WEDNESDAY 6TH NOVEMBER 2024

Dangote Refinery: Deregulation Not Licence to Blend Off-spec Products

Insists Nigeria caught between industrialisation or remaining dumping ground

Trump Leading Harris in Electoral College Count, Harris Sees Narrowing Possibilities

not yet been made for some key swing states of Arizona,

Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin at the time of going to press. Trump won North Carolina’s 16 votes and boosted his part to 270 mark as Harris chances narrow.

Trump picked up apparent wins in Iowa, Missouri, Montana and Utah as polls in the western United States closed. The former president also gained a portion of electoral votes in Nebraska, one of two states that is not winner-take-all. The AP had already projected Trump wins in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana,

Go and Sin No More, Shettima Tells All 119 Protesters, Including 29 Minors Facing Trial

Says they’re released on compassionate ground, declares over N300bn properties lost Kano gov: You committed treason, you owe your lives to Tinubu’s magnanimity IG vows to implement recommendations of investigative report on prosecution of underage

Deji Elumoye, Chuks Okocha, Linus Aleke, Kuni Tyessi in Abuja and Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano

Vice President Kashim Shettima, yesterday, told all the 119 protesters, including 29 minors facing trial for treason as a result of the August #endbadgovernance protest to go and sin no more.

The vice-president, who justified President Bola Tinubu's directive for their release, said his principal took the decision on compassionate ground, revealing that, Nigeria lost over N300 billion from the destruction and halting of economic activities caused by the protesters, to both the public and private properties.

Also speaking, the Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, who expressed gratitude to Tinubu for his compassionate decision, told the protesters that though they committed treason, they owed

ARMY CHIEF, OLUYEDE DECORATED LT GENERAL...

L-R: Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar; acting Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede; President Bola Ahmed Tinubu; Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla; and Chief of Defence Intelligence (CDI), Maj. Gen. Emmanuel Undiandeye, during the decoration of Oluyede as the newly appointed acting COAS, at the Presidential Villa Abuja..... yesterday GODWIN OMOIGUI

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

US Honours Davies-Okundaye, Buraimoh, Onobrakpeya, Marks 50 Years of Artistic Collaboration

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

In commemoration of 50 years of artistic collaborations between the United States and Nigeria, the US Mission has honoured three legendary Nigerian artists: Chief Nike DaviesOkundaye, Chief Jimoh Buraimoh, and Prof. Bruce Onobrakpeya, with the US Exchange Alumni Lifetime Achievement Award.

The award recognised the three iconic artists, who first travelled to the United States over 50 years ago, as participants of the US Department of State’s International Visitor Leadership Programme (IVLP).

The ceremony gathered a distinguished audience, including political and business

their lives to Tinubu’s magnanimity.

At the same time, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, who directed investigations into the conditions surrounding the care and welfare of the young protesters while in police detention facilities, vowed to implement the recommendations of the panel report.

But a seasoned lawyer and human rights activist, Mr. Femi Falana, SAN, has tasked the federal government to rehabilitate the minors, saying it was not enough to withdraw the case against them.

The protesters were declared medically fit to be handed over to their governors after examination by the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Nentawe Yilwatda.

The vice-president spoke while receiving the protesters at the Auditorium of the State House, Abuja, yesterday, shortly after their charges were dropped by the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN).

Shettima said there was incontrovertible digital video and photographic evidence of the perpetration and actions of some of the protesters which were uploaded by the actors themselves.

"The President and Commanderin-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Tinubu, instructed the release of the suspect on humanitarian grounds, despite incontrovertible digital video and photographic evidence of the perpetration and actions some of which were uploaded by the actors themselves.

“deregulated commodity market”.

Dangote stated that Dickerman’s argument for a deregulated market could not obscure the serious implications of his actions, which, it claimed, not only threatened the integrity of Nigeria’s energy sector but also endangered the welfare of its citizens.

While reiterating its support for deregulation and industrialisation, Dangote emphasised that this support was grounded in a commitment to the sustainable growth of the country’s economy and the protection of its people from exploitation.

The refinery made it clear that the health and safety of Nigerians should never be compromised in the pursuit of profit.

The statement said, “The Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals Company has long been an advocate for deregulation and industrialisation in Nigeria, but our support is rooted in a commitment to the sustainable growth of the country's economy and the protection of its people from any exploitation.

“Unlike Dickerman’s view, deregulation should not be a licence for the importation and distribution of off-spec products or the subversion of national interests.”

Dangote refinery also stated that, as an American, Dickerman should be well aware of how his own country protected its industries.

leaders, diplomats, academic figures, arts curators and collectors, as well as alumni of various US government exchange programmes, a statement from the mission said.

US Ambassador, Richard Mills, presented each of the artists with a commemorative certificate, honouring their exceptional commitment to their artistic craft, dedicated mentorship of emerging creatives, and contributions that have strengthened the bonds between the people of the United States and Nigeria.

In his remarks, Mills noted that the US government was committed to supporting programmes and initiatives that nurture cultural exchange, promote artistic expression and preserve cultural heritage.

"Regarding this evidence, the President as the father of the nation is giving these young men another chance at becoming responsible citizens who will make a positive impact, in a drive for a better Nigeria.”

The vice-president admonished the youths, urging them not to be used to perpetrate violence and destroy public and private property, stressing that over N300 billion of mainly private property was lost during the protests.

"I would like to admonish you, young men not to allow yourselves to be used to perpetrate violence and destroy public and private property because over N300 billion was lost in the protests, consisting mainly private property and loss of business.

"I will urge you, I will advise you, you are our children, to use the opportunity of the President’s magnanimous gesture in ensuring that you overcome and become responsible citizens who will contribute to the growth of the society,” he said.

Shettima also urged governors and elected officials to unite across political lines for the protesters reintegration into society.

He stated: "I will urge our governors and our elected representatives here, that cuts across political divide, what binds us together as citizens of the Federal Republic of Nigeria supersedes whatever divides us.

"I will call on our two governors and our representatives into a single cause, and ensure that these subjects are rehabilitated and reintegrated to the fabric of our communities."

It pointed to several recent examples from the United States to underline the point. For instance, it said US President Joe Biden recently opposed the sale of US Steel to Japan’s Nippon Steel.

Among others, it quoted Biden as stressing the importance of maintaining strong American steel companies supported by American workers—an example of protectionism that prioritised national economic interests over short-term profit.

Similarly, Dangote stated that the US had taken action to restrict the use of Chinese-made cranes in its ports, citing national security concerns.

According to Dangote refinery, “It is, therefore, perplexing that Dickerman, with all his experience in the US market, would advocate for the importation and blending of petroleum products to Nigeria under the claim of deregulation and a free market.

“The fact is that he had deceitfully approached us and pleaded that we extend the pipeline from our refinery to Pinnacle’s tank farms for the purpose of blending our high-quality products with their imported products and selling them to Nigerians.

In addition, he stated that the country supports the strengthening of the capacity of Nigerian artists and professionals across the creative industries.

He highlighted the role of US government exchange programme alumni in having a positive impact on their communities in many fields, including the creative economy.

“Art has the power to connect people and communities across the world,” Mills said, adding “This is why we supported these programmes 50 years ago, we support them now, and we will continue supporting them far into the future.”

One of the awardees, DaviesOkundaye, founder of Nigeria's renowned Nike Art Gallery, has

Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State expressed gratitude to Tinubu and the federal government for their compassionate decision regarding the release of protesters.

“What happened today will be written in gold. The president has shown his compassion and humility. He has demonstrated that you (protesters) are also his children,” he said.

Yusuf acknowledged the collective efforts of various stakeholders, including civil society organisations and the media, in advocating for the protesters' freedom.

He stressed that the protesters' release was not only a result of presidential compassion but also a response to persistent appeals from well-meaning Nigerians.

“What happened today will be written in gold. The president has shown his compassion and humility. He has shown that you (protesters) are also his children.

“Apart from his compassion, it was also a result for appeal by persistent Nigerians, by well meaning Nigerian, CSOs, The Press, the NBA. Everybody ensured that you are free.”

Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, also admonished the protesters to make good use of the second chance that was given to them.

He said those that wanted to go to school would be assisted to do so, while those with skills in various vocation would be encouraged to developed them to earn their livelihood.

Justice Obiora Egwatu of a Federal High Court sitting in Abuja had earlier on Tuesday struck out the case against the protesters as

“We categorically rejected his request to extend our pipeline to their tank farms for such devious purposes because it would be a betrayal of the Nigerian people’s trust. The health and safety of Nigerians cannot—and should not—be compromised for profit.”

Dangote refinery also raised concerns over Pinnacle Oil’s decision to lease its tank farms to a company without any retail outlets in Nigeria, questioning the strategic intent behind such actions, particularly given that the farms were located just 500 metres from Dangote refinery.

It expressed its vigilance regarding what it termed the coordinated efforts to undermine the Dangote refinery, drawing parallels to the fate of refineries in Port Harcourt, Kaduna, and Warri.

Dangote Petroleum Refinery called on the federal government, patriotic Nigerians, and local businesses to remain steadfast in defending the country’s sovereignty and economic independence.

Dangote stated, “The choice we face is between fostering industrialisation or allowing Nigeria to remain a dumping ground for inferior products while exporting jobs. For nearly three decades, cartels and their collaborators have sabotaged efforts to develop Nigeria’s refining capacity, keeping the country dependent on imported products.

“The time has come to end this cycle of exploitation and ensure that Nigeria’s energy sector works for the benefit of its people.”

Reiterating its belief that a strong, self-sufficient energy sector was vital for Nigeria’s economic growth,

mentored students worldwide in the traditional art of Adire and Batik.

Her works are displayed internationally, including at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African Art in Washington, DC.

“Participating in the US government exchange programme has significantly impacted my life, opening up new opportunities and perspectives that have shaped my career path and personal development,” Davies-Okundaye said.

“I am very happy to see this day,” awardee and celebrated bead painter, Buraimoh, said of the recognition.

“Going to the US on an exchange programme 50 years ago in 1974, was truly transformative, giving

requested by the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), led by Lateef Fagbemi (SAN).

Present at the ceremony were Deputy State President, Senator Jubrin Barau; Chairman, House committee on appropriation, Hon Abubakar Bichi; Ministers of Education, Tunji Alausa; Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Nentawe Yilwatda; Environment, Balarabe Lawal.

Others were Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Tanko Sununu and Senior Special Assistant to The President on Community Engagement, Northwest, Abdullahi Yakasai.

me an opportunity to share my work widely and mentor the next generation of artists,” he added.

Buraimoh’s artwork has been exhibited globally, and he has taught at prestigious institutions, including the Haystack Mountain School of Crafts in Maine and universities in New York, Boston, and Los Angeles.

For his part, at 92, Onobrakpeya continues to be a towering figure in the Nigerian visual art scene, working across painting, printmaking, installation, and sculpture.

He noted that the award recognition was a challenge to up-and-coming artist to remain dedicated to their craft.

“I am very excited and encouraged. I will continue to pay it forward by

IG: I’ll Implement Recommendations of Investigative Report on the Detained Minors

Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has directed investigation into the conditions surrounding the care and welfare of the young EndBadGovernance protesters while in police detention facilities.

He gave the directive while attending the African Union Mechanism for Police Cooperation committee meeting in Algiers. Egbetokun, who is currently participating in Interpol General

Notable

Chinua Achebe’s No Longer at Ease, Onobrakpeya has exhibited globally, including the current exhibition “The Mask and the Sword” at the Smithsonian in Washington, DC, and remains one of West Africa’s most celebrated 20th century artists.

Assembly in Glasgow, Scotland, expressed displeasure over the malnourished state of the detainees arraigned on Friday, November 1, in Abuja.

A statement by Force Spokesperson Olumuyiwa Adejobi, stated that upon receiving the investigative report in Glasgow, the IG vowed to thoroughly examine it and take necessary actions to address any procedural lapses or concerns. He revealed that Egbetokun has summoned all DCs CID and Heads of Investigation Units to a conference and workshop on November 7, 2024, at the Police Resource Center, Jabi,

TRUMP LEADING HARRIS IN ELECTORAL COLLEGE COUNT, HARRIS SEES NARROWING POSSIBILITIES

Mississippi, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, West Virginia and Wyoming.

Harris gained Colorado and the District of Columbia, after already having picked up Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island and Vermont earlier in the evening.

All results are unofficial until local election officials across the country verify and certify the outcome in the coming days and weeks. The process of counting ballots and determining a winner could take several more days.

Election night drew to a close an extraordinary campaign season defined by Trump’s divisive rhetoric,

Dangote affirmed that it will continue to advocate policies and practices that protect both industries and the well-being of all Nigerians.

The company also expressed its support for healthy competition that drove innovation and quality, and looked forward to the upcoming commissioning of the four stateowned refineries, as promised by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC).

The statement said, “At Dangote Petroleum Refinery, we are committed to ensuring that Nigeria becomes selfreliant in petroleum production, and we welcome competition that drives innovation and quality. However, we will never allow the continued importation and blending of petroleum products, nor the deliberate destruction of our national economy.

“We believe that a strong, selfsufficient energy sector is vital to Nigeria’s economic growth, and we will continue to advocate for policies and practices that protect our industries and the well-being of all Nigerians.

“We eagerly anticipate the coming on stream of the Kaduna, Warri, and Port Harcourt refineries before the end of this year, as promised by the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC, Mele Kyari. This milestone will not only end all baseless rumours of monopoly but also position Nigeria as a refining hub for petroleum products in Africa.”

his numerous criminal cases and two attempts on his life.

The race took an unprecedented turn when President Joe Biden, following a disastrous debate performance, dropped his re-election bid with just over 100 days until the election, jolting the Trump camp to pivot to Harris.

As projections began rolling in, Trump posted on his Truth Social platform reminders about poll closure times. The former president was spending election night at his Palm Beach, Florida, residence.

Harris was spending election night at her alma mater, Howard University in Washington, D.C., where her supporters gathered.

The presidential campaigns continued to hit swing states, speak to the press and issue statements reminding voters of their rights.

Trump, from his Mar-a-Lago estate, posted a video message to voters on his platform Truth Social reminding them to remain in line if they arrive before polls close.

“Republicans, we’re doing very well. Stay on line, don’t get off line, and vote. Make sure you get through and vote. We’re gonna have a big victory tonight,” Trump said.

Biden, who was the presumed Democratic nominee until he dropped his re-election bid and endorsed Harris just over 100 days ago, did not make any public appearances Tuesday.

Control of both chambers of Congress is also up for grabs.

Democrats had only a narrow path to defend their Senate majority after Republican Jim Justice flipped a West Virginia seat on Tuesday. The House of Representatives looked like a toss-up.

Nearly three-quarters of voters said American democracy was under threat, according to national exit polls, underscoring the depth of polarisation in a nation where divisions have only grown starker during a fiercely competitive race.

Trump employed increasingly apocalyptic rhetoric while stoking unfounded fears that the election system cannot be trusted. Harris warned that a second Trump term would threaten the underpinnings of American democracy.

Hours before polls closed, Trump claimed on his Truth Social site without evidence that there was "a

lot of talk about massive cheating" in Philadelphia, echoing his false claims in 2020 that fraud had occurred in large, Democratic-dominated cities. In a subsequent post, he also asserted there was fraud in Detroit.

"I don't respond to nonsense," Detroit City Clerk Janice Winfrey told Reuters. A Philadelphia city commissioner, Seth Bluestein, replied on X, "There is absolutely no truth to this allegation. It is yet another example of disinformation. Voting in Philadelphia has been safe and secure."

Trump, whose supporters attacked the US Capitol on January 6, 2021, after he claimed the 2020 election was rigged, voted earlier near his home in Palm Beach, Florida.

"If I lose an election, if it's a fair election, I'm gonna be the first one to acknowledge it," Trump told reporters. His campaign has suggested he may declare victory on election night even while millions of ballots have yet to be counted, as he did four years ago. The winner may not be known for days if the margins in battleground states are as slim as expected. Millions of Americans waited in orderly lines to cast ballots, with only sporadic disruptions reported across a handful of states, including several non-credible bomb threats that the FBI said appeared to originate from Russian email domains.

Trump was watching the results at his Mar-a-Lago club before speaking to supporters at a nearby convention centre, according to sources familiar with the planning. Tesla CEO Elon Musk, a prominent Trump backer, said he would watch the results at Mar-a-Lago with Trump. Tuesday's vote capped a dizzying race churned by unprecedented events, including two assassination attempts against Trump, President Joe Biden's surprise withdrawal and Harris' rapid rise.

Whatever happens, history will be made. Harris, 60, the first female vice president, would become the first woman, Black woman and South Asian American to win the presidency. Trump, 78, the only president to be impeached twice and the first former president to be criminally convicted, would also become the first president to win non-consecutive terms in more than a century.

U.S. Ambassador, Richard Mills

nurturing future talent in the industry,” he added.

as the illustrator for

COMMEMORATION OF 50 YEARS OF ARTISTIC COLLABORATIONS...

L-R: Legendary Nigerian Painter and Sculptor, Professor Bruce Onobrakpeya; U.S. Ambassador Richard Mills; Founder of Nigeria's renowned Nike Art Gallery, Chief Nike Davies-Okundaye; and celebrated Bead

Chief Jimoh Buraimoh, during the U.S. Exchange Alumni Lifetime Achievement Award, organised in commemoration of the 50 years of artistic collaborations between the United States and Nigeria and the 50-year Sister Cities partnership between Lagos and Atlanta

Diasporans Indispensable Assets to Nigeria, Says Tinubu

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu has described the Nigerian Diasporans as an indispensable asset to the nation.

The President expressed this position in his keynote address at the 7th Edition of the Nigeria Diaspora Investment Summit, a private sector driven initiative, with the theme: Adapting Stability through Diaspora Investment: Navigating the Path to Prosperity.

Tinubu also said that small businesses are the backbone of any economy as they are more than just sources of income; lifelines for families, communities, and the nation as a whole.

The President who was represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, at the event that was held at the State House Banquet Hall, assured the Diasporans of the government’s commitment to provide enabling

environment for investment.

While acknowledging the role of the Diasporans in a nation’s economic development, the President said: “The Diaspora plays a critical role in any nation’s development. You, our brothers and sisters abroad, are an indispensable asset to our great nation. You are not only ambassadors of Nigeria in your respective countries, but also torch-bearers of excellence, innovation, and resilience.

“Your achievements across the globe are a source of immense pride for all of us. Yet, beyond pride, we recognize the unique potential you hold in helping shape the future of Nigeria. We recognize that by leveraging on your knowledge, expertise, and global connections, we can fuel our nation’s progress and thus bridge the developmental gap between Nigeria and the rest of the world.

He further said: “This is why the theme of this year’s Summit,

“Adapting Stability through Diaspora Investment: Navigating the Path to Prosperity”, is not only relevant but underscores the role you can play in helping us secure a brighter future for all Nigerians.”

He assured investors that “Nigeria is open for business; we are committed to providing the support and enabling environment you need to invest with confidence. Together, let us forge partnerships that will drive progress and prosperity for our nation.

“We are here to help you navigate the journey ahead and provide the backing needed to turn your ideas into reality.”

The President added: “As highlighted in the theme of this event, “adapting stability” Diaspora investment is the cornerstone for navigating the path to prosperity in any nation. It is thus in recognition of this truth, that from our very first day in office, we committed ourselves to a tireless pursuit of stabilisation

across every key facet of our country.

“In our journey to reshape our nation, we have placed a focused lens on tackling the longstanding challenges that have so far hindered our progress, particularly within the realms of economic reforms, security enhancement, food security, transportation, energy, education, health and infrastructural development.

“These areas are not merely pillars of our policy; they are fundamental components of a stable and resilient nation”.

The President commended NIDCOM and the Nigeria Diaspora Summit Initiative (NDSI) for putting the summit together, saying “And by bringing together local entrepreneurs and diaspora investors, they are not just supporting individual ventures but forging collaborations that will drive our nation’s prosperity forward.

“Indeed, it is this kind of forwardthinking that aligns with our mission

Senate to FG: Initiate Policies to Protect Local Miners’ Operations

As solid minerals ministry generates N20billion

Sunday Aborisade

The senate has urged the federal government to initiate policy to protect local miners and their businesses in the country.

The appeal came just as the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development said it had generated about N20billion into the federation account as of the end of September, this year.

Chairman of the Senate Committee on Solid Minerals Development, Senator Ekong Sampson, made the call when he led members of the committee on a oversight visit to the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development and some of agencies under it in Abuja.

He said a well-articulated and favourable policy would sustain the businesses of local miners in the country.

The agencies of the ministry include the Nigerian Mining Cadastral Office and the Nigerian Solid Minerals Development Fund.

The senate panel expressed concerns about recent mining rates increase in the country and its potential to stifle local mining investments compared to their foreign counterparts in the sector.

Sampson said: “What you need to know is that there is going to be a review of policy. We are exploring trajectories to ramp up revenue for the government. Through proper consultations and collaboration, we need to firm up the economy.

“So, we are committed to working together and the important thing is that this sector needs attention and having a very committed Nigerian as minister, working closely with the

National Assembly, better days are ahead.”

The chairman lauded the ministry's achievements, particularly in improving revenue performance.

“This sector is crucial to our economy, and we are impressed by the improved revenue profile,” he said.

He further said the committee is committed to maximizing the sector’s potential through partnership with the ministry.

“Together with the ministry and through active collaboration, we are confident in our ability to drive sustainable development in this essential sector,” he said.

He also highlighted the need for a robust legal framework to curb illegal mining.

Sampson said: “Illegal operators not only undermine revenue but

also disrupt oversight functions. By enacting stronger legal measures, we can create a mining environment free from unauthorized activities.”

The Minister of Solid Minerials Development, Dr. Dele Alake and the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Solid Minerals, Senator Sampson, however expressed readiness to collaborate with the ministry to sanitise the mining sector and emplace policies that would help generate more revenue for the federal government.

In his presentation, Alake said: “The report of our revenue collection is also there. We have recorded over N17billion and if you compare that with the performance in 2023, you will see quantum leap and about two weeks ago, we were able to secure a N2.7 billion forfeiture from an illegal operator engaging in illegal mining operation.”

of stabilization and growth, thus paving the way for a brighter and more prosperous future for Nigeria,” he said.

The President listed some of the critical steps taken since assuming office, which include the removal of fuel subsidy and floating of the naira.

He said to ameliorate the effect on the masses, the administration came up with a number of palliative measures, which include Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) initiative, cash transfers, Naira for Crude among others.

Tinubu added that: “We aim not only to reduce transportation costs by up to 60% but also to alleviate the economic pressure on our citizens by creating cheap transportation, new jobs in conversion centres and refueling stations as well as ultimately

strengthening our economy by reducing dependence on imported fuels.”

On cash transfer, the President said: “So far, as testified to by a World Bank report, about 1.7 million Nigerians have directly benefited from this program. Building on this progress, we recently initiated the second phase, disbursing over ₦10.28 billion to 411,292 households across all 36 states of the federation with the aim of ensuring that every family in need is reached and supported.

“In September 2024, we took further steps to enhance this initiative by disbursing an additional ₦24 billion to nearly one million households. This is more than just giving out money; it’s our way of saying, “We see you; we hear you, and we are in this together.

Nigeria Food Summit Partners RCBC to Develop Nigeria's Food, Hospitality Businesses

Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo

An inaugural Nigeria Food Summit that will reshape the future of Nigeria's food industry tagged 'Nigeria Food Summit 2024', will take place in March 2025.

The Summit is set to partner the Restaurants Cafe Bars and Clubs Association, (RCBC), an association of hospitality business owners to pioneer the development of the Nigerian food and hospitality scene.

Convener of the summit, Gbolabo Gibbs Adebakin, said the Nigeria Food Summit will be the first-of-its-kind event, as according to him, it will bring together a diverse group of stakeholders from across the food ecosystem, including farmers, chefs, agribusinesses, food manufacturers, policymakers, investors, researchers, and more, to celebrate Nigeria’s rich culinary heritage and promote sustainable practices.

Themed: "An Emerging Industry: A United Front", Adebakin said the summit, symbolizes the collective efforts needed to elevate Nigeria as a global hub for culinary excellence.

He said the event will serve as a

platform for innovation, collaboration, and knowledge-sharing, creating opportunities for sustainable growth in the food industry, saying attendees will engage in thoughtful dialogue on the future of Nigerian cuisine, discover new growth pathways, and network with industry leaders.

Adebakin said there will be a presummit closed-door conversation in the lead-up to the main event.

He said the pre-summit closeddoor conversation will take place on November 13th, 2024, offering a space for key stakeholders to discuss strategic insights and align on a shared vision for the industry. He said this exclusive session will set the stage for the larger conversations that will unfold in March next year and offer deeper insight into the goals of the summit and how various stakeholders can contribute to its success.

"This summit is more than just a platform for dialogue - it's an opportunity to catalyze the untapped potential of Nigeria's food sector. We are building a future where Nigerian cuisine and food production are globally recognized, sustainable, and innovative", he said.

in Abuja

Painter,

MOST INFLUENTIAL PEOPLE OF AFRICAN DESCENT IN NEW YORK...

FG’s Negative Net Assets Hit N39tn in 2021, Orders MDAs to Expedite Rendition

James Emejo in Abuja

The Accountant General of the Federation (AGF), Dr. Oluwatoyin Madein, yesterday decried the slow pace of legacy asset rendition by Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) which has negatively impacted the federal government’s fiscal position.

Madein said the delay had resulted in huge negative net assets of N39 trillion in its 2021 Consolidated Financial Statements.

A negative net asset position implies that total liabilities exceed total assets.

The AGF disclosed this at the opening of a one-day sensitisation workshop on Assets Rendition and Preparation of Stand-Alone Financial Statements by MDAs, with the theme, “National Assets Register and the Strategic Importance of Legacy Asset Rendition in the Implementation of IPSAS Accrual Basis Accounting in Nigeria" in Abuja.

UK, Nigerian Energy Solutions Firms Merge to Bridge Africa’s Power Supply Deficit

SteamaCo, a UK-based leader in energy revenue management, has merged with Shyft Power Solutions, a Nigerian innovator in digital energy solutions in a move to revolutionise Africa’s energy sector.

The merger occurs alongside a new funding round led by Equator VC and with participation from Praetura Ventures and KawiSafi Ventures, which collectively bring together decades of experience investing in African and climate-tech ventures, said a statement released by the firms on Tuesday.

A statement in Abuja said the merger unites two pioneers in advanced metering solutions, paving the way for rapid expansion into the grid-connected market and increased customer reach.

SteamaCo has over a decade of experience providing advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) to energy companies across 20 African countries, transforming the energy sector with features like AI-driven loss detection for major power companies, including Aba Power.

Its flagship product, Nimbus AMI, it said, helps energy companies manage their networks, detect losses, and enhance customer service.

Shyft Power Solutions entered the Nigerian market nearly eight years ago with its cloud-based distributed energy resource management system and diesel management solutions.

It has also introduced its latest metering solution, FlexView, which offers enhanced reliability and allows energy consumers to monitor usage in near real-time, eliminating the need for tokens.

The statement also noted that the merger of SteamaCo and Shyft comes at a pivotal moment, with recent regulatory changes having opened up new investment opportunities for Independent Power Producers (IPPs) and utilities, particularly in grid intelligence and metering.

“With rising energy costs, there is a growing need for reliable power.

Globally, over a billion people lack adequate access to quality power. In Nigeria, approximately half of the country’s 220 million population is connected to the national grid, which currently cannot meet daily energy demand.

“Even those connected to the grid frequently experience blackouts, forcing them to rely on expensive and polluting alternatives. Distributed energy resources like solar home systems and mini-grids are essential solutions to address this energy access crisis.

“But this is changing, and the emerging SteamaCo entity is committed to playing a pivotal role in helping power companies, both on and off grid, leverage data-driven solutions to foster operational efficiency, streamlined revenue management, and mitigate downtime,” it explained.

She lamented that since the country adopted IPSAS accrual accounting on January 1, 2016, many legacy assets are yet to be recognised, measured, and uploaded to date, leading to huge negative net assets in its balance sheet.

She said, “Unfortunately, the pace of rendition by Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) has been disappointingly slow” adding that the delay had continued to hamper the timeliness and accuracy of the consolidated financial statements and significantly impacted the federal government’s ability to address the net asset deficit as expected.

Madein, therefore, urged the MDAs to expedite action on the rendition of legacy assets which represents a pivotal tool for

strengthening the government’s fiscal position and alleviating budgetary pressures.

The AGF pointed out that by systematically cataloging and valuing legacy assets which are long-term resources that have often been overlooked, MDAs can unlock substantial value that would otherwise remain dormant.

She said going forward, the AGF's office will initiate measures to enforce compliance, adding that sanctions will be applied to noncomplying MDAs that continue to delay these critical renditions.

She said, “By adhering to these directives, MDAs can contribute meaningfully to national interest while avoiding any penalties associated with non-compliance.”

To further address the assetliability, the AGF said all MDAs must submit the inventory of

assets, which will be reflected in the December 31, 2024 financial statement.

In addition, Madein said effective legacy asset management could help identify opportunities for better utilisation or liquidation, generating much-needed revenue while proceeds from the monetisation of underperforming assets can be redirected towards debt servicing, alleviating pressure on fiscal budget among others.

She said legacy asset rendition fosters a culture of responsibility among public officials, ensuring that assets are maintained and utilised in the public interest among other benefits.

Also speaking at the workshop, Executive Director, Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MoFI), Mrs. Kemi Owonuni, explained that the net asset liability was

not well represented in the asset side of the federal government's accounts, adding that from the investment perspective MOFI was looking to identifying, enumerating and establishing what the federal government owns.

She said, “So if you look at the two sides of the balance sheet the liability side is very well represented because if we go to the DMO and we check the ministry of finance, we will get a number very quickly, but the asset is somewhat missing out and that's one of the reasons why we're having this engagement today and we have a negative net liability position.

“Between MoFI and the office of the accountant general, you're looking at the totality of the assets of the federal government and this is where the assets register.

Cost of Governance: Experts Prescribe Transition from Presidential System

Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja

Experts from different walks of life have called for a change in the presidential system of government to the parliamentary or a hybrid system that is capable of drastically cutting down on the cost of governance.

They spoke Tuesday in Abuja at the annual lecture of the Justfrends Club with the theme, "High Cost of Governance as an Impediment to Development."

The guest lecturer, Dr. Sam Amadi observed that today, Nigeria is highly indebted to the point that it services debts with almost 80-90 per cent its revenue.

"We are not just a highly indebted country, we are borrowing to service the debts, further worsening our economic situation. We are stuck in debts after we struggled to free ourselves from debt under President Obasanjo administration.

"The first requirement of debt restructuring is to look inwards and restructure public expenditure. This

is one reason for worrying about the rising cost of governance.

"Another cause for worrying about the rising cost of governance is how big government affects performance. This is not just about financial costs. It is about lack of optimisation and incoherence that an over bloated public service can exhibit. The essence of the public service is performance.

" If the bureaucracy is over bloated, it affects the efficiency and effectiveness of bureaucratic actions. Optimizing government through de-layering and restructuring is important for efficient performance," he said.

Amadi who is the Director, Abuja School of Social and Political Thought stated that the issues to consider in a robust discussion about costs of government should be comprehensive and encompass institution/agency proliferation; distorted and misplaced priorities; rising overheads; duplication and overlap in the structure of the public service, and retention of perquisites earlier and purportedly “monetised.”

Others are budget indiscipline and accountability failure (resulting in miscellaneous leakages); and lack of accurate and up-to-date cost data (and early warning mechanisms).

During a panel discussion, different discussants squarely blamed the problem of Nigeria on leadership, the Regional Director for Anglophone Wesr Africa of Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN), Dr. Felix Oisamoje blamed Nigeria’s problem largely on leadership, adding that the presidential system of government being practised worsened the situation with the attendant high cost of governance.

In the same vein, and oil and gas consultant, Dr. Ahmed Adamu noted that three reasons account for high cost of governance in the country, including the desire by public servants to acquire wealth, psychological fear of poverty, as well as lack of belief and love for country.

He lamented that high cost of governance a traceable to high recurrent expenditure, high number

of government agencies doing the same things, payroll fraud, large official convoys, security votes, huge estacodes and airfares.

Earlier in his remarks, the President of Justfrends Club of Nigeria, Fred Ohwahwa the topic of the lecture was most appropriate for the present time. According to him, from whatever angle it was considered, Nigeria is an apology to its vibrant citizens, the African continent, and the black race.

"We are far behind in virtually all metrics of development. And this is in spite of abundant human and material resources the country is blessed with. Our infrastructural deficit is scandalous; our education, health and other sectors are begging for quality intervention.

"This unfortunate state of affairs is partly attributable to the high cost of governance. And this is at all levels of government. The time has come for us as nation to review our system of governance with a view to making the people the primary purpose of government

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

L-R: Founder, Elevate Africa, Her Majesty, Olori Atuwatse IIl; President of Ghana, Nana Akufo-Addo; and His Majesty, Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse Ill, during Most Influential of People of African Descent in New York, USA ... recently

13TH SITEI CONFERENCE...

L-R: Head, Commercial Banking Division, Access Bank, Mr. Lookman Martins; Chief Executive, Caterina D'Medici Africa, Foluke Micheal; Chief Executive, CSR-in-Action and Convener, Sustainability in the Extractive Industries (SITEI) Conference, Mrs. Bekeme Masade-Olowola; Representative of the General Manager, Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), Mrs. Adebayo Adebayo; and Chief Executive Officer, ImpactCrest, Mr. Abbas Agbaje, at the 13th SITEI Conference, held in Lagos recently

Shettima Canvasses Grassroot Solution to National Nutrition Challenges

W'Bank lauds N-774 initiative's strategic framework in addressing malnutrition

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

Vice President Kashim Shettima has affirmed Nigeria’s commitment to addressing its growing nutrition challenges through a communitydriven strategy aimed at transforming nutrition outcomes across the nation's 774 local government areas (LGAs).

This is just as the World Bank has lauded the N-774 Initiative's strategic framework as a potential model for tackling malnutrition in the country and across the region.

Speaking Tuesday during a meeting with a high-level delegation from the World Bank Group at the State House, Abuja, Shettima

presented the comprehensive N-774 Initiative, which builds on successful outcomes from the Accelerating Nutrition Results in Nigeria (ANRiN) project.

The Vice President, while acknowledging the support of the World Bank on numerous nutrition programmes across Nigeria, noted that the N-774 initiative comes at a crucial time considering the ANRiN project closeout.

He said: "The administration of President Bola Tinubu is pioneering a paradigm shift in nutrition programmes through locally owned solutions. The N-774 Initiative represents our commitment

to community-driven development and sustainable nutrition outcomes."

Shettima explained that the N-774 Initiative is a localised, community-driven solution tailored towards the unique needs of each LGA and aims to bring nutrition interventions directly to communities while encouraging local ownership and ensuring sustainability.

“Malnutrition is a Nigerian problem that needs a Nigerian solution and President Bola Tinubu is very much willing to support such an initiative,” he said, adding that the project integrates nutrition goals across education, agriculture, health and social protection sectors.

On the project implementation strategy, the Vice President said it was important to leverage current political will to reverse the country’s negative nutrition indicators.

"The Renewed Hope Administration is committed to swift, impactful results through this innovative approach to nutrition intervention.

"With sustained collaboration between the federal and subnational governments, and international partners, we are confident this initiative will yield significant improvements in our community health outcomes," Shettima stated.

The World Bank delegation,

NCDMB Inaugurates Bell Oil & Gas LFZ's $100m Pipe, Valve Manufacturing Yard

The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) yesterday unveiled the 50,000 metric tonnes per annum (MTPA) Bell Oil & Gas' integrated pipe threading, valve assembly and composite pipes manufacturing facility, located at the Lekki Free Trade Zone (LFZ), Lagos.

Unveiling the facility which has an estimated cost of $100 million over a five-year period, the Executive Secretary of NCDMB, Mr. Omatsola Ogbe, said the landmark project owned by an indigenous oil service company was a testament to the growth of local competence and capacity in the Nigerian oil and gas industry.

His words: "Today’s commissioning of Bell Oil & Gas FZE’s state-of-the-art

facility for pipe threading, machining, valve manufacturing, assembly, and maintenance marks a significant advancement in our industry. I commend Bell Oil & Gas for their foresight and commitment to enhancing Nigeria's energy sector.

"They are not only creating infrastructure but are also driving the in-country value that is vital for our nation’s progress. This facility will bolster our capabilities, offering essential services that will be instrumental in meeting the growing demand for oil and gas infrastructure within Nigeria."

He emphasized that Nigerian Content was not ‘Nigerianisation’ or exclusion of foreign participation in the oil and gas Industry but rather an implementation model which provides sufficient opportunities for participation

of multinationals, Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and offshore vendors in a mutually beneficial manner.

He explained that piping and threading were critical components in the oil and gas industry, adding that from transportation of oil and gas to ensuring the structural integrity of installations, these elements play a central role in the value chain.

As Nigeria strives to achieve energy self-sufficiency, he said the need for quality piping and threading services cannot be overstated.

According to Ogbe, with major projects such as the Dangote Refinery, TotalEnergies Ubeta gas project, Ajaokuta l-Kaduna-Kano (AKK) Gas Pipeline, and the Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline, the demand for these services continues to grow.

The executive secretary maintained that Bell Oil & Gas was positioning itself well to meet the foregoing demand, thus reducing the country's dependence on imported materials and services, and ensuring the retention of the economic benefits within the Nigerian borders.

Emphasizing the importance of engaging Nigerian youth in the sector, the local content regulator stated that the oil and gas industry provides vast opportunities across the value chain - from production and engineering to logistics and project management.

In his welcome address, Chief Executive Officer of Bell Oil & Gas, Dr. Kayode Thomas, stated the project which is being built in three phases was designed to provide pipe threading, Oil Composite Tubular Goods (OCTG) used for drilling in onshore and offshore operations.

Tinubu Assures Nigerians of Better Days Ahead

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday painted a rosy picture of the nation's future as he assured Nigerians that better days are ahead of them.

Speaking in his office at the State House, Abuja while decorating the Acting Chief of Army Staff, Major General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede with the new rank of Lieutenant General, the President attributed the success recorded in tackling terrorism and banditry to the “synergy’’ in the armed

forces and urged the service chiefs to sustain harmony in their relationship for the betterment of the country. He said: “The synergy among you has calmed the country, and we need that stability to continue. We need to assure all citizens that prosperity is not far from them".

President Tinubu commended the military for its unwavering courage, dedication, and patriotism in maintaining the nation's security.

“It is both an honour and a privilege to decorate you today," the President

stated.

“This recognition reflects your commitment and service to the Nigerian military, which speaks volumes through your exemplary record.

“We recognise all that you have been doing to ensure the country is safe and stable,’’ the President said.

President Tinubu assured the military that the government would always listen to their advice and keep the country on the path of peace and prosperity.

“We are facing challenges, but progress is being made,’’ he added.

The Acting COAS, Lt. Gen. Oluyede expressed deep gratitude and acknowledged the solemnity of the occasion and reiterated his commitment to upholding the vision of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, and to maintaining peace across the country.

Lt. Gen. Oluyede (N/9318) was granted Regular Combatant Commission as second lieutenant as a member of the 39 Regular Course on September 19, 1992, with seniority in the same rank effective September 12, 1987.

including the Country Director, Regional Director for West and Central Africa and the Practice Manager for Health Global Practice, expressed a strong commitment to the initiative's bottom-up approach to addressing nutrition challenges.

Specifically, the Country Director of the World Bank, Ndiame Diop, thanked the Vice President for his leadership in coordinating multistakeholder collaboration in setting agenda on nutrition issues in public discourse.

He added that it is important to see Nigeria’s government's ongoing financing for nutrition, just as he announced that the bank has earmarked $50 million under ANRiN 2.0 programme which is a crisis response window. Also, Practice Manager for Health, Nutrition and Population at the World Bank, Trina Haque said there is a need for nutrition education for children and adolescents as it important for early child development

Yvonne Wins Access ART X Prize Alumni Impact Award

Dike Onwuamaeze

The Access Holdings, in collaboration with ART X Lagos, has presented the inaugural “Access ART X Prize Alumni Impact Award” to Ms. Etinosa Yvonne, the 2019 winner of the ART X Prize, at its VIP Preview.

This special award within the Access ART X Prize program is created to celebrate the remarkable achievements of past winners of the prize who have continued to innovate and shape the African art landscape.

Since its launch in 2016, the Access ART X Prize has become one of Africa’s most prestigious platforms for emerging artists, championing creative excellence and cultivating a lasting impact on the global stage.

According to the promoters of the ART X Prize, the Alumni Impact Award is in alignment with ART X Lagos' 2024 theme: "Promised Lands," and also reinforced the fair’s dedication to creating sustained artistic growth across the African continent, adding that “this year’s theme embodies a vision of hope, freedom, and new possibilities - an ideal backdrop for honouring the progress of past prize winners whose influential contributions resonate both locally and globally.

“The Alumni Impact Award celebrates these artists’ journeys and the transformative power of their voices in shaping contemporary African art.

“Therefore, this inaugural Alumni Impact Award honours

one past winner whose artistic journey exemplifies the Prize’s mission of continuous growth and cultural resonance.”

During the VIP Preview, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Access Bank Plc, Mr. Roosevelt Ogbonna, said that "at Access, we believe empowerment is the cornerstone of progress, and this belief extends well beyond the financial sector.

“By supporting ART X Lagos and initiatives like the Access ART X Prize, we seek to cultivate an enduring, dynamic art ecosystem across Africa, where creativity thrives, and cultural impact is amplified.

“This year, through the special Alumni Impact Award, we celebrate not only the outstanding achievements of past Access ART X Prize winners but also their dedication to bringing African narratives to the forefront of global conversations.”

In her own remark, the founder of ART X Lagos, Mrs. Tokini Peterside-Schwebig, said: "The Access ART X Prize Alumni Impact Award embodies our pledge to supporting artists at every stage of their careers.

"By celebrating our past winners and recognizing their continued growth, we reaffirm ART X Lagos' dedication to driving innovation, social engagement, and long-term impact within the African art community.

“Our hope is to inspire the next generation to pursue their creative journeys with the same passion and resilience."

Peter Uzoho

FUNERAL SERVICE MASS FOR DR. OGBONNAYA ONU...

Obaseki: I’m Satisfied with My Achievements in Eight Years

Says we’ve restored hope, empowered our youth for the future Mbah, Tambuwal inaugurate Benin Technical College, education hub, others, affirm Obaseki has

Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State has said he is leaving office as governor very satisfied, having undertaken bold reforms and projects that have transformed critical areas of the state, including education, healthcare, economy, infrastructure and job creation.

Obaseki said his reforms had also improved the livelihoods of the people and placed the state on the path of growth and economic prosperity.

The governor spoke this on Tuesday, when he led his Enugu

State counterpart, Dr. Peter Mbah, and senator for Sokoto South and former governor of Sokoto State, Alhaji Aminu Tambuwal, and other dignitaries to commission various projects in the state.

Some of the projects commissioned included the Benin Technical College and some internal roads within the college spanning over 12 kilometres, as well as the Edo State Education Hub, which houses the Ministry of Education, Directorate of Educational Quality and Accountability, Directorate of Higher Education,

German Consulate Advocates Environmental Awareness Among Nigerian School Children

Segun James

The German Consulate General in Lagos has told the young folks in the country that the most effective way to reduce waste is to not create it in the first place.

The Consul General however said that since this is almost impossible, recycling such wastes, especially plastics, has become the best option worldwide.

Represented by the Programme Officer of the Consulate, Udochukwu Okeahialam at the Falomo Save the Plant Climate Action Recycling Concert held at Ireti Senior Grammar School, Ikoyi, told the students that the best way to save money, conserve natural resources, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions is by practicing to restore, recycle and reuse such products.

His words: "Everyone of us can make choices to protect nature, tackle climate change, and take care of our planet.

"At its core, this project speaks to the need to channel the energy and curiosity of our younger generation into productive, transformative activities. Through this initiative, we have seen students engage with vital issues such as climate change, environmental sustainability, and the importance of recycling-issues that are not only critical for Nigeria, but for the world.

"The Climate Action and Recycling Campaign Project is aligned with

the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)-specifically, SDG 3 on good health and well-being, SDG 4 on quality education, and SDG 12 on responsible consumption and production.

“These goals remind us that sustainability is not a one-dimenslonal issue. Protecting our environment, improving our health, and promoting education are deeply interconnected challenges that require innovative, inclusive, and lasting solutions.

"Sustainability starts with awareness and education, and I cannot Overstate how proud we are of the students at Ireti Senior Grammar School who have embraced this project. You have not only learned the principles of recycling and environmental stewardship but have actively engaged in activities that make a real-world impact.

“Your efforts-whether it's separating waste, promoting recycling within your school, or raising awareness in your communities-are contributing to a broader movement towards responsible consumption and environmental care."

Founder/Convener of the Lightout Highschool Initiative, Akinade Ibuoye 'Gaise baba' told the students that "the importance of these actions cannot be overstated. By reducing waste, conserving resources, and protecting your surroundings, you are directly contributing to better health outcomes and a cleaner, safer environment for everyone.

the State Examination Board, Edo State Universal Basic Education Board (Edo SUBEB), Library Board, and Board of Technical and Vocational Education and Training, among others.

Others at the event included the state deputy governor, Mr. Marvellous Omobayo; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Osaigbovo Iyoha; commissioners and other members of the State Executive Council; traditional rulers; and education stakeholders.

At the commissioning of the Benin Technical College, Obaseki said his government had restored hope to the people of the state, rebuilt the Edo economy, and empowered and equipped young people in the state for the future.

According to him, “This project is something I had to do because when I contested as governor of Edo State in 2016, we were facing existential threats. Our children didn't want to go to school but rather preferred to travel for greener pastures.

“The rate of irregular migration and human trafficking was very scary for me. At the time, over 30,000 young Edo boys and girls were in Libya trying to cross into Europe; we had the data. You can

imagine how many died on their way there.”

He continued, “While campaigning, I promised to restore hope and did what politicians don't normally do, promising to create over 200,000 jobs, and by grace we have surpassed that.

“These jobs were not created by the government or the civil service, as we focused on developing skills and training our young boys and girls in institutions, like the Benin Technical School, that just wanted hope and opportunity in life.

“When I resumed office on November 12, 2016, I visited the secretariat and the next day, I was at the Benin Technical College. If I am to create 200,000 jobs, I need the institution to do this. But what I saw when I came here, I almost wept and I made a commitment that restoring this school and renovating it will be my priority.”

Obaseki added, “I am glad this afternoon that a week to my exit in office, I can see a rebuilt technical college giving hope to thousands of young boys and girls. This is a greater joy and gift from God as I am leaving office very satisfied. I came, saw the state of the college

and I did my best to revamp and rehabilitate it.”

Obaseki, at the commissioning of the education hub, said the facility was a testament to his government’s revamp of the education sector.

The governor also named the hub after foremost educationist and Commissioner for Education in the old Midwest State, Chief Tayo Akpata.

He said, “Today, we are here to commission the Edo State Education Hub and this facility is like a summary of what we have done in Edo State. When we came, we met our educational system in disarray but today we are leaving a very organised education system. This hub represents that because this hub is everything education.”

Obaseki said with the facility “a hall of fame” had been created for teachers.

He stated, “The whole reform in Edo’s education sector was anchored on the teacher. The EdoBEST programme succeeded because we focused on teachers who eventually teach the children. Teachers should be at the core of any education reform.”

He commended teachers in the

state for supporting the reforms in the education sector.

Mbah described Obaseki as a transformer, saying he has not only transformed Edo’s education sector but also enhanced the learning abilities of Edo people.

The Enugu State governor stated, “I am deeply honoured to be invited to commission this landmark project, as it is a testament to the commitment of Governor Obaseki to transform the education sector.

“The governor has had an outstanding term in office with various remarkable transformational projects, which not only transformed the education sector but enhanced the learning abilities of the Edo people.

“In the last eight years, the governor has been planting and it's our hope that the young ones and people of Edo State would reap from the bountiful harvest of your selfless work for Edo people.

“It’s our hope that when the history of this state and Nigeria is rendered, posterity will not only be kind to you but will also preserve a noble seat for you for the great work you have done in Edo State.”

Okowa's Arrest by EFCC: No Cause for Alarm, Oghenesivbe Assures Deltans

Asaba

Omon-Julius Onabu in

The Director-General of Delta State Orientation and Communications Bureau, Dr. Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, has urged Deltans not to be disillusioned by Monday's arrest of former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State by officials of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), but to remain steadfast in their support and prayers for him.

Oghenesivbe, who spoke in Asaba yesterday, on the widely reported invitation and detention of Dr. Okowa at the country's anti-corruption facility in Port-Harcourt, the Rivers State capital, stressed that the development was procedural and "does not in any way fracture his (Okowa's) enviable reputation" as it was premature to

label Okowa 'guilty' on the strength of the allegations that prompted the invitation by the EFCC.

Although, numerous political appointees in the current administration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori (Okowa's successor) also served under Okowa's administration, Oghenesivbe was the first official of the Delta State Government to formally react to the widely reported date with the EFCC by the former governor of the state.

"Going by the legal principle of presumption of innocence, Senator Okowa may be interrogated and released without criminal prosecution or until proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction", the Delta Orientation Bureau D-G said.

According to him, it is usual for the EFCC to invite suspects based on

allegations bordering on criminality, "which might be true or false, and the law recognizes the innocence of all accused persons until proven otherwise."

He noted: "In the instant case, former Governor Okowa made himself available to EFCC, and did not abscond from Nigeria as we are made to understand in some cases under investigation."

A legal practitioner and strategic political communication strategist, Oghenesivbe who served from 2017 to the end of Okowa's tenure on May 29, 2023 as Executive Assistant on Communications, appealed to the people of the state "to keep their fingers crossed (and) pray for Senator Okowa" as he might be absolved of the allegations at the conclusion of EFCC's investigation.

Oghenesivbe said in the media statement made available to THISDAY in Asaba: "The news of former governor Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa's arrest by EFCC is trending on social media platforms based on reports by a section of the traditional media.

"There is no cause for alarm. It's an established procedure in criminal matters to have a suspect arrested based on allegations in form of a petition to the commission.

"Arrest is not a proof of guilt, and not a judgment by a court of competent jurisdiction. The allegations shall be tested in Court or Courts if the need arises.

"It's important for us to keep our fingers crossed. I urge Deltans to pray for Senator Okowa at this trying time."

L-R: Eldest Son of Ogbonnaya Onu, Barrister. Obiora Ogbonnaya Onu; Wife, Mrs. Chinyere Ogbonnaya Onu; daughter, Nwakalu Onu; Son, Chijioke Onu; and Barrister Uzodima Onu, during the funeral Mass for the late former minister, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu in Abuja.. yesterday KINGSLEY ADEBOYE

SEND FORTH PARTY...

Immediate past Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of First Bank, Dr. Adesola Adeduntan (right) and current GCEO,Mr Olusegun Alebiosu, at the send forth party organised by the bank in Lagos…recently

Bello: Regulatory Breaches in Electricity Provision

Will be Sanctioned Henceforth

Says consumers have endured issues with billing, metering, transformers, customer service, others Declares consumers who paid for meters ought to be reimbursed through energy credits

James Emejo in Abuja

Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive, Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), Mr. Tunji Bello, yesterday, vowed that henceforth, regulatory breaches in the electricity industry will be met with immediate corrective action.

Bello said whereas electricity should be reliable, accessible, and affordable to consumers in the country, the sector had continued to grappled with a range of consumer issues that would no longer be tolerated.

Speaking during an urgent stakeholders meeting on electric meter issues in Abuja, Bello regretted that many of the challenges, ranging from billing inaccuracies to inadequate customer care were largely humanmade, occasioned by “systemic inefficiencies and a troubling culture of impunity among certain service providers”.

The FCCPC chief executive said complaints had revealed that consumers were often forced to pay upfront for meters without reimbursement, contrary to established guidelines under the

NERC Meter Asset Provider and National Mass Metering Regulations 2021, which stipulate reimbursement through energy credits.

Bello further observed that some Discos randomly placed customers with faulty meters on estimated billing, which he said was prohibited by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC).

According to him, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) and current NERC regulations grant consumers rights, including rights to fair treatment and transparent billing.

He declared that disregard for robust regulatory frameworks, such as the NERC Meter Asset Provider and National Mass Metering Regulations 2021 and the Customer Protection Regulations 2023, by Discos, was “unacceptable and will no longer be tolerated”.

Bello said the country currently faced power shortages, adding that these shortages cannot justify systemic abuses against consumers.

\He added that going forward, regulatory breaches in the industry will

be met with immediate corrective action.

Specifically, he stated that a recent announcement by an electricity distribution company concerning the phase-out of the Unistar prepaid meter model with effect from November 14, 2024 posed another challenge for consumers, who might face undue hardship if this transition was mishandled.

He said, “As usual, the announcement was devoid of information on whether consumers will be required to cover the cost of replacing meters. The possibility of consumers being placed on arbitrary estimated billing during this transition is also a concern, as it would violate existing rules.

“This announcement has understandably caused widespread anxiety among consumers, who are already dealing with significant difficulties within and outside the electricity industry.”

Bello also read out a desperate message from a troubled Ikeja Electric customer regarding the announcement.

The text sent to the commission read, "Good evening FCCPC. The exploitation

of IKEDC on the change of meter is unacceptable. I have working meters in my house in GRA and they have given a deadline to change meters that ultimately belong to them without bearing some cost. To change the meters in my house will cost about N1M… pls kindly intervene. This is too much to bear at this difficult time.

Thank you."

Bello said it was troubling for the commission to witness consumers being exposed to additional hardship, with minimal information provided by the Disco regarding the transition.

He said, “In response, the FCCPC has convened this meeting to engage with key stakeholders, including the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), the Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency (NEMSA), the twelve (12) DisCos and the manufacturer of the Unistar prepaid meter model.

“Our objective is to ensure that every metering process remains transparent and accountable, prioritising the interests of consumers. At this meeting, we aim to clarify the phase-out process and advise DisCos to bear the replacement costs for

Medical Doctor Hires SAN against NMA in N200m Damages Appeal

Alex Enumah in Abuja

An Abuja-based physician and consultant, Dr. Kenenna Obiatuegwu has engaged the services of a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Chief Emmanuel Esene, in his appeal against the judgement of a Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court that denied him compensation in the suit against the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA).

Esene is specifically seeking an order of the appellate court directing the NMA to pay his client the sum of N200 million as damages his client

suffered as a result of his unlawful suspension by the umbrella body for medical practitioners in the country.

Justice Charles Agbaza of the FCT High Court in Maitama, had in a judgement in July this year voided Dr. Obiatuegwu's suspension and subsequent disqualification from contesting elective positions in the NMA. The judge, who held that the suspension was null and void because it was made in flagrant disregard of a court proceedings, however refused to order the NMA to compensate the appellant for damages suffered as a

result of their unlawful and illegal conduct.

According to Justice Agbaza, although the claimant alleged to have suffered damages due to the publication of his suspension in some newspapers wherein he was described as an unruly person, the claimant failed to provide any prove in support of his claim.

Miffed by the decisions of the trial judge, Dr. Obiatuegwu, has now approached the Court of Appeal in Abuja, to set aside part of the judgement which denied him compensation.

Specifically, the senior lawyer

contended that the trial court "erred in law when it held that the appellant failed to adduce evidence to entitle him to damages".

In the six grounds of appeal Esene argued that the lower court haven found in its judgement that the appellant was indeed suspended from his medical practice which was his only source of livelihood from September 20, 2020 to July 4, 2024 when the judgement of the lower court setting aside his suspension was delivered, ought to have awarded damages in his favour.

their meters without imposing additional charges on consumers.

“The commission is committed to enforcing strict adherence to regulatory guidelines, ensuring that consumers are neither unfairly charged nor randomly subjected to estimated billing.”

He said the engagement would also address broader issues surrounding metering in the industry, particularly the non-reimbursement for meter purchases, delays in meter installation and repairs,

estimated billing of customers with faulty meters, consumer exploitation by meter installers, token loading challenges, and inadequate customer service.

Bello said, “Under this dispensation, and like ever before, the FCCPC is committed to the unbiased enforcement of all consumer protection regulations, including those within the electricity sector, particularly the directives of NERC.

Integrated Immunisation Exercise

Witnesses Impressive Turnout in Bauchi

Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi

The Integrated Vaccination campaign for measles and Polio in Bauchi

Local Government Area (LGA) is witnessing a huge turnout in the area as caregivers are bringing the eligible children U-5 out for the vaccination.

THISDAY reports that UNICEF and other implementing partners are supporting the state government in the conduct of the integrated immunization exercise against measles and Polio for U-5 children

Assessment visits to some of the facilities with the LGA by a team of Health Reporters on Tuesday indicated that the exercise was well accepted by the people of the area.

At the Miri Ward of the LGA, it was observed that children were brought out to be immunized for measles and Polio as part of the routine immunization in the facility.

Giving an update of the exercise in the Ward, the Immunization Focal Person, Umar Abdullahi Ningi, disclosed for the measles vaccination, the target is 7100 while there is no figure for Polio OVR but taking place in 97 communities.

According to him, so far, 2,701 children have been immunized for measles while 11,606 children have been administered with the OVR to prevent them from Polio variants in the area.

He also disclosed that a total of 2,950 doses of vaccines have been used for measles immunization while for the OVR, a total of 12,300 doses have been used.

Abdullahi Ningi said that the total is for the entire Miri Ward at the Health facilities that are cited at the various communities including the mobile and fixed posts.

In Dan Amar 1 Ward, the Immunization Focal Person disclosed that the target for measles in the area is 5006 U-5 children while the target for OVR is 9,529. He however explained that for the first three days of the campaign (Saturday to Monday) a total of 1,135 eligible children have been immunization for measles while 7,555 have been reached for OVR. According to him, for the three days, 8000 doses of OVR have been used while for measles, 1,470 doses have been used.

Also speaking, the Routine Immunization Officer of Bayan Fada PHCC, Halima Adamu expressed satisfaction with the turnout of caregivers for the exercise saying that it has been very encouraging compared with past exercises. She added that so far in the three days of the exercise, no serious challenge has been recorded to have hampered the smooth operation of the exercise.

Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com

Ukechir: Before Long, People Will Realise Tinubu Meant Well for Nigeria

In this interview with Seriki Adinoyi , Convener of Grassroots s upport for Tinubu 2027, Mr. Tersoo David Ukechir, speaks on the prevailing economic situation in the country with a submission that though n igerians are suffering due to misdeeds of past government, President b ola Tinubu is doing all possible best to turn the nation’s fortune around for the better.

What’s your perception of the present administration and President Bola Tinubu?

I will say it’s a tailor-made intention of handing over a rusty house to the only one who they believed could fix it. What do I mean by that?

Our country was in a very distressed state when President Bola Tinubu took over in 2023. There’s nothing else that he or any other leader could have done than what he is doing. He has given his attention to the problem; he’s not complaining. He went straight to face the challenges of Nigeria. The rot in the system was deep. To give you a typical example, the former administration was borrowing to run the government.

It means that even the food in Aso Villa was being paid for with borrowed money, salaries of civil servants, the workforce, the presidential jet, and presidential commitments around the world were all funded by borrowed money.

Former President Muhammadu Buhari was doing the impossible, at the detriment of the common man. To support the naira and the dollar, they were trying to sustain an artificial rating at a time when every month, the CBN was under pressure. Then, if I was to bring in chemicals to produce soap, I had to pay a third party in CBN and apply through my bank. The bank was to apply for me for the bid. Meanwhile, this is a genuine importation I’m bringing into my country to add value, but at the end they make more money than me the owner of the business. I’m telling you what you can verify. That was when the Naira was killed and why the economy became terrible.

What is President Tinubu doing differently to rejuvenate the economy because the general belief is that things are getting worse by the day?

Confronting the very things that were killing the economy, and giving power and resources back to local governments.

I remember I was on NTA to talk about the benefit of Local Government autonomy. I said it there that one of the best things our president could do for our country was to grant local government autonomy. If you witnessed when local governments had autonomy in the past, you will testify to the great achievements they made; there were competitions, with everyone trying to outdo the other.

Then, local governments were building bridges and giving out contracts, graduates would go back to their local governments to work. If there is genuine autonomy, without interference from any quarters, there would be employment and development at the grassroots, and money would be in the real sector where I believe local people can benefit. President Tinubu is not sleeping over the hardships in the country; quite a lot of measures are being put in place to ameliorate the situation, and there are many positive changes happening, but because of the damage done during the eight years of the former administration, things won’t change overnight. We are facing the consequences of the mistakes made in the past administration. We need to be patient a little bit for things to get better and pray for the success of this administration.

What are the things that reinforce your belief that President Tinubu has the wand to fix this country?

First, what else does he want? He doesn’t want money, he’s a wealthy man; he’s a man of fortune. His legacy is what matters. He’s a man who believes in transformation. Lagos is a case study. Let me give you an example of the toll gate that became an issue. It was once a single route behind 1004. When Tinubu became the

governor, it was dualised. In most parts of the world, the private sector built infrastructure. For example, in Hong Kong, every major road was built by individuals who had to recover their investments. What is wrong with that? If that toll gate became a problem, it changed the activities of Lagos. It became a driver for the economy.

This is the same man who is now the president of Nigeria.

People are asking what building of a coastal road will do for them. The biggest beneficiaries of that coastal road will be the Igbo. What makes America different or what makes China the largest manufacturer is the infrastructure—the roads. When you say infrastructure, it means we need roads for the quick movement of goods and services, and this grows economy. The President understands all of these.

At the moment the President is grappling with how to fix the economy, and he is barely two

years in office. Don’t you see your 2027 campaign as too early and a distraction?

This is not a distraction in any form; the president and his cabinet members are focused. I’m actually telling him he might not want to stand for election again, but I’m telling my president that he needs time to achieve the dreams and vision he has for our country. Four years is not enough.

I am expressing this because I want him to be president for eight years. So, I’m reminding him that though he might not have the intention to serve for eight years, he should give it a consideration. I’m encouraging Nigerians to begin to buy into the idea; let’s support him. Four years is not enough.

Aside campaigning for Tinubu’s second term, what is your group doing towards addressing the current hardships in the country?

We are building boreholes around the country. I have almost 260 boreholes completed in different communities. I just finished in Osun and Ekiti, and I’m starting again on Monday. These are solar-powered boreholes, providing 24/7 water to communities that have never

President Tinubu is not sleeping over the hardships in the country; quite a lot of measures are being put in place to ameliorate the situation, and there are many positive changes happening, but because of the damage done during the eight years of the former administration, things won’t change overnight. We are facing the consequences of the mistakes made in the past administration. We need to be patient a little bit for things to get better and pray for the success of this administration.

had water before. I have billboards around the country, one costing me 12 to 13 million naira, paid for an entire year, displaying messages to help Nigerians be patriotic towards their country. I am also organising medical outreach and providing other amenities to Nigerians regardless of political affiliation.

I use my own resources to make these happen. But I am not approaching it the same way others do during elections, where they wait until the last minute to take action. We are launching buses across the country to ease transportation problem occasioned by hike in fuel price. You simply come, sit in the air-conditioned bus, and go to your destination.

Mr. President loves Nigerians, and his energy drives me to do what I’m doing. We are renovating secondary schools for the children of Nigerian masses, schools that you and I would not allow our children to attend.

Why are the buses meant for only students?

Students are the most vulnerable, along with the elderly and retirees; our grandmothers, women, and children. Those are our targets for this nationwide initiative. Additionally, we are providing scholarships for 300 students at various universities nationwide, with 150,000 naira for each student. I haven’t even mentioned that I’m here in Plateau State to provide for this community, and then next, we will move to Bauchi. We are alleviating the burden on parents who would otherwise need to borrow money for school fees.

Now, these buses are rolling, so the money that a mother would have borrowed can now be kept for her family while her daughter or son travels free on the air conditioned bus, courtesy of our president.

These are some of the things Asiwaju was doing even before he became president. He helped people; he is a generous man. This is the spirit we are promoting. There are two aspects to electing a president; you elect a president to come in and build. In this case, President Tinubu was elected to fix the damage and then build.

But Nigerians are groaning under the hardship the President Tinubu’s reform has brought upon them. What’s your of advice?

I will not blame Nigerians for wanting things to be done quickly; they have suffered. They have gone through bad times, painful times. The President recognises this, which is why he is working day and night to make hard decisions.

You must have a powerful mind to make the decisions Mr. President took on the first day, like removing the subsidy. It’s only a few who can take these kinds of actions now. These decisions are meant for our benefit. Let’s support the President; he is aware of the difficulties. Don’t listen to propaganda about him buying a plane. Every president needs to travel safely. Have Nigerians forgotten that his plane broke down while he was in Europe?

He had to find another plane to get to his next destination, which was Saudi Arabia. He needs to be able to do his job effectively. In any case, how much are we talking about? One plane could cost between $10 and $15 million. Why don’t we investigate this properly? Was it fully paid for? An individual could buy a plane for Nigeria. The payment can be structured over 10 to 15 years. These are propaganda campaigns by the same entities that want to destroy Nigeria. They are fighting back because the subsidy has been removed and the challenge of stealing from Nigeria has been addressed. I want to assure Nigerians that Tinubu’s economic reforms will bear fruit.

Ukechir

Kayode Tokede

As against the prediction by leading ratings agency, Fitch that Nigerian banks’ Non-Performing Loan (NPL) will increase in 2024, a total of 10 leading banks beat the odds in the first half of the years closing the period with an average 7.49 per cent NPL as against 7.53 per cent in 2023 full financial year.

Analysis of the banks’ half year ended June 2024 released to the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX), showed that the banks effectively managed their loans to customers amid double-digit inflation rate, insecurity in the country, unstable naira at the foreign exchange market, among other challenges.

The banks are: FBN Holdings Plc, Zenith Bank Plc, Guaranty Trust Holdings Plc (GTCO), FBN Holdings Plc, United Bank

for Africa Plc (UBA) and Access Holdings Plc. Others include; Fidelity Bank Plc, FCMB Group Plc, Stanbic IBTC Holdings Plc, and Wema Bank Plc.

Nigeria’s inflation rate rose to 34.19 per cent in June 2024 (currently at 32.70per cent in September 2024), from 22.79per dent reported by National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) June 2023, driven by higher petrol prices that pushed up transport costs.

The hike in inflation rate has seen the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) under Mr. Yemi Cardoso raise the monetary policy rate (MPR) five times in an effort to curb the menace and promote economic stability. The first increase moved the rate from 18.75 per cent to 22.75 per cent, followed by subsequent hikes to 24.75 per cent, 26.25 per cent, and 26.75 per cent, with the most recent adjustment in September 2024 when

the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) raised it by 50 basis points to 27.25 per cent.

Further investigation by THISDAY revealed that UBA with NPL ratio at 6.20 per cent in H1 2024 from 5.80 per cent in H1 2023 is the only big financial institution with NPL ratio above regulatory requirement, as all others reported NPL ratio below five per cent requirement of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

The management of UBA explained that its NPL slipped to 6.2 per cent in H1 2024 on account of further classification of some exposures.

“However, the portfolio remains resilient as we continue to monitor it,” it added.

Access Holdings, according to an investigation by THISDAY, is the only financial institution with the lowest NPL ratio among the

10 banks.

Access Holdings saw its NPL ratio dropped from 2.80 per cent in 2023 FY to 2.70 per cent, while its NPL coverage dropped from 134.6 per cent in 2023 to 133.9 per cent as of June 2024, as the management stated that the decline is in line with its strategy of maintaining a healthy coverage for the loan portfolio.

Despite the decline in NPL ratio, the Pan-African financial institution saw its NPL by value at N341 billion in H1 2024 from N252 billion reported in 2023.

GTCO in a presentation to analysts and investors had disclosed that, “The Group’s IFRS 9 Stage 3 loans closed at 4.3per cent (Bank: 2.8per cent) in H1 2024 from 4.2per cent (Bank: 2.5per cent) in FY-2023.

Education and Others emerged as sectors with the highest NPLs i.e., 44.6per cent and 19.1per cent,

respectively.

“IFRS 9 Stage 3 loans grew to N143.4billion in H1 2024 from N109.6billion in 2023, primarily due to exchange rate impact as there was no new addition to the NPL portfolio. Group continued to deleverage in Nigeria, Ghana, and Kenya, and where possible, ensured derecognition of fully provided facilities off its loan book.

“The Group continued to benefit from the precautionary impairment charge booked in 2023 by way of management overlay causing improvement in Cost-of Risk to 1.6 per cent in H1 2024 from 4.5 per cent in FY-2023.

“IFRS 9 balance sheet impairment allowance for Stage 3/lifetime credit impaired exposures therefore closed at N82.6billion from N63.5billion in 2023 representing 57.6 per cent coverage of loans in this

classification. In aggregate terms including regulatory risk reserves of N75.1billion, the Group’s coverage for its IFRS 9 Stage 3 loans/NPLs improved to 229.9 per cent from 191.1per cent in 2023. The coverage for Stage 3 Loans is deemed to be adequate and consistent with the Group’s plan to maintain 100 per cent coverage for its NPLs.” Also, Tier-1 bank Zenith Bank declared 4.50 per cent NPL ratio in H1 2024 from 4.40 per cent in 2023, while FBN Holdings announced 4.20 per cent NPL ratio in H1 2024 from 4.70 per cent in 2023.

Fitch in its latest report on Nigeria projected that NPLs of Nigerian banks will increase in 2024 on the back of high interest rates and inflation in the country.

The African Exchange (AFEX) has projected that Nigeria would experience historical rise in food prices in 2025 due to reduced domestic production levels, export of food crops to international markets and rising logistics costs. The projection is contained in the, “AFEX 2024 Wet Season Crop Production Report Nigeria,” which sampled 47,364 farmers across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones and covered key commodity crops such as cashew, cocoa, soybean, sorghum, sesame, paddy rice, ginger and maize.

The report stated that factors that would affect Nigeria’s food production in 2024/2025 season include reduced input usage, limited access to input financing and impacts of climate shocks.

According to AFEX: “Commodity prices are projected to rise to historical highs in the new season (2024/2025), driven by reduced production levels, growing international demand, and rising logistics costs, pressured by the fuel price hikes.”

The report stated that the outlook for Nigeria’s food security is particularly concerning, especially given the historic food inflation rate

of 37.5 per cent.

It, therefore, warned that, “if swift action is not taken, the already high levels of food insecurity in the country are likely to worsen. Recent climate shocks have severely impacted staple crops, damaging thousands of farmlands and constraining output.”

The AFEX report added that, “it is now more critical than ever to adopt effective adaptation strategies to combat climate change vulnerability.”

The report projected that the prices of maize, soybeans, paddy rice, sorghum and ginger would record substantial increases in the

2024/2025 season.

It said: “Looking ahead to the 2024/2025 season, maize prices are expected to continue their upward trajectory.

“With the season starting at a historical base price of over N650,000 per metric ton, we anticipate the average price to rise to around N910,000 per metric ton, representing a 48 per cent seasonal increase.”

According to the report, “without the implementation of effective price controls and agricultural policies to stabilise supply and manage inflation, maize prices could escalate even further, potentially reaching an

average of N1,200,000 per metric ton during the season.

“Such a situation could place significant strain on consumers and industries dependent on maize, further amplifying food security concerns and inflationary pressures across the broader economy.”

The report also stated that soybean prices would continue to rise at a projected range that is between N1,100,000 and N1,700,000 per metric ton by the end of Q3 2025.

It said: “This projection indicates an average price of approximately N1,400,000 per metric ton, representing a substantial seasonal

increase of about 95 per cent.” It attributed the anticipated increase in the price of soybean to a projected 2.0 per cent decline in production volumes and an expected increase in export activities, which would limit availability for local consumption and industries, placing additional upward pressure on prices.

The report also stated that looking ahead to the 2024/2025 season, “we anticipate a further seasonal price increase of around 55 per cent.

Dike Onwuamaeze

Rafsanjani: African Civil Society Demands Total Reform, Transparency in IMF/ World Bank Governance Framework

Executive Director of Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) and Head of Transparency International in Nigeria, Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, in a chat with newsmen on the sidelines of the recently concluded IMF/World Bank Annual Meetings, discussed the role of civil society at the meetings and advocated for stronger accountability mechanisms to ensure loans from these institutions are effectively monitored. Rafsanjani underscored the importance of reforming IMF and World Bank governance frameworks to ensure greater transparency, aiming to curb poverty and empower African nations. Nume Ekeghe presents excerpts:

Why are you here at the IMF/World Bank Annual Meetings?

So, basically, as civil society, we are accredited to participate in this year’s IMF World Bank Annual Meeting. There are quite a number of issues and demands that civil society organizations have brought to this very important meeting, especially given the state of the economy in Africa and, by extension, in Nigeria.

What specific reforms are CSOs in Africa advocating for?

So, first and foremost, civil society organisations across Africa are demanding and agitating for total reforms in the IMF, World Bank governance framework, and its relation with Africa generally.

Civil society organisations in Africa and Nigeria in particular, are demanding and requesting a total reform in the governance framework and relations, in IMF World Bank, this is because we believe that a need to democratise and ensure more transparency and accountability in the IMF World Bank framework.

Why is information-sharing so critical in this context?

It is absolutely important to understand that in many countries in Africa, the economy is scaling down and lack of information from both governments and countries and also from the IMF that will hold the government accountable for its financial dealings with financial institutions continue to create gaps, continue to create doubt, continue to create rumors.

And that is why civil society in a way of ensuring that we have a more credible financial system across the world that also works for the poor people; that also works for the disadvantaged countries, make this push. So, there are certain reforms that the IMF and World Bank can carry out and ensure that those reforms trickle down into those countries.

How can Nigeria’s government improve its economic policies?

One of the reforms that we really want to see happening is that there must be information sharing with the stakeholders, especially civil society organisations working on financial management issues. Many times our countries, do come to the IMF, World Bank and collect loans, including the parliament in those countries; they would just simply approve a loan request without knowing the details, and even when the loans are given, they do not have an idea on what implementation of those loans are. And therefore, you know, the citizens are left without knowledge on what those debts are used for.

Secondly, I think it is important that the Nigerian government, in particular, carry out serious reforms that can help bring about economic stability. Many of the economic indices that we have in Nigeria and Africa at large, did not suggest any positive outlook. For example, as a result of corruption in the economic sector, we are having a lot of backsliding in economic progress. A lot of factories and manufacturers are closing down, the government is not able to collect the necessary revenue from multinational corporations and some wealthy men and women in Nigeria in particular.

For example, recently, we conducted a research and we discovered that almost 90 percent of the rich men and women in Nigeria are not paying taxes, and for government to be able to have, development financing, you need to collect the appropriate taxation.

Again, property taxation is not also imposed in Nigeria. If the government wants money, they need to look at those areas that can bring in revenue to the country, and more importantly, also make those revenues judiciously used, and utilise them in a manner that will help address lingering poverty that Nigeria and Nigerians are faced with.

Again to have better economic reforms in the country, we need to look at how the country runs its financial system. We need to carry out a serious reform in the banking industry in Nigeria, because our banks are allegedly being used for money laundry, for illicit financial flow,

Rafsanjani

and there’s no way you can use financial sector in a country like Nigeria to be doing tourism financing and then you want to have peace and stability in the country. So, there are a number of radical reforms that we expected the government to carry out, which include, reforms and strict oversight and regulation enforcement on our financial institutions in Nigeria and we are not seeing that much happening again.

Nigeria must stop this reckless borrowing, because you have a lot of resources that you can take. For example, the multinational corporation, they are refusing to pay the necessary tax you know that they are supposed to give to the Nigerian government. We need to make sure that we collect those taxes and, you know, utilise them for the good of Nigeria.

Again, we also observe and noted that because of corruption, infrastructural dilapidation had risen to the level that the social sector, like health, educational sector and other physical infrastructure, have all gone down courtesy of corruption because when the resources are allocated to handle those areas, they are either diverted or wasted or even completely stolen. We cannot actually make economic progress when looting and stealing a misapplication of, you know, public tax money at the center of the scene.

So, our coming here to this meeting is to demand more accountability in the financial dealings with African countries. We also want to make sure that the bank itself continues to communicate with other stakeholders so that there will be more accountability, more information sharing in the various countries.

It is a shame that many government officials will just come to sign a deal, and even their citizens are not aware of that, they cannot, therefore, hold government accounts, including even the parliament; the parliament does not know anything about the financial dealings that they do with their country.

So, it is important that the IMF World Bank democratise information and ensures that they create opportunities for interaction.

I must also confess that as a result of our protest on how loans are collected and misapplied in Nigeria. During the COVID Nigeria approached the IMF World Bank with a request of $3.4 billion and we wrote to the IMF to say that, look, there must be an accountability mechanism in the use of this money. And the IMF and World Bank said that, okay, we will ensure that even though Nigeria is a sovereign country, we will ensure that we have some clauses that will enable the government to be at least transparent to its people.

Sadly, the Accountant General has reported that the $3.4 billion that has been collected cannot be accounted for, and this is the reason why we believe that all financial institutions must incorporate non-stakeholders, especially civil society, as part of the accountability mechanism for proper implementation of whatever loans or whatever agreement that they’ve signed with Nigeria.

Realtors: Dollar Denominated Building Materials, Inflation Driving Cost of Housing

Oluchi Chibuzor

Investors in the housing sector in the country have attributed inflation, price of cement and dollar denominated building materials to the reason for housing costs in the country and thereby affecting their business plans.

For them, the instability in FX, and high cost of cement is increasing their delivery timeline thereby causing them to be looking for more funds to complete projects.

Speaking at the handing over of the recently newly built Cello luxury apartment 1 in Lekki, the Managing Director, Leadroitt Realty Limited, Mrs. Gbemisola Ojerinde, said as investors in the sector they had to resort to advance purchase of

materials to cushion inflationary trend.

According to her, “We face the challenge of inflation; It is so bad, you know the price of cement at the time we started this project was N3000 and today cement is selling for N8300. The price of a lot of other items that are coated in dollars are so very high and remain a major challenge facing the industry. You will see that the cost of housing is going higher.

“At the beginning of this project we secured a lot of materials in advance. We did a lot of forward contracts even for the lifts, generators and for everything. We bought a lot of things in advance even though we are affected by inflation, the pressure was not much

on the firm.”

For the Senior Investment Adviser, Leadroitt Realty Limited, Damilola Adeniran, hike in prices of building materials has significantly increased cost of completing projects within stipulated timeline.

“The price of building an apartment in the country has increased significantly compared to three to five years ago. FX instability for materials denominated in dollars are affecting the industry,” Adeniran stated.

However, Ojerinde, underscored the need for industry to adhere to strict compliance with regulatory requirements by ultising quality materials despite the challenges facing the industry.

Don’t Solicit Customers on Port Access Roads, TTP Urges Truckers

Head of Operations at Trucks

Transit Parks (TTP), Irabor Akonoman, has called on all truck operators to avoid soliciting customers on port access roads. This, he emphasized, is essential to reducing congestion and ensuring smoother truck movement in and out of the ports.

Irabor made this statement recently during a pivotal stakeholders’ meeting organized by APM Terminals Apapa, to educate stakeholders, particularly its customers, on the workings of the Nigerian Ports Authority’s (NPA) truck electronic call-up system, “ETO” – managed by Truck Transit Park Ltd (TTP).

This call-up system coordinates truck traffic into the Lagos Port Complex Apapa,

scheduling dispatches to reduce gridlock and improve the timely delivery of goods.

The meeting, attended by importers, exporters, trucking companies, and Nigerian Port Authority officials, highlighted APM Terminals’ commitment to enhancing port efficiency, supporting the “ETO” system, and alleviating congestion along the port corridor.

Commending APM Terminals Apapa for convening the forum, Irabor also urged importers and exporters to track their truck’s movement via the TTP website.

He said, “We also encourage all importers and exporters to track their trucks’ movements through our website or by contacting our customer care team. Each truck is assigned

a unique journey code that allows our staff to trace its booking details. With the journey code and truck particulars, we can inform you of the exact departure date from our facility.”

Head of Commercial at APM Terminals Apapa, Kayode Olufemi Daniels, emphasised the importance of the meeting in educating customers on the workings of “ETO.”

He noted that a deeper understanding of the system’s processes would help reduce operational complaints and alleviate congestion on critical port access roads.

“Our goal is to create a transparent and accessible process that works seamlessly for everyone involved in the port ecosystem,” Daniels

Avon HMO Appoints Osakpamwan Imasogie as New CEO

Avon Healthcare Limited (Avon HMO), a subsidiary of Heirs Holdings, has announced the appointment of Osakpamwan Imasogie as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective October 1, 2024.

He succeeds Adesimbo Ukiri, the company’s pioneer Managing Director and CEO since 2012. Under her exemplary leadership, Avon HMO transformed from a start-up in a saturated sector into a leader in Nigeria’s health management space.

Osa Imasogie, who served as Avon HMO’s Group Head of Operations since 2021, brings over 20 years of leadership experience across the financial services

and healthcare sectors.

At Avon, he led various technology-driven initiatives, impacting provider relationships, claims payment, customer relationship management, contact center operations, and other groundbreaking projects.

Speaking on the leadership transition, the Chairperson of Avon HMO, Dr Awele Elumelu, OFR, noted that the move was in line with Heirs Holdings’ track record of internal career progression and succession planning.

“The board of Avon HMO welcomes Osa as its new CEO. We have no doubt he will succeed in this role. His experience in innovation &

technology-driven solutions coupled with his proven leadership journey, makes him the ideal choice to steer Avon HMO into its next phase of growth.” She said.

Reacting, Osa acknowledged his new position as a privilege and expressed readiness to steer the company toward its next milestones.

“I am deeply honored to take on the role of CEO at Avon HMO. With an unrelenting focus on our mission, we will continue to leverage technology, build key relationships, and collaborate with existing and prospective partners as we enhance our service delivery and expand our reach.”

Oando Joins Global Energy Contemporaries at African Energy Week

Oando Plc, Africa’s leading indigenous energy solutions provider, is set to participate as a Diamond Sponsor at African Energy Week (AEW), one of the most prominent conferences in the African energy industry. Themed,“Invest in African Energies: Energy Growth Through an Enabling Environment,” the 2024 edition of AEW is scheduled to commence today, November 4 until November 8, 2024, at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) in Cape Town, South Africa.

As a thought leader in the sector and a company

pioneering the evolution of Africa’s oil and gas industry, Oando Plc’s Executive team led by Group Chief Executive Wale Tinubu will join industry heavyweights such as Chevron, Nigeria LNG Company (NLNG), Kosmos Energy, Seplat, Vaalco Energy, Shearwater, etc.

Wale Tinubu will be delivering a keynote address at the opening ceremony titled ‘Transforming Africa’s Energy Landscape through Strategic M&A’. Tinubu will delve into Oando’s strategic vision for the future of the African energy sector, highlighting

MARKET INDICATORS

the role of strategic mergers and acquisitions in driving growth and innovation.

Executive Director, Oando Plc and Managing Director, OERNL, Dr. Ainojie ‘Alex’ Irune, will also be sharing his insights at a fireside chat and panel discussion at the Upstream E&P Forum. The panel session, titled, “Opportunities with Nigerian Independent Operators,” will bring together Nigeria’s leading independent operators to discuss the importance of indigenous ownership and their plans for the coming years.

The price of OPEC basket of twelve crudes stood at $87.33 a barrel on Monday, compared with $86.00 the previous Thursday, according to OPEC Secretariat calculations. The OPEC Reference

Saharan Blend (Algeria), Djeno (Congo), Zafiro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basrah Medium (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).

L-R: Customer Care Manager, APM Terminals Nigeria, Irabor Sunday; Traffic Manager, Lagos Port Complex, Apapa, Jimoh Anthony; Head of Commercial, APM Terminals Apapa, Kayode Olufemi Daniels and Head of Operations, Trucks Transit Parks, Irabor Akonoman, at a sensitisation program on the Eto trucks electronic call-up system organised by APM Terminals Apapa Lagos...recently.

Stock Market Gains N131bn After Six Days of Losses

Kayode Tokede

The stock market segment of the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) yesterday gained N131 billion in market capitalisation to halt a six-day losing momentum.

As a result, the NGX All-Share Index gained 215.88 basis points or 0.22 per cent to close at 97,123.61 basis points.

Also, market capitalisation rose by N131 billion to close at N58.852 trillion.

The upturn was driven by price appreciation in large and medium capitalised stocks amongst which are; Conoil, United Bank for Africa (UBA), Julius Berger, Zenith Bank and PZ Cussons Nigeria.

As measured by market breadth, market sentiment was positive, as 26 stocks

gained relative to 21 losers. Conoil emerged the highest price gainer of 9.93 per cent to close at N208.10, while John Holt followed with a gain of 9.92 per cent to close at N3.99, per share.

Eunisell Interlinked and UBA appreciated by 9.87 per cent each to close at N6.79 and N35.05 respectively, while PZ Cussons Nigeria added 8.48 per

cent to close at N24.95, per share.

On the other side, Oando led others on the losers’ chart with 9.98 per cent to close at N72.65, per share.

DAAR Communications followed with a decline of 9.68 per cent to close at 56 kobo, while Regency Alliance Insurance shed 6.52 per cent to close at 43 kobo, per share.

Veritas Kapital Assurance

lost 6.25 per cent to close at N1.20, while Guinea Insurance depreciated by 4.26 per cent to close at 45 kobo, per share.

The total volume traded increased by 194.37 per cent to 3.602 billion units, valued at N25.570 billion, and exchanged in 10,679 deals. Transactions in the shares of Sovereign Trust Insurance led the activity with 2.5 billion shares

worth N1.425 billion. NEM Insurance followed with account of 563.765 million shares valued at N3.948 billion, while UBA traded 201.959 million shares valued at N6.739 billion. Zenith Bank traded 46.355 million shares worth N1.960 billion, while Veritas Kapital Assurance traded 34.661 million shares worth N41.982 million.

PRICES FOR SECURITIES TRADED ASOF NOVEMBER 5/24

Email: chiemelie.ezeobi@thisdaylive.com, 07010510430

Doing for Tomorrow, Today: A Holistic X-ray of How MTN Foundation is Catalysing Sustainable Change

The overarching objective of the MTN Nigeria Foundation, MTNF, is premised on driving meaningful, measurable and sustainable change through social interventions that helps disadvantaged and rural communities and individuals to become self-sufficient. From providing solutions in healthcare, education, technology and economic empowerment either through the National Priority or Youth Development Portfolios, Chiemelie Ezeobi writes that against all odds, in ‘Doing for Tomorrow, Today’, the foundation is holistically catalysing solutions, thus contributing significantly to quality of lives and livelihoods

For MTN, an ICT and Telecommunications giant, its commitment to harnessing Africa’s potential and supporting her progress by unlocking its full benefits, has remained sacrosanct, especially through its Sustainability Strategy and Ambition 2025, which seeks to bridge the digital and financial divide, further inclusion and advance the attainment of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through their core business activities and their support to governments, communities and customers.

Either through the MTN Foundation (MTNF); driving online safety of children primarily, and of all customers through awareness campaigns and digital solutions through ChildSafetyOnline.africa; MTN Sustainability Strategy of Doing for Tomorrow, Today; or even through the Media Innovation Programme (MIP), a six month-long intensive training birthed three years ago to foster innovation, transform and empower media practitioners to take advantage of technology and innovation to do their jobs better and tell stories that needed to be told,the telecommunications and ICT company, which operates in 19 African countries and the Middle East, is playing its part in Africa’s transformation to improve people’s quality of life and dignity and stimulate growth that is economically empowering and environmentally sustainable.

According to MTNGroup Executive on Sustainability & Shared Value, Marina Madale, it is premised on “Doing for Tomorrow, Today”, which boils down to “Doing it right” as committed partners to stakeholders to create and protect value; “Doing for the planet” as a commitment to protecting our planet and achieving net zero emissions by 2040; “Doing for people” as commitment to driving digital and financial inclusion and diverse society and finally, in “Doing for growth”, they are committed to boosting inclusive economic growth on the continent.

MTN Foundation as Vehicle for Catalysing Change

For the telecoms group, the best vehicle

MTN

In front-Mrs. Odunayo Sanya, Executive Director, MTN Foundation; Dr. Tinuola Akinbolagbe, Managing Director/CEO, Private Sector Health Alliance of Nigeria (PSHAN); Standing L-R: Dennis Okoro, Director, MTN Foundation; Julius Adelusi-Adeluyi (OFR, mni), Chairman, MTN Foundation; Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuade, Director, PSHAN; and Titilayo Fowokan, Director, PSHAN at the signing of the MoA to revitalise more PHCs earlier in the year

to convey these visions of creating shared value was through the MTN Foundation (MTNF), where MTN Nigeria committed up to one per cent of its Profit after Tax (PAT) as its main source of funding for projects.

Established in 2004 and launched in May 2005, it was purposed to manage the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives for MTN Nigeria, undoubtedly making it one of the first corporates in Nigeria to launch such an initiative.

At the foundation, humanity comes first as is shown by the

quality and passion at which they touch lives across different spectrums. For them, the all important work they do is beyond corporate obligation given that the foundation’s “purpose is to bring about meaningful measurable and sustainable change that helps disadvantaged and rural communities to become self-sufficient through innovative technology”.

Clear-cut Objectives

According to Executive Director, MTN Foundation, Mrs. Odunayo Sanya, at the foundation, they stand as one voice with their stakeholders to lead Corporate Social Investments in Nigeria measured

by impactful and sustainable projects. She added that guided by their vision that everyone should live an improved quality of life, they mapped out clear objectives to increase their pool of shared meaning through stakeholder engagement and ecosystem partnerships; contribute significantly to the quality of lives and livelihoods through social interventions; strengthen the Monitoring and Evaluation methods to deliver value to their communities and deepen impact; and continue to serve as the reference point for Corporate Social Investment in Nigeria.

Impact

In line with its vision “To be a leader in Corporate Social Investment initiatives in Nigeria measured by the impact and sustainability of our projects on our host communities as well as high perception rating of MTN’s brand” and the mission “to improve on the quality of life through Health, Education, Youth Development and National Priority initiatives on a sustainable basis in such a way as to impact positively on the MTN brand, the MTN Foundation has invested over NGN24.73 Billion in the 36 states of the federation and FCT.

Essentially, from inception to date, the impact of the foundation has been far-reaching in 3,323 communities for 31.2million people across the 36 states and the FCT in Nigeria through the 50 unique projects in 1,023 project sites at a cost of N24.73billion.

Portfolios and Alignment with the SDGs

In order to ensure the derivables are in alignment with the SDGs, the foundation streamlined its portfolios into National Priority and Youth Development. Under these portfolio are projects like the MTN Scholarships, MTN-MUSON Scholar Program, MTN Science and Technology Laboratory Project (MTN STLP), ICT and Business Skills Training, Performing Art Sponsorships, Back to School Initiative, and Youth Entrepreneurship Development Program (YEDP).

Beneficiaries of the MTNF Back2School scheme that provides access to quality education through the provision of learning materials to children in public secondary schools around Nigeria, especially in less privileged communities in Nigeria

The

Muson Music Scholarship Programme for musically talented youth to study for two years for an internationally recognised Diploma in Music

A Holistic X-ray of How MTN Foundation is Catalysing Sustainable Change

While the National Priority Portfolio aligns with Goal 1- No Poverty; Goal 2 – Zero Hunger; Goal 3 – Good Health and Well-Being; Goal 4 – Quality Education; Goal 5- Gender Equality; Goal 6 – Clean Water and Sanitation; Goal 7 – Affordable and Clean Energy; Goal 8- Decent Work and Economic Growth; Goal 9- Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure; Goal 10 –Reduced Inequality; Goal 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities; Goal 13 – Climate Action; and Goal 17 – Partnerships for the Goal, the second portfolio on Youth Development aligns with SDGs 1, 4, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11, 13, and 17.

National Priority Portfolio

According to the foundation, the National Priority portfolio focuses on initiatives that support community infrastructure development, health-related initiatives, and initiatives that focus on women and children, aligning with the Government’s National Development plan and contributing to the SDGs.

Meanwhile, initiatives under this portfolio include the Anti-Substance Abuse Programme (ASAP), an advocacy campaign launched in 2019 to increase awareness about the negative impact of drug abuse amongst young Nigerians between the ages of 10 and 25 years with the goal to discourage first-time use of addictive drugs amongst the youth by providing relevant information to them and engaging relevant stakeholders.

Also in sync is the Y’ello Doctor Mobile Medical Intervention, designed to provide free primary healthcare services that involve consultations, medications, treatment, female hygiene & ante-natal packs to people in semi-urban and rural communities via six state-of-the-art mobile clinic trucks.

Another initiative is the NIMR-MTN Partnership, a high-tech laboratory for the design and development of local diagnostic kits for COVID-19 and other similar disease outbreaks, aimed at strengthening the health system, particularly research institutions.

Not left out is the MTN Orphanage Support Initiative that supports orphaned and vulnerable children, involving the donation of food and household items to orphanage homes across the country.

Then there is the "What Can We Do Together", a give-back initiative that is designed to get Nigerians to nominate selected projects they consider of utmost importance to communities (via SMS or Web platforms) for consideration and

implementation by MTNF. Launched in September 2015, it has successfully implemented various projects in 586 communities in 482 Local Government Areas (LGAs) across the 36 states and FCT. In its fifth phase, the foundation has invested over N3.1 billion in revitalising 40 Primary Health Centres (PHCs) in partnership with PSHAN for sustainability.

Certainly not the least is the MTN Y’ellopreneur, which seeks to contribute to the reduction in women unemployment and advance women development in ‘Entrepreneurship’ through capacity building and access to capital through loans, grants, and advisory support services for long term business sustainability.

The Youth Development Portfolio

The second portfolio is the Youth Development portfolio, which focuses on Initiatives that provide the youth, as the largest and most impacted population group with skills, tools, access, knowledge, and opportunities to become economically active citizens.

Initiatives under portfolio include the MTN Muson Music Scholarship Programme for musically talented youth to study at the prestigious Musical Society of Nigeria School of Music (MUSON) for two years for an internationally recognised Diploma in music.

For the Performing Arts Sponsorships, MTNF sponsors theatre productions, festivals and visual arts exhibitions that highlight our rich Nigerian and African stories. Some of the sponsorships include Legends the Musical, Saro The Musical, Kakadu the Musical, Fela and the Kalakuta Queens, Wakaa! the Musical, OMG the Musical, Agbarho the Musical, Emotan, Oba Esugbayi, High! The Stage Play, Jungle Story, Our Son the Minister, Five Maids of Fadaka, Life in My City Art Festival, Nigerian Universities Theatre Arts Festival (NUTAF), Eko Theatre Carnival and Lagos International Poetry Festival (LIPFEST) and Made in Nigeria Poetry Show.

Under the Youth Entrepreneurship Development Programme (YEDP),

the foundation enhances the entrepreneurial skills of MTN Scholars Alumni (youth who are past recipients of MTN scholarships). The initiative involves entrepreneurial skills training delivered by the Enterprise Development Center (EDC) of Pan Atlantic University and 50 most outstanding are granted loans of up to N2 million in collaboration with the Bank of Industry (BOI) to manage the loan disbursements.

For the MTN Scholarship scheme, it provides academic scholarships for both students studying Science and Technology discipline & Blind Students of any discipline in public tertiary institutions across the country.

The Life in My City Arts Festival (Visual Arts) portfolio is an annual visual arts festival targeted at youths from Nigeria who submit their artwork for review by a panel of judges. Shortlisted entries participate in regional competitions which culminate into a national competition. Alongside gift prizes, finalists also get the chance to exhibit their work in galleries across the six geo-political zones. The festival also involves holds lectures and art workshops for children

In terms of ICT & Business Skills, the foundation builds the capacity of youths between the ages of 18 to 35 in ICT, enhancing their employability and entrepreneurial skills.

Through the MTN Science & Technology Laboratory Project (MTN STLP), the foundation is partnering stakeholders and the educational sector to revive science laboratories in secondary schools for enhanced learning by renovating public secondary school laboratories, providing laboratory equipment, and training teachers and laboratory attendants towards improving the practical teaching and learning of science subjects, particularly physics, chemistry, and biology.

Lastly, through the MTNF Back2School, the foundation is committed to providing access to quality education through the provision of learning materials to children in public secondary schools around Nigeria, especially in less privileged communities in Nigeria.

Resolute in Changing Lives against All Odds

Given the global economic meltdown occasioned by crashing naira prices, if there was anyone that could have justified putting a stop to changing lives and direct focus on recouping the losses made in the year,

it would have been MTN.

With losses running into billions of naira, even after a profit after tax of N4.1billion for the third quarter in September 2024, an improvement nonetheless even when juxtaposed with the overall financial results for the three quarters of nine months of N514.9billon after tax. However, it also disclosed an adjusted profit after tax of N118.5bn, which is a 59.2 per cent decrease compared to last year as against the reported net loss of N519 billion (approximately $320 million) in the first half of 2024 marks a stark deviation.

Infact, CEO of MTN Nigeria, Karl Toriola, while engaging the 20 MIP Fellows at the MTN Headquarters in Lagos, stressed that the telecommunications sector needs to return to profitability to sustain its operations, else they would shut down as the industry was living on borrowed time.

Given all the facts, it would be stating the obvious that they could have pulled the plug on the foundation as they had reasons to quit, but they did not because of the millions of lives hinged on the social services they deliver either through education, health, economic empowerment or innovative technology.

A Pat on The Back

While the reward for hard work is often more work, the foundation has received so many pats on the back for the incredible job they are doing.

Just this week, the foundation carted away three prestigious awards at the 8th Tech Innovation Awards. While the Executive Director, Odunayo Sanya bagged the CSI Personality of the Year, the Foundation Team of the Year and Transformational Solutions in Education and Skills Award went to the foundation.

The foundation had also received the 2023 Corporate Responsibility Award at the Africa-America Institute's 70th Anniversary Gala event in New York; three awards at the Intellidex Top Investor Relations SA Survey Awards; as well as recognition on the Fortune Change the World list.

But beyond any awards, for the team, the greatest pat on the back is actually the smiles and joy in the hearts of those they have impacted either through the foundation's National and Youth Development Portfolios, again reinforcing that the work they do is beyond corporate obligation but a passion to impact lives and create shared values.

The MTN Foundation Y’ello Doctor mobile medical intervention to provide free primary healthcare services semiurban and rural communities

Mrs. Odunayo Sanya with her award as CSI Personality of the Year, and two others for Foundation Team of the Year and Transformational Solutions in Education and Skills for the foundation at the 8th Tech Innovation Awards, this week

2024 BRAND COMMUNICATIONS AWARDS...

L-R: Managing Director, RPDC, Mr. Gbenga Mayungbe; Assistant Brand Manager Arla Foods, Mr. Ikechukwu Uzomba; Category Manager Liquid, Cheese and Butter Arla Foods, Ms. Ndidi Okoye; Senior Media Manager, Vizeum Nigeria, Ms. Susan Aniefiok; Marketing Intern Arla Foods, Ms. Nifemi Ojuri; President Experiential Marketers Association of Nigeria (EXMAN), Mrs. Tolulope Medebem, at the 2024 Brand Communications Awards held in Lagos, where Arla Foods clinched four awards including Dairy Company and Dairy Brand of the Year… recently

Another Nationwide Blackout as National Power Grid Collapses Again

TCN blames ‘tripping’, says supply being restored gradually PDP chieftain slams incessant electricity network failure

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja and Sylvester Idowu in Warri

Nigeria yesterday suffered another nationwide blackout after the electricity grid collapsed again on Tuesday afternoon, making it about the tenth time that the network would suffer either partial or full failure this year.

But the Transmission Company

of Nigeria (TCN), in a statement, described the incident as a "partial system disturbance", noting that it had already begun gradual restoration of power in parts of the country.

THISDAY checks showed that as of 2pm, none of the about 26 generation power plants in Nigeria was supplying electricity to the national grid as it read zero.

The Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) while alerting its customers to the power failure in its franchise area, said: “Please be informed that the power outage being experienced is due to a system failure from the national grid at 1:52 pm today (yesterday), affecting the power supply to our franchise areas.

“Rest assured, we are working

with the relevant stakeholders to restore power as soon as the grid is stabilised,” it stated.

On its part, the Head, Corporate , Jos Disco, Dr Friday Adakole, said: The current outage being experienced within our franchise states is a result of loss of power supply from the national grid.

“The loss of power supply from

Zulum: We’ll Never Forget Buhari Who Has Visited More, Done a Lot for Borno, Nigeria

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum, yesterday, said his state and indeed, Nigeria would never forget former President Muhammadu Buhari as the only president, who had visited them more and done so much for both the state and Nigeria.

Zulum spoke while receiving Buhari, who visited the two states of Borno and Jigawa, to commiserate with them following the devastating floods that ravaged Borno and the petroleum tanker explosion in Jigawa, which claimed nearly 200 lives, all of which happened while he was away from the country.

Zulum and the Shehu of Borno, Abubakar Ibn Umar Garba Al Amin El-Kanemi, thanked Buhari for the “historic visit”, saying the state would never forget the president, who had visited more than any other, and one “who has done so much and so well for Nigeria and Borno State in particular. According to Zulum, “Without the 85 megawatts captive power plant you built here, Maiduguri would have continued in darkness. You gave us the North East Development Commission, a military university, a federal polytechnic, and a college of education and ensured the gradual return of peace after years of Boko Haram terrorism.”

Buhari, according to a release by his spokesperson, Mallam Garba Shehu, lamented the damage, destruction, and losses of life that attended the worst floods in many decades in Borno State, ascribing the incident to destructive weather due to climate change.

He recalled his days as the military governor of the then North-Eastern state now split into six states, saying, “We engaged in prayers for rain. Now, we are having the irony of the state being overwhelmed by rain.”

He commended the efforts of the state and federal governments in the joint efforts to restore normalcy in the lives of the people, saying

having sent a delegation to condole the situation while he was away, he still felt unsatisfied with the gesture, necessitating the urge to make the trip to see things and personally commiserate with the state.

In Dutse, the Jigawa state capital, the acting governor, Engineer Aminu Usman, led the former president to the Rasheed Shekoni University Teaching Hospital, where he saw the victims of the fire explosion still on admission.

He joined in prayers for the repose of the soul of the over 180 victims of the fire incident, and the quick recovery of those who were still on admission in hospitals.

Babangida, Marwa, Others Pay Tributes to Ex-NDLEA Boss, Kwajafa, as He’s Buried

Kasim Sumaina in Abuja

Former Military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangidacurrent NDLEA Chief, Brigadier-GeneralMohammed Buba Marwa, and a host of others, yesterday, in Abuja, paid tribute to the late Fulani Kwajafa, former NDLEA boss, who was laid to rest at Gudu Cemetery, Abuja.

A Night of Tributes was held to honour Kwajafa, who passed away at the age of 88 as former colleagues, family, and friends gathered in Abuja to celebrate his extraordinary life, legacy and contributions to Nigeria.

Babangida reminisced about his long association with Kwajafa, describing him as an "uncommon Nigerian" with an infectious patriotism, recalling their first encounter in 1964.

Babangida his tribute said: "He was such a great Nigerian with a deep sense of patriotism and dedication to his responsibilities as a consummate Police Officer."

He praised Kwajafa's rise through the ranks of the Nigeria Police, noting his innovations and significant role in combating drug trafficking during his tenure at the NDLEA.

Marwa expressed deep sorrow at Kwajafa's passing, statingthat, "Mr. Kwajafa's death at 88 is no doubt a national loss of unquantifiable magnitude because of the many ways he touched the Nigerian polity."

He highlighted Kwajafa's achievements and the enduring legacy he left behind, particularly his visionary leadership in drug law enforcement.

Former Inspector General of Police, Dr. Solomon Arase, also paid tribute, acknowledging Kwajafa’s legacy as the first head of the Federal Special Anti-Robbery Squad (FSARS) and emphasizing his unwavering

commitment to national service.

Lieutenant General Tukur Yusufu Buratai, former Chief of Army Staff, expressed his deep sadness at the loss of a "towering figure" in Nigerian policing.

He reflected on Kwajafa’s integrity and dedication to public safety, highlighting his role in establishing the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) in 1984, which laid the foundation for a renewed approach to combating crime.

Senior Technical Assistant to the Governor of Borno State, Dr. Nana Safiya Garnvwa, echoed similar sentiments, praising Kwajafa as a Nigerian worthy of emulation.

the national grid occurred this afternoon at about 1352Hours of today, Tuesday, 5th November 2024, hence the loss of power supply on all our feeders.

“We hope to restore normal power supply to our esteemed customers as soon as the grid supply is restored back to normalcy. Thank you for your patience and understanding as we strive to serve you better.”

Also, Ikeja Electric pleaded for understanding from its customers, saying: “Please be informed that we experienced a system outage today 05 November, 2024 at 13:52 hours affecting supply within our network. Restoration of supply is ongoing in collaboration with our critical stakeholders.”

However, the TCN's statement signed by the General Manager, Public Affairs of the company, Ndidi Mbah, confirmed that the incident happened at about 1:52pm.

"The Transmission Company of Nigeria states that the national grid experienced a partial disturbance at about 1:52 pm today, 5th November 2024.

"This followed a series of lines and generators tripping that caused instability of the grid and, consequently, the partial disturbance of the system. The data from the National Control Centre (NCC) revealed that a part of

the grid was not affected by the bulk power disruption.

"TCN engineers are already working to quickly restore bulk power supply to the states affected by the partial disturbance. Presently, bulk power supply has been restored to Abuja, at 2.49pm, and we are gradually restoring to other parts of the country," the statement added.

The TCN also apologised for any inconvenience that the situation may have caused electricity customers in the country.

Meanwhile, a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and former gubernatorial aspirant in Delta State, Chief Sunny Onuesoke, has condemned the frequent collapses of Nigeria’s national grid, calling it a national embarrassment.

Onuesoke’s comments followed four separate national grid collapses in less than a month, a pattern that has repeated several times in 2024 and in previous years. These incidents, he said, have raised widespread concern among Nigerians.

The outspoken politician, in a statement issued in Warri yesterday, emphasised that the frequent grid failures pose a serious threat to national security and economic stability. He highlighted the critical role of electricity in driving Nigeria’s economic growth and development.

Fubara: We're Rebuilding Education Infrastructure for Rivers People

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has said his administration was rebuilding education infrastructure for Rivers people.

Fubara assured the people that his administration would sustain the support to them so that they could achieve their mandate and succeed in helping improve educational development in the state.

Fubara made the assertion, when he visited the Captain Elechi Amadi Polytechnic at Rumuola, Port Harcourt, where a number of projects that included Entrepreneurship Centre, Staff Office and Senate Building, were ongoing.

The governor said the entrepreneurship centre was strategic because it would serve the need for functional education

that would develop the occupational skills of students to become productive citizens.

"Part of our programme, we assured the good people of Rivers State that we are not going to limit what we are doing to roads alone but will extend to the education sector.

"We discussed with the Governing Council on their inauguration, demanding to know what the basic needs of the school are, and they mentioned a lot of them – accommodation, office block and completion of the Senate Building that has been on for the past eight years.

"We assured them that we are going to do that, and we have already released 50 per cent of the cost for the completion, and also for other two projects that are ongoing."

INAUGURATION OF INTERNAL ROADS IN BENIN TECHNICAL COLLEGE...

Firm Petitions Cardoso, Threatens to Sue Ecobank Over

Alleged Intellectual Property Theft, Unethical Practice

Ecobank: We are awaiting CBN's formal letter to respond to issues raised

James Emejo in Abuja

Essential Media Group, an events management, interior design and exhibitions firm, has petitioned the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Olayemi Cardoso, over allegations that Ecobank Nigeria Limited, had engaged in "unfair and unethical practice, circumvention and theft of intellectual property" in a business arrangement gone awry.

The events management coy further disclosed its resolve to commence legal proceedings against Ecobank for the act of malfeasance.

The development was conveyed in the petition by Essential Media Group through its legal representation, Joseph Iriah & Company to the CBN governor, which was dated October 9, 2024,

and signed by Brian Joseph Eruaga.

The correspondence, titled, "Petition Against Ecobank Nigeria Limited for Circumventing Essential Media Group Ltd in the Interior Design Industry", accused Ecobank of backing down from a business agreement midstream, and after the events firm had "disclosed its trade secrets, confidential information and strategies with the management of Ecobank during their discussions".

THISDAY however, contacted Ecobank management to respond to the allegations.

The bank said it cannot make a statement on the issues being a regulated entity under the CBN. It said the allegations ought to be formally communicated to it by the apex bank before a statement could be issues in that regard.

Head of Corporate Communication, Ecobank, Austen Asokpor, said, "I have consulted with my management and we think the CBN should communicate this allegations to us formally before we can offer any response, as doing so at this point will be counter productive for us as a bank that works within a regulated environment."

However, the petitioner further alleged that the "development is clearly a circumvention of our client's partnership with Ecobank Nigeria Limited and resulting in Ecobank's initiating direct communication with our client's long-standing exhibitors and causing harm to the existing relationship between our client and several exhibitors..."

The petitioner had among other things, urged the CBN governor

to "cause an inquiry into the unwholesome conduct of Ecobank in undermining and circumventing our client's business of events management, interior design and exhibitions in the interior design industry".

The Managing Director/Chief Executive, Essential Media Group Limited, Ms. Titi Ogufere, reportedly had extensive discussions with the management of Ecobank led by its Managing Director, Mr. Bolaji Lawal and Messrs. Jide Sipe and Falayi Olugboyega.

A firm understanding was reached between both parties after the engagement to collaborate and partner for the hosting of the 2024 Design Week Lagos which was to be held at the Ecobank Pan African Centre in October, 2024.

The agreement was reached after

GO AND SIN NO MORE, SHETTIMA TELLS ALL 119 PROTESTERS, INCLUDING 29 MINORS FACING TRIAL

to further ensure professionalism in investigation with emphasis on child-friendly investigation and care.

The Police Force, Adejobi said, reaffirmed its commitment to upholding legal frameworks, ensuring fairness, and accountability, especially for vulnerable groups.

Falana: Case Withdrawal Not Enough, FG Must Rehabilitate the 29 Minors or Be Sued

Lawyer and human rights activist, Mr. Femi Falana, SAN, has tasked the federal government to rehabilitate the recently released detained minors or face being sued.

Falana said the government was so ashamed that it couldn't take the minors into the court room on Tuesday morning, unlike last week when it came to withdraw the frivolous charges against them. Falana, who spoke yesterday in Abuja as the reviewer at a book presentation chronicling the incarceration of Gen. Zamani Lekwot, said it was the responsibility of the government to provide free and compulsory education for the minors as enacted into law.

Speaking on the book, "Judicial Terrorism – A macabre trial and death sentences on Maj- Gen Zamani Lekwot and five others in the Zangon Kataf crisis" written by Richard Akinnola, with foreword by Bishop Hassan Mathew Kukah, Falana said apart from being a lonely

journey, the struggle for justice in Nigeria was a Herculean task.

"The struggle for justice in our country is a Herculean task. Just this morning before this programme commenced, I was in the court in Abuja where 119 Nigerians including 29 minors were brought to court.

"But the government was so ashamed that the couldn't take them to the court room, unlike last week and of course, having been defeated by the public, the government came to the court this morning to withdraw the frivolous charges.

"But like I did say to the court, it is not enough to terminate this trial.

This young people who ordinarily should have been in school during the protest, must be rehabilitated by the government and we are going to ensure that they are rehabilitated. If the government fails, we are going to court to sue the government.

"It is the responsibility of the government by virtue of the Child Rights Law which has been adopted and enacted into law by all the states of the Federation.

“Section 15 of that law provides that every child in Nigeria shall be given free and compulsory education from primary to junior secondary. This time around, we are going to ensure that they are given free education up to secondary school," he said.

In chronicling, the incarceration of Lekwot as a result of the 1992 Zangon Kataf crisis and the court proceedings as led by Justice Benedict Okadigbo, Falana said the general

was the first in Nigeria's history to have served prison term in a regular prison.

He said it was not a surprise that the tribunal condemned all the six defendants to death but hanging and they were immediately moved to the condemned cell in Kaduna prison.

While congratulating Gen. Lekwot for being alive to witness the presentation of the book, he lamented that the likes of Ken Saro-wiwa and the Ogoni eight were not as lucky despite an extrapolation and temporary injunction from the Commission of African and People's Rights.

Lekwot, in his remark, recalled how the crisis started due to a disagreement in a market square and how it ended with a religious coloration that led to the arrest of 61 men from Zangon Kataf including the paramount ruler, the Agwatyap and clergy men.

He said the publication of the book was important and an avenue to state the facts as they happened against what had been peddled during the military era.

The sentences of the convicted six which was death by hanging were later committed to five year imprisonment.

CISLAC Hails Tinubu over Minors’ Release

The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC),has commended Tinubu for instructing Fagbemi, to ensure the immediate

release of all minors detained during the #EndBadGovernance protests across Nigeria.

This directive was announced by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, who confirmed the president’s commitment to reuniting the minors with their families.

CISLAC welcomed the president’s decision, praising his willingness to investigate the circumstances leading to the arrests and to hold responsible security personnel accountable.

Additionally, CISLAC urged Tinubu to extend this directive to other detained protesters, fostering greater national unity, justice, and demonstrating a government open to addressing citizens’ grievances.

In a statement signed by CISLAC Executive Director, Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, CISLAC called for two major reforms to Nigeria’s criminal justice system.

Firstly, CISLAC emphasised the need for comprehensive judicial reform, particularly targeting corruption within the judiciary

“To restore hope and stability in our country, we must ensure that only judges with integrity serve on our benches,” CISLAC stated.

“A reformed judiciary will not only strengthen the rule of law and democracy but also increase confidence among international investors, who seek a transparent and fair justice system,” the group added.

the bank's acceptance of the proposal from the Essential Media Group.

The petition further stated that based on the understanding between both parties, Ogufere paid frequent visits to the Ecobank Pan African Centre in the company of potential exhibitors to view the space where the exhibition booths were to be erected for the Made by Design Show.

It said the event managers had secured firm commitments from about eight exhibitors, as well as sponsorship deals from companies ready to support the exhibition.

However, in a twist of events that ensued in May 2024, "Our client started receiving reports from their colleagues in the interior design industry that the management of Ecobank had begun contacting them directly to participate in an event they were planning christened the 'Ecobank Design & Build Expo 2024' which was scheduled to take place in November, 2024 at the Ecobank Pan African Centre", the letter noted.

It said, "Shortly thereafter, Ecobank

began aggressive promoting and advertising the Ecobank Design & Build Expo 2024 in numerous billboards and various print and social media.

"Simultaneously, our client's Ms. Ogufere received an email from Mr. Bolaji Lawal, the Managing Director of Ecobank informing her that the bank was currently reviewing their participation-collaboration model relating to the use of the Exhibition Centre whilst concluding that the Bank will come back to her with clarity as per their preferred business and partnership model.

"This was done without regard to the fact that Ecobank had the information and knowledge that our client's Made by Design Show was scheduled to hold between 23rd October to 27th October, 2024 at the Ecobank Pan African Centre."

This, the petitioner said "created a huge set-back and our client began making frantic efforts to secure an alternative location and eventually settled for the Livespot Entertarium

APC: 2023 Presidential Election Not Stolen from Atiku, He was Rejected By Nigerians

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

The All Progressives Congress (APC), has said contrary to claims by former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar that the 2023 presidential election was stolen from him, Nigerians declared their verdict of untrustworthiness, incompetence, on his candidacy, and roundly rejected him at the polls.

Atiku had made the claim in a post on his verified X handle, but the ruling party described Atiku as Africa's most infamous presidential election loser.

National Publicity Secretary of the party, Felix Morka, in a statement issued yesterday, said Atiku’s desperation to be president could only be understood in the context of his determination to complete the full subversion of Nigeria’s economic life from where he left off as vice-president.

He stressed that Nigerians would not entrust their country to someone, who puts his selfish interest, and the interest of his cronies over and above the national interest.

“Make no mistake. Atiku is Africa’s most infamous presidential election loser. Since serving as vice president, he has lost election to every single president that has been elected to office in Nigeria.

“Six times in the last 17 years, Nigerians have declared their verdict of untrustworthiness, incompetence, chronic corruption, visionlessness, uncanny desperation, and lack of sportsmanship on Atiku’s presidential candidacy, and roundly rejected him at the polls.

“Atiku’s long record of electoral defeat was serially certified by Nigeria’s highest courts, sealing his rejection by the electorate with judicial and constitutional finality.

“However, a clearly unabashed Atiku continues to lay a bogus claim that he did not lose the 2023 presidential election. That is beyond comical. Just as he probably believes that he was cheated out of all previous 5 presidential elections that he also lost.”

Atiku’s inability to come to terms with the reality of his rejection cuts an ominous portrait of extreme and disturbing political desperation.

L-R: Edo State Commissioner for Roads and Bridges, Hon. Ethan Uzamere; Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki; his Enugu State counterpart, Dr. Peter Mbah, and former governor of Sokoto State and Senator representing Sokoto South, Alhaji Aminu Tambuwal, during the inauguration of over 12km internal roads within the newly rebuilt Benin Technical College, in Egor LGA... yesterday

RHEMA WORLD CONVENTION…

L-R: Guest Minister, Bishop Abiodun Akinteye; Presiding Bishop of Rhema Christian Church and Towers, Archbishop Designate, Dr. Taiwo Akinola; his wife, Pastor Ireti Akinola; Member, Board of Trustees of the Church, Dr. Femi Dosumu; Chairperson, Rhema World Convention 2024 Planning Committee, Pst. Yinka Olufade; and another member, Board of Trustees, Pastor Olasubomi Ayorinde, at the opening ceremony of Rhema World Convention 2024 at Sango Ota, Ogun State… recently

Troops Neutralise Five Bandits in Plateau Community

Seriki Adinoyi in Jos

Troops attached to the Forward Operation Base (FOB) of Operation Safe Haven, stationed in Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State have killed five bandits, including their kingpin, Kachalla Saleh.

A vigilance and youth leader in Wase, Abdullahi Haruna told newsmen that the incident happened at about 12.00 noon in Kinashe village of Bashar district of the local government. This is coming less than a week after bandits and vigilance group members clashed in Dogon Ruwa community, resulting in the death of three

Two Die, Scores Injured in Market Bomb Explosion in Imo

Tony Ichekuinowerri

The reoccurring incidents of violence and killings in Imo State yesterday took a different dimensions as an improvised explosive device (IED) detonated at Orlu International Market in Imo State claiming two lives and injuring several others.

The explosion instigated chaos and confusion as shocked shoppers took to the heels, while many got injured in the ensuing confusion

A witness, who spoke to THISDAY, said: “We were at the market when we heard an explosion. There was confusion everywhere as people ran for their lives. Some

persons were killed in the explosion.”

Imo Police spokesman, Henry Okoye, confirmed that the incident claimed two lives

“It was an IED that exploded,” he said. “The Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma, has deployed Anti-Bomb operatives to the scene.

“Two persons who incidentally were the hoodlums were killed in the process of setting up an IED and in the process, it exploded.”

Okoye appealed for calm, saying, “We have deployed operatives to the area. No cause for alarm. We ask all Imolites to report suspicious activities in their areas and remain vigilant.”

Senator Moro Lights Up Community in Benue

Onuminya Innocent Yusuf

There was excitement at Engila community in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue South senatorial district as Senator Abba Moro provided electricity to the community with the provision of 500KVA transformer.

The lawmaker got to know the need of the community through an appealed made to his office, without hesitation he directed that the community should be provided with transformer.

Speaking on behalf of the community the President General and Chairman of Engila Community

Development Forum, Dr Godwin Adanu Joseph and Onuminya Elaigwu Peter said the provision of the transformer by the has ameliorated the plight of their people.

The duo further explained that the community has never had it so good, stressing that Moro has written his name in the good book of the community

“With the provision of this transformer, many lives will be transformed, some of our people that are into business that has to do with light will heave a sigh of relieve as this will save them from spending much money on fuel to power their generators,” they stated.

EDOHIC Trains Volunteers to Boost Awareness

Sunday Okobi

The Edo State Health Insurance Commission (EDOHIC) has engaged and trained marketing volunteers in Edo Central and Edo North to increase awareness among residents of the state.

The Director of Planning/ Searching Service, EDOHIC, Dr. Owen Omorogbe, who spoke at the volunteers’ training yesterday, said the volunteers’ engagement was to help canvass and increase awareness of the Health Insurance Scheme and its great benefits to the people of the state.

According to him, “The EDOHIC set up by an Act of Law on May 30, 2019, has a mandate to drive the implementation of the scheme which aims to ensure that residents of the state had access to affordable, efficient, qualitative and responsive health care.”

He explained that the commission had been able to aggregate marketing volunteers from Edo North and Edo Central to build their capacity with necessary marketing skills as well as information on selling the health insurance products to increase the health insurance uptake across the state.

bandits and one vigilance member.

Haruna said that the bandits, who posed a threat to residents’

lives, were caught off guard by security personnel, allowing for a resistance-free operation.

He said: “The village is a

bushy area, and residents had already fled before the latest incident. Bandits had displaced people from the area, using it as

a hideout. They didn’t expect security personnel to descend upon them at that time, given the tough terrain.”

IYC Chides Tinubu Over Ministry of Niger Delta Scrapping, Demand Urgent

OlusegunSamuelinyenagoa

The umbrella body of Ijaws youths worldwide, the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) has challenged President Bola Tinubu, over purported attempts to scrap the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, saying the act of imposing decisions

on the masses without their consent must stop as it is a recipe for chaos.

The council at a press briefing to reflect on the issues affecting the country, said the IYC as critical stakeholder in the Niger Delta, is seriously opposed to the scrapping of the Niger Delta Ministry.

Reinstatement

Astatement signed by its spokesman, Binebia Princewill, said the decision and action of the president and the Federal Executive Council to dissolve the Ministry of Niger Delta is a devastating blow to the region and its people, as the move reeks of neo-colonialism and internal colonialism.

The council said it stands in solidarity with the people of the Niger Delta to challenge this oppressive and subjugating decision, adding that “It is a perpetuation of the exploitation and marginalization of the Niger Delta, a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle for self-determination and resource control.”

Oyebanji Mourns Death of Ekiti Chief Judge, Hon Justice Adeyeye

Appoint

Justice Lekan Ogunmoye as acting Chief Judge

Gbenga Sodeinde in ado Ekiti

The Governor of Ekiti State, Biodun Oyebanji, has expressed condolences on the death of the Chief Judge of the State, Hon. Justice John Oyewole Adeyeye.

Justice Adeyeye, who was inaugurated as Ekiti State Chief

Judge on October 11, 2021, passed on Monday. He was aged 64 years.

Governor Oyebanji, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, described the late Justice Adeyeye’s demise as heartrending and a colossal loss for the State. The governor said with the death of the late

Justice Adeyeye, the Judiciary in Ekiti State in particular and Nigeria in general has lost a great pillar and an asset whose worth is invaluable.

The Ekiti helmsman described the deceased as a firm and forthright jurist who demonstrated an unwavering dedication to the principles of equity and justice. Governor Oyebanji noted that the deceased worked hard for a vibrant and independent Judiciary in his lifetime which made that arm of government to contribute to good governance and the defence of the rights of citizens.

FGM: Over 200m Women, Girls Mutilated Globally, Says HACEY

Yinka Kolawole inosogbo

A non-governmental organisation(NGO), HACEY, has hinted that over 200 million women and girls are being mutilated globally, while Nigeria accounts for 10 percent of the number.

Speaking at HACEY’s Community Gatekeepers Training Workshop in Osogbo, Osun State, on empowering communities to end Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), the Programme Manager of the organisation, Oluwatomi Olunuga, noted that the

programme was put together by Hacey in collaboration with Access Corporation.

The workshop with over 50 participants was tagged: ‘Reporting female genital mutilation afforded the community gatekeepers the opportunity to deliberate on how to end female genital mutilation through adequate reporting of the heinous act’. She noted that findings also revealed that the highest prevalence of FGM with 32 percent is in the Southeast followed by the Southwest with 30 percent.

Be Innovative, Dynamic, Sanwo-Olu Charges Artisans on Business Growth

Segun James

As the Lagos State government increases its financial subvention to the Lagos State Council of tradesmen and artisans from N6 million to N15 million, the state governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has charged them to be committed to innovation, and new training in their trade in order to excel.

Sanwo-Olu, who gave the charge yesterday at the 12th graduation ceremony of 1,200 up skilled tradesmen and artisans in Lagos State, said the training for the artisans and tradesmen was to create opportunities for them, and make them to be more effective and efficient in their chosen field, so that, they can become employer of labour. The governor explained that by engaging more hands in their trade, they will reduce number of unemployment.

“You are here to do new things, to do the things people think they can’t do. You will create opportunities to reduce unemployment. We will give you equipment today, so you can work at creating more bigger opportunities for yourself. You have to keep learning to develop yourself, we enjoin you to continue to learn and unlearn, not just a skill worker, but a role model, enjoin others to learn from you.”

Group Seeks Protection of Judiciary from Politicians

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

The Olympus Marino Deck of the National Association of Seadogs (NAS), Pyrates Confraternity, has called for complete separation of the judiciary from the executive,

More

noting that politicians have negatively influenced the judicial system.

The group made the call in a communique issued at the end of its Street Pulse Series on “Judicial Integrity vs Political influence: Examining the independence of

the Courts” held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

During the programme, the group observed that the Court has been captured by the politicians, which is why they will rig election and tell the people to go to court.

They explained that the failure

of the judiciary is captured in the failure of the Courts, stressing that the social contract has been broken.

“Hence, there is a need for civil disobedience. The people should take their destiny to their own hands,” they said.

Millionaires Emerge in Glo Jolly Win Promo

Globacom and its partners have presented cheques of N1m each to new set of winners in the exciting monthly Glo Jolly Win promo. This is apart from the airtime and data rewards received daily by other Glo subscribers who participate in the promo.

Five winners received their cheques at the monthly presentation ceremony in Lagos and were instantly credited with their winnings during the ceremony.

In September 2024, Olieh Somtochukwu, a staff member of a real estate company in Anambra,

become the first winner of the sum of N1 million naira in the promo. Globacom is running the promo in conjunction with NCC-licensed Nitroswitch, an aggregator company, and Tetragrammaton, as the value-added service provider for these services.

One of the winners, Mrs. Adebayo Idowu, would have been presented her cheque at the first promo draw in September but for her doubt. Despite several calls, including video calls, she was hesitant to believe she had won a million.

WEDNESDAYSPORTS

Odegaard Boost for Arsenal as they Battle Inter Milan Tonight

Tonight in Italy, Arsenal will take on Inter Milan  in continuation of their UEFA Champions League phase at the San Siro.

So far winning two and drawing one of their three Champions League matches, Mikel Arteta knows a win against the Serie A side will go a long way in helping the north Londoners finish in the top eight.

Interestingly, Arsenal have received a major boost with

the return of their Norwegian captain Martin Odegaard to full training after two months out with an ankle injury.

The midfielder, 25, has been out since September, missing 12 games, after damaging his ankle ligaments on international duty.

He trained with the Arsenal squad yesterday before flying out to Milan.

Arsenal have picked up just one point out of a possible nine

in their last three Premier League games after losses to Newcastle and Bournemouth and a hardfought draw against Liverpool. They struggled to create clearcut chances against Newcastle and having their leader and one of their main creative outlets back will be a big boost.

However, England midfielder Declan Rice, 25, did not travelled with the Arsenal squad to Milan and will miss tonight’s match.

Elsewhere, Gian Piero Gasperini, feels giant-killers VfB Stuttgart represent ‘a real Champions League’ test, but one Atalanta are ready for with potentially a similar tactical approach to the one that let them beat Napoli at the weekend.

Atalanta will be away at the MHPArena in Stuttgart tonight at 20.00 GMT.

This is a tough test for La Dea, because Stuttgart shocked both Real Madrid and Juventus, while

the Italians have ground to make up for after their disappointing 0-0 stalemate against Celtic.

Gasperini surprised Antonio Conte and Napoli on Sunday by resting Mateo Retegui, instead confusing their defenders with a versatile trio of Mario Pasalic, Ademola Lookman and Charles De Ketelaere, so will he do the same in Germany?

“We always play with three attacking players, but there is versatility within that structure. Last season, Teun Koopmeiners

Super Falcons to Take on France’s Les Bleues in Friendly

Quadri Aruna faces another formidable challenge as he takes on Germany’s Richardo Walther today in the second round of the Men’s Singles at the WTT Champions Frankfurt.

The Nigerian, currently ranked world No. 21, made headlines by stunning world No. 8 Tomokazu Harimoto of Japan with a thrilling 3-2 comeback in his opening match at the Süwag Energie Arena.

Aruna’s victory over Harimoto marks his second win at the WTT Champions, following his first triumph at the WTT Champions Montpellier last week. Meanwhile,

Walther, making his debut at the WTT Champions, had a dream start by defeating Spain’s Alvaro Robles 3-0 (11-6, 12-10, 11-9) in the first round yesterday.

The upcoming match is battle of familiar foes, as Aruna and Walther have previously faced each other in the German Bundesliga. A win for Aruna would be historic, making him the first African male player to reach the quarterfinal stage of the WTT Champions, a feat achieved by Egypt’s Hana Goda in the women’s category at the WTT Champions Montpellier.

Nigeria is poised to make history as the first African country to present a blind athlete at the 2024 World Sambo Championships in Astana, Kazakhstan. For the first time, Blind Sambo has been included in the championships, and Nigeria will be represented by Samuel Oladele Kekere, the only blind athlete from Africa expected to compete.

Kekere, an orange belt Judoka from Lagos State, began his journey in combat sports four years ago, and he will compete in the men’s SVI-1 class (totally blind athletes), joining his counterparts from around the world.

Kekere’s participation has been confirmed by Roman Novikov, Chairman of the FIAS Commission

for Athletes with Disabilities, and Sheriff Hammed, the Vice President and General Secretary of the Sambo Association of Nigeria, who sees this as a groundbreaking opportunity. Kekere will compete in the men’s 64kg category, while James Chegwam and Chairy Jatau will also represent Nigeria in the main event from November 8 to 10 at the Zhaksylyk Ushkempirov Martial Arts Palace in Astana. Athletes from 80 countries will vie for 31 medals over the three-day tournament.

Supported by Samsideen Ajala, Chairman of the Lagos State Road Transport Employee Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), Nigeria’s contingent will depart today, November 6 aboard Turkish Airlines, filled with optimism about returning with medals.

Fresh from a two-match friendly duel with the Green Ladies of Algeria in Nigeria, nine-time African champions Super Falcons are billed to play the Senior Women National Team of France, Les Bleuesa high-profile friendly in France on Saturday, 30th November 2024.

All is now set for the final of the 2024 Zenith Bank/Delta Principals’ Cup with expectation of a new champion as the two Schools taking part in the final have never gotten this far since the reintroduction of the secondary school football competition.

The competition which is in its 7th edition is being sponsored by Zenith Bank Plc in partnership with the Delta State Government.

In the final taking place on Thursday, November 7, at the

The Super Falcons lashed the Green Ladies 2-0 and 4-1 in games played in Ikenne-Remo and Lagos respectively, with a good number of home-based professionals showing great promise in the squad coached by Justine Madugu.

This month’s encounter with theLes Bleueswill take place at

Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba, Umutu Secondary School, Umutu, will take on Ogbomro Grammar School, Ogbomro, Uvwie, for the coveted trophy.

To get to the final, Umutu Secondary School fought hard for their place in the final, securing a 1-0 win against Utagba-Ogbe Government School, Kwale, leaving their opponent with only the third place trophy to fight for.

However, it was different story at Oleh Township Stadium, Oldham,

the Stade Raymond Kopa in the city of Angers, with kick-off set for 9.30pm France time.

While the Bleues are happy to take the game as part of their preparations for the League of Nations in the spring and the 2025 UEFA Euro Women Championship in Switzerland in the summer,

with Ogbomro Grammar School, Ogbomro, Uvwie, whitewashing Okene m/s/s, Okuokoko , Okpe, 3-0 for a place in the final and a date against Umutu Secondary School.

Meanwhile, the sponsors of the competition, Zenith Bank Plc, have praised all the teams that participated in this year’s championship while urging the finalists to give it their best shot.

According to the GMD/CEO of Zenith Bank, Adaora Umeoji OON,

the Falcons will welcome the encounter as part of the process for blooding a new squad, as well as another test ahead of the 2025 Women Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco next summer.

It is only the seventh time in their history that the Les Bleues will play in the city of Angers.

all the schools are winners and they should work harder ahead of next year.

“All the schools and players that took part are all winners and they must take the positives from their experience this year,” she said. According to the organisers, Hideaplus, the four teams expected to feature in the Third Place and Final games are expected to arrive in Asaba on Wednesday November 6th in preparation for the matches.

Femi Solaja  with agency report

Martin Odegaard (centre) trained with Arsenal ahead of today’s UEFA Champions League clash with Inter Milan in San Siro this evening

MISSILE

President Tinubu to New Ministers

“Wearenotgoingtorunawayfromourresponsibility,wearegoingtofaceitandwe havebeenfacingithead-on.Youwillbepartofcriticismsandabuses,don'tworry.Stay focused,stayresilient.Yourtimewillcomewiththehistoryofgrowthandprosperityfor thiscountry.Wehavetakenthebullbythehorn.Wehavestoppedthescavengers.We aregoingtostopcompletelytheprofiteersandsmugglersofourresources acrossthe country"–PresidentBolaAhmedTinubu,tasksthesevennewministers,sworn-in recently.

KAYODE KOMOLAFE

So, Where are the Observers of American Elections?

The foregoing is far from being a rhetorical question.

To be sure, it would be important to know if teams of election observers from Nigeria and other African countries have left for the United States to monitor the do-or die American elections.

After all, if American civil society organisations could sponsor the observer teams to monitor Nigerian elections, it should not be beyond contemplation that the American elections should be monitored by Nigerian observers too.

To think otherwise would be nothing but inferiority complex and sheer Afropessimism in appreciating the dialectics of democratic development.

Last year, the reports of western observers of the Nigerian elections were branded as the most authoritative on the emergent issues from the polls. The verdict on the results of the election by western observers were deemed supreme. Editors, columnists, bloggers, television and radio anchors as well as other public intellectuals quoted profusely the reports of the foreign observers as they pummelled the Independent Electoral Commission (INEC). Meanwhile, hardly was notice taken of the fact that the Nigerian Bar Association also put up teams to monitor the election and issued reports.

Election monitoring is said to be in three broad stages - pre-election; during the election and post-election. Beyond monitoring, psephologists (theorists of elections) would find ample materials for study in the American presidential election, which some commentators have described as the election like no other!

Doubtless, election observers already have their job well cut out for them as America decides on its future at the polls.

There is indeed a lot to monitor in the elections. What with the fact of the strange news from America in the last few months, the campaigns have been defined by what the most charitable observers would call un-American manifestations. Before yesterday’s final day of voting, fears have been rife that America may be heading towards an inconclusive election, a development often associated with nascent liberal democracies. There have been reports of violence in words and action. Security men have been put on red alert. Former President Donald Trump, the candidate of the Republican Party, has escaped two assassination attempts on the hustings. The candidate himself has threatened bloodshed in the event that he loses the election. On one occasion he said this would be the “last election” should he not be declared as the winner. Even before the first ballot was cast, Trump and his supporters had begun to question the integrity of the election. Ballots of the early voting have been reportedly burnt. Only a few days ago, Trump said at a rally that he wouldn’t mind if journalists covering his campaigns were shot because they “are fake news” purveyors. On another occasion he wished nine guns were pointed on the head of Liz Cheney, a former Republican congresswoman, who has endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris the candidate of the Democratic Party. More ominously, Trump said at the eve of the election that he regretted leaving the White House after losing the 2020 election.

In the light of the foregoing, it would not be an extravagant claim to propose that Nigeria’s democracy has indeed grown enough to be in position to critically observe what is going on in America.

This was the point eloquently made yesterday by the director-general of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) and an eminent scholar, Professor Eghosa Osagie, in his introductory remarks at a roundtable hosted by the foreign policy think-tank. As Osagie rightly put it, Nigeria should keenly observe the American election from the viewpoint of democratic development. Later, Osagie, a political scientist, summed up the points by saying that whatever the outcome of the election, while America might not change it would be the responsibility of Nigeria to devise its policies in relating to America.

The vigorous discussions at the roundtable was brilliantly moderated with a lot of insights by Amarachi Ubani of CHANNELS Television. Interestingly, as Amarachi, a

Prof. Eghosa Osagie, DG of NIIA

member of the Institute, expertly teased out perspectives of speakers, it became clear that there were pro-Harris, pro-Trump and the neutrals on the forum.

In some respects, the roundtable was akin to a team of observers monitoring the American election, albeit from a distance of 8, 719 kilometres away.

For instance, a public policy analyst and development strategist, Mr. Magnus Onyibe, who has met Trump, excitingly articulated the case for the Republican presidential candidate. Onyibe presented Trump at the august forum as the “change” America needs and a “non-traditional politician” who would “ drain Washington.” Onyibe, an author, said “Trump is not anti-immigration; but he is anti-illegal immigration.” He recalled that Nigeria once expelled “illegal Ghanaian immigrants.” while South Africans are also hostile to “illegal Nigerian immigrants.” For Onyibe, Trump remains essentially a businessman in his approach to politics. Onyibe said “Trump knows Nigeria,” recalling that the former American president talked about the Nigerian oil reserves when they met in the U.S. And, of course, Onyibe reminded his audience that “Trump’s daughter is married to a naturalised Nigerian.” So Trump is, after all, an in-law, as it would be put in the Nigerian parlance !

In a way, Onyibe, was responding to other distinguished speakers, who had earlier made weighty submissions.

While acknowledging the importance of the American election for reflection in Nigeria, veteran political scientist, Professor Adele Jinadu, situated the emergence of Trumpism in American politics within the context of the “perpetual crisis of democracy” and the “upsurge of populism’ in some liberal democracies. He warned against personalising the trends in the politics of the most powerful country as “contending social forces” are actually at play. Jinadu also underlined the institutional resilience which has ensured a “pushback” to some of the absurdities of Trump and Trumpists. Jinadu pointed to the institutions sustaining the American institutions despite the Trumpist assaults. He described these institutions as “guardrails” that would prevent the system from collapsing. The social scientist, who has remarkably intellectualised the process of election monitoring in Nigeria, also emphasised the importance of “character in politics” and the need “to look beyond elections and hold elected leaders accountable” at the

end. He also demystified election polls, insisting that they could sometimes go wrong. According to Jinadu, the respondent only tells the pollster what he would do on election day. This might eventually not be the case.

For another notable political scientist, Professor Femi Otubanjo, “Trump will not be good for Nigeria; but it is not sure if Harris will be great for Nigeria either.”

He rated the American election managers highly; but he said that “ the problem will be the electoral college.”

While Otubanjo decried the “isolationism” of Trump, he conceded that Harris could be “more institutionally minded.” Otubanjo made it clear: “Trump will be dangerous to the world.” The scholar is not, however, excited about a democrat being in the White House. He recalled that while former President Barack Obama, a democrat, did not permit the sale of Tucano aircraft to the government of President Goodluck Jonathan to fight terrorism, it was Trump that later made the sale of arms to Nigeria possible. Remarkably, when discussions drifted to the perennial question of Nigeria’s bid for a permanent on the Security Council of the United Nations, Otubanjo dismissed such efforts as “fighting for nonsense.” Instead, he advocated the scrapping of the Security Council itself to enable the genuine democratisation of the United Nations. This, he said, would upend the present anti-democratic oddity in which one nation can veto the decision of all the other members of the world body.

The focus should be on “domestic policies,” according to Dr. Reuben Abati, the celebrated anchor of ARISE NEWS Television. Abati says Nigeria would have to do its work in order to “hold its head within the international space.”

He asked : “Do Nigerian Trump supporters truly know Trump”? He, of course, acknowledged that a second term for Trump in the White House would have consequences for immigration, energy sector, the value of the Dollar and, of course, geo-political stability.

A lawyer and author, Mr. Femi Ojomu, said with the American election, “the world faces a crossroads.” He reminded the forum that “Nigeria is a non-aligned nation.” For him, the challenge “is taking advantage of the opportunities” available in the Nigeria-American relations regardless of “who emerges as American president.” He pointed to areas of security, African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), immigration, social rights etc. Ojomu made a clear distinction between the agendas of Harris and Trump.

For this reporter, the expectations from the outcome of an American presidential election should be tempered

In fact, in the next few hours both Harris and Trump have some lessons to learn from Jonathan of Nigeria. You never know, the crucial lessons could help in saving America from itself as chaos is widely predicted for the superpower

by a historical reality. Harris and Trump represent the two sides of the same face of American imperialism to the world. If you doubt it, ask the helpless victims of the ongoing crimes against humanity in Gaza in which America is openly complicit. The difference is that Harris could be a pretentious imperialist while Trump would be barefaced dismantling the post – second world war order, which America led other imperial powers to build. . Unlike the pretentious Democrats, Trump wants ethnic cleansing of Gaza so that it would become a “beautiful beach front.”

The government, in which Harris is the Vice President, has been spending billions of dollars to arm Netanyahu to kill children, women, UN workers, journalists and health workers for over a year. The position of Harris during the campaigns has been kaleidoscopic depending on the audience. Harris said she would stand by Israel to exercise its right of self-defence (a refrain of successive American administration for decades) in Pennsylvania with a significant Jewish population. She only spoke of a ceasefire and relief for Palestinians in Michigan while facing a huge population of Arab voters.

As experts ponder the implications of the seeming degeneration of the America’s political system, it is noteworthy that one of America’s best thinkers on liberal democracy, Francis Fukuyama, seemed to have foreseen Trumpism and other American tragedies. In 2014, one of Fukuyama’s books, “Political Order and Political Decay” was published. That was two years before the election of Trump in 2016.

In the book Fukuyama wrote inter alia: “No one living in an established liberal democracy should therefore be complacent about the inevitability of its survival. There is no automatic historical mechanism that makes progress inevitable, or that prevents decay or backsliding. Democracies exist and survive only because people want and are willing to fight for them; leadership, organisational ability, and oftentimes, sheer good luck are needed for them to prevail...”

Despite the ugly face of American politics on display during the campaigns, some Nigerian public intellectuals are wont to fall back to the default position in analysing the elections in America. As Dr. Abati puts it, the next few days the media space would be replete with essays on the “lessons to learn from the American elections.” It might be unthinkable in not a few quarters that America could indeed have lessons to learn from Nigeria’s democratic development.

Two contrasting events in the political histories of United States and Nigeria could be recalled to make this point. In the cool evening of March 31, 2015, incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) called to congratulate General Muhammadu Buhari of the All Progressives Congress (APC) while collation of the results was still in progress. Before Jonathan’s historic call, the nation was on a knife edge as it awaited the conclusion of the presidential election that year.

Contrast the Nigerian positive story with the American tragedy of January 6, 2020. President Donald Trump inspired a mob to stymie the conclusion of the presidential election which he clearly lost as an incumbent. The Trumpist thugs invaded the Capitol, America’s citadel of liberal democracy, in an abortive attempt to prevent the certification of the election of Joe Biden as president of the United States. In the process six persons died and at least 170 police officers were injured. No, it is not every time Nigeria has lessons to learn from America in democratic development. At least on this occasion, it is important to transcend the national pastime of self-flagellation in order to see that America has huge lessons to learn from Nigeria.

In fact, in the next few hours both Harris and Trump have some lessons to learn from Jonathan of Nigeria, an under-celebrated hero of liberal democracy. You never know, the crucial lessons could help in saving America from itself as chaos is widely predicted for the superpower.