Yemi Cardoso: Floating of Currency Key to Achieving Forex Market Reality
As Israel’s Wars Rage, Thousands Gather to Mark First Anniversary of Oct 7 Hamas’ Attack
French President, Macron, calls for halt to arms deliveries to Israel
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
Thousands of people gathered over the weekend for the first emotional commemorations marking the anniversary of Palestinian militant group Hamas' October 7, 2023 attack on Israel.
The first candlelight vigils, memorials and marches to mark the anniversary were held in cities ranging from Tel Aviv to London, Paris and Berlin, with
and relatives of the 370 people killed in the massacre
Swears in new council chairmen, says it's beginning of new Rivers HURIWA tasks NJC to sanction judges over frivolous court orders
chairmen not to misuse the power bestowed on them, stressing that there would always be consequence for their actions.
Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, yesterday, said he had to take the position he took on local governments in the state because the system was in a desperate situation, which required desperate measures.
Speaking while swearing in the newly elected chairmen of the 23 local government areas of the state, at Government House, Port Harcourt, Fubara said the outcome of Saturday’s council election marked the beginning of a new Rivers State.
The governor thanked President Bola Tinubu for his role in the Rivers State local government elections. He said Tinubu gave them the requisite support for a successful exercise.
Fubara warned the council
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, also yesterday, said with the conclusion of the Rivers State council elections, it was clear that nothing was better than democracy.
However, outgone Chairman, Caretaker Committee of Ogu/Bolo Local Government Area, Evans Bipi, accused Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, of usurping the powers of the president. At the same time, Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) expressed concern over what it described as the increasing issuance of frivolous court orders and ex-parte injunctions by judges,
Chuks Okocha, Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja and Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt
EFCC to Firms, Agencies: Non-compliance with NEITI's Process Costly Mistake
Reps move to amend Act setting up transparency initiative NEITI says over 5 trillion scf of gas produced in two years
Emmanuel Addeh
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has warned agencies of government and companies operating in the extractive sector that non-compliance with the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) will come at a cost to them.
A statement signed by the Assistant Director, Communications & Stakeholders’ Management, Chris Ochonu, yesterday stressed that the
anti-graft agency’s Chairman, Mr Ola Olukoyede spoke as a special guest while presenting NEITI’s oil and gas report recently in Abuja.
It quoted Olukoyede as warning all industry players, oil and gas companies and relevant government agencies that refusal or resistance to comply fully with the annual NEITI industry audit process is considered by the EFCC as a costly mistake.
Olukoyede added that where the work of NEITI stops marks the beginning of EFCC investigations.
He promised that the current NEITI report on the oil and gas sector is now with the commission for further necessary action. The chairman commended NEITI for its credible data and promised to deepen cooperation with the agency.
Also speaking, the Chairman of House of Representatives Committee on Petroleum Downstream, Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere announced that a private member bill to amend NEITI Act 2007 to align with the current realities sponsored by him on the floor of the House had
already scaled through first reading. He advised all stakeholders in the NEITI process to partner with his committee to amend the NEITI law.
The Civil Society Representative on the NEITI National Stakeholders Working Group (NSWG), Dr Erisa Danladi, used the forum to remind the civil society and the media that information and data for the 2022 and 2023 oil and gas industry put in the public domain had provided enough tools for engagements and investigation through constructive advocacy.
Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Timi Frank, alleged that Wike was planning to secure a court injunction to block releases from the Federation Account to the councils in Rivers State.
Commending the chairman of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors Forum and Governor of Bauchi State, Bala Mohammed, Fubara reiterated his membership of PDP, saying his action at the polls is constitutional.
The governor stated, “The truth remains desperate situations require desperate measures. We were confronted with a situation where the local governments of this state were headed to doom.
“And the truth about it is, because of the genuine love that we have for this state, we must salvage the local government councils. What we did, with the support of the Rivers people, was to salvage the local government councils.”
Fubara thanked the Almighty God for the successful election. He also thanked Tinubu, former governor of the state, Dr. Peter Odili, former PDP national chairman, Uche Secondus, Rivers elders and others for the success of the election.
He said detractors made every possible move to stop poll.
Advising the new council chairmen, the governor said one of the target of his administration was to build Rivers to an enviable state, where people would come and thrive in businesses, knowing that the state was peaceful.
Fubara stated, "We want to take our people to the promised land. Work as if the government is ending tomorrow, ensure you give your people what is right. Life is not about you getting everything, otherwise, you will lose all. God has reason for bringing you.
"We want this to be a landmark. This is the beginning of a new Rivers State. I will follow you up, I believe this is not the time to make mistakes, I know with what you have done in the past, you can deliver good governance to your people.
“We are doing this today for the world, Nigerians to know that the issues of local government in Rivers State is over. Maybe from tomorrow the story will be a different game.
"Today, I am really fulfilled, happy and relaxed that what we started and didn't know when to end had ended very well. Every citizen should give their support to this administration, we mean well for you."
Fubara advised the new council chairmen, "Once you see yourself as the emperor because of the money in your pocket, which belongs to the people, you will fall.
“See yourself in terms of service to the people. Ensure you represent the people that have voted you well. Work for your local government, open your doors, embrace everyone, nothing is bigger than that. That is the structure.
“When you work for the people, bring them in. I want to charge you to be peace loving. I am aware they are arranging 20 people per unit to fight you at the council, but, please, follow my approach. At the right time, you will always win if you are patient and calculative."
While applauding the media for their engagement in unravelling the activities in the state in the last few months of the political battles, Fubara said, "In the course of what we did, a few persons might have not been happy, but it was not intentional.
“I apologise, but what is important is that the sovereignty and integrity of Rivers State must be protected because that was the oath I took on May 29.
"I will give God Almighty all the glory because without Him, we wouldn't have come to this level. I appreciate the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for being democratic, even in the face of the situation that faced us, he still gave us support.
"I am so glad that the chairman of the Governors Forum of the PDP, my senior, Governor Bala Mohammed, is here with us and I assure us that despite the situation I remain a member of the PDP."
Fubara explained that because of his love for the state, his administration decided to salvage the local government council.
He stressed, "To the glory of God, we have succeeded.
"We are not going with their ways, we will continue to go the means of peace and ensure the state is safe. We are not going to encourage breakdown of law and order."
The governor swore in the chairmen a few hour after the chairman of Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC), Justice Adolphus Enebeli (Rtd), presented certificates of return to the candidates.
Despite distractions and threats to halt the election by Wike’s loyalists
and the Nigeria Police, residents of Rivers State witnessed a peaceful and successful poll across the 319 wards of the state, on Saturday.
At the end of the exercise, candidates of Action Peoples Party (APP) emerged chairmen in 22 local government areas, while Action Alliance (AA) won in Etche local government council.
The winners were Vincent Reuben Obu (Abua/Odual), Chibudom Ezu (Ahoada-East), Mr Iyekor Ikporo (Ahoada-West), Mrs Tonye Oniyide (Akuku-Toru), Lazarus Gogote Nteogwuile (Andoni), Dr Sule Amachree (Asari-Toru), Anengi Barasua (Bonny), Dr Harry Agiriye (Degema), Chief Brain Gokpa (Eleme), David Omereji (Emohua), and Uzodinma Nwafor (Etche), who emerged on AA platform.
Others were Monday Dumiye (Gokana), Isreal Abosi (Ikwerre), Martins Nwigbo (Khana), Chijioke Ihunwo (Obio/Akpor), Prince Isaac Umejuru (Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni), Ishmael Oforibika (Ogu/Bolo), Dr Igwe Achese (Okrika), Promise Reginald (Omuma), Enyiada Cookey-Gam (Opobo/Nkoro), Gift Okere (Oyigbo), Ezebunwo Ichemati (Port Harcourt) and Matthew Nenubari Dike (Tai).
RSIEC had at the end of the election on Saturday, declared results for 22 local government areas, where APP cleared all the seats, but the result of Etche Local Government Area was reserved for Sunday, which was later announced and a candidate of AA emerged victoriously as the council chairman.
While declaring the result of Etche Local Government Area in Port
AS ISRAEL’S WARS RAGE, THOUSANDS GATHER TO MARK FIRST ANNIVERSARY OF OCT 7 HAMAS’ ATTACK
AFP reported.
In London, thousands gathered in Hyde Park, waving Israeli flags and "bring them home" placards with faces of the hostages still held by Palestinian militants in the Gaza Strip.
Photos of those killed on October 7 were shown on a big screen as attendees lit candles in their honour.
"We want to remember the people who have been brutally murdered and we want the world to remember," Henry Grunwald, chair of the organising committee, told AFP.
Mandy Damari, whose daughter Emily was one of the 251 people taken hostage by Hamas, said her daughter was "full of life".
"I need to hug her again and I need to see her smile", she said, on the verge of tears.
In Berlin, around 650 people attended a commemoration. Police said they had detained 26 people who shouted insults at participants.
In Paris, thousands of people gathered on Sunday to remember the victims of the attack.
"We're here in support of Israel, the Israeli people, in memory of those who were killed and for those who were kidnapped" that day, Robert Zbili, the president of the National Jewish Fund, told AFP.
In Geneva, 300 people gathered on Sunday evening in front of the UN offices there for a tribute.
But in a video message and a post on X, Israel's ambassador to the UN, Daniel Meron, denounced the organisation for having failed to "pass a resolution
holding Hamas and its supporters responsible".
The build-up to the anniversary has been marked by soaring tension, with fears the ongoing conflict could spiral into a wider war.
The October 7 attack resulted in the death of 1,205 people, most of them civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official Israeli figures, which includes hostages killed in captivity.
Israel's retaliatory military offensive has killed at least 41,870 people in the Gaza Strip, most of them civilians, according to figures provided by the territory's health ministry and described as reliable by the United Nations.
In a statement late Sunday, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: "One year on from these horrific attacks we must unequivocally stand with the Jewish community and unite as a country. "We must never look the other way in the face of hate." He also called for a ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon, and for a free flow of aid into Gaza.
"We must also not look the other way as civilians bear the ongoing dire consequences of this conflict in the Middle East."
More memorials are planned for today, including an expected outpouring of emotion in Israel itself.
Besides the official ceremony in Jerusalem, President Isaac Herzog will lead a memorial at daybreak in Sderot, the closest Israeli city to Gaza, to mark the moment it came under attack 12 months ago.
More than 50 people were killed in Sderot, either by Hamas gunmen or by the barrage of Hamas rockets.
There will also be a rally at Kibbutz Be'eri, where more 120 people were killed in the assault, calling for the return of the remaining hostages.
In Tel Aviv, relatives of hostages and their supporters will hold a rally calling for a ceasefire.
In the United States, where the events of October 7 have been swept up in the divisive race for next month's elections, Republican presidential hopeful Donald Trump is due to mark the anniversary at a "Remembrance Event" in Miami organised by Jewish community leaders. There will also be a vigil outside the White House for the Israeli hostages.
Many cities have also seen proPalestinian protests marking the anniversary with calls for a ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon and condemnation of Israel's military campaign.
Meanwhile, French President, Emmanuel Macron, at the weekend called for a halt on arms deliveries to Israel for use in Gaza , prompting swift criticism from Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu.
Macron told France Inter radio that "the priority is that we return to a political solution, that we stop delivering weapons to fight in Gaza", BBC reported.
At a summit in Paris, the French president reiterated his concern over the conflict in Gaza continuing despite ceasefire calls, and he also criticised Israel's decision to send ground troops
The Executive Secretary, NEITI Dr Ogbonnaya Orji, thanked President Bola Tinubu administration for supporting NEITI through his policy of non-interference.
He welcomed the administration’s support for the agency’s open data policy and announced that NEITI has embarked upon establishing a data centre to serve as a one-stop shop for information and data on Nigeria’s extractive sector.
Also, the centre, he said, will serve as a warehouse for all extractive industry
Harcourt, the RSIEC chairman said the outcome of the October 5 local government elections had made a profound statement that the ballot paper in the hands of the people was stronger than arms and ammunition.
Enebeli explained that after it was stood down on Saturday, the process of collation of votes cast in Etche Local Government Area for the chairmanship position was eventually completed. He said it was done with discrete introspection, impartiality and electoral justice, with the lawful votes meeting the two-thirds of the majority of valid votes cast in favour of the Action Alliance candidate.
Enebeli said, "We can see that Rivers people and residents in their overwhelming majority of opinion have given veracity of vindication to RSIEC avowed position to conduct a free, fair, credible, transparent, allinclusive, violence-free, successful and treasured election by the Treasure Base
data in aggregated and disaggregated formats for easy public access by multi-stakeholders, especially the civil society, the media, extractive industry companies, government agencies and the legislature.
of the Nation, Rivers State, without police or security agencies."
He said of the 319 political wards, APP won 314 councillorship positions, while other parties clinched wins in the remaining five positions. According to him, while APP won 314 councillorship seats, All Progressives Congress (APC) secured the seat in Okrika Ward 3, Boot Party secured one seat in Ahoada West, Labour Party (LP) secured the seat in Ward 3, while the Social Democratic Party (SDP) won the Ward 3 seat, and Young People's Party (YPP) secured Ward 5 councillorship seat in three other local government areas. Presenting Certificates of Return to the 23 chairmen and vice chairmen, Enebeli said it was done in compliance with Section 59 of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission
on page 43
YEMI CARDOSO: FLOATING OF CURRENCY KEY TO ACHIEVING FOREX MARKET REALITY
addressing members of the Harvard Club of Nigeria in Lagos on “Leadership in Challenging Times: Restoring Credibility, Building Trust, and Containing Inflation,” at the weekend in Lagos.
Cardoso insisted that without credibility, no policy, however well-intentioned, could succeed.
He said, “Credibility is earned by consistency. The decision to close this gap, while painful in the short term, sent a message to market participants that the CBN was committed to transparency and sound monetary policy."
into Lebanon.
Netanyahu quickly pushed back but during a telephone call between the two leaders on Sunday, Macron reiterated France's "unwavering commitment" to Israel.
In a video earlier released by his office, Netanyahu said "Israel will win with or without their support", adding that calling for an arms embargo was "a disgrace".
"Shame on them," he said, referring to Macron and other Western leaders who have called for what he described as an arms embargo on Israel.
Macron, in an interview with the French broadcaster which was recorded on Tuesday and aired on Saturday, said "France is not delivering any" weapons to Israel.
He added: "I think we are not being heard. "I think it is a mistake, including for the security of Israel," he said, adding that the conflict was leading to "hatred".
Macron also said that avoiding an escalation in Lebanon was a "priority" and that "Lebanon cannot become a new Gaza".
Netanyahu's office responded by saying that any country that did not stand with Israel was supporting Iran and its allies and proxies.
Netanyahu said: "As Israel fights the forces of barbarism led by Iran, all civilised countries should be standing firmly by Israel's side.
"Yet, President Macron and other Western leaders are now calling for arms embargoes against Israel. Shame on them."
He pointed out that speculative trading had been minimised while stability was gradually returning to the currency markets.
The CBN governor explained that the recent decision to implement the Electronic Foreign Exchange Matching System (EFEMS) was to rebuild trust, saying this is essential to central banking.
Last week, the central bank announced the introduction of EFEMS for Foreign Exchange (FX) transactions in the Nigerian Foreign Exchange Market (NFEM).
The new system, which was to be implemented not later than December 01, 2024, and preceded by a two-week test run in November, was expected to enhance governance and transparency, and facilitate a market-driven exchange rate that will be accessible to the public.
Cardoso said, “Trust is the currency of central banking. If the public loses trust in the institution, the efficacy of its policies diminishes. Our decision to implement the Electronic Foreign Exchange Matching System (EFEMS) is rooted in this understanding.
“By enhancing transparency and providing more accurate oversight of forex transactions, we send a strong signal that the CBN is serious about fair and efficient markets."
Cardoso, who is one year in office as CBN Governor this week, told his audience that leadership, especially at the central bank, often required making difficult and sometimes unpopular decisions, adding that the bank remains a listening institution, unafraid to reconsider decisions if
they fail to meet its original objectives. He said, “In the face of economic challenges, it is imperative to focus on core objectives—restoring the credibility of the institution, building trust in the financial system, and, most critically, containing inflation. “These are not just strategic goals; they are foundational to any meaningful recovery."
Speaking on his journey so far, Cardoso recalled that upon assumption of duty, he understood that the credibility of the CBN was the bedrock of any action by his team.
He said containing inflation remained the bank’s core mission, acknowledging that the CBN is yet to meet its target.
However, he stressed that recent declines reported by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) in July and August 2024 showed that the CBN was moving in the right direction.
The CBN governor explained that the bank’s decision to raise the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) to 27.25 per cent was a bold move. He said higher interest rates, while painful for borrowers, were necessary to curb excess money in circulation and control inflation.
He said, "Leadership is about making hard choices to secure long-term stability over short-term comfort in moments like these."
Highlighting key leadership lessons, Cardoso said, “Leading through challenging times means avoiding the temptation to take on too many initiatives. The central bank must focus on its core mandate—price stability. It is easy to become distracted by various political and economic pressures, but as a leader, one must prioritise. “Effective communication is as important as the right policy. Clear and open communication fosters trust. From publishing the results of the Dutch Auction to ensuring regular updates on economic data, transparency has been our guiding principle."
He added, "Trust is built on the belief that a central bank will take the necessary steps to ensure economic stability, even when those steps are uncomfortable or politically contentious."
Olukoyede
Continued
in Abuja
COURTESY VISIT BY NLNG TEAM TO OANDO ENERGY...
L-R: Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas
FG Approves N820bn for Completion of Abuja-Kaduna-Kano, Bodo Bonny Highways
Threatens to
cancel Julius Berger’s N740bn contract if firm fails to sign reviewed deal Ohanaeze Ndigbo says insinuations of lopsided road infrastructure in South unfounded
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja and Benjamin Nworie in Abakaliki
The federal government has approved over N820 billion for the rehabilitation of the critical Abuja-Kaduna-Kano expressway as well as for the completion of the Bodo-Bonny road in Opobo, Rivers State.
A statement in Abuja yesterday by Uchenna Orji, spokesman to the Minister of Works, David Umahi, further stated that the federal government had tasked Julius Berger Nigeria Plc on the need to fast-track the completion of the rehabilitation of the two major road infrastructure.
He quoted Umahi as having given the charge during a meeting with Julius Berger represented by its Executive Director, Projects, Benjamin Bott and the Head of Contract Management, Omonigho Brown at the ministry’s headquarters in Mabushi, Abuja.
Speaking during the meeting, Umahi recalled that the Federal Executive Council (FEC) at its meeting of September 23, 2024 approved the re-scoping and downward review of the contract for the rehabilitation of the Abuja – Kaduna – Zaria – Kano dual carriageway.
At the same time, he stated that it also revised the estimated total cost/ augmentation of the contract for the construction of Bodo-Bonny road with bridges across the Opobo channel, route 430 in Rivers State, contract No. 6247.
These, he said amounted to a total contract sum of N740,797,204,713. 25 and N80,076,361,036.13, tasking the contractors handling federal government's projects on the need for corporate nationalism in price negotiation in the face of the daunting economic challenges facing Nigeria.
He said: “Then we have section II of
the Abuja-Kaduna-Kano, which is 82 kilometres by two, which is the section that JBN Plc is working on. And so, if you check what FEC approved on 23rd of September, FEC had approved that the total contract sum within the scope of Berger would be N740 billion, which means that if you remove N391 billion paid already, you now have about N340 billion remaining, which is the scope of their work for the 164 kilometres.”
He urged the contractor to mobilise in the four sections of the project to finish the job within 14 months.
Umahi noted that the prices given on the said projects were the best, in view of the economic reality of the time.
He added: “So we are appealing to you not to try to increase the contract sum, because it will not be possible. And we have written to the President to approve that if JBN Plc
does not accept the N740 billion, we will terminate the contract.
“We have terminated some of their jobs because we've been negotiating sometimes 12 months, 13 months. There must be an end to negotiation. We are ready to pay you (JBN Plc) even fresh mobilisation, just to underscore the interest of the President on this project. So we are appealing and begging you that by Monday, you should be able to sign the addendum to the contract.”
He harped on the need for Julius Berger Plc to mobilise in multiple locations of the two projects so as to complete them in record time.
On the Bodo-Bonny project, Umahi said: “We don't think we have any issue. We've agreed on the N280 billion, which is the new contract sum that is fixed, and then for a 12-month completion period; that is an additional 12 months.
Financial Year 2023: Heirs Insurance Group Grew Premium
Dike Onwuamaeze
Heirs Insurance Group (HIG) recorded substantial growth and an impressive performance in the 2023 financial year across all business indicators, according to a report published recently.
The financial performance of HIG, comprising Heirs Life Assurance (HLA), Heirs General Insurance (HGI), and Heirs Insurance Brokers (HIB), highlighted its resilience and operational efficiency.
The group’s general and life companies recorded 59.3 per cent increase in Gross Written Premium (GWP), rising from N19.9 billion in 2022 to N31.7 billion, for the year ending December 31, 2023.
HIG’s earned insurance revenue for year 2023 was N20.5 billion, which represented 80 per cent increase from N11.3 billion it recorded in 2022, reaffirming the group as one of the fastest-growing insurance groups in Nigeria.
A breakdown of the results showed that HGI, the non-life arm of HIG, reported a 77 per cent increase in GWP, rising from N8.5 billion in 2022 to N12 billion in 2023.
Its total assets for 2023 stood at N18.1 billion, representing a 27.4 per cent increase from N14.2 billion it recorded in 2022, while its Profit Before Tax (PBT) surged from N791 million (restated) in FY2022 to N2.4 billion in FY2023, a staggering 203 per cent growth that signalled the company’s effective cost management and strategic growth initiatives.
HGI also reported a net investment income of N1.4 billion for 2023, a 45 per cent increase from the preceding year.
This impressive top and bottom-line growth underscored the company’s ongoing development and its unwavering focus on delivering value to clients.
HGI also disbursed N1.6 billion to policyholders in claims settlement, up from N471 million in the prior year.
by 60% to N31.7bn
The sharp rise in claims settlement emphasised the company’s commitment to its customers and dedication to keeping service promises, with a strong focus on timely and transparent claims processing.
HLA equally delivered phenomenal results with 71 per cent growth in GWP, rising from N11.5 billion in 2022 to N19.7 billion in 2023.
Its total assets also recorded an extraordinary 98 per cent increase, rising from N19 billion in FY2022 to N37.7 billion in FY2023.
The company demonstrated financial discipline, posting a 143 per cent rise in investment income, from N1.1 billion in FY2022 to N2.8 billion in FY2023.
Its PBT increased by 395 per cent from N379 million (restated) in 2022 to N1.8 billion in 2023. Furthermore, Heirs Life disbursed N2.5 billion in claims in 2023, representing a 119 per cent increase over the previous year’s N1.1 billion, to demonstrate its commitment to
delivering timely financial relief to its customers during their times of need.
HIB delivered a strong performance with significant growth in income and profit. Its PBT rose by an impressive 128 per cent from N232 million in 2022 to N529 million in 2023, while its total revenue grew by 68 per cent, climbing from N760 million in 2022 to N1.275 billion in 2023.
Commenting on the results, Chairman of Heirs Holdings, Mr. Tony O. Elumelu, said, “These results underscore our unwavering commitment to democratising access to insurance and delivering enduring value for our stakeholders.
“Heirs Insurance Group has achieved remarkable year-on-year growth in just three years of operation. We set out to transform the insurance industry, and I am pleased to see the remarkable growth the group has achieved and the innovations it has rolled out.
“ So we want you to mobilise in a minimum of three locations. So that within these 12 months, we'll be able to finish the job. In the letter to NLNG, we had to also propose 30 per cent advance payment, so that they will be able to have enough funds to mitigate inflation and any form of variation.”
The meeting ended with a formal handover of the Letters of Award in respect of the reviewed approved projects contract sums to Julius Berger (Plc), the statement said.
Part of the terms contained in the letters said: “That the contract is fixed, firm, non-transferable and
deemed duly terminated by effluxion of time, unless otherwise formally reviewed by the ministry.”
Also, in order to bring succour to road users, the Federal Ministry of Works has commenced emergency repairs of failed portions of the Abuja- Kaduna dual carriageway. The contractor is Messrs H&M (Nig.) Ltd.
The scope of the contract consists of patching of existing potholes, as well as the reinstatement of critically failed sections of the said alignment. And the approved contract sum is N366 million, a statement from the ministry said.
Obaseki Bags Digital Governor Award as FG Fetes Gov’s Public Sector Automation Reforms
The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has been recognized as the Digital Governor of the Year (Public Sector Automation) by the Bureau of Public Service Reforms (BPSR).
Governor Obaseki will be decorated with the award during the Nigeria GovTech Public Service Awards 2024 scheduled for October 10 and 11, 2024, in Abuja.
The federal government institution under the Presidency set up the BPSR to drive change in Nigeria’s Public Service.
The BPSR said Obaseki has been leading the charge as his reforms in public sector over the past eight years in Edo State have been exceptional and worthy of celebration.
The Edo State Government under the leadership of Governor Godwin Obaseki-led over the past eight years implemented bold and transformative reforms in the state’s civil and public service to make the service more nimble, responsive and technologically driven.
Today, the State has transitioned from an archaic, analogue and strenuous mode of operations to a digitised, seamless and efficient mode, ensuring better service delivery to the people of the state.
According to the BPSR, Obaseki’s recognition followed a nationwide nomination and online voting process conducted among various media platforms.
All thanks to Governor Obaseki, Edo State, is today the most connected digitally in Nigeria and operates the most digitised civil and public service, with all local governments connected to fibre optics. Edo is also the first state in the country to have entirely shifted to a digital mode of administration. Files are now processed through the service-wide e-government platform, ensuring quick turnaround time. In addition to the public sector automation, the governor has ensured an improved work environment for workers in the state, which boasts of perhaps the most modern secretariat complex in the country, is now supported by an e-government protocol, which ensures that government processes are processed digitally, enabling a paper-less work culture. Civil servants in the Edo are the highest-paid in the country, even as the adoption of the Contributory Pension Scheme has ensured a dignified post-service life.
(NLNG), Dr. Philip Mshelbila, and Dr. Ainojie 'Alex' Irune, managing director, Oando Energy Resources Nigeria Limited (OERNL), during a courtesy visit by the NLNG team to Oando PLC Headquarters in Lagos… last Friday
PEACE AT LAST...?
With Federation Petroleum Accruals Falling from $11.9bn
to $1.83bn, Agora
Demands Urgent Amendment of PIA
Questions NNPC for not always remitting 40% to federation from PSCs Calls for reduction of national oil firm's PSC management fee from 30% to 7%
Emmanuel Addeh in
Abuja
Agora Policy, a Nigeria-based think tank, yesterday called for the immediate amendment of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), arguing that accruals to the federation account had drastically fallen as a result of the oversight in the 2021 law.
Specifically, the Waziri Adio-led group in a policy brief, noted that revenues accruing to Nigeria are now meagre under the operation of the Act,
slumping from $11. 9 billion to $1.83 billion, translating to an odd situation for the country.
In contrast, Agora Policy maintained that the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) is now better off in terms of revenues while the federation is significantly worse off, explaining that this situation needed to be urgently addressed.
Former President Muhammadu Buhari had on August 16, 2021, signed the then Petroleum Industry
Herbert Wigwe Memorial Garden: Late Access Bank MD, a Great Philanthropist, Says ACEGID Director
Director of African Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Diseases (ACEGID), Professor Christian Happi, at the weekend, described the late Group Managing Director of Access Bank Plc. Dr. Herbert Wigwe, as a great philanthropist who believed in using his privilege and resources to improve humanity and Nigeria.
Happi spoke while unveiling the Herbert Wigwe Memorial Fountain and Garden, in celebration of the centre's 10th anniversary, at Redeemer's University, Ede, Osun State.
He stressed that the garden was dedicated to honouring the life and legacies of Wigwe, who was a strong advocate and supporter of ACEGID.
According to Happi, "It is both an honour and a privilege to stand before you today in celebration of a remarkable individual who made an indelible mark on our organisation, ACEGID, and the lives of so many around him through his charitable works throughout his life.
"We are all delighted to be here today for this meaningful ceremony as we gather to unveil the memorial fountain and garden in honour of our friend, brother, and colleague, Herbert Wigwe." Happi stated that he first met Wigwe a few years ago through a discussion about how they could work together and they became good friends.
He said Wigwe was a very kind and passionate man who believed in philanthropy and using wealth for the betterment of others.
"He was a selfless, inspirational, caring, loving, positive thinker and impactful in his actions," Happi said of Wigwe.
He emphasised, "Since ACEGID’s conception, Herbert has been a staunch proponent of our work and mission. His unwavering belief in the transformative power of our mission propelled us forward to where we are today."
The director of ACEGID highlighted some of Wigwe’s notable contributions, which included his help in setting up a solar farm where most people parked their cars, with sums running into half a million dollars.
He stated that as ACEGID grew from an idea into an internationally recognised disease research institute, Wigwe continued to support the centre, “Reminding us of the impact we can have when we have supporters like Herbert.”
According to Happi, "As we reflect on his legacy, it is clear that Herbert embodied the commitment to improving human health and lives that we embody in our work here at ACEGID.
"Today, as we unveil this beautiful garden and fountain, we create a space that honours Herbert's memory and serves as a sanctuary for reflection, inspiration, and community.
Bill (PIB) into law, effectively bringing to an end to a 21-year process to reform the petroleum sector in the country.
At the time, the PIA was hailed both nationally and internationally as the missing link and a panacea for stemming Nigeria’s apparent manifestations of the natural resource curse.
In principle, the PIA was supposed to attract investment into the country’s petroleum sector; enhance the regulatory and business framework; and increase revenue accruing to the federation. In reality, however, Agora stated that none of these aims have been achieved.
But for revenue, Agora argued that the federation has not received more revenue, as petroleum revenue to the federation has fallen drastically after implementation of the PIA, explaining that this is not due to just fall in oil production or prices.
On the regulatory and business environment front, it said that confusion and conflicting signals have meant the maintenance of the difficult and stifling operating environment, while on the investment front, there had been an
exodus of International Oil Companies (IOCs).
“...The Federation has received lower revenue from these JV assets, as the dividends declared are very low, and there have been many months in which no dividends were paid.
“For context, in 2021, the last full year before the implementation of the PIA, the Federation received $10.65 billion from sales of JV crude oil and $1.252 billion from sales of JV equity gas and feedstock, amounting to a total revenue of $11.902 billion from crude oil and gas sales from JV assets .
“By contrast, in 2023, the first full year of the PIA implementation, the federation received $399,000 from sales of JV crude oil, $701.287 million from sales of JV equity gas, and $1.13 billion as dividends from NNPC, a total revenue figure of $1.833 billion .
“This is a drastic revenue reduction which clearly shows that the federation has not materially benefited from the new arrangement with its JV assets after the PIA,” Agora Policy pointed out.
With the implementation of the PIA, NNPC, it observed has been
deducting 60 per cent of profit oil and gas from Production Sharing Contracts (PSCs).
NNPC’s interpretation of subsections 9 (4) and 64 (c) of the PIA, it said, has resulted in the company deducting 30 per cent for management fee, and an additional 30 per cent for the frontier exploration fund, while the federation gets the balance of 40 per cent.
Again, similar to JV dividends, Agora Policy stated that there were many months when the NNPC did not remit the 40 per cent balance.
“It is also questionable why the owner of an asset, the federation, will receive only 40 per cent of the profits from such assets, and even sometimes receive nothing,” the think tank argued.
While JVs and PSCs account for over 80 per cent of crude oil production in the country, however, persistent difficulties of NNPC in funding its part of JV operations, it said, led to the introduction of the PSC model.
“The federation had 23 revenue streams from the petroleum sector
before the implementation of the PIA in 2021. In 2021, the NNPC accounted for eight revenue streams, which fetched $10.284 billion, or 44.63 per cent of total federation petroleum revenue of $23.046 billion.
“Thus, NNPC accounted for the largest proportion of petroleum revenue inflows to the federation before the PIA. This has changed drastically after the PIA. Despite the increase in total number of revenue streams to 30, NNPC’s contribution has reduced from eight to three streams.
“ In 2023, NNPC’s three revenue streams brought in $5.01 billion, or 16.23 per cent of total federation petroleum revenue of $30.862 billion . It is important to note that the reduction in revenue from NNPC is as a result of NNPC retaining most of the petroleum revenue, rather than lower gross petroleum revenue,” the document argued. While the fiscal framework of the PIA was expected to increase revenue to the federation from oil and gas, the paper argued that in reality, the federation has received less oil and gas revenue after the PIA.
Customs Acquires Cessna Grand Caravan to Bolster Air Surveillance
Adeniyi revitalises air wing operations to tackle smuggling
James Emejo in Abuja
In a historic move aimed at strengthening its air surveillance capabilities, Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced the acquisition of a Cessna Grand Caravan EX-208B.
Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Mr. Bashir Adeniyi, inspected the newly acquired aircraft on Friday in Bartlesville, Washington, USA, marking a pivotal moment for NCS’ air wing operations.
In a statement, customs' National Public Relations Officer, NCS Abdullahi Maiwada, stated that the aircraft, registered as 5N-BAA, was set to enhance the service’s air patrol and surveillance efforts.
Powered by the reliable PT6 Pratt and Whitney engine, the Cessna Grand Caravan is globally recognised for its
rugged versatility, short-field take-off and landing capabilities, and ability to operate on remote airstrips—making it ideally suited for border security operations in Nigeria.
Adeniyi emphasised the importance of the acquisition, stating that the aircraft is fitted with modern Garmin G1000 Avionics cockpit system, enabling operations under day, night, and lowvisibility conditions.
He said, “This aircraft will be a gamechanger for the Nigeria Customs Service’s air wing. Its ability to carry 10 officers, coupled with its six-hour aerial endurance, will significantly enhance our capacity for air surveillance and border patrol."
The aircraft is expected to play a crucial role in air patrols aimed at detecting smuggling routes, deploying armed personnel, and providing swift support
for ground operations.
The CGC said, “With this aircraft, we will strengthen our air border patrol capabilities, which will not only help us intercept illegal activities but also provide quick extraction support when necessary.”
He said the aircraft’s mission aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda.
Adeniyi said the aircraft will also serve as a strategic asset for Nigeria Customs Technical and Hangar Services Limited, offering logistical support and revenue generation for the service.
Adeniyi underscored the cost-efficiency of the aircraft, stating that its operational costs are relatively low compared to other aircraft in its class.
According to him, “This is a long-term investment for the service that not only enhances our operational efficiency but
also contributes to the sustainability of our air surveillance programs.”
Aircraft Operations Coordinator and Managing Director of Nigeria Customs Technical and Hangar Services, Capt. Kuhi Mbaya, hailed the acquisition as a milestone for NCS’s aviation unit. Mbaya said, “With this aircraft, the Nigeria Customs Service is poised to revitalise its air border patrol activities, securing our borders more effectively and improving revenue generation for both the service and the nation."
The statement added, "The acquisition of the Cessna Grand Caravan is expected to provide significant tactical advantages to the Nigeria Customs Service, tightening border security, and sending a clear signal to economic saboteurs that the service is better equipped than ever to combat smuggling activities."
Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo
L-R: Former NFF President, Amaju Melvin Pinnick; His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, Olu of Warri Kingdom and award winning Artiste, David Adeleke aka Davido, on the latter's courtesy visit to His Majesty at the palace in Warri …yesterday
NACCIMA VISITS MINISTER OF JUSTICE...
General of the
and
Nigeria Rakes in $2bn from Gambling Yearly, Say Ubani
Says market to hit $5bn in next 3 years House to enact laws to strengthen sector
Juliet Akoje in Abuja.
Chief Executive Officer of T2Bet, Theo Ubani, yesterday, revealed that Nigeria generated about $2 billion from gambling yearly.
During his remarks at the launch/ dinner of the platform over the weekend in Abuja, Ubani projected that the gambling sector would hit $5 billion in the next three years. He stated that the business of gambling had shifted from the conventional norm, where people clustered in studio apartments to stake games, to people now betting online in the comfort of their homes.
Ubani estimated that gamblers played more than 4,000 games daily all over the world, aside football premiership.
He stated, "For the first time, people are not just in football, premiership and the rest of them. You are going to be betting on minimum of 4,000 games daily all over the world. Nigeria's betting market is worth more than $2 billion.
“It is hoped that it will hit $3 billion to $5 billion in the next two to three years because people are now doing
it online. It is sometime like fun these days, unlike the traditional pattern where people queue up in gambling stations to bet.
"The minds of people, who perceive gambling as a negative adventure, should know that gamblers have become rich through betting. T2Bet has just been birthed and we are very pleased and excited at the opportunities that our online gaming platform is going to offer.
“The reason that I said earlier, the differentiating factor between us and other gaming platforms is the variety of offerings that we are making.
"For the first time, we are now presenting the betting business more like a game, more like something of form and more like something you can also now earn revenue for some people that understand how this is done.
“So rather than deducting value, it's actually adding value. By making available opportunities all over the world that people can join and people can play from any part of the world, we are also going to be attracting some revenue inward to the country by people playing from
outside the country."
A lawmaker, representing Idemili North/Idemili South Federal Constituency of Anambra State in the House of Representatives, Uchenna Okonkwo, said the House would enact laws to strengthen the sector.
Okonkwo said, "I want to encourage T2Bet to follow all due process, to be compliant friendly, to also make sure that all the related authorities and agencies that have to do with mobile betting and online gaming are very much in tune with their objectives.
"If there is anything that we can further do to help the industry in terms of its regulation, we are very much open to suggestions from companies like yours and as well we will do the needful to make sure that that success is attained all around."
Director-General of Cross River State Lottery Gaming Agency, Michael Eja, revealed that about 60 million Nigerians engaged in betting activities daily.
Eja also said Nigeria's gaming industry was presently generating around N500-N600 billion yearly.
In his remarks during the unveiling
NACCIMA President Commends
of Woskybet Company yesterday in Abuja, Eja said the federal government was taking steps, with state lottery agencies, to bring the gaming industry operators into the tax net for more revenue.
He stated that the betting industry in Africa was now worth a staggering $1 billion, and added that Lagos State accounted for a significant chunk of the revenue, generating $243 million in 2023 alone.
According to Eja, "People are beginning to understand the essence of gambling, as the gaming industry sells hope and helps in wealth redistribution, creation of jobs and revenue generation.
“The government at various levels are doing their best in upgrading their platforms and working very hard to ensure that all operators are brought to the tax net.
"Overtime, you are going to see improvement in the revenue that the gambling industry will generate towards nations building. In Nigeria presently, we are doing about N500 billion to N600 billion yearly.
“Nigeria has a population of about 150 million people and presently from
Attorney General for Diligent Prosecution of P&ID Arbitration Case
Dike Onwuamaeze
President of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Hon. Dele Kelvin Oye, has commended the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), for the diligent prosecution of the P&ID arbitration case, which resulted in a favourable ruling for Nigeria.
Oye made the commendation during his recent courtesy visit to Fagbemi.
The NACCIMA president
stated that the favourable ruling was a landmark achievement that bolstered confidence in Nigeria's legal system.
He stated, "The victory in the P&ID case has demonstrated Nigeria's commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting the interests of the nation.
"This achievement, coupled with the ongoing efforts to reform and strengthen our legal system, sends a clear message to the international community that Nigeria is a viable and trustworthy destination for investment."
The visit was described as
a testament to NACCIMA's recognition of the crucial role played by the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation in improving the investment climate and upholding the rule of law in Nigeria.
Oye said the engagement between NACCIMA and the attorney general's office underscored the importance of collaboration between the government and the private sector in driving economic growth and development in Nigeria.
He highlighted the positive effect of the recent constitution of the Law Review Committee by the attorney general, which NACCIMA
believed would contribute to the improvement of law and order in the country, ultimately creating a more favourable environment for attracting foreign direct investment.
Oye called for strong partnership between NACCIMA and the Office of the Attorney General, towards a common goal of fostering a thriving business environment in Nigeria.
Fagbemi appreciated NACCIMA's support and reiterated the government's unwavering commitment to creating a robust legal framework that will support the growth and development of the economy.
the statistics we have, we know that about 60 million Nigerians gamble on a daily basis. Do the mathematics. We have not even captured 90 per cent of that market."
Director of Operations, Interim Woskybet, Nurudeen Idrees, said the gaming industry was contributing towards job creation for youths in the country.
Idrees stated, "We are unique, which makes us stand out in public in terms of completeness with other companies. In times of payment, I want to reassure our customers and general public around the country that they should feel free when they win
because their money is guaranteed 100 per cent because their wins are their rights."
While stressing that gambling was a game of luck, Idrees said, "You either lose or win and everything is about taking risk if you want to move forward as players among others.
“Woskybet offers an unparalleled betting experience, featuring: competitive odds and generous bonuses, extensive coverage of international and local sports events, real-time score updates and live betting, secure payment systems and instant pay-outs and dedicated customer support.
Onyebuchi
The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has assured that the men and officers of the Nigerian Police will be enrolled into the Employees' Compensation Scheme (ECS) managed by the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) to provide additional social benefits to the force.
The Inspector General gave the assurance on Friday when the Managing Director of NSITF, Mr. Oluwaseun Faleye, led the executive and senior management of the Fund on an advocacy visit to the Force Headquarters.
A statement signed by the General Manager, Corporate Affairs, Nwachukwu Godson quoted the Police boss as having commended the new Managing Director for the “radical changes” he has brought to the NSITF since assumption of duties.
He said the force will actively partner NSITF to also ensure compliance with the ECS among the
public and private sector employers. Egbetokun said: “I listened to you and want to assure you that I have taken note of everything you said, all the issues you raised. From now on, we are going to work together to make sure that the Nigerian Police Force become active partners with the NSITF.
"We are going to contribute to the Scheme. We will do everything possible. Whatever that is stopping the NPF from contributing to the NSITF, we have to look into it and make sure that it works this time around.
“Then, with respect to your enforcement drive, please count on us that we will support you all the way. I have been monitoring your activities since you came in as the MD of the NSITF and I know that you have brought radical changes to the Fund.
"So, I congratulate you for all the good job you are doing at the NSITF. I want to assure that the Nigerian Police Force will partner with you.”
Ezigbo in Abuja
Attorney
Federation
Minister of Justice, Chief Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, and President, Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Mr Dele Kelvin Oye, during Oye's courtesy visit to Attorney General in his office on Friday
Onyejeocha: My Role as Wage Mediator, A Daunting Career Task
Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Hon Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, in this interview outlines her achievements in the last one year as main wage negotiator between government and labour unions as well as initiating and implementating major labour policies. Folalumi Alaran brings excerpts:
Over one year into your tenure as Minister of State for Labour, how would you describe your experience in the civil service compared to the many years you spent in the National Assembly as a lawmaker? What differences or similarities have you observed?
My experience in administrative roles is not new, having previously served as a commissioner in Abia state and later a chairperson of my local governmeånt. However, I must say that my current role comes with a broader scope of responsibilities, as I’m now tasked with a national mandate, requiring a wider range of expertise and a greater sense of duty to the nation.
One year into my tenure as Minister of Labour, I have observed significant differences between this role and my time as a lawmaker. As Minister, I am responsible for formulating, driving initiatives and implementing policies, whereas in the National Assembly, I focused on crafting legislation. The civil service requires more administrative and operational oversight, whereas the National Assembly centered on debate and lawmaking and oversight functions. However, both roles involve collaboration, stakeholder engagement, and advocating for constituents’ interests. The main similarity is the commitment to serving the public and driving positive change.
I must express my gratitude for the privilege of serving in this role, which has afforded me the unique opportunity to oversee the nation’s labour ecosystem. It has been a truly enriching experience, and I am deeply thankful to Mr. President for entrusting me with this responsibility, allowing me to make a positive impact on the lives of Nigerians once again.
When you started, you brought a sense of enthusiasm and a private-sector mindset to the ministry which was exemplified by the high-profile closure of a Lagos factory for violating safety protocols. Now, after some time in office, how would you assess the current state of occupational safety compliance nationwide compared to when you first took the helm?
Indeed, I firmly believe that adopting a private sector mindset in the public sector is key to driving progress. We must approach civil service with the same urgency and results-driven attitude as private business. This shift in mentality and approach will boost productivity, leading to tangible development outcomes.
On occupational safety, upon assuming office, I was alarmed to discover the deplorable state of occupational safety in Nigerian companies, particularly those operated by foreign entities. I was almost speechless when we visited a car battery manufacturing facility in Ogun State. That visit revealed the level of environmental hazards in some of these companies and blatant disregard for safety laws, putting staff health at risk. This is not acceptable in other parts of the world. However, our outdated laws that impose minimal penalties, even encourages offenders to continue to look the other way. Take for instance, a paltry N1,000 fine for life-threatening offenses is woefully inadequate.
To address this, we are working with the National Assembly to review our labour laws, to ensure that they reflect the gravity of these issues. At the same time, the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) department in the Ministry is conducting workshops and campaigns to educate the public on workplace safety. Once the new legislation is enacted, we will intensify enforcement, making it clear that companies operating in Nigeria must adhere to stringent safety standards. We are taking one thing at a time and owe the people the duty to keep them safe.
As the first female minister to lead the Ministry of Labour, how have you navigated the dual challenges of overseeing the
various agencies under the ministry’s purview while simultaneously managing complex industrial relations and promoting harmonious labour practices?
As the first female minister to lead the Ministry of Labour, I have approached this role with a deep understanding of the dual responsibility before me, especially since after the former Governor of Plateau State, Hon Simon Lalong left the ministry for the Senate few months after we came in. It has been challenging but I have focused on building strong relationships with the agencies under our purview, fostering open communication, and empowering their leadership to drive results.
Here in the ministry, I have initiated periodic meetings to get reports and progress from head all the departments in line with the government’s Key Performance Index (KPI) to monitor the our performance.
Simultaneously, I have put industrial relations in the front burner, engaging
with stakeholders to address pressing concerns and promote harmonious labour practices. My approach has been collaborative, inclusive, and solution-driven, recognizing the interconnectedness of our mandate.
You can take an example from the just concluded minimum wage negotiation.
Just before we left the country for the June 2024 International Labour Conference (ILC) in Geneva, a potentially contentious situation arose in the middle talks. Many Nigerians anticipated a clash between the government and organised labour at the ILC meeting. However, we defied expectations by presenting a united front, demonstrating our commitment to collaboration and mutual understanding. By being true to our words and values, we were able to turn a potentially volatile situation into a showcase of cooperation and collective progress.
Through these efforts, we have made significant strides in improving labour relations, resolving disputes, and promoting a culture of collaboration and respect. I am proud of our progress and
I can say my role as a mediator for all the groups (regional inclusive) during the minimum wage negotiations was one of the most daunting tasks I have faced in my career. The process was fraught with complexity, requiring immense tact, empathy, and strategic thinking. On one hand, I had to ensure that the government’s concerns about economic viability and fiscal responsibility were addressed, while on the other hand, we were concerned about the rights and demands of Nigerian workers, who had been awaiting a wage increase and of course, organised private sector.
remain committed to driving positive change in the world.
Don’t forget, Nigeria was not queried on any of the Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work at the 2024 ILC, meaning that the ‘double foot note’, ie double query received in 2023, was successfully cleared. Nigeria was not found wanting in any area, and is therefore operating according to international labour standards. This is huge and it suggests that we are doing a lot. This achievement demonstrates Nigeria’s commitment to upholding international labour standards
How did you navigate the delicate balance between your loyalty to the government and your duty to represent the people’s interests during the negotiations that led to the approval of the new N70,000 minimum wage?
Balancing loyalty to the government with the duty of a mediator for the overall interest of all parties, including the worker’s interests was a delicate task, indeed. As Minister of Labour, my approach was to remain steadfast in my commitment to the welfare of Nigerian workers while maintaining open and honest communication among the three parties, that is, the government, organised labour and the organised private sector.
I can say my role as a mediator for all the groups (regional inclusive) during the minimum wage negotiations was one of the most daunting tasks I have faced in my career. The process was fraught with complexity, requiring immense tact, empathy, and strategic thinking.
On one hand, I had to ensure that the government’s concerns about economic viability and fiscal responsibility were addressed, while on the other hand, we were concerned about the rights and demands of Nigerian workers, who had been awaiting a wage increase and of course, organised private sector.
However, through open communication and transparency, constructive dialogue while putting government and the private sector’s limitations into consideration and effective conflict resolution skills to manage tensions, we were able to find common ground.
I thank President Bola Tinubu, who played a fatherly role at peak of the heat that ensued during the process. Through perseverance, dedication, and a commitment to social justice, I was able to successfully mediate the negotiations, culminating in the historic approval of a N70,000 minimum wage.
What new initiatives have you introduced since taking office, and how have they improved the ministry’s performance and outcome?
We are taking a bold new approach, shifting our focus beyond just resolving industrial crises to increasing and introducing innovative policies that drive job creation and foster a positive work environment across both public and private sectors. Our goal is to create an ecosystem where workers thrive, backed by policies that prioritise their wellbeing and growth.
One of those initiatives is the Renewed Hope Labour Employment and Empowerment Programme (LEEP), His Excellency, President Bola Tinubu highlighted in his 64th Independence Day address.
On the administrative side, I instituted the practice of a bi-monthly top management meeting consisting of the Permanent Secretary, all directors and heads of agencies under the supervision of the Ministry. This initiative has helped us to track our progress accordingly, deal with issues more efficiently and ensure that we don’t work in silos. This has greatly impacted the outcome and performance of the Ministry.
Onyejeocha
How States are Managing the Devastating Effects of Flooding in Nigeria
Chuks Okocha explores how various Nigerian states are navigating and managing the recent flooding across board and its devastating effects on lives, economy and the environment
State governors in Nigeria have ramped up efforts to manage the widespread flooding affecting many flood-prone regions. The flooding has caused significant damage, particularly in states along the Rivers Benue and Niger, impacting over 610,000 people, destroying key infrastructure, and heightening the risks of food insecurity and the spread of infectious diseases.
More than 225,000 people have been displaced, with 201 deaths reported in 15 of the country’s 36 states. Approximately 300,000 hectares of farmland have been submerged. In Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State in the northeast, over 230,000 people have been affected by floods after a dam collapsed following heavy rainfall. This deluge has obstructed access to health facilities, schools, and markets.
The flooding in Maiduguri has impacted 14 health facilities, leading to outbreaks of acute watery diarrhea, malaria, and other water-borne diseases. Malnutrition is also a major concern. Governors of the affected states, as expected, have risen to the challenge. The most recent example is Kogi State’s response. The federal government, led by President Bola Tinubu, has provided support, including financial and logistical aid.
For instance, Kogi State Governor Alhaji Usman Ododo authorized the formation of a Flood Disaster Response Team in response to warnings that states along the Rivers Niger and Benue were at risk of flooding. This team will coordinate the state’s flood response strategies and implement the State Action Plan on Flooding to minimize damage in communities along the rivers. Kogi, located
at the confluence of these rivers, has a history of severe flooding. The team will be led by the Deputy Governor, Comrade Joel Salifu, and include officials from various ministries.
In Benue State, between September 4 and 9, 2024, the Displacement Tracking Matrix (DTM), in collaboration with the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (BENSEMA), identified 22 locations affected by floods. Over 7,000 people in 1,089 households were displaced. While 23% of the affected houses are habitable but in need of repair, 13% are partially damaged, and 2% are completely destroyed. Crop farming, a key source of income, has been heavily impacted.
The Taraba State government has also responded to the risk of flooding, particularly with the imminent release
of water from the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon. Governor Agbu Kefas announced the creation of a flood control team to manage emergency responses and prevent future disasters. He emphasized the need for long-term strategies, as outlined in the Taraba Development Master Plan 2023-2050.
In Kwara State, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) warned of impending floods in five local government areas: Pategi, Edu, Kaiama, Asa, and Baruten. NEMA called on the Kwara government to take proactive measures to mitigate the risk.
Similarly, in Sokoto, Zamfara, and Kebbi states, local governments have started educating residents on how to prevent flooding. In Kebbi, local leaders have been involved in developing preventive strategies, including the clearing of drainage systems and encouraging tree planting to combat erosion. The state plans to plant one
The flooding has caused significant damage, particularly in states along the Rivers Benue and Niger, impacting over 610,000 people, destroying key infrastructure, and heightening the risks of food insecurity and the spread of infectious diseases. More than 225,000 people have been displaced, with 201 deaths reported in 15 of the country’s 36 states. Approximately 300,000 hectares of farmland have been submerged
million trees to reduce flood risk.
Bashir Ahmad, director of information at the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development in Zamfara, highlighted the government’s collaboration with NiMet and other agencies to provide early warning systems and take preventive measures.
NEMA’s Sokoto operation has also emphasized the need for early warnings and better preparedness in flood-prone areas. The agency has been working with stakeholders to ensure proactive responses to flooding risks.
NiMet previously predicted that states such as Sokoto, Zamfara, and Kebbi would experience early rainfall between June 20 and July 7, 2023, increasing the risk of flooding.
The federal government, through NEMA, has mounted a multi-sectoral emergency response in collaboration with local health authorities and international partners like WHO. In Jigawa, one of the worst-hit states, authorities have converted public buildings and schools into shelters and distributed essential supplies. WHO has provided Jigawa with medical kits and anti-malarial drugs, and similar support is being sent to Bauchi and Kogi.
Dr. Mohammed Kainuwa, the Commissioner of Health for Jigawa, expressed gratitude for WHO’s contributions, noting that they would help protect vulnerable populations, including pregnant women and children.
NEMA spokesperson Manzo Ezekiel warned that the flooding could worsen as floodwaters move from northern states towards the central and southern regions of the country.
Houses submerged by flood
The military rescuing the victims of the flood in Borno
Communities fleeing their homes after the flood
Boosting Food Security in Nasarawa
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in his October 1, 2024 address marking the 64th independence anniversary of Nigeria, commended Governor Abdullahi Sule for embracing the agricultural production programme of his administration aimed at boosting food security in the country, writes Igbawase Ukumba
In compliance with the agricultural production programme of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, gave local farmers in the state the opportunity in form of employment and outgrower scheme in order for the state to fulfill its mandate as one of the states selected for the food security initiative under President Tinubu administration.
All things been equal, the administration of Governor Abdullahi Sule has no intention of taking away farmlands from local farmers, but the local farmers stand to benefit from his agricultural project. His plan is to work out with the local farmers and do what is called outgrower scheme.
That was what the governor did in Jangwa called "Outgrower Programme". The idea is not to take away the land from local farmers. The idea is to ensure that local farmers are given the opportunity in form of employment and outgrower scheme. That means they can be given fertilizers, chemicals, tractors and seedlings. When they harvest, they have a ready market.
The Nasarawa State government is the buyer.
Therefore, the Nasarawa State government cultivated about 10,000 hectares of land as part of initiatives to boost food security in the country. The governor had inspected progress of work on the portion of land earmarked for the food security programme at Jangwa in Awe Local Government Area of the state.
Speaking to journalists shortly after the inspection, the governor, however, said his administration has no intention of taking away farmlands from local farmers, but that the local farmers stand to benefit from the project.
“Our plan is to work out with them, and do what we call outgrower scheme. Even here (Jangwa) we are going to do some outgrower programme. The idea is not to take away the land from local farmers.
*The idea is to ensure that local farmers are given the opportunity in form of employment and outgrower scheme. That means they can be given fertilizers, chemicals, tractors and seedlings.
When they harvest, they have a ready market. We are the buyers,” he stated.
While expressing satisfaction with the progress of work on the site, Governor Sule pointed out that Nasarawa State was among the states selected for the food security initiative under the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration.
“This is our farm in Jangwa already in the process of being tilled. We are going to apply fertilizers in the next two or three days, and by that time, we will be able to harrow the field. In fact, we are harrowing and planting seeds at the same time," Sule maintained.
As harvesting season for rice beckons, Governor Abdullahi Sule had recently visited the state-owned Jangwa rice farm in Awe Local Government Area
as part of preparations towards harvesting the farm . Sule, who inspected the farm, expressed satisfaction with the quality and quantity of rice being cultivated on the farm.
The governor was confident that the Jangwa rice farm would be harvested latest by the first week of November. He also expressed satisfaction with the yield on the farm, projecting a bumper harvest of over 8 tones per hectre.
Speaking with journalists shortly after a tour of the farm, Sule emphasized on the purpose of the visit which afforded him the opportunity to see things for himself preparatory to the harvest.
"We started this work somewhere around May and it is actually six months, that is 180 days rice. We are just about to start harvesting and I believe strongly that before we start, I needed to come to the farm to make sure that everything is okay for us to start harvesting
so we can get our best yield," he stated. He was particularly excited about the quantity of rice expected from the harvest.
"This is because we are very conservative with our calculations. We calculated a yield of about 6 tones per hectre. But from all indications, we are looking at something more than 8 tones per hectre," he said.
The Governor took out time to speak on the line of activities expected at the Jangwa farm, particularly that the government was working to cultivate rice on the farm twice a year.
"We are hoping that we can finish our harvesting this October or maybe early November. Immediately we finished harvesting, we are going to start land preparations. Once we are through with the land preparations, then we are getting ready to start another planting.
"We are hoping that throughout the period of Christmas, that is the period that we will do most of our planting and hopefully conclude before the middle of January.
"If that happened, by the grace of God, then it’s time for us to ensure that we go ahead and think of another planting in the month of May. We are working on two-season rice farming on this location," he concluded.
In a separate interview with THISDAY, a member of the Jangwa community, Mr Ogya Okugya, said the Nasarawa State government rice farm project would address poor land use practices of the community.
For Usman Faruk, a farmer in Lafia Local Government Area of the state, "for us in Nasarawa State, this is historic because it is perfectly in line with the need to supporting farmers in the state".
He, therefore, commended the Nasarawa State governor for dispensing an opportunity to ensure that Nasarawa people depart from hunger and poverty.
"Nasarawa people have not seen this huge intervention. The coming of the intervention would liberate the people from hunger and porverty levels. We are eternally grateful," Faruk noted.
Ibadin, Security Consultant Highlights Task Before President Tinubu
Precious Ugwuzor
As Nigerians continue to grapple with an unsteady power supply and rising electricity tariffs, security consultant and entrepreneur Mr. Matthew Ibadin has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to prioritize electricity supply across the country. He emphasized that without a stable power supply, industrialization and economic growth would remain a pipe dream.
Speaking to journalists on the sidelines of the recent 34th Convocation Ceremony in honor of the Graduating Cadets of the 71st Regular Course and Postgraduate students of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) in Kaduna, Ibadin—one of the graduating Master’s degree students—highlighted that Nigeria’s current electricity generation capacity of about 5,500 megawatts is woefully inadequate.
He referenced a recent statement by the Association of Nigeria Electricity Distributors, which stressed that Nigeria requires at least 33,000 megawatts to stabilize its power supply.
Ibadin, who is also the Managing Director of Badinson Security Services Limited, pointed out that President Tinubu's eight-point agenda includes economic growth and job creation, but he insisted that these goals cannot be realized without a stable power supply.
According to him, the private sector, which is the largest employer of labor worldwide, is particularly hard-hit by the lack of reliable electricity. "In Nigeria, businesses are struggling not only because of poor infrastructure but also due to the soaring costs of generating their own electricity," Ibadin said.
He noted that many Nigerian businesses, especially small and medium enterprises, have taken out loans that they are now unable to repay due to the rising costs of running their operations, largely attributed to the high cost of fuel and diesel. "Nigeria is unique in that it is
the only country where business plans consistently fail due to the overwhelming expenses of generating private electricity. This is unsustainable, and it’s pushing companies to the brink," he added.
Ibadin further lamented that many artisans and skilled youths are turning to crime out of frustration, as the lack of reliable electricity prevents them from practicing their trades. In addition, multinational corporations and large companies are either downsizing or leaving Nigeria altogether due to the escalating costs of powering their
operations. He stressed that without immediate and significant improvements in the electricity supply, Nigeria’s industrialization efforts will falter, and the country will remain stuck in a cycle of economic stagnation.
The security consultant urged President Tinubu to make electricity supply the topmost priority in his agenda, asserting that almost all production and service processes in both the public and private sectors are power-driven. He suggested that the country’s outdated and inefficient power grid must be modernized through technological upgrades and infrastructure development, to reduce the frequent blackouts
that continue to hamper productivity.
Ibadin also highlighted that the government needs to create an enabling environment for private businesses to thrive, as the private sector is vital to the nation’s economic growth. He noted that Nigeria’s private sector plays a critical role in employment and economic stability, but without reliable power, its potential is stifled.
In addition, Ibadin stressed the importance of rural electrification, noting that the lack of electricity in rural areas severely limits educational and economic opportunities, perpetuating poverty. He advised President Tinubu to expand rural electrification programs to ensure that all communities have access to reliable power, fostering inclusive growth and development across the country.
As many Nigerians already struggle with high electricity tariffs, which have made power unaffordable for a large portion of the population, Ibadin called on the Tinubu administration to introduce a subsidy program for low-income households. He also advocated for the promotion of energy-efficient practices to reduce overall consumption and costs.
Ibadin concluded by urging President Tinubu to declare a state of emergency in the nation’s electricity sector, stating that once power generation is increased to the required 33,000 megawatts, it will lay the foundation for broader economic development. "Without electricity, industrialization will remain a distant dream. It’s time to take decisive action for the future of this country," he said..
Reflecting on the failures of previous administrations, Ibadin expressed his concern that successive Nigerian governments have been making policies "in the dark," and he hopes that President Tinubu will not fall into the same pattern. "One agenda that should be paramount now is ‘light up Nigerian businesses.’ If he can achieve this, he would go down in history as one of the best Presidents Nigeria has ever had," Ibadin concluded.
Chief of Defence Staff Major General Christopher Musa , his wife and Matthew Ibadin, at the 34th Convocation Ceremony in honor of the Graduating Cadets of the 71st Regular Course NDA, Kaduna
Gov Sule inspecting the Nasarawa State government-owned Jangwa Rice Farm ahead of harvesting
Kayode Tokede
Following the rush by bank customers for more money to fund their foreign exchange commitments, Nigerian banks’ exposure to their customers has continued to swell, reaching a new high in the first half of this year.
This is despite severe competition with Fintech companies, among other factors.
Analysis of half year financials submitted to the Nigeria Exchange Limited (NGX), showed that jus 11 Deposit Money Banks (DMBs) operating in Nigeria and other African countries granted an estimated N63.86 trillion loans to customers as of half year ended June 30,2024.
The N63.86 trillion loan to
Arthur Eriye
It has emerged that more average Nigerians are finding it difficult to have balanced diet as the cost of a healthy meal has increased to N1,255. Latest numbers from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) showed Nigeria’s rising food inflation at 32.15 per cent as of August 2024.
In recent times, Nigeria has seen some of its worst food inflation, putting a balanced diet further out of reach for the common man.
However, the cost of eating a healthy meal decreased, albeit slightly, in August compared to July.
The rising cost of maintaining a healthy diet has put a strain on many Nigerians, as the average daily cost of a healthy diet in the
customers in the period under review is about N16.5 trillion or 34.8 per cent increase over the N47.36 trillion reported in the corresponding period of 2023.
The growth in DMBs lending to customers can also be attributed to tightening by monetary authorities in key African economies to address stubbornly high inflation rate, rising debt profiles, expansion in Fintech companies lending to customers, among others.
The monetary tightening in Nigeria has led to Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) or interest rate hike to 27.25 per cent, a 850 basis points increase from 18.75 per cent in 2023 end.
THISDAY analysis of the 11 DMBs financial statements showed that Ecobank, followed by Access
country reached N1,255 per adult in August 2024, according to the National Bureau of Statistics.
The bureau said that the cost of healthy diet in August decreased by 0.8 per cent compared to the N1,265 recorded in July.
The NBS said the cost of healthy diet was the least expensive combination of locally available items that met globally consistent food-based dietary guidelines.
It said it was used as a measure of physical and economic access to healthy diets.
According to the NBS, “This is a lower bound (or floor) of the cost per adult per day excluding the cost of transportation and meal preparation.”
The bureau said that to compute
Holdings Plc and Zenith Bank Plc are the top three lenders to customers as of June 30, 2024. In the period under review, Ecobank reported N14.35 trillion loans to customers as of June 30, 2024, about 43 per cent increase from N10.03 trillion reported in 2023FY, while Access Holdings announced N10.84 trillion loans to customers as of June 30, 2024, representing an increase of 34.8 per cent from N8.04 trillion reported in 2023FY.
Zenith bank reported N9.29 trillion loans to customers as of June 30, 2024, about 42 per cent increase from N6.56 trillion declared in 2023 FY.
The management of Zenith bank stated the growth was aided by loans disbursements to customers and the translation effect of foreign currency denominated loans.
the cost of healthy diet indicator, the following data on Retail Food Prices, Food Composition Data, and Healthy Diet Standards were required.
The NBS also said that in August, the average cost of healthy diet was highest in the South-West at N1,554 per adult per day, followed by the South-South at N1,381 per day.
It said the lowest average cost of healthy diet was recorded in the North-West at N1,014 per adult per day.
The NBS further said that at the state level Ogun, Lagos and Rivers recorded the highest cost of healthy diet at N1,641, N1,615, and N1,572, respectively.
The bureau said Katsina recorded the lowest cost of healthy diet at
Also, the management of Access Holdings added that the gross loans of N12.3 trillion (loans to customers and banks) was from organic loan growth and the impact of foreign currency-denominated loans.
These DMBs have played critical role in lending to manufacturing, Oil & Gas, Agriculture, education and even lending to government in African countries where they have branches.
According to Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), credit to private sector as of June 30, 2024 stood at N73.19 trillion, a 38.6per cent or N20.38 trillion Year-on-Year growth from N52.8 trillion reported in June 2023., driven by massive lending to critical real sectors such as oil & gas and manufacturing sectors.
Analysts said the reported N73.19
N880, followed by Kaduna at N951, and Sokoto at N980.
The NBS said cost of healthy diet had steadily increased over the past six months, since March 2024.
It said, “The cost of healthy diet in August 2024 is 28 per cent higher than what was recorded in March 2024 at N982. The food groups that have driven the increases in cost of healthy diet are legumes, nuts and seeds, starchy staples, and vegetables.
“On a month-month basis, cost of healthy diet declined by 0.8 per cent compared to the cost in July 2024 at N1,265 and vegetables saw a decline in price by 14.5 per cent every month.”
The report added that animalsource foods were the most expensive food group recommendation to meet
trillion credit to private sector as of June 2024 is on the backdrop of the weakening of the naira at the foreign exchange market and over 30 per cent inflation rate, stressing that bank customers were lending to big corporations to meet the 65 per cent Loan-to-Deposit Ratio (LDR) threshold of the CBN.
The CBN had updated its Cash Reserve Requirement (CRR) mechanism, making banks with minimum LDR below requirement to face a 50 per cent lending shortfall.
The policy was set to improve lending to customers to stimulate the real sector of the economy.
This implies that for every N100 received as deposits, the banks are to lend N65 to customers.
The CBN had in a recent circular stated that it would resume the
in August accounting for 37 per cent of the total cost of healthy diet to provide 13 per cent of the total calories.
It noted that fruits and vegetables were the most expensive food groups in terms of price per calorie.
It stated, “They accounted for 11 per cent and 14 per cent, respectively, of the total cost of healthy diet while providing only seven per cent and five per cent of total calories in the Healthy Diet Basket. Legumes, nuts and seeds were the least-expensive food group on average, at seven per cent of the total cost.’’
The report also said that in recent months, the cost of healthy diet had risen faster than general inflation and food inflation.
“However, the cost of healthy
enforcement of the LDR policy effective July 31, 2023. Despite increasing lending by these DMBs, analysts have raised concerns over raising MPR that has impacted on average maximum lending and prime lending to banks customers.
With the raising MPR, the banking sector average maximum lending rate closed June 2024 at 29.11 per cent from 28.94 per cent reported by the CBN June 2023, while average prime lending moved from 13.85 per cent June 2023 to 15.85 per cent June 2024.
However, the steep increase in the policy rate has sparked concerns regarding the potential impact on
diet and the food Consumer Price Index (CPI) are not directly comparable. The cost of healthy diet includes fewer items and is measured in Naira per day, while the food CPI is a weighted index,” NBS said.
Recently, the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) stated that no fewer than 26.5 million Nigerians living in the states of Borno, Sokoto, and Zamfara, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), may face a food crisis between June and August.
Also, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) said over the last decade, limited reforms, security challenges, weak growth and now high inflation had worsened poverty and food insecurity in Nigeria.
Yemi-Esan: Partnership with AIG Foundation Enhanced Civil Service Reforms
The immediate past Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (HoCSF), Dr. Folasade Yemi-Esan, has attributed the successes recorded in the civil service reforms to collaborations with the private sector, particularly the AigImoukhuede (AIG) Foundation.
Speaking at her retirement dinner in Abuja, which was
organised by the foundation, she said the partnerships further encouraged the service to “wake up and to work hard” especially in the digitalisation of the public service administration, helping to enforce professionalism.
She told THISDAY, “So, I think the collaborations were key to whatever was achieved.
The digitalisation, for example; we had great partnerships with the AIG
Imougkhode Foundation, and that helped us - both in personnel expertise, and even funding of the project. The partnerships helped a great deal. It helped a lot.”
She said civil servants’ resistance to innovation remained her biggest challenge during her tenure, adding however, that sustained campaign and education eventually convinced workers to embrace the reform
initiative.
Yemi-Esan pointed out that the fruitful engagement with various stakeholders, particularly the private helped to reorientate the civil servants who appreciated the need to introduce changes public sector administration.
Chairman, AIG Foundation, Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, hailed Yemi-Esan’s unwavering commitment and passion towards the civil service reforms.
He said her leadership qualities, and patriotism were worthy of emulation, pointing out that she service the nation with dignity, and was free from scandal or controversy.
“This is a commendable achievement,” he noted.
While further eulogising Yemi-Esan for her remarkable career, Aig-Imoukhuede, said, “In this country, we can
play two roles: one as active participants in our governance and the other in our journeys.
“When one retires with dignity, free from scandal or controversy, it is a commendable achievement. I want to share a message from former President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, which highlights the importance of civil service and the contributions of individuals like Esan.”
Lekki Port Takes Delivery of Two New Pilot Boats from NPA NEPZA Approves $150m License for Abuja Industrial Park
James Emejo in Abuja
The World Free Zone Congress has elected the Managing Director/Chief Executive, Nigeria Export Processing Zone Authority (NEPZA), Dr. Olufemi Ogunyemi to the Board of the World Free Zone Organisation (WFZO) in Dubai.
This came as the authority approved a $150 million license for the Abuja Industrial Park (ZEBERCED) free zone, which is expected to boost the country’s manufacturing and export profile.
The new business ecosystem will be home to over 170 factories, generating 40,000 employment opportunities.
However, Ogunyemi’s election came through block votes from African participants, and their counterparts from Europe and Latin America at this year’s congress.
Ogunyemi said, “Nigeria remains a strong nation with an excellent image and the capacity to lead on the global stage. This was the story of
my victory.
“My victory came after I had canvassed for the support of all African colleagues and members from some European and Latin America countries.
“The World Free Zone Organisation remains the melting point for Foreign Direct investment opportunities and therefore, Nigeria and other African countries shall seize this opportunity of my being on the board now to improve on strategies to attract more FDIs to the continent.”
In a statement issued by Head, Corporate Communications, NEPZA, Dr. Martins Odeh, he thanked everyone who played a part in his victory, vowing to reciprocate the gestures by contributing his quota to the growth of the organisation.
Meanwhile, speaking while handing over the operating licence to the Turkish owners of the private free zone in Abuja, the NEPZA boss revealed that the new business ecosystem on 250 hectares would be home to over 170 factories that will generate 40,000 employments.
He explained that the zone, which would be located in Idu Industrial layout Phase IV could greatly impact the nation’s economy through sustained export of manufactured goods.
The management of Lekki Port, has taken delivery of two new state-of-the-art pilot boats, “PC Jalingo and PC Nadiya”, from the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA).
Speaking on the significance of the two pilot boats’ delivery, the Managing Director/CEO of Lekki Port, Du Ruogang, explained that the new PC Jalingo and PC Nadiya would further enhance Lekki Port’s operational excellence by ensuring smooth
and safe navigation of large vessels in and out of the port’s channel.
Ruogang noted that the addition of PC Jalingo and PC Nadiya will bolster the port’s operational capacity to manage increased cargo volumes and facilitate smoother maritime operations, thereby strengthening its position as the gateway to West Africa’s trade network.
In his remarks, Mr. Yang Xixiong, the Operations Manager for Lekki Port, described the arrival of two Pilot boats as a positive signal and another significant step toward achieving the Port’s goal of becoming the leading gateway to West Africa.
Xixiong noted that the addition to the fleet would enhance navigational capabilities by ensuring
vessels’ safe and efficient movement in and out of the terminal.
“With these boats, our pilots can better guide vessels of all sizes, improving safety in challenging weather and sea conditions. The expanded fleet also means quicker responses and more efficient vessel handling, allowing us to serve more ships in less time,” he said.
NDIC Strengthens Partnership with Judiciary to Prosecute Failed Banks
Managing Director/Chief Executive, Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), Mr. Bello Hassan, has said the corporation has strengthened its collaboration with the judiciary to expedite the prosecution of failed institutions.
He said the partnership had resulted in the resolution of longstanding cases and the declaration of 100 per cent liquidation dividends to uninsured depositors of over 20 closed banks.
Speaking at the NDIC Special Day at the 19th Abuja International Trade Fair, with the theme, “Mobility: Options for Transport, Trade Finance, and Taxation”, he also noted that the Alternative
Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms had been employed to enhance its liquidation activities and improve debt recovery.
Represented by NDIC Deputy Director, Communication and Public Affairs Department, Mrs. Hawwau Gambo, Hassan, reaffirmed the NDIC’s commitment to ensuring the safety of depositors’ funds.
He further encouraged depositors of any closed bank, especially Heritage Bank, who are yet to receive their payments, to “come forward with their BVN, proof of account ownership, identification, and alternative account details” adding that “Claims can be submitted through various channels, including our website, email, and social media platforms, as we remain committed to ensuring
the safety of depositors’ funds.” Hassan pointed out that significant progress had been made in protecting depositors’ funds, with the recent increase in maximum deposit insurance coverage providing enhanced protection across various financial institutions.
He said the increase ensured that 98.98 per cent of total depositors in Deposit Money Banks (DMBs), 99.27 per cent in Microfinance Banks (MFBs), 99.34 per cent in Primary Mortgage Banks (PMBs), and 99.99 per cent in Payment Service Banks (PSBs) are covered, reinforcing NDIC’s commitment to fulfilling its mandate.
He said, “While our immediate focus remains on insured deposits, the NDIC is also committed to
ensuring that depositors with balances exceeding N5 million are compensated.
“These larger, uninsured deposits represent a significant portion of the total deposits in Heritage Bank. The corporation has already initiated the process of realising the bank’s assets and recovering debts to ensure the timely payment of the uninsured depositors through liquidation dividends.
“Furthermore, the NDIC’s responsibilities extend to the creditors of the defunct bank, who will receive payments once all depositors have been reimbursed. This orderly process, based on asset realisation and prioritisation of claims, is essential in maintaining public confidence in the financial system and promoting stability.”
James Emejo in Abuja
James Emejo in Abuja
L-R: Youths and Women Advocate, Nana Kazaure; Coordinator Global Obidients movement, Dr. Tanko Yunusa; Founder The New Tribe of Patriots, Prof. Pat Utomi; Prof. Ifeoma Utomi; CEO Auldon Limited, Mr. Paul Orajiaka; Executive Director, Auldon Limited, Mrs. Chika Atuegwu and Commissioner for Health Nasarawa State, Dr. Gaza Gwamna, during the launch of The Tribe of Patriots in Lagos… recently
Making Nigeria a Truly Entrepreneurial Economy
‘Tunde Popoola
My use of the concept of ‘entrepreneurial economy’ may not totally align with the definitions in the academic or economic literature. By an entrepreneurial economy, I wish to describe an economy that promotes entrepreneurship and business formation and growth. It is an economy where it is easy to start and run a business. It is characterised by a phenomenon where the factors of production are utilized, driven mostly by market forces, rule of law and confidence in the judicial system. It provides business-friendly policies and regulations. Socio-economic infrastructure that are enablers for business formation, growth and stability are available in an entrepreneurial economy. It can also be described as a free enterprise economy where people are free TO establish businesses in sectors of their choice, subject to laid-down requirements and regulations. People can stay in any part of the country to try their hands on what they know how to do best. As said by a motivational speaker, it is an environment where the son of nobody, can become somebody by dint of hardwork and the trade he plies, without knowing anybody. Such an economy fosters and guarantees a level-playing field for everyone. There are some countries that are good examples, including the United States and the United Kingdom.
Economic growth and development are achieved faster under an entrepreneurial economy. This is because business creation and growth hold the key to economic growth and societal wealth in an entrepreneurial economy. It promotes entrepreneurship which helps improve the creation of new businesses with its attendant positive outcomes including new job opportunities and economic well-being of the population. Essentially, an entrepreneurial economy promotes entrepreneurial activities.
Between 2012 and 2015, I was one of the Nigerian researchers who carried out a study on entrepreneurial activities in Nigeria, under the aegis, coordination and facilitation of the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM). GEM is a network consortium of national country teams of researchers that carries out survey-based research
on entrepreneurship and entrepreneurship ecosystems across the globe. The Nigerian studies were carried out by Tomeb Foundation.
Though the reports were released almost a decade ago, the findings are still valid and relevant for the Nigeria situation of today.
The GEM study empirically identified Nigeria as one of the most entrepreneurial countries in the world. The study showed that 35 out of every 100 Nigerians, representing over a third, are engaged in some kind of entrepreneurial activity or the other. This discovery should not be surprising. A typical Nigerian, singularly or in collaboration with others, would have tried his hand on a trade, business, or contract in his lifetime, for the purpose of wealth creation, no matter what he or she does for a living. Quite a lot of those who are not full-time entrepreneurs or in self-employment have one or two business initiatives running by the side. Some evidence
have been established through research to corroborate this position.
According to the GEM report, Nigeria led the world in terms of the desire to explore available opportunities for starting a business. The survey showed that Nigerians have high perceptions about the presence of good opportunities for starting a business and believe that they have the skills and knowledge necessary to start. The study confirmed that more Nigerians pursue entrepreneurial activities due to perceived opportunities than out of necessity. Nigeria also exhibited one of the lowest levels of fear of failure in the world indicating the readiness to start and run a business without fear of failure.
Another interesting finding by the research was about the youths. Nigerian youths are excited about entrepreneurship and entrepreneurial opportunities. About 82 per cent of Nigerian youths perceive a good opportunity for starting a business while 86 per cent believe that they have the skills and knowledge necessary to start a business.
The outcomes of the research activities are corroborated by data. The Small and Medium Enterprises Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) and the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics (NBS) stated that there are over 38 million businesses in Nigeria of which 36.9 million or 96.7 per cent are Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). The startling characteristics of MSMEs are instructive. Over 98.8 per cent of them are micro enterprises employing not more than five persons. In addition, over 67 per cent of the MSMEs are youth-owned. The availability of about 38 million enterprises in a country of about 220 million people suggest that, on the average, one in every six Nigerians owns a business enterprise.
There are many ironies to the Nigerian phenomenon. If a typical Nigerian is inclined towards starting and running a business, irrespective of his primary employment and is excited about entrepreneurship and has the relative confidence in starting and
running a business, why is the unemployment rate so high and the poverty rate on the rise? Afterall, entrepreneurship and self-employment are meant to promote wealth creation and employment opportunities. Secondly, one would have thought that the high rate of unemployment especially among the youths should influence the high number of enterprises. About 67 per cent of MSMEs are owned by the youths. This would have supported the theoretical inclination that a high level of unemployment gives rise to the existence of ‘necessity entrepreneurs’ who establish businesses because they could not find paid employment. The fact from the GEM studies showed that the general level of entrepreneurial activity, and the more important high level of youth entrepreneurial activities arise from perceived opportunities and are rightly classified as ‘opportunity entrepreneurs’. Finally, as a country endowed with abundant natural resources, one would have expected a leaning towards the theoretical postulation that entrepreneurial efforts and activities tend to be low in a natural resourceabundance economy like Nigeria. Under such an economy, there is always no incentives to strive. But this seems not to be the case for Nigeria.
The Nigerian situation may be explained by its level of economic development as an emerging market economy. Development economists contend that entrepreneurial activity declines with the stages of development. When an economy is advanced, most people work for established businesses and organisations, and do not have the incentive to start and run their own business. Nigeria is an emerging economy, still in its growing phase, and with so many opportunities. It may therefore be the case that entrepreneurial activity is high because of our level and stage of development.
Our paradoxical circumstances of high unemployment and poverty rates, despite the large number of MSMEs may not be unconnected with the absence of enabling factors that make entrepreneurship to thrive. Nigerians are determined and rugged when it comes to the pursuit of entrepreneurial ambition.
NOTE: Story continues in the online edition on www.thisdaylive.com
Popoola
NCSI Opens Survey Platform on State of Customer Service in Nigeria
Oluchi Chibuzor
The Nigeria Customer Service Index (NCSI) has announced the opening of a survey platform for Nigerians to provide feedback on the quality of services and customer experiences received from various service providers nationwide. Head of Media and Communications, NCSI, Mrs. Jennifer Orode, in a statement, said the survey, which is in its second edition, is an annual customer service survey platform.
She said the NCSI survey site, is the core platform where citizens and non-citizens alike
rate the standard of services provided by banks, fintech companies, eateries, GSM and internet service providers, hotels, hospitals, HMOs, government agencies (MDAs), insurance companies, Discos, airlines, e-cab services, buses, tertiary institutions, among others.
According to her, “using eight service evaluation parameters, along with two sector-based questions, the NCSI collects and analyses feedback, culminating in a comprehensive report at the end of the year on the state of customer service in Nigeria.”
She stressed that over 1,000 volunteers would engage both online and in person to encourage participation in the survey, assisting respondents in navigating the website, understanding the evaluation parameters, and completing the survey.
She said the NCSI survey platform opened on 1st July, 2024, and is accepting responses throughout the year, while the volunteer programme, which runs for 16 weeks, began on September 1st and will conclude on 31st December, 2024.
NCAA Organises Conference on Repositioning Industry for Financial, Economic Viability
Chinedu Eze
To chart a new course for the aviation industry in Nigeria, the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, is organizing a conference on repositioning the industry for financial capability and economic viability, titled, South West Regional Air Transportation Summit.
The aim of the Summit is to deliberate on how to reorientate the aviation industry to focus on economic
viability by reviewing policies to reflect such objective and also to enhance financial capability, while reinforcing safety and security in air travel.
The theme of the Conference is, “Repositioning the Nigerian Aviation Industry for the Financial Capability and Economic Viability: An Inclusive Regulatory Dialogue.”
The one-day summit is slated for October 9, 2024 at the Radisson Hotel, Victoria Island,
Lagos and time is 9:00 am.
Renowned industry stakeholders are billed to speak at the conference, bringing their wealth of experience to carve a new path for the industry.
Three keynote speakers will present papers at the conference and these include; Dr. Jekwu Ozoemene (FCIB), who will present the main paper on Sustainable Growth in the Nigerian Civil Aviation and Air Transportation Sector: Regulatory Imperatives.
Professionals Counsel Young People on Career Devt in Aviation Industry
Pilots and other professionals in Nigeria’s aviation industry have counselled young people aspiring to pursue careers in aviation on how to actualize their dreams and urged government to enhance more training opportunities in the sector.
Speaking at the 8th Explore Aviation Careers Conference and Second Pilots Seminar held at the Annex of Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority in Lagos, the acting Director General, Civil Aviation, Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Capt. Chris Najomo told students when attended the seminar that they have to be very focused and ready to learn, in order to actualize their professional dreams,
adding that opportunities exist for them in the industry as thousands of pilots are retiring globally.
On funding opportunities for training, he advised them to approach their various state governments, promising to assist them in that regard. The Chief Executive Officer of Aviatrix Hub, Mrs, Victoria Adegbe who is a Flight Dispatcher and Instructor narrated how her consistent desire to expand her area of discipline within aviation took her to her present status. In his presentation, Capt Kayode Adaje of Arik Air appealed to airlines in Nigeria to up their efforts in training of young pilots and other professionals. He encouraged the young people
that they can attain professional heights in the industry like Rotimi Adeoye, the only Nigerian Captain on A350 at Ethiopian Airlines and was once the youngest in the entire African continent.
The President of Aircraft Owners Association of Nigeria (AOAN), Dr. Capt. Alex Nwuba said flying an aircraft is interesting because a pilot while flying, sees the entire earth in a different way from how people on the ground see it.
Organizer of the event, Mrs. Joy Ogbebor of MamaJ Aviation had said in her welcome speech that the need to have the right information before taking career decision was very vital and formed part of the motivation for the programme.
LG Electronics Partners EbonyLife Creative Academy to Empower Storytellers
Agnes Ekebuike
In an outstanding celebration of innovation and creativity, LG Electronics has partnered Ebony Life Creative Academy to support the next generation of creative talent aimed at enhancing the quality of education for aspiring filmmakers in Nigeria and Africa to tell their compelling stories.
The collaboration is designed to support the filmmaking community through state-ofthe-art technology and foster the development of world-class cinematic content in Nigeria and across Africa.
Under the partnership, LG Electronics will provide ELCA with top-tier products that will enhance the learning environment and support students in producing highquality films, leveraging on LG Filmmaker’s mode. The product lineup includes: Several LG OLED TVs, Refrigerator and Microwaves.
At the sign-on ceremony, Head of The EbonyLife Creative Academy, Mr. Drikus Volschenk, said: “We are excited to expand our strategic partnership with LG. The collaboration underscores EbonyLife Creative Academy’s commitment to being at the forefront of delivering
filmmakers who can service both the local and international film and television market, and produce content that introduces our unique style of Nigerian story-telling to the world. The collaboration between LG Electronics and EbonyLife Creative Academy exemplifies a shared commitment to
empowering Africa’s creative industry and providing the best-in-class technology to aspiring filmmakers. By leveraging LG’s stateof-the-art products and ELCA’s creative expertise, the partnership is set to revolutionize the filmmaking experience for students and professionals alike.”
Lagos, Schneider Electric Lead Eco-sustainability Awareness
Oluchi Chibuzor
As part of efforts to promote environmental responsibility, Schneider Electric recently led an eco-sustainability initiative to raise awareness on World Cleanup day in partnership with the Lagos State Government.
Speaking at the event in Lagos, the Country President, Schneider Electric West Africa, Ajibola Akindele, said participating in the programme was to further show their firm as the most sustainable company in the world.
He said Schneider Electric through the event extended its commitment beyond energy efficiency, but also taking direct action to promote environmental responsibility.
According to him, “Schneider Electric is the most sustainable company in the world(Time Magazine, 2024), our participation in this clean-up
exercise is to show our commitment to Lagos State that we are here for impact and to drive not just a healthy and clean environment but sustainability across the state. We appreciate Lagos State Government for collaborating with us on this initiative and we look forward to creating a greater impact in future.”
The Cleanup exercise brought key officials of Lagos State Government Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources in the clean-up exercise in Bada community, Idera market, and Ewenla garage, in Oshodi-Isolo, Local Government Area.
The event, with the themed, “Make Room for Life,” saw the Senior Special Assistant on Environment to Lagos State Governor, Mrs. Tari Taylaur urging people to embrace clean-up exercise.
Chinedu Eze
INTER VIEW
Prof Obiora Okonkwo: Soludo is the Problem, Not Solution in Anambra
Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, a political economist and Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, comes across as a straight shooter and a pragmatic pugilist who needs no apologist. Okonkwo does not pull his punches as he excoriates Governor Charles Soludo’s administration, which he describes as subpar, claiming it has plunged Anambra into the doldrums, painting a picture of a nightmare contrasted to the unfulfilled dreams highlighted in the campaign promises of the Anambra governor. Okonkwo also does not have kind words for President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet, demanding the immediate sack of his lacklustre ministers. In this riveting interview with a select group of journalists, Okonkwo underscores the importance of balancing politics with the economy to spur Anambra’s development and application of the same dynamics by Tinubu to lift Nigerians out of the economic chaos they are experiencing. Excerpts:
What’s your assessment of Anambra?
When I look around Anambra State, I see that it is becoming a ghost state. This is because of the security situation. We know there is a general security situation in the nation and majorly in some parts of Nigeria. However, we know that Anambra’s security situation worsened when Soludo took over. We know the genuine efforts that his predecessor made to contain the security situation. Looking at it now, things are not as they ought to be. If there is anything better than worse, I will apply it. The most unfortunate situation is that nothing seems to be going on in terms of a visible plan or strategy or even investment in the security architecture in Anambra State to make things better. That makes me wonder if the design suits Soludo; it will keep people away from the state, and he thinks that is the cheapest and easiest way for him to have a second term, which now seems to be the only agenda on his table. Soludo is an intellectual narcissist. He is someone who believes only in his own knowledge and does not think that other people know as much. People like him have never made good leaders. That is why Anambra is in a mess.
You are one of the elites of Anambra, and from the way you speak, though you don’t speak for the Anambra elite, somebody will say that if all other Anambra elites were as worried as you, perhaps things would have changed.
Worrying is not enough. I speak for myself, surely. If other Anambra people have a different impression, maybe they are standing in a position that I am not standing in, and they are seeing things differently. I will not argue with them. But just take it that speaking is not even enough. That I am worried cannot change any situation. It will take beyond my worries. But it will take more of letting Soludo know that we, as Anambrarians, have our minimum expectations. We know Anambra. We know what Anambra is today. We know what it was. And besides, I cannot, in my real sense, be judging his performance based on what Anambra was, no matter how bad it was. I would rather judge his performance based on what I know is the potential of Anambra State and how much he is moving closer to realising that potential. So that’s why I can tell you that, really, I have nothing to smile for. I have nothing to be happy about. It is a big disappointment and I hope that he hears that. This is for no other reason but to call him out to let him know that this is the time to review his programme and focus on things that matter more to the lives of the Anambra people and the state than the craze for going for a second term. If he gets all his promises right, his second term will be a walkover. Within the context of this assessment, Anambra will soon be going for another election, and Soludo will run. But there seems to be no opposition to challenge him. So, there’s a feeling out there that he’s already coasting home to a second term. What do you think?
I am not here to speak for the opposition. I am expressing myself as an authentic and eligible stakeholder in Anambra State who is concerned and worried about the situation. I leave voters in Anambra State to decide who wins the next governorship election. More important, I leave it to God to give us who will be the next governor. So, this is not necessarily about if he will come back or not. The issue is that he is there for now, and so far, he is presiding over the affairs of Anambra State, not with his or his family’s resources but with the resources of Anambra State. It is time to call him out to know that he is not doing enough as he promised. He is not doing enough as we expected and he is not utilising our resources, our commonwealth, for what matters more to the people but more of what massages his ego.
I am more interested in what matters to the people, and that is what he has to do. If you had grown through the daily business process of buying and selling, like those of us who went through the main market, you will know that what you offer is what the people want and not what you want. Offering only what you want is ego-tripping. When you offer what the people want, it means that you are closer to the people and you hear them. You don’t just sit down somewhere as a governor, and then all you want to do is what will boost your ego by building whatever you want and labelling them ‘solution this’ and ‘solution that’. The people are shouting out against multiple taxes and asking you to stop. These are things that matter to them. However, you continually take life away from the grassroots; meanwhile, development should have a bottom-up approach.
As you now know, there are no activities at the local government because he has stifled that tier of government and withheld their funds. As you know, I am from Idemili North LGA, and my local government area is one of the largest in terms of population size, voter population, and even revenue. My hometown of Ogidi is the capital, but there is no single thing I can point to regarding what the state government has achieved in the area despite the huge local government monthly allocation and IGR from the LGA.
Local government elections have just taken place in Anambra State, and the ruling party had a landslide victory. How would you assess the conduct and outcome of this election, which is the first in Anambra since 2014?
From the information available to me, APGA has declared themselves the winner of the entire local governments and the councillorships in Anambra State with unimaginable numbers. What can I say? I congratulate them. What they have displayed is how
the government, or the governor, has used the powers he has in Anambra State, first, to change the state electoral laws within 24 hours, in such a very scandalous way and now declared the state, both local government and council for APGA. He has shown what the power of incumbency can do, and I congratulate him.
The only thing I will add to that is that he should also be ready to congratulate any other party that might come into Anambra anytime with a bigger power to take every elective position in the state in the same way he has taken them now. He should be ready not to complain but to congratulate them. When people use powers in their favour, there is a tendency for them to say that democracy is at work, but when stronger power comes and overwhelms, and the result goes differently, there are always tears and wailing about threats to democracy. For now, the only thing I can say is congratulations to him. He has shown what he does with power and how he understands power.
But Soludo is your friend. Isn’t this vital?
I have known Soludo for over three decades, and he is my friend, but this is not about our friendship. It is about making him live up to his promises and give us that Anambra of our dreams, or, the Anambra of his dream. Also, it is because he is my friend that I am worried for him. I am also worried for our people. I am worried because we have dependent people. We have people who are looking up to us. We have our responsibilities in this state. It is even becoming very difficult for me to carry out these responsibilities because of the environment. So, part of the things which are our social responsibility is to go home and be with our people. Listen to them. See what you can do to assist them.
I have some calendar programmes I have been carrying out for over 10 years –Christmas festivities, the New Yam Festival and other activities that are supposed to warm up the environment, bring joy and happiness and offer some help to people. Those things are closed because I can’t even go home. Imagine that for the first time in over 50 years, I did not spend Christmas in Anambra State. Not that I cannot protect myself. That is far from it. I can protect myself because God is with me. However, the issue is that when you go and have a social obligation to each other, you invite some of your friends to join you. Some of them must come because it is you. But that puts them in a very difficult situation because they will be in fear, and you won’t even be at rest. Recently, I buried my uncle. I know what it took me to secure the environment to ensure the safety of everyone who honoured us with their presence at the funeral ceremonies. The sad thing is that even community efforts to secure the environment go without support from the state government. I have not had any community say that they are getting support from the state government every month. The people are now forced by the situation to
provide for themselves, even for infrastructure development. Communities are getting together, taxing themselves for infrastructure development. So, what is the function of government? And Soludo will proudly tell you that he has redefined the PPP (public-private partnership) to become PPCP (public-private community partnership); what a disgrace! It simply means that he is abdicating his responsibilities as government to the people. He is more interested in commissioning projects developed by the people, not ones developed by his government. The saddest thing is that what he is doing now appears to be his best because he is still looking for a second term. Somebody would say that you contested the election the last time against Soludo, and you intend to contest against him, and that may be the reason you are calling him out. How do you respond to that?
This is not what it’s all about. I don’t want to be distracted by that. I would rather the person say that Soludo has performed very well. If he has done so, I would be very glad. So what we’re talking about is what is not going well, and I have been reasonable enough to wait and give time when I believe that there would have been a change. Don’t forget that this is a government that came and declared a state of emergency on refuse dumps. Remember his first visit to refuse dumps after swearing-in? Today, refuse heaps have taken over Anambra towns. This is a government that celebrates building a water fountain at Ochanga Square. You made great promises but are now celebrating the water fountain, things that a local government should be doing.
So, I look at the potential of Anambra State and not the little things they are celebrating. Let’s talk about how we can galvanise the human capital of Anambra state for greater things. It is not about celebrating that you are working without borrowing. I don’t join in the celebration that I am working without borrowing. What does that tell me? I am surprised that somebody of his level, a former CBN governor, is talking about not borrowing as an achievement. Look, the capacity to borrow in any venture, whether private or government, is even a testament to your integrity and your credibility because if you are not found worthy, nobody gives you credit. I don’t see how a business grows, whether it is individual or state business, without borrowing. So if you tell me you don’t need to borrow, then you do not even have any investment that you can fund. It means that you don’t think of the future. Well, I am a businessman, and I know the importance of credit in any business.
You seem to have written off the Soludo government managing security in Anambra State. But when you go around Anambra, you keep hearing Soludo is the solution, and there seems to be a wave of followership
Tinubu Should Sack His Cabinet Because They’re Not a Winning Team
on that background. Some say that he’s bringing some solutions to Anambra’s problems.
Well, this is not about writing Soludo off. There are things he can do. He is a great man, no doubt. And he has done well for himself as an individual. Probably, based on his assessment and those of the people around him, he has done well. However, I am looking at Anambra from the perspective of the promises that he made by himself. Do you remember the promises that he made? The Dubai, Taiwan, and Hong Kong promise… It is from that perspective that I assess his administration. All of us understood what those promises mean for Anambra State. But what we are seeing on the ground is far-fetched. And then, again, you see the government doing things, engaging in certain behaviours which may matter to him, but for me, they are not necessarily addressing the problems of the people even in the interim. I can only say that he gets high on his dose. That’s what I can see going on. It’s about ego.
This is because when you come to a state where there is no security, where there is no social and economic life, where Mondays have become unconventional, additional weekends, where there is no life beyond five o’clock, where people are going on the street with their hearts in their hands, where the elites are deserting; and nothing tangible is seen to be happening towards addressing these issues, especially where there are daily occurrences of kidnapping and robbery and in very brutal ways, then there is a problem. And the government does not even seem to take action? The government does not also engage with people that matter in the process of finding lasting solutions.
Many people who have options have left the state. The people left behind are probably there because they don’t have options. The sad reality is that those who are there now are not only faced with insecurity but also pummelled by all sorts of taxes and the shenanigans of raising revenue in the most crude way that is known to mankind in a very dehumanising manner. Living in Anambra State now, from the way I look at it, is quite terrorising and traumatising. For me, therefore, with all these things going on in the state, I cannot just say that I believe in that solution philosophy. Rather, I will say emphatically, without any doubt, that Soludo is the problem and not the solution.
The way you’ve painted the picture of insecurity in Anambra State, somebody could argue that governors are not actually in charge of the security apparatus of their states because of the federal command structure of security management organisations of government. Don’t you think you are too harsh in blaming the governor?
Why do we have different tiers of government? Each tier has its responsibility from the federal to state to local, even to the community level. It has remained so. There are security threats that are left in the hands of the federal government. Besides, why do we have that title for a governor that he is the chief security officer of the state? In my state, we say that the traditional rulers are the chief security officers of their towns, so we all have the responsibility, and each individual is also the chief security officer of his environment. So, I think that this is about not having what it takes.
Why would somebody like Soludo take home about N2 billion monthly in what is called a security vote and, from every information available, not spend more than N50 million on security? I agree that the state has security apparatchiks, from the police, DSS, military and paramilitary service, which are federal agencies. But they work in the state to sustain the security and peace of the state, and they report to you as governor. You do not need to be told as a governor that no matter the vision or dream you have for a state, if you don’t have an enabling environment, security-wise, you cannot actualise anything.
The greatest asset that Anambra has is its human capital. When these human resources are not able to come around to transact their business, whether they are social or economic, and are not comfortable visiting and enjoying the community of their kith and kin at home, then you are depriving the state of the fabric that propels its growth. It is like depriving someone of oxygen. This is exactly what has happened to Anambra State under the leadership of Soludo. As you know, Anambra is known to have created a social industry where people come home for huge chieftaincy title taking, marriage or funeral ceremonies, etc., which have gradually become part of the people’s way of life. But today, you see more of our people doing these things outside the territories of Anambra. These ceremonies have helped to develop and grow ancillary businesses in the state through which people make income and pay their taxes to the state. However, these businesses are now suffering and dying gradually as a consequence of insecurity.
To make matters worse, Soludo, in his deliberate programme to stifle the growth of the state for his benefit, is also using some utterances and actions and then promoting some kind of funny laws from the state assembly to dissuade people from elaborate burials. Seriously, I wonder why how someone chooses to bury his deceased parents or family members should bother the government. Look at it this way: If you are going about and saying don’t print posters, banners or brochures for burials, did you forget that people are living and paying taxes to the state and who are in the business of printing? They also make money from such jobs. Why frustrate them? So, what I am saying, in essence, is that economic activities are carried out effectively when there is a suitable environment and people can go around freely.
Imagine that at six o’clock, life shuts down in Anambra State. In some parts of the world, and even in a normal situation, you can equate both night and day economy to 40 per cent to 60 per cent. In some places, you could
say that the day economy is 60 per cent and the night economy is 40 per cent. In some places, it’s 40 per cent. In Anambra, we have lost almost 60 per cent of the economic capacity. I haven’t heard anything from Soludo or his administration, even to express concern about it, even though he’s an economist.
Don’t you think that the present government in Anambra acts the way it is doing because, perhaps, it feels that there is no strong opposition to shake it up?
It has nothing to do with opposition. Even if you have the biggest opposition around them, he cannot offer what he doesn’t have. That’s what I can say. He probably doesn’t know better because if he knows better, he should know that what is at stake is his name, his legacy. He wouldn’t need any opposition to push him. I don’t know which opposition we had during the Dr. Michael Okpara era. Dr. Okpara came with his vision; he was driving it, and the legacy lives beyond him. Soludo should be thinking about legacy. It is not just about the opposition. By the way, why should it be the opposition that would drive you? It should be about your vision. Opposition should not determine your legacy and your achievements. It should be a vision and your commitment to realizing them, not opposition. So, I speak for myself as a critical stakeholder who loves his state. That is the only place I go for holidays, to relax and be happy. It is something that I started doing long ago, even while I was a student abroad. I love to visit my hometown and stay with my people. But I am being deprived of that. It is not that I can’t just go and fortify myself, but how about other people?
The painful aspect of this whole thing is that it even looks like Governor Soludo himself does not know that there is this problem because he goes to events, picks the microphone, and tells the people that Anambra is a safe paradise. If you are a foreigner, you might be tempted to believe that because it is coming from a governor. However, he drives around the state in multiple Armoured Personnel Carriers and all sorts of security, conventional and unconventional, in their numbers.
Why would a governor who tells people that his state is secure be driving around in armoured personnel carriers and security protocols like a warlord driving through enemy territory? Still, he asks people to come for tourism and investment in the state.
There is a schism in APGA, and the speculation is that Soludo may quit the party to join PDP. Do you think that he will be an asset to a party like the PDP?
That is not my interest. He has the choice to go where he wants to go. I am not interested in those things. My focus is that, as a stakeholder, I can’t keep quiet. So, if people think it is a conspiracy of silence, I want to say I am not part of that conspiracy. By the way, if he does join PDP, what happens? Would that change the present story in Anambra State? My interest is that he does better for Anambra State, create a legacy and for a better Anambra State.
So, within this context of the assessment of the Soludo government, how would you assess the federal government, especially in the context of calls for the reshuffling of the cabinet?
Well, I have given different interviews in the past publicly, and my position on that is clear. It is long overdue to have changed the cabinet. You see, President Bola Tinubu, we know, is one person who has a reputation for identifying talents and choosing people who are capable of delivering results. He has done that effectively
inflicted. For instance, the naira has no business to be above N1,000 to the dollar. As a matter of fact, for me, the actual value of naira should be about N850, and that was simply because this floating of naira had been done partially before Tinubu came into power. During the Muhammadu Buhari era, official and unofficial rates ran around N300 to N400, and the unofficial rate was N750. So technically, if there was a strategic approach to it, it is just to bring up unofficial and official. So, it hovers around N700. The worst-case scenario is N800 to N900 to the dollar. But, by and large, the naira should not be above N1,000. That is the real value of the naira. These other ones are speculative. Even countries that are at war but have the right kind of leadership and focus are selfless and think of how it affects their people, and their country does well. Even countries that have survived economic sanctions like Russia have done well. Russia has about 200 sanctions.
They are fighting a war in Ukraine, but the economy of the state is even better than the economies of those who are pushing war on them. That is the difference leadership can make. Everyone is talking about Rwanda. The man of Rwanda picked a broken nation coming from a genocidal war, and today he is the envy of many. I believe that we need not dwell much on the past and use it to keep stigmatising our country. Let us look at how we can make the best out of this situation. I still believe that this government can do that if they focus on what matters and know that we are not in campaign mode.
This is time for governance, and for them to govern, they have to open their hands to all and sundry, open their eyes beyond those who are in the same political party to see those who can make an impact because the success they will bring to this government will add to your legacy and that will even make your return easier.
in Lagos State. Nobody can take it away from him. There is hardly any governor who has been able to rule and who has been able to do things with the best of talents that has not grown beyond the state and even gone international and has achieved an international reputation. We had expected that to happen here.
It is understood that it took a lot for him to run the election. He fought a whole lot of battles to get the ticket and surmounted obstacles to win, and there may not have been enough time within the period the ministers were chosen for the cabinet to pick the best. And then within that period, also, there were a whole lot of legal issues going on for the legitimacy and survival of the government.
That may have been a thing of concern that one wouldn’t rule out the possibility that it could have influenced the composition of the cabinet. But he had won the Supreme Court case and has been in office for one year. I think that at this point, it is time to rejig because he may have enough time to know who is performing and who is not. He has been very patient. No person has fought as hard as he has fought to come to this level to become president and will be as patient as President Tinubu has been with his cabinet. And, I had said before that the only thing anybody around Tinubu owes him, if you love him, is to help him to leave a legacy. We have known him as somebody who is stupendously rich and who knows how to spend money. So, making money can no longer be his focus. Therefore, the only thing I know that should be his desire, and those who think they care about him must do, is to help him leave a great legacy for this country. I believe that the team that has been with him surely have not proven that they are a winning team. And so I think he should know it, and they know it. I called for the change of the cabinet on the first anniversary of his inauguration. But if it is going to happen now, it is even overdue. It is highly necessary.
Does this have something to do with the state of insecurity in Nigeria and the government’s response?
For over five decades, the world over has classified the economy as part of security issues. I think that was in 1964. Since 1964, it has been known that the state of the economy is part of the security issue. So, if the poor performance of the government is leading, as it is obvious, to very poor economic activities, then obviously, insecurity is not only when the sovereignty of Nigeria is under threat. Insecurity could be internalised. It could be self-inflicted. In this case, we have had, before this administration, even before APC, there has been insecurity across the country. There was government going on, and economic activities were booming because there were efforts by the government to contain Boko Haram in its domain and all the other such things. However, the dynamic of crime has changed. Crimes are now happening inside homes and neighbourhoods, and this is driven by hunger. If you recall, I had raised the alarm during the cabinet screening when one of the critical appointees had gone for screening and said there wouldn’t be any interventions in agriculture. I had gone on television to warn about the dangers of the proposal. I had warned that if the agricultural interventions stopped, this country would face the challenge of food scarcity and hunger. It is now playing out. This is because all the gains in agricultural reforms and policies are eroded, and it has started affecting the stomachs of people. Not long ago, we had protests against hunger. That should be a wake-up call. In all of these, however, I still believe in the potential of Nigeria. I still believe that we do not have any problem beyond human comprehension. Our problems are internal and self-
It should not be all about complaints. As a political scientist, I have studied this for four years, a two-term tenure issue. Within this period, you can begin 60 per cent to 70 per cent of projects that have to do with enhancing people’s lives and complete them in four years. Look at all the humongous projects that are going on in China; they are completed within eight years. That means that your first tenure of four years is enough to turn things around. If you are lucky to have eight years, it is for you to do wonders. Look at the Euro tunnel; it is one of the wonders of the world. It was done in six years, not even up to eight years. We all see complicated and new projects in China done in three to four years. So, when people look at the four years, it looks so short and yes, it is so short because they do not focus on what can be achieved within the period. Our system is such that governors get into office and, from the first day, are thinking of a second tenure. The only way you can achieve these things is to focus. If that is to be achieved with this government, they must open their hands and bring in patriotic people with focus and vision. No president knows it all. That I am a professor does not mean that I know everything. Yes, I have an airline but I cannot fly an aircraft. Life is about different talents and different capacities. Therefore, in a country like ours, where you have numerous talents and capabilities, your job as a leader is to identify them and work with them, put them in the right places and you see things that seem impossible getting done. However, appointees also must be humble enough not to accept assignments that they know they cannot accomplish. There is no need for one to accept a task he lacks the capacity to accomplish just to be in office. We should be able to also help the leaders by not accepting assignments that we know nothing about rather than accepting the same and then, start going everywhere complaining and wasting time.
At the United Nations General Assembly, Nigeria made a call for debt forgiveness. What’s your take on that?
I addressed my concern on this issue in the recent past when we started this economic summersault. Part of the thing that was putting so much pressure on our foreign exchange is debt servicing. It takes a larger chunk of our earnings. For the government to give itself some relief, there is a need to, as a low-hanging fruit, renegotiate and reschedule these debts and give themselves a breather. Even if they cut off 50 per cent, that is money going back to the economy, and, after that, you can go back to negotiate for debt forgiveness/ pardon. They should not be shy to do that. I support it and believe that it is something that we should have done. However, for them to be able to do it, it cannot be done on the UNGA platform. It takes much more than diplomacy and politics to achieve such things.
It will take a lot of networking and individual engagements. I want to see in the next cabinet people who are coming from IMF and World Bank families in different critical financial sector. There are Nigerians who are highly respected and doing well there. They have to be part of these critical sectors that have the responsibility to do these things. One thing about it is sitting face to face with your colleagues, those you know that can influence certain decisions to negotiate. If that person does not agree with you because you are not making sense, he may be forced to agree with you because you are colleagues and you are the one who asked. The biggest achievements in some of these things are not done publicly. They are done underground.
When I look at the financial sector, I don’t see these critical human resources. And these may not be too far from the successes that the Olusegun Obasanjo administration achieved when his government negotiated debt forgiveness for Nigeria. Recall the role Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala played with her team, those of them coming from the World Bank, sitting face to face with her colleagues and talking to each other. I believe that was why we were able to achieve that under Obasanjo. So, the government should, as a matter of urgency, get this calibre of people and infuse them into government and give them that assignment.
For the borrowing thing, you can’t stop borrowing. No government can do without borrowing. But the issue is to borrow and use it very well. I am a businessman, and I know what I am talking about. However, no country borrows itself to economic greatness. This means that you can only borrow as a stop-gap and invest in those areas that will enable you to crystalise your economic growth and development.
Prof Obiora Okonkwo
Elumelu: Heirs Insurance Democratising Access to Insurance in Nigeria
Ebere Nwoji
The Group Chairman, Heirs Holdings, the parent body of Heirs Insurance Group, Mr Tony Elumelu, has said that the remarkable year-on-year impressive growth achieved by the group in its 2023 financial result is a demonstration of its unwavering commitment to democratising access to insurance and delivering enduring value to stakeholders.
Elumelu stated this while commenting on the financial results of the group for 2023 published at the weekend.
Going by its financial performance in the 2023 business outing, Heirs Insurance Group achieved remarkable year-onyear growth in all aspects of its business activities growing profit by 203 per cent.
The financial performance indicators in the result highlighted the group’s resilience and operational efficiency.
According to the results, Heirs General and Life insurance companies, collectively recorded 59.30 per cent increase in Gross Written Premium (GWP), from N19.9 billion in
2022 to N31.7 billion, for the year ended December 31, 2023.
In addition, the group’s earned insurance revenue for year 2023 stood at N20.5 billion, showing 80 per cent growth from N11.3 billion in 2022, an indication that in its four years of operation in the ever competitive Nigerian insurance market, Heirs Insurance Group is one of the fast growing insurance groups in Nigeria.
Giving a breakdown of the performance, Elumelu said Heirs General Insurance (HGI), the non-life arm of Heirs Insurance Group, reported 77 percent increase in GWP, rising from N8.5 billion in 2022 to N12billion in 2023.
Total assets for 2023 stood at N18.1billion, showing 27.4 percent increase from N14.2 billion recorded in 2022. Profit Before Tax (PBT) grew from N791million in FY2022 to N2.4 billion in FY2023, indicating staggering 203 per cent growth.
The Heirs Insurance boss said this signaled the company’s effective cost management and strategic growth initiatives.
According to him, Heirs
General Insurance also reported a net investment income of N1.4bn for 2023, indicating 45 increase from the preceding year.
He also said the impressive top and bottom-line growth underscored the company’s ongoing development and its unwavering focus on delivering value to clients.
Demonstrating its commitment to customer satisfaction and upholding customer trust, Heirs General Insurance also disbursed N1.6 billion to policyholders in claims settlement, up from N471million it paid in the prior year.
He said the sharp rise in claims settlement emphasised the company’s commitment to customers and its dedication to keeping service promises, with a strong focus on timely and transparent claims processing.
He further said Heirs Life Assurance, the specialist life insurance arm of Heirs Insurance Group, equally delivered phenomenal results with 71 percent growth in gross written premium rising from N11.5 billion in 2022 to N19.7 billion in 2023.
NPA Appoints Ikechukwu Onyemekara as New Spokesman
The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), has appointed Mr Ikechukwu Chika Onyemekara as the spokesperson of the authority.
According to a statement, Onyemekara brings a wealth of experience in marketing and public relations. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in marketing and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in the same field.
Onyemekara’s career with the NPA began in 1992 as a marketing officer, where he gained significant expertise in the maritime industry. His interpersonal skills and ability to interact with key stakeholders soon saw him transition into strategic roles within the
commercial department.
Recognising his people management abilities, NPA management redeployed Onyemekara to the Public Affairs Division, where his strong performance and results-driven approach led to his appointment as Technical Assistant Protocol. In this role, he coordinated media relations, diplomatic engagements, and government relations for several Managing Directors of the NPA, further solidifying his reputation as an invaluable asset to the organisation.
Onyemekara has also represented the NPA at international forums, including the International Maritime
Organisation (IMO), where he participated in working groups such as the Editorial and Technical (E&T) Group for the IMSBC Code. He has also attended numerous national and international capacity-building workshops sponsored by the authority.
An avid reader and traveler, Onyemekara is a member of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) and actively participates in alumni activities for the Federal Government College Kaduna. Prior to his current appointment, he served as Assistant General Manager, Corporate & Strategic Communications & Technical Assistant Protocol to the Managing Director.
Top Africa’s Stakeholders in IT Converges in Lagos to Discuss Future
Michael Olugbode
Leading industry leaders, tech enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, and innovators from across Africa are to converge in Lagos to discuss the continent’s digital transformation and future trends.
The event organised by CWG Plc, a leading technology solutions provider in Africa, marking the return of the company’s
technology and innovation conference, Texcellence 3.0, is scheduled to take place in Lagos.
This year’s event, themed, “Revealing Tomorrow,” is set to bring together industry leaders, tech enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, and innovators from across Africa to discuss the continent’s digital transformation and future trends. Texcellence in its third
year, has solidified its place as the largest platform for thought leadership and groundbreaking discussions around the integration of technology into various sectors across Africa. This year’s edition will focus on the evolving role of technology in finance, telecoms, government, and energy industries alongside emerging trends in AI, automation, and digital infrastructure.
Beta Glass Appoints Alexander Gendis as New CEO
Sunday Ehigiator
Beta Glass Plc, a leading manufacturer of glass packaging solutions in West and Central Africa, has announced the appointment of Alexander Gendis as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective September 30th, 2024.
According to a statement from the organisation, Mr. Gendis brings over 25 years of experience in the manufacturing and packaging sectors, with a proven track record of driving growth, production, and revenue.
“His extensive expertise spans general and supply chain management, marketing, and team leadership, with a career spanning multiple regions, including Africa, Europe, Southeast Asia, and Australia.
“Prior to his appointment, Mr. Gendis served as Managing Director of Engee PET Manufacturing Company in Nigeria, where he successfully drove growth and revenue. He has also held CEO positions at Verde Beef Processing in Ethiopia and Bel Impex in Lagos.”
Commenting on his appointment as the new CEO of Beta Glass, Alexander Gendis noted: “It’s a great honour to join the ranks of Beta Glass, and I’m delighted for the opportunity to contribute to the legacy of such a long-standing and respected organisation in Nigeria.
Also speaking, Chairman, Board of Directors, Beta Glass Plc, Dr. Vitus Chidiebere Ezinwa noted that: “We are delighted to welcome Alexander Gendis to Beta Glass.
MARKET INDICATORS
Blend (Algeria), Djeno (Congo), Zafiro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basrah Medium (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria),
L-R; Chairman, Senate Committee on Marine Transport, Senator Wasiu Eshinlokun Sanni; Chairman, House Committee on Maritime Safety Education and Administration, Alhaja Khadijat Bukka Abba lbrahim; Guest of Honour, Prof. Larry Awosika and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Oloruntola Olufemi during the celebration of World Maritime Day 2024 in Lagos...yesterday.
Stock Market Down N539bn WoW as Investors Trade with Caution
Kayode Tokede
The stock market of the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) dropped by N539billion Week-on-Week (WoW) as local and foreign investors remain cautious amid prevailing macroeconomic uncertainties, with many seeking to rebalance their portfolios in light of global and domestic economic challenges.
The decline in market capitalisation was primarily driven by profit-taking in large-cap
stocks, further eroding investors confidence.
This decline reflects renewed bearish sentiment, as sell-offs across key sectors like the banking and industrial goods weighed on market performance.
The overall market capitalisation that opened for trading at N56.578 trillion, dropped by N539billion to close the week at N56.039 trillion
Also, the benchmark index, Nigerian Exchange Limited AllShare Index (NGX ASI) declined
by 0.95 per cent W-o-W to close at 97,520.54 basis points from 98,458.68 basis points it opened for trading.
Across the sectoral spectrum, performance was in the mixed bag. The NGX Oil & Gas and NGX Insurance indices led the charge with weekly gains of 7.29 per cent and 3.81 per cent. Also, the NGX Consumer Goods index recorded a weekly gain of 0.34 per cent. On the contrary, the NGX Industrial Goods and NGX Banking indices closed the week down by 6.84 per
cent and 0.74 per cent respectively. The market breadth for the week was positive as 45 equities appreciated in price, 33 equities depreciated in price, while 73 equities remained unchanged.
Deap Capital Management & Trust led the gainers table by 31.53 per cent to close at N1.46, per share. Seplat Energy followed with a gain of 21.00 per cent to close at N4,964.70, while Tripple Gee and Company went up by 20.34 per cent to close to N4.97, per share. On the other side, McNichols
led the decliners table by 15.63 per cent to close at N1.35, per share. Fidelity Bank followed with a loss of 13.33 per cent to close at N13.00, while Dangote Sugar Refinery declined by 12.20 per cent to close at N30.60, per share.
Overall, a total turnover of 2.872 billion shares worth N132.811 billion in 39,867 deals was traded last week by investors on the floor of the Exchange, in contrast to a total of 3.318 billion shares valued at N45.911 billion that exchanged hands previous
week in 49,243 deals. The Consumer Goods Industry (measured by volume) led the activity chart with 1.341 billion shares valued at N106.099 billion traded in 4,652 deals; contributing 46.68 per cent and 79.89 per cent to the total equity turnover volume and value respectively. The Financial Services Industry followed with 926.615 million shares worth N14.924 billion in 19,174 deals, while the Oil and Gas Industry traded a turnover of 244.638 million shares worth N7.221 billion in 4,221 deals.
3/24
HOMES & DESIGN
Riviera Heights, Luxury Living in Lagos at Its Zenith
MGE Realty Limited, in collaboration with Tami-Thames Limited, has launched its choice residential project, designed for luxury living, Bennett Oghifo writes
Riviera Heights is a new luxury residential development on Water Corporation Drive in Victoria Island, Lagos. This 12-storey luxury residential tower, crafted by the renowned architectural visionaries at Consultants Collaborative Partnership (CCP), promises to redefine luxury living in Lagos, setting new standards for elegance, comfort, and convenience.
Riviera Heights boasts a perfect synergy of aesthetics and functionality and is a prime location within the heart of Lagos’ hospitality communities. Situated amidst the vibrant hub of beaches, cinemas, fine dining, and lounges, this exquisite development offers the ultimate urban lifestyle for residents and a compelling investment opportunity for those with a discerning eye for quality.
Residents entering Riviera Heights will enjoy a contemporary reception and lounge area that acts as a refined meeting place. Moreover, Riviera Heights boasts a wide range of amenities at the Leisure Deck – a large outdoor area with green space to relax and unwind. Additional features include a state-of-the-art gymnasium and a swimming pool for children and adults.
This 40-unit tower offers spacious, modern, and meticulously designed one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments with elegant maid rooms. For those who desire a
larger living space, the four-bedroom maisonette penthouses are the epitome of sophistication and comfort.
“Riviera Heights will undoubtedly become one of the most desirable addresses in Lagos,” said Richard Deniran, COO of MGE Realty Limited.
“We are delighted with the contribution of Consultants Collaborative Partnership (CCP), who have designed an exceptional addition to the ever-evolving skyline in the heart of Victoria Island. With exceptional amenities and direct views to Lagos beachfront, Riviera Heights presents an unmissable investment opportunity.”
The CEO of MGE Realty Limited, Bolaji Badejo, expressed similar enthusiasm for the project. He said, “Riviera Heights is a testament
to our commitment to innovation and excellence in the real estate industry. This development showcases the future of luxury living in Lagos.”
It is an investor’s dream project that transcends luxury and offers an unparalleled urban lifestyle experience.
With the expertise of MGE Realty Limited, the backing of Tami-Thames Limited, and the creative brilliance of CCP, Riviera Heights is set to become a landmark in Lagos real estate.
MGE Realty Limited is a leading real estate company with a proven track record of delivering exceptional projects that combine innovation, quality, and sophistication. With a commitment to
excellence and a focus on customer satisfaction, MGE Realty Limited has earned its reputation as a trusted name in the industry.
Tami-Thames Limited is a dynamic and forward-thinking company that partners industry leaders to deliver premium real estate projects. With a dedication to creating lasting value and fostering growth in the real estate sector, Tami-Thames values integrity and quality.
Consultants Collaborative Partnership (CCP) is an award-winning architectural firm known for its cutting-edge designs and commitment to creating spaces that inspire. Their portfolio of innovative projects spans the globe, making them a trusted name in the world of architecture and design.
BUSINESS SPECIAL
UBA’s Historic Interim Dividend Payout to Shareholders
The
interim
dividend
of
N2.00 per share announced by United Bank for Africa for
the half year ended June 30, 2024
is not only commendable but also signals bright future prospects for shareholders, writes Kayode Tokede
For the first time in its history, United Bank for Africa Plc (UBA) has recommended an interim dividend of N2.00 per ordinary share of N0.50 each payout for half year(H1) ended June 30, 2024.
The interim dividend payout is on the backdrop of continuous impressive corporate earnings that have impacted on the financial institution intrinsic fundamentals, and underlying force that has impacted on its stock price on the floor of the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) to N34 per share in its 52-week high.
The board proposed an interim dividend of N2.00 per share as against N0.50 per share paid in H1 2023, translating to a dividend yield of 7.8per cent based on the last closing price of N25.75 per share September 27, 2024. The N2.00 interim dividend will amount to total payout of N68.4 billion and translates to a 21.6 per cent dividend payout ratio, one of the highest in the industry.
The 7.8 per cent dividend yield ranked UBA as the highest among other listed financial institutions that have declared interim dividend payout to shareholders on the Exchange.
Reporting N316.36 billion profit after tax in H1 2024, the Group’s proposed interim dividend payout brings the shared value with shareholders at N68.4 billion. This also positioned UBA’s dividend payout ratio to 21.6 per cent and it is ahead of other banks.
UBA in 2023 financial year paid shareholders a final dividend of N2.30 per share (N0.90 per share in 2022).
The proposed final dividend of N2.30 per share and the N0.50 per share interim dividend paid in September 2023, brought the total dividend for the year to N2.80 in 2023 compared with N1.10 per share total dividend paid in the 2022 financial year.
Capital market analysts have hinted that the N2.00 per share interim payout to shareholders in 2024 is a reflection of the board and management’s determination to reward shareholders, projecting over N3.00 per share total dividend payout by the financial year ended December 31, 2024.
However, UBA’s H1 2024 audited result and accounts showed resilient amid high inflation, rising debt levels, increasing interest rates, and tighter monetary policies that have created significant pressure on economies globally.
The Group declared N1.37 trillion gross earnings in H1 2024, about 39.6 per cent increase from N981.8 billion reported in H1 2023, driven by 142.6 per cent growth in the net Interest Income line to and 85per cent growth in net fees and commission.
From the profit and loss figures, UBA’s interest income stood at N1.004 trillion in H1 2024, about 134.3 per cent increase from N428 billion reported in H1 2023, driven by gains recorded across all the major lines.
Specifically, the group generated higher income from investment securities (167 per cent growth to N510.21 billion), loans and advances to customers (92.5 per cent to N343.76 billion), loans and advances to banks (464.3per cent to N101.67 billion), and cash & bank balances (18per cent to N47.92 billion). Expectedly, the growth in these income lines was induced by a combination of the higher yield environment.
UBA recorded N328.94 billion interest expense in H1 2024, about 119 per cent growth from N150.18 billion in H1 2023
The 119 per cent increase in interest expenses is due to the higher cost incurred on deposits from customers (106.7 per cent to N204.49 billion), borrowings (161.1per cent to N68.65 billion) and deposits from financial institutions (142.7per cent to N54.09 billion).
Consequent to the faster growth in interest income than interest expenses, the group recorded a 142.6per cent expansion in net interest income to N674.62 billion in H1 2024 from N278.1 billion reported in H1 2023. UBA’s non-interest income stood at N367billion in H1 2024, about 33.6 per cent increase from N553 billion in H1 2023.
However, the stellar growth in interest income was sufficient to offset the decrease in non-interest income, causing operating income to close H1 2024 at N936.59 billion in H1 2024, about 19.5 per cent increase from N783.96billion reported in H1 2023.
But operating expenses closed higher by 107.9per cent to NGN40.52 billion in H1 2024 from N266.37 billion in H1 2023, triggered by the increasing regulatory costs and persistent inflationary pressures.
Precisely, the group incurred higher costs on personnel expenses (92.9 per cent to N133.86 billion); AMCON levy (71.9 per cent to N70.33 billion); fuel, repairs and maintenance 218.7 per cent to N47.85 billion); and NDIC premium (102.6 per cent to N23.51 billion) during the period.
Accordingly, the group’s cost-to-income ratio settled at 50.2 per cent in the period under review from 37.2 per cent reported in the corresponding period of 2023.
In addition, the Group closed H1 2024 with a profit before tax of N401.58 billion from N403.65 billion reported in H1 2023.
Eventually, the Group’s profit after tax settled at N316.36 billion in H1 2024 from N378.24 billion in H1 2023, amid the higher income tax expense (235.3per cent to N85.22 billion).
BALANCE SHEET POSITION ON RESILIENCE GROWTH
UBA as at June 30, 2024 performance under review maintained a stronger growth in total assets, driven by its resilience business across 20 Africa where to operate.
The Group reported N28.34 trillion total assets as at June 30, 2024, about 37.2 per cent increase from N20.65 trillion reported in financial year ended December 31, 2023.
Key contributing factors to growth in total assets include 26.1per cent increase in loans and advances to N6.99 trillion as at June 30, 2024 from N5.55trillion reported in 2023, while deposits from customers gained 33.7 per cent to at N23.2trillion from N17.4 trillion recorded in full year ended December 31, 2023.
According to the financial institution, customer deposits continue to dominate the Bank’s funding mix (82per cent), which demonstrates combined efforts at deepening its wallet share of the Corporate, Commercial, and Retail business.
“Low-cost deposit instrumental to achieving a modest cost of funds,” the Bank added.
The group’s shareholders’ funds remained robust at N2.99 trillion, an increase of 47 per cent from N2.03 trillion in December 2023, reflecting its strong capacity for internal capital generation.
KEY RATIOS
UBA’s Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) stood at 28.3 per cent at end of H1 2024 from 32.6 per cent reported December 2023, while liquidity ratio moved from 64.1 per cent in 2023 to 65.8 per cent
as of June 30 2024.
Non-Performing Loan (NPL) slipped to 6.2per cent as of June 30 2024 from 5.8 per cent in 2023 on account of further classification of some exposures.
CONCLUSION
Commenting on the results, the Group Managing Director/CEO, UBA, Mr. Oliver Alawuba, had stated that the economic environment in H1 2024 remained challenging across the regions where it operates.
According to him, UBA in H1 2024 delivered strong double-digit growth across high-quality and sustainable revenue streams.
“This performance reflects our disciplined execution of strategic goals, focusing on balance sheet expansion, transaction banking, and digital banking businesses across our markets,” he said.
On building an even better bank, he said: “We continue to invest in building a better bank through improvements in People, Processes, and Technology.”
He revealed that the Pan-African financial institution recognised that people are its greatest asset and this year alone, it has promoted over 2,000 employees and paid the 2023 bonus to eligible staff across Nigeria and UBA Africa (ex-Nigeria).
He also said the group has improved on its process amid its smart automation initiatives simplifying service delivery.
“For instance, our website now offers self-service options for BVN and NIN linkage, account updates, card blocking, and more. Additionally, a comprehensive review of our procurement processes has led to significant cost optimization.”
On technology investments, he added: “Our ongoing investments in technology are enabling us to deliver superior customer experiences, drive operational efficiency, and unlock new growth opportunities.”
He stated that UBA’s strategic partnerships remain central with its growth strategy.
“In 2024, UBA was one of six banks to sign a Memorandum of Understanding(MoU) with the Pan-African Payment Settlement System (PAPSS), enhancing cross-border trade and financial integration across Africa. We successfully deployed instant payment systems in five African countries, with more to follow.
“Our collaborations with telco partners have also expanded, with funds under management now exceeding $1 billion. These partnerships enable us to deliver impactful solutions such as micro-lending and savings products, enhancing financial inclusion.”
Looking ahead, he added: “We enter the second half of 2024 from a position of strength. Our proven resilience, strong capital position, and market-leading capabilities position us to continue our growth trajectory. Execution will remain our driving force as we focus on market leadership and delivering excellent customer experiences at every touchpoint.”
Meanwhile, analysts at Cordros Research in a report on UBA’s H1 2024 result and accounts stated: “We like the sturdy growth in the group’s core income line, as the elevated interest rate environment underpinned interest income growth.
“The preceding was enough to offset the lower non-funded income and surge in operating expenses amid the 60.9per cent decline in loan impairment charges.
“Looking ahead, we expect the group to close the year positively, as the high-interest rate environment and improved risky asset creation will remain a catalyst for earnings growth.
“Investors have reacted very positively to the result, with the stock currently trading at limit up. YTD, UBA is up +10 per cent, compared to the NGX Banking index (+4.1per cent) and the broader All-Share index (+31.7per cent).”
Alawuba
A Mutual fund (Unit Trust) is an investment vehicle managed by a SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) registered Fund Manager. Investors with similar objectives buy units of the Fund so that the Fund Manager can buy securities that willl generate their desired return.
An ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) is a type of fund which owns the assets (shares of stock, bonds, oil futures, gold bars, foreign currency, etc.) and divides ownership of those assets into shares. Investors can buy these ‘shares’ on the
floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange.
A REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) is an investment vehicle that allows both small and large investors to part-own real estate ventures (eg. Offices, Houses, Hospitals) in proportion to their investments. The assets are divided into shares that are traded on the Nigerian Stock Exchange.
GUIDE TO DATA:
Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira as
This Week In Tech
DIGITAL CLASSROOMS: Edtech’s Game-changing Impact on Education in Nigeria
Nosa Alekhuogie explores how education technology (edtech) is reshaping the future of learning and employment in Nigeria
Abiola Afolabi graduated with a first class in 2020, yet like many Nigerian graduates, his academic achievements did not translate to immediate employment. He dreamt of working in international relations or a foreign embassy, but the only opportunities available were temporary teaching jobs—far from his aspirations.
The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 made things worse, as businesses shut down and movement was restricted. Stuck and uncertain about his next move, Abiola stumbled upon an online ad promoting a six-month product management course. Desperate for a solution, he enrolled, dedicating himself fully to the programme. He graduated as the top student and soon found a remote job.
“If I had known, I would have applied for this course before I even graduated,” Abiola said in an interview.
Adamma Ugochukwu, a political science graduate, faced a similar struggle as Abiola. Despite earning a second-class upper from a respected Nigerian university, Adamma found the job market tough to navigate. It was not until she pursued an online course in investment banking that her career took off. Now a research analyst in the financial sector, she credits the online academy for giving her the skills that made her employable.
“I had a good result but lacked the skills necessary for the jobs I wanted,” she stated. “Edtech filled that gap for me.”
Both Abiola and Adamma’s journeys show the transformative impact of edtech on Nigeria’s workforce.
Edtech, according to Investopedia, refers to the use of software, hardware, and digital tools to enhance the learning experience. In simple terms, it integrates modern technology into education, making learning more accessible, engaging, and effective.
Its adoption in Nigeria has been driven by necessity, with a growing number of graduates discovering that conventional education alone does not equip them with the skills they need to succeed.
THE RISE OF EDTECH IN NIGERIA
The use of educational technology in Nigeria can be traced back to the mid-20th century, with early efforts to integrate audio-visual aids into learning. According to the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), Nigeria’s Western Ministry of Education opened its first Audio-Visual Centre in 1958 in Ibadan, marking the beginning of modern educational methods. However, the real boom came in the 2000s with the rise of the internet, which allowed for the creation of e-learning platforms and other digital educational tools.
The COVID-19 pandemic further accelerated this growth. School closures in 2020 forced many educational institutions to adopt online learning models. According to the Global Education Technology Market Report, by 2022, more than 70 per cent of formal education programmes globally relied on edtech solutions, and this number is expected to rise steadily through 2027. Notably, the demand for digital education solutions in the country has surged, with platforms offering everything from coding classes to data analytics courses. According to Exploding Topics, the edtech market is worth $340 billion, with corporate edtech accounting for $27.5 billion. In Nigeria, increased venture capital funding is helping edtech startups expand their reach and improve educational outcomes.
THE IMPACT OF EDTECH IN NIGERIA
Nigeria faces major challenges in its education sector. As of 2023, UNICEF reported that 75 per cent of children aged seven to 14 in Nigeria lacked basic literacy and numeracy skills. Furthermore, according to the World Economic
Forum, Nigeria’s primary education system ranks 120th globally, with tertiary education faring only slightly better at 117th out of 137 countries.
These statistics reveal the importance of edtech in bridging the gaps. Online learning platforms can reach students in underserved areas, providing access to education where traditional schools may not exist. This is particularly important given Nigeria’s high mobile phone penetration—over 140 million active lines—which allows for learning through mobile devices.
ADVANTAGES OF EDTECH IN NIGERIA
One of the most significant advantages of edtech in Nigeria is its ability to increase access to education, especially for marginalised communities. This increased accessibility not only allows more individuals to pursue their educational aspirations but also fosters inclusivity that breaks down long-standing barriers to education.
Moreover, the ability to access learning materials online means that students can study at their own convenience, which is particularly beneficial for those juggling multiple responsibilities or facing geographic constraints.
In addition to accessibility, edtech enhances the overall learning experience, transforming education into a more dynamic and engaging endeavour. The integration of multimedia tools and interactive content—such as videos, simulations, and gamified learning environments—creates a rich educational atmosphere that captivates students’ attention. This engaging approach significantly boosts student motivation and retention, enabling learners to grasp complex concepts more effectively.
Another compelling advantage of edtech lies in its ability to improve teacher training and resources. Through various online platforms, educators have access to updated curriculum materials, innovative teaching resources, and professional development opportunities that empower them to refine their instructional methods. As teachers enhance their skills and knowledge, they are better equipped to foster effective learning environments in their classrooms. Consequently, this not only benefits the educators themselves but also translates into better learning outcomes for students, creating a positive cycle of growth and improvement within the education system.
Furthermore, edtech provides personalised learning opportunities that cater to the diverse
needs of students. Many edtech platforms utilise adaptive learning technologies to tailor educational experiences, allowing learners to progress at their own pace while accommodating various learning styles.
This level of customisation ensures that every student can engage with the material in a way that resonates with them, ultimately enhancing their chances of success. In this sense, edtech serves as a powerful tool for inclusivity, enabling all learners, regardless of their background or abilities, to thrive in their educational journeys.
Moreover, implementing edtech solutions can lead to cost-effectiveness and efficiency within educational institutions. Traditional methods often entail substantial expenses related to physical materials and infrastructure, but edtech can significantly reduce these costs.
By streamlining administrative processes and reducing reliance on physical resources, schools can operate more efficiently, freeing up valuable resources to focus on enhancing the quality of education provided. In this way, edtech not only promotes financial sustainability but also directs attention toward improving student learning experiences.
CHALLENGES OF EDTECH IN NIGERIA
Despite the numerous advantages, the implementation of edtech in Nigeria also faces several challenges, with one of the most pressing being the high initial costs associated with technology and infrastructure.
While the long-term benefits may outweigh the initial investment, many educational institutions—particularly those within the underfunded public sector—struggle to secure the necessary funds for these advancements. This financial barrier can hinder the widespread adoption of innovative technologies, preventing institutions from fully realising the potential benefits that edtech can offer. Consequently, schools may continue to rely on traditional methods, limiting their ability to adapt to the evolving educational landscape.
Another significant challenge is the digital divide that exists between urban and rural areas in Nigeria. While edtech has the potential to democratise education, many students still lack access to the necessary devices or reliable internet connectivity to engage in online learning.
In addition to accessibility concerns, there is a growing apprehension regarding the over-reliance on technology among both students and educators. As digital
tools become more integrated into the learning process, there is a risk that critical thinking and problem-solving skills may diminish. It is essential to strike a balance between traditional teaching methods and digital resources to cultivate well-rounded learners who are equipped to navigate various challenges. Therefore, educators must remain vigilant in fostering an environment that encourages critical engagement with both technology and content. Furthermore, the potential for distractions is an inherent challenge in the edtech landscape. While technology can enhance learning, it also opens the door to numerous distractions that can divert students’ attention away from their coursework. With social media, games, and other non-educational content readily available at their fingertips, maintaining focus can become a daunting task.
Educators, therefore, must implement strategies that mitigate these distractions, ensuring that the learning environment remains productive and conducive to academic success.
Finally, the rapid expansion of edtech has resulted in an influx of online courses and platforms, leading to concerns regarding quality assurance. Not all programmes adhere to rigorous educational standards, which can undermine the value of the learning experiences offered. It is crucial for stakeholders in the education sector to establish frameworks that ensure the quality and relevance of edtech offerings.
EDTECH’S FUTURE
Edtech in Nigeria is not just a technological revolution but a lifeline for a nation struggling with deep educational challenges. In a country where nearly one in four children is out of school, the rise of edtech could be the key to unlocking a brighter future for millions of young Nigerians. As technology continues to reshape education, Nigeria has the potential to become a leader in the global edtech movement—providing hope, opportunities, and skills to the next generation.
Although mobile penetration is high in Nigeria, only 14.3 per cent of the population have reliable internet access, limiting the reach of some edtech platforms. Investments in infrastructure and more affordable internet solutions will be crucial for expanding EdTech’s reach to rural areas and low-income communities.
With investments pouring in and government support growing, Nigeria’s edtech sector holds the promise of bridging the gap between the products of outdated education systems and the demands of a modern, digital world. For students and teachers alike, the future of learning in Nigeria is digital, accessible, and full of potential.
SPPG AFRICA CONFERENCE 2024...
World Teachers Day: Only 2.4m Teachers Certified in Nigeria, Says TRCN
As Niger govt honours Comrade Labaran Garba
Kuni Tyessi in Abuja and Laleye Dipo in Minna
Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN) said only 2.4 million teachers had been certified to be professional teachers, as captured in the council's
database. Director in charge of Planning, Research and Statistics at the council, Ugo-Ali Lawrence, stated this on Saturday in Abuja during the 2024 Teachers' Day commemoration programme organised by Association of Model Islamic Schools (AMIS-Nigeria)
Flood: Kwara Urges Residents to Relocate to Higher Grounds
Hammed Shittu in Ilorin
The Kwara State Government at the weekend urged residents of the state residing in some major riverine areas to relocate to higher grounds in view of the heavy rainfall that had overflown Asa Dam River and other riverine areas in the state.
The state commissioner for Environment, Hajia Nafisat Musa Buge, stated this in Ilorin on the trails of heavy rainfall in the state.
She however described the situation as a global phenomenon which can be attributed to the effect of climate change, on our environment as a result of natural phenomenon as well as human activities.
According to her, "It will be observed that our raining and dry seasons no longer fall on the normal transition months, as human influence has warmed the atmosphere, ocean and land, consequent upon which weather extremes are being witnessed across the globe, including our immediate communities and other states within the country".
She said that it is a temporary situation, that will go, with time.
The commissioner added that, "the present administration under the leadership of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq is deeply concerned about the impending flood situation and is taking proactive measures to ensure public safety, to curb this anomaly.
"Part of which is the continuous dredging of Asa River, since inception of office, construction of embankment, desilting of drainages across the state, provision of additional waste bins, expansion of the dump site for proper waste disposal, encouragement of wastes recycling, irrigation system for farmers and regular advocacy and sensitisation on environmental issues via the media and interfaces with relevant stakeholders and enforcements whenever necessary".
She therefore called for calm among residents of the state on the trends currently being experienced in the volume, duration and pattern of rainfall which has led to massive flooding in some parts of the state.
While empathising with affected families, the commissioner said: “Our heart goes out to families that are worst hit by this natural phenomenon, who have either lost properties or their beloved ones.
"However, in order to avert loss of lives and property, we urge residents to quickly take the following safety steps; relocate to higher grounds, avoid travelling when it is raining and follow evacuation instructions by Ministry of Environment and the State Emergency Management Agencies (SEMAs) that will be moving round to provide support to the affected Communities.
"Furthermore, we urge residents to obtain necessary approvals from relevant government agencies, before embarking on buildings of any kind, desist from building houses close to or on the waterways.
"Heed flood warnings by stopping dumping of refuse along water courses, desilt surrounding drainages, stop open burning, plant trees, and promptly alert the Ministry of Environment on issues around you as government is doing all that is possible within the state resources, to encourage sustainable living and provide relief for Kwarans.
"We want to use this medium to implores individuals, NGOs and CSOs to kindly support government in climate change adaptation and advocacy, as this is crucial for us to build resilience and save our environment.
"There is a need for all of us to take ownership of our surroundings and encourage others to also do same, as the environment gives to us what we put in it.
in collaboration with Quality Education Development Associates (QEDA).
Lawrence said the council had institutionalised the teaching license and without it, one was not a qualified teacher.
Meanwhile, Niger State Government honoured Comrade Labaran Garba, former Assistant National General Secretary and immediate past Secretary of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Niger State wing, on World Teachers’ Day.
Garba recently retired from the public service after attaining the mandatory retirement age. The state government in honouring Garba eulogised him for piloting the affairs of NUT to an enviable height.
Lawrence observed that in Abuja many, particularly in private schools, who had not sat for the qualifying exams, were losing in opportunities, such as legal backing to demand enhanced remuneration from employees and the global recognition that comes with it.
He stated that other privileges included the upscaling of teachers in attending more professional
courses and the registration into the council's database, which he said was for a life time.
Lawrence added that so far, the council was publishing a journal of Nigerian teachers where teachers could publish materials, explaining that the said journal is in its seventh edition.
He said, "Teachers and the teaching profession are well regulated and professionally recognised globally. There are so far 2.4 million teachers that have been certified by the council and that is the number in the council's database.
"We call on development partners and the private sector to join the council in the accreditation of teacher trainers across the country, as the council cannot do it alone. We are already working with development partners to see how dignity of teachers can be improved."
At the programme, 119 plaques and certificates of recognition were awarded to outstanding teachers and professional educationists, who had made their marks in the teaching profession, particularly in the Federal Capital Territory.
Those present at the event included Director, FCT Education Resource Centre, Dr. Neemat DaudAbdulrahim, who was surprised at her nomination and went ahead to pledge more commitment in fostering the growth of education in the country with emphasis in the FCT.
Daud-Abdulrahim said teachers needed to celebrate themselves in the face of the value they added to the growth of the country and "for us teachers, we are the future of every nation and I am happy to be a teacher”.
She added, "Whatever I was doing that has made them to recognise me, I intend to do more and I'm committed to do more and bring more innovation and creativity to the education sector to the FCT and Nigeria."
Presenting the award of "Excellence, Hardwork, Dedication and Selfless Service to the Growth and Development of the Education Sector in Niger State" to the unionists, the state Ministry of Basic Education credited them with many innovations, especially the Teachers Endwell Programme and the construction of an ultra-modern
secretariat for the state NUT.
In a message to the event, held at the Justice Idris Legbo Kutigi International Conference Centre, in Minna, Niger State Governor, Alhaji Mohammed Bago, acknowledged the numerous challenges teachers faced in practising their profession and promised to find solutions to them.
Bago, represented by the majority leader in the state House of Assembly, Alhaji Musa Vatsa, assured teachers that the state government "is introducing several measures that will squarely address their challenges”.
He stated, "The state government is closely working with all relevant stakeholders, including the legislature, to improve on the education sector, which is why half of next year's budget will be for the development of the education sector."
Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Dr. Hadiza Muhammad, promised that the ministry will continue to provide the enabling environment for teachers to perform their professional roles without any let or hindrance.
Family Planning: Stakeholders Decry High Maternal Mortality Rate in Rural Areas
Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja
Experts and reproductive health activists in the country have said that most rural communities face significant barriers in accessing family planning commodities, thereby resulting in higher maternal mortality rates.
The stakeholders therefore urged the federal government to increase funding for reproductive health in order to provide free pregnancy care, and make contraceptive commodities accessible for women.
They made the call Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rightsat (SRHR) Summit 1.0 to mark 2024 World Contraception Day in Abuja, organised by the Media Health and Rights Initiative of Nigeria.
The summit themed "A Choice for All: Freedom to Plan, Power to Choose", brought together
healthcare providers, policymakers, and civil society organizations to address Nigeria's pressing reproductive health challenges.
The National President of the Medical Women's Association of Nigeria, Prof Rosemary Ogu, while calling on government to increase funding for reproductive health, provide free pregnancy care, and make contraceptive commodities accessible, also highlighted the need for education and demand creation, ensuring that primary health care centers are functional and utilized.
"Contraception reminds us that there's a strategy to prevent women from dying, enable them to go to school, and help adults reach their full potential," Ogu stated.
She noted that rural communities face significant barriers in accessing family planning commodities, resulting in higher maternal
mortality rates.
To address this, Ogu urged the government to increase funding for reproductive health, provide free pregnancy care, and make contraceptive commodities accessible.
She also highlighted the need for education and demand creation, ensuring that primary health care centers are functional and utilized.
"Nigeria has a demographic bulge; if we're all healthy, Nigeria can become the greatest nation on earth," Ogu concluded.
Similarly, the Country Director of IPAS Nigeria Health Foundation, Dr. Lucky Palmer, called for universal access to modern contraceptives and comprehensive reproductive health services in Nigeria.
Palmer also called on government to address the cultural
and systemic barriers hindering access to contraception, especially for vulnerable groups such as adolescents and women with disabilities.
His words: "In Nigeria, we often assume adolescents shouldn’t have sex, so they don’t need contraception. However, contraception should be free and available to all, regardless of age, disability, or marital status.
"These women are often excluded due to systemic issues rather than individual limitations. It is time for Nigeria's healthcare system to address these inequalities and ensure no one is left behind."
He further highlighted the stark reality that unplanned pregnancies contribute to over 1,500 maternal deaths annually in Nigeria, deaths that could be easily prevented with access to effective contraceptives.
L-R: Co-convener, School of Politics, Policy and Governance (SPPG), Senegal, Adama Gaye; Head, Women and Leadership Association, Tunisia, Sana Ghenima; former Minister of Information, Frank Nweke Junior; former Minister of Education/ Founder, SPPG, Dr. Obi Ezekwesili; Chief Executive Officer, Alero Áyida-Otobo and former Chairman, African Union Commission, Erastus Mwencha, during the Africa Conference 2024 themed "Good Governance In Africa: Leaders and Citizens Driving Systemic Change," in Abuja over the weekend
PHOTO: ENOCK REUBEN
AT THE 2024 EDITION OF BNI CONVENTION...
L-R: National Director, Business Network International (BNI) Nigeria, Mazi Chimaobi Agwu; Vice President, BNI Sapphire Chapter, Oluwafolakemi Rowland; former President of Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo; Regional Director, BNI Nigeria, Dr. Adebola Olubanjo; and President, BNI Platinum Chapter, Pascal Dike at the 2024 edition of the BNI Convention in Abeokuta, Ogun State ... recently
Criminal Justice: Stakeholders Adopt
National Minimum Uniform Standards
As ROLAC, others seek uniform implementation of ACJA 2015
Stakeholders in the justice sector have adopted the National Minimum Standards Document 2024 on the implementation of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), 2015.
The stakeholders which include the Federal Ministry of Justice, International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA), and the European Union have also taking significant steps to ensure uniformity in the implementation of the ACJA, 2015.
This was the outcome of the three-day stakeholders' meeting for the inauguration of the Committee for the Review and Validation of
the National Minimum Standards documents on the implementation of the ACJA.
The meeting which was organized by the Federal Ministry of Justice with support from the EU-funded Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLACII) Programme of the International IDEA), culminated in the adoption of the National Minimum Standards Document 2024 on the implementation of the Act.
In a statement issued yesterday, the Manager of Component 1 –Criminal Justice Reform under the RoLAC-II Programme, Mr. Badejogbin Oluwatoyin, said the project aims to establish a national scheme for assessing
and evaluating the implementation of the ACJA/ACJLs and a national scoresheet indicating the performance of each state.
This initiative seeks to provide a common basis for evaluating the implementation of criminal justice reforms, promote healthy competition among states, and attract more resources to the criminal justice sector.
The document covers several areas, including pre-trial case management, witness support, case filtering and timelines, bail, remand protocol, trial case management, and post-trial procedures.
The statement observed that participants also encouraged the use
of plea bargains and agreed that the stay of trial proceedings due to an interlocutory application or appeal should be prohibited.
The National Minimum Standards for the Implementation of ACJA 2015 were designed to consolidate rule of law and anti-corruption reforms, a key component of the programme aimed at enhancing the criminal justice system and justice service delivery in the Federal Capital Territory, Abia, Adamawa, Anambra, Edo, Kano, Lagos, and Plateau states.
Speakers at the event emphasized the introduction of the National Minimum Standards will significantly enhance the effective implementation of the
Obi Pledges N120m to Support Education, Healthcare Programs of Holy Rosary Sisters
Chuks Okocha in Abuja Nigeria’s Labour Party, LP, leader and the party's presidential flag bearer in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, has pledged N120m over two years to support the educational and healthcare development of the Holy Rosary Sisters.
Obi's pledge came during the centenary celebration marking 100 years of the sisters’ dedication to the education and healthcare development of the country.
Writing on his X handle on Sunday, Obi said: "Today, Sunday, I had the honor of worshipping with the students of Holy Rosary College, Nsugbe, in celebration of their 10th
anniversary - an important milestone for a school I had the privilege of laying the foundation for in 2013.
"This celebration also coincides with the Holy Rosary Sisters’ centenary, marking 100 years of their remarkable dedication to education, healthcare, and empowering individuals, thereby lifting them out of poverty since their founding by Bishop Joseph Shanahan in 1924.
"As part of this special occasion, I attended a Mass yesterday at the Basilica of the Most Holy Trinity, Onitsha, where we reflected on the sisters’ unwavering commitment to serving humanity.
"Their century-long mission has transformed countless lives, and I
encouraged them to continue their invaluable work, especially in the areas of education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation.
"To support their immense work, I pledged 120 million over the next two years. Of this amount, 100 million will be directed through their headquarters in Enugu, dedicated to their educational, healthcare, and humanitarian efforts, including the facilities they are building in Nsukka.
"The remaining 20 million is specifically for Holy Rosary College, Nsugbe, as part of redeeming a cheque I signed for them towards the end of my tenure as governor, which was later canceled by the succeeding government.
"My commitment to education during my governorship remains unwavering, and this pledge reflects my belief that these sectors are vital to our nation’s development and require continuous investment and support.
"I also encouraged the sisters to continue serving the people of Nigeria without discrimination, as they have always done.
"The legacy of the Holy Rosary Sisters reminds us that through discipline, service, and unity, we can build a better society.
"I remain committed to supporting efforts that foster progress in education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation across Nigeria.”
Canadian Lady Nabbed with Drugs at Lagos Airport as NDLEA Intercepts N9b Worth Opioids in Rivers
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
A 41-year-old Canadian lady, Adrienne Munju, has been arrested by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, MMIA, Lagos for importing a large consignment of ‘Canadian Loud’, a strong strain of synthetic cannabis into Nigeria.
The suspect was arrested during the inward clearance of passengers on KLM Airline flight from Canada at the terminal 1 of MMIA, Lagos, last Thursday.
During a joint examination of her
three bags, Adrienne who was coming to Nigeria for the first time was found with 74 parcels of the illicit substance weighing 35.2 kilogrammes stuffed in two of her three bags. In her statement, she claimed she was recruited to traffic the consignment through an online platform for 10,000 Canadian dollars, which was to be paid upon successful delivery in Lagos. She confessed the offer was taken because she needed the money to pay for her ongoing master’s degree programme in Canada. In another arrest, NDLEA operatives at the Port Harcourt Ports, Onne, Rivers State, intercepted
13,298,000 pills of opioids, including Tramadol, Tramaking Quick Action Tramadol, Tamol-X, Royal Tapentadol and Carisoprodol as well as 338, 253 bottles of codeine-based cough syrup, all worth over N9 billion in street value.
The spokesman of the NDLEA, Femi Babafemi, in a statement on Sunday, said the opioids were recovered in three containers coming from India, targeted by the NDLEA during a 100% joint examination of the cargoes with men of the Nigerian Customs and other port stakeholders last Wednesday and Thursday. Similarly, NDLEA operatives at
the Tin Can Seaport in Lagos, last Thursday intercepted 100 parcels of Canadian Loud weighing 50 kilogrammes. The consignment was packed in 20 parcels each in five jumbo bags concealed in a container with four units of imported vehicles that came from Canada.
Babafemi said though the container had earlier been cleared out of the ESS Libra Bonded Terminal in Ikorodu but based on credible intelligence, NDLEA operatives were able to trace it to a warehouse in Ikorodu where the illicit consignments were discovered in one of the imported vehicles, a Toyota Sienna bus.
ACJA, 2015.
The RoLAC-II Programme aims to improve the performance, quality, and oversight of the criminal justice system and justice service delivery in Nigeria.
In a keynote address, AttorneyGeneral of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, represented by the Solicitor General of the Federation and Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Justice, Mrs. Beatrice Jessy-Agba, noted that the federal government enacted the ACJA in 2015 to ensure harmonious implementation of criminal justice reforms across the federation.
"The adoption of the Act by states ensures that offenders cannot escape justice by moving from state to state, a practice commonly known as forum shopping. Improved and uniform implementation of criminal justice reforms across the country will leave no escape route for criminals, contributing to socio-economic development in Nigeria," he said.
He added that the National Minimum Standards had been developed to implement the ACJA and consolidate collaboration between stakeholders in justice delivery by
ensuring that courts at both the federal and state levels apply similar standards in criminal procedures and enforcement of criminal justice.
Chairman of the Body of States Attorneys-General, Dr. Ben Odoh, represented by Nassarawa AG, Labaran Shaibu Magaji, described the initiative as significant, capable of creating a balanced and inclusive justice system that safeguards the rights of all parties and strengthens legal frameworks.
Other speakers included representatives from the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), the Nigerian Police, ICPC, EFCC, NCoS, and Professor Yemi Akinseye-George of the Center for Socio-Legal Studies (CSLS) who emphasized the need to deepen the implementation of the ACJA and the ACJLs of States.
In her welcome address, the Director of the Administration of Criminal Justice and Reform Department (ACJRD) at the Federal Ministry of Justice, Mrs. Leticia Ayoola-Daniels, stated that the initiative stems from the growing need for a unified framework to address persistent gaps in the implementation of the ACJA and ACJLs across the country.
Abia Working Hard to Halt Fresh Cases of HIV/AIDS by 2030, Says ABSACA DG
Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia
The Director General of the Abia State Agency for the Control of HIV/AIDS(ABSACA), Dr. Uloaku Emma-Ukaegbu, has said that the agency has set a target of ensuring that no fresh cases of HIV/AIDS would occur in the state by 2030.
She said that the goal was attainable as the agency was working hard and all necessary measures are being put in place to ensure that things turn out according to plan.
The ABSACA DG stated this at a sensitization meeting for the media "on emerging issues on HIV/AIDS prevention", organised as part of the engagements with critical stakeholders in the fight against HIV/AIDS in Abia.
She noted that the last National HIV/AIDS Indicator Survey(NAIS) done in 2018 put the prevalence in Abia at 2.1 percent, placing the state as number eight in the ranking of most affected states in Nigeria.
Though the prevalence rate in Abia was less than the national prevalence
of 2.4 percent, Dr Emma-Ukaegbu said that the state was not resting on its oars as a lot has been done since then to further push down the prevalence rate.
According to her, everything points to the fact that HIV/AIDS prevalence in Abia has been on the downward trend since it was 5.1 percent prevalence before the 2018 NAIS when it dropped to 2.1.
Even at that, the ABSACA DG, who is a consultant public health physician noted that the agency "didn't do as much we are doing now" when Abia recorded 2.1 percent prevalence hence a very significant drop would have been recorded since 2018. She said that the state would sustain the downward movement in prevalence rate and hopefully in the next six years Abia would attain zero in new infections of HIV.
Emma-Ukaegbu said that Governor Alex Otti has energised ABSACA by providing the agency with what it needs for optimal performance in line with the governor's ongoing revolution in the health sector.
Alex Enumah in Abuja
REPS MEETS FCCPC...
R-L: Hon. Hassan Bala Abubakar; Hon. Dominic Ifeanyi Chukwu Okafor, deputy chairman, House Committee on Delegated Legislation; Executive Vice Chairman/CEO, Mr. Tunji Bello, Federal Competition and Consumers Protection Commission (FCCPC); and Hon. Peter Ifeanyi Uzokwe, following a meeting between the management staff of the FCCPC and the House of Representatives Committee on Delegated Legislation at the FCCPC headquarters, Asokoro in Abuja at the weekend
Edo Refinery Announces 80,000bpd Project Expansion, NMDPRA Concludes Assessment
Desist from sabotaging FG’s efforts, oil sector regulator
Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City and Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja
The management of AIPCC Energy, owners of Edo Refinery has announced an 80,000 barrels per day refinery expansion in Koko, a border town between Edo and Delta States.
This was after the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) concluded its crude distillation assessment on the project.
A statement yesterday signed by the Head, Technical Operations, Edo Refinery and Petrochemical Company Limited (ERPCL), Mr Segun Okeni and made available to journalists in Benin City, said the company was expecting to export the first cargo
from the refinery by May 2025. Okeni, an engineer, listed the byproducts of the Koko expansion as diesel, naphtha, and fuel gas, adding, among others, adding that the company was hopeful that by the time the plant is completed, the upstream regulator would have allocated crude to the refinery through the domestic crude supply obligation.
"We are pleased to announce the successful factory acceptance test conducted by NDMPRA on the crude distillation column of our 80,000 barrels per day refinery expansion in Koko, Delta State.
"We expect to export our first cargo from the refinery by May 2025. Assessment test was carried out from September 18 to September
24, 2024.
"The by-products expected from the Koko expansion are AGO, HPFO, Naphtha, and Fuel gas.The Koko expansion project is owned by AIPCC Energy, the owners of Edo Refinery.
"By this time, there would have been mechanical completion and pre start-up safety audit, and commissioning exercise would be completed," the statement said.
Recall that the regulatory agency, NMDPRA, had earlier issued operational licence to Edo Refinery and Petrochemical Company Limited, Ologbo in Ikpoba-Okha local government area of Edo State.
Issuance of operational licence is the final stage of approval from the regulatory authority, which implies
that the plant can now fully operate as a refinery.
The regulatory authority Chief Executive Officer, Ahmed Farouk in a ceremony, handed the certificate to AIPCC, the parent company of Edo Refinery and Petrochemical Company Limited (ERPCL).
Meanwhile, the NMDPRA has warned the members of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) to desist from any act that will sabotage the federal government's efforts to ensure availability of the petroleum products across the country.
The Kogi State Controller, NMDPRA, Mr.Ogbe Godwin gave this warning while speaking in a chat with the members of the
Otti Receives Judicial Panel Interim Report, Vows to Implement Final Recommendations
Fear of mass sack grips Abia workers
Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia
After receiving the interim report of the Judicial Panel of Inquiry on recovery of looted funds and properties of Abia State, Governor Alex Otti, has vowed to implement the final recommendations to the letter.
He stated his intention weekend when he received three volumes of interim reports turned in by the panel headed by Justice Florence Duruoha-Igwe(rtd), after 13 months of investigations.
Otti granted the panel extension of its work following request by the chairman, on the ground that there were still a number of petitions yet-to-be treated.
He said it was reasonable to extend the lifespan of the panel "since there are petitions that have not been investigated."
According to him, in the circumstance it has found itself, "more time should be given to the panel to cover (the remaining areas) instead of abruptly terminating the job of the panel."
Otti assured the panel members that he would on no account sweep their final recommendations under the carpet, adding that the interim report in his hand "was a job thoroughly done."
Meanwhile, despite the assurances
given by Otti that no further mass sacking of workers would be carried out, anxiety still hung in the air.
The fresh wave of fear and anxiety sweeping across the Abia government employees followed a directive issued to the ministries, departments and agencies(MDAs) to compile names of Directors that have stayed upwards of two years.
Similar directive was also issued by the Local Government Service Commission (LGSC) to all the Heads of Service(HoS) in the Council areas.
The Heads of Personnel Management (HPM) were asked "to compile and forward the names of substantive Directors that have stayed
two years and above in the service".
In the directive signed by Emelike Oji on behalf of the Permanent Secretary, LGSC, the HoS in the Local Governments were given a deadline of "on or before Wednesday October 2, 2024" to submit the compiled names to the office of the State HoS.
"I am directed to request that you should ensure strict compliance," the memo said.
Some workers whose names were in the compiled list told our reporter that they were worried because there was every likelihood that directors who had neither attained the requisite years of service nor clocked the retirement age could be axed "for political reasons".
Alia: Benue LG Polls Peaceful, Successful
Okoh
Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has appreciated the people of the state for their peaceful and orderly conduct, participation and support for the candidates of the All Progressives Congress (APC), during the just concluded local government elections, which he described as peaceful and successful.
The governor described the outcome of the elections as a reflection of the
maturity of the Benue people to engage in a democratic process with respect and dignity, upholding peace and unity, which were critical to the progress of the state.
"I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you for your active participation in the recent Local Government elections across our 23 Local Governments.
“Your commitment to exercising your franchise in a peaceful and civil manner is commendable and reflects
the maturity of our democracy.
"The successful conduct of these elections, free from violence, is a testament to our collective resolve to uphold the values of peace and unity that are fundamental to our progress as a state.
“I am proud to see our citizens trooping out to make their voices heard, demonstrating that we can engage in the democratic process with respect and dignity."
Meanwhile, the Chairman,
Benue State Independent Electoral Commission, Terlumun Tombowua, yesterday, announced election results. Announcing the results at the Commission's Headquarters in Makurdi, he stated that all the candidates of the APC won all 23 chairmanship and 276 councillorship elections held in the state.
He said the election which was held yesterday across the state went smoothly without hitches and was adjudged to be free, fair and credible.
warns IPMAN
Correspondents Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Kogi State Council in Lokoja at the weekend.
Ogbe explained that the warnings became imperative given the deregulation of the oil sector, noting that NMDPRA will not condone any act of sabotage to further inflict more hardship on the masses.
He stated the NMDPRA was mandated to regulate the activities of all the petrol filling stations in Kogi State, stressing that the Authority will not tolerate the selling of low-quality products in the state.
The State Controller described the adjustment of the metres, underdispensing, black marketing, illegal sale of petrol outside the authorised filling stations, selling of fuel at odd hours and unwarranted reserve of fuel as criminal activities
He reiterated the commitment of the NMDPRA not to compromise the mandate, stating that any marketers
found wanting would be sanctioned accordingly, have their facilities sealed and the owner's licences would be revoked and be made to pay a fine.
"While we regulate, help in the process of obtaining licences and constant monitoring of inflow of petroleum as well as checking activities of the marketers, the authority under my watch will not compromise any act capable of adding more hardship on the innocent Nigerians," he stated.
He added that some of the recalcitrant members of IPMAN who were caught cheating motorists by under-dispensing fuel had their filling stations closed down and paid fines for their criminal activities.
"Notwithstanding the challenges the marketers are facing in getting supplies and other related issues, we will not tolerate any act of indiscipline from them as sanctions await the defaulters", he posited.
Nigeria's Healthcare Crisis Worsens as Medical Tourism
Mary Nnah
Nigeria's healthcare sector is facing unprecedented crisis with medical tourism siphoning a staggering N1-2 billion annually, experts warn.
This alarming trend has prompted experts to warn of catastrophic consequences for the country's economy and healthcare system.
On Thursday, the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) convened its inaugural Healthcare and Medical Expo in Ikeja, Lagos, to address this pressing issue.
NMA President, Prof. Bala Audu, emphasised the urgent need to reverse medical tourism, noting: "We want Nigerians to seek medical care within the country, and attract patients from other countries to come to Nigeria for medical care."
Dr. Benjamin Olowojebutu, First Vice President of the NMA and Chairman of the Local Organising Committee for the expo, played a key role in organizing the event, aimed at enhancing sustainability and efficiency in Nigeria's private health sector.
Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, stressed that government intervention is crucial to making the healthcare space attractive for private investment.
His words: "Nobody wants to invest in a space that's not profitable. We need to ensure doctors are appreciated for their training and receive correct remuneration.
"The NMA is the parent association for all Nigerian doctors," Prof. Abayomi explained. "It's the association that looks after welfare, ensures healthcare delivery in Nigeria meets international benchmark practices."
Representing the Governor of Lagos State, Prof. Abayomi acknowledged the critical role of the NMA in healthcare delivery, noting: "This conference is very important; it's the first conference of the new administration in NMA."
The state's significant bed space gap, standing at 60,000, is a major challenge. To bridge this gap, Lagos plans to partner with private facilities. "We're working to make Lagos an attractive place for private investors to come and put their investments into the health space," Prof. Abayomi explained.
However, the medical guild's concerns about delays in implementing the upward review of doctors' salaries may boil over into industrial action. This could exacerbate the brain drain of medical professionals, further undermining Nigeria's healthcare sector.
George
in Makurdi
COLLABORATING FOR HEALTHCARE...
L-R: Executive Secretary, Enugu State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Dr. Ifeyinwa Ani-Osheku; Commissioner for Health, Prof Emmanuel Obi; Governor of Enugu State, Dr.
Executive Director, National Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Dr. Muyi Aina; and the Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on HIV /AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria
during a working visit by the ED and UNICEF to the Government House, Enugu, weekend
Bamidele:
We Lobbied Other Lawmakers to Pass S’West Development Commission Bill
Oyo APC begs Tinubu to Make Ibadan hqtrs
Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, has revealed how federal lawmakers from the South-west states lobbied their colleagues from other geo-political zones to pass the Bill for the establishment of
the South West Development Commission (SWDC).
This was as the Oyo State chapter of the party, yesterday, appealed to President Bola Tinubu to consider Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, as the headquarters and main operation base of the soon-
to-be-established South West Development Commission (SWDC) in the interest of the generality of the people of the geopolitical zone.
Bamidele, also the leader of the South-west National Assembly Caucus, disclosed that lawmakers from the South-west
APC, “have been a formidable force, contributing significantly to the progress and stability of the National Assembly.”
He made these remarks at the 2024 South-west Assembly of the All Progressives Congress (APC) held at Eko Hotels and Suites,
CLO Advises Tinubu to End Hunger, Poverty in Nigeria Now Before Anger Rises
Emma Okonji
A human rights group, the Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO), has called on President Bola Tinubu to urgently address the prevalent economic challenges affecting Nigerians.
CLO, in a statement, weekend, called on Tinubu to immediately put an end to hunger and poverty in Nigeria before the anger of Nigerians rises higher.
The group also slammed the country's leaders for being insensitive to the plight of the people, saying the time has come to confront leaders who were insensitive to the sufferings
faced by Nigerians. President of the human rights group, Igho Akeregha, said in the statement that President Tinubu has not demonstrated enough commitment to advance the welfare of the citizens.
He pointed out that the country was faced with enormous crises such as high cost of food, commodities, poor infrastructure, prohibitive cost of energy like electricity and fuel, insecurity amid about 45 per cent unemployment rate that has made the country uncompetitive at the global stage.
He further stressed that the act of awarding national honours to some
politicians like Senate President, Goodwill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representative Tajudeen Abbas and their deputies, who had failed to deliver on the expectations of Nigerians was a reflection of the level of insensitivity on the part of government especially at a time when citizens were frustrated and hungry.
Akeregha further noted that Nigerians were tired of unfulfilled promises such as the promise to release Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses, when the President unilaterally removed petroleum subsidy on May 29 last year and the yet-to-be fulfilled promise to
implement true federation and deliver a peoples constitution that guaranteed equality for all, justice and freedom for the people.
“The failure of the state to address the worsening living conditions of Nigerians led to the #Endbadgovernance protests and the response of the President Tinubu in his Independence day broadcast was the promise to give buses to the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), and the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) as well as plan for a 30 - day national Youth Conference. The CLO sees this deliberate diversion from reality,” Akeregha said.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar said the conclusion of the Rivers State local government election had shown that nothing was better than democracy.
Atiku congratulated all the elected council chairmen and the councillors.
In a statement, Atiku stated, "With the conclusion of the local government election in Rivers State, the shadows of political intimidation and judicial chicanery have dissipated, paving the way for the noble pursuit of governance to commence in the state.
"From the bustling heart of Port Harcourt to the tranquil shores of Onne, the populace has spoken in harmonious unison, affirming that nothing can better democracy.
"As prophesied, it has now been revealed that the citizens of Rivers are astute and resolute, unwavering in their rejection of any form of political oppression, harassment, or the machinations of self-serving godfathers.
"As I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the newly elected local government leaders, I urge them to wear the welfare of the people as their foremost badge of honour, shunning the path of tyranny and delusional ambition in their political endeavours.”
Atiku added, “Moreover, I commend the resilient people of Rivers State for their steadfastness in the face of adversity, courageously ensuring that yesterday's (Saturday’s) election unfolded with peace and integrity.
"I must also applaud Governor Fubara for his unwavering commitment to the people's interests, safeguarding the sanctity of the local government elections, even amidst provocative challenges.
"In the grand tapestry of this election, it is ultimately the people who emerge victorious, their sacred right to choose their leaders firmly upheld within the framework of our democratic process."
CTC Chair: Wike Usurping Tinubu's Power
Outgone Chairman, Caretaker Committee of Ogu/Bolo Local Government Area, Evans Bipi, accused Wike of usurping Tinubu’s powers.
Bipi alleged that the former governor of Rivers State ordered the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to stop the just concluded council election in the state.
According to a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Emeka Idika, Bipi made the allegation while reacting to the withdrawal of the Nigeria Police from the election, citing a purported order of a Federal High Court, Abuja.
He said the alleged "failed attempt by the FCT minister to use the Inspector General of Police to stop the conduct of the election was contrary to the decision of the president to implement the recent judgement of the Supreme Court on local government autonomy."
Bipi wondered why the IGP would allegedly "take an order from the minister of FCT that contradicts the directive of the president.”
A chieftain of APC, Eze Chukwuemeka, said the success of the election had exposed the true
enemies of Rivers State
The erstwhile National Publicity Secretary of the defunct New People’s Democratic Party (nPDP), in a press statement, yesterday, described the election as victory against undemocratic forces and some selfish politicians who did not have the interest of Rivers people at heart.
HURIWA Tasks NJC to Sanction Judges over Frivolous Court Orders
Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) expressed concern over increasing issuance of frivolous court orders and ex-parte injunctions by judges, particularly in politically sensitive cases.
HURIWA noted the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State and tasked the National Judicial Council (NJC) to, as a matter of necessity, sanction judicial officers involved in the issuance of frivolous orders.
He warned that such practices could jeopardise Nigeria’s constitutional democracy.
HURIWA stated that the political
Victoria Island, Lagos on Saturday, where he suggested the need to institutionalise the assembly for regular and sustained interaction among stakeholders.
Bamidele explained how the South-west Caucus worked with federal lawmakers from other geo-political zones to secure majority support for the passage of the South West Development Commission Bill, 2024 at the upper chamber
Specifically, the senate leader highlighted the considerable influence of the South-west Caucus in the 10th National Assembly, pointing out that out of the 18 senators from the ge-political, 15 were from the APC.
This figure, according to him, made the South-west the largest single bloc of APC senators in the Senate, and hadgiven them considerable influence, and “we have used it effectively for the good of our people.”
However, in a statement by its Publicity Secretary, Olawale Sadare, Oyo APC applauded the National Assembly for the speedy passage of the Bill, which it described as imperative to guarantee equity, fairness and national integration.
situation in Rivers State, which was being intensified by conflicting court orders by various judges, mirrored Nigeria’s troubled political history and threatened the stability of its democratic processes.
HURIWA, in a statement by its National coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, said in recent weeks, Rivers State had witnessed legal battles, with judges from Federal High Courts in Abuja issuing restraining orders that appeared to destabilise the duly elected administration in the state.
It also said many of the court orders were tainted by allegations of bribery, thereby further eroding public trust in the judiciary.
HURIWA warned that the judiciary was at risk of becoming a tool for political manipulation, with corrupt judges contributing to the erosion of democratic order.
Frank: Wike Shopping for Court Order to Halt Allocation to Local Councils in Rivers
“The SWDC, if well structured and fully funded, would bridge the gap in the areas of special interventions, focused attention and infrastructural development. The idea of a South West Development Commission goes beyond replicating what has been done in other geopolitical zones.
“We welcome it wholeheartedly as it holds a lot promise to the South West which has a unique record of regional integration and innovative leadership. The new Commission will, no doubt, afford the people of the South West a platform for collaboration, innovation and peer support.
“Pointedly, the location of the main operation base or headquarters of the Commission is as important as its creation. Without mincing words, no other town or city comes close to Ibadan as an ideal place to harbour the headquarters of SWDC with its liaison offices in Ikeja, Akure, Abeokuta, Ado-Ekiti, Osogbo and Abuja.
“There are many reasons for this submission and none of which can be wished away by the people who mean well for the entire Yoruba race.”
Secretary of APC, Timi Frank, alleged that Wike was planning to secure a court injunction to block releases from the Federation Account to the 22 local government councils in Rivers state. Frank alleged that Wike resorted to the plot following his failure to stop the local government elections in the state.
Frank, in a statement, said Wike through his proxies would today, Monday, or any day soon, approach a Federal High Court in Abuja with spurious writ with prayers that monthly funds allocation to the 22 local government areas in Rivers State should be withheld with claims that the elections were held in violation of a court ruling. He called on Wike to abandon the plot in the interest of the people of Rivers State and find alternative means to settle his rift with Fubara. He also called on Tinubu not to allow Wike to dent his democratic credentials with such a retrogressive court action, seeing that local councils in Lagos State suffered similar fate during his administration as governor through the devious orchestration of ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo.
Peter Mbah;
Control, Hon. Amobi Ogah,
CARE FOR SENIOR CITIZENS ON THEIR MINDS……
L-R: Representative of Minister of Information and National Orientation, Dili Ezugah; Director General, National Senior Citizens Centre(NSCC), Dr. Emem Omokaro, and Coordinator, National Senior Citizens Centre Goodwill Ambassadors, Olorogun Peter Igho, during the inauguration of committee of the ambassadors in Abuja…recently
NAAT Gives FG Strike Ultimatum over Withheld Salaries
Onyebuchi Ezigbo inAbuja
The National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT), has given the federal government a 21-day ultimatum to pay the five and half months withheld salaries among other demands or its members will withdraw their services in the universities.
The ultimatum was part of
Police
Neutralise
NAAT’s resolutions at its 56th National Executive Council, NEC, meeting held in Taraba state.
A letter addressed to the Minister of State for Labour and Employment and signed by the association’s President, Comrade Ibeji Nwokoma, warned that the union would not be held responsible if after the expiration of the ultimatum which commenced from September
Three Suspected Kidnappers in Delta
Sylvester IdowuinWarri
Operatives of the Delta State Police Command have neutralized three suspected kidnappers that attempted to abduct the wife of a House of Assembly lawmaker in the state.
The suspects had attempted to kidnap the lawmaker’s wife on September 2, 2024, at Okoloba Junction, Jakpa Road in Uvwie Local Government Area, killing two policemen and a driver in the process.
Delta State Police Command Public Relations Officer, Bright Edafe,
Tambuwal
in a statement issued yesterday said the state Commissioner of Police, Olufemi Abaniwonda, disturbed by the development, detailed police operatives of Ebrumede division led by the DPO, CSP Iwok Ndifereke, to ensure the arrest of the hoodlums.
He said: “Following the failed attempted kidnap of the wife of one of the members of Delta State House of Assembly on September 2, 2024 at Okoloba Junction Jakpa Road, Uvwie LGA, where the suspected kidnappers murdered two mobile policemen and the driver, Mr. David Imela.
Calls for Collective Efforts to Rescue Nigeria
Onuminya Innocent in Sokoto
Former Governor of Sokoto State, Senator Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, has called on leaders across the country to come together and rescue Nigeria from the brink of collapse.
Tambuwal, who represent Sokoto South senatorial district in the National Assembly, stated this while speaking shortly after the conclusion of the PDP state congress in Sokoto.
He said: “Nigeria is at the brink and needs to be rescue from those who are bent at running the country down through harsh economic policies, which he said has subjected
citizens to excruciating poverty that has made feeding very difficult for many citizens
“Nigeria is at the brink, our country is in Intensive Care Unit (ICU), as we all know what is happening in the country.
“The level of insecurity in this country is alarming, the level of abject poverty is disgusting and indeed the level of economic malaise in Nigeria is very worrisome.
“All of us as leaders of this country must come together, work together, especially those who are not part and parcel of what is happening today in terms of governance-in terms of running this country.
A’Ibom Tech Week to Find Innovative Solutions to Society Problems
The organisers of Akwa Ibom Tech Week, the Ibom Innovation Network (IIN), has gone into partnership with Ibom Air and other institutions to launch innovation challenges to solve local problems in the society.
In a bold step to catalyze Nigeria’s economic growth through innovation and technology, the organizers of the Akwa Ibom Tech Week officially launched the 2024 innovation challenge at a media event in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital.
The launch marks the beginning of one month of competition ahead of the Akwa Ibom Tech Week where contestants will find innovative solutions to known problems.
The network aims to provide a vibrant ecosystem for innovators, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders to collaborate, create, and scale solutions to pressing societal challenges.
President of IIN, Hanson Johnson, explained that: “The Akwa Ibom Tech Week 2024 Innovation Challenge is more than just a competition.
“We’re challenging our brightest minds to develop solutions that address real-world problems, fostering a resilient innovation ecosystem.
“This initiative reflects our commitment to empowering youths, driving economic growth, and positioning Akwa Ibom as Africa’s new tech destination.”
30, and nothing was done to address their plethora of demands.
The letter titled: “Notice of 21 days ultimatum to embark on an industrial action, was copied to the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, and the National Universities
Commission (NUC).
The letter read: “The leadership of the National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT) wishes to draw your attention to the above subject matter.
“Arising from the 56th National
Executive Council (NEC) meeting held at Federal University Wukari on Wednesday 25th and Thursday 26th September, 2024, the Union is compelled to issue this notice of a three-week ultimatum as a result of failure of government to keep
to the promises and assurances given on the payment of the five and half months withheld salaries of NAAT members even after a presidential directive of over five months ago and other outstanding issues as stated below:
C/River Cocoa Farmer Asks DSS to Investigate Attempted Murder of Workers
Bassey Inyang in Calabar
Fearing that a communal war is brewing in Etung Local Government Area of Cross River State, a Small Holder Cocoa Farmer (SHCF) in Abonita Cocoa Farm in the area, Mr. Mark Prince, has urged the state Director of the Department of State Services
(DSS), Mrs. Roseline Izuagbe, to investigate the cause of the alleged attack on six workers he hired to work in the farm.
Lamenting his ordeal to some journalists yesterday in Calabar, Prince said some of the injured workers are still receiving treatment in the General Hospital, Ibom , Central Cross River State, after they were attacked by a number of assailants who were armed with dangerous weapons.
He pointed fingers at a fellow cocoa farmer, Mr. Asu Njor, alleging that the latter instigated the attack of the workers on October 2, 2024, in Abonita Cocoa Plantation.
Prince, who said that the injured workers are currently receiving treatment at the General Hospital in Ikom, also accused Governor Bassey Otu’s Special Adviser on Security Matters, Major General Okoi Obono (rtd), of frustrating attempts to provide adequate security at 32 hectares Abonita Cocoa Estate, where he shared a boundary with the Government Cocoa Estate in the area.
Group Trains Edo Transport Authority Staff on Combating Human Trafficking
Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City
N-HYPPADEC:
The National Hydro Power Producing Areas Development Commission (N-HYPPADEC), has lamented the huge number of people who lost their lives while traveling on the nation’s waterways and therefore strongly suggested
The two-day event held in Benin city was sponsored by the Kingdom of Netherlands and International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD).
Speaking at the event Execution Director, CDCI,
The Centre for Development and Cultural Interchange (CDCI) has conducted a training workshop for staff of Edo State Transport Authority (ESTA) on combating trafficking in persons and smuggling of migrants in the transportation industry in Edo State.
Emmanuel Sule, said the training is aimed at strengthening the capacity of ESTA to combat the menace of human trafficking and irregular migration in the transport sector. He added that at the end of the training participants would know the international definition of trafficking, be able to distinguish between trafficking in persons and smuggling of migrants, understand the trafficking process, and be familiar with different forms of exploitation and dangers associated with the phenomenon.
Government Should Criminalise Night Travel by Boat
that governments across the country should ban river traveling in the night.
N-HYPPADEC also suggested a legislation making the use of life jackets by travelers compulsory.
The Managing Director of the Commission, Alhaji Abubakar Sadiq Yelwa, made the suggestions after
a visit to Gbajibo in Mokwa Local Government Area of Niger state where not less than 42 passengers died when the boat in which they were traveling capsised last week.
Yelwa noted that it was the second of such incidents on the same River Niger and in the same community within one year saying last year 31
lives were lost in a similar accident. He explained: “The commission is working assiduously in collaboration with regulatory agencies like the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) and State governments to curtail the menace of boat mishaps because “N-HYPPADEC only gives interventions.”
French Embassy Partners NIFS, Sponsors Nigeria Delegation to MIPCOM
Sunday Ehigiator
The French Embassy, as part of its commitment to support industry development, has partnered with the Nigerian International Film and TV Summit (NIFS) to sponsor a Nigerian delegation, comprising about 20 companies with dedicated stands, at the Nigerian Pavilion at Cannes.
MIPCOM, otherwise known as the International Market of Communications Programmes, is the world’s largest international content rights market, which is held every October.
It boasts over 11,000 delegates, 100 participating countries, and 3,500 buyers brought together in Cannes, France, in four days of networking, sales, partnerships and collaborations, sharing best industry ideas and charting the course for the global Audio Visual Industry in the coming year.
This support was facilitated by the French Embassy’s partnership with the Nigerian Film and TV Summit (NiFS). The French Embassy would provide part-sponsorship for the 20 selected Nigerian firms through these partnerships. According to the Audio Visual Attaché of the French Embassy in Nigeria, Mr. Christophe Pecot, the absence of Nigerian content in last year’s MIPCOM highlights a huge opportunity gap for the Nigerian audio-visual industry.
Private Proprietors Decry Heavy Taxation, Closure of Schools in Enugu
GideonArinzeinEnugu
Owners of private schools in Enugu State have decried the alleged imposition of outrageous taxes and levies by the state government which they say is stifling them out of existence.
Recall that the state Commissioner for Education, Prof Ndubueze, had
said that it asked private schools to pay between N100, 000 and N300,000 as education tax.
However, addressing journalists yesterday, the pioneer Chairman of Association of Private School Owners of Nigeria (APSON), Emeka Grahams, said that contrary to claims by the commissioner, the tax ranges between N450,000 to N2.2 million depending
on the magnitude of the school.
He said that it was worrying that the government was already shutting down schools that cannot afford the high taxes, noting that the new policy is akin to manhandling of the school owners, which to him, “is unhealthy and unfavourable.
“Before now, we used to pay what is called ‘annual renewal fee’ of N30,000 but now, the Enugu State Ministry of Education has increased it by above 200 per cent, a clear indication that the government wants to run us out of business and at the same time rob parents and children the opportunity offered by the private school knowing full well that government alone cannot cater for the educational needs of the citizenry.”
The Lagoon Schools Honours Staff in World Teacher’s Day Celebration
Funmi Ogundare
The Lagoon Schools Lekki, Lagos, recently celebrated members of its teaching and non-teaching staff who have dedicated 10 and 20 years of service to the school. The programme was part of the school’s commemoration
of World Teacher’s Day aimed at recognising the selfless contributions of the staff members to the school’s growth and success. Themed, ‘Passion Meets Purpose’, at the celebration staff were also honoured for their dedication in areas such as responsibility, punctuality, teaching strategies, impact on students’ learning experiences, work ethics, and emotional intelligence in the classroom. Awardees were presented with plaques, certificates, and cash prizes in appreciation of their hard work.
In an interview with THISDAY,
the Director of the school, Noemi Garcia, explained the vital role that teachers play in shaping the lives of students, both academically and as role models. While acknowledging the challenges, including dealing with bullying, she expressed gratitude for the dedication of the staff.
Laleye Dipo inMinna
Okon Bassey in Uyo
We’ve Received Large Percentage of Non-sensitive Materials for Ondo Poll,w Says REC
Fidelis David in Akure
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has said it has received large percentage of non-sensitive materials for the November 16 governorship poll in Ondo State. This was disclosed at the weekend by the INEC’s Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for the state, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Babalola, while briefing journalists on the commission’s level of preparedness ahead of the
election.
According to her, “I am pleased to inform you that a large percentage of the non-sensitive election materials required for the election have been received and deployed to the 18 Local Government Offices, where they are batched to RAs and Pus levels. We are working closely with the relevant security agencies and stakeholders to ensure safe storage and timely distribution of these materials on the eve of election.”
The REC said after the
Kellyrae Wins BBNaija Season 9 Show
Kellyrae has won the Big Brother Naija Season 9, known as “No Loose Guard”.
Kellyrae made history as the first married man to win the hit reality show, having come to the show with wife Kassia, as Doublekay pair.
Eight of the contestants, who got to the final were evicted as the final of show commenced yesterday.
Sooj, was the first to be evicted from the house. His
eviction was followed by Anita, Ozzy, Nelly, and Victoria leaving Kelly Rae, Wanni and Onyeka
The host of the show, Ebuka, announced the eviction of Onyeka leaving Kellyrae and Wanni as the two finalists.
At the end of the show, Kellyrae emerged as the winner, going home with ultimate prize of N100 million of the edition of Big Brother Naija that was premiered on July 28, 2024.
Desist from Sabotaging FG’s Efforts, NMDPRA Warns IPMAN
Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja
The Nigeria Mainstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has warned the members of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) to desist from any act inimical to sabotaging the federal government’s efforts to ensure availability of the petroleum products across the country.
The Kogi State Controller, Mr. Ogbe Godwin, gave this warning while speaking in a chat with the members of the Correspondents Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Kogi State Council in Lokoja at the weekend.
Ogbe explained that the warnings become imperatives given the deregulation of the oil sector, noting that NMDPRA will not condone any act of sabotage to further inflict more hardship on the masses.
He stated the NMDPRA is
Blue Economy: Oyetola, Abiodun, Others to Unveil Inland
Dry Port in Ogun
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Adegboyega Oyetola will, on Friday, October 11, lead the foundation-laying ceremony for the Inland Dry Port in Ogun State.
The port, located at the site of the proposed Dry Port City in Soderu Village, Itori, along the PapalantoEwekoro axis of the state, is part of ongoing efforts to boost economic growth and industrialisation in the Gateway State.
This groundbreaking event , according to a statement by the Special Adviser on Media and Strategy, Hon. Kayode Akinmade, aligns with the administration of Governor Dapo Abiodun’s commitment to fostering economic development and advancing industrialisation throughout Ogun State. The ceremony will be attended by transport experts, regulators, and policymakers, including representatives from the Nigerian Shippers Council, Nigerian Railway Corporation, Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC), Ogun State Shippers Association, freight forwarders, and other key stakeholders.
successful conclusion of the CVR exercise, 58,708 new voters were registered and 3,132 voters transferred their registration into Ondo State while 123 voters
transferred their registration out of Ondo State, stressing that the harmonised total number of new registered voters with the old registered voters is now
2,053,061.“The breakdown is as follows: male – 1,034,006 representing 50.36 percent; female - 1,019,055 representing 49.64 percent; youth -726,944 (35.41
Soludo Inaugurates Panel to Investigate Insecurity in Oil-bearing Community
David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka
Anambra State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, has inaugurated a panel to unravel the cause of insecurity in Oguaniocha community in Ogbaru Local Government Area of the state.
This is coming as the member representing the area in the House of Representatives, Hon Afam
Sunday Okobi
The Chief Executive Officer of Casava, Bode Pedro, has called for collaboration to address unemployment and increase insurance penetration in Nigeria. He made the appeal at the Insurance Meets Tech 2024 (IMT 3.0), West Africa’s premier conference at the convergence of insurance and technology, which was successfully concluded on September 27, 2024, in Victoria Island, Lagos.
mandated to regulate the activities of all the petrol stations in Kogi State, stressing that the Authority will not tolerate the selling of low-quality products in the state.
The state controller described the adjustment of the metres, under dispensing, black marketeering, illegal selling of Petrol outside the authori2ed filling stations, selling of fuel at odd hours (night) and unwarranted reserve of fuel as criminal activities.
He reiterated the commitment of the NMDPRA not to compromise the mandate, stating that any marketers found wanting would be sanctioned accordingly, sealed up the filling stations and the owner’s licences would be revoked and be made to pay a fine.
Ogene, yesterday commended the governor for making such move. Over 5,000 members of Ogwuaniocha community are currently displaced from both their homes and farmlands by criminal gangs in what is said to be crisis relating to oil mining.
The displaced people are staying in safer areas in the local government area, while others
The event, which featured over 300 C-suite executives, 56 companies, and 50 distinguished speakers, marked a significant milestone in the region’s evolving insurance landscape.
This year, Casava, Nigeria’s leading digital micro-insurance provider, served as the official insurer of the event, providing attendees with immediate coverage for personal accidents and item losses. The partnership not only underscores Casava’s commitment to enhancing insurance accessibility
have fled the area.
The crisis which has lingered since 2020 also led to the abduction of the traditional ruler of the area, who is yet to be found till date.
But Soludo, in a resolution to get to the root of the problem in the area at the weekend, constituted a commission of inquiry.
but also aligns with the National Insurance Commission’s (NAICOM) agenda to expand micro-insurance offerings in Nigeria.
The CEO and Founder of Casava participated in a thought-provoking panel titled: Mainstreaming Tech in Insurance: Are We Ready for the Fusion?” during the exclusive IMT 3.0 forum moderated by Chief Client Officer at AXA Mansard, Rashidat Adebisi.
In his remarks, Pedro emphasised the pressing need for industry leaders to address unemployment
THISDAY gathered that the panel is to be chaired by Hon. Justice C. E. K Anigbogu, (rtd) and Professor Felicia Anyogu as secretary, with 11 other persons as members, most of whom are also from the affected area. Ogene in a statement hailed Soludo for the move, despite the problem preceding his tenure as governor of the state.
and create opportunities. He said: “I think one of the things we have to do, first of all as leaders is to remind ourselves that there are no jobs out there. People are hungry.”
“People need jobs. People need an opportunity to live their lives and grow. So I’m developing this thought process where we can be truly part of change. Because if you are part of the job creation, you will get insurance penetration. So, learn from the past, collaborate and create jobs to drive insurance.”
Adeleke Mulls Localisation of Livestock Innovations
Yinka Kolawole inOsogbo
Osun State Governo, Ademola Adeleke, has expressed the readiness of the state government to localise modern livestock innovations with a view to developing the state dairy and livestock sub-sectors.
Speaking after a visit to a large dairy farm in Northern France and attending the world largest livestock summit in Clermont Ferrand with French partners, Governor Adeleke described advancement in livestock sectors as breathtaking, noting particularly the application of high tech and AI in the farm process.
Accompanied by the state Commissioner for Agriculture, Hon Tola Faseru, and other top policy advisers, the governor, who
watched the farm tech application processes, said it was noteworthy how the robot was used to milk the cows as well as the integration of dairy production into the livestock farming.
Aside from examining the special breed of cows on the farm and several thousands of hectares of land devoted to mechanized farming, the governor also witnessed the special education imparted on the cows, leading to crow-machine rapport in the dairy production process.
At the summit in Clermont Ferrand, the governor met several farm tech companies alongside several livestock specialized farms which expressed readiness to support Osun State in the development of its livestock sector. The high point of the visit was the roundtable discussion between the French partners and the Osun State delegation with the following conclusions- a visit to state by a delegation of the French partners, adoption of a demonstration farm ahead of such visitation.
JamesSowoleinAbeokuta
WORSE THAN ONE SIDED
announced that APP “swept” 22 of the state’s 23 Local Government chairmanships. One LGA and the councillorships were yet to be declared but everyone knows that as night follows day, APP will sweep [that word again] all of them. The danger existed that someone will go to court on Monday and seek to quash the election, so Governor Fubara hurriedly swore in the elected chairmen on Sunday, usually a non-working day. At least, the worst Nigerian courts could do is to ask for the status quo to be maintained, and the status quo means Fubara’s men are sitting pretty on their seats.
Benue and Rivers were not the only cases of “sweep” this year. Local government polls were held in Borno State [luckily, months ahead of the Flood]. Again, the word “sweeps” was in play. Chairman of Borno State Independent Electoral Commission (BOSIEC), Alhaji Lawan Maina, announced that APC, which governs the state, won all 27 chairmanships and all 312 councilors in the state. Five other political parties that contested the election could not grab even one councillorship.
Nearby Yobe State, which was excised from Borno State 23 years ago has a very similar history and political culture, plus the most astute gentleman as Governor. It held local elections in April and the YOSIEC Chairman Dr. Mamman Mohamed announced that APC, which rules the state, swept all 17 chairmanships, 15 of them unopposed, and all the councillorships at stake. It was understandable that Borno and Yobe should exhibit similarities in political behaviour, but Bauchi State, which separated from them nearly 50 years ago, was also a case of sweep because in local elections held in August, PDP, which governs the state, swept all 20 chairmanships and all the councillorships.
PDP was also on a roll in Adamawa State, a state
who won the poll. The private plane of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, now President Bola Tinubu, was deployed to evacuate the once-dreaded Jammeh out of The Gambia.
I can continue enumerating Nigeria’s efforts to help maintain peace and security worldwide. It is against this backdrop of the country’s considerable efforts in maintaining peace and deepening democracy in Africa and beyond that the recent demand for a permanent seat for Africa in the UN Security Council be considered. No country in Africa has contributed to global peace and security than Nigeria in terms of human and material resources. The request for a well-deserved permanent seat for the continent was the high point of Nigeria's presentation at the just-ended 79th session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA79) in the United States.
Vice President Kashim Shettima led Nigeria’s delegation to that session and presented the country's national statement on behalf of President Tinubu. The president stayed back at home to attend to pressing domestic issues. That decision, the first by any Nigerian president since 1999, deserves commendation.
To say that Vice President Shettima ably represented the country is to state the obvious, particularly for those who watched the presentation
it controls. In local polls held in August, the party swept all 21 chairmanship seats. Chairman of the Adamawa State Independent Electoral Commission Alhaji Mohammed Umar said PDP also won 225 councillorship seats while the New Nigeria People’s Party won one seat in Demsa ward in Demsa Local Government Area. At least it was not a total sweep; PDP lost one councillorship seat!
PDP chapters in three other states were not as magnanimous as in Adamawa. In local council polls held in Oyo State in July, PDP candidates won all 33 chairmanship positions. OYSIEC chairman Isiaka Olagunju also said PDP won 499 of the 500 councillorship seats at stake, thus necessitating the use of the word “sweep” in all newspaper headlines.
Nor did PDP let go in Delta State, where local polls were held in July. Jerry Agbaike, chairperson of DSIEC who announced the results in Asaba, said PDP “swept” all 25 local government chairmanship seats and also “clinched” 499 of the 500 councillorship seats, losing one to the Allied Peoples Movement in Oshimili North Local Government Area. Agbaike said no election was held in Udu Local Government because the PDP chairmanship candidate was returned unopposed.
In Enugu State too, which is PDP controlled, the party was on a roll in local elections held in September. Prof. Christian Ngwu, Chairman of the Enugu State Independent Electoral Commission (ENSIEC), announced that PDP candidates won all chairmanship and all councillorship positions, another case of clean sweep.
Before you say PDP is the party of sweep, APC too did several clean sweeps of its own in recent local polls. Apart from the aforementioned ones in Borno, Yobe and Benue, APC candidates in Imo State “cleared” all the 27 local government chairmanships and all 305 councillorship seats in
live or on television. Resplendent in the country’s traditional white flowing babariga with a matching Borno cap, VP Shettima did an excellent job.
Making a case for this all-important seat on the UN's exalted podium, the vice president said:
“Reform of the Security Council is critical if the UN is to strengthen its relevance and credibility in our rapidly changing world. Some permanent members of the United Nations Security Council have offered encouraging, if tentative, indications of support on the issue of reform of the Council. We welcome the change in tone and urge acceleration in momentum to the process.
“The Security Council should be expanded, in the permanent and non-permanent member categories, to reflect the diversity and plurality of the world. We fully support the efforts of Secretary-General Guterres in this regard. Africa must be accorded the respect that it deserves in the Security Council. Our continent deserves a place in the permanent members category of the Security Council, with the same rights and responsibilities as other Permanent Members.”
With a population of over 1.3 billion people and home to the most critical mineral resources that will power the global economy, a permanent seat for Africa in the UN Security Council will ensure inclusivity and a spirit of brotherhood.
local elections. Charles Ejiogu, chairman of ISIEC, said “All the candidates of APC have been officially declared winners as Councilors and Executive Council Chairmen-elects.” At least in Imo, the word used was not “swept” but “cleared,” a sign that Roget’s Thesaurus was consulted for some variety.
In elections conducted by the Kebbi State Independent Electoral Commission (KESIEC) in early September, its chairman, Aliyu Mohammed Mera, announced that “APC won all the chairmanship and councillorship seats based on the results collated from the 21 local government areas where the elections were conducted.” APC is the ruling party in Kebbi State. PDP, which forced it into a run-off in last year’s governorship polls, did not participate in the election, citing allegations that KESIEC officials were affiliated with APC [as if that is not the case everywhere else]. No one expected Sokoto State to be different from Kebbi, two states that were not only together in the Hausa kingdoms, Sokoto Caliphate, Northern Region, North Western State and old Sokoto State but are remarkably similar in ethnic, religious, cultural and even political outlook, both of them ruled by APC. It was no surprise therefore that when Sokoto held local elections in late September, Chairman of SOSIEC Alhaji Aliyu Sulaiman announced that APC candidates “swept” all 23 chairmanship and all the councillorship seats at stake, even though 14 other political parties contested the election. If “sweeping” is the stuff that both the nationally ruling APC and the main opposition PDP are made of, what about the other three political parties that control at least one state each in Nigeria? Well, we have already seen the stuff of one of them. In local elections held in Anambra State on September 28, All Progressives Grand Alliance [APGA], which
Given its strategic importance, Africa should join the council's five permanent members. And more than any other country on the African continent, Nigeria truly merits this seat. It is an entitlement and a matter of right.
First, the seat will serve as due compensation for Nigeria’s labour of service to the world. The country’s active participation in peacekeeping missions helped save countless lives and restore peace and stability to many countries. The UN has acknowledged this important work. In a publication of the world body in February 2019, the UN singled out Nigeria for praise for her service and sacrifice. However, the UN should do more than commendation. The world body should offer Nigeria this much-desired permanent seat to appreciate the country's contribution.
Second, as indicated earlier, Nigeria contributed the most troops and police to UN missions among African nations. The Nigeria Police Force committed more men and materials to keep the peace in Africa and elsewhere. According to the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, Nigeria contributed to 41 peacekeeping missions globally and deployed over 200,000 troops to UN operations since her first deployment in the Congo. He spoke in New York at the summit of the Future Interactive Dialogue on the theme: “Enhancing Multilateralism for
rules the state, was said to have “coasted home to victory” in all 21 chairmanship and all 326 councillorship positions in the state. Chairman of ANSIEC Genevieve Osakwe announced the results in Awka. So, it made no difference that the state governor is a professor, who blows very heavy grammar, who was the governor of another place before Anambra, and yet ANSIEC is attached to APGA apron strings like all the rest of them?
We are waiting to see if things will be different in Abia, the only state controlled by Labour Party, and in Kano, the only state controlled by NNPP. I have my doubts, because newspaper reports said NNPP “primaries” were held in the house of its leader, Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, and some party stalwarts emerged from the house, protesting loudly that it was not democratic because the Leader anointed his favoured persons. I do not know if that was true, since I was not a delegate to the red-cap Kwankwasiyya “primaries.” But the real test will soon come when the state holds local elections. NNPP only just managed to edge out APC in last year’s governorship polls but no one will be surprised if it “sweeps” all the seats in the upcoming local elections.
This word “sweep,” I am fed up with it. All the “national” and “international” election observers who were harping on INEC’s perceived shortcomings in last year’s general elections as well as in some off-season governorship elections since then, what have they got to say about State “Independent” Electoral Commissions all over the country, regardless of region, religion or political party in power in the state? All the institutions created by the 1999 Constitution as amended have exhibited one failure or another in the discharge or lack of discharge of their duties, but that of SIECs is the most glaring. It is time to end this sweeping game by sweeping them out of the Constitution.
WHY NIGERIA DESERVES UN SECURITY COUNCIL PERMANENT SEAT THOUGHTS
production is declining year after year, exacerbating the country's already severe food insecurity. A 2021 study by Nigeria's National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reported a 15% decrease in agricultural output over the past five years, a troubling trend that, if unchecked, could lead to even more significant food shortages in the near future.
Physical insecurity is another major factor contributing to Nigeria's food insecurity. In many agricultural regions, particularly in the North, widespread violence has severely hampered farming activities. Banditry, farmer-herdsmen conflicts, and kidnappings have created a climate of fear, driving farmers away from their land. According to the Global Terrorism Index, Nigeria ranked sixth globally for terrorism in 2023, with bandits and insurgents regularly attacking farming communities. This violence has significantly reduced agricultural output. For example, Zamfara State, once a major rice and millet producer, saw a 50% reduction in agricultural production due to the displacement of farmers. The fear generated by these violent activities has discouraged new agricultural investments and forced many farmers to abandon their fields.
The impact of food insecurity extends beyond agricultural productivity. As food production declines, prices rise, worsening the social and economic fabric of the country. In June 2024, Nigeria's inflation rate hit a record high above 33%, primarily driven by rising food prices. According to the NBS, food prices increased by an average of 26.98% between June 2022 and June 2023. This year, food inflation is about 40%. In a nation where over 40% of the population lives below the poverty line, these price increases have pushed millions into deeper poverty, leading to further social unrest. Rising energy costs have also played a significant role in driving food insecurity. Agriculture, which relies heavily on mechanisation, transportation, and irrigation, is particularly vulnerable to fluctuations in
fuel prices. The removal of Nigeria's fuel subsidies in 2023 led to a sharp rise in petrol and diesel prices, making it more expensive to power farm machinery and transport goods. According to a 2023 report by the Nigeria Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA), the cost of transporting farm products from rural areas to urban centres increased by nearly 50% following the fuel price hike.
Nigeria's infrastructure deficits further exacerbate the food insecurity crisis. Poorly maintained roads, inadequate railways, and insufficient storage facilities limit the movement of agricultural goods from farms to markets. For example, the roads connecting many farming regions in the North to major cities like Lagos and Abuja are often described as "death traps" due to their deplorable condition. A 2022 World Bank report estimated that 40% of Nigeria's post-harvest losses are due to poor infrastructure, particularly the lack of storage facilities and bad roads. These losses reduce food availability and contribute to higher food prices, making it harder for people to access affordable nutrition.
Nigeria has increasingly relied on food imports in response to the escalating food crisis. However, while this provides temporary relief, it is not a sustainable solution. Imports from countries with higher agricultural productivity and cheaper energy merely suppress domestic agriculture. According to the National Bureau of Statistics, Nigeria spent over $5 billion on food imports in 2023, including rice, wheat, and maize. This reliance on imports undermines local production and exports job opportunities abroad, especially in rural areas where agriculture could be a significant employer. By importing food, Nigeria effectively exports jobs, reducing local employment in the agricultural value chain and related industries. For instance, the importation of rice from Thailand and India contributed to the near collapse of the domestic
rice industry, which once employed hundreds of thousands of Nigerians.
Furthermore, food imports compromise national security. A country that cannot feed itself is vulnerable to external shocks, as demonstrated during the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing Ukraine war, which disrupted global supply chains. The lesson is clear: reliance on imports makes Nigeria susceptible to global crises, while self-reliance in food production is essential for long-term stability.
To address these challenges, Nigeria must create a sustainable agroecosystem that enhances comparative and competitive advantages in agriculture. This requires significant investments in critical sectors of the agricultural value chain. Fertilisers and agrochemicals, for example, are essential to boosting productivity, yet the supply of these inputs remains erratic and expensive. A 2023 report by the International Fertiliser Development Centre noted that Nigeria faces a 40% shortfall in fertiliser supply, contributing to lower crop yields.
Mechanisation must also be prioritised. The current level of mechanisation in Nigerian agriculture is one of the lowest in Africa, with only about 1.5 tractors per 1,000 hectares of arable land, compared to the global average of 10 tractors. Increased mechanisation would enhance productivity and reduce reliance on manual labour, making farming more attractive to younger generations.
Logistics and marketing systems are equally important. Efficient transportation networks are essential for moving produce from farms to markets. Meanwhile, agro-industrial processing can add value to Nigeria’s agricultural products, increasing export potential. Countries like Kenya and Ethiopia have successfully boosted their agricultural exports by investing in agro-processing industries, and Nigeria could follow a similar path. A few states like Niger, Jigawa, Nasarawa, Kwara, Edo, and Enugu, among others, have shown commitment to
International Peace and Security.”
The attendant cost to Nigeria’s engagement in these peacekeeping operations is enormous. For instance, official sources revealed that ECOMOG, a regional mediation force put together to end the protracted Liberian civil war, was operated at an estimated cost of $8 billion to the Nigerian government.
Third, and more importantly, with its large population of young, energetic, and creative people and enormous resources, Nigeria can provide the required leadership for Africa at the UN Security Council.
This is a role the country has been performing for many decades. It has the potential to perform this work even better. Nigeria will be the real giant of Africa if it rises to this eminent status.
Former South African President, the highly revered Dr Nelson Mandela, was once reported to have said that the Black Race would not achieve its status until Nigeria sorted out itself.
When President Bola Tinubu's administration's reform agenda fully manifests, Nigeria will sort itself out sooner, not later. Then, the country will take its rightful place as the true leader of Africa in the community of nations.
•Rahman is a Senior Presidential Aide.
agricultural revolution and agro-industrialisation. Technology also holds the potential to revolutionise Nigerian agriculture. Adopting agrotech innovations like precision farming and drone-assisted monitoring could improve yields and reduce costs. Some Nigerian startups, like Thrive Agric and Farmcrowdy, have already begun leveraging technology to modernise farming practices, but more investment and support are needed to scale these efforts.
This requires leadership and the political will to transform the agriculture sector. The ministers and high government officials operating at the strategic level must articulate a clear vision and set SMART goals to help transform our agriculture sector. We salute the efforts they have put in so far, but we are calling for more to be done. We have lost years in this food problem, and today is the next best time to get things right to avert food insecurity now and in the future. Nigerians expect clear leadership in opening our agriculture sector across the value chain.
In conclusion, food insecurity and its cousin, hunger, should not be featured in a country with vast arable land and a vibrant youth population. Food security is a vital aspect of national security. Hunger is warfare by other means. While short-term solutions like food imports may temporarily ease the situation, they do not address the underlying causes of the crisis and may exacerbate long-term problems. The government must proactively invest in agriculture through targeted strategies prioritising mechanisation, logistics, and agro-processing. Food security is not just about feeding the population—it is about safeguarding Nigeria's future stability and prosperity. Without urgent action, the country risks deepening its economic and social challenges, potentially destabilising the nation further. The time to act is now before the "ticking time bomb" of food insecurity explodes.
Ahmed Musa Fires Brace for Kano Pillars to Announce His Return to NPFL
Daniel Amokachi appointed new coach of Lobi Stars
Duro Ikhazuagbe
Ahmed Musa returned to the Nigerian Premier Football League ((NPFL) for his third stint with aplomb yesterday, scoring a brace as Kano Pillars defeated Sunshine Stars 2-0.
Musa was denied the third goal as a Sunshine’s Ogechukwu Ogbu deliberately stopped the goal-bound ball with his hand.
However, the former Leicester City winger ended his adventure in Europe to return to Nigeria to pit tenth with his former club Kano Pillars for the third time.
The former Super Eagles captain opened scoring against the Akure Gunners just after five minutes, before he doubled the lead in the 51st minute.
But after his goal-bound ball for his hat-trick was stopped in the 70th minute , Musa slammed the resultant penalty against the upright.
The win has now moved Kano Pillars to seven points from five matches.
Apart from Musa, other former Nigerian international to return from Europe to play in the NPFL include the late Rashidi Yekini for Gateway FC; Daniel Amokachi for Nasarawa United; and Sani Kaita who played just a season for Enyimba.
Elsewhere, respite came the way of Emmanuel Amuneke as Heartland coach following the Owerri side’s defeat of Niger Tornadoes for their first win of the season.
Michael Ogu fired a double for Heartland in his outstanding performance that enliven the Imo StateThecapital. home win lifted Heartland from the relegation zone as they now have four points from five games.
In Port Harcourt, Rivers United defeated Akwa United 2-1 to move to the summit of the NPF. Former leader, Remo Stars lost for the first time this season in Kwara to tumble from the top. Abdulrahman Shola scored the lone goal for Kwara United in the 62nd minute.
In Aba, Enyimba trounced
Rasheedat Ajibade Crowned Spanish Liga F’s Player of the Month of September
Ajibade...crowned Liga F’s Player of the Month of September
Nigerian sensation Rasheedat Ajibade’ has been crowned Spanish Liga F’s Player of the Month of September, capping off an incredible run of form for Atletico Madrid.
The 24-year-old Forward dazzled in the month of September, scoring five goals in four League matches for Atletico. An exemplary performance that left opponents in awe.
The Nigerian beat Barceona’s Ewa Pajor, Real Madrid’s Caroline Weir, Levante Badalona’s María Llompart, and Athletic Club Femenino’s Nerea Nevado to the award.
The former FC Robo player is currently the second leading scorer in the Spanish Liga F behind Pajor. Atletico Madrid occupy third position on the table behind Barcelona and Real Madrid.
Katsina United 3-0 to consolidate second spot on the log. Meanwhile, Daniel Amokachi has been appointed as the new Head Coach of Lobi Stars FC.
The former Nigerian international takes over from Eugene Abagbe till the end of the season. Amokachi has now joined the likes of his Super Eagles golden
generation like Finidi George and Emmanuel Amuneke as gaffers handling teams in the Nigerian topflight league.
Draw Ceremony of 2024 Betsy
Women’s Football Tournament in Benin City...yesterday
Edo Queens, FC Robo to Kickoff 2024 Betsy Obaseki Women’s Football Tournament
The Draw for the 2024 Betsy Obaseki Women’s Football Tournament (BOWFT) conducted yesterday has pitted three of the toughest female football teams in
the country together in Group A of the competition scheduled to kickoff at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City today. Defending champions Edo
Flying Eagles to Relocate to Remo Stadium in Ikenne
Nigeria’s U20 boys, Flying Eagles, will move to Ikenne, Ogun State for a final camping programme ahead of their participation at this year’s WAFU B U20 Championship in Togo.
The 2023 FIFA World Cup quarter-finalists will camp at the high-grade Remo Sports Institute for a week before departing for Lome, where they tackle Burkina Faso and Cote d’Ivoire in a three-team Group B, in their quest to defend
the title they won in Niger Republic two years ago.
Hosts Togo will battle Ghana, Benin Republic and Niger Republic in Group A of the competition that is scheduled for 17th – 31st October.
The championship in Togo serves as the qualifying tournament for next year’s Africa U20 Cup of Nations, from where the top-placed four teams will qualify to fly Africa’s flag at next year’s FIFA U20 World Cup finals in Chile.
Queens, FC Robo and Remo Stars Ladies FC are to slug it out in Group A while Bayelsa Queens, Brave Hearts, Naija Ratels and Benin Republic’s Espoir of Cotonou are the other teams in Group B. In Group C are; Nasarawa Amazons, Confluence Queens and Abia Angels. Heartland Queens FC, Fortress Ladies FC, Delta Queens and another Benin Republic team, Aigle Royal FC in Group D complete the 14-team format for this edition.
Today at the Ogbemudia Stadium, Edo Queens and FC Robo are to kickoff the Match-day 1 of the 2024 edition of the BOWFT with other fixtures taking place in four other venues in Benin City. Mrs Betsy Obaseki who returned to the country from a trip to Europe with her husband yesterday, expressed her happiness at the turnout of team officials and representatives at the Draw Ceremony.
Ex-British Fencer Akinyosoye Switches Allegiance to Nigeria
Former British fencer, Folayemi Akinyosoye, has recently pledged his allegiance to Nigeria, leaving behind his representation of Great Britain.
Akinyosoye, who has been a prominent figure in British junior fencing in the past six years, made this decision as fencing gains momentum in Nigeria.
In an acceptance letter dated August 1, 2024, and signed by British Fencing CEO, Georgina Usher, Akinyosoye was exempted from the
usual three-year non-compete period. The letter stated, “In accordance with FIE regulations 1.4.3, this letter is from the former federation (Great Britain) accepting the transfer request and agreeing to waive the 3-year non-compete period.”
It further confirmed, “On behalf of British Fencing, I write to confirm that British Fencing has no objection to the athlete (Folayemi Akinyosoye) changing their FIE nationality and that we waive any
non-compete period.”
The 20-year-old fencer expressed his excitement about the switch, saying, “I would like to represent Nigeria because of my personal connections to Nigeria it's where my family roots originate, so there is desire to contribute to the development of the sport which is in its early stages stage in Nigeria. I also hope that representing Nigeria might provide a unique platform to promote the Sabre Fencing and inspire other young Nigerians to
take an interest in the sport.”
He added: “I am very excited to represent Nigeria and cannot wait to work with the Nigerian fencing federation to bring my fencing to the next level.”
Akinyosoye also shared his optimism about Nigeria’s potential to compete in the 2028 Olympic Games.
Adeyinka Samuel, President of the Nigeria Fencing Federation, welcomed Akinyosoye’s decision, highlighting the positive impact on the sport’s development in Nigeria.
“We are so excited that the work we have done in the last few years is yielding positive results with the decision by Akinyosoye to fence for Nigeria. This again shows that we are doing something right to improve the fortune of the sport, and we hope that we can have a strong team that will compete for places at the 2028 Olympic Games. We can’t wait to have him represent Nigeria in an international tournament and mix up with others already in the team,” Samuel said.
She further expressed happiness that the tournament has gone international with the participation of two teams from Benin Republic.
“I am excited that this year, we have 14 teams participate in this edition of the tournament. And more exciting is having two teams from Benin Republic in attendance which makes it an international tournament as promised last year,” stressed Mrs Obaseki.
The Edo State First Lady also revealed that the winners’ prize money has been reviewed upward to N10million from the N7million paid last year. Similarly, the runners up at this edition will take home N7million instead of the N5million while the third placed team will also receive improved prize money of N5million. All other teams are to receive participating fees higher than what was paid out last year at this edition.
Earlier, Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Rt Hon. Blessing Agbebaku, commended Mrs Obaseki for the initiative of the tournament that has now contributed to eliminating some of social vices . He promised to give all support to the tournament in order for it to continue to achieve the purpose for which it was founded.
“From the theme of every edition, the tournament is helping to solve some social vices. Last Year it was campaign against ‘Gender Violence’. This year, it is ‘Say No to Teen Pregnancy’. These are worthy causes that should be supported by all,” the Speaker further stressed.
Managing Director, John Odigie Oyegun Public Service Academy (JOOPSA), Precious Imuwahen Ajoonu (right) shortly after picking one of the teams at the
Obaseki
Ahmed Musa ...scored a brace as Kano Pillars defeated Sunshine Stars 2-0 in Kano... yesterday
Editors of Nigerian print and online newspapers and websites, are you not tired of using the word “sweep” to report the results of local government elections wherever they are held in Nigeria? Can’t you flip the pages of Roget’s Thesaurus, or even of the old Student’s Companion that we relied upon during our school days, to synonyms and reduce readers’ boredom?
Four Nigerian states, namely Jigawa, Benue, Akwa Ibom and Rivers, held local government elections [if they can be called that] this weekend. Early on Sunday morning, all the newspapers reported that “APC sweeps Benue council polls.” Chairman of Benue State Independent [if it can be called that] Electoral Commission, BSIEC, Richard Tombowua, said candidates of APC, which controls the state government but which is riven by divisions, won all 27 chairmanship and all 276
councillorships across the state, leaving none to the seven other political parties that contested the election. The word “contested” here should be qualified because quite often, small and virtually non-existent parties are mobilized to “contest” local elections in order to give them some credibility, although I am not necessarily saying that was what happened in Benue. The fact that the state’s governor is a Roman Catholic priest, there was widespread expectation that elections in Benue will rise above the Nigerian normal. Weekend’s local government election in Rivers was the most anticipated in the country. Because it was not really an election; it was a mighty contest of egos between godfather and former godson; state power versus federal power; courts controversially wading in to stop an election when the Constitution empowers, in fact mandates, the state electoral commission to conduct a local election. Nigeria
TUNDE RAHMAN
GUEST COLUMNIST
Police, which has got thousands of unobeyed court orders lying in its shelves, rushing to “obey” a court order and, not only refuse to provide security for an election but tried to thwart it. No one even knows which parties the top antagonists belong to. The godfather Nyesom Wike controls both the national and Rivers State PDP, is a serving minister in an APC government, and had made 27 members of the State Assembly loyal to him to all defect to APC. Governor Siminayi Fubara, on the other hand, was elected on PDP’s platform, never said he deserted it, has the support of fellow PDP governors, but just before the election, he directed his supporters to contest under the platform of almost unheard-of Action Peoples Party, APP. Within hours of the election’s end, Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC)
Continued on page 46
Why Nigeria Deserves UN Security Council Permanent Seat
Nigeria has significantly contributed troops and police officers to the United Nations peacekeeping operations worldwide since 1960.
That year, the Nigeria Police deployed the first-ever contingent of individual police officers to the UN Mission in the Congo. Assistant Commissioner of Police Louis Edet led the team at the time. In these operations, Nigeria resolutely committed herself to the onerous task of maintaining world peace and security. Some of the country’s gallant officers paid the supreme price, while many were injured and maimed for life. During the military era, particularly during the reign of General Ibrahim Babangida,
under the auspices of the African Union and ECOWAS, there was the ECOWAS Monitoring Group, which intervened decisively in Liberia, paving the way for the restoration of civil rule in that country. Rebel leaders had turned Liberia into a theatre of war in their desperate battle for power. Nigeria’s troops were also the military backbone of the UN Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) from 2003-2018, restoring security throughout that country.
Since then, Nigeria has been involved in peacekeeping operations in many African countries, including Cote d’Ivoire, Guinea-Bissau, The Gambia, Mali, Sudan, Sierra Leone, Mozambique, Somalia, Rwanda and Burundi. The government
has contributed a lot in finance, logistics and civilian experts to these missions. Beyond Africa, the country’s police force participated in operations in Western Sahara, Cambodia, Yugoslavia, BosniaHerzegovina, Croatia, Macedonia, East Timor, Haiti, Kosovo and Afghanistan, to mention but a few.
It is relevant to point out that Nigeria’s engagement is not only in peacekeeping or maintaining law and order across these nations; the country has helped stabilise and strengthen democracy in Africa. For instance, it’s on record that Nigeria’s former President Olusegun Obasanjo played a leading role in the international effort to restore democratic order in São Tomé and
DAKUKU PETERSIDE
BENEATH THE SURFACE
Principle when President Fradique de Menezes was toppled by the military in that country in July 2003 while visiting Nigeria. Obasanjo and other foreign leaders reined in the military junta that ousted Menezes. The former Nigerian president took Menezes in his plane, leading him back to power in the oil-rich island republic.
In addition, Nigeria's effort helped ferry former military leader Yahya Jammeh from The Gambia when he became a stumbling block to constitutional order.
After losing the election his regime organised, Jammeh refused to concede defeat to Adama Baro,
Continued on page 46
Thoughts on Nigeria's Food Insecurity
Nigeria is grappling with a multitude of significant challenges, each akin to a 'ticking time bomb' that threatens national stability. Among these, the most pressing yet underappreciated is food insecurity. Despite its critical nature and its direct link to national security, food insecurity has not received the urgent attention it requires from the federal and state governments. This crisis not only impacts the day-to-day lives of citizens but also undermines the country's economic prospects and national security. The time to act is now, as government responses have often appeared chaotic or detached, failing to
address the root causes of the problem. The failure to prioritise food security today will have severe long-term consequences. Statistics from the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) reveal that as of 2023, approximately 25 million Nigerians were facing moderate to severe food insecurity. This represents a 20% increase from the previous year, primarily attributed to escalating inflation, insecurity, and the effects of climate change. These figures underscore the urgent need for a coherent, focused strategy to tackle food insecurity and avoid an even more profound crisis in the future. Nigeria can learn from successful food security
strategies implemented in countries like India and Brazil, which have significantly reduced their food insecurity rates. By adopting similar approaches, Nigeria can make significant progress in addressing this crisis.
Food insecurity in Nigeria is not a standalone issue but a complex web of interrelated factors.
One of the most significant contributors is farmers' lack of access to affordable capital. Agriculture, which employs over 70% of Nigeria's rural population, remains stifled by high interest rates.
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) maintains a benchmark interest rate of about 27.5%, while commercial bank interest rates range between
30-40%. These exorbitant rates make it nearly impossible for farmers to secure the financing they need to expand operations or adopt modern farming techniques. This is just one thread in the intricate fabric of Nigeria's food insecurity. Farming is not just about planting seeds; it is a business that requires long-term investment. In Nigeria, however, the business environment prioritises short-term profit over sustainable growth. This mindset makes agriculture less attractive to investors, leaving farmers without the resources necessary to improve productivity. As a result, food
