THURSDAY 17TH OCTOBER 2024

Presidency: No Vacuum in Leadership Even as Tinubu, Shettima Are Out of Country

Says all state organs functioning as expected Vice president begins two-day working visit to Sweden, to strengthen ties with Nigeria

FG Orders Probe as 107 Perish, 50 Injured in Petrol Tanker Crash in Jigawa State

Cardoso: Taming Inflation is Key Priority Dimon: Nigeria’s Tough Decisions for Growth

Shettima: FG to adopt economic summit recommendations to drive reforms Tinubu halted economic decline, BaguduWorldarguesBank’s chief economist says failure of Tinubu’s policies will set back reforms in Africa

Opines nation’s economy at turning point

Nigeria at the moment, stressing that it was negatively impacting households and businesses.

The Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Olayemi Cardoso, has argued that curbing inflation remains a critical priority for the current administration, explaining that only then will the Nigerian economic have some level of stability.

Speaking at the 30th Nigerian Economic Summit (#NES30) in Abuja, the CBN governor stressed that the general rise in the prices of goods and services is one of the most pressing challenges facing

This comes as Chairman/Chief Executive, J.P. Morgan Chase Co, Mr. Jamie Dimon, warned that inconsistent economic policies only serve to scare investors from any country. Dimon also warned against excessive regulatory activities.

Also, Vice President Kashim Shettima, said the federal government will await the Green Book recommendations

President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio; Senator Adetokunbo Abiru and former Senate Whip, Orji Kalu, during Plenary...yesterday

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

The presidency, yesterday, reacted to insinuations in the public space regarding the absence of President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim

Shettima from the country, saying their absence does not portend any vacuum in the country's leadership.

Tinubu had left the Nigerian shores on October 3 for a two-week working vacation to the United Kingdom, while

Shettima, yesterday, left Abuja for a two-day working visit to Sweden. Special Adviser on Information and

Strategy to the President, Bayo Onanuga,

Continued on page 5

Deji Elumoye in Abuja, Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano, Segun Awofadeji in Gombe, and Hammed Shittu in Ilorin The federal government yesterday

directed the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) to launch a

thorough investigation into the tanker explosion that claimed the lives of 107 people in Jigawa State.

The Minister of Petroleum Resources, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, gave the directive following the tragic incident in Majiya Town,

Tinubu sends 5-man delegation to state President, Shettima, Buhari, governors mourn Mrs Tinubu describes tragic incident as unfortunate

Emmanuel Addeh and James Emejo in Abuja

ARENA

Disorder 1 (2024) by Kaleab Abate. Courtesy of Afriart Gallery

I’ve Absolute Confidence in Judiciary, Ighodalo

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

Five days after filing his petition at the Edo State Governorship Election Tribunal, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the September 21 governorship election, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, has declared his “absolute confidence” in the ability of the judiciary as the last hope of the common man. Ighodalo stated this yesterday on an ITV Benin Radio Talk

Declares over Petition in Edo Poll

Show programme in Pidgin English, “Man Around Town.”

He said notwithstanding the notion or perception of many, as a lawyer of 40 years’ experience, his faith in the judiciary to remedy every wrong remained unshaken.

Pointing to the litany of cases that followed his nomination as the PDP candidate, he said, "I won all the 15 cases that were brought against me from the primary. And so I cannot say I

don't have faith in the judiciary. I certainly do. It remains the last hope of the common man."

Ighodalo narrated how PDP supporters were subjected to untold harassment and intimidation through phantom allegations, leading to their unwarranted arrest before and during the election.

He also condemned the alleged collusion of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state with the Nigeria

Police and some officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to manipulate and distort the results of the election, which he claimed had been going in his favour.

Ighodalo vowed to use every lawful and legitimate means to retrieve and reclaim the mandate from those who allegedly stole it.

Narrating his experience during the material inspection CARDOSO: TAMING INFLATION IS

from the just concluded 30th Nigerian Economic Summit (#NES30), assuring participants and the business community that its implementation will be prioritised to further drive ongoing reforms to boost the growth of the economy.

Shettima and Dimon also spoke at the just concluded summit in Abuja.

According to Cardoso, inflation management is essential to stabilising the economy, fostering investment, and protecting the purchasing power of Nigerians, particularly in a period of significant global economic turbulence.

He said: “The monetary side is there to more or less create some stability. But it doesn’t substitute for the fundamentals. It does not. So, we have a situation where, from our perspective, taming inflation is key.

“Taming inflation is key. Because if you do not tame inflation, it has such a major throwback. It can deter investment,” he argued.

While highlighting that efforts to curb inflation would inevitably involve economic trade-offs, Cardoso explained that the apex bank was committed to making informed decisions on monetary policy, balancing inflation control with the need to support growth in critical sectors.

But he insisted that this approach requires sacrifice, as the country grapples with rising prices, made worse by a

depreciating naira, subsidy removal, and the impact of the pandemic as well as global supply chain disruptions.

Cardoso stressed that there was the need for coordinated fiscal and monetary policy particularly in the context of Nigeria’s high debt servicing costs, which he said have constrained the government’s ability to stimulate growth.

He emphasised that monetary tightening alone cannot solve the inflation problem, urging fiscal authorities to ensure that government spending is efficient and well-targeted.

While acknowledging the public concerns about rising food and fuel prices, the CBN governor pointed out that short-term pain was necessary to achieve long-term price stability in Nigeria.

For Cardoso, managing inflation will create the conditions necessary for sustained growth and job creation, adding that achieving lower inflation is essential to reducing poverty and inequality in the country.

The CBN governor however assured that the bank remained committed to stabilising the economy and macroeconomic parameters to serve the wellbeing of all Nigerians.

The CBN governor told the audience that taking control of inflation was key, stressing that if the country does not address inflation, it significantly impacts

investment and purchasing power, affecting those engaged in productive activities.

"Ultimately, we expect that the trade-off between the real economy, high interest rates, and inflation will be manageable, and we hope for a positive outcome," he assured.

Cardoso also blamed past administrations for failing to diversify the Nigerian economy, a price he said the country is currently paying.

Cardoso added: "I also believe that we need to acknowledge our past mistakes. We missed opportunities to diversify our economy, and now we face challenges because of it. Diversifying would have helped mitigate some of the economic shocks we’ve experienced.

"But we are on the right track, and with the right focus, we will overcome these challenges. I believe Nigeria has the potential to stand strong, and we must continue on this path."

Cardoso insisted that CBN policies were steering the country in the right direction, adding that international financial institutions, including the European Union (EU) and rating agencies all agree that Nigeria is making progress. He said: "We are in a situation where excessive interventions have persisted for several years. Our focus must be on managing inflation and stabilising prices, and collaborating with partners

is essential. When I first spoke about this during my clearance for service, I highlighted the huge backlog and financial issues. Now, we are in a position where we must manage inflation and immediate demand effectively."

The central bank governor said the apex bank had refined the payment processes, as well as working on verifying the payments, adding that it was crucial to ensure that transparency is maintained in its operations.

The apex bank’s governor said openness, transparency, and accountability remained the goals of the apex banks.

He said a lot of foreign investors were paying attention to what Nigeria is saying and are eager to understand the challenges the country faces.

Commenting on the issue of subsidies, he said that on the surface, it may seem straightforward, but when one considers the last 10-15 years, things have changed significantly.

“It may have appeared that we didn’t anticipate certain changes, but based on the data and the rise in home prices, I believe it's clear that we've made the right moves," the CBN governor added.

On the banking industry consolidation, Cardoso said: "This is something we've anticipated. We believe that costs will shift in certain directions, and while some may not see it immediately, we're confident in our approach.

FG ORDERS PROBE AS 107 PERISH, 50 INJURED IN PETROL TANKER CRASH IN JIGAWA

Taura Local Government Area of Jigawa State.

Also yesterday, President Bola Tinubu said those found responsible for breaches of safety standards would be held accountable, reaffirming the government's unwavering commitment to ensuring such incidents do not recur.

He directed the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, to lead a federal government delegation to the State over the Tuesday night inferno.

No fewer than 107 people lost their lives following a petrol tanker crash with registration number KMC 6412 F, in Majiya village of Taura local government area, Jigawa State.

According to an eyewitness Adamu Muhammad who escaped narrowly from the scene, the incident occurred at about 12am when a tanker exploded in the village.

He said, "as the tanker exploded in flames most of the villagers were abruptly awakened and rushed to the scene.

"We tried to help but, the inferno was too much to be confronted. There were shouting, roaring from the people who went to scoop for the fuel, coming out from the exploded tanker."

Another resident, Musa Sani explained that “It was terrifying. People were running in all directions, screaming for help. The fire spread so quickly that many couldn’t escape.”

Confirming the incident, in a statement, the Jigawa State Police Command disclosed that the tanker fell into the drainage at the outskirts of the village.

"A tragic and devastating incident occurred on October 15, 2024, 2230hrs, involving a petrol tanker with registration number KMC 6412 F, driven by one Yusuf Mohd 'm' age 32yrs of Hotoro Quarters, Kano State."

"The tanker was traveling from Kano to Nguru, Yobe State, when the driver lost control near Khadija University in Majia Town, Taura LGA, causing it to overturn and spill fuel.

"Unfortunately, villagers attempted to scoop petrol from the drainage, resulting in a flame that engulfed the area and many people reportedly perished."

The statement signed by the DSP Lawan Adam, Police Public Relations Officer, further stated: "One hundred and five (105) corpses have been evacuated, while 50 injured persons were rushed to Ringim and Hadejia General Hospitals for medical attention.

"The fire was successfully extinguished through the combined efforts of police officers, firefighters, and good Samaritans."

Early yesterday, the Police took about 50 victims who sustained various degrees of injuries to the hospital for treatment.

In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Communications, Nneamaka Okafor, Lokpobiri who expressed sorrow over the unfortunate incident, stated that the federal government’s thoughts and prayers are with the injured, and wished them swift and full recovery.

He added: “The Minister has instructed the NMDPRA to promptly commence a detailed investigation into the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate event.”

He advised Nigerians to avoid approaching vehicles transporting petroleum products involved in accidents or mechanical failures, even as he called on petroleum transporters to ensure that only certified drivers who comply with safety standards, as stipulated by the Federal Road Safety Corps, are employed to transport petroleum products.

The Minister added: “While we understand the temptation to scavenge, the dangers of attempting to collect spilt fuel cannot be overstated. The tragic loss of lives in this incident serves as a stark reminder of the severe risks involved.

“The Ministry remains committed to ensuring the safety of Nigerians in all aspects of petroleum product

distribution and transport. We will continue to work closely with all relevant stakeholders to enforce stricter safety measures and prevent future occurrences.”

Meanwhile, Tinubu has directed Akume, to lead a Federal Government delegation to the State.

The government delegation, according to a statement issued yesterday, by Information and Strategy Adviser to the President, Bayo Onanuga, is made up of the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar; Minister of Transportation, Senator Saidu Alkali; Corps Marshall of the Federal Roads Safety Commission (FRSC), Mr. Shehu Mohammed; and the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement (North West), Abdullahi Tanko Yakasai.

While in Jigawa, the delegation would visit the scene of the incident to assess the situation and visit injured persons in the hospital.

Tinubu further directed that emergency aid, including medical supplies, food, and shelter, be extended to the 50 victims receiving treatment and others affected by the fire.

He expressed his heartfelt prayers and support to the government and people of Jigawa during this time of tragic loss and grief and also prayed for divine comfort for the bereaved families and the peaceful repose for the souls of the departed.

Tinubu reassured the nation that the federal government, in collaboration with states, was committed to the swift and comprehensive review of fuel transportation safety protocols across the country.

He restated his directive to the FRSC to strengthen night travel measures, such as increased patrols, stricter enforcement of safety regulations, and other highway safety mechanisms.

Equally, former President Muhammadu Buhari conveyed his sorrow over the oil tanker explosion that killed dozens of people and

period, he condemned the INEC show of undue sympathy for APC, when PDP had a legitimate court order to be allowed to inspect materials needed to aid the filing of his petition.

Ighodalo specifically singled out the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) and the commission’s legal officer, whom he said engaged in sundry time wasting gimmicks and obstructions.

"However, there's no denying the challenges we face, and we must implement mitigation strategies. If industrialists and service providers are not empowered to continue delivering, we will be in a difficult situation. Mitigation is critical, and it's something we’ve discussed and recommended. We must act on this."

But in his intervention, first on a sideline interview with Arise News Channel, the Chairman/Chief Executive, J.P. Morgan Chase Co, Mr. Jamie Dimon, acknowledged that Nigeria was making very tough decisions that will create economic growth in the future.

He stated that all the election observers reported that the election was compromised by the combined collusion of APC, INEC, and the police.

“They (Nigeria) have made some very tough decisions which are hard but they will create growth in the future; more stability more growth. It is very smart what they have done. The fintech launch, you have a lot of talents here. They have built several unicorns here.

“These 220 million people is going to grow rapidly, with schools and education and I am very optimistic. We are proud to be here and you will be seeing more of us,“ he stated.

However, separately, at the event, he

PRESIDENCY: NO VACUUM IN LEADERSHIP EVEN AS TINUBU, SHETTIMA ARE OUT OF COUNTRY

in a release, titled, "There’s No Vacuum in Leadership as the President and VP Are Out of the Country," reacted to the development.

Onanuga emphasised that the absence of both the number one and number two citizens from Nigeria did not translate to a vacuum in the country’s governance.

According to the statement, all state organs are functional as usual, with Senate President, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, ministers, and service chiefs being in their respective positions, ensuring the smooth operation of the government.

injured dozens of others in Jigawa State, describing the mishap as the deadliest of such tragedies witnessed in the country’s recent experience.

In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Mallam Garba Shehu, the ex-President stated: “The oil tanker mishap at Majiya, Jigawa State is utterly painful. My thoughts and prayers are with all those who lost near and dear ones. I pray that the injured recover quickly.”

The former president also expressed his heartfelt condolences to the government and the people of Jigawa state.

Vice President Kashim Shettima also called for a comprehensive review of fuel transportation safety protocols across the country.

Reacting to the tragic incident, the Vice President expressed sorrow for the families who lost loved ones in this tragic incident and prayed that Almighty Allah grants them the fortitude to bear the loss.

In a condolence message, Shettima said "My heart aches for those who have had their families torn apart by this disaster."

"This devastating incident has shaken us all to our core. The federal government stands with the people of Jigawa. We are mobilising all necessary resources to support the injured and assist the families affected by this calamity," he said.

The tragedy threw the entire nation in grief and the Vice President had directed the immediate deployment of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) personnel and resources to Jigawa State.

"As we contend with this tragedy, let us also reflect on the importance of safety measures and public awareness to prevent such incidents in the future. Every life is precious, and we must do all we can to protect our citizens."

Shettima also commended first responders and medical personnel

The presidency gave an assurance that Tinubu, who had been attending to official functions in the last few days of his working leave, would soon return to the country before the expiration of his leave.

It also stressed that Nigeria's 1999 Constitution did not explicitly make provision for physical presence of both the president and vice president at all times before carrying out their official duties.

The statement said, "Following enquiries by journalists as to who is in charge of our country as the president and vice president are out of the country, we want to clarify:

"It is important to note that the president and vice president are fully engaged with the nation's affairs, even while they are away. There is no leadership vacuum in the country.

"President Tinubu left the country on 3 October and is on a two-week working vacation. During this time, he has been busy answering phones and issuing directives on matters of state.

“He will soon return to the country before the vacation officially expires.

“The vice president departed the country Wednesday for Sweden on an official visit, working for Nigeria.

"All state organs are functioning as usual. The Senate President, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, ministers, and service chiefs are all in their respective positions, ensuring the smooth operation of the government.”

Onanuga added, "We had a similar situation in 2022, when former President Buhari and former Vice President Osinbajo were found to be simultaneously out of the country. President Buhari attended UNGA 77, while Osinbajo participated in the burial of Queen Elizabeth ll.

"We have also experienced it during this administration. Between late April and early May this year, while President Tinubu was in London, after visiting the Netherlands and Saudi Arabia, where he attended the World Economic Forum, Vice President Shettima left Nigeria, first of all, for Nairobi to attend the International Development

Association (IDA21) Heads of State Summit.

“After returning, he left for Dallas, Texas, to attend the US-Africa Business Summit organised by the Corporate Council on Africa. President Tinubu returned home on 8 May. During this time, the government's machinery did not halt.”

The statement explained, “The constitution, a testament to our adaptability in the virtual age, does not explicitly require the physical presence of either the president or the vice president in the country at all times to fulfil his duties."

Meanwhile, Shettima departed Abuja for Sweden on a two-day visit to represent Nigeria in bilateral engagements with the Scandinavian nation.

At the instance of Tinubu, the vice president, according to a statement by his media assistant, Stanley Nkwocha, during the visit, would engage in highlevel bilateral talks with key government officials, including a meeting with Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden and the Swedish prime minister. Shettima would use the visit to explore opportunities for strengthened collaboration between Nigeria and Sweden in areas, such as ICT, innovation, education, digitalisation, sustainable transport, mining, and agriculture. He would also meet with key stakeholders in both the government and private sector, the statement said.

The vice president would also meet with Norrsken, a Stockholm-based venture capital impact investor, which recently launched Norrsken22, a $205 million tech investment fund for Africa. Norrsken22 is a technology growth fund, backed by over 30 prominent unicorn founders, partnering exceptional entrepreneurs to build Africa's next tech giants.

The meeting with Norrsken would provide insights into how Nigerian entrepreneurs could benefit from this fund and further strengthen the technology ecosystem in Nigeria. Notably, 40 per cent of the investments from Norrsken22 are expected to be allocated to Nigerian technology entrepreneurs.

Twelve Nigerian private sector companies doing business with Sweden are going independently as a private sector bloc.

While in Sweden, Shettima is also expected to articulate Nigeria's economic vision and the reforms being undertaken by the administration to create a business-friendly envirnment in Nigeria for investors. The myriad opportunities in Africa's largest economy would also be showcased. The vice president is expected back in the country on Saturday.

Ighodalo

30TH NIGERIAN ECONOMIC SUMMIT (NES#30) PRESS BRIEFING...

Senate Panel Says Nigeria's Oil Sector Run by Cabal, Vows to End Rot

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

The new chairman of the Senate Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream), Senator Sumaila Kawu, vowed yesterday that his panel would tackle the persistent lack of transparency in Nigeria's petroleum industry, which he said was being run by a powerful cabal. Kawu was appointed chairman of the Committee following the demise of Senator Ifeanyi Ubah who represented Anambra South in the 9th and 10th Senate. He detailed his plans to shed light on the sector's operations and engage the public in meaningful dialogue, during an interaction with journalists. With the rising fuel prices impacting Nigerians daily, Kawu emphasised the urgent need for clarity and accountability within the industry.

He said: "Our first step will be to study the current situation and gather information from relevant agencies. First of all, we will study the situation and we will get the information from relevant agencies to see what we can do.

“Nigerians are facing serious challenge. Nigerians are not happy, and the government on their own part keeps telling us that we will soon go out from these challenges.

Therefore, there is need for us to put our heads together with all relevant stakeholders, at least to know where we are.

“This time around, we want to do even a public hearing. Let Nigerians come and ask questions or make their own input on these refineries. There is one thing which we understand which we must, in any way, let Nigerians know.

“They are running the agency

FG Floats N10bn Affordable Credit Scheme for CNG Vehicles Conversion, Solar Energy Solutions

Three federal government organisations, the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI), Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (Credicorp) and the Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas (PI-CNG) yesterday struck a deal that will give Nigerians access to cheap loans to convert to gas-powered vehicles.

Parties to the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) said in Abuja that the deal was in response to the growing financial strain on Nigerians due to high energy and transportation costs.

Tagged the: “Credit Access for Light and Mobility (CALM) Fund”, the promoters stated that it aims to provide affordable credit for Nigerians to obtain CNG conversion kits and other energy-saving solutions, making essential services more accessible to Nigerians while promoting sustainability.

Speaking at the event, the Chief Executive Officer of MOFI, Dr Armstrong Takang, stated that

over the last several months, most Nigerians, had experienced the high and unintended consequence of petrol subsidy removal

“Let me be very clear. These reforms are necessary. But they come with unintended consequences. And we have a collective responsibility to work together to find solutions to deal with those unintended consequences.

“One of those unintended consequences is the fact that the cost of transportation has spiked over the last several months and is creating a lot of challenges for many families that are now finding it difficult to move around.

“And we must find alternative means to reduce that cost while people still go about their business and go to work. And the good news is that the federal government has a solution for that. We also recognise the fact that it is not possible for us to have to pay for everything upfront at all times, especially for items that are capital-intensive in nature.

and the establishment of Credicorp,” Takang said in his openings remarks.

Stressing that CNG conversion and the upfront payment for solar equipment remain capital-intensive, he noted that this was creating a challenge in terms of affordability.

Also speaking, the Chief Executive of the PI-CNG office, Michael Oluwagbemi, stated that the issue of mobility, and the need for Nigerians to be able to enjoy cheaper, cleaner, safer, more reliable access to transportation, was something uppermost in the mind of President Bola Tinubu.

Oluwagbemi stated that this will give the beneficiaries access to conversion kits, and in the long run, encourage domestic manufacturing.

According to him, it will further drive up the adoption of compressed natural gas and alternative forms of energy for the Nigerian people to deliver at a lower cost of transportation to make this economy competitive.

like a cabal. Nobody knows what is going on. Therefore, there is a need for Nigeria at least to know what is going on there, which we will do our own best to shed light on.”

He highlighted the importance of holding public hearings, which will allow citizens to voice their concerns and experiences directly. Kawu said his committee will focus specifically on reviewing contracts awarded by previous administrations and overseeing the current contracts for refinery repairs.

By scrutinising the agreements, Kawu said the panel would expose any irregularities and ensure that funds are being used effectively.

(NNPC) and refinery operators, to understand the barriers to efficient production and accountability.

He said the recent visits to the refineries by the joint Adhoc committee on the National Assembly had provided concerns about production timelines, prompting a call for a more rigorous evaluation of the situation.

Kawu vowed to focus on a culture of openness within the sector.

He promised to use the committee to dismantle the "cabal-like" operations that have characterised the industry, ensuring that decisionmaking processes are accessible and understandable to the public.

He said: "We need to ask the hard questions and hold a public hearing to allow Nigerians to express their views."

explosive than petrol and eight times less explosive than diesel.

“...When you're sitting in a petrol vehicle and you get into a serious accident, there's nine in 10 times possibility that it will lead to an explosion. That's not the case with CNG”, he pointed out.

In his intervention, Chief Executive of Credicorp, Uzoma Nwagba, explained that the government through the ongoing reforms was taking steps to stem some of the systemic issues or historical challenges that the Nigerian economy had suffered.

“But it doesn't come without its own pains. What we see is that with Nigerians now having to pay higher costs for petrol and for energy, we have a unique opportunity here to bring succour to Nigerians. Credicorp is an initiative that Mr. President has been very passionate about.

“With Credicorps, our goal is essentially to enable people to have an advanced life, a better life, and enabling them to do it by accessing goods and services that they would normally have to save up until they are much older,” Nwagba stated. Mofi, Credicorp, PI-CNG sign MoU, say new initiative flexible, cheap Oluwagbemi insists gas-powered vehicles 8 times less inflammable

“And that is why the federal government came up with the programme of consumer credits

Speaking on the safety of CNG, he said: “We continue to let people know that compressed natural gas is safer, more reliable than what you're using right now. It’s eight times less

NASENI Kicks Off Simulation Software Training Across Development Institutes

Addeh

The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) has launched a week-long intensive training on ASPEN Plus, a process simulation software, at the agency’s Virtual Manufacturing Lab at its headquarters in Abuja.

The hybrid training which was held across NASENI’s Development Institutes, a statement signed by Chinyere Obiorah-Ekwuazi, Chief Information Officer, NASENI, said, marks a significant step forward in its commitment to advancing technical capacity in renewable energy and engineering design. The opening ceremony

featured remarks from Dr. Chika Ezeanyanso, Deputy Director of the Nano Science Department and representative of the Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) of NASENI. In her address, she emphasised NASENI’s dedication to providing its staff with cutting-edge knowledge to drive innovation in renewable energy.

Ezeanyanso, on behalf of the participants, expressed her gratitude to the EVC for his approval that championed the initiative and his steadfast commitment to ensuring that NASENI personnel remain at the forefront of technological advancement in biogas and other renewable energy sectors.

He pledged to engage with stakeholders, including the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited

Nigeria-India

Kawu expressed determination to implement measures that will stabilise the petroleum sector and address the legitimate concerns of Nigerians.

He expressed hope to restore confidence in the management of Nigeria's petroleum resources.

Business Council Inaugurated, Moots Direct Flight Between Countries

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

The Nigeria India Business Council (NIBC) was yesterday inaugurated in Abuja marking a significant step in fostering stronger business relations between Nigeria and India.

NIBC President Sir Emeka Offor, disclosed after the inauguration of a seven-man working group that one of the tasks the council was exploring was the possibility of facilitating a direct flight from Nigeria to India.

The meeting also ratified the appointment of Chijioke James as the Director General of the Council.

Prominent board members at the meeting included the Vice President, Dr Dere Otubu, Murtala Mohammed, Bakare Oladipo Mudasiru, Salisu Kabara, and Yunusa Yakubu. Others were Ambassador Humphrey Orjiako, AIG Chris Ezike, rtd. and Dr Steve Dike.

The President of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACIMA), Dele Kelvin Oye and former President Abuja Chamber of Commerce, Prince Adetokunbo Kayode SAN, attended the meeting as observers.

Offor said NIBC aimed to serve as a bridge, providing networking opportunities, strategic alliances and advocacy to businesses keen on leveraging the unique strengths of both nations.

"The establishment of this council is a testament to the growing importance of the Nigeria-India partnership.

"With the support of our dedicated board and the DG of the Council, we are poised to facilitate greater economic cooperation and enhance bilateral trade. We invite business leaders and entrepreneurs to join us in our mission and benefit from the wide range of opportunities that membership of the council offers," Offor said.

He said the Nigeria-India Business Council is a body that seeks to attract investment and to support the government in making sure that business is sustained between the two countries.

"I know that one of the major objectives of the body is to make sure that we improve on whatever that is on ground to make sure that we take it to the higher level. I think after President Tinubu's visit to India, a lot of commitment has been gotten. But now that the body is now formally inaugurated it starts to exist from today".

The DG of the Council, Chijioke James, said the working group set up by the board will work around the clock to ensure that the lateral business relationship between Nigeria and India is deepened and opened up to different sectors that will ensure promotion of business.

Emmanuel

in Abuja

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

L- R: Vice Chairman III, Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG), Ms Amina Maina; Director, Macroeconomic Analysis, Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, Mr Felix Okonkwo; Chairman, NESG, Mr Niyi Yusuf; Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, Dr Emeka Vitalis Obi;, CEO, NESG, Dr Tayo Aduloju; and Board Director, NESG, Mrs Wonuola Adetayo, at the 30th Nigerian Economic Summit (NES#30) Press Briefing in Abuja ... yesterday

LAGOS DIGITAL PUBLIC RELATION SUMMIT IN LAGOS...

Sanwo-Olu Approves N85,000 New Minimum Wage for Lagos Civil Servants

Segun James

The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, yesterday announced the approval of N85,000 minimum wage for civil servants in the state. This is the third time the governor has approved Lagos workers salary structure since taking office in 2019. Only in January 2023, the governor began the implementation of a minimum wage which he promised the workers in September, 2022. He once again increased the wages in January, 2024 before yesterday's announcement.

The governor who disclosed this while responding to questions on a popular television show on efforts made by his administration to cushion effects of subsidy removal on workers, however said that the decision has to do with peculiar position of the state and affordability by the government.

“It is not a competition. I am not going to say that we are paying more than some people, it is a function of affordability and capacity. We know too well that when people live in Lagos, Lagos has a premium in terms of the cost

Adedeji: FG Not Introducing New Taxes, Only Harmonising Existing Laws

The Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Zack Adedeji, yesterday said that the tax reform bills recently presented to the National Assembly were not aimed at increasing taxes or introducing new taxes into the nation’s tax books.

Adedeji said the four tax reform bills aim to harmonise all tax laws scattered in different tax laws and establishment bills.

Speaking at a meeting with the House Committee on Finance ahead of the second reading of the bills, he said it was also not aimed at merging any government agency and that it will not lead to any loss of jobs.

He said: "We want to harmonise all the tax laws because we have tax laws scattered in different tax books and different establishment laws passed. The implications of that is the multiplicity of taxes that people talk about because each agency that has tax law must implement that tax law.

“ No agency is superior to the other and you cannot ask one agency not to carry out the order. So, Mr. President saw that this is not good for the economy and the only way to do that is to harmonise all the tax laws and have them in one place

"The other reason is to organise the fiscal framework in the country. As we stand today, there is no law anywhere to actually regulate or monitor cryptocurrency. We are in a global community and there is no way we can exclude ourselves from

what is happening globally. So, it is to organise the fiscal efficiency in the fiscal framework"

Adedeji further said that there was need to synergise all revenue collecting agencies and ensure efficiency in government spending, but noted that it was not meant to merge the agencies.

“For example, prior to the implementation of TSA, government will have money in one bank and be borrowing from another because we don't have the holistic view. But when TSA was implemented, it gave us a holistic view of where government monies are. With that, you will not have money on one bank and be borrowing from another.

"Another principle is to improve the transparency and integrity of revenue collection and there is nothing that we will do than understanding the laws so that they will be very simple to comply with.

“We also want to complete out tax laws in other to represent the current realities that we have. Currently, we are using the tax integrity test of 1939 when there was no internet, no online shopping. In other to align ourselves with current realities, it is the wisdom of Mr. President that all these bills be implemented. We also want to align ourselves with international standard," he stated. To make Nigeria a destination for investment, where people will consider where will give them the best return on their investment, he argued that one of the things to consider is the fiscal framework for this destination.

of living. We are fully aware.

“We also increased our salary earlier in the year. I will want to come back in January and say that I have been able to increase

the minimum wage of Lagos to N100,000, not because I want to make anybody look bad, but because I want my people to have a living,” he stated.

The approval of the new wage is coming on the heels of the approval of a N70,000 minimum wage by the federal government after negotiations with labour unions

in the country. He added: “I’m glad to let you know that the minimum wage for Lagos, which we have discussed with our union, is N85,000 today.”

MTN Nigeria Launches First Digital Service Centre

Oghenevwede Ohwovoriole in Abuja

MTN Nigeria has launched a digital service centre in Abuja, the nation's capital city powered by 5G.

The Chief Customer and Experience Officer at MTN Nigeria, Ogunwa Nwoye, who spoke to journalists after unveiling the digital service centre at the MTN regional headquarters in Abuja, yesterday, described it as the first digital service centre in the country.

"Today we launched the first digital experience centre in Nigeria by any telecom firm. And one of the things that we wanted to do was to bring as close as possible to our customers and our businesses around us, a digital immersive experience,"

The Institute of Human Virology (IHVN) has said it is currently working with the World Health Organization and other international agencies.

The Institute said that it is also spearheading other research interventions that will address challenges posed by infectious disease outbreak in the country.

IHVN is funded by the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria.

It also ensures prompt access to high-quality, patient-centered prevention and treatment through public-private sector partnership to address tuberculosis, active TB case-finding efforts and Community TB testing.

Chief Executive Officer of IHVN, Dr. Patrick Dakum who spoke yesterday during an interactive session with journalists to mark the Institute 's 20 years anniversary in Abuja said that one of breakthrough research initiatives that the organisation is pursuing is in the area of development of vaccine for the HIV virus.

While given details of research on HIV vaccine, Executive Director of

she said.

The centre, she said, was launched to showcase the power of technology.

"We wanted to showcase what is possible with the technology that we provide. As you know, MTN is a technology company. We're a company that harnesses technology to improve the lives of our customers and the businesses around us.

"We believe that the full potential of Nigeria can be reached when we harness technology. And that is why, when we entered this market, we started with being the first on 3G, the first on 4G, and now the first on 5G.

"All that you see here is powered by technology, it's powered by 5G technology. And we have also looked locally to find out what is locally

IHVN 's International Research Centre of Excellence (IRCE), Prof. Alash'le Abimiku said the initiative is being funded by USAID and is expected to run over a 10-year period.

She said that eight countries in Africa, including Nigeria and South Africa were chosen to participate in the research on HIV vaccine with an initial grant of $34 million.

Out of this amount, Abimiku said that the institute has received $200,000 to help conduct the research on the HIV variant found in West Africa.

Her words: "For 30 years Nigeria has not been involved in Vaccine development but IHVN for the first time has put Nigeria and the whole of West Africa on the map

"The pandemic that is affecting millions of people and we still have s significant number of people who every single day have to take drugs and have to think about its side effects and we said, this needs to end and that IHVN will be part of the solution.”

She said that the institute is presently in the first stage and is embarking on sequencing of the HIV virus that can be found within West Africa and possibly other parts of Africa.

relevant to our market, so when you turn around and see some of the things that have been deployed; we know that these are locally relevant and they have been built by the team of our CIO here," she explained.

Nwoye, also noted that MTN built the first digital kiosk, adding: "We have built, for example, the first digital kiosk that enables up to eight user journeys where a customer can come to any of our centres by themselves without any help.

“Of course, if they want help, the human beings are there to help. But if they want to do it on their own."

While highlighting some of the services offered at the center, she noted: "Consumers can buy a SIM, they're able to buy airtime data plan, they're able to order devices, 5G

According to her, the idea is to make sure that those sequencing are part of the vaccine construct.

"Once we put that together, we have to test and ensure that it is safe in animal and then we go into small population of individuals that are healthy and find out if it is safe among those individuals.

"We will try to stimulate the right protective immune responses to fight the HIV virus. Once we do that which is phase two and we go into phase three.

“In this phase three, there will be thousands of people that will be administered with Vaccine construct and then you include people that are at risk, that from their behavior they will expose themselves to it", she said.

She expressed optimism that the outcome of the research will be positive and will provide the much sought remedy against HIV disease.

Speaking further on the milestone attained by the institute in the last 20 years of its existence, Dakum said that IHVN has over the years spearheaded efforts to tackle disease afflictions such as HIV, tuberculosis, malaria and hipatitis, recording significant

routers, and those are going to be delivered to their homes anywhere they choose across Nigeria. And this is just one use case. We have shown other use cases here as well."

According to her, "We have shown the smart home use case. It shows you that anywhere you are, whether it's everywhere you go in Nigeria or anywhere you go in the world, you can control your home from wherever you are on your phone. All you need is a data connection.

“But this is not just about data and devices. It's about empowering you to live a life that is breathtaking. We want you to meet your full potential, we want you to really enhance the power that you have, to free your mind, to imagine anything."

mileage in reducing the scourge. He said that the institute played significant role in helping Nigeria to contain the spread of infections during the COVID-19 pandemic by assisting the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) is conducting tests, diagnosis and monitoring of the virus spread.

Dakum said the organisation is currently implementing a health Intervention programme known as "Action to Sustain Precision and Integrated HIV Response Towards Epidemic Control" (ASPIRE) by the United States government in Nasarawa, Rivers, Katsina and the Federal Capital Territory. According to IHVN boss, the programme is providing laboratory testing, diagnosis and tracking of status of people living with HIV, prevention of Mother to child transmission of HIV, Anti-retroviral treatment for adult and children (including pregnant women) to know their status.

On his part, the Chief Operating Officer of IHVN, Dr. Olalekan

said that the institute has received a total of $300 million from Global Fund and international development agencies from 2010 to date.

Juliet Akoje in Abuja

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

Mensah,

L-R: Council Member, Nigerian Institute of Public Relation (NIPR), Thelma Okoh; Commissioner for Communications, Kwara State,Bola Olukoju; Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Digital and New Media, Otega Ogra; Chairman, Lagos State chapter, NIPR, Comfort Obot Nwankwo; and , President, Upticomm Marketing Company, Segun McMedal, during the Lagos Digital Public Relation Summit in Lagos, yesterday

PHOTO: ABIODUN AJALA

The Impact of Carbon Emission on Climate Change in Nigeria: Discuss the challenges and Profer Solutions

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Deadline: Friday, November 8th 2024

NB: Non-inclusion of any of the above may lead to disqualification.

Happy Golden Jubilee To His Imperial Majesty

Oba Adeyeye

Enitan Ogunwusi (Ojaja11,OoniofIfe)

We join the entire house of Oduduwa and numerous friends and well - wishers to celebrate His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi Ojaja 11, Ooni of Ife on the momentous occasion of his 50th birthday.

Ooni, you have contributed immensely in business, philanthropy and advocacy for the betterment of your people and Nigeria at large.

As you attain this golden age, we pray that God’s grace and love shall overflow in your life, bringing you eternal joy and serenity.

Please accept our warm wishes. Happy Birthday!

Signed:

Dr. (Sir) Daniel and Lady Ada Chukwudozie

To His Ro yal Maje sty on His

th Birthday

Arole O duduwa, O oni Ade y e y e E nitan

O gunw usi, CFR (O jaja II).

O oni of Ife.

His Imper ial Majest y,

You are ever ything to me, my father, my brother, my best fr iend and my husband, Ade or i mi.

Ojaja f i idi ote jale

L e yo aje okun OONI

Omo olesin mer indinlogun me jo joko me jo sailair ije

I ku alase ike ji or isa Osun mo sile osun moseni O yomo loko lala sonu

May this year br ing you boundless joy, radiant health, and may your reig n be long f illed with endless blessings to you and our glor ious kingdom. I pledge my unwaver ing suppor t and undying lo ve, f or you are not only my king but the lo ve of my lif e. I will f orever appreciate you.

Happy Bir thday, my belo ved.

W ith all my lo ve, Olor i

Mar iam A jibola A nako

Ogunwusi

Yeyeluwa of the source

The Quintessential M o n a r c h O f

A l l T i m e @ 5 0

A r o l e O d u d u w a O l o fi n A d i m u l a ,

Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja ll, The Ooni of Ife

It is with profound gratitude to the almighty God that I join the rest of the world to celebrate the Arole Oduduwa Olofin Adimula, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja ll, The Ooni of Ife on the auspicious occasion of 50th birthday celebrations.

Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi is no doubt divinely chosen to be on the seat of his forefathers and that is why his reign has brought immense peace, development and prosperity to the Yoruba race

As his imperial Majesty clocks 50 years on earth, we celebrate your unparalleled love for the advancement of humanity, we celebrate your race courage, generosity, purposeful leadership and commitment towards a more prosperous and peaceful Nigeria.

It is my prayer that as our highly revered Kabiyesi celebrate his golden jubilee today, may you certainly wax stronger than ever before in the service to God and humanity

Igba odun, odun kan ni sir, Kabiyesi

Long may you reign sir, Kabiyesi ooo

Diamond Jubilee

On y o u r D i a m o n d J u b i l e e celebration, I extend my warmest wishes to you. This milestone is a testament to God's mercies on your life as His dedicated servant.

Yo u r c o m m i t m e n t t o s e r v i c e a n d unwavering support to those in need have inspired many to the Almighty

As you celebrate this special day, may you b e s u r r o u n d e d b y l o v e , j o y, a n d t h e gratitude of all whose lives you have touched.

Thank you for your continued guidance, friendship and leadership.

I wish you good health, w i s d o m m a n y m o r e years of working for the Lord.2

Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com

Oyebanji: We’ll Continue to Engage Opposition for Development of Ekiti

Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State in this interview with Gbenga Sodeinde speaks on his first two years in the saddle of governance and specific programmes he’s been able to execute for the development of the Fountain of Knowledge.

You are two years old in office now, how would you assess your performance so far?

I don’t know if I am in the best position to assess myself, but so far so good, what we have seen in those places we have gone to is that people are happy with us, people have shown appreciation to the little we have been able to do.

We have used the last two years to lay a very solid foundation for economic growth and development of this state. We campaigned on the mantra of shared prosperity but the people will not prosper if we didn’t put some things in place. We have spent the last two years in erecting the the blocks for prosperity and the next year’s budget is going to address the issue of food security and welfare in Ekiti State.

So what plan do you have for the people of Ekiti in the next two years?

The next two years is to ensure that we scale up our intervention in agriculture and also creating platforms for SMEs to thrive. We must make our economy to be productive because productivity is the key to prosperity.

We are going to be deliberate in our efforts on agriculture and cater for the informal sector of the economy and the Small, Micro and Medium Enterprises because those are the engines of growth. But you can’t do these things if the state is not secured or without infrastructure or not accessible and that is why the airport is key because a road leads to the next town, an airport leads to the world, that is the difference between an airport and a road. From here you can take off and go to the United States but when you leave Ado here by road you will be going to Ikere or the next town.

We have to open up the state and that is what the airport does. So, once we are able to get the airport operational, investors will come into the state. We will scale up our intervention on security though it has improved tremendously.

How have you been able to pay workers salary regularly before the month ends without borrowing?

What we have been doing is that we usually take overdraft from banks to pay salaries before the federal allocation comes into our account. We have not borrowed a dime from any financial institution to run the state in the last two years.

Aside this, there has been an increment in the revenue allocation from the Federal Government, and also there has been a major increase in our IGR. We met our IGR at about N600 million per month, but I can tell you that as of today, we are doing N1.5 billion per month and it keeps increasing every month.

What has been the secret of your cordial relationship with almost all opposition parties in the state since you came on board?

The secret is that I am an apostle of what they call soft power and leadership. It means you know that you have the power but you are careful not to misuse it. It means empathy and compassion. When God entrusted this office into my hands, I made up my mind that the only thing I will do on this seat, is to serve Ekiti people in a way and manner that will bring development into this state. One of the basic ingredients of develop -

ment is peace and I promise myself that as long as it depends on me, I will be at peace with everyone.

I believe that politics ended after my swearing in as the Governor of the state and that day I took an oath to protect the constitution of this country and to serve the people regardless of political affiliation.

As the Governor, I see all of us as the indigenes of Ekiti not belonging to party A ,B or C. I also note that an average human being deserves to be respected and as a leader you need to humble yourself and respect your people; you must show compassion and it will be very easy for them to walk the path of development with you.

So, in the last two years, we have exhibited the highest sense of humility, compassion, empathy and transparency. I know that if the led trust their government,

it will be very easy to lead them and I try as much as possible to be truthful in anything I say.

As a leader, I have chosen the path of peaceful coexistence with everybody irrespective of political affiliations. It is a choice I have made, it has its own consequences and sacrifices but as long as the strategy translates to the development of our people, it makes me happy.

People in the state seems to trust you so much that once you assure them of something, they will go and sleep, what is responsible for this?

What I can say is responsible for this is that if something is within my power to do, I will do it and if I cannot do it, I will come back to explain to Ekiti people why I have not been able to do it. So, we have exhibited trust as an ingredient of our politics. The people know that when their Governor makes a promise, it may be late but it will be done.

What can you say is responsible

So, in the last two years, we have exhibited the highest sense of humility, compassion, empathy and transparency. I know that if the led trust their government, it will be very easy to lead them and I try as much as possible to be truthful in anything I say. As a leader, I have chosen the path of peaceful coexistence with everybody irrespective of political affiliations. It is a choice I have made, it has its own consequences and sacrifices but as long as the strategy translates to the development of our people, it makes me happy.

for your cordial relationship with all your past leaders in the state and governors irrespective of their political parties that they all rally round you and are giving you all their supports?

What I can say about this is that all my leaders in the state are critical stakeholders in the state development and I need their help in one way or the other and I run to all of them for advice. Let me say that I don’t go to them as a politician, I go to them as Governor of the state and that makes it easy for them to relate with me. That is what is responsible for the peace and the cordial relationship we have.

What are those consequences you faced with this your decision as mentioned earlier ?

The price of people not being accustomed to this style. You see some of our people are telling me that I am not using my power. Some elements within my political party are also not comfortable with this posture.

There have been a lot of ripples within APC with the choices I have made, but like I told them, it is in the interest of Ekiti people.

We don’t play politics with everything; there is time for politics and governance. So far, so good, I have the backing and support of critical leaders in the party and party members are getting used to this style.

Don’t forget it is a new style in our politics in Ekiti and some feathers might be ruffled, but I thank God that our people are getting used to it.

Why did you engage in your recent town hall meeting with the people of the state?

The town hall meeting is not new, it is a carryover from the former administration, and that speaks to the continuity agenda.

But what is important for me is that we believe strongly that as a government, you don’t just sit in the office and rule over the people. There is need for engagement and also to ask the people about their own perspective and what they will like to see in the budget, because government is about the people.

Let me say that what makes me happy about the meetings is that the last one we just ended, people came out to tell us that last year we came here, we requested for some things and they have been done; so that tells me it is not a waste of time. They mentioned about four to five things they requested for last year, that we have done. Even though we have not done all. Also, when we were campaigning, we went to the people to ask for their votes, it will not be too much for us to go back to them now that we are in government. In fairness to the people, they are our employer, they put us here through their votes, there is need for constant engagement and discussion to even feel their pulse about their government. It serves two purposes- to get their input and to gauge their views on how well we are doing. I can say on both counts, it is worth the while and I will continue to do that regularly.

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

Oyebanji

Prof. Emmanuel Ibe Kachikwu

BIRTHDAY TRIBUTE TO A DISTINGUISHED LEGAL LUMINARY , PROF. MIKE OZEKHOME SAN, CON, OFR

It is with great joy and pride that I congratulate you on the occasion of your 67th birthday and a life replete with milestone achievements. You have attained the pinnacle of your legal career as a learned silk (SAN), a Professor of Law, a multiple National honours awardee, and a holder of multiple chieftaincy titles bestowed on you for your admirable community work and contributions.

Your passion for the legal profession, scholarship, and human rights activism has earned you global respect. It is fitting that on the occasion of your 67th birthday, you chose to celebrate the same with a rare display of intellectual potpourri by the publication and launch of numerous books on law and other subjects.

Congratulations, my brother, and may God reward you with continued wisdom, good health, and the vigour to continue impacting humanity.

Happy Birthday, learned SAN.

Signed:

Prof. Emmanuel Ibe Kachikwu

Former Honourable Minister of State Petroleum Resources

Former President of OPEC, APPO, GECF

PROF. MIKE OZEKHOME SAN, CON, OFR

In the midst of plenty, the people cannot eat, writes AUSTIN ISIKHUEMEN

THE CONFUSING NIGERIAN SCENARIO

I was in Uromi, my beloved hometown last weekend. Driving along the Ore-Benin highway, lined along the road, especially on the Benin-Ore side of the road, were palm frond sheds full of plantains of various sizes in various stages of ripening. I also saw men on motorcycles arriving from their farms with piles of plantains tettered to their bikes, delivering to women who sell by the roadside. I also saw a couple of Dyna mini-lorries loading plantains probably for delivery to big cities where sellers can get better bargains. Yes, it is plantain season.

I had to take Auchi road from Ramat Park. Luckily the mob that occupied the front of INEC office had vacated. I drove down to Ehor and detoured towards Ujogba to avoid the totally blocked, impassable federal road towards Iruekpen, late Stella Obasanjo’s hometown. I would have driven through Benin-Agbor-Asaba highway from Benin City but from Agbor Park/NNPC depot to the end of the city just before the descent to Okhuaihe, the federal road is also totally impassable, hence the rigmarole!

Having followed the Ujogba-Ebudin-Igueben-Uromi road, I was amazed at the quantum of foodstuff and crops on display. The newly harvested yams I saw covering all available space at Ebudin Ugbegun was stupendous. Even more amazing is that these yams are all harvested from the farms in that small town and environs using subsistence technics and tools.

At Uromi market, the largest in Edo State outside Benin City, foodstuff of various types, raw, processed, cooked were all on display. Massive tubers of yam, pawpaw, tomatoes, pepper, groundnuts, rice, beans, ikpakpa, olene, ihiehie, cassava, akpu, ugwu leaves, garden egg, pumpkin fruits, ukpokuma, maize, etc., all in abundance. All these in spite of the reduced farming activities due to massive kidnapping and insecurity that have kept farmers off the more distant farmlands with more fertile soils that give greater productivity.

At the same Uromi town, all roads leading to, and out of it, all federal roads, were in total state of disrepair. Agbor-Uromi road just before Dominion Hotel down to Nova Motel. The cattle market area is a hell on earth. So is the stretch from Angle 90 to Angle 80 (not sure where these angle names came from!) leading to Irrua to join the impassable Iruekpen-Ekpoma-Auchi nightmare of a federal road. These same roads make farming and trading logistics a nightmare for the people of these areas.

Discussing with folks resident here, the real issue at this time is not availability of food, though that may rear its heard when many of these crops are out of season. The biggest issue is poverty – lack of money to buy the available foodstuff whose prices have shot through the roof many times in the last one year. Unbearable inflation.

They said each time fuel price increase was announced, their purchasing power diminished and hunger quotient quadrupled! Some asked me if the petrol inside the grounds of Niger Delta is now exhausted. Others, more enlightened, asked me what the dollar exchange rate, a banknote they have never seen nor spent, could be responsible for their inability to buy a tuber of yam harvested in their neighbour’s farm. I struggled to provide answers I knew did not make sense to them. I can tell you that the

name Tinubu, which some pronounced as Kurubu, got numerous angry mentions by these local countrymen. In the midst of plenty, the people cannot eat.

The same thoughts occupied my mind as I drove back to Lagos on the Benin-Sagamu dual-carriage way on 14th October 2024. From Benin till you got to the beginning of Ogun State, the federal road is fairly good. Mike Ononlememen had reconstructed the road from Benin to about 50 km after Ore. Babatunde Fashola then took over from him but in eight years, the road was not completed. Some sections were done, of course, but most of Ogun State is now worse than it was in 2015 and rapidly deteriorating. Some sections around Ovia river and Ofusu have become dangerous spots due to massive cement-carrying lorries whose overweight loads have created uneven surfaces due to uneven compression. BeninSapele-Warri federal road is one you better avoid at all cost.

These roads that lead to, and out of, the Niger Delta and the South-east are in this sorry state. Pray, what logic is driving the crazy speed with which the Coastal Road, which is going to pass through vastly uninhabited territory, is being constructed? Would it not make more sense to complete the reconstruction/ repairs of Benin-Sagamu, Benin-Sapele-Warri and Benin-Auchi-Okene roads before embarking on the multi-billion dollar Coastal Road?

Why are these existing roads being abandoned to deteriorate further while embarking on new projects that give a false impression that we have no resource problem? Is that not the same impression that the purchase of a new fleet of hundreds of SUVs for national assembly members gives? Even the purchase of a new Presidential aircraft, yacht and VP residence upgrade with billions of naira.

So, why this scarcity in the midst of “plenty”? People cannot feed but food everywhere! No passable roads due to disrepair but new construction by the same agency of government. No security but thousands of armed policemen attached to household chores in palaces of the rich, the famous and even the notorious. New minimum wage yet to be implemented by many states but the increment wiped out by increases in fuel price and litigation costs by labour leaders accused of treason. The same illogic explains the apparent prowess of bandits over agencies that have constitutional right to the use of tools of violence. Tough times. Tough logic.

Isikhuemen writes from Lagos

SOLA FATOBA contends that many children with autism in Nigeria are left without access to the education they need

THE SILENT CRISIS FACING AUTISTIC CHILDREN

The numbers are staggering. In a country of over 200 million people, Nigeria has only 1,177 special needs schools, a number that falls woefully short of the demand. The Federal Ministry of Education reports that Kano, Kaduna, and Lagos lead the count, but even these figures—153 schools in Kano, 79 in Kaduna, and 75 in Lagos—reveal a distressing gap. For a nation this vast, with countless children requiring specialized care, these schools are but a drop in the ocean. Many children with autism in Nigeria are left without access to the education they need to develop their potential, creating a cycle of neglect and isolation.

Children with autism in Nigeria face overwhelming challenges, not just due to their condition but because the system isn’t designed to support them. Autism, which affects about one in 160 children globally, impacts social communication, interaction, and behaviour. In Nigeria, where access to basic education can already be a struggle, the barriers are even greater for autistic children. Schools are rarely prepared to accommodate their specific needs, resulting in exclusion from both education and broader social participation. These children are pushed to the fringes, isolated from the learning and social opportunities their neurotypical peers take for granted. This isolation has deep consequences, not just for the children but for society as a whole.

Even more troubling is the growing trend of schools rejecting autistic children. Many of these institutions, which claim to provide special education needs and disability (SEND) support, turn away autistic students, citing their inability to manage their needs. Parents are left in an exhausting search for schools willing to enrol their child, often cycling through options without success. Some parents, left with no alternative, keep their children at home or attempt homeschooling, though they lack the training and resources needed. This exclusion reinforces the stigma that children with autism are not welcome in society. Research shows that two-thirds of young people with autism have neither a job nor educational plans two years after high school, and more than a third remain without jobs into their early twenties. Globally, 85% of autistic adults remain unemployed.

For parents of autistic children in Nigeria, the struggle doesn’t end with finding a school. They often find themselves without the proper resources or support to navigate their child's developmental needs, even at home. Parents and caregivers, including teachers, play a pivotal role in supporting children with autism. They are central to a child’s development, managing communication, behaviour, and learning. Yet, these important caregivers receive minimal training or guidance. The system’s failure to empower caregivers compounds the problem, leaving both parents and teachers overwhelmed and unsupported.

There are, however, technology enabled support mechanisms to deliver direct parent training and caregiver support. Technology can be leveraged to reach more parents and caregivers. Technology offers a solution to the widespread inaccessibility of specialized care in Nigeria, particularly in rural areas to provide training to both parents and teachers. These caregivers can receive essential training and guidance without the high costs and logistical challenges associated with in-person services. Studies show that technology can facilitate direct parent and caregiver training to improve outcomes for children with autism by eighty percent, including better communication skills and fewer behavioural challenges. This approach can be used to make support accessible to families who would otherwise have no resources at all.

While the potential of this approach is undeniable, it cannot be fully realized without government backing. For direct parent training and caregiver support to be effective on a national scale, the Nigerian government must establish a strong policy framework that ensures these services are available and accessible to all. This begins with revamping the education system to integrate inclusive learning models across the board.

It’s not enough to build more special needs schools; every school must be equipped with the training, tools, and support to educate children with autism. Teachers must receive specific training on autism intervention, and schools must be staffed with specialists who can provide the necessary support.

In countries like the United States, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) has transformed the landscape for children with disabilities, including autism. IDEA ensures that autistic children have the right to free and appropriate public education and mandates the creation of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for each child. These IEPs are tailored to the unique needs of the student and ensure access to necessary services, such as speech therapy and behavioral intervention. Additionally, under IDEA, parents have recourse if a school refuses to admit

their child without valid legal reasons, especially schools that claim to have SEND designation. Schools in violation of these regulations face legal consequences, including potential loss of funding and other penalties. Nigeria must create similar policies to empower parents and hold schools accountable, ensuring that every child with autism has access to the education they deserve.

To ensure accountability, the Nigerian government should establish a rigorous system for designating schools as SEND-friendly. Schools claiming to offer SEND programs must be held to a high standard, with government oversight ensuring that they have the right resources, trained teachers, and access to specialists such as speech therapists and behavioural interventionists. These schools should report regularly on their enrolment of SEND students, and compliance with national standards should be periodically reviewed. Schools that fail to meet these requirements should have their status reviewed as SEND designated institutions and face penalties. This would ensure that no school claims to support special needs children without actually providing the necessary services.

The path forward is clear. Direct parent training, caregiver support, and the use of technology have already proven effective in improving outcomes for children with autism. What is needed now is the political will to scale these interventions across Nigeria. The government must take decisive action, adopting policies that support these programs and ensuring that every family has access to the services they need, regardless of their location or income level.

This is not just about autism; it’s about equality. It’s about building a society where every child, regardless of their neurodevelopmental status, has the chance to learn, grow, and succeed. The stakes are high, and the cost of inaction is far too great. Nigeria cannot afford to leave its children behind. The time for incremental change is over. The moment to act is now, and the responsibility falls squarely on the shoulders of those in power to ensure that no child is left behind.

Fatoba, MBA, APR, is an African-born health-equity innovator Founder of Bloom Buddy, a telehealth platform that supports Autistic people

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA

Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com

LIBYA’S UNACCEPTABLE GAMESMANSHIP

There should be consequences for Libya’s horrible behaviour

We condemn in the strongest terms the ill-treatment meted to the Super Eagles of Nigeria by the Libyan authorities, prompting the abandonment of Tuesday’s Africa Cup of Nations Group D qualifying match. The Super Eagles had left Nigeria via Kano on Sunday but were left stranded at the Al Abaq Airport for over 15 hours by Libyan officials who strangely diverted the flight from Benghazi and forced the pilot to land in the evening at a distant destination. And this is despite the fact that the Al Abaq Airport lacked the control navigators for landing at such hours. The Nigeria delegation comprising 22 players and accompanying officials, and some selected journalists were also refused airport protocol, including security, food, water and immigration clearance.

Due to the hostility of the Libyan authorities, the Super Eagles players and the accompanying officials were forced to sleep overnight on bare couches in the arrival hall of an abandoned airport. This provocative act of the Libyan authorities is inhumane, condemnable and an orchestrated assault on our collective pride and sovereignty. The sight of our players sleeping rough on airport benches is unpardonable. The Tunisian pilot has explained how he was instructed to divert the plane to a different location and how the passengers were at risk as the fuel had been carefully calculated for the original destination. All efforts to explain this to the Libyan officials, according to the pilot, were met with a strong insistence that the order came from the highest authority and must be followed.

be presumed to be premeditated. It is clear that the Libyan authorities acted in bad faith and there should be consequences for their bad behaviour. Therefore, Nigeria must apply the rule of force majeure to get Libya sanctioned for this unconscionable act. And the major demands from CAF should include the forfeiture of the three points by Libya, in addition to having their national team thrown out from the 2025 African Nations Cup campaign.

This provocative act of the Libyan authorities is inhumane, condemnable and an orchestrated assault on our collective pride and sovereignty

T H I S D AY

EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU

DEPUTY EDITOR WALE OLALEYE

MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO

DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU

CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI

EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN

THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA

GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU

It is noteworthy that the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has waded into the bizarre treatment and has already referred the matter to a disciplinary board. Football authorities on the continent must ensure that countries known for violent conducts to visiting teams must be made to play away from their home to serve as deterrent. In 2021, the Libyan football authority switched off the light inside the stadium where the Nigerian team, Rivers United FC were training ahead of their match the next day. Such conducts have no place in civilised environment where the ‘Beautiful Game’ acts more as unifying factor. Both CAF and FIFA do not have to wait till people are killed before taking drastic actions against such gamesmanship for which Libya has become notorious.

There is no justification whatsoever for the Libyan action against a visiting national team. After initially apologising for their lapses, the Libyan Football authority is now concocting stories of a similar experience in Nigeria. That is not only an afterthought but a silly excuse for what can now

DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE

DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI

SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH

ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI

CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI

DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO

TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com

Letters to the Editor

One lesson that must be taken away from this Libyan Airport Siege is that both FIFA and CAF need to come up with strict measures to curb the type of situation just witnessed. It was by providence that nothing untoward happened to the players and officials. Given that there are two administrations in Libya with Benghazi under the control of self-imposed elements as against the other faction under the control of the United Nations, anything could have happened to the delegation. While Libya may be attempting a cover-up for their irresponsible behaviour, we appeal to the Nigerian government not to take this provocation from a fellow African country lightly.

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

SADIQUE ABUBAKAR'S POLITICS OF PRINCIPLE

Certainly, democratic system of governance is predicated on the idea that, as much as the people can elect their leaders in the three strata of governments and representatives in the legislatures, the society will be better, given that government policies and programmes will reflect the yearnings and aspirations of the people. While this is true, to fully realize this ambition, the full participation of the citizenry in the entire democratic process cannot be overemphasized.

In the name of nation-building, citizens must be up to their responsibilities by electing only leaders with a genuine understanding of the challenges the society faces and who are sincerely willing to address them. This crop of politicians can be identified through their campaign manifestos. The issues raised, ideas discussed, and points made during campaign rallies, discussions, and interviews by aspirants tell significantly how they feel about their society and their burning desire to work towards raising the living standards of the

people to a higher threshold.

It is, therefore, with the antecedents of the political aspirants and their plans that the electorate can make a choice at the polling booth. Thus, for Nigeria's democracy to thrive, everyone must put efforts into enlightening the public on the need for active participation in the democratic process and the importance of making informed decisions at the polls.

This, most probably, is retired Air Marshal Sadique Baba Abubakar's school of thought, which is why he has remained steadfast in talking to the people, especially in Bauchi State, on the need to engage in the politics of principles while prioritizing the general development of the society. Notably, Abubakar contested for the governorship position in Bauchi State in the 2023 elections under the All Progressives Congress (APC) platform. This has been his call since the 2023 elections campaigns.

At every forum, he extols the politics of principles,

noting that it is the only path to a better society. It is through the politics of principles that the nation will get the right leaders who can work hard towards delivering democratic dividends to the people. When the right leaders are in place, the children of ordinary citizens will gain access to quality public education and enjoy the same advantages as everyone else to attain their full potential and realize their ambitions. More so, there will be access to affordable quality healthcare services; food will be sufficient and available on every home's table; there will be more jobs for the teeming youth; affordable housing will be made available so everyone can live in decent shelter; and, most importantly, the security of lives and property can be assured.

Mukhtar Jarmajo, Kukadi/Gundari Ward, Misau Local Government, Bauchi State

My Father, My King,

Ten years...

Your words echo still, "...a headmaster was once a schoolboy". To this day, your distinct voice and tone resonates as though you said it just yester.day.

r<The deep void we contend with today was / once filled with your presence.

And though we are comforted by bittersweet memories and reaping the wisdom seeds of your love, guidance, we still need A you to motivate us and guide us through life's � inevitable storms.

We miss you deeply anti sorely but the lessons you taught, the laughter you brought and the love you freely gave remain with us and remain the most precious legacy you bequeathed.

You will always be our foundation, hero, and, most importantly, our legendary father.

While time may heal all wounds, we look forward to seeing you again soon at the great family reunion.

Rest on.....

Signed by:

Prince Dagogo Asemeyibo Buowari•Brown, FNSE, FNCS for the Buowari-Brown Royal Family

•

The World Telecommunication Standardisation Assembly (WTSA-24), which is the standardisation governing conference of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), has called for consensus, ethical Artificial Intelligence (AI) and universal network connectivity. he WTSA-24 conference holding in New Delhi, India, brings together, global policymakers, industry leaders and tech experts to consider global actions to reinforce the standardisation work of ITU, the UN Agency for Digital Technologies. At the opening ceremony,

Stories by Raheem

Akingbolu

With the current stage of the economy as an indicator, there is no signal yet that the fortune of the marketing communications industry in Nigeria would improve in the last quarters of the year, top Marketing Communications practitioners and scholars have predicted. Specifically, they have linked the decline in marketing budget to the fall in consumer spending as a result of inflationary trends that are not abating.

Chairman of the 2024

attendees pushed for universal connectivity, the need for ethical Artificial Intelligence (AI), the critical importance of consensus, and how digital inclusion could make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.

India’s Prime Minister, the Honourable Narendra Modi, inaugurated WTSA-24 alongside India Mobile Congress at a joint opening ceremony.

“The objective of WTSA is to work on global standards. At the same time, the India Mobile Congress plays a very big role for giving services to people. So, from that point of view, with this event that is taking place in India, we are

National Advertising Conference (NAC), Planning Committee, Tunji Adeyinka, in an interview with THISDAY, said contrary to the norm that the end of the year is always a booming period for marketing industry, 2024 may be different, given the downward trend of the country’s economy.

He said: “If we use the economy as an indicator, it is likely that spending in the marketing communications industry will not grow this year. The last quarter of the year has always been a period characterized by higher spending on

working on both standards and services, and both have been brought to one platform today, “Whatever standards we set in this field, this will set the path of our future. Therefore security, dignity and equity are the principles we should focus and put them at the centre stage of our discussion. Our objective should be that no country, no region and no community should be left behind the in this digital era,” Modi said at the opening ceremony Tuesday.

ITU’s Secretary-General, Doreen Bogdan-Martin, in her opening remarks, said: “The world has a lot to learn from what India has accomplished

marketing communications but unfortunately, it may not be so this year for obvious reasons.”

Adetunji, however, disclosed that this year’s NAC is examining how the industry can navigate the disruption and changes in the economy and the entire marketing industry, and the need for greater efficiency and accountability.

This is also the position of a former President of the Experiential Marketers Association of Nigeria (EXMAN), Kayode Olagesin, who admitted that the industry is in dire straits, which according to him, is also a reflection of the economy. “When

with the Unified Payments Interface, Aadhaar, and other building blocks of today’s digital economy. This global gathering calls for bold, collective action. In the next ten days, we can strengthen the role of international standards as the bedrock of global digital governance.”

Held every four years, WTSA sets out priorities for experts from around the world who work year-round to develop the international standards established by ITU.

The first WTSA ever held in the Asia-Pacific region, opened on Tuesday October 15 and will run till Sunday October 24, coming at

advertisers are facing challenges, it will impact their advertising spend. However, having said this, I think it impacts different sectors of the industry differently. The impact is probably more severe on some than others. Also, the impact varies from agency to agency,” Olagesin said,

He expressed doubt that the industry was growing in real terms even if billings have surged in some cases, and linked the gloomy atmosphere to inflationary trends. “There was a level of business optimism earlier in the year that has tapered down. So far, I don’t see enough evidence of growth

a time when India’s government, vibrant tech industry and research communities have become increasingly engaged in ITU’s standardisation work that is driven by the contributions and consensus decisions of ITU’s membership, including 194 Member States and over 1000 member companies, universities, and international and regional organisations.

WTSA reviews the strategy, structure and working methods of ITU’s standardisation arm (ITU-T) every four years. The conference also approves the mandates and appoints the leadership teams of ITU-T expert groups for international standardisation. ITU and partners kicked off the proceedings with the Global Standards Symposium (GSS-24) and celebrations of World Standards Day on 14 October. Communications ministers, industry leaders and tech experts at GSS-24 showcased new innovation, exchanged insights and shared aspirations for international standards development. The symposium reaffirmed the importance of investing in technical standards development to propel innovations in key areas like AI, smart cities and virtual worlds to accelerate sustainable development.

in advertising spend in the last quarter given that consumer spending is further negatively impacted by inflationary trends that is not abating,” Olagesin said.

In his view, a Communication Lecturer in the Department of Mass Communications at Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago Iwoye, Dr. Oludare Ogunyombo, also agreed that Marketing communications have suffered a major blow recently.

According to him, while the operating costs of many companies are increasing due to increases in ancillary costs, forex downturn and others,

consumers’ purchasing power is also dwindling.

“Most manufacturers are now more interested in curing their core production costs with the funds they have before thinking of marketing communication activities. Although we cannot deny the fact that organisations still need to shout and put their voices out for people to know what they do, what we have now discovered is that most of them are getting more “creative” at communicating their products, less the huge advertising spends and experiential activities that we are used to in about six to seven years ago,” he stated.

Emma Okonji

Dangote as Nigeria’s Most Valuable Brand

In the midst of the debate over the operations of Dangote Refineries and the expectation that it would be the messiah for Nigerians as the market contends with fluctuating prices of petroleum products, Top 50 Brands Nigeria rankings, has announced the Dangote Brand as ‘The Most Valuable Brand’ in Nigeria, writes raheem akingbolu

Many things determine the place of a brand in the market but perhaps the most enduring factor is the ability of the brand to resonate with consumers. Thus, a brand with Top of mind awareness, which is a measure of how high brands rank in the consciousness of consumers, is tend to be one of the most talked-about brands in the market.

In Nigeria market, the Dangote Brand fits in perfectly as the first brand that comes to mind when consumers think of some certain niche products and this has helped the brand achieved top of mind awareness. Therefore, when the promoters of the Top 50 Brands Nigeria ranking announced last week that Dangote continues to lead as the country’s most valuable brand, for the seventh year in a row, it didn’t come to discerning minds as unusual news.

By securing an impressive aggregate score of 89.6 percent on the brand strength measurement index, (BSM) conducted by the ranking company, Dangote has proven resilient in the face of testing market conditions, justifying premium prices with positive perceptions, and proving that meaningful, different and salient brands are best placed to weather global and economic disruptions.

The CoMpeTITIoN

Other brands that slugged it out with Dangote are; MTN, Airtel, Access Bank, Globacom and many others. However, Dangote is immediately followed by MTN Nigeria, which not only ranks second overall but also emerged as the Most Popular Brand in the country for the year, according to the Top-of-Mind (TOM) survey. MTN’s strong consumer connection and widespread recognition highlight its significant impact on the telecommunications sector and beyond.

The only confounding part of the 2024 story of the Top 50 Brand Nigeria has been the turbulent condition of the economy and the fact that Dangote brand’s profile has kept on rising despite the odds in the market. As a result of the local economic crisis, dictated by subsidy removal and currency devaluation, many companies crumbled while many brands lost their focus. However, few dogged businesses, in the likes of Dangote, that have remained strong despite the

challenges appear to have learnt new ways of doing business, especially in the area of customer engagement and cost management.

Of course, the tense business environment has also led to stiff competition in various sectors, with each of the brands making efforts to rejuvenate and remain strong despite the challenges.

For the Dangote brand, the story is deeper in 2024. While other companies and brands are facing similar economic challenges, Dangote has consistently contended with ideological differences with regulatory authorities over the operation of its refinery alongside the general problem in the market. Before the refinery issue surfaced, its Dangote Cement was also in the news consistently for months over pricing and de-marketing shot from competitions.

One question analysts have continued to ask is how the brand and its promoters have been weathering the storm. For the Dangote brand and its promoters, the recent ranking is not accidental but a testament to their commitment to excellence, innovation, and sustainable growth.

In fact, observers have linked the success story of the Dangote Brand to the painstaking communication management skill of its number one spin doctor -the brand’s Group Head of Corporate Communications, Anthony Chiejina, who was recently named as one of the “100 most influential communications and marketing executives in the world 2024,” by Global PR firm, Provoke Media. Those who hold this view often make reference to the success stories of other brands like Zenith Bank and the rested Oceanic Bank that had once passed through Chiejina. Looking back into the last few months, one cannot but be amused by the masterly manner by which Chiejina and his team were able to strategically positioned the brand despite the odds through stakeholders’ engagement and effective communication devoid of negativity.

The IMplICaTIoN

The implication of the ongoing development is that Dangote is winning because it has good

custodians to lean on while Chijiena was selected alongside 99 other communications and marketing executives of highly rated government agencies, global corporations, and conglomerates because of his immeasurable contribution to the growth of the Dangote Brand.

Founder and Chairman of Proshare Limited - Nigeria’s foremost Financial Information Hub, Femi Awoyemi, captured it succinctly when he concluded that to measure the equity of Chijiena brand, may require a glimpse at the success story of the brands he has built over the years.

He said, “Anthony Chiejina is well known as the spokesman of the Dangote Group. What is often lost in this description is the value of Tony as a first-rate scholar, speechwriter, and communications strategist, who has earned his reputation having built up a first-class track record of achievements managing the Zenith Bank and erstwhile Oceanic Bank global footprints.

“Tony is deliberate and intentional about his actions and has a work ethic that is grounded in professional excellence. In our dealings over decades, he has nudged, encouraged, and challenged us to observe first principles, clarity of thought, and credibility in communications – breaking down the value chain and ecosystem in all engagements.

“He prioritises the country’s interest in his engagements, be it within his group, his faith, and his devotion to learning as a basis for interventions. Such clarity of thought and purpose makes him a leader of leaders in the industry.” Awoyemi said.

raNkINg oTher BraNDS

In the detailed analysis of the ranking this year, Globacom Nigeria, is at the third place, while Airtel Nigeria, another key player in the telecommunications sector, secured the fourth position. Access Bank ranked in the fifth position, topping the Banking & Financial Services sector.

The organisers stated that: “This year’s list is a testament to the resilience, innovation, and enduring relevance of brands that continue to shape Nigeria’s economy, particularly in challenging times.

A significant highlight this year is that seven of the

first 10 brands out of the 50 are Nigerian, emphasizing the resilience and global competitiveness of home-grown brands, most of which had spread abroad.

The Banking & Financial Services sector demonstrated remarkable strength within the top 10, with four brands. These are —Access Bank, Zenith Bank, First Bank, and GTCO.

Similarly, the Telecoms sector showcased its market dominance, with MTN, Airtel, and Globacom all ranking highly.

Additionally, it is impressive to note the consistency among the top brands, with seven of them maintaining their positions from last year. This stability reflects their continued relevance, strong market presence, and ability to navigate the complexities of the Nigerian business environment.

Nigerian brands account for 24 spots on the top brands list this year, while international brands hold 26 positions, representing 52% of the total.

The 2024 list also witnessed the entry of two new brands, these are Opay Nigeria and Flutterwave, which made their debut in the annual Top 50 evaluation. These new entrants highlight the growing influence of fintech and digital payment platforms in shaping Nigeria’s economic future.

Notably, 14 brands maintained their positions from the previous year, reflecting their consistent performance and consumer trust.

Another set of notable events in the presentation are the 10 Brands to Watch – These are vibrant and upcoming brands, who, though not among the 50 Top Brands yet, but with significant visibility and promises. This year, 9 of the 10 Brands to Watch are Nigerian.

The horSe’S MouTh

The current ranking has become a subject of positive conversation because of the pedigree of the ranking agency. Top 50 Brands Nigeria has been consistent and transparent in brand valuation for a while and its process and criteria for ranking have been commended over the years.

The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

Impact of Value-added Services on Nigerian Telecoms Sector

emma okonji writes on the evolution of mobile telecommunications Value-added Services in Nigeria since its inception in 2002, and its impact on the telecoms sector

From 2002 to 2020, Nigeria’s mobile telecommunications industry experienced exponential growth, becoming one of the largest telecom markets in Africa. A significant aspect of this development was the rise of Value-Added Services (VAS), which played a vital role in driving both subscriber engagement and revenue generation. The key players in this field, including MobileXcetera, co-founded by Tosin Onanuga, and MTech, co-founded by Chika Nwobi, were instrumental in shaping the VAS landscape in Nigeria.

These entrepreneurs and their companies played pivotal roles in the telecoms sector through their immense contributions as VAS providers from 2002 to 2020. early STageS of VaS IN NIgerIa

Former Senior Executive of the then Econet Nigeria, Adebisi Idowu, who worked closely with the co-Founded of MobileXcetera, from 2003, during the early stages of his career in the Nigerian telecommunications industry, spoke to THISDAY about the contribution of VAS to the growth of the Nigerian telecoms sector. Idowu gave instances how Nigeria’s telecoms sector was liberalised in 2001, with the licensing of GSM operators, including MTN, Econet (Airtel), Glo, and Mtel. According to him, the industry quickly grew, with mobile subscriptions skyrocketing from around 500,000 in 2002 to over 10 million by 2005. As mobile phone usage grew, so did the demand for Value-Added Services grew beyond basic voice communication to monotone ringtones, polyphonic ringtones and predict and win services

“During this period, VAS offerings were limited primarily to Short Messaging Service (SMS). This was the foundational stage for VAS, where SMS-based services such as news alerts, weather updates, and simple content downloads began to emerge. Consumers were introduced to basic mobile customisation options, such as ringtones and wallpapers. Premium SMS service such as predict and win powered by MTech and MobileXcetera was very predominant. Some notable services then were the first Gulder Ultimate Search text to TV, All African Games 2003 results and especially Who Wants to be a Millionaire Homeplay quiz developed by MobileXcetera, which was the first TV to Phone interactive service to reach millions of

SMS within one hour of airing on TV.

This period laid the groundwork for what would become a multi-billion-dollar VAS market,” Idowu said.

The rISe of MoBIleXCeTera

aND MTeCh

By 2006, the VAS market had gained significant momentum. Companies like MobileXcetera, led by Tosin Onanuga, MTech, led by Chika Nwobi, Vas2NET, led by Ayo Stuffman and 3WC led, by Simon Aderionla, were at the forefront of the growth. These companies pioneered innovative mobile content delivery models that extended the range of services available to Nigerian consumers. MTech was one of the first VAS companies in Nigeria and had an early partnership with major telecom operators like MTN and Econet. MTech provided services such as ringtones, and SMS subscriptions for entertainment, religious content, and sports updates. Chika Nwobi’s vision for mobile entertainment helped MTech expand rapidly, making the company a household name in the VAS ecosystem.

Meanwhile, Tosin Onanuga’s MobileXcetera played a crucial role in shaping the VAS industry by delivering a wide array of services, including mobile advertising, SMS promotions, and content aggregation. MobileXcetera was the first VAS provider to run a cross-network service across all 3 networks in 2003 at the same time with the launch of All African Games content delivery service. The company’s ability to blend localised content with global standards made it a significant player in the growing mobile VAS market.

During this phase, the Wireless Application Service Providers Association of Nigeria (WASPAN) was formed with the leadership of Simon Aderinola. This was to bring together players in the industry and regularise the growing industry. SMS-based quizzes, and entertainment content became popular, contributing to the rapid expansion of the VAS sector. These services enabled telecom operators to boost revenue by offering subscribers personalised and engaging experiences.

eXpaNSIoN / INNoVaTIoN

The period from 2010 to 2015 marked an era of deeper innovation in the Nigerian VAS industry. With internet penetration rising and smartphone adoption increasing, new opportunities arose for more advanced VAS offerings. Mobile internet services, mobile gaming, multimedia messaging (MMS), and mobile banking emerged as key areas of focus for VAS providers.

MobileXcetera and MTech expanded their portfolios to include mobile financial services. For instance, mobile banking services, in partnership with banks, allowed users to perform simple banking transactions through the Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) codes provided by telecom operators. This service revolutionised access to banking, especially for the unbanked population.

The entertainment sector also flourished during this time, with VAS companies offering access to music, videos, and on-demand streaming services. MTech introduced interactive services such as SMS-based reality show voting and game show subscriptions, enhancing user participation in entertainment events like Big Brother Africa.

At this time, mobile advertising and mobile data services began to flourish as well. Telecom operators and VAS providers, such as MobileXcetera, leveraged the growing data consumption to offer targeted advertisements via mobile platforms. These advertisements reached millions of Nigerians through SMS, mobile web, and social media, further diversifying revenue streams.

During this time, mobile internet access also grew, with many Nigerians accessing the web for the first time via their phones. Telecom operators rolled out data plans, driving the adoption of internet services. Social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and instant messaging apps such as BlackBerry Messenger (BBM) gained popularity, further fueling the demand for data services.

Additionally, mobile advertising became a significant VAS, with brands leveraging telecom platforms to reach millions of consumers. Entertainment services such as mobile TV, gaming, and video streaming also emerged, reflecting the

increasing demand for multimedia content. By 2010, VAS accounted for a substantial portion of the telecom industry’s revenue.

regulaTory INTerVeNTIoNS

aND growTh

As the VAS market matured, challenges such as spam messages, fraudulent subscriptions, and unfair billing practices came to light. Consumer complaints prompted the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to introduce stringent regulations governing VAS in 2016. These regulations focused on improving transparency in subscription models, ensuring opt-in services, and protecting consumers from unsolicited messages. This regulatory shift forced VAS providers to improve service delivery and adopt more transparent business practices. Idowu however, told THISDAY that the NCC solution was not well thought out as many restrictions changed the landscape of the industry which today as affected the VAS industry.

froM INCepTIoN

The former Senior Executive of the then Econet Nigeria, further explained that at a time when the concept of mobile content was still nascent in Nigeria, the co-Founder of MobileXcetera had the foresight and entrepreneurial drive to found MobileXcetera in 2003, the very first local company to venture into the mobile content space, adding that his work helped to establish the foundation for mobile VAS operations in Nigeria, which has since become a critical component of the telecoms industry.

“One of Onanuga’s groundbreaking achievements was his collaboration with me at Econet Nigeria, where we developed the first set of shortcode numbers used to deliver mobile content. This system was later adopted by all major telecoms operators in the country and became the industry standard, eventually being incorporated into the regulatory framework by the Nigerian Communications Commission. Onanuga’s ability to introduce and implement these innovations demonstrated his profound understanding of the telecommunications ecosystem and his capacity to shape industry-wide practices.

The

L-R: Director General, Manufacturers’ Association of Nigeria (MAN), Mr Segun Ajayi-Kadir; Vice President, Dangote Industries Limited, Mr Olakunle Alake; Chairman, Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Mr Taiwo Oyedele; Managing Director, Nigerian Bottling Company Limited (NBC), Mr Goran Sladic; Economic Development Adviser, British Deputy High Commission, Ms. Beth Davies-Kumadiro and DG, NECA, Mr Adewale Smatt-Oyerinde at the NBC sponsored, Manufacturing Session at the 30th Nigerian Economic Summit in Abuja… recentlyvv

NBC Leads Manufacturing Sector’s Push for Policy to Fast-track Industrial Reforms

Nigerian Bottling Company (NBC) has stated that its sponsorship of the manufacturing session at the 30th Nigerian Economic Summit is a confirmation of its commitment to Nigeria’s industrial growth.

The event attracted leaders from across Nigeria’s productive sectors, including regulators, trade associations, and policymakers. As the nation faces economic headwinds, the session aimed

to proffer solutions that will unlock the full potentials of the sector and reinforce its position as a driver of national growth.

The session opened with welcome remarks from Dr. Tayo Aduloju, CEO of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG), and was further energized by contributions from Melissa Jones, Country Representative for the United State Agency

for International Development (USAID), and Goran Sladic, Managing Director of NBC.

In his remarks, Goran highlighted the essential role of industrialization in driving economic transformation, stating: “Industrialization is the foundation of any nation’s economic growth. It has the power to enhance productivity and innovation, diversify the economy, and,

SiBAN Delists Erring Members, Calls for Caution

Stories by Emma Okonji

The management of Stakeholders in Blockchain Technology Association of Nigeria (SiBAN), has delisted some of its members for various offences.

Based on the expulsion and delisting, the association has advised members of the public, businesses, and regulatory bodies, including the Securities and Exchange

Commission (SEC), National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Nigeria Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), and other relevant government agencies, to refrain from engaging in any dealings with the delisted members.

According to a statement jointly signed by the President of SiBAN, Obinna

Iwuno and a member of SiBAN Board of Trustees, Mela Claude Ake, the expelled members are no longer authorised to represent SiBAN in any capacity, and any claims to the contrary are false and misleading. Any dealings with them under the impression that they are acting on behalf of SiBAN should be considered illegal and should be reported to the association.

NSIG Graduates 5th Cohort as Future Leaders in the Digital Space

The Nigerian School on Internet Governance (NSIG), championed by the Internet Society Nigeria Chapter has successfully concluded its 5th cohort, graduating a new wave of leaders poised to shape the future of the digital world.

most importantly, create jobs for millions of Nigerians. For a nation as rich in natural resources and human talent as Nigeria, it is not just an opportunity—it is an obvious choice to drive economic transformation.”

Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, emphasised the importance of the manufacturing sector for job

creation, improving government revenues, and stimulating economic growth. He said: “We have identified key challenges, including fiscal and regulatory barriers, that impact the manufacturing sector. Our withholding tax reforms will provide muchneeded relief, addressing working capital, cash flow, and financing costs faced by manufacturers. These exemptions will also extend to input providers, ensuring broader sectoral support. Additionally, as part of our stabilization efforts, we are considering reforms such as the ability to claim full input credits on assets. When implemented, manufacturers will be able to claim credits on both assets and services, significantly easing their financial burden.”

Notice is hereby given by the Central Bank of Nigeria on behalf of DMO that the Federal Government of

He said the NSIG remained part of a global movement to address the growing needs for education and expertise in internet governance.

According to him, the first significant initiative on internet governance began with the European Summer School on Internet Governance (EuroSSIG) in 2007, which aimed to provide a multidisciplinary approach

The President of the Internet Society, Nigeria Chapter, Kunle Olorundare, in his opening address at the ceremony held last week at the Center for Information and Telecommunication Engineering, of the University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, noted that the fellowship school, dedicated to developing future leaders in Internet governance, has been instrumental in increasing Nigeria’s representation in international discussions and motivating participants to actively engage in shaping internet policies.

to Internet governance education. Since then, various schools have emerged worldwide, including the NSIG.

“As the digital landscape continues to evolve rapidly, the relevance of Internet governance has never been more pronounced. New concerns around online safety, privacy, and the ethical implications of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence are demanding thoughtful and informed policies. The metaverse, a burgeoning virtual universe, presents both opportunities and challenges that require careful consideration,” he stated.

Coronation Insurance Promo Offers N30m Worth of Prizes

Coronation Insurance Plc and Coronation Life Assurance Limited have unveiled their latest promotional campaign, ‘Insure and Win’, offering customers an unparalleled opportunity to win exciting prizes, including a brand-new car.

The nationwide campaign, running from October 8th to December 22nd, 2024, is open to both new and existing customers of Coronation Insurance Plc and Coronation Life Assurance Limited.

During the launch of the promo, Managing Director/ CEO of Coronation Insurance Plc, Olamide Olajolo, expressed the company’s enthusiasm about rewarding customers. “We are excited to launch the ‘Insure and Win’ promo as a way to reward our customers for their loyalty. At Coronation Insurance Plc, we believe in delivering more than just insurance coverage. This promo offers our customers a chance to secure their futures while enjoying the thrill of potentially winning

life-changing prizes,” Olajolo said. Managing Director/CEO of Coronation Life Assurance Limited, Mr. Adebowale Adesona, highlighted the importance of comprehensive protection. “This campaign underscores our commitment to empowering customers by offering tailored insurance solutions that suit every stage of life. We aim to provide not just peace of mind but a sense of excitement and possibility through the ‘Insure and Win’ promotion.

respectively would be

by Dutch auction on Thursday, October 24, 2024.

All Money Market Dealers should submit bids through the CBN S4 WEB INTERFACE between 8.00 a.m. and 11.00 a.m. on Wednesday, October 23, 2024.

Each bid must be in multiple of ₦1,000 subject to a minimum of ₦50,001,000. Authorized Money Market Dealers can submit multiple bids. A bid may be for authorized Money Market Dealers own account, non–Money Market Dealers or interested members of the public. The result of the auction would be announced on Wednesday, October 23, 2024. The Bank reserves the right to reject any bid.

Allotment letters would be issued for successful bids on Thursday, October 24, 2024, while payment for the successful bids should be made to your account with Central Bank of Nigeria not later than 11.00 a.m. on Thursday October 24, 2024.

The Bank reserves the right to vary the amount on offer in line with market realities prevailing as at the period of auction of the Nigerian Treasury Bills. GOVERNMENT SECURITIES OFFICE CENTRAL BANK OF NIGERIA ABUJA.

For further information, please contact: 07002255226 Signed: MANAGEMENT

ProPerty & environment

Lolu Alade-Akinyemi: Finance Taught Me The Discipline of Performance Management

Lolu Alade-Akinyemi, a certified accountant and an Economics graduate from the University of Essex is the first Nigerian Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (GMD/CEO) of Lafarge Africa Plc over 25 years. Before his present position, Alade-Akinyemi was the CFO and supply chain director. He tells Bennett Oghifo this was one of several positions that prepared him for the highly elevated position of CEO. He loves volunteering to serve in positions where there are challenges, and has a great desire to impact society, positively, and elevate mankind in his environment

His leadership journey and how it has shaped his vision for Lafarge Africa

I would say that I’ve always wanted to be in the leadership role. I’ve always had an inclination for leadership right from when I was in high school. I really wanted to be successful. Then my passion for success transitioned from personal success, to purposefulness. If I reflect on the journey, the springboard was finance. Finance taught me the discipline of performance management and business analysis. I worked across different functions, including finance, sales, business, and procurement. In addition, I love volunteering. When there are issues I’m the first person to raise my hand to solve them. Of course, I knew I wanted to be a leader, but the journey has not been linear. I would say it’s a journey of continuous learning and intentionality. It doesn’t come by accident, it is important that you are clear about your strengths and you turn your strengths to assets. I’ve been very fortunate with people who have been instrumental in this journey. Firstly, my parents who have taught me selflessness, mentors and colleagues who have inspired me to go the extra mile. I have been the CEO for over a year and it has been an exciting journey, challenging sometimes, but it’s centered on purposefulness.

Talking about challenges, what did you meet on ground?

It’s been exciting but challenging particularly in the current macroeconomic situation we are faced with. As a leader you have to continue to inspire your team to remain focused in the midst of all the distractions, capture opportunities, identify risks, and continue to deliver value to all stakeholders.

Can you give us a specific Scenario, something that you met on ground that you are changing or working on?

It’s about creating an enabling environment for innovation to thrive. It’s about getting rid of bureaucracy for the team to feel safe to share their ideas. It is called psychological safety and all ideas are welcome. But there has to be a structure in place, even ideas at the early stage can be captured. We developed an innovation hub, revamped our reward and recognition system beyond monetary rewards and made it clear that everybody matters including employees, customers and stakeholders. We are very proud of the outcome of these changes. Today, we have launched two new revolutionary products – Watershield and Unicem Ecoplanet that are changing the construction industry. We automate a lot of our processes to deliver value to our employees and customers.

Tell us about the two innovations, Watershield Cement and the Ecoplanet Cement

We believe that Watershield cement is one of the things that will revolutionise the construction industry.

It is purposely developed for construction in areas that are susceptible to moisture and water exposure as it has superior water resistance. It’s a great product that has multipurpose uses - for plastering, for your concrete, for your foundation.

For Unicem Ecoplanet, we launched it in July 2024. It is the first low-carbon cement in Nigeria that offers 30% reduction of carbon construction versus your standard cement. As you know climate change is real, without any doubt. Evidence can be seen from the changes in temperature, the rains and the weather in general. So it’s something we have to take

very seriously. For us at Lafarge, we need to continuously showcase proof points that underscore our commitment to our sustainability commitment. As leaders, we want to be ahead of the curve and truly demonstrate that we care about our environment. We are very intentional about what we do with our processes and products, even to how we deliver our cement. We are replacing all our diesel trucks with CNG trucks. They are more environmentally friendly, we’re pushing a lot of our cement through rail, which is fantastic. For our operations in the depot, we have cancelled diesel generators in some of our depots to use solar energy. We also launched the first electric truck in Nigeria last year. These are some

We believe that Watershield cement is one of the things that will revolutionise the construction industry. It is purposely developed for construction in areas that are susceptible to moisture and water exposure as it has superior water resistance. It’s a great product that has multposeuses for plastering, for your concrete, for your foundation

of the things that we’re very proud of and that we continue to innovate.

Share more on sustainability

We are clear on our sustainability strategy with the four key pillars of climate and energy, circular economy, nature and people. We are going the extra mile to decarbonize our operations and replace the use of fossil fuels with alternative fuels that are more environmentally friendly. We are also engaging state governments about how we can collaborate to use municipal solid waste, which is a common practice across the world especially in Europe. We are very proud of what we’ve been able to achieve. In some of our plants, we have replaced the usage of fossil fuels to alternative fuels by 45% and we are investing more across our plants to progress in this target. For logistics, we are replacing our diesel trucks to CNG and also moving cement by rail and waterways. We are reducing waste across our plants and driving opportunities on circular economy. On people, we care for our host communities. We have many initiatives including healthcare, shelter, education and so on and so forth. In education for instance, we are improving the lives of our community members to ensure that they can contribute their quota to the economy.

So what projects are you looking at in the future?

Many projects. We are commissioning the alternative fuel feeding system in our Mfamosing Plant in Calabar. We should commission this before the end of this year and we have so many other projects in the pipeline.

What trends do you think will drive the cement industry?

The outlook for the cement industry in Nigeria is positive. Cement consumption per capita in Nigeria is among the lowest in Sub-Saharan Africa and even in Africa. We have a huge infrastructural gap and a significant housing deficit. Additionally, cement is being seriously considered for concrete roads across the country. We believe that the cement industry has a significant role to play in Nigeria’s economic development, particularly in the areas of infrastructure, job creation and overall economic development. Beyond the demand of stakeholders to encourage responsible business will be a major trend. Particularly in the area of the impact of climate change and the need to decarbonize our operations. We are very committed to lead the transformation of the construction industry.

How does Lafarge differentiate itself from its competitors?

We have an array of product offerings including cement, mortar, readymix. As a business, we anticipate the needs of our customers and add value to them, not just in the products but even in how we deliver our products to them. We also focus also on efficiency. Part of our vision is to drive innovation and this offers value to our stakeholders.

Lolu Alade-Akinyemi

SEC Cautions against Indiscriminate Issuance of Debt Instruments by Subnationals

Oluchi Chibuzor

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has urged Capital Market Operators (CMOs) in Nigeria to review the proclivity of issuance of debt instruments by both state and local government agencies.

Executive Commissioner, Operations, SEC, Mr. Bola Ajomale stated this at the 2024 International Credit Rating Webinar organised by DataPro Limited.

A statement by the Business Development Manager of DataPro, Mr. Kehinde Rasheed quoted Ajomale, who represented the Director-general of the commission Dr. Emomotimi Agama as saying, “Irrevocable Standing Payment Orders (ISPOs) from the state government cannot be the only measure of assurance and risk mitigation, CRAs must

alter their measurement metrics to accommodate rising risk levels and increasing requirements for sustainability for any instrument raised by a State or quasi-government body.”

Ajomale, who identified the tendency for some state governments to issue private bonds guaranteed by the state government, pointed out that the processes do not have any proof of secondary market value and that they need to be assessed for the delivery of the stated project objectives.

The fourth in the series, the webinar was attended by over 500 participants drawn from Nigeria, USA, Canada, South Africa, Ghana, Gambia, Namibia, Kenya, and Rwanda.

In his welcome address, DataPro’s Founder, Mr. Abimbola Adeseyoju described the

Webinar as a veritable vehicle to propagate the value propositions of the credit rating institution in Nigeria and the rest of Africa. According to him, apart from the established role of providing an opinion on the quality of Assets and Capital, Credit Rating Agencies also serve as a complement to risk management procedures, adding that CRAs should serve the common goal of catalysing the economy, promoting the real sector and creating wealth for a sustainable society.”

In his speech, the Keynote Speaker at the event, Christian Ruehmer, an accomplished international banking entrepreneur urged banks to support businesses in the real economy. Ruehmer believes rating agencies and banks share a common goal in ensuring that businesses succeed.

Access Bank Reaffirms Commitment to War against Drug Trafficking, Money Laundering

Access Bank Plc has reinforced its dedication to the fight against illicit drug trafficking and money laundering, committing to a closer partnership with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

The bank made this commitment at the formal decoration of its Group Chief Executive Officer/Managing Director, Roosevelt Ogbonna, and Group Chief Conduct and Compliance Officer, Femi Jaiyeola, as partners in the War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) by representatives of NDLEA

at Access Bank’s headquarters in Victoria Island, Lagos.

Speaking at the event, Group Head of Retail Operations, Abraham Aziegbe, who represented Roosevelt Ogbonna, Managing Director of Access Bank PLC, reaffirmed the Bank’s strong stance against financial crimes that enable illicit drug trafficking and drug abuse.

“We are grateful to the NDLEA for this recognition, and as one of Africa’s leading financial institutions,

we acknowledge our responsibility in ensuring our financial systems are not used to facilitate illicit activities.

This is why our compliance framework is strategically designed to detect and deter illicit financial activities. We will continue to work closely with the NDLEA and other law enforcement agencies to ensure that drug traffickers and their associates cannot exploit the financial sector. This partnership is critical to our shared goal of strengthening national security,” Aziegbe stated.

UBA Foundation Commences 2024 National Essay Competition

UBA Foundation, the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of the United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, has announced the commencement of the 2024 edition of its annual National Essay Competition (NEC) with a Call for Entries in Nigeria.

Now in its 14th year, the annual National Essay Competition (NEC) is part of the UBA Foundation’s education initiative aimed at championing literacy and encouraging intellectual development among senior secondary school students across Nigeria and the African continent.

The 2024 edition, the bank said in a statement, will see increased participation from senior secondary school students across

Nigeria as they can conveniently submit their entries from the comfort of their homes or schools via the UBA Foundation NEC digital submission portal at.

The essay topic for the call for entries is, “Discuss the Impact of Carbon Emission on Climate in Nigeria: Challenges and Solutions”. Students are expected to properly research, write, scan and upload their handwritten essays to the digital portal on or before November 8, 2024.

The Chief Executive Officer, UBA Foundation, Bola Atta, who spoke ahead of the flagoff of this year’s completion, noted that despite the current global economic challenges, UBA Foundation remains

steadfast in their commitment to educational excellence by significantly increasing the grant prizes this year

“We are aware of what families and parents are going through especially in the face of the current economic climate in Nigeria, and by raising the first-place prize to N7.5 million, with N5 million and N3.5 million for second and third places respectively, we are making a bold statement about our dedication to African education. The increase in grant prizes reflect our understanding of the rising costs of quality education and our determination to ensure that exceptional students can pursue their academic dreams without financial constraints,” Atta said

Texcellence Conference: CWG Champions Technology-driven Nation Building

Kayode Tokede

CWG Plc, a leader in technology solutions has reinforced its role in digital transformation with the successful hosting of Texcellence 3.0.

The conference, held recently in Lagos, was themed, “Revealing Tomorrow” and brought together leading innovators, tech visionaries, and disruptors to chart Africa’s digital future.

He emphasized the critical need to harness emerging technologies like AI, blockchain, 5G, and IoT to drive socio-economic growth, bridge the digital divide, and position Africa as a global player in the tech ecosystem.

Renowned Swedish author and keynote speaker, Fredrik Haren underscored the role

In his opening remarks, Group CEO and Managing Director of CWG, Mr. Adewale Adeyipo highlighted the company’s achievements and ongoing projects aimed at advancing Africa’s digital transformation. Speaking on, “Technology for Nation Building,” Adeyipo noted that while 40 per cent of Africa’s population currently has internet access, compared to the global average of 63 per cent, there remains significant potential to accelerate development through technology.

of creativity in business growth. Citing research, Haren revealed that while 98per cent of Nigerians recognize the importance of creativity in their jobs, only 45per cent of the workforce identifies as creative, and just two per cent believe their companies invest adequately in fostering creativity.

CEO of Inngen, David Gowu addressed one of the most critical issues of our time—the impact of AI on the workforce. He assured the audience that AI would not eliminate jobs but rather enhance human capabilities, creating a more skilled and efficient workforce.

Saharan Blend (Algeria), Djeno (Congo), Zafiro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basrah Medium (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny

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

L-R: Group Head, Retail Operations, Access Bank, Abraham Aziegbe; Deputy Commander General of Narcotics and Director, Seaport Operations and Marine Services, Omolade Fagboyegbe; Deputy Commander General, Narcotics (DCGN) and Director, Assets and Financial Investigation, Dr. Ibrahim Abdul; and Group Chief Conduct and Compliance Officer, Access Bank, Femi Jaiyeola, at the Award and Decoration of Access Bank as Partner in the War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) by NDLEA, at Access Bank’s headquarters in Lagos…. Yesterday

Stock Market Drops by N148bn on Profit-taking in Aradel, Others

Kayode Tokede

The Nigerian stock market yesterday halted a two-day positive trend as investors profit-taking in Aradel Holdings Plc and 22 others pulled the overall capitalization lower by N148 billion.

As a result, the Nigerian Exchange Limited All-Share Index (NGX ASI) declined by 249.40 basis points or 0.25 per cent to close at 98,291.53 basis points from 98,540.93 basis points the market

opened for trading. As a result, the NGX ASI Month-to-Date and Year-to-Date returns settled at -0.3per cent and +31.5per cent, respectively.

Consequently, the market capitalisation declined by N148 billion to close at N59.559 trillion from N59.707 trillion it opened for trading.

Sectoral performance was mixed, as the NGX Consumer Goods Index gained 0.5per cent and NGX Insurance index

appreciated by 0.4per cent, while the NGX Industrial Goods, NGX Banking and NGX Oil & Gas indices closed flat.

The downturn was driven by price depreciation in large and medium capitalised stocks amongst which are; Aradel Holdings that dropped by 5.85 per cent, Okomu Oil tumbled by 6.86 per cent and Nestle Nigeria’s stock price that depreciated by 2.25per cent. Investor sentiment, as measured by market breadth closed the

same, as 23 stocks advanced, while 23 declined. DEAP Capital Management & Trust emerged the highest price gainer of 10 per cent to close at N1.32, per share. UAC of Nigeria (UACN) followed with a gain of 9.90 per cent to close at N21.65, while Dangote Sugar Refinery rose by 9.69 per cent to close at N35.10, per share.

Champion Breweries increased by 9.65 per cent to close at N3.75, while DAAR Communications added 9.26 per cent to close at 59

kobo, per share. On the other side, Custodian Investment led the losers’ chart with 8.98 per cent to close at N11.65, per share. Okomu Oil followed with a decline of 6.86 per cent to close at N338.10, while Consolidated Hallmark Holdings shed 6.62 per cent to close at N1.41, per share. Aradel Holdings depreciated by 5.85 per cent to close at N772.00, while McNichols down by 4.93 per cent to close at N1.35, per share.

and exchanged in 7,776

Transactions in

PRICES FOR SECURITIES TRADED ASOF OCTOBER 16/24

FEaturEs

Historic Handover as Nigerian Navy Refits Benin Republic Warship to Strengthen Regional Maritime Security

In a landmark collaboration between two West African nations, the Nigerian Naval Dockyard has successfully refurbished the Beninois Naval Ship Pendjari, a patrol vessel of the Benin Republic Navy. Chiemelie Ezeobi writes that this achievement, marked by a recent handover in Lagos, not only restores a critical naval asset but also signifies Nigeria's growing role as a regional hub for ship maintenance and maritime security as well as highlights the deepening ties between Nigeria and Benin, as both nations work to bolster security in the Zone E flank of the Gulf of Guinea

In a monumental achievement underscoring regional cooperation and maritime security, the Nigerian Naval Dockyard Limited, NDL, recently handed over the refurbished Benin Republic warship (BNS) Pendjari, to the Benin Navy.

This momentous occasion, marked by a ceremony held at the NDL in Victoria Island, Lagos, represents a pivotal moment not only for the Nigerian Navy (NN) but for the broader West African maritime community.

Undoubtedly, the refurbishment of BNS Pendjari is a testament to Nigeria's burgeoning capabilities in shipbuilding and repair, particularly as a regional hub for maritime security. The refitting of this vessel, alongside several others still undergoing repairs, highlights Nigeria's growing influence as a force for stability in the Gulf of Guinea, one of the world's most critical and contested waterways.

The Symbolic Importance of BNS Pendjari’s Relaunch

The BNS Pendjari, one of six Beninois naval vessels sent to the Nigerian Naval Dockyard for repairs in April this year, had been out of service due to extensive damage. Its refit not only restored a vital asset to the Beninois Navy but also demonstrated Nigeria's growing industrial and technological capacity in the naval sector.

The successful repair was entirely handled by Nigerian personnel, using local expertise and resources, a significant achievement for Nigeria's naval engineers and technicians.

At the handover, the Nigerian Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, who underscored the significance of the accomplishment for regional maritime security, noted that the project reinforced strategic partnerships with other African navies and strengthened Nigeria’s leadership in the Gulf of Guinea.

Ogalla, who was represented by the Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Bala Hassan, said: "The relaunch of BNS Pendjari is a historic event for both the Nigerian Navy and the Benin Navy, as it symbolises the close cooperation between our nations and our shared commitment to safeguarding maritime security in the region.

"This success speaks volumes about the capabilities of the Naval Dockyard, which has consistently demonstrated excellence in shipbuilding and maintenance."

Nigerian Naval Dockyard: A Hub for Ship Maintenance and Construction

The Nigerian Naval Dockyard, established decades ago as a strategic engineering hub for the Nigerian Navy, has evolved into a key player in West African maritime security.

The facility was initially set up to ensure Nigeria’s self-reliance in maintaining naval

vessels and to develop indigenous expertise in shipbuilding. Over the years, this goal has borne fruit, with the dockyard contributing significantly to the maintenance and construction of various naval and civilian vessels.

The successful refurbishment of the BNS Pendjari is just one of the dockyard's many accomplishments.

According to Rear Admiral Bolaji Orederu, the Admiral Superintendent of the dockyard, over 110 Nigerian Navy ships have been repaired at the facility over the past two decades, along with approximately 30 merchant vessels. The dockyard has also trained over 1,200 marine engineers and technicians, bolstering Nigeria’s technical capacity in the maritime sector.

"The Naval Dockyard has become a strategic force multiplier in Nigeria’s maritime ecosystem, demonstrating significant capacity in shipbuilding and repairs," Rear Admiral Orederu stated during the handover ceremony. "This project not only restores a valuable asset to the Benin Navy but also symbolises our role in strengthening regional maritime security."

Regional Collaboration: Enhancing Security in the Gulf of Guinea

The successful refurbishment of BNS Pendjari comes at a time when maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea is a critical concern for many West African nations.

The region has long been plagued by piracy, illegal fishing, smuggling, and other maritime crimes, which threaten international shipping routes and regional trade. The Nigerian Navy, along with its regional partners, has been at the forefront of combating these threats through joint operations and collaborative efforts.

The Gulf of Guinea, one of the world’s most important maritime trade routes, sees about 30 per cent of Africa’s oil supply transported through its waters. It is also a crucial area for fishing, shipping, and energy resources, making it a high-stakes environment for regional and international security.

In response to these challenges, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) established a Multinational Maritime Coordination Centre (MMCC) in Zone E, comprising Nigeria, Benin, Togo, and Niger. This collaborative effort has helped to coordinate naval operations and enhance security throughout the region.

While the repair of Beninois naval vessels at the Nigerian dockyard is part of a broader strategy to build regional naval capacity and strengthen partnerships among the navies of West Africa, its relaunch marks the first of several vessels that will undergo repairs at the Nigerian Naval Dockyard as part of an agreement between Nigeria and Benin.

According to Rear Admiral Orederu, the dockyard is also working on refurbishing other Beninois vessels, including BNS COUFFO and BNS MATELOT BRICE KPOMASSE (MBK), which are expected to be relaunched before the end of the year. This is beside the remaining three- BNS ZOU, BNS OUEME and BNS ALIBORI.

"The successful docking and repair of BNS Pendjari marks a significant milestone in bolstering regional capacity for maritime security and military cooperation. This is the first time that the Naval Dockyard has docked an international navy ship, and we look forward to many more collaborations in the future."

Building Strategic Relationships

At the heart of this project is the shared commitment between Nigeria and Benin to secure their waters and protect vital maritime routes. The handover of BNS Pendjari exemplifies the deepening ties between the two nations' navies, which have been working together closely as part of the ECOWAS framework.

Rear Admiral Orederu emphasised that the project is not just about ship repairs, but about fostering long-term partnerships based on mutual respect and shared goals.

"By undertaking this project, we are not only restoring naval assets but also transferring skills and knowledge to our Beninois counterparts," Orederu said.

"Benin Navy personnel were onboard throughout the repair process, learning from our engineers and technicians. This knowledge transfer is essential for building sustainable maritime capabilities across the region."

Commendation from Beninois Navy

Receiving the refitted ship, Beninois Deputy Chief of Naval Staff, Captain Sama Emile, who went down memory lane of how the relationship between both Navies started from Operation Prosperity, commended the NN for its support and expertise, adding that the repair of BNS Pendjari was a crucial step toward strengthening Benin’s maritime defense capabilities.

As the representative of the Chief of Naval Staff of Benin Republic, he noted that as both nations were part of the Zone E architecture, the repair of the vessel and five others that are in line, would strengthen their patrols of the maritime environment.

Nigeria’s Maritime Sector: A Growing Force

The successful repair of BNS Pendjari

also highlights Nigeria’s broader ambitions to become a major player in the global maritime industry. The Nigerian government has been working to develop its Blue Economy—a strategy that leverages the country’s vast maritime resources for economic growth, job creation, and sustainable development.

The Naval Dockyard’s capabilities in shipbuilding and repair are seen as critical components of this strategy.

Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla highlighted the dockyard’s role in promoting Nigeria’s maritime sector, noting that the facility has built three vessels for the Nigerian Navy with two more under construction. He also pointed to the dockyard’s potential to attract international clients, as demonstrated by the agreement with Benin.

"The Nigerian Navy, through the Naval Dockyard, is contributing immensely to the development of indigenous shipbuilding and maintenance," Ogalla said. "This has put Nigeria on the map as one of the leading product developers in the maritime sector. We are committed to contributing to the growth of global maritime investments and ensuring the sustainability of maritime security."

The Naval Dockyard’s work on BNS Pendjari is expected to pave the way for future collaborations with other countries in West Africa and beyond. According to Rear Admiral Orederu, the dockyard is positioning itself as a regional hub for ship construction and maintenance, with the potential to attract patronage from navies across the continent.

"This project is just the beginning," Orederu said. "We are confident that the success of this collaboration will lead to more opportunities for Nigeria to contribute to regional and global maritime security."

Looking Forward: A New Chapter in Regional Security

As BNS Pendjari sails back to Benin, fully operational after its extensive repairs, it carries with it the hopes of a region striving for greater security and cooperation on the seas. The handover ceremony marked not only the successful completion of a complex engineering project but also a new chapter in Nigeria’s role as a leader in West African maritime affairs.

The successful partnership between Nigeria and Benin serves as a model for future collaborations, with both nations benefiting from shared expertise and resources. With the Nigerian Naval Dockyard at the helm, the region is poised to enhance its capacity for maritime security, ensuring that the waters of the Gulf of Guinea remain safe for trade, development, and prosperity.

In the words of Rear Admiral Orederu: "This is just the beginning of what we can achieve together."

The refurbished Benin Republic Vessel

Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Mustapha Hassan flanked by ASNDL, Rear Admiral Abolaji Orederu; Beninois Deputy Chief of Naval Staff, Captain Sama Emile; FOC Naval Doctrine Command, Rear Admiral Zakaria; Rear Admiral DF Mathew; senior officers and other Nigerian and Benin Republic Navies

G AMING W EEK

Edited by NsEOBONG OKON-EKONG

FIrsT TOuch GAMEs:

The Rise of a Mobile Gaming Powerhouse

Davidson Abraham reports that First Touch Games, a relatively young indie studio, has quickly made a name for itself in the competitive world of mobile gaming. Founded in 2011, the studio has gained widespread recognition for its innovative approach to sports games, combining engaging storylines with intuitive gameplay. Their success, particularly with their breakout hit Score! Hero, has earned them a prominent place among top mobile game developers.

From the outset, First Touch Games demonstrated a strong commitment to creating high-quality sports titles. Their focus on crafting immersive, realistic experiences struck a chord with gamers, allowing them to carve out a niche in the fastpaced mobile gaming market. What truly set them apart, however, was their unique ability to blend traditional sports mechanics with fresh, innovative gameplay elements.

The release of Score! Hero in 2015 marked a turning point for the studio. Departing from the standard team-based approach typical of football games, Score! Hero offered something new: a narrative-driven experience centred on the rise of a single football player. Instead of managing an entire team, players guided one hero through various leagues and tournaments, making key decisions on the field that shaped their journey to stardom.

The game’s originality and engaging mechanics quickly captured the attention of gamers around the world. With its smooth, intuitive controls and tactical gameplay, Score! Hero catered to both casual players and dedicated sports enthusiasts. It stood out in a crowded market by offering an experience that balanced accessible, pick-up-andplay fun with enough strategic depth to keep even the most hardcore players invested.

Adding to the game’s appeal was its immersive

storyline. Through a combination of cutscenes and dialogue, Score! Hero gave players a personal stake in their virtual footballer’s career, making every success feel earned and every failure personal. This emotional connection added a layer of depth

rarely seen in mobile sports games, making it feel more like an interactive story than just another football simulation.

A major factor in Score! Hero’s widespread success was its universal appeal. The game’s balance of

How Melbet is Protecting Players from Fraudulent Betting Platforms

Following a rocky 2022 marked by a series of fake websites that closely mimicked Melbet’s domain, Country Manager Alexander Ezekiel detailed the uphill battles Melbet faced and the strategies employed to retain its reputation, writes Iyke Bede

Inarguably, the Nigerian sports betting scene has exploded. With over 60 million punters each day placing bets and generating more than N2 billion, the once unregulated sector has become every operator’s dream destination, attracting newcomers and establishing a competitive market space led by technological innovations over the past ten years.

However, with this growth— particularly in the online scene, which offers a high level of flexibility and visibility—fraudulent entities continue to emerge, pilfering unassuming punters to the tune of millions of naira. These sites often pose as the real deal, grifting punters of their deposits, failing to pay out winnings, and evading regulatory taxes, thus harming the reputation of legitimate platforms and leading to significant losses by all parties—punters,

The National Lottery Trust Fund (NLTF) has donated multimillionnaira medical equipment to Primary Healthcare Centre Ikoyi and Cottage Hospital Iyah-Gbede in Kogi.

The donation, valued at

operators, and regulators.

In 2022, during its third year in the Nigerian market, Melbet, a Nigerian sports betting company with international representation, was dealt a heavy blow.

millions of naira, aims to enhance healthcare services in the beneficiary communities. NLTF’s Executive Secretary, Comrade Tosin Adeyanju, represented by the Director of Admin and Corporate Services,

Several fake domains emerged, leveraging the brand’s name to redirect users and divert funds, ultimately hindering the planned growth of the online-only platform that has a physical presence in Lagos. Recognising the urgency of the situation, Melbet took decisive action to protect its players and heal its brand-damaged reputation.

“We have Melbet.ng—that’s the only legal company—but in 2022, thereabout, we had a tweak in the platform; we had to change platform providers,” said Alexander Ezekiel, Country Manager, Melbet Nigeria.

He narrated the series of complexities that arose, necessitating immediate action for effective risk management.

“But before now, there were several

Rabiu Adamu, stated that the gesture aligns with the organization’s mission to promote Good Causes for citizens and communities.

“We are dedicated to promoting Good Causes, and today’s donation

variations of our site. Only early this year, they had to come out as melbet. com, MelBet, melbet.com and they’ve been operating without a licence. They’ve been taking out funds from the country, and that’s why we plead with the government, the NLRC, the CBN and the other necessary bodies,” he stated. He noted that was because “these people are taking out their money in one way or the other.”

Ezekiel added, “We’ve spoken to several payment gateways to assist in taking down these platforms whenever they try to integrate payment gateways on the fake sites. But over the years, since 2022, they’ve been misleading our people.”

The activities of these fraudulent entities, primarily based outside Nigeria, extended beyond their websites to include various iterations of mobile applications.

of medical equipment to Primary Healthcare Center

Ikoyi and Cottage Hospital

Iyah-Gbede is a testament to this mission,” he stated.

“Our interventions are designed to bridge the gap in healthcare services, especially in rural areas. We believe that every Nigerian deserves access to quality healthcare.”

He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope mandate, noting that NLTF’s efforts align with the president’s vision for healthcare development.

“We are proud to contribute to this noble cause,” he said. “Our

monitoring and evaluation team will conduct regular visits to ensure the equipment is benefiting the people and properly managed.”

He urged the beneficiary communities to take ownership of the donated equipment, ensuring its effective utilisation.

Mrs. Margaret Mchivga, who represented Hon. Zephaniah Jisalo, the Minister of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, emphasised the importance of utilising donated medical equipment for the wellbeing of community members.

casual accessibility and complex, rewarding gameplay meant it could cater to a broad audience. Casual gamers could pick it up for quick, fun sessions, while more serious players could dive into its deeper mechanics to master the game. Additionally, regular updates and fresh content kept players engaged long after its initial release, ensuring that new challenges were always on the horizon. With Score! Hero firmly established as a major hit, First Touch Games continues to expand its offerings. The Dream League Soccer series, another of the studio’s major successes, allowed players to build and manage their dream football teams, competing against players around the globe. This focus on both individual player journeys and team-building experiences showcased the studio’s versatility and deep understanding of what sports gamers were looking for.

The success of First Touch Games can be attributed to a few key elements. First and foremost is their commitment to innovation. Rather than simply mimicking what was already out there, they took bold steps to bring something new and exciting to the table. This creativity, combined with their focus on creating games that are both immersive and engaging, has clearly resonated with players across the globe.

Another strength of First Touch Games is their ability to cater to a wide audience. Whether you’re a casual gamer looking for a quick distraction or a hardcore football fan seeking a deeper, more tactical experience, the studio’s games offer something for everyone. This broad appeal has been instrumental in building a loyal, diverse player base.

Score! Hero, in particular, highlights the studio’s talent for crafting captivating, unique experiences. The game’s blend of innovation, intuitive controls, and engaging storyline has earned it a place as one of the most recognised titles in mobile gaming. Its success serves as a testament to First Touch Games’ ability to push boundaries and continually raise the bar for what mobile sports games can be.

Ezekiel

OANDO PAYS COURTESY VISIT TO NBET...

COURTESY VISIT TO FUBARA...

L-R

Fubara Assures Oando of Friendly Business Climate, to Hit 100,000bpd Crude, 5bcf Gas Targets

Firm praises peaceful environment

Rivers State Governor, Mr. Siminalayi Fubara, has stressed the mutual benefits the State would derive from investors like Oando Energy Resources Nigeria Ltd, willing to take advantage of the prevailing investment-friendly climate to achieve its business dreams.

Part of the business dream of Oando Energy Resources Nigeria Ltd, includes sustaining investment in the upstream sub-sector of the oil and gas Industry, with the target

of delivering 100,000 barrels per day production over the next five years plus, in addition to 1.5 billion standard cubic feet of gas.

According to a statement, this was part of the focused areas of discussion that Fubara had with the delegation of Oando Energy Resources management, led by its Managing Director, Dr. Ainojie Alexander Irune, at Government House in Port Harcourt, yesterday. Irune, who spoke to newsmen

after the closed-door meeting, said while they have set out ambitious targets, without a harmonious relationship between the firm, the state government, and the host communities, such business dreams would be difficult to actualise.

He said: "We will continue to invest in the upstream, which brings us to the conversation of why we are here. We have ambitions to deliver a 100,000 barrels per day production target over the next 4 to 5 years,

and over 1.5 billion standard cubic feet of gas.

"We can only do that in harmony. We can't do it in a chaotic environment. And we have chosen this state as our base whilst we produce from three other states of Bayelsa, Imo and Delta.

"And these assets span Oil Mining Leases (OMLs) 60, 61, 62 and 63 in all of these states. So, we plan continuous investment, but our priority for investment must be

Soludo: Patronage of Made in Nigeria Textiles Will Create 10 Million Jobs

Abuja summit will showcase FCT to investors, says Wike

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

Anambra State Governor, Prof. Charles Soludo, yesterday, said if all Nigerians wear Made-in-Nigeria clothes, no less than five to 10 million jobs would be created from textiles.

He said this yesterday, at the Abuja Business and Investment Summit 2024.

The former CBN Governor, who was the keynote speaker at the occasion, said it was a collective destiny to make Nigeria great by investing in and patronising Made-in-Nigeria.

"I want to share a simple point with you, that the biggest way to promote massive investments in all sectors in Nigeria is to buy, eat, drive, and drink made in Nigeria.

“Yes, I drove to this conference with my Innoson Vehicle made in Anambra State. I am wearing Akwete, made by

women of Akwete in Abia. And my shoe, probably there, we will come and show you around Ogbunike and all of that. I'm wearing my nationalism on my head, that's the green eagle.

“I am Nigerian, and God didn't make a mistake to make me a Nigerian," Soludo said.

The governor said visitors to Anambra government house, are either offered food made in Anambra or in Nigeria, as well as drink made in Anambra or in Nigeria.

He urged Nigerians to intentionally mainstream the agenda and philosophy of "Nigeria First" considering that in the new world order, neo-nationalism and neo-capitalism are projected in many countries.

He said doing that, "would require us to intentionally nurture national champions for sustainability. If you

see the companies that have pulled out of Nigeria, how many of them are national companies? None. “But the foreign companies, they have itchy feet, they are very opportunistic, extremely opportunistic, there is no emotion to it.

"So for long-term sustainability, we must intentionally nurture the domestic capital and build them. It is a very big topic, for latecomer industrialists, the government must have to de-risk certain strategic investment for the private sector."

Soludo also charged Nigerians to deliberately promote African capital and trade, saying nationals have a higher risk appetite to invest in Nigeria.

"Capital is not just blind; it is not colour blind. It knows where it wants to go. It goes where it would call home. We could be preaching about

foreign investment to come and finance African investment in infrastructure from now till thy kingdom come. It won't come.

"So you can wait till thy kingdom comes, we must build the African capital as the frontier capital that would lead even the other foreigners to come in.

"Everybody else fights for their own country because no matter how you think about globalisation and all of that, populations are still confined within the nation-states.

“And the government must provide jobs for those people. And so you see where the tension comes in terms of the competitive thing. And we must mainstream African Continental Free Trade Agreements, while keeping an eye on the global emergence," he said.

House Demands Immediate Submission

of 2025 Budget, Compliance with FRA 2007

Adedayo

The House of Representatives has called on the Executive to comply with Section 11(1)(b) of Fiscal Responsibility Act 2007 by submitting to the National Assembly 2025 Budget proposal without further delay. The resolution of the House followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance moved at the plenary yesterday, by Hon. Clement Jimbo. Presenting the motion, Jimbo said the Fiscal Responsibility Act 2007 provides for the prudent management of the nation’s resources, ensures long-term

macroeconomic stability of the national economy.

He explained that it also ensures greater accountability and transparency in fiscal operations within a medium term fiscal policy framework and the establishment of the Fiscal Responsibility Commission to ensure the promotion and enforcement of the nation’s economic objectives and for related matters. Jimbo, pointed out that Section 11(1)(b) stipulates that the federal government must, not later than four months before the commencement of the next financial year, cause to be

prepared and laid before the National Assembly and MTEF for the next three financial years.

He expressed worry that sections 88 and 89 of the 1999 Constitution as well as section 30(1) of FRA 2007, specifically, Section 88(1) stipulates that subject to other provisions of the 1999 Constitution, each House of the National Assembly shall have the power, by passing resolutions, to direct, or cause to be directed, an investigation into any matter or thing with respect to which it has power to make laws, and into the conduct of affairs of any person,

authority, ministry of government department charged or intended to be charged with the duty of or responsibility for executing of administering laws enacted by the National Assembly and for disbursing or administrating monies appropriated or to be appropriated by the National Assembly.

Jimbo expressed concern that the time the National Assembly requires to exercise its functions as enshrined in section 88(2)(b) was technically being taken away by the non-compliance of section 11(1)(b}) of FRA 2007 by Executive.

not just in the assets but also in the communities that these assets operate."

Irune, explained that Rivers State, particularly Port Harcourt, was the company’s main base of operation, adding that they were delighted with the meeting they had with the Governor as a mark of respect to their chief host.

The Oando MD noted that with the untiring leadership provided by Fubara, there was prevailing peace that has contributed immensely to business stability.

Irune said: "As you know; Oando Energy Resources, Port Harcourt Base, is located in this State, and our smooth operations, so far, has been a function of a stable environment, a stable community, and the ability for us to carry out our day-to-day operations within this community.

"So, we are here to pay that courtesy visit and thank the Governor for the continued support that he has given to the company.

"We believe that the operating environment has been relatively improving. We see some unrest in

Kasim Sumaina in Abuja

Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, on Wednesday in Abuja, signed the Irrevocable Deregistration and Export Request Authorisation (IDERA) Advisory Circular for the recordation and cancellation of leased aircraft in the country

Keyamo, who signed the document alongside DirectorGeneral, Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Chris Najom, stated that the goal was to enable Nigerian airlines have access to drylease aircraft to boost operational capacity.

The minister explained that the document was an international requirement that would further raise Nigeria’s scores in the world of lessors and financiers. He said IDERA and aircraft lessor could apply administratively to NCAA for an aircraft to be taken out of the country.

He added that signing of the IDERA was a sine qua non for the Practice Direction recently signed by the Nigerian government to interpret the Cape Town convention.

Keyamo maintained that the judicial uncertainty affected

some areas, especially as it relates to the issue of pipeline vandalism, but we see significant improvement."

Irune, stated that they have continued to engage with all relevant stakeholders, including the host communities, who must be carried along on their business journey towards achieving success. He noted the level of transformation the company wants to create in its determination to contribute to fostering a more habitable and more dignifying ecosystem.

He added, "And, I believe that this will be the first step to reducing the level of destruction that we see. Overall, there is a peaceful Rivers State, a peaceful environment.

"The government agencies are very cooperative and our local communities are, so far, being extremely welcoming, and have shown a lot of pride in the transitioning into indigenous hands of the formally known Eni Agip held assets to a local company, Oando Energy Resources, to invest in the country," he added.

Nigeria's rating by the international community, causing the country to be blacklisted as an unsafe place for lessors to bring their aircraft.

According to him, "Having settled the judicial remedies through practice direction, we want to now turn attention to the administrative route by which aircraft can be deregistered and exported out of Nigeria.”

He explained that when an aircraft had finished its term for leases and wanted to be taken out of Nigeria, the lessors must go back to NCAA to deregister it.

Keyamo stated, "For the lessors coming into the country that want to take their aircraft out of the country when there is a dispute, there are two remedies, the judicial remedy is for the leases that run to court to get injunction, but the leaders can also go to court to seek permission to take their aircraft out, to which the court has 10 days to listen to the request and grant them the permission.

"The Aviation Roundtable group are patiently waiting for the signing of IDERA.”

The minister added that there were certain negotiations around the world by Nigerian airline operators that had been put on hold.

Akinwale in Abuja

L-R: Ag. Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading Plc (NBET), Johnson Akinnawo and Managing Director, Oando Energy Resources Nigeria Limited (OERNL), Dr. Ainojie ‘Alex’ Irune; during a courtesy visit by the Oando team to the Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading (NBET) office in Abuja ... recently.

Managing Director, Oando Energy Resources Nigeria Limited (OERNL), Dr. Ainojie ‘Alex’ Irune; and Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Executive Governor, Rivers State, during a courtesy visit by the Oando team to the State House in Rivers State …yesterday

GRADUATION CEREMONY FOR THE LAGOS STATE SKILLS ACQUISITION CENTRES...

Constitution Review: Agbakoba Writes National Assembly, Says EFCC ‘Unlawful Organisation’

Insists no harmony among law enforcement agencies on corruption

Wale Igbintade

Former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Dr. Olisa Agbakoba, SAN, has drawn the attention of the National Assembly to constitutional issues relating to law enforcement agencies in Nigeria and factors inhibiting the government's objective of abolishing corruption, as stated in Section 13 of the 1999 Constitution.

said the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) was an unlawful organisation, which was "unconstitutionally established".

In two separate letters to Senate and House of Representatives, dated October 14, 2024, Agbakoba

Idris Charges Nigerians to Rebrand Country, Build on Nation’s Strengths

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

The Minister of Information and National Orientation Agency, Mohammed Idris has entreated Nigerians to have great zeal for the national brand.

He made the appeal yesterday in Abuja at the formal unveiling of the Nigeria Reputation Management Group (NMRG).

Idris described the country’s brand reputation as one of its most invaluable assets, alongside its financial, natural and mineral resources.

He said that in spite of its challenges, the country can still build its reputation brand by carrying out a honest assessment of its weaknesses and strengths.

"As you’re all aware, a country’s brand reputation is one of its core assets, alongside its financial and natural and mineral resources. However, the intangibility of brand reputation means that it is often not reckoned with or grossly underestimated in the accounting of a country’s primary assets.

"It is therefore important for Nigeria to take its national brand very seriously. I believe we can start by honestly assessing our strengths and weaknesses. Yes, we have our challenges and reputational weaknesses, but we also have significant strengths and untapped potential," Idris said.

He listed one of the initiatives that determine the strength of a country as the national brand index saying: "Countries are ranked on that Index according to how they score on six primary indices, in the perceptions of respondents drawn from around the world.

He listed them as Exports, Governance, Culture, People, Tourism, and Immigration and Investment.

“Noteworthy is the fact that Japan steadily rose on that particular ranking, from 5th place in 2019, to 4th in 2020, 3rd in 2021, 2nd in 2022 and then 1st in 2023,” he stated.

He quoted Simon Anholt, the brain behind the ranking, saying there is a nexus between the intangible asset of national brand and tangible country characteristics like the ability to attract trade, investment, tourism, and talent.

"I see a self-reinforcing mechanism at play in this issue of national brand and reputation. A strong national brand attracts talent, tourists and investors and this combination in turn further strengthens the country, positioning it to attract even more positives.

“The reverse is also the case, a weak national brand will discourage investments and talent, depriving a country of what it needs for national development, an unfortunate scenario that further weakens perceptions of brand quality.

"In the area of culture, for example, Nigeria has one of the strongest brands in the world, especially on account of our music and our literature. Our films, fashion and food are also making impressive strides, and with more intentional support, can conquer the world just as boldly as our music is doing.

"It is against this backdrop that this commendable new effort by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) is emerging. I must really commend the leadership of the Institute, under the President and Chairman of Council, Dr. Ike Neliaku, for displaying strong and proactive leadership of the esteemed profession, "Idris stressed.

In his remarks, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar called for proactive approach to address the country's reputation challenges, calling on Nigerians to tell their own story in an honest and inspirational way.

"To address these challenges, Nigeria must embrace a proactive approach to reputation management. This begins with effective communication. We must tell our own story before others tell it for us, and we must ensure that the story we tell is both honest and aspirational.

He stated, "I very strongly believe the EFCC is unconstitutionally established. The powers under which it was established go beyond the powers of the National Assembly. The EFCC is an unlawful organisation."

The letters were addressed separately to Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, and Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu.

The deputy speaker doubles as Chairman, House Committee on Constitution Review, while Jibrin is Chairman, Senate Committee on Constitution Review.

Agbakoba said he was delighted to note that many

states had finally taken it upon themselves to challenge the constitutionality of the EFCC, saying, "This will put to rest the question relating to the validity of the EFCC."

The letter to the deputy senate president, titled, "Urgent Legislative Attention on Constitutional Reforms Relating to Law Enforcement Agencies and Anti-Corruption Efforts," read, "I commend you for the remarkable leadership you have demonstrated as Chairman, Senate Constitution Review Committee, particularly in advancing the government's reform agenda through a robust constitutional framework. Your efforts to strengthen the legal infrastructure underpinning the nation's development programs are indeed commendable.

"I write to draw attention to certain constitutional issues on matters related to law enforcement

agencies. As you are obviously aware, the fundamental objective of the government is to abolish corruption. But from my observation, there is no harmony amongst law enforcement agencies on corruption. They all appear to be working at cross purposes.

"This has been confirmed by the Supreme Court in so many cases. The Supreme Court has consistently sanctioned the EFCC for its conduct and questioned if the EFCC can in fact validly do what it does.

“I will go further to say that I very strongly believe the EFCC is unconstitutionally established. The powers under which it was established go beyond the powers of the National Assembly. The EFCC is an unlawful organisation.

"I am very delighted to note that many states have finally taken it upon themselves to challenge the constitutionality

of the EFCC. This will put to rest the question relating to the validity of the EFCC.

“Whilst we await the decision of the Supreme Court as the final court on the matter, I respectfully request that the Senate convene a public hearing to consider these constitutional issues.

"Such a hearing would provide an invaluable platform for stakeholders to discuss the reforms needed to strengthen Nigeria's legal and institutional frameworks for law enforcement and anti-corruption, which will meet the stated and laudable objective of the government to abolish corruption as stated in Section 13 of the Constitution.

"I trust that, under your capable leadership, the Senate Constitution Review Committee will give these matters urgent attention in the interest of our nation's development.”

ActionAid Says IMF, W’Bank Harbingers of Bad Economic Policies in Nigeria

Argues Nigerians cannot wait for 15 years to live quality lives

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

ActionAid Nigeria has described the World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF) as harbingers of bad economic policies in Nigerians, stressing that the two international organisations had been deeply involved in Nigeria’s economy for decades, pushing policies that have done far more harm than good.

A statement yesterday signed by the Country Director, ActionAid Nigeria Andrew Mamedu, said the organisation strongly disagrees with the recent statement made by the World Bank Senior Vice President and Chief Economist, Mr. Indermit Gill at the 30th Nigerian Economic Summit (NES30) in Abuja.

The organisation accused Gill of urging the Nigerian government to sustain its current economic reforms for the next 10-15 years with no clear plans on how it will cater for the people.

It described the comments as misguided and insulting to the millions of Nigerians living through

unprecedented economic hardship.

Mamedu said: “This call assumes that continuity and persistence in these policies will yield transformative results, but the evidence tells otherwise. While long-term reform is important, the strategies proposed by the World Bank seem disconnected from the immediate socio-economic realities of Nigeria, especially regarding poverty, weak institutional capacity, and structural economic deficiencies.

“The 2003-2007 reforms which he claims is what Nigeria needs is agreeable in the area of debt cancelation, savings and accountability, but it’s negative effect in the devaluation of naira, subsidy removal and corruption was the bane of that reform.

“The World Bank and IMF have been deeply involved in Nigeria’s economy for decades, pushing policies that have done far more harm than good. The Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP) introduced in the late 1980s remains one of the most devastating legacies of this relationship.

“ It crippled our local industries,

especially the textile sector, and opened the floodgates for Nigeria to become heavily dependent on imported goods. Before the SAP, Nigeria’s textile industry was a vibrant hub employing hundreds of thousands of workers.

“However, with the IMF-driven policies forcing cuts in subsidies, import liberalisation, and currency devaluation, Nigeria was pushed to shut down its own production capacity,” ActionAid stressed.

Quoting the National Union of Textile Garment and Tailoring Workers of Nigeria (NUTGTWN), it said that over 90 per cent of textile products used in Nigeria valued at over $4 billion are imported, primarily from countries in the Global North.

These reforms, instead of fostering local economic growth, it argued, have funnelled wealth out of Nigeria and into the pockets of international financial institutions and foreign economies.

“These reforms lauded by the World Bank have promoted an import-dependent economy, stifling

small businesses and local industries.

Successive governments have failed to reverse this trend, and the current reforms, such as the fuel subsidy removal and exchange rate unification, continue to hurt small-scale businesses and everyday Nigerians.

“According to the National President of the Association of Small Business Owners of Nigeria (ASBON), more than 8 million small businesses has shut down within 18 months over economic hardship due to the impact of the economic policies under the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari and the current administration of President Bola Tinubu.

“This trajectory has driven unemployment and increased poverty levels across the country, with more Nigerians relying on imported goods to meet basic needs. Instead of empowering local entrepreneurs, these policies enrich multinational corporations and external economies, deepening Nigeria’s dependence on foreign imports and exacerbating inequality,” it maintained.

Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu (middle); Commissioner for Women Affairs & Poverty Alleviation (WAPA), Mrs. Bolaji Dada (second right); APC Lagos Women Leader, Hon. Jumoke Okoya-Thomas (right); Mrs. Oyinlola Agoro, representing the First Lady (second left) and Mrs. Aolat Alade, representing wife of the Deputy Governor (left) during the graduation ceremony for the 2023/2024 set of the Lagos State Skills Acquisition centres, held at De blue roof, LTV, Agidingbi, Ikeja, ... yesterday

CIVIL SOCIETY GROUPS SUPPORT ANTI-CORRUPTION AGENCIES...

L-R: Executive Director, YIAGA Africa, Samson Itodo; Executive Director, CISLAC, Auwal Musa Rafsanjani; Executive Director, Connected Development(CODE), Hamza Lawal; Team Leader, Good Governance Team (GGT) Nigeria, Tunde Salman, during the press conference organised by Civil Society Organisations to correct the Governors moves to prevent Anti-Corruption Agencies from carrying out their legitimate duties in Nigeria, held in Abuja...yesterday

Delta Proposes N936 Billion as 2025 Budget Estimate

Debt burden rubbishes revenue

Omon-Julius Onabu in Asaba

Delta State Government has proposed a total of N936 billion as budget estimate for the 2025 fiscal year, saying that it is a realistic projection based on the current volatile financial situation in Nigeria.

The Commissioner for Economic Planning, Mr Sunny Edekayen, disclosed the proposed budget during the opening ceremony of the budget defence by government Ministries,

Departments and Agencies (MDAs) at the State Secretariat, Asaba, the state capital.

Edekayen said the proposed figure represented about 30 per cent of the budget for the current year, 2024, which stood at N725 billion.

He admitted that the huge debt burden was greatly undermining the capacity of the state government to make ambitious budget planning for the various programmes of the Sheriff Oborevwori administration.

Edekayen said more prudence should be the watchword among the state MDAs.

With the unprecedented increase in the prices of petroleum products, following the removal of fuel subsidy, and the imminent removal of electricity subsidy, the citizens would need more belt-tightening measures in the weeks and months ahead, he said.

The commissioner revealed that the 2025 budget estimate was based on

actual accruals to the state, particularly from the Federation Account from June 2024 till date. He expressed hope that the projection could be sustained, despite the state’s obvious financial constraints.

The proposed estimate represented a slight deviation from previous years' budgets, which used the price of Nigeria crude oil export as benchmark.

On the impact of the current economic situation, Ekedayen sounded a note of warning, “We

UNODC: 68 Percent of Inmates in Custodial Centres Awaiting Trial

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in Nigeria, has disclosed that there are 84,767 inmates across correctional centers in Nigeria, with 68 percent of them awaiting trial.

Head of the Justice, Integrity and Health Unit of the UNODC, Ms. Muchaneta Mundopa, who made the disclosure, observed that the figure simply indicates the need for a new approach in serving justice in the country.

Mundopa spoke on Wednesday at a two-day workshop for Facilitators on the Implementation of Restorative Justice (RJ) in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja. Mundopa, in a goodwill message

delivered on her behalf by the National Project Officer, UNODC, Omene, expressed readiness of the UNODC to partner Nigeria in implementing the RJ programme across the country.

She said: "Today, there are 84,767 inmates in custodial centres around Nigeria, including 68% inmates who are awaiting trial. These figures represent people - mothers (including nursing mothers), fathers, daughters, sons, members of the community - many of which have committed minor offences.

"The figures also force us to think about the victims, people who have to live with the harm caused by offenders, irrespective of whether an offender is convicted or not.

"It is worthwhile to note that

despite the genuine efforts made by stakeholders to reform the justice sector, the figures above are consistent with figures from previous years, shifting only ever slightly.

“For example, in June 2022, there were 71,584 inmates in Nigeria (71% awaiting trial). It tells us that a new approach to justice is needed."

Omene added that restorative justice is very dear to UNODC as successful implementation of a well thought-out and coordinated RJ programme has great potential to contribute to the achievement of SDG 16 on providing access to justice for all.

"UNODC is excited to partner with the Federal Ministry of Justice

under the focused leadership of the Honourable Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef O. Fagbemi, SAN to develop and roll out a restorative justice programme for the FCT, including the sensitization and capacity building of stakeholders on the FCT Restorative Justice Policy, Bill, Practice Directions, and Training Manual", she added.

Earlier, the Director, Administration of Criminal Justice and Reforms Department, Mrs. Leticia Ayoola-Daniels, stated that the workshop marks a critical milestone, following the successful review and validation of the Restorative Justice framework for the FCT in June 2024, as well as the sensitization sessions which ended two days ago.

UNICEF: 163m Nigerians Lack Basic

Hand Washing Facilities at Home

David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has said that many Nigerians lack basic hand washing facilities in their homes.

A WASH specialist from Enugu Field Officer of UNICEF, Mrs. Rebecca Gabriel stated this during a zonal press conference held in Enugu to commemorate this year's Global Handwashing Day.

She identified lack of hand washing

at critical times as some of the reason why people fall sick frequently. Speaking on this year's theme: Why clean hands are still important; Gabriel frowned at the level of awareness among the people and the unavailability of facilities for hand washing.

She said: "Data shows that only 35 percent of schools in Nigeria have hand washing facilities, and that is not good enough. Imagine a child in nursery or primary school coming to

eat lunch after playing during break, without washing their hands, because the facilities are not there.

"Also, only eight percent of markets have hand washing facilities available, and you can imagine that. Up to 163million of Nigeria's population, and that is about 83 percent do not have access to basic hand washing services.

"Government can begin to take action on these. They can provide for this in their budgets, especially

now that states are preparing their budgets.

“Beyond the good roads that we seek, beyond the fancy things government plan to do for the people, they can budget for provision of hand washing facilities."

She mentioned five critical times to wash the hands to include; before cooking, before eating, before feeding children, after changing children's diapers and after using the convenience.

are experiencing a double-edged sword of exchange rate fluctuations and subsidy removal, making it a challenging period for the state.”

He revealed that Delta’s "revenueto-debt ratio over the past year stood at 97 per cent, meaning nearly all the state’s earnings were consumed by its debt obligations”.

The commissioner likened the serious economic situation in Delta State, like any other state in the country, to a hurricane with its associated challenges. But he assured that there would be calm at the end of the experience.

Edekayen stated, "This is just makes us understand that we are in for tough times. So, we must consciously begin to make adjustments." He added, "Things are going to be relatively difficult, but that is just the way it is because we are not magicians."

Nevertheless, Ekedayen said, “This year’s budget defence will be more interactive compared to last year. We are working towards the governor’s M.O.R.E agenda, and whatever we agree on during these sessions will be forwarded for implementation.”

Local Content Act: Itsekiri, Ijaw, Ilaje Graduates Threaten Shutdown of Chevron Facilities in Delta, Ondo Sylvester Idowu in Warri

Graduates of Itsekiri, Ijaw and Ilaje ethnic nationalities have threatened to occupy Chevron facilities in Delta and Ondo States over alleged flagrant disregard for the local content act by the oil firm.

The graduates under the aegis of National Association of Itsekiri Graduates (NAIG); EgbemaGbaramatu Graduates Employment Front (KOMBOT) and National Association of Ilaje Graduates (NAIG) in Chevron Nigeria Limited (CNL) areas of operation in Delta and Ondo States, have consequently given the oil firm a seven-day ultimatum to comply with the local content act and halt further recruitments pending the resolution of their demands.

The graduate bodies demands were the outcome of an emergency meeting held in Warri yesterday and therefore appealed to President Bola Tinubu to prevail on the management of the Oil firm to halt its ongoing staff recruitment exercise until the company guarantees them 70% of the employment opportunities.

The bodies, otherwise referred to as the 3Is, in their resolutions demanded that all host communities' contract staff, including VT 5 and VT 6 graduates, be converted as staff of Chevron Nigeria Limited while contractors of host communities be given right of first refusal in the award of drilling contracts, well head maintenance, production and procurement as well as the

reinstatement of Comrade (Engr.) Timmy Okeoghene Okirika, who was terminated by CNL in purported breach of the RDCs, GMoU, PENGASAN CBA, Labour Act, ILO Convention and the National Assembly and Federal Ministry of Labour Resolutions and orders.”

The graduate leaders, in a communique signed by the President and Secretary of NAIG, Esiategiwa Donald Mino and Mrs. Tetsoma Neyin Uruneden; President and Secretary of KOMBOT, Tare Olaye and Charles Kin as well as the President and Secretary of National Association of llaje Graduates, Ikuesan Ademola Kelly and Temidunmi Akins Adeyemi, respectively, expressed displeasure with flagrant disregard for the local content act by the management of Chevron Nigeria Limited.

The communique stated: “Outcome of our emergency meeting, left us grieving and rearing to disrupt the operations of Chevron Nigeria Limited, because the Local Content Act of Nigeria, was not put into cognizance in CNL recruitment exercise.

“It will be heartbreaking to know that events of the past few years, have been characterized by the deliberate and blatant disregard for the opinions, suggestions and aspirations of our people, thereby, leading to the shrinking of our confidence in the commitment of Chevron Nigeria Limited to the peaceful resolution of the issues at stake."

Alex Enumah in Abuja

PHOTO: ENOCK REUBEN

INTERACTIVE SESSION ON REGULATORY REFORMS...

Fubara’s Assembly Lawmakers Vow to Invoke Laws against Amaewhule, 24 Others

Urges INEC to conduct bye-election to fill their seats Group accuses Wike's loyalists of inciting crisis in state

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

Rivers State House of Assembly members loyal to Governor Siminalayi Fubara, have resolved to invoke the provision of the 1999 Constitution against their embattled 25 colleagues.

The lawmakers, who cautioned detractors from interfering with the administration of Fubara, however, urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct bye-elections to fill their seats.

Presenting a Motion on a matter of urgent public importance pursuant to Section 99 of the Constitution, House Leader, Hon. Sokari Goodboy Sokari, said the Martin Amaewhule-led former lawmakers by their actions, had continued to undermine the integrity of the House and violate Section 99 of the Constitution.

He prayed the House to take necessary steps to halt the unlawful

gathering of the former members, who by defecting to another political party, had lost their seats.

Adopting the motion, the member representing Opobo/Nkoro State Constituency and Deputy Speaker, Hon. Adolphus Orubienimigha, urged the House to, without delay, hold the former members accountable and ensure that they faced the full consequences of the law, if they continued to parade themselves as lawmakers.

Speaker, Hon. Victor Oko-Jumbo, berated the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for refusing to conduct bye-elections into the vacant seats since December 11, 2023.

He recalled that the House had on the 14th of December, 2023, and 8th of May, 2024, wrote to INEC to conduct bye-elections to fill the 25 vacant seats but regretted that the

request was yet to be granted, adding that another member from Khana had died last year, and his seat has remained vacant.

He, thereafter, called on INEC to, as a matter of urgency, ensure conduct the bye-elections so that other constituents can be represented.

Meanwhile, the Assembly has approved the appointment of five special advisers by Governor Fubara.

Reading a letter from the governor during its 64th legislative sitting, Oko-Jumbo, explained that the appointment of the special advisers into key positions would help accelerate development in the state.

The House, after deliberating on the request, approved the appointment of the five special advisers, and directed the Clerk of the House to convey the approval to the Governor for further action.

The House subsequently adjourned

sitting to Monday, October 21, 2024.

In a related development, a political pressure group under the aegis of The Supreme Council for SIM Worldwide, has accused supporters of the Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, of inciting crisis in Rivers State.

The allegation was made during an emergency meeting held by the expanded national executive of the council, in Port Harcourt, the state capital, yesterday.

Speaking, a former Acting Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Mrs Ibim Semenitari, stated that the recurring political crisis, has bedeviled the State and therefore called on "President Bola Tinubu to call the Minister of FCT to order, lest his activities in Rivers State discredit the administration."

The group advised the FCT

Drug War: NDLEA Expects More Drug Intercepts on Waterways, Seaports with Donation of Facility by British Govt

Let's partner, fight drug trafficking, Sule tells North Central govs

Chiemelie Ezeobi, Michael Olugbode in Abuja and Igbawase Ukumba in Lafia

Chairman/Chief Executive of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (rtd.) has said that the bolstered capacity of the anti-narcotics body within the maritime space will further tighten the noose on drug barons and cartels, and increase quantum of arrests and seizures of illicit substances on the nation’s waterways and seaports.

Marwa stated this in Lagos on Wednesday at the commissioning of NDLEA Marine Command Headquarters, a facility built and donated by the British Government.

In a related development, the Nasarawa State governor, Abdullahi Sule, yesterday called on his colleague governors from the North Central Zone of the country to all partner to fight the scourge of drug abuse and trafficking ravaging the country.

Sule, who is Chairman of the North Central Governors' Forum, made the call at the 2024 North Central National Sensitisation Workshop on Narcotic Drugs Programme in Lafia,

the Nasarawa State capital.

According to Marwa: “I have to express my profound appreciation to the British High Commission in Nigeria for believing in this project and considering it worthy of His Majesty’s investment.

“The timely delivery of this project and the high standard of the finished work speak volumes about the commitment of the British Government to support our efforts.

“Not quite long ago, a similar edifice, completed with state-of-the-art fittings, was handed over to NDLEA by the British Government at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport.

“There has also been a series of capacity-building initiatives and provisions of equipment by the Home Office International Operations, which have bolstered the capability of the Agency’s personnel and have enhanced phenomenal drug seizures and arrests. We deeply appreciate the effort of the British government and its institutions.

“According to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development, UNCTAD, "over 80 per cent of the

volume of international trade is carried by sea, and the percentage is even higher for developing countries.”

“This is equally true of illicit drug trade because maritime routes have long been exploited by drug traffickers due to the vast expanses of the open sea and the complexity of maritime laws and jurisdictions.

“The illicit drug trade via maritime channels poses severe threats, not only in terms of drug proliferation but also because of its links to organised crime, terrorism, and human trafficking,” the NDLEA boss added.

He equally said: “Recent records from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime indicate that West Africa remains an important transit region for narcotics, mostly emanating from South America.

“We have had at least four trafficking cases in the last two years involving merchant ships (aside from cases of drugs concealed in cargo containers) from South America to Nigeria. The cases are evidence that the maritime corridor provides mobility for illicit trafficking activity.”

He noted the recent operational successes recorded by the NDLEA on

the waterways and seaports justified his decision to upgrade the marine unit of the agency to a full-fledged command in 2022.

“We did not make a mistake when, in 2022, we upgraded the Marine Unit to a full-fledged command. Our balance sheet of arrests and seizures of drugs within the maritime space has maintained an upward swing.

“The collaboration of the Agency’s Marine Command with other maritime law enforcement agencies has resulted in the interception of 61,688.79 kg of varying drugs and the arrest of 41 suspects, 15 of whom are already prosecuted and jailed.

“Through our various port operations in the last three years, the Agency has seized at least 750 tons of illicit drugs ranging from cocaine to codeine, tramadol, methamphetamine and Loud, to mention a few”, he stated.

While calling for continuous collaboration among various security agencies operating within the maritime space, Marwa said: “the operation of our Special Marine Squad on the waterways of Lagos has shown the increasing complexity of maritime drug trafficking.

minister against alleged "stoking unnecessary crisis in Rivers State, as this may be overstretching the patience of Rivers people," even as she noted that Wike was intolerant to even civil opposition within the state during his tenure.

"For someone who was governor of Rivers State for 8 years and has vowed to make Rivers State unstable for his successor, his reactions during the interview on Channels Television suggests his culpability in the mayhem that engulfed some parts of the state after the local government election.

"We wish to emphasise that appointment of the FCT Minister Nyesom Wike ought to bring hope and development to Rivers State rather it appears that the FCT Minister's proximity to federal authorities has brought tension to the people of Rivers state."

Appreciating the Rivers people for their consistent support for the administration of Fubara, the group appealed to them to "resist every attempt by a minute few whose clear intent is to confiscate the resources of the state by proxy for their selfish end."

Ohanaeze Rejects Plot to Install Ohakim as President-General

Benjamin Nworie in Abakaliki

The apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, said it was strongly opposed to alleged plots by two South-east governors to install the former governor of Imo State, Ikedi Ohakim, as the next President-General of the body.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo also condemned attempts to amend the organisation’s constitution with the aim of facilitating a tenure elongation for the current president-general from Imo State.

It stressed that the restoration of Igbo lineage in Rivers State, which had suffered greatly since the Biafra War, was a mission requiring collective strength and unity.

In a statement issued by Secretary General of the organisation, Okechukwu Isiguzoro, Ohanaeze stated that with less than 90 days to its scheduled election, there were plots aimed at side-lining Rivers State in the election of the next president-general.

Isiguzoro said the body stood against any attempts to usher a former governor into the leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, stressing that those who defy historical precedents and warnings of their ancestral spirits would face severe repercussions.

According to them, "Recent actions suggest that an unpatriotic Igbo organisation has been mobilised to entice Chief Ikedi Ohakim, a respected former governor, into pursuing a non-existent position

as President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo.

"We urge Chief Ohakim to summon his righteous resolve and unequivocally decline such temptations. At this stage of his life, with a rich and storied political history, we implore him to focus on the political landscape where his leadership is genuinely needed— whether that be as a governor (for a single term), senator, vice president, or even the president of Nigeria in the near future.

“Should Chief Ohakim heed the voice of wisdom, Ohanaeze Ndigbo will fervently support his re-election as governor of Imo State.

"Chief Ohakim must take heed and be mindful of those deceitful political elites who have misled two Igbo elder statesmen from Imo State, leading them to dismal ends, despite the numerous admonitions from the Igbo College of Archbishops and Bishops advocating for peace and restoration within Ohanaeze Ndigbo.

"He should recognise that the leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo is presently in a constitutionally mandated transition period, and it would be both short-sighted and detrimental for him to act as an impediment to the emergence of the next President-General from Rivers State.”

The statement added, "As a sagacious leader, Chief Ikedi Ohakim is certainly aware of the sacred opportunity he was afforded during his tenure as Governor of Imo State from 2007 to 2011.

L-R: Program Lead for Equitable Growth, Finance, and Institutions, World Bank, Bertine Kamphuis; Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), Oseni Lawani ; Chairman, Board of Directors, Ernest Shonekan Centre for Legislative Reforms and Economic Development, Kyari Bukar; Special Adviser to the President on Industry, Trade and Investment, John Uwajumogu; CEO, Happy Coffee, Princess Adeyinka Tekenah; and Partner, Broderick Bozimo and Company, Isaiah Bozimo (SAN), during an interactive session on regulatory reforms facilitated by the Ernest Shonekan Centre at the 30th Nigerian Economic Summit (NES#30) in Abuja. ... recently

ARLA-DAMAU OPEN DAY EVENT...

Labour Silent After Parley with FG on Fuel Price Hike

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

The organised labour, yesterday, declined to provide details of the outcome of its meeting with the federal government at the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF), in Abuja on the raging high cost of fuel nationwide.

It was gathered that the thrust of the meeting was the recent increases in petrol price and its socio-economic effects on Nigerian masses.

The meeting also reflected on the Compress Natural Gas (CNG), the

minimum wage and consequential adjustment in salaries.

Those who attended the meeting included the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu; Minister of Labour, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha; Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun and the Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris. Also present were the Minister of Petroleum Minister, State, Heineken Lokpobiri; the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo and and representatives of

the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, Limited.

The Joint Organised Labour was represented by NLC President, Joe Ajaero; Deputy President, Kabiru Ado Sani; General Secretary, Comrade Emma Ugboaja; Deputy President of the TUC, Dr. Tommy Etim Okon; Secretary General, Nuhu Toro, and the President of the Nigeria Union of Teachers, NUT, who is also a deputy President of NLC.

Also at the meeting were the Vice-President of NLC, Benjamin Anthony and Deputy Women leader

of NLC, Deborah Yusuf,

The parties adjourned after some hours of deliberation.

Ajaero left without responding to questions by reporters.

But in a terse remarks, Idris said the engagement was federal government's continuation of rapport with labour for the good of the country.

"As you know labour are members of this country and all of them are our brothers and sisters. Government is there for everyone including labour," said Idris.

North East PDP Backs Governors’ Stand on Party's Leadership Struggle, Knocks APC

Says

16 years of PDP rule best in democratic dispensation

Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi

The Zonal Working Committee and states chairmen of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Northeast Zone, have declared support for the recent decision taken by the party's governors’ forum on the leadership crisis rocking its National Working Committee (NWC).

The zone also observed that the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC)-led federal administration has brought untold hardship to the generality of Nigerians, while no proactive measures were being

for their tireless efforts, stating their dedication "exemplifies the best of our nation's spirit."

The Vice President had last Friday inaugurated the National Road Safety Advisory Council (NaRSAC) with a charge on members to align with global best practices in reducing traffic crashes. He had tasked the council to set National Road Safety Strategy targets and ensure effective coordination between federal, state, and local governments to achieve shared road safety objectives.

For her part, wife of the President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, described as unfortunate the tragic tanker explosion that claimed scores of lives in Jigawa State.

The First Lady, in a statement personally signed by her yesterday, stated, inter alia: "I condole with the Governor of Jigawa State, Mallam Umar Namadi and the good people

taken to remedy the situation.

The Zonal PDP at the end of its meeting held in Bauchi, stressed that the meeting was necessitated by the current happening at the national level of the party.

The meeting reflected on the 16 years of the PDP at the helms of affairs as a ruling party and how it lost out to the APC in 2015 declaring that, "The PDP years were indeed a blessing to the Nation."

The meeting agreed that it was the only party that couldprovide the needed solution to the current challenges facing the nation, thus

of the State on the unfortunate tanker explosion. This tragic incident which left many dead, several injured and the loss of properties is most unfortunate.

"My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. I pray God to grant the friends, families, and loved ones of the departed souls the fortitude to bear the painful loss and grant speedy recovery to the injured.

"May Almighty Allah grant Aljanah Fridaus to the departed and comfort those affected by this tragedy."

Governor Mallam Umar Namadi expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss of lives following the unfortunate petrol tanker accident.

Namadi, who swiftly visited the place of the accident and joined in performing the funeral prayer for the deceased, describing the incident as the greatest tragedy that has befallen to Jigawa State.

In a statement signed by the

making it the last hope of Nigerians as the 'messiah' for salvation.

The well-attended meeting deliberated extensively on moving the party forward, made resolutions and issued a communique signed by the Zonal Secretary, Kabiru Bappa Jauro, on behalf of the Zonal Chairman, Rev Emmanuel Bovoa and read by the Adamawa State Chairman, Tahir Shehu.

The meeting stated that since the inception of democratic rule in 1999, the PDP had been dominant in the North East sub-region, producing a former Vice President, former/Serving

Governor's spokesman Hamisu Gumel, Namadi expressed condolence to the families of the deceased.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims during this painful time. We stand in solidarity with those who have lost loved ones and those injured in this tragic incident," the governor said.

Namadi also promised that the state government would cater for the treatment of all those injured in the inferno who are now receiving treatment in various hospitals across the state and beyond.

"The government will ensure that the affected families receive the needed assistance as we continue to work on preventing such tragedies in the future," he added.

Similarly, Kwara State Governor and Chairman, Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) Alhaji AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, yesterday said the forum

Governors, former/serving National Chairmen, former/serving National Assembly and State Assembly Members making the Party to have tremendously contributed to the socio economic development of the Zone, and Nigeria at large.

"As regards to the National Chairmanship tussle, the meeting wishes to align itself in-toto with the position of the governors, the BOT, National Assembly Caucus and all the Major critical stakeholders in the Zone. This, we believe shall bring decorum and sanity that will lead the party to lofty heights."

was saddened by the reported deaths due to the petrol tanker explosion.

A statement issued in Ilorin, by the NGF Chairman, quoted AbdulRazaq to stated: "the reported circumstances of the incident are worrisome, urging citizens to avoid taking advantage of petrol spills because of its volatility and existential danger."

“This unfortunate incident again calls attention to a need for improved safety protocols in the handling of combustible materials like petrol, including during unforeseen circumstances such as accident.

“Our hearts are with His Excellency Governor Umar Namadi, the people of the state, and families involved in the incident.

"We ask Almighty Allaah to grant them solace at this trying time and admit the deceased to al-jannah Firdaus.”

For his part, the Chairman of the

Bagudu noted that the country might need to take some tough decisions with attendant challenges and consequences.

"And we are dealing with them, which is part of what we are asking. Why is there a spike in inflation for September 2 percentage point, following the decline we talked about? But because of the energy prices that were yet to stabilise the affected oil prices.

"But beyond that, just borrowing from, again, what has been said at the consensus, is when you are undertaking reform, is to stay the course. And the benefits will follow. We are in the tick of a harvest season.

"We believe that that will further impact on food prices. Most of the measures that have been taken are

beginning to yield to greater levels of investment and effort to mobilise more investment, which we believe will cement the rise in gross domestic product. Our gross domestic product for the first quarter increased by over two percent, close to three per cent," Bagudu said. The minister reiterated the need for the country to grow fast enough at a higher rate, saying they were taking all the fearful measures that would put Nigeria on a sustainable, inclusive, higher rate of growth.

"And in doing so, we might experience occasional hiccups. We believe we have stopped the decline. We are not where we want to be. Look, our president's message in the Refueled Hope agenda is, let us confront our reality," he said.

Obi, Otti Review Judgement in Abure’s Favour, Hopeful Party will Emerge Stronger

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

The presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general election, Peter Obi, has said he and the Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, recently reviewed the court judgment in favour of Julius Abure and were more concerned about the party emerging stronger and united from this phase.

A high court, last month, presided over by Justice Emeka Nwite, affirmed

Northern States Governors' Forum (NSGF) and Governor of Gombe State, Alhaji Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, expressed heartfelt condolences to Governor Umar Namadi and the people of Jigawa State over the tragic tanker explosion.

Yahaya, described the incident as deeply saddening, emphasising the need for stricter safety measures and public awareness to prevent future occurrences.

A statement issued by the DirectorGeneral (Press Affairs), Government House, Gombe, which was made available to journalists yesterday, stated: "This unfortunate event underscores the urgent need for comprehensive safety measures to prevent similar tragedies.

"Authorities must implement stricter regulations governing fuel transportation and storage to minimise risks while public awareness campaigns

the national convention of the party that took place at Nnewi in March this year.

Dissatisfied, Obi, Otti and chairman of the Caretaker Committee, Senator Nenadi Usman, appealed the court affirmation of the national convention and Abure as the national chairman. In a statement yesterday, Obi said they appealed the judgement of Justice Nwite to enable the party emerge more united and stronger.

are equally essential to educate citizens about the dangers of approaching accident sites, particularly those involving hazardous materials like petroleum products."

He also stressed the importance of cross-state collaboration in disaster management to enhance preparedness and response capabilities.

The NSGF Chairman, however, commended Namadi for leading relief efforts, and equally praised efforts of Jigawa State’s emergency management agencies in responding to the unfortunate event.

He prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased in Aljannat Firdaus and strength to the grieving families, urging the people and government of Jigawa to remain resilient during this difficult period, even as he assured them of solidarity from the people of Gombe State and the entire Northern region.

L-R; Commissioner for Environment, Kaduna State Mr. Abubakar Buba; Senior Manager, Raw Milk Supply and Production, Arla Foods, Mr. Snorri Sigurdsson; Swedish Ambassador to Nigeria, Mrs. Annika Hahn-Englund; Deputy Governor Kaduna State, Dr. Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe; Danish Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Jens Ole Bach Hansen; and Commissioner for Business Innovation and Technology, Mrs. Patience Saki; at the Arla - Damau Open day event held at the Arla Farm in Damau, Kaduna State ... recently

INAUGURATION OF MARINE COMMAND FACILITY OF NDLEA DONATED BY THE BRITISH GOV...

Chief of Army Staff Not Sick, Nigerian Army Clarifies

The Nigerian Army, yesterday, said the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt Gen Taoreed Lagbaja, was hale and hearty and enjoying his leave. The reaction was contrary to a

trending report that he was critically ill and evacuated to a foreign hospital, where he was currently receiving treatment for an undisclosed ailment.

A viral publication averred that the last public appearance of the Chief of Army Staff was on Tuesday, September

10, 2024, when he inaugurated several civil-military relations projects in Okuku, Odo-Otin Local Government Area of Osun State, his home state. It further noted that the army chief was also conspicuously absent at the October 1 Parade at the Presidential

Villa in Abuja.

Like the October 1 Parade, where the COAS was represented by the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), Maj Gen AB Ibrahim, he was also represented in several other events within the period under review,

There May Be Anarchy If Hardship Persists in Nigeria, Ex-Minister Essien Warns Govt

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

A former Minister of Lands, Housing, and Urban Development, Chief Nduese Essien, has warned that the escalating discontent across Nigeria due to severe economic hardship, could lead to a serious anarchy soon.

He, therefore, called on the federal government to urgently reconsider its economic policies, which he described as aggravating poverty

and inflation, leaving millions of Nigerians struggling to survive.

In a statement yesterday in Abuja, Essien criticised the hasty removal of fuel subsidy and other economic policies of the Tinubu administration, arguing that they were inflicting unprecedented suffering on the populace.

He said, “The level of suffering across the country is unprecedented, except perhaps during the Nigerian Civil War. Families are struggling

to meet basic needs.

“The policies, while perhaps wellintentioned, are exacerbating poverty, increasing inflation, and hurting the most vulnerable among us.”

He urged the federal government to rethink its approach and strike a balance between reducing the fiscal deficit and ensuring citizens do not plunge deeper into poverty.

Emphasising the need for fiscal discipline and cutting the cost of governance, he warned that “it is

inhuman to continue down this path without a clear plan to ease the burden on the citizens.

“Our leaders cannot continue to fritter the commonwealth of the country recklessly and ask the people to make sacrifices.

“If urgent action is not taken to stem the hunger, poverty, and discontent in the country, we risk losing the patience of the people, and that could result in dire consequences,” he said.

including the Army War College Nigeria Course 8/2024 graduation dinner and award night in Abuja on October 2, 2024, where he was the chief host.

But when contacted for clarification, the Director Army Public Relations, Maj Gen Onyema Nwachukwu, said the army chief was on leave.

"Is he not entitled to go on leave, or you want to say that he is sick? Take my response to the medium (online) as my official response," he said.

Earlier, Nwachukwu, told the online news medium that Lagbaja was on leave and entitled to it after working so hard for the country.

His words: “If the Chief of Army staff travels out after working for many years, are you saying it’s wrong for him to travel out when he is on leave?

“So if you work for years and go for a few weeks vacation or something, does it mean you are sick? So because we are in uniform, we should die working?

“For instance, I have worked for

CARDOSO: TAMING INFLATION IS KEY PRIORITY...DIMON: NIGERIA’S TOUGH

warned that inconsistent economic policies only served to scare investors from any country. He said Nigeria must ensure consistent laws, and effective regulatory, legal environment to incentivise foreign investors to the country.

Speaking during the fireside chat in the IV plenary of the summit, Dimon pointed that JP Morgan had wanted to expand to Nigeria in the past but was advised against it by the US government over ‘unfriendly conditions’.

He stressed the need for a healthy financial system without which failures can be assured, noting that it was important for the US to expand into Africa by encouraging US companies to set up in the continent to support growth.

He said while technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI) remained key to modern society, it was important to have a healthy financial system to guarantee a healthy economy.

“One reason I like to be here is that America should play a very healthy part in expanding into Africa, helping African nations through diplomacy, business, foreign investment, education—all those things that can actually help countries do better," he argued.

According to him, anywhere in the world, a healthy financial system usually indicates a healthy economy, noting that even with the coming of fintechs, he wasn’t worried about competition.

On regulation, he said: "Regulators obviously want a healthy system. If the financial system collapses, it’s terrible for a country. So I think it’s reasonable that regulators are always trying to ensure safety and soundness.

"However, some of the safety and soundness measures are quite basic. Many regulations go beyond that in terms of safety and soundness.

"In the United States, we have healthy banks, but regulations have taken on

social causes and a host of other issues that may not promote a better system. If I were a regulator, I would always be asking financial companies what works and what doesn’t, and what prevents them from banking people.

"I just got here, so I haven’t had a chance to talk to many people and get up to speed on what’s happening in your country. In the United States, many banking regulations have made people unbanked. We struggle to explain this to senators, congressmen, and regulators.

"Their regulations drove people out of the banking system. Being in the banking system is a healthy thing. Here, about 40 per cent of people are unbanked, and many fintech companies are trying to reach out to that demographic. Getting them into the system is beneficial; it’s much cheaper and safer for them.”

He argued that regulations should always consider what the desired outcome is, arguing that often, rules and regulations are passed out of anger or based on simplistic ideas, but can have adverse consequences.

Meanwhile, declaring the summit closed, Shettima said the federal government will await the Green Book recommendations from the summit, assuring participants and the business community that its implementation will be prioritised to further drive ongoing reforms to boost the growth of the economy.

The vice president, who was represented by the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu said the government will continue to collaborate with the NESG to organise future summits, pointing out that the summit had lived up to its billing.

He said: "Over the last three days, this summit has facilitated deep and meaningful conversations among public, private, and civil society leaders.

"Together, we have created an environment of mutual respect and dialogue. This understanding has informed our engagement with the summit process, which has generated many policy recommendations for government action."

The vice president pointed out that like the previous summits, this year's summit had recorded a huge success not because of the high turnout of delegates but because the plenary and concurrent sessions addressed the key issues that will guide Nigeria’s economic growth and development.

Speaking to THISDAY on the sidelines of the summit, Bagudu in his own capacity, said President Bola Tinubu had been able to reverse the nation’s economic decline in recent times through targeted reforms.

He said the implementation of governance and institutional reforms had helped improve macroeconomic performance.

The minister said: "Our overall Gross Domestic Product (GDP) has been enhanced from 2.98 per cent in Q1 2024 to 3.19 per cent in Q2 2024, compared to 2.31 per cent in Q1 2023 and 2.51 per cent in Q2 2023.

"Inflation is trending downwards from 33.40 per cent in July 2024 to 32.15 per cent in August 2024, while our external reserves are $39.07 billion as of September 19, 2024. Our external trade balance improved to N6,945.4 billion in the second quarter of 2024."

"These are testaments to the efficacy of the government reform agenda. The economy is moving in the right direction, and the decline has been arrested. Therefore, we seek cooperation and understanding of the broad spectrum of the citizenry as there is indeed light at the end of the tunnel."

He also said the active participation

of stakeholders at the summit demonstrated their commitment to working closely with the government to take collaborative action for growth, competitiveness, and stability.

Meanwhile, the Chief Economist and Senior Vice President for Development Economics at the World Bank, Indermit Gill, yesterday pleaded with the Bola Tinubu administration to ensure the success of the current economic policies, opining that failure would mean a setback for reforms generally in sub-Saharan Africa.

Writing for the Financial Times in a piece titled: “Nigeria’s Economic Transformation Must Succeed,” the top World Bank official noted that though many might be scoffing at the idea that Nigeria just might be on the cusp of turning its economic fortunes around, yet the largest economy in sub-Saharan Africa might just be at a turning point.

“Nigeria’s economic transformation must succeed. Failure would set back the cause of reform across sub-Saharan Africa,” he maintained.

Since the 1980s, when oil prices collapsed, Gill stressed that the country had been mired in one crisis after another, but expressed the hope that things could be looking up again for the world’s biggest black population.

According to him, over the past year or so, the Nigerian government has implemented major, politically difficult reforms, pointing out that although no large-scale reform process is ever perfect, but this one must be allowed to succeed as Africa’s future hinges on its success.

The World Bank Senior VP opined that an economic turnaround in a country with more people in poverty than almost any other would be a game-changer for market-orientated reforms across the continent.

“Consider the scale of the reforms implemented so far. Nigeria now has a market-determined exchange rate, having unified official and parallel exchange rates. Previously, the government had been losing the equivalent of 38 cents for every $1 of government oil export proceeds.

“This benefited some local elites, who acquired dollars cheaply at the government’s expense. The unification also got rid of a hefty implicit tax on agricultural and manufactured exports.

“Costly and regressive petrol subsidies are also being cut. This will help to strengthen Nigeria’s historically shaky public finances and restore the naira as a credible currency.

“Implementing such far-reaching change is impossible without political commitment from the top. The price of petrol in Nigeria has quintupled since the subsidy cuts, imposing terrible hardship across society. To boost confidence in the naira and anchor inflation expectations, the central bank has had to raise its policy rate by 850 basis points in the last nine months.

Central-bank financing of fiscal deficits has finally ended.

“Yet the hard part has only just begun. Nigeria will need to stay the course if it is to become an engine of growth in Sub-Saharan Africa. Although the historical record isn’t encouraging — previous reforms have been rolled back by the elite — policymakers will need to focus on three critical areas in particular,” Gill wrote.

He listed the core areas of focus as non-oil growth, helping the vulnerable households cope with inflation and establishing a climate in which private businesses can flourish.

“First, they should prioritise non-oil growth. This requires a competitive exchange rate, which Nigeria now has. To protect the poor and maintain

almost seven years, I haven’t gone on leave. I didn’t go on leave till I went to bury my mum, when I was given a week-plus to go and bury my mum.

"Because we are in uniform, we should die working? We shouldn’t have a week or two for vacation. Is it even abnormal for someone to go for (medical) check-up? Must you even be sick before going for medical checkup? Are we not supposed to evaluate ourselves?

“We need to understand some things. For the past seven years, I haven’t gone on leave. It’s a call to national duty. People need to understand the sacrifices soldiers are making. There was a point that I came to my home and my children didn’t even know me.

“I don’t think it’s out of place for myself or any other person, even if it’s a top brass in the army to travel out or in any of the services to travel out for rest or do a medical checkup or something. I don’t think there should be any fuss about that."

competitiveness, the central bank must maintain its focus on inflation.

“ It should resist the lure of volatile short-term capital inflows that might push up the naira’s value too quickly and stifle non-oil growth in the process. And it should rebuild foreign-exchange reserves as a cushion against oil-price and exchange-rate volatility.

“Second, Nigeria must help vulnerable households cope with inflation, which is still high. The government is rolling out a large-scale targeted, temporary cash transfer programme. It should also establish a cost-effective safety net to protect the most vulnerable.

“The third and final priority is to establish a climate in which private businesses can flourish. Nigeria’s need for jobs is immense. Today, less than 14 per cent of working Nigerians enjoy a predictable, fixed wage,“ the World Bank official explained. In the next 10 years, the number of Nigerians entering the workforce, he said, is set to increase by more than 12 million, opining that generating the requisite number of good jobs will depend on sparking large-scale domestic and foreign private investment in the non-oil sector. According to him, Nigeria’s government deserves the world’s support in this endeavour.

“Failure in Nigeria would set back the cause of reform across Africa, besides ruining the prospects of yet another generation of young Nigerians. The country’s elites must forge a political consensus in support of these reforms, because their long-term interests lie in a broadly prosperous and stable society.

“For its part, the international community should do everything in its power to help the government succeed,” Gill stated.

Linus Aleke in Abuja

L-R: The Onisiwo Tomaro Abagbo, Alhaji Musiladeen Adio Yusuf; Deputy High Commissioner, British High Commission, Mr. Jonny Baxter; Representative of Lagos State Governor and Secretary to Lagos State Government, Mrs. Abimbola SaluHundeyin; Chairman/Chief Executive of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd); and Commander, NNS Beecroft, Navy Commodore RT Oladejo, at the inauguration of the Marine Command Headquarters facility of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, built and donated by the British Government in Lagos ... yesterday PHOTO: ETOP UKUTT

sUPPORT FOR TEENs…

L-R: Project Manager, Leye Gbadamosi; Student, Jomilolu Akinlabi; author and Gallup Certified Strengths Coach, Foluso Gbadamosi; Global Lead Pastor of Elevation Church, Godman Akinlabi, and star of Disney and KugaliMedia’s Iwájú, Simisola Gbadamosi, at a soiree for Foluso Gbadamosi’s latest book, ‘Unleash Your SuperPowers for Teens’ in Lagos…recently

Invasion of Urban Radio, an Attack on Media, Says GPAAN

Gideon

arinze in enugu

The Enugu State chapter of the Guild of Public Affairs Analysts of Nigeria (GPAAN) has said that the recent invasion of a radio station in the state by agents of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Enugu Zonal Office, is an attack intended to silence the media in Nigeria. Officers of the EFFC had on October 14, 2024, invaded Urban Radio where they allegedly arrested Favour Ekoh, host of Prime Time, a programme running at the station while she was still presenting on live radio.

of the Enugu State chapter of the GPAAN, Ambrose Igboke, said that the actions of EFCC are “reminiscent of the fascist, despotic and dark era in Nigeria’s history

In a statement issued to journalists yesterday, the Chairman

Ijaw Group Warns Detractors to Leave PAP Boss Alone

Olusegun samuel inyenagoa

The Ijaw Youths Network has again warned detractors, who are irked by the rising profile of the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, Dr Dennis Otuaro, to stop the renewed mudslinging in the media space.

The IYN urged Otuaro to ignore paid agents who are out to sabotage his commendable efforts to return the PAP to the Niger Delta.

The IYN, in a statement by its President, Frank Ebikabo, and the Secretary, Federal Ebiaridor, yesterday said the organisation is concerned about repeated attacks on the image of Otuaro

by unscrupulous elements who do not mean well for the region.

According to the IYN, the insinuations and ill-fated attempts to link a purportedly leaked document in custody of the Department of State Services(DSS) to the administrator of the presidential amnesty office is a farce not worthy of attention from serious minds.

The group noted that the PAP office is neither an annex nor an extension of the DSS office, adding that the security agency is one of the most effective and thorough security agencies in the country which has the capacity to uncover any such infraction involving the office.

where all efforts were made to intimidate, harass, bully, and silent the media.

“The EFCC has again demonstrated that though we are

in a democratic dispensation, it continues to operate as though we are in an authoritarian government.”

He noted that while the EFCC,

as an agency of the government, is authorized to carry out its statutory duties, this must, however, be done in accordance with laid down rules of engagement.

Oyebanji: Ekiti Has Taken Bold March Forward in Two Years

Gbenga sodeinde in ado ekiti

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, last Tuesday expressed satisfaction that the State under his watch has taken a bold march forward in all the key sectors of the economy as evidenced by verifiable indices of development.

Oyebanji who gave an account of stewardship before members of the Ekiti State House of Assembly while delivering the annual State of the State Address, commemorating the second anniversary of his administration, said his administration has been able to achieve much in two years

because of the unflinching support and cooperation he had enjoyed from all and sundry so far.

The hallowed chamber of the state Assembly was filled to a capacity with top government officials and prominent citizens in attendance, which included the Deputy Governor, Chief Monisade

Afuye; wife of the Governor, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji; members of the state executive council, heads of education institutions, heads of financial institutions, council chairmen, labour union leaders, and representatives of sociopolitical groups and political parties.

Ex-Deputy Govs Join Search for Solutions to Nigeria’s Socio-economic Problems

Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in umuahia

Former Deputy Governors, who served in various states across Nigeria, have come together as a body to join in the search for lasting solutions to Nigeria’s debilitating problems.

The former deputies, who, at different periods, were involved in the business of governance in the 36 states, now operate under the umbrella of Forum of Former Deputy Governors of Nigeria. They expressed worry

over the apparent intractable problems holding Nigeria down, including issues of governance, insecurity, unstable exchange rate, corruption, among others, that urgently require lasting remedy.

In a statement issued yesterday, the Forum expressed its readiness to contribute in efforts to free Nigeria from the maelstrom of socio-economic problems. It said that its forthcoming 2024 national conference slated for Abuja would offer the opportunity to make its own input on the way forward.

Invest to Harness Economic Potential of Rivers Niger, Benue, Don Tasks FG

ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja

Osun Urges Companies to Pay Telecommunications

yinka Kolawole in osogbo Osun State Government yesterday warned companies that are laying cables illegally without the permit of the state government to desist henceforth.

The government has also urged all entities operating in the telecommunications sector to prioritise compliance with environmental regulations.

Taxes

Speaking with journalists, the Director of Data and Project Management of Global Transactions Nigeria Limited, Morenike George –Taylor, said there is the need to address the critical importance of compliance with the Osun State Environmental Protection Law 2022 (as amended). She said the law mandates that any installation, including the laying of cables, must first receive a written permit from the Ministry of Environment and Sanitation, as stated in Section 27(1).

The federal government has been urged to invest more to transform the Rivers Niger and Benue into working rivers in Nigeria to harness the economic potentialities and boost the nation’s economy.

A Climate Science expert,

According to her, “This requirement is not merely a bureaucratic formality; it is designed to protect our environment and ensure the safety of our communities. Section 27(3) further emphasizes this necessity.

Glo-sponsored Ofala Begins Friday

The Globacom-sponsored Ofala Festival of Onitsha, Anambra State, will begin on Friday, October 18, at the Ime Obi, the palace of the traditional ruler of the kingdom, Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe.

According to a statement released by the digital solutions provider in Lagos yesterday, the first day of the ceremony, which is called Iru Ofala, will be held on Friday, while the festival will be concluded with the Azu Ofala on Saturday, October 19.

A Royal Banquet organised by Globacom in honour of Igwe Achebe will be held at the Ime Obi on Wednesday, October 23, the statement disclosed.

Ofala, the biggest traditional festival in the South Eastern part of the country, is an occasion for the monarch to fulfil certain cultural obligations, and primarily a celebration by the Igwe and his subjects of his annual emergence from seclusion, during which period he successfully negotiates the fortunes of the kingdom.

The theme of the 2024 Ofala is “Courage, Perseverance, and Self-Reliance” (Onye kwe, Chi’e ekwe), which reflects the traditional ruler’s message of hope and resilience in the face of prevailing hardship in the country.

Professor Jimmy Adegoke, gave this charge while speaking as a ‘Distinguished Public Lecturer’ who delivered a paper titled: ‘A Tale of two cities: Climate Threats and Opportunities at the Confluence of the great Rivers Niger and Benue’, at Permanent Site of the Federal University, Lokoja, yesterday.

The university teacher explained that the rivers in Nigeria are the gift of the new in the abounding resources around them that must be adequately tapped to the fullest for the benefit of mankind.

Professor Adegoke tasked the government to put more mechanism in place to ensure all these resources are turned into economic values and other commercial activities to boost the Nigerian economy. He delved into historical perspectives of how the great confluence of Rivers Missouri and Mississippi at St. Louis provided ample opportunities for America to power its economy.

‘Transformative Policies will Drive Achievement of SDGs by 2030’

The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Mrs. Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, has mphasized the need for transformative, catalytic policies and programmes for the country to achieve the SDGs by 2030. Speaking in Ibadan at the maiden international conference of the Commonwealth Scholars and Fellows Alumni Association Nigeria (COSFAN), with the theme: “Reimagining an Inclusive Society through Governance, Technology and Social Justice,” she urged stakeholders to work together to find solutions to the problems facing the country.

Wale igbintade

A businessman, Michael Ogbole, has dragged First City Monument Bank(FCMB) before a Lagos State High Court, Osborne, Ikoyi, demanding $60,206.66 as unpaid commission for allegedly facilitating a multi-million-dollar transaction with a US-based

company, Sky Enterprise LLC. Ogbole, in suit number LD/ ADR/4635/2022, filed by his legal team, Falana & Falana Chambers is accusing FCMB of circumventing him in the deal.

The claimant alleged that on June 2, 2016, he met with FCMB’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Ladi Balogun, to discuss how

Orelope-Adefulire, who was represented by her Special Assistant, Ms. Rose Keffas, lauded the organisers of the conference for coming up with such a round table gathering, reiterating that the federal government is committed to do more towards accelerating the attainment of SDGs in Nigeria. According to her, the event is timely because the world is off track of SDGs and the various stakeholders need to come together to achieve the SDGs, noting that the sub theme as well as the main theme resonate and align with the development goals of Nigeria.

he could help the bank secure finance from Sky Enterprise LLC, a Florida-based firm specialising in trade finance, risk, and debt management.

Following their discussion, Balogun allegedly directed him to contact FCMB’s Treasurer, Mr. Gerald Ikem, who introduced him to Mr.Nomso Ezenta,

Head of Structured Funding and Correspondent Banking, to coordinate the transaction. The businessman said on September 2, 2016, he arranged a meeting between Sky Enterprise’s Global Director for Africa, Mr. Yinka Akinlabi, and FCMB officials at the bank’s headquarters to structure the trade finance deal.

Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation Reaffirms Commitment to Public Service Excellence

The Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation (AIF) has paid a courtesy visit to the newly appointed Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (HoS), Mrs. Didi Walson-Jack.

The visit, which was led by the Chairman of AIF, Mr Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, was to extend

the foundation’s congratulations to Walson-Jack on her new appointment and to reaffirm the foundation’s longstanding partnership with the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF).

During the visit, Aig-Imoukhuede

commended the civil service for its crucial role in delivering essential public services to Nigerians. He reflected on the collaboration that has existed between the OHCSF and the foundation, which started with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in 2017 and was renewed in 2021. He reiterated the foundation’s commitment to supporting Walson-Jack in achieving the objectives of her new mandate, and continuing the legacy of public service excellence.

THURSDAYSPORTS

NPFL: Ahmed Musa Powers Kano Pillars to Victory in Seven-goal Thriller with Rangers

Duro Ikhazuagbe

Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) reigning champions, Rangers International FC were handed a bitter 4-3 defeat in a seven-goal thriller inside their Cathedral in Enugu by visiting Kano Pillars.

And Super Eagles Captain, Ahmed Musa who recently returned to the Nigerian topflight for a third stint was

largely instrumental to the away victory of the Sai Masu Gida at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium in Enugu.

The former Leicester City winger scored his third goal of the season in the 45th minute, when he outran his markers before finding the back of the net.

That goal by Ahmed Musa turned out the winner for Pillars.

The Super Eagles captain was involved in all the other goals

scored by his team: He  won the two penalties and assisted for the second goal.

Veteran Rabiu Ali scored twice from the penalty spot in the 15th and 28th minutes, while Zulkifilu Rabiu also got on the scorer’s sheet for Pillars in the 37th minute.

The game turned into a nightmare for Rangers as Ahmed Musa made it 4-0 in the first minute of the added time.

However, after the half time break,

the Flying Antelopes rallied back with  a brace by Isaac Saviour. Emmanuel Silas Nenrot scored Rangers third goal but that was not enough to salvage a result for the champions.

The win on the road has lifted Pillars to sixth in the standings.

Elsewhere, In Lafia, Lobi Stars under the watch of Daniel Amokachi were held to a 2-2 draw by El-kanemi Warriors.

Ossy Martins gave Lobi Stars

Lagos Celebrates Enitan-Oshodi’s Rise to ATTF Presidency

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has praised the election of Wahid Enitan-Oshodi as the 6th President of the African Table Tennis Federation (ATTF) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on Tuesday Oshodi, a former Commissioner for Youth, Sports, and Social Development, was unanimously elected at the Elective Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the continental body held at the African Union (AU) headquarters.

The meeting was attended by 40-member nations of the ATTF, making Oshodi the second Nigerian to lead the continental sports body after Engr. Segun George, who served from 1988 to 1996.

“We are indeed proud of a true Lagosian who has continued to put Nigeria and Lagos on the world map through his sheer ingenuity in sports. His rising profile within and outside the continent has not come as a surprise, as he has shown to be

Former Super Eagles forward, Jonathan Akpoborie and professional Golf sensation, Olapade Sunday, took turns to shine at the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund’s (NSITF), Professional Development Competition hosted at the golf section of Ikoyi Club 1938 in Lagos.

Olapade shot an impressive 64, seven under par to lead the field of 24 professional golfers that participated in the 18-hole event last week. He beat Emmanuel Aladekere (68) by four shots, while Francis Epe and Ogunwoye Shola were tied in the third place with their respective 69, two under returns.

Jonathan Akpoborie, Nigeria’s former football star also featured in the event as a guest player to underscore the broad scope of the NSITF cover.

The Managing Director of Nigeria

a reliable hand when it comes to sports development.

“His keen interest in youth development has helped to unearth several stars like Quadri Aruna and Olajide Omotayo. He is loved by the athletes and genuinely takes a special interest in their welfare.

“Since he left office as Commissioner, he has kept faith in sports, and this has been confirmed by his unanimous election in Addis Ababa,” said Governor Sanwo-Olu.

Sanwo-Olu also pledged the state’s support to Oshodi and called on other Nigerians to support their compatriot, who has continued to make the country proud with his international acceptance.

Oshodi’s journey in sports administration began in 2000 when he was appointed to the Lagos State Sports Council Governing Board under the administration of then-Governor Bola Tinubu. He later became the Chairman of the Lagos State Table Tennis

Social Insurance Trust Fund, Barrister Oluwaseun Mayomi Faleye, who was represented at the closing ceremony of the event by Agboma Okoroafor (NSITF Regional Manager,(Mainland) Lagos, said that athletes including professional golfers are exposed to career-threatening risks.

“As professional golfers, you face various risks associated with your careers, including but not limited to injuries that can affect your performance and livelihood. The Employees’ Compensation Scheme (ECS) provides crucial protection against work-related injuries, illnesses, disabilities and even death. By registering with this scheme, you gain access to medical care, rehabilitation services, and financial compensation in cases of disabilities and death,” She said. Okoroafor said the NSITF

Association (LSTTA).

Under Governor Babatunde Fashola’s administration, he was appointed Commissioner for Youth, Sports, and Social Development in 2011, where he supervised the National Sports Festival, tagged:

“Eko 2012”.

He was subsequently elected President of the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation (NTTF), where he brought vibrancy to the sport, unearthing international stars for the country.

the lead in the 17th minute, while he doubled the lead six minutes after the break.

Ibrahim Mustapha however scored twice to level scores for El-kanemi Warriors.

In another game in Lafia, Nasarawa United thrashed Abia Warriors 3-0 with  Anas Yusuf scoring  all three goals for the Solid Miners.

In Ilorin, Wasiu Alade scored a brace as Kwara United also defeated Sunshine Stars 3-0 to pick all three points. AbdulRaheem Shola scored the third goal for the Ilorin-based side.

Former champions Enyimba held Niger Tornadoes to a 1-1 draw. Joseph Godstime gave Tornadoes the lead three minutes before the break.

Enyimba got their equaliser through Ufere Chinedu 14 minutes.

RESULTS

(Today)

B’Insurance v Bayelsa  Heartland v Ikorodu City Katsina Utd v Akwa Utd Plateau v Remo Stars Rivers Utd v Shooting

Varsity Cup 2024, the maiden edition of Nigeria’s first annual university football competition for men and women kicked off in spectacular style with two electrifying matches hosted in the beautiful mainbowl of the University of Benin Sports Centre.

The competition began with the hosts, the University of Benin (UNIBEN) Men’s Team losing 1-3 to Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) Men’s Team, with Benjamin Enadeghe Amanyanvbo of OAU winning the coveted Moniepoint Star Player of the Match award that comes with the sum of N100,000.

Goals from OAU’s Kehinde Akinremi, Samson Bolarinde and Benjamin Amayanvbo were enough to see the visitors register an emphatic win over the hosts, with UNIBEN’s Uyiosa Osadiaye’s lone goal proving not to be enough.

In the second match of the series, the University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN) Men’s Team proved their superiority with a 2-1 victory over Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA) Men’s Team.

Toluwa Ajayi of AAUA’s 22ndminute goal could not contain the ravishing brace by Onyedikachi Raluchukwu of UNN, who was crowned the undisputed Star of the Match, winning Moniepoint’s N100,000 cash prize for a spectacular performance.

“Today’s matches were a huge success. With the quality of organization on and off the field of play, Varsity Cup 2024 is truly delivering as promised,” stressed Professor M.G Yakasi, who is the Technical Chairman of the Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA).

Shearer, Lineker Back Tuchel for England Job

Former England Captain, Alan Shearer, has said that the Three Lions “need a manager who can deliver a trophy” following the appointment of German Thomas Tuchelas boss.

The 51-year-old Tuchel will be the third non-British permanent head coach of the England men’s team when he officially starts work in January. The others are Sven-Goran Eriksson and Fabio Capello.

Tuchel, who won the Champions League with Chelsea in 2021, is

tasked with leading England to the 2026 World Cup, where they will hope to end their 60-year wait

values the growing relationship it is cultivating with Ikoyi Club 1938 and the game of golf.

“NSITF has made efforts to actively support the development of professional golf in the country, as exemplified by our sponsorship of the inaugural Ikoyi Club Professional Development Competition in Lagos.

“This engagement highlights our commitment to fostering the growth and skill enhancement of golfers. The Ikoyi Club boasts some of the finest professionals in Nigeria and is arguably the largest golf-playing community in the country. By investing in such initiatives, we aim to contribute to the development of not only the sport but also the livelihoods of those who dedicate themselves to it,” she concluded.

for a major trophy.

“We need a trophy - it’s as simple as that. We need a manager who can deliver that,” Shearer said on The Rest Is Footballpodcast.

“There’s no doubt (Tuchel) has an incredible CV, but this is going to be a very different test for him. It’s a bold move from the FA, there’s no doubt about it.

“You have to win the tournament, that’s what he’s been hired for. They (the FA) have seen the bunch of players are the best England have had

for a long, long time.” England had been without a permanent manager since Gareth Southgate resigned after eight years in charge following the Euro 2024 final defeat by Spain, with Lee Carsley holding the fort on an interim basis.

Now Tuchel can begin to plan for what the Football Association hopes will prove a fruitful reign.

“He (Tuchel) is a different kind of manager to Southgate,” former England striker Gary Lineker told BBC Sport.

L-R: Kano Pillars trio of Rabiu Ali, Ahmed Musa and Shehu Abdullahi shortly after the Sai Masu Gida defeated Rangers International FC 4-3 in a Match-day 7 NPFL fixture in Enugu... yesterday

Former Super Eagle’s Forward, Jonathan Akpoborie (left), joined  Ikoyi Club 1938 Head Pro, Jacob Omoruah (right), to present honorary award to the NSITF officials present at the club during the inaugural NSITF Golf Day event... last weekend

MISSILE

Kibe Mungai to Kenya Parliament

Aliko Dangote to Federal Government

“You cannot treat the removal of a deputy president like a public emergency; you’re doing it within 14 days. Even a chicken thief is not tried within a month. If the Senate fails on accountability, the courts will step in" –Kenyanlawyer,condemningthe‘microwaveimpeachment’of DeputyPresidentRigathiGachaguabasedonchargesthatmanybelievewere contrived because he has fallen out of favour with President William Ruto

“To ensure sufficient feedstock availability we will need to stop mortgaging crude. It is unfortunate that while countries like Norway are putting oil proceeds into a future fund through their national wealth funds, in Africa, we are spending oil proceeds from the future today” - The President of Dangote Group, on why the federal government should ensure the availability of crude feedstock for local refineries.

OLUSEGUN ADENIYI

olusegun.adeniyi@thisdaylive.com

Sycophancy Nigeria Unlimited

Is there Justice for Workers in Nigeria?

The National Industrial Court of Nigeria (NICN) held its 2024/2025 Legal Year ceremony yesterday in Abuja. With a retired Justice of Supreme Court, Ejembi Eko as Chairman, I was the guest speaker. Below is a slightly abridged version of my presentation that speaks not only to labour justice and public interest but also the rule of law and the role of Judges in Nigeria.

When my authority inspires sycophancy, I have no followers, only resentful manipulators of my power for their own selfish gain—George Kunz

IReleased last week, the World Bank’s Food Security Update Report listed Nigeria among countries that have seen a significant rise in the number of people facing acute food shortages when compared with the previous year. If the situation in the country is worse than the 2023 Global Hunger Index (GHI) report which classified Nigeria as having “a level of hunger that is serious,” one can only imagine the gravity of the deprivation our people are facing. And just Tuesday, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) released the latest Consumer Price Index report revealing that the headline inflation rate for September rose to 32.70 percent. Year-on-year inflation surged by 5.98 percent points. Sadly, our lawmakers gleefully tell us to scavenge for food anywhere we can find a free meal. That’s the latest ‘gospel’ according to St. Akpabio. But then, we have a National Assembly whose members seem blind, deaf and dumb about the existential challenges in Nigeria today.

consider it an honour and a privilege to stand before this august gathering as you celebrate the 2024/2025 Legal Year. I expect many of you may be wondering what qualifies me to be here and why a journalist is presenting a paper on labour justice and public interest. Perhaps I should let you in on a secret. I got the invitation for this assignment when I met an energetic man playing ping pong (table tennis) sometime last year. Had I not been introduced to the gentleman before I watched him toss the ball upward with his left hand and strike it fiercely with his right, it would have been difficult for me to believe that he was the Honourable Justice Benedict Kanyip, President of the National Industrial Court of Nigeria (NICN). Even though we exchanged contacts that day, I decided not to dwell too much on the promise because I thought it was one of those spur-of-the-moment decisions people make while in a jolly mood. But early this year, the honourable justice followed up with a call to remind me that I would indeed be the speaker at the 2024/2025 Legal Year ceremony. I cannot thank Justice Kanyip enough for the honour.

To satisfy the preference of President Bola Tinubu for the old national anthem, the National Assembly initiated and passed the ‘National Anthem Bill, 2024’ for Nigerians to move from singing ‘Arise O Compatriots,’ to ‘Nigeria, We Hail Thee’ on the first anniversary of the current administration. A day later, the same National Assembly named their library after the president. Two months after that, lawmakers amended the police act in one day (first, second and third reading) so that the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun could enjoy an elastic tenure at the pleasure of the president. And now, a bill seeking to establish the Bola Tinubu University in Aba, Abia State to teach Nigerian languages has passed the first reading in the House of Representatives. Sponsored by Deputy Speaker Ben Kalu, the co-sponsors are Inuwa Garba, Nasiru Shehu, Alex Ikwechegh, Bako Useni, Amobi Ogah, Akin Rotimi, Halims Abdullahi, and Felix Nwaeke.

Let me also appreciate other Judges of this court. My understanding of the contributions of the NICN to labour jurisprudence in our country has been enriched in recent days. To prepare my paper, I spent considerable time at the Court’s library. And, as it is with most libraries in Nigeria, the environment could be better. But I was fortunate to encounter two dedicated library staff who painstakingly provided me access to relevant materials, including ‘Digest of Labour Cases in Nigeria (1960 to 2012)’ and ‘Digest of Judgements of National Industrial Court (1978 – 2006)’ edited by Oluwole Kehinde with foreword (to both books) written by a former President of this Court, Justice Babatunde Adejumo. These materials, and a few others I browsed through, catalogue hundreds of cases decided by this court to advance the course of justice for workers in Nigeria.

individuals who will never fail to flatter the leader at the drop of a hat and will always agree with whatever the leader says – just so they stay in favour and accrue some benefit.” But it will take perceptive leaders to understand that.

levels of government and the private sector that even foreign owned entities operating in Nigeria have been emboldened to treat our people with disrespect. In a clear breach of extant labour laws, many of these companies resort to unwholesome practices that deny their Nigerians workers job security and appropriate benefits. Even where there are statutory compensation provisions for work-related diseases, injuries, disabilities, or death, they are mostly observed in the breach. In several cases, affected workers or their next of kin receive little or no compensation for death or permanent injuries, including when they occurred while carrying out assigned duties.

ability to flatter and please those in power, Paul further argued. “The brilliance of sycophants lies in the way they will make the leader believe that the conclusion that has been arrived at, the decision that has been made, is completely of their own accord. The fact that the leader has been influenced with slow poisoning, that the outcome serves the sycophant's agenda, will never be detected,” he wrote. “It will leave the leader more and more clueless about what is really going on while pushing them further away from the people they are leading. It will give them a false sense of invincibility and grandeur. The leader will become more and more vulnerable to the lies of the sycophants. Eventually, they will stand helpless in front of a wall that has cracked in too many places.”

This includes access to courts and other formal dispute resolution mechanisms in pursuit of effective remedy.

The parameters in any given jurisdiction to measure labour justice include fair wages, which indicates that workers are to be compensated by their employers in a manner commensurate with their output; safe working conditions that guarantee protection from foreseeable danger and defence of their inalienable right to organize protests and negotiate collectively. There are of course several others, including not being discriminated against on the basis of religion, race, gender, age etc. If these parameters encompass the principles and practices that ensure fair treatment and protection of workers in their employment context, it goes without saying that the aim of labour justice is to address power imbalances between employers and workers, and to promote the dignity of labour.

Unfortunately, despite a plethora of legislation and the fact that Nigeria is a signatory to numerous conventions that should guarantee access to justice for workers, the reality is quite different. This can be glimpsed from the way key aspects of labour justice are resolved in our country. Not necessarily to the satisfaction of workers. These include freedom from discrimination, the ability to engage in collective bargaining, modalities for addressing unfair dismissal, among others. This then brings me to the issue of specialized labour court which the NICN represents in Nigeria.

The constitutional amendment of 2011 assented to by President Goodluck Jonathan changed the narrative by altering sections 6 and 254 of the 1999 Constitution and including the NICN as a Superior Court of record with coordinate jurisdiction with High Courts. The amendment also expanded the jurisdiction of the court to handle human right cases emanating from the workplace. The court is also saddled with jurisdiction to resolve disputes between the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC) and government.

well-placed individuals at practically all levels of governance in Nigeria. They are, as George Kunz described them, resentful manipulators of power for their own selfish gain. But for dancing to the tune of sycophants, the story ended tragically for King Ahab.

This dreadful culture of sycophancy is deeply rooted in our society so President Tinubu should be wary of the antics of bootlickers. Nigeria is in a very bad place today and millions of citizens are going through harrowing times, not knowing where the next meal would come for their families. Since that is not what his sycophants are telling him, the president must begin to immunize himself against the ‘400 prophets’ in the National Assembly, Federal Executive Council and among State Governors. They do not mean well for him, and they care even less about the country.

NICN Lecture: What I Said

Before I continue with the issue of labour justice and public interest, let me make a general point about justice administration in Nigeria. It is important because the extent of justice available to workers in any given society is a function of the extent of rule of law available in that society. It is doubtful that citizens as workers can expect a higher degree of labour justice than what is available within the larger society. In her speech at the special session of the Supreme Court commemorating its new Legal Year and the induction of the latest set of Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs) on 30 September 2024, the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Honourable Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun emphasised that obedience to court orders will, under her watch, be “non-negotiable”. And that “No individual or institution, irrespective of their standing, will be permitted to treat the judgments of our courts with levity or disregard”.

I have been asked to speak on labour justice and public interest. There could not have been a better time to interrogate this topic in Nigeria as both labour and government were recently locked in negotiating an appropriate national minimum wage—the lowest amount of salary that employers of labour, whether in the private or public sector, should earn in the country. After much drama, it is gratifying that the two parties were able to reach a consensus on the issue, despite the fact that the agreed amount cannot even buy a bag of rice in the market.

To be sure, sycophancy has always been a national pastime in Nigeria. That explains why the birthday ceremonies of political office holders and that of their spouses as well as the burial ceremonies of their parents have become state functions. Even within religious institutions, we see how the Papas and Mamas are worshipped sometimes more than the God from whom those individuals claim to have secured their spiritual mandates. Yet, as I have argued in the past on this same issue, when you create an environment in which leaders are hero-worshipped, as is the case in Nigeria today, development is a mirage, and the people are the ultimate losers.

My main concern is that sycophancy is being institutionalised under the current administration. A few days before leaving office in May last year, President Mohammadu Buhari directed that 15 of the federal airports in the country be named after prominent Nigerians and it was difficult to fault the list. The one in the Niger State capital was named ‘Mallam Abubakar Imam International Airport, Minna’. But early this year, Governor Umar Bago renamed the airport ‘Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport’. Beyond sullying the memory of the late Imam—a respected journalist and contemporary of the late Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe in precolonial days who is regarded as a premier figure in Hausa literature—the Niger State governor was allowed to overturn the decision of a former president on something within the Exclusive (federal) List in the Constitution!

The concept of Labour justice and public interest are interwoven. Any initiative that engenders fair treatment in the workplace impacts positively on societal wellbeing. Indeed, the United Nations (UN) has on many occasions highlighted the importance of access to justice which essentially means the right to have one’s cause heard before an impartial arbiter. The international reference point for the concept of labour justice, as we are all aware, is the International Labour Organization (ILO) which, in several instruments, enshrines the right of workers to access justice without encumbrance.

The first inclination of leaders surrounded by sycophants is to believe they are above the law. Once hooked on such an idea, they begin to crave constant applause from these professional flatterers, even when the people they are supposed to serve are no longer with them. It is a dangerous place to be for any leader. Seven years ago, when I wrote on this same issue of sycophancy to warn then President Muhammadu Buhari, I illustrated my point with the Biblical story of King Ahab of Israel, who sought the collaboration of King Jehoshaphat of Judah in his bid to reclaim a city. While Jehoshaphat agreed to the request, he advised Ahab to first seek God’s counsel. “Go, for the Lord will give it into the king’s hand”, the 400 prophets quickly assembled by Ahab roared. But being more circumspect, Jehoshaphat asked: “Is there not a prophet of the Lord here whom we can inquire of?”

The evolution of industrial courts can be traced to 1806 in France, 1869 in Germany and 1919 in the United Kingdom. But it was not until 1976 that authorities in our country signed on to the idea with the NICN. Established to address labour justice in all its ramifications, the court became functional in 1978. In the early years, the NICN faced several challenges that affected its effectiveness and efficiency. But even when operational, the court provided no reprieve for aggrieved workers for decades as its judgments were unenforceable due to the lack of laws and procedures required of a Superior Court of record.

Jehoshaphat must have seen through these 400 palace prophets, the leading advisers of Ahab, and concluded there was no point relying on the prophecy of sycophants. His question provoked a predictable response from Ahab, as recorded in second Chronicles Chapter 18, Verse 7: “The King of Israel answered Jehoshaphat, ‘There is still one man through whom we can inquire of the Lord, but I hate him because he never prophesies anything good about me... He is Micaiah the son of Imlah.”

Invariably, Ahab was simply seeking validation for a decision he had already taken, even if it was wrong. And those 400 prophets were ‘his men’—people who always told him what he wanted to hear. We have several such

The situation of workers in Nigeria is further complicated by the fact that those in the informal sector are practically excluded from any form of labour justice. Today, the only avenue for redress for most is to appear on radio programmes. That is how Ahmed Isah, an activist and on-air personality who anchors ‘Brekete Family’ on Human Rights Radio Abuja, has become not only the ‘Ordinary President’ for the vulnerable of our society but also their ‘Chief Justice.’ Such is the flagrant violation of workers’ rights by all

In her piece on the danger of sycophancy, Aasha Mehreen Amin, a famous Bangladeshi journalist, wrote that leaders who surround themselves with sycophants are vulnerable to the malaise of becoming blinded in the smog created by these yes men and yes women. “These are not the people who genuinely care about the leader or act in the leader's best interest,” she wrote. “No, these are the

That provides a ready backdrop to some of the decisions being taken by the National Assembly. Sadly, when an institution saddled with the primary responsibility of serving as a check on the excesses of the executive would rather play the role of sycophant, the needs and aspirations of the people they are supposed to serve are lost. That point was made so eloquently by Dr Gai Chol Paul, a South Sudanese scholar and author of ‘The Stolen Nation’ in the piece, ‘How Sycophancy Destroys a Nation’. The reason why some nations are unable to progress despite having all the resources and potential, according to him, lies in the toxic culture of sycophancy.

“In a nation where sycophancy is rampant, meritocracy is replaced by favouritism and nepotism, leading to the downfall of the nation.”

Sycophancy creates a culture of mediocrity where people are rewarded not for their competence and hard work, but for their

The problem started with the Supreme Court decision in the case between the National Union of Electricity Employers (N.U.E.E.) and Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE). The apex court held that, despite the provisions of Decree 47, the NICN had neither exclusive nor coordinate jurisdiction with state high courts. The fact that the court was powerless for about 28 years of its operation was acknowledged on 5th May 2003 by the then NICN President, Justice Adejumo in a scathing remark. This was the way he put it: “The NICN remained practically moribund. The court sat only in Lagos for those years. It was clearly unknown and its decisions and pronouncements hardly respected.”

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recently published a damning report on Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) testing trends in Nigeria based on findings by a leading DNA testing centre in Lagos. According to the report, 27 per cent of paternity tests conducted came back negative, indicating that more than one in four men tested are not the biological fathers of the children in question. Most of the tests (85.9 per cent), the report further reveals, were conducted for ‘Peace of Mind’, rather than legal motivations. “These findings offer a unique window into the changing dynamics of Nigerian families and society” said Elizabeth Digia, the operations manager

The extent of justice available to workers in any given society is a function of the extent of rule of law available in that society...If there is anything to take from what transpired before last Saturday’s local government election in Rivers State, it is the willingness on the part of an alarmingly increasing number of judicial personnel to accept and play the role of hitmen for influential political actors as against serving the interest of the country and the public good.

Dear Mr Adeniyi, I attended the National Industrial Court of Nigeria Legal Year lecture on 9 October 2024 where you delivered a lecture which I commented on. In your column in THISDAY Newspaper last week, you noted my comment but did not reflect it fully. In your said column, you wrote that I said that the (Federal High) Court did not restrain the Police (in the case filed by the APC against the Police, INEC and others). But you did not go further to state the full position in my comment being that the court in that case did not restrain the Police from carrying out its duties but rather ordered them not to give security cover to the Rivers State Electoral Commission regarding the conduct of the local government election of 5th October in the State, as the condition precedent for having it had not been met. The above position is clearly spelt out in orders 3 and 6 of the judgment, a certified true copy of which you acknowledged has been availed you by Mr Jibrin Okutepa, SAN. Please, it is hoped that you will clarify my position in your next column.

This, indeed, is as it should be in a society governed by ‘rule of law’. But ‘rule of law’ is not the same as ‘rule of judges.’ According to worldjusticeproject.org, “The rule of law is a durable system of laws, institutions, norms and community commitment that delivers four universal principles: accountability, just law, open government, and accessible and impartial justice”. In contrast, ‘rule of judges’ denotes impunity towards the law by the very persons who ordinarily are invested with the functions and responsibilities of upholding ‘rule of law’. It is a situation in which a judge places himself/ herself above the law or makes himself/herself the law rather than a servant of the law or shepherd of the ‘rule of law’. Regrettably, the loud and overpowering noise of the latter is becoming definitive of Nigeria’s judiciary in the perception of most people. Nothing gives better expression to that than the statement, “Go to Court” by conscious wrong-doers, often followed by “Goonappeal” by their hand-in-glove judges!

--Nnamonso Ekanem, SAN

DNA and the Crisis of Paternity

at Smart DNA which conducted the survey. “The high rate of negative paternity tests and the surge in immigration-related testing are particularly noteworthy. They reflect broader societal trends that merit further discussion and research. The concentration of testing in Lagos also raises important questions about accessibility and awareness of DNA testing services across Nigeria.”

Aside the indiscipline of conflicting judgements, there is also the disgraceful issue of courts of coordinate jurisdiction nullifying one another since forum shopping has been institutionalised in Nigeria. In recent days, we have seen how the judiciary has been dragged into the power struggle between the godfather and his godson in Rivers State. If there is anything to take from what transpired before last Saturday’s local government election in the state, it is the willingness on the part of an alarmingly increasing number of judicial personnel to accept and play the role of hitmen for influential political actors as against serving the interest of the country and the public good. That should also be of serious concern to Justice Kekere-Ekun.

Four years ago, a Delta State High Court Judge claimed that DNA tests conducted on three children from his first marriage revealed that he is not their biological father... NOTE: Piece concluded online

I still cannot fathom how any self-respecting Judge would grant an injunction, using subterfuge to restrain the police from performing their primary responsibility of restoring law and order during an election process...

House of Reps Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu