesting their crops have been rescued by security operatives.

The State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Mu'azu, announced this in a statement issued to THISDAY yesterday evening.

Senate, Ahmad Lawan, has expressed hope that the 10th National Assembly will produce constitutional review targets that are realistic, and meet the demands of Nigerians.

In his welcome address, the Deputy President of the Senate and Chairman, Senate Committee on Constitution Review, Senator Jibrin Barau, pledged that the on going review of the nation's constitution, would meet the wishes and aspirations of the people of the country.

He said: “It an assignment for us to work in synergy with our colleagues and other stakeholders to produce an outstanding report and recommendations, which, of course,

will be composed of suggestions and recommendations to the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for further deliberation and approval.

“As we embark on this critical journey, let us remember the timeless values that make nations great: freedom, equality, and justice.

“These enduring ideals should guide us through this arduous task.

"As we consider desirable amendments to our constitution, I implore that we do so with the utmost care and consideration.

“Our decisions today will have farreaching implications for generations to come, and we must ensure that they are in the best interests of all

Nigerians.

“To achieve meaningful reform, we must synergise with our esteemed colleagues in the House of Representatives Ad hoc Committee on Constitution Review and collaborate with critical stakeholders, including the executive arm of government, state governors, state Assemblies, the judiciary, and civil society organisations, to build consensus on contentious issues.

“Our collective success hinges on our ability to work together seamlessly, sharing ideas and expertise to develop a report to be submitted to the Senate for further legislative actions.

“This retreat presents a unique opportunity for constructive good-faith dialogue and collective problemsolving,” Barau stated. The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, who chairs the constitution review panel in the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, said the retreat provided an avenue for the Senate to reflect on the process and challenges of constitution alteration.

He said other stakeholders would also have the opportunity to make inputs to help shape the direction, content and the approach that the committee could take to achieve its desired goals.

Obi: David Oyedepo, an Exceptional Servant of God

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

Presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general election, Mr. Peter Obi, has described the Founder of the Living Faith Church, Bishop David Oyedepo, as an exceptional servant of God.

Obi said this in his congratulatory message to Oyedepo who attained age 70 yesterday.

In a statement by his media

aide, Mr. Ibrahim Umar, the former Anambra State governor said that Oyedepo had remained a remarkable figure in faith, a dedicated servant in God’s vineyard, and a leader who exemplified the true purpose of God’s creation.

“Your life continues to be a source of blessing, reflecting dedication, tireless work and commitment to God’s mission.

“Through your ministry,

countless lives have been touched, embodying faith, hope and love.

“Outstanding institutions such as Living Faith Church, Covenant University and Kingdom Heritage Model School stand as lasting testimonies to your pursuit of excellence.

“Today, we honour your enduring legacy, your compassionate outreach and your immense contribution to humanity,” Obi said.

He prayed to God to strengthen, guide and bless the cleric more.

“Thank you for being a beacon of God’s grace. Your remarkable journey will inspire generations to embrace faith, integrity and purposeful living.

“May your continued intervention through prayer in the affairs of our country help us to find direction for a new Nigeria,” Obi said.

Access Bank Partners Energy Stakeholders on Actions to Achieving Net-Zero Emissions

Stakeholders, including government officials, experts, and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), have called for enhanced strategies to address climate change and air pollution while creating a more affordable and resilient energy system aimed at improving the economy and the quality of life.

They made this call at a two-day conference of the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Association

(Alliance) REEEA-A themed: 'Road to Net Zero: Actionable Initiatives for Success' held recently in Abuja.

Speaking at the conference, the President of the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Association (Alliance) REEEA-A, Magnus Onuoha, highlighted the achievements and vision of the Alliance over the past five years.

He emphasised that, in collaboration

with seven associated organisations, the Alliance has actively worked towards improving energy access and security in Nigeria and beyond.

He stated that through its mission, the Alliance has enhanced the quality and standards of renewable energy technologies, research, and policy by fostering knowledge generation and dissemination for sustainable development.

Onuoha highlighted key milestones of the Alliance, including the standardisation and validation of energy efficiency measures and the harmonisation of renewable energy policies between 2020 and 2021. He further stated that the Alliance has also provided regulatory support to both public and private sector clients, focusing on network and information exchange, youth and gender empowerment, and research support services.

IMF Projects Global Debt to Surpass 100% of GDP by 2029

Says global economic architecture now under strain Nany vulnerable countries may further fall behind

Ndubuisi Francis

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has warned that without decisive action, global public debt which stood in excess of $100 trillion in 2022 might inch above 100 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP) by 2029.

In the just-released 2024 annual report titled, 'Resilience in the Face of Change', which coincided with its

80 years of existence, the multilateral lender noted that at national level, debt-to-GDP figures are even higher. In the United States of America, China, and Japan respectively, debtto-GDP ratios are projected to reach 133, 106 and 251 per cent by 2028. Historically, these are levels that have only been seen during wartime. IMF's warning is coming after the United Nations (UN) sounded the alarm

in June over the escalating debt burden to global prosperity, estimated at over $97 trillion in 2023. Nigeria is one of the countries with a huge public debt burden, with the last official figures from the Debt Management Office (DMO) putting the country's debt profile at N121 trillion. That clearly pushed public debt above 50 per cent of GDP, for the first time, surpassing the 40 per cent threshold

earlier set by the government through the Fiscal Responsibility Act.

In ithe 2024 annual report, the multilateral lender noted that four years after the outbreak of COVID-19, fiscal deficits and debts were higher than pre-pandemic projections and forecast to remain higher over the medium term.

"Without decisive action, global public debt is projected to inch above 100 per cent of GDP by 2029.

"The priority then must be to rebuild fiscal space to make economies more resilient to future shocks and to allow for needed public investment to manage ckimate and technological transitions.

The IMF said it had disbursed a total of $70 billion to 30 countries, including about $15 billion to 20 low-income countries, for a total of $357 billion to 97 countries since the start of the pandemic.

"For example, a carefully calibrated mix of revenue and spending

Six abducted Katsina farmers rescued by security operatives

in Abuja

Sorondinki

L-R: Member, Enugu State team to the 25th President's Inter-Secondary School Debate Championship, Master Bright Ukadike; Miss Chiamaka Okwuibe; Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah; Master Chiemerie Goodness Chinedu; and team captain, Miss Emmanuela Chukwuma, during the presentation of the trophy to the governor at the Government House, Enugu…yesterday

PROMOTING EXCLUSIVE BANKING…

Musawa in New York, Says Nigeria's Creative Economy Poised for Global Impact

Ministry moves to give national museums facelift

The Minister of Art, Culture and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, has showcased Nigeria's thriving creative sector and its vast potential for global collaboration.

This was as she said that the Ministry of Art, Culture and the Creative Economy has launched a groundbreaking initiative to refurbish and revitalise six national museums across the country. The minister announced this while

Cavista Holdings Reaffirms Commitment to Investing in Africa

Agnes Ekebuike

Cavista Holdings, a dynamic and rapidly expanding investment and holding company with a global footprint across four continents, has reinforced its commitment to driving investment across Africa, calling on Nigerian investors to take advantage of the wealth of opportunities available across the continent.

Speaking at the Botswana Business Breakfast in Lagos, held in celebration of Botswana's Independence Day, General Manager of Cavista Holdings, Anthony Iloh, emphasised the need for greater collaboration between African nations.

“As we look ahead, our focus is on fostering synergies that will benefit both Nigeria and Botswana. By building strong partnerships, we can unlock new opportunities, create jobs, and harness the potential of our talented youth to address the evolving needs of today's market,” Iloh stated.

He also noted that Cavista Holdings' expanding investment in Botswana will not only bolster its

business portfolio but significantly contribute to local economic growth.

“I encourage all Nigerian investors to explore ways we can work together to harness these opportunities. Collaboration is key to building a brighter future, not just for our businesses, but for our communities and the wider economy,” he added.

Botswana's High Commissioner to Nigeria, Her Excellency Ms. Philda Nani Kereng, during her welcome address commended Cavista Holdings for its investment drive in Botswana and urged other Nigerian investors to follow suit by embracing the investment opportunities available in the country.

She outlined Botswana’s commitment to attracting Nigerian investors, especially in three pivotal sectors: technology, creative industries, and trade.

In his presentation at the event, Director of Export Development and Promotion at the Botswana Investment and Trade Centre (BITC), Mr. Moabi Phia, highlighted Botswana’s status as an investor-friendly destination despite its relatively small population of 2.3 million.

Neveah Limited Clears Debt Under Its N20bn Commercial Paper Programme

in

Neveah Limited, a leading commodity trading company specialising in the export of solid minerals and agricultural products, has announced the redemption of its N1.9 billion Series 15 commercial paper notes issued in November 2023. Since commencement of operations in 2014, the company said it has experienced remarkable growth, with revenues increasing by over 858 per cent from 2019 to 2023. The company has evolved from a small commodity trading operation into a leading dealer and exporter of high-quality solid minerals and agro-commodities.

To date, Neveah Limited has successfully raised a cumulative total

of N25.51 billion through its Series 1-15 Commercial Paper Issuances to address working capital needs, all of which have been entirely repaid.

The Chief Executive Officer of Neveah, Mr. Ibidapo Lawal, stated, “Neveah Limited started off with a simple vision to responsibly trade indigenous products on a global scale.

“This has not always been easy, considering the trying economic times we find ourselves in, but we have always been able to count on the support of our investors in the CP market who have always given us a chance from the early days.” According to him, "Meeting our obligations by ensuring we repay as and when due is our way of showing good faith and sending the message that banking on us will always be a good choice."

addressing the US-Nigeria Council event on Wednesday and Thursday respectively, in New York, United States of America.

In a statement by her Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Nneka Ikem Anibeze, Musawa said Nigeria’s creative economy currently contributes $5.6 billion to the nation's GDP, reflecting its rich heritage and vibrant spirit.

The minister highlighted initiatives like CLAP (Creative Leap Accelerator Programme) and CultuRise, which she said are aimed at amplifying Nigeria's global presence in the creative industries.

She emphasised the importance of US-Nigeria collaboration in key areas, including knowledge exchange, infrastructure development, intellectual property protection, and joint promotions.

According to her, “One key area

where we can deepen US-Nigeria collaboration is through knowledge exchange and capacity building. By establishing partnerships between our universities, training centres, and creative organisations, we can share best practices, develop innovative curricula, and equip our artistes with the skills they need to succeed in the global marketplace. Our CLAP initiative aims to drive these meaningful partnerships.”

To support the growth of Nigeria's creative sector, the minister announced the establishment of the Creative Economy Development Fund (CEDF), a $500 million fund providing affordable financing to creative businesses and entrepreneurs.

“The CEDF $500 million fund will offer loans at concessionary interest rates, with a focus on supporting startups, small businesses, and underserved

segments of the creative economy.

The CEDF will also provide technical assistance and capacity building to help creative businesses become investmentready and access markets. We invite our American partners to contribute to the CEDF and help unlock the vast potential of Nigeria's creative talent.

“The potential for US-Nigeria collaboration in the creative industries is immense. Our roadmap and sector strategy provide a comprehensive framework to increase the sector's GDP from $5.6 billion to $20 billion by 2027, drive government revenue, and position Nigeria as a leader in the global creative economy. By leveraging our shared strengths, we are creating a vibrant and sustainable creative economy that benefits both our nations.

“We are building bridges between our nations, fostering greater understanding

and cooperation. Together, let us create a brighter future for our artists and our peoples,” the minister said. Meanwhile, Musawa listed the six national museums across the country to be refurbished and revitalised to include the National Museums in Ilorin, Birnin Kebbi, Uyo, and Owerri. Others are Gidan Makama Museum in Kano State and Zazzau Emirate Museum in Kaduna State. The project, done in collaboration with the National Commission for Museums and Monuments, according to Musawa, aims to preserve Nigeria's rich cultural heritage and make its historical treasures more accessible to the public.

The refurbishment programme set to begin in October 2024, according to the minister will focus on infrastructure upgrades, enhanced security systems, and improved exhibit spaces.

Fidson to Build $100m Drug Plant in Nigeria, Partners Chinese Firms

Drug manufacturer, Fidson is partnering with Chinese firms to build a $100 million plant in Lagos, boosting Nigeria’s medicine supply.

Fidson Healthcare Plc signed a cooperation memorandum with Jiangsu Aidea Pharmaceutical Co., PharmaBlock Sciences Nanjing Inc. and the China-Africa Development Fund to start building the facility in Lagos within the next 30 months, the Nigerian drugmaker said by email.

The plant aims to foster “self-reliance in health-care delivery, especially to tackle HIV” in Nigeria, Fidson said.

According to Bloomberg, Africa’s most populous nation has an estimated two million people living with the virus, citing data from the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS.

Last year, the government’s National Agency for the Control of AIDS said the country recorded about 1,400 new infections weekly, and about 1.2 million

children are orphaned because of it. The country of 220 million people imports all its anti-retroviral drugs, limiting availability. Surging inflation, a volatile and depreciating currency, rampant insecurity and electricity shortages are driving US and European multinationals out of Nigeria, including GSK Plc and Sanofi SA, worsening access to medications for opportunistic infections arising from the disease.

Fidson, which manufactured over-the-

counter drugs for GSK, is stepping in to fill the void in the country’s drug-supply chain. It has introduced more than 16 new products since June last year, according to the company. “By integrating our expertise and experience in the field of innovative drugs, we are confident in bringing greater well-being to patients,” Fidson said. “The complementary strengths of all parties will inject new vitality into the health-care sector.”

Genea Family Office Hosts Exclusive Event on Estate, Wealth Planning

Genea Family Office recently hosted an exclusive event highlighting the critical role of life insurance in estate and wealth planning.

The gathering, focused on preserving and transferring wealth to future generations, was held in partnership with Providus Bank Limited, a leading Nigerian financial institution, and Howden Group, a global insurance leader.

Partner at Genea Family Office, Abiola Adekoya, explained that the event aimed to showcase how life insurance is integral to holistic estate planning for high-net-worth families and successful family businesses. This initiative aligns with Genea's Wealth Portfolio Wellness services, which offers a comprehensive approach to wealth management.

"Our focus is on tailored strategies that safeguard and grow generational wealth," Adekoya stated. "In addition to wealth management, we offer services in Family Governance, Succession Planning, and Lifestyle Concierge."

The evening featured discussions on advanced estate planning strategies, offering fresh perspectives on the importance of life insurance for wealth transfer and long-term protection. Attendees learned how integrating life insurance into financial plans can facilitate seamless wealth transfer, ensuring the stability and growth of family assets.

Court Dismisses AMCON’s Suit

Partner at Genea Family Office, Abiola Adediran, emphasised that effective estate planning could mitigate risks and losses.

against Onyema

Wale Igbintade

Okonjo over Alleged N168m Debt

Justice Daniel Osiagor of the Federal High Court sitting in Lagos, has formally discharged the Managing Director of PC Outlet Limited Company, Mr. Onyema Okonjo, from any outstanding debt obligations to the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON).

The ruling of the court was sequel to a letter from AMCON, referenced

AMC/ABJ/ERM/22/962/MU/47007, titled Letter of Non-Indebtedness" jointly signed by its Head, Enterprise Risk Management, Matthew Coker, and the Group Head, Enforcement, Joshua Ikioda. The document confirmed that neither Okonjo nor PC Outlet Ltd had any debts owed to AMCON. Following the submission of this letter, which was corroborated in court by AMCON’s legal representative, Mr.

Francis Oloruntoba, Justice Osiagor dismissed the suit and discharged Mr. Okonjo from all liabilities. Furthermore, the court ordered the return of all securities, including properties located in the Lekki Peninsula, to Okonjo. It would be recalled that prior to the ruling, Justice Osiagor had granted a freezing order that attached the bank accounts of the directors of PC Outlet Ltd, including Mr.

Additionally, the court

Agnes Ekebuike

Kasim Sumaina

Abuja

Onyema Okonjo, Mr. Kenneth Njoku, and Mr. Ernest Awulonu based on a purported 168m debt which was adjudged indebtedness and accrued interest.

L-R: Partner Genea Family Office, Abiola Adekoya; Director, Howden Group, Sven Haudenschild; MD, Chrismatel Nigeria Ltd., Chief Peter Okocha; Group Head, Private Clients Banking Division, Wealth Manager, Affluent & Private, Providus Bank, Halima Kitchener-Chimbo, and Partner, Genea Family Office, Abiola Adediran, after an exclusive briefing session held in Lagos…recently

BUSINESS BREAKFAST MEETING…

Ahead of Emirates Flight Resumption, Keyamo Concludes Reciprocal Rights with UAE

Eze in Lagos and Kasim

Nigeria’s federal government and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have agreed on reciprocal rights, as world mega carrier, Emirates Airlines is set to resume Dubai-Lagos flight service on Tuesday, October 1, 2024; indicating that Nigerian carrier, Air Peace, which hitherto operated the route can also resume flight operations

to the Middle East country.

This was the outcome of the meeting held yesterday in Dubai by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, with UAE aviation authorities, drawing a new Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA) between the two countries.

“Ahead of the resumption of Emirates flights to Nigeria next week Tuesday, I was in the UAE earlier today (yesterday), together with my technical

team, for the negotiation of a new Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA) between both countries to guide our new relationship henceforth. Today, we firmly agreed on the reciprocal rights our local airlines will also have to begin flight operations to the UAE,” the minister said.

The minister’s media spokesman, Tunde Moshood, explained in a statement that the minister led a high-level Nigerian delegation

to the United Arab Emirates to finalise negotiations ahead of the much-anticipated resumption of Emirates Airlines’ flight operations to Nigeria.

The meeting was to ensure stronger and mutually beneficial aviation ties between both countries.

“The Honourable Minister, accompanied by his technical team, engaged in constructive discussions with UAE aviation authorities, to

Pharmacists Demand Suspension of Drug Revolving Fund over Alleged Breach of PSN Act

Pharmacists under the aegis of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN), have called on the federal government to suspend the Drug Revolving Fund (DRF) Standard Operating Procedures(SOP) forthwith until some of the fundamental distortions in implementation plans were addressed.

Relatedly, a call has gone to governments at all levels in the country to empower pharmacists to take on more responsibilities in building resilient healthcare systems.

The ACPN accused the Federal Ministry of Health of subverting the role of pharmacists in drug procurement and management by approving the violation of dominant Pharmacy laws - the PCN Act 2022 and the Poison & Pharmacy Act Cap 535 LFN 1990. In a letter addressed to the Attorney

General and Minister of Justice, the National Chairman of ACPN, Ambrose Ezeh, stated that entrusting the management and administration of the Drug Revolving Fund (DRF) Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), exclusively in the hands of non- pharmacists was a clear violation of the provisions of section 59(1) of the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) Act. Eze noted the key points in the 167-page document, which included that the DRF committees would be headed at the Federal level by the Chairman-Medical Advisory Committee (C-MAC), a position he claimed, was, “exclusively reserved for physicians through the witty manipulation of the Federal Ministry of Health (FMOH) and its appendages;’’ while at the Local Government level, the heads of the DRF committees would be designated heads of the facilities, who often are not pharmacists.

He posited that the arrangement was objectionable in its entirety because “it is a clear breach of section 59(1) of the PCN Act in Nigeria for any LGA to stock ethical drugs if Pharmacists are not in their employment in the first place.’’

According to him, Section 59(1) declares inter-alia that Ethical drugs shall not be stored, supplied, sold, offered to be sold or dispensed by any person unless under the direct supervision of a licensed pharmacist. Also Section 59(2) states that a person shall not store, supply, sell, or dispense dangerous drugs unless: (a) he is a licensed pharmacist; (b) the drug is in a container of the prescribed description; and (c) the container bears a label indicating the prescribed particulars of its contents.

“The only exception where the Directors of Pharmaceuticals/HOD of Pharmacy will be allowed to lead

the DRF Committee is at State level.’’

Continuing, he said, :the spirit of the two existing pharmacy laws earlier referred to vis the PCN Act 2022 and the Poison & Pharmacy Act Cap 535 LFN 1990, makes it very unambiguous that when it comes to drug matters in Nigeria the Pharmacists is numero uno.

“It is very unacceptable to create a lacuna for LGAs to rely on apocryphal inclination that a preponderance of Pharmacists don’t take up employment at LGAs to delegate drug matters to non-pharmaceutically qualified personnel.

Meanwhile, the National Chairman of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN), Ezeh Ambrose Igwekamma, yesterday, highlighted the crucial role pharmacists play in meeting global health needs at an event to commemorate the World Pharmacists Day.

SCI: Statistics of Nigerians Living in Poverty Shocking

Save the Children International (SCI) has described the statistics of Nigerians living in multidimensional poverty as shocking for a country richly endowed with human and natural resources. It would be recalled that the National Bureau of Statistics, in its recent reports revealed that 63 per cent of those living within Nigeria (133 million people) are multidimensional poor. It added that 1 - 65 per cent of these (86 million people) live in the North, two-thirds (67.5 per cent ) of children (0–17) are multidimensional poor while half (51 per cent ) of all

poor people are children. SCI Country Director, Duncan Harvey, stated this on in Abuja at the close of the third phase of 'Expanding Social Protection For Inclusive Development (ESPID)' programme jointly implemented by SCI and Action Against Hunger, across the North-western states of Jigawa, Zamfara, Kaduna, and Kano. Harvey stressed that over the years, the initiative, first known as the Child Development Grant Programme (CDGP) and later the Expanding Social Protection for Inclusive Development (ESPID) Programme, through this investment the United Kingdom Government provided £4.7 million

over three years through the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).

The country director explained that the programme has evolved over three significant phases, adding that the highly successful first phase, from 2013 to 2019, was a pioneering pilot reaching over 90,000 households.

According to him, "Its goal was to reduce widespread poverty, hunger and child malnutrition in Northern Nigeria through a mixture of cash transfers, counselling and a campaign to change behaviour around maternal and childcare practices."

Harvey noted that following the CGDP’s demonstrated impact, the

second and third phases — from 2019 to 2024, have focused on supporting the federal government and its subnational counterparts.

This, he said, was aimed at strengthening the existing social protection system at federal level and in the states, to begin to establish systems where these were lacking and to strengthen civil society in calling for improved social protection services.

Harvey emphasised that social protection is an effective means for addressing multidimensional poverty and has proven to be successful in not only pulling people out of poverty but also in protecting them from falling deeper into poverty.

ensure smooth reintroduction of Emirates Airlines into the Nigerian airspace next week Tuesday. The new BASA, which was a focal point of the talks, is designed to enhance collaboration between the two countries and establish guidelines for their evolving relationship in the aviation sector.

“Crucially, the negotiations also yielded a significant agreement on reciprocal rights, ensuring that Nigerian airlines will soon have the opportunity to commence direct flight operations to the UAE. This marks a historic development for Nigeria’s aviation industry, expanding international connectivity and offering more options to travelers between the two nations,” said the statement.

Speaking on the outcome of the meeting, the minister also said, "Today’s discussions reaffirm our commitment to fostering a balanced and forward-looking partnership with

the UAE. We are pleased to have secured reciprocal operational rights for Nigerian airlines, which will not only deepen our bilateral ties but also strengthen the global competitiveness of Nigeria’s aviation industry. As Emirates returns to Nigeria, we look forward to a thriving and mutually beneficial air service relationship."

THISDAY learnt that this development followed weeks of diplomatic and technical consultations aimed at restoring direct air travel between Nigeria and the UAE, “further signaling the federal government's dedication to ensuring the best possible outcomes for both Nigerian and international travelers.”

“The resumed flight operations by Emirates and the new BASA will play a pivotal role in promoting tourism, business, and cultural exchanges between Nigeria and the UAE, as well as fostering economic growth,” the minister said.

Hardship: Be Patient with Government, Kumuyi Tells Nigerian Youths

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

The General Superintendent of Deeper Life Bible Church, Pastor William F. Kumuyi, has called on Nigerians, particularly the youths to be patient with the government, stressing that soonest there will be a great change in the society.

Pastor Kumuyi made the call yesterday, when he visited the palace of Eze Ekpeye Logbo of Ekpeye Land, His Majesty, Kelvin Ngozi Anugwo, ahead of the church's mega crusade and free medical outreach in Ahoada town, Rivers State.

Speaking on the programme, the General Superintendent assured that the crusade will bring tremendous transformation in Ekpeye Land, Rivers State and Nigeria at large.

He said: "I tell you what I know will happen to this kingdom, to Rivers State, to the Nations of the world, what will happen as a result of this peace seeking we are having here, it will be incredible, unbelievable and impossible.

"Families, our nation will be turned around and the nations of the world will feel the impact of what is going to happen from tonight."

Responding to questions from journalists on hardship in the country, Kumuyi said at the end of the crusade there would be a positive change in

the Ekpeye land, and across the state, stressing the need for good governance.

"I appreciate the courage, the foresight, the vision of our youths and what everybody wants is what the youths testified about and demanded. We need good governance but when we are searching for something, some of us will look forward we won't get it, we look backward to history we won't get it, we look sideways to neighbouring countries we don't get the answer.

"We have looked forward, looked back, looked sideways we didn't get what we are looking for, we should look up, the rain will come from above, we are looking up from tonight, that change is about to come."

He thanked the traditional rulers, chiefs and people of Ekpeye for the warm reception and urged them to attend the crusade as well as prepare for Christ coming.

Speaking earlier while receiving Kumuyi and his wife, the king said the coming of the General Superintendent brought a great joy to the Ekpeye land.

Eze Onugwo assured that his kingdom will attend and also support the success of the crusade, "we will make a donation to the crusade and also make provisions for something that we could use to feed the masses that will come for the crusade.

L-R: Director General, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Dr. Chinyere Almona; CEO Sport Nigeria, Ms. Nkechi Obi; Botswana High Commissioner to Nigeria, Philda Nani Kereng; and the General Manager, Cavista Holdings, Mr. Anthony Iloh, at the Botswana Business Breakfast Meeting held in Lagos... recently

Chinedu

Sumaina in Abuja

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan

Military

Dismantles 19 Illegal Refining Sites, Denies Oil Thieves Petroleum Products Worth over N13bn in Q3

The Nigerian Navy yesterday said that troops of Operation Delta Sanity, discovered and dismantled no fewer than 19 illegal refining sites, 25 wooden boats, 26 reservoirs, 19 ovens, 12 dugout pits, four drums as well as intercepted 138 sacks laden

with stolen crude oil, and three fibre boats in three weeks.

The Nigerian Navy also assured that it will continue to sustain the tempo of anti crude oil operations to deny oil thieves freedom of action, especially in the Niger Delta region for enhanced crude oil production towards improved economic

Olowola Appointed Asido Foundation Chair, to Lead Mental

Health Push

Leading non-profit organisation committed to mental health advocacy,Asido Foundation has welcomed Meka Niyi Olowola as its new Chairperson.

With the new appointment, the company is poised to deepening mental health advocacy and transform mental health care in the country.

Olowola, a renowned branding expert and sustainability advocate assumes the critical leadership role, succeeding Alhaji Mashood Yusuf.

An experienced professional in public relations, advertising, and corporate social responsibility, Olowola has demonstrated deep commitment to mental health advocacy. He previously served as Vice Chairman of the Foundation.

In his remark, Olowola emphasised the importance of collective action in addressing Nigeria's mental health challenges, citing alarming World Health Organisation statistics.

"With only 250 psychiatrists serving over 200 million Nigerians, we must tackle these critical issues head-on.

As chairperson, I am dedicated to building upon the successful foundation laid by the outgoing Chairman and ensuring accessible, high-quality mental health services for all Nigerians," he said.

Commenting, CEO and Founder of the Foundation, Dr. Jibril Abdulmalik said, "His leadership will be instrumental in our continued fight against stigma and efforts to provide mental health care to all Nigerians.

"Under Olowola's leadership, the Asido Foundation aims to build on its successes, including championing the Mental Health Bill, signed into law in 2023, and ongoing projects such as the "Unashamed Campaign" and Project Hope".

Other board members of the foundation included: Professor of Psychiatry at ABU Zaria,Taiwo I. Sheikh; Professor of Law, Cheluchi Onyemelukwe, University lecturer and physician, Dr. Omotola Abdulmalik and CMD of the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Maiduguri,Prof. Ibrahim W. Abdu.

Sublime Hotels Set for Reopening September 28

After months of shutting down, Sublime Hotel & Suites embarked on renovation of the facility to offer customers a better experience, the leading hospitality is set to reopen on September 28, 2024.

Sublime Hotel and Suites is one of the preferred hotels/apartments along Lekki-Epe Expressway, just directly opposite the popular Mega Chicken at Ikota.

The hospitality was built with the sole vision of satisfying customers. It is contemporarily designed to suit customers standard and satisfaction.

Sublime Hotel and Suites provide customers with elegant and unmatched comfort, leaving them with an exceptional and memorable experience.

Customers stand to enjoy numerous benefits such as 24 hours uninterrupted power supply, complimentary highspeed internet service available at no cost, spacious rooms with luxurious amenities, serene environment for relaxation and reflection, cozy

sitting areas, exclusive lounge access, complimentary tea and coffee to refresh guests, luxury bedding to provide you with the perfect night's sleep, top-tier security, private balcony available in select rooms, exceptional laundry services and dining options where every meal is prepared with flavor and creativity.

The event will also witness the marking of the birthday of the MD/ CEO of Sublime Industries Chief Kelvin Jombo Onumah who has spent half part of his life empowering the less privileged persons.

Jombo’s remarkable generosity has transformed lives and communities, from reconstructing essential infrastructure in his beloved Abiriba to offering scholarships that open doors for underserved students.

Sublime Hotel and Suites apart from single rooms, has apartments of one and two bedrooms with a club room for get-together parties.

development of the nation.

A statement by Naval Spokesperson, Commodore Aiwuyor Adams-Aliu, said the Nigerian Navy Units under the auspices of Operation Delta Sanity recorded significant successes in the fight against crude oil theft and other maritime crimes in the Niger Delta region, within the three weeks period.

This was as the military high command on Thursday said that troops of JTF South South Operation Delta Safe retrieved petroleum products worth over N13bn from suspected oil thieves in the third quarter of 2024.

It also disclosed that troops recovered no fewer than 12,143,870 litres of stolen crude oil, 2,623,216 litres of illegally refined AGO, 6,970 litres of DPK and 31,450 litres of PMS amongst other items within the period under review.

On 2nd September 2024, one illegal refining site, two wooden boats and 28 sacks laden with product suspected to be illegally refined automated gas oil were destroyed and seized at Isonogbene, Ogboinbiri, Kasama-Azama-Isoni axis in South Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State. On

4th September 2024, three wooden boats and one speed boat laden with stolen crude oil and illegally refined Automated Gas Oil were seized around Brass River, Nembe, Botokiri community in Bayelsa State.

"On 5th September 2024, two illegal refinery sites, two ovens, two reservoirs, one dugout pit and two wooden boats laden with product suspected to be stolen crude oil were destroyed and seized around Bonny Channel, Sobikiri, Adamakiri, Eferwarie and Isaka general area of Rivers State."

He said that on 9th September 2024, two active Illegal Refining Sites with one wooden boat, two ovens, three dugout pits and four drums laden with stolen crude oil were destroyed and seized at Okporoza creek and Tibo community Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State.

Others include: "A newly constructed illegal refinery site, one reservoir and one dugout pit laden with stolen crude oil which were destroyed and seized at Odo-Bioku within Awoye Riverine community in Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State, amongst several others."

Director Defence Media Operation,

Maj. Gen. Edward Buba, made this disclosure while addressing a press conference in Abuja on Thursday.

He also disclosed that troops killed no fewer than 1,937 terrorists, arrested 2,782 suspected terrorists and other criminal elements as well as rescued 1,854 kidnapped hostages within the same period.

He stated that troops offensive actions culminated in the killing of over 65 notable terrorist leaders and commanders across all theatres of operations.

He identified some of the terrorist leaders killed to include "Munzir Arika, Sani Dilla (Dan Hausawan Jubillaram), Ameer Modu, Matawal Bitrus, Thomas Benedict, Mohammed Sani, Rimamy (aka Omo), Terkimbi Injoko, Jacob Uzege, Ibn Kasir, Kachalla an Baleri, Kachallah Halilu Jimmare (Buzu), Kachalla Dan Ali Garin Fadama, Kachalla Dan Mani Na Inna, Kachalla Basiru Zakarriya and ofem Emmanuel Igwe among others."

According to him, "Overall, in the third quarter of this year, troops neutralised 1,937 terrorists, arrested 2,782 suspected terrorists and other criminal elements as well as rescued 1,854 kidnapped hostages.

Furthermore, troops recovered 1,304 weapons, 43,347 ammunition and denied the oil theft of an estimated sum over N13 bn (N13,081,605,534.00) only."

He said that troops conducted synchronised bombardments by the air force and ground forces, that significantly diminished terror military capabilities and cohesion. Giving a breakdown of the arms and ammunition recovered from adversaries within the said period, the director said troops recovered 688 AK-47 rifles, 32,945 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 9,677 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 191 assorted arms and 8,292 assorted ammo in different battle fields.

"On the whole, troops are keeping the pressure on the terrorist until they are totally defeated. The military is focussed on dismantling the terror infrastructure as well as destroying their will to fight. Accordingly, we are attacking any threat we identify, and removing it. The war objective is to destroy these groups, decapitate them, and erode their ability to rage terror attacks against citizens," he said. Buba concluded that the nation's daily crude oil production output is now at all time high with the daily

Atunwa to Kwara Gov: After

Months, Your Govt Lacks Focus

Former Speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Razak Atunwa, yesterday, chided the Governor of Kwara State, Mr. Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, for allowing obsession with running down former Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, to make it obvious that the present administration in the state lacks focus, blueprint, or manifesto that can guide it towards serving the interest of the people.

Atunwa, in a statement, was reacting to a statement issued by the State Commissioner for Communications, Mrs. Bola Olukoju,

who in government’s response to the former Senate President’s comment on last weekend local government polls raised several allegations against the Saraki and Abdulfatai Ahmed’s administrations in the state.

The former Speaker who also served in the House of Representatives and the 2019 PDP gubernatorial candidate, stated that the Kwara State governor who allegedly runs the state on impulse “has not been able to execute projects, programmes, or policies which could present him with a lasting legacy because he has no blueprint or manifesto that could guide him to serve the people better.”

“It is somewhat disappointing that a state commissioner could only list the payment of salaries as the achievement of a government that has been in office in the last 64 months.

“Indeed, when there is nothing significant to boast of, any mundane achievement will become significant to a non-performing government.

A Government that receives over N14 billion every month from the Federation Account, in addition to the usurpation of billions of Naira of local government funds, should present meaningful and lasting projects on its scorecard. Laying of

paving stone over a road less than one kilometre and resurfacing a small number of 100 metre roads is quite uninspiring,” the statement added.

“It is difficult to expect good governance from a governor who has no respect for democratic institutions and will rather castrate such institutions than allow them to function. He has rendered the State House of Assembly ineffectual, put the State Executive Council in limbo, ensured the State Security Council does not sit, relegated the Council of Traditional Rulers to the background, and destroyed the party on whose platform he was elected.

Julius Berger Replaces Richter with Lubasch as Managing Director

Bennett Oghifo

The Board of Directors of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc has announced a major change in the constitution of its management with the current Managing Director, Engr Dr. Lars Richter being replaced by the Chief Executive Director of Julius Berger International, Dr. Peer Lubasch. This change was made because of the expiration of Richter’s contract next month, according to a statement issued and signed by the company Secretary, Mrs Cecilia Madueke, the decision for

the change of guards was taken in a meeting the company’s Board of Directors held September 25, 2024.

She thus announced that the following decisions were taken: “the resignation of Engr. Dr Lars Richter as Director and Managing Director of the company at the expiration of his contract of employment on October 15, 2024, was accepted. “Engr. Dr Peer Lubasch, in line with the succession plan for the Executive Management, was appointed as a Director and Managing Director of the company

with effect from October 16, 2024.”

The outgoing Managing Director in a short statement said, “The Board of Directors of Julius Berger Nigeria PLC in their meeting honoured my request to not extend my contract as Managing Director. After six years leading the company as CEO I will be returning to Germany at the end of this year for personal reasons.”

He also introduced his successor, Dr Lubasch saying, “I am pleased to announce that Dir. Peer Lubasch, currently the CEO of Julius Berger International GmbH in Wiesbaden,

will take over the position starting from 16th October 2024.” Richter’s journey with Julius Berger started back in 2002 when he commenced his career as a young engineer in the Wiesbaden office of the company. By 2018, he rose to become the company’s Managing Director. Today, I look back on 15 years of service with Julius Berger Nigeria PLC, during which I have had the privilege of working with many people in the company and mastered many challenges, he said last Wednesday.

Linus Aleke in Abuja

Dangote Refinery, NNPC and Quest for Affordable Fuel

Adeyinka Oladepo

Some Nigerians were disappointed that their long wait for reasonably priced and affordable petrol promised by Alhaji Aliko Dangote, owner of the Dangote Refinery turned out to be the opposite when the product was finally rolled out.

Many were shocked when the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC), the initial off-taker of the product for retail sale announced that it bought it at N898/litre adding that it would sell the product at a price ranging from N950/litre in Lagos to N1,100/litre in different parts of the country, having added the statutory charges and other costs.

The realisation that the price at which the product was sold to NNPC was even higher than the prevailing market price of around N850/litre, which was attributed to the scarcity of the product before the Dangote Refinery rollout, left many in disbelief. But NNPC explained that the N898/litre price it secured was even the outcome of the downward negotiation of a higher price initially offered by the refinery.

Surprisingly, in a swift but scathing reaction, Dangote Refinery condemned the NNPC statement arguing that it sold the initial supply to the NNPC in dollars but it did not disclose the price in dollars and how much it would amount to per litre if converted to naira.

In the ensuing circumstance, the question begging for an answer was whether NNPC was not allowed to convert the dollar price it bought the fuel to the equivalent in naira more so that it would not sell to consumers in dollars but in naira.

However, the most disturbing aspect of Dangote Refinery’s rebuttal was how it dismissed the NNPC’s price disclosure as misleading, mischievous, and malicious claiming that it was deliberately aimed at undermining the achievements recorded by the refinery towards addressing energy insufficiency and insecurity in the country. It further stated that it sold the product to NNPC “with a lot of savings”

Dangote refinery’s claim of savings gave many people, including some eminent Nigerians, the impression that NNPC may be hiding something and was probably standing in the way of cheaper pricing of the product. This fear led to calls for the company to renounce its sole off-taker status and allow other buyers, namely the major marketers and the independent marketers to also buy directly from Dangote if this will bring about favourable competitive prices.

Demonstrating that it had nothing to hide, NNPC welcomed the call, following which Dangote Refinery began to sell to the major marketers at N766/litre, less than the price it sold to NNPC. It is not yet known how much the refinery will sell the product to Independent marketers when they take their turn to lift the product after their separate negotiation with the Refinery’s management.

Though Dangote has not explained why his refinery sold the product at different prices to NNPC and the major

marketers, it is apparent that neither of the prices with the additional costs will give Nigerians the relief or comfort they thought the intervention of the refinery would bring them in terms of product affordability.. The situation seems worse than before for ordinary Nigerians for whom petrol has become a household energy source for powering their small-scale business appliances to make ends meet as electricity supply is either unreliable or hardly ever available.

Industry experts had foreseen this outcome in the build-up to the rollout of the product and had warned that Nigerians were expecting too much from the refinery and may be disappointed in the end.

Since the rollout, Dangote has not addressed the citizenry on how things turned out this way and whether they should expect some relief in the near future as more factors come into play such as the efforts by the government and NNPC to facilitate the sale of crude oil to local refiners in naira to ease production challenges thereby ensuring affordable competitive product pricing for the benefit of the citizens.

The oil and gas industry is full of big players and is constantly under government scrutiny because of its importance to the economy of the nation. It is unlikely

that somebody would be able to create a monopoly that would hold the industry to ransom unless the government allows it. Yes, it may not seem so now but the government must be conscious of the possibility as it implements its new policies to make the industry all-inclusive in the interest of all stakeholders.

In this regard, all eyes may be on the NNPC and the regulatory agencies in the oil industry in the ensuing months to ensure that the crude for naira policy which is aimed at creating a sustainable conducive environment for local refiners to thrive is closely monitored to achieve the desired result. Hopefully, this would ultimately put an end to the endemic fuel crisis as well as make the industry viable for increased export earnings.

, that Dangote has always had a way of securing the sympathy and support of the government of the day in this country to advance his business interests.

Like previous governments, the Tinubu administration has also been inclined to him, more so as the genuine desperation of the administration to conquer the fuel crisis in the country has made the Dangote Refinery the centre of attraction at the moment. In his usual way, Dangote has leveraged on this platform to secure half of the crude capacity requirement of his refinery as the NNPC begins to supply the refinery 385,000 barrels of crude oil per day from October 1 which is next month.

Dangote Refinery

L-R: Director General; Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry; Dr. Chinyere Almona; Chief Executive Office; Sport Nigeria; Ms. Nkechi Obi; High Commissioner for Botswana; Her Excellency; Philda Nani Kereng and General Manager Cavista Holdings; Mr. Anthony Iloh; during the Botswana Business Breakfast Meeting held in Lagos.... recently

L-R: Group Head; Commercial Banking; Access Bank; Abuja; Nsikak Usoro; Chairman; Board of Trustees; Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Association Alliance (REEEA-A); Abubakar Sani Sambo; and Executive Director; Risk Management Access Bank; Gregory Jobome during the 2024 REEEA-A International conference; theme “Road to Net Zero Actionable Initiatives for Success” held in Abuja recently.

L-R: Director, Human Resources and Corporate Services, Promasidor Nigeria, Stanley Eluwa; Representative, Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority, Damilola Oshinowo; National Key Account Manager, Promasidor Nigeria, Arike Nwachukwu; Chief Admin Officer, National Lottery and Regulation Commission, Lagos, Bakare Adeyemi; and, Brand Manager Culinary, Promasidor Nigeria, Lillian Omorenuwa at the Onga Taste the Millions Week 2 Raffle Draw in Lagos… yesterday SUNDAY ADIGUN

L-R; Erelu Abiola Dosunmu; Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Umo Bassey Eno; Celebrant and Former Miinister of Petroleuem and Minerral Resources, Chief Don Obot Etiebet; his Wife Adenike Obot Etiebet during The Petroleum Club Lagos at the Third Quarter Dinner in honour of Chief Don Obot Etiebet of his 80th birthday held at The Metroplitan Club in Victoria Islannd Lagos on Wednesday… MUBO PETERS.

Ferdinand Ekechukwu - 08035011394

Email: ferdi_adthisday@yahoo.com

Falz, Bobrisky, VeryDarkMan: The Controversy Rages

Ferdinand Ekechukwu

Flarin Falana, aka Falz the Bahd Guy, has been a trending topic over the week following the mention of his name by popular cross-dresser, Bobrisky, real name Idris Okuneye in the alleged N15 million bribe to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to clear money laundering charge during his recent trial.

In April this year, Justice Abimbola Awogboro of the Federal High Court in Lagos, sentenced Bobrisky to six months in prison for Naira abuse after dismissing the money laundering charges against him. This followed shortly after he went celebrating the ‘Best Dressed Female’ award given to him at a movie premiere.

The controversial cross-dresser, who was released after spending some months, in a call recording that has since gone viral, said how he spoke to singer Falz and his father, Femi Falana (SAN), to possibly secure him a state pardon.

In the recording, Bobrisky could be heard explaining how he paid the EFCC the money. The leaked recording was posted by one Otse Martins, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, detailing how Bobrisky got the money and all that transpired.

While Bobrisky in a post on social media has since openly denied the recording in the leaked audio as false and denied bribing EFCC, the Nigerian rapper, Falz issued a 24-hour ultimatum Bobrisky about the issues actually.

Falz also said Bobrisky asked him for N3 mil-

lion to secure a VIP section at the Correctional Falana’s legal team, Falana & Falana Chambers, had issued a letter to VeryDarkMan, demanding a retraction of the “defamatory statements made against Falz”.

across all platforms where the allegations were disseminated.

Reacting to Falana’s legal team, Deji Adeyanju the solicitor representing Verydarkman, noted that Falz has already acknowledged some elements of the voice recording. that his publication of the voice recording was

not intended to defame Mr. Falana (Falz), but rather to draw attention to serious allegations warranting investigation.

The federal government has already demanded of the Correctional Centre have been allegedly sanctioned. However, Nigerians are watching as the matter unfolds.

Qing Madi to Electrify CANEX WKND 2024 Opening

Fast-rising Nigerian singer and songwriter, Qing Madi is billed to perform at the CANEX WKND 2024 Opening Ceremony on October 16 in Algiers, Algeria. Her performance will showcase the diverse rhythms

Known for her soulful voice and genrebending sound, Qing Madi embodies the spirit of creative fusion that CANEX WKND celebrates. Her music blends African styles

October

The month of October promises with a variety of genres to suit every taste. From intense dramas to heartfelt romances, viewers can look forward to a captivating selection of new titles.

One of such titles is Hijack ‘93, which will take you on a poignant journey on October 25th. This an airplane, leveraging passengers onboard in the name of social change, revisiting the 1993 plane hijack in Nigeria, sparked by the annulment of election results during the military-backed government.

Viewers will see familiar faces such as Bob Manuel, John Dumelo, Sharon Ooja, Nancy Isime, Jemima Osunde, and Efa Iwara, alongside talented newcomers Adam Garba, Allison Emmanuel, Oluwaseyi Akinola, and Nnamdi Agbo, who portray the hijackers.

Agozie Ugwu, with Robert O. Peters directing, Hijack ‘93 aims to continue the legacy of previous hits like Blood Vessel, Glamour Girls, and Living In Bondage: Breaking Free.

On the 2nd, through to 7th and 9th, episodes 1-6 of the seventh season of Love is Blind and Episodes 7-9 will premiere. Episodes 10-11 will be out on the 16th and episode 12, on the 23rd. This season, a new group of singles enters the

and lasting commitments.

Also, enjoy the latest addition to the Love is Blind franchise, Love is Blind, Habibi on the 10th with celebrity couple22 Elham Ali and Khaled Saqr as the hosts of this social experiment, where Arab singles connect and commit to marriage — before meeting face-to-face.

Trouble, a movie about a clumsy electronics salesman faces police corruption and criminal conspiracies in an attempt to prove his innocence after being wrongfully convicted of murder premieres on the 3rd of October.

Same day, the family can relax and watch the Bad Guys: Haunted Heist. Here, the crafty Bad Guys crew embarks on a high-stakes Halloween heist to swipe a priceless amulet from a spooky mansion. What could go wrong?

Enjoy some laughs with Ali Wong: Single Lady on the 8th. After a whirlwind couple of years, Ali Wong returns to the stage to dish on the highs, lows, and surprises of dating post-divorce.

On the 10th, Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft hits the service. Here, fearless adventurer Lara Croft confronts her traumatic past while unraveling an ancient mystery after being thrust into a high-stakes chase around the world.

The fun continues on the 11th with Uprising, a story about two friends who grew up together in the Joseon Dynasty, — one the master and one the servant — reunite post-war as enemies on opposing sides.

theme: ‘One People, United in Culture, Creating for the World’.

CANEX WKND 2024, taking place on October 16-19, is a celebration of African creativity and innovation. The opening will feature live performances by Qing Madi, L’Opera d’Alger, Nzau, Qabaniso Molewezi, Xenson, Samira Brahmia, and Djamal Laroussi.

sports entrepreneurship, culinary innovation, and visual arts. The CANEX Music Factory, hosted by legendary South African producer Oskido, will provide a platform for singers, beatmakers, and musicians to record songs and potentially be part of the next CANEX Music Factory release.

According to the organisers, “This year’s event promises to be an unforgettable celebration of African creativity, featuring a stellar lineup of artists, thought-provoking discussions, and networking opportunities.”

Funke Akindele Headlines Groundbreaking

Campaign, ‘Her Money, Her Power’

Anew campaign spearheaded by The She Tank in collaboration with BellaNaija, has been unveiled at an event in Lagos, highlighting the transformative impact of women’s economic power, as it sets to make waves.

Featuring acclaimed Nigerian actress and filmmaker Funke Akindele, the campaign serves as a centerpiece of the 2024 Women’s Economic Power campaign, a movement dedicated to driving a significant cultural shift towards gender equality.

The story, voiced by Akindele, weaves together narratives of women who have defied the odds to achieve financial autonomy and, in turn, uplift their families and communities.

Through vivid storytelling and authentic portrayals, the new campaign commercial showcases the ripple effects of economic power, illustrating how it fosters personal growth, challenges societal norms, and fuels collective progress.

Akindele, a global phenomenon with multiple box-office hits to her name, serves as a powerful symbol of the campaign’s message. Her sterling journey from acting to successful filmmaking underscores the notion that economic power is not just about individual success; it’s about enabling women to take control of their destinies and shape a brighter future for all.

The campaign highlights the stark reality that

despite progress, gender inequality persists. It emphasizes the need for accelerated change, citing statistics that show how women’s full economic participation could add trillions to the global GDP. It also reinforces the notion that when women are economically empowered, they reinvest significantly in their families and communities, creating a ripple effect of positive change.

From a widowed mother protecting her home to a young woman defying tradition to pursue her dreams, it spotlights the courage and resilience of women navigating a world often stacked against them.

By showcasing relatable, inspiring stories, the 2024 Women’s Economic Power campaign aims to ignite a movement, challenging societal norms and fostering a future where every woman has the opportunity to achieve economic independence.

Ferdinand Ekechukwu

Qing Madi

Akindele

Ferdinand Ekechukwu

VeryDarkMan Falz

Bobrisky

Friends and associates last weekend at the Wells Carlton Hotel, Abuja feted Dr. Agbai Eke Agbai for bagging a second PhD at Nasarawa State University, Keffi

PHOTOS: Julius Atoi

L-R: Chikwe Udensi and James Ume

L-R: Masi Chirebi and Barr Charles Ude

L-R: Prof Bilyanunu Sulaimau and Hon Dochong Bagos

Chukwu Alex and James Umeh

Dr Okoro Christopher and Hon Okoro Uchenna Kalu

L-R: Dr Obinna Nwachukwu and wife, Lady Felicia Nwachukwu

L-R: Vitalis Ortese and Prof Eugene Aliegbe

L-R: Engr Cyprian Igbano and Dr Osita Oleche

L-R: Babajide Ogunsanwo and Barr Kalu Kalu AguBriggs

Azubuike Emordi and Ibe Nwoke

L-R: Barr Charles Ude and wife Indo

L-R: Okeke Anya and Elder Nma Ogozy

L-R: Dr Ike Adinde and wife Ogo

L-R: Hon Igwe Ikenna and Chief Uzo Agwu

L-R: Charles Ozoemena and Barr Kenny Umeyi

L-R: Chukwu Alex, Dr Orji Ogbonaya Orji, Dr Agbai Eke Agbai and James Umeh

How Reforms Are Reshaping Nigeria’s Economy

The federal government used the platform provided by the Access Corporate Forum to share the benefits of its reform agenda, writes Dike Onwuamaeze

Men of significance who have significant messages to pass to important audiences do so through important platforms. This happened on September 19, 2024, at Eko Hotel and Suites Lagos during the 2024 Access Corporate Forum with the theme “Nigeria’s Economic Rebirth: Hopes and Implications.”

On that day and on a platform that was provided by the forum that brought together movers and shakers of the Nigerian economy, including the President of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, delivered the message that “evidence from data has shown that the economic reforms of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu have started bearing fruits.”

To buttress his claim, Edun stated that the government’s revenue is increasing; that the country has exited from Ways and Means financing of federal government’s expenditure by the Central Bank of Nigeria, which is literally the printing money to finance a country’s economic activities; that inflation rate has started declining and that the Naira is gaining stability in the foreign exchange market.

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

“But more importantly, we are putting in place with the backing and support of Mr. President a world-class treasury and liability management system that will take this country to where it should be in terms of financial management.”

He added: “I think that the reforms from evidence from the data and details that are available to us, the reforms are yielding fruits. The economy is beginning to turn the corner and we are all witnesses to improved macroeconomic stability such as stable exchange rates, improving government revenues, positive and increasing trade balances, current account balances, and a total reconfiguration and revamping of government revenues as well as the tightening and greater emphasis on expenditure.

“The economy is starting to move in the right direction. In Q2 the GDP growth was 3.2 per cent up from 2.5 per cent over the same period the previous year.

“But there is still more work to be done. If we must fund growth, we must find the resources both in foreign exchange and the Naira. We must have a sustainable environment in which we fund government.

“On the social sector, all is being done to ensure that the commitment of Mr. President will help the most vulnerable and provide them with direct transfers.”

He also declared that the successful delivery of the government’s economic stabilisation plan would reinforce the gains being recorded from implementing the reform measures.

The plan, according to him, included the mobilisation of 360,000 farmers to cultivate 360,000 hectares of land that would yield estimated harvest of 1.4 milliom metric tonnes of maize, wheat, cassava because “we must produce the food that we eat.”

He added that the government is providing support and relief to manufacturers through fiscal measures and disclosed that the economic management team would be reconvened soon as the government is preparing a document that would put together its economic plan.

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

“The rationale is this: 90 percent or so of the tax revenues that arrive in the government coffers come from less than 10 taxes. “There is ongoing work to bring down the rate of corporate income tax as we are trying to encourage investments to grow the economy.

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

In his response to the controversy trailing the refusal of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to honour its FX Forward contract obligations to manufacturers, the coordinating minister of the economy advised the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) and the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) to keep dialoguing with the central bank for the smooth resolution of the matter.

He said: “There is a related matter that MAN raised that has to do with a backlog of unpaid transactions regarding the supply of FX.

“My colleague (governor of CBN) in the management of monetary policy in a coordinated manner is unfortunately not here and he is the best person to reply on monetary policy matters. “However, what I will say is that we understand that the central bank is the counterparty to that issue and whatever the issues are dialogue and continued consultation is the best answer.”

He also enthused that consumer credit is coming to support the purchase of manufactured products, which would be a boom for the manufacturing sector, adding that in the nearest future Nigerians would be provided with a near single-digit interest rate of 25-year mortgages to ignite the construction sector.

Speaking during the forum, the Director General of MAN, Mr. Segun Ajayi-Kadir, pointed out that successive governments in the country have declared intentions to grow domestic production but failed to show adequate interest in the growth of the manufacturing sector.

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

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

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

Speaking in the same vein, Aliko Dangote, made a strong case for government to support local manufacturing. According to him, providing true support to local manufacturing in the country would be more effective than traveling abroad

to beg for foreign investments. Dangote said: “What attracts foreign investment is domestic investment. No domestic investments, no foreign investments! So, we have to make sure that we support our domestic investors. “I went to two places on Wednesday (September 18) and I was a bit angry. I wanted to eat snacks and all the biscuits that I was given in these two different places were made in China, which is wrong.

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

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

The Managing Director of Financial Derivatives Company Limited (FDC), Mr. Bismarck Rewane, who was a co-lead speaker during the forum, projected that Nigeria’s economy would hit $400 billion in 2026 from its current size of $368 billion to become the second largest economy in Africa.

However, Rewane advised the government to write off of existing indebtedness of the power distribution companies (Discos); sustain the power sector reforms, and achieve cost-effective electricity tariffs, predicting that the pump price of petrol could go higher before coming down in 2026.

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

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

Rewane, however, warned that Nigeria would be doomed if investments were not made in telecoms’ infrastructures.

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

He added that Nigeria is faced with a growth problem rather than a revenue problem.

“You can collect all the revenues you can in the world but it will get you nowhere. Revenue is necessary but not sufficient. Growth is both necessary and sufficient.

“Growth is a function of investment and you must treat your investors well by not what you say but by what you do,” Rewane said. Similarly, the Director General of LCCI, Dr. Chinyere Almona, said that the plight of the SMEs should keep the finance minister awake at night because some of the policies are stifling businesses. “Sometimes the policies are great but their implementations are zero,” she added.

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

Uwaleke pointed out that the Sukkuk bond for infrastructure development constituted less than 2.0 per cent of the federal government’s debt structure.

He said: “If you look at the borrowings that have been done overtime, in my view the right instruments have not been used in borrowing in the domestic market.

“When we borrow from the market, it is important that we use more of infrastructure bonds instruments because that is when we can be sure that the proceeds are tied to projects.

“My recommendation here is that we should choose to use more of infrastructure bonds.”

L-R: Chairman Access Holdings Plc, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede; Acting Managing Director/CEO, Access Holdings, Bolaji Agbede; Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun; President, Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote; MD/CEO, Financial Derivatives Company Limited, Bismarck Rewane; Chairman, Access Bank, Paul Usoro; Chairman, Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, Taiwo Oyedele, and MD/CEO, Access Bank, Roosevelt Ogbonna during the 2024 Access Corporate Forum in Lagos…. yesterday. SUNDAY ADIGUN

TRIBUTES

Celebrating Visionary Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede at 58

Olusegun Fafore

The joy of his birthday this year was eclipsed by the horrible incident of February 9, 2024, in which he lost his brother, friend, and business partner – Dr. Herbert Wigwe, alongside his wife and son in a helicopter crash in Nipton, California, United States of America.

If Herbert was alive, he would have been fiftyeight years old, too, on August 15, 2024. Aigboje and Herbert were born the same year but separated by one month and nine days. Sadly, the unfortunate incident brought their shared yearly celebration of life’s expeditions, accomplishments, and youthful memories to a permanent end.

For Aigboje, this year’s celebration was not only desiccated but also stripped of the colorfulness that characterises his birthday celebrations. From this very year, he will no longer hear Herbert’s energetic voice wishing you a happy birthday, just the way he will no longer be able to call him on his birthdays. The chasm between Aig and Herbert has become too wide to close, but the world has prayed that the gulf remains unclosed for at least five more decades.

These are not what Aigboje wished for, because his prayer was that God should grant Herbert and himself the grace to retell the beautiful story of Access Bank, and their joint entrepreneurial conquests as Septuagenarians, to encourage growing business leaders in one of the world’s leading Business Schools.

It may seem that some of these dreams have faded permanently but we need to remember that as humans “We see a hearse; we think sorrow. We see a grave; we think despair. We hear of a death; we think of a loss. Not so in heaven. When heaven sees a breathless body, it sees the vacated cocoon and the liberated butterfly.”

Our limited view of events and interpretation of occurrences often torment our souls temporarily until we later find meaning in our circumstances. I cannot ask Aigboje to free his mind of the thoughts of what would have been, but he needs to know that his brother and partner – Herbert, his wife and son are resting peacefully in the Lord.

Herbert was great alive and greater in death. The world stood still at his death. As unpleasant as the incident was, the incident showed how important Herbert had become and the influence Access Bank had garnered across the globe. God has indeed blessed the work of your hands – Aigboje and Hebert.

Even though that was not the manner Aigboje would have loved to showcase the success of his transformational leadership that took Access Bank to a place of distinction on the African financial services landscape, the triumphs were too visible to ignore by the world.

As a business leader, with extensive experience in banking and finance, spanning over three decades in investment banking, financial markets, risk management, strategy and commercial banking, Aigboje’s extra-ordinary acumen is now on demand than before when the world applauded him for the successful transformation of Access Bank Plc between 2002 and 2013. The bank’s top five bank status in Nigeria and repositioning as a financial services institution of repute in Africa put him on a global stage.

In his early thirties when he was appointed Group Managing Director, the Nigerian banking landscape did anticipate that an industry revolution was brewing. Steadily and stealthily, the initiatives he introduced at Access Bank became industry practice standards.

Aigboje’s brilliance radiated so brightly that he became the industry’s leading change agent. As an initiator of potent ideas, Aigboje, who was a member of Nigeria’s Banker’s Committee in 2012 led the sector’s voluntary adoption of the Nigerian Sustainable Banking Principles – an initiative which has since been replicated across the world.

His innovative mind not only contributed to nurturing the growth of the Nigerian financial services sector, but he also served as the Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fuel Subsidies. That appointment was more than a call to service for him. While his services saved Nigeria more than $6 billion in fraudulent petroleum subsidy claims, Aigboje risked his life in checkmating some of the country’s most notorious saboteurs in the quest to stop them from continuously bleeding the Nigerian economy.

This distinguished Nigerian, who was the founding chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Financial Market Dealers Association and led the establishment of the FMDQ Securities Exchange, has shown the greatness in Africans to the world. In 2010, he led Access Bank as Group Managing Director to donate $1million to the Global Fund’s Gift from Africa” Project.

That corporate action was Access Bank’s strategic response to Global Fund’s call for support from the African private

sector in the fight against the triple pandemic threatening the socio-economic development of the continent. The donation enlisted the bank as the first African private sector company to invest in the Global Fund programme.

Just the way alphabet ‘A’ that begins his name heralds other alphabets, so does Aigboje’s name appear as a forerunner on the list of numerous firsts in Nigeria and Africa. With his election as president of the Nigerian Stock Exchange Council in 2013, he became the first African to chair two national exchange platforms. In that capacity, he championed the demutualization of the exchanges and was commended globally for the completion of the transformational initiative in 2021.

For the path he has walked since his birth on Tuesday, September 24, 1966, Aigboje has not only become exemplary and inspirational to fellow humans, but is also a national pride. As a highly patriotic Nigerian who has rendered service to the benefit of the nation, the government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria conferred the national honour of the Commander of the Order of Niger (CON), the second highest honour in the country, on him.

Earlier this year in Nairobi, kenya, Aigboje who recently returned as the Chairman of Access Holdings Plc, was honoured with the prestigious African Banker Lifetime Achievement award, for his contributions to the development of the African financial services landscape, and successful transformation of Access Bank into a continental financial powerhouse with visible global presence.

At the May 2024 event in Kenya, the presentation of Aigboje’s glittering profile and remarkable achievements held an elite audience, comprising highly accomplished individuals from various walks of life and across the globe spellbound. The reactions that followed explained why his reputation as a business leader overshadowed his humongous philanthropic endeavours.

Most enthralling during the presentation was the vision of Coronation Group – a conglomerate encompassing most aspects of investing, lending, and insurance with a presence in Nigeria and other African countries, which Aigboje chairs its board. Leading a business that seeks “To democratize wealth creation opportunities for millions in Africa” reflects the deepseated compassion in Aigboje’s soul and business practices because we put our name where our ideals rest.

Perhaps, with Aigboje’s prosocial mindset and the quantum of his philanthropic interventions delivered through the Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation and its subsidiaries – the Africa Initiative for Governance and Aig-Imoukhuede Institute, he is arguably one of Africa’s leading philanthropists.

Aside from focusing his philanthropic activities on building the next generation of Nigeria’s government leaders, he is also committed to supporting the transformation of the public sector for effectiveness and boosting access to quality healthcare.

Olusegun Fafore was Head, Public Affairs at Access Bank Plc and currently Lead Strategist at ReputationPlus Limited.

Kelvin Jombo Onumah: Tribute to Champion of Change

Royce Okolie

Today, September 28, I would like to join friends of Chief Kelvin Jombo and other well-meaning Nigerians all over the world to celebrate a champion of change whose life is worth emulating.

Chief Kelvin Jombo Onumah is the MD/CEO of Sublime Industries Ltd, the parent company to Sublime Luxury Homes, Sublime Hotel & Suites, KJO Aluminum Limited Jombo & Mark Investment Limited, Sublime Enqivest, Sublime Star Pharmaceutical Co Ltd. He also established Kelvin Jombo Foundation - a platform created to give back to the people.

Jombo, who for over two decades, embarked on a mission of transformation, is undoubtedly worthy of celebrating. His unwavering dedication to creating positive change and tireless efforts to improve the lives of less privileged persons speak volumes about the kind of person he is.

Kelvin is a seasoned entrepreneur and a philanthropist. For him, philanthropy is not merely an act of charity, it is a dedicated service to humanity.

Kelvin Jombo Onumah’s contributions have been recognised with numerous awards and traditional titles, underscoring his influence

and dedication to community development. His humility and generosity continue to inspire and uplift many, reinforcing the importance of giving back to society. Out of his nature of giving back to society and making a positive impact in society, he started a journey with the Kelvin Jombo Foundation, which was established in 2010, championing empowerment and lending a helping hand across Africa for over a decade. He is committed to this calling.

The foundation is a leading peer-philanthropic network of social investors committed to advancing international causes in Africa. The objective of the foundation is to empower the youth, women, and children across the continent to catalyse economic growth that will engender poverty eradication, ensuring job creation and wealth creation.

The objectives are majorly centered around giving hope to the hopeless and shaping the life of humanity through various initiatives including human capacity development, rekindling the act of charity and social responsibility, bridging the gap of education by giving access to the less advanced people to acquire knowledge because education is what remains after one has forgotten what one has learned in school.

The foundation is well-rooted in addressing societal challenges,

humanities, and philanthropy in alignment with SDG’s (Sustainable Development Growth) goals of No poverty, zero hunger, Good health and well-being, Quality education, Peace, Justice and strong institution, and Sustainable communities whilst following its focus of empowering, nurturing individuals, and making the world a better place.

The foundation is committed to several projects including gospel outreach held annually in December 31st (Crossover night), actively encouraging gospel music industry through rewarding emerging singing talent with amazing cash prizes, prison outreach – preparing inmates for life after their release and rehabilitation, agricultural projects – providing Kenya rural the resources to acquire knowledge and skills to establish and sustain profitable farms, actively developing the communities particularly in Abiriba, Abia State through infrastructure and welfare contribution.

Onumah’s commitment to his community is evident through several landmark projects such as the reconstruction of the Abiriba Weekly Market (Afia Nkwo); building of a Community Civic Center/Hall at Ndi Erem, Umueso, Abiriba; construction of Ndi Erem Link Road with solar-powered street lights, and the electrification of the Abiriba - Ohafia Federal Road with solar-powered street lights

These initiatives have not only

improved infrastructure but also enhanced security and reduced crime rates. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the foundation provided relief materials, personal protection equipment, and healthcare support to mitigate the crisis’s impact on the community.

The Kelvin Jombo Foundation emphasises education as a tool for empowerment. It has granted scholarships to over indigent students in Abiriba and provided financial support for final-year students, newly admitted higher institution students, and senior secondary school students. Onumah’s dedication to education stems from his belief in nurturing untapped potential to help individuals achieve their aspirations.

In alignment with global health initiatives, the foundation conducts regular health programmes. For instance, during the 2023 World Sight Day, the foundation provided free cataract surgeries, and eye screenings, and distributed thousands of reading glasses and ocular medications, significantly improving the quality of life for many.

Leadership is about empowering others to achieve things they do not think are possible to achieve.

Your devotion to service and leadership is worthy of emulation. Your life is a testament to the idea that true greatness is found in lifting others and leading with a generous heart.

Onumah

This day is to celebrate not only the passing of another year but also the incredible person that you are. Birthdays are a chance to reflect on the journey you’ve traveled so far, and yours is a story of resilience, growth, and inspiration. From the way you handle challenges with grace to the kindness and warmth you extend to everyone around you, it’s clear that your presence is a blessing to many.

Kelvin Jombo Onumah’s life and work embody the spirit of empowerment through philanthropy. His foundation’s efforts have transformed countless lives, proving that dedicated service and compassionate leadership can create a better world. As he continues to inspire others, his legacy will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on humanity.

Aig-Imoukhuede

Navigating Rising Cost of Living

It is not all victory for Nigerian workers by the time the implements the new salary structure.

This is also the same for private sector workers some of who have started enjoying pay rise.

The Nigerian economy in recent years has experienced an unprecedented earnings growth.

Ideally, an equilibrium should exist

workers’ earnings to maintain a decent standard of living. But this seems utopian in the country which over time several minimum wage revisions have not matched the cost of living.

A Professor of Economics, Stephen Onyeiwu, argued that Nigeria’s minimum wage has never protected the populace from poverty because it is not

According to Prof. Kemi Okuwa of the Nigerian Institute of Social and Economic Research, Nigeria being 44th in Africa in terms of paying the lowest minimum wage, is among the worst salary payers in the continent.

Economist theories suggest a proporand purchasing power. In other words, weak purchasing power for individuals, and increased costs for businesses and vice versa.

a salary increase presents no real gain. The high cost of living instead means workers are learning less in real terms.tion.

Striking a balance between expenses and income therefore becomes crucial

for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE), Dr. Muda Yusuf, cautioned

discipline is more important this period than ever.

“Don’t be tempted by a pay rise and decide to embark on a spending spree. By the time you compare the prices of goods with the value of your rise, you will realise that there is no increment in real terms.

“Preparing a budget will come in handy this period to avoid spending outside resources and focus on

priority. Our focus should be more on food, transportation, house rent and children’s education,” he said.

Warning against impulsive buying, Yusuf advised workers to appreciate their limitations concerning their resources.

He added, “ Try as much as possible to avoid borrowing, and if you must borrow at all, consider approaching someone who will not embarrass you in case there is a default, avoid lenders with prohibitive interest rates but as much as possible, live within your means.”

Of importance too, according to energy solutions, noting that energy line-item expense for households and corporations alike.

“In every way possible, embrace renewable energy. Though the initial cost may be heavy but subsequent cost of maintenance is way cheaper. If you use a vehicle, try to convert to CNG which is almost 50 percent or cheaper than running on petrol.

“Avoid unnecessary journeys or trips trying to please everyone. One needs not be told about the prohibitive cost of transportation now. It is important that we relate with the he asserted.

Similarly, a Chartered Accountant and Tax Professional, Dr. Titilayo Fowokan, emphasised the need to prioritise needs and minimise want to stay above water.

“Wastage must be eliminated and cheaper substitute for items should be considered,” she advised.

Titi like Yusuf, in admitting to the high cost of transportation, maintained that workers could navigate this hurdle.

“This is the time employees should look inwards and collaborate with colleagues on how to manage transport costs. They can explore options where available.

hours can be negotiated with employers to cut down on some commuting costs. Considering the increase in the conscious curtailing of energy wastage such as putting on electrical appliances on a need basis may have to be adopted”, she counseled.

PERSONAL FINANCE

Henley & Partners: Nigeria Losing High Net Worth Individuals to Economic

The unattractiveness of Nigeria’s economy has continued to take a toll on its richest citizens who are exploring greener pastures to sustain their wealth base.

A global leader in residence and citizenship planning, Henley & Partners, Nigeria, expressed worry that if the present situation was not brought under control, over 300 millionaires may be forced to leave the country in the near future. This, he argued, could further erode the wealth base of the country.

Speaking at a virtual press conference recently, Managing Director, Private Clients at Henley & Partners, Troy Hanley, underscored the need to embrace investment migration opportunities to

mitigate economic uncertainties.

Woes

Hanley, clarified the scope of investment migration, stating that it was not about leaving a home country, but creating entrepreneurs and giving businesses a platform to grow.

He shared the prospects of investment migration, noting how it has enabled economies of countries like the United States, Canada, and Greece, to witness increased wealth concentration, while it is the other way round in Nigeria.

“While the number of millionaires is rising in several nations, Nigeria is unfortunately losing high-net-worth individuals due to economic factors. Statistics indicate that Nigeria may lose over 300 millionaires in the near future, a concerning trend for the country”, he said.

STEM METs, Firms Team up to Develop Africa’s Tech Skills

A social enterprise committed to enriching youngsters, STEM METS Resources Limited has teamed up with partners across Africa to enhance tech skills in the continent.

Through this partnership, over 4500 young talents were empowered with skills and tools in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) to prepare them for future realities.

At a separate event in Lagos and Abuja, the youngsters were engaged in an array of activities such as masterclass sessions, hands-on STEAM labs, esport zone, tech career Corner,

engineering Corner, parent corner, and quiz and pitch competitions, amongst others.

The STEAM Africa Fest event co-organised by STEM METs and 9ijakids, also exposed at- tendees to the knowledge of coding, engineering, robotics, fun science experiments, animation, AI tools, game development, and recycling, amongst others.

Commenting, co-founder of STEM METs, Jadesola Adedeji, explained that the expansion of the initiative to three more African countries underscored its legacy and impressive four years trajectory.

SystemSpecs Hails Lagos’ Strides in Tech Literacy

Software technology company, SystemSpecs has recognised Lagos state’s contribution to promoting tech skills among children at a recent award ceremony.

laptops and a special award, following the state’s emergence as the overall winning state at the 2024 Children’s Day Essay Competition (CDEC).

The CDEC is a corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative of SystemSpecs aimed at nurturing local talent and growing national tech capacity.

In the contest, Lagos State stood out with the groundbreaking performance of its 19 students ranked among the top 50 entries across the country.

Managing Director of HumanManager

Limited, a subsidiary company of SystemSpecs Group, Ms. Adekunbi Ademiluyi, described the gesture to further demonstrate the company’s dedication to driving national transformation through collaborations with stakeholders.

“Our goal with CDEC is to ensure that every Nigerian child, regardless of background has the opportunity to explore technology and its boundless potentials. Now in its 5th year, the contest is a testament to the company’s unwavering dedication to building local capacity for Nigeria’s future digital economy,” she added. Responding, Lagos State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamiu Tolani Alli-Balogun, thanked the company for the gesture, assuring that it would improve digital competence of students.

Nigeria’s ICT Sector Remains Undertapped, Says Expert

Accounting for nearly 20 percent of Nigeria’s real Gross Domestic Product (GDP), the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) is poised to propel the country into unprecedented wealth and sustainable prosperity.

Africa, Oluwole Asalu, highlighted the possibility of the local sector dictating global ICT trends. He, however, submitted that lingering hindering the sector’s potential.

He maintained that Nigeria’s vibrant youth population, along with its entrepreneurial spirit were key indicators of the country’s capability to lead in global technological solutions.

“The journey towards realising this tech potential is still fraught with obstacles that are not limited to infrastructure gaps hindering resources. Without a robust system in place, stall, preventing the sector from reaching its full capacity.

NGO Seeks Economic Empowerment of Widows

A humanitarian group, Total Life Concern (TLC) has sought special intervention funds for widows’ empowerment in the country, on them.

Founder and Executive Director of TLC, cash support to widows in Lagos, Edo and Akwa Ibom. Essiet, lamented general hardship in the

“In addition to infrastructure concerns,rier to growth. The need for a streamlined and supportive regulatory environment is crucial for nurturing innovation and attracting necessary investments. Policymakers must work collaboratively with the industry to create frameworks that encourage growth country, stressing however need for government and corporates to prioritise support for the vulnerable, including widows.

She was convinced that the group needs support not to pursue luxury, but to meet life’s basic needs.

She said the N2.5 million shared among 10 widows would go a long way to expand their children and society at large.

Chinweizu Oham : In Nigeria, Content Creation Is Huge Market

Chinweizu Oham, a young Nigerian filmmaker rapidly gaining recognition for her

creative

talents and innovative approach in the entertainment industry. She speaks about

content

creation in Nigeria and her new show. Oluchi Chibuzor brings the excerpts

Content Creation seems to be your forte looking at your profile. How would you rate content creation space in Nigeria?

I think it is an emerging market. I see many creators pop up on my Instagram and TikTok quite frequently, focusing on different aspects of life in Nigeria. Nigerians are natural comedians, so I enjoy watching the comedic content that comes from some of our people. There is a lot that can be showcased about the Nigerian way of life and I think Nigerian creators are doing a good job of showing the good, the bad, and the ugly through content creation.

Talk to us about your show, titled “Chin’s Way”?

For the past year since graduating, I have been exploring creating something of mine that could allow me to use the skills I learned in school. During this time, I joined the cast of a live sketch comedy show which helped me build and practice my comedic timing. I also began creating videos for Tik Tok and grew my skills as a content creator. Doing all this gave me the confidence to be able to launch my venture, which is where Chin’s Way comes in. While Chin’s Way is a semi-scripted talk show, I am still bringing in the techniques I learned as I will be playing a heightened version of myself. All my movements, my actions, and the things I say will be turned up to add to the comedy. In each episode, I will bring on one of my friends who has a different opinion on a specific topic. Nothing too serious; for example, the first episode will be about nature and being outdoors. I, as the host, will be against or for the topic, and my guest will have the opposite opinion. Each episode will follow the same structure, opening with a story of my history with the topic, then we will introduce the guest, and begin the interview portion of the episode. In this, we will discuss the topic and why the guest loves it. So, in the case of the first episode, we will talk about why my guest loves hiking, camping, etc, and why I hate it.

Throughout the episode, the interview portion will be interrupted by various little game segments. The episodes will end with us hopefully having found some common ground and an “atonement” section where I have to do what I have spent the episode being against. So, for the first episode, I will go on a picnic, in the park, and sit on the grass. The chosen

topics are lighthearted but will be made to feel like much higher stakes to add to the comedy of the situation as a whole. The show will be posted on YouTube and TikTok and clips will be available on Instagram. These are the places where we can best reach the audience we want.

What does this show bring to the table and how will it be a game changer?

First and foremost, the show is for Gen Z by a Gen Z. It brings a fresh take on the typical format of talk shows. I’m not just interviewing my friends, getting to know more about the things they love, and playing games with them, I’m also playing a character. We are introducing conflict and tension, and

TotalEnergises Distributes Solar Lamps to OML58 Host Communities

As part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), a multinational company, TotalEnergises EP Nigeria Limited has distributed solar lamps to school children of its host Oil Mining License 58 (OML58) communities in Rivers State.

The distribution was also part of the company’s ‘Light Up Naija’ initiative to support students preparing for their final examinations including the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), the National Examinations Council (NECO), and the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

The officials of TotalEnergises visited some of the schools in Egi land including Government Secondary School, Akabuka and Community Secondary School, Oboburu, all in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area of the state, where hundreds of students in Senior Secondary 3 (SS3) benefitted from the gesture.

In his remarks at the Government Secondary

School, Akabuka, the Manager, Capacity Development, TotalEnergises, Mr Jacob Ologe, explained that the gesture was to help children of their host communities prepare for the forthcoming examinations.

Ologe, said the distribution of the lamps was also provided to some other secondary schools within their area of operations and expressed the company’s enthusiasm in the promotion of education and youth development.

In his address, the Managing Director,TotalEnergises, Mr. Matthieu Bouyer, noted that the company was committed not only to the provision of cleaner, cheaper and more accessible energy but also to the sustainable development of its host countries and communities, especially the welfare of children.

Bouyer, represented by General Manager, Godspower Nwachukwu, disclosed that some of the solar lamps distributed were donated by staff of TotalEnergises from their resources.

He said “Working in partnership with the donor-staff, the company has also provided hundreds of these lamps to ensure that as many students as possible benefit from the initiative.

we’re resolving it in a comedic, very sort of unserious way. It shows that you can have very different opinions from other people, but still be great friends, and that there are healthy ways to have disagreements. There are many talk shows out there, but this is a first of its kind. I truly believe it will grab the attention of the younger generation, who are always looking for something new and who will appreciate the sort of satirical take on traditional talk shows. And eventually, it will grow into something so much bigger.

What can young people learn from your story emerging from one who had a dream till now?

They can learn to just give themselves time. There have been so many times when I felt

like giving up, times when I questioned if this was the right path for me. Being an entertainer is not a stable career at all, and you have to get used to a lot of rejection. Thankfully, in my case, I have a family that is very supportive and a great community that I built in New York through church and school that are all rooting for me to succeed, which is very important. It is very hard to go through life alone, and a good community, family, and strong faith are paramount. Nine-year-old me just knew I wanted to act, to entertain, but I had no idea how to get there, or if I would ever be able to. I had to overcome a lot of insecurities I felt both in and out. The day I finally admitted that I wanted to go to acting school as I couldn’t see myself doing anything else, was a big moment of growth for me. However, acting school was only the beginning because going to school does not guarantee a job in the industry. After graduating, when I wasn’t working or doing anything, I started feeling as though I had failed, as though I made a mistake in not pursuing a more stable career. It took a lot of crying and praying to realize how far I had gotten. I had to remind myself that I graduated summa cum laude with a BFA in Acting in an accelerated three-year program. That was not an easy feat, and it taught me that some things take time; ideas take some time to come to fruition, and sometimes you just need to give yourself some grace.

I’ve learned that some days will be harder than others, but it will all be OK in the end. Now, I not only have this show I am creating and starring in, but I am also currently interning at a talent agency here in NYC where every day I learn more about the ins and outs of the industry. Surely, things are falling into place.

In your view, what’s the future of content creation in Nigeria?

I think it’ll be a big market. Nigerians are very funny and creative people, and I am constantly seeing more and more content pop up from Nigerians on TikTok and Instagram. Different kinds of creators: beauty, fashion, lifestyle, comedy, food, travel. There is so much to do with Nigeria, it is so rich with culture, and more people around the world are getting very interested in the culture and people. Where there is demand, there is supply. So, many more content creators will be coming up to showcase the rich culture and lifestyle of Nigeria in the coming years.

In commemorating 50 years of existence and academic excellence, the Federal Government Girls’ College (FGGC), Bida in Niger State is poised to support neighbouring communities with medical outreach, scholarships and health sensitisation programme. In line with the theme, “50 Years of Memories, Magic & Milestones’, and to keep the academic competitive spirit alive, it would host an intercollegiate quiz and debate competition, Gala night and a Founders’ Day amongst other Nobel activities.

Also, the Etsu Nupe, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar would be present to commission the 50th-anniversary projects presented by the Old Girls, a testament to the collaborative spirit of the alumnae and the enduring legacy of the school.

Global President of the Old Girls’ Association (FEGGICOBIDOGA) Mrs. Hilda Nkor, who stated this in Abuja yesterday, said funds raised would go towards supporting vital school projects and scholarships for

deserving students.

She said over the years, the Old Girls have continued to give back to the school with construction and renovation of hostels, school clinic, equipping of the library, renovation and equipping of the staff room.

She added that this year would be no different as the Old Girls have jointly renovated the Multi-Purpose Hall, Constructed a fence round the hostels and reconstructed the perimeter fence of the school.

She said “The theme of our golden jubilee is, ‘50 Years of Memories, Magic & Milestones’, and we are poised to deliver a celebration worthy of FGGC Bida’s legacy of excellence, in collaboration with the school authorities.

“This milestone anniversary, therefore, provides us an opportunity to reflect on the shaping of generations of women leaders, innovators, and change agents.

“The highest point and grand finale of the 50th anniversary celebration will take place on the Founder’s Day.

“This day will be filled with heartfelt reflections, recognition of achievements, and forward-looking aspirations for the next generation.

Chinweizu Oham

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

Kuni Tyessi in Abuja

Innoson Begins Delivery of CNG Buses to FG

Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Company

Ltd (IVM) has delivered 25 per cent of the 100 Compressed Natural Gaspowered buses ordered by the federal government. The company promised to manufacture and deliver another 25 per cent of the buses as part of the Presidential CNG Initiative of fuel subsidy on the masses.

The delivery is coming about two weeks after the federal government formally placed an order for the CNG-powered buses following the visit of the Chairman/CEO of Innoson Vehicle, Chief Dr. Innocent Chukwuma, to President Bola Tinubu.

Speaking to journalists at the factory in Nnewi, the journey to Abuja, Chief Chukwuma said it was heart-warming to commence the delivery of the buses only a couple of weeks after receiving the order.

Chief Chukwuma said manufacturing the CNG buses for the government for use by Nigerians was more of a patriotic duty than the execution of a business contract.

He said, “Before the end of next month, we will be manufacturing and delivering another 25 percent of the 100 President Tinubu ordered during my visit to Aso Rock Villa.

“We have a partnership with the Federal Government to produce CNG buses for mass transportation. And that is because President Tinubu and his team recognise the fact that we have the capacity. Nigeria has the capacity. We are manufacturing CNG vehicles here. So,there is no need to look outside for what is available in Nigeria.

“It is commendable that President Tinubu believes that made-in-Nigeria is the way to go, and that is why the government gave us a contract to produce these CNG buses.

“We are glad that within two weeks after we got the order, we have already produced 25 percent of the vehicles which are departing Nnewi today for Abuja. The government has discovered that CNG is cheaper and results in very low maintenance cost when using it to fuel your vehicle.

“Therefore, let us support the government on this policy of looking inward for vehicles, especially

those powered by CNG.

“On our part at Innoson, what we owe the government and the people of Nigeria is to continue manufacturing vehicles that meet

Chief Chukwuma recalled that he had assured President Tinubu during his visit to Aso Rock Villa a few weeks earlier that Innoson would, in tandem with the presidential initiative on alternative energy for transportation, prioritise the manufacture and roll-out of IVM EVs and accelerate the production full CNG vehicles in Nnewi.

He said, “I had promised Mr. President that as the pioneer manufacturer of CNG vehicles in Nigeria, Innoson would contribute substantially to the success story of his Presidential Initiative on CNG, and that my factory would be delivering a

good number of buses monthly to the Presidency.”

He stated that at the inception of the plant more than 13 years ago, he assured Nigerians, and reiterated so many times subsequently, that the Nnewi plant would continue to manufacture vehicles based on the needs and requirements of the local market without compromising on quality standards.

cars by Innoson Vehicles, according to him, is in keeping with this commitment.

“Let me use this opportunity to reassure the government and all vehicle buyers in Nigeria that at Innoson, we have the capacity to produce full CNG vehicles, hybrid vehicles {that run on CNG and diesel or petrol}, and now EVs, in addition to vehicles that are powered by petrol or diesel alone,” Chief Chukwuma stated.

CFAO Nigeria Unveils CNGpowered King Long Bus

CFAO Equipment Nigeria has introduced a Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered bus, providing a sustainable and practical option for road transport operators.

This is in response to the rising cost of fuel and the growing demand for alternatives to petrol engines, according

The introduction of the 7-meter King Long strain on transporters and commuters, while also

The General Manager of CFAO Equipment Nigeria, Francois Van Bladel, explained that the CNG-powered bus is factory-built with the latest technology, making it a highly efenvironment. With fuel prices at an all-time to petrol and diesel, giving owners a way to cut down on operating expenses.

“This vehicle comes at a time when the high for both transport operators and passengers. The that reduces fuel expenses and contributes to cleaner air in our cities,” Van Bladel said.

He added, “By introducing the CNG-powered King Long bus, we are not only addressing the economic realities of the Nigerian market but also showing our commitment to greener and more sustainable transportation solutions.”

The King Long bus, equipped with four 80-litre CNG cylinders, ensures ample fuel capacity and reduces the need for frequent

spacious 25+1 passenger capacity, the bus is ideal for various transportation needs, including commercial transport, school shuttles, and

conditioning system ensures that passengers travel in comfort. Added features like a rearview camera enhance the overall safety and ease of operations for drivers.

The King Long bus is powered by a YC4D140N-50 engine that complies with

TIPS OF THE WEEK

Dashboard Cracks: Causes, Role of Auto Detailing in Prevention, Repair

identity, a canvas that holds memories of countless journeys. So, when cracks begin to appear on this

causes behind dashboard cracks and discuss how a professional auto detailing service like Fresh Layer can help restore your dashboard to its former glory.

Decoding the Causes of Dashboard Cracks

1. Exposure To Sunlight And Heat

The most common culprit behind dashboard cracks is prolonged exposure to sunlight and extreme heat. The ultraviolet (UV) rays in sunlight cause the materials on the dashboard, particularly plastic and vinyl, to dry out and lose their elasticity over time. This leads to cracking and peeling,

intensity. Especially in San Diego where we have a expose hit almost all year round, your interior components require a proper care.

2. Aging and Wear

Just like everything else, your dashboard is subject to the natural process of aging. Over time, the continuous expansion and contraction due to temperature changes, combined with regular wear and tear, can lead to cracks on the dashboard.

3. Use of Harsh Cleaning Agents

While keeping your dashboard clean is essential, using harsh cleaning products can strip away the protective layer and cause damage over time. Some chemicals can react negatively with the dashboard materials, leading to discoloration, drying, and eventually, cracking.

Preventing and Repairing Dashboard Cracks with Auto Detailing

Proper auto detailing service can help both in

1. REGULAR CLEANING AND CONDITIONING

Regular cleaning and conditioning are the unsung dashboard, while often overlooked, is consistently subjected to an accumulation of dust, dirt, and occasional spills, which can degrade the material over time. Add to that the constant exposure to sunlight and its damaging UV rays, and you have a recipe for a dull and potentially cracked dashboard.

come in, equipped with high-quality, safe cleaning

process removes accumulated grime and residual debris that, over time, can cause the dashboard to lose its luster and eventually lead to cracks.

dashboard materials is meticulously applied. This

the dashboard. Conditioning the dashboard helps to replace the essential oils that the material loses over time due to UV exposure and general wear and tear. This hydration prevents the dashboard material from drying out and becoming susceptible to cracks.

ensures that bus owners can save on fuel costs while helping to reduce the harmful pollution associated with traditional petrol and diesel engines.

Designed with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of 7,000 kg, the bus is suitable for city and inter-city travel, making it a versatile option for both private and public transport services in Nigeria. It comes with a warranty of 12 months or 100,000 kilometres, whichever comes providing reliable solutions for Nigerian roads.

Think of this regular cleaning and conditioning a cosmetic procedure but a critical regimen to maintain the health and longevity of your dashboard. This is especially important considering that a

play a vital role in maintaining its resale value. By investing in professional auto detailing services,

and life of your vehicle.

Innoson’s CNG-powered bus

CNG-powered King Long Bus

Will He Join the Bandwagon? George Ilenikhena

With the Nigeria Premier Football League,NPFL,still a glorious Principals Cup,it is no surprise that the country’s football governing body,the Nigeria Football Federation,NFF,is heavily dependent on Nigerian players of foreign descent or players that manage to‘escape’the shores of Nigeria to Europe at early ages and are making waves for the senior national team,the Super Eagles.With the recent exploit of 18-year-old George Ilenikhena for Monaco in the UEFA Champions League,the egg heads of the NFF have been given another shortcut opportunity to land another Eagle.KunleAdewale asks if the 18-year-old will join the bandwagon

George Ilenikhena moved to France with his parents at age three after a difficult start to life.

In spite of having starred for Amiens SC, Royale Antwerp and named one of the best players born in 2006 worldwide, very little was known about the 18-year-old until last week, when he scored the decisive goal in Monaco’s 2-1 win over Barcelona in the UEFA Champions League.

It, therefore, came as no surprise after Ilenikhena’s exploit against Barca that former Nigeria international and technical committee member of the NFF, Victor Ikpeba, charged his employer to quickly start the move of wooing Ilenikhena to shift allegiance to Nigeria, having starred for France at age-grade level.

Despite Nigeria currently boasting a wealth of attacking talents, including African Player of the Year, Victor Osimhen, along with Ademola Lookman and Victor Boniface, Ikpeba believes Ilenikhena has the potential to be a future star for the Super Eagles.

“I have been following the remarkable progress of the boy, he’s quick and will certainly be one for the future for the Super Eagles,” Ikpeba told ScoreNigeria.

“I know that he has already been capped by the French age-grade team, but we can still get him to play for the Super Eagles. It will be a tough battle, but with the right and timely approach, beginning with getting to his family, he can go on to play for Nigeria,” Ikpeba said.

With the Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL, still a glorious Principals

Cup competition, culminating in previous Super Eagles coaches to hardly go to watch NPFL matches, NFF chieftains therefore prefer the shortcut of wooing Nigeria players of foreign descent, who could not make the national team of the country of their birth, to star for the Super Eagles.

Indeed, erstwhile NFF President, Amaju Pinnick never hid his resolve at ensuring that youngsters of Nigerian descent, who are doing well in England and other European leagues don the Nigerian colours at the appropriate time. He said it was in the plans of his administration to build a young Super Eagles team ahead of the 2022 World Cup, (which Nigeria however failed to qualify for).

“What we are trying to do is what we call VIP scouting – talking to these young players that are playing abroad to play for their father land. Nigerians, even if they have four or five passports, are always excited being Nigerians. I can assure you that we shall get them to play for us at an appropriate time,” Pinnick had said. Therefore, the Super Eagles will always remain a second-string team in any international competition because more than 70 per cent of the players on parade are players that failed to meet the requirements of their country of birth and now see the Nigeria national team as an alternative.

Little wonder most of our national team players are no longer passionate and committed because the team was always a second choice and they never felt the pain of losing the way a ‘real’ Nigerian player would have felt it.

While many players have admitted to

drawing inspiration from singing their country’s national anthems while on international duties for their country, in contrast to Nigeria, some of these our foreign imports couldn’t even sing the country’s anthem, ‘old or new’, not to talk of trying to draw inspiration from it.

The next agenda on the table of the NFF may therefore be how to lure Ilenikhena to star for Nigeria rather than how to develop the home league to a level where it can produce quality players for the various national teams.

Having made his way through all of the youth levels of the amateur Antony Football Evolution, Ilenikhena joined the professional club of Amiens that was just relegated to Ligue 2, for the 2021–22 season.

During that season he scored a total of 24 goals for the U17 national side, while also playing and scoring in the Coupe Gambardella. This soon drew the attention of big clubs in France and abroad during the summer 2022, while he was still just aged 15.

Ilenikhena made his professional debut for the Amiens SC in November 2022, during a 10–0 home Coupe de France win to the Aiglon du Lamentin. He came on as a substitute for Jérémy Gelin, as his side was already 8–0 up.

Having fully moved from the youth teams to the National 3 reserve team, Ilenikhena still kept on training regularly with the first team, even making his first assist in December 2022 during a friendly game against FUS Rabat.

On 29 June 2023, Ilenikhena signed for Belgian Pro League Champions, Royal An-

twerp, on a four-year deal, for a reported fee of €6 million and on October 11, 2023, he was named by English newspaper, The Guardian, as one of the best players born in 2006 worldwide.

Later that year, on December 13, he scored his first Champions League goal in the 92nd minute of stoppage time, securing a 3–2 victory against Barcelona to be his club’s first ever win in the competition.

On 25 July 2024, Ilenikhena signed for Ligue 1 Club, AS Monaco last week, scored his second Champions League goal in the 71st minute of second half, securing a 2–1 victory against Barcelona to be his club’s first win in the competition.

The former Antwerp striker has already surpassed Mbappe’s record at Monaco, and his strike against Barcelona added another milestone to his growing reputation.

According to BBC, Ilenikhena is the first player in Champions League history to score against the same team in successive matches but for different clubs, having previously netted for Antwerp against Barcelona last December.

With his first goal for Monaco in only his fifth appearance for the club, Ikpeba insists Nigeria must act fast to secure his services. “This is the time to get him in, and thereafter he can fight for his place in the team,” he concluded.

Ilenikhena’s rise began early, setting a Ligue 2 record as the youngest scorer at 16 years and 150 days when he netted for Bordeaux in January 2023.

Ilenikhena shot Monaco in front against Barcelona in the Champions League

Man City Stake Unbeaten

Run at St. James’ Park

AfternarrowlyescapingdefeatathomeagainstArsenallastweekend,ManchesterCitywillagainbe facinganotherdauntingtestintheirquesttowinanunprecedentedfifthstraightPremierLeaguetitle, astheytraveltoStJames’ParktofaceNewcastle.TheMagpiesmissedagoodopportunitytotopthe tablelastSaturday,aftercapitulating3-1toFulhamandtheMagpiescanmakeamendwiththevisitof PepGuardiola’smen,whohavenotreallybeenattheirscintillatingbestsincethebeginningofthenew seasoninspiteofhavingyettoloseamatchafterfiveleaguegames

Manchester City will endeavour to strengthen their position at the top of the Premier League table when they travel to St James’ Park to face Newcastle United today.

The two teams will meet for the first time since March when the Citizens secured a comfortable 2-0 home victory in the FA Cup quarter-finals, courtesy of two goals from Bernardo Silva. Newcastle accumulated 10 points from their opening four Premier League matches, but positive results masked a far from convincing start and they have since suffered their first defeat of the season away against Fulham, going down 3-1 at Craven Cottage last weekend.

Goals inside the first 22 minutes from Raul Jimenez and Emile Smith Rowe

put the Cottagers in control, before Harvey Barnes pulled one back for the Magpies within the opening minute of the restart with his third goal in as many games. However, Fulham secured maximum points with a stoppage-time strike from Reiss Nelson.

Manager Eddie Howe admitted after the match that their error-strewn loss to Fulham was the “worst we have played” this term, and while they may sit sixth in the table and only three points off the summit, the Magpies faithful are aware that performances must improve if they are to see their team remain towards the top.

Newcastle were scheduled to be in EFL Cup third-round action on Tuesday, but their away clash with League Two outfit AFC Wimbledon was postponed as “extensive overnight flooding” created a sinkhole on the pitch at the Cherry Red Records Stadium. This fixture has since been rearranged to take place on October 1 at St James’ Park, and the winners will face Chelsea in the fourth round.

Howe and co have therefore been given a few days extra rest ahead of a challenging Premier League contest with Manchester City, whom they have beaten just once in their last 33 top-flight meetings - a 2-1 home victory in January 2019 under Rafael Benitez.

Just 49 hours separated the end of Man City’s pulsating 2-2 Premier League draw with Arsenal last Sunday and kickoff against Watford in the EFL Cup third round on Tuesday, resulting in Pep Guardiola making nine changes to his starting lineup.

Nevertheless, the Citizens prevailed by a 2-1 scoreline courtesy of first-half goals from Jeremy Doku and Matheus Nunes. There was nearly a sting in the tale from the Hornets, who pushed for a late equaliser after Tom Ince pulled one

back with a superb strike, but the hosts held on for a narrow victory.

The eight-time EFL Cup winners will face Tottenham Hotspur away in the fourth round next month, but they will first turn their attention back to the Premier League and will be looking to extend their unbeaten top-flight run in 2024 to 25 matches when they come up against Newcastle. Only Chelsea (26) in 2008 have ever enjoyed a longer unbeaten run in the Premier League era from the start of a calendar year.

Man City will be confident of success todayas they have won more Premier League matches (31), more away games (12) and scored more goals (101) against Newcastle than they have versus any other opponent in the division. They have also scored in each of their last 31 league meetings, which is the longest scoring streak that one team has against another in the division’s history.

The Citizens are sure to be aware of Newcastle’s 10-game unbeaten home run, but they were in fact the last team to beat the Magpies at St James’ Park, with a stoppage-time strike from Oscar Bobb sealing a 3-2 victory in January. They did lose 1-0 away from home in the EFL Cup third round this time last year, though.

Head -to -Head

Premier League Table

Manchester City goal scoring machine, Erling Haaland, could hurt Newcastle

GLOBAL SOCCER

How Team Lagos Impressed in Asaba

Abattle of the behemoths headlines this weekend’s Premier League action, as last season’s top two - Manchester City and Arsenal, scrap it out in what is already a top-of-the-table showdown.

The 2024 National Youths Games in Asaba, Delta State, has come and gone, but the remarkable campaign of Team Lagos as a state that parades the real age at a national showpiece designed for the U-15 athletes will be forever remembered as an entity that plays by the rules and encourages youths and sports development.

Lagos athletes stood out in their different sporting encounters, shattering records and staging indomitable displays. Prior to the road to Asaba 2024, Team Lagos dominated its counterparts in the Southwest zonal elimination ball Games, picking 10 slots before an emphatic outing in Delta State, surpassing its records in the 7th edition.

One of the major highlights in Asaba is a record set in boxing tagged (4 over 4) meaning:

2024 NATIONAL YOUTHS GAMES

scooping all the gold medals available, including where the hosts, Delta, featured pugilists.

Despite the fact that Lagos athletes fought gallantly with those that are older than them, yet they kept scooping medals and trouncing any state that came their way.

In Cycling, Isiaka Ibrahim staged a sensational display in the individual point race, defeating his archrivals from Delta and Bayelsa states, proving her mettle. Ibrahim won a gold medal in the point race.

The swimming team amassed a total of 10 medals; 4 gold, 4 silver and 2 bronze to finish second on the medals table for the keenly contested event.

It was another interesting outing in table tennis, where Rabiu Aishat contributed three medals in singles, doubles and mixed doubles events. She paired with Faisat Musbau to clinch a gold medal in the girls’ doubles; in mixed doubles with Hussein

Inkosi Brou: From Cardboard Swords to Olympic Dreams

Adeoye, where they settled for bronze. Following Aishat’s doggedness and the ability to stage a comeback she overpowered Chineye Okafor from Abia State 3-2 (11-8,7-11,9-11,11-9,11-8) carting home another title in the girl’s cadet division. Completing the medal haul in the ping pong game to four, Balikis Ajasa secured bronze in the cadet girls singles.

Newly discovered athlete in shotput, David Akinade also made a podium finish, securing a gold medal with the best performance of 7.74 in the F42/44 shotput event.

Funmilayo Beauty Oyero, who was a debutant in the Games last year, performed excellently in this year’s, coasting home a medal. The 9-year-old golfer won a silver medal which signifies a significant improvement on her growth in the sport and opportunity provided by the state government. Joshua Nicondemus, a budding wrestler proved his mettle on the wrestling mat. Nicondemus won a silver medal in the 52kg boy’s category.

Sharebeta Expands Global Reach with Acquisition of Ace Sports Marketing

Sharebeta, a proudly Nigerian marketing communications and audio-visual production company, is taking bold strides towards shaping the industry’s future. In line with its vision to drive innovation and connect brands with consumers, Sharebeta has announced its acquisition of Ace Sports Marketing, further solidified its leadership position and unlocked new opportunities in untapped markets.

Ace Sports Marketing creates

dynamic connections across diverse platforms, bridging the gap between brands and audiences through strategic and cultural alignment.

Their expertise spans rights management, sponsorship, and campaign evaluation, delivering bold and innovative ideas that seamlessly come to life across sectors.

Their comprehensive solutions include brand activations, digital programming, sports marketing, and experiential strategies, making them a

sought-after partner in the industry.

This acquisition enables Sharebeta to leverage Ace Sports Marketing’s extensive reach to engage audiences through immersive, impactful experiences that drive business results and foster lasting consumer relationships.

The synergy between these two companies will push the boundaries of what’s possible, ensuring that Sharebeta continues to deliver exceptional value in a competitive market.

Stakeholders Laud Orimoloye on Street Boxing Initiative

Stakeholders have expressed their satisfaction over the performances of Team Lagos, at the just concluded National Youth Games in Asaba, Delta State.

On the last day of the games, Team Lagos, rallied back from third position behind Edo State, to claim the second spot on the leaderboard. According

to the stakeholders, the most interesting aspect of the state performance, was the remarkable medals haul by the boxing team.

They were quick to praise the selfless efforts of the Senior Special Assistant on Sports, to Lagos State Governor, Damilare Orimoloye, for providing the platform for Lagos State to discover talented young box-

ers, that went ahead to do the state proud at the NYG. Reacting to the feats of the Lagos State representatives, particularly, the boxing team, Orimoloye attributed it to the unflinching desires of Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu to ensure that there is an enabling environment for youth to be positively engaged.

Man City Confirm Rodri Out of Season with Ligament Injury

Manchester City midfielder Rodri will miss the rest of the season after rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament.

The 28-year-old limped out of Sunday’s 2-2 draw against Arsenal in the Premier League on Sunday following a collision with Thomas Partey.

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola says Rodri has

now had surgery on his knee and will miss the rest of the campaign. “He had surgery this morning - ACL and some meniscus,” Guardiola said on Friday.

“So, next season he will be here. This season is over [for him].” Guardiola said Rodri was “irreplaceable” during last season’s title run-in, in

which City pipped Arsenal to win their fourth consecutive league title.

Rodri missed five games last season and City lost four of them. “Unfortunately we got the worst (news) but these things happen,” added Guardiola. “We will be there to support him in his recovery step-by-step.

At just 16 years, Inkosi is making waves in the world of fencing, a sport he first encountered through a profound moment of inspiration and childhood imagination. Though his name might be new to many, his story is one of passion, perseverance, and the serendipitous journey of a young fencer whose dreams are as sharp as his blade.

Growing up in the USA with Nigerian roots, Inkosi’s love for swords began long before he even knew what fencing was. As a young child, he would often be found in his backyard or living room, wielding makeshift swords fashioned from cardboard, plastic, and whatever materials he could scavenge. These homemade creations were his playthings, his companions in countless imaginary battles, and his earliest introduction to the art of swordsmanship.

It was not until he was eight years old that Inkosi’s playful fascination with swords found its true calling. The catalyst for this transformation was none other than Ibtihaj Muhammad, a trailblazing fencer who represented the USA in the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. Watching Muhammad’s grace and skill on the international stage was a turning point for Inkosi. The young boy was captivated by the sport, its elegance, and the strategic precision it required. His admiration quickly turned

into determination; he begged his mother to find a local fencing studio.

The search led to a studio where Inkosi borrowed his first saber and mask. The moment he donned the gear and felt the weight of the saber in his hand, it was clear: he had found his true passion. The studio became his sanctuary, and the sport, his new playground.

“I have always loved playing with swords. As a child I made swords out of cardboard, plastic, and anything I could find at home. I did not know anything about the sport of fencing until I watched Peter Westbrook Fencing alumna, Ibtihaj Muhammad compete in the 2016 Olympic games in Rio De Janeiro. I was eight years old and literally begged my mom to find the nearest fencing studio to our home. The day I stepped into that studio and borrowed my first saber and mask – I knew I had found home,” Inkosi recalled.

Today, Inkosi represents Nigeria on the fencing circuit, balancing his training and competitions with the demands of school and growing up. His journey from a young enthusiast crafting cardboard swords to a competitive fencer has been marked by dedication and hard work. He trains rigorously, honing his skills and strategy, with the goal of one day competing on the

world stage and making his mark in the sport he loves. Inkosi’s story is a testament to the power of inspiration and the transformative nature of pursuing one’s passions. From the humble beginnings of homemade swords to the disciplined world of fencing, his journey embodies the spirit of determination and the pursuit of excellence. As he continues to sharpen his skills and chase his dreams, the fencing community watches with anticipation, eager to see where Inkosi’s remarkable journey will lead next.

However, Inkosi believes he has what it takes to make it to the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.

“My goals are to qualify for the LA2028 Olympics for Nigeria, and fence at a Division 1 level at an elite Ivy League University, studying engineering and business. I train intensively four times a week with two different Olympians at the Peter Westbrook Foundation. I incorporate mental and physical work into my training, as well as open bouting and conditioning. With my intensive training schedule, along with my study habits, I believe I can achieve all my goals.”

The grandson of the former Director General of NAFDAC, late Prof. Dora Akunyili added: “Personally, making the 2028 Olympics for Nigeria is my biggest goal.

Excitement as CCSF, French Embassy Reignite Paris 2024 Experience

No fewer than 90 partici- pants were held spellbound as the Chika Chukwumerije Sports Foundation completed its one-day workshop, held at the Springhall British School in TheAbuja.aim of the workshop, which was supported by the French Embassy in Nigeria and French Institute, was to inspire young participants and educate them about the Olympics, self-defence and taekwondo.

In the first part of the workshop, 40 secondary school girls were taught about self-defence – the importance of environmental awareness, techniques and the legal use of self-defence.

Alaro City, the most investorfriendly free zone in Nigeria, are the proud Official Sponsors of the Nigerian Rugby League Association (NRLA) and the Nigerian Women’s Rugby Team. This partnership underscores Alaro City’s commitment to supporting grassroots sports development and empowering women in sports.

The Nigerian Women’s Rugby Team recently qualified for the 2025 Rugby League World Cup, marking a historic moment for the nation.

This achievement not only

The practice session, supervised by Olympic med- alist Chika Chukwumerije, included defence against attacks to the face and how to react to being held against their will.

The second half of the workshop had 50 children from the primary schools begin with inspirational stories about the Olympics before being taught about the Olympics and taekwondo.

The kids learnt about the Olympic motto, creed, flag meaning, Olympic cycles and sports in the Olym- pics, as well as life lessons about Olympians like legendary gymnast Simone Biles of USA, the inspirational

highlights the growing potential of Nigerian athletes on the global stage but also serves as an inspiration for African women in sports.

According to a report by the International Rugby Board (IRB), only 28% of registered global rugby players are women and this figure is even lower across Africa. Yet, the participation rate has been growing exponentially, with women’s rugby being one of the fastest-growing sports in the world.

Nigeria is one of the most populous countries in Africa and the team’s success could spark a

Eric Moussambani of Equito- rial Guinea, revolutionary Dick Flosbury of USA and Nigeria’s Taekwondo icon, Chika Chukuwmerije.

In introducing Taekwondo, the children were taught about the etiquettes of Taekwondo, as well as the rules, equipment and scoring procedures in Taekwondo, one of the current core sports at the Olympics. Attaché to the French Embassy in Nigeria, Mag- aly Losange, lauded the impact of the programme on the participants and others present, including observers from the French Embassy and Institute Francais.

wider movement, encouraging more women to engage in sports and participate in international competitions.

“We are thrilled to partner with the NRLA and the Nigerian Women’s Rugby Team at this crucial moment in their journey,” said Yomi Ademola, Managing Director at Alaro City. “Qualifying for the Rugby League World Cup - the first time an African team has done so - is an extraordinary milestone for Nigeria, underscoring the nation’s growing influence in the world of sports.

Nigerian Women’s Team Qualifies for 2025 Rugby League W’Cup

Inkosi Brou in the colours of Nigeria at an international competition recently

Team Lagos on parade during the opening ceremony of the National Youth Games in Asaba

Akeem Busari

Viral Schoolboy Howlers

DAILY Independent online of August 30 failed a simple phrasal verb test: “Economic hardship reports: Tinubu lashes at critics” Collocational information: Tinubu lashes out at critics

Of course, the inside pages, naturally, were also not left out: “The Honourable Minister for (of) Power….” But, Commissioner for Power…Niger State Government, take note!

“NDLEA arrests two over (for or in connection with) trafficking at Lagos Airport”

Vanguard of August 30 equally contributed four viral howlers to the pool of improprieties this week: “The kidnap victim regained his freedom on the payment of a whooping (whopping) ransom of N15 million.”

“…has given a firm assurance that his government will stop at nothing to (at) reducing the menace to the barest minimum in the state.”

“…and like (as) Governor Sanwo-Olu said, eternal vigilance should be the watch word (watchword).”

“…he has been able to repay back N20 billion.” Delete ‘back’ and move forward!

“Osuntokun scores Tinubu low in education” My amiable and humanistic former lecturer scored Tinubu low on (not in) education. An aside: Prof., thanks for all the biros you gave to us during lectures almost three decades ago in UNILAG. I remember it all as if it were yesterday! God will continue to prosper you. I also fondly recollect another fine gentleman, the late Dr. Hakeem Haruna of History Department, for his unique didactic methodology. May his soul continue to rest in peace.

Still on Vanguard: “ABUAD: It can stand with world class (world-class) universities”

“ABUAD students on life in the campus” Special Report: ABUAD students on life on campus—or, simply, ABUAD students on

campus life, especially for headline purposes

“Tinubu has no solution to Nigeria’s crisis” Definitely, Nigeria has more than one crisis: therefore crises.

Now, the final entry from Daily Independent under review: “…creative people to interact at (in) the corridors of power”

The Guardian front and inside pages of August 28 contained a surfeit of lexical falsehoods: “One military personnel was also killed in the encounter.” ‘Personnel’ (plural) is a collective noun that cannot be used for just an individual.

“…Wike said that his purported suspension was an act of political witch-hunting.” Conscience, nurtured by truth: political witch-hunt

“Time for leaders to close rank (ranks)…”

“Otti assures on welfare” Who did the governor assure? ‘Assure’ compulsorily takes an object.

“Uzodinma seeks on leadership training” Yank away ‘on’!

Still on THE GUARDIAN under focus: “… the military lobby intensively for deployment into (in) the zone.”

“To bring this to the attention of the decerning (discerning) investors, the Jigawa State Government is organizing the second Economic and Investment Summit.”

Lastly from THE GUARDIAN Law Report: “Courts are not permitted to suo motu raise issues, resolve same (the same) without hearing from parties.”

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER of September 21, circulated a few errors: “The good news came few (a few) hours before President Tinubu….”

“…after overrunning three terrorists camps (terrorists’ camps) in the riotous….”

The next four blunders are from a fullpage advertisement in one of the Sunday

newspapers under review: “I duff (doff—or ‘take off’—preferably) my hart (hat) for (to) a brother that is more of value than gold.”

“Your deligence (diligence) in business is wonderful….”

“Many residents of the state have agreed to endure in order to enjoy a safe and secured (secure) tomorrow.”

“Some parts of Maiduguri was (were) no go area (no-go areas) to any sane mind as people are (were) picked up for slaughter. The laws operating in those areas were different from any other parts (part) of the state (or other parts of the state).”

Finally from THISDAY COVER under review: “….the deployment of more troops to (in) states was belated.”

THE NATION ON SUNDAY of May 26 displayed slothfulness and crankiness: “To stem this abuse by some judges, the CJN said that he has (had) directed that before any judge can (could) travel abroad, he or she (sic) must obtain permission from the head judge.” My comment: instead of ‘he or she,’ use ‘they’—which is the acceptable form.

Still on last week’s edition of this medium: “…Wike opened up on the crisis in Rivers State and his grouse with (about) his successor….”

“If we have problems, probably there might be one reason or the other (one reason or another) the governor is not happy.”

“As two-time Governor of Lagos, you shone like star (a star).”

“To their dubious chicanery, your voice resonate (resonates) distinctly….” Also note that the last word in the extract is otiose! (This and the preceding blunder are from a full-page congratulatory advertorial by His Excellency….)

“Ecobank toll free (toll-free) number…The Pan African Bank” (Full-page advertisement) THE NATION ON SUNDAY of September 1

Àjoko Silva: A Beacon of Loyalty, Grace, and Resilience

TAs Joke Silva celebrates her 63rd birthday tomorrow (Sunday, 29 September, 2024), the world once again turns its gaze to a woman whose life and career have exemplified not only artistic excellence but also an extraordinary commitment to love, loyalty, and perseverance. Silva, an iconic Nigerian actress, media entrepreneur, director, and producer, has been a stalwart in both the entertainment industry and her personal life, standing as a shining example of resilience and grace, particularly in her devotion to her ailing husband, Olu Jacobs.

Born into an era when the arts were not the most traditional path for women in Nigeria, Joke Silva has carved a niche for herself through sheer talent and determination. From her early days as a student at the Webber Douglas Academy of Dramatic Art in London to the University of Lagos, Silva always had a keen sense for performance, leading her to be one of the most respected and sought-after actresses in Nigeria. Her ascent in the Nigerian entertainment industry, which began in the 1980s, has seen her star in numerous iconic productions, from Mirror in the Sun to Owurọ L’ọjọ, Violated and Women’s Cot, to more recent titles like Citation, Chief Daddy 1&2, Over the Bridge and Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti.

But Joke Silva’s legacy is not only defined by the numerous accolades and awards she has accumulated over the years. It is also found in her deep humanity and compassion, most poignantly showcased in her relationship with her husband, the legendary actor Olu Jacobs. Married since 1985, their love story has weathered the storms of time, illness, and rumor with remarkable fortitude. Jacobs, himself a towering figure in African cinema, has been battling a condition known as ‘Dementia with Lewy Bodies’, which Silva publicly revealed in 2021. The disease, which affects memory

and cognitive function, has been a significant challenge for their family. Yet, in the face of such hardship, Joke Silva remains steadfast in her care, love, and support for her husband, serving as a beacon of hope and resilience.

The couple’s bond has always been admired, but in recent years, it has become a powerful testament to the endurance of love. Joke Silva has been open about the toll Jacobs’ illness has taken on both of them, speaking candidly about moments of grief and longing for the man she once knew in full health. “We have gone through some times and situations recently that I wish I had the old you (Olu) here so I don’t battle these times on my own,” she shared in a 2021 interview, reflecting on her husband’s condition. Yet, through it all, she maintains a profound sense of gratitude for the moments of clarity they still share, choosing to celebrate life’s small joys amid the challenges.

Her grace in handling this deeply personal battle has not gone unnoticed. She has become a symbol of loyalty and perseverance, a woman who has shown that glamour and substance are not mutually exclusive. While managing her husband’s health, Silva continues to excel professionally.

As the Vice Chairman of the Lufodo Group, a company she co-founded with Jacobs, Silva remains deeply involved in the business of storytelling through stage, film, and education. Her role as the Director of Studies at the Lufodo Academy, which offers training in dramatic arts, reflects her enduring commitment to nurturing the next generation of Nigerian performers. Moreover, her influence extends beyond the screen and stage. Joke Silva’s impact on Nigerian culture and society is profound, particularly

started the month on a faulty note all through most of the pages: “Bride or masquerade?” The mask/effigy/masquerade is the object worn by a masquerader. Therefore: bride or masquerader?

“Bamanga calls Atiku, others treacherous” This is impossible because ‘treacherous’ is an adjective. The man called them traitors.

“Soludo assures support for construction of Nnewi mall” How can the governor assure support? The governor did not assure ‘support’—he either elicited support or gave an assurance of support to some people.”

“I wish you the protection of Almighty God and all your heart desires.” Get it right: heart’s desire (take note of the apostrophe and ‘desire’—not ‘desires’)!

“I and my family (My family and I—that is, if at all there should be separation since ‘I’ is a constituent of the ‘family) feel proud to celebrate a genuine Nigerian patriot….”

“We are all living witnesses to Yar’Adua Part 1” I am a witness, not a ‘living or dead’ witness!

Still on THE SUNDAY NATION under review: “The meeting of the Patriots with President Bola Tinubu in Abuja, few days (a few days) to this week’s National Political Summit in Uyo….”

“Copy her two colour (two-colour) look” Saturday PUNCH of September 21 goofed: “I won four golds as a nursing mother…” ‘The most widely-read newspaper’: four gold medals Daily Trust of August 29 ends the race with just two infractions: “The privilege (privileged) class has taken over virtually everything….” “…power show in the country is choking the common man on the street….” My own view: the man/woman in the street (also the man/woman on the street) ‘Commonness’ is implied!

in her advocacy for women and the arts. Her public stand against rumors of her husband’s death, which circulated several times in the last few years, showcases her strength and dignity. With characteristic grace, Silva has managed to quash these falsehoods while continuing to protect her family’s privacy and honour.

In many ways, Joke Silva’s journey is one of quiet strength, of a woman who balances the demands of her profession with an unshakeable devotion to her family. Even in the face of immense personal challenges, she continues to find joy in life, sharing her trademark smile with those around her. Her story is not just about surviving but thriving amidst adversity, embodying a rare combination of grace, strength, and compassion that few can match.

As she turns 63 tomorrow, Joke Silva stands as a signpost of what it means to live a life of purpose, love, and unyielding loyalty. Whether on stage or behind the scenes, she continues to inspire through her work, her heart, and her unrelenting devotion to her beloved Olu Jacobs. In her, we see not only the triumph of an artist but also the resilience of a woman deeply committed to the ones she loves. Happy birthday… Enjoy the moment.

KSA@78: Celebration of Musical Majesty

Last Sunday, 22 September, 2024, the legendary King Sunny Ade (KSA) celebrated his 78th birthday - a monumental milestone that not only honours his longevity but also reaffirms his unshakable influence on global music.

Born Sunday Anthony Ishola Adeniyi Adegeye, KSA has been a torchbearer of Nigerian music for over six decades, cementing his legacy as the pioneer of juju music’s international ascent. His sound - a sublime fusion of rich Yoruba cultural rhythms and modern innovation - has garnered worldwide acclaim, earning him the well-deserved title of “King of World Beats”.

KSA’s musical journey is a tapestry woven with groundbreaking creativity and cultural pride. From his early days as a fragile local star in Lagos to the global stage, where he introduced audiences to the hypnotic allure of juju music, KSA’s sound is a masterclass in rhythmic sophistication. He effortlessly blends traditional African percussion with elements of Western instrumentation, particularly his revolutionary use of pedal steel guitars and synthesizers. These elements, combined with his velvety vocal delivery and captivating live performances, have made his music a universal language that transcends borders and generations. Even at 78, the maestro’s relevance is undiminished. His humility, poise, and unwavering dedication to his craft have earned him not only legions of fans but also multiple Grammy nominations - an unprecedented feat for a Nigerian artist of his era. KSA remains a global ambassador for African music, with a legacy that echoes through every note and beat, influencing musicians from all corners of the world. His ability to evolve while staying true to the essence of juju music has made him an enduring icon.

As fans across the globe honour this monumental occasion, we celebrate a man whose music continues to inspire joy, introspection, and cultural pride. King Sunny Ade has not only gifted us with an extraordinary body of work but also with an enduring spirit of musical brilliance that will outlive generations. At 78, his artistry and influence show no signs of slowing down, a testament to his timeless genius.

Here’s to many more years of good health, creativity, and the boundless joy that only King Sunny Ade can provide!

TRUTH & REASON

Saturday, September 28, 2024Price: N400

MISSILE

Onanuga to Nigerians

“The PMS regime, has been deregulated. As far as this is concerned, the government is not dabbling into this controversy. Dangote as a private company is working on his own. NNPC is a limited liability company, and it has the right to fix the price of its own and so on” – Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga speaking on the varying price of petrol in the country.

OKEY IKECHUKWU

EDIFYING ELUCIDATIONS

okey.ikechukwu@thisdaylive.com

Before Any More Protests

Nigeria will be 64 in a few days’ time. It has not all been sixty-four years of pain. No, it has not. Much optimism greeted the birth of the nation. Much bloodshed went into a civil war that was ostensibly fought in order to keep it together for the good of all its constituent units. But the nation has not come this far without some broken promises and dashed hopes. There are still broken promises and dashed hopes, as I write.

Yet here we are: In thrall, as they battle painful policy decisions of the moment, which may yet deliver long-term benefits. In thrall, but unbowed, angry but determined not to be totally disruptive, full of angst and yet convinced that we are on the path to authenticity. Nigerians are facing their worst daymares (not nightmares anymore) yet.

Against the background of the foregoing, there is the prospect, or threat, of a national protest on the very day the nation is to celebrate the 64th anniversary of its flag independence. And, lest we forget, there is nothing wrong with protests or petitions in themselves; as part of the global democratic enterprise. They may take the form of written correspondence, verbalized and non-violent submissions, or physical displays of discontent; including street matches and generous showing of placards, on which are blazoned the matters of disagreement at the moment.

Thus, protests are legitimate means of social expression, so long as they are designed and structured around the desire citizens to bring up, and bring about, useful and positive, interventions in the society. And that is what makes it radically different from a riot. In the latter case, aggravated misconduct is the norm. This may have no higher social purpose in view, beyond the desire to plunder the polity and carry off anything of value that lay in the way of the rioters.

Most riots are characterized by deeds of madness. There are usually no clear collective goals, beyond the general and specific acts of vandalism that could acquire lives of their own if unchecked. Even when they are checked, riots are what they are: riots. Unstructured, socially self-defeating and sometimes driven by what can best be described as motiveless malignity.

The national protests of two months ago, which, presumably, is about to precipitate another one that has been in gestation, were no riots in most places. Some poor, jobless and hungry people took advantage of the situation to go on a stealing and looting spree. The northern part of the country was the most affected in this regard. This was no surprise to many, because that part of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has been under the weather of ungovernability for far too long. But we need not do ourselves in because of the allegedly planned October 1 protests. We saw more than enough protests in 1993, after the annulment of the presidential elections. We also know of the Aba Women’s Riot and several others, on the strength of which some have averred that our nation got its independence and everything about it today as a result of one type of protest or the other.

As was said here some two months ago: “It was the long-drawn protests of our founding fathers, in written addresses, in several constitutional conferences and some other means, that eventually birthed an allegedly independent Nigerian in 1960. Just as sceptics had their doubts about the sincerity of the colonialists when they promised us independence, many reasonable Nigerians also doubted the sincerity of the military whenever a ruling junta announced plans to return the nation to civil rule”. And that was after all manner of subtle pressures and open

protests.

It was said, further: “Even more sceptics looked on with grave misgivings at the protracted military rule, unconvinced that it was serious when it “threatened” to birth a democratically elected government. Twenty-five years later, and despite the apparent shortcomings, we are making progress; willy nilly if you will. And that progress has more elements of suffering, misgovernment, lack of intraparty cohesion and the absence of a memorable ideological focus from the political class.

Our progress is coming through bitter, mind boggling, morally disorienting and psychologically devastating lessons. The lessons are apparently unscripted, and the teachers are teaching away without Lesson Notes and conventional teaching certificates. And they are exacting and merciless – these teachers.

The names of the teachers include the following:

(1) Dishonest politicians, (2) Broken promises, (3) The consequences of citizen gullibility, (4) The results of supporting the wrong candidates, (5) The progressive denudation of the capacities of our national defense and security forces, and (6) The increasing inability of the ruling elite to protect itself from its own depredations”.

As was further observed here, “President Obasanjo, coming in as the first to hoist the flag of democratic rule after the military, was a quasi-military-civilian president. He did his best to craft good policies and establish institutions that would aid good governance.

Presidents Goodluck Jonathan and Muhammadu Buhari were the circumstantial by-products of a system of elite myopia that had prevailed in the land for over 50 years. They were not entirely responsible for the problems they inherited. Their parties, the PDP the APC, were, again, not entirely responsible for everything that went wrong with Nigeria under their watch.

The Nigerian State was taken hostage long ago. For over 50 years now, many powerful individuals and groups have succeeded in pushing personal and limited group interests into the front row of national consciousness; such that, today, 25 years into a nowunsettling experience with a fledgling democracy, we are not sure where we really are as a nation. Those whose interests are at variance with wider and deeper national interests have become the real enemies of Nigeria. They may well have actually constituted themselves into a team of highway men and women who waylay everything that could rescue Nigeria and consolidate our current democratic experiment.

Protests are coming and going, because our “25 years old democracy is being bombarded from all sides by (1) A fundamentally distorted eldership recruitment process, (2) Skewed values, (3) A largely dysfunctional educational system, (4) A flawed national psyche and (5) A youth bulge that is increasingly becoming the biggest unaddressed national crisis. With every passing day, these problems morph into new, and self-replicating, societal challenges”.

The havoc wrought on the soul and psyche of this nation by the Nzeogwu coup d’état of January 1966 also came up for mention here two months ago. Part of the submission then was the counter coup that came some six months after Nzeogwu’s unfortunate intervention embodied the worst forms of thoughtless, state-sanctioned misconduct with

The efforts of the government need to be better contextualized for better understanding. Protesters must be aware that their protests can only be meaningful if, in protesting, they do not forget that the nation must remain in existence for them to carry out their protests successfully live to enjoy its “dividends”. The president’s cabinet has not performed in such a way that it can be said to have impressed anyone, including itself. Some ministries have done a lot, but the ministers are dumb about it. Mr. President, Biko, think more of capacity as you shoo out the non-performing ministers in your cabinet.

impunity. We are living with its aftermath today. The initial coup, and the subsequent ‘retaliatory’ one, banished the nation’s true leaders from the political and leadership playing field”. They lived in silent protest for over a decade.

“The ‘replacement generation’ for the founding fathers and leaders of Nigeria, whom they were grooming along ideological lines for the propagation of specific ideological norms, stagnated for 12 years, until 1979. Zik, Awo and Aminu Kano would since have given way to the likes of Tafawa Balewa, Michael Okpara, Bola Ige and others before 1979.

The backlog of two generations of leaders, who were left unfulfilled by the military interventions, did not exercise and fulfil their calling. The petulant idealism and uninformed exuberance of the groups of coup makers trampled upon traditional rulers, traditional values, and almost every other thing that was generally respected as instruments for social control”. So, it has all been series of voiced and unvoiced and unclear protests at every turn.

The many institutional, sociopolitical and axiological problems plaguing the nation today, and which have plagued it for over 50 years now, got all the fillip they needed from the actions and inactions of the past. We got a deluge of prematurely retired military officers within a span of 20 years, precisely because of the negative dynamics of coup making in Nigeria. Many such retired military personnel became frustrated and unfulfilled professionals because of the new character of the Nigerian state after the 1966 military coups. Without intending it, many of them ended up being pushed into areas they would never have contemplated. And their new trajectories naturally elicited protests”.

The point was also made here that: “Our nascent 25 years old democracy has thrown up leaders with sudden stupendous wealth from questionable sources. Their wealth has mostly impacted their immediate and extended families, of less than 15 persons, and a few friends. Their local communities, members of their religious congregations, most of their friends and even members of their extended families know how poor or rich they were a few years before they went into politics. The priests, traditional rulers and other supposed custodians of public conscience ask no questions”.

Before the next protest, let the aspiring protesters be clear about what they want, what lines of action they wish to take and what specific positive outcomes they hope to achieve thereby. The protests will not be accompanied by riots if they are well structured. The government should have made some mileage for itself in discussions and negotiations after the last protests. But, but has it? The issues raised back them seem to still be on the front burner.

Many protesters are driven by poverty and lack of survival skills. That is why the Federal Government should look hard at the hunger in the land, revisit the impact of the measures it has so far taken to address the problems and make some preemptive interventions while it can still do that before October 1.

The efforts of the government need to be better contextualized for wider citizens buy-in and understanding. Protesters must be aware that their protests can only be meaningful if, in protesting, they remain fully conscious of the fact that the nation must exist before they can continue to carry out any protest in it. The president’s cabinet has not performed in such a way that it can be said to have impressed anyone, including itself. some ministries have done a lot, but the ministers themselves are dumb about it.

Tinubu