The President and Chief Executive Officer of TotalEnergies worldwide, Patrick Pouyanne, has commended the Chief Executive of the Nigerian
Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Gbenga Komolafe, for restoring investors’ confidence in the Nigerian upstream sector.
Pouyanne, who commended the
NUPRC boss during a meeting they both held at the Commission's headquarters in Abuja, also pledged billion dollar investments in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector. According to a statement in
Abuja, by the NUPRC, the meeting focused on key issues surrounding divestment, investment, and regulatory consent. It added that during the meeting, parties discussed ongoing initiatives
related to the Shell Petroleum Development Company Joint Venture (SPDC JV) deal which covered the deal’s current status and its potential implications for future investment opportunities in
Nigeria's upstream petroleum sector. During the visit, Pouyanne expressed his company's interest in exploring additional areas of www.thisdaylive.com
Amid macroeconomic challenges facing the Nigerian economy, Zenith Bank Plc, Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (GTCO), Access Holdings Plc, United Bank for Africa Plc
Plc and Ecobank Transnational Incorporated (ETI) generated an estimated N4.15 trillion profit before tax in the first nine months of 2024. According to data compiled by THISDAY, the aforementioned amount raked in by the financial institutions, was about 110.4 per
cent increase, compared with the total of N1.97 trillion profit before tax generated by the banks in nine months of 2023.
The figures were compiled from the respective nine months unaudited financial statement of the financial institutions released to
the investing public on the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX).
After paying an accumulative N789.88
of 2023. So far in 2024, these DMBs are faced with a range of challenges stemming from both domestic economic factors and global
Tinubu: Tax Reform Bills Will Go Through Legislative Process in National Assembly
Elumoye in Abuja and Sunday Ehigiator in Lagos President Bola Tinubu yesterday, reacted to the National Economic Council's (NEC) recommendation during its meeting on Thursday at the State House, Abuja, that the four tax reform bills already sent to the National Assembly be withdrawn for further consultation.
The President, according to a statement issued by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, while commending the NEC members, especially Vice President Kashim Shettima and the 36 State Governors, for their advice, however, believed that the legislative process, which has already begun, provides an opportunity for inputs and necessary changes without withdrawing the bills from the National Assembly.
The development emerged as a notable Northern group, the Arewa Think Tank (ATT) threw its weight
Kayode Tokede
(UBA), FBN Holdings
In Final Sprint for White House, Harris, Trump Woo Undecided, Latinos, First-time Voters
Nume Ekeghe just back from Atlanta
As the United States presidential election enters its final stretch, the contest between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump is shaping up to be one of the tightest and most polarising in recent memory, as both leading contestants push to woo undecided, first-time voters, as well as Latin American voters (Latinos).
With only three days remaining, voters from diverse backgrounds and political viewpoints are weighing in, voicing concerns over key issues such as immigration, economic policies, social programmes, and America's role on the global stage.
Harris and Trump have been pushing for Latino and Arab-American voters. Trump assured Latino voters he had their best interests in mind, and Harris attempted to lock down the demographic crucial to her candidacy.
Harris and Trump also crisscrossed the South-west on Thursday, making stops in Arizona and Nevada to make their case to Latino voters,
a key demographic in the two states that could shape the election outcome. Still, both candidates took very different approaches to court the key demographic.
The Sun Belt swing comes as both Trump and Harris are dealing with controversy surrounding their campaigns. Trump, dealing with the fallout from a comedian’s controversial joke calling Puerto Rico a “floating island of garbage” at Trump’s Madison Square Garden rally in New York last weekend, while Harris works to clean up a comment made by President Joe Biden on a video call in which he called Trump’s supporters “garbage" in response to the joke told at Trump's rally.
In Arizona, Latinos make up 25 per cent of the eligible voter population, while in Nevada, they represent just over one in five eligible voters, according to the Pew Research Center. Historically, Democrats have been dominant with this demographic, but polling has shown Trump has been erasing the advantage, particularly
among Latino men.
Jennifer Lopez introduced Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris at a rally in Las Vegas on Thursday night, imploring the audience to take a hard look at the stark differences between the sitting Vice President and Trump.
Lopez noted that her parents were born in Puerto Rico and moved to New York before she was born, saying, “We are Americans. I am a mother. I am a sister. I am an actor and an entertainer and I like Hollywood endings. I like when the good guy, or in this case the good girl, wins. And with an understanding of our past and a faith in our future, I will be casting my ballot for Kamala Harris for president of the United States proudly.”
However, few voters who agreed to speak to THISDAY in the United States noted that the race would be tight and regardless of what the media had been portraying, noting that Americans are resolute in their decisions on who to vote and were
taking policy statements by the respective candidates seriously.
Among Harris’ supporters is Diana, a Nigerian-American in her 30s, who firmly believes Trump’s policies on policing and immigration have been damaging.
“Trump is not honest and is a crook,” she said passionately, criticising his stance on police immunity.
“He supports police brutality and is canvassing for immunity for trigger-happy officers. Another fascinating part is how he rides on Christianity but spreads hate," she said in an interview with THISDAY.
Diana noted how the Trump administration, in her view, represented nepotism and favoritism at its peak. Diana who has already cast her vote said: “His immigration policy is selective and unfair. My vote went to Harris because we need someone who can bring fairness and integrity to the office.”
However, others like Nengi Paul, a Nigerian-American man, gave found reasons to support Trump despite some
disagreements with his policies.
“Trump’s immigration stance makes it difficult for people like me to file for family members who want to come to the United States,” he acknowledged, highlighting the obstacles faced by immigrant communities. Nevertheless, he questioned Harris’ progressive stance on social issues, saying, “Kamala’s plan to use taxpayers money to fund gender transitioning in prisons doesn’t sit right with me. Also, I think the welfare system needs to do more to encourage hard work, rather than dependency.”
For Osahon Osagie, a NigerianAmerican business owner who employs over 30 staff in the US, Trump’s focus on supporting businesses has won his vote. He appreciates the former president’s pro-business policies, which he believes empower entrepreneurs to grow and sustain jobs. “Trump’s policies support small businesses,” he stated simply, emphasising how these policies have provided critical support in challenging economic times.
Timothy Gill, an ardent Harris
TINUBU: TAX REFORM BILLS WILL GO THROUGH LEGISLATIVE PROCESS IN NATIONAL ASSEMBLY
behind the tax reform bill before the National Assembly, insisting that it was not targeted at the 19 northern States, as being wrongly speculated in the north.
The four bills are the Nigeria Tax Bill, the Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, the Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Bill and the Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill.
While urging the NEC to allow the process to take its full course, Tinubu in the statement, welcomed further consultations and engagement with key stakeholders to address any reservations about the bills while the National Assembly considers them for passage.
The statement further explained that when Tinubu set up the Presidential Committee on Tax and Fiscal Policy Reform in August 2023, he had only one objective: to reposition the economy for better productivity and efficiency and make the operating environment for investment and businesses more conducive.
This objective, it stressed, remains more critical even today than ever before.
The Committee worked for over a year and received inputs from various segments of society across the geopolitical zones, including trade associations, professional bodies, different Ministries and Government Agencies, Governors, traders, students, business owners, and the organised private sector.
The tax reform bills that emerged were distilled from the extensive work
of the Presidential Committee.
The tax bills before the National Assembly aim to streamline Nigeria’s tax administration processes, completely overhaul the nation’s tax operations, and align them with global best practices.
Onanuga also listed major highlights of the four Bills to include: The Nigeria Tax Bill: This Bill seeks to eliminate multiple taxation and make Nigeria’s economy more competitive by simplifying tax obligations for businesses and individuals nationwide.
The Nigeria Tax Administration Bill (NTAB): This Bill proposes new rules governing the administration of all taxes in the country. Its objective is to harmonise tax administrative processes across federal, state and local jurisdictions to ease taxpayers' compliance and enhance the revenue for all tiers of government.
The Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Bill: The Bill seeks to re-establish the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) as the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS) to better reflect its mandate as the revenue agency for the entire federation, not just the Federal Government.
The Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill: This Bill proposes creating a Joint Revenue Board to replace the Joint Tax Board, covering federal and all state tax authorities. The fourth bill will also establish the Office of Tax Ombudsman under the Joint Revenue Board, protecting taxpayers' interests and facilitating dispute resolution.
TOTALENERGIES’ GLOBAL CEO HAILS GBENGA KOMOLAFE FOR RESTORING INVESTORS’ CONFIDENCE, PLEDGES ADDITIONAL INVESTMENT IN NIGERIA
investment in Nigeria, the statement added.
He informed the NUPRC chief executive that the company has registered for the current bid round, signalling its commitment to exploring new opportunities and gaining insight into the NUPRC's perspective on the process.
These, the statement stated, included the Commission’s approach to contract types and the necessity of partnerships within the bidding framework.
Other areas of interest for TotalEnergies, it said, also included Nigeria's domestic crude oil supply obligations, with the aim of strengthening operational efficiencies and aligning with mutual objectives between the company and NUPRC.
Pouyanne also noted his company's interest in the regulatory aspects of decommissioning and abandonment, crucial components, as Nigeria seeks to modernise its upstream petroleum landscape.
In his remarks, Komolafe highlighted the NUPRC's
commitment to fostering a favourable business environment in the upstream oil sector.
He emphasised that as an enabler of business under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), the NUPRC was developing new regulations designed to streamline operations, encourage foreign investments, and simplify business processes in Nigeria’s petroleum sector.
The NUPRC recently moved to accelerate oil and gas production in the country, as years of underinvestment have continued to negatively impact Nigeria’s ability to harness the country’s hydrocarbon resources.
Among other achievements, it has successfully overseen the multi-billion dollars deals between Seplat and Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited (MPNU), the 10 per cent Sale and Purchase Agreement (SPA) between TotalEnergies and Chappal in the SPDC JV, as well as the transaction between Nigerian Agip Petroleum Company (NAOC) and Oando Plc.
The bills' overarching objective, the release stated, is to effectively coordinate federal, state, and local tax authorities, thereby eliminating the overlapping responsibilities, confusion, and inefficiency that have plagued tax administration in Nigeria for decades.
Under existing laws, taxes like Company Income Tax (CIT), Personal Income Tax (PIT), Capital Gains Tax (CGT), Petroleum Profits Tax (PPT), Tertiary Education Tax (TET), ValueAdded Tax (VAT), and other taxing provisions in numerous laws are administered separately, with individual legislative frameworks.
The proposed reforms seek to consolidate these numerous taxes, integrating CIT, PIT, CGT, VAT, PPT, and excise duties into a unified structure to reduce administrative fragmentation.
While there may be differences in approach or specific provisions of the new tax bills, what is not in contention is the need to review the tax laws and how we administer them to serve nation's overall national development agenda.
The statement further pointed out that Tinubu would continue to respect and welcome the advice and recommendations of NEC, an essential constitutional organ of government on
interest rate and the restrictive monetary policy of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN); digital transformation and cybersecurity threats, and competition from Fintech and Mobile Money Operators (MMO).
These DMBs, however, leveraged on the interest rate hike by the CBN to drive interest income from loans & advances to customers, and interest from Government securities.
Others challenges are power and infrastructure challenges; talent acquisition/retention and geopolitical and global economic factors.
Despite these challenges, DMBs operating in Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Countries in Africa have significantly driven profit before tax generation in the period under review.
For instance, GTCO, and Zenith Bank emerged the only DMBs with over N1 trillion profit before tax generation in nine months of 2024.
In the period under review, GTCO’s declared N1.21 trillion profit before tax, about 181.5 per cent increase over N433.2billion generated in nine months of 2023, while Zenith Bank hit N1 trillion profit before tax in nine months of 2024, representing an increase of 99 per cent from N505.04 billion reported in nine months of 2023.
As ETI announced N708.54 billion profit before tax in nine months of 2024, a growth of 170 per cent from N262.17billion in nine months
economic matters.
Meanwhile, the Arewa Think Tank (ATT) has thrown its weight behind the Tax Reform Bill before the National Assembly.
This was just as it defended Tinubu on the allegations that the recent power outage in Northern Nigeria was a deliberate attempt to sabotage the region's economy.
In a statement, the Convener of ATT, Muhammad Alhaji Yakubu, said his group aligned with Tinubu on the Reforms, while urging for further wider consultation to build a consensus around the Reforms.
"It is unfortunate that wrong speculations are going around that the Reform is against the north.
We wish to disagree that the tax reform bill before the National Assembly is targeted at the 19 northern States.
“We are calling on the governors of the 19 Northern states to go back to the drawing board to have a rethink over their outright rejection of the bill, especially the proposed amendment to the distribution of Value Added Tax (VAT) to a derivation-based model.
“We believe that, as stated in the bill, is designed to create a fairer system that will benefit all the States across
of 2023, FBN Holdings declared N610.86 billion profit before tax in nine months of 2024, up by 128 per cent from N267.88 billion reported in nine months of 2024.
The CEO of Ecobank Group, Mr. Jeremy Awori, stated that the nine months of 2024 results highlighted the resilience and commitment of the Pan-African financial institution, even amid a challenging economic landscape that African governments actively address through fiscal and monetary policies.
“These results also exemplify our diversified business model's strength and unwavering commitment to executing our Growth, Transformation, and Returns (GTR) strategy.
"We have made significant progress on our transformation agenda over the past three quarters. Our revenue and earnings growth expectations are built on strengthening our customer-centric business lines, allowing us to deliver the products and services our customers need.
“We are simplifying operations and developing new offerings. Furthermore, we continue to invest in our technology platforms to maximise our potential. Hence, we have restructured our organisation to prioritise client focus, creating new opportunities to achieve our goals," Awori added.
On his part, the Group Managing Director, FBN Holdings, Mr. Nnamdi Okonkwo said, the
supporter, expressed strong disapproval of Trump’s demeanor and conduct. “He is insane; he is off his hinges,” she remarked. “I don’t care about his policies. He is not what America needs. Harris may not be perfect, but she is the better choice.” Timothy was particularly disheartened after witnessing Trump’s rally in New York, describing it as a display of “terrible human behaviour.”
Some, like Rashid, a PakistaniAmerican who has resided in the U.S. for 28 years, see Trump as a stabilising force for the nation’s economy and international influence.
“Biden-Harris policies for businesses don’t make sense,” Rashid commented, voicing concerns over rising inflation and economic policies he believes harm businesses. “If Trump wins, the economy would be back on track, and we’d see world peace. America would indeed be great again.” He added that Trump’s approach would likely avoid international conflicts, which he believes would benefit not only the U.S. but the world.
the country.
“We know that the ongoing tax reform seeks to correct the inequity in the current derivation model as a basis for distributing VAT revenue.
"We commend the Northern governors and traditional rulers for supporting President Bola Tinubu over the success recorded in addressing the country’s security challenges, we however, consider it necessary to address the misunderstandings and misgivings around the tax reform already embarked upon by Tinubu's administration.
“We are of the knowledge that the new policy initiatives are aimed at streamlining Nigeria’s tax administration processes, enhancing efficiency and eliminating redundancies across the nation’s tax operations.
"We also know that the reforms being proposed are critical to improving the lives of Nigerians and are not proposed by President Tinubu to undermine any part of the country," the statement added.
On the issue of conspiracy theories around the power outage in the north, the group said the negative insinuations were the handwork of some Nigerians with ulterior motives to pitch Tinubu's
Holdings delivered a strong performance in the nine months of 2024, achieving significant growth driven by the effective execution of our strategic priorities.
“’Despite a challenging macroeconomic environment, our focus on operational efficiency, customer-centric innovations, and prudent risk management continues to generate sustainable value for our stakeholders,” he said.
Looking ahead, Okonkwo added that, “we remain focussed on executing our digital transformation strategy, enhancing customer experience, and driving long-term growth.”
In addition, UBA’s profit before tax stood at N603.48billion in nine months of 2024, about 20.2 per cent increase from N502.09billion reported in nine months of 2023, while Access Holdings announced N558.18billion profit before tax in nine months of 2024, a growth of nearly 90 per cent from N294.42billion reported in nine months of 2023.
The Group Managing Director/ CEO, UBA, Mr. Oliver Alawuba, said the nine months 2024 performance was underpinned by consistent strong growth on all core and sustainable banking income lines. He added that “Our substantial investments in technology are yielding tangible business value. This commitment is instrumental in delivering enhanced customer
administration against northern interests.
"If truly the federal government wants to cripple the North, will it be looking for a loan to complete MaradiKano rail lines, which is of immense economic benefit to the North?
“If it is true that Tinubu wants to cripple the economic activities of the North, let's look at the students loan; statistics have shown that majority of the beneficiaries of that loan are northern students.
"And look at the Almajiri Commission that Mr. President is funding properly now. Who are the beneficiaries? It is the Northerners.
“We are appealing to some disgruntled politicians not to politicize this power outage. Where President Tinubu deserves kudos, we should give him kudos.
"If there are issues, especially those who have access to him, they should meet him and trash out issues. We should not politicise everything.
"The North is benefiting from the government of President Tinubu. We should give him kudos. We are still appealing for more time for him. By May next year, if God spares our lives, we can give objective assessment of his government so far."
experiences and optimizing operational efficiency.”
Commenting on these DMBs nine months 2024 performance, Investment Banker & Stockbroker, Mr. Tajudeen Olayinka said a significant portion of the banks’ recent profit gains came from revaluation gains on their net long US dollar income positions. He stated that most banks have structured their balance sheets to maintain net long US dollar positions, which means that they are able to record gains whenever the currency is adjusted.
“Most tier-one banks currently hold a net long position in USD. This means that their foreign currency assets exceed their currency liabilities. Consequently, whenever there is currency revaluation, it will positively impact their profits,” Olayinka added. From a shareholder’s perspective, the President, Progressive Shareholders Association of Nigeria (PSAN), Mr. Boniface Okezie said listed big DMBs on the NGX have shown resilience and improved performance this year amid headwinds in Nigeria and Africa at large.
“These banks' performance in nine months of 2024 is a reflection that the economy is doing well despite numerous challenges. I hope other sectors can maintain the resilience of these banks and drive the nation’s economy further,” Okezie added.
PAYING FINAL RESPECTS TO LATE IWUANYANWU...
FG Fixes January for Take-off of $5bn Africa’s Energy Bank, Commits $70m
The federal government has set January 28, 2025 as the deadline for the commencement of operations of the $5 billion Africa Energy Bank (AEB), which seeks to provide an alternative source of funding for hydrocarbons projects on the continent.
A Nigerian delegation led by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum Resources, and Executive Board Member representing Nigeria at the African Petroleum Producers Organisation (APPO), Nicholas Ella, made the disclosure at the 19th executive board meeting of the organisation in Yaounde, Cameroon.
A statement issued yesterday by the Ministry of Petroleum Resources quoted Ella as reiterating Nigeria's commitment to the ideals of APPO and the immediate setting up of the
energy bank in Abuja.
Nigeria won the hosting rights for the establishment of the AEB headquarters in Abuja in July 2024, after a fierce competition with Ghana, Algeria, South Africa, and Benin Republic.
The AEB aims to bridge financing gaps in the continent’s oil and gas industry. The Bank is being established by APPO in collaboration with AfreximBank.
"As you are aware, the headquarters building of the AEB was inspected by the technical team on May 24, 2024, and renovation works for its completion is ongoing. Nigeria is fully committed to delivering the building with furnishing to the bank in good time.
“We have the full support and cooperation of Mr. President and our National Assembly to actualise this project in Nigeria," Ella said at
Shettima: Air Peace is Nigeria’s Pride
Chinedu Eze
Vice President Kashim Shettima has described Air Peace as Nigerian product and Nigeria’s pride.
Shettima, who made this known at Air Peace’s 10th anniversary recently, while commending the airline said Air Peace “is a Nigerian product and a Nigerian pride,” observing that the airline is resilient and the owner has patriotic spirit, adding that the airline’s contributions to the nation’s aviation industry and economy are invaluable.
The event was graced by all 36 state governors, with some attending in person and others represented. Numerous industry leaders from across various sectors also joined to celebrate this momentous occasion.
In a statement yesterday, Shettima described the milestone as a testament to Air Peace’s enduring presence in both Nigerian skies and the hearts of Nigerians. Reflecting on the airline’s role as a bridge for commerce, tourism, and global integration, he commended Air Peace’s contributions to expanding domestic routes and positioning Nigeria as a regional air travel hub.
The Vice President also commended the Chairman of Air Peace, Dr.
Allen Onyema, for creating jobs for thousands of Nigerians and even citizens beyond Nigeria’s borders.
He also eulogised Air Peace’s strength in weathering industry challenges, noting that “Air Peace has displayed an exceptional level of resilience that speaks to the strength of its leadership and workforce.”
He also emphasised the federal government’s commitment to protecting the Air Peace brand and ensuring its continued success in the aviation sector.
Highlighting the government’s commitment to advancing Nigeria’s aviation sector, the Vice President referenced the recent approval of the Cape Town Convention on aviation leasing, which will reduce operational costs and foster competitiveness in the industry.
This policy, he emphasised, will empower airlines like Air Peace to continue expanding and thriving.
Shettima remarked that Air Peace has always answered the call of the nation, recalling the airline’s pivotal role in repatriating Nigerians from conflict zones and during the COVID-19 lockdown when the airline evacuated Nigerians from different parts of the world, including the UK, Sudan, South Africa, Dubai, India and others.
the event which had in attendance representatives of 13 member countries in Yaounde.
The date for the Bank's take-off coincides with the 38th anniversary of the establishment of APPO, an 18-member country bloc that drives the development of the African energy industry.
Giving further insights on the level of Nigeria's preparedness for the Bank's take-off, the permanent secretary reminded the gathering that Nigeria's Federal Executive Council (FEC) on June 25, 2024, approved the hosting of the bank.
He added that the ratification of both the charter and headquarters agreement were already at an
advanced stage.
In its decision, the FEC had approved and endorsed the establishment document of the AEB and instructed the Attorney General and Minister of Justice to commence the process of ratification.
Ella added: "The Attorney General concluded the process on September 9, 2024 and transmitted the AEB establishment documents, which are currently with the President (Bola Tinubu) for his assent. Once that is done, it will be forwarded to APPO."
On equity contribution to the AEB, Ella said Nigeria is currently making efforts to complete her own share of the equity contribution to the AEB.
He stressed: "Apart from the earlier payment of $59.12 million, an additional $10 million was paid into APPO Account by Nigeria last week. We intend to make full payment before the Bank takes off.
"Nigeria wishes to advocate for the establishment and funding of the AEB as part of APPO’s budgetary plans. This initiative would not only address the financial needs of the energy sector but also provide a platform for mobilising investments in oil and gas projects, which are vital for Africa’s economic growth and development."
In reaction to Nigeria's update on preparations for the Bank’s operationalisation, the Secretary
General of APPO, Dr. Farouk Ibrahim, said 50 per cent of the funds needed for the AEB take-off was available. "I would like to urge APPO member countries to keep up the tempo for the bank's take-off," Ibrahim said. Besides, he explained that the bank would have three classes of shareholders with APPO and AfreximBank occupying the priority shareholder position. Responding to Nigeria's presentation, the APPO executive board member from Egypt, Ahmed Selim, was quoted to have described Nigeria's explanation concerning preparations for the Bank's take-off as "encouraging."
TCN Restores Power Supply Through Gombe-Damaturu-Maiduguri Line
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has announced the restoration of full power supply through the Gombe-DamaturuMaiduguri 330kV transmission line.
It said that power supply was fully restored on the GombeDamaturu line about 7:25p.m. on
October 30, and on the DamaturuMaiduguri (Molai) part of the line on October 31, 2024, around 2:01p.m.
A statement in Abuja by TCN’s General Manager, Public Affairs, Ndidi Mbah, recalled that tower 372, along the 330kV transmission line, was vandalised on September 22, 2024.
The vandalised tower, it said,
was rebuilt, and the stringing of the line was completed on October 23 at about 12:48p.m.
TCN said it was, however, unable to immediately restore bulk power supply through the line due to the vandalism of the Ugwuaji-Apir transmission line.
“Power supply has, however, been fully restored along the
Tributes Pour in as Iwuanyanwu is
Tony Icheku in Owerri
President Bola Tinubu yesterday praised the late President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, as a “true hero, visionary leader, and committed nationalist” who devoted his life to nation-building, unifying diverse communities, and uplifting the underprivileged, describing his passing as “a colossal loss to the nation."
“Chief Iwuanyanwu embodied the values of service, and as a nationalist, he championed unity and harmony across Nigeria’s cultural divides,” Tinubu said, at Iwuanyanwu's funeral service which held at the Cathedral Church of St. Matthew in Atta, Ikeduru Local Government Area, of Imo State.
Tinubu was represented by
Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, at the funeral ceremony which attracted political heavyweights across the country.
In his tribute, the Senate President Godswill Akpabio, represented by Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, hailed Iwuanyanwu as a trailblazer whose achievements in business, politics, and social capital cannot be underestimated.
In his remarks, the chief host of the event, Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma who renamed the state’s new International Conference Centre after Iwuanyanwu to honour him, lauded his fellow South-east governors for their contributions towards organising the state funeral for the late Ohanaeze chieftain. Governor Uzodimma noted that Iwuanyanwu believed in a united Nigeria where Igbo people,
alongside all tribes, could thrive in peace.
The Primate of the Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, Most Rev. Henry Ndukuba, who delivered a sermon titled 'Serving the Purpose of God in Our Generation', urged the nation’s leaders to live selflessly and work for the good of humanity.
He stressed the importance of addressing the country’s leadership challenges and called on the President to convene a national conference to create a new, peoplefocused constitution.
Most Rev. Ndukuba further urged Nigerians to focus on uplifting one another, urging President Tinubu to tackle the nation’s challenges boldly. “This is not a time for wealth display but for us to help one another,” he said.
In attendance at the burial
Gombe-Damaturu-Maiduguri 330kV transmission line. TCN is again calling on the public to join in the fight against power installation vandalism to safeguard the future of electricity in Nigeria.
“Please report suspicious activities around transmission installations to security operatives or TCN offices nationwide,” it stated.
Laid to Rest
ceremony were Governors Alex Otti of Abia, Peter Mbah of Enugu, and National Chairman of All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Ganduje.
Former Nigerian leaders, including former First Lady Dame Patience Jonathan, Sen. Sam Anyanwu, Peter Obi, Emeka Ihedioha, Achike Udenwa, and Sen. Rochas Okorocha, joined in the celebration of Iwuanyanwu’s life. Traditional and religious leaders, along with other dignitaries, also attended to pay their respects.
Iwuanyanwu’s eldest son, Jidechukwu, who delivered the vote of thanks expressed gratitude to the President, the South-east governors, and other guests for honouring his father’s legacy.
“My father was a man of great exploits, always guided by his faith in God,” he submitted.
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
L-R: Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti; former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Maj. Gen. Ike Nwachukwu (rtd.), Chairman, Senate Committee on Power, Sen. Enyinnaya Abaribe; Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah and 2023 presidential candidate of Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi, during the funeral service in honour of the former President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, late Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, at Atta, Ikeduru in Imo State…yesterday
INAUGURATING KENSINGTON ADEBUTU MEDIA CENTRE...
NNPC, ECOWAS Ramp Up Work on Kick-
off
of 6,800km Africa’s Gas Pipeline Project
Environmental, social impact assessment begins on $26bn facility
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) and its counterpart in Morocco, the Office National des Hydrocarbures et des Mines (ONHYM) yesterday took a major step forward in their bid to ensure the take-off of the African Atlantic Gas Pipeline (AAGP), estimated at about $26 billion.
Speaking at the Joint Meeting of Ministers of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the
Group Chief Executive of the NNPC, Mr Mele Kyari, stated that the progress made so far underscores the impact of strong regional collaboration.
Aside ECOWAS ministers of hydrocarbons and energy, also present at the event were officials from Mauritania and Morocco.
Represented by the Executive Vice President Gas, Power and New Energy, Olalekan Ogunleye, Kyari described the project as strategic and lauded President Bola Tinubu and the Nigerian government for entrusting it with it. He disclosed that progress had been
made with the Front End Engineering Design (FEED) Phase 2 study now completed and work ongoing for surveys in Environmental and Social Impact Assessments as well as the Land Acquisition and Resettlement Policy Framework.
“These achievements underscore our shared capacity and resolve to bring this pipeline project to fruition, demonstrating both the project's viability and our capability for effective execution, supported by strong regional collaboration, which we continue to appreciate.
“NNPC is well positioned to progress this project by leveraging on its expertise across gas production, processing, transmission and marketing, and experience having executed similar projects like the West African Gas Pipeline (WAPG).
“It is therefore essential that we work together to achieve our shared vision, which extends far beyond gas supply for energising our nations,” he stated. Kyari added that the prompt completion of the project will depend on members’ continued commitment and collaboration to drive the success
Sickle Cell Foundation Nigeria Achieves Groundbreaking Bone Marrow Transplant
Bennett Oghifo
Sickle Cell Foundation Nigeria (SCFN) has announced it achieved a historic breakthrough by completing the firstof-its-kind Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT) in Nigeria and West Africa, using advanced technology and expertise.
According to a statement by Public Relations Lead, Sickle Cell Foundation Nigeria, Caleb Audu, the organisationn partnership with the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), established a state-of-the-art, advanced-technology Bone Marrow Transplant Centre in Lagos.
Sickle Cell Foundation Nigeria is a global non-profit leader championing the prevention, care, cure and control of Sickle cell disease through clinical services and programmes.
Sickle Cell Disorder (SCD) remains a significant public health challenge globally, affecting nearly 100 million
people and accounting for over 50 per cent of deaths among those with the most severe form of the disease. In Sub-Saharan Africa, where approximately 70 per cent of sickle cell births occur, inadequate management has led to a high mortality rate before the age of five. In Nigeria, 150,000 babies are born annually with SCD and over 100,000 die before their fifth birthday. In addition, an estimated 50 million people carry the sickle cell trait and are at risk of passing it on to their offspring. With the average life expectancy of individuals in Nigeria living with SCD at only 20 years, the need for an effective cure has never been more urgent.
Bone marrow transplant (BMT) is currently the only established cure for the disease. For many years, this cure has been limited and unavailable in Nigeria, the sickle cell capital of the world, forcing families to seek BMT procedures abroad at exorbitant
financial and socio-cultural costs.
Recognising this critical gap, Sickle Cell Foundation Nigeria, embarked on a journey to establish Nigeria’s first state-of-the-art Bone Marrow Transplant Centre.
“The SCFN/LUTH Bone Marrow Transplant Centre is the first of its kind in West-Africa, and we are proud to offer a safe, quality, and accessible cure for sickle cell disorder here in Nigeria,” said Dr. Annette Akinsete, CEO/National Director of SCFN. “We have always believed that Nigerians deserve access to world-class healthcare at home, and this is now a reality.”
"Partnering with SCFN on this historic project underscores our shared commitment to improving healthcare outcomes for Nigerians living with sickle cell disorder," said Prof. Wasiu Adeyemo, Chief Medical Director, LUTH. "This BMT Centre is a major leap forward in offering accessible treatment for those who
need it most."
SCFN said its journey is far from over, stating that “the bone marrow transplant procedure, while groundbreaking, remains expensive, and SCFN aims to make it accessible to those in need.
“Many individuals living with SCD live below the poverty line and face significant barriers to care. This underscores the critical need for multisectoral collaborations and funding support to create a sustainable model for treating SCD in Nigeria.
“To address these challenges, SCFN is currently developing the Access to Care Programme, a digital platform that connects sponsors with patients in need of financial support, while transparently tracking funding and treatment progress. With hundreds of inquiries for BMT, of which 127 patients potentially qualify for the procedure, the demand for BMT is clear.
INEC Accredits 112 Media Organisations for Ondo Guber Election
Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has revealed that it has accredited 112 national and international media organisations including newspaper, radio, television and online to cover the November 16 Ondo State governorship election. The commission added that the 112 accredited media organisations would be deploying over 700 journalists, technicians and other personnel to facilitate their coverage of the election.
INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood
Yakubu, disclosed this yesterday in Abuja at the fourth regular quarterly consultative meeting with media organisations.
He said: “As we approach the Ondo State governorship election, there will be further improvements, especially in the areas of logistics for the movement of personnel and materials for both land and riverine locations to enable the prompt commencement of polls as well as the management of the processes on Election Day from voting to declaration of result.
“As early as next week, the
Commission will undertake a final readiness assessment of our preparations for the Ondo election, meet with our officials, engage with stakeholders and interact with the security agencies and transport providers.”
Yakubu appealed to the media to intensify accurate reportage that would ensure peaceful elections, especially now that campaign by political parties and candidates is in full swing in the state.
He added: “As you are aware, the portal for media accreditation for the Ondo State Governorship
election shut down at midnight yesterday.
“The Commission is glad to announce the accreditation of 112 national and international media organisations (newspaper, radio, television and online) deploying over 700 journalists, technicians and other personnel to facilitate their coverage of the election.
“The detailed breakdown of the media organisations and the number of personnel to be deployed will be uploaded to our website and social media platforms for public information.”
of the AAGP.
The 6,800-kilometre AAGP pipeline project will connect Nigeria to Morocco and is expected to supply all ECOWAS member states, Mauritania, and potentially Europe. It is projected to traverse 13 coastal countries.
The project now merges two key pipeline projects, which are the $975 million West African Gas Pipeline Extension Project (WAGPEP), and the Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline Project (NMGP), valued at about $25 billion.
Also speaking at the event, the Minister of State, Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, said the merger of the two projects reflected the region’s strategic vision for a more connected and economically vibrant pipeline network.
He noted that the project is expected to unlock new markets and bolster energy security throughout the region, explaining that by linking the natural gas reserves in Nigeria to North Africa and Europe, the initiative expands opportunities for economic growth, industrialisation, and job creation.
“We stand at a critical juncture where these draft agreements being
deliberated today, hold the power to reshape our energy landscape, strengthen our economies, and uplift our people,” he stated. In his remarks, ECOWAS Commissioner for Infrastructure, Energy and Digitalisation, Sédiko Douka, said the main objective of the meeting was to present to ministers in charge of hydrocarbons, the latest version of the committee’s documents. According to him, it will also afford members the opportunity to provide an update on the overall progress of the project, which is a necessary step to consolidate the involvement of all member states in the project development process.
“This project is of vital importance to our region, as increased access to natural gas will not only boost our electricity generation capacity, but also drive economic, industrial, and agricultural growth across the region.
“We have 6,800 kilometres of gas supply network, within we have 5,100 kilometres offshore that pass all the coastal countries, plus Mauritania, plus Morocco, and in the future is to bring gas to Europe,” he pointed out.
Plan International Expends Over €100bn in Nigeria, Targets 20 Million Girls in Five Years
Kuni Tyessi in Abuja
Plan International Nigeria, a humanitarian and developmental organisation with headquarters in Canada, has revealed that it has so far spent over €100 billion in the last 10 years.
The sum were spent on covering women, girls and children activities bordering on education, sexual and reproductive health, nutrition, renovation, construction, building and furnishing of schools.
The Country Director, Charles Usie, who disclosed this yesterday in Abuja, during a media briefing in commemoration of activities of the organisation since its inception in Nigeria in 2014, said with such laudable feat, it was targeting 20 million girls in the area of empowerment, livelihood and decent living, skills acquisition, nutrition and food security amongst others.
Disclosing that its activities would be replicated in the whole country, Usie said part of the dividends that the intervention of the organisation has brought to Nigeria included protection from violence, abuse, discrimination
and which has led to peace building particularly in states like Kaduna and Plateau, as well as Borno.
Reiterating that the organisation was celebrating what it has done with the funds invested, the Country Director said looking back, the Nigeria office could say it has added value, succour, support and has instigated hope in the lives of beneficiaries of its projects and not the part of society that has created suffering.
In recounting that 36 million people have been reached which is approximately 12 percent of the Nigerian population, the country director said the organisation was seeking to become a global federation in Nigeria which will be headed by a woman and will set up a board that will oversee its activities.
He said, “In celebration of our 10 years of existence in Nigeria, as a humanitarian and developmental; organisation, we are presenting we are presenting a new strategy for the next five years. So far, 100 euros has been budgeted for expenditure in Nigeria and the resources have been mobilized for with the office in Canada.
Emmanuel Addeh and Michael Olugbode in Abuja
L-R: Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotosh; Minister of Finance and Coordinator Minister for the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun; former Ogun State Governor, Olusegun Osoba; and the Donor, Dr. Kensington Adebukunola Adebutu, at the inauguration of the Kensington Adebukunola Adebutu Media Resource Centre at the Nigerian Institute of Journalism, Ogba, Ikeja…Thursday
80TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION…
FG Intervenes After Outrage Over Detention of Underage Protesters
Fagbemi moves to take over prosecution Atiku, Obi, Musa, CSOs fume as minors collapse during arraignment
Chuks Okocha, Alex Enumah, Sunday Aborisade, Kasim Sumaina in Abuja and Sunday Ehigiator in Lagos
Hope came the way of 114 #Endbadgovernance protesters last night as the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, moved to take over their prosecution on alleged treason and other charges from the police.
This was after the presidential candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party (LP) in the last general elections, Atiku Abubukar and Peter Obi, respectively, Chairman, Senate Committee on Finance, Senator Sani Musa; the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre
(RULAAC) and Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA), had condemned the detention and prosecution of children who participated in the last Endbadgovernance protests, describing it as horrible.
One of the children collapsed yesterday in court while standing trial in a Federal High Court in Abuja.
The 114 defendants who were admitted to bail in the sum of N10 million each were to remain in custody pending the perfection of their bail or next year when their trial will begin.
However, the AGF, yesterday disclosed that he has directed the police to hand over the case file, adding that moves have also commenced to bring down the trail date from next year.
"It has just come to my notice that the
police have arraigned those arrested in connection with the endbadgovernance violent protest in court for various offences including treason.
"There are some issues my office will need to look into regarding the matter to enable me take an informed decision," he said.
Fagbemi in a statement pointed out that while it is not within his powers to vary the order of the court remanding the defendants in detention centres and adjourning the case to January, he has directed the Nigeria Police to transfer the case file to his office and hand over same to the Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation (DPPF) on November 2, 2024.
"I have further directed the DPPF to immediately put machinery in motion
for consideration of the court to bring the adjournment date forward (an earlier date) “,the statement added.
Justice Egwatu admitted the defendants, including some under-age persons bail shortly after they pleaded not guilty to their respective charges, preferred against them by the Inspector General (IG) of Police.
During the arraignment of the first batch of 76, four had collapsed leading to a short suspension of the proceedings, to enable care to be given to the collapsed defendants.
When trial resumed, the prosecution lawyer pleaded with the court to strike out the names of the sick defendants so that the remaining 72 could proceed with their arraignment.
The police had in the 10 count charge,
CDS to Acting COAS: Justify Confidence Reposed in You By Tinubu
Niger Assembly refutes military claim, alleges bandits holding captives on Army training ground
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, yesterday implored the newly appointed Acting Chief of Army Satff (COAS), Major General Olufemi Oluyede, to ensure that he justified the confidence reposed on him by the President Bola Tinubu. This was as the Niger State House of Assembly yesterday through the Speaker of the Niger State House of Assembly, refuted military claims that nobody was held captive by bandits on military ground, alleging that bandits held captives on military ground in the state.
Gen. Musa also directed the Acting COAS to sustain the high level of professionalism, discipline, resilience, and regimentation that the Nigerian
Army is known for all over the world.
The CDS gave this directive when the Acting COAS, Major General Oluyede officially assumed duty at Defence Headquarters (DHQ) in Abuja yesterday.
Musa said that by this appointment, the responsibilities of administering the Nigerian Army now rest on him, stating that, "your responsibilities are wide and varied, and cannot be covered in this administrative note."
According to him, "It is expected that at the end of this formal event, you will be briefed extensively by the Chief of Policy and Plans Army and other Prince Rostral Reserves of the Army according to the course of your duties. Accordingly, you have to note that your installation was based on your vast knowledge of military leadership at all levels, character and competence.
"You are a member of a larger team of professional soldiers who are saddled with the responsibility of defending the territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Nigeria by land, sea, and air, as captured in our constitution."
Musa noted that though this was the first time in the history of Nigerian Army that Acting Chief of Army Staff was appointed by the President, the action he added was in line with legal instruments governing the appointment of service chiefs in the country.
Speaking during the brief but colourful taking over of Command of the Nigerian Army, in Acting capacity, Major General Oluyede, appreciated the President for finding him worthy to discharge
the responsibility as the Acting COAS in this particular, peculiar and sober situation.
"My appointment as the Acting Chief of Army Staff, he said is simply to hold sway while Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja is away, to enable him take sufficient time to get the necessary medical attention."
He pledged loyalty to the President and Constitution of Nigeria.
He said: "I request that we all continue to pray for Gen. Lagbaja's quick recovery and safe return to complete the excellent job that he had started.
"Furthermore, I seek everyone's support and cooperation so that we can succeed together in extinguishing all forms of insecurity in this country and return this our beautiful country
Tinubu Congratulates Adeduntan as First Bank Celebrates former MD
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated Dr. Adesola Adeduntan, the retired Group Chief Executive Officer of First Bank Nigeria Limited, for his service at Nigeria’s oldest bank.
accused the defendants of acting in concert with one Andrew Martin Wynne, a Briton, to destabilise Nigeria, during the August 1, Endbadgovernance protests in some states within the northern part of Nigeria.
The defendants were further alleged to have attacked and injured police officers and burned police stations, a High Court complex, the NCC Complex, the National Communications Commission (NCC) complex, the Kaduna Investment and Promotions Agency office, and the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) office.
They however pleaded not guilty to all the charges, following which their team of lawyers led by Marshall Abubakar prayed the court to admit them to bail pending trial.
Responding, the prosecution who did not oppose the request urged the court to use its discretionary power in deciding the issue, adding that the conditions should be such that would enable them to stand trial.
Justice Egwatu, who observed that some of the defendants are under 18 years old, ordered that the adults be
remanded at the Kuje Correctional Service, while the minors be remanded in the Borstal Home of the Correctional Service. He subsequently adjourned to January 24, 2025, for trial. Meanwhile, condemning the trial and their prosecution, Atiku in a statement said, that the "disturbing video of malnourished children being arraigned before a Federal High Court on the orders of the Bola Tinubu-led federal government has been brought to my notice."
According to Atiku, "The horrible scene reminiscent of a Nazi concentration camp once again reflects the low premium the current government places on the lives of the vulnerable, especially children.
''For emphasis, Section 11 of the Child’s Rights Act guarantees dignity of the child. It states that, 'Every child is entitled to respect for the dignity of his person, and accordingly, no child shall be - (a) subjected to physical, mental or emotional injury, abuse, neglect or maltreatment, including sexual abuse; (b) subjected to torture, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment,''' he stated.
In line with its overarching transformative Entrapreneurship model, Sahara Group Foundation, the social impact vehicle of Sahara Group, yesterday flagged off its Making A Difference Around Africa (MADAA) initiative, aimed at giving wings to the aspirations of African entrepreneurs.
Speaking in Lagos at the unveiling of the project, Head of Programmes at Sahara Group Foundation, Chidilim Menakaya, said the initiative promises sustainable economic opportunities to its target demography, which are budding entrepreneurs with remarkable business ideas.
Group Foundation’s unwavering commitment to “building sustainable communities through Extrapreneurship."
She added that the initiative represents the first project amongst an array of curated social interventions designed to promote sustainable development in Africa “by growing and scaling the base of entrepreneurs who have exceptional ideas that can transform the continent’s economic fortunes.”
Open till the end of November 2024, she said application to MADAA is underway, with beneficiaries expected to ultimately leverage the platform to assume leadership and influential roles in their various business niches.
“President Tinubu commends him for steering the bank through transformative growth, which includes expanding customer accounts from 10 million to over 42 million and elevating profit before tax from N10 billion in 2015 to an impressive N300 billion in 2023,” it added.
According to a statement from the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, in celebration of Adeduntan's tenure, the 130-yearold First Bank would host a special send-off ceremony this weekend, to express gratitude for his contributions over the past nine years.
These milestones, the President noted, reflected Adeduntan’s visionary leadership and commitment to excellence.
“The President expresses his appreciation for Adeduntan's willingness to serve the nation in various pivotal roles, including his contributions to the Nigerian Economic Summit Group and other prominent institutions. His extensive
expertise in the financial sector has significantly bolstered Nigeria's economic landscape.
“President Tinubu also lauds the bank’s solid internal management ethos, which is responsible for the seamless transition from Adeduntan to the current CEO, Olusegun Alebiosu. President Tinubu wishes Dr Adeduntan continued success in all his future endeavours,” it added.
According to her, “MADAA is a strategic platform developed by Sahara Group Foundation to identify entrepreneurs and social innovators who are on the cusp of greatness and provides the much-needed impetus to scale their novel ideas, as well as their small businesses, to great heights.”
Menakaya explained that the launch of the MADAA initiative underscores Sahara
“We are actively on the lookout for the extraordinary, the unusual, those whose business ideas can be nursed to fruition sustainably, particularly with the deployment of locally occurring resources,” Menakaya emphasised, urging entrepreneurs desirous of moving their craft to the next level need to head to the organisation’s website to apply for MADAA.
Chuks Okocha and Linus Aleke in Abuja
Peter Uzoho
L-R: Former President Olusegun Obasanjo; Former Minister Industry/Celebrant, Mrs. Nike Akande; Ekaarun Olubadan of Ibadan Land, Oba Adebayo Akande; Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makande, and former Chief of Army Staff,
Lieutenant General Martin Luther Agwai at the dinner party hosted by Obasanjo to commemorate Nike Akande’s 80th birthday in Lagos...recently
PROTECTING CRITICAL NATIONAL ASSETS
Nigeria should do more to protect its vital infrastructure, writes Zayyad I. Muhammad
In recent times, Nigeria has faced a concerning increase infrastructure. These assaults, carried out by bandits, insurgents, and vandals, threaten the stability and security of the nation. The targeted facilities are essential for the country’s economic growth and public safety.
On January 14, 2022, the 132 kV Ahoada-Yenagoa transmission line towers belonging to the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) were vandalized. On March 28, 2022, the Abuja-Kaduna train was attacked by insurgents. The incident occurred in the evening as the train was en route to Kaduna from Abuja. This attack tragically resulted in casualties and the abduction of several passengers. Train services on the Abuja-Kaduna route were halted for many weeks.
On September 25, 2022, vandals attacked the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) towers 303 and 304 along the Jos road, disrupting electricity to the entire Northeast for weeks.
On June 20, 2024, the rail fittings installed on the Second Niger Bridge were uprooted and vandalized. On June 11, 2024, insurgents attacked TCN towers T193 and T194 along the Damaturu-Maiduguri 330 kV Single Circuit Transmission Line, leaving Maiduguri and its environs in darkness for weeks.
In July this year, a report published by THISDAY Newspaper estimated that Nigeria incurred a loss of approximately $3.57 billion in just the first five months of 2024 due to oil theft, largely attributed to pipeline vandalism and militant activities.
Experts suggest that improvements have been made in the security measures aimed at protecting oil and related assets, with around N50 billion allocated each year for local security contractors. Furthermore, the Joint Task Force (JTF), known as Operation Delta Safe, comprises all branches of the armed forces, along with members of the Federal Road Safety Corps, to tackle this challenge. The Nigerian Navy has also initiated “Operation Delta Sanity” to bolster maritime surveillance.
It appears that bandits, vandals, and insurgents are becoming more daring and sophisticated than the strategies implemented to combat and prevent attacks on critical national assets. What needs to be done?
The government should, in addition to the strategy of having boots on the ground, also consider utilizing technology. For example, Nigeria can deploy advanced SCADA systems for the surveillance of critical national assets and infrastructure, such as power grids, water treatment plants, oil and gas pipelines, transportation networks, and communication systems.
“Several years ago I became acquainted with a Turkish-originated movement that sponsored interfaith dialogue.
The members of the group, most of whom are Turkish, are also Muslims. I later discovered that this group was part of a movement known as Hizmet, which is Turkish for service. I’ve come to know and respect the members of this movement, at least those whom I’ve encountered. They are faithful Muslims who embrace service to others and interfaith dialogue and partnerships. Since these are core values for me as a person, it seemed appropriate to build on the relationships that were developing.”
The above quote was gleaned from a book titled FETHULLAH GÜLEN: A LIFE OF HIZMET written by Jon Pahl, a Professor of the History of Christianity. Jon Pahl indeed captured the life of Fethullah Gulen, the man whose ideology inspired millions across the world in what is known as the Hizmet Movement. Hizmet Movement is an international social movement of moderate Muslims committed to fostering peaceful interactions, humanitarian social responsibility and human development through educational, media, dialogue and service initiatives.
Fethullah Gülen was a Muslim intellectual, thinker and religious scholar. He was born in Turkey in 1941. He grew up in a very religious environment. His first teachers were his parents. He was loved by many for his understanding of Islam. He believed that “love is the strongest and most powerful weapon in the universe and that training the body of children is easy. However, very few train the minds and hearts of the pupils at the same time.” In his teachings, he posited that the distinction made between the mind and heart of students in the modern school system is a calamity for all. He also preached tolerance, dialogue and intercultural and interfaith relations. These formed the cardinal objective of the Hizmet movement and explain why it can inspire a genera-
NIGERIA CAN DEPLOY ADVANCED SCADA SYSTEMS FOR THE SURVEILLANCE OF CRITICAL NATIONAL ASSETS AND INFRASTRUCTURE SUCH AS POWER GRIDS, WATER TREATMENT PLANTS, OIL AND GAS PIPELINES, TRANSPORTATION NETWORKS, AND COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS
tion of moderate Muslims to impact the world through service to humanity.
For Fethullah Gulen, “A person is truly a human if he or she learns, teaches, and inspires others. It is difficult to regard as truly human, someone who is ignorant and has no desire to learn.” I found his position very instructive. His point was simple. Ignorance is the bane of inhumanity as experienced around the globe. He encouraged his followers to build schools if they had the means. It signified the beginning of the Gulen schools’ concept, a nomenclature by which schools were christened around the globe, and whose founders were inspired by the teachings of Fethullah Gulen. To date, these schools run independently. The fact that Hizmet Movement is not a registered organisation, accords informality to his ideology, rather than emplace a hierarchical organisation.
In the twilight of the life of Fethullah Gulen, the unexpected happened. In 2016, the Turkish Government announced the countering of a coup and the brains behind the attempted coup were Fethullah Gulen and the Hizmet Movement. This indeed jolted the world. The world was in the dilemma of accepting that a wellrespected Islamic scholar who had inspired a generation of moderate Muslims, preaching love, tolerance and interfaith dialogue was involved in a coup against the government of Recep Erdogan, the president of Turkey. Unfortunately, he died with the allegations hanging around his neck. The vicious campaign launched by the Turkish government against Fethullah Gulen and the millions he had inspired, also smeared the reputation of his followers. Millions were persecuted by the Turkish government and languished in jail for an offence such as possessing a book written by Fethullah Gulen.
The onslaught against the Hizmet Movement was massive. In some instances, Hizmet movement volunteers outside the shores of Turkey were kidnapped and extradited to Turkey on the orders of the
Secondly, while the National Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) is doing good work in protecting some oil pipelines, they should be retooled, adequately staffed, and better funded. More personnel should be deployed to protect critical power transmission lines and towers, as the core mandate of the Civil Defence is the protection of critical infrastructure—safeguarding government facilities and installations. The Transmission Company of Nigeria should enhance its monitoring systems from manual to high-tech, including the use of drones and real-time surveillance.
Additionally, the TCN’s public relations strategy should be improved; showcasing to the world that insurgents are capable of disrupting the entire northern Nigerian electricity supply was a significant PR blunder. In fact, it provided free publicity for the bandits, insurgents, and vandals.
Any country that fails to adequately protect its national assets and infrastructure will expose its national security, leading to compromised economic stability, public safety, and which may result in social disorder. For instance, the current frustration in the north due to nearly ten days of blackout in the region stems from an attack on critical national assets—the 330 kV Shiroro-Kaduna transmission lines 1 and 2. Nigeria’s reputation is at stake because the protection of critical national assets and infrastructure is an integral part of global security frameworks. Muhammad writes from Abuja
Turkish government. Recently in Kenya, four Turkish citizens were kidnapped and extradited to Turkey to face persecution. In Nigeria, the Turkish government made several requests, which were rebuffed by the authorities for lacking in merit. The stance of the Nigerian government was simple. Provide evidence or bury the thoughts. To date, the Turkish government has yet to provide evidence that Hizmet Movement participants in Nigeria are terrorists.
Fethullah Gulen was labelled a terrorist by the Turkish government. But he was called Hocaefendi (revered master) by millions around the globe in service to humanity. He died at the age of 83 due to age-related illnesses. He passed a fulfilled patriarch and left a legacy of love, tolerance and peaceful coexistence. Fethullah Gulen authored many books that touched on the understanding of Islam. One of them is Toward a Global Civilisation of Love and Tolerance translated in 30 major languages in the world. In the book, Fethullah Gulen advocated for “greater awareness to Muslims that Islam teaches the need for dialogue and that Muslims are called to be agents and witnesses to God’s universal mercy. He also highlighted the need for non-Muslims to move beyond prejudice, suspicion, and half-truths to arrive at an understanding of what Islam is really about.”
Fethullah Gulen was not a terrorist until he breathed his last on 20 October 2024. The Turkish government could not prove it. And the world didn’t believe it. In 2008, he topped the “2008 Top 100 Public Intellectuals Poll” and came out as the most influential thinker. In an essay by EHSAN MASOOD thereafter, he argued “Is it possible to be a true religious believer and at the same time enjoy good relations with people of other faiths or none? Moreover, can you remain open to new ideas and new ways of thinking?” The author stated that “millions of people inside and outside Turkey have been inspired by Gülen’s
more than 60 books and the tapes and videos of his talks. Why? A combination of charisma, good organisation and an attractive message. What Gülen says is that you can be at home in the modern world while also embracing traditional values like faith in God and community responsibility.” Gülen’s discourse was distinguished by his depth of knowledge, and eloquence. His sermons were well structured. He also expanded the function of the mosque by launching a Q & A series in which he responded to people’s concerns and curiosities, including those regarding the challenges of modern times.
In 2013, Fethullah Gülen was named one of TIME Magazine’s 100 most influential people in the world. TIME recognized Gülen for “preaching a message of tolerance that won him, admirers, around the world.”
The death of Fethullah Gulen was aptly captured by Tushar Arun Gandhi, an Indian author and great-grandson of Mahatma Gandhi. “Rest in Peace Fethullah Gulen in exile from his beloved country. Another voice of peace muted, a great loss to humanity.” Indeed, the death of Fethullah Gulen is a great loss to humanity. I say this because I have researched extensively on the Hizmet Movement in the aftermath of the failed coup in Turkey in 2016. My research findings were in tandem with the tributes that have poured in torrents after his death.
Some have asked questions about the survival of the Hizmet Movement after the death of Fethullah Gulen. Can his legacies be sustained? My research findings indicate that the Hizmet Movement outlived Fethullah Gulen many years ago. The movement was not about him. It was about service to humanity. And his life was for the benefit of humanity. Adieu Hocaefendi, yours was a life of service and posterity would be kind to you.
Ocheja, a military historian and doctoral researcher, is an alumnus of the Nigerian Defence Academy
Joshua Ocheja pays tribute to Fethullah Gülen, a voice of peace and tolerance
INSIGHT
The Inhuman Treatment of the Bolt Driver
What really goes on in the heads of Nigerians, especially the newly rich and privileged, who on the back of recent wealth and status lack the
An intrepid driver contracted to Bolt, the e-hailing app, was recently reminded of his status by a succession of lightning slaps delivered by the diamond-encrusted fingers of Alex Ikwechegh, member representing Aba North and South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives.
The driver, Stephen Abuwatseya, had run foul of the legislator when he delivered an order to his residence in Maitama, but refused to go inside to drop it.
In the incident captured in a video which has since gone viral, the visibly angry legislator after raining curses and threats on the driver, physically assaulted him.
In a country pounded by hunger and every other form of social insecurity imaginable, one would think that someone who lives in what is probably the most exclusive area of Nigeria’s capital, while enjoying the financial freedom that his salary as an overpaid but undercooked and underworked Nigerian legislator confers would have enough dignity to ignore a harried bus driver’s moment of insolence. But, no.
Alas, Nigeria is a country where there is no honour even among thieves. The Bolt driver could have been simply intimidated by the legislator’s mansion, or maybe he had been harassed by the legislator’s overzealous security details, who often seem to be on clear instructions to restrict access to their principals.
What is more likely is that the driver was simply complying with the conditions of his employment which forbade him from going into the premises of the legislator as a customer, to make a delivery.
In a country where insecurity has become a very scarce commodity, whatever the driver’s reason, it was valid given that he had already made it to the delivery address and only asked that the package be picked up.
What is obvious is that the provocation was not commensurate with the inhuman and inhumane treatment meted out to Mr. Abuwatseya by the legislator, and what if it was?
Does one’s oath as a legislator not demand good conduct always? Shouldn’t the mere fact that one sits in Nigeria’s premier law-making institution confer enough dignity and discipline to abide the law even in the face of provocation?
In a country where blinding poverty and blistering inequality have widened the gulf between the
rich and the poor while dubbing the rich dubious demigods and dumping the poor in the gutter, it is no surprise that many have lost their humanity.
This year alone, there have been many disgraceful incidents of supposedly privileged but shameless Nigerian politicians and celebrities assaulting people on camera while boasting that nothing would happen, and nothing usually happens. What the police typically does is to conduct a half-hearted investigation after the matter is reported, and bank on the short memories of Nigerians that the matter will be forgotten soon.
Nigeria’s steeply unequal society has harmfully configured the society in such a way that many Nigerians run the risk of daily abuse by others who employ them. There is a need for reorientation but also heavy sanctions to remind all those who abuse others here that Nigerians are all equal under the law and no one can be mistreated save in accordance with law.
Without this education which must be drummed into the rich and the poor with equal ferocity, the dream of realizing a society where people live with dignity will remain a pipe dream.
The Igbo say that when the gods want to kill a man, they first make him mad. Hon. Ikwechegh is Igbo. The viral video showed a man maddened by power and privilege. What dishonor.
Kene Obiezu, keneobiezu@gmail.com
THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER
EDITOR OBINNA CHIMA
DEPUTY EDITOR AHAMEFULA OGBU
MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO
DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU
CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI
EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE
THISDAY NEWSPAPERS LIMITED
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA
GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU
DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE
Iwrite to appeal that you should please partner with
report cases at the station. These are illegalities.The only way we can build a just society is when there is rule of law and justice.Please do Nigerians at the grassroots this very big favour.
Feyisetan Akeeb Kareem, Ogwashi-Ukwu,Delta State
Worn Out
There are some countries and cultures that expect women to be dressed modestly but this time it was a case of being required to dress less modestly or not play. The player Iqra Ismail, a previous captain of the Somalian team, now a UK player, was told she had to play football in shorts rather than a tracksuit. She chose not to play and missed that game despite having previously worn the tracksuit on many other occasions.
Some sports have prescribed uniform measurements with one of the most restrictive having been women’s beach volleyball although not the male players. The costumes were too small especially when they were going to be in the sand a lot of the time. Fortunately this minimalist restriction was removed for the 2024 Paris Olympics.
It’s time to get more people playing sports and letting them dress in a way they are comfortable with.
Dennis Fitzgerald, Melbourne, Australia
OBASEKI FINISHING STRONG…
Rivers Crisis: Obi Laments Effect of Court Ruling on Citizens
Elders' intervention coming too late, Okocha declares Pro-Fubara’s lawmakers urge INEC to conduct bye-election
The Labour Party leader and the party's presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, Peter Obi, has decried the recent court ruling withholding the release of funds to the state as disturbing and should be reversed.
This was as Caretaker Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, Tony Okocha, said that the intervention of the elders and other stakeholders in the state was coming too late.
But members of the Rivers State House of Assembly members loyal to Governor Siminalayi Fubara gave called on the Independent National
Aiyedatiwa: Ondo Will Pay N73,000 Minimum Wage by November
Fidelis David in Akure
The Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has announced that the new minimum wage of N73,000 for civil servants in the state will be implemented starting this month (November).
Aiyedatiwa made this declaration yesterday, during the 2024 Public Service Week celebration, an event marked with a fitness walk aimed at promoting the health and well-being of public workers.
He emphasised that the welfare of civil servants will continue to be a priority for his administration, stating that the new minimum wage is a settled matter and a testament to his administration’s focus on improving the quality of life for the state’s workforce.
The governor added that a committee was set up to work out the implementation structure of the minimum wage and now that it has just been concluded, he will give the necessary approval for payment to
begin.
“Anything we have done for civil servants has never been politically driven. If workers are not happy, they won’t be encouraged to put in maximum efforts into their work. That is why we have always prioritised their welfare,” the governor said.
He assured the civil servants that if re-elected, he would surpass his current achievements, pledging to break his own record by delivering even more for the workforce.
Aiyedatiwa expressed appreciation to workers for their show of solidarity and reminded them of his shared identity as the number one public servant in the state.
The Head of Service, Mr. Bayo Philips, during the event, praised Governor Aiyedatiwa for creating a conducive environment for civil servants in the state.
He noted the administration’s commitment to prompt salary payment, regular promotions, leave bonus and the consistent disbursement of pensions and gratuities.
Eroton Appoints Imasekha New Chairman as Okoloko, Three Other Board Members Retire
Peter Uzoho
Eroton Exploration and Production Company Nigeria Limited has announced changes to the composition of its board of directors following the retirement of its Chairman, Onajite Okoloko and three other board members - Mr. Brume Okoloko, Charles Odita and Emeka Ene, from the board.
The company announced the changes in a statement dated October 31, 2024, signed by the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Emeka Onyeka. It disclosed the appointment of Mr. Henry Imasekha as new Board Chairman of the Nigerian indigenous oil and gas company. Eroton also appointed Mr. Oboden Ibru, Mr. Chris Okonmah, and Mr. Edo Ukpong as directors of the company.
"The company has today announced changes to the composition of its board of directors. The changes see the retirement of Mr. Onajite Okoloko as chairman of the board. Other changes include the retirement of Mr. Brume Okoloko, Engineer Charles Odita and Engineer Emeka Ene from the board," Eroton said in the statement.
According to the statement, the newly-appointed Board chairman, Imasekha, stressed the need to enhance the company's value proposition and to work harmoniously with all stakeholders.
"On behalf of the management and staff of Eroton, we wish to thank the retiring board members for their years of distinguished and meritorious service to the company whilst welcoming the new members of the board,"' the statement noted.
Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct a bye-election to fill the 27 vacant seats of alleged defected members in the House.
Obi in a statement by his media aide, Ibrahim Umah, writing on his X handle yesterday, stated that the impact of such a ruling on the people who are the owners of the money in question is far-reaching and worth revisiting.
According to Obi, "In my political trajectory, I have consistently refrained from name-calling or engaging in personal disputes, choosing to focus on issues that directly impact the masses, particularly the suffering poor of Nigeria.
''Despite the national attention the Rivers State crisis has gained, I have largely stayed away from matters specific to a state, but a recent court judgement halting allocations to the state—and the resulting consequences—demands attention.
"This curious decision now calls upon every well-meaning individual to appeal for its immediate reversal.
"Consider the pensioner struggling to survive on a meager income alongside the health workers, school teachers, civil servants, and everyday citizens whose lives are already marked by severe hardship. How much more can they endure?
"This latest development risks pushing them even further into distress—even into untimely deaths— by compounding the challenges they face each day.
"As leaders—whether in the Executive, Legislative, or Judicial our decisions, and actions should be guided by a commitment to the less privileged and vulnerable among us.
'As we work toward a better future for all, we must genuinely care about the poor and prioritise the well-being of every Nigerian. What we do today should lay the foundation for a new Nigeria that is possible,'' Obi stated
Coming hard on the governor, Okocha described Fubara as ‘Nyesom Wike’s investment”, saying the Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT) practically lifted the governor from political obscurity.
Okocha, who stated this yesterday while addressing a press conference on Abuja, said he was of the opinion that the political crisis in the state could have ended if Fubara had obeyed President Bola Tinubu’s intervention.
When asked for the way out, Okocha insisted that the governor must obey the law of the land, and also represent the 2024 budget before the State House of Assembly.
On the recent move by elders in the Niger Delta to reconcile the gladiators in the Rivers crisis, Okocha said such a move was already belated.
His words: “I say it is foolishness for anyone to cry when the head is off. There is also this aphorism, that you don’t cry over spilled milk.
“Where have these elders been?
Where? The matter is narrowing down, if you ask me; because the only other hurdle to escape is the Supreme Court.
“What are the elders coming to do at this late hour, if they actually would want to come? What are they coming to do? They are the same people who told the governor, that you are a know-all and do-all, they encouraged the governor to believe that his head was bigger than his pillow.
“They were the ones, they told him, look, your powers are elastic, what can you not do? And the governor agreed to that and today, the Ikwerre man tells you that not everybody that comes to plan your building will be part of the building.
“No. A lot of them have disappeared into thin air. At the time, they came to counsel the governor against the decision that he signed to. And the governor is on the hot seat. So to say to you that I don’t see that working is way, way too late.
Obaseki Launches Edo Digital Policy, Inaugurates Nigeria’s First State-owned Data Centre
Says his govt digitally revolutionised Edo
Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City
The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has said reforms by his administration in the digital and technology space over the last eight years have revolutionised the state, launching Edo and its people into the super digital highway.
Obaseki spoke at the launch of the Edo State Digital Policy and the Edo Data Centre, which is the first data centre owned by a state in Nigeria.
Noting that the reforms have repositioned Edo as a leading state in digital inclusion in Nigeria, Obaseki noted that the government is leveraging technology as a catalyst for socio-economic development and inclusive growth.
He said, “I welcome you to the only data center owned by a state in Nigeria. This event is significant because we have started a revolution in Edo State, a digital revolution. We are rounding up with a policy statement that will guide this revolution into the future.
“The population of Edo is skilled towards the youths as they are born in a digital age. The future is digital. It will be difficult to navigate the world today without technology. If you want to develop and grow rapidly, you must begin to think of how to use technology.
“The pace of the advancement of technology in the world today is scary. So, just imagine those who have not started yet; I don't think they can live in the future world. In Edo, we have
always been ahead in our history. We have been a knowledgeable people as we interacted at a global level over 500 years ago on our own level.
“To catch up, we had to do something else and different. That was why from the beginning it was clear to us that we had to introduce technology and make sure that we begin to retrain our young ones, the youths, to own this digital world and the confidence in it.”
Obaseki added, “We have moved Edo into the digital superhighway and to operate on that superhighway, they must know the rules and must be guided by certain rules and practices. That is what we are doing today and incorporating in this policy document. This will enable everybody to understand the shape of this high
way and what they need to do on this high way.”
The governor continued: “I had the privilege of working with young people in Edo State and working together, we set up EdoJobs and the Edo Innovate Hub as these have helped our young people and till date, over 50,000 young men and women have benefited from various training and programmes from Edo Innovate. We have been lucky to build a digital ecosystem which has grown rapidly.
“Years ago, as the Chairman of the State’s Economy Team, we set up the ICTA but we struggled all through but we kept it alive, and set up the law governing it. The agency is principally responsible for providing technology for the government.
RTEAN Reaffirms Support for CNG-powered Initiatives
The President, Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), Dr. Musa Muhammed Maitakobi, has said it is prepared to complement the federal government’s Green Initiative by supporting current efforts to transition from petrol to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG).
Speaking during the inauguration and unveiling of RTEAN engine oil in Abuja, he reaffirmed the association’s
commitment to excellence, innovation, nation-building, and sustainability.
Represented by the Deputy National President, Administration, RTEAN, Mr. Muhammad Abubakri Bishara, he noted that the achievement was a testament to the dedication and hard work of the entire RTEAN team, which spent countless hours perfecting the formulation, and poised to introduce the product to the world.
He said the product was designed and crafted with the latest technology
and backed by rigorous testing, and engineered to surpass industry standards, adding that “It's built to protect engines, enhance performance, and contribute to a more sustainable future more especially for CNG vehicles.”
On the rationale for the product, Maitakobi said, “The significance is that we are transporters. We control the economy of the country, transporting goods and services from different parts of the country.
“We sort of patronise other people's products. Why can't we have our own? Why can't we invest in the other way around and get a very good, qualitative engine oil that will be beneficial to all our vehicles?
“And that is the reason why we say, okay, let's get the best, more especially now when the country is migrating from using conventional system of energy, that is PMS and diesels, going back to CNG and LNG and others.”
James Emejo in Abuja
Chuks Okocha, Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja and Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt
L-R: Senator representing the Federal Capital Territory senatorial district, Senator Ireti Kingibe; Edo State First Lady, Mrs. Betsy Obaseki; Governor Godwin Obaseki, and Chief Medical Director, Military Hospital Benin, Brig. General Pauline Aburime, at the inauguration of the Benin Airport Park and Garden, in Benin City…yesterday
REWARDING OUTSTANDING BRANDS…
DHQ: How Popoola, Teenage Son Were Rescued after One Year in Captivity
Linus
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) yesterday said that troops deployed to North-west theatre of operations rescued Dr. Ganiyat Popoola and her teenage son, after over one year in terrorist captivity. A statement by Director Defence Media Operations, Maj. Gen. Edward Buba, revealed that troops through none kinetic efforts secured the release
Public Servants Urged to Improve Labour Relations for Nation's Growth
Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt
Public Servants in Nigeria have been urged to focus on improve labour relations with the state and federal governments by building a harmonious industrial relationship.
The call was made yesterday at the end of the 2024 meetings of the Separate and Joint National Public Service Negotiating Council, held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Speaking with journalists, Chairman of the Council, Dr. Comfort Adeosun, noted that trust improves the performance of any organisation, facilitates open communication and promotes constructive conflict resolution.
Adeosun who is also the Director Overseeing the Office of the Permanent Secretary, Service Welfare Office (SWO), Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF), harped on the need for good relationship between workers which she said promotes proficiency in workforce.
"We talked about the benefit of incorporating communication and collaboration so that we don't have to
go on strikes. By the time we come to the negotiation table which we have done in these three days, we are able to come with resolutions that are going to be submitted to the labour side and to the government side. In that case we continue to build trust.
"Also, we have talked about trust enhancing productivity, efficiency and high quality performance because you can attest to the fact that the labour workforce in Nigeria are still one of the best in the whole world."
She further stated that trust can cement the relationship between government, civil and public servants in the state and nation at large.
"We are in a system, in an environment where the "Japa" syndrome is reigning but when there is trust and a good renumeration for the current workforce, it's going to attract those in the diaspora back to the country to support its growth.
Because no matter where you are in the world, you always have this feeling to go back home and contribute to the growth of your country and that has made a lot of people to come back to support the growth of the country."
Group Calls for Tighter Pharmaceutical Regulation to Tackle Drug Abuse
Omolabake Fasogbon
The federal government has been charged to tighten the noose around pharmaceutical supply chain to curb rising scourge of drug abuse in the country.
A group of experts from a health tech company, Remedial Health, who paid a courtesy call to National Drug Law Enforcement Agency ( NDLEA) in Abuja,recently, reiterated this, while expressing concern on rising incident.
The organisation also explored a strategic alliance with the agency to tackle the issue at its root.
Speaking, CEO and co-founder of Remedial Health, Pharm. Samuel Okwuada, who lauded efforts by the agency, however pointed out that loopholes in the pharmaceutical value chain continue to fuel spread
of unregulated and counterfeit drugs.
He expressed that drug abuse remained a significant public health issue in Nigeria, the rate of occurrence at which he said nearly triple global average of 5.5 per cent. He emphasised use of more technology to enhance transparency and compliance in drug distribution, affirming its potency against misuse, while ensuring access to safe and verified pharmaceutical products. He said, “Drug abuse is a critical public health issue in Nigeria, affecting millions and underscoring the urgent need for secure and transparent pharmaceutical supply chains. At Remedial Health, we are dedicated to building systems that prevent unregulated and counterfeit drugs from reaching communities, and we believe that partnerships with organisations like the NDLEA are essential to achieving this goal.
of the abducted Dr. Popoola and her teenage son around 1700hrs of 30th October, 2024.
Buba recalled that the abduction of Dr. Ganiyat Popoola along with her husband, Squadron Leader Nurudeen Abiodun Popoola, and a teenager, Master Folaranmi Abdul Mughiy took place on 27 September 2023. He noted that the trio were abducted from their home in Doctors’ Quarters at the National Eye Centre
in Kaduna.
Buba said: "Following the abduction, troops subsequently rescued the husband on 8 March 2024. Additionally, troops kinetic operations resulted in the rescue of several other hostages in terrorists captivity in the North-centre theatre of operations.
"All the same, at about 1700hrs of 30 October 2024, troops through none kinetic efforts secured the release of
the abducted Dr Ganiyat Popoola and the above named teenager."
The director however averred that details of their release by the terrorists remained classified due to ongoing operations.
Buba stated that their release is indicative of overtures by several terrorist leaders and their combatants to surrender to troops.
"Overall, more details about the development will follow in due course. Nevertheless, these terrorists have a window of opportunity to surrender or be killed in the battlefield," he threatened.
He said that ending insecurity in Nigeria requires collective efforts of everyone and not just military action.
He further recalled that similar situations is ongoing in the Northeast, and it is not uncommon in war situations and a welcomed development.
NIPCO Backs Tinubu's Reforms, Pledges Continuous Support for Nigeria's Gas Infrastructure
Ejiofor Alike
NIPCO Plc has expressed strong support for President Bola Tinubu’s reforms in Nigeria's oil and gas industry, particularly the recent deregulation of the downstream sector.
Speaking when he led NIPCO's delegation to President Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, recently, the company's senior executive, Mr. Ramesh Kansagra, reiterated the organisation’s commitment to the federal government’s economic agenda, pledging continuous support for gas infrastructure.
He noted that NIPCO had recognised the potential of Compressed
Natural Gas (CNG) 15 years ago when it sought federal government's approval to establish CNG infrastructure that allowed motorists to switch to gas.
Kansagra pointed out that the company's CNG vision aligned perfectly with President Tinubu’s goal of promoting gas as a transition fuel.
According to him, Tinubu's reforms would unlock numerous benefits to Nigeria’s economy, stressing that the renewed momentum in the gas sector has opened a new vista for motorists to adopt CNG as a cleaner alternative to conventional fossil fuels.
He lauded Tinubu’s proactive policies, such as the Presidential
Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGi), which has made significant strides in expanding access to auto CNG for transportation.
“The President’s push for gas as an alternative energy source reflects the global trend towards use of cleaner fuels, and it is timely for Nigeria,” he added.
Kansagra expressed optimism that the shift to cleaner energy sources in transportation would positively impact the Nigerian economy, by reducing the sector’s dependence on fossil fuels while contributing immensely to Nigeria's environmental sustainability goals.
AMMC arrests 16 for vandalising Abuja street lights
Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has approved 10 memorandums for contracts totalling N33,179,004.998 for the rehabilitation of Presidential Wing hangar and kitchen; the provision of the access road to new EFCC Academy site at Giri District Abuja, in addition to 10 staff quarters at the Nigeria Law School, Bwari, among other critical contracts. The contracts were approved yesterday by the Federal Capital Territory Administration's Executive Council (FCT-EXCO) headed by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike.
The Executive Secretary FCDA, Shehu Hadi Ahmad; Mandate Secretary, Transportation, Rt. Hon. Chinedum Elechi; Chief of Staff to the FCT Minister, Chidi Amadi, and Secretary, Legal Services Secretariat, Salman Dako, addressed reporters after the meeting. Ahmad said the contract for the
provision of the access road to the EFCC Academy site was awarded to Messrs Levant Construction Limited at the sum of N7.8 billion with a completion period of nine months.
The council also approved a second memo for the rehabilitation and construction of roads in disrepair within the Presidential Wing of Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
This was in addition to the rehabilitation of the facilities around, including the apron, the Presidential Wing's taxiway as well as the presidential kitchen within the presidential wing.
Ahmad said those facilities had shown signs of distress and dilapidation and needed to be rehabilitated.
"There is no access from the road that is coming from the main road (Bill Clinton Drive) into that place.
"We have decided to also rehabilitate that road, as well as rehabilitate the hangar, that is housing the presidential aircraft.
"These are some of the facilities that are to be done, and then there are some lights, the runway lights, on the side of the presidential wing. These two are included in part of what has to be done. Then there is a guest house, a holding centre for visiting presidents and of course, for the other usage," Ahmad said.
He said the contract for the renovation at the Presidential Wing was awarded at N9.8 billion to Julius Berger with a completion period of six months.
Equally approved was a memo for the award of contract for the Design and Construction of 10 staff Quarters for the Nigeria Law School in Bwari Abuja at the sum of N2.1 billion to Messrs Austlinks Energy Services Limited.
The quarters comprise four-bedroom bungalow houses, in addition to the general networking of external roads network within the quarters, as well as provision of water and other facilities and drainages.
continue to invest in gas infrastructure to ensure that more motorists and industries benefit from gas-powered solutions.
The company's senior executive promised that the company will scale up investment in gas infrastructure He said this expansion would help more motorists and industrial users to benefit from the economic and environmental advantages of running vehicles, plants and equipment on gas. He noted that NIPCO is the only single company that is constructing 100 kilometres of 18-inch gas pipeline from Lagos to Ibadan along the Lagos – Ibadan Expressway at a cost of $100 million.
Kansagra described the company's partnership with the PCNGi as a prime example of how a public-private partnership/collaboration can drive the development of CNG infrastructure, for the benefit of the public at large.
CHANGE OF NAME
I, formerly known and addressed as MISS. ONONAGBO, PROMISE CHISOM, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. OSUJI, PROMISE CHISOM All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note. I formerly known and addressed as OKOH MICHAEL, now wish to be known and addressed as OKON MICHAEL. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.
CORRECTION OF NAME
Aleke in Abuja
L-R: Managing Director/CEO, AT3 Resources, Tosin Adefeko; Assistant Manager, Digital and Media, Chivita|Hollandia (CHI Limited), Edidiong Andem, and Senior Special Assistant to the President on Digital and New media,
Ortega Ogra, as Hollandia received the award for Most Outstanding Yoghurt Brand of the Year at the Brand Communicators Awards 2024, held in Lagos…recently
SPECIAL RECOGNITION…
Shettima: We'll Position Nigeria Among Top Global Countries on Human Capital Index
Inaugurates national council to address flood, erosion, other climate disasters
Vice President Kashim Shettima has declared the federal government's resolve to position the nation among top 80 countries on the global Human Capital
Index (HCI) by building a healthier, better-educated, and empowered Nigeria.
The task, he said, was ambitious but quite achievable, just as he called on all Nigerians, including policymakers and community leaders, to embrace
Eno, Sanwo-Olu Attend Groundbreaking for 18-Storey Ibom Towers in Lagos
Sunday Ehigiator
In a move to strengthen Akwa Ibom’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), the Akwa Ibom State Government has flagged off an 18-storey Ibom Towers project in Lagos, following a groundbreaking ceremony by the Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, accompanied by the host Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, amidst commendations by the former governor of the state, Obong Victor Attah, the Oniru of Iruland, Oba Abdulwasiu Omogbolahan Lawal, and other eminent Nigerians.
The project, aimed at driving substantial revenue and GDP growth for both states, providing muchneeded economic diversification amid Nigeria’s current financial challenges, is expected to be completed in 24 months.
Governor Eno in his address explained that the project was meant
to generate income and create job opportunities for the state.
He said the Ibom Towers, located in the heart of Victoria Island, will serve as an iconic structure aimed at boosting investments and economic ties, directly benefiting Lagos and Akwa Ibom.
According to him, “In our determined efforts to grow more streams of income and deepen our investment portfolio, we are here to perform the groundbreaking ceremony for the 18-storey Ibom Towers.
“No nation or a sub-national relies on one source of income. They must diversify the sources of their income, they must expand their portfolios. The Ibom Towers will help increase our IGR. It will raise our profile and a sense of identity; it will stand as an iconic reminder of the power of creative application of resources to yield the most benefits for the people.”
Daystar Christian Centre to Hold Excellence in Leadership Conference
As Nigeria and the world face complex challenges requiring fresh perspectives, Daystar Christian Centre is set to host the 2024 Excellence in Leadership Conference (ELC) themed, 'The Innovative Leader' to empower leaders to adopt innovative mindsets essential for societal transformation across sectors.
Conference host and speaker, Sam Adeyemi, has underscored the urgency of cultivating forward-thinking leaders, stating that, “Innovation is key to solving today’s challenges, and this year’s conference aims to inspire participants to embrace creative leadership that transforms societies in fields such as art, technology, governance, and beyond.” ELC 2024 will take place on November 7 and 8, starting at 9a.m. daily at Daystar’s Main Auditorium, Plot A3C, Ikosi Road, Oregun, Lagos, with live streaming available across Daystar’s official social media channels.
A statement signed by Head of
Communication, Daystar Christian Centre, Ayo Makinde, said the Co-convener and speaker, Nike Adeyemi, believes that “over the years, this conference has transformed lives and inspired leaders to challenge norms, innovate, and shape the future.”
She emphasised that ELC is open to all, without registration fees, reinforcing a commitment to accessible and impactful leadership training.
Also speaking at the conference is an inspiring roster of specialists who will share diverse insights; Leke Alder, renowned strategy and brand consultant; Victor 'Gbenga Afolabi, CEO of Hazon Holdings; Adaora Mbelu, brand storyteller and CEO of Lumination; and ID Cabasa, multi-award-winning music producer and CEO of Codedtunes Entertainment Africa. These speakers bring expertise from entertainment, social impact, and leadership, each session promising practical solutions for creative growth.
the Human Capital Development Programme.
Shettima stated this yesterday, while inaugurating the HCD 2.0 Strategy during a meeting of the Steering Committee of the Human Capital Development Programme at the State House, Abuja.
According to the Vice President: "Our targets are ambitious, yet achievable. We aim to position Nigeria among the top 80 countries on the Human Capital Index, reaching a score of 0.6 by 2030.
"These metrics represent more than just numbers; they signify the real change in the lives of our people—access to quality healthcare, improved educational
outcomes, expanded opportunities for meaningful employment, and a society that remains resilient in the face of global challenges.
"As we inaugurate HCD 2.0, I call on every Nigerian—policymakers, community leaders, and citizens alike—to recognise the stakes and embrace the promise of this initiative. Building a healthier, better educated, and empowered Nigeria relies on each of us contributing to a legacy of progress and possibility."
The Vice President recalled how Nigeria had faced what he described as a stark reality in 2018 when the nation's ranking on global human
capital indices showed critical gaps in health, education and employment.
The urgency to address the embarrassing situation, according to him, compelled the Nigerian government to prioritise human capital development, leading to the launch of HCD 1.0 to build a healthy, educated, and productive Nigeria by 2030.
Describing the launch of the HCD 2.0 as the beginning of a new phase, Shettima said, "We have laid a strong foundation, and now, we officially launch the second phase of the Human Capital Development strategy—HCD 2.0.
"This initiative represents far more than a programme. It is a national
commitment, a promise to the wellbeing, empowerment, and productivity of every Nigerian. It embodies a vision that speaks to the aspirations of each citizen and affirms our shared goal: a healthier, more educated, and more inclusive Nigeria."
The Vice President explained that the goal of the HCD 2.0 Strategy was to make sure no Nigerian was left behind as the nation navigates towards a more inclusive, sustainable society, even as he listed the core pillars of the strategy to include equitable and modern healthcare, an inclusive, functional education system, as well as promotion of financial inclusion nationwide.
Report: 33.1 Million Nigerians Face Severe Food
Shortage By 2025
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
Approximately 33.1 million Nigerians, including over 514,000 displaced persons in Borno, Sokoto, and Zamfara states, have been projected to face severe food shortages between June and August 2025. These findings were presented at the 2024 Cadre Harmonise National Validation and Consolidation Result Presentation in Abuja yesterday, underscoring urgent concerns about food security as the lean season approaches.
According to the report, a mix of rising inflation, a weakened currency, and disrupted livelihoods has drastically reduced households' ability to secure sufficient food. In his remarks, the Permanent
Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Temitope Fashedemi represented by the Director of Nutrition and Food Security, Nuhu Kilishi, cautioned that the situation is critical and demands immediate attention.
He urged that the findings from the Cadre Harmonise (CH) analysis be adopted for planning and implemention through the food and nutrition security interventions across federal ministries, the 26 CH states, the humanitarian community, and other partners active in Nigeria.
Fashedemi said: “The results being presented today are for the 26 CH participating states of Nigeria and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The November, 2024 CH results is apt and comes at this phase of
economic stress when we are still grappling with the removal of fuel subsidies which has sent ripples through the agricultural sector.
“The major effect is the increased transportation costs due to the high fuel prices, negatively impacting agricultural production. With the spike in fuel prices, transportation costs have soared, squeezing farmers profit margins and potentially driving up food prices for consumers, and not forgetting the daunting insecurity situation which has continued to threaten Nigeria’s food and nutrition security. Obviously, these challenges have led to disruptions in food system (food production, distribution, marketing and even stocking mechanisms), resulting in poor
consumption patterns among several households especially, in areas affected by insecurity.
“My ministry applauds the financial and technical contribution of FAO, CILSS, WFP, Save the Children International for the advocacy and level 1 certification training for the remaining 10 states. Hopefully, before the end of year 2025, we would work to mainstream all the thirty-six (36) states of the country in the CH analysis.”
The meeting further recommended that federal and state governments sustain humanitarian actions, invest in climate-smart agriculture, prioritise agribusiness SMEs, develop early warning systems, and allocate budgetary support for CH analysis, among other measures.
Court Orders Final Forfeiture of $2.04m, Properties Allegedly Linked to Emefiele
Wale Igbintade
Justice Deinde Dipeolu of the Federal High Court sitting in Lagos yesterday ordered the final forfeiture of the sum of $2.045 million, seven choice landed properties, and share certificates allegedly linked to the former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Godwin Emefiele.
The judge ordered the permanent forfeiture of the monies and the two share certificates of Queensdorf Global Fund Limited Trust, after holding that the former CBN governor or any other interested party did not contest same after the initial interim forfeiture.
The court also forfeited the seven
choice landed properties on the ground that the former CBN Governor was not able to connect his lawful earnings from Zenith Bank and the CBN to the acquisition of the properties.
The court held that the former CBN Governor failed to provide documents or links to show that he owned the properties.
Emefiele had denied any connection between him and the companies in whose names the properties were purchased and the companies had also failed to appear before the court to claim the properties.
The EFCC had listed the companies as; Amrash Ventures Limited, Modern Hotels Limited, Finebury Properties Limited, Fidelity Express Services
Limited, H & Y Business Global Limited and SDEM Erectors Nigeria Limited.
Justice Dipeolu held, "that the interested party has failed to demonstrate any lawful interest in the properties and that they were acquired from his legitimate earnings”.
“I therefore order the final forfeiture to the Federal Government of Nigeria of all those properties…which are reasonably suspected to have been acquired with proceeds of unlawful Activities.”
The properties are: two fully detached duplexes of identical structures, lying being and situated at No. 17B Hakeem Odumosu Street, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos; an
undeveloped land, measuring 1919.592sqm with Survey Plan No. DS/LS/340 at Oyinkan Abayomi Drive (Formerly Queens Drive), Ikoyi, Lagos; a bungalow at No. 65A Oyinkan Abayomi Drive, (Formerly Queens Drive), Ikoyi, Lagos and a four-bedroom duplex at 12a Probyn Road, Ikoyi.
Others are an industrial complex under construction on 22 plots of land in Agbor, Delta State; 8 units of an undetached apartment on a plot measuring 2457.60sqm at No. 8a Adekunle Lawal Road, Ikoyi, and a full duplex together with all its appurtenances on a plot of land measuring 2217.87sqm at 2a Bank Road, Ikoyi, Lagos.
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
L-R: Head Marketing and Corporate Communications, Knight Frank Nigeria, Mr. Lanre Sonubi; Senior Partner/CEO, Mr. Frank Okosun; and Partner, Africa Desk, Knight Frank LLP, Mr. Ben Woodhams with the award won by Knight Frank Nigeria at the Africa and Europe Property Awards in London…recently
CAPACITY BUILDING INITIATIVE…
Spain Flood Deaths Top 200, Hopes Fade for Missing
Sunday Ehigiator with agency report
Rescuers yesterday raised the death toll in Spain's worst floods for a generation to 205 as the government deployed more troops in an increasingly desperate search for survivors.
The floods that have tossed vehicles, collapsed bridges and covered towns with mud since Tuesday are the European country's deadliest such disaster in decades.
The organisation coordinating emergency services in the hardest-hit
eastern Valencia region said 202 people had been confirmed dead there.
According to the AFP, officials in neighbouring Castilla-La Mancha and Andalusia in the south had already announced a combined three deaths in their regions.
Rescuers equipped with drones and sniffer dogs waded through water and rummaged through debris in search of dozens of people the authorities believe are still missing.
The government has deployed another 500 troops to the stricken areas to bolster the 1,200 already on site
CHI Limited Honoured for Excellence, Innovation
Chivita|Hollandia (CHI Limited) was recently honoured with two distinguished awards in recognition of its commitment to quality, consumer satisfaction and product innovation, cementing its position as a trusted leader in Nigeria’s juice and value-added dairy sectors.
This occurred at a gathering of Nigeria’s top marketing communications professionals, managers of renowned brands, and industry leaders to celebrate excellence, innovation, and achievement in the industry at the Brand Communicator Awards 2024.
Chivita received the award for Most Innovative Juice Brand of the Year, while Hollandia was recognised as the Outstanding Yoghurt Brand of the Year.
A statement explained that the awards underscored Chivita| Hollandia (CHI Limited) unwavering commitment to excellence and consumer-centric innovation that enriches lives and inspires loyalty among Nigerian households.
The Brand Communicator Awards are renowned for their rigorous,
research-driven approach, recognising organiations that lead in quality, consumer engagement, and positive industry impact. These awards affirm the contributions of Chivita and Hollandia, both instrumental in setting benchmarks for quality and innovation within Nigeria's FMCG landscape.
Accepting the awards, the Marketing Director at Chivita|Hollandia (CHI Limited), Mrs. Toyin Nnodi, who was represented by Edidiong Andem, expressed her gratitude to the event organisers and reiterated the company’s commitment to meeting consumer needs with distinction.
She stated, “We are incredibly honored to receive these awards, which reaffirm our core values of quality, innovation, and consumer satisfaction that guide us daily. The Outstanding Yoghurt Brand of the Year award for Hollandia reflects our dedication to offering nutritious, accessible, and enjoyable yoghurt options in a variety of formats, supporting the wellness of Nigerian families and helping them to Stay Ahead with Dairy Power.”
Kogi Senator, Natasha Partners NILDS, UN to Empower Female Constituents
Sunday Aborisade in Abuja
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan representing Kogi Central Senatorial District in the National Assembly has partnered with the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS) and the United Nations Women Organisation, to empower female constituents.
The partnership, according to a statement by the Senator’s media aide, Arogbonlo Israel, in Abuja yesterday during a townhall meeting held this week.
Themed 'Women's Political Participation and Presentation', the townhall meeting, the statement added, aimed to canvass greater representation of women in leadership and political roles.
It explained that during the event, Akpoti-Uduaghan shared her experiences as a female legislator in Nigeria, highlighting the skepticism
women often face in leadership roles.
She said, "During the last townhall meeting, you shared your concerns, and we are here to address them, particularly to support your enterprises.
“As part of our one-year celebration in office, I’ve been able to secure significant entrepreneurship support for you.”
Akpoti-Uduaghan also outlined her accomplishments from her first year in office.
They included infrastructure development, educational reforms, agricultural support, and security initiatives including Police station rehabilitation, provision of water systems, renovation of primary healthcare centre, among others.
She equally urged the United Nations Women Organisation to help curb maternal mortality at the local communities by deploying resources to primary healthcare facilities within the senatorial district.
for search, rescue and logistics tasks. Another 500 would be dispatched today.
Some cut-off areas remain without water, food or power three days after the floods began, and many roads and rail lines remain inaccessible.
In the devastated town of Paiporta near Valencia City, some residents complained aid was coming too slowly and frustrating the efforts of volunteers.
"There aren't enough firefighters, the shovels haven't arrived," Paco Clemente, a 33-year-old pharmacist, told AFP as he helped clear mud from a friend's house.
Thousands of people remain cut off from the electricity and telephone networks, but it is hoped the estimated number of missing people will fall once connections are restored.
Debris stuff a street, on November 1, 2024, after a flooding devastated the town of Paiporta, in the region of Valencia, eastern Spain.
With several places seeing signs of order breaking down, government minister Angel Victor Torres on Thursday vowed an uncompromising response to looting.
Police said they had arrested 50 people for incidents including theft
from vehicles and a jewellery store.
In the Valencia region town of Aldaia, Fernando Lozano told AFP he saw thieves grabbing items from an abandoned supermarket as "people are a bit desperate".
"Until things return to normal and the supermarket opens, it's going to be very bad here."
Sports centres and schools were among the sites being used for emergency food distribution, Valencia region leader Carlos Mazon told reporters.
Slabs of tarmac from destroyed roads littered fields inundated with murky brown water and mud caked
the ground floor of homes in the Valencia region.
The courthouse in Valencia City has been converted into a morgue, where health workers wearing smocks carried stretchers covered with white sheets.
An army of hundreds of volunteers set off from Valencia yesterday, armed with shovels, buckets and shopping trolleys laden with food and nappies to help distressed neighbours in the city's flooded suburbs.
Pope Francis expressed his solidarity with the victims and their families in Spain, historically a deeply Catholic country.
Plan International Expends Over €100bn in Nigeria, Targets 20 Million Girls in Five Years
Kuni Tyessi in Abuja
Plan International Nigeria, a humanitarian and developmental organisation with headquarters in Canada, has revealed that it has so far spent over €100 billion in the last 10 years.
The sum were spent on covering women, girls and children activities bordering on education, sexual and reproductive health, nutrition, renovation, construction, building and furnishing of schools.
The Country Director, Charles Usie, who disclosed this yesterday in Abuja, during a media briefing in commemoration of activities of the organisation since its inception in Nigeria in 2014, said with such laudable feat, it was targeting
The election of the paramount ruler of Etiti Abam Autonomous Community yesterday produced Chief John Okere Nwankwo as winner.
With the victory, Nwankwo is now the Atita II of Etiti Abam comprising Atan Abam, Eziafor, Ndi Ibom and Obot Aran communities.
In a keenly contested election, Nwankwo scored 84 votes to beat Chief Jacob Okere Okorie to a
Dike Onwuamaeze
The Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Olayemi Cordoso; the Managing Director/CEO of First Bank Nigeria, Mr. Olusegun Alebiosu, and the Founder/CEO of the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE), Dr. Muda Yusuf, would feature at the “2024 Treasury360 Conference and
20 million girls in the area of empowerment, livelihood and decent living, skills acquisition, nutrition and food security amongst others.
Disclosing that its activities would be replicated in the whole country, Usie said part of the dividends that the intervention of the organisation has brought to Nigeria included protection from violence, abuse, discrimination and which has led to peace building particularly in states like Kaduna and Plateau, as well as Borno.
Reiterating that the organisation was celebrating what it has done with the funds invested, the Country Director said looking back, the Nigeria office could say it has added value, succour, support and has instigated hope in the lives of beneficiaries of
second position with 65 votes. Of the 216 total votes, two were voided while Chief Kalu Okoro, the Ohamadike of Atan Abam scored 26 votes to Come third while Chief Ina Uka scored 24 votes. CHIEF Ben Okoro Okwara scored 12 votes while Mr. KALU Olaka scored three votes. Udochukwu Onyike who superintendend the election boasted that the exercise was so free that all contestants vouched
Exhibition,” which is organised by the Association of Corporate Treasurers of Nigeria (ACTN). This was announced recently by the President of ACTN, Mr. Adeyinka Ogunnubi, who disclosed that the theme of this year’s conference would be, "Policy Implications and Building Sustainable Treasury Strategies: Nigerian Perspectives on Tackling Inflation and Interest Rate Uncertainty."
its projects and not the part of society that has created suffering.
In recounting that 36 million people have been reached which is approximately 12 percent of the Nigerian population, the country director said the organisation was seeking to become a global federation in Nigeria which will be headed by a woman and will set up a board that will oversee its activities.
He said “In celebration of our 10 years of existence in Nigeria, as a humanitarian and developmental; organisation, we are presenting we are presenting a new strategy for the next five years. So far, 100 euros has been budgeted for expenditure in Nigeria and the resources have been mobilized for with the office in Canada.
for the fairness and had no complaints.
The returning officers for the election, Chief Ugbor Okorie Uche and Ahamefula Ogbu said that though there were pressures, they had to keep to the rules of transparency for the Autonomous Community to enjoy peace.
In his acceptance speech, Nwankwo said he was minded on ensuring the peace and security of the community while
Ogunnubi stated that the theme was relevant given the economic challenges businesses were facing in Nigeria.
He said, “rising inflation and interest rate volatility are major concerns, and they demand that we, as corporate treasurers, adopt more resilient and sustainable financial strategies.”
According to him, Cardoso's leadership in monetary policy and
“We have operated in over 19 states with projects that have touched the lives of people. In all, we have invested in 127 projects and out of this number, 103 have been completed. For now, there are 24 active projects the organisation is working from July 2024- June 2025 which happens to be our financial year.
“There will also be an advisory board spread across the six geopolitical zones and there will be 15 members. The team will be led and governed by Nigerians to make permanent changes in the lives of Nigerians.
“Education is the central thing that we have been doing. For girls, we believe that when they have been educated, they can thrive and soar and contribute meaningfully to societal growth.”
pursuing development and quality representation.
Chief James Umeh, the Ike Abam congratulated all the contestants for a peaceful election and admonished them that they were all winners so far as development and peace of the communities were concerned. He charged the new Atita of Etiti Abam to be magnanymous in victory and to carry everyone along in the interest of all.
financial stability would make his participation highly anticipated because, “his insights will be invaluable as we discuss the role of corporate treasury in driving economic growth and financial stability in Nigeria.” Ogunnubi added that the ACTN would be honoured to have distinguished keynote speakers to lead the conversation on critical treasury and economic issues.
L-R: Partner/Co-founder, AO and FA Consulting, Mr. Olawale Abiola; Director, My Groceries 2 Go Limited, Mr. Austin Oragbon; Board Adviser, Mr. Chiedu Ebie; Managing Director /CEO, EnergiHub, Mr. Tunde Akintola; and Managing Director, My Groceries 2 Go Limited, Mr. Obu Koloko, at the Finance for Non-Finance Managers and Inventory Management training organised by AO and FA Consulting, in Lagos…recently
As Air Peace Marks 10 Years of Soaring Skies
Sunday Ehigiator
Encomiums were lavishly poured on the Chairman of Air Peace -Dr. Allen Onyema –and the entire staff last weekend at Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island. Lagos, at what truly qualified to be called an August occasion to commemorate the airline’s 10th anniversary celebration.
Significantly, even those who are not close associates of the airline agreed with the showers of praises on Air Peace having known the series of initiatives that philanthropic and patriotic Onyema had undertaken over the years for the benefit of Nigerians.
It is strikingly appropriate to commence the commendations with the Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Fidelity Bank Plc –Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe – who, in her speech at the event attended by the Vice president and four state governors, disclosed that the reputable financial institution partnered Air peace right from the beginning.
The Fidelity Bank boss made it very clear that the beginning of the airline wasn’t easy at all and it amounted to a big risk at that time to grant Onyema necessary financial assistance. Unperturbed, however, resilient Onyema remained focused with a determination to succeed.
According to Onyeali-Ikpe, “We did the heavy –lifting at the time nobody believed in sponsoring the aviation industry because, for no reason, statistics showed that it was a risky business; and like the Minister had said many had died before them. So when we made pitches to the board to finance, they were like “don’t go there”. But we believe in Allen. We believe in his strength of personality; and I stand here to tell you today that it’s been a wonderful experience.”
Significantly, unlike business people who after being granted loans either divert it to other things or refuse to keep to the agreements on repayment of the loan, Onyema proved to be a man of integrity.
The Fidelity boss put it this way: “The biggest thing I can tell you today about the company is their financial discipline. Anytime I have a reason to say it, I always say it. Air Peace, led by the Chairman, has what you call financial discipline. You don’t remind them when their payments are due, and I don’t know which banker would not be delighted by such.”
Affirming Onyema’s resilience, the Fidelity Bank boss also stated: “We know they have fought battles both internationally and locally and they’ve survived.”
She assured, “We are happy to be a strategic partner of air peace and we will continue to be.”
Like the Fidelity boss, other speakers spoke so well about the airline and the Chairman. The Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima lauded Air Peace for repositioning Nigeria’s aviation industry by facilitating regional integration.
Represented by the Minister of Transport-Senator Sa’idu Ahmed Alkali, Shettima declared: “You are our pipeline to economic growth, not because of perfection, but because you have weathered the storm and have aspired like great businesses all over the world.”
Speaking on a similar note, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, affirmed Onyema’s patriotism. He described the airline as a “Proud Ambassador of Nigeria”, adding that the Chairman deserved commendation for elevating Nigeria’s recognition in aviation globally.
For the Governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki, Air Peace’s safety record is her edge. In the Governor’s words: “One thing I particularly want to congratulate you for tonight is your safety records. Most of us board with the certainty that as long as it is Air Peace, we will arrive safely to our destinations”.
Like Obaseki, the Governor of Anambra, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, delivered his goodwill message virtually stating that Air Peace has been of great value and called the celebration an historic event.
He described the Air Peace a ‘national champion and global brand’ and wished the airline great sustainability. “This one in my view, is built to last and hopefully it will
be listed not only on the Nigeria stock exchange but also other global exchanges.”.
To Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, having succeeded in setting standards for commercial airlines in the country, the airline would become the leading airline in Africa. The Governor affirmed: “I have no doubt that with a business guru as Chief Allen Onyema at the helm, the goal will be achieved very soon.”
The Chief Operating Officer of Ibom Air, George Uriesi, described Air Peace as a pacesetter, just as he congratulated the entire staff for being “Road openers”. He stressed that the Chairman and the staff deserved commendation for loving Nigeria and demonstrating such in their commitment to service.
On Air Peace’ patriotic gestures, what readily comes to mind was the support the airline granted to the country during the terrible COVID-19 period. Apart from helping to deliver medical supplies and personnel to the country and donating money and food items to help many Nigerians, the airline evacuated many Nigerians from overseas countries even as it helped nationals of other countries in Nigeria to return home. Specifically, Air Peace evacuated over 300 Chinese from Lagos to China on May 2020 and 286 Indians to Kochi from Lagos three days after. Israel also benefitted from the evacuation exercise at that time.
At different times too, Air Peace has always demonstrated a high level of concern and care for Nigeria and Nigerians. During the xenophobic attack in Johannesburg in 2019, Air Peace evacuated 186 Nigerians who showed up out of a list of 319 from South Africa free of charge. Similarly, in May last year, Nigerian students stranded in war-torn Sudan were evacuated free of charge by the airline.
Interestingly, the Cleric who declared the event open, Pastor Patrick Ogunselu affirmed Onyema’s patriotism as demonstrated many times by the airline’s generosity to Nigerians. According to him:“Air Peace has not just flown commercially. It has also been responsible for helping Nigerians in distress all over the world. It is a commercial organization but functions like a charity organisation, always giving back to the community.”
Indeed, Onyema himself didn’t mince words on his love for the nation, even as he assured that the airline would never compromise on safety for any reason whatsoever. In his words: “I have always believed in Nigeria as a great nation, and I owe no apologies to anyone for my undying love for the country”. He added that even if ensuring safety would lead to flight delay or any form of financial loss, safety would remain sacrosanct no matter any pressure to do otherwise. He also stated inter-alia: “Air Peace was established for Nigeria….we will do everything
the 10th year anniversary of Air Peace held in Lagos…recently to support Nigeria and make the nation proud”.
Remarkably, true to the encomiums and true to the scriptural assertion that “He that watereth shall be watered himself”, Air Peace has also been enjoying goodwill and great patronage from Nigerians. Consequently, the Airline which started with seven aircrafts on October 25th 2014 now has 51 aircrafts, without any incident of air crash.
To the airline, just as the name indicates, peace aboard throughout a flight is her other word for guaranteed safe flights. Not surprisingly therefore, after safe trips nationwide to the huge satisfaction of travellers locally, Air Peace commenced international flight in 2022 with the first country being the republic of China. Afterwards, the airline’s international destination has continued to increase, with London joining the list early this year.
Responding to a question on what the future has in stock for passengers at home and abroad, and even for all stakeholders, the airline’s Head, Corporate Communications, Dr. Ejike Ndiulo said: “Having achieved so much in just a decade, touching the lives of people, including those who haven’t even patronised our airline, our assurance is simply this: it would certainly get better. We remain committed to our vision of being ever dependable by guaranteeing customer satisfaction and safety in all our routes: domestic, regional and international.
“With undisputable excellent leadership as exhibited by our Chairman, and with dedicated professionals who are ready to work beyond the call of duty and who believe in teamwork, Air peace is certainly on the path to being the airline to beat, not just in Nigeria, but in Africa and beyond.”
Air Peace officially commenced business on October 25th, 2014. Since then, the company has grown to be a reputable airline in the country, even as it commenced international flights in 2022 with a flight to China. From 7 aircraft and 5 destinations on its first day of operations, Air Peace has grown into a leader in West African aviation. Founded in 2014 by visionary leader Dr. Allen Ifechukwu Onyema, the airline connects people across Africa and beyond with a fleet of Boeing and Embraer aircraft. The airline’s “No City Left Behind” initiative has brought service to underserved regions, fostering social and economic development. Air Peace’s commitment to corporate social responsibility has led to transformative initiatives, from scholarships and health programs to environmental conservation. The airline’s 10-year journey exemplifies resilience, innovation, and a relentless focus on customer satisfaction.
Knight Frank Nigeria Bags Property Agency, Consultancy Award
Knight Frank Nigeria, a property consultancy and estate surveyor firm, has been crowned Property Agency / Consultancy Firm of the Year at the African Property Awards.
The award was presented to the firm during the IPAX Europe and Africa Awards held in London, recently.
Speaking after receiving the award, Senior Partner/CEO, Knight Frank Nigeria, Mr. Frank Okosun, was quoted in a statement, to have noted that the recognition was a major
milestone achievement and a testament to the professional standards and service excellence that define the Knight Frank brand.
“We have been partners in property to our esteemed clients in Nigeria with investments across the globe for almost 60 years, and I would like to thank them for trusting Knight Frank and allowing us to consistently deliver quality services which has culminated in our recognition for this special award,” he added.
According to the award organisers,
International Property Awards, Knight Frank Nigeria competed in a rigorous selection process against the best property professionals in Nigeria and across the African regions.
The panel of judges considered key elements such as quality of service and projects, marketing and communication materials (online and offline), and client testimonials. The Judges also focused on innovation, originality, and commitment to sus tainability.
The awards were judged by an independent panel of 102 industry experts,
and chaired by Lord Best, Lord Waverley, Lord Thurso, and The Earl of Lytton, members of the House of Lords in the UK Parliament. According to the International Property Awards, the African Property Awards are the largest, most prestigious, and widely recognised industry award throughout the regions. Therefore, winning one of the awards is an achievement which is globally recognised as a mark of excellence for property professionals.
L-R: Chairman/CEO, Air Peace Limited, Dr. Allen Onyema; Saidu Ahmed Alkali, Minister of Transportation representing Vice President Kashim Shettima; Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State; Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Festus Keyamo, and Chairman, United Nigeria Airlines, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, during
Ferdinand Ekechukwu - 08035011394
Email: ferdi_adthisday@yahoo.com
With Diss Track, Speed Darlington Continues Beef with Burna Boy
Barely few weeks after he was arrested on defamation charges and cyberstalking against Burna Boy, singer and content creator Darlington Okoye, aka Speed Burna Boy. He has given his fans and followers a “banger.” He has a diss track targeting Burna Boy and calls it ‘Baby Oil’.
Recently, Darlington announced the release of the music video. In the new song he throws jabs at the Grammy-winning artiste, the EFCC, and American music mogul, Sean “Diddy” Combs. “EFCC dey give bed, DSS dey give food, I don survive ground zero, what can you do to me next?” Darlington sang.
“I’m about to start a new business, ‘Baby Oil’ business… who go distribute am? Pussy clan wey dey call police for small something. Clear
conscience fears no accusation... banger!”
“If I go missing nah you, If you go missing one who claiming them” he continues, poking fun at Burna Boy’s connection.
Known for his risqué comments and nasty posts, Speed Darlington had returned online, and had started dragging Burna Boy soon after he regained his freedom.
The track, best described as a relief from the auditory torture his songs had exposed listeners, stoked reactions with many praising him as ‘Baby Oil’ tops new entry on Spotify’s daily top chart upon release. “Mission accomplished for Speedy. This was what he wanted all along,” someone posted.
Many have pointed out that the danceable song was a shade at Burna Boy. The track’s visuals surfaced on social media and have now gained a lot of attention online, pulling shades of opinion on the record and the unsung artiste, who also
Smart Money Woman Second Season Premieres
Hit series Smart Money Woman returned in style with its highly anticipated second season premiere in Lagos, bringing together an array of stars and industry players to a renewed interest in its impactful storytelling centered on finance, friendship, and the modern African woman’s journey.
The evening, held in an exclusive setting, saw the who’s who of the Nigerian entertainment industry mingling with the cast and crew. The intimate premiere event celebrated both the series, its creator. Walking the stunning blue carpet under the theme “Level Up Lagos, Standout Guests” had personalities dressed in bold, fashion-forward looks.
Showrunner Arese Ugwu was joined by leading stars Osas Ighodaro, Ini Dima-Okojie, Toni Tones, Eso Dike, Timini Egbuson, Seun Ajayi, Eyinna Nwigwe
Cast of The Smart Money Woman , Bobby Ekpe, Oshuwa Tunde-Imoyo and Mimi Onalaja, as well as event host and newcomer Nicole Ikot, who kept the energy high throughout the night.
goes by the multiple nicknames Akpi or Speedy.
Speed Darlington, 39, released ‘Baby Oil’ weeks after linking Burna Boy to the embattled P. Diddy, who is facing legal trouble with the FBI over alleged sexual exploitation. Reports crediting mainstream media also revealed nearly a thousand bottles of baby oil were seized from Diddy’s home.
Speed Darlington’s provocative posts and sarcasm questioned Burna Boy’s ties to Diddy, hinting that the rapper’s support may have had asked Burna Boy how many bottles of baby oil Diddy used on him, suggesting
Soon after, the controversial Speed Darlington was detained for accusations of defamation and cyber-stalking Burna Boy. After being released on bail, he turned his experience into “Baby Oil”. Of which some observers felt he would have been
Temple Muse Hosts Alain
Ngann’s ‘NLANGA GOL’
At Temple Muse, a landmark destination since 2008, located in the heart of Lagos, guests would experience “NLANGA GOL”, an exhibition by celebrated Cameroonian master photographer, Alain Ngann, within a gallery-like ambiance that seamlessly merges aesthetics with contemporary art, design, and culture.
The exhibition which opened on October 29th, 2024, would continue until November 17, 2024. The powerful collection of beautiful photographs would immerse viewers in a profound visual journey through Africa’s material, immaterial and human heritage, each image capturing the continent’s timeless artistry, resilience and spirit.
Born in Douala, Cameroon, Alain Ngann is
Cancer: Faith Morey Partners BWR, Advocates Support for Women
In a quest to be of great support to black women diagnosed with cancer, the Black Women Rising platform was birthed. Set up in 2019 by award-winning community champion, Leanne Pero after she struggled with the aftermath of her own battle with breast cancer at 30 the platform has gone ahead to be a very integral support system for several women.
The heart of the project lies in its monthly peer-to-peer support groups which has been impactful for a lot of women. And its mission
Comedian, Ayo Makun Ready with New Movie this December
Going into major acting and production roles 10 years ago, comedian, Ayo Makun redefined the industry with his own style and cinematic appeal. From productions such as ‘30 Days in Atlanta,’ ‘A Trip to Jamaica,’ ‘10 Days in Sun City,’ ‘Christmas in Miami,’ ‘Almajiri, and the ‘Merry Men series,’ AY has evolved much better and brighter as an actor and producer.
Set to be released on the 20th of December 2024, his new movie titled, ‘The Waiter’ features prolific actors such as himself, Kunle Remi, Regina Daniels, Bucci Franklin among others. In a social media post he made a few days ago in anticipation of the movie he shared that, “In a world where laughter is a survival tool, ‘The Waiter’ serves up humour with a side of reality, exploring the struggles of the everyday Nigerian. Join us on a journey that goes beyond comedy, as we uncover the resilience of the human
at Black Women Rising remains to educate, inspire and bring opportunities for women from the BAME community, to connect with one another and share their stories, without fear or shame.
On the 18th of October 2024, Waldorf Hilton, Women Rising Fundraiser. The gala was set up alongside Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Black History Month which brought together reshaping cancer support for women of colour. Lending her voice to the cause, Reality TV
Faith Morey expressed that, “As women we
Ayo Makun
spirit amid hardship.
Praising the artistic contribution of actor, Bucci Franklin, AY notes that, “With unwavering dedication and passion to his craft, Bucci truly brought his character to life in a way that will resonate with audiences nationwide. Get ready to experience his incredible performance when our movie hits cinemas this December!”
have shared concerns and one of which is the fear of a cancer diagnosis. Black Women Rising gives the much needed support at these crucial times. Women should have support in those dark and trying times which is what I believe. Healing can only come when there is the right love and support for women with cancer. We need to stay together and help each other in whatever way we can.
“Having a community that cares and supports helps the healing process. Women should have access to the right information such as the best hospitals, treatment options, and more as this is crucial during the period of cancer treatment.”
an acclaimed and sought-after photographer, known for his exceptional contributions to the A self-taught artist with a career as unique as his work, Ngann uses his craft as a platform to address deeply personal and cultural subjects. His campaigns and exhibits serve as dynamic calls to action, exploring themes of identity, diversity, and heritage while challenging
In “NLANGA GOL”, Ngann steps back, allowing his subjects to live and breathe their stories, blending beauty with history, and wisdom with artistry.
Each photograph serves as a testament to a continent that, though often overshadowed, never loses its light. The exhibition at Temple Muse is a call to embrace and safeguard Africa’s heritage, a reminder to future generations that Africa’s radiance, rooted in its past and present, continues to shine brightly.
Taiye Idahor Showcases Ancestry, Feminine Experience in Maiden Solo Exhibition
Tosin Clegg
Stepping out with her first solo exhibition in Nigeria in a decade, Taiye Idahor’s ‘I See (Wo)men as Trees,’ presented by contemporary art gallery, O’DA, is a poetic visual meditation on ancestry, identity and the feminine experience. The exhibition titled, inspired by a biblical verse, echoes the words of a man whose healed vision, transformed, “I see men like trees, walking.” This verse affirms Taiye’s exploration of how women stand as enduring figures of strength and continuity, deeply rooted in their pasts while constantly growing towards the future.
The exhibition, which kicked off on October 26th and will run till November 30, 2024, at the gallery, consists of four distinct series: ‘Wade in the Water, I See (Wo)men as Trees,’ ‘Emancipated but Not Free and Hairhythm.’ Each series draws on Taiye’s personal reflections and broader cultural narratives, forming a cohesive yet complex narrative centred around the metaphors of trees, water and hair.
These natural elements symbolises resilience, growth and the ongoing tension between freedom and confinement. The harmonious blending of the women’s soft brown skin with the reddish ground and wooden beams, their earthy tones evoke stability and inner strength, while the translucent figures express the ongoing journey of emancipation. This exhibition reminds us that women’s stories, much like trees, are ancient, enduring and ever-evolving, testaments to the power of growth and the strength of shared history.
Faith Morey
Tosin Clegg
Tosin Clegg
Ferdinand Ekechukwu
Speed Darlington
Ferdinand Ekechukwu
Ferdinand Ekechukwu
Brewing Trouble over Monarch’s Ouster
In
this piece, Seriki Adinoyi writes that Plateau State government may need to take a second look at the suspension of the Rekna of Bashar, a monarch whose stool is allegedly being politicised, to avoid needless rancor.
Plateau State has in recent years been troubled by hydra-headed crises ranging from ethno-religious, farmers-herders, political, banditry among others, which have in the aftermath resulted in violence that left lives and properties wasted.
It has therefore always been the priority of successive administrations in the state to deliberately work to avoid or de-escalate acts that tend to undermine the peace of any component of the state.
This was what the current Governor of the state, Caleb Mutfwang has also done since he assumed office; deliberately holding consultations and working to restore peace to every troubled part of the state. He had said that development can only thrive where peace reigns.
However, recent developments in Bashar kingdom of Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State in which the highest traditional title holder in Bashar District, the Rekna of Bashar, His Royal Highness, Alh. Abdullahi Idris Isah was suspended by the Governor despite outcry by the people, has been described as a recipe for trouble which if not properly managed can set the community and by extension, the state on fire.
It was gathered that the government’s position was drawn from a letter written to the Governor by some residents of the community led by Shehu Abubakar in which they had claimed that the process that led to the selection of Isah was flawed.
The suspension was conveyed in a letter dated October 2, 2024, where the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Yakubu Ishaya Mallo, directed the traditional ruler to step aside pending the outcome of an investigation into complaints arising from the selection of Rekna of Bashar.
The state government said that allegations were leveled over the process that brought the monarch to the throne two years ago, and that it has set up a committee to take a retrospective look into the process, but that the monarch would not be allowed to continue to sit there while he’s being investigated.
The letter read: “I am directed to convey government’s approval of the committee’s observations and recommendations that any officer under investigation of such should step aside to enable an unhindered investigation. Therefore you are hereby directed to step aside to enable the committee to carry
out its investigation without any interference.
“His excellency requires fair and transparent process to be carried out essentially for the well-being and prosperity of our community and the state as a whole. You are by this letter directed to handover appropriately to the most senior chief within the chiefdom immediately, pending the outcome of the investigation.”
Worried that such is the usual rhetoric used by governments to cleverly edge out its victims, Bashar Chiefdom Development Association (BACODA) convened a press conference in Jos where they cried that the suspension was done in bad fate and was unjustifiable.
BACODA also faulted government’s claim that the selection of Isa as Rekna did not follow due process providing documents to back its position.
Led by its chairman, Zakari Dallatu, BACODA urged the government to take a second look at its decision, insisting that the selection process was transparent and had not been challenged since it was done in 2022.
At a press conference in Jos, Abubakar who was the
Banks and Recent Network Glitches
In recent weeks, the banking sector in Nigeria has been grappling with series of technical glitches, primarily resulting from system migrations and upgrades. Major banks, such as Zenith Bank, Sterling Bank, and GTBank, have experienced disruptions, frustrating millions of customers and raising questions about the security and efficiency of these transitions. Some reports suggest that these glitches might be connected to the rising threat of cyberattacks, pushing banks to adopt more robust systems. On the other hand, fintech companies like OPay, PalmPay, and others are enjoying seamless operations, creating a stark contrast between traditional banking institutions and modern financial technology firms. The causes of these disruptions, it’s consequences and solutions calls for analysis.
The technical disruptions plaguing some banks can be traced back to widespread system upgrades that were carried out. Most banks are shifting from legacy core banking systems to newer, more secure, and cost-effective platforms. For instance, Zenith Bank recently migrated from Phoenix by Finastra, a UK-based software, to Oracle’s Flexcube, an Indian banking software. Similarly, GTBank has shifted to Finacle, another Indian software, while Sterling Bank transitioned from T24 to SEABaaS, a locally developed solution.
These migrations are part of a broader push for improved security and efficiency. With increasing incidents of cyberattacks, banks are seeking stronger systems that can better safeguard customer data and protect against potential threats. In addition, the cost of maintaining foreign-developed software in an economy facing foreign exchange challenges has prompted banks to seek cheaper alternatives.
However, these upgrades come with growing pains. The migration process involves moving vast amounts of customer data and integrating it across various platforms, including ATMs, mobile apps, and internet banking. This process, which can take weeks or even months, has led to service disruptions for customers who rely on these channels for day-to-day transactions.
Another driving force behind these system upgrades is the growing risk of cyberattacks targeting financial institutions. In recent years, there has been a marked increase in cyber threats aimed at banks, with criminals shifting from physical robberies
to digital heists. Nigerian banks are no exception to this trend. The cost of a breach can be enormous, not just financially but also in terms of customer trust and reputational damage.
While the primary issue appears to be related to system upgrades, there are growing concerns about potential cyber-attacks exploiting these vulnerabilities. The recent attempted hack on GTBank’s website has heightened these fears. Cybercrime statistics in recent year shows that Nigeria lost $706 million to cybercrime in 2022. Banks alone lost N8 billion to cybercrime in the same year. It is also estimated that the country is losing $500 million annually to cybercriminal activities. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had to freeze over 300 bank accounts to protect the naira from further cyberattacks this year.
In response, many banks are transitioning to systems that provide enhanced cybersecurity features, offering better encryption, fraud detection, and threat monitoring. However, the current glitches have fuelled rumours that some disruptions may be directly related to ongoing cyberattacks, although there has been no official confirmation of such incidents. Securing customer’s money and data is important given the prevailing circumstances.
One of the biggest advantages of migrating to new systems is enhanced security. Older systems are often more vulnerable to cyberattacks, while newer platforms come with built-in defenses against modern threats like ransomware and data breaches.
Also, by shifting to more cost-effective software, banks can reduce their foreign exchange expenditures on software licenses and support. Local solutions, like SEABaaS, offer a more affordable alternative, potentially reducing operational costs for banks.
Another reason is scalability and flexibility of the upgrades. Newer systems allow banks to scale their operations more effectively as customer bases grow. With more Nigerians adopting digital banking, modern platforms can handle increased transaction volumes without overwhelming the system.
Another is better customer experience. Once the migration is complete and the system stabilizes, customers should benefit from faster, more reliable services. This includes improvements in mobile banking, internet banking, and other digital channels. However, these won’t come with few downside. The
spokesman, alleged that “In September 2022, the Rekna of Bashar stool became vacant. Following tradition, a new Rekna should have been chosen from the ruling family through a proper selection process involving the kingmakers.
“Due to the interference, of the former LG chairman of Wase, Alhaji Ado Abubakar Buba, the selection process was postponed from December 2 to December 13, 2022. Four out of the five kingmakers were abducted on December 16, 2022, by the former chairman and his associates, presumably to influence the selection outcome.
“Despite the abduction, a selection process was held on December 23, 2022. This selection violated our right to a fair hearing because the kingmakers were not present. Additionally, the former chairman unlawfully participated in the process, exerting undue political influence.
“A formal complaint outlining these irregularities was submitted to the former governor, Barr. Simon Lalong. However, due to his alleged political affiliation with the former chairman and the preferred candidate, the complaint was ignored.
“We call on Governor Caleb Mutfwang, commissioner, Ministry for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs and the review committee to, as a matter of urgency, investigate these complaints arising from the irregularities that occurred during the selection process for equity, justice and fairness to the people of Bashar Chiefdom, Wase LGA and Plateau State in general.’’
It was gathered that after the suspension of the traditional ruler, a committee was set up by the state government to review the selection process and all the concerned ruling houses including Argadon, Albature, Argyem, Bagara, Bagidgid, and Babitan, and that they’ve all submitted their individual memorandum to the committee for investigation.
The process of appointment is captured in the Plateau State of Nigeria Gazette-Legal Notice 11 of 1991, which gave the power to the executive governor to first constitute a committee for the selection of Rekna of Bashar through the Ministry of the BACODA presented documents copiously capturing how this process was followed. A letter addressed to the then governor Simon Bako Lalong and dated December 28, 2022, written by S.D. Tapgun, the then Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, named the committee members as Mr Richard Tokma (Presiding Officer), Alh. Sani Mudi (member), Barr Nanfa Delleng (member), Mr Dafung Johnson (observer), and Mr Philip Nanyak (Secretary).
primary downside of these migrations is the service disruption caused to customers. Many users have reported being unable to access their accounts or complete transactions during critical periods. These disruptions can damage a bank’s reputation, especially when compared to the seamless services offered by fintech companies.
Another is long stabilisation periods. System migrations are not quick fixes. It can take several weeks or even months for banks to fully stabilize their operations. During this period, users may continue to experience intermittent service issues, compounding their frustration.
Also, potential security risks during transition. The long-term goal is to enhance security, but migration process itself can expose banks to cyberattacks, as systems are more vulnerable during the transition phase. Any weaknesses in the old system might be exploited before the new one is fully operational. While traditional banks are dealing with technical glitches, fintech companies such as OPay, PalmPay, Moniepoint, and Carbon are flourishing. These fintech firms are able to offer faster, more reliable services, often without the same level of disruption seen in the banking sector and are experiencing surge in usage and customer trust. Data released by the Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement Systems (NIBSS) shows that mobile money transactions surged by 348.11% to N41.54 trillion between January and July 2024. Here’s why.
Fintech companies are known for their agility in adopting new technologies and improving customer experience. They are built on modern infrastructure from the ground up, which allows them to innovate rapidly without the burden of legacy systems. This makes it easier for them to maintain seamless transactions even as they scale their operations.
For example, OPay has quickly become one of Nigeria’s leading mobile payment platforms, offering services ranging from money transfers to bill payments with minimal downtime. PalmPay similarly provides a wide range of digital services with a focus on user-friendly interfaces and a hasslefree experience. These companies have avoided the pitfalls of the ongoing glitches in the banking sector by staying ahead of the curve in terms of technology adoption.
Another reason fintech companies have gained such popularity is their customer-centric approach. Fintechs prioritise customer experience, often providing 24/7 customer support,
Mutfwang
Anthony Fakiyesi
Commemorating Asaba Massacre
Ogochukwu Eseka
The Asaba Massacre remains one of the most heinous acts of genocide in African history, yet it has been shrouded in silence and neglect for decades. The massacre occurred when soldiers of the Second Division of the Nigerian Army stopped in Asaba, a town within the Nigerian Federal Territory with close ethnic affinity to the Ibos in Biafra, and perpetrated the atrocity over four days.
Historical Dynamism
The Biafran War took a devastating turn in August 1967, when Biafran troops invaded the Mid-Western Region, advancing as far as Ore before being pushed back by Nigerian forces.
Briefly put soldiers of the Second Division of the Nigerian Army on their way to Biafra to stamp out what was considered an insurrection stopped in Asaba (Asaba was within Nigerian Federal Territory but with close ethnic affinity to the Ibos in Biafra) and over four days perpetrated one of the most heinous acts of genocide known to the African region at the time with 1,000 civilians massacred. There were no contemporaneous media reports about this incident and in due course when it became known the authorities covered it up. Despite what appeared to be official hostility within Nigeria for proper acknowledgment of the Massacre, Asaba people and other well-meaning Nigerians have continued to memorialise the atrocity in various ways.
Recently, efforts to commemorate the victims have also gained momentum, including a charity dinner, tagged, ‘The Asaba Memorial Collection Charity Dinner’, held at the historic Lansdowne Club in London, a venue steeped in history and significance, on October 27th, 2024.
This historical venue in the heart of Berkeley Square, Mayfair London was where Lord Shelburne negotiated the peace treaty with America in 1782.
It is also worthy to note that the building once belonged to two British statesman in the 18th century; Former Prime Minister, John Stuart and William Petty Fitzmaurice, the second Earl of Shelburne.
The Event
The Asaba Memorial Collection Charity Dinner aimed to create awareness about ethnic intolerance and raise funds for a memorial park in Asaba. The evening featured keynote speakers, including Chief Chuck Nduka-Eze, Mr. Mustafa Chike-Obi, and Mr. Ademola Akinrele. The event showcased artworks from the Asaba Memorial collection, featuring pieces by over 20 artists. Notable works included ‘In Memoriam’ by 12-year-old Kanye Okeke and Victor Ehikhamanor’s ‘Black Peace’ (2022).
Renowned fashion designer Ade Bakare’s Ogbueshi also made a powerful statement.
In the past, various initiatives had commemorated the Asaba Massacre, including the Red Door Gallery Art Exhibition held from November 27 to December 7, 2022. Also is the Oputa Panel Petition in 2001, and annual remembrance events. Other memorials include Memorial Square, Umuaji, Asaba, The Cenotaph, Ogbesowa, Asaba, and a 90-minute documentary film. Recent efforts include planting 1000 trees at the Five Ebos in Asaba on October 6, 2024.
The Asaba Memorial also served as a tribute to the victims of the Asaba Massacre, featuring works from over 20 artists. One notable piece was ‘In Memoriam’, a monumental canvas by 12-year-old Kanye Okeke, listing the
names of some victims. Victor Ehikhamanor’s ‘Black Peace’ (2022) is another striking work, previously featured on the book cover of ‘The Asaba Massacre: Trauma, Memory, and the Nigerian Civil War.’ Renowned fashion designer Ade Bakare’s ‘Ogbueshi’ is also on display, honouring the memory of Late Ogbueshi Leonard Nwanonyei Okogwu.
Additionally, Enotie Ogbebor donated a body of work, sharing his father’s eyewitness account of the atrocities. These artworks serve as a powerful reminder of the tragedy.
In a statement, organisers of the dinner, the Asaba Memorial Group, expressed gratitude to supporters, including Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, Chike-Obi, and Fidelity Bank. The Asaba Memorial group extended congratulations to HRM Obi (Prof) Epiphany Azinge on his coronation on October 5th, 2024.
They also expressed gratitude to Mr. Ademola Akinrele, Chike Ogeah, Ken Odogwu, Chief Nick Azinge, Profs. Elizabeth Bird and Fraser Ottanelli, authors of ‘The Asaba Massacre: Trauma, Memory, and the Nigerian Civil War,’ among others.
“We fondly remember late Chief Emma Okocha’s pivotal book, ‘Blood on the Niger’, which inspired our memorial efforts,” they added. The Asaba Memorial Collection Charity Dinner was a powerful tribute to the victims of the Asaba Massacre and a testament to the resilience of the Asaba people. As the evening drew to a close, guests departed with a renewed sense of purpose, committed to ensuring that the atrocities of the past are never forgotten. The Asaba Memorial Collection Charity Dinner marked a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to honour the victims of the Asaba Massacre.
As the Asaba Memorial Group continues its work, it remains steadfast in its commitment to promoting unity, understanding, and reconciliation.
Through the Asaba Memorial Collection Charity Dinner, the Asaba Memorial group demonstrated its unwavering dedication to preserving the history and legacy of the Asaba people.
A tribute by Ngozi Chimamanda Adichie at the night of
memorial service of late HRH Professor Chiketributes/Edozien Con, The Asagba of Asaba on May 30, 2024, read: “We live in a country that wants to forget the past, but the Asagba refused to forget and so by insisting that we remember, by saying this thing happened, it is not a myth and that it happened and we must remember.
“I think he did a great service not only to the community of Asaba but to Nigeria as a whole. To teach us that”
Similarly, a popular quote by Prof. Joy Ogwu in 2021, read: “I must emphasize that Memorialization reminds us that those who forget history will invariably repeat it.
“The concept of ‘Never again’ is a phrase that we are all familiar with following the Holocaust. In the Asaba dialect the word ‘Ozoemezina’ encapsulates the idea of remembrance”
According to the organisers, the Asaba Memorial group will continue to work tirelessly to promote awareness and understanding of the Asaba Massacre. Future initiatives would include educational programs, cultural events, and community outreach.
“The Asaba Memorial Collection Charity Dinner marked a significant step towards healing and remembrance. The event showcased artworks from the Asaba Memorial collection, including 14 pieces by Kanyeyachukwu (Kanye) Okeke.
“His monumental piece, ‘Never Forget’, lists the names of all the victims of the massacre. Proceeds from the artwork sales will support the proposed Memorial Park.
“A Nigerian army delegation, led by Major General J.O. Shokoya and Brigadier General Okechukwu Unochukwu, visited His Majesty, Nna Agu. They sought approval to research the Nigerian civil war and gather factual accounts from the Asaba people. Their mission aimed to learn from history, identify ways to prevent similar tragedies and apply those lessons to future military engagements.
“The visit coincided with the massacre’s commemoration date. His Majesty emphasized that Asaba’s people were innocent victims, caught in conflict, and not pro-Biafra supporters. He attributed the army’s hostility to either regional significance or conspiracy.
“The Asaba Memorial Collection Charity Dinner and the army’s visit demonstrate a growing commitment to acknowledging the past and promoting unity.
“By supporting the Memorial Park and engaging in dialogue, individuals and organisations can contribute to healing.”
Tribute to Funke Agbor
I think at least two people will be surprised to see this tribute. Michael, Funke’s colleague, who asked if I would write a tribute and Funke, who knows that I do not typically share my thoughts on such matters. But here we are. Funke will be 65 on 3rd of November and, on that day, will formally retire from her law firm (Dentons-ACAS Law).
The firm is planning to celebrate her by, among other things, presenting her with a book of tributes, and my instinctive response to Michael was that I was the wrong person to write a tribute, since my relationship with Funke is personal and not professional.
Upon reflection, however, I concluded that since I had the privilege of a ringside seat while her history was being ‘written’, I should share some of that history with her partners, colleagues and friends.
Funke’s history as a lawyer would not be complete without honouring the professional
‘shoulders’ on which she stood to learn her trade. When I met Funke, she was working with the late Mr. Fola Sasegbon, who was one of Nigeria’s foremost shipping lawyers and a most honourable gentleman. Funke joined Mr. Sasegbon’s firm in 1984, after completing an LLM in Commercial and Shipping Law at University College London, and that decision shaped both her career and her life.
Let me explain. She was the only lawyer in the firm apart from Sasegbon, and if someone had to clamber into a speedboat and accompany the Admiralty Marshal to serve an order of arrest on a vessel, who else would do that? And who else would get into a helicopter to visit an offshore drilling rig where there was a problem? And so very early on in her career, Funke learnt the value of hard work and learnt not to take shelter behind her gender - or the presumed ‘frailties’ related to such gender. She was and will always be a lawyer, and not a “female lawyer”.
In 1993, Funke joined her friends Sola Adepetun and Afolabi CaxtonMartins as a partner in the new and exciting firm then known as Adepetun, Caxton-Martins & Agbor; later known as Adepetun, CaxtonMartins, Agbor & Segun; and now known as Dentons-ACAS Law, following the firm’s combination with Dentons, the world’s largest global law firm. From being the only other lawyer in Fola Sasegbon & Co. to being one of the 15 partners in a 50+lawyer international law firm, is a professional achievement that Funke can rightly be proud of. And so, when I think of Funke, the first adjective that comes to mind is “hard-working”. She is unquestionably that. The second adjective is “determined”. Once Funke starts something, she will finish it. It doesn’t matter how long it will take, how much work it will take, how many sleepless nights it will take, or what her personal circumstances are (two children, soccer and swimming practice, etc., etc.). SHE WILL
FINISH IT. And finish it well.
The third adjective is “professional” – by which I mean calm, skillful, and morally upright. She is all these things and more. The fourth and fifth adjectives that come to mind when I think of Funke’s career as a lawyer are “fairness” and “compassion”. I have never heard her say a bad word about anyone – an invaluable attribute in a lawyer, and particularly in a lawyer who is a partner in a law firm.
These and other attributes were recognised by the Legal Practitioners’ Privileges Committee when they awarded Funke the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria in 2016. Funke received further recognition in April 2021, when she was elected as President of the Nigerian Maritime Law Association – an association that she has now been an (over!)active member of for over 40 years.
I understand from Funke that she will continue to handle all significant cases for the firm, notwithstanding her formal retirement from the firm,
and I suspect she is looking forward to continuing her hard work! I conclude with this. Funke, at (only!) 65, I am confident that even greater achievements lie ahead for you, and I join your partners, colleagues and friends in wishing you a very happy birthday and many professionally fulfilling years ahead.
Dan Agbor is a Senior Partner at Udo Udoma & Belo-Osagie
Agbor
L-R: Okocha, Kerry and Acholonu
Dan Agbor
Cardoso Drives Remittance Growth
Nigeria’s economy has received a muchneeded boost, thanks to a surge in remittance inflows. At the helm of this positive development is the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Mr. Olayemi Cardoso. Under Cardoso, despite economic challenges, Nigeria has managed to maintain a steady flow of remittances which many analysts have described as a critical lifeline for the nation’s economy.
The latest data released by the central bank showed that inflows through International Money Transfer Operators (IMTOs) grew by 47 per cent to $2.33 billion in the first six months of 2024, from $1.58 billion in the same period of 2023. This is coming at a time when the CBN implemented policy measures that permit eligible IMTOs access to naira liquidity at the official foreign exchange window.
The CBN recently instituted some policy measures to make the forex markets more efficient and increase remittance flows through formal channels.
In a circular signed by the acting Director of the Trade and Exchange Department, Dr. W.J. Kanya, the apex bank said the measure would enable IMTOs to access naira liquidity at the official window, thus, enabling the timely settlement of diaspora remittances.
The apex bank noted, “The bank has implemented measures that will enable eligible International Money Transfer Operators to access NGN liquidity at the CBN window. These measures are aimed at widening access to local currency liquidity for the settlement of diaspora remittances.
“Therefore, eligible IMTO operators will be able to access the CBN window directly or through their authorised dealer banks to execute transactions for the sale of foreign exchange in the market.”
From the numbers released by the apex bank, it could be inferred that the country’s net foreign exchange inflows to Nigeria’s economy increased by 67.8 per cent to $27.6 billion in the first half of 2024 from $16.44 billion in 2023.
Figures from the CBN’s quarterly economic statistics revealed that the development was because of a 34.6 per cent increase in net inflows through autonomous sources and a 170 per cent increase in net forex inflow through the Central Bank of Nigeria in the same period.
The forex inflow to the economy grew in the period by 41.6 per cent to $47.73 billion in first half 2024, and from $33.7 billion in first half 2023.
Gross inflows through autonomous sources also grew by 47.6 per cent year-on-year to $31.15 billion in first half 2024 from $21.16 billion in first half 2023.
Since he assumed office last year, Cardoso has intensified his engagement with Nigerians in the diaspora as well as foreign investors, hosting forums and town hall meetings to understand their needs and concerns. The driving force has been his desire to continue to encourage the flow of remittances to the country.
According to the CBN Governor, having addressed concerns raised by IMTOs and with the assurances from Nigerians in the Diaspora, the apex bank was confident that it would attract $1 billion monthly remittances.
According to Cardoso, “Nigeria has such a strong diaspora community here; in the earlier stages of the reforms, IMTOs were having issues transferring money back to Nigeria, and we felt it was important to engage them, and we did. As a result of that engagement, we identified particular problems, of which a lot of responsibility was shared. Things have since improved because as at the last meetings, which was, I think, April, monthly inflows were about $250 million, but as of September, it had risen to $600 million.
“With the recent announcement by Nigeria Interbank Settlement Systems (NIBBS) on Bank Verification Number (BVN), and other products that the banking industry is offering, and through engagement with the diaspora, we believe we will be able to move accordingly and again, rising from that engagement, we put our sights on increasing the inflows to $1 billion monthly and I’m confident that we will get there.”
To further boost Investors’ confidence in the Nigerian economy, the CBN governor disclosed that the apex bank was doing everything possible to remove Nigeria from the Grey List. A grey list is a list of countries with shortcomings in tackling illicit financial flows.
Countries on the grey list are under increased monitoring by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) due to perceived weaknesses in their antimoney laundering (AML) and combating the financing of terrorism (CFT). FATF leads global action to tackle money laundering, terrorist, and proliferation financing.
“In the last one year, our focus has been on the exchange rate, enhancing financial systems provision, fostering financial inclusion, and enhancing transparency in our monetary policy decisions and communications.
“We embarked upon bold and necessary reforms to return to the path of monetary policy orthodoxy, as well as remove observed distortions in the foreign exchange market. Our efforts have yielded significant progress as volatility in the foreign exchange market has abated measurably and remittances have also increased significantly; we have achieved increased transparency and improved overall supply in the foreign exchange market, leading to reduced arbitrage and speculative activities and eliminated the front loading of foreign exchange demand,” Cardoso said.
“We aim to reduce transaction costs and expand financial access, ensuring that every Nigerian, regardless of location or demographic, can meaningfully participate in our evolving financial system regarding our commitment to orthodox monetary policy.
“Let me reiterate our determination to follow this path through a sequenced approach to tackling all challenges ahead. We recognise the continued support of our key stakeholders, including investors, banks, Nigeria diaspora, and businesses with our counterparts on the fiscal side, we have strengthened collaboration over the past year by establishing several joint committees.
“These committees are designed to drive actionable outcomes, creating impactful platforms for stakeholder engagement and delivering concrete solutions to align monetary policy with fiscal operations more effectively. I’m confident that with our collective efforts and sustained commitment, we can pave the way for a more prosperous Nigeria that fosters robust and inclusive growth,” he added.
For instance, Cardoso during an engagement with Nigerians in the diaspora on the sidelines of the just concluded International Monetary Fund/World Bank Annual Meetings, told the diasporans that, “As far as we are concerned, it is totally unacceptable that you should be out here and be having hassles in operating your accounts or doing your business in your original country.”
Cardoso also stressed in another engagement with foreign investors that price stability is being restored gradually in the country due to the tight monetary policy stance of the apex bank. This, he said, is aimed at taming inflation, rebuild confidence and regain market credibility.
The CBN governor told his audience, that, “confidence has returned to the market and there is also confidence by Nigerians in their currency. A situation where interest rate has gone up, we expect that there
would be more interest in local currency instruments.
“Something else that is important in these whole adjustments in the Nigerian economy is the fact that Nigerians would be more inclined to produce locally because it is a lot cheaper for them to do so, rather than depend on imported goods.”
The surge in remittances has led to a growth in Nigeria’s foreign reserves that climbed to $40.2 billion in October 2024, up from $38.4 billion recorded in September. This marked a significant boost in the country’s financial position.
Cardoso revealed that Nigeria’s gross external reserves stood at $39.29 billion as at end of September 2024, an increase of 9.38 per cent from $35.92 billion as at the end of August 2024. This was due mainly to third party receipts, forex transactions and crude oil-related taxes. The gross external reserves position as at the end of September 2024 could provide 14.34 months of import cover for goods and services and 15.84 months of import cover for goods and services. The ratio of reserves to short-term debt stood at 125.44 per cent, exceeding the threshold of 100 per cent and suggesting that the reserves could cover short-term external debt.
The increase in foreign reserves was a direct result of the government’s decision to allow the market to determine the naira’s value instead of continuous Central Bank interventions. In the past, significant sums were spent monthly defending the naira, a practice that has now been curtailed to promote long-term economic stability. By letting the market dictate the exchange rate, Nigeria is avoiding excessive foreign exchange interventions while organically boosting reserves.
“We’re allowing the market as much as possible to set the level for the naira, and we are building the buffers to improve that confidence and ensure that we have enough input cover,” he added.
Indeed, Cardoso’s visionary leadership has set the stage for a new era of remittance growth in Nigeria. By fostering a conducive environment for remittances, the CBN is empowering Nigerians in the diaspora to play a pivotal role in the nation’s economic transformation. As the CBN continues to implement innovative strategies, Nigeria is poised to become a global remittance hub.
SO&U Wins Creative Advertising Agency of Year Awards
SO&U, one of Nigeria’s leading creative agencies, has been honoured as the Iconic Creative Advertising Agency of the Year at the 2024 Brand Communicator Awards.
The recognition celebrated SO&U’s 34year legacy of excellence, transformative campaigns, and outstanding creativity that has continually redefined standards in Nigerian advertising.
A statement yesterday, noted that the Brand Communicator Awards, renowned for its research-driven selection, recognises leaders in marketing and communications who set new creative benchmarks and drive industry innovation.
“The Iconic Creative Advertising
Agency award highlights SO&U’s dedication to impactful, purpose-driven campaigns that resonate powerfully with audiences and inspire the wider industry.
“Over the past three decades, SO&U has skillfully merged world-class creativity with Nigerian cultural insights, creating campaigns that deeply connect with diverse audiences.
“From making brands household names to launching strategies that redefine entire industries, SO&U’s work has consistently earned respect and admiration, establishing the agency as a leader in both creative advertising and cultural narrative,” it added.
Reflecting on the award, Group Managing Director Udeme Ufot, expressed his appreciation, stating, “This recognition not only celebrates our work but our enduring legacy, vision, and commitment to creativity. It stands as a testament to the passion and resilience of every SO&U team member. We have always believed in the power of ideas to shift perceptions, shape behaviours, and drive growth for our clients. This award motivates us to continue elevating what is possible in Nigerian advertising.”
As SO&U moves confidently towards its fourth decade as a leading creative and integrated communications power-
house, the agency remains driven by a passion to inspire through crafting innovative ideas that build transformative brands and drive meaningful change.
SO&U is a leading creative powerhouse and an affiliate of M&C Saatchi Africa, the world’s largest independent network. Established in 1990, SO&U is dedicated to achieving the impossible through “Creativity that Works.” Over the years, SO&U has partnered with some of Africa’s most respected brands, delivering innovative and effective solutions that resonate in an increasingly complex world.
Cardoso
Donatus Eleko
Olusegun Omotola: Piloting Bureau of Public Procurement Reform
Oluchi Chibuzor
The Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) under the leadership of its Acting Director General, Olusegun Omotola, has commenced a revolutionary journey to modernise and simplify Nigeria’s public procurement procedures.
Omotola’s appointment as the BPP’s boss coincides with a pivotal moment in the nation’s efforts to increase effectiveness in public spending, accountability, and openness. He has a broad and ambitious plan for the agency that includes several important reform areas namely: Modernisation of legislative and regulatory framework; strengthening of institutional framework and management capacity; Improvement of procurement operations and market practices; and strengthening integrity of public procurement system.
Omotola’s leadership of the BPP offers hope for a brighter future for public procurement in Nigeria. By embracing innovation, technology, and best practices, the agency can play a critical role in transforming the country’s public sector and promoting sustainable development.
Before now, Omotola was a Director, Legal Services in the Bureau. He hails from Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State.
He got his (L.L.B Hons), Bachelor of Law, at the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria in 1991. He has attended so many courses and seminars in capacity building, Contract Negotiations, Drafting and Management, Computer Hardware and Operating System, Total Quality Management, Infrastructure Development, Public Private Partnerships for Infrastructure and Services Seminar, Effectives Leadership and Change Management, Office Routine and Work Ethics in High impact Leadership.
He also, had trainings in Maintaining Acceptable Financial Management for Sustainable Development in the Public Sector, Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan (FCSSIP) amongst many others.
He represented the Federal Ministry of Finance, Budget and National Planning on the Ajaokuta Project Presidential Implementation Team, SubCommittee, set up to verify the outstanding Federal Government Liabilities generated by the Ajaokuta Steel Company and National Ores Mining Company, Itakpe, in Kogi state in July 2020 – August 2021. He is a member of the Nigerian Bar Association and member, Governing Council of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (represented Federal Ministry of Finance).
The ongoing reforms initiated by the BPP boss are outlined below:
Modernisation of Legislative and Regulatory Frameworks. The BPP is actively working to amend the existing Act to align it with global best practices and address emerging challenges. With this, it aims to meet the evolving economic demands in Nigeria, offer greater flexibility in procurement procedures and embrace modern public procurement practices such as Sustainable Public Procurement, Green Public Procurement (to tackle Climate Change challenges) and Social Value Focused Public Procurement (getting more benefits i.e. social value outcomes from contracts beyond the specified goods, services or works). Today, work is presently ongoing on the review of the current Public Procurement Act 2007, and the BPP under the leadership of Omotola is seeking the support of stakeholders when the proposed legislation gets to the floor of the National Assembly. The review and modernisation of the country’s Standard Bidding Documents and Public Procurement Regulations and Manual is also at an advanced stage.
Additionally, the present BPP leadership aims to simplify and streamline the procurement processes with the deployment of e-Government Procurement (e-GP). The BPP has also commenced the process to reduce the delivery timelines of its operations through the deployment of a transparent and AI-driven Procurement Review Management System to manage its workflow and prevent corrupt practices.
Strengthening Institutional Framework and Capacity
The agency is also committed to developing and implementing modern regulations that promote efficiency, transparency, and fairness in public procurement. To this end, the BPP is investing in capacity-building programs for procurement officers to enhance their skills and knowledge. The agency is also undertaking organisational restructuring to improve its operational
efficiency and effectiveness.
In a recent address, delivered on the occasion of the 2024 training for conversion/induction into the procurement cadre in parastatals, institutions, commissions and agencies of federal government in Lagos State, Omotola stressed that the BPP remains determined to implement organisational re-engineering, to ensure organisational culture change, and transform and re-brand the BPP as a proactive and effective regulator and anti-corruption agency. “We are committed to providing opportunities for new entrants, especially Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and WomenOwned Enterprises in line with the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda on ensuring sustained inclusive economic growth.
“We shall strive to contribute and support the drive for the delivery of innovation in public service delivery in collaboration with other innovation-focused government agencies,” he explained.
In recent times, the BPP has also taken steps to enhance the capability of procurement actors. It is currently training some procurement officers on sustainable procurement at its Public Procurement Centres of Excellence in the six geopolitical zones (Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, (ATBU), Bauchi; Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria; Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi (FUAM); Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO); University of Benin (UNIBEN) and University of Lagos (UNILAG)).
“Also, we are about to roll-out extensive training for professionalisation of public procurement in this last quarter of 2024, through the World Bank supported Sustainable Procurement, Environmental and Social Standards Enhancement (SPESSE) Project].
“These objectives are ambitious, but they are also essential for the future of public procurement in our country. They represent a shift from viewing procurement as a mere administrative function to recognizing it as a strategic driver of public value, innovation and most importantly, ensuring the delivery of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“As new entrants into the procurement cadre, you are entering the field at a pivotal moment. You will be at the forefront of implementing these reforms and shaping the future of procurement,” Omotola revealed.
He urged procurement professionals to bring in their expertise and specialised knowledge forward to ensure that the ongoing reforms succeed.
“Your understanding of procurement processes, regulations, and best practices is essential for interpreting and implementing the Public Procurement Act 2007 and Regulations correctly. Secondly, you will play a vital role in change management.
“Reform often involves significant changes to established processes, and you will be responsible for communicating these changes effectively to stakeholders across your organisations. You will provide guidance on the standard procurement procedures, manage resistance to change, and ensure smooth transitions.
“Thirdly, as we professionalize the procurement workforce, your role becomes even more significant. You will be at the forefront of establishing and maintaining professional standards and elevating the strategic importance of procurement within your organisations,” he added.
Improvement of Procurement Operations and Market Practices
Under the leadership of Omotola, the BPP is also promoting the adoption of e-GP to streamline procurement processes and reduce corruption. The agency is committed to promoting transparency and accountability in public procurement through various measures, including public disclosure of procurement information.
The BPP boss pointed out that behavioural change is a key element of any Public Procurement Reform, even as he highlighted key behavioral elements that would strengthen the reform. He explained: “In this dynamic environment, adaptability is crucial. You will need to embrace new technologies and digital solutions like e-Government Procurement and Procurement Planning Software (NOCOPO), navigate shifting priorities and processes, and help stakeholders across your organisations adapt to new procedures. Your ability to manage resistance to change and ensure smooth transitions will be a valuable asset.
“Emotional intelligence will be a cornerstone of your success. You’ll need to handle potentially contentious supplier relationships diplomatically, manage conflicts that arise during the reform process, and demonstrate empathy when dealing with stakeholders affected by changes. Your patience and tact when acting as gatekeepers in the procurement process will be essential.
“The field of procurement is evolving rapidly, and your commitment to ongoing learning will be crucial. Stay updated on evolving best practices and technologies, develop new competencies required by reform initiatives, and
participate in training programs offered by the SPESSE project to address your skill gaps. Pursuing professional certifications will help elevate the strategic importance of procurement within your organisations,” he added.
Strengthening the Integrity of Public Procurement System
The BPP is also implementing stringent anti-corruption measures to prevent fraud and abuse of public funds. Today, the agency is promoting ethical conduct among procurement officers and stakeholders. The successful implementation of these reforms would have a significant impact on Nigeria’s public sector. Furthermore, streamlined procurement processes would lead to faster and more efficient delivery of public projects; just as enhanced transparency and accountability would help to minimise corruption and waste of public funds.
Efficient public procurement can stimulate economic growth by promoting competition and innovation. Also, effective public procurement can contribute to social development by ensuring that public funds are used to provide essential services to citizens.
“We are dedicated to embedding transparency throughout the procurement lifecycle, with greater emphasis on the adoption of Open Competitive Bidding through Advertisements (since I assumed office in June ending, we have declined 60 per cent of requests for Restricted Tendering in favour of Open Competitive Bidding, and we shall do more.
“This change has met with a lot of resistance and blackmail from those benefiting from the status quo, but we are resolved to entrenching the good principles contained in the Public Procurement Act 2007). As part of our drive towards ensuring effective public procurement oversight, extensive Procurement Audit exercise shall commence in few weeks. We focus on delivering Value-for-Money (VfM) and Social Value through public procurement,” the BPP boss explained.
Clearly, strong ethical standards are non-negotiable in Nigeria’s public procurement practice as it plays a key role in combating corruption and promoting transparency in procurement processes.
Omotola told procurement professionals that, “your analytical skills will be in high demand efficiently and effectively translate the Renewed Hope Agenda into tangible delivery to the citizens. You will need to interpret data and provide insights for decision-making, align procurement activities with broader organizational objectives and evaluate the economic impact of procurement decisions. “Effective collaboration will be key to your success. You will be engaging with diverse stakeholders to gather input and support for reform efforts, building strong relationships with contractors and consultants, and working across departments to align procurement reform with other organizational initiatives. Your ability to foster a culture of teamwork and knowledge-sharing within the procurement function will set you apart as a leader.
Conclusion
Indeed, the era of procurement reform presents both challenges and opportunities, and all stakeholders must support Omotola to navigate the landscape and to support the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President. The expertise of professionals in the sector would also be instrumental in driving successful procurement reform and elevating the strategic importance of the procurement function within their organisations.
Omotola
THE CHUMMIES
POLITY
Ejike Eze: Delays in Political Appointments Can Trigger Mass Exodus from APC
Amb. Ejike Eze, a retired foreign service officer and diplomat, was the Senatorial Candidate of the All Progressives Congress for Enugu North Senatorial District, in the 2023 general elections. Eze who specialised in intelligence and security protocol served in Nigerian embassies in Germany, Portugal, Ghana and Cuba. He spoke to Linus Aleke on sundry national issues:
What was the experience like moving from the civil service into the turbulent waters of partisan politics in Nigeria?
The initial experience was that of excitement as l envisaged a robust politics of change in godfatherism, less emphasis on inducements and hope on the ultimate sovereign will of the people to prevail during the election. I believe that politicians who had been in office for many years with virtually nothing to better the lives of the masses and with a mindset of office entitlement should step aside for fresh hands and ideas. I felt that with my experience in the civil service, getting involved in politics would be a kind of giving back to society what I learned all this while traveling the whole world, working for Nigeria for 33 years, and seeing what politics means in other climes. I asked myself this question, how can we begin to look towards developing our political system in line with practice in most democracy outside of Africa as in many civilised countries. As time went on I realised my ideas were almost utopian. The culture of intimidation, violence, deceit and rigging has mostly become the easy way and important in winning election in Nigeria. This has badly affected my ideas on the transformations needed to ensure free and fair election the country needs for development into a functional environment. The opportunity to really serve my people in such a way that I could make a little difference from what other politicians did became difficult as I could hardly fit into the desperation and turbulent nature of our politics. I have therefore decided to continue on decency and civility and garner more experience for future politics. We must all strive to play politics without bitterness for future generations.
Considering that you lost your senatorial bid at the poll, are you satisfied with the running of the party in Enugu State, especially when it comes to the sharing of appointments in the state?
I would say yes and no. Yes, because we have the leaders and a party structure that is working hard to attract dividends of democracy to the people and no, as I do not see fairness, justice and equity in the distribution of appointments and other dividends of democracy. It is also troubling that the party has remained divided and factionalised leading to palpable divisions within the party. A party that needs to win election stays united and cohesive. No divided group could achieve any progress. However, the APC Government has been fair in appointing our sons and daughters into high positions in the defence and security agencies. It is therefore, important to educate our people
on the benefits of aligning with APC. It won election at the centre. Meanwhile, there are certain constitutional requirements for any government in power. It has to give appointments to every part of this country, because of the federal character principle. Flowing from that, we now have a minister, director generals, chairmen of boards, pro-chancellors, and many others which we would have lost if we had jettisoned APC completely. As we did not win in Enugu, we have two APC states in southeast and the presidency. These victories should ordinarily impact on our people as expected. Some of us participated actively in the electoral success of APC through our contest for elective positions. I therefore do not regret my campaign and working hard for the victory of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
But, looking at the sharing of positions after the election, will you say the Enugu North Senatorial District has gotten its fair share from APC?
Well, like our people would say, you do not use early morning to know whether the market is going to be good or bad. Appointments have started rolling in, however, it has not been equitably distributed. I believe that there is still more to come. Our leader, the Minister of Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji is a fair-minded person. He is carrying several people along. I know that he is aware that justice, fairness, and equity are important in what anybody does in politics. When you get a position and you allow it to be for your selfish interest, people never forget. Next time you run for election, it could become an issue and may be used as a campaign against you. I believe
that it is not yet too late for us to get what we deserve. I strongly believe that our leaders, Uche Nwakibia and our party chairman, Ugo Agbala are looking at these appointments and as experienced politicians know that if in the long run, they do not do well in carrying everybody along, they will not have enough courage to come back to ask those abandoned for their votes. Further delay could trigger a mass exodus of APC members to other parties. Already some people are leaving the party. I don’t have any position with which I can stop them after all, they are adults. So, I advise those with intent to leave to exercise patient, with time, everything will be sorted out and everybody will be happy, in Enugu East, West and North.
What is your assessment of the security situation in the southeast and what do you think can be done to nip the growing insecurity in the bud?
Create a strong synergy between the government and the people. A lot more interaction of the leaders of the zone with the people is needed especially with those who are in the know of what it entails to bring down the level of insecurity. For instance, I have said once that Governors must make effective use of their security votes, information is power. If our governors make good and effective use of that enormous amount they collect as security votes and deploy it to seek information, you will find that a lot of these things that are happening in the southeast will be drastically reduced. Governors in the zone should galvanise retired but still strong officers from the zone, the traditional rulers, and liaise with serving officers, to address insecurity in the southeast. Use of technology such as drones and GPS to find the location of kidnappers, unknown gunmen, and other criminals. Not only serving and retired security officers, but also the people themselves. The use of traditional rulers, the influential people in every society is essential. That is what we mean when we say, an all-of-society approach in dealing with internal security challenges. Every politics they say is local, every community knows the criminals in their midst, the bad boys and the ones that are doing well. The government has to devise a way to liaise with and harness the potentials of these people, who can give them actionable information, then the problem is half solved and with such intelligence, they will relate to the security agencies. In Nigeria, hotels check guests in without any question. They check you in without even knowing who you are. Security checkpoints on the roads in the southeast are necessary. However, the number and mode of operation should be reviewed. Reduce the number, and let there be effective means of communication between the checkpoints.
L-R: Dean, School of Tourism, Film, Performing Arts & Cultural Studies, Lagos State University, Professor Tunji Azeez; one of the participants of the program, Daniel Obembe; Head of Programme, GIZ Center for Migration & Development (GIZ-ZME), Sandra Verauijten; and Executive Director, KAP Group, Seun Soyinka, during the KAP Film & Television Academy for advanced video editing and sound design program in partnership with GIZ-ZME graduation ceremony in Lagos …at weekend KOLA ALLI
L-R: Family of the deceased, Glory Takon Mgbe; ICAN 1st Deputy Vice President, Hajia Queensley Seghosime; Mr. Etim Esu; 60th ICAN President, Chief Davidson Alaribe FCA; Officiating Minister, Rev Toyokeke Oka, during a Tribute at the ICAN special valedictory session in honour of late Ms. Joy Mbang Esu, held in Lagos…. yesterday SUNDAY ADIGUN
L-R: Managing Director, Starcom Media Perspectives, Mr. Jude Odia; Business Development Manager, Dyque Royal Energy Limited,Mr. Isaac Kome; Public Relations Manager, Dyque Royal Energy,Mr. Olaotan Fawehinmi; and President, Experiential Marketers Association of Nigeria, Tolulope Medebem, at the 2024 Brandcom Awards where Dyque won the Most Innovative Energy Brand of the Year held in Lagos recently ETOP UKUTT
L-R: Member, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Hon Ayo Adegbite; Chairman, Youth and Sports, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Hon. Idowu Odebunmi; Executive Director, Agbeyewa Farms, Mr. Oscar Seyi-Ayeleso; Team Captain, Omuo-Ore High School, Ajiboye Sunday and General Manager, Cavista Holdings, Mr. Tony Iloh during the prize presentation to the winner of the 2024 Agbeyewa Cup football tournament for secondary schools held in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State… recently
As Sandra Kneubuhler Unfolds
Radisson Hotel Expansion Plan
With a clement weather on Wednesday evening in Lagos, I alighted from my car in front of Radisson Blu Hotel located on Isaac John Street in the Ikeja Government Reserved Area (GRA). As I swiftly crossed the road and walked straight to the hotel entrance, one of the security guards on duty opened a small iron gate and directed me to the lobby. At the main entrance of the hotel building, another security guard politely asked me to drop my bag at the screening machine for security checks and ushered me in. I picked up my bag and sat down in the lobby before a female staff member came to welcome us. With smiles on her face, she took us to the Executive Lounge on the first floor, the venue for the media networking with Sandra Kneubuhler, the new Managing Director for Africa at Radisson Hotel Group, based in Johannesburg, South Africa, who is bringing over two decades of hospitality expertise to her leadership of operations across Radisson’s English-speaking African markets.
Guests, after taking photographs on a background with Radisson’s different brands, were served drinks, small chops masterfully prepared by the chef and light music from a live trumpeter making the evening a memorable one. Kneubuhler, who was dressed in a single pink suit and a black gown touching her knees, walked into the venue unannounced and smartly engaged all the journalists and General Managers of the hotel present.
After the opening remarks by Kneubuhler who could not hide her excitement in her welcome address thanked all for the warm welcome she received since her arrival in Nigeria.
“Since my arrival, I’m really getting to know this market. This is a market that has great potential, it oozes opportunity. And not only to remain in our position as the market leader in Nigeria, but we are going to enhance that position. We currently have five hotels in operation and a further eight under development. By 2027, we will have 2,000 operating hotel rooms in Nigeria.
“We will open Radisson in Benin City next
year, and following that in 2026 we will open the Radisson Blu Abuja and Radisson Red Abuja. Our support for hospitality is growing people and this is where our commitment is absolute. I have been here in the last few days, it has been such a joy to see our colleagues growing consistently in their careers throughout their time working in Radisson and that will grow and accelerate.”
Speaking further on the company’s expansion plan, she said: “Next year, we are going to bring Radisson Academy live to Nigeria. Radisson Academy is our business school and we are focused on training and developing our teams.
“We have Radisson Academy online that has over 30,000 training courses available but the true part of our team comes in training people face to face. This is a face-to-face business and we are doing everything to bring Radisson Academy to Nigeria and I know our team will embrace it and make the most out of it. We are excited to be part
of Nigeria’s amazing tourism story.”
According to her, the decision to bring the Radisson Academy to Nigeria was due to the inability of interested Nigerians to get visas for such training.
“If we can’t bring people there then we must bring it to the people. It’s a very practical decision,” Kneubuhler explained.
“Our core brands are Radisson Blu, Radisson Red, Park Inn and Radisson. Another growing brand is Radisson Collection and there is one in pipeline for Nigeria.”
On what informed the aggressiveness in building businesses in Nigeria despite the declining economy, she said, “We build businesses for the future. We have a sustainable long term vision. So economies come and go. We operate in very volatile markets, I think the key is strong hotel development. You keep pushing forward and sticking with your long term strategic plan.
We have a long term vision and we think for the future.”
When the founder of Akwaaba Travel Market, Mr. Ikechi Uko, asked her whether she would continue success stories of ladies leading in Radisson under her leadership, Kneubuhler answered in the affirmative.
According to her, “Radisson will continue to expand and develop but at the same, we have to constantly impact our existing products...We have a very sustainable approach to our business and bring that to every aspect of what we do.
“Strategically, we are looking to constantly grow our people because you can’t grow development if you don’t grow the people.
“We want to enhance our products. We have one of the biggest hotel equipment in Africa. We will have over 100 hotels operating in the next five years. So we have to constantly add value to our guests and have loyalty rewards.”
On what she intends to do differently during her tenure, she said with her strong commercial background, “I will far rather make more revenue than think about how to cut cost and that is my general business philosophy and I have a very deep focus on making more.
Musawa Champions Creative Therapy for Social Change
The Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, has underscored the transformative power of creativity in promoting health, well-being and societal healing.
At the Global South Arts and Health Week Nigeria Pavilion in Abuja, Musawa emphasised art’s role in tackling displacement, disability, mental health and pandemics, highlighting its impact on healing individuals and communities.
In a statement by her Adviser on Media and Publicity, Nneka Ikem Anibeze, Musawa said “Art has always been a part of our collective human experience, reflecting our identities, providing comfort and serving as vehicles for hope and healing. As we address challenges in health, displacement, aging, and everyday life, the arts offer us a path forward, transforming pain into healing and inspiring the resilience needed to overcome adversity.”
Ethiopian Airlines Resumes Flights to Monrovia, Bags Award
Ethiopian Airlines has announced the resumption of its passenger services to Monrovia, Liberia, reaffirming its commitment to strengthening connections across the African continent. Starting on November 30, 2024, the airline would offer three weekly flights to Liberia’s capital, restoring a critical air link that will enhance connectivity in West Africa and contribute to the region’s economic development.
The airline was recognised as the winner of the ‘Best Overall in Africa’ at the prestigious 2025 APEX Passenger Choice Awards, which took place in Long Beach, California.
This service resumption was a testament to Ethiopian Airlines’ continued expansion within Africa, where it has long been a driving force in facilitating trade, tourism, and cultural exchange.
Tell us about the East African tour operators’ visit to South Africa?
We’ve just had a very successful week having East African tour operators join us in South Africa to come and promote Africa, especially East Africa, to South Africans both corporates, MICE and tour operators. It was nice for them to come and experience South Africa, because I think you only really experience a country when you visit it. Whataretherestrictionswefacetravelling in Africa?
When I went to visit Uganda for the first time, I was very nervous. I’m 64. I had never had a yellow fever injection. All those good things and had all of that done beforehand as I arrived in Uganda. I think I was blown away by the friendliness of even their customs guys. Customs guys are generally very stern. In Uganda, they greeted me with smiles. I travel with an Irish passport and they said to me, you are so welcome and you realise you don’t need a visa, so you must come back often.
My husband, however, travels on a South African passport and that is challenging, especially in Africa. When we travel internationally, when we hand in his passport for a visa, they automatically issue his free of charge due to my Irish Passport. African countries don’t accept that. We need to start to look at an African visa, similar to that of a European visa. Issues we face as Africans travelling within Africa, in Europe, once you have a European Union
passport, you can pretty much travel freely and they need to look at that in Africa because one of the things that stop us from visiting places in Africa is the enormous cost and time spent on getting visas.
There are inroads now into that concept and they have brought out an East African visa, which allows you to travel throughout East Africa for US$150 for 90 days. You can now freely visit Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania. And I think we often travel through Europe.
For instance, my son has just been travelling around the world and he travelled extensively, but they travel so easily in Europe. They have no transport issues. One of the drawbacks we’ve had in Africa is transport. But Uganda Airlines is now making a concentrated effort to visit more venues. So is Ethiopian air. We, instead of before, when my husband was in the mines, he had to go up and down.
You first had to go up to Tanzania, come down to South Africa, then go back up to other countries. You couldn’t travel from left to right, you only travelled up and down. But those two airlines have now made significant inroads into more destinations within Africa, as well as destinations such as London. Using Airlines that stopover in Africa makes a big difference to those either returning to Africa permanently or visiting friends and family
Most South Africans who live overseas come home. Believe it or not, they either come home permanently, which is so awesome, or they come and visit. So now those airlines have made it possible for them to stop in Uganda for a week, visit Uganda, visit Kenya, and visit those areas before coming home. Because once you’re home, there’s a flurry of visits to all your family and friends and you don’t really get a holiday.
Now they’re allowing people to stop in Ethiopia. It allows you to stop in Addis Ababa and visit and actually see the countries that are within Africa. And for once, we’re a safe continent. The wars are going on everywhere else. Africa is safe. So now you can safely travel through Africa.
Offering products in African currencies such as ZAR instead of US Dollars. That’s changing. I’m happy to say that tour companies are mostly now encouraged to offer products in the country currency in which they are making the offer. What they will now start to do is offer us products not only in our currency, but also in an affordable range. I think Africans, because African countries such as Kenya, Tanzania, are used to selling to Europeans, to the USA, the UK, where the currencies are stronger, they are being sustained on a higher margin.
The international market loves to come and stay in luxury lodges. However, as Africans, we just want to go and stay in somewhere that’s pretty, that’s got a nice bathroom, that’s clean, that’s just, well, affordable. Whereas before visiting the Gorillas in Uganda or the Serengeti was probably, not only on your bucket list, but generally unaffordable. Most of us couldn’t do that. Now, what they’re saying is if you’re from Africa, there is an African rate and we’re going to encourage Africans, normal, regular travellers within the African continent to start visiting Africa because we’ve got beautiful affordable lodges in every country. There are homestays with a company like Freebird which is a UK-based company, that is encouraging people over 50 years to travel. Retirees of all income groups can stay in homestays or expensive lodges. In the whole of Africa, we have bush, beaches and mountains. But each country has its own beauty and its own environments to enjoy and to share. Each one is unique in its events, its selling points, and its people.
Kneubuhler Preston
Carloha Offers Tiggo 8 as Hole-in-one Prize at NAPE Charity Golf Tournament
Carloha recently celebrated a thrilling day of sportsmanship and excellence at the NAPE (Nigerian Association of Petroleum Explorationists) Charity Golf Tournament held at the prestigious IBB International Golf & Country Club in Abuja on October 26, 2024.
In collaboration with NAPE, Carloha proudly offered a Chery Tiggo 8 Pro as the coveted hole-in-one prize. This premium SUV, representing a blend of luxury, advanced technology, and rugged performance, was placed strategically to inspire participants to bring their best game. Although no golfer clinched the hole-in-one this year, the anticipation and excitement brought a unique spark to the tournament.
The tournament attracted an impressive array of Nigeria’s most notable professionals in the oil and gas sector. As an industry event that brings together the country’s top geoscientists and business leaders, the NAPE Charity Golf Tournament provided Carloha with a valuable opportunity to engage with a prestigious audience while reinforcing its commitment to promoting sports and supporting community-oriented events in Nigeria. Through its sponsor-
ship, Carloha further emphasized its dedication to advancing the country’s sporting culture and community spirit.
Apart from the Tiggo 8 Pro, Carloha showcased other outstanding models from Chery’s lineup, including the Tiggo 4 Pro, Tiggo 2 Pro, and Arrizo 5. These vehicles were strategically displayed around the golf course, attracting significant interest from attendees who were keen to learn more about Chery’s advanced technology, robust design, and seamless blend of
performance and comfort.
The Tiggo 8 Pro, a highlight of the display, captured considerable attention, not only for its status as the hole-in-one prize but also for its sophisticated design, spacious interior, and cutting-edge features. Participants and spectators alike were impressed by the vehicle’s blend of elegance and power, which embodies Chery’s commitment to delivering high-quality vehicles to Nigerian drivers.
Chukwuma Applauds Fintiri for Buying IVM Vehicles
The Chairman/CEO of Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Company Ltd (IVM), Chief Innocent Ifediaso Chukwuma, CON, has urged governors and other public office holders to borrow a leaf from their counterpart in Adamawa who has adopted a policy of buying only made-in-Nigeria products. Chief Chukwuma said that Gov.
Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State has been consistently patronising IVM-branded range of vehicles - a patriotic habit which, he said, is worth emulating.
The Innoson founder spoke when the executive members of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations {NIPR}, led by its President, Dr. Ike Neliaku, paid a visit to Innoson Vehicle in Nnewi, Anambra State, where they presented to him the Diamond Anniversary award
which is also part of the Institute’s new Rebirth Nigeria campaign.
According to Chief Chukwuma, Nigeria’s economy would develop rapidly if other governor’s take a cue from Gov. Fintiri.
He assured that as the first indigenous motorcycle and automobile manufacturer, he is irrevocably committed to making products that meet the needs of Nigerians in terms of quality standards and affordability.
He, therefore, urged decision makers in government at all levels and Nigerians in general, to always look inwards in their purchases.
“All of us in Nigeria should work hard to move our country forward. On my part, I am working hard to see that Nigeria is the base of auto manufacturing in Africa just like the governor of Adamawa State is doing to develop his state and improve the life of his people,” Chukwuuma remarked.
Applauding Gov. Fintiri for always preferring IVM vehicles as evident in the CNG buses he ordered recently from the Nnewi plant, the Innoson Chairman spoke further: “The governor is one of my best customers. If other governor’s behave like him, Nigeria will be much better.
ABC Transport Expands Haulage Capacity at Lafarge Cement, Rolls Out CNG Trucks
ABC Haulage, the heavy-duty trucking division of ABC Transport Plc, has expanded its capacity at Lafarge Africa’s cement factory.
This strategic move includes the Natural Gas (CNG) powered trucks, sustainable, eco-friendly transportation solutions. Since 2010, ABC Transport has been a trusted haulage contractor for Lafarge Africa Plc, initially deploy-
These trucks have been pivotal in powering major civil construction projects across Nigeria’s South-South and South Eastern regions, according to a statement by the company.
Now, with the addition of CNGpowered trucks, ABC Transport is not only expanding capacity but also reducing its carbon footprint, underscoring the company’s commitment to sustainable business practices. “The adoption of CNG technology represents a crucial step in our sustainability journey. At ABC Transport, we are dedicated to reducing environmental impact while maintaining operational excellence. By fuel sources, we are not only running to a greener future for Nigeria’s logistics sector,” said Victor Nneji, Group Head for Innovation & Strategy at ABC Transport Plc. The adoption of CNG technology is a game-changer, by reducing reliance on costly diesel, which has historically weighed heavily on operational expenses. In addition
developing a state-of-the-art truck yard featuring modern maintenance facilities, advanced tracking systems, facility will be strategically located along the newly constructed evacuation road by Lafarge in Cross River State, further enhancing operationalsponsibility. Commenting on the expansion, The Managing Director of ABC Transport Plc, Jude Nneji, said, “This latest investment in CNG trucks and modern infrastructure is part of our longterm strategy to grow and diversify our business operations. Increasing our capacity at the Lafarge cement factory by 250,000 tons solidiand haulage sector, strengthens our partnership with Lafarge, and delivers greater value to our shareholders while aligning with global sustainability goals.” Safety remains a top priority, and in collaboration with Lafarge Africa, ABC Transport has strengthened its driver training and all drivers meet stringent safety standards. This initiative supports Lafarge Holcim Group’s mission to foster a healthy and safe work environment for all stakeholders. with services spanning passenger transport, haulage, and courier operations, ABC Transport Plc continues to set industry benchmarks. Operating from over 76 locations across Nigeria, Benin, and Ghana, ABC Transport is the only road transport company listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange, proving its commitment to delivering value through sustainable growth.
LCCI Outlines Strategies to Increase Women Inclusion in Auto Manufacturing
The President and Chairman of Council, Lagos Chamber of Commerce & Industry (LCCI), Gabriel Idahosa has said a more inclusive and dynamic automotive industry can only be achieved through the implementation of several strategies, such as deliberate establishment of mentorship programmes that can provide guidance and support for women navigating their careers in the automotive sector.
Idahosa stated this during a symposium organised recently by the Automobile & Allied Sub-Sectoral Group in collaboration with the Women Group and LPG & Natural Gas Group of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce & Industry. The theme was: “From Tokunbo to Manufacturing: The Role of Women Breaking Barriers and Driving Growth”.
He said sponsorships can also be crucial in advancing women’s careers by providing
opportunities for growth and exposure.
“More importantly, companies should actively promote diversity and inclusion within their corporate culture. Creating an environment that acknowledges diverse perspectives can enhance innovation and employee satisfaction,” Idahosa said.
He noted that encouraging young women to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields can expand the pipeline of female talent into the automotive industry.
He said initiatives like the Red Bull STEMx programme aim to inspire more women to enter motorsport engineering roles. “Acknowledging and celebrating the achievements of women in the automotive industry can inspire others and foster a culture of recognition. For example, the Women in Supply Chain Award honours female leaders whose accomplishments and mentorship set a foundation for women in the sector.
Chery Tiggo 8 Pro
L-R: Adamawa Chairman of Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria, Dr. Stephen Maduwa; Chairman, Innoson Vehicle, Chief Innocent Chukwuma, CON; and NIPR President, Dr. Ike Neliaku, during a visit to the IVM factory in Nnewi… recently
Cross section of participants at the symposium organised by the LCCI collaborative groups in Lagos… recently
ABC Transport CNG-powered trucks
We begin this week with an intervention by Mr. Kenneth Chioma Ugbechie, a highly-respected language activist: “Please note that ‘uplift’ is shorthand for ‘upliftment,’ ‘witchhunt’ is shorthand for ‘witch-hunting,’ and ‘hive’ is shorthand for ‘beehive.’ Look them up in Desk dictionary, not listed in Pocket dictionary. Cheers!”
My response: Before the SMS came in, Ken, as media professionals all fondly call him, had called to inform me that, contrary to my declaration in this column last week, that ‘upliftment’ exists! He referred me to the World Book Dictionary where the word is contained. Stenography is no longer in vogue. Shorthand was popular during Pitman’s era—it is not relevant in this electronic age. So, it cannot be applied to current English.
With respect, celebrated political economist, I vehemently disagree on the grounds that such words belong to morphological history. Because of their obsoleteness arising from archival pedigree, they no longer conform to the contemporariness of the English language, which is supersonically dynamic. There are so many such outdated entries. The issue is not whether they exist or not, but their currency and relevancy in modern times.
The fact that such words exist in one obscure American dictionary or another does not confer correctness or acceptability on them. All the dictionaries and language reference books I have, particularly 2022 Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English (Advanced New Edition), online Grammarly.com and Dictionary.com, did
not list ‘upliftment’!
Issuing from the above, I strongly believe that ‘upliftment’ is not right, anymore. Its continued usage is like saying that everything contained in the first comprehensive dictionary of the English language by Samuel Johnson, published in 1755, is still correct today! In the same breath, if the great lexicographer Noah Webster (1758-1843) had documented ‘upliftment’ in his time, it was the evolutionary and rudimentary period of the English language which explains its acceptability then. To now use it on his authority this time round will amount to lexical retrogression! Such words remind one of Shakespearean and Chaucerian days!
Well-researched reactions are welcome. Aburo mi, ‘uplift’ still stands! More constructive contributions are welcome, if you have a contrary view.
From The Guardian of October 2 comes the first set of ludicrous gaffes:
“The Federal High Court, Abuja division (another comma) yesterday ruled that the President of the Federal Republic on (of) Nigeria….”
“The meeting, which took place behind closed-doors (closed doors—no hyphen) or the closed-door meeting….”
“The university teachers said yesterday that they declared the strike to register their displeasure over (at) Federal Government’s alleged refusal to pay their ‘earn allowance’.” Also, displeasure with someone….
We move from the specialized pages to general outlay: “…on the ground (grounds) that it was foisted on the population by the military.”
“UNIDO partners ministry on investment monitoring (investment-monitoring)
platform”
“A multinational company would (will) like to dispose off (of) all vehicles below in her (on its) premises.” No commercialese and language feminization!
On the heels of The Guardian is THISDAY of October 1 which equally goofed right from its opening pages: “…despite letters it received from various subscriber associations (subscriber-associations) calling for additional three months (months’) extension.” Truth & Reason: ‘additional‘is clearly otiose. By virtue of the ‘extension’ plea, the sentence will do without the word.
“I cannot tell you exactly right now what the cost implication will be because our rules are just reaching its (their) final stage in the SEC.”
“Ernst & Young sensitises operators on (to) FATCA”
“PETRA Coalition presents purpose driven (purpose-driven) leadership….” (Fullpage advertisement by PETRA Coalition)
“A part of the departmental (department) store”
Still on THISDAY: “The Commission will continue…and shall (will) continue to impose sanctions (except if the sanctions are curiously optional!) for (on) all pre-registered New SIM cards purchased by our monitors.” (Full-page advertisement by the Nigerian Communications Commission) A modification: impose sanctions on networks (not SIM cards!) for all….
“While your emergence as governor of our beloved state in 2007 was taught (thought) to be a miracle….” (Full-page advertorial signed by Senator…& Co.) Names withheld!
Back-page round-up: “…has this year
A Nigerian Yuletide: Resilience Amidst Ruin Department, Not Departmental, Store
ANigerian Christmas, sometime in the late ‘70s or ‘80s, was a vision of pure joy - a period when families gathered around glowing kerosene lanterns or twinkling sparklers dubbed “bisco”, and bustling coal pots to share plates piled high with special staples, jollof rice, a roast or two, and the rare, treasured sodas and stronger beverages. It was a time when families looked forward to the yuletide season with an expectation that transcended mere festivity. It wasn’t just the aroma of spices or the sounds of familiar highlife melodies wafting through the night air; it was a season marked by the implicit confidence that Nigeria would not change overnight, that life would only get better. In those years, there was a gentle peace and trust in the system. Nigeria was flawed, but still recognisably functional - a country where electricity actually powered Christmas lights and gifts could be exchanged without second thoughts of scarcity or inflation.
Today, the yuletide is no longer quite so promising. In the place of merriment, the average Nigerian is greeted with dread - a December defined not by nostalgia but by survival. The economic downturn, worsened by inadequate leadership and a strained social security apparatus, has created an era where the season of cheer has become, instead, a season of sheer pain. But before going into survival strategies, let’s briefly outline the challenges tormenting Nigerians, who must now contend with these “gifts” from their leadership.
A pressing issue remains electricity, or rather, the chronic lack thereof. The country’s power grid is a global embarrassment, requiring many Nigerians to rely on generators just to light up a room. And yet, buying fuel to power
these machines is a task in itself. Petrol prices fluctuate like the stock market, with endless queues, unexplained shortages, and dispiriting attitudes from attendants at the pumps. For most people, it seems more like queuing for the lottery than fuel - always with an air of chance, never certainty.
Add to this mix the joy of navigating Nigerian banking services. Longstanding inefficiencies have been compounded by an astonishingly unreliable digital infrastructure, where mobile apps have acquired their own seasonal schedules - working one moment, down the next. Trying to withdraw your own hard-earned money can involve hours of standing in line, only to be met with the ominous phrase, “the network is down.” Public offices, another hurdle in the path of ordinary Nigerians, are notorious for a customer service ethic that’s somehow both lackadaisical and actively hostile. From local government offices to police stations, the bureaucracy and level of “protocol” make it easier to walk to a neighbouring country than to renew a driver’s license or file a legitimate complaint. Add in the culture of “kola”, “your boys are here” or “egunje,” those little tokens meant to “grease the wheels” of service, and the situation verges on the absurd. Yet, somehow, Nigerians are coping. The famed Nigerian resilience has kept the country from descending into chaos, but the strain is showing. People have developed strategies for survival, innovating around the dysfunctions. Solar panels have started appearing on rooftops; communities band together to share resources and information; micro-enterprises boom as small-time entrepreneurs seek out any way to add to their household incomes. More than ever, Nigerians are getting creative about their own resilience, holding on to whatever faith remains, however frayed.
ewabara@yahoo.com, 08055001948
been subjected to one excuse after the other.” Behind the figures: one excuse after another
Last week’s edition of this medium terrorized the English language beginning from its Politics Page: “…speaks on his two years on (in) the saddle, zoning and his political ambition for 2027.”
“…said to have rented (rent) the air.” (Vanguard, October 30)
“…most of our laws are full of ambiguity that you need somebody to come and interpret at one time or the other.” No Business English in (formal) journalism: one time or another.
Daily Independent online of October 24 could not spell ‘threat’ among other blunders: “Divestment by ICOs, no treat to oil sector”
“An alumnus of the Yaba College of Technology, Nigerian Institute of Journalism, Ogba, and Lagos State University, Ojo, from where he holds degrees in Book Publishing and Journalism, respectively….” Yabatech and NIJ have not started awarding degrees yet. So, he holds diplomas in Book Publishing and Journalism and maybe just a degree from LASU! No accentuation, please.
“…who had worked at Post Express as Metro Editor….” History of the Nigerian Media: The Post Express
The last two offences today are from THE GUARDIAN, October 18: “Former NNPC employee arrested over (for or in connection with) pipeline vandalism” Now the story: “…who was sentenced to five years (years’) imprisonment for pipeline vandalization.” The Metro Section: pipeline vandalism (nothing like ‘vandalization’)!
As for political and economic leadership, their apparent detachment from the real lives of Nigerians might be the only thing that has kept mass unrest at bay. A cocktail of fear, pragmatism, and the innate aversion to violence has dissuaded Nigerians from open revolt. What would replace the government? Can the suffering be guaranteed to lessen? Many Nigerians seem to believe that, even if change might one day be necessary, there’s no safety net to catch them should a power vacuum emerge.
But how does this bleak reality stack up against the rest of the world? While Nigeria’s challenges feel uniquely acute, the global economy isn’t exactly a bastion of stability. Inflation, resource scarcity, and supply chain woes are being felt from Brazil to Bangladesh, with even parts of Europe contending with energy shortages. However, it is not quite the same; many other countries have stronger institutions, safety nets, and systems that, however strained, still work for their people. For example, in Britain, inflation may gnaw at Christmas budgets, but people can be reasonably sure that electricity will flow and the police will show up when called. In that sense, Nigeria’s troubles are less a matter of economic misfortune and more an indictment of its structural weaknesses.
So, as we approach this year’s yuletide, what can ordinary Nigerians do to prepare? A few survival tactics come to mind. For one, families may need to curb the festive traditions that bring on extra expenses. Instead of the ambitious plans of past Christmases, simplicity may be the best bet - focusing on quality time rather than extravagant gestures. Forming or joining cooperative societies within neighbourhoods for bulk-buying food and other essentials could ease some
financial strain. Additionally, exploring passive income opportunities, however small, could provide that little extra cushion. No one knows how long the current climate will last, and securing multiple income streams, however modest, may help mitigate the unexpected. An ideal end-of-year scenario for Nigerians would undoubtedly involve more than mere survival; it would see electricity restored and maintained, fuel prices stabilised and reduced, and some relief in basic consumer costs. If the government, by some seasonal miracle, decided to exercise its capacity for effective governance - streamlining processes, regulating critical markets, and actually cracking down on corruption and official lethargy - that would be a wonderful New Year gift. Yet, in the absence of such miracles, the spirit of survival perseveres. Nigerians are living through one of the harshest eras in recent memory, but with the ingenuity, humour, and shared goodwill that characterises our people, there may still be some cause for cheer this yuletide. After all, Nigerians have survived worse seasons, and this resilience is itself an enduring Christmas miracle - one that not even inflation can steal. Perhaps, in time, those who engineered this hardship will understand that, unlike them, Nigerians do not simply survive on borrowed promises and empty assurances. They endure. And maybe, just maybe, this Christmas, the people will find not only strength but also the resolve to demand better.
Steady Steps Up the Ladder Ademola Lookman
AnAfrican player may not have been among the top-three players to mount the stage for the Ballon d’Or on Monday Night in Paris.However,Super Eagles winger,Ademola Lookman made an appreciable impact at the French capital’s showpiece after he emerged 14th among the 30 nominees ahead of established players like Bukayo Saka,Cole Palmer and Declan Rice. TheAtalanta forward was indeed the onlyAfrican player listed
On Monday night, the cream of the football world was focused on just one place-Paris, where the 2024 Ballon d’Or awards took place and among the 30man shortlist for the prestigious award was just an African, represented by a Nigerian, Ademola Lookman.
The Atalanta forward was ranked 14th in the Ballon d’Or awards, and his Italian club immediately took to social media to congratulate Lookman posting, “14th place for Mola: proud of you Ade.”
Lookman’s impressive performances for club and country led to his nomination for the prestigious award.
His hat-trick in the Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen was a highlight of his season and his contributions to Nigeria’s AFCON campaign further solidified his reputation as one of Africa’s top talents.
He may not have matched Victor Osimhen’s 8th-place finish from last year, but Lookman is now a strong favourite for the CAF African Footballer of the Year award in December.
Meanwhile, President of Nigeria Football Federation, (NFF) Alhaji Ibra-
him Gusau has commended Lookman for finishing in 14th place in this year’s Ballon d’Or race, saying he believes the petite forward has what it takes to finish much higher in the race next year.
Lookman finished 14th in this year’s contest which gala was held in Paris on Monday night, and which was won by Manchester City ace Rodri.
“The NFF commends Ademola Lookman for his feat and we believe he has the potential to finish much higher next year. He was already a winner before Monday night’s gala, as the only African on the 30-man shortlist. He was also the second highest-rated Italian Serie A player in the race.
“We encourage him to continue doing his best for club and country, and the sky will be the limit for him,” Gusau said.
Lookman scored three important goals for Nigeria as the Super Eagles finished in second place at the Africa Cup of Nations in Cote d’Ivoire earlier in the year and then scored all three goals in the Europa Cup final as his Italian club, Atalanta, routed German top side Bayer Leverkusen.
This season, he has remained within the goals/assists frame for club and country. He has scored two goals for Nigeria in the 2025 AFCON qualification race.
Most pundits see him winning this year’s Africa Player of the Year award. If that happens, it will be the first time that a Nigerian has picked the continental gong from a fellow Nigerian, since Victor Ikpeba took over from Nwankwo Kanu in 1997.
Interestingly, former Ghanaian international, Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu has expressed his support for Lookman to win the African Player of the Year award.
The former Ghanaian midfielder was particularly impressed with Lookman’s performances for both club and country.
“Without a doubt, one of my favourite players, Lookman, has been outstanding for both his club and country. I fully support him to win the award,” AgyemangBadu told Flashscore.
While disappointed that Mohammed Kudus was not included in the 10-man shortlist, Agyemang-Badu acknowledged the strong competition and the potential
for Kudus to shine in future years.
“He’s still young and has plenty of opportunities to be crowned Africa’s best. He just needs to stay focused, keep learning, and continue growing. His time will come - it’s a marathon, not a sprint,” he added.
Meanwhile, Lookman was nominated in the top 10 alongside compatriot, Trost Ekong, for the CAF award.
Lookman revealed he always felt a strong pull to Nigeria even when he played for England.
The 27-year-old started his international career with the Three Lions of England, representing the youth team at several tournaments, playing at the UEFA U-19 Championships, the U-21 Euro tournament, before winning the FIFA U-20 World Cup in 2017 alongside Dominic Solanke and Dominic CalvertLewin.
Despite his success with the English youth team, a call-up to the senior team never came and he chose to represent the Super Eagles of Nigeria in 2022, when he was 24-years-old.
The Atalanta man revealed it wasn’t an easy decision, as he always felt torn between two worlds, but remained thankful for the love he’s been shown by the Nigerian community.
“I’ve always been Nigerian. I’ve always been in touch with Nigeria, with the group of people and the culture. They were very welcoming, very loving and took me in as one of their own. For me it’s a dream and an honour to be here, to be able to have that badge on my chest.
“I’ve always kind of had two personalities on and off the pitch. Off the pitch, I’m very reserved, don’t really speak much but on the pitch, I have the fire, I’m still trying to achieve, and to do more. I’m never really satisfied. That’s always my mindset, to always go for more,” the former Everton man said in an interview with BBC Africa.
Meanwhile, West Ham United have expressed their interest in Lookman and are said to have held internal discussions about the possibility of signing the player.
Lookman enjoyed an impressive 2023/24 season at Atalanta, netting 17 times and registering 10 assists across all competitions. The Nigerian has started the new campaign in a similarly rich vein of form, contributing to four goals in just four Serie A starts.
Inevitably, such a sustained run of excellent performances has prompted a number of clubs to monitor the former Fulham man. West Ham have emerged as potential suitors, with the Hammers eager to further boost Manager Julen Lopetegui’s attack.
After a series of largely unsuccessful spells at various English clubs, Lookman has finally settled in his career, joining Atalanta in a €15 million deal in the summer of 2022. Enjoying 15-goal and 17-goal seasons in each of his first two years in Northern Italy, the 27-year-old capped off an outstanding couple of campaigns with an iconic Europa League final Whether Lookman would be willing to switch Champions League football for a return to his home city remains to be seen, but the Hammers are certainly interested in trying to pry him to the London Stadium.
Lookman makes his entrace into the hall at the Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris
GLOBAL SOCCER
Super Eagles Handed Ajayi’s Blow, Out for Four
Nigeria international Semi Ajayi has been ruled out for four months after picking up an injury while in action for his English club West Bromwich Albion.
The towering centre-back suffered a hamstring injury in the second half of the Baggies’ EFL Championship encounter with Cardiff City last weekend and will require surgery.
This has come as a blow for the Super Eagles of Nigeria as Ajayi has featured in all three of the team’s matches in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations
(AFCON) qualifiers.
“Semi, unfortunately, has suffered a more difficult injury. It was an action which was an accident,” West Brom manager Carlos Corberan said on the club’s website. action, he has broken his muscle in two parts. The best way to manage this injury is with surgery because surgery helps reduce the risk of suffering this type of injury
Months
again.
“There are injuries which affect the tendon in specific areas where you have to have surgery. The surgery delays things by around two weeks, but it also reduces the risk of the injury reoccurring,” he added.
“Returning in about 16 weeks is the approximate time when you have this type of surgery.”
Ajayi will miss Nigeria’s AFCON qualifiers against Benin and Rwanda which are scheduled for November 14 and 18 respectively.
Man Utd Hosts Chelsea, Arsenal Visits Newcastle
Manchester United and Chelsea will continue their rivalry at Old Trafford tomorrow, with bragging rights of their boisterous fans at stake. Both teams are separated by six points in the table, with Chelsea in 5th position and United 14th.
Following their 2-1 defeat at West Ham last weekend, Manchester United parted ways with their Dutch manager, Erik Ten Hag on Monday, with
Olawale Ajimotokan
The highly-anticipated 10th Senate President Cup has unveiled some former Super Eagles stalwarts, including present Super Eagles coach, Augustine Eguavoen, coaches Patrick Udoh and Daniel Amokachi, along with goalkeeper Peter Rufai and former Super Eagles Captain Ahmed Musa as ambassadors for the tournament.
In an announcement made in Abuja, Tournament Coordina-
another Dutchman, Rud Van Nistelrooy installed as caretaker coach.
Having seen his side spank Leicester City 5-2 in a round of 16 Carabao Cup match on Wednesday, the former United striker will be in the dugout for his first Premier League game as a coach on Sunday. Chelsea were bundled out of the Carabao Cup after a 2-0 defeat away at Newcastle and now visit a ground where they haven’t won a league
tor John Bassey Ekpenyong, emphasised the strategic selection of the ambassadors, citing their background in grassroots football programmes as a key factor in their appointment.
He expressed confidence in the ambassadors’ ability to resonate with the tournament’s grassroots ethos.
“Their background as products of grassroots initiatives aligns perfectly with the core values of the tournament, and we believe their involvement will
match since 2013. Watch the match live on DStv channel 203 and GOtv ch 66, at 5:30 pm.
Arsenal will travel to Saint James’ Park to face Newcastle in the early kickoff today, live on DStv ch 203 and GOtv ch 66, at 1:30 pm. Arsenal lost the corresponding fixture 1-0 in controversial circumstances last season, after which their manager, Mikel Arteta, described the officiating as “a disgrace”.
significantly enhance its impact,” Ekpenyong said.
The President Cup is scheduled for November 1017 and the inclusion of these esteemed football personalities is poised to infuse heightened excitement and credibility into the tournament.
The primary focus of the tournament is fostering unity and unearthing emerging talents and to deliver a captivating experience for football enthusiasts across the nation.
2024 Edition of India Cup Gets Underway Cup
This year’s edition of the India Cup Golf Tournament hosted by Indian Golfers Foundation has been announced to tee off on Monday, November 4th, at the golf section of Ikoyi Club 1938 in Lagos.
According to Aby Matthew, Chairman of the Organizing Committee, the weeklong activities will start with a Caddies &
Pros Day and follow up with a promising colorful Ladies’ round on Tuesday.
He added that “our growing partnership with the Nigerian community is one that we cherish, and this yearly tournament offers the opportunity to celebrate and deepen what binds us together.”
On Wednesday, the event
will continue with hosting of members of Ikoyi Club in an Indian Community-sponsored Kitty, while invited sponsors and their guest players will take to the tee boxes on November 8, along with a growing contingent of veterans from the Ikoyi Club Golf section to battle it out for lowest Gross and Net scores.
Football for Girls Africa, A Social Impact Project, Fixing Narrative
The Super Falcons completed a double over their counterparts from Algeria in a double-header international friendly series.
A 2-0 win in Ikenne last Saturday was followed by a thumping 4-1 victory at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan on Tuesday.
A touring group of students from Chrisland College met with the Super Falcons under the aegis of Football for Girls
Africa (FGA), a social impact initiative by Brila Media Group for the girl child.
The FGA convener and Brila Media COO, Debbie Larry-Izamoje led the Chrisland College girls in interactions with the Super Falcons stars, as well as football Administratorsamong them former NWFL Chairperson and NFF Executive Member, Aisha Falode.
“The Girl Child empower-
Nigeria Set to Debut at World Sambo Championships in Kazakhstan
Following a successful debut at the African Beach Sambo Championships in Morocco, Nigeria’s reputation in martial arts continues to grow. The Nigerian team is set to make its first appearance at the 2024 World Sambo Championships to be held in Astana, Kazakhstan, from November 6 to 10.
The tournament will feature men’s and women’s sport sambo, men’s and women’s combat sambo, and men’s SVI-1 (totally blind athletes) blind sambo. It will take place at the Wrestling Palace named after Zhaksylyk Ushkempirov Martial Arts Palace in Astana. A total of 31 medals will be awarded with athletes from 80 countries participating.
A significant highlight of the 2024 World Sambo Championships is the inclusion of women in combat sambo for the first time and the participation of
The Lagos State Athletics Association (LSAA) has unveiled programmes and activities for next year, including grassroots competitions for schools and elite championships to promote and elevate the standard of the sport.
Speaking at a media parley held on Wednesday, Chairman of the association, Solomon Alao expressed commitment of the LSAA board to ensure the growth of athletics with the developmental agenda of the
blind athletes. The event will also serve as the final qualifying tournament for the World Games 2025 in Chengdu, China.
Sheriff Hammed, Vice President and General Secretary of the Sambo Association of Nigeria, views this as a groundbreaking opportunity.
Nigeria will be the only African country presenting a competitor in the blind event with Samuel Oladele Kekere as the sole representative.
“It’s going to do a lot and it’s giving them hope. What this means to me, with their challenge, they’re not deprived of anything. They can make a living, do something for themselves, and make themselves proud and it’s quite amazing,” Hammed said.
Hammed also mentioned the need for funding and sponsorships to support more athletes. Currently, the partici-
Lagos State Sports Commission.
The media parley was held to award winners of the maiden edition of the Deji Tinubu Lagos Athletics Club Series, held last year at the Yaba College of Technology Sports Complex, with clubs across the country participating in the highly successful championships.
The bi-annual event was dominated by clubs from Lagos and Ogun states.
Agroterra Athletics Academy finished top to claim the
pation is self-sponsored, and they are seeking collaboration from government and private organisations.
Roman Novikov, Chairman of the FIAS Commission for Athletes with Disabilities, confirmed Kekere’s participation, stating, “Your athlete meets the criteria of the international classification rules for blind sambo in class SVI-1. You can declare your athlete for participation in the World Sambo Championship (blind sambo discipline).”
The inclusion of “Sambo for the Blind” in the World Championships programme highlights the growing recognition of blind athletes in combat sports. Vasily Shestakov, President of the International Sambo Federation, remarked, “Sambists with health limitations show a great desire to compete on an equal basis with other athletes, demonstrating their steely will and fortitude.”
sum of N1,000,000 while Udo-Obong Athletics Club Academy came second and third placed Eagle Sight Academy got N600,000 and N400,000, respectively.
Alao stated that DT Lagos Athletics Classics, instituted by the Association to celebrate the legacy of the late Deji Tinubu, will hold next year and the premier event will hold in phases, with senior athletes and top performing talents from clubs in the state competing.
Chess’ll Help Kids to Greatness, Says Queen Vee
Last week, Adamawa State, particularly the zones around Yola and the IDP Camps (Internally Displaced People’s Camps). The entire buzz came from the Chess Awareness and Back-to-school campaign put together by the Queen Vee Chess Academy in Yola.
The programme was another put together by Queen Vee Chess Academy run by Vivian Ibrahim, a former beauty queen in the state.
These past years, she has put her energy into giving children in the Internally Displaced People’s Camp
ment initiative, which on this occasion received support from the Nigeria Football Federation, is to highlight career opportunities for young girls in football,”
Debbie Larry-Izamoje explained.
“Football for Girls Africa wants to build a culture where the narrative around taking up roles in football; whether as players or aspiring for management positions, becomes normalized for the girl-child.
opportunities for education using chess as a game channel. Last week the programme got higher as it was pushed to the streets.
Vivian said it was indeed a great leap for the programme.
“No, we don’t have sponsors yet, but one of the kids from the IDP camp will be joining kids from Chess-in-Slums for the exchange programme in the USA next year.
“I organised this and asked Tunde Onakoya (Chess-in-Slums) if he could
be a part of it and he obliged. And that was very helpful for our campaign. It’s something that we want to continue to do over time.
“We did not hold any fundraiser because our intention was purely raising chess awareness and a back to school campaign. And we can proudly say it was successful.
“We were able to have a courtesy visit to the Government House and mobility within Adamawa State during the programme was possible from the support we got from the government,” Vivian said.
Charterhouse Lagos Thrilled to Host 2024 Fencing World Cup
The management of Charterhouse Lagos has announced that the tower has been selected as the host venue for the 2024 Fencing World Cup, scheduled from December 14 to 15, 2024. This prestigious international tournament marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s journey as a leader in Sub-Saharan Africa’s fencing community, with the Men’s Epee World Cup being a landmark achievement for the Nigerian Fencing Federation (Nigerian Fencing).
In addition to the World Cup,
Nigeria has been awarded the rights to host five international tournaments between 2024 and 2026, including three Junior World Cup Men’s Epee Tournaments and the Senior African Championship in June 2025. The federation is also the leading candidate to host the 2026 Commonwealth Fencing Championship in July.
John Todd, Head of Charterhouse Lagos, expressed the venue’s enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “Charterhouse Lagos is thrilled to partner with the Nigerian Fencing Federa-
tion to host the Men’s Epee World Cup this December 2024. Nigerian Fencing has successfully hosted major international tournaments, drawing a global audience and placing Nigeria at the forefront of the sport in SubSaharan Africa. Charterhouse is proud to serve as a premier venue for these distinguished international events, reflecting our commitment to supporting world-class athletic excellence and fostering cultural exchange through sport.”
Chairman, Lagos State Athletics Association, Yemisi Tinubu, (l) presenting a dummy cheque of N1m to one of the winners of the DT Classics
Semi Ajayi on duty for Nigeria against Brazil in a friendly encounter
AFCON QUALIFIERS
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TRUTH & REASON
Saturday, November 2, 2024Price: N400
MISSILE
“Aminu Waziri Tambuwal shouldn’t have been a local government chairman let alone a governor, talk less of President of Nigeria, a futile ambition that consumed his time and attention. He was unfair to the people of Sokoto State. He ought to have left hand-over records...but did not. Those who want to see the true picture of Tambuwal should come to Sokoto State...” – Sokoto State Commissioner for Lands, Housing, Survey, and Town Planning, Barrister Nasiru Aliyu Dan Tsoho, berates the former governor. Sokoto Commissioner to Aminu Tambuwal
OKEY IKECHUKWU
Nigeria: A Time to Be Honest
Aman who descends on a full keg of palm wine with a drinking cup and empties the contents into his innards, has written down his name in the list of those who may fall into the gutter on their way home. That is even if he actually makes it home at all after such an impressive performance at a drinking joint. He may simply fall by the wayside on his way out, or by the roadside somewhere, and sleep for hours on end.
He was the one who drank himself silly. It was he who did not have to finish the keg of palm wine, but chose to do so. Therefore, he should be held responsible if he later found himself rakishly ensconced in the untidy recesses of the public drainage system. Yes, he then has no one but himself to hold responsible for being at his new-found temporary abode.
It would be both foolish and absurd for such a person to later prance out of the gutter and declare that it was the handiwork of his enemies. He did not have to finish the keg of palm wine in one fell swoop, did he? Even if someone bough it for him, and he did not spend his own money. It was still his duty to exercise discretion as he was navigating the inebriating contents of the keg to his mouth.
But what did he do? He took violent possession of the keg of palm wine, chuckled to himself and downed the drink with reckless enthusiasm. If, later the next day, he staggers out of wherever he may have ended up and spent some hours in his drunken state, he must tell himself the truth. To cook up some delusional tale, wherein he would blame whoever or whatever catches his fancy, is simply to say that he is not yet ready to move from his unedifying circumstance and predicament.
And we are at that time in our national life when it has become impossible for us to sustain a lie that has acquired a life of its own. We are confronted on all sides with undeniable, irrevocable and incontrovertible ‘brute facts’ that put every attempt at self deception to shame. Yes! But should we refuse to admit the obvious, even to ourselves? Should we not now give up the denial and come to terms with what we really are, and where we really are today. If we choose, instead to say “Anything but the truth”, for how long would we be able to sustain that?
A lost fight from the beginning, if you ask me. But many never give up on folly. So, let us reason together about out current situation in the Federal Republic of Nigeria. It seems to me that we are reaping what we had been sowing decade after decade since the 1960s. Whoever puts a lot of energy into doing anything, whether right or wrong, will get results that are commensurate with his endeavours with time.
And we are all facing situations that took time to create and sustain. It is alright to pretend not to know that we are all collectively responsible for what is going on in this our
season of reaping. It is also even easy to speak of ‘them’ as responsible for the terrible fruits we are harvesting, without half a thought for our reprehensible diligence of monumental proportions.
Many who, as young public servants or soldiers in our national life introduced many questionable things and got away with what they did many decades ago, are now the very old men. Many of them are still in our midst. They helped to create the Nigeria we are living in today. If you look at the massive wealth of some of them, please remember that you are not supposed to ask whether they would have been so wealthy if they did not hold the reigns of power at one level or the other. Do not also ask if their wealth can be described as ‘earned’ wealth?
And many of them are elder statesmen and women today. They have been so called for decades now. Was such eldership and statesmanship truly earned, or did it come via presumption and self-inflation? They meant well in many things they conceived and tried to do, decades ago. But how much of the nation’s troubles of today are not traceable to many of their good intentions?
Go back in history to the arrival of the British traders. Think of how the West African Frontier force established by the colonial traders became autonomous, in terms of complete disregard of indigenous and original communal norms. The concepts of traditional authority, cultural norms, inherited notion of right and wrong, etc., gave way to totally alien paradigms. These paradigms derived their validity, authenticity and credibility from the mere pronouncements of the conquering white man. Nothing more!
The resulting societal disorientation was not long in coming. And this disorientation was reinforced by almost every other thing that followed thereafter. A look at our national
politics, including the military versions of same, bear the undeniable stamps of this existential violation that came with the British. It got nurtured for decades by the local replacements of the Brish rulers. The harvests are here, though; but in ways many do not see. That is because we speak of “regimes” and political parties, without paying attention to the fact that it is one single malaise with many mutations that we have been facing all along.
The Northern and Southern Protectorates of Nigeria were created in order to improve colonial control of the grabbed land and wealth of the various peoples of the area. Then came the Amalgamation of 1914, which collapsed the Protectorates into one. Then eventually came the official, and globally celebrated, Declaration of Independence. This declaration, and all the ceremonies associated with it, did not give the new Nigeria either economic or political independence.
It also did not, in any way, make one people out of the peoples of the original Protectorates. And we ended up fighting a civil war, with the official declaration of an end to the civil war not ending the continuation of that war by other means. The creation of states did not solve the problems many expected it to solve.
As more states were created in order to address the ever-emerging, and expanding, problems of marginalization and minority representation, more individuals and groups came out to demand for the further carving up of Nigeria. The demand is still very much alive today, as I write.
Thus, as we now stagger about, blaming first PDP and, later, APC for our woes, let us not forget that those who created Nigeria did not in any way provide this new creation with ‘Nigerians’. The processes that were leading to the emergence of genuine Nigerians were truncated by a senseless mutiny. This ill-advised, amateurish and pointedly naive intervention was made all the more reprehensible by its complete ignorance of how the state works.
Just look around you and think of the past I have tried to capture in broad strove in the above paragraphs. Is our country not still wearing some of the trappings that can best be associated with a child of curious, or even questionable, primogeniture and ancestry?
Just think of the Treaty carving out Cattle Grazing Route decades ago. It marked out and approved such routes without any consultations with the various peoples and communities affected. Is there a better example of an unmodified application of what the British enacted earlier around here? It was the British, and not the peoples in the region they called Nigeria, that designed and signed the Amalgamation document.
Consider the following, in order to get the point in perspective: Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe was ten years old in 1914 when the Amalgamation document came into effect. Chief Obafemi Awolowo was two years old, and Sir Ahmadu Bello was four at the time. Sir Tafawa Balewa
was also two years old, while Dr. Michael Okpara Okara was not even born at the time. Tell, me, were Okotie Eboh, Margaret Ekpo, Ransome Kuti and others there at the time?
Just as the British created Nigeria without creating Nigerians, much of what has transpired in Nigeria – more especially since after the civil war – bespeaks a reinforcement of many things we should have reviewed, changed or improved upon. Many of the initial missteps have been cheerfully nurtured in such a way that many cannot even begin to imagine that they were wrong to begin with.
As I had cause to say on this page on 28th October 2016: “We have been building a mansion on quicksand and with pillars of straw. The soil, quicksand as it is, is further infested with two species of ants, called presumption and nepotism. These ants, which feed exclusively on straw, have been nibbling away for decades. They have left us with a hollow and painted frame that conceals a lie. This lie has been on parade for decades. It is described as an architectural masterpiece by casual observers. An architectural masterpiece that is not designed to withstand the wind? Now that the whirlwind has come, and the elements are in their element, radical modifications (in design and material) have become necessary”.
One thing is clear today. That is the fact that we need to be honest with ourselves, but completely so. Is our country standing on truthful acknowledgement of its problems today? Are the business and political elite not cheerfully carrying on as if all is well? Now that the nation can be said to have a new generation that no longer knows the difference between right and wrong for sure, should we expect El Dorado any time soon? I think not.
Therefore, let us pause and recalibrate. The 16 years of PDP, building on decades of questionable leadership paradigms, did much damage to this country. The eight years of Buhari capped every conceivable form of maleficence in in our national leadership history.
The two dominant parties are, today, a hybrid mesh made of an amalgam of undetangle-able components. Many members of each or both parties have moved not less than three times into and out of both parties. It’s all in the news. But just as there is often not truth in the news, major political actors see not news in the truth.
So, can we, as Nigerians, still dare to be honest about the things that really matter? Can we see that the long hand of misconduct and complicity have stretched across generations to still dog our every move and step today? Are we seeing ourselves painfully reaping the results of years of diligent misconduct and thoughtlessness?
Are we paying attention to the fact that most religious leaders are leading many away from their Creator and are not helping matters in this country? Are we honest enough to say that the Federal Government, as constituted today, is only also product of its won history? Just asking.
