TUESDAY 12TH NOVEMBER 2024

Tinubu: Israel Must End Gaza Aggression, Seeks Two-state Solution at Riyadh Summit

New $20bn facility strikes deal with oil marketers for direct petrol purchase

NUPRC reveals Nigeria's oil production now 1.8m bpd, to hit 2m bpd by December NCDMB pushes for 70% local content retention by 2027

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

Tinubu

Flanked by

Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, Nigeria Governors' Forum (NGF) Chairman/Kwara State, Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq (CON), signing the condolence register in honour of the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja at the headquarters of the Nigerian Army in Abuja on Monday announced that it had finally ended the age-long practice. The development is expected to save Nigeria as much as $10 billion in hard currency in-country

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja and Peter Uzoho in Lagos

After decades of massive importation of petroleum products, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) yesterday

L-R: Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun; the celebrant and founder of Citadel Global Community Church, Pastor Tunde Bakare; his wife, Mrs Olayide Bakare; Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; former Governor of Ogun State, Aremo Olusegun Osoba and former Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Kayode Fayemi, during the 70th birthday and the launch of the autobiography of Pastor Bakare titled 'The Last. But Definitely Not The Least,' at the Citadel Global Community Church, Oregun, Lagos on Monday.

FG Oversees Signing of $3.5bn Deal for Restart of Aluminum Smelting Plant

Deal between BFI Group, China’s CNCEC to generate 540mw of power

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The federal government yesterday superintended over the signing of an agreement between BFI Group and CNCEC for the restarting of the Aluminum Smelter Company of Nigeria (ALSCON) located in Ikot Abasi, Akwa Ibom State.

The event is coming after the Minister of State Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, met with top officials of CNCEC and Chairman of BFI Group, Dr. Reuben Jaja, the government approved core investor in ALSCON, on the sidelines of President Bola Tinubu’s state visit to Beijing earlier this year.

CNCEC is the biggest petrochemical engineering company in China and it is a technical partner to BFI Group, USA on the project.

ALSCON is expected to utilise Nigeria’s natural gas resources to resuscitate the plant valued at about $3.5 billion and bring back the venture which is meant to cement Nigeria’s place as a major producer of aluminum for the domestic and international market.

The plant has a capacity to produce about one million metric tonnes of aluminum per annum,

the sponsors said.

Speaking at the event, Deputy Gas Minister, Ekpo stated that the event was meant to cement the partnership between the two entities, describing it as an epoch-making ceremony.

The minister noted that it was another testament to the strong commitment of President Bola Tinubu to encourage investments

in the utilisation of the nation’s abundant natural gas to drive Nigeria’s industrialisation, economic growth and development.

“It goes without saying that the synergy and cooperation between BFI Group and CNCEC also marks another significant moment in the commitment by the Chinese and Nigerian governments to work together and encourage collaboration

NNPC ENDS PETROLEUM PRODUCTS IMPORT, RAMPS UP PATRONAGE OF DANGOTE REFINERY

annually, as the national oil company said it now buys from the 650,000 barrels per day Dangote Petroleum Refinery located in Lagos. Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC, Mr. Mele Kyari, disclosed this in Lagos, while delivering his keynote message at the ongoing 42nd annual international conference and exhibition of the Nigerian Association of Petroleum Explorationists (NAPE).

The announcement came amid another cheery news by the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) that it had struck a deal to buy products directly from the $20 billion Dangote facility.

The previous arrangement was for the independent marketers to buy from the NNPC and not from the Dangote Refinery, a practice the oil sellers had vehemently opposed.

But drawing strength from the Domestic Crude Oil Obligation (DCOO) as stipulated in the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021, Kyari also said all the oil producers in the country must supply crude to the four NNPC refineries when they come back on-stream.

He disclaimed assumptions that the national oil company was sabotaging local refineries by refusing to sell crude oil to them.

Kyari profiled NNPC as a proud part owners to the Dangote Refinery, explaining that the company saw an opportunity in the $20 billion refinery as a clear market for at least 300,000 barrels per day of its

production, which will enable it to avert being caught in the emerging shrinking market for crude oil.

"Oil is found in very many unexpected locations across the world and people have choices. And therefore, we saw an opportunity to now supply to not just Dangote, but every refinery that operates in the country. So, it's a well informed business decision. Therefore, from day one, we knew that it was to our benefit to supply crude oil to domestic refineries.

"So, we don't need to be persuaded. We don't need anyone to talk to us. There is no need for any pressure from the streets for us to do this. We are already doing this", Kyari stated.

Highlighting the implications of the pressure for oil producers in Nigeria to supply crude to local refineries and in naira too, Kyari said Nigerian crude is a premium type of crude that attracts premium price In the global market, he explained that refiners buy Nigerian crude to blend with their dirtier crude to process, adding that only few refineries take Nigerian crude for direct processing because of its expensive and high premium nature.

Kyari disclosed that the NNPC had stopped importing refined petroleum products in line with the company's support to local processing of all crude produced in the country.

Kyari stated: "And therefore, I believe strongly also that we must process all the crude that we produce

in the country up to the optimum. And we will do everything possible to make sure that we domesticate this. And today, NNPC does not import any product. We are taking wholly from the domestic refinery."

He said the company was also working jointly with the federal government to manage the issue of pricing, which is one of the implications of sourcing all feedstock supply from the domestic market.

He confirmed that substantial work had been done around that, adding that it will no longer be an issue.

He further disclaimed what he described as issues on the streets that the NNPC does not want to sell crude to domestic refineries in naira and that it’s a form of sabotage.

"As a matter of fact, it makes no difference to us because if you sell crude to domestic refinery in naira and you buy product in naira from a domestic refinery, it's a netzero game. You lose nothing. Otherwise, whatever you do, you still have to source for FX because you have to import," he added.

Reminding other oil producers in the country that the domestic crude oil obligation applies to both NNPC and them, Kyari told the producers that they must supply crude to the four NNPC refineries when they return to production.

He clarified that selling crude to local refineries in naira didn't mean losing the value of the product but that the only difference was that the foreign exchange gap will be

29 YEARS AFTER, TINUBU TO HONOUR SARO-WIWA

interests in 1995.

In a special message to commemorate the 29th Ogoni Martyrs Remembrance Day, Tinubu, in a release by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, solidarised with the National Youth Council of Ogoni People (NYCOP) and all Ogoni citizens.

He stressed his government's commitment to fostering dialogue, reconciliation, and healing among all ethnic nationalities in Nigeria.

This year’s commemoration, themed, “After Price, Comes Prise,” was conceived to reflect the nation’s collective commitment to acknowledging the pain and the lessons of the past as the people aspired for a brighter future.

Tinubu stated the regarding the “Ogoni 9”, in his message, "We

up to the Riyadh summit last year, and was attended by Heads of State and Government of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and the League of Arab States.

Reiterating Nigeria's call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, Tinubu affirmed the country’s support for a two-state solution, where both Israelis and Palestinians could co-exist in security and dignity. He stated that this solution remained a viable path to lasting peace in the region.

According to the president, ''The conflict in Palestine has persisted for far too long, inflicting immeasurable suffering on countless lives.

''As representatives of nations that value justice, dignity, and the sanctity of human life, we have a moral obligation to collectively bring about an immediate end to this conflict.

honour their memory by recognising the sacrifices made and pledging to strive for a future characterised by peace, justice, and sustainable development for all communities, particularly those in the Niger Delta."

The president reaffirmed that his administration would actively address historical grievances and work towards building a united and prosperous nation for future generations.

He said the vision would be realised through constructive engagement and mutual respect.

"As we remember the Ogoni Martyrs, let us honour their legacy by committing to a future where such injustices are no longer tolerated and where the voices of all Nigerians are heard and respected,” Tinubu said. Oil was explored in Ogoniland

''It is not enough to issue empty condemnations. The world must work towards an end to Israeli aggression in Gaza, which has persisted for far too long.

"No political aim, no military strategy, and no security concern should come at the expense of so many innocent lives."

Tinubu called on parties to the conflict in the Middle East to respect the principles of proportionality and the basic rights of civilians, consistent with global legal and diplomatic frameworks. He said, “In a rules-based international order, states have the right of self-defence. But self-defence must take proportionality into account, in line with global legal, diplomatic – and moral – frameworks.

“An entire civilian population, their dreams and futures, cannot be

for many years. The struggles of Ogoni leaders to protect their environment from harmful oil exploration were met with severe repression, culminating in the tragic execution of Saro-Wiwa and eight other leaders in 1995.

Saro-Wiwa co-founded MOSOP, short for the Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People, in the 1990s.

The group argued that oil production had devastated the region's environment, while bringing no benefit to its 500,000 people.

Saro-Wiwa accused Shell of turning what was once an area of unspoilt natural beauty into a grubby black moonscape. This was as oil from dilapidated pipelines and pumping stations seeped into the soil and destroyed farmlands

dismissed as collateral."

Explaining Nigeria's principled and consistent stance on the twostate solution, the president stated that it stood as a beacon of hope, representing the rights of both Israelis and Palestinians to self-determination and peace.

“It is not just a diplomatic article of faith; it is a vision grounded in the principles of equality and mutual recognition,” Tinubu said.

He stressed, “Achieving this vision requires a commitment to dialogue and respect for history. We all know this conflict did not begin on October 7 in 2023. It can only be resolved through principled compromise, based on appreciation of the proper context.

“This conflict, in the cradle of history, is so visceral that the ripples of division spread far and quickly.

removed in the process to boost local currency and country's economy.

Kyari explained: "And for those of us in the upstream, don't forget that we have domestic crude oil supply obligation. It is not NNPC-only obligation. You must understand this. But the DCOO doesn't mean a loss in value. It says sell it at market price, at commercial value.

"It also serves the best interest of the businesses here, it also shows commitment beyond the talk. So, let's all not forget that everyone in the industry contributes to this.

“Which means, and to be very practical, when NNPC refineries start working, we will come to you and tell you that you must contribute to supply to these refineries. It's in the law. It doesn't have to come from NNPC. And we will make sure we don't fight with anyone. But if we don't find our oil, we come to you."

On ensuring gas delivery to domestic market, he complained that only NNPC has been left to carry the burden of building the entire gas delivery infrastructure till date, as all the projects were on the balance sheet of NNPC.

He said the company has accepted to carry the burden to guarantee energy security for the country as mandated it by the PIA.

In promotion of the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) penetration in the country, Kyari confirmed that by the first quarter of 2025, at least 12 mother CNG stations will be available in the country.

and water sources.

For local residents, therefore, Nigeria's oil reserves had not brought affluence, but poverty and disease.

The Ogoni took up the peaceful fight against Shell and the Nigerian military regime. In 1993, Shell abandoned Ogoniland and had not been back since.

That triumph turned Saro-Wiwa and his acolytes into a real menace for the then General Sani Abacha military dictatorship.

Abacha had Saro-Wiwa arrested in 1994, on the trumped-up charge of being responsible for the death of four other Ogoni leaders.

Saro-Wiwa and the eight others were hanged on November 10, 1995, but their execution instantly became a symbol for environmental protection and human rights.

The corrosive impact of the images of endless violence, repeated on a billion smart phones around the world is huge. We need to find new pathways to peace, without delay.”

Tinubu commended King Salman of Saudi Arabia and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for convening the summit, describing it as a vital opportunity to renew diplomatic efforts and work towards sustainable peace.

He assured the gathering that Nigeria, given its own experiences, will continue to support international efforts that advance peace and stability in the Middle East.

''Our own experiences, domestically and regionally, have taught us that identity politics are no substitute for respecting the nuances of diversity,'' he said.

The president added, ''The path to

In addition, he revealed that the company was building a mini Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) plant in an unspecified locations in the country to deliver gas into the market.

The facilities, he stated, will also sustain the growth of CNG delivery to domestic market and equally make gas available to mid power plants and gas-based industries in the short term.

Also speaking at the event, Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Mr. Gbenga Komolafe, disclosed that Nigeria's oil production has increased to 1.8 million barrels per day.

In his speech delivered by the Executive Commissioner, Development and Production, NUPRC, Mr. Eronense Amadasu, Komolafe said the country's oil production would rise further to 2 million bpd by December this year.

He added that the framework in pursuit of the Project 1 Million BPD championed by the commission was currently under development.

The project which aimed to increase Nigeria's oil production by additional one million barrels in the next 12 to 24 months was launched last month by President Bola Tinubu.

The commission chief executive however faulted the perception that the International Oil Companies (IOCs) operating in Nigeria were leaving the country, saying the multinationals were only rationalising their portfolios in the wake of the changing energy landscape.

He said NUPRC had put in place robust divestment guidelines to ensure a smooth transition, reiterating that the commission is currently auctioning 31 oil blocks spreads across the onshore, shallow water and deep offshore terrains and that the process was going on smoothly.

Also speaking, the Executive Secretary of NCDMB, Mr. Felix Ogbe, who also spoke at the NAPE conference, said with 54 per cent local content already attained under the 10-Year Strategic Roadmap, the organisation was pushing to achieve the targeted 70 retention by 2027.

In line with the Presidential Executive Orders on oil and gas, which border on contracting cycle, Ogbe, who was represented by the General Manager, Corporate Communications and Zonal Coordination, Mr. Dan Kikile, said the agency has reduced

reconciliation may be fraught with challenges, but it is through honest conversation that we can foster understanding.

''The international community has the opportunity to bring to bear new thinking on this most relentless challenge. It is our duty to engage in this dialogue with sincerity and resolve, recognising the complexities that each side faces.”

Tinubu called for the establishment of a secretariat to implement the resolutions of the summit.

He urged the leaders to mandate a select group of heads of government to canvass support globally and oversee the implementation of the summit’s resolutions, and provide regular reports to a joint OIC and Arab League leadership until permanent peace is achieved in the Middle East.

the approval timelines to 60 days. He enjoined industry operators to continue paying their local content levy to enable NCDMB continue to fulfil its mandate and responsibility for the industry.

Meanwhile, following its recent meeting with Aliko Dangote and members of his top management staff in Lagos, the leadership of IPMAN, yesterday announced major milestones achieved during the event.

Addressing some members of the press in Abuja yesterday, National President of IPMAN, Abubakar Shettima, stated that the Dangote Refinery had obliged IPMAN to lift petrol, diesel and kerosene directly for onward supply to its depots and retail outlets.

According to the IPMAN president, this new arrangement with the Dangote Refinery will ensure steady and ceaseless supply of petrol products all over Nigeria at an affordable rate for Nigerians also.

He said: All IPMAN members should fully support the Dangote Refinery, as it’s the ideal thing to do considering the monumental benefits of backward integration and the medium to long term impact it will have on the Foreign Exchange markets in Nigeria

“IPMAN members nationwide should rely on the Dangote Refinery and Nigerian Refineries for their white products, as this will translate into ensuring more job opportunities in Nigeria, as well as signify that total support for President Bola Tinubu’s renewed hope agenda,” he added. On CNG, Shettima called on all members of IPMAN to begin to put all machineries in place for a successful transition of the federal government’s plans to initiate CNG refill stations in all our outlets.

“Truly there is no doubt that CNG has the potential to rejuvenate our economy for a better life for Nigerians, and IPMAN is ready to give her all to support the CNG initiative,” he added. Besides, IPMAN called for partnership with the federal government to accelerate the CNG initiative for Nigeria.

“ We believe that for the CNG initiative to be successful, there must be a credible partnership between IPMAN and the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGI), without which Nigerians would not have ready and near access to CNG outlets,” he explained.

Earlier in his opening remarks, Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince, Mohammed bin Salman, also condemned Israeli actions in Gaza and Lebanon, including the targeting of civilians and the continued violation of the Al-Aqsa mosque. He equally condemned Israeli ban on the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) from delivering relief aid to Palestinians and the displacement of Lebanese people.

Emphasising the importance of preserving Lebanon's sovereignty and territorial integrity, the Crown Prince highlighted Saudi Arabia's role in promoting Palestinian statehood based on the 1967 borders, mentioning international recognition and the establishment of a Global Coalition with the European Union and Norway.

Ekpo

between both nations for the continued growth and development of our peoples.

ANNUAL AWARD AND FUND- RAISING DINNER OF HUSSEY COLLEGE.. .

L-R: Executive Chairman, South Atlantic Petroleum, Sen. Daisy Danjuma; Olori Atuwatse 111, Queen Consort of Warri Kingdom; Executive Secretary, Hallmark of Labour Foundation, Chief (Mrs) Patricia Ofuedon- Arawore; and Retired Permanent Secretary, Dr. Edugie Abebe, at the Annual Award and Fund-Raising Dinner of Hussey College Warri Öld Students Association, Lagos Branch held in Lekki, Lagos... yesterday ETOP UKUTT

AfDB: Nigeria Spent $10bn on Food Imports in 2023, $3bn on Grains

Says political stability, security crucial at any cost to revive agriculture Amid security challenges, access to finance for farmers crucial, says Sterling Bank MD Declares $33 million extended to women in agriculture at single- digit interest rates

The Senior Special Adviser to the President on Industrialisation, African Development Bank Group (AfDB), Prof. Banji Oyelaran-Oyeyinka, yesterday disclosed that the country spent about $10 billion on food imports including fish.

He said despite having large bodies of water and ocean, the bulk of these imports - cereals, corn, maize, and wheat gulped $3 billion last year.

Speaking at the opening of the 2024 Agriculture Summit Africa (ASA), with the theme, “From Scarcity to Security” which was organised by Sterling Bank in Abuja, Oyeyinka said These are things we can produce…Yet all the preconditions are there for us to be self-sufficient in food production”.

This came as the Managing Director/Chief Executive, Sterling Bank Plc, Mr. Abubakar Suleiman, said in spite of current security challenges in the country, farmers should not be denied access to finance to boost food production, adding that the bank had committed over $33 million to fund women in agriculture at single- digit

interest rates.

Oyeyinka lamented that over 60 per cent of individual income was being spent on food - one of the highest in the world, adding that the country must maintain political stability and security at any cost, adding that without stability in these areas, “we'll keep losing production”.

According to him, the most fundamental reason for current food scarcity was “our lack of production capability. In other words, our inability to produce sufficiently on our farms, our inability to also process in our factories. Scarcity is widespread in every poor country”.

The AfDB scribe said, “Africa must get its own Green Revolution in the next five years, or else we remain a laughing stock. We must change this narrative.”

He said the output contribution of the industrial sector to overall GDP had consistently declined from about 15.6 per cent in the 1970s to 1980s to 5.7 per cent, adding that “manufacturing countries' GDP remains under 10 per cent, for most countries in the middle income, it's about 25 per cent”.

He said, “This country has over 84 million hectares of arable land, of which only 40 per cent is cultivated. We are the largest African market. We are the largest in terms of population. Maybe not in terms of spending power - 230 billion cubic meters of water, and abundant and reliable rainfall in over two-thirds of Nigerian territory.

“So, it is befuddling that we are food exporters – of course, decisions and actions and investment required to set up production structures can be complex – they are technological in nature, economic and of course, for the most important part, always political.

“And politics always trump common sense in poor countries. But unless we master the mechanics of production by which other societies have been able to overcome scarcity, we will not get out of food scarcity.”

He said, “When you see the most striking feature of an industrial society, it is their capacity to mass-produce not only the final consumer goods, but also all the means of mass production. Raw materials, machineries, equipment,

transportation, logistics. All of these you require to ensure that you have smooth trade within and outside of the country.”

This came as the Managing Director/Chief Executive, Sterling Bank Plc, Mr. Abubakar Suleiman, said in spite of current security challenges in the country, farmers should not be denied access to finance to boost food production.

In his welcome remarks at the summit, however, Suleiman also said the bank had committed over $33 million to fund women in agriculture at single- digit interest rates.

Further highlighting other achievements through previous summits, he said the bank had increased its loan book to agriculture to 15 per cent, adding “This has not been done by any financial institution that we know of on the continent”.

He said access to finance remained a key problem that needed to be solved to boost food production in the country, and stressed that the current security challenges are directly linked with a breakdown in the country’s food supply chain.

NACCIMA Lauds FG for Setting Up Audit Panel to Review Gas Deals

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

President of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Dele Oye, yesterday commended the federal government and the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), for setting up a committee to audit and review agreements relating to Accelerated Gas Development Projects (AGDPs) in Nigeria.

Oye, in a statement, noted that a comprehensive review of the agreements was vital in safeguarding Nigeria's vast gas resources and promoting sustainable development in the energy sector.

He further charged the committee, headed by Mr. Olasupo Shasore (SAN) to collaborate closely with the Nigerian Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) and NACCIMA to achieve set goals.

“On behalf of NACCIMA, we extend our heartfelt commendations to you for the timely and astute initiative in establishing the committee to audit agreements and Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) relating to Accelerated Gas Development Projects (AGDPs).

“Your commitment to ensuring that Nigeria’s legal and economic frameworks are fortified against predatory practices is commendable, especially in light of the lessons learned from the P&ID case.

“The establishment of this

committee, under the capable leadership of Mr. Olasupo Shasore (SAN), reflects a proactive approach to preventing similar legal entanglements in the future.

“NACCIMA firmly believes that a comprehensive review of these agreements is vital in safeguarding Nigeria’s vast gas resources and promoting sustainable development in our energy sector,” he added.

In pursuit of a holistic and informed review process, NACCIMA urged the authorities to encourage the committee to collaborate closely with NEITI and NACCIMA.

“Our respective organisations are equipped with valuable insights, data, and expertise that can assist in diagnosing the root causes of

previous challenges and facilitate the formulation of robust strategies to avert potential liabilities.

“Engaging with NEITI and NACCIMA will not only enhance the committee's workings but will also cultivate a broader spectrum of stakeholder involvement. We believe that such collaboration is fundamental to restoring public confidence, transparency, accountability, and efficiency in the management of Nigeria’s resources.

“Once again, congratulations on this significant initiative. We deeply appreciate your dedication to the socioeconomic development of our nation and your unwavering efforts to enhance Nigeria’s reputation as a viable destination for local and international investment.

The Sterling Bank MD said, “I think solving food security has multiple approaches. Obviously, we expect the government to deal with the issues of insecurity. That is not something that the private sector can deal with. What we can do in the process is to ensure that there are millions and millions of farmers out there that would still benefit from access to finance.

“And again, even though the insecurity issue is real, we also have a lot of farms today that are not exposed to any form of insecurity. So, we don't wait. We continue to support those who are able to continue to farm, and we continue to count

on government to keep fighting the insecurity, and expand the available land for agriculture.

“And we intend to continue to keep it at that level…the reason why when we convene, you listen to us, is that we are a financial institution, and the promises that we make here, we back it up by producing financing to agriculture.”

He explained that in collaboration with its partner, the Mastercard Foundation, the bank had been able to create a programme called “Sway Action”, that enabled it to lend money specifically focusing on women in agriculture, with some extension to youth in agriculture.

NERC Tasks Operators on Compliance with Its Regulations

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has urged operators in the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI) to set higher targets for improving regulatory compliance in 2025.

The NERC Commissioner, Legal, Licencing and Compliance, Dafe Akpeneye stated this at the opening of a two-day fourth quarter 2024 Compliance Peer Review Meeting of compliance officers in NESI.

“We have evolved as a sector; we are not where we want to be yet but we are way better than where we were last year. A lot of work has to be done but we have seen the trajectory towards compliance but we can still do better,” a statement by the industry regulator quoted him as saying.

The commissioner noted that NERC was focusing more on compliance rather than enforcement.

“We want to move the compliance process to self-reporting. Let this be an armistice day for us all where we can set the tone for peace in 2025, ensure remarkable improvement, and demonstrate compliance improvement in the institution,” Akpeneye stated.

In her remarks, NERC Deputy

General Manager, Compliance, Hauwa Yakubu, said there are some simple compliance issues that ought to addressed which licencees were not doing.

For instance, she said that this includes having protective gears for staff who work on the lines, which is important in curbing issues associated with health and safety issues.

NERC Assistant General Manager, Consumer Affairs, Saidu Lawal, delivered a presentation on Compliance Obligation for Consumer Protection, stating that NERC expects various reports from the Distribution Companies (Discos) on meter deployment, point-load connections and consumer complaints resolution.

“All these reports have timelines for submission and also timelines for resolving complaints, point-load connections, metering and compliance with the capping order.

“These are things we can resolve if we stick to the timelines that have been set for resolving all service issues for consumers,” said Lawal.

NERC Assistant General Manager, Market Competition and Rates, Ebehijele Edeh in her presentation on commercial reporting obligation, noted non-compliance with the submissions of statutory reports from the licensees.

James Emejo in Abuja

DINNER IN HONOR OF OKONJO-IWEALA IN WASHINGTON DC.. .

Barbican Capital Seeks Out-of-Court Settlement on Disputed N5.4bn Shares

Wale Igbintade

An investment firm, Barbican Capital Ltd, has asked a Federal High Court in Lagos to strike out the suit it filed against FBN Holdings in order to explore an amicable resolution of the dispute.

The plaintiff, Barbican Capital Limited, an affiliate of Honeywell Group Limited, had filed suit No.

FHC/L/CS/1172/24, claiming it had cumulatively acquired 5,386,397,202 shares, representing 15.1 per cent of FBN Holdings' overall shares listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE).

In its originating summons, Barbican Capital sought several reliefs, including a declaration that the number of shares recorded in the defendant’s register of

Corrupt Military Officers: Senate to Amend Law Enabling EFCC's Investigation, Prosecution

The Senate has said that it would embark on a constitutional amendment that would empower the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate and prosecute military officers accused of corruption and other financial crimes.

The Chairman, Senate Committee on Anti-corruption and Financial Crimes, Senator Emmanuel Udende, stated this on Monday, when members of the committee visited the headquarters of the anti-graft agency in Abuja.

According to the Senate Committee Chairman, most of the challenges faced by the EFCC could be addressed through the constitution and budgetary process.

He decried a situation where the agency can only investigate and prosecute a serving military personnel, after a court-martial.

"The situation where a court rules that a military man cannot be investigated and prosecuted, unless he goes to a court-martial, we think, runs counter to the EFCC Act.

“We thought that we would do that by amendment of the EFCC law itself, so that they will have the powers to do the investigation and do the prosecution", the lawmaker said.

Meanwhile, Udende stated that the committee would ensure increase in the budget of the Commission, going by the remarkable achievements of the Commission of recent, especially under the current chairman, Mr. Ola Olukoyede.

Udende said: "As a committee, we want to commend the Chairman and

his team for doing a very wonderful job. I couldn't believe it when I saw the report. And nobody has come forward to dispute this report.

“As a committee, we are satisfied that they have done a good job. We were going to lay this report before the Senate for its consideration, but as a committee we are satisfied.

"We have gone through the budget performance. We are also satisfied that they have done a good job, within the limited resources that they have".

He however, identified the lack of understanding from many Nigerians, who usually accused the lawmakers of budget padding, each time they appropriate beyond what was sent by the executive arm of government.

He explained that what the executive brings is a draft, and only becomes a law or an act after it was deliberated and passed by the legislators.

"When you look at an agency like EFCC and say they need this much, and you put the money there Nigerians will say you can't pay the money..... I was deputy chairman of the committee between 2015 and 2019.

I was a member of the committee.

We decided that these headquarters must be completed. By the time the budget came out, people were pissing us off. That is the biggest problem that we have in this country, that lawmakers are not allowed to do their job", he said.

Earlier, Olukoyede sought the cooperation of the lawmakers in the fight against corruption, stressing that corruption is the reason behind all the challenges facing Nigeria.

members is representative of the shares held by the plaintiff.

The firm also sought a declaration that its shareholding in the defendant stands at 5,386,397,202 shares, as of July 1, 2024, as reflected in the dematerialized records of the Central Securities Clearing System Plc (CSCS).

However, during the resumed hearing of the case yesterday, Barbican Capital was represented by Mr. Bode Olanipekun (SAN), while Mr. Babajide Koku (SAN) appeared for FBN Holdings.

Hakeem Afolabi (SAN) represented the third party, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), and Mr. Kunle Ogunba (SAN) appeared for Ecobank Limited, which sought to be joined as an objector in the suit.

Olanipekun informed the court that the plaintiff had filed a notice of discontinuance, stating that it intends to explore an amicable resolution of the dispute. He urged the court to act on the notice.

In response, FBN Holdings' lawyer, Babajide Koku (SAN),

indicated that he had just been served with the notice in court. Koku requested a short adjournment to consult with his client before any orders were made.

Similarly, Hakeem Afolabi (SAN), representing the CBN, did not oppose the plaintiff’s notice. However, Ecobank’s lawyer, Ogunba expressed surprise at the notice, stating that his client had not been served with it.

Ogunba also noted that Ecobank still had two pending applications before the court in the matter. While not opposing the adjournment requested by FBN Holdings' lawyer, Ogunba emphasised that, as a party to the suit, Ecobank should be kept informed by the other parties.

Following an agreement among all the parties, Justice Ayokunle Faji adjourned the matter to November 20, 2024, for further proceedings.

Meanwhile, FBN Holdings Plc had in a written address argued that the primary purpose of the plaintiff’s lawsuit was to circumvent the CBN’s verification

process and the actions taken by the CBN against the plaintiff.

FBN Holdings stated that on July 7, 2023, the plaintiff, in accordance with regulatory laws and policies, notified the defendant that it had acquired shares amounting to 4,770,269,843 units, or approximately 13.3 per cent of the defendant’s total shareholding.

It further explained that under the CBN's Guidelines for Licensing and Regulation of Financial Holding Companies in Nigeria (issued pursuant to the Central Bank Act of 2007 and the Banking and Other Financial Institutions Act 2004), any financial holding company (including the defendant) must seek prior approval from the CBN before purchasing 5 per cent or more of a financial holding company's shares.

The bank added that if shares are purchased in the secondary market, the CBN must be notified within seven days to obtain a 'No Objection' or approval.

According to FBN Holdings, in compliance with the CBN

Guidelines, the company notified the CBN on July 10, 2023, of the plaintiff’s new shareholding, which exceeded the 5 per cent threshold, and sought the CBN’s approval.

The CBN subsequently responded, requesting that the plaintiff provide documents necessary for the verification of the shareholding.

Upon receiving this request, FBN Holdings forwarded the CBN's letter to the plaintiff and recommended that it supply the relevant documents for the verification process. However, the plaintiff failed to provide the requested documents.

As a result, the CBN, in a letter dated January 29, 2024, informed FBN Holdings that it was only able to verify 3,110,400,619 units of the plaintiff’s shareholding out of the total 4,770,269,843 units due to insufficient documentation. FBN Holdings stated that it communicated the verification status to the plaintiff, but to date, the plaintiff has failed to provide the necessary documents to the CBN.

A'Court's Special Panel on Rivers Commences Sitting Thursday

Alex Enumah in Abuja

A special panel of the Court of Appeal on Rivers political cases is expected to commence sitting this Thursday.

The three-member panel led by Justice Onyekachi Otisi, has been saddled with the responsibility of resolving all political cases surrounding the state at the appellate court.

Since late last year, Rivers State has been in the front burner of national discuss, owing to disagreement between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the immediate past Governor of the State and now Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike.

The disagreement which has factionalised political institutions and actors in the state has led to situations where courts of coordinate jurisdiction had in several instances given contrary and conflicting

orders to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies.

As part of efforts at achieving justice in the matter, it was learnt that the President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Monica DongbanMensem constituted a three-member special panel to hear handle all the appeals relating to the political disputes in Rivers State.

The constitution of the special panel was made known during a court proceedings on Monday in Abuja.

While some of the cases were filed at the High Court of Rivers State, Port Harcourt, others were filed at the Federal High Court, Abuja.

Among the appeals are those filed by the governor and the House of Assembly, as well as that of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) and All Progressives Congress (APC).

The issues mainly revolved around the alleged defection of

27 pro-Wike lawmakers from the PDP to the APC.

At Monday's proceedings, a panel of the court adjourned three appeals involving the political logjam in the state till Thursday for the consideration of the Justice Otisi led special panel.

When the first appeal was called, presiding Justice, Hamma Barka, noted that the 13th to 18th defendants were not yet served, following which a senior lawyer in the appeal, Chief Paul Erokoro assured that the appellant would take steps to ensure service of the appeal on parties that are yet to be served.

He said the appeal, marked: CA/ABJ/PRE/ROA/ CV/1211m1/2024 filed by the Government of Rivers State against the Rivers State House of Assembly and 17 others, “is one of those Rivers matters for which a special panel was constituted.” Erokoro told the court that

some of the respondents have just served some processes on him, to which he needed to file replies. He then urged the court to adjourn till November 14, when the panel will commence sitting.

Responding, Ferdinand Orbih (SAN) who appeared for 1st and 2nd respondents and Dr. Joshua Musa (SAN), for the 3rd to the 12th respondents, agreed to the date suggested by Erokoro, following which the court adjourned till November 14. The two other appeals that were equally adjourned till Thursday included the one filed by the Accountant General of Rivers State against the Rivers State House of Assembly and 10 others and the other by Action Peoples Party (APP) against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and 28 others.

The two other members of the panel are Justices Misitura BokajiYusuf and James Abundaga.

Alex Enumah in Abuja

L-R: Ikenna Iweala, United States-based Surgeon; Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO); Prof. Kingsley Moghalu, President, African School of Governance (ASG), Kigali, Rwanda; and Mrs. Maryanne Moghalu, Executive Director, Isaac Moghalu Foundation (IMoF), at a dinner hosted by Prof. & Mrs. Moghalu in honor of Dr. Okonjo-Iweala in Washington DC, recently

LAUNCH OF THE ACCESS BANK UK, HONG KONG BRANCH...

L-R: Managing Director and Chief Executive, The Access Bank UK Limited, Hong Kong Branch, Ernest Law; Managing Director/Chief Executive Director, Access Bank Plc, Roosevelt Ogbonna; and Managing Director/CEO, Access Bank UK Limited, Jamie Simmonds, at the launch of The Access Bank UK, Hong Kong Branch in Hong Kong ... recently

Tinubu, Buhari, Sanwo-Olu, Abiodun, Others Celebrate Tunde Bakare

Deji Elumoye, Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja and Segun James in Lagos

President Bola Tinubu has described the founder of Citadel Global Community Church, Pastor Tunde Bakare, as a man of God whose contributions to nation-building cannot be quantified.

Tinubu stated this yesterday at the 70th birthday Thanksgiving Service held at The Citadel Global Community Church (CGCC), Kudirat Abiola Way, Oregun, Lagos.

The President, represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, said the celebrator had over the years worked towards

the unity and progress of Nigeria and Nigerians at all times.

According to the President, Bakare is an embodiment of integrity and a symbol of hope to the hopeless, who has dedicated his life to serving God and humanity.

Tinubu acknowledged the hardship Nigerians are facing but assured that the government was addressing the problems, as drastic action was needed to solve complex matters.

In his remarks, Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun emphasised that the man of God was one of the distinguished ambassadors of the state who have contributed to national development.

"Pastor Bakare is an accomplished man. He stands as a trailblazer in Nigeria. He is among the distinguished ambassadors of Ogun State. His influence is beyond Nigeria," he said.

Bakare, the governor noted, is a voice of truth to engender change, maintaining that the celebrant has also spoken of his desire to see a prosperous Nigeria.

Also speaking, Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide SanwoOlu stated that Pastor Bakare has constantly been on the side of the truth, adding that he is a child of God and a special vessel being used by God at this time.

In a sermon, Sarah Omakwu

of the Family Worship Centre noted that Bakare has dedicated his life to the service of God since childhood and has served in various capacities in churches in and outside the country.

Bakare, according to Omakwu, is a giver, a lover of widows and orphans, and a mentor whose teachings and life have impacted generations.

While urging the celebrator to activate his succession plan to ensure the continuity of his legacies, Omakwu called on Nigerians to always involve their children in whatever business they do for sustainability.

The celebrant, in his remarks,

Comptroller: Customs Area 2 Generates N550.4bn in 10 Months

Seizes 22 containers laden with illicit drugs, donkey skin

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has revealed that within the space of about 10 months, its Area 2 Command, Onne, in Rivers State, has generated over N550.4billion revenue.

The Command’s Area Controller, Comptroller Mohammed Babandede, disclosed this on Monday, while briefing journalists on the recent achievements of the Command, with the display of seized illegal goods.

Displaying the illicit drugs and other goods at the Onne Port, Babandede explained that the command has so far achieved 89 percent of its annual target of N618billion given to the command.

It would be recalled that about two months ago, the Controller General of Customs Bashir Adeniyi, while showcasing series of significant seizures made by officers of the Area 2 Command, declared a three-month state of emergency in Onne Port.

During the period, Adeniyi granted the authority of the Command to scrutinise all suspected containers, regardless of presence of their owners, noting that the approach will ensure that no illegal substances can evade detection.

Adhering to the directive of the CGC, Babandede said the command achieved a significant feat by arresting

new twenty 40-feet and two 20-feet containers laden with illicit drugs and donkey skin.

He said: "In line with the Controller General of Customs Policy thrust of consolidation and collaboration, the Command working with Sister Agencies such as NDLEA, DSS, Quarantine and NAFDAC among others in implementing the State of emergency, has made yet another significant seizure of twenty 40feet and one 20feet containers laden with illicit drugs, which pose a severe threat to public health and safety. Then we have one 20feet container laden with donkey skin."

He disclosed the illicit goods to include: "2,624,053 bottles of 100ml Cough Syrup Codeine; 7,530,000 tablets of 50mg Really Extra Diclofenac; 3,500,000 tablets of 5mg Trodol Benzhexol; 27,048,900 tablets of 225mg Royal Tapentadol/ Tramadol/Tamolx; 7,665,000 tablets of 200ml fake/counterfeit Gonorrhea Antibiotics without NAFDAC number and 15,600,000 tablets of fake 4mg chlorphenamine.

Others are 33,840,00 tablets of 2mg fake Lemotil Loperamine; 19,430 pieces of Chilly cutter used for concealment; 20,238 pieces of Sanitary Fittings Tap/toilet seat used for concealment; 26,400 tubes of 30mg fake Permethrin cream and 480,000 tablets of fake Stapsiril.

Also showcased are seized 112,500 tablets of fake multi mineral supplement, 28 drums of diphenhydramine Hydrochloride ip of 25kg each, 3,388 pieces of waste connector used for concealment and 2,100 pieces of donkey skin.

Babandede said the duty paid value of the twenty-one containers totals N46,399,119,810, while the duty paid value for the donkey skin is N441,000,000, adding that the seizures underscore agency's commitment to combatting illicit medicine and ensuring the safety of the public.

His words: "The implementation of this state of emergency by the CGC has proven effective in enhancing our operational capabilities and ensuring that we can act decisively against those who seek to undermine our nation's security.

"Still on Anti-smuggling activities, the Command under my stewardship this year, including these seizures on display has now made a total seizure of 63 containers. comprising of; 844 Riffles, 112,500 pieces of live ammunition, Over 6,469,253 bottles of 100ml syrup with codeine and over 56,878,900 tablets of 22 5mg Royal Tapentadol /Tramadol/Tamolx

"Among others for violations or contraventions of various customs laws and breach of procedures as provided under the revised import prohibition guidelines of the Common

External Tariff 2022-2026, as well as Sections 233, 234, 235. 245, 246 of Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023. The Duty Paid Value of the seizures made so far is NI130,562,660,407."

Speaking further, Babandede said in the area of Trade facilitation, the Command utilises World Customs Organisation trade facilitation tool to generate maximum revenue.

He further revealed: "In the Command a total of 2,436,408.33 Metric tonnes of goods with a free on board (FOB) value of $826,613,015.87 was processed through the Command.

"Still within the past months of this year, In the Area of revenue the Command as at this morning has generated a total revenue of N550,431,559,598.41 which translate to 89% of the annual target of 618 billion given to the Command."

Babandede however commended the media for the critical role it played, especially in the area of sensitisation and public enlightenment, and lauded sister agencies for their collaboration in achieving the feat.

Comptroller Babandede who handed the seized illegal goods to the various agencies for further investigation and appropriate handling, revealed that two persons were arrested in connection with the current seizure and are undergoing investigation.

attributed his success in life to the sound tutelage he received from eminent personalities early in life, both in academics and in the ministry.

Bakare noted that Nigeria was yet to reach the promised land as there is a lot to be done, admonishing Nigerians to show concern for the country by thinking of what they could do to make the nation great.

Eminent personalities at the event included former governors, past and serving members of the state and national assemblies, traditional rulers, captains of industry, religious leaders, friends, and well-wishers.

A highlight of the event was the launching of a book titled "The Last. Definitely Not The Least," an autobiography of the preacher.

Also, former President Muhammadu Buhari has joined family, friends, and the nation to celebrate his Vice Presidential running mate in the unsuccessful

at 70

presidential election in 2011, Bakare as he marked the milestone of 70 years.

In a congratulatory message on the occasion to the Overseer of Citadel Global Community Church (CGCC), the ex-president described Bakare as a gadfly and a valuable asset to the nation. He further described Bakare as a living legend who left a lucrative law practice to work as a pastor, a towering figure in nation building, and an embodiment of intellect, integrity, and courage.

“He is a man deeply committed to democratic values and principles of social justice, a man who is totally unafraid to speak up against injustice anywhere.

“I pray that God will give him the opportunity and the long life to see his vision of Nigeria where the poor and the marginalized are unfettered,” the former president further said.

Linus Aleke in Abuja

The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, yesterday, said the pardoned minors were not EndBadGovernance protesters as reported in some sections of local and international media outlets.

Egbetokun made this clarification while fielding questions from newsmen during IG’s workshop with Heads of Police Investigative Units in Abuja.

Noting that child-friendly policing is essential to modern law enforcement practices, Egbetokun stated that every interaction with a child, whether as a victim, witness, or even an offender, must be carried out with sensitivity and professionalism.

According to him, "There were 76 of them that were taken to court. I think about four or five of them were found to be minors. I don't know the exact number. Some of them were found to be minors.

"I don't want to make any categorical statement on this issue again, after the intervention of Mr. President. I just want to thank Mr. President for his fatherly intervention to give those children pardon. But I want to use this opportunity to correct an impression.

"The impression that those minors

were arrested for participating in the EndBadGovernance protest. That is a wrong narrative. It is not true.

"The police did not arrest anybody who participated in the EndBadGovernance protest. We arrested criminals, who took advantage of the protest to cause destruction to public infrastructure, to destroy private businesses, to commit a sin. Those ones cannot be regarded as protesters.

"The police did not arrest any protester. Police gave escort to protesters. We protected the protesters. But we arrested the criminals. So it's a wrong narrative.

“It is mischievous for anybody to push that narrative out that those 76 suspects that were arraigned in court were people, who participated in the EndBadGovernance protest.

"We have said time and time that to protest is a right of citizens. But the constitution that gives you the right to protest also gives you the right to respect the rights of others. So, we don't go against people who come out to protest.

"We even protect them. But those who come out to commit crime are the ones who have confrontation with us. So, please, help us correct this impression."

ACCESS ARM PENSIONS FORUM...

L-R: Head, Strategic Business Unit Abuja, Access ARM Pensions, Tunji Olabode; May Onaga of Benefits Department, National Pension Commission(Pencom); Ayo-Majaro Ayodeji of Benefits Administration Department, Access ARM Pensions ; Head, Customer Management, Access ARM Pensions, Ophelia Alex-Iwuanyanwu, and Olalekan Abidemi Isikalu of Contribution and Bond Redemption Department, Pencom, during the Access ARM Pensions forum for pension desk officers in Abuja… yesterday

Tertiary Education: ASUU Says Backlog of Unspent Funds Should be Utilised

As TETFund records N1.5trn education tax collection for 2024

Kuni Tyessi in Abuja

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has called for the utilisation of the backlog of unspent funds allocated to tertiary education.

ASUU warned that the continued stagnation of the resources could hinder the growth and development of the sector.

That revelations emerged on Monday in Abuja as TETFund engaged stakeholders in a one-day

That was as the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) announced a record-breaking N1.5 trillion education tax collection for 2024. It attributed the increase to the upward review in education tax, from 2.5 per cent to three per cent.

Kogi CJ: Legislature, Judiciary Harmony Key to Justice Delivery, Good Governance

Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja

There must always be a conscious progressive relationship amongst the three arms of government, particularly the legislature and judiciary, for sustenance of good governance.

The Chief Judge of Kogi State, Justice Josiah Majebi, has disclosed that it is gainful for the legislative and judicial arms of government to work hand-in-hand for effective administration of justice in the state and promotion of good governance.

Justice Majebi made this call at the headquarters of the state Judiciary in Lokoja when he received the state's House of Assembly Committee on Judiciary, Justice and Legal Matters in his office.

The committee was led by its Chairman, Halidu Adejoh, who had his other members with him except the Vice Chairman, the Speaker of the House, who was unavoidably absent.

He recalled that the judiciary had enjoyed the committee's collaboration over the years with impactful effect on justice administration in the state, noting that previous committee members didn't fail in delivering through oversights and enactment of laws that have benefited the state.

According to Halidu Adejoh, "The collaborative relationship between the Judiciary and the House of Assembly, particularly the Committee on Judiciary, has grown from strength to strength.

"Both the committee and, by extension, the State House of Assembly have consistently upheld the status of the High Court and have, therefore, accorded High Court, by implication the Judiciary, the respect it deserves as a fundamental arm of government."

While thanking the committee for the visit and raising Judiciary's hope for better days ahead, the CJ said it's on record that the two arms had always been in harmony and assured that the Judiciary will always respect and honour the integrity of the legislative.

He added that the visit was indicative of legislative interest in building an enviable judiciary for the state which would be adequately complemented by the judges in the judiciary whose integrities are not in doubt.

According to the CJ, "We have honest, dedicated and trusted judges whose integrities are not in doubt in the whole country. They have been at various Election Petitions Tribunals and I am pleased to inform you that none of us has been found wanting.

"So, as you move to have an enviable judiciary in the state, we will not fail the state. As the National Judicial Council is there watching the credibility of judges nationwide, we will not fail our arms of government that are interested in producing an enviable judiciary.”

The CJ however called for an urgent attention to judiciary's annual budgetary allocation stating that after payment of salary, the institution lacks the capacity to embark on pressing needs despite the huge responsibilities at its behest.

Though confident of Governor Ahmed Ododo's promises for the Judiciary, he said the state legislatures could also be supportive with the budgetary process.

"One problem we have is that there has been no improvement in our yearly budgetary allocation. What is left after payment of salary can't take care of most of our needs,” he added.

strategic interaction with heads of beneficiary institutions.

Executive Secretary of TETFund, Sonny Echono, said the strategic engagement marked a new chapter for the board, where it aligned efforts with stakeholders to optimise performance and enhance the quality of Nigeria's tertiary education.

Echono stated that with the recent increase in education tax from 2.5 per cent to three per cent, TETFund was poised for even greater impact, improving infrastructure, academic programmes, and accessibility for all students.

He added, "As heads of TETFund beneficiary institutions, you play a pivotal role in actualizing the mandate of the Fund. It is crucial that we engage constructively to set a clear course for the Fund’s direction and operational priorities."

Echono explained, "TETFund’s purpose is to empower our nation’s human capital, addressing the urgent need for capable, skilled professionals across all sectors.

"We urge all stakeholders to actively engage in building these partnerships. Let us explore innovative ways to connect our institutions with industry leaders, fostering a symbiotic relationship that benefits both our students and the economy."

President of ASUU, Professor Emmanuel Osodeke, said university

leaders must fight for themselves and not rely on others to negotiate their future.

Osodeke warned that the proposed tax changes to TETFund could drastically affect the funding of Nigerian universities. He emphasised the need to ensure these bills did not pass if they truly cared about the education system.

According to him, tax reductions may seem beneficial to industries, but they risk crippling higher education funding.

Osodeke stated, "I want to say that we have a lot of problems. If we don't work hard, we cannot be sitting here in the next six years. Nobody will be here in the next six years."

Osodeke added, "Whether we will be here or not in the next six years will depend on the National Assembly. I am so happy the Senate and the House of Representatives are here. The information available to us as a union is that there are two sets of bills in the National Assembly.

"One from the executive and one from the legislature, all concerning TETFund. TETFund is just there. And the one from the executive arm of government indicates a page. Out of 260 tax reviews, it is just a page in it. And I am very sure the president will not have the details to look at that when he is reading.

"And what is there? That by the

year 2025, they will increase the percentage of tax paid by industries to four per cent. TETFund will receive 50 per cent of it. By 2027, TETFund will be reduced to three per cent, from four per cent.

"It should not be given to a bank to lend out as loans. When I look at this so-called NELFund (Nigerian Education Loan Fund) as a bank, the money will not be given to a bank to lend to students. That bill is there.

"And all of us, if we still care about Nigerian universities, we must make sure that this bill does not pass. But once it goes through, Nigerian universities will stop. So, when you hear our team talking, this is what we are talking about."

He added, "We found that there is a lot of money stuck in the central bank. Over the past 20 years, many universities have not been able to utilise it. Let’s talk to ourselves.

"You cannot utilise it. In 2021, when we negotiated with the government, towards the end, this money, in the assessment, seems as if we don't have the capacity to use it. So, what am I saying? This means it is building up. If it comes up and we are invited, we will support it.

"But if you have an investment with this backlog – something you cannot use, you should not have access to the next one. Because we will learn how to use it when people fall for it.

So that bill is also there, and it will make it impossible for you to use it. You can't account for the past. You cannot use it."

On his part, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of TETFund, Hon. Aminu Bello Masari, called for the removal of politics from the education sector if the nation's tertiary institutions were to experience any real development. Masari urged universities to start devising means of creating their own funds rather than depending solely on the government.

He said, "Let me start by commending ASUU for creating this intervention agency 21 years ago. And the fund has kept faith with the low establishment rate in our higher institutions.

"That’s why we have some of the best institutions in the country. After 21 years, some institutions, with no apologies, and some people outside, see that the fund is not just an intervention agency, but an agency that must shield its own responsibilities in education, which I believe is right.

"I think it is high time we start to think, especially you, about how to fund education in a sustainable way. We see intervention.

“Believe me, after two or three months, I, as chairman, receive requests from institutions, especially those that know me or know someone who knows me."

African Alliance Asks Court to Declare Board Dissolution Unlawful, Unreasonable

Wale Igbintade

African Alliance Insurance Plc has asked the Federal High Court in Lagos to nullify the dissolution of its board by the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM).

The firm, in a suit numbered FHC/L/CS/ 2008/2024, is praying for a declaration that the purported board dissolution and removal of its Chief Executive Officer and executive directors on October 29, 2024 is unlawful, null and void.

Defendants are the interim management board appointed by NAICOM, namely Dr. Haruna Mustafa, Jacob Erhabor, Wasiu Amao, Oremeyi Longe, Anthony Achebe and Halimatu Khabee, as well as NAICOM Director of Legal, Enforcement & Market Development, Dr. Talmiz Usman and Minister of

Finance.

The plaintiff is praying the court to determine whether NAICOM complied with the provisions of the National Insurance Corporation Act and the Insurance Act and the Prudential Guidelines for Insurers and Reinsurers in Nigeria 2015 in the purported board dissolution and removal of African Alliance CEO and executive directors and the appointment of the interim management board.

The plaintiff, through its counsel Tayo Oyetibo (SAN), also asked the court to determine whether NAICOM acted in bad faith and unreasonably in exercising its powers under the laws.

The plaintiff is praying the court to hold that the act of NAICOM in seeking the approval of the Minister of Finance to take over the management of African Alliance while its application

for consent to sell its assets in Pension Alliance Limited (PAL) was pending with the commission is unreasonable, in bad faith and unlawful.

African Alliance urged the court to nullify the dissolution of its board and the appointment of an interim management board as contained in NAICOM’s letter dated October 29 2024 and signed by Talmiz Usman for being unlawful, null and void.

The plaintiff prayed for an injunction restraining the defendants, especially the first to sixth defendants, whether by themselves, their representatives, privies or agents from dealing with or selling/disposing of any assets of African Alliance.

In a supporting affidavit to the originating summons, African Alliance stated that NAICOM frustrated its efforts to raise funds and acted in bad faith in the dissolution of its management and board. It stated that Pensions Alliance Limited (PAL) is a company that was incorporated in 2005 with two shareholders – African Alliance (49 per cent shareholding) and FSDH Holding (51 per cent).

The plaintiff said for reasons well known to NAICOM, PAL failed to hold its Annual General Meeting (AGM) that would have allowed it to consider and declare dividends to the shareholders, which would have formed part of the operational funds of African Alliance as the investment in PAL was made in the interest of the company and its shareholders. African Alliance stated that it submitted a Business Turnaround Plan (BTP) to NAICOM outlining its short-term, medium-term, and long-term plan to address the issues raised by the commission.

Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com

New Dawn as Okpebholo Takes Office as Edo Gov

Today, November 12, 2024 marks the end of the eight-year tenure of Mr. Godwin Obaseki as Governor of Edo State and the beginning of the era of his successor, Senator Monday Okpebholo. Adibe Emenyonu in this report, highlights some of the activities and controversies that preceded the change of baton.

William Shakespeare in his work, ‘As You Like It’, said “All the world’s a stage, all the men and women are merely players; they have their exits and their entrance.”

Eight years ago, Godwin Obaseki was sworn- in as the Fifth Governor of Edo state when Adams Oshiomohle, now Senator handed over the reins of governance to him. Being the Economic Team Chairman of Oshiomohle government from 2008 to 2016, he did not find it too difficult as his kernel was already cracked by the benevolent Oshiomohle.

But it was not long after assuming office that he began to have problems with party leaders over his style of governance occasioned with his tight fist nature and uncompromising attitude. Nevertheless, the man branded ‘Ematon’ Benin word for strong, trudged on and secured re-election after abandoning the All Progressives Congress (APC) on whose platform he assumed governance to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), where he was able to secure a second term ticket that made it possible for him to govern for eight years.

In PDP, the same hard-line posture of Obaseki reared it’s head and many of the party leaders left him to form an alliance with the opposition party, the APC which eventually won the governorship election at the expense of the candidate the outgoing governor supported, Dr. Asue Igholdalo.

Throughout the crisis period, Obaseki nonetheless made very remarkable achievements in the area of physical infrastructure, workers welfare but less of road construction and repairs. He was able to attract many industries into Edo State which includes two modular refineries namely; AIPCC Energy Limited, owners of Edo Refinery; Dupot Refinery; as well as agricultural firms to mention but a few.

This is in addition to a private power generation company, OSSIOMO Power which made Edo the first state to generate electricity outside the national power grid which has been subjected to frequent collapse.

He also grew the state IRS scaling the IGR by 370% in eight years to a figure of more than N4 billion monthly and an average of N62 billion annually.

His other achievements include the remodeling of the Government secretariat to a conducive atmosphere in order to optimise workers productivity, the building of a modern Civil Service Academy named after former governor of the state, Chief John Odigie Oyegun otherwise known as JOOPSA.

However, with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (As Amended), which stipulates a maximum of two terms of four years, there must be a terminal date. That tenure is coming to an end on November 12, 2024 to pave way for a new sheriff at the mantle of leadership.

Obaseki last Friday, held a valedictory session at the Government House, Benin city when he dissolved his cabinet made up of Commissioners and Special Advisers.

At the valedictory session, the governor commended members of the State Executive Council for helping him in his vision of making Edo great again, delivering on all promises made to the people.

He also commended the people of the state for supporting, praying and collaborating with his administration, which led to the successes and achievements recorded by the government across various sectors of the state over the last eight years.

Members of Obaseki’s cabinet, took turns to eulogise the governor, acknowledged his many achievements in area of education, economy, agriculture, power, infrastructure, among others.

The outgoing Commissioners and Heads of Ministries Departments and Agencies,

(MDAs), also took turns to present awards and gifts to honour the governor for his sterling leadership in the last few years.

The valedictory session for the outgoing state executive council climaxed with a dinner in honour of the State Governor.

The session was marked by heartfelt speeches, standing ovations, and commendations from council members, all reflecting on the government’s achievements and journey of public service over the last eight years, which has translated to improved livelihoods for the people, placing the state on the path of economic prosperity and progress.

Controversy

Also at the valedictory session, Obaseki registered his frustration of not being carried along by the incoming governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, who he insisted is coming on a stolen mandate of shutting him out in the inauguration plan for the handover.

According to Obaseki, “They stole the mandate, but we have laws. Somebody has to be sworn-in into

a government that is already existing. You don’t just come from nowhere and start government. There is a way things are done. Isn’t it?

“Government of Edo State is inaugurating a new governor on Tuesday but what you are seeing now, all the posters, the Government of Edo State is not involved. It’s crazy when people behave the way they are doing as if there are no laws in the country. I just sit down sometimes and I am wondering, are we okay as a country? We are guided by the Constitution. We are guided by laws, precedence and procedures.

“They are doing inauguration and I as a governor does not know. I have not even been invited. So, it is as if they are starting a brand new state,” Obaseki said in fury over the plans for the inauguration of Okpebholo, just as he alleged that the incoming governor has borrowed N5 billion for his inauguration.

Reacting to Obaseki’s allegation, a member of the APC Transition Committee member, Prince Kassim Afegbua in a statement tagged: “Obaseki and His Lamentations”, denied the borrowing of N5 billion by Okpebholo for his inauguration.

He said, “Suddenly, Godwin Obaseki, realizes the ephemerality of power and now resorts to lamentations about an ongoing inauguration without extending an invita-

TheTransition committee also asked the new administration to carry out a complete review of all Memoranda of Understandings (MOUs) on the management of the Central Hospital and Stella Obasanjo hospital in Benin city by the outgoing government. The 25-member committee headed by former deputy governor, Dr. Pius Odubu, further recommended that all the local and foreign debts incurred under Obaseki must be accounted for, pointing out that even the procurement agency in its report to the transition committee, indicted the government.

tion to him. We found this to be generously laughable and self indicting.”

According to Afegbua, in other climes, an outgoing governor or president organises the inauguration of the incoming, adding that because of the painful loss of the PDP at the election, Obaseki and his co-travellers are doing everything possible to frustrate the inauguration of the incoming governor. He said rather than sit down to plan the inauguration event as it is done in other places, Obaseki is busy planting landmines on the path to smooth transfer of power, noting that from the transition committee to the inauguration committee, despite all the cooperation extended to Obaseki team, “what we have received in return is frustration and deliberate plot to overburden the new administration with all manner of misplaced government decisions.

“We totally frown at these dubious plots which are clear negations of the standard procedures of power transfer the world over”, Afegbua stated.

He, however, said “Our inauguration team met with the SSG, who later handed our team over to another Permanent Secretary. The said Permanent Secretary had nothing on her table. She asked that our team should present an inauguration budget, and we declined because we wouldn’t want them to accuse us of spending bogus funds for inauguration. When we reported to the governor-elect, he opted out of such an arrangement and took over the responsibility of funding the inauguration from his own personal resources. He has also cut down on the activities to make the entire ceremony a bit moderate. He doesn’t believe in an ostentatious display of resources when a lot of Edo people have been impoverished by Governor Obaseki. He’s of the view that inauguration shouldn’t be an elaborate event.”

Debunking the issue of borrowing N5 billion Afegbua disclosed that no kobo was borrowed anywhere, saying that the governor-elect is not like the outgoing and his self profligate because Okpebholo is conscious of his responsibilities to make life better for the average Edo person.

Novelty Football Match

The inauguration plan was followed by a novelty cum victory football match on Sunday, played in honour of Okpebholo by some selected celebrities. Among the celebrities on the field of play were ex-Super Eagles and Bendel Insurance of Benin stars comprising Mutiu Adepoju, Augustine Eguavoen(Super Eagles gaffer), Bright Omokaro(10/10), Samson Ozogula(Zion Train), Felix Owolabi, Baldwin Bazuaye, Peter Obanor, Tony Emedofu and Ambrose Vanzekin, among others.

The match, which was played at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin, kicked off by 4:00pm with the governor elect, Senator Monday Okpebholo and his deputy, Dennis Idahosa in attendance as they played host to a horde of political heavyweights from across the country.

According to the spokesman for the organisers and former Edo State Football Association Chairman, Hon.Frank Ilaboya, the two opposing teams that evening was Akpakomiza and friends slugging it out with ex-international soccer stars.

Transition Committee

Furthermore, the APC Transition Committee, had on Monday called for probe into the finances of the state by the incoming administration, adding that the outgoing administration led by Mr. Godwin Obaseki didn’t provide neither published nor unpublished audited financial statements of the state.

Okpebholo

LAWYER

The Nigerian Judiciary and Electoral Technology

INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu

Chief Justice of Nigeria, Honourable Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, GCON

LAWYER

The Nigerian Judiciary and Electoral Technology

Quotables

‘You drive a grand economy through manufacturing and production, not through VAT. You don’t overtax people, and expect that this is the way to drive an economy.’ - Abdullahi

A. Sule, Governor of Nasarawa State

When Eyewitness’ Evidence of Identification Can Sustain Accused Person’s Conviction

Page IV

‘You can never have independence of the Judiciary, without financial autonomy.’ - Dr Muiz Banire, SAN

Lagos High Court Loses Judge

Page V

The Remaking of Trump

We’re Going to Make America Great Again! I had hoped that I wouldn’t have to write something like this again, I mean similar to the piece I wrote in November 2016, “We’re Going to Make America Great Again”, when Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton lost the election to Donald Trump. Alas! I was wrong. History has repeated itself, as Vice President Kamala Harris also lost the 2024 US Presidential election to Donald J. Trump, the 45th and incoming 47th President of the United States of America. I also never thought I would have anything in common, with President-Elect Donald Trump. Again, I was wrong. One thing I think I agree with him on, are his views on the issue of prayers, which most of us were brought up with from Primary School Assembly, being banned in schools; yet, instead, children are taught nonsense about gender from a tender age in their schools, even though they are too young to understand the issues, let alone make informed decisions. How can children who are not legally permitted to drive a vehicle or consume alcohol until they are 16, be able to decide whether they want to change their sex, and may even start to be given puberty blockers as early as the age of 8? It doesn’t sound right. The right to make such life changing decisions, if at all, should be left for those who have the capacity to understand the implications of same, definitely not via the indoctrination of children.

The introduction of all sorts new concepts like multiple genders; men who wake up and declare themselves to be female, and ask us to proclaim and accept them as such, when the naked eye and logic tell us they are men; men, created physically stronger than women, now permitted to compete against women in sports to the detriment of women, because they have declared themselves to be females (call it by what it truly is - unfair advantage - given to men who are too weak to compete against their fellow men); and, the general attempt at the desecration, dissipation or redefinition of womanhood. Tah! President Trump’s views on the aforementioned gender issue, appear to be correct - at least in a video of him I saw, in which he aired his views.

The Religious/Moral Point of View

Some people considered the American Presidential election from the religious point of view, and argued that, as unsuitable to be a President as Trump may be, the fact that he is firm and adamant in upholding God’s creation of the male and female genders (see Holy Bible Genesis 1:27; 2:21-23; Holy Quran 15:26; 32:7-8; 7:189) and is opposed to the man-made creation of multiple genders etc, it is for this purpose that God gave him victory in the recently concluded election! Others had imagined that the US Supreme Court overturning the decision in Roe v Wade 410 U.S. 113 (1973) per Justice Samuel Alito for the majority, could mar Trump’s chances in the election, as the decision declared that the US Constitution doesn’t confer a right to abortion thereby affecting the right of women to choose, and possibly making Trump unpopular with the ladies, at least, those within the childbearing age, seeing as Alito and three other Supreme Court Justices who supported the decision are Trump nominees. However, it didn’t affect Trump’s popularity, obviously not enough to make him lose the election. Those who are not quite as religious, put Trump’s victory down to his immigration and economic policies, which obviously resonated well with the majority that voted for him, while Harris may have suffered some backlash on account of her Principal, President Biden, along with gender discrimination and racism. Although, Trump was also able to garner more votes among Black and Latino men, as well as the younger voters and the working class. For example, Pennsylvania, one of the Swing/Battleground States which has the highest number of Electoral College votes - 19, has a vast number of White working class voters - they are said to make up about half of Pennsylvania’s eligible voting population. Another Swing State, Michigan, even though its population is more diverse, also has a large working class population, which also includes many Whites too.

American Presidential Voting System

However, the American Presidential election has two levels - the popular vote, and the indirect election of the President through the Electoral College. The system of the Electoral College

onIkePo BraIThwaITe

onikepo.braithwaite@thisdaylive. com onikepob@yahoo.com

“…America is still not yet ready for a female President, particularly five out of the seven Swing States…. almost 250 years after America’s Declaration of Independence in 1776,…. In 2016, their Electors voted for Trump (over Clinton); but, in 2020, they voted for Biden (over Trump); and in 2024, they again voted for Trump (over Harris)….or what other reason do they have to completely swing and change sides, when the sex of Trump’s opponents changed?”

has been criticised for a number of reasons, including the fact that the Electoral College isn’t the popular vote that directly elects the American President, contrary to the norms of democracy, but a small group of Electors.

In the popular vote, all eligible voters cast their ballot for the Presidential Candidate of their choice, and the Electors. Before the election, the States already have their slates of Electors to the Electoral College, who are expected to vote according to the result of the popular votes in their States (though no law provides that Electors must vote like that). The Party whose Candidate wins the popular election in a State, usually determines the slate of Electors from that State in about 48 States, with a few exceptions. So, for example, the slate of Electors from Pennsylvania are Republican, since Trump won the popular votes there. Electoral College votes are allocated to each State based on the Census, and the number of votes per State are valid for two Presidential election cycles (for instance, the 2020 Census is valid for the 2024 and 2028 elections).

The Electoral College consists of a total of 538 Electors, and once a Candidate secures 270 electoral votes at the Electoral College, the Candidate is declared the winner of the election. The Candidate who wins the popular vote, on some occasions hasn’t won at the Electoral College, like in the case of Senator Hillary Clinton. In effect, it is the Electors, and not the popular votes, who directly elect the President and Vice President.

Discrimination and Racism America’s population is about 345 million plus people; 76% are White, and about 50.5% of the population are women, again, of which about 75% of the women are White. And, from these demographics, one sees that the Whites are in the majority in USA (as Blacks and other races together form 24% - minority). It has been argued that many White American female voters choose colour over gender, and that a good number of them may have been less than truthful in the polls, claiming that they would vote for VP Harris when they had absolutely no intention of doing so. One cannot deny that, racism also played a role in Trump’s emergence.

In 2024, President Trump got about 73.5 million popular votes and 295 electoral votes, while VP Harris got about 69.1 million popular votes and 226 electoral votes. In 2016, President Trump got 62.9 million popular votes and 306 electoral votes, to Senator Clinton’s 65.8 million popular votes and 232 electoral votes.

My opinion may seem simplistic, but, in 2020, when Donald Trump was set against a White Male Candidate like himself, President Joe Biden, Americans were able to make informed decisions, seemingly based on indices that are important in determining the suitability of a candidate - manifesto, track record, personal morals, etc, as opposed to pedestrian reasons; but, when it came to running against women, it didn’t matter about their superiority in intellect to Trump, their manifestos, personal morals and ethics etc. President Biden beat Trump in both the popular and

electoral votes - 81.2 million/306 electoral votes, to Trump’s 71.4 million/ 232 electoral votes. The bottom line is that, America is still not yet ready for a female President, particularly five out of the seven Swing States - Michigan, Wisconsin Arizona, Georgia and Pennsylvania. In 2016, their Electors voted for Trump (over Clinton); but, in 2020, they voted for Biden (over Trump); and in 2024, they again voted for Trump (over Harris). This appears to point to a pattern of gender discrimination. If the Democrats had replaced President Biden with a strong White Male Presidential Candidate, would Trump have won the election? Trump also made an issue of VP Harris’ Jamaican/ Indian racial identity. We can see that the Electors in these five swing States, appear to have their own stereotypes about the role of women in politics or society, or what other reason do they have to completely swing and change sides, when the sex of Trump’s opponents changed? Isn’t it bizarre that almost 250 years after America’s Declaration of Independence in 1776, a country that is considered to be the beacon of democracy, enlightenment and advancement, has never had a female President, while just 41 years post-independence, Benazir Bhutto became the 11th Prime Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan (1988), a Muslim majority country, that is also traditional and conservative; Indira Ghandi was Prime Minister of India from 1966-1977 and from 1980 until her assassination in 1984; Margaret Thatcher, Theresa May and Liz Truss have all been British Prime Ministers. Back home in Africa, Liberia and Malawi have had female Presidents, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf (2006-2018) and Joyce Banda (2012-2014) respectively, while, Her Excellency, Samia Suluhu Hassan is the current President of Tanzania.

14th Amendment to the US Constitution & Section 42 of the Nigerian Constitution It appears that to a very large extent, the 14th Amendment to the US Constitution which provides that all people born or naturalised in the US are citizens and have the right to equal protection under the law, and Titles VII & IX of the Civil Rights Act 1964, which prohibit discrimination inter alia on the basis of sex and race, may be almost as decorative as the Preamble to the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended in 2023)(the Constitution) and Section 42 thereof, which provide for equality, equity and fairness for all Nigerians, and freedom from discrimination. Just as there is racism in USA, we have tribalism in Nigeria - two sides of the same coin, while both countries have gender discrimination in common. See Lafia Local Government v Nasarawa State Government & Ors (2012) LPELR-20602(SC) per Olabode Rhodes-Vivour, JSC; Mojekwu v Iwuchukwu (2004) LPELR-1903(SC) per Ignatius Chukwudi Pats-Acholonu, JSC. Discrimination in politics, denies society of having the brightest and the best in governance. Racism and Tribalism often cause violence, division and strife between different ethnic groups, particularly during elections, while what is required is inclusiveness, in order to foster unity for the greater good of the society. Nigerian politicians have mastered the art of using tribal sentiments as a tool to garner voter support, while gender discrimination against women and their patronisation by men is rife. In Nigeria, instead of increasing in number, women in elective positions reduce after every election cycle. The question is, how to make these aforementioned constitutional and statutory provisions against discrimination a reality, and entrench them in society.

Conclusion

Unlike Trump himself after he lost the Presidential election in November 2020/ the violent incident on Capitol Hill on January 6, 2021, and Nigerian politicians who would be preparing their election petitions by now, VP Kamala Harris conceded to him and accepted her defeat graciously, just like Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton had done in 2016. Nigerian Politicians should take a leaf from the book of these trail blazing women. Finally, the large number of popular votes for VP Harris clearly shows that, almost as many in number as those who voted for President Trump, do not believe that he can make America great again. Let’s wait and see. Luckily for America, they have fairly strong institutions, which another four years of President Trump cannot destroy. onikepo braithwaite

US President-elect donald J. Trump

American Demographics, Gender

When Eyewitness’ Evidence of Identification Can Sustain Accused Person’s Conviction

Facts

The Appellant was arraigned before the High Court of Ogun State on a two count charge of conspiracy to commit armed robbery and armed robbery, contrary to Sections 6(b) and 1(2)(a) of the Robbery and Firearms (Special Provisions) Act, Cap R.II Laws of Federation of Nigeria. The case of the Respondent was that the Appellant and some other persons had accosted one Oke Olukehinde Smith - PW1 and his wife, while PW1 was driving along llogbo Road, Ota, Ogun State in the evening of 2nd November, 2021. During trial, the prosecution tendered the confessional statements of the Appellant as Exhibits A-A5 and B-B1. PW1 testified that the Appellant’s accomplice, who was holding him and his wife at gunpoint at the backseat of the car while the Appellant was driving at a high speed after taking over the wheel of the car, was subsequently killed by an accidental discharge from the gun in his hand after the car entered a deep ditch. PW1 also testified that the Appellant himself sustained an injury when he hit his head on the windscreen after he took over the wheels of the car, and had subsequently fled the scene, before he was later arrested at his house, where the phones of PW1 and his wife were recovered.

The Appellant denied committing the offences and retracted the confessional statements, claiming that he did not make them, but had been forced to sign them under torture. After the conclusion of trial and final address, the trial court delivered its judgement, wherein it found the Appellant guilty as charged and sentenced him to death by hanging. Dissatisfied, the Appellant appealed to the Court of Appeal; however, his appeal was unsuccessful. Consequently, he filed a further appeal at the Supreme Court.

Issue for Determination

The Supreme Court rephrased issue 3 distilled by the Appellant and issue 1 distilled by the Respondent, into the following sole issue for the overall determination of the appeal:

Whether, having regard to the totality of the evidence adduced at the trial, the lower court was right in affirming the decision of the trial court.

Arguments

Counsel for the Appellant argued that, the trial court should not have relied on the Appellant’s retracted confessional statements in Exhibits A-A5 and B-B1 to convict the Appellant. He contended that there were inconsistencies in PW1’s testimony in his extrajudicial statement and his testimony in court, on the number of persons who robbed him, the identity of the persons alleged to have participated in the robbery with the Appellant, the death of one of the robbers during the robbery, the circumstances leading to his death, and the facts surrounding the identification and arrest of the Appellant. He submitted that the contradictions were material, and the trial court should not have convicted the Appellant without resolving the contradictions. Citing STATE v IDAPU & ORS (1992) NWLR (PT. 256) 28, Counsel argued that the contradictions created doubt in the case of the prosecution, which ought to have been resolved in favour of the Appellant.

Counsel for the Appellant also contended that the Respondent ought to have tendered the weapons allegedly recovered from the scene of the crime, the vehicle, the phones allegedly recovered from the house of the Appellant, to resolve the contradictions in the evidence before the trial court and clear the doubt as to the guilt of the Appellant. He argued that the failure of the Respondent to tender the said items, raised the presumption of withholding evidence against the Respondent.

Conversely, Counsel for the Respondent submitted that there was no contradiction in the Respondent’s case, because Exhibits A-A5 and B-B1 (the retracted confessional statements of the Appellant) were consistent with and corroborative of the evidence of PW1. Counsel also argued that there is no principle of law requiring the tendering of weapons used or the object of robbery, to establish the guilt of an accused person. He cited the cases of AMEH v STATE (2018) LPELR – 44463 (SC) and MUSA v STATE (2016) LPELR – 42803 (SC). He submitted that Appellant failed in his duty to show the alleged contradictions, and reveal how the reliance on the purported contradictory evidence

In the Supreme Court of Nigeria Holden at abuja On Friday, the 7th day of June, 2024

Before their lordships uwani Musa abba aji Chidebere Nwaoma uwa Stephen Jonah adah abubakar Sadiq umar Mohammed Baba Idris Justices, Supreme Court SC/928C/2019

Between

aZeeZ aMaO aLayaNde aPPeLLaNT

And THe STaTe ReSPONdeNT

(Lead Judgement delivered by Honourable Justice Abubakar Sadiq Umar, JSC)

occasioned a miscarriage of justice.

Counsel also argued that the Appellant’s Counsel failed to cross-examine PW1 on his eyewitness account of how the Appellant and his gang members attacked the PW1 and his wife at gunpoint, thereby leaving the evidence unchallenged and amounting to an admission of the damaging evidence by the Appellant.

Court’s Judgement and Rationale

In its resolution of the issue, the Apex Court held that in proving the guilt of the accused person, the prosecution can rely on one, or all, or a combination of any of the following categories of evidence: (1) Confessional Statement of the accused person, (2) Eyewitness account and (3) Circumstantial evidence.

The Court held that where an accused person is charged with conspiracy to commit a substantive offence together with the

“The evidence of an eyewitness that is cogent, consistent and is not riddled with contradictions on material points, is sufficient to sustain the conviction of an accused person"

consistent and logical, and established the first two elements of the offence of armed robbery; especially as there was no adverse evidence that the incident he narrated did not occur.

On the third element on whether the Appellant was one of the armed robbers, the Apex Court held that, having regard to the fact that the Appellant was not arrested at the scene of the crime, but was subsequently identified by PW1, it is important that in ascribing probative value to the evidence of an eyewitness identification of an accused person, the court must be guided by the following factors: (1) The circumstances in which the eyewitness saw the suspect; (2) The length of time the witness saw the suspect or Defendant; (3) The lighting conditions; (4) The opportunity of close observation; (5) The previous contact between the two parties. The Supreme Court held that with the degree of contact and level of engagement PW1 had with the armed robbers inside the car, PWI was in a vantage position to recognise the armed robbers, one of whom he identified as the Appellant. The Court further held that from PW1’s testimony on record, it was evident that PW1 had earlier described the armed robber that fled the scene of the robbery to one of his visitors, while he was at the hospital after the incident, and the description matched the physique of the Appellant; the bandage on the Appellant’s head also gave him away. The Apex Court held that PW1’s identification of the Appellant as one of the armed robbers was not only corroborated by the bandage on the Appellant’s head, it was also corroborated by the stolen phones found in the Appellant’s possession, without any explanation as to how he came about the stolen phone and how he sustained the head injury. The Court further held that PW1’s identification evidence was also supported by the Appellant’s tacit admission by stopping to argue with the people that went to arrest him and keeping mute when he saw the PW1. The Apex Court held that the evidence of an eyewitness that is cogent, consistent and is not riddled with contradictions on material points, is sufficient to sustain the conviction of an accused person and PW1’s evidence of identification of the Appellant as one of the armed robbers is satisfactory, credible and leaves no room for any reasonable doubt.

On whether the trial court was right to have relied on the Appellant’s confessional statements in Exhibits A-A5 and B-B1 to convict the Appellant despite his retraction of the same at trial and the inconsistency of the statements with the Appellant’s testimony during trial, the Supreme Court held the current position of the law as demonstrated in its decision in EGHOGHONOME v STATE (1993) 7 NWLR (PT. 306) PG 383 is that where an accused person makes a statement which is inconsistent with his testimony, the testimony will be treated as unreliable, and the statement will be regarded as evidence upon which the court can act, while the court will follow the laid down guidelines to determine the weight to be attached to the statement.

commission of the substantive offence, the starting point is the examination of the evidence adduced in proof of the substantive offence, and thereafter, an examination of how conspiracy can be inferred from such evidence once it discloses the involvement of more than one person. Applying this principle, the Supreme Court proceeded to examine the evidence adduced in proof of the charge of armed robbery against the Appellant. Referring to its decision in THOMAS v STATE (2017) LPELR-41735, the Apex Court held that the elements of the offence of armed robbery which the prosecution is required to prove are: (a) That there was a robbery; (b) That the robbers were armed with offensive weapons at the time of the robbery; and (c) That the accused person participated in the robbery. The Apex Court referred to the testimony of PW1 on record, on how three persons waylaid him and his wife and started shooting; how two of them armed with a gun entered his vehicle and collected his phone and that of his wife; how one of the two robbers held them hostage, while the other took over the wheel of the car and was driving on a rough road at a high speed, and thereafter, hit his head on the windscreen; how the Appellant later handed over his gun to his accomplice and ordered his accomplice to kill PW1, how the Appellant’s accomplice got killed by an accidental discharge of bullets from the gun he was holding, and how the Appellant was forced to abandon the steering and flee from the scene. The Court held that the account of events narrated by PW1 who was one of the victims of robbery was vivid, cogent,

The Apex Court held that to determine the weight to be attached to a confessional statement, whether retracted or not, the trial court must first consider if there is anything outside the confession to show that it is true; if it is corroborated; if there are relevant statements made in it of facts, true as far as can be tested; if the accused is one who had the opportunity of committing the offence; if his confession is possible, and if it is consistent with other facts which have been proved.

The Court held in the instant case, apart from the eyewitness account of the PW1 who identified the Appellant as one of the armed robbers who attacked him and his wife, and the Appellants confessional statements in Exhibits A-A5 and B-B1; finding the phones of PW1 and his wife collected during the robbery incident in possession of the Appellant, and the bandage on the head of the Appellant, are other facts that corroborated the content of the confessional statements attributed to the Appellant. His Lordship held that the Appellant’s participation in conjunction with others in the armed robbery attack on PW1 and his wife, was thus, established beyond any iota of doubt, and the Respondent duly proved the offences of conspiracy and armed robbery against the Appellant.

Appeal Dismissed.

Representation

Tairu Adebayo with Abdulhaleem Amin for the Appellant.

O. Tolaoyan, Solicitor General, Ministry of Justice, Ogun State with A. M. Adebayo, Deputy Director for the Respondent.

Reported by Optimum Publishers Limited, Publishers of the Nigerian Monthly Law Reports (NMLR)(An affiliate of Babalakin & Co.)

Honourable Justice Abubakar Sadiq Umar, JSC

Nigeria’s Ezinwa Okoroafor Elected FIDA International President

Last Friday 8th November, 2024, Nigeria occupied international headlines, with the emergence of Mrs Ezinwa Nwanyieze Okoroafor as President of International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA).

The event took place the 38th Triennial Convention of the 80year old Association, which took place in Cali, Colombia.

Ezinwa Okoroafor is a legal practitioner

with over 30 years’ of multifaceted postcall experience. She graduated from the University of Nigeria with an LLB (Hons) degree in 1985, and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1986. She holds a Master’s degree in Law (1989) from the University of Lagos. She is a member of the Nigerian Bar Association, the International Bar Association, and a Life Member of FIDA. She is also a Fellow of the

NBA Announces AGC 2025 Fees

The Nigerian Bar Association, at its concluded National Executive Council meeting in Enugu, officially approved the Conference fees for the 2025 Annual General Conference, which will take place in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. The Conference is scheduled for August 23-30, 2025, as announced by NBA President, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, during his inaugural speech in August.

Young Lawyers fees reflects the earlier reduction of fees by 20%, as announced by the NBA President during his Inaugural speech.

Young Lawyers (1-9 years): N40,000, available till 31st May, 2025. This category aims to encourage young

Lawyers to attend and engage fully in the Conference.

Early bird for Lawyers between 10-19 years post-call: N75,000, matching the fee set for the 2024 Conference.

Senior Lawyers (50 years post-call and 70 years old and above): Free attendance.

Conference Planning Committee Chairman, Chief Emeka Obegolu, SAN, urged Lawyers to take advantage of the early registration period to secure their places at this landmark event.

Other members of the Committee include Sammie Somiari, SAN (Alternate Chair), Aminu Gadanya, Barbara Omosun (Secretary) Olaide Oluwayomi-Ajewole, Williams Daudu.

Lagos High Court Loses Judge

The death has been announced of a retired judge of the High Court of Lagos State, Hon. Justice Beatrice Adesuwa Oke-Lawal. She retired from the Bench on 19th of October, 2022.

The news of her passing was contained in a press statement from the Court last Tuesday, that they would not sit to honour the late Judge.

The statement read:

“Dear All,

“It is with a deep sense of loss that we announce the passing of Hon. Justice Oke-Lawal (Rtd) today, the 28th day of October, 2024.

“In the light of the above, the court is unable to attend to all outstanding matters previously listed for last week, that is, 21st to 24th October 2024.

“Kindly, exercise some patience.”

N622m Fraud: Court Remands Two Men for Hacking Interswitch Server

Two middle-age men, Daniel Kelechi Ikeoha and Sylvester Ebeta have been remanded in the Ikoyi Facility of the Nigerian Correctional Services (NCoS) by a Federal High Court, Lagos, for allegedly defrauding Interswitch Nigeria Limited of the sum of N622 million.

Justice Yellim Bogoro who presided over the court, remanded both Daniel and Sylvester, after they pleaded not guilty to the charges of alleged conspiracy, hacking into the Interswitch’s server, and unlawful conversion/taking possession of proceeds of an unlawful acts.

The offences which contravened Sections 27(1)(b) and 14(1) of the Cyber Crimes (Prohibition, Prevention Etc.) Act, 2015 as Amended in 2024, read along with Section 14(1) of the same Act.

The offence also contravened Section 18(2)(b)(d) and

punishable under Section 18(3) of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

The two alleged hackers and others said to be at large, according to the Prosecutor, Barrister Justine Enang, a Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) at the Legal Department of PSFU, Ikoyi, Lagos, had between January 2022 and October 12, 2023, conspired among themselves to commit illegal acts.

CSP Enang had told the court the the two Defendants and others at large, unlawfully suppressed the Interswitch Payment Gateway Merchants to interchange the system switch and caused multiple fraudulent transfers and withdrawals of N622 million, from various bank accounts of other customers to their own accounts.

The Prosecutor had

She told the court that the first application is challenging the court’s jurisdiction in entertaining the charges against her clients, because her clients have been charged before a Magistrate Court. Hence, the charges against them before the court was an abuse of court process. Hart also told the court that, the second application is the bail application of her clients.

In response, the Prosecutor told the court that the charge before the Magistrate Court has been withdrawn.

And, upon taking arguments on the bail application, Justice Bogoro adjourned ruling till November 14, while ordering that the two Defendants be remanded in the custody of the Nigerian Correctional Services (NCoS).

told the court that the Defendants wired the N622 million to their underlisted banks and accounts: Kuda Microfinance Bank, Account No. 2012900334; UBA Plc, Account No. 2259918436; Zenith Bank Plc, Account No. 225135546; Eco Bank Nigeria Limited, Account Nos. 4360057510 and 4360057503; GTB Plc Account Nos. 0025473624, 0560512839; FCMB, Account Nos. 7358218027, 7358218010; Moniepoint Microfinance Bank, Account No. 5397559320; GTB Plc, Account No. 0167915358; Stalonvee Concept, Stalonvee Concept, Account Nos. 6397559320, 5397602542 and Zenith Bank Plc, Account No. 240753383. Meanwhile, at the arraignment of the Defendants on Friday, their Lawyer, N. S. Hart, informed the court that she has two applications before the court.

FIDA President, Mrs Ezinwa Nwanyieze Okoroafor

NBA President, Afam Osigwe SAN and Conference Planning Committee Chairman, Chief Emeka Obegolu, SAN

Late Justice Beatrice Adesuwa Oke-Lawal

Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria, and a Member of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, UK, Nigeria Branch, as well as the Institute of Directors Nigeria.

On Saturday, November 9, 2024, the Movement for Islamic Culture and Awareness (MICA) held a Public Discourse on “Ethics, Morality and the Law”, to mark the elevation of Mr Justice Habeeb Adewale Abiru to the Supreme Court. Here are some of the personalities who attended the event at MUSON Centre, Lagos

PHOTOS: KOLA ALLI

attorney-general

Wife of Hon. Justice abiru, mrs Toun abiru (left), first Female Nigerian Deputy governor, alhaja Lateefat Okunnu and a cross-section of female guests

HH, emir of Kano, Khalifa muhammad sanusi II

L-R: Panelists with the CJN, Prof adele Jinadu; alhaji abdul Rahamon Hammad; Prof Konyinsola ajayi, saN; CJN Kekere-ekun; former Lagos state governor, Babatunde Raji Fashola, saN; Hon. Justice abiru, JsC and Dr Bashir aliyu Umar

L-R: Hon. Justice Ibrahim saulawa, JsC; Hon. Justice Jummai sankey, JsC; Hon. Justice Uwani musa abba aji, JsC; CJN Kekere-ekun; Hon. Justice Helen moronkeji Ogunwumiju, JsC; Hon. Justice Chidiebere Uwa, JsC; Hon. Justice Chioma Nwosu-Iheme, JsC and Hon. Justice abiru, JsC

Hon. Justice Habeeb adewale abiru, JsC

mr akin Kekere-ekun, OFR

Daughter of Hon. Justice abiru, Habiba abiru (left) and mrs Folashade alli, saN

senator Tokunbo abiru (left); mr Tola atekoja and mr Kayode sofola, saN (behind)

L-R: Lagos High Court Judges, adesanya J; Balogun J; Opesanwo J and Chief Registrar, supreme Court, Hajo sarki Bello

L-R: Dr Wale Babalakin, saN; Kayode sofola, saN; Dr muiz Banire, saN and Prince Lateef Fagbemi, saN

L-R: Hon. Justice mohammed Lawal garba, JsC; Hon. Justice Ibrahim saulawa, JsC; Hon. Justice John Inyang Okoro, JsC and Hon. Justice Tijjani abubakar, JsC

Chief Justice of Nigeria, Kudirat motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-ekun, gCON

of the Federation and minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, saN

Hon. Justice abiru, JsC surrounded by supreme Court Justices, CJN Kekere-ekun and Hon. Justice mohammed Baba Idris, JsC directly behind the CJN

mrs amina Oyagbola (left) and mrs Rakiya Dhikru-Yagboyaju

Dr Tunde ajibade, saN (left) and mr Yemi Candide-Johnson, saN

mr Olusegun Williams (left) and former Lagos state attorneygeneral, adeniji Kazeem, saN

L-R: Chief Judge, Osun state, Hon. Justice Oyebola Ojo; (behind 1st left Biola soladoye J.); Hon. Justice elfrieda Williams-Dawodu, JCa (behind her adesanya J.) and Hon. Justice Olasumbo goodluck, JCa

One of the Founders of movement for Islamic Culture & awareness (mICa), mrs Yemisi Busari (left) and editor of This Day Lawyer, Onikepo Braithwaite

L-R: Hon. Justice abiru, JsC; alhaja Oyekan and secretary, mICa, ademola Danmole

Prince adesegun Oniru (left) and Prof Konyinsola ajayi, saN

Cross-section of Female guests

Deputy Vice Chancellor (Development services), University of Lagos, Prof ayodele atsenuwa

Cross-section of male guests

CJN Kekere-ekun and Hon. Justice abiru, JsC

L-R: Hon. Justice abiru, JsC; Babatunde Fashola, saN; and secretary, mICa, ademola Danmole

L-R: Nurudeen Ogbara; Roy Ogbara and ade Jamiu

Hon. Justice abiru, JsC (left) and HH, Khalifa muhammad sanusi II

The Nigerian Judiciary and Electoral Technology

elections in Nigeria, have always posed major challenges in the polity. efforts by the Independent National electoral Commission (INeC) to modernise and deploy technology to resolve these seemingly intractable challenges, haven’t yielded much results. Former INEc National commissioner, Festus okoye examines some of the technological innovations that INeC has introduced, and the attitude of the apex Court towards them. He also recommends the intensification of voter education on the specific roles that the technological devices play in the electoral process, in order to foster greater public confidence in the integrity of elections

“Modernity and technology stare us in the face, and we cannot turn back the hand of time. To go against the use of technological or electronic transmission or transfer of election results in this hi-tech time and period, is to be an enemy of democracy and to stick to the vicious cycle of election rigging, manipulation, falsification, and subterfuge.” Uwani Musa Abba Aji, JSC

Introduction

The Judiciary has played and continues to play a critical and fundamental role, in the technological innovations introduced by the electoral management body in Nigeria. It has played and continues to play a guardianship role in the Independent National Electoral Commission's technological innovations, pointing the way forward to greater use of technology, and, at other times, the gaps, the pitfalls, and the legal imperatives involved in technology development, application, and deployment.

INEC and Technology

On the other hand, the electoral management body in Nigeria has been deploying technology in the electoral process, based on its understanding of societal and technological changes and movements. It has gradually infused technology into the electoral process

mostly in voter registration, accreditation, candidate nomination, observer and media accreditation, result upload, and verification of results.

Before the gradual infusion of technology in the electoral process, candidate nomination, voter registration, and accreditation processes remained manual or analogue, and this created a lot of challenges leading to irregularities and hotly disputed elections. This led to strident calls for changes in the legal framework and the use of technology, to obviate pernicious human interference in the electoral process.

The electoral management body decided that technology would play a major role in producing free, fair, and credible elections, and started to develop and infuse technology into the electoral process. The gradual and graduated infusion of technology in the electoral process, resulted in using small bye-elections to test-run innovations before rolling them out on a large scale. Some new technological innovations were captured in its Regulations and Guidelines, and sometimes in the Electoral Act.

Courts and the Election Petitions Tribunals have, at various times, been called upon to determine whether the technological innovations deployed by the electoral management body are consistent with the law and or captured in the electoral legal framework. The Courts have been called upon, to determine the limits and extent of the application of technological

“The case of Oyetola v INEC (Supra) re-established the fact that the evidence required to prove non-accreditation, improper accreditation, and over-voting under the Electoral Act 2022 is the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), the Register of Voters, and the polling unit result in INEC Form EC8A…that the BVAS report or the back-end report is not useful or relevant to prove nonaccreditation, improper accreditation, and over-voting”

innovations in the electoral process.

Even though the courts and the tribunals have been very supportive of the technological innovations of the electoral management body and have advocated and continue to advocate the robust use of technology in the electoral process, there still exists a cloud of uncertainty and misinformation on the role and stand of the courts regarding the use and application of technology in the electoral process. Hence, some Nigerians feel that the Courts, especially the Election Petitions Courts and Tribunals, are against technology in the electoral process. Is this a question of public perception coloured by partisan political considerations, or the Lawyers misreading and misjudging the import and implications of some technological innovations? Is the misunderstanding a function of the nature of election petitions? It is important to examine some of the technological innovations of the electoral management body and determine the attitude, disposition, and position of the Apex Court towards them.

The Courts and the Smart Card Reader (SCR)

The electoral management body, introduced the Smart Card Reader for the 2015 general election. According to Professor Mahmood Yakubu, Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission(INEC), the Smart Card Reader (SCR) was introduced to do several things, namely, to verify that the Permanent Voters Card (PVC) provided by the voter during voting is genuine, to authenticate that the holder of the card is the legitimate owner and finally, to ensure that only voters who were accredited to vote voted. Where is the source of the confusion and controversy surrounding the introduction and application of the SCR? What accounts for the confusion? Is the confusion a product of insufficient knowledge of the SCR, or plain mischief to discredit the electoral process?

The Supreme Court intervened in several cases on the place of the Smart Card Reader in the electoral process. In the case of Shinkafi v Yari (2016) 7 N.W.L.R. Part 1511, part of the issues submitted to the Court for resolution revolved around proving over-voting and substantial non-compliance. The Court stated that it is trite law that, for a petitioner to prove

over-voting, he must tender the voters' register, and the Statement of Result in the appropriate forms, which would show the number of registered accredited voters and the number of actual votes, relate each of the documents to the specific area of his case in respect of which the documents are tendered, and show that the figure representing the over-voting, if removed, would result in victory for the petitioner. However, Counsel to Shinkafi opined that, with the introduction of the Smart Card Reader Machines, it would no longer be necessary to tender the voters' register and other steps set out earlier in proving over-voting in the electoral process.

Hon. Justice Okoro, J.S.C, delivering the lead judgement stated thus:

“My understanding of the function of the Card Reader Machine, is to authenticate the owner of a voter's card and to prevent multivoting by a voter. I am not aware that the Card Reader Machine has replaced the voter's register, or taken the place of statement of result in appropriate forms”.

The issue of the place and relevance of the Smart Card Reader surfaced again, in the case of Okereke v Umahi & ors (2016) LPELR-40035(SC) (Pp. 36-38 Paragraph C). The Appellants in the case contended that, the "use of the Electronic Card Reader Machine for accreditation of voters was provided for in the Approved Guidelines and Regulations for the conduct of the 2015 General elections, citing paragraph 13 of the Approved Guidelines and Regulations".

The Court found that:

True, indeed, the Card Reader Machine traces its paternity to the above Guidelines and Regulations. Regrettably, its probative pedestal in the vocabulary of electoral jurisprudence has generated conflicting interpretations from their Lordships of the different Divisions of the Court of Appeal: divergent interpretations I have, judicially, noticed. However, with the intervention of this Court, in its recent decision in Shinkafi v Yari (supra), it is hoped that practitioners and all other Courts will begin to appreciate the position of the said Card Reader Machine, and the Reports generated therefrom, in election litigation.

The issue of the place and relevance of the SCR surfaced again in Nyesom Wike v Peterside (2016)7 NWLR (Part 1512)/ LPELR-40036(SC) (Pp. 60-62 Paragraph D). However, it was Hon. Justice Mahmud Mohammed, J.S.C.:104-105,

chief Justice of Nigeria, Honourable Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, GcoN

INEc chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu

The Nigerian Judiciary and electoral Technology

who suggested that the critical stakeholders should take steps to recommend to the National Assembly, further amendment to the Electoral Act 2010 (as amended) by incorporating in the Act, the use of the Smart Card Reader Machine in future elections.

The Supreme Court established the fact that to prove over-voting, a petitioner must go back to the basics and tender the voters' register, and the Statement of Result in the appropriate forms, which would show the number of registered accredited voters and the number of actual votes, relate each of the documents to the specific area of his case in respect of which the documents are tendered, and show that the figure representing the over-voting, if removed, would result in victory for the petitioner.

The Court established that the SCR is a product of the Guidelines and Manual of the Electoral Commission, and that the Commission made the Guidelines and Manual under the powers derived from the Electoral Act. It underscored that only the National Assembly can change the legal position of the SCR in the electoral process. It can be seen that, rather than ordain an analogue system for voter accreditation, the Supreme Court favoured the use of technology for voter accreditation, but only suggested that the law must be amended to give the SCR its proper place in the accreditation ladder.

The Birth of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS)

The electoral management body took up the challenge, and the National Assembly, through its Joint National Assembly Committee on Electoral Matters, obliged and started entrenching the SCR in the Electoral Act. Before this period, the electoral management body retired the SCR and introduced the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS). The electoral management body determined the need, for a multi-functional system that performs multiple functions simultaneously.

For voter accreditation, the electoral management body added Facial Technology, pioneered in the 1960s, and can record as much as a 99.9% success rate. With bi-modal authentication, no person can come to vote more than once, as the face of the person would have been captured during authentication; this further ensures one-person-one-vote.

On 25th January, 2022, both Houses of the National Assembly passed an Act to repeal the Electoral Act, No. 6, 2010, and enact the Electoral Act, 2022 to regulate the conduct of Federal, State, and Area councils in the Federal Capital Territory elections; and for related matters. On 25th February, 2022, the then President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari, signed it into Law as the Electoral Act, 2022.

Section 47(1) of the Electoral Act 2022 provides that a person intending to vote in an election, shall present himself with his voter’s card to a Presiding officer for accreditation at the polling unit in the constituency in which his name is registered, while Section 47(2) provides that to vote, the presiding officer shall use a smart card reader or any other technological device that may be prescribed by the Commission, for the accreditation of voters, to verify, confirm or authenticate the particulars of the intending voter in the manner prescribed by the Commission.

The National Assembly wrote into the law the use of the Smart Card Reader for voter accreditation, and qualified the provision and gave the electoral management body the discretion to use any other technological device for voter accreditation. Being the law, the electoral management body conducted the Governorship election in Osun and Edo State with the BVAS. It also conducted the 2023 general election with the BVAS.

The Judiciary and the BVAS

With the root of the BVAS firmly entrenched in the Electoral Act 2022, the Judiciary was called upon once again to determine the place of the BVAS in the electoral process. However, the controversy assumed a different dimension, and in the case of Oyetola v INEC (2023)11 N.W.L.R. Part 1894, part of the case revolved around the evidence required to prove non-accreditation, improper accreditation, and over-voting under the Electoral Act, 2022.

The Court held that:

“The INEC database or National Electronic Register of Election Results, is not relevant evidence in the determination of whether there was non-accreditation or over-voting or not in an election in a polling unit, and cannot be relied on to prove over-voting”.

The case of Oyetola v INEC (Supra) reestablished the fact that the evidence required to

prove non-accreditation, improper accreditation, and over-voting under the Electoral Act 2022 is the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), the Register of Voters and the polling unit result in INEC Form EC8A. The case also established that the BVAS report or the back-end report is not useful or relevant to prove non-accreditation, improper accreditation, and over-voting. It established that the INEC database or back-end server is not part of the accreditation process or record of accredited voters, but a post-election record created by Section 62 of the Electoral Act 2022, and named therein as the National Electronic Register of Election Results to keep reliable and verifiable records of past election results polling unit by polling unit.

INEC, Result Upload and Electronic Transmission of Results

In the 2019 general election and the petition filed thereafter by the candidate of the People’s Democratic Party, Atiku Abubakar, against the candidate of the All Progressives Congress, Muhammadu Buhari, the question was whether the Independent National Electoral Commission had a server into which results were electronically collated and transmitted.

Atiku Abubakar and the People’s Democratic Party alleged that according to the figures in the INECs server from the results of elections covering 35 States and the FCT, Atiku Abubakar scored 18, 356,732 valid votes against the scores of Muhammadu Buhari of 16, 356,732 votes with a margin of 1, 615,302 votes. Muhammadu Buhari stated that he won the election with 14 191,847 votes against Atiku Abubakar, which stood at 11 262,978, with a gap of 3 818 869 votes. On the other hand, INEC stated that it did not transmit the result of the Presidential Election held on 23rd February, 2019 into any server via Smart Card Reader as there is no such provision in the Electoral Act, 2010, and that the election results were manually collated and declared at the various collation centres.

The Supreme Court found and held that the evidence of PW59 concerning the server, on which all other evidence confluence, crashed and crumbled when he revealed that the website www.factsdontlieng.com has no ascertainable domain, anonymous and does not have the features of a regular and authentic website.

Nevertheless, the Hon. Justice Abba Aji JSC stated thus:

“I am fully in support of the fact that electronic voting or electronic transmission of election results is, and ought to be part and parcel of our voting system, and the means of proving same. Documents produced by computers are an increasingly common feature of all businesses and spheres of life, and more and more people are becoming familiar with their uses and operations. Computers

“The Supreme Court made it clear that, “The INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV) is not a collation system….Whereas, the collation system is made up of centres where results are collated at various stages of the election, the IReV Portal is to allow the public to view the polling unit results on the election day”

vary immensely in their complexity, and in the operations they perform”.

Again, on 16th July, 2022, INEC conducted an election for the Governorship of Osun State.

The Commission declared Adeleke Ademola Jackson Nurudeen, candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), as having won the election. Adegboyega Isiaka Oyetola, candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), challenged the elections and the return by the Election Petitions Tribunal. The case dwelt extensively on the electronic transmission of results, the role and reliance on the INEC Result Viewing Portal and its relationship to the Collation System.

The Court found and held that:

“As their names depict, the Collation System and the INEC Result Viewing Portal are part of the election process, and play particular roles in that process.The Collation System is made up of the centres, where results are collated at various stages of the election. So, the polling unit results transmitted to the collation system provides the relevant collation officer the means to verify a polling unit result, as the need arises for the purpose of collation. The results transmitted to the Result Viewing Portal, is to give the public at large the opportunity to view the polling unit results on election day”.

In light of the Supreme Court decision in the case of Abubakar v. I.N.E.C (2020) 12 N.W.L.R Part 1737 and Oyetola v. I.N.E.C (Supra), it is important to critically study and analyse the controversy surrounding result upload, or the transmission of results during the 2023 general election. It is not in doubt from the analysed authorities, that the Supreme Court of Nigeria as an institution and the various Justices, support the use of technology in the electoral process. Most of them, through their judgements, urged an amendment of the legal framework to domesticate technology in the Electoral Act, and introduce electronic voting machines in the electoral process in Nigeria. Why has the controversy on the place of technology in the electoral process, persisted?

As pointed out, on 25th January, 2022, both Houses of the National Assembly passed an Act to repeal the Electoral Act, No. 6, 2010, and enact the Electoral Act, 2022. Section 41(1) of the Act provides that the Commission shall provide suitable boxes, electronic voting machines, or any other voting device for the conduct of elections. Subsection 2 also provides that the forms to be used for the conduct of elections to the offices mentioned in the Act, shall be determined by the Commission. The National Assembly also made elaborate provisions on counting of votes, forms, post-election procedure, and collation of results.

The 2023 general election, considered the issue of electronic transmission of election results. The candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, contested the 2023 Presidential Election, and INEC declared Tinubu Bola Ahmed of the All Progressives Congress (APC) the winner of the election and returned him elected. Atiku Abubakar and the People’s Democratic Party filed a petition before the Presidential Election Tribunal. The Tribunal heard the case, and dismissed the petition. Atiku Abubakar and the People’s Democratic Party, appealed to the Supreme Court. Part of the issues the Apex Court considered, was whether the lower Court was right in refusing to hold that the failure of INEC to electronically transmit results from polling units nationwide for the collation of results of elections introduced by the Electoral Act 2022 and specified in the Regulations and

Guidelines for the conduct of elections 2022 and the Manual for Election Officials 2023, does not amount to non-compliance which substantially affected the outcome of the election. In his contribution to the judgement, Hon. Justice Tijjani Abubakar, JSC (Pp. 365-372, Paras. D-A) opined that:

“There is certainly no doubt the introduction of electronic transmission of election results, marks a pivotal advancement in the electoral processes of many nations globally. The adoption of electronic transmission systems represents a response to the imperatives of modernity and technology, seeking to address various challenges that have historically plagued manual transmission of election results, such as errors, delays, and susceptibility to manipulation, and possibly address the notorious issue of ballot box snatching. This introduction reflects a broader global trend of harnessing technology to improve governance, accountability, and public trust in electoral outcomes”.

The Supreme Court made it clear that, “The INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV) is not a collation system. There is a difference between a collation system and the IReV portal, though both are part of the election process. Whereas, the collation system is made up of centres where results are collated at various stages of the election, the IReV Portal is to allow the public to view the polling unit results on the election day”.

Conclusion

The Nigerian Supreme Court, as the Guardian of the Constitution, supports the introduction and use of technology in the electoral process. They advocated that the Smart Card Reader/BVAS should be bowdlerised and incorporated into the Electoral Act, rather than making it part of the Regulations and Guidelines of the electoral management body. They have advocated and continue to urge greater use of technology in the electoral process, “since modernity and technology stare us in the face, and we cannot turn back the hand of time”.

While agreeing with the Supreme Court on the greater use of technology in the electoral process, Nigerians must address four distinct challenges. The National Assembly must amend the Constitution or the Electoral Act to bring about the desired changes in the Electoral Act, to make the BVAS the dominant mode of proving over-voting, and to make Electronic Voting Machines and electronic transmission of results mandatory.

Secondly, technology is evolving, and sometimes it is not easy to keep pace with technological evolution. This technological evolution, must also be aligned with the technological and infrastructural development of the country. Fundamentally, the human element in the deployment of technology, is at the root of the electoral problem in Nigeria. The political elite must realign with democracy, and imbibe the democratic spirit that places the Nigerian people as the sovereign and determinant of electoral choices and preferences.

The electoral management body must intensify civic and voter education, on the specific roles and functions of technological devices deployed in the electoral process. Some Nigerians see the BVAS as a machine for electronic voting, and some see the IReV as a device for mandatory transmission of election results. When the Supreme Court rules otherwise, there is the tendency to see the Court as siding with those who bring the electoral process to disrepute ,and may undermine public trust in the Judiciary and the electoral process. A concerted effort in civic education will not only clarify these technologies’ purposes, but also foster greater confidence in the integrity of elections, ensuring that citizens view the Judiciary as a protector of democratic values, rather than as a barrier to electoral reform.

Festus Okoye, Legal Practitioner; former INEC National Commissioner

Former INec National commissioner, Festus okoye

Trump’s Presidential Victory: Implications for the Black Race and International Law

Dr Akpo Mudiaga Odje

Introduction

Indeed, clairvoyant political pundits sieving through the dynamics of American politics would have effortlessly rightly predicted the outcome of the Presidential election in the USA.

Fundamental Reasons for Trump's Victory

They can be succinctly adumbrated to wit:

1) Influence of White supremacists, regrettably including Elon Musk, who threatened to shut down Twitter if Trump loses - Technical Technological Blackmail (TTB) and; 2) Male chauvinism in America.

Americans are Largely Chauvinistic

The above factors are very germane, as indeed, VP Kamala Harris becomes the 4th woman to contest and lose elections in America since 1872.

The first two females ran under Equal Political Party and lost

And, now, Hillary Clinton and Kamala Harris ran on Democratic Party platform and lost.

Again, you can see the womanhood restricted by the GOP, which is the mainstream political party in the USA.

White Supremacy Structure in the US

On the white supremacy angle, subject to the original aboriginal red Indians, the Whites of America claim ownership and control of that great country. They call their seat of Government, the "WHITE HOUSE". So, they naturally see Trump as a white irredentist, capable of upholding and promoting that jaundiced bond of supremacy.

Trump's main agendum is to shut out immigrants from the United States, thus, protecting the white domination, which has equally also shut down the blacks in the United States as well.

Trump's Remarkable Power of Resilience and Ebullience

Nevertheless, we must acknowledge the spartan aspiration, disposition, mien and undying spirit of Trump, in delicately but stoutly navigating through all the potent landmines ranging from criminal conviction, criminal trials, civil suits, stigmatisation and near life threatening encounters as in the botched assassination attempt, to eventually emerge victorious in a free and fair electoral contest.

Divine Intervention of Trump's Victory

Be that as it may, never mind any divine intervention and connection, God Almighty did same for Nebuchadnezzar, King of Babylon, as recorded in the 4th chapter of the Book of Daniel, wherein Daniel interpreted his awesome dream to him. Daniel admonished him that it was God that made him that great, yet, he will be punished for seven years to live like wild animals in the forest.

So, Trump's divine intervention does not exclude his expected providential punishment for mistreating and looking down on black people, whom our Benevolent God Almighty also created like him too.

Implications for International Law

No doubt the world today is in a troubled state, and there is war in the east and war up north, everywhere is war as the legendary Bob Marley sang in the reproduced speech of the Imperialistic Ethiopian Emperor in 1967 before the United Nations.

Now, Ukraine may not get as much support it may expect from the United States, for as long as Trump is on his throne. He told his electors during his campaign, that he would never had allowed the ongoing war if he was President, and seriously criticised US spending on same.

Wittingly and/or unwittingly, Trump has been perceived as an ally of the Russians, especially during and after the his victory over Hillary Clinton, and was still being investigated up till when he got elected now. This mode may jeopardise the bound and aspiration of NATO, to expand its frontiers in Europe and the world over Thus, Ukraine would eventually find itself dangerously dangling between the devil and the deep blue sea, in a matter of months from now.

On the middle east, Trump's disdain for the Palestinians is overt and needs no explanation nor projection, except that he will join Israel to completely wipe out any insurgency to Israeli existence.

In other words, unlike in the Ukraine scenario where Trump is likely to douse tensions, he is sure to intentionally inflame tensions in the Middle East, thus, foisting severe

America Votes Trump: Global Implications

The 2024 Presidential election in the united States of america, between republican, former President, donald J. Trump and democrat, Vice President Kamala Harris, will go down in history as one of the most keenly contested elections. The nationwide campaigns were like a war between the democrats and republicans, with unexpected twists and turns. The assassination attempts on Trump, attested to the fact that the battle was beyond mere votes. Many outside the uS unwittingly took sides based on race, religion, sex and other primordial considerations, seeing not just Kamala Harris and donald Trump. What issues determined the eventual outcome of the election, allowing Trump to return to the White House as the 47th President of the united States of america come January 20, 2025, and the global implications of his comeback, are the contents of this discourse by Dr akpo Mudiaga Odje, Kede aihie and Kingsley Jesuorobo

crisis on that region.

Implications for Oil and Gas Production

Interestingly, with the expected projection of Trump's foreign policy thrust, the demand for gas from Russia and crude oil from the Middle East, will surely and solely be affected.

Russia is likely to increase revenues if the support for Ukraine is reduced by Trump, whilst price of oil will rise and rise, for as long as the battle in the Middle East is aggravated by Trump's policies.

As we restlessly await these projections to come into reality, the world order shall surely not be the same in the next four years of Trump's Presidency.

Conclusion

So, we congratulate Trump on his electoral victory, with the trepidation and qualification it deserves.

Dr Akpo Mudiaga Odje, LLD, LLM(Merit) (London), BL; Member of the British Council; Constitutional Lawyer

Trump 2.0 and its Global Implications

Kede Aihie

Introduction

Donald Trump has been confirmed as the 47th President of the United States, securing a landslide victory against Vice President Kamala Harris. His campaign focused on immigration, economy, and national security, resonating with voters. Despite the controversy surrounding his past, Trump's "America First" agenda propelled him to victory, shifting US policy priorities.

“Despite the controversy surrounding his past, Trump's "America First" agenda propelled him to victory, shifting US policy priorities”

Controversy

Trump's recent election has sparked significant controversy, given his conviction on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records related to an illegal scheme to influence the 2016 election. His sentencing was rescheduled to November 26, after his initial conviction on May 30. Each of the 34 counts carries a maximum sentence of up to four years in prison.

and stabilising exchange rates is essential.

To navigate these challenges, Nigeria requires fiscal discipline, enhancing revenue collection, and reducing dependence on oil exports.

Kamala Harris ran a campaign based on unity, but many Democrats blame Biden for seeking a second term. Trump won the election by a landslide, also securing the popular vote. Trump's re-election has sparked controversy, especially considering his conviction on felony charges.

Implications for Nigeria

The implications for Nigeria are significant, as Trump's "America First" agenda prioritises immigration, economy, and national security, potentially impacting Nigeria's economy. Nigeria's economy faces challenges, due to its reliance on crude oil exports to the US. The frequent collapse of the electricity grid, high inflation, and a weakened Naira exacerbate poverty and reduce international competitiveness.

- Trade and Investment: Trump's policies may reduce trade engagement and foreign investment in Nigeria and Africa.

- Immigration: Stricter immigration controls and potential end of birthright citizenship could affect Nigerians.

- Economic Diversification: Nigeria needs to foster non-oil sectors like agriculture, manufacturing, and services.

- Infrastructure Development: Upgrading electricity grids, transportation networks, and ports is crucial.

- Monetary Policy Reforms: Managing inflation

President Tinubu's congratulatory message to Presidentelect Trump, may signal a willingness to engage in diplomatic efforts to protect Nigeria's economic interests. African States could benefit from Trump's stance against China, potentially opening doors for African markets to fill the void in global supply chains. However, his approach to Africa has been largely negative, and his policies may undermine global climate goals and worsen environmental degradation in vulnerable regions.

Kede Aihie, Chairman, Nigeria Magazine, London Trump’s Second Coming: Power of Defiance Kingsley Jesuorobo

Donald Trump has proven to be, a lesson in resilience and defiance. His electoral victory is a loud testament to the power of consistency, even in the midst of overwhelming challenges.The Americans have also shown that they remain a special breed of people. Despite the loud levels of outcries from outsiders, Americans of all stripes re-elected Trump, a man who many had written off!

All said, every true democrat has no choice, but to respect this American democratic uniqueness.

In terms of lesson for Nigeria, it is my hope that election losers in the country will learn to imbibe the sportsmanship spirit of concession, as demonstrated by Vice President Kamala Harris, once the people have made their choice.

Kingsley Jesuorobo, Member, Board of Governors, Law Commission of Ontario, Canada; Chairman, Board of Directors, Canadian Association of Nigerian Lawyers; VP, North America, African Bar Association

President-elect Donald J. trump

FEaturEs

A Bold Step Towards Sustainable, Eco-Friendly Living in Nigeria

In a bold step towards sustainable living in Nigeria, Uzoma Mba writes that Victoria Crest Homes, a subsidiary of Nedcomoaks Limited, has launched Citadel Oasis, its third fully solar-powered estate in Lagos, in alignment with its commitment to providing eco-friendly, energy-efficient housing solutions

Victoria Crest Homes recently launched its third solar-powered estate, Citadel Oasis, in Lagos.

A subsidiary of Nedcomoaks Limited, Victoria Crest Homes' move eas certainly a significant milestone for the company in its commitment to providing eco-friendly, energy-efficient housing solutions.

Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, Mrs. Ichechi Okonkwo, Chief Executive Officer of Victoria Crest Homes and Deputy Managing Director of Nedcomoaks Limited, emphasised the estate’s alignment with their goal of sustainable, affordable housing.

“Citadel Oasis marked a significant step towards ‘sustainable living in Nigeria, providing families with affordable, eco-friendly housing options,’” she said.

A Solution to Nigeria’s Power Challenges

Citadel Oasis emerges as an innovative response to the challenges of Nigeria’s “epileptic power supply,” which Okonkwo cited as a driving force behind the shift to solar-powered estates. In Nigeria, where reliance on generators is common due to the unstable power grid, Citadel Oasis represents a modern solution, leveraging renewable energy to meet the energy needs of its residents.

“We have continually pioneered building sustainable communities, and today, we’re launching the third in our sequel of sustainable communities,” Okonkwo explained. “We understand and know how challenging the power supply is in our country.”

She recounted how the COVID-19 pandemic brought the importance of energy security to the forefront, with many power plants temporarily shut down, leading to increased energy costs.

"During and after COVID, everyone was asked to stay home, and power plants were shut down, leading to higher energy costs,” she recalled. “We wanted to offer pocket-friendly solutions, making it easy for families to enjoy powered homes without excessive bills.”

The estate’s reliance on solar energy is designed to alleviate the burden of rising utility costs for homeowners, while also providing an environmentally friendly alternative. This approach aligns with the global shift towards green energy and positions Victoria Crest Homes at the forefront of sustainable housing in Nigeria.

Creating a Peaceful, Comfortable Community

The vision for Citadel Oasis goes beyond simply providing housing; it aims to create a community where families can live in peace, comfort, and security. With a range of housing options, including two-bedroom apartments, two-bedroom terrace duplexes, three-bedroom terrace duplexes, and fourbedroom semi-detached duplexes, Citadel Oasis is designed to cater to a diverse array of residents, from young professionals to growing families.

Okonkwo described the development as “more than just a housing project; it’s a community designed to promote peace, comfort, and excellence.” She further added, “We’re offering aspirational living, where families can enjoy a beautiful home, a good roof over their head, and a powered house without breaking the bank.”

Citadel Oasis offers a variety of world-class amenities to support this vision, including a fully equipped gym, swimming pools, a children’s play area, and well-designed internal roads.

“We are the first fully solar-powered community in Nigeria,” Okonkwo noted, adding that “the same infrastructure and amenities built into the first one, Citadel Views 1.0 and Citadel Views 2.0, we’re also infusing into this community.”

She stressed the high standards applied to each estate, saying, “We’ll have worldclass amenities that continue to promote

the excellence that we continuously showcase… Families who key into and move into this community would continue to enjoy that peace that we offer in all of our projects.”

Ambitious Development Goals and Flexible Payment Plans

Citadel Oasis is part of Project 1026, an ambitious initiative to deliver 1026 housing units by October 2026, with the first 500 units scheduled for completion by October 2025. The project offers a range of payment plans designed to make homeownership accessible.

For buyers interested in securing a unit, payment plans range from eight months with no extra charge to 12 or 18 months with minimal additional fees. “This project will be delivered in 12 months, so clients have the opportunity to key in for this beautiful off-plan project at a great price and a fantastic instalment payment plan,” Okonkwo shared.

The estate’s location, adjacent to New Charter House School, a British school offering a full British curriculum, adds to its appeal, especially for families. The development plan also includes the construction of essential infrastructure, with sandfilling of the main arterial road scheduled for October 15, paving set for October 25, and full construction commencing on December 1.

Prices vary based on the type of

unit and whether the property includes solar power, with options ranging from 72.5 million Naira for a two-bedroom apartment with solar to 144.2 million Naira for a fourbedroom semi-detached duplex with solar. By integrating flexible payment options and offering properties both with and without solar, Citadel Oasis provides accessible choices for a wide array of homeowners.

Nedcomoaks: A Legacy of Innovation and Sustainability

Over the past 17 years, Nedcomoaks has set a high standard in Nigerian real estate through its various brands, including Citadel Views, Victoria Crest Homes, and Capital Gardens.

With a reputation for innovation and eco-conscious projects, Nedcomoaks has consistently delivered high-quality developments for low, middle, and high-income earners. Citadel Views Estate 2.0, Nigeria’s first fully solar-powered estate, stands as a testament to the company’s commitment to sustainability.

Okonkwo highlighted the company’s broader mission, saying, “Our flagship development, Citadel Views Estate 2.0 (Nigeria’s first fully solar-powered estate), stands as a testament to our mission of championing sustainability.”

Through Citadel Utilities, a subsidiary focused on solar technology, Nedcomoaks has reduced dependency on conventional energy sources and provided a high-quality living experience for residents.

In addition to solar-powered housing, Nedcomoaks has developed a series of

The estate’s reliance on solar energy is designed to alleviate the burden of rising utility costs for homeowners, while also providing an environmentally friendly alternative. This approach aligns with the global shift towards green energy and positions Victoria Crest Homes at the forefront of sustainable housing in Nigeria

campaigns to encourage homeownership and property investment among diverse groups. Campaigns such as #OwnToEarn, #RentToOwn, #SolarRevolution, and #NotTooYoungToOwn have empowered a new generation of property owners and contributed to the company’s reputation as a leader in the Nigerian real estate market.

Pioneering Luxury, Sustainability as Way Forward

With several upcoming projects, including Capital Gardens, Citadel Oasis, and The Nest Lekki Foreshore, Nedcomoaks is poised to further redefine luxury living in Nigeria, offering unique infrastructure and amenities to meet a variety of lifestyle needs.

"As an organisation, you can be rest assured that in the next 12 months, it will be filled with homes that are liveable,” Okonkwo stated. “Today marks a significant milestone for us. It is surreal when we walk through dry land and come back in a few months and it is filled, bubbling, blossoming families, living there, thriving there. It’s usually a different kind of feeling for us. Today marks the beginning of yet another community.” Okonkwo reiterated the company’s longterm vision for Nigeria’s real estate landscape. “With this momentum, we are positioned to lead Nigeria’s luxury real estate landscape, pioneering sustainable, client-centric, and world-class living spaces,” she affirmed.

As Nigeria’s real estate market grows, Victoria Crest Homes and Nedcomoaks Limited are setting the standard for sustainable, quality housing that serves the needs of both present and future homeowners. Through projects like Citadel Oasis, Nedcomoaks is not only delivering homes but building communities that cater to the aspirations of Nigerians across different income brackets.

The company’s emphasis on solar power and sustainable communities places it at the forefront of a transformative shift in Nigerian housing, making premium property ownership a reality for many while supporting the environment and promoting energy independence.

L-R: Electrical Engineer, Citadel Oasis, Ashraf Alkodi; Director Donac Industry Ltd, Donatus Anozie; Chief Executive Officer of Victoria Crest Homes, Mrs Ichechi Okonkwo; Managing Director, Imperial Homes Mortgage, Ayo Olowookere, during the ground-breaking ceremony of Citadel Oasis held at Ogombo Road, Ogombo, Lagos...recently

Reinforcing Commitment to Nigeria’s Food Security through Impactful Initiatives

In celebration of World Food Day 2024, Olam Agri reinforced its commitment to Nigeria’s food security through a series of impactful initiatives, including food aid distribution, water infrastructure projects, and public awareness campaigns. Precious Ugwuzor writes that in partnering the Lagos State government under the Eko World Food Day initiative, Olam Agri sponsored community events, provided 800 food boxes to vulnerable residents, and commissioned boreholes in farming communities to enhance access to clean water, thus reflecting the company’s dedication to sustainable food systems and align with the UN’s goal of zero hunger

As a reflection of its dedication and commitment to sustainable food systems, Olam Agri recently marked World Food Day 2024 with a show of support for Nigeria’s food security efforts, driving a range of initiatives under the Eko World Food Day program in Lagos State.

With activities centered on promoting local food production, addressing food insecurity, and supporting vulnerable communities, Olam Agri demonstrated its ongoing commitment to sustainable agriculture and community development in Nigeria.

The company’s contributions, which included sponsoring events, distributing food aid, and improving water access in farming communities, reflect its mission to enhance food security and align with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The theme of this year’s World Food Day, celebrated globally on October 16, underscored the importance of equitable food systems and the universal right to food.

Olam Agri, a leader in the food, feed, and fiber sectors, used the occasion to emphasizs Nigeria’s need to bolster domestic food production and promote healthier diets, especially in urban centers like Lagos.

By sponsoring the Eko World Food Day program, Olam Agri contributed to a well-coordinated campaign aimed at raising awareness and mobilising action around food security in Lagos State.

A Multi-faceted Approach to Food Security

Olam Agri’s involvement in the Eko World Food Day initiative extended beyond financial support; the company actively participated in various activities to engage the public and stakeholders.

Key events included a Road Walk, organised by the Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems, which attracted hundreds of participants, all advocating for improved food systems and healthy diets. By bringing together farmers, policy-makers, and residents, the Road Walk underscored the importance of grassroots participation in the food security agenda.

Furthering its commitment, Olam Agri sponsored the Food Systems Champions’ Summit, an event that convened leaders from the agro-industry, government agencies, and NGOs to discuss solutions for strengthening Nigeria’s food systems.

This summit served as a platform for stakeholders to share insights and best practices, which are essential for addressing systemic issues in the country’s agriculture sector.

In addition, Olam Agri sponsored the Lagos Agricultural Scholars Quiz Competition, an educational event aimed at inspiring secondary school students to

explore careers in agriculture. The competition not only tested students’ knowledge but also helped to create a pipeline of future leaders in the food and agriculture sectors.

The culmination of these activities was the World Food Day Grand Finale, which was hosted by the Lagos State government and celebrated the contributions of various stakeholders to the state’s food security.

During the event, Lagos State Commissioner for Agriculture, Bisola Olusanya, praised Olam Agri’s involvement, describing the company as “an essential partner in transforming the Lagos food production landscape.” Olusanya noted that Olam Agri’s extensive production, processing, and distribution capacities are critical in expanding the food value chain in Lagos State, a partnership she sees as instrumental in achieving the state’s food security objectives.

Supporting Vulnerable Communities with Essential Food Aid

A significant part of Olam Agri’s World Food Day activities was its collaboration with the Lagos Food Bank, through which it distributed 800 food boxes valued at 13 million naira to vulnerable residents.

The food boxes, which contained staples like rice, grains, and other essential items, were targeted at individuals and families facing food insecurity. In the densely populated neighborhoods of Makoko and Ajegunle, 500 food boxes were distributed to assist low-income residents who often struggle to afford basic food supplies.

These neighborhoods, like many urban communities in Nigeria, face the dual challenges of poverty and limited access to nutritious food options, making food aid an essential intervention.

Additionally, Olam Agri directed 300 food boxes to flood-affected areas in Maiduguri, where natural disasters have displaced thousands of residents

and created acute food shortages. By reaching these flood-hit communities, Olam Agri provided immediate relief to families grappling with the aftermath of environmental challenges. This support aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope agenda, which emphasises providing safety nets for vulnerable populations across Nigeria.

Anil Nair, Managing Director of Olam Agri Nigeria, expressed the company’s commitment to these initiatives, emphasising that “the right to food and nutrition is fundamental to inclusive growth.”

He noted that Olam Agri’s contributions aim to expand access to quality, nutritious, and affordable food for all Nigerians, a vision that reflects both Olam Agri’s social responsibility goals and the UN’s SDG of zero hunger.

Nair added that the company’s social investment projects, such as sponsoring the Eko World Food Day and distributing food boxes, are part of a broader effort to address hunger and promote food security across Nigeria.

Infrastructure Investments in Farming Communities

In addition to its food distribution efforts, Olam Agri took significant steps to improve water access in farming communities where the company operates. As part of its World Food Day initiatives, Olam Agri commissioned boreholes in Baure and Agon, two key farming communities in Nasarawa State that are central to the company’s rice and sesame production units.

These boreholes are expected to provide clean drinking water to residents, reducing the prevalence of waterborne diseases and supporting the overall health of the communities.

Access to clean water is essential for agricultural productivity, as it helps reduce the risks associated with poor sanitation and enables farmers to focus on food production rather than spending time and resources on sourcing water.

Olam Agri’s investment in these boreholes is a step toward creating a more resilient agricultural base in Nasarawa, which in turn supports the broader goals of food security and sustainable development. This initiative highlights the interconnectedness

The right to food and nutrition is fundamental to inclusive growth. We are committed to expanding access to quality, nutritious, affordable food for all Nigerians. Our social investment projects, such as sponsoring the Eko World Food Day, distributing food boxes, and commissioning boreholes, directly contribute to the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope agenda and the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal of zero hunger

of food and water security, especially in rural farming areas that are the backbone of Nigeria’s agricultural sector. By prioritising both immediate and longterm needs through projects like borehole installations, Olam Agri demonstrates an understanding that food security is not only about increasing food availability but also about creating supportive infrastructure that enables communities to thrive. These water projects will aid in reducing water scarcity issues that often hinder agricultural productivity and compromise the health and welfare of local populations.

Building a Food-secure Future through Partnerships

Olam Agri’s World Food Day activities underline the importance of partnerships in achieving sustainable food systems. Anil Nair emphasised this in his remarks, expressing gratitude to the Lagos State government for their collaboration on initiatives aimed at improving food security.

The company’s partnerships with government agencies, NGOs, and community organisations have allowed it to implement programs that address both immediate food needs and long-term development goals.

Beyond its work in Nigeria, Olam Agri operates with a global vision for transforming agriculture and food systems. With its comprehensive value chain spanning over 60 countries, Olam Agri plays a significant role in addressing the food demands of a growing global population.

As a subsidiary of the Olam Group, the company benefits from decades of experience and a strategic focus on sustainable development, which includes a commitment to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, particularly the goal of zero hunger.

This alignment with global standards for environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices has earned Olam Group recognition, including inclusion in the FTSE4Good Index, which highlights companies with robust ESG performance.

Olam Agri’s adherence to these principles reflects its commitment to not only serving the communities it operates within but also setting industry standards for sustainable and responsible agriculture.

Looking Ahead

As Nigeria continues to confront food insecurity challenges, Olam Agri’s World Food Day efforts offer a model for impactful, community-centered engagement. The company’s dedication to enhancing food security through multi-faceted approaches—ranging from immediate food aid to long-term infrastructure projects—highlights the holistic approach needed to achieve food security for all Nigerians. Through these initiatives, Olam Agri reaffirms its mission to reimagine agriculture, foster inclusive growth, and contribute to a sustainable future for Nigeria’s farming communities and beyond.

L-R: Abolaji Anifowoshe, Vice President, Commercial, Olam Agri in Nigeria; Bisola Olusanya, Commissioner for Agriculture, Lagos State; and Seyi Adesomi, Vice President, Manufacturing & Technical Services, OlamAgri in Nigeria, during the Food Systems' Champions' Summit, held at the Mid - Level Agro Produce Hub, Idi - Oro, Mushin, Lagos, as part of activities recently commemorating the Eko World Food Day

L-R: Bola Adeniji, General Manager/ Head of Marketing, Olam Agri in Nigeria; Tolani TayoOsikoya (Chef T), popular food blogger; and Dr Michael Sunbola, Executive Director, Lagos Food Bank, during the donation of food boxes to residents of Makoko, Lagos, by Olam Agri in Nigeria in partnership with the Lagos Food Bank, to commemorate the World Food Day, recently

PERSPECTIVE

Lukarawa Threat: Sokoto Braces, Maintains Development Strides

Last week, the Defence Headquarters confirmed the emergence of Lukarawa, a new deadly terrorist group in Sokoto and Kebbi states, threatening critical governance strides in these subnational enclaves. But Governor Ahmad Aliyu of Sokoto State is clearly unshaken and pressing on with his development agenda as he proactively interfaces with the federal government.

In a recent interview, Sokoto State’s Commissioner of Lands, Housing, Survey, and Town Planning, Barrister Nasiru Aliyu Dan Tsoho succinctly captured the core essence of Governor Ahmad Aliyu Sokoto: “He is a very demanding workaholic who is in hurry to change the story of our dear state.”

But it would appear that a convergence or conspiracy of forces - political (ex-Governor Tambuwal and his proxies), natural (flooding), and now extra insecurity (Lukarawa) are poised to derail Governor Aliyu’s compelling 9-point agenda which he set sail with to change the Sokoto story.

But these forces apparently misread the innate abilities and capacity of the unassuming, youthful state chief executive who hides his outer affable demeanor behind an inner steel that has enabled him leapfrog many challenges to capture the Caliphal enclave’s top job under the astute mentorship of Sokoto’s political leader and sage, Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko.

As it were, beyond the extant subsisting security challenges, the recent entrance of Lukarawas into the basket of governance and economic hurdles surely will test the mettle of any leader. But without real tests none can genuinely claim to be a leader.

A few days after the Defence Headquarters formally confirmed the emergence of a new terrorist group known as ‘Lukarawas’ in the Northwestern part of the country, Sokoto and Kebbi states more specifically, at least 15 people were killed in an attack by the new terror group on Mera Village in Augie Local Government Area of Kebbi State, neighboring to Sokoto State.

Nafiu Abubakar, spokesperson for the Kebbi State Police Command, said the attack occurred around 2 p.m. last Friday. “The terrorists attacked the village around 2 p.m. on Friday,” and that a significant number of cows were also rustled during the assault.

On his part, Ahmed Rufai, spokesperson for the Sokoto State police command, said the armed group operates in five local government areas in Sokoto, including Gudu, Tangaza, Binji, Illela, and one other LGA. Rufai described the group as heavily armed with “sophisticated weapons.”

On the same day, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) in Abuja issued a statement declaring nine suspected members of the group wanted. Edward Buba, director of defence media operations, explained the Lakurawas

group had begun infiltrating northern Sokoto and Kebbi from neighbouring Niger Republic and Mali.

Explaining how the terrorists found their way to Sokoto and Kebbi, Buba who explained that “The Lukarawas are affiliated to terrorists from the Sahel, particularly from Mali and Niger republics,” said they emerged from the Niger after the coup that led to the breakdown of military cooperation between Nigeria and Niger.

According to him, prior to the coup, there were joint border operations with Nigerien security forces which kept the terrorists at bay, but they cashed in on the breakdown to penetrate Nigeria.

It could be recalled that last week, the Sokoto State Government while receiving participants of Course 33 of the National Defence College (NDC) Abuja, who were on a study tour in the state, had raised alarm over the emergence of the new terrorist group in the state.

On behalf of Governor Aliyu, Deputy Governor Alhaji Idris Mohammed noted the development comes at a time when the state is intensifying efforts to tackle banditry and other forms of crime.

Not one to allow the grass grow under its feet, the Sokoto State Government has made it clear it is working tirelessly in close collaboration with relevant security agencies to counter the threats posed by the Lakurawas group. Governor Aliyu voiced the state government’s optimism that the insights from the National Defence College study tour would shed light on this new security challenge and help in formulating effective measures to ensure peace and the safety of residents.

It’s noteworthy that the proactive

administration of Governor Ahmad has prioritised security in its agenda. It has created a local community corp - the Sokoto State Community Guard Corps - to complement the federal security agencies in safeguarding the terrorized communities.

Being indigenes of the areas of their deployment, members of the corps were specifically charged to help the security agencies in gathering intelligence, a critical part of the war against terrorism.

The administration has also heavily invested aiding the building of military bases and provided other logistics support to the security agencies because the victims are its citizens. It’s no secret that sub-national administrations lack the constitutional, coercive power to directly confront armed non-state actors.

The Sokoto State Government has also upscaled the allowances for the security forces operating in the state and provided the agencies with critical logistics support.

Governor Aliyu’s 9-point agenda includes - education, health, water, agriculture, security, youth empowerment, local government autonomy, religious affairs, and economy. One key governance agenda is security out of the fundamental appreciation that without security no human progress could be meaningfully sustained.

The governor’s adroit security priority reinforced at the backend by Senator Wamakko did not escape the attention of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. It could be recalled that Mr. President on September 1, ordered his Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, and the military chiefs to relocate to Sokoto State as part of efforts to rid the state

and the entire north-west of rampant terrorism.

Meanwhile, on the heels of Lukarawa’s emergence, the Acting Chief of Army Staff, COAS, Lt. General Olufemi Oluyede, has flown immediately to Sokoto on a maiden operational tour of the state to obtain first-hand counterinsurgency operation information and assess the security situation and challenges of the troops.

According to the Director, Army Public Relations, Major-General Onyema Nwachukwu, the acting COAS arrived Sokoto and proceeded to Forward Operations Base Tangaza and 248 Battalion in Illela, where he received briefs on the security situation from the General Officer Commanding 8 Division, Ibikunle Ajose, a brigadier general.

Addressing the troops at Tangaza and Illela, the acting COAS assured them of his full support and encouragement to decisively deplete the activities of terrorists and insurgents in their respective areas of responsibility and the North West zone in general.

The north-west is arguably Nigeria’s most terrorised region with four of the region’s seven states among the top five states with the highest number of kidnap incidents between July 2023 and June 2024.

Zamfara, Katsina and Kaduna recorded the highest numbers, with Sokoto coming fifth behind Abuja in fourth, according to the report by SBM Intelligence, a market intelligence, security analysis and strategic consulting firm. The presidential directive is part of an intensified effort to rid the North-west of the menace of banditry, kidnapping and terrorism. The emergence of the Lakurawas simply upscales the challenge.

President Tinubu’s wisdom in choosing Sokoto as the jump-off point in confronting insecurity in the North-west zone speaks to his deeper appreciation of the state’s strategic importance when joggling the Northern and Nigeria’s security algorithm.

Emerging from his nifty management of the Sokoto State’s costly flood woes and successfully fencing off needless political distractions being cooked by former Governor Aminu Tambuwal and his quirky proxies, Lakurawas’ emergence will certainly further challenge Governor Aliyu’s leadership nous.

The emerging, enlightened multipartisan consensus in Sokoto State is that the needless political rivalry choreographed by Senator Aminu Tambuwal (who is still reportedly eyeing the presidency) through his shadowy proxies is negatively impacting the state, governance wise, and should be immediately discontinued.

But the governor has made it clear that when he accepted the overwhelming mandate of Sokoto folks to lead them, he clearly was in for the long haul and would honour and earn their trust to the very best of his ability.

Clearly, Sokoto State means business.

Louis Achii

Gov. Aliyu

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Nigeria’s crude oil export earnings slumped to $12.1 billion in Q2, 2024 as against $12.4 billion in the preceding Q1, reflecting the decline in domestic crude oil production to 1.27 million barrels per day in Q2, 2024 from 1.33 million bpd previously.

Data from the Economic Report for the period released by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), obtained by THISDAY, also showed that Nigeria’s Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) crude oil production deficit recorded a deficit of 308,000 bpd. The country has struggled for years to meet its OPEC quota, which was last year slashed to 1.58 million

bpd by the international oil cartel, after Nigeria consistently failed to fulfil its pledge to drill more oil.

Nigeria blames unprecedented levels of oil theft, waning investment made worse by the energy transition, vandalism, outright sabotage by local oil producing communities, among others, for its inability to significantly raise output.

“Domestic crude oil production declined in Q2, 2024, attributed to persistent oil theft and illegal refining activities in the Niger Delta region. Nigeria’s average crude oil production fell by 4.51 per cent to 1.27 million bpd in Q2, 2024, from 1.33 million bpd in the preceding quarter.

“This was due to crude oil theft

and pipeline vandalism in the Niger Delta region, leading to a decline in production from the Forcados, Bonny, Qua-Iboe, Escravos and Brass streams, respectively. Nigeria’s crude oil production level fell short of its OPEC quota of 1.58 million bpd by 308,000 bpd in Q2, 2024,” the CBN report stated.

In all, merchandise export earnings declined in Q2,2024, primarily on account of the fall in crude oil export receipts, following the drop in domestic crude oil production.

Aggregate export earnings, the report said, declined by 1.76 per cent to $13.94 billion in Q2, 2024, from $14.19 billion in Q1,2024.

“A breakdown of export receipts showed that receipts from oil export fell to $12.18 billion from $12.42 billion

in the preceding quarter, reflecting the decline in domestic crude oil production to 1.27 million bpd in Q2, 2024 from 1.33 million bpd in the preceding quarter,” the CBN Q2 report added.

However, overall, the deficit from oil production earnings was largely covered by the average spot price of Bonny light, which rose to $86.97 per barrel from $85.58 per barrel.

This largely cushioned the reduction in oil export receipts, with receipts from non-oil exports also declining to $1.76 billion from $1.77 billion in Q1, 2024, attributed to the decline in other non-oil export receipts, particularly, agricultural products.

Analysis by share of total export indicated that crude oil and gas

exports continued to dominate, constituting 87.38 per cent, while non-oil exports accounted for the balance.

Merchandise import also decreased in Q2,2024, following the decline in the import of petroleum products, reducing by 20.59 per cent to $8.64 billion, from $10.88 billion in Q1, 2024.

Analysis by composition indicated that oil imports decreased to $2.79 billion, from $4.31 billion in the preceding quarter. Non-oil imports also declined to $5.85 billion, from $6.57 billion in the previous quarter.

A breakdown of total import showed that non-oil imports accounted for 67.72 per cent, while oil imports constituted the balance.

Besides, gross federation account earnings improved in Q2, 2024, on

account of higher receipts from oil and non-oil sources. At N6.28 trillion, provisional gross federation account receipt was 26.37 per cent above the level in Q1, 2024, but 30.17 per cent below the benchmark.

According to the CBN document, the improved performance reflected higher realisations from royalties, Petroleum Profit Tax (PPT), independent revenue of the federal government and upstream Company Income Tax (CIT). With regards to the composition of gross federation revenue, nonoil revenue remained dominant, accounting for 72.42 per cent, while oil revenue constituted the balance.

Dike Onwuamaeze

Nigeria dropped a point to earn an overall score of 64 that placed it on third position behind South Africa and Mauritius in the Absa Africa Financial Markets Index (AFMI) 2024: “Exploring the Opportunities Africa has to Offer.”

South Africa and Mauritius scored 87 and 77 points respectively, the same points they earned in 2023, to take the first and second positions in the index while Nigeria

lost a point this year having scored 65 points in 2023.

The report stated that Nigeria’s score was affected by high inflation and foreign exchange (FX) shortages.

Now in its eighth year, the 2024 Absa Africa Financial Markets Index covered 29 countries and evaluated their financial development based on measures of market accessibility, openness and transparency.

The index, which was produce with the support of the United

Nations Economic Commission for Africa, would provide the investment community with a benchmark of market infrastructure across the continent, while enabling policymakers to learn from developments throughout Africa.

The index, which encompassed approximately 80 per cent of the population and gross domestic product of Africa, was organized in six pillars, namely market depth, access to foreign exchange, market transparency, tax and regulatory environment.

Other pillars are pension fund development, macroeconomic environment and transparency and lastly legal standards and enforceability.

Nigeria scored 57 per cent under Pillar One that evaluated the size and liquidity of domestic equity and bond markets, along with the diversity of listed assets and the existence of standard features that enhance market depth.

The 57 points is the country’s

average score in the following sub headings: size of market, 24; liquidity, 46; product diversity, 76; depth 70 and primary dealer system, 69.

The report said, “in Nigeria, the FMDQ securities exchange launched its exchange traded derivatives market with two pioneer products: the Federal Government of Nigeria’s Bond Futures and the Naira-Settled Exchange- Traded Foreign Exchange Futures in July 2023.”

Pillar Two, which is Access to FX, evaluated the ease of access and

transparency of foreign exchange systems. It considered indicators for the flexibility and reporting of exchange rates, the breadth of capital restrictions and for interbank FX liquidity.

This pillar also measured the adequacy of FX reserves to gauge central banks’ ability to manage the potential volatility from international capital flows.

NEITI, NCDMB Partner on Deployment of $40m Women in Oil Intervention Fund

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) and the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) have agreed to forge a closer partnership to enhance

women’s participation in the oil, gas, and mining industries.

This commitment was reached between the Executive Secretary of NEITI, Dr. Ogbonnaya Orji, and the Executive Secretary of the NCDMB, Dr. Felix Ogbe, during a meeting on the sidelines of

Minister Urges FERMA to Open Up Operations to Stakeholders

activities nationwide.

The Minister of State, Federal Ministry of Works, Bello Goronyo, has urged the management of the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) to give regular updates to the National Assembly and other stakeholders, in order to bridge the existing communication gaps.

The minister, according to a statement by the Director, Press and Public Relations, in the ministry, Mohammed Ahmed, gave this charge at a meeting with the management of FERMA and members of its board led by the Managing Director, Dr. Chukwuemeka Agbasi in Abuja.

The meeting, which was the continuation of a prior one held in Kano, the statement said, was aimed at articulating a work plan with a clear roadmap for FERMA

It was also to address the fallout of the invitation by the National Assembly, where the need to upscale communication between the two was emphasised as well as the need to always bring board members up to speed with the activities of the agency.

In addition, grey areas observed in the non-implementation of the 2024 budget, as well as drawing a template for all on-going FERMA projects, were discussed, with a view to embarking on a visit to all the geo- political zones to access projects being undertaken by the agency.

Goronyo promised that more of such engagements will be held to bring the benefits of the current administration, which he said, seeks to enhance infrastructure and transportation as enablers of growth.

Angola Plans More Multi-year Oil, Gas Licence Rounds

Angola intends to replicate its maiden multi-year licensing round for oil and gas acreage from 2026, a senior government energy official said, as the country

looks to boost production and investment.

The first multi-year auction for 50 onshore and offshore blocks was for 2019-2025, as Angola strives to arrest a steep decline in crude oil production from mature oilfields.

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Deputy Business Editor

Chinedu Eze

Comms/e-Business Editor

Emma Okonji

Asst. Editor, Energy

Emmanuel Addeh

Asst. Editor, Money Market

Nume Ekeghe

Correspondents

KayodeTokede(CapitalMarkets)

James Emejo (Finance)

Ebere Nwoji (Insurance)

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Peter Uzoho (Energy)

“We have already started to work on a plan for after 2025 and are currently executing our exploration strategy which is the evaluation of different sedimentary basins of the country,” a board member at Angola’s National Agency of Petroleum, Gas and Biofuels (ANPG), Alcides Andrade, said.

“It is an aggressive approach we believe we need to have,” he said, adding it was unclear at this stage how many blocks in total would be up for grabs.

Production in Africa’s second largest crude oil producer after Nigeria has stabilised at just over 1.1 million barrels a day (bpd) after reaching a peak of around 2 million bpd in 2008.

Andrade, speaking on the sidelines of an energy conference in Cape Town, said during the first four licensing rounds in the multi-year strategy, 35 concessions have been awarded thus far.

an event in London.

A statement by NEITI said Orji expressed concern over the recent NEITI reports, which show a decline in women’s representation in the oil and gas industry, despite global Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) standards advocating for gender inclusivity.

“When I reviewed the data in the recently released 2022 and 2023 oil and gas industry

reports, it was concerning to see the downward trend in women’s representation. In 2022, out of 6,728 employees in the oil and gas industry, only 1,144, or 17 per cent, were women. In 2023, the total number of employees increased to 8,694 while women accounted for 1,391.

“Although there seems to be an increased number of women employed in 2023, the percentage of women

employed, compared to the total number of employees in the sector declined to 16 per cent. This trend underscores a persistent and gradual gender imbalance in Nigeria’s extractive industries,” the NEITI executive secretary said.

Orji called for closer collaboration between NEITI and the NCDMB to address this widening gap in gender representation, especially in the mining and steel sectors,

where women’s participation is a global priority. At the meeting the Executive Secretary of NCDMB, Ogbe welcomed the opportunity to work collaboratively with NEITI to promote gender inclusivity.

Ogbe announced that the board has floated a $40 million Women in Oil and Gas Intervention Fund, in partnership with the Nigerian Export-Import Bank (NEXIM).

NSITF Disburses N6.6bn Compensation to Employees, Seeks Collaboration to Enhance Workers’ Welfare

Oluchi Chibuzor

The Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) has disbursed N6.6 billion in claims and compensation to 103,000 beneficiaries after its renewed sensitisation drive during which it raised enrolee figure to over 172,000 employers and 7.6 million employees.

Also, the Fund is seeking partnerships with business owners to create awareness for the welfare of employees and implement the Employees’ Compensation Scheme.

The Executive Director in charge of the agency’s operations, Mrs Mojisolaoluwa Alli-Macaulay, who stated these during her remarks during the NSITF special “compliance day” at the on-going Lagos International Trade Fair in

Lagos, explained that through a renewed sensitisation drive, the NSITF had expanded its enrollee base to include over 172,000 employers and 7.6 million employees, adding that the Fund demonstrated its commitment to workers’ welfare across the country.

She noted the expenditure was part of a broader effort to promote compliance with the Employee’s Compensation Scheme (ECA), a programme that provides financial and medical support to employees affected by workplace injuries or disabilities.

She also said that the fund had assisted 111 individuals with artificial limbs and facilitated overseas medical treatment for 11 others, illustrating the scope of its support efforts.

Alli-Macaulay highlighted the other benefits of the scheme, among them disability benefits, medical treatment, death benefits to beneficiaries, rehabilitation for disabled employees, prosthetic support, and compensation for employers covering loss of productive time. According to her, compliance with the ECA is mandatory as it offers legal protection for employers and improved morale and productivity among employees.

“It is in line with this year’s theme: compliance, that we are partnering business owners to promote employee welfare. Also, we have been able to disburse over N6.6 billion in claims and compensation to 103,000 beneficiaries and we are going to do more,” she said, added

that many employers have joined the scheme.

Alli-Macaulay commended the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry for organising the trade fair, describing it as a great opportunity to gather as a community, learn from each other, and showcase the innovative spirit that drives the industry forward.

NSITF’s Regional Manager for Lagos Mainland, Agbonma Okorafor, reiterated the fund’s dedication to protecting Nigerian workers through the ECS.

She said the scheme provides crucial financial support for workers or their families, in cases of workplace-related injuries or death, and assists employers in creating safer workplaces.

The Origin Tech Group, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, recently convened a two-day stakeholder workshop that reviewed to the Draft of the National Agricultural Mechanisation Policy.

The review, which enjoyed the participation of stakeholders within the public and private sectors, and development organisations, would help to shape the future of agricultural mechanisation in Nigeria.

The workshop also demonstrated the Origin Tech Group’s commitment to transforming agricultural productivity and sustainability through advanced mechanisation.

One of its flagship programs, the Greener Hope Large Scale Mechanisation Programme (GHAPP), represents a publicprivate partnership with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security and the Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation.

The GHAPP addresses the

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC), along with its partners - TotalEnergies Upstream Nigeria Limited, SAPETRO, CNOOC, and PRIME 130 - has inaugurated a cutting-edge mammography centre at the Federal University Teaching Hospital, Lafia, Nasarawa State.

The centre, which is the second, it said, is part of a strategic push by the firm to improve access to early cancer detection and treatment to tackle the high mortality rate in Nigeria.

A statement by the company

said one mammography centre had earlier been commissioned at Garkida General Hospital, Gombi Local Government Area, Adamawa – along with the series of free cancer screening programmes by the NNPC Foundation.

Speaking at the commissioning of the facility, the Chief Upstream Investment Officer of NNPC Upstream Investment Management Services (NUIMS), Mr. Bala Wunti, who was represented by the Head Business Services, Mr. Sani Kabo, said the mammography

mechanisation needs of farmers nationwide with a three-pronged approach of supplying essential large-scale mechanisation agricultural equipment, building youth capacity, and expanding medium- to large-scale farms.

At the workshop, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Temitope Fashidemi, emphasised the federal government’s commitment to empowering small-holder farmers through mechanisation, underscoring the “Renewed Hope” Agenda, a

centre was a symbol of NNPC’s commitment to enhancing the quality of healthcare in Nigeria.

“It is our hope that under the stewardship of the state government, this facility will become a beacon of comfort and a critical resource for timely diagnosis and treatment of cancer,” he said.

On his part, the Managing Director/Chief Executive and Country Chair of TotalEnergies Upstream Nigeria Limited (TUPNI), Mr. Matthieu Bouyer, who was represented by the

vision championed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to boost local manufacturing and support regional equipment producers.

The Director of GHAPP, Dr. Musa Olasupo, also emphasised the importance of partnerships in scaling up local production of agricultural machinery.

He said:

“Through collaborations with institutions and universities, we can develop locally fabricated prototypes, creating sustainable solutions that support smallholder farmers across Nigeria.”

Acting General Manager, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Mrs. Tonye Osifo, said TotalEnergies was committed to addressing healthcare challenges through strategic partnerships.

“This mammography centre is among 84 infrastructural projects TotalEnergies has delivered since 2016. It signifies our active role in the global fight against cancer and reflects our alignment with the #WorkingWithCancer initiative, which supports recovery and retention for individuals affected by cancer,” Bouyer stated.

Dike Onwuamaeze

Stories by Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Bayelsa Launches Audacious Project to Keep Children Learning During Flood Break

In line with the vision of the Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri to make Bayelsa a model for basic education reform and transformation, the Ministry of Education and Bayelsa State Universal Basic Education Board (Bayelsa SUBEB) have launched BayelsaPRIME@Home, an initiative designed to keep primary school children learning during the flood break.

BayelsaPRIME@Home, it said in a statement, is designed to continue to educate children in upper and lower primary school about the things they have learnt in school while also updating them on new topics in the national curriculum through radio broadcasts. The initiative, which is part of BayelsaPRIME, is geared at minimizing learning losses, giving children an opportunity to learn from the comfort of their homes during the flood break.

Flybird

It said, “Parents and guardians are encouraged to tune to Rhythm 94.7 FM (from Mondays to Fridays at 11am each week, and 12.30pm on Saturdays) to avail their children of the opportunity. BayelsaPRIME@ Home will also air on Radio Bayelsa 97.1 FM on Monday at 2pm, and 5pm on Tuesday through to Saturday each week. Designated community radio stations will also broadcast

Aircraft

the lessons.” Speaking on the initiative which commenced on 30 October, 2024, the Executive Secretary of Bayelsa SUBEB, Chief Victor Okubonanabo noted that, “His Excellency, Senator Douye Diri, our governor is interested, not just in the prosperity of adults but also in the academic wellbeing of our children. BayelsaPRIME@Home will reignite the passion for academic excellence in our children, keep them reminded of the things they have been taught and open their eyes to new exciting lessons that will help them become A-plus pupils. Subjects to be taught include English, Maths and Science.”

Management

Promotes

Two Senior First Officers to Captain

Flybird Aircraft Management Services Limited, a premier charter aviation company based in Abuja, has announced the promotion of two of its distinguished Senior First Officers, Captain Khalil Kabiru Gaya and Captain Yusuf Labo, to the rank of Captain. This significant milestone reflects Flybird AMSL’s dedication to fostering talent and ensuring the highest standards of professionalism and safety in the aviation industry.

Captain Khalil Kabiru Gaya and Captain Yusuf Labo have demonstrated exceptional skill, commitment, and leadership during their tenure with Flybird AMSL. Their promotions are a testament

to their dedication to safety and their exemplary service record. As captains, they will continue to play a pivotal role in Flybird AMSL’s mission to provide safe, reliable, and efficient air charter services to its clientele.

Captain Ahmed Borodo, CEO of Flybird AMSL, expressed his pride in their achievements, saying, “The promotions of Captain Gaya and Captain Labo mark an exciting chapter in their careers and for Flybird AMSL. Both have proven themselves as exemplary pilots and have shown unwavering commitment to our standards of safety and excellence. We are confident they will lead with integrity and professionalism as

they take on their new roles.”

With these new appointments, Flybird AMSL continues to strengthen its team of experienced and skilled captains, furthering its commitment to delivering top-notch aviation services and setting the standard for private charter in Nigeria and beyond.

About Flybird Aircraft Management Services Ltd.

Flybird AMSL is a leading aviation company based in Abuja, Nigeria, offering a full range of charter services with a focus on safety, reliability, and customer satisfaction. Known for its fleet of well-maintained aircraft and professional crew, Flybird AMSL serves a broad clientele across various sectors.

TIA 2024 Celebrates Innovation, Recognises Tech Experts

Emma Okonji

Tech Innovation Awards (TIA 2024), at the weekend in Lagos, celebrated technology innovation and resilience that transformed Nigeria’s tech space, while recognising technology experts and organisations that have worked towards Nigeria’s digital transformation. It was an evening to reward individuals and organisations

that have kept the Nigeria’s ICT industry at the forefront of transformation and growth in the past years, which held at the Oriental Hotels, Victoria Island, Lagos.

CEO of Instinctwave, Mr. Akin Naphtal, organiser of the 8th Tech Innovation Awards 2024, in his welcome speech, said the gathering of tech experts was not not only to celebrate achievements and innovation

in the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector, but to also acknowledge the tremendous resilience and determination that keeps the industry at the forefront of transformation and growth, adding that the essence is to celebrate excellence, resilience, tenacity and audacious dreamers shaping Nigeria’s digital space and pushing the boundaries of what was never thought was possible.

Emirates Group Reports Best Ever Half-year Results for 2024-25

The Emirates Group has announced its best-ever half-year financial performance, posting a profit before tax of AED 10.4 billion ($ 2.8 billion) for the first six months of 2024-25, surpassing its record profit before tax for the same period last year.

The airline said this is the first financial year that the UAE corporate income tax, enacted in 2023, is applied to the Emirates Group. After accounting for the 9% tax charge, the Group’s profit after tax is AED 9.3 billion ($2.5 billion).

Demonstrating its strong operating profitability, the Group maintained a robust EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization) of AED 20.4 billion ($ 5.6 billion), slightly lower from AED 20.6 billion ($ 5.6 billion) last year.

Group revenue was AED 70.8 billion ($ 19.3 billion) for the first

six months of 2024-25, up 5% from AED 67.3 billion ($ 18.3 billion) last year. This reflects the consistently strong customer demand across business divisions, and across regions.

The Group closed the first half year of 2024-25 with a solid cash position of AED 43.7 billion ($ 11.9 billion) on 30 September 2024, compared to AED 47.1 billion ($ 12.8 billion) on 31 March 2024. The Group has been able to tap on its own strong cash reserves to support business needs, including payments for new freighter aircraft orders and other debt payments. The Group also paid AED 2 billion in dividend to its owner, as declared at the end of its 2023-24 financial year.

His Highness (HH) Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group said: “The Group has surpassed its record performance of last year to deliver a fantastic result for the first half of 2024-25. This

again illustrates the power of our proven business model working in combination with Dubai’s growth trajectory as a city of choice to live, work, visit, connect through, and do business in.

“The Group’s strong profitability enables us to make the investments necessary for our continued success. We’re investing billions of dollars to bring new products and services to the market for our customers; to implement advanced technologies and other innovation projects to drive growth; and to look after our employees who work hard every day to ensure our customers’ safety and satisfaction.”

He added: “We expect customer demand to remain strong for the rest of 2024-25, and we look forward to increasing our capacity to grow revenues as new aircraft join the Emirates fleet and new facilities come online at dnata.

Chinedu Eze

FCMB Offers N30m Clean Energy Loans for Homes and SMEs

Oluchi Chibuzor

First City Monument Bank (FCMB) has announced a boost in its energy finance loan, offering up to N30 million to help Nigerian households and small businesses buy solar panels, batteries, inverters, and other clean energy equipment.

With up to three years of repayment, this loan aims to ease financial pressures, allowing businesses to allocate more funds to growth and operations.

The bank in a statement said the loan enhancement is part of its mission to promote sustainable energy solutions in Nigeria, supporting the country’s net-zero goals for 2060.

The offering, the statement added, also helps offset the

increased energy costs following the removal of the fuel subsidy, reinforcing its commitment to climate action and reliable power access.

Managing Director of First City Monument Bank, Yemisi Edun, said upgrading their energy finance loan will boost Nigeria’s renewable energy sector.

She added, “This loan gives households and businesses easy access to affordable funding for clean energy solutions, supporting sustainable growth. It also helps offset the rising fuel prices caused by the removal of the fuel subsidy. At FCMB, we’re committed to helping people and businesses succeed while backing the government’s push for a stable and sustainable power supply.”

Group Head of Business Bank-

ing at FCMB, George Ogbonnaya said, “At FCMB, we are dedicated to helping businesses thrive. Our new energy finance loan helps businesses and homes access clean energy. It is affordable, accessible through a simple digital process, and designed to support job creation, boost our economy, and promote environmental sustainability.”

FCMB has led the way in advancing renewable energy through funding, capacity-building programmes, and linking clean energy providers with consumers. Over the last three years, FCMB has financed numerous projects, from solar and mini-grids to energy-efficient plants. The bank has also provided free training to support development in the sector.

GSD 2024: APMTerminals Apapa Prioritises SafetyThrough Experience-driven Learning

In commemoration of the 2024 Global Safety Day last Wednesday, APM Terminals Apapa brought together employees, management, and stakeholders to highlight their unwavering commitment to workplace safety.

Held under the theme “Learning Is Easy If We Are Curious,” the event emphasised how leveraging insights from past incidents and near-misses drives continuous improvement in safety practices.

In a recorded message, APM Terminals CEO, Keith Svendsen, drove a powerful point: “Our commitment to a safe work environment transcends policies; it’s a value that guides every action, every single day.”

His remarks emphasised that safety is integral to APM Terminals’ operations, ensuring employees feel valued and protected.

Steen Knudsen, Terminal Manager at APM Terminals Apapa,

spoke to the role of curiosity as a driver of engagement and knowledge, explaining, “When we engage with people, we learn what needs to be known. This knowledge empowers us to solve problems, hone skills, and reduce workplace risks.”

The event celebrated the next generation’s role in safety awareness, with children of employees participating in a safety slogan competition, emphasising the value of nurturing safety consciousness from an early age.

Knudsen awarded prizes to winners, encouraging employees to adopt a childlike curiosity.

“Let’s be like these children — eager to learn and understand. Safety is not only about us; it’s about those waiting for us at home,” he said.

APM Terminals Apapa Training Manager, Chima Anyanwu, echoed this sentiment, urging a

culture of openness to learning.

Curiosity drives technological advancement and innovation, ultimately enhancing safety,” he said, inspiring employees to actively engage with and refine safety protocols.

Reminding the audience especially the frontline workers that they had a role in safety, Felix Safety and Environment Manager, APM Terminals Apapa, Ugwuagbo, Health, said, “Safety is not just the job of HSE teams — each person can make a difference. Start with curiosity; be inquisitive about how tasks are done and explore if there’s a safer way. Ask questions; don’t hesitate to raise concerns or seek clarity on safety measures.”

General Manager, Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) at the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Abdul Ibrahim Sani, praised APM Terminals Apapa for its safety leadership.

Reckitt Reaffirms Localisation Commitment, Honours Outstanding Supply Partners

Mary Nnah

Reckitt Nigeria has reiterated its commitment to localisation at its Annual Commercial Conference. The event held recently in Lagos, featured the Supplier Excellence Awards, recognising local supply partners’ crucial role in enhancing Reckitt’s manufacturing operations and supporting its localisation agenda.

This event showcased Reckitt Nigeria’s commitment to fostering robust partnerships with local partners, which is

essential for driving economic growth and improving its supply chain efficiency. The awards recognized outstanding suppliers who have demonstrated exceptional quality, innovation, sustainability, On-time In-Full adherence to delivery schedules and cost effectiveness.

According to CEO, Reckitt Sub Saharan Africa, Akbar Ali Shah, “In alignment with the Nigerian government localisation agenda, we remain committed to promoting domestic manufacturing,

reducing imports and creating employment opportunities for thousands of Nigerians.

He continued, “strong supplier partnerships is at the heart of our success in Nigeria, and by investing in local suppliers, we not only enhance our manufacturing footprint but also contribute to the overall development of the Nigerian economy. The Reckitt Supply Excellence Awards initiative is a key element of our strategy to ensure that we deliver highquality products tailored to the needs of our consumers.”

Directors Conference: Polo Luxury Partners with Chartered IoD

Polo Luxury has announced its successful collaboration with the Institute of Directors Nigeria (IoD) as the official Lifestyle Partner for the 2024 Annual Directors Conference, “themed Good Governance as a Catalyst for Economic Recovery, Growth, and Development.”

The Chartered Institute of Directors, a pre-eminent professional body, is dedicated to promoting best practices in corporate governance, director development, and advocacy.

This partnership with Polo Luxury, Nigeria’s foremost luxury goods company,

underscores Polo’s commitment to excellence and the need to partner and celebrate with industry leaders in the pursuit of national prosperity, ultimately growing the economy and improving the well-being of the citizenry.

Speaking on the collaboration, Polo’s Managing Director, John Obayuwana, stated, “In our quest to enrich the lifestyles of leaders and promote the organisations they represent through our value-adding propositions, we decided to partner with the Institute with a view to strengthening the platform for the promotion of governance and leadership in corporate practice.”

The conference, held recently in Lagos, featured an impressive lineup of business leaders, entrepreneurs and strategists within the public and private sectors across the continent in discourse of ways to build sustainable development, business, and economic growth.

A notable highlight of the conference was the “Business Meets Government Dinner” on October 31st, an exclusive gathering designed to celebrate and foster impactful engagement between industry experts and government officials, promoting collaboration for positive change and development.

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

Crudes (ORB)

up of

following: 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: General Manager, Legal and Corporate Affairs, APM Terminals Nigeria, Chinenye Miriam Deinde; Terminal Manager, APM Terminals Apapa, Steen Knudsen; Port Manager, Lagos Port Complex Apapa, Adebowale Lawal Ibrahim; General Manager, Health, Safety and Environment, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Abdul Ibrahim Sani and Divisional Police Officer, Lagos Port Complex Apapa, CSP Christy Ohuei at the APM Terminals 2024 Global Safety Day event in Apapa, Lagos... recently.

Kayode Tokede

Stock Market Up 0.14% on Buying Interest in Aradel Holdings, 23 Others

KayodeTokede

The Nigerian stock market yesterday began the trading week on a positive note with a gain of 0.14 per cent, following investors bargain hunting in Aradel Holdings Plc and 23 others.

The Nigerian Exchange Limited All-Share Index (NGX ASI) gained 137.75 basis points or 0.14 per cent to close at 97,373.94 basis points from 97,236.19 basis points. Also,

market capitalisation rose by N84 billion to close at N59.004 trillion from N58.920 trillion the stock market opened for trading this week.

Thus, the NGX ASI in its month-to-date and Year-to-Date returns stood at -0.3per cent and +30.2per cent, respectively.

However, market breadth closed negative, as 24 stocks gained relative to 27 losers.

Eunisell Interlinked emerged the highest price gainer of 10 per cent to close at N9.02, per

share. Aradel Holdings followed with a gain of 9.99 per cent to close at N533.80, while John Holt up by 9.98 per cent to close at N5.29, per share.

Deap Capital Management and Trust rose by 9.35 per cent to close at N1.17, while Custodian Investment appreciated by 8.62 per cent to close at N12.60, per share. On the other side, United Capital led others on the losers’ chart with 9.78 per cent to close at N16.15, per share. Sovereign Trust Insurance followed with

a decline of 7.25 per cent to close at 64 kobo, while Prestige Assurance declined by 6.67 per cent to close at 56 kobo, per share.

Consolidated Hallmark Holdings lost 5.88 per cent to close at N1.60, while Tripple Gee & Company depreciated by 5.49 per cent to close at N1.72, per share.

The total volume traded decreased by 37.82 per cent to 297.830 million units, valued at N7.518 billion, and exchanged

in 9,902 deals. Transactions in the shares of Sterling Financial Holdings Company led the activity with 36.132 million shares worth N180.861 million. United Bank for Africa (UBA) followed with account of 33.497 million shares valued at N1.041 billion, while Access Holdings traded 24.595 million shares valued at N590.091 million. Flour Mills of Nigeria traded 15.034 million shares worth N977.287 million, while FBN Holdings (FBNH) traded 14.523

million shares worth N398.274 million. Looking forward, United Capital Plc said “the equities market is expected to retain its buy interest as investors cherry-pick undervalued stocks. However, given the high interest rates in the fixed income and money markets, we expect some bearish undertone to persist in the equities market as fixed income biased investors take advantage of the high yields in the fixed income space.

A Mutual fund (Unit Trust) is an investment vehicle managed by a SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) registered Fund Manager. Investors with similar objectives buy units of the Fund so that the Fund Manager can buy securities that willl generate their desired return.

An ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) is a type of fund which owns the assets (shares of stock, bonds, oil futures, gold bars, foreign currency, etc.) and divides ownership of those assets into shares. Investors can buy these ‘shares’ on the

floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

A REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) is an investment vehicle that allows both small and large investors to part-own real estate ventures (eg. Offices, Houses, Hospitals) in proportion to their investments. The assets are divided into shares that are traded on the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

GUIDE TO DATA:

Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira as at 8-November-2024, unless otherwise stated.

Business Special

Savannah Energy Shows Resilience with Strong H1 2024 Performance

Savannah energy plc, the British independent energy company, whose midstream subsidiary, accugas limited, is playing a major role in Nigeria’s thermal power generation capacity, has just released its unaudited results for the half year, showing strong financial performance, writes Goddy egene

Savannah Energy Plc, the British independent energy company focused around the delivery of projects that matter, continues its growth trajectory in Africa as it posted another healthy financial and operational performance for the half year (H1) ended June 30, 2024.

According to the unaudited H1 report, average daily production in Nigeria rose three per cent to 24.4 Kboepd, where its midstream subsidiary, Accugas Limited, supplies gas enabling 20 per cent of the country’s thermal power generation capacity. The company also highlighted progress around its ambitions for its renewable energy division across Africa.

In the H1 2024 unaudited report, Savannah Energy posted a commendable total Income increase of 40 per cent to US$233.4 million, compared to its H1 2023 total income of US$167.6 million.

A breakdown of the total income shows that it is made up of total revenues of US$123.5 million and other operating income of US$109.9 million associated with the billing of foreign exchange losses incurred by Accugas Limited, as it converted the Naira cash it received into United States dollars[Savannah continues to benefit from over US$3.4 billion of contracted future gas revenues in Accugas, with price escalation clauses tied to US consumer price inflation.]

The report further shows that Savannah’s operating profit in H1 2024 stood at an impressive US$152.3 million, which is 130 per cent higher than US66.2 million posted in H1 2023. Its adjusted EBITDA, which excludes Other operating income, decreased marginally to US$91.6 million, compared to US$108.2 million in H1 2023. But if Other operating income is included, it shows a 47 per cent year-on-year increase to US$201.5 million.

The report illustrates Savannah’s prudence with cost management as its costs remained stable at US$1.1/Mscfe on a unit of production basis, the same as in H1 2023, largely due to the steps the company has taken to reduce central costs over the period.

It also provides updates on its oil and gas operations, with its Nigerian business continuing to record a strong and consistent performance. In addition to posting a three per cent increase in average gross daily production in Nigeria to 24.4 Kboepd, compared to FY 2023 (23.6 Kboepd), Savannah’s subsidiary, Accugas, consolidated its market leadership during the period, agreeing and extending three gas contracts for a total of up to 105 MMscfpd.

Commenting on the report, Chief Executive Officer of Savannah, Andrew Knott, said:“I am pleased to report our results for the first six months of 2024, as well as the wider progress we are making developing our business. Key highlights in H1 included the delivery of US$233 million of total income and the announcement of our planned acquisition of SINOPEC’s upstream assets in Nigeria. Alongside this, we are pleased to report strong progress in the development of our renewable energy business, particularly relating to our planned projects in Niger and Cameroon. Looking forward we expect to make a series of announcements around our entry into further renewable energy projects prior to year-end. We remain unequivocally an “and” company, seeking to deliver strong performance both for the short and long term across multiple fronts, and pursuing growth opportunities in both the hydrocarbon and renewable energy sectors.”

In January this year, Accugas extended its agreement with First Independent Power Limited for an additional 12-month period, enabling Accugas to continue supplying the FIPL Afam, Eleme and Trans Amadi power stations with up to 65 MMscfpd of gas.

In July, Accugas also signed a new 24-month agreement with Ibom Power Company Limited, owner of the Ibom power station, to supply up to 30 MMscfpd

of gas, following the expiration of the previous 10-year agreement. A month later, it extended its agreement with Central Horizon Gas Company Limited for an additional 12-month period, whereby Accugas will supply CHGC with up to 10 MMscfpd of gas.

Savannah scored big last March when it announced that it has signed separate Share Purchase Agreements(SPAs) with Sinopec International Petroleum Exploration and Production Corporation and Jagal Ventures Limited to acquire 100 per cent of the outstanding share capital of Sinopec International Petroleum Exploration and Production Company Nigeria Limited (SIPEC). SIPEC’s principal asset is a 49 per cent non-operated interest in the Stubb Creek oil and gas field, located in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. An affiliate of Savannah, Universal Energy Resources Limited, is the 51 per cent owner and operator.

Savannah anticipates that, within 12 months following completion of the acquisition, Stubb Creek gross production should increase by approximately 2.7 Kbopd to approximately 4.7 Kbopd through implementation of a debottlenecking programme.

The company is also set to complete work on its US$45 million gas compression project at its Uquo gas Central Processing Facility that will allow Accugas to continue to provide reliable gas supplies to customers for years to come. The system comprises two parallel trains with a capacity of 160 MMscfpd each and is designed to increase the gas export pressure. The company is also currently working on a proposed further development programme for the Uquo field which is expected to see additional wells drilled in 2025 and 2026.

According to the company, it has always shown clear ambitions for renewable energy in Africa. Its H1 2024 report

shows that the company’s renewable energy projects in motion at period-end has risen to 696 MW. A strong believer in Africa’s transition to renewable energy, Savannah aims to become one of the largest renewable energy development companies in Africa over the next two years with a rapidly growing pipeline of hydro, wind and solar power projects, targeting a portfolio of up to 1 GW+ of renewable energy projects in motion by end 2024 and up to 2 GW+ by end 2026.

In addition to this, the company hopes to announce its entry into further projects in the next few months and has also signed agreements with the IFC and the US International Development Finance Corporation to fund two-thirds of preconstruction development costs on its up to 250MW Parc Eolien de la Tarka wind farm project in Niger.

Savannah also stated in the report that it remains committed to the 35 MMstb (Gross 2C Resources) R3 East oil development in South-East Niger, as part of its determination to continue to deliver on projects that matter in the country and other markets where it operates on the continent. The Niger-Benin oil export pipeline which is now fully operational continues to provide a clear route to international markets for crude oil produced from its R1234 contract area. The company continues to progress its planned four well testing programme and is in the process of mobilising the required long lead item equipment into country.

Savannah noted that it continued to make significant impact in Cameroon with the Bini a Warak Hybrid Hydroelectric and Solar Project well on schedule, following the approval of the optimisation and proposed redesign of the project given by the country’s Water and Energy minister.

The company added that in South Sudan, it remains in active discussions regarding a potential transaction in the East African country, with a further update expected by early November.

New Dawn in Edo, As Monday Okpebholo, Man With Strongest Traits of Leadership Takes Charge

B‘A leader is best when people barely know he exists, when his work is done, his aim is fulfilled, they will say: we did it ourselves’ – Lao Tzu.

“It is better to lead from behind and to put others in front, especially when you celebrate victory when nice things occur. You take the frontline when there is danger. Then people will appreciate your leadership’- Nelson Mandela.

The quote by Lao Tzu; the semi-legendary ancient Chinese philosopher and that of Madiba aptly described the person and personality of the man that will be sworn in as the governor of Edo state on Tuesday, November 12, 2024.

Senator Monday Okpebholo’s mien and calm disposition has been mistaken for weakness by the opposition. What others term as weakness is the strongest trait of senator Monday Okpebholo. The ability to be calm, focused and compassionate are the hallmarks of true leadership. Edo people are lucky to have a man who is not interested in the normal shenanigans associated with Nigerian politics. He is a complete gentleman.

For those who question his intellect because of his refusal to bandy words with his detractors, senator Monday Okpebholo believes more in getting the work done than wasting time defending obvious lies and

getting distracted from the work at hand. Monday Okpebholo is 54 years old and was born on the 29th of August 1970. He is a graduate of Business Administration from the university of Abuja; and also holds a Master’s degree in Policy and Leadership from the same institution.

Okpebholo who won the Edo state central senatorial district seat under APC on the 25th of February 2023 is a man to watch. That victory was particularly outstanding because he broke the 24year rule of the PDP in the zone. Before going

into the race for Edo governorship, he was the senate committee chairman on procurement which is one of the highest committees in the senate which goes to testify to his brilliance and capabilities as a leader.

He sponsored the bill on agriculture research council of Nigeria Act (Amendment) 2023 and has dug several boreholes, reconstruction of class rooms, re-electrification projects and others as part of constituency projects in just one year.

Congratulations to all Edo state indigenes, lovers, friends and residents as we are all set to witness a mega turnaround in the development of the ancient state.

Now that we have a leader who is ready to work; we know that the perennial flooding and erosion that has defied solution will be tackled by this quiet achiever.

Okpebholo is an entrepreneur with investments in hospitality, ICT, Oil and gas and construction and will bring his wealth of experience to bear on the state. He needs the support of all Nigerians to achieve this. It was Lao Tzu who said that; he who conquers others is strong; he who conquers himself is mighty. Senator Monday Okpebholo has mastered himself and he is set to master Edo state, bringing the needed investors to make Edo state a sought-after destination for business and tourism.

Josie Mudasiru, JP, Mnipr, FIIM is a Communication Strategist, Writer and Humanitarian who runs JAM Intervention For Vulnerable Children And Climate Change Initiative in Abuja.

Alake Woos South African Mining Investors

The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake has charged South African investors and global mining giants to seize the opportunities presented by ongoing reforms and the improved business climate in Nigeria’s mining sector.

In his keynote address at the inaugural International Investment Forum and Roadshow in South Africa for the Solid Minerals Sector in Nigeria, the minister emphasized that Nigeria is open for business, citing the renewed focus of President Bola Tinubu’s administration on solid minerals development.

Alake outlined that aggressive promotion of the sector is central to his Seven-Point Agenda, affirming that the strategy has successfully redirected global attention to Nigeria’s mining industry, culminating in increased investments and a significant rise in revenue generation for the country.

“Our vision is to establish a sector where global mining giants - such as Glencore, Rio Tinto, Intro-Africa Mining & Exploration, and Rainbow Mines - recognize Nigeria’s vast mineral resources and collaborate with us to maximize the benefits of these resources

for our citizens and economic development of the nation,” the minister added.

Highlighting the positive impact of recent reforms, the Minister, represented by the permanent secretary Dr Mary Ogbe, pointed out that the introduction of the Electronic Mining Cadastral System (EMC+) has streamlined the licensing process, enabling a fully digitized application system for mining licenses.

Additionally, the newly launched Nigeria Minerals Decision Support System (NMDSS) offers critical hydrological, geological, and geographical data that will assist potential investors in making informed decisions.

The host of the investment forum, Ag. Nigeria High Commissioner to Nigeria, Ambassador Tope Ajayi in his remarks, stated that the conference aims to showcase the vast solid minerals potentials of Nigeria to South-African investors, secure valuable collaborations with the ministry and get the needed capital investment that will spur rapid development of the mining sector.

In a related development, representative of the Minister, Dr. Ogbe, also participated in a panel session answering

questions from diverse investors, sensitizing the audience on improved business climate in the mining sector and reeling out incentives for prospective investors.

As a result of these productive engagements which also included private break-out sessions with investors, several companies expressed strong interest in investing in Nigeria.

Many of these companies are expected to formalize partnerships during the upcoming Nigeria Mining Week, which will take place from November 18-20, 2024.

The event will bring together several South African mining companies and financial institutions to further strengthen the cooperation forged at the Johannesburg investment forum.

Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State and his Plateau State counterpart, Caleb Mutfwang, have stated that pay-as-you-go satellite television service is now possible in Nigeria, urging citizens to patronise Luft Tv which made its debut on Sunday.

They both spoke at the grand unveiling and launch of Luft Pay Tv, a Nigerian pay TV company, in Abuja.

Governor Sule said: “I strongly believe that Luft Tv has come at a time that Nigeria misses the most. My understanding of pay tv is actually similar to the story of MTN and Globalcom here in this country.

“When MTN started, they would say that there was no

per second billing. But in our own case, the moment Globalcom came, they started with per second billing.

“And today, my understanding of pay tv is a situation where you pay only what you want. So, in a day, I can select that I watch tv only between a certain time to a certain time.

“And so, I have my pay tv for that, because that’s the way I understood it from where I used to pay for pay tv. And just like the demonstrations and all the other speakers have mentioned, at a time like this, when the economy is actually challenging, I need to pay only for what I want.”

He advised the management of Luft Pay tv to be creative so that the content that is going to come from them has to focus on news, on the youth, on sports, documentary, history, and more

important, the culture and the media.

“You continue to promote the culture and the media like this.

This is the time that Nigeria has reached,” he said.

On his part, Governor Caleb Muftwang of Plateau State said:

“I am here because I believe in promoting local initiative.

And I think that this is what Luft tv is bringing on board. I know that for industries like the entertainment industry, variety is important.

“Therefore, local news should be encouraged. And we should be able to give people options, qualitative options. At very economic prices, we must be able to share profit with the people who make business profitable.

“Therefore, I salute this initiative and I want to encourage Nigerians to patronise Luft. It’s

a great initiative.”

Earlier, in his welcome address, the Chairman Luft Pay Tv, Dr. Bright Echefu said that the launch had ushered in a new era of entertainment for Nigerians.

According to him, the pay tv platform promises to deliver the best of global and local content, tailored to meet the diverse needs of Nigerian audiences.

He also stated that Luft PayTv boasts cutting-edge technology, delivering crystal-clear HD quality, multi-device compatibility, and an affordable subscription plan.

“Our services offer an unparalleled entertainment experience, featuring thrilling Nollywood blockbusters, live sports action, international news, reality shows, and a dedicated kiddies’ channel for children’s education and entertainment.

Okpebholo

Josie Mudasiru

Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

Oghenevwede Ohwovoriole in Abuja

CELEBRATION OF THE 80TH ANNIVERSARY OF BRITISH COUNCIL NIGERIA ...

of the 80th Anniversary of British Council Nigeria in Lagos...recently

Illegal Mining in Kebbi: Concerns Mount over Collusion by Security Operatives, Chinese Nationals

Some stakeholders have raised concern over the alleged connivance of Nigeria’s security agencies with illegal foreign miners to displace government licensed operators from their sites.

THISDAY gathered that at the weekend, men of the Nigerian Mining Marshals, pursuant to their mandate of helping to sanitise operations in the sector, stormed the Libata mining site in Ngaski Local Government Area of Kebbi State.

Their mission, it was learnt, was to apprehend some Chinese nationals said to be illegally mining lithium there on the site and who had intentionally trespassed to the legally licensed sites.

Minister of Solid Minerals

Development, Dr. Dele Alake, and his counterpart in the Ministry of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, had recently, in collaboration with the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), commissioned the mining marshals, a specialised unit drafted from the corps to ensure sanity at the mining sites.

However, the marshals were said to have been prevented from arresting the illegal operators by the military and police personnel, who claimed they were deployed to protect the illegal miners by “higher authorities”.

Speaking on the development in Libata, Chief Executive Officer of El-TahDam Exploration, Adamu Tah, an engineer, said his company validly acquired a mining lease to operate on the site with the $50

million processing plant designed to create over 3,000 jobs.

But Tah stated that he was denied access by the Chinese who he said had both military and mobile police cover.

He said, "The Chinese, who are illegal miners there are undertaking activities under a self-acclaimed licensee, Three Crown Mines Limited, exploiting and carting away countless tonnes of materials, want to frustrate our efforts to set up the processing plant there.

“We have also sent a complaint letter to the Chinese Embassy, but the letter remains unattended to. Other local cohorts and influential figures are clearly behind these illegal acts, no doubt."

Tah, who affirmed that he had won the support of the host

community to make his planned $50 million investment in the area, said all he wanted was for the illegal occupants to vacate the site so that he could resume operations and continue with his plan to establish the processing plant.

Mining Marshals’ Commander, John Onoja, said the team embarked on the operation, not to halt mining there, but to ensure that those operating there were duly licensed to do so.

Onoja stressed that the information at their disposal did not capture those at the site at the time.

Interestingly, the presence of a China state-owned company's vehicles on the site was said to have sparked suspicion by the team.

The vehicles, it was learnt, were seen parked on the site at the time

Leaked Memo: Head of Service Warns Ministries over Illegal Workers’ Promotion

The federal government, through the Office of the Head of Civil Service Commission, has accused ministries of conducting promotion exercises for special civil servants without following due process.

A memo signed by the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Didi Walson-Jack, which was sighted by News Point Nigeria, warned such ministries.

It advised that cases of

promotion for special deserving civil servants should be forwarded to the Federal Civil Service Commission.

The memo was addressed to the Chief of Staff to the President, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Ministers, Heads of Departments, agencies such as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, and permanent secretaries, among others.

The memo, dated October 28, 2024, read: “It has been observed that ministries are making requests for special promotion of officers from one salary grade level to the other, without observing due process.

“Henceforth, all Ministries/ Extra-Ministerial Departments are advised to follow the extant procedure as provided in Part IV Section 24 of the “Guidelines for Appointments, Promotion and Discipline” (2004 Edition)

issued by the Federal Civil Service Commission, in their requests for special promotion for deserving officers.

“For the avoidance of doubt, all requests for special promotion must be forwarded to the Chairman of the Federal Civil Service Commission by the recommending Permanent Secretary, through the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation.

“Kindly ensure strict compliance with the content of this Circular.”

Hussey College: Varsity Don Advocates Policy Supportive of Education Reform for National Devt

Funmi Ogundare

Professor of Veterinary Parasitology and Entomology, University of Abuja, Maxwell Opara, yesterday, called for policies that support educational reform at local, state, and national levels saying that the move will go s long way in transforming the education system into a catalyst for national development.

Opara who made this call at the annual award and fundraising dinner of the Hussey College Warri Old Students Association (Lagos branch), emphasised the importance of providing high-potential students with access to quality education through scholarships, regardless of

socio-economic status.

In his lecture titled 'Education for Development: Retooling the Secondary School System', Opara described education as a powerful driver of development that empowers individuals, promotes equality, and accelerates economic growth.

He highlighted the challenges within the secondary education system, including an outdated curriculum, insufficient teacher quality and training, inadequate infrastructure, and the need to strengthen vocational and technical education.

He lamented the state of Nigeria’s education system, referencing UNICEF statistics showing that 10.5 million Nigerian children are out of school

and that 70 per cent of children aged 10 to 14 cannot read or perform basic math.

These figures, he argued, underscore the urgent need for comprehensive educational reforms.

Key steps, he suggested, include curriculum updates, ongoing teacher training, integrating technology, and fostering equity and inclusion.

"With technology, schools can provide students access to a wealth of learning resources," Opara stated, adding that, "Through fundraising and collaboration, we can modernise Hussey College's facilities, equipping students with tools to excel." He identified interactive whiteboards, laptops, high-speed internet, VR/

AR equipment, and STEM labs as essential classroom tools that could enhance learning and engage students more effectively.

Opara urged the alumni to help transform Hussey College and all secondary schools in Nigeria.

"Updating the curriculum, improving teacher quality, integrating technology, and promoting inclusiveness can turn our education system into a catalyst for national development," he said.

He called on alumni to be the change-makers for the college and society, adding, "Together, we can ensure that Hussey College continues to produce graduates ready to lead, innovate, and drive our nation's growth."

of the sting operation, implying their direct involvement in the prevailing illegalities in the Nigerian mining sector.

During the operation, the illegal miners, who ceased operation temporarily, reportedly, resigned to their living quarters on the site, apparently having got wind of the swoop by the mining marshals.

However, they were said to have been pulled out and lined up for onward conveyance to Abuja by the team led by the mining Marshals Commander, Onoja, having identified themselves and declared their mission to the security agencies on guard duty upon arrival.

But drama started when there was strong resistance from the military personnel numbering about 40 as well as mobile police, who were up to 20, which prevented further action by the mining marshals.

The mining marshals’ commander,

to forestall breakdown of law and order, was said to have quietly retreated.

Onoja said necessary steps known to law were being taken already and the marshals would stop at nothing in ensuring lawful mining activities in the area and Nigeria, at large.

Stakeholders believed the development raised posers about the seriousness of the authorities to tackle the challenge, given that while one security outfit carried out its statutory duty, another agency of government was preventing them from doing their job, citing orders from “higher authorities”.

The scenario prompted concerned stakeholders to call for probe of all the foreign companies that exported minerals or were sponsoring illegal mining, with a view to ending their activities.

Prerogative of Mercy: Obaseki Pardons Inmates with Less Than

One Year to Serve

APC transition committee urges governorelect to institute inquiry into state’s finances

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

Outgoing Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has granted pardon to 10 inmates with less than one year to serve their terms in correctional centres in the state in exercise of his prerogative of mercy.

This was disclosed by the Chairman of the Edo State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy, Hon. Justice P.O Isibor (Rtd).

According to him, “Following the ending of His Excellency's tenure, the Council received a letter from the Benin Correctional Service dated 5th day of November, 2024, requesting for clemency for the inmates having less than one year to serve was forwarded to the Council by the Controller of the Correctional Centre.

“The Council convened a meeting where their applications were scrutinised and unanimously made appropriate recommendations. Mr. Governor is respectfully invited to consider and approve the recommendations of the Council.”

Those pardoned by the governor included Igwe Kelechukwu, Esazobor Ohioze, Gift Osaretun,

Meanwhile, the Edo APC Transition Committee, has recommended the setting up of enquiry into the finances of the state under the outgoing administration of Godwin Obaseki, by the incoming administration of Senator Monday Okpebholo.

The committee added that the outgoing government didn't provide audited financial statements published or unpublished.

It also asked the new administration to carry out a complete review of all Memoranda of Understandings (MOUs) on the management of the Central Hospital and Stella Obasanjo by the outgoing government.

The 25-member committee led by former deputy governor, Dr. Pius Odubu, further recommended that all the local and foreign debts incurred under Obaseki must be accounted for, pointing out that even the procurement agency in its report to the transition committee, indicted the government.

Takyi Rockson, Dikuar Friday, Ossai Glory, Augustine Sunday, Daulagha Ebifagha Godluck, James Paul and Anas Isah.

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

L-R: General Counsel and Company, Secretary British Council Nigeria, Busayo Augusto; Regional Lead Creative Economy, SSA/ Head of Arts, British Council Nigeria; Brenda Fashugba; Acting Country Director, British Council Nigeria, Chilufya Besa; Representing The Deputy High Commissioner, Deputy Head of Missions Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), Simon Field and Regional Head of Cultural Engagement Marketing, British Council, Sub-Saharan Arica, Edemekong Uyoh at the celebration

2024 SICA ABIDJAN...

L-R: Producer, consultant and entrepreneur, Alex Berger; Managing Partner of GLG Communications, Omawumi Ogbe; renowned Nigerian filmmaker, actor and producer, Kunle Afolayan; and Ghanaian actress, author and producer, Juliet Ibrahim, as speakers at the ongoing 2024 Salon International de Contenu Audiovisuel (SICA) held in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire ... recently

Atiku: I Can’t Envy President Inflicting Pain on Nigerians, He’s Exclusively Wicked

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, yesterday, responded to a statement by the presidency that he was envious of President Bola Tinubu, wondering how he can possibly envy a man inflicting pain on the people.

Describing wickedness as the president’s exclusive preserve, Atiku said Tinubu’s economic policies were killing Nigerians, and this should be his focus, rather than attacking the opposition.

In a statement by his Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku dismissed as inelegant and insipid the statement by the presidency on Sunday.

The statement said, “On July 8, 2024, Tinubu announced that import duty on essential goods, like food,

would be lifted for 150 days. But over 120 days later, the policy is yet to take off, while Nigerians continue to die daily due to increasing costs, including food inflation, which now exceeds 40 per cent, the highest in decades.

“The brazen disobedience to a government policy by Tinubu’s appointees and the failure of the finance ministry to issue a gazette after over four months reflects the fatuousness, inanity, and the incompetence that characterises the Tinubu administration.

“Sadly, rather than focus on governance, they are preoccupied with verbally assaulting their opponents – Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi – while using compromised courts to foster crisis in the opposition. What a shame!”

Atiku argued that Tinubu’s

abysmal performance in the last 18 months had made it clear to all Nigerians that he came into office unprepared, hence the many policy flip-flops that had so far characterised his tenure.

He added, “Tinubu was obviously unprepared for office. He acts first and thinks of the consequences afterwards. This was why he announced an abrupt removal of petrol subsidy without any cushions.

“After seeing the effect, he then hurriedly decided to push a CNG initiative, which even he and his ministers have not embraced, hence their refusal to use it.

“The CNG initiative has so far failed to fully kick-off because of a lack of gas infrastructure in most states. The result is that transport costs continue to soar along with prices of food.

“In his mid-term expenditure framework, he projected the exchange rate at N700/$1 in 2024 and N650/$1 by 2025. Rather than sack his economic advisers, he continues to live in a fool’s paradise, deceiving Nigerians about the FX reserve of $40 billion, when, in fact, the net reserves are less than 20 per cent of that.

“Let the CBN release its financial statements of 2023 if he is sure of his achievements.”

Atiku described as unfortunate the announcement by the military authorities on the emergence of a new terror organisation known as Lakurawa.

He said that coupled with the incessant grid collapses in the north due to the activities of criminal elements, Tinubu ought to focus more on improving security, which

is a sine qua non for investments.

The former vice president stated that the president had decided to play politics with security by appointing his kinsmen in top security and economic positions.

He stated, “On the economy, he put his kinsmen in every key position beginning from finance minister, trade and investment, CBN, customs and FIRS. Even President Muhammadu Buhari was not this brazen. Unlike Tinubu, Atiku is not a bigot."

Despite a huge revenue challenge, Atiku said Tinubu committed over $13 billion to the controversial LagosCalabar coastal highway, rendering scores of Lagos residents homeless just to please his associates, while other pressing matters are starved of funds.

Atiku advised Tinubu to make hay while the sun shines, as Nigerians had grown tired of his administration. He reminded the president that he had barely two years left in office and he should focus on improving the lives of the people.

The statement added, "It is

ludicrous to claim that Atiku is jealous of Tinubu. Hell no, Atiku cannot be jealous of Tinubu inflicting pains on Nigerians. Wickedness is an exclusive preserve of Tinubu and no compassionate leader, who truly cares about the wellbeing of Nigerians, should be jealous of what is an exclusive preserve of T-Pain.

“It is disheartening that during the last protests, some frustrated young Nigerians were waving Russian flags and calling on the military to take over. God forbid we return to those dark days, but leaders must not push their citizens to a point where citizens choose fire over frying pan.

“Nigeria is currently the worst performing currency in Africa and is now the fifth largest economy on the continent, falling from first, when the failure called APC took over in 2015. Most Nigerians are at their wits’ end, not knowing where their next meal will come from. This should be Tinubu’s biggest concern instead of fiddling while the country burns.”

Hammed Shittu in Ilorin Kwara State Governor, Alhaji AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq and immediate past Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, yesterday said the ancient town of Ilorin has witnessed tremendous growth since the ascension to the throne of Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari.

The duo stated this in Ilorin on Monday in separate statements issued to mark the 29th anniversary of Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Sulu-Gambari ascension to the throne of his forefathers.

The governor in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Rafiu Ajakaye, stated: "Ilorin over the last 29 years has seen more positive growth across sectors, with its status rising in national importance, population, harmony, and prestige associated with important landmarks now dotting the southernmost emirate city.

“We thank His Royal Highness for his strong leadership, his support for the people and government, and the grace with

which he handles delicate matters of public importance".

Governor AbdulRazaq beseeched Allah to uphold the first-class monarch and bless his old age with good health, happiness, and continuous peace and harmony.

Also, the immediate past Senate President, Dr. Saraki described the Emir's reign as a blessing to the Ilorin Emirate and Kwara at large, considering his immeasurable impact in fostering unity, promoting peace, and ensuring development across the state.

Saraki, in a statement, signed by his Press Officer on Local Matters, Abdulganiyu Abdulqadir, the Waziri Ngeri of Ilorin Emirate, also lauded the revered monarch for his leadership as the Chairman of Kwara State Traditional Council.

This has helped to confer respect on the royal stool and promote oneness across the nooks and crannies of Kwara State, he said.

Saraki prayed to Allah to grant him a long life, good health, and

the grace to do more exploits.

Meanwhile, the immediate past Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Prof. Ali Ahmad, praised the eminent royal father for his longstanding peaceful, and enduring reign since his ascension to the throne of his forebears.

He prayed Allah to grant the monarch continued prosperity and good health in the years to come.

Professor Ali emphasized that this year's coronation anniversary should serve as an opportunity to acknowledge the Emir's significant contributions to community service, philanthropy, and his commitment to fostering huge investments in human capital development throughout the Ilorin Emirate and Kwara State as a whole.

As eminent Kwarans both at home and in diaspora celebrate the Emir's 29th coronation anniversary, the former speaker wished the revered monarch longevity of life filled with abundance of good health.

Also, the vice chancellor of University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab

Egbewole, yesterday, said that the reign of the Emir has not only been eventful but also very peaceful and progressive

In a statement issued by the University Director of Corporate Affairs, Mr. Kunle Akogun, Prof. Egbewole described the Emir as a great leader who deserves to be celebrated for his exemplary contributions to nation-building before and since his appointment in 1995.

The Vice Chancellor, who is also the Secretary-General of the Association of West African Universities (AWAU), said that the Emir has been a father of all and a great supporter of the nation's most sought-after University.

The Vice Chancellor, who pointed out that the university and particularly his administration, has been enjoying a good relationship with the Emir, called for more collaborations between the University and its host community.

Prof. Egbewole wished the monarch many more years of quality services to his people, the nation, and humanity at large.

Kano Govt Earmarks N150bn for New Minimum Wage

Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano

The 2025 proposed budget of the Kano State government has allocated a whopping N150.9 for monthly salaries and allowances of civil servants and political office holders in the state.

In a press conference in his office yesterday in Kano, the Commissioner, Ministry of Planning and Budget, Musa Shanono, said the amount was based on the approval of the new minimum wage by Governor Abba Yusuf.

He said, the amount was part of the proposed recurrent expenditure for the 2025 fiscal year, estimated to be N236.5 billion, representing 43 per cent of the total estimated budget size.

“The total Recurrent Expenditure for the incoming fiscal year 2025 is estimated at N236,525,504,990, 82 representing 43 per cent of the total budget size. Out of this, the sum of N150,996,352,990.82 is dedicated for the payment of monthly salaries

and allowances to the civil servants and political office holders in the state, based on the approval of the new minimum policy by Governor Kabir Yusuf,” he said. He added that the proposed overhead costs for Ministries Departments and Agencies (MDAs), was estimated to be the sum of N75,567,346,000.

“For MDAs running cost, critical priority payments based on Standing Order approved by His Excellency to MDAs. While the payment of debt service is to the sum of N9,961,805,000 for the fiscal year 2025,” he said.

Shanono explained that the size of the proposed 2025 budget is N549,160,417,663.00 as the capital expenditure component stands at N312,634,912,672.18, while the recurrent expenditure was set at N236,525,504,990.82. Yusuf had on Friday presented the proposed 2025 appropriation bill to the tune of N549,160,417,663.00, to the State House of Assembly.

2024 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF THE ACADEMY...

Banana Island: Sanwo-Olu Inaugurates

Projects, Pledges More Infrastructure Devt

Dike Onwuamaeze

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has pledged to see to more infrastructural developments within the Banana Island estate and address the drainage issue that has been causing a major challenge on

the road leading to the estate.

The governor made this pledge on Saturday when he commissioned a series of landmark projects that underscored Banana Island’s reputation as one of Nigeria’s most prestigious estates. The projects, which were executed

by the Banana Island Property Owners and Residents Association Lagos (BIPORAL) in collaboration with the Providus Bank and First Bank of Nigeria Plc, include an ultra-modern estate gate, a stateof-the-art administrative building, the Banana Island Boat Club, an

advanced firefighting truck, two world-class tennis courts, and two astro turf football fields.

These projects were designed to enhance the safety, convenience, and recreational options available to Banana Island’s residents and further solidify the estate’s status as a prime hub for

Ondo: PDP Intensifies Efforts for Ajayi, Passes Confidence Vote on Ologunagba

Chuks Okocha and Michael Olugbode in Abuja

Ahead of Saturday’s governorship election in Ondo State, opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has strengthened its structures, intensifying efforts to ensure the victory of its candidate, Hon. Agboola Ajayi at the poll.

At the same time, the party’s stakeholders in the state have passed a vote of confidence on their National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Debo Ologunagba, for his leadership roles, particularly towards the success of the party in Saturday’s election.

Executive members, leaders and other stakeholders of the party in Ward 7 Akoko South West Local Government Area rose from a crucial meeting last Saturday in Oka Akoko, calling on all members across Ondo State to remain united and continue

to work hard for the victory of the PDP and its candidate at the poll.

The resolution was signed by the Ward Chairman, Adeloye Adeniyi, Vice Chairman, Ademola Samuel; Secretary, Kareem Ibrahim; Legal Adviser, Olotu Augustine; Woman Leader, Afolabi Helen; Youth Leader, Aaron Sunday; Auditor, Olagbe Abayomi; Financial Secretary, Ehinmabaje Joseph; Treasurer, Amuda Sehinde and the Local Government Youth Leader, Ajisafe Samuel among other Party stakeholders.

They resolved to “intensify efforts individually and collectively towards the victory of the PDP and its candidate, His Excellency, Hon. Agboola Ajayi in the November 16, 2024 governorship election.”

They also commended all the elected officers at all levels in Ondo State for their continued steadfastness and commitment to the unity, stability,

growth and success of the Party especially towards the forthcoming November 16, 2024 governorship election in the State.

The meeting particularly noted “the activities of Hon. Debo Ologunagba as the National Publicity Secretary of the PDP and commended him for his sterling qualities

“Accordingly, the Chapter unanimously passed a Vote of Confidence on Hon. Debo Ologunagba, as the highest-ranking Party officer from the State, for his outstanding leadership roles at the Ward and other levels of the Party in the State as well as his impressive performance as the mouthpiece of the Party at the National level.”

Meanwhile, the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR), has called for violence-free election in the state.

The institute said as the

luxury and innovation.

Sanwo-Olu said: “The minimum we can do as a government is to support you and ensure that where you work and play and relax also reflect what contribution you are giving to Lagos State and to Nigeria at large.”

Responding to the request made by residents for the repair of the access road to the Banana Island, the governor assured them that the state government would find a lasting solution to the drainage channel that has been causing problem in the estate.

“That is why all of you are suffering this now. A huge body of water needs specific drainage size to be able to drain water when it rains. It is simple physics,” he said. In his remarks during the projects’ commissioning ceremony, the Chairman of Banana Island Residents Association, Mr. Frank Aigbogun, said that the event highlighted the commitment of BIPORAL to creating a self-sustained, secure, and community-oriented environment for all residents.

IPCR calls for violence-free election Abdullahi, Dogara, Aregbesola, Shekarau, Bugaje, others speak

preparations for the conduct of the election has reached an advanced stage with the date fixed and logistical arrangements concluded, there was need for a robust sensitization campaign focused on the achievement of a peaceful process.

It added that the imperative for peace in electoral systems, irrespective of locations and geographies, was very critical because it guarantees viability and ultimately, sustainability.

A statement signed by the Director General, Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR), Dr. Joseph Ochogwu read: “On the imperative of violence-free elections in Ondo state, the IPCR said ‘Peace’ remains the stimulating and sustaining energy driving the socio-economic and political development of all organized states.

Abbas Disagrees with Stakeholders over Call to Ditch Presidential System of Govt

Chuks Okocha and Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

There was a sharp disagreement yesterday between Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, and some members of the House, under the aegis of Parliamentary System Support Group (PSSG), and other stakeholders in the Nigerian project over the clamour for a home-grown parliamentary system of government to replace the current presidential system.

While Abbas believed that the

clamour for change might lead to unintended consequences, other stakeholders were of the opinion that the presidential system had revealed fractures that could no longer be ignored, dreams left unfulfilled, and gaps begging to be filled. They said it was time to address these issues.

The national discourse on “HomeGrown Parliamentary System” of government was organised by PSSG in Abuja.

Setting the tone for the discussion, the chairman of PSSG, Hon.

Abdulsamad Dasuki, said as they gathered to reflect on over 25 years of democracy in Nigeria, it was impossible not to recognise that the period had been an experiment – one that had tested patience, optimism, and enduring hope for a better nation.

“Yes, we have nurtured and embraced this democracy, but let us be candid: this is not the democracy we desire, nor the one our founding fathers envisaged,” Dasuki said.

But Abbas cautioned the lawmakers to avoid unintended consequences in their clamour

for change from presidential to parliamentary system.

Abbas, who was represented by Hon. Alhassan Doguwa, was of the opinion that a home-grown parliamentary system must not only reflect the procedural aspects of governance but also the intrinsic values, goals, and cultural nuances of the people it serves.

He added that it should also be a leadership model grounded in substance, not merely in style, stressing that this is the essence of indigenous governance.

He said: “We need to discharge that water into the canal. It is an irony that an estate like Banana Island does not have access to water to discharge its water.

“I will ask my commissioner of environment and drainage to let us look at it again. It is not just to do the road, which is the easiest. It is constructing a drainage channel because we need a major outlet that would carry the water and discharge it into a bigger body of water.”

Sanwo-Olu, however, expressed fear that someone might have built on that drainage that is supposed to carry a bigger channel of water.

Aigbogun said: "Today marks a defining moment for Banana Island. These projects symbolise our resolve to build not just a residence, but a sanctuary that offers the finest amenities, while safeguarding our community.

“We thank our partners and the Lagos State Government for their unwavering support in realising this vision."

Also, the newly elected Chairman of Banana Island Association, Ambassador Abidemi Oluwagbemiga Sonoiki, expressed his gratitude and his vision for the future of the estate.

DIA: Crime Rate in Nigeria Down By 65%

Linus Aleke in Abuja

The Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), has said that has been an overall reduction in crime and criminality by at least 65 per cent in frequency since the inception of current administration.

Chief of Defence Intelligence (CDI), Maj Gen Emmanuel Undiandeye, said this while welcoming participants to the Chief of Defence Intelligence Annual Conference 2024, with the theme, "Exploring the Role of Technology in Strengthening National and Regional Security.”

He noted that while the nature of threats facing Nigeria were still the same, their potency, prevalence, frequency and intensity have been significantly degraded by the unprecedented activities of gallant members of the Armed Forces and other security agencies.

"This assertion is supported by cogent and verifiable indices across the whole theatres of operations. There has been an overall reduction in crime and criminality by at least 65 percent in frequency since the inception of current administration.

"No doubt, much still has to be done, as the current and emerging threats are complex and multifaceted. This is coupled with those emanating from the Sahel Region, as well as the resurgence of coups and climate change challenges across the West African subregion and Africa in general.

"The scenario is further exacerbated by the ongoing Russia/Ukraine war and the complex matrix of the Israeli/ Hamas/Hezbollah and Iranian crises.

"However, in all, our mission is clear, and that is, to provide timely, relevant, and accurate intelligence to support Nigeria's defence and security objectives."

The conference, he said provided the defence advisers and attachés the opportunity to interact with resource persons on critical issues regarding national security and development.

He added that it was also an avenue to identify opportunities, challenges and develop modalities of engaging emerging intelligence trends that would shape policy direction in order to reposition the agency to respond to current and future threats.

L-R: Immediate past President, Academy of Medical Sciences of Nigeria, Prof. Oladapo Ashiru; newly inaugurated President, Emeritus Prof. Osato Frank Giwa-Osagie; and the Chairman, Board of Trustees, the Ogbeni-Oja, Dr.

Sunny F. Kuku, during the 2024 Annual General Meeting of the Academy where new executives emerges to take over the mantle of leadership in Lagos...recently

GOOD LEADERSHIP ON THEIR MINDS…

L-R: Managing Director/ CEO, NNPC Properties Limited, Folashade Adekeye; Convener, Leadership Bootcamp 7.0, Niyi Adesanya; Keynote Speaker, Lord Michael Hastings; CEO, Victoria Crest Home, Ichechi Okonkwo, and Caroline Popoola of Alpha Childcare Limited, during the 2024 Niyi Adesanya Leadership Bootcamp in Lagos…recently

PDP Condemns Church Attack by Political Hoodlums in Benue

George Okoh in makurdi

The People Democratic Party (PDP) has condemned the attack by hoodlums on congregation in NKST Church in Naka,Benue State on Sunday.

“This sacrilegious aberration appears to have become a pattern since the beginning of this administration.

“You will recall that, on

A statement by the state Publicity Secretary of the party, Tim Nyor, yesterday, said the party considered the attack as a blatant violation of citizen’s rights to freedom of worship, a fundamental tenet of our democracy.

Ekiti Inaugurates Community Health Vanguards

Gbenga Sodeinde in ado ekiti

The Ekiti State Government, in its bid to ensure pregnant women and children get the best medical assistance, has launched over 354 health volunteers across the 16 local government areas of the state.

The Health Vanguard Project was birthed as part of the state government healthcare in its bid to ensure that proper orientation is carried out in communities where women and children will have unhindered access to medical facilities.

The event, which took place

at the Okeyinmin Health centre in Ado Ekiti under the project mother and child, is targeting pregnant women, children and other vulnerable people who are considered the most vulnerable to diseases and infections.

The Project Director, Ayodele Alegbeleye, said Solina Health in conjunction with other groups like the NSSF partnered the Ekiti State Government through the office of the

The Commissioner for Health Dr. Oyebanji Filani, will facilitate healthcare services to the doorsteps of every citizen of the state.

LABAF 2024 Celebrates Soyinka @90

Yinka Olatunbosun

The Lagos Book and Arts Festival (LABAF) is celebrating the legacies of Nobel Laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka, as part of the lined-up activities for this year’s edition.

The year-long celebration has permeated Nigeria’s cultural landscape brimming with tribute shows, book readings, talk sessions and exhibitions.

‘The Man Died,’ a documentary inspired by one of Soyinka’s classics is billed for a special screening on November 13 at the Agip Hall, MUSON Centre, Onikan in Lagos as part of LABAF, which had declared its 2024 season

‘The Soyinka Year’, and dedicated its 26th edition to celebrating the eminent life and illustrious career of the renowned poet, dramatist,

essayist, novelist human and civil rights activist, famously referenced as the “Global Humanist.”

Described as the “biggest cultural picnic on the continent of Africa,” the week-long festival is exploring the theme: ‘BREAKOUT: Hope is a Stubborn Thing,’ with over 60 events staged at its traditional venue, Freedom Park on Lagos Island virtually.

The Man Died documentary will also be featured as the ‘Opening Film’, at the ‘Eastern Nigeria International Film Festival, ENIFF’ in Enugu on November 27. Inspired by the long history Eastern Nigeria has with Nollywood and the African Storytelling industry, ENIFF 2024 explores the theme: ‘Reimagine’, focusing on how storytelling can reshape narratives and drive social impact.

Osun Monarch Denies Allegation of Electoral Violence Incitement

Oba Kayode Adenekan Afolabi, the Alapomu of Apomu has denied allegation of inciting electoral violence in Osun State.

In a statement signed by his Media Aide, Tolu Adetunji, the monarch said his attention had been drawn to a video where he made a speech at the flag-off of a road construction in Apomu.

According to him, he never urged members of Peoples Democratic

Party (PDP) to attack supporters of All Progressive Congress (APC) in the forthcoming 2027 election as alleged in the video.

He said there was nowhere in the said video that he mentioned 2027 election or APC.

“The allegation is false and fabricated. I am a man of peace. I do not encourage or support violence in any form or manner,” he said.

Sunday, May 12th, 2024, the former Caretaker Chairman of Konshisha local government, Mr Philip Achua, in company of thugs invaded and

disrupted a thanksgiving mass at the Annunciation Catholic Rectory, in Tsuwe Daka, Konshisha Local Government Area,in honour

of the member representing Konshisha/Vandeikya Federal Constituency of Benue State, Hon. Sesoo Ikpagher.

“This attack was supervised by the then caretaker chairman and the Commissioner for Humanitarian And Disaster Management, Benue State, Aondowase Kunde.

Kwara Lists Condition to Get November Salary, Bonuses for Workers

Hammed Shittu in Ilorin

Kwara State Government has said that public civil servants in the state that cannot present their valid State Residents Registration Agency (KWSRRA) number will not receive salary or bonuses from November, 2024.

KWSRRA is empowered by law to have relevant data

of everyone resident in the state and allocate unique identities to each person for effective planning, resource management, service delivery, and public safety, among others.

A statement issued in Ilorin yesterday by the Commissioner for Finance Dr. Hauwa Nuru, said: “In line with the administration’s commitment to

accountability and transparency in resource administration, a directive had since been issued mandating all state employees, including those across the 16 local government areas, to complete their registration with KWSRRA.

“Effective November 2024, workers who have not registered will not receive salary payments or bonuses.”

“The KWSRRA registration is a vital step towards establishing a comprehensive and accurate database that enables us to serve Kwara State residents more effectively.

“Ensuring that every state worker is registered strengthens our payroll system, enhances service delivery, and builds trust in our processes.”

Nigerians Abroad Fault Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road Diversion

Mary Nnah

Nigerians in the Diaspora are outraged over the sudden diversion of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, threatening their $250 million investment. They have, therefore called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to institute an investigation into the

circumstances surrounding the diversion of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway at chainages 17 and 18.

Also, representative of the affected investors, Stella Okengwu, has condemned the Minister of Works, David Umahi, for allegedly abusing her rights and misleading the public during

the last stakeholders’ meeting in Abuja.

The controversy surrounding the diversion of the highway at chainages 17 and 18, which Okengwu claims will destroy her company, Winhomes Global Services Limited, and shatter the dreams of hundreds of Nigerian investors abroad.

Speaking during a world press conference held in Lagos, the Diasporas Nigerians, who are subscribers to Winhomes Global Services, also claimed that their dream of investing about $250 million is about to be shattered despite their ensuring due diligence in their dealings.

Bayelsa to Set Up Marine Safety Task Force, Create Fish Cities

Olusegun Samuel in yenagoa

As part of determined efforts to ramp up safety on waterways as well as harness its blue economy potential, Bayelsa State would establish a marine safety task force and create economic zones

to be known as Fish Cities.

Governor Douye Diri disclosed this yesterday during an event tagged: “Expanded Stakeholders Validation for the Bayelsa State Marine and Blue Economy Draft Policy” organised by the state Ministry

of Marine and Blue Economy in Yenagoa.

A release signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Daniel Alabrah, said the governor see security on waterways as a major key factor if the state would benefit from the wealth in its maritime domain.

He noted that the life of the Ijaw man had been centred around water and that establishing the Ministry of Blue Economy in the state reflected the nature and essence of Bayelsans and Ijaws at large.

Victoria Crest Homes Unveils Eco-Friendly Capital Gardens Estate

Sunday Okobi

A top Nigerian real estate player, Victoria Crest Homes, has unveiled green energy-powered capital gardens estate in Lagos to enhance environmental safety, redefine security, and contribute to the climate change narrative positively.

The owners of the estate described it as a foremost city residence which blends posh, accessible, and sustainable living powered by green energy with eco-friendly environment and tech hub for young innovators, driving economic growth and regional expansion in Lagos and Nigeria in general.

Speaking at the re-launch and allocation ceremony held yesterday at Eleko in Lagos, the Chief Executive Officer, Victoria Crest Homes, Dr. Kennedy Okonkwo, noted that the estate is a truly revolutionary community that combines luxury, sustainability, and a forward-thinking vision for modern living.

According to him, “Today, we’re introducing more than just a residential development; we’re unveiling a sanctuary that epitomizes innovation and unparalleled lifestyle that combines the best of nature, technology, and thoughtful design.

Makinde Explains People First Policy, Calls for Youth Participation in Politics

Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has explained that his administration continues to put the people of the state first in all its decisions because it believes in ethical leadership, which espouses responsibility towards the broader community, as the

Edo NUJ

main import of leadership.

According to the governor, there is the need for more ethical people to be involved in governance in the country, noting that his government has been able to bridge the trust gap between the public and the government over the

last five years because it has been running a transparent and people-oriented government.

Governor Makinde stated this yesterday at the third convocation ceremony of the Precious Cornerstone University, Ibadan.

The governor, in the lecture

entitled: “Faith, Leadership and Governance: Preparing the Next Generation for Ethical Leadership in Nigeria,” noted that the more unethical people continue to be in politics, the more the country would experience unethical governance.

Hails Appointment of Fred Itua as CPS to Gov-elect, Okpebholo

Adibe Emenyonu inbeninCity

The Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Edo State Council has congratulated Mr. Fred Odianosen Itua on his appointment as the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to

the state governor-elect, Senator Monday Okpebholo.

The chapel also commended the Governor-elect for finding Itua worthy of the appointment and declared that it has always admired the appointee’s journalistic integrity and commitment to presenting an

unbiased information.

Itua’s appointment takes effect from today, November 12, when Okpebholo would be sworn in as governor of the state.

This was contained in a press statement jointly issued yesterday by Mrs. Nefishetu

Yakubu and Elder Patrick Ahanor, Chairman and Secretary of the Correspondents’ Chapel respectively. The statement expressed excitement of journalists over the appointment and described Itua as a seasoned journalists with wealth of experience.

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Ogunmodede Justifies Eguavoen’s Recall of Sadiq Umar, Others

Remo Stars Manager, Daniel Ogunmodede, has weighed in on the main reason why Super Eagles Coach, Augustine Eguavoen, invited Real Sociedad’s Sadiq Umar, AJ Auxerre’s Gabriel Osho and Nasarawa United’s Victor Collins to the  senior

AFCON 2025 QUALIFIERS

national team to take on Benin Republic on Thursday in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.

With Nigeria needing just one point from the remaining two matches on the road to the finals in Morocco next year, Eguavoen extended invites to the trio for the

...Benin Camp Bubbles with 18 Players Ahead Clash with Nigeria

Benin Republic’s Cheetahs are putting everything into their preparations to face Nigeria’s Super Eagles to possibly seal their qualification for the AFCON 2025.

As at yesterday, the Cheetahs under the watch of former Super Eagles Head Coach, Gernot Rohr, had 18 players in camp for their first training in Abidjan ahead of Thursday’s clash with Nigeria.

The Beninoise are banking on thunder striking twice inside the Stade Felix-Houphouet-Boigny where they defeated Nigeria in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier early this year.

Amongst the players in camp is Remo Stars’ Number 1  goalkeeper, Adebiyi Serge Obassa. He left their Ikenne-base club house for the Lagos Airport en-route Abidjan  same day as his coach Daniel Ogunmodede, who is one of the assistants to Eguavoen.

Obassa was invited by Rohr to feature for Benin Republic in Thursday’s AFCON 2025 qualifier

against Nigeria.

He could therefore feature against Super Eagles  on Thursday in Abidjan.

Meanwhile 10  players were in Cheetah’s camp as at Sunday while another eight players led by Captain Steve Mounie, Jodel Dossou and David Kiki arrived on Monday. Mounie scored the winning goal against Super Eagles in that World Cup qualifier.

The remaining seven players are expected in camp today.

Benin are second in the Group D on six points, but they cannot afford to slip because they are being chased by third-placed Rwanda, who have five points and will welcome already eliminated Libya on Thursday.

In June, the Cheetahs recorded a famous 2-1 win in Abidjan against the star-studded Super Eagles in a 2026 World Cup qualifying match.

They have won their two home games in the AFCON qualifiers against Libya and Rwanda in

AFCON 2025 qualifiers as a way of testing fresh legs and recalling those he believes still have something to contribute to the senior national team.

In an interview with NFF TVyesterday, Ogunmodede who is one of the two assistant coaches attached to Eguavoen, insisted that the invitation of the three players “is in the best interest of the nation going by the spate of injuries of some of the regulars players.”

Ogunmodede noted that Sadiq Umar, who was an unused forward by Real Sociedad on Sunday in the team’s lone goal win against leaders, FC Barcelona, had previously been sidelined due to injury but has now returned to full fitness.

“(Umar) Sadiq has been in the team for a while. He was also out due to injury. Now he’s back. As for Nasarawa’s Collins, the head coach felt the team needed the left-footed centre-back. And presently in the NPFL, we have a Collins who has, to a reasonable extent, proved his worth,” Ogunmodede pointed out.

Elaborating on Collins’ selection, he further stressed the importance of having a left-footed centre-back in the squad.

According to the Remo Stars gaffer, the head coach’s thorough scouting of the local league helped him identify

Collins as a key player whose performances have stood him out in the Nigerian Premier Football League.

“This is to show that the head coach is doing a massive job. He has gone round the country to watch the league, and in Victor Collins, he has this utmost belief. I’ve only watched him two, three times in the league and possibly he is the strongest left-footed centre-back presently we have in the Nigerian Premier Football League,” he added. He also spoke on the recall of former KAA Gent defender, Gabriel Osho, who could not make his debut in  Nigeria’s clashes with  Ghana and Mali due to injury worries.

Ogunmodede said the AJ Auxerre defender was picked as the perfect replacement for injured West Brom defender, Semi Ajayi.

“We believe each player is capable and qualified to represent Nigeria. Most are familiar faces, though Gabriel Osho is a new addition due to Semi Ajayi’s recent surgery,” he stressed The Super Eagles will tackle Benin on Thursday at the Stade Félix Houphouet-Boigny in Abidjan, then welcome Rwanda to the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on the 18th of November to cap the AFCON 2025 qualifiers.

Fireworks will be at crescendo when Varsity Cup Men’s Football 2024 season comes to an end this Wednesday, November 13, 2024  at The Main Bowl of the University of Benin Sport Complex, Benin City, Edo State.

The final will feature the best four university teams in Nigeria. The final match-up will be between the comeback kings, the University of Ilorin (Unilorin) against the unbreakable Joseph Tarka University of Agriculture, Makurdi (JOSTUM). Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife (OAU) and the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) will battle for the Third-place title.

This event crowns an exhilarating and highly emotional five weeks crisscrossing campuses across the length and breadth of Nigeria to bring the skills and passion of

football from our universities to the world.

During this time, over 50,000 students across five campuses enjoyed premium varsity football clashes while professional football stakeholders were on high alert with the quality display of talent across the country.

The President of the Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA), Bawa Mohammed, was effusive in his remarks.

“The ability of our students to make fireworks happen with the level of their football talent has never been in doubt. With the leadership of the Sports Directors of the participating universities - collegiate sports in Nigeria are on the right path. We are proud of them.

“We promised fireworks and the teams delivered them. Every Varsity

Cup match was and will always be explosive. This final is proof that Nigerian sports will always deliver when it matters,” the CEO of Varsity Cup Olamide Adeyemo remarked.

This finale promises to be electric as both finalists are from Group B and their initial duel ended in a goalless draw but UNILORIN eventually led the group due to the fair play rule as a JOSTUM the player was handed a red card.

Varsity Cup is Nigeria’s national university football competition for the best men’s and women’s teams.

The competition is pioneering inclusion in collegiate football in a collaboration between Perform Agency and the Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA). It is sponsored by Moniepoint, in partnership with Minimie, Brila and Hyphen Sports.

Premier League referee, David Coote, has been suspended after a video allegedly showing him making derogatory comments about Liverpool and the club’s former Manager, Jurgen Klopp, was circulated on social media.

Refereeing body PGMOL said yesterday that the suspension comes into force with immediate effect and is pending a full investigation.

The video, widely shared on social media, has not been verified by the BBC. It is unclear when it was filmed or its authenticity.

A source told the BBC that PGMOL’s inquiry is treating the video as genuine.

Coote, 42, refereed Liverpool’s 2-0 win against Aston Villa on Saturday. He is one of the Premier League’s most-

experienced officials and has been refereeing matches in the top flight since 2018.

The video being shared appears to refer to a Premier League match that Coote officiated between Liverpool and Burnley in July 2020,which finished 1-1.

Klopp criticised Coote after the match, saying the referee failed to give fouls for challenges made on Liverpool’s players.

In the video the man alleged to be Coote says Klopp had “a right pop at me when I reffed them against Burnley in lockdown”. He calls Klopp arrogant and also swears several times when referring to him.

The video shows him with another man and lasts for just over a minute. The circumstances of how the video emerged are

unclear.

PGMOL says it will not be making further comment on the case until its investigation is completed.

BBC Sport has been told Liverpool are aware of the video but not commenting at this stage.

Speaking to BBC Sport on Monday, English Football League Chairman, Rick Parry, said: “PGMOL is dealing with it - they have suspended himthey’ve acted quickly and they will make sure they deal with it thoroughly and professionally.” Referees are required to inform PGMOL of the club they support. Coote, from Nottingham, is registered as a Notts County fan and is therefore unable to officiate County or Nottingham Forest matches.

Sadiq Umar...his recall to Super Eagles defended

Gernot Rohr leading Benin Republic’s Cheetahs at training ahead Thursday’s AFCON 2025 clash with the Super Eagles in Abidjan

EAGLES IN CAMP (As at Monday night)