SATURDAY 16TH NOVEMBER 2024

Tinubu Preaches Peace

Voters Decide Who Governs

Says he expects democratic process, people to freely choose their leader

Citing court order, INEC replaces Ebiseni with Ayodele as LP candidate

Aiyedatiwa, Agboola, others in last-minute efforts for tough contest

Security beefed up at INEC office, police, NSCDC pledge to provide level playing ground for all

LATE COAS, LAGBAJA GOES HOME...

OMOIGUI

Late COAS, Lagbaja Conferred Posthumous CFR Honour, Buried in Abuja

Tinubu describes him as thoroughbred professional, rare gem

Deji Elumoye and Linus Aleke in Abuja

The remains of the late Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja were yesterday committed to mother earth at the National Military Cemetery in Abuja with President Bola Tinubu leading the nation in paying last respect to the gallant officer.

The solemn ceremony was attended

by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon Tajudeen Abass, Chief of Defence Staff, service chiefs as well as members of the diplomatic corps. Tinubu, Shettima, Akpabio, Abbas, Chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum and Governor of Kwara State Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, Minister of Defence Badaru Abubakar, and

Service chiefs took turns to lay wreaths in honour of the general.

Lagbaja’s widow, Mariya, also participated in the ceremony.

In his remarks, the President praised Lagbaja for distinguishing himself as a thoroughbred professional soldier throughout his military career, adding that his legacy of service will be cherished forever.

The President announced the posthumous conferment of the

Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) on the late Chief of Army Staff, which his widow, Mariya, received. He said: "Today is a solemn day for the nation and for me as Commander-in-Chief, for on this day, at this place, we lay to rest a soldier's soldier. A General and Officer who symbolised the best of his profession and whose commitment to the nation he loved was singular and undiluted.

"For me, he was a trusted advisor whose formidable intellect and breadth of knowledge served this nation well. More than that, he was also a man of prudent action who cared more for his nation and for those who served under him than he ever did for himself.

"Yet, the hand of God works in its own sovereign way. The plans of God we cannot fully discern. At a time when his service to the nation

TINUBU PREACHES PEACE AS 1.7 MILLION VOTERS DECIDE WHO GOVERNS ONDO TODAY

Linus Aleke in Abuja and Fidelis David in Akure

As Ondo State readies for its off-cycle governorship election today, President Bola Tinubu yesterday, called on all political stakeholders and the electorate to uphold peace and decorum and fulfil their civic responsibilities without fear before or after the poll.

This is as in a last minute change based on a court order, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) replaced the Labour Party candidate, Olusola Ebiseni with Dr. Olorunfemi Ayodele Festus.

The President, in a statement issued by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said he anticipated a democratic process in the state that will genuinely reflect the people's will and power to freely choose their leaders.

A total of 1, 757,205 residents of Ondo State are expected to head to the polls today to choose a governor who would rule the state for another four years.

Ondo is one of the eight states that

conduct off-cycle governorship elections, which fall outside the usual general election and has successfully conducted it in 2012, 2016, and 2020, with the next one scheduled for November 16, 2024.

Specifically, 18 political parties, including the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), are on the ballot but 17 parties are fielding candidates in today’s poll.

They include the incumbent governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of the APC; former deputy governor, Agboola Ajayi of the PDP, Olugbenga Edema of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP); Dr. Abbas Mimiko, younger brother of the former governor of the state, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko; Otitoloju Akinmurele of Young Progressives Party, among others.

However, there are only two main contestants and analysts have predicted the poll will largely be a two-horse race.

The two parties are the ruling APC and PDP with Aiyedatiwa and Ajayi and both candidates have expressed their readiness for the election.

Interestingly, the winner would occupy Alagbaka Government House after the expiration of the current

S' COURT AFFIRMS EFCC, ICPC, NFIU'S POWERS TO INVESTIGATE, PROSECUTE CRIMES NATIONWIDE

made by the National Assembly that is constitutionally empowered to make laws for the good governance of the entire country.

The Attorney-General of Kogi State had dragged the federal government to court to challenge the legality of the EFCC, ICPC and NFIU's Acts, on the grounds that they were not ratified by the state Houses of Assembly haven been an offshoot of the United Nations convention on corruption.

The plaintiff later joined by 18 others, thereby asked the apex court to hold that the anti-graft agencies lack powers to investigate and prosecute states on how they administer funds belonging to them in their states.

Besides, the plaintiffs prayed the court to restrain the EFCC, ICPC and NFIU form inviting, arresting, investigating and or prosecuting them in respect of their states' funds.

However, the apex court in its judgement on the issue held that the anti-graft agencies are legal entities empowered to investigate and prosecute economic and financial crimes across all strata of the country on the grounds that they are products of the National Assembly, whose laws are binding on all the federating units as well as their agencies.

Besides, the apex court held that although the Acts establishing the anti corruption agencies were an offshoot of the United Nations convention, they are nonetheless lawful, legal and binding, having been enacted by the National Assembly.

According to the apex court, laws passed by the National Assembly do not need any ratification by the states of the federation.

"Let me first look at the constitutional provision. The plaintiffs rely on Section 12 of the constitution in their argument. Treaty is an agreement reached by two or more countries which has to be ratified.

"Convention: Conventions are agreed by a larger number of nations. Conventions only come into force when a larger number of countries agree.

"Therefore, the EFCC Act, which

is not a treaty but a convention does not need the ratification of the Houses of Assembly. A convention would have been ratified by members state and the NASS can make laws from it, which will be binding on all the states in Nigeria as it is the case of EFCC Establishment Act," Justice Aba-Aji held.

While pointing out that the federating units in a country like Nigeria, do not have absolute power, the apex court held that where an Act or law is made by NASS like the NFIU and its guideline, it is binding on all.

"Any act that has been competently enacted by the NASS cannot be said to be inconsistent.

"Where the NASS has enacted several laws on corruption, money laundering, etc, no state has the right to make law to compete with it. The investigative power of the EFCC cannot be said to be in conflict with legislative powers of the state assembly.

"I must agree with the AGF that the plaintiffs' argument, that is, the Houses of Assembly of the plaintiffs' states is not tenable in law," the Supreme Court adding that the NFIU guideline had not any way contravened the provision of the constitution to manage the funds of their states.

The apex court subsequently dismissed the suit for lacking in merit.

Although, the panel initially dismissed the federal government's objection to the suit for being incompetent and lacking in merit.

Reacting, the counsel to Kogi State, Abdulwahab Mohammed, SAN, said, "This is an issue we have raised before the FHC, it was not addressed. We raised it at the Appeal Court and was not addressed. This is going to enrich our jurisprudence. We thank your lordship for hearing us out."

Representative of the AGF, Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, said, "We convey our gratitude to the court for your wisdom. Your lordship has permanently settled the legality of the anti-corruption agency in fighting corruption."

dispensation on February 25, 2025.

Furthermore, President Tinubu commended INEC for its diligent preparations for the election, particularly its timely distribution of sensitive materials across 18 local government areas in the state.

He also acknowledged the deployment of security men to maintain law and order and appreciated the assurances from the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun and the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa that the personnel will act professionally and adhere to the provisions of the Electoral Act to ensure a credible electoral process.

Tinubu reminded all political stakeholders, especially the candidates, that the people bestow the privilege to govern, and this right must be respected and not undermined.

He emphasised that it was in the best interest of all Nigerians to ensure a free and fair election and consolidate the nation's over 25 years of democratic governance.

Meanwhile, the major battleground would be in Ondo south where all the 17 candidates hail from.

Besides, there are 3,933 polling units and 222 collation centres, consisting of 203 ward centres, 18 Local government areas and the state collation centre in Akure.

More importantly, INEC recorded 2,053,061 registered voters ahead of the poll. However, 1, 757,205 people collected their PVCs representing 86.5 per cent leaving 205,856 PVCs uncollected.

Also, political parties participating in the election nominated 24,148 polling and collation agents out of the expected cumulative figure of 74,790 agents. While three political parties have no agents at all polling and collation levels.

The electoral body said this means

the political parties nominated 32.3 per cent of the expected number of agents.

Citing Court Order, INEC Replaces Ebiseni with Ayodele as LP Candidate

In a last-minute change based on a court order, INEC yesterday, replaced the Labour Party candidate, Olusola Ebiseni with Dr. Olorunfemi Ayodele Festus.

INEC said the replacement was done after it was served with the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the ruling of the Court of Appeal which set aside the judgment of the Federal High Court, Abuja Division. This was contained in a statement on X handle of the commission yesterday.

The federal high court, in suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/1105/2024, had on September 27, 2024, ordered INEC to accept Olusola Ebiseni as the candidate of the Labour Party (LP) for the 2024 Ondo State Governorship election.

“However, in the appeal with reference number CA/ABJ/ CV/1172/2024 filed by the Labour Party, the Court of Appeal, Abuja Division struck out the judgment of the FHC for lack of jurisdiction.

“In obedience to the court order, the commission therefore restored Olorunfemi Ayodele Festus, whose name was first published as the Labour Party candidate for the 2024 Ondo State Governorship election and uploaded same to our website for public information,” the statement said.

Speaking on the development, the LP National Publicity Secretary, Obiorah Ifoh, said Ebiseni was the candidate produced by the NLC group in the party, but that the Appeal Court had kicked him out while restoring the

valid candidate, Olorunfemi

Security Beefed Up in

Ondo

According to the Inspector General of Police, Egbetokun, the Police deployed a total of 34,657 personnel to the polling units, wards/LGA collation centers as well as other strategic locations.

This is aside the provision of enough Armoured Personnel Carrier (APCs), trucks, patrol vehicles, buses for covert operations, ambulances, helicopters, drones, K9 and anti-riot equipment to complement the strength of Ondo State Command.

The IGP, said "It is expected that four Police personnel will be deployed at each polling unit, which then implies that 15,732 conventional police personnel will be required for the 3,933 polling units and voting points in the State.

"This will be complemented by the Armed Forces, the Intelligence Security Agencies and other sister Security Agencies. A total of 8,500 personnel from the Nigeria Customs Service, Nigeria Correctional Service, Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Federal Road Safety Corps and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency will be deployed to augment the Police strength. This will bring the total number of security personnel deployed for the election to 43,157".

Also, security has been beefed up at the state headquarters of INEC at Alagbaka in Akure, the state capital.

THISDAY observed yesterday morning that personnel from the Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Army, Department of State Services, were heavily deployed at the INEC office to maintain peace and order.

could mean so much, God took him home to serve in His celestial army.

"His departure could cause us great dismay. However, Lieutenant General Lagbaja would not want sorrow to overtake us.

"It has been said that "the brave never die. Their courage serves a thousand living men." So be it then; may the courage by which Lieutenant General Lagbaja served and now shine forth live in each of us".

Specifically, heavily armed security personnel in their patrol vehicles were observed at strategic positions at the entrance gate and major road leading to the INEC state office. Aside from the mounted roadblocks at the main roads leading to the office, some of the security personnel were also seen with sniffer dogs in and around the premises of the office. Also, persons coming into the office were searched at the gate and given tags for identification.

Egbetokun had said he will deploy a total of 34,657 personnel to the polling units, wards/LGA collation centers as well as other strategic locations. According to him, "It is expected that Four (4) Police personnel will be deployed at each polling unit, which then implies that 15,732 conventional police personnel will be required for the 3,933 polling units and voting points in the State.

"This will be complemented by the Armed Forces, the Intelligence Security Agencies and other sister Security Agencies. A total of 8,500 personnel from the Nigeria Customs Service, Nigeria Correctional Service, Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Federal Road Safety Corps and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency will be deployed to augment the Police strength. This will bring the total number of security personnel deployed for the election to 43,157".

Also, the Deputy Inspector General of Police in Charge of South West, Sylvester Abiodun while briefing Journalists in Akure said conventional police officers and tactical elements of the Force comprising the Police Mobile Force (PMF), Special Protection Unit (SPU), Counter Terrorism Unit (CTU), Explosive Ordinance unit (EOD-CBRT) and the Special Intervention Squad (SIS) were already on ground.

NNPC, OIL MARKETERS IMPORT 1.5M TONNES OF PETROL IN 42 DAYS PUTTING PRESSURE ON NAIRA

the naira depreciated marginally to N1,652/$ yesterday, compared with the N1650/$1 it closed the previous day.

Also yesterday, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) used to gauge inflation in the country increased to 33.88 percent in October compared to 32.70 percent in September, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) revealed yesterday.

The oil importation data which highlighted the movement of motor tanker vessels during the period, further indicated that 13,500 metric tonnes of jet fuel was brought into the country during the 42-day period.

These petroleum products imported into the country were valued at approximately $1.9 billion or nearly N3 trillion, according to estimates.

A further breakdown of the tonnages showed that the volume of petrol brought into Nigeria during the time was roughly 2 billion litres, about 500 million litres of diesel and around 17 million litres of jet fuel.

The Group Chief Executive Officer of the NNPC, Mele Kyari, at an event in Lagos during the week, said the company had ended its prolonged reliance on imported refined products.

However, the NNPC spokesman, Olufemi Soneye, later clarified that the national oil firm and its partners would not stop the importation of products, but that decisions on whether to import or not would be based on the prevailing economics of it.

Although the management of the Dangote refinery had made case that since there’s sufficient local refining,

products should be purchased within the country, the issue of pricing remains very knotty.

“Today, NNPC does not import any products; we are taking only from domestic refineries,” Kyari had said, a statement which Soneye later shed light on.

“The GCEO’s statement should not be construed to imply that NNPC is obligated to be the sole off-taker of any refinery or that we will no longer import fuel. While NNPC prioritises sourcing products from domestic refineries, this is contingent upon economic viability.

“If local supply is cost-effective, it will be preferred, but the same principle applies to other marketers, who will also evaluate total costs when deciding whether to buy locally or import,” Soneye had said.

In addition, the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), it was learnt, may have granted additional licences for the importation of more petroleum products before December.

But the report obtained by THISDAY showed that tanker vessels carrying refined products have been arriving at ports in Lagos, Warri, Calabar, and Port Harcourt, despite the push by the Dangote refinery to ensure oil marketers get products from its $20 billion facility located in Lagos.

For instance in October, the NNPC and its partners imported a total of 994,446.438 metric tonnes of petrol, with Lagos receiving 555,121.617 metric

tonnes, Warri 281,100 metric tonnes, Port Harcourt 94,224.821 metric tonnes, and Calabar 64,000 metric tonnes.

Besides, a total of 285,518.764 metric tonnes of diesel was imported, with Lagos getting 162,500 metric tonnes, Warri 58,500 metric tonnes, Port Harcourt 56,018.764 metric tonnes and Calabar 8,500 metric tonnes.

In the same vein, from November 1 to November 11, a further 358,083 metric tonnes of petrol, 112,500 metric tonnes of diesel, and 13,500 metric tonnes of aviation fuel were discharged at Nigerian ports.

Aside the NNPC, 23 other oil marketers, including Matrix, A.A Rano, Bovas, Eternal Oil, Deep Water, Ibeto, Chisco, T-Time, Dozy, North-West, Shorelink, AYM Shafa, Rainoil, Prudent, Fatgbems, also got products.

Specifically, on October 10, NNPC received 60,590.187 metric tonnes of petrol via the Navig8 Honor ship at Pinnacle Terminal, while on October 16, another 38,083 metric tonnes of petrol were delivered by the CL Agatha Christie ship.

Similarly, on October 18, four ships, namely: Largo Sea, Binta Saleh, CL Game Ousten, and Berners, delivered a combined 97,000 metric tonnes of petrol. Additionally, AA Rano imported 18,860 metric tonnes of petrol and 20,000 metric tonnes of diesel via ships Binta Saleh and Lausu at its own terminal.

At a recent meeting with government authorities, President of the Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote,

said that his refinery currently holds more than 500 million litres of fuel in reserves.

Meanwhile, the CPI which measures the rate of change in prices of goods and commodities increased to 33.88 per cent in October compared to 32.70 per cent in September.

The 1.18 percentage increase in headline index was blamed on rising food and energy prices.

The uptick in inflation came despite the current harvest season when food prices are expected to crash.

According to the CPI report for October, year-on-year, inflation was 6.55 per cent higher compared to 27.33 per cent in October 2023.

Month-on-month, headline inflation rose by 0.12 per cent to 2.64 per cent compared to 2.52 per cent in September.

Food inflation rose 7.64 per cent to 39.16 per cent year-on-year compared to 31.52 per cent in October 2023.

The NBS attributed the rise in food inflation year -on-year to increases in prices of guinea corn, rice, maize grains, rice, others (bread and cereals class), yam, water yam, coco yam, (potatoes, yam and other tubers class), palm oil, vegetable oil milo, lipton and bournvita.

Month-on-month food inflation was attributed to increases in the prices of palm oil, vegetable oil, mudfish, croaker (apo), and fresh fish (obokun). Others are dried beef, goat meat, mutton, skin meat, other meat class, and bread, guinea corn flour, plantain flour, and rice among others.

Deji Elumoye,

Analysts Pick Holes in

Edo APC, State Govt Trade Words over N9bn Fresh Loan Approval

FG’s 2025 Proposed Budget

Edo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), yesterday, urged Governor Godwin Obaseki to stop securing loans, noting that the N9 billion loan recently approved by the House of Assembly was needless and will plunge the state into financial distress.

Express concern over debt sustainability

were unrealistic.

Nume Ekeghe

The federal government’s ambitious N47.9 trillion budget proposal for 2025 has sparked widespread debate among economic experts, with concerns over its projections and sustainability.

has been swindled by Obaseki-led administration with an unassailable, humongous debt profile of N135 billion and $35.6 billion, the governor is unyielding and unstoppable in his characteristic design to leave Edo State in ruin, by asking for a facility of N17.5 billion few days ago, which was said to be N9 billion."

Chief Executive Officer of CFG Advisory, Tilewa Adebajo in an interview on ARISE News Channel yesterday highlighted the disconnect between the projections and Nigeria’s fiscal reality.

While the government has touted the budget as a tool to tackle economic hardship and reflate growth, analysts argued that key assumptions such as the exchange rate of N1,400 to the dollar, an oil output of 2.06 million barrels per day (mbpd), and oil pricing

But in a swift reaction, the Edo State Government said it was perplexed to learn of what it termed “laughable and incredibly ridiculous tantrums attributed to the new acting chairman of the Edo State chapter of APC, Jarret Tenebe where he made baseless and spurious allegations on the fiscal management of our dear state by the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led government.”

Addressing a press conference yesterday, Tenebe had said the state was already suffering under a debt profile of N135 billion and $35.6 billion.

He said, "While it is a monumental disaster that Edo State patrimony

deficit financing could push rates to N1,800 or beyond.

He questioned the feasibility of further expansion, given the fiscal deficit's rise from N13 trillion in 2023 to a projected N18 trillion in 2024. On the exchange rate benchmark, Adebajo warned that N1,400 to the dollar was overly optimistic, saying inflationary pressure and

EU Says It’s Interested in Stable, United, Prosperous Nigeria

Tenebe, said "It is important to state, that it is now in public and political space that the fiscal budget of Edo State was passed few weeks ago before the Edo State House of Assembly proceeded on leave without the commencement of the execution of the budget by the executive. It is most disheartening that the Edo State Government now is requesting for a facility of N17.5 billion with no corollary of project attached there to the said facility and also that the facility is not contained as loan to be taken in the 2024 fiscal budget just recently passed. A cursory perusal of the entire budget does not reveal where the project for the facility is ever

captured. "Information at the behest of the members of the Edo State House of Assembly is to the effect that they were recalled from their holiday or leave by the Speaker on the request of the state governor for the immediate approval of the said facility which according to them is said to be N9 billion but as event unfolded, after the mammoth request by the opposition in the House as to the rationale for a facility as

He said: “The real issue is whether we can afford what we're budgeting for. Revenues for 2024 were projected at N17 trillion, but we consistently implemented only half the budget due to shortfalls. If you cannot fund your plans, you carry deficits forward, a cycle we've seen repeatedly. The budget's effectiveness depends on realistic revenue projections.

“For example, the finance minister mentioned raising $2.2 billion in external debt financing, $1.7 billion from Eurobonds, and $500 million rom the Sukuh programme. Yet, domestic debt has ballooned from N50 trillion to N70 trillion in just one year.

lid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has described the United States as Nigeria’s longstanding ally and strategic partner for the nation’s mining sector development.

stupendous as N9 billion for fathom projects which only existed in the imagination of the governor, it was discovered that the facility was not even N9 billion but a figure wrapped in secrecy as much as N17.5 billion to which the opposition in the house rejected and or refused to be part of the approval.

the state Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki across all sectors of the state over the past seven years.”

increases expected from these measures haven’t materialised. The economy is still in stagflation. We need to address the issue of fuel pricing.

But in its reaction, the Edo State Government stated that the Edo APC was “obviously pained by the achievements of

“While development commissions serve critical needs, you cannot sustainably budget for initiatives you cannot finance. If you continue to do that, you are going to continue carrying deficits. The government must demonstrate the impact of these allocations. For example, oil production was targeted at 1.8 million barrels per day, yet this is not reflected in foreign reserves or the Federation Account. Transparency is lacking.”

To ease debt pressures, Adebajo proposed selling joint venture oil assets to raise $50 billion.

“Tenebe has been on a frenzy looking for lies to tell since he assumed office as Acting Chairman. Rather than focus on reawakening his completely comatose party, which is unable to provide constructive criticisms expected of a viable opposition, he has resorted to spreading misinformation in a desperate attempt to curry cheap popularity.

Key components of the budget, including an oil price target of $75 per barrel and production pegged at 2.06mbpd, face similar skepticism.

Head of Financial Institutions Ratings at Agusto & Co., Ayokunle Olubunmi, argued that GDP growth projections of 4.6 per cent appeared optimistic, given recent performance and current policies.

“In his infertile rambling, Tenebe made wild and completely off-themark comments suggesting that Edo State is owing $35 billion. Even if that was what was written for him, he should have known that the figure is wrong and can't be true.

"In reality, our debt stock is not a secret and in fact, we are ‘under borrowed’. Emperor Tenebe would have known this if he understood the economics of governance, fiscal responsibility and debt-to-GDP ratio.

that his plan is to reduce oil prices as part of the measures to reduce inflation in America. So, if it goes about that he might actually even increase more supply into the market, and the oil prices will crash. Based on that, $75 may be too high.

“In terms of crude oil production, they are projecting two million barrels per day. We can say this two million is realistic if they ramp it off. However, the main question is the 1.8 million barrel they claim, how verifiable is it? Because now, over the last couple of months, we've seen the NNPC working back on some of their statements.

The European Union (EU) has stressed that its main interest in Nigeria is to help in building a stable, united, prosperous, and sustainable future.

Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan

It made this revelation at the inauguration of the second cohort of the Youth Sounding Board (YSB) Nigeria, comprising 25 young people drawn from across the country.

The Director General, National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, has announced plans to launch a 37,000 Citizens’ Brigade in primary schools across the country.

Through the YSB Nigeria, the European Union provides a platform for young people to have influence on the policies and programmes by the EU Delegation in Nigeria.

He made the disclosure while speaking with journalists in Ibadan during a working visit to Oyo State.

In his remarks, the European Union Ambassador-designate to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Gautier Mignot, explained that through the programme the EU hopes to enable active engagement and exchanges between young people and decision-makers.

He said 1,000 Citizens’ Brigade would be set up in each of the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to promote national values as of old, stating that the essence of the Brigade was to revive and rebuild the national values and create positive models

Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan

He further stated that the YSB has been advising the EU Delegation on youth participation and empowerment across a broad range of topics, such as employment, education, environment and climate change, human rights and democracy, peace and security, digitalisation, technology, gender, and social inclusion.

there is a stronger inter-generational gap. This is because society has changed, technology has changed, and there are, perhaps, more differences between how young people are living their formative years compared to older generations,” he said.

among the youthful population. He said the government is worried that about 72 per cent of the nation’s youthful population have become foreigners through the influence of cartoons and movies which are foreign in contents, values and cultures.

Mignot further noted that the YSB was created to influence the EU Delegation’s interventions and its impact on local communities across Nigeria. “Only young people know what other young people expect, need, and yearn for. That is why the voice of young people is so important,” he added.

Issa-Onilu said as a way out of the malaise, NOA would soon launch a Mobile App containing indigenous cartoons through which local contents, national values and culture would be promoted. According to him, "These various policies are geared towards changing the narratives and the wrong impression that the outside world is having about the country.

Speaking about the expectations for the new cohort of the YSB, he said, “Today, we welcome another group of 25 remarkable young Nigerians who remind us of the vast potential inherent within this country. The selection process started in May 2024. We received over 3,000 applications from young people across Nigeria. It was a very selective process, and we conducted three rounds of selection to identify the 25 individuals who now form this second cohort.

The Oyo State Government, yesterday, suspended Oba Gbolagade Muritala Babalola, as the Onido of Ido in Ido Local Government Area of the state.

He said: “Sometimes, the EU is asked what its interest, purpose, and objective are in cooperating with Nigeria. Our main interest is to help this country build a stable, united, prosperous, and sustainable future. This is also in our interest.

“Young people are the future. Now,

Speaking while receiving

“Combined with external debt nearing $45 billion, debt sustainability is a concern. Despite recent reforms, like fuel subsidy removal and foreign exchange liberalisation, the revenue

“We are establishing, this year, 37,000 Citizens’ Brigade in Primary School. 1,000 in each state, including FCT, Abuja. These Citizens’ Brigade are going to be like Boys’ Scout and Girls’ Guild of the olden days.

Sunday Ehigiator

“Across the world, Nigerians are known to be the smartest people on earth. This is a positive development but some people mischievously tend to portray us in negative light. But this is not who we are as a people.

Charge d'Affairs, US Embassy, David Greene, in his office on Thursday, Alake lauded the United States’ commitment to fostering cooperation with Nigeria in diverse sectors of the economy, stating that it underscores the significance of the smooth bilateral relations between both countries.

He said: “If the government pursued balance sheet restructuring, such as selling JV oil assets, it could raise $50 billion to reduce debt and boost efficiency.”

“I thank you for your visit. I met the US Assistant Secretary of State for Energy Resources, Geoffrey Pyatt, on the sidelines of the Mines and Money conference in London past year, and we had a fruitful engagement. I did analyse all our issues, and fundamentally, we just want to diversify our economy from oil. Not just for our own economic survival but also to be in tune with global trends for reduction in global warming. We

and 11,185 others abducted in the last 14 years.

also want to be part of the move to reduce global emissions and put our mining sector on the global map. We have critical minerals that are in commercial demand globally,"Alake said.

“To assess the potential of the budget is to look at the assumptions of the budget. The first one has to be the price of all our $75 that they are projecting and based on what's happening now, it seems as if it is realistic, but the truth of the matter is that a lot of things that will happen in the world market depends on the stance of Donald Trump when he gets to power in January.

formalisation of artisanal miners into cooperatives amongst others.

The minister welcomed partnership with the US on investments in the mining value chain, expanding access to technology in extracting and processing minerals and securing mining areas.

“If he really goes tough on the Middle East, all prices might soar higher. Although he has mentioned

“Then, for the exchange rate of N1,400, I think that one is a very tough call, because it's hitting about N2,000 to $1, and from the way things are going, we've not been able to see any indication that it is going to improve in the near term. So this may actually be a bit ambitious.

Pope Francis, Bishop Martins Extend Blessings, Support to Nigerians Amid Challenges

Throwing light on reforms embarked upon by the federal government, the minister highlighted revised Community Development Agreement (CDA) guidelines geared towards reducing friction in host communities; on-going plans for new security architecture to secure natural resources; efforts to generate big geo-data; the

"The mining sector provides a veritable avenue for increased trade between Nigeria and the United States, especially in the area of value addition, which implies processing of extracted minerals and setting up factories here. We would also require financing from multilateral institutions for our local operators. We are providing incentives for investments like tax waivers for mining equipment, policy of full repatriation of profits to home countries amongst others," Alake emphasised.

In his remarks, the US Ambassador commended the renewed interest of Nigeria in solid minerals, stressing that the sector has huge potentials to rival the contribution of oil to the nation's economy.

Suspends Monarch in Ibadan

“Each of these 25 young people has a strong passion for youth inclusion and I am very hopeful that over the course of their tenure as members of the Youth Sounding Board, they will build on the results achieved by the first cohort and make their own mark in ensuring that the European Union's interventions are increasingly youth-inclusive.”

The government, in a letter dated 2nd of February, 2024 and signed by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon. Olusegun Olayiwola, indicated that Governor Seyi Makinde approved the suspension on 1st of February, 2024. The letter read in part, "I wish to inform you that His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Oyo State of Nigeria, in exercise of the powers conferred on him by Sub-section 1&2 of Section 26 of the Chiefs Law, Cap. 28 Vol I, Laws of Oyo State of Nigeria 2000 and by virtue of all other enabling powers in

“To change the negative narratives, we are setting up the Citizens’ Brigade to produce young Nigerians and create positive models to rebuild the national values."

In commemoration of the 16th Annual National Conference of the Association of Papal Knights and Medalists in Nigeria (APKMN), themed, 'Living an Authentic Catholic Life: Challenges and Opportunities in Nigeria', the Head of Catholic Church and Sovereign of the Vatican City State, Pope Francis, and the Archbishop of the Metropolitan See of Lagos, Most Rev. Dr. Alfred Adewale Martins have felicitated and extended their blessings to all Nigerian Catholics and Papal Knights across Nigeria, amidst challenges currently facing the country.

Alex enumah in Abuja

A goodwill message signed by the Secretary of State to His Holiness, Pope Francis, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, addressed to the APKMN National conference, yesterday, read: “His Holiness prays that the occasion will encourage the participants to renew their commitment to being joyful disciples of Christ who are formed by him and sent out on mission in response to the challenges and opportunities present within contemporary Nigerian society.

bordering on terrorism and murder.

“As you assemble to share experiences, address challenges, and explore opportunities, may your deliberations be illuminated by the divine guidance of the Holy Spirit, inspiring renewed commitment to the values of compassion, justice, and selfless-service.”

This was just as the Judicial Vicar of the Catholic Church of Port Harcourt, Very Reverend Monsignor (Msgr) Pius Barinaadaa Kii, highlighted corruption, persecution, trans-valuation, as a threat to Nigeria's Catholic values.

He also revealed that over 16,769 Nigerian Christians have been killed,

that regard, has approved your suspension as the Onido of Ido in the area of authority of Ido Local Government Area of Oyo State." It directed Oba Babalola to hand over all government properties in his possession to the Chairman of Ido local government. In the meantime, the state government has vowed to hit hard at anyone, no matter how highly placed, who contravenes the law.

Justice Bolaji Olajuwon of a Federal High Court in Abuja, yesterday, dismissed the application by two Rivers State indigenes challenging the jurisdiction of the court to try them over alleged complicity in the burning of the Rivers State House of Assembly complex in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

“It is likewise his hope that through your example of bearing witness to the gospel, your fellow citizens will encounter the love of Jesus that has the power to transform hearts and thus build up the kingdom of God.

Chime Eguma Ezebalike and Prince Lukman Oladele, were among five persons charged with terrorism and murder. The others are Kenneth Goodluck Kpasa, Osiga Donald and Ochueja Thankgod.

“With these sentiments, the Holy Father willingly imparts his blessing as a pledge of wisdom, strength, and joy in the world.”

They were last week arraigned on a seven-count criminal charge

In his goodwill address, Rev. Martins said the theme of the event "speaks directly to the heart of our shared mission as disciples of Christ. In an era marked by complexities, many different churches that make doctrines and morals uncertain, your gathering gives us a reason to hope, illuminating a path forward and offering an assurance of the preservation of our faith, doctrines and traditions.

“Your conference coincides with a pivotal moment in our nation's history, where the witness of authentic Catholic living can profoundly impact the social, political, cultural, and spiritual aspects of our lives.

“I encourage you to draw upon the rich traditions of our faith, embracing the challenges and opportunities before us with courage, resilience, and unwavering dedication bearing in mind that evangelization is not just about preaching, it is about living the Gospel.

Although, they pleaded not guilty to all the charges, the judge however, ordered that they be remanded at the Kuje Correctional Center, pending the hearing of their bail application fixed for February 2, as well as the motion of the 1st and 2nd defendants challenging the jurisdiction of the court to entertain the suit against them. Ezebalike and Oladele had argued that by the provisions of the Terrorism Act, it is only the Attorney General of the Federation that can file any charge of terrorism against them. Their lawyer, Mr. Lukman

Earlier in his keynote address, Kii said, “It means simply living a life of intimacy with God and continually nourishing that relationship and that intimacy through prayer, the sacraments and scripture.”

According to him, Nigeria is facing numerous challenges, and its citizens are all too familiar with the problems plaguing the country. “We are living in darkness, surrounded by evil, suffering, violence, and corruption. The poor continue to struggle while the rich accumulate wealth, and the system seems designed to benefit politicians alone."

Fagbemi, SAN, submitted that the charge having been filed by the Inspector General of Police, was incompetent and asked the court to strike out counts 1,3,4,5,6, and 7 of the charge or strike strike out the entire suit for been incompetent. Responding, Police lawyer, Mr. Simon Lough, SAN, urged the court to dismiss the application for lacking in merit. According to Lough, besides Sections 4 and 66 of the Police Acts that empower them to bring the charge against the defendants, Section 5 and 99 of the Terrorism Act, shows that the police have powers to also initiate terrorism charges against the defendant.

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

Adibe emenyonu in Benin City

L-R: Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy of Nigeria, Wale Edun; Chairman, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede and the Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Olayemi Cardoso, in a Strategic Alliance to Stimulate the forex market in Abuja…yesterday

Evangelisation, Archbishop Fortunatus Nwachukwu, and Archbishop of the Catholic Diocese of Ijebu-Ode, Most. Rev. Dr. Francis Obafemi Adesina, at the 16th Annual National Conference of APKMN held in Lagos…yesterday

2024 AFRICA FASHION WEEK...

Odili Describes Fubara as Resilient Fighter for Good of Rivers People

Abdussalami urges Nigerians to embrace peace, unity for nation's growth Governor pledges to transform Rivers despite political distractions

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

Former Governor of Rivers State, Dr. Peter Odili, has described Governor Siminalayi Fubara, as a young, resilient, humble, irreplaceable and greater fighter for the good of Rivers people.

Odili, who stated this at the 4th convocation ceremony of PAMO University of Medical Sciences (PUMS) held at the institution's premises in Iriebe-Elelenwo Community, Obio/ Akpor LGA of the state, also described Governor as a peaceful man.

This was as the Chancellor of PUMS, Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd), implored Nigerians to contribute their quota in maintaining peace, noting that where there is no peace, there

will be no country. Governor Fubara pledged that despite the political crisis bedeviling the state, his government will ensure accelerated transformation of the state. Odili, who is the Founder of PUMS, said Fubara is "a man who has passed all his predecessors including me" in terms of projects execution. He said the institution which has existed for seven years, celebrated four convocation ceremonies, has now graduated a total of 223 certified graduands found worthy in character and learning.

Odili expressed appreciation to Governor Fubara for offering automatic employment to all 76 graduands awarded degrees at the

4th convocation ceremony while urging the graduands to be good ambassadors of the institution, treat their patients with dignity, love and great care.

The former Rivers State governor who commended the governor for his developmental strides in the state, said "No Governor in Rivers State has surpass your strides in health and other sectors within one year in office", describing the governor as a peaceful man.

Gen Abubakar advised the graduands to be ambassadors of positive change in the society, representing the institution in a good conduct in the practice of their professional career.

To Nigerians he said "May we find the strength and unity to address the economy challenges facing our country. Wherever you are, contribute your quota in maintaining peace, for where there is no peace, there will be no country".

Former Military Head of State commended Governor Fubara for not only continuing with the scholarship scheme but increased it from 100 to 150 students, saying that the government attention to healthcare delivery is inspiring.

Abubakar said the institution has been consistent in increasing physical structures that include lecture halls, library, hostels and other learning facilities that have made teaching

Falana Got it Wrong on FCT Houses for Judges, Says Wike's Aide

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

Human Rights lawyer, Femi Falana, SAN, has come under criticism for questioning the constitutionality of the residential quarters built for judges by the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA).

The Senior Special Assistant to the FCT Minister on Public Communications and New Media, Lere Olayinka, said the senior lawyer erred and was needlessly venting emotions and sentiments against the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike. Falana had insinuated that the motive behind the construction of the houses was capable of influencing the judges by noting :" You cannot be seen to be giving cars or houses to

judges who are going to determine your cases."

But in a statement yesterday, Olayinka insisted there was nothing inappropriate in the federal government providing accommodation for judges as well as officials of other arms of government.

According to him, while there is separation of powers in a democracy, there are also checks and balances that imply there can be no absolute separation of powers among the three arms of government.

He added that there is nowhere in the world where one arm of government is completely independent of the others.

The Federal Executive Council

(FEC) had in September approved the construction of 40 housing units for judges and justices in the FCT High Court, Federal High Court and the Court of Appeal in Katampe District of the FCT.

Since then, the move behind the gesture has been construed as an intention to pocket the judiciary and influence justice.

Responding, Olayinka asked; "Wouldn't there still be need for land from the FCT Ministry if the houses were to be built by the judiciary? And if it is about exercising influence over the judiciary, is allocation of lands not enough?

"Also, the money to build the houses will still have to be appropriated by the National

Assembly, peopled by politicians who also have cases before judges. Should we also say that bringing the budget of the judiciary to the National or State House of Assembly for passage will influence judges if cases involving the lawmakers are brought before them?

"Police and other security agencies provide security for judges and they do have court cases too, is (he) Femi Falana also saying that the security agencies will influence the judges?" Olayinka said.

The minister's aide opined that going by the contending views judges should stop having friends and family members and operate in seclusion to insulate them from being influenced by anybody.

Match New Salaries with Performance, CSLS Tells Judges

Alex Enumah

in Abuja

The Centre for Socio-Legal Studies (CSLS) has called on judges to reciprocate the recent increase in their salaries with improve performance. The call was predicated on the need to urgently remove all the obstacles to speedy dispensation of justice in the country, evidence in delayed trials, overcrowded correctional centres and widespread denial of access to justice experienced by indigents and other

vulnerable persons. Speaking at the launch of the CSLS and the Rule of Law & Anti-Corruption (RoLAC II)/ IIDEA Project: Improving Criminal Justice Administration through the National Minimum Standards (NMS), Legislative Review and Capacity Building, in Abuja, President of the CSLS, Prof. Yemi Akinseye-George, SAN, stated that conscious efforts must be made to make the judiciary more efficient and effective.

"We commend the federal government for improving the remuneration of judicial officers and for extending the retirement age of High Court judges. However, these improvements must be matched with closer monitoring and evaluation of the work of judges.

"We urge the oversight body of the judiciary, the National Judicial Council (NJC) to issue new guidelines for assessing the productivity of judicial officers. Nigerians deserve

improvements in the speed and quality of justice delivery," Akinseye-George stressed.

Meanwhile, he urged that attention be given to the remuneration and working conditions of magistrates and other lower court judges who handle the great majority of criminal cases, adding that similar attention be extended to investigators, prosecutors and the support staff of the courts on whom the work of the courts actually depend.

and learning more conducive for both staff and students.

On his part, Governor Fubara who was also awarded the Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) for his immense and significant contributions to the institution and to society, said his administration is committed towards providing a safer environment for all residents of the state, while creating opportunities to foster prosperity and accelerated transformation across sectors.

In his is address as the Special Visitor of the university, Fubara said that despite the political distractions, he is more resolved to leave behind convincing development strides and legacies that will surpass what he inherited.

He said his government is making every effort to ensure there is sustained peace, security and unbiased development in the state, adding that "everyone can see and attest to our genuine interest for the State".

"Our mandate is to work with our people to transform our State and communities to a level where we can secure, and enjoy the greatest standards of security, peace and

prosperity from the responsible and responsive management of our collective God-given resources.

"While we feel disturbed by the senseless distractions, I wish to assure everyone that we remain focused on the ball, committed more than ever, to deliver on our mandate, and leave the State far better than where we met it, Fubara said."

He commended the former governor of the state, and Prochancellor of the university, Dr. Odili for his foresight in establishing the institution, which he said, stands as a testament of giving back to society while providing excellent medical educational training to young Nigerians.

The governor added, "Reputed to be the first private medical university in Nigeria, PUMS's acclaimed mission of providing 'excellent medical training for the production of world-class medical and health science professionals characterised by the core values of knowledge, discipline and human service' clearly resonates with that statement that PAMO is prepared, ready and is delivering to Nigeria and Rivers State in particular.

NERC Closes Offices in Enugu, Ekiti, Kogi, Others, Directs Customers to State Govts

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) yesterday announced that it was shutting down its forum offices in some states in Nigeria and handing over their operations to the respective electricity commissions of the affected states.

In a statement yesterday, the commission noted that it had officially transferred regulatory authority to Enugu, Ekiti, Kogi, Edo, Ondo, Imo and Oyo states, in accordance with the new Electricity Act 2023.

As a result, the newly established State Electricity Regulatory Commissions (SERCs) in those states, it stressed, will now oversee all aspects of electricity regulation.

Consequently, NERC said it closed its forum offices in Enugu and Ekiti states on October 22, while its Imo office will be shut down on December 31.

In addition, the power sector regulator pointed out that its Oyo office will close on February 5, 2025; Edo on February 20, while Kogi office will be shut by March

12 next year.

“Customers in these states are encouraged to direct any electricity-related complaints to their respective SERCs moving forward. NERC extends its best wishes to the new SERCs as they embark on the important task of establishing effective regulation in their states,” the statement added.

Meanwhile, the federal government has said it is committed to building minigrids in some higher institutions in the country to reduce the cost of electricity consumption by the institutions.

This was disclosed by the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, when he inspected the advanced solar micro grid project, being built at the University of Abuja, a statement by his spokesman, Bolaji Tunji, said yesterday. Stressing that the project is about 95 per cent completed, the statement noted that the university solar project would be replicated in other universities, tertiary institutions and teaching hospitals across the country.

L-R: Media Director, AFWN, Elizabeth Igwe; Head, Brand Marketing, Sterling Bank Ltd., Chidimma Okoli; Founder and Convener, Africa Fashion Week Nigeria & London, Queen Ronke Ademiluyi-Ogunwusi; and CEO, Cash Token Rewards Africa, Dr. Lai Labode; at the Africa Fashion Week Nigeria 2024 Press Conference held in Lagos recently

UNVEILING BRAND AMBASSADORS…

FG Supports LGs' Deployment of Smart Solutions to Curb Insecurity

Oghenevwede

The federal government has thrown its weight behind the deployment of smart solutions by local governments to tackle security challenges, boost food security and improved service delivery.

The Minister of Communications, Innovations and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, made the pledge in Abuja, yesterday, at the November edition of Devs in Government with the theme, 'Innovating Digital Solutions for Improved Local Government Service Delivery'. Devs in Governments is a programme which is focused on bringing all the technologists in government together

to discuss how they can ensure the use of technology to drive efficiency in government service delivery.

The edition featured a co-create challenge with a smart solution by participants.

While making the pledge, Tijani also stated that the local councils had been granted some kind of seed funding, adding that the financial seed support was just the beginning as the ministry would give more support to councils that are able to apply the smart solutions to impact their people.

"We actually granted them some sort of seed funding; the winners, we gave them N2 million and the others N3, N1 million each. And that's not the

end; this is just a resource that they can use to kick-start the process of actually building the solution.

"And we're going to support them as a ministry to ensure that those of them who are serious about taking the solution to actually impact people in their local communities.

"We're going to help them build it but also deploy it as well," he added.

The Managing Director/Chief Executive, Galaxy Backbone, Prof. Ibrahim Adeyanju, who was represented by the Executive Director, Customer Centricity and Marketing , Olusegun Olulade, expressed "Galaxy Backbone’s mission to bridge the digital divide and drive inclusive digital access across

Nigeria."

According to him, "It’s an ideal opportunity to exchange ideas on harnessing technology to transform local government operations, enhancing the effectiveness and accessibility of public services.

"One key initiative advancing this goal is the 774 LG Connectivity Project, spearheaded by Dr. Bosun Tijani. This project is designed to bridge the connectivity gap between urban and rural communities, ensuring that every part of Nigeria has access to high-speed broadband.

"Galaxy Backbone, in collaboration with our sister agency Nigcomsat, is proud to support this vital effort. We are

Rivers Crisis: Again, PDP Writes Court, Seeks to Discontinue Appeals on All Legal Matters

The crisis of legitimacy between the national leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Rivers State Government continues as the Acting National Chairman of the party, Amb. Illya Damagum and the National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, have again written a fresh letter to the Court of Appeal urging the appellate court that the party is not a party to all legal issues in the court.

This is the second time that the duo of Damagum and Anyanwu will write such a letter. The first letter was addressed to the Chief Registrar of the Federal High Court in Port Harcourt directing that the PDP is not part of the proceedings at the Port Harcourt High Court.

Ejiofor Alike

A leading indigenous oil and gas services provider, Solewant Group has hailed the federal government and the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) on the implementation of the local content law in the oil and gas industry.

The company has also lauded the NNPC Upstream Investment Services (NUIS) for its support for local contractors.

Addressing journalists in Port Harcourt at the weekend, the Group Managing Director of Solewant Group, Sir Solomon Ewanehi,

In the second letter, signed by Damagum and Anyanwu to the Court of Appeal, hearing the consolidated appeals on Rivers State legislature and the Local Governments Election, the PDP urged the Appeal Court to strike out the consolidated appeal as the national secretariat of the party, which they represent did not authorise the legal proceedings. Damagum and Anyanwu said that in line with the PDP constitution, no legal proceedings that concerns the party is valid without the approval of the national leadership.

THISDAY gathered that the cases included an appeal the Rivers State Government filed to stay the execution of the judgement that mandated Governor Siminalaye Fubara to re-present his 2024 budget

stated that the implementation of the Nigerian Content Law by the NCDMB has raised the local content in the oil and gas industry.

"NCDMB has over the years assisted the Nigerian companies to build capacity, capability and competence. NUIS has also supported indigenous contractors," he said.

Ewanehi spoke during a briefing heralding the Solewant Group's 8th Energy Summit scheduled to hold on November 29 at Solewant Industrial Area, Alode Eleme, Onne, Rivers State.

The theme of the summit is: 'Pioneering Technology and

proposal to the pro-Wike faction of the State Assembly led by Hon. Martin Amaewhule, as well as an appeal the Action Peoples Party (APP) filed to declare seats of the lawmakers vacant over their alleged defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Equally listed for hearing was an appeal marked: CA/1159/2024, which was filed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

However, on Thursday, when the matter was called up, two lawyers, Mr. B. F. Folurunsho and Mr. J. Y. Musa, separately announced their appearances for the PDP.

While Musa, SAN, told the appellate court that he was mandated by the party to withdraw the appeal, Folurunsho told the court that no such directive came from the party.

Innovation for Transition to Sustainable Energy Development in Africa'.

According to the Solewant Group's CEO, the participation of indigenous facilities and manpower in the oil and gas industry has increased significantly through the efforts of the NCDMB and NUIS.

He noted that this has generated employment opportunities for Nigerians, curbed capital flight and increased the country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to boost the economy.

Ewanehi stated that all is now set for the global oil and gas industry leaders, including academics,

Following the controversy, the three-man special panel, led by Justice Onyekachi Otisi, acknowledged that it got a letter from the PDP indicating that it did not authorise the appeal.

The panel added that the PDP in its letter to the court, which was signed by its Acting National Chairman and Secretary, applied to discontinue the case. Consequently, it queried the two lawyers about how they were briefed to appear in the matter.

Whereas Musa, SAN, maintained that he was briefed by the Alhaji Umar Damagum-led executives, Folurunsho said he was duly assigned the case by the National Legal Adviser of the party whom he said has the authority to handle all legal matters involving the party.

innovators, and technology providers to gather in Rivers State on November 29 for the company's summit where industry experts will explore ways to boost Nigeria's crude oil and gas production to ensure energy security.

He said the discussions would lead to improvements in the energy sector in the areas of growth and efficiency, particularly in Africa.

Represented by the Executive Secretary of Training Institute, Port Harcourt, Dr. Benjamin Ubleble, the Solewant Group's CEO said the discussions would also help drive technological innovation in Nigeria and Africa at large.

making strides in the phased rollout of this project, and I’m pleased to report that six strategic sites have already been connected across the FCT, Zamfara, and Kwara states.

"The infrastructure we’re establishing today lays the groundwork for future digital services that can significantly uplift local communities."

The Managing Director of NigComSat, Mrs. Jane Egerton-Idehen, who was represented by the Executive Director Technical Services, Abiodun Attah, stated that commitment to continue to collaborate with Galaxy Backbone to provide internet connectivity to remote areas especially for the underserved and unserved population.

"Collaboration with local government areas for sustainable processes beyond the project of Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF).

"We have a team which is actively engaged to look at other ways in supporting the 774 LGs to generate revenue with the service we are providing beyond the one year," she said

The Chairman of Ikeduru Local Government Area of Imo State, Justice Nze whose group won the co-create challenge with a smart solution

to insecurity challenge in his local government applauded the minister for his donation and pledge.

"I thank the minister because he has provided the sum of two million naira as a seed to solve the insecurity problem in my local government. I want to assure him that I shall use the money, just as he has said, to start to solve the immediate needs of that local government in the area of security.

"It shall be expanded to other communities, local government areas and in fact indeed states where insecurity is prevalent in this country," he said.

Mr. Innocent Korie of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) of group four which won the co-create challenge, a task to provide a solution that would give Ikeduru LG an effective communication to help the vigilant group in tackling insecurity, said his group came up with a solution to build a co-location app specifically for security purposes.

He said this can go along way to help the LG vigilant group to leverage on the technology for effective communication which will in turn provide quality service in tackling insecurity.

Bennett Oghifo

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has promised to collaborate with Unforsaken House of Hephzibah, an organisation dedicated to providing psychological services, in order to expand access to mental healthcare for individuals in need across the state.

Governor Sanwo-Olu made the promise at the Grand Opening of The Unforsaken House of Hephzibah Wellness Clinic, in Lekki, according to a statement issued by the Head, Public Affairs Unit, HEFAMMA, Mrs. Rahmat Alabi.

Represented by his Special Adviser on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Dr. Oreoluwa Finnih, SanwoOlu stated that the establishment of the Centre aligns with his administration’s vision to promote the overall well-being of its citizens.

The governor lauded the Director of Unforsaken House of Hephzibah, Dr. Busola Olamuyiwa, for her efforts in positively impacting the mental health of many, particularly in supporting those who have endured trauma, abuse, and other difficult

life circumstances.

He stated that his THEMESPLUS policies acknowledges the importance of psychological services in addressing the mental health needs of its population, noting that mental health is crucial to fostering a resilient and productive society.

He noted that the wellness Centre will be assisted to expand its services, reach more individuals in need, and engage with more professionals across the psychological and social work fields.

Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, said the ministry aims to set a precedent for how government agencies and non-profit organisations can collaborate to address the mental health crisis in Nigeria, making Lagos a model for mental health support in the nation.

The commissioner, who spoke through the Head of Special Projects and Mental Health in the Ministry of Health, Dr. Tolu Ajomale, noted that people are gradually becoming more aware of the need and importance of therapy and mental health as against what obtains in the past.

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

Ohwovoriole in Abuja

L-R: Executive Director, GVS Cosmetics, Chijioke Chukwuka; Brand Ambassadors of Cosmo Cosmetics, Anita Singh, Uche Nwaefuna, Olawunmi Oluwabamike, and Executive Director, GVS Cosmetics, Obiora Michael Nwosu, at the unveiling of the Brand Ambassadors of Cosmo Cosmetics, held in Lagos…recently

ENFORCING LOTTERY REGULATIONS…

Oscar Award: Shettima Rallies Support for ‘Mai Martaba’

Says creative fund access is open to all

Vice President Kashim

has pledged the federal government's support for Nigeria's Oscar campaign with access to the $618 million Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises Programme (iDICE) as Nigeria positions "Mai Martaba" to clinch the nation's Academy Award. Specifically, the Vice President revealed that creators will have access to the $618 million iDICE project aimed at boosting investment in digital and creative industries.

Speaking during a meeting with the film's team led by the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, at the State House, Abuja, Shettima noted delightfully that "it's a good day to be a Nigerian."

According to him: "We will make

sure that the kaleidoscope that represents all the colours in our nation is carried along. Let's fuse into one and support this project. There is more that binds than divides us. Within the ethnic groups, you don't know where the boundaries end. We are essentially one people."

He charged the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy to "lead the campaign to mobilise all resources to ensure Nigeria's success at the Oscars."

"By the end of the century, Nigeria will be the most populous nation on earth. There is beauty in numbers. I want to reiterate my unflinching support for us to get the Oscars," the Vice President added.

"Mai Martaba," directed by Prince Daniel, has been officially selected as Nigeria's entry for the 2025 Academy Awards' Best International Feature Film category. The film explores themes of

Tinubu Lauds Nigerian Tribune on 75 Years of Progressive Journalism

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu has congratulated the Nigerian Tribune newspaper's Board, Management, and staff on its 75th anniversary.

Established on November 16, 1949, by Chief Obafemi Awolowo, a distinguished statesman and the first Premier of the old Western Region, along with his wife, Hannah Dideolu, the Nigerian Tribune has cultivated a legacy of responsible, resilient, and crusading journalism that has withstood the test of time.

President Tinubu, in a statement issued on yesterday by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, applauded the newspaper, known as the Great Survivor, for faithfully upholding the vision of its founding publisher by promoting constructive nationalism, social justice, democracy, and press freedom while advocating for the rights of all Nigerians, irrespective of their economic, social, or political backgrounds.

The President remembered and applauded the role of some of the notable journalists who built the

Tribune brand, such as Alhaji Lateef Jakande, a former governor of Lagos State, Ayo Ojewunmi, alias Pen Atalanta, Chief Tola Adeniyi, Biodun Oduwole, Folu Olamiti, and many others, amid the attempts by state agents to stifle the newspaper out of existence.

The President noted that the Nigerian Tribune has established itself as a bastion of truth and a vigilant watchdog of society over the decades and has performed its constitutionally mandated role in nation-building with commendable integrity.

In today’s complex world, where the internet allows anyone to become a "citizen journalist," the President emphasised the need for reputable publications like the Nigerian Tribune that provide the public with information grounded in facts, balance, and a commitment to social harmony.

President Tinubu expressed hope that the events commemorating the anniversary will honour the Nigerian Tribune’s legacy of courageous journalism and its dedicated staff and set a course for the future, where truth and credibility remain steadfast against falsehood and sensationalism.

power, love, and female leadership in an ancient African kingdom.

Earlier in her speech, Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Musawa, said investors were already committed to building the creative industry.

"We're working with investors who have already committed to building the creative industry. We have just concluded agreements with South

Korea, UK, Japan, China, and France to sign co-production agreements. "We hopefully will have a media city, which is going to be a one-stop shop for nine sectors across the whole industry. The whole world is interested in Nigeria - not because of our oil, but because of our talent, content, and creativity."

Addressing funding challenges, Musawa noted: "The fact is that

many in the industry do not have infrastructure to be able to do the kind of first-class movies they require. Every single Nigerian, no matter what part of the country they come from, even if it's a rural setting, has the ability to create content on their phone, to empower themselves for decent job futures."

On his part, Prince Daniel noted the industry's remarkable growth, saying, "We found something very interesting in the creative industry. "Broadcasting contributes more to GDP than oil does combined, reaching 12.3 per cent. The creative industry and broadcasting in April 2020 did more than oil and mining combined. We've created over 500 jobs and created work for almost 100 people overall. We're excited because we want to go for the next Oscars," he added.

Fear, Anguish as Abia Prepares to Compulsorily Retire 68 Directors from LG Service

Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia

No fewer than 68 Directors on Grade Levels 16 serving in the 17 Local Governments of Abia State are bemoaning their uncertain fate, following government's decision to compulsorily retire them from Service.

The retirement fever was sparked by the Local Government Service Commission (LGSC) in a circular addressed to the Heads of Service (HoS) in all the 17 local governments reminding them of the letter from the State HoS concerning retirement.

In the circular No. LGSC/AD/36/

Vol.XVI/493, dated October 15, 2024 signed by the Permanent Secretary of LGSC, Judith Ezinne Ngakwe, the 68 underlisted officers were directed to proceed on compulsory pre-retirement leave immediately.

"This directive is in line with the Abia State Tenure Policy for all Heads of Service ans Directors, who have served in their positions for four(4) or eight(8) years as the case may be as well as officers who are due for retirement," the circular said.

The Directors many of who are Heads of Service(HoS), acting HoS in the LGs were compelled to proceed on three months "pre-retirement leave

with immediate effect" between September and October, hence by December/January their services would be terminated.

However, the planned retirement which government said was in line with the Abia State Tenure Policy, has been enmeshed in controversy as many of the affected Directors claim that they are not due for retirement.

The affected top civil servants in the local government system, who spoke anonymously to our correspondent, expressed their opposition to the mass disengagement.

"Most of us in the list compiled

for the so-called retirement have not attained the eight years tenure in our present positions, so we're seeing a political undertone to the entire exercise," said a Director in one or the LGs in Abia South. Another one in Abia Central said that the apprehension among his colleagues goes beyond being compelled to leave service as the future looks bleak for anyone facing the prospect of job loss. He said that "we are being pushed to confront uncertain fate" knowing that those who were forcefully retired last year are yet to be paid even a kobo by the state government.

The Korean Ambassador to Nigeria, Kim Pankyu has stated that the Korean government would continue to support Nigeria's quest to empower her young girls with technology.

The envoy spoke at the finals of the national girls in ICT competition in Abuja.

The envoy who was represented by KIOCA country Director/ Nigeria office, Son Sunggil, stated that, "KIOCA's engagement with this programme not only shows Korean government's commitment

to empowering young girls with technology and innovation in Nigeria.

"Our partnership also signifies the positive outcomes of KIOCA'S long standing digital transfers formation journey with the ministry and the people of Nigeria.

"KIOCA and Korean government will remain committed to working alongside the ministry to help achieve Nigeria's government renewed hope agenda continue."

Speaking on the competition he added, "It is indeed my great pleasure to contribute to the success of today's event by bringing our resources to this place. Secondly to

all the competing teams, I like to congratulate you on your journey and success.

"Am sure that the journey to the stage today ha been quite tough and a lot of hard work has been required. Never the less with your confidence and knowledge and above all the believe that you can make it. And your journey has paid off, if you win the competition or not am sure this journey is going to be life changing experience to all of you."

He also spoke on KIOCA's supported smart schools in Nigeria, saying, "At today's event we have

FAAN to Shut Down Power Supply to Lagos International

some students and teachers, of KIOCA supported smart schools from the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nasarawa, Cross Rivers, Ekiti, Kano and Bauchi.

"As we have been working together with the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), we recently provided quality ICT facilities to these six smart schools where students and teachers can have access to teaching and learning resources. That is why we called on them in this competition believing that it can be of good opportunity for them and I hope you have enjoyed this event."

Oghenevwede Ohwovoriole in Abuja

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

Shettima

L-R: Director General/CEO, Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria, Dr. Olalekan Fadolapo; Director General of the National Lottery Regulatory Commission, Lanre Gbajabiamila; Minister of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, Hon Zaphaniah Bitrus Jisalo;,and Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, Dr Maryam Ismaila Keshinro, at the stakeholders’ meeting… recently

CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY…

NJC Recommends Imo CJ, Yobe Grand Kadi for Compulsory Retirement over Age Falsification

Suspends two judges, caution another

Alex Enumah in Abuja

As part of efforts at addressing the rot in the judiciary, the National Judicial Council (NJC) responsible for the disciplining of judges has recommended two heads of court for compulsory retirement. They were found guilty of age

falsification allegations and have been recommended to their various state governors for retirement.

According to a statement by NJC's Deputy Director, Information, Mrs. Kemi Babalola-Ogedengbe, the council took the decision at its 107 meeting held on November 13 and 14, 2024, in Abuja.

Pivot Challenge to Provide Mentorship for South-east Young Entrepreneurs

The Pivot, a group of young Nigerians with a vision to positively impact their society, has concluded plans to mobilise experts and professionals from different spheres of endeavours in government and private sectors of the economy to mentor budding entrepreneurs in the South-east geopolitical zone.

The maiden 2024 Pivot Challenge is targeted at harnessing the talents, creativity and innovative spirit of the Southeastern youths towards boosting socio-economic development of the region.

Briefing journalists in Awka, the Anambra State capital, the Executive Director of the organisation, Mr. Ifedi Eze, explained that the programme which would take place in Anambra State would attract young entrepreneurs in the South-east region between the ages of 18 and 35.

Themed 'From Ground to Up: Building a Prosperous Future for South-eastern Nigeria', Eze said

prospective participants in the proposed challenge were expected to apply via its registration portal between June and July 12, 2024.

Eze further explained that the programme is part of the activities of The Pivot aimed at encouraging innovation and supporting organisations who are building enterprises to address societal issues.

According to him, “Pivot challenge was conceived to harness the innovative spirit of our people and channel it towards the sustainability solution that will drive social and economic progress of the southeast region and country at large.

“We are interested in those that want to impact the society. The early stage organisations with innovative solutions to social problems but who are struggling with either issues of finance, access to market, access to mentors, and those still trying to find their foot in their areas of trade.”

SOS Children's Villages Empowers Groups with N240m

The SOS Children's Villages , Lagos has empowered eight village savings and loan associations ( VSLAs) groups with over N240 million revolving seed grant to improve and build small and sustainable businesses that directly benefit their families.

The grant is expected to enable them to have stable incomes, independence, and the ability to invest in their children's education, health, and overall well-being.

Speaking at the handing over of the checks to the VSLAs in Lagos recently, the National Director, SOS Children's Villages Eghosa Erhumwunse, said Empowerment was about

creating opportunities that allow people to turn hope into action and vision into reality.

“We know that this fund will help you turn your businesses around.So today we are giving each VSLA N30 million each making N240 million for the eight groups. The programme goes beyond financial assistance or food distribution, adding by providing revolving seed grants, they enable parents and guardians to build small, sustainable businesses that directly benefit their families,” he said.

Erhumwunse noted that the new business represents a family's pathway to a brighter future to independently support their children.

The meeting was held under the Chairmanship of the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun.

"The Council also recommended two Heads of Court for compulsory retirement over falsification of age. The duo of the Chief Judge of Imo State, Justice Chukwuemeka Chikeka and the Grand Kadi of Yobe State, Kadi Babagana Mahdi, were recommended for compulsory retirement for falsification of their ages," the statement read in part.

According to the statement, Chikeka was recommended to the Governor of Imo State for compulsory retirement with effect from October 27, 2021, while all salaries and allowance received in excess from that day till date should be refunded to the Council.

"The recommendation was pursuant to the findings of the

Council that His Lordship has two different dates of birth; October 27, 1956 and October 27, 1958. However, October 27, 1956, appeared to be the consistent date of birth, but in 2006, the Chief Judge swore to an affidavit changing the date of birth to October 27, 1958.

"Similarly, Council finds that Kadi Mahdi has 3 different dates of birth (December 10, January 28 and July 28) all in 1959, while his actual date of birth was 1952.

"The Council held that Grand Kadi Mahdi committed an act of misconduct in violation of Rule 02908 (i) and (ii) of the Public Service Rules, 2021 and ought to have retired from service 12 years ago.

"The Council, therefore, resolved to recommend Hon. Kadi Babagana Mahdi for compulsory retirement to the Governor of Yobe State and that he should refund all salaries and allowances received for the

past 12 years," the statement noted.

Meanwhile, the NJC also as part of efforts at sanitising the judiciary, suspended Justice G. C. Aguma of High Court of Rivers State from performing judicial functions for a period of one year without pay and also placed him on “Watch-List” for two years thereafter.

Also, suspended for one year without pay and placed on “WatchList” for two years, is Justice A. O. Nwabunike of Anambra State High Court.

Both Aguma and Nwabunike were sanctioned for acts of misconduct.

The NJC equally considered the report of its Preliminary Complaints Assessment Committee, which considered a total number of 30 petitions, empanelled six committees for further investigation. While 22 were dismissed for lacking in merit, two were sub judice, the statement

noted.

While the NJC issued letter of caution to Justice I. A. Jamil of Kogi State to be more circumspect in handling sensitive matters in the future, it resolved to issue letter of caution to Justice J. J. Majebi, Chief Judge, Kogi State, for assigning a sensitive matter to a junior Judge on the Bench.

Meanwhile, the Council deliberated on four petitions against Justice Peter O. Lifu of the Federal High Court, Abuja, and dismissed the petitions on grounds that the petitioners failed to substantiate their allegations. "The Council also finds that the allegations of inducement to the tune of $1 million, a bullet-proof car and gift of a plot of land to Justice Lifu by Chief Emeka Beke, Chairman, All Progressives Congress, (APC), Rivers State were not substantiated in any form," the NJC held.

Media Professionals Harp on Journalism Ethics to Tackle Fake News

Media and brand experts have stressed the need for media organisations and companies to embrace ethics in order to prevent fake news.

They also drew public attention to the possible implications of Donald Trump’s victory in the US elections for the mainstream media.

The PR Conference was organised by Masters students of the School

of Media and Communication, Pan-Atlantic University, Lagos, recently.

The conference with the theme: 'Crisis Communication in the Age of Misinformation and Disinformation', sought to put forward new, transparent and proactive approaches to countering the spread of harmful narratives for individuals, corporates, and governments through four subthemes. It was organised in partial

fulfillment of the requirements for the award of Master’s degree in Media and Communication by the Pan-Atlantic University.

Speaking on a panel session, Saturday Editor, THISDAY, Dr. Obinna Chima, urged media practitioners to reflect on what the future holds about information dissemination now that Donald Trump, who was banned by Twitter in 2021 for violations bordering on disinformation, has been elected

CAS, Abubakar Assures NMS Ex-Boys Association of Support to Alma Mater

The Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshall HB Abubakar, has assured the Nigerian Military School, Zaria Ex-Boys Association of his total support for all ongoing projects being driven by the association aimed at improving the living and learning conditions at NMS, and ensuring its standards of excellence and role in nation-building are sustained.

Abubakar, an Ex-Boy of the 1982 set, gave the assurance during a courtesy visit to his office by the Executive Committee of the NMS Ex-Boys Association, led by its President, Lt. Cdr Sunday Ngegu (rtd) on Thursday.

“Over the past 70 years, the Nigerian

Military School, Zaria has shaped young Nigerians into leaders and these leaders have been playing key roles in nation-building. The Ex-Boys Association plays a role of bonding Ex-Boys globally through its activities,” he said.

“I want to say here that we identify wholeheartedly with the Association and its achievements. We are aware of all the efforts to improve learning and living facilities, expand instructional curriculum and provide mentorship for the boys at NMS. We identify with these efforts. They are very noble. I would like to encourage the Ex-BA to continue steadfastly in its activities.

“For all of us, our character was molded in NMS. That was our foundation. All we have been able to achieve in life, we owe to NMS. Some of our best relationships are people who we started out together with in NMS.

“It is important to note that every NMS Ex-Boy is a complete Nigerian.

You can’t find an Ex-Boy whose closest friends are not from very opposite parts of Nigeria. This is one of the most important nation-building roles that NMS plays. When you consider it in the context of the political structure in Nigeria today, you will have a greater appreciation of this role,” Air Marshal Abubakar added.

the 47th President of the United States of America.

Alongside three other panellists who addressed the other subthemes, Chima’s interventions revolved around 'The Role of the Media in Curbing Disinformation'. He hinged the media’s role on three key areas: the promotion of responsible journalism, investment in media literacy, and commitment to editorial independence. With these, he said, tendencies to distort news reports for whatever reasons would be curtailed, the public would learn to filter news, and all who seek to wield untoward influence on the news and its agenda-setting function would be discouraged.

In a keynote address presented by Company Secretary of Ibom Power, Mr. Ime Asibong, crisis communication was described as the communication measures and approaches adopted by individuals and organisations to resolve crisis situations and emerge with their reputation and profitability intact or minimally impacted.

According to Asibong, during crises, usual coping mechanisms and resources become insufficient, requiring the adoption of public relations strategies that are transparent and carry key audiences along.

Jude Nnadozie

Oluchi Chibuzor

R-L: Acting Consul General, Chinese Consulate, Lagos, Mr. Jin Mingyu; Permanent Secretary, Edo State Ministry of Health, Dr. Stanley Ehiarimwiam, and Chief Medical Director, University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Prof. Darlington Obaseki, presenting a cash award to one of the beneficiaries of the Chinese Consulate Free Cataract Surgery being managed by UBTH in Edo State…recently

Let the votes count

In Praise of President Buhari

Adekola: Police Should Shut Down ‘Faith Clinics’

TWhen President Muhammadu Buhari took over the reins of power on May 29, 2015, Nigeria was sadly a broken state in many respects. As a result of many other factors including bad governance and untold level of corruption, government could not live up to its financial obligations to citizens and service providers at both the federal and state levels.

he Advocacy for Alleged Witches urges police authorities to close down all faith ‘clinics’ and arrest and prosecute operators of these ‘clinics’ across the country.

by the EFCC, President Buhari by his action has successfully brought back to the public consciousness the need to treat public funds with the highest level of transparency and accountability.

This appeal follows the reported death of a 28-year-old woman, Jumoke Adesuwa, and her newborn during childbirth at the church of one prophetess, Folashade Kikiowo Adekola, in Akure, Ondo state. According to media sources, prophetess Adekola runs a faith clinic at her church, Christ Engracing Deliverance Ministry. Adesuwa went to the church to deliver her baby but developed some complications in the course of delivery and bled to death at the ‘clinic’ at Oke Aro area of Akure, Ondo State.

Indeed one of the first official assignments that President Buhari carried out was the approval of billions of Naira in bailout funds to enable state governors pay something as basic as workers’ salaries. Granting those bailout funds was a huge boost to national security because the pressure of arrears of unpaid monthly salaries building dangerously all over the country was a ticking bomb.

Ask the naysayers and they would readily remind you of how long it took President Buhari to appoint his ministers and how that contributed to collapse of the economy as if, without ministers, governance was frozen. But buying that narrative would amount to what a famous Nigerian writer, Chimamanda Adichie, termed “the danger of a single story”. Yet the whole story was that many of our citizens did not know how decrepit a state President Buhari inherited in 2015.

HKudos to Sidi MuhammedBage

After keeping treasury looters on their toes and at bay through the EFCC, particularly, President Buhari moved to curb unnecessary spending habits of the nation on what economists call articles of ostentation. Part of the disclosures of the President’s stock taking was how the country frittered away billions in foreign currency by importing goods, which can be produced at home. One of such items was rice, a major staple among Nigerians. By banning rice importation into the country, the President on one hand had saved the nation billions in foreign currency annually.

The Advocacy for Alleged Witches welcomes the reported arrest of Prophetess Adekola following the tragic death of Adesuwa and her baby. The police should ensure that she is thoroughly investigated and made to answer for her crimes. Adekola is not alone in the business of faith clinics. Many self-styled prophets and prophetesses have churches and use their churches or spiritual homes as clinics, maternities, and mental health centers. Meanwhile, these prophets and prophetesses have no medical training or experience. They claim that they could heal anyone or get pregnant women to safely deliver by faith. As in the case of Adesuwa, some of the pregnant women develop complications and eventually die.

It was therefore necessary for him to take stock against the background of the fact that the departing government did not, reportedly, cooperate full well with the incoming government in terms of leaving workable handover notes. Although President Goodluck Jonathan was gracious in defeat, many of his appointees were still sulking over what they saw as their personal losses and therefore pulled all the stops to make things difficult for the Buhari government.

Even with the obvious and unpatriotic obscurantist behaviour of the PDP appointees and their supporters still in government hell-bent on making things difficult for Buhari, the President moved on with his methodical repair of a broken country. The first thing he did was to identify all possible sources of income to the nation and directed that all inflows be paid into one single account in line with the policy of Single Treasury Account (TSA).

The TSA policy, interestingly, was mooted by the PDP government but its penchant for imprudence and lack of accountability denied it the courage of implementing the policy. What the President literally did was to gather all the nation’s money into one box and locked it up with a big padlock and watched for any thief to come close.

And, on the other hand, the President has boosted domestic production of rice and in the process had nudged the country into self sufficiency in food production. He also created millions of jobs for young people in the rice value chain.

Stop Ritual Attacks and Killings

The Advocacy for Alleged Witches (AfAW) urges the Nigerian public to stop ritual attacks and killings because the notion of ritual money and wealth is completely baseless. AfAW is making this call following the reported arrest of suspected ritualists in Oyo State in southern Nigeria. The local media reported that members of the Western Nigeria Security Network, Amotekun, arrested suspected ritualists with the body parts of a 73-year-old man.

on. Justice Sidi Bage Muhammed I, is the 17th Emir of Lafia, a customary Emirate in Nigeria. He is also the Chairman of Council of Chiefs. The emir has exhibited an exemplary character within and outside his domain. He has shown a leadership style that is worthy of emulation. He was born and brought up in humility; he has distinguished himself from other emirs by making peace to reign in Lafia. He has done everything humanly possible to curb the rate of crime in Lafia and environs by introducing the vigilante group, and assisting them with the necessary tools to fight crime. This is to aid law enforcement agency. As a result insecurity has reduced drastically in Lafia.

What is most admirable about President Buhari and his government is its frugal management of scarce national resources to attain optimum goals. Recall that since President Buhari stepped in the saddle, oil revenue dropped abysmally as if to sabotage him knowing all the big promises he made to citizens during his campaigns. But with the little resources that trickle in, the President is achieving what governments that received oil windfalls could not dream of.

Pregnant women go to these churches for delivery, believing their faith would save them. As the case of Adesuwa has shown, these churches have no facilities or personnel to ensure safe delivery or to address any complications or emergencies that could arise. Meanwhile, families send members with mental health challenges to these churches and clinics for healing. Faith doctors subject pregnant women and other patients to fasting and prayers as a part of the healing or delivery process. The Advocacy for Alleged Witches enjoins state authorities to close down all churches operating faith clinics nationwide. They should arrest and prosecute all prophets, prophetesses and other self styled godmen and women who operate faith ‘clinics’ because faith clinics pose a danger to public health and well-being. Leo Igwe directs the Advocacy for Alleged Witches.

Who can blame the President for almost developing paranoia over the safeguard of the national treasury with revelations and reports of mind-boggling looting that took place in the 16 years of the PDP? With such disclosures of how billions meant for fighting insurgency in the Northeast ended up in the pockets of a few individuals while our gallant soldiers fought with bare hands and on empty stomach, President Buhari was duty bound to bring sanity and accountability back in national spending.

Thus, under President Buhari, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which had remained comatose for years, was woken up to resume its duties. Apart from the trillions of Naira of looted

The Emir of Lafia has empowered jobless youths in his domain by providing the basic necessity of life for them. He has made life easier for widows by paying their children’s school fees. He personally assists in ameliorating the challenge of flood in Lafia.

The emir has achieved unprecedented success in Lafia, he is detribalized and has single-handedly sponsored many children to Quranic schools as well as many youths that their parents can’t afford to pay their school fees. He believes in one indivisible entity called Nigeria. He gives useful advice to our President.

Today, the trains are up and running daily from Abuja to Kaduna. And from Lagos to Ibadan a brand new rail track was started and completed; citizens are already commuting daily to and fro these two major cities in the country seamlessly as they reap from the dividends of democracy. And with the way this government is going, before 2023 when the President would leave, the entire country would be linked by rail with all of its economic advantages.

Ainofenokhai Ojeifo, Abuja

IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE

DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI

SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH

ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI

Hon. Justice Sidi Bage Muhammed1 has done a lot in the area of infrastructure in Lafia. He constructed many roads, built many health care centers, built schools for the people, and built recreational centers for the youth to enjoy themselves.

His immense contributions to the development of humanity will remain evergreen.

Anjorin Adeolu Joseph, Lafia

Wake in Fear

The suspects, who were apprehended in the Boluwaji area in Ibadan, said that a Muslim cleric asked them to procure some human body parts for rituals. Ritual attacks are widespread in Nigeria. Irrational conceptions of how to make money or become wealthy and successful undergird these atrocities. Many Nigerians strongly believe in blood money, known in some local languages as Ogun Owo (Yoruba) or Ogwu ego (Igbo). They think that they could become rich, or successful through ritual sacrifice. Unfortunately, this is not the case. Ritual wealth has no basis in reason, science, or reality. Home movies known as Africa magic or Nollywood films have not helped matters. These movies continue to reinforce these mistaken notions and other superstitions. Families, churches, mosques, and other public institutions do not encourage the interrogation of these traditional occult beliefs. There are no robust efforts to criticize or dispel these irrational and paranormal claims in schools, colleges, and universities. So millions of Nigerians grow up blindly believing that they could make money through ritual sacrifice of human body parts. The belief has led many Nigerians to commit crimes and perpetrate atrocities. Many Nigerians have been jailed or are undergoing court trials due to ritualrelated attacks and murder.

There were times in our youth, a number of decades ago, when we would wake, roll over and wonder what did we did last night and what we might regret. How many Americans are now doing the

Not too long ago, the police arrested some young Nigerians for stealing female pants, which they intended to use for ritual sacrifice. AfAW is asking all Nigerians to desist from ritual-related abuses because ritual money beliefs are baseless superstitions. Nigerian media, schools, and colleges should help educate and reorient the public. They should assist in reasoning Nigerians out of this killer-superstitious absurdity and nonsense.

Leo Igwe directs the Advocacy for Alleged

What a waste!

FOR IMPROVED POWER SUPPLY IN LAGOS…

IMF: Closing Gender Gaps Can Boost Nigeria, Others GDP by 30%

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has urged Nigeria and other sub-Saharan African nations to prioritise closing gender gaps, emphasising

that improving women’s economic participation could lift Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in countries in the region by 30 per cent.

The Deputy Director, IMF African Department, Catherine Pattilloa, and

LSETF, SSE-Lab Advise Micro-enterprises on Tips to Grow Their Brands

Dike Onwuamaeze

The Director of Programmes and Coordination of Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF), Oyindamola Egbeyemi, has advised operators of Nano and small enterprises to use packaging and marketing to launch their products into local and international markets. This advice was given at the launch of the Small Scale Enterprises Lab (SSE-Lab) and Manufacturing Business Accelerator’s (MBA) Business Showers with the theme: 'From Vision to Venture: Unleashing Entrepreneurial Potential'…

Egbeyemi, who was the guest speaker at the launch said: “Even if your product is the best technically speaking, if you do not package it well, and protect your brand they might not be visible. You need to

focus on your market. You need to focus on how your customers perceive your brand in order to be successful.”

In her welcome address, the Founder of SSE-Lab, Mrs. ‘Desola Jimmy-Eboma, said that mastering branding and packaging are necessary in navigating complex products’ distribution channels.

Jimmy-Eboma said: “Venturing into this business firsthand exposed me to the myriad challenges faced by small-scale manufacturers in Nigeria—from mastering branding and packaging to navigating complex distribution channels.

“This realisation ignited a deep passion within me to share my knowledge and experiences with other passionate individuals seeking to turn their innovative ideas into viable products channels.”

Expert Releases New Book on Tax Appeal Tribunal

Kunle Adewale

As part of his contribution to Nigeria's tax landscape, Olanrewaju Moshood Lassise-Phillips, a distinguished tax authority, will launch his highly anticipated book, 'Nigeria's Tax Appeal Succinctly Explained' later this month.

This comprehensive make guide aims to demystify Nigeria's tax appeal process, providing clarity and insight for taxpayers, legal practitioners, and stakeholders. Lassise-Phillips' expertise, garnered from his tenure as Chairman of the Tax Appeal Tribunal Lagos Zone Panel 1, shines through in this meticulously researched publication.

"Nigeria's Tax Appeal Succinctly Explained' addresses the dearth of information on the Tax Appeal Tribunal's practices and procedures, offering a concise and accessible exploration of the tax appeal

ecosystem. The book's 18 chapters delve into critical topics, including: ‘the Tribunal’s historical context and evolution since the enactment of the Native Tax Ordinance in 1906; the cycle of a typical tax appeal: a miniature version of the entire tax appeal process, identifying what tax disputes are suitable for hearing by the TAT; the Tribunal’s Jurisdiction including its limitations and the TAT’s competence to adjudicate federal taxes administered by sub-nationals; hearing Procedures which are in four varieties, with the appellant possessing the power to determine the procedure suitable to his appeal in the first instance; evidentiary rules and trial, special evidence rules apply to TAT’s hearings the Evidence Act only serve as guide; the role of precedent in tax appeal and psychology of the tax appeal commissioners in judgement writing."

Economist, Africa Department, IMF, Athene Laws, stated this during separate presentations of the IMF Regional Economic Outlook for Sub-Saharan Africa Fall 2024 Issue, titled 'Reforms Amid Great Expectations', held at the Lagos Business School (LBS).

The event had a panel session with leading economists and policy experts such as the Director, CEO, Financial Derivatives Company, Bismarck Rewane; Chief Economist, Nigeria Economic Summit Group, (NESG), Olusegun Omisakin, LBS Public Sector Initiative/ Senior Faculty, Franklin Ngwu, and Chief Executive Officer Renaissance Capital Africa, Samuel Sule, gathered to proffer solutions for Nigeria’s economy recovery.

Speaking on the importance on reducing gender disparity to financial inclusion and economic activities and

opportunities, Laws said, “Most SubSaharan African countries have made significant strides in reducing gender inequality over the past two decades. However, a range of obstacles, including restricted access to opportunities through legal rights, education, health, and finance, continue to constrain women's and girls' potential. Empowering women and girls can create a powerful, inclusive growth engine for Sub-Saharan Africa.

“Closing gender gaps in female labour force participation alone could increase GDP by 10 per cent, and by up to 30 per cent in the countries with the largest gaps. It's particularly important to increase women's access to productive, secure jobs. Our policy recommendations include removing the remaining legal constraints, making sure that girls stay in school, including by addressing harmful practices such as

child marriage, and improving financial and digital access for women.

“Applying a gender lens to macroeconomic policy and structural reforms will significantly increase policy effectiveness,” she reiterated.

For her part, Pattilloa said, “The real hurdles to women being more active in the labour market in economic participation, business etc., those hurdles are still very much there. A large share of women is in the informal sector, much higher than men.

“The access to financial services and the ability to use assets is still constrained.

“Let us eliminate policy-induced distortions. So still working to make sure that laws push for more equality and existing laws for gender equality are enforced.”

Also, at the panel discussions, the

experts shared insights on strategic pathways for economic recovery in Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa. They reiterated the need to address long-standing constraints such as energy deficits, inadequate job creation, and food insecurity. The experts emphasised targeted reforms aimed at strengthening macroeconomic stability, boosting productivity, and enhancing competitiveness.

Rewane, underscored that without a drastic overhaul of Nigeria’s power infrastructure, growth would remain stunted, as the nation continues to operate at a limited output of 4,000-5,000 megawatts.

He called for immediate short-term interventions to clear power sector debt overhangs and expand metering for revenue collection.

NLCGA: Gas Central to Nigeria’s Economic Recovery

The Nigeria Liquefied and Compressed Gases Association (NLCGA) has identified the gas sector as a critical economic sector to be developed to facilitate quick recovery of the nation’s economy.

Speaking at the just concluded 14th Annual Conference and Exhibition of the group in Lagos, NLCGA President, Felix Ekundayo, said the transformative role of gas in Nigeria’s economic growth cannot be over-emphasised and commended the support and participation of delegates, partners, and exhibitors

at the conference.

While reflecting on the achievement of conference with the theme: 'Gas: The Road to Economic Recovery', he said, “This year’s conference was a powerful reminder of the potential within our gas industry to drive Nigeria’s economic recovery.

“We are energised by the ideas exchanged, collaborations formed, and insights shared, all of which set a clear path for our industry’s continued impact.”

During the two-day conference, discussions highlighted gas as a vital force in revitalising Nigeria’s economy, generating jobs and providing

sustainable energy solutions.

Delegates emphasised the federal government’s initiatives such as the removal of Value Added Tax (VAT) and import duties on gas and the Presidential CNG Initiative.

“The government’s support shows that gas is viewed as more than an energy choice—it’s a key driver for Nigeria’s journey to economic recovery,” the NLCGA boss remarked.

This year’s conference also marked the official rebranding of the association from the Nigeria Liquefied Petroleum Gas Association (NLPGA), to the Nigeria Liquefied and Compressed Gases Association

includes compressed natural gas (CNG), liquefied natural gas (LNG), hydrogen, and biogases.

The Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of China in Nigeria is offering free cataract screening, surgery and treatment for indigenes of Edo State, where the problem of cataract is said to be prevalent in Nigeria.

A total of 180 persons, including 120 adults and 20 children benefited from the service being done in conjunction with the Ophthalmology Department of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Benin City, Edo State; Yongxing Steel Company in Benin, as well as Edo State Ministry of Health.

In addition to the free screening,

treatment and surgery, the first 20 persons to register for the programme were given cash award of N100,000, as a pat on the back for believing in the project and being pathfinders. According to a statement, at the flag off of the programme at UBTH, the Acting Consul General of People’s Republic of China in Nigeria, Mr. Jin Mingyu, said the government of China and its Embassy in Nigeria were delighted to be of help to indigent Nigerians through the free eye treatment. He pointed out that a number of Chinese companies are doing business in Edo State.

The eye-care programmes was another way of giving back to the community. He enjoined the people of Edo State to take advantage of the opportunity of the programme to improve their health. He pointed out that the Consulate-General would continue to offer programmes that would support the needs of Nigerians. According to him, “the free surgery is meant to help people with medical needs. We realise that this will help Nigerians so we decided to sponsor the treatment. We are happy to sponsor this free surgery and I hope that Nigerians will take advantage of it.”

Nume Ekeghe and Oluchi Chibuzor

Kunle Adewale

(NLCGA), signaling an expanded mission that

L-R: Executive Vice Chairman, Proton Energy, Mr. Oti Ikomi; Commissioner of Energy and Mineral Resources, Lagos State, Mr. Biodun Ogunleye, and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, Engr. Mrs. Abiola Kosegbe, after a meeting for Proton Energy to deliver Power Supply to Lagos State as part of efforts to address incessant power outages due to the grid challenges, was held in Lagos…recently

CBN to Impose 10% Fine on Banks Hoarding, Diverting Cash

James Emejo in Abuja

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) yesterday said it would impose stiff penalties against any bank found to have engaged in currency hoarding and diversion.

The CBN announced stringent penalties for Deposit Money Banks (DMBs) found diverting cash to hawkers, as part of its ongoing efforts to ensure responsible currency distribution.

It said any bank linked to cash seized from hawkers would face a

10 per cent fine on the total value of the withdrawn funds, adding that subsequent violations will attract an incremental penalty of 5 per cent penalty.

The apex bank conveyed the warning via a circular dated November 13, 2024, signed by CBN acting Director, Currency Operations, Mr. Muhammad Olayemi.

The directive came against the backdrop of public outcry over limited access to cash, particularly in Automated Teller Machines (ATMs).

At 60, National Library Has Issued

1,000,574

Book Numbers

Kuni Tyessi in Abuja

The National Library of Nigeria has issued not less than 1,000,574 International Standard Book Numbers (ISBN) and 27,755 International Serial Number (ISSN) 10 years after its establishment in 1964.

Chief Librarian and CEO of the library, Prof. Chinwe Veronica Anunobi who stated this yesterday in Abuja during a briefing highlighting the milestones achieved and the proposed unveiling of its five year programme from 2025- 2030, said the library has so far been replicated in 33 states of the Federation.

With the celebration theme tagged: 'The Future of Libraries in a Digital Age: Preserving Heritage, Expanding Access and Engaging Youth’', Anunobi

said funds not only for maintenance but transformation from analogue to digitally enabled environment requiring ICT facilities, alternate power and robust internet access are needed in revamping the premises of its headquarters.

She said until robots generative AI takes over the job of humans as a factor of production, no system can thrive without human resources and as such, the 34 learning spaces of the headquarters cannot be manned by 619 staff which she remarked is abysmally low.

According to her, the celebration is a pointer that going forward the NLN must design education, research and cultural development programs that will not only attract the youths but transform them as very important and valuable asset of the nation.

The Bank noted that its ongoing mystery shopping exercises and spot checks are aimed at discouraging the abuse of naira notes as well as ensuring responsible distribution of cash, particularly as the festive season nears.

The central bank further explained that the current moves are towards preventing the flow of newly minted banknotes to

hawkers and support efficient cash disbursement to the public.

The CBN further warned that any bank traced to seized cash from unauthorised hawkers would face financial sanction, adding that affected banks would be fined 10 per cent of the total value of cash withdrawn from the CBN on the day the offence was committed.

The central bank added that

repeat infractions will incur an additional five per cent penalty for each subsequent breach.

The apex bank also warned against cash hoarding, diversion, and other practices that hinder cash flow, stressing that such actions breach the Clean Note Policy.

The Bank added that defaulters would face appropriate punitive measures including additional fines or other regulatory actions. Similarly, the CBN further directed banks to prioritise cash disbursement through ATMs. In a statement by CBN acting Director, Currency Operations Department, Mr. Solaja Olayemi, the Bank disclosed that banks disbursing naira notes to persons hawking the currency will be sanctioned.

Nnaji Sets Up Robotics, Artificial Intelligence Institute in Nigeria

Nigeria will soon have an institute dedicated to studying robotics and artificial intelligence, thanks to a team of scientists and engineers led by Professor Bart Nnaji, founder and Chairman of the Geometric Power Group.

Nnaji, a former Minister of Science and Technology who later served as the Minister of Power, disclosed the establishment of the institute yesterday at a lecture to mark the 100th anniversary of Bigard Memorial Seminary, Enugu, owned by the Catholic Church in Anambra and Enugu states.

Nnaji, who did his postdoctoral fellowship at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Artificial Intelligence before becoming a Distinguished Professor of Engineering and Director of the Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst and then

Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA)

NCAA INVITES STAKEHOLDERS

ON ONE-DAY WORKSHOP

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) is inviting industry stakeholders, including airlines, travel agents, air travellers and other industry operators to one-day workshop on consumer protection and management.

This is in pursuit of renewed commitment of the executive management of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) under the leadership of Capt. Chris Ona Najomo, (JP), towards birthing a civil aviation and air transportation industry, the regulatory authority is organizing a one-day workshop on consumer protection and management to x-rays ways to serve air travellers better and improve the relationship between passengers and airlines.

The Regulatory Perspective

The purpose of the workshop is to create stronger interface between airline operators, aviation agencies and air travellers to enhance improved and effective communication between airlines and travellers.

This is part of the series of stakeholder engagement and public awareness programme aimed at setting the roadmap for achieving a more efficient civil aviation and air transportation system in the country, through an inclusive dialogue by critical stakeholder and major actors in the Nigerian civil aviation air transportation value chain.

Seasoned aviators are billed to speak at the workshop, including the Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer of the popular Ibom Air, George Uresi; Thought Leader, Lawyer and Scholar, First Baba Isa and Senior Special Assistant to the DG Ifueko Abdulmalik.

PANELISTS at the conference include the Director of Airport Operations, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Francis Ekeng; President, National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA), Mr Yinka Folami; George Uriei; Ifueko Abdulmalik and Arise News Anchor, Compere, Moderator and Public Speaker, Ayo Mairo-Ese.

Date: November 19, 2024

Venue: NCAA Annex, , Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos

Time: 9:00 am prompt.

The resource persons will speak on Public Awareness/ Travelers Enlightenment and the Repositioning the Nigerian Aviation Industry for Operational Efficiency, Service Excellence and Economic Viability: A Renewed and Inclusive Regulatory Dialogue.

moved to the University of Pittsburgh to lead a consortium of universities on a research programme funded by the United States National Science Foundation, told the audience that the federal government has successfully scrutinised the institute through the office of the Attorney General and Minister of Justice and the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).

He revealed that the institute's application was made in 2017, and it took the government four years to establish that “it is in the national interest

to have such an advanced facility.”

He described the objectives of the institute as to engage in the learning and study of computer sciences that teach the technology of intelligent machines and robots and issue certificates to students; to train and issue certification in the design hardware that does some autonomous tasks repeatedly; and to carry out research studies in the development and analysis of algorithms that learn and perform intelligent behaviour with minimal human intervention”.

Dike Ejike, a mechanical engineer, power and business consultant in Abuja who attended the Bigard Seminary centenary, explained that “it is remarkable that far-reaching steps were taken to establish the institute in Nigeria long before generative artificial intelligence took the world by storm since November 30 2022 when Sam Altman and his group at OpenA1 launched ChatGTP in the United States which has radically changed the way the world learns, conducts research and does business.”

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

As Nigerians grapple with the challenges posed prevailing economic and and social problems, the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) has likened the situation to that of COVID-19 pandemic which had devastating impact on human lives.

National President of SSANU, Comrade Mohammed Haruna Ibrahim who spoke at the plenary session of the Third Quadrennial National Delegates Conference of the association held in Abuja, said the experiences in the last one year

Current Hardship Comparable to COVID-19 Pandemic, Says SSANU Tinubu's Wife Inaugurates

The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has inaugurated the upgraded runway of Chuba Okadigbo International Airport Onueke in Ebonyi State.

The Nigerian Air Force plane marked 5N-FGV carrying the First Lady landed at about 3:18p.m. as she was received by Governor Francis Nwifuru.

Wife of the Vice President, Hajia Nana Shetima and wife of the Governor, Mrs. Mary Maudline Nwifuru were also present to receive the First Lady.

for the Nigerian worker, especially members of SSANU, have been particularly, nasty and brutish.

"We had thought we would only have to deal with the disruptions created by the COVID-19 Pandemic, and its wanton effects not just on us as a Union, but on the entire globe.

"Happenings in our country over the last four years have, however, thrown up new challenges to us a Union.

"More recently, we have had to further deal with government policies that have impoverished the already downtrodden Nigerian worker, thereby subjecting them to an almost slavish

existence.

"The experiences in the last one year for the Nigerian worker, especially members of SSANU, have been particularly, nasty and brutish," he said. Ibrahim who was reelected for another four-year tenure noted that the greatest challenge besetting the Nigerian educational system and more particularly the tertiary education has been the spate of industrial actions. He said that frequent industrial unrest in public tertiary institutions in the country has been caused by breaches of agreements entered between the unions and their employers.

Also on hand to receive Senator Tinubu were 22 spouses of governors under the Nigeria Governors Spouses Forum led by Ambassador Professor Olufolake Abdulrazaq of Kwara State who is the Chairperson of the Forum.

The First Lady was in the state to take part in the grand finale of the Ebonyi women's day, an annual event that celebrates the women of the state. She also commended the Governor Nwifuru for being gender-friendly in his appointments.

She said: "I think your testimonials have really gone ahead of you, and

I am really glad to be in Ebonyi state. I am really glad we came, and I see how beautiful Nigeria is. "You know we don't promote ourselves. What I saw today, I was even saying that we went to Burundi and I thought they did well. For a state in Nigeria, your runway was better than what I was even commending them for. "So, we want to thank God for the good work you have been doing. It gladdens my heart when we see people that are young, that they have their hands on their work and they are doing great jobs, they have to be commended," she said.

Cosmo Cosmetics Welcomes New Ambassadors, Unveils Fresh Corporate Vision

Nigerian beauty care giants, Cosmo Cosmetics has unveiled three brand ambassadors: Singh Anita (Nini), Olawunmi Oluwabamike Deborah (BamBam) and Uche Nwaefuna (Montana).

This is sequel to their launch in a star-studded event in September. The event marked a significant milestone for Cosmo Cosmetics, a brand known for quality, natural ingredients, and organic appeal.

The ceremony combined the

unveiling with the celebration of the brand’s journey and a bold statement about its future in the Nigerian market.

Setting a New Standard in Nigerian Beauty, Executive Director of GVS Cosmetics, the parent company of Cosmo, Obiora Michael Nwosu, spoke about the brand's ambitions in Nigeria, assuring that, “Cosmo Cosmetics is here to stay."

Addressing a crowd of industry insiders, influencers, and beauty

enthusiasts. He emphasised the brand’s vision to become a household name and expressed excitement about the partnership with Nini, BamBam, and Uche Montana.

“These ambassadors are not only influential; they embody the elegance and authenticity Cosmo represents. They will be instrumental in connecting with our target audience and conveying Cosmo’s values,”Nwosu enthused.

Benjamin Nworie in Abakaliki

r and Mrs Abraham Bolorunduro recently gave out their daughter Ms Paradise Onaopemipo to Samuel Olowokere at Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses Ayetoro Gbede Kogi State. After the holy matrimony, the newlyweds entertained guests of friends and family at Jonny Event Place, Kabba, Kogi State.

The newlyweds Mr and Mrs Samuel Olowokere

Major Gen. Funso Owonibi (rtd) Mrs Olubunmi Irefin

Mrs Blessing Onisha Bayo Adetona

Dr (Mrs) Florence Olowokere Mr M.O. Onike

Mr and Mrs Olusola Bolorunduro

Mrs Sarah Ajetunmobi

richard Olonishua

Mr Segun Bello Sunday Toluyemi

The newlyweds sandwiched by the bride’s family, from left peace, Abraham, Blessing and precious Bolorunduro

Mr and Mrs Ayo Aina

Olusade Adesola (l) and Tope Adedoyin

Femi Adesona

Mrs elizabeth Bello and her son, Femi

Mr Simon Adedoyin(l) and Mr. paul Ajetunmobi

Mr and Mrs Oyekunle David

Bride’s parents, Mrs Blessing Bolorunduro and husband Abraham

Ferdinand Ekechukwu - 08035011394

Email: ferdi_adthisday@yahoo.com

As AFRIFF Reiterates Commitment to Supporting African Cinema

The 2024 Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) wrapped up its week-long festival with the AFRIFF Globe Awards recently. Sharing the AFRIFF journey, the 13th edition celebrated and advanced African cinema and talent with the theme, “Indigenous to Global: Cultural Wealth to Global Prosperity.”

The festival was filled with impactful industry sessions, insightful panel discussions, masterclasses that broadened horizons, daily showcases of remarkable films, blockbuster premieres, and evenings spent networking, celebrating, and dancing. Participants and sponsors of this edition made it extraordinary as it was truly a remarkable week.

Festival-goers enjoyed access to screenings of films that tackled issues ranging from social justice and identity to romance and urban development. AFRIFF also doubled as

an educational hub for emerging filmmakers, offering training and skill enhancement opportunities that many students considered “invaluable.”

One of the continent’s premier art events, this year’s edition brought together veteran voices and fresh talents, showcasing a spectrum of African stories that spanned genres, languages, and perspectives, providing an intimate view into the highs, the growth areas, and the transformative impact of AFRIFF.

The week witnessed the prestigious AFRIFF Globe Awards, where outstanding talent, the creativity and dedication that are propelling African cinema to new heights were celebrated. From short films to features, and from animation to documentary, each award reflected commitment to recognising the best of African storytelling.

AFRIFF attracts renowned filmmakers, industry professionals, and enthusiasts from around the globe. While this year’s event has ended, organisers of the AFRIFF reiterated its commitment to supporting and amplifying African cinema year-round, promising to continue to showcase the stories, talent, and vision that define African cinema.

M.A.D Solutions Partners TikTok, Secures Streams for African Artistes

M.A.D Solutions, a leading African music distribution and service provider, has taken a significant step forward by announcing a new licencing partnership with TikTok. This comprehensive agreement covers TikTok, CapCut and the TikTok Commercial Music Library (CML).

The collaboration aims to empower artistes in the company’s catalogue to generate revenue

from their music on TikTok, particularly through branded content campaigns, thereby expanding their reach and income potential. The licensing agreement with TikTok’s Commercial Music Library (CML) offers a crucial opportunity for African artistes.

By integrating with TikTok’s ecosystem, M.A.D Solutions’ artistes will gain access to commercial opportunities from branded content campaigns. The CML is utilised by over 70 million global brands, allowing for seamless monetisation through music usage in advertisements, challenges, and viral trends.

“This partnership with TikTok aligns

perfectly with our mission to bridge the gap between African talent and global markets,” said Bugwu Aneto-Okeke, Founder and CEO of M.A.D Solutions. “TikTok has revolutionised music discovery, becoming a vital platform for exposure and revenue generation.

“Our partnership ensures that artistes under our banner are strategically positioned to benefit from its immense potential. This collaboration is not just about visibility; it’s about creating new financial opportunities for our artistes,” added Bugwu Aneto-Okeke.

“We are committed to optimising artiste revenue while amplifying African culture

across the globe.”

Founded in 2017 and now headquartered in Houston, Texas, the company has successfully distributed music from renowned African artistes such as Flavour, Simi, P-Square, Runtown, and Phyno, solidifying its position as an industry leader in the African digital music ecosystem.

With active operations also in South Africa, Canada, and the United Kingdom, M.A.D Solutions continues to expand its presence globally, connecting over 1,000 artistes to key platforms like Apple Music, Spotify, Boomplay, Audiomack, Amazon Music, and TikTok.

Fave Sets Her Acclaim with Sophomore EP, “Dutty Love”

Taken that the Afropop landscape has always been propelled by artistes with indelible personalities and even better discographies, the allure for many is to have a sentiment attached to people’s knowledge of their work. It makes them and their music an easy sell and, more importantly, reduces the need for the artiste to constantly explain themselves.

Singer and songwriter, Fave is believed to be consciously entering into that space in which a formal, more insightful look into her psyche as an artiste is long overdue as she’s a hotly tipped name in the Afro space, and has now solidified her acclaim with the release of her sophomore EP, “Dutty Love”, following her 2022 debut, Riddim 5.

The “Dutty Love” EP features seven tracks, including earlier released singles “Belong To You,” “Controlla,” and “No Games”. Now, with four additional songs: “Juju”, “Complicated”, “Lose My Mind”, and the title track “Dutty Love Song”. Fave delivers a full experience that highlights her signature sound and storytelling.

With “Dutty Love”, the Afropop artiste goes solo

Following the success of “Muri & Ko” which grossed over N130 million at the box office this year, Inkblot Productions has expanded its 2024 film lineup with ‘Family Gbese’, a new comedy-drama exploring family, loyalty, and ambition.

Written by Chinaza Onuzo, and directed by Michelle Bello, “Family Gbese” tells the captivating story of Nnamd Nwagba, played by Uzor Arukwe, whose perfect life is disrupted by a daunting request from his mentor.

As he grapples with the decision, Nnamdi must confront the true meaning of loyalty,

family, and success. With sterling cast, it brings depth and nuance to the film’s exploration of themes that resonate deeply with Nigerian culture and society.

“We’re thrilled to bring “Family Gbese” to audiences across Nigeria,” said Michelle Bello on the new film showing in cinemas nationwide. “This film will spark important conversations and leave viewers on the edge of their seats.”

Starring Ireti Doyle, Muyiwa Ademola, Adeniyi Johnson, Yemi Solade, Fathia Williams and Seun Kentebe. Including Mike Ezuruonye, Teniola Aladese, Lillian Afegbai, Sandra Okunzuwa, Genovevah Umeh, Susan Peters, meet the characters in ‘Family Gbese’ and the ensemble cast behind them.

and takes listeners through themes of love, longing, and vulnerability, making it a must-listen for her fans and music lovers. The project traverses stylistic singularity, stirring an eclectic array of genres—from dancehall to R&B, Afropop to amapiano—in a vibrant and rousing melting pot.

In “Dutty Love”, Fave’s penchant for exploring the grimy, unpleasant parts of love shines through.

“The EP, for example, is centered on toxic love and all its weird negative sides that still keep drawing us closer to it. When I write about love, I always leave room for the imperfections,” she says.

Work on ‘Dutty Love’ spanned several years.

As Fave says, its songs merge real-life experiences and romantic situations with musings and experiences she’s seen other friends her age go through.

Newly signed Bad Habit/Atlantic Records’ Fave took the time out to walk through the new EP, track-by-track…

“Dutty Love” - My favourite thing about this song is the sample cause I listened to Nelly Furtado a lot growing up and I always admired how electric she sounded especially whenever she teamed up with Timbaland. “Boy you don’t mean no nothing at all to me” so I wrote about why this boy means nothing at all to me. Because he hurt me when he

said he loved me. To me, it’s the perfect entrance into this dutty world.

“Complicated” - “Complicated” is a song I obsessed over for months from the first night I vibed to it with Damie. Describes the perfect dilemma of not wanting to lose someone over exclusivity yet you’re getting too jealous to be satisfied with crumbs. “I don’t want a piece of you: I want it all. I want it all”. It’s a Gen-z thing I don’t know why haha.

“Controlla” - For a long time I wouldn’t jump on an amapiano beat. Can’t believe this is me now. We made this beat from scratch inspired by a P2J beat and we just ‘duttied’ it a little bit. Don’t miss the first few seconds… It’s like the best part. My love goes out to Saszy.

“Juju” - Juju is ‘charm’ ‘jazz’ ‘voodoo’ in African culture. It’s common in my country to hear people say “you don use your love jazz me” and as much as people really are doing that, most times it’s just a figure of speech: Like this song. Cause this person won’t call me, won’t text me yet I’m willing to fight for what we have. What do we have?

“Lose My Mind” - “Lose My Mind” is really just one of my many odes to God. He’s such a wonder. Highlander is so sick with the drums.

uzor Arukwe, Ireti Doyle, Lilian Afegbai, and Teniola Aladese, all cast of FamilyGbese

Ferdinand ekechukwu

Ferdinand ekechukwu

Ferdinand ekechukwu

Ferdinand ekechukwu

L-r: Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative economy, Hannatu Musawa; Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Founder Africa International Film Festival (AFrIFF), Chioma ude; uS Ambassador to Nigeria, richard Mills Jr., and Nigerian-born British actor, John Boyega, at the AFrIFF 2024 held in Lagos…recently

DuttyLove ep cover

Make Haste for the Girl Child: Why Community Systems Are Important

Augustine Okere and Hyeladzira James Mshelia

Like most developing countries, data for policy planning remains a daunting task. This becomes more cumbersome when data in areas of education, health and public goods expected to guide intervention persists despite advancements. So when UNESCO Institute for Statistics released the SDG 4 Mid-term Review as part of the 2023 Global Education Monitoring Report, it indicated that progress for the SDGs since 2015 “has been far too slow” for education outcomes in least and developing countries.

For out-of-school children, while this number fell to 9 million globally, it significantly increased in sub-Saharan Africa by 12 million with the exclusion of girls in some cases contributing to such an increase.

To contextualise this further, progress in completion rates in some countries, outweighed and was faster than progress made for the reduction of out-of-school children from 20152022. In Nigeria, World Top 20 estimates that Nigeria ranks among the world’s top 20 countries (at 18th with about 30 million out-of-school), while the UNICEF Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS), 2021 maintains that this number is significantly lower at 10 million. Whatever estimates are taken, it is apparent that there are still existing challenges associated with out-of-school children in Nigeria, with the data disproportionately skewed towards the girl child in areas like Bauchi State in North Eastern Nigeria

One of the legal frameworks for child education obligates every state in Nigeria to ensure the provision of quality education to its citizenry. Specifically, Section 15(1) of the Child’s Rights Act of 2003 stated that “every child has a right to free compulsory and universal basic education and shall be the duty of the Government of Nigeria to provide such education.”

However, for a lot of girls in Nigeria, this right remains a promise yet to be fulfilled despite significant investment by the government at all levels.

The Bauchi State Government, for instance, has made some progress by increasing education allocation to 16.1% of its 2024 budget (i.e N48 billion -29 million USD) from the usual 12 percent. At the federal level, the Vice President insists that the government’s strategy is to constantly increase allocation to the educational sector to 12 percent (i.e. N1 trillion - $608 million) of public expenditure.

The federal government has also urged sub-national governments to do more than the 12 percent annual budget allocation to education. Girls’ access to free and high-quality education is severely hampered by corruption, poor management, and persistent underfunding in critical areas including teacher preparation, rural school coverage, and basic literacy materials. Funds meant to provide resources and upgrade educational facilities can often be diverted, leaving many rural schools with little support and unable to satisfy even the most basic needs.

Beyond financial and administrative concerns, cultural traditions complicate the situation. Many cultures still view early marriage as more important than girls’ education, which forces many young girls to drop out of school before they have a fair chance. Another factor is parental neglect, which frequently occurs when families must make difficult financial

decisions and girls’ education is not usually prioritised. Then there’s the problem of teacher shortages. Even when schools are accessible, finding dedicated and qualified teachers is a struggle in these areas. Without well-trained educators, the quality of learning suffers, and girls are the ones who lose out.

The future of reducing out-of-school children and how it impacts girl child education also depends on the quality of community participation in existing transparency, accountability and constant community engagement systems to monitor and provide important feedback to the matching resource commitment made by the government at all levels.

Using available resource allocation data, simplifying budget information, and re-echoing the roles and responsibilities of existing community governance systems represent the handson contribution communities can make to girl child education.

Over the past twelve years, Connected Development (CODE), through its Follow the Money initiative, has played a major role in advocating for and tracking public capital spending in health, education, and environmental projects across Nigeria’s rural communities.

This initiative is rooted in the belief that transparency and accountability in governance are essential for real, sustainable change, especially in underserved areas. Follow the Money has focused on fostering participatory governance, a collaborative approach where communities have a say in how public funds are used.

Working closely with local governance structures and the government, the initiative has empowered citizens by equipping them with knowledge on budget allocations and spending. By creating platforms for open dialogue, Follow the Money bridges the gap between community members and decision-makers, ensuring that rural voices are heard and that public projects are not only implemented but also monitored to meet the needs of those they aim to serve.

CODE has continued to champion a more inclusive approach to governance, making it possible for communities to hold the government accountable and take active roles in decisions that impact education, particularly across four LGAs in Bauchi State. This 3-year campaign funded by the Malala Fund conducted engagements with School Monitoring Teams which include School-based Management Committees (SBMC), Parents Teachers Association (PTA), community leaders, school principals and CBOs, and the State Ministry of Education and Budget and Planning to unpack how community accountability systems are responding to strides made by the government in the educational sector. Engagement showed how accountability mechanisms like the citizens’ budget, pre-existing community feedback systems, and a robust local partnership model currently exist in Bauchi State.

Although not fully operational, these systems have the potential to support the reduction of out-of-school children (including girls) in the state. For instance, Citizens Budget which is a tool for open budget which curtails corruption and allows for community oversight, has gained popularity since 2018.

This tool represents an essential aspect of Open Government Partnership (OGP) of which Bauchi State signed up to in 2022 to reduce trust deficit levels between citizens and government. With improved capacity provided to states finance and budget directors to develop SFTAS (State Fiscal Transparency, Accountability and Sustainability), an increasing number of states have developed and uploaded their citizen budgets. While the Bauchi

State government has taken this step forward by developing its 2024 Citizens Budget (and a Hausa version of this document), community systems awareness and utilization of this information for resource oversight (on girls’ education) is deplorable. Surveys and interactions with community education sector stakeholders in 4 LGAs in Bauchi State showed that only less than 30 percent of teachers and 20 percent of school administrators had seen this citizen budget despite it being publicly available (i.e. online).

This is despite the State Ministry of Education instilling a “community concentric circle engagement” mechanism after the first state-wide Education Summit with the child at the center of it. We also found out that only a small percentage of people (23-29%) mostly mothers are aware of how education funds are used in their communities. This is quite concerning because Parents need to know how money is spent on education to hold schools accountable and ensure funds are used properly to benefit their children’s education.

Other systems like reporting and redress mechanisms and community collaboration with LGA authorities were also gauged. However, these mechanisms look very effective and strategic on paper but might have failed to serve their purpose since community levels do not engage with them to provide relevant oversight, often because people in the community might still lack the empowerment and awareness they need in order to engage these systems. Ideally, true and active participation means that people in a given community should be knowledgeable about their education problem, and they should identify the needs for their solution. The case community systems in Bauchi State in terms of lack of awareness and information of the existence of community participation is reflected in some other parts of Nigeria. Because of this, the issue with education remains unaddressed, and the number of out-of-school children (particularly girls) might be increasing in number.

Shettima’s Call for Actions against Pressing Socio-economic Challenges

In a defining address at the 145th meeting of the National Economic Council (NEC) held recently, Vice President Kashim Shettima tackled Nigeria’s most pressing economic and social challenges, dubbing them ‘the elephants in the room.’

Speaking to an assembly of governors, ministers, and national economic leaders, he highlighted the issues of tax reform, flood resilience, digital and creative industry growth, energy infrastructure, and human capital development as the critical areas needing swift and coordinated action.

“Our meetings since we took charge last year have been a rush for order,” Vice President Shettima began, acknowledging the intensity of the past months and the profound responsibility on the Council’s shoulders. “What haunts us the most is our promise—both as individuals and as a collective—to stay ahead of the challenges before us.”

His remarks set the tone for a meeting marked by urgency and a shared commitment to address these challenges head-on.

Among the ‘elephants in the room’ was the topic of tax reform. Vice President Shettima underscored the impact of recent reforms initiated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, particularly the Value Added Tax (VAT). Acknowledging that these changes have sparked widespread discussion, he noted, “Our goal remains to broaden our revenue base, foster economic stability, and reduce our dependence on a limited number of sectors.”

The Vice President’s remarks resonated with many at the meeting who are focused on enhancing financial resilience across Nigeria’s states and local economies.

Another critical issue highlighted by the Vice President was Nigeria’s vulnerability to natural disasters, particularly flooding. With floods causing significant damage across various regions, he praised the proactive responses of the Ministry of Water Resources and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA). He urged NEC members to strengthen their commitment to flood mitigation, stating, “Today invites us to

reinforce our commitment to implementing approved mitigation measures, ensuring that states report their flood damages comprehensively.” This collective action, Vice President Shettima emphasized, is essential to developing sustainable solutions to protect lives, properties, and livelihoods.

One of the most promising areas discussed at the meeting was Nigeria’s digital and creative industries, seen as key to unlocking youth potential and economic growth. He pointed to initiatives like the Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) and the Outsource to Nigeria Initiative (OTNI) as vital to equipping young Nigerians with the digital skills they need to thrive. “These domains hold immense potential for youth empowerment, innovation, and economic growth,” he said, underscoring the government’s goal to position Nigeria as a leader in the digital and creative sectors across Africa. He further called for stronger intellectual property protections to safeguard and monetize Nigerian creativity.

Recognizing the financial strain on citizens, the Vice President emphasized the importance of transparency in subsidy savings and reinvestment. “We must improve transparency around subsidy savings and their reinvestment,” he stated, adding that public confidence in government policy hinges on clear, accountable fiscal strategies. This transparency, paired with regionally sensitive implementation of monetary and fiscal policies, he noted, will help ease the economic pressure on Nigerians and restore hope for a more stable future.

In his remarks, Vice President Shettima also highlighted the importance of decentralising Nigeria’s energy infrastructure to foster a more stable and resilient power supply. Citing recent power outages caused by vandalism, he proposed decentralization as the way forward, empowering states to generate, transmit, and distribute electricity in areas covered by the national grid. “Together, we can make instability a relic of the past,” he asserted, encouraging governors to support the constitutional framework that allows for greater local control of electricity.

He also urged NEC members to support the Nigeria Energy Sector Implementation Plan (NESIP), which promotes renewable energy solutions tailored to regional needs. He pointed to the abundant solar resources in northern Nigeria and gas reserves in the south, suggesting that harnessing these resources can create a resilient energy system while driving regional development. “If we capitalize on our diverse regional energy resources,” he explained, “we can build a decentralised energy system that drives growth and empowers our communities.”

Confronting the troubling statistics related to Nigeria’s Human Capital Index, Vice President Shettima emphasized the need to improve life expectancy, maternal and child mortality, and educational outcomes. He urged the Council to address these issues collaboratively, underscoring that Nigeria’s human capital development is essential for sustainable growth. “We gather here today to redeem this dark reality,” he said, calling on NEC members to prioritize initiatives that will uplift Nigerians’ quality of life and position the country on a better footing in global rankings.

In closing, he reminded the Council that the policies and actions agreed upon in the NEC chambers would have real impacts on the lives of Nigerians across the nation.

“Whatever we agree upon in this chamber will reflect on the lives and futures of each citizen out there,” he asserted. He encouraged every member of the Council to play a pivotal role in transforming Nigeria’s economic landscape and creating opportunities for ambitious citizens.

The meeting concluded with an air of determination and a renewed sense of purpose, as the NEC members departed with a clearer understanding of the ‘elephants’ that must be tackled for Nigeria’s progress. Through collaborative governance, fiscal responsibility, and a focus on youth and energy initiatives, Vice President Shettima’s vision for a more resilient and inclusive Nigeria offers a roadmap to address the country’s pressing challenges while unlocking its vast potential.

Minisster of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa

Enam Obiosio

Revisiting Vice President’s Airplane Debacle

Chukwuka Odittah

Vice President Kashim Shettima was of late involved in a near-fatal airplane debacle in the line of duty. Surprisingly, this is not the first time his official aircraft will pose a disquieting danger to his life and those of his crew.

His aging official aircraft has been in the center of at least two unsettling incidents that could have claimed his life within a space of five months, had the worst happened.

Early in May, due to an unexpected mechanical hitch, the Vice President was forced to shelve an official trip to the United States where he was expected to represent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the 2024 US-Africa Business Summit.

The absence of the vice president at this meeting clearly cost the nation an incalculable loss in terms of plausible volume of foreign investments that trip could have fetched the country had it pulled through. Although this ailing aircraft has been returned to the hangars where it belongs, one can safely deduce that it has outlived its usefulness for our nation.

In October this year, the same aircraft was mysteriously struck by a flock of birds at the JFK Airport in New York, with the vice president onboard.

The incident resulted in the shattering of the plane’s windshield, completely eroding the VP’s confidence in the aircraft to guarantee his safety in future official engagements.

The shock of that incident left the vice president highly traumatised but determined to continue to seek the best for the nation.However, his resolve to serve is not enough.

The nation must rise up to commit to taking the necessary steps to provide his office the required wherewithal to help the country realise her full potential. The nation’s economy has been in a troubled state for far too long already.

Salvaging it needs a concerted effort in addition to getting our scale of preference right. Although minimalists may argue that Shettima’s ordeal has no link whatsoever with the plight of the common man who grapples daily with food, shelter and skyrocketing prices of commodities, nonetheless nothing can be further from the truth.

As the number two citizen of Africa’s largest economy and a role model for many around the world, the vice president is under oath to uphold the honour, dignity and prosperity of our nation.

Should anything go awry while in office, this objective would not be achieved and vast majority of people would be at the shorter end of the stick.

One of the ways he can successfully execute this multilayered task is by first being properly equipped to function. When he flies in aircraft with fragile safety guarantee, we dampen his zest to go the extra mile to canvass the much needed robust economic lifeline that the nation needs to witness growth in broad terms.

Flying around the world in a jet that goes in and out of the hangar for one major repair or another sends a bad signal about us not only in terms of our safety values but also about our priorities as a nation.

The presidential jet attached to the office of the vice president is a part of our national assets. When it flies in the skies around the world, it advertises the Nigerian logo. If it contravenes safety preconditions in more ways than one, we

as a people face the flak because it carries our national color. When an aircraft starts to require overhaul beyond routine checks before or after takeoff, it shows the level of its air-worthiness is fast falling short of benchmark. This has been the case of the vice president’s official jet of late.

Although flying in chartered aircraft to attend global business meetings is practicable, its cost is simply humongous. They are a drain on the nation’s fledgling economy, a scenario the vice president is keen to avoid.

It needs to be emphasised that a nation’s assets are part of what is used to measure her credit worthiness when seeking to borrow. Should Nigeria decide today to order a brand new aircraft for the vice president, we would have strategically increased our asset base and armed our executive to discharge their duties without encumbrances.

The problem with our country has never been a shortage of resources. As a matter of fact, Nigeria may well be one of the most endowed with natural resources that can comfortably foot the bill involved.

According to statistics, Nigeria has approximately 206.53 trillion cubic feet of gas valued at over $803.4 trillion and a potential upside of 600 cubic feet of gas, making her the highest in Africa and among the top 10 globally.

Other official reports reveal that crude oil earnings by Nigeria edged up by 50.2 percent raking in about N450 billion between December 2023 and January 2024.This figure excludes the accruables from condensates.

In the agricultural sector, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) revealed that Nigeria’s exported agricultural produce increased to 53 percent, netting N1.23 trillion in 2023 alone. The margin showed an increase from the N583.3 billion posted the year before.

The list is long of other sources of revenue that the nation can draw from to comfortably fetch the country a brand new aircraft for the office of the vice president.

Many countries who bask in the euphoria of being oil-rich as Nigeria have not been as lucky as we have. Some countries have lost their leaders in airplane crashes caused by outdated aircraft they refused to replace.

Vice president of Malawi, Saulos Chilima in June this year crashed to his death along with nine others while on official assignment. He was aboard an aged Dornier 228-twin propeller aircraft sold to Malawi in 1988. This ailing plane suddenly disappeared from the radar, killing all its passengers including the crew members.

Samora Machele, Mozambique’s first president since the country’s independence in 1975, died in an air crash on 19th of October 1986. He was flying in an aged Tupolev TU-134 aircraft when it suddenly came down.

Jaime Roldos Aguilera of Ecuador was another world leader who lost his life in a deadly air crash involving an aged Avro 748 aircraft in 1979.He died alongside his minister of defence and their spouses.

In another rather sad incident, Rene Barrientos of Bolivia, died when his aged Hughes 369 aircraft plunged from the skies.His counterpart, Castelo Branco,Brazil’s first military ruler died also in an air crash involving an aged Piper PA-23 aircraft on 18th July 1967.

Abdul Salam Arif, the second president of Iraq died in an air crash involving an aged Havilland Dove. Similarly, President Ramon Magsaysay of Philipines died in an air crash on March 17, 1957. He was aboard an aged but frequently maintained C-47 Skytrain aircraft when they crashed to death together with all crew members.

Facts Behind MultiChoice’s Subscriber Numbers

It was not surprising to see which item captured media and public attention in the interim financial reports of pay television giant MultiChoice Group. The results, released on Tuesday, revealed a subscriber decline of 243,000 in Nigeria between April and September of this year.

Additionally, MultiChoice reported a decline in its Zambian operations, losing 298,000 customers during the same period. However, in its other markets in the Rest of Africa (RoA), the subscriber loss was relatively minor, at just 25 percent. The South African market showed more resilience, with only a five percent dip in subscribers.

In Nigeria, perhaps its largest market outside of South Africa, the decline in subscribers was interpreted as a sign of doom and gloom. It may seem so if other results are overlooked or inadequately considered. Although subscription fees, which provide a significant portion of revenue for the pay TV provider, faced pressure, the results indicated that measures implemented to reduce reliance on traditional pay TV proved to be beneficial. Showmax, its subscription video-on-demand (SVOD) platform, witnessed strong growth, reporting a 30 percent increase in paying subscribers.

A significant portion of this growth is due to Showmax’s transition to the Peacock technology stack. This change has allowed it to form partnerships with major distributors like M-PESA in Kenya and Capitec in South Africa, helping to drive user adoption.

MultiChoice is expanding its operations beyond streaming services into the insurance and financial services sectors. Through a partnership with Sanlam, they are finalising a deal expected to generate an accounting gain of between $144.4 million and $182.9 million.

MultiChoice’s sports betting division has established a strong presence in Nigeria, where BetKing Nigeria has moved up to the second position in the online betting market. This achievement

In 1940, September 7, it was the turn of Paraguay’s president to pay the prize of sitting in the skies on an old but regularly maintained Potez 25 aircraft.

The late Iranian president, Ebrahim Raisi was the most recent world leader to pay the prize when his official helicopter, also an aged aircraft came down suddenly in circumstances blamed on bad weather. But is it well known that bad weather alone can’t bring down newer models of aircrafts because they have inbuilt navigational aids that allows them to ride bad weathers safely. One common denominator with most of these countries was access to oil wealth. But they failed to allow their resources to work for them by quickly phasing-out their aged aircrafts, no matter how well maintained they may have been.

Nigeria must not be allowed to descend this low. We are wiser. With providence on our side which clearly was what kept the vice president and his crew from crashing while flying in his troubled official jet, Nigeria must make haste while the sun shines to procure a brand new aircraft for the vice president. It is not a wasteful venture, neither is it a sectional investment intended to line the pockets of anyone as some minimalists may wish to argue.

It is merely putting our money where our collective interest is best served. Nigerians must give the vice president’s office all the tools it requires to steer the nation’s economic ship out of troubled waters. Part of how that can be achieved is to equip that office to freely interface with qualitative investors from around the world while the rest of us sit back and anticipate tangible results that we all can be proud of. Procuring a new aircraft is not serving the interest of the north, south east or west but the good of all citizens of a soon to emerge great country called Nigeria.

Odittah wrote in from Abuja

comes despite a challenging macroeconomic environment, which has led to a 48 percent decrease in net gaming revenue, bringing it down to $48.3 million due to a weaker naira. However, on an organic basis, revenue has increased by 10 percent. Meanwhile, SuperSportBet, the South African venture launched late last year, has experienced a tenfold increase in net gaming revenue over the past nine months.

MultiChoice’s sports betting division has established a strong presence in Nigeria, where BetKing Nigeria has moved up to the second position in the online betting market. This achievement comes despite a challenging macroeconomic environment, which has led to a 48 percent decrease in net gaming revenue, bringing it down to $48.3 million due to a weaker naira. However, on an organic basis, revenue has increased by 10 percent. Meanwhile, SuperSportBet, the South African venture launched late last year, has experienced a tenfold increase in net gaming revenue over the past nine months.

Moment, the company’s fintech venture, is now operational in 40 African countries. Since its launch last year, it has experienced significant growth, with total payment volumes reaching $242 million. Currently, it processes nearly 30 percent of the MultiChoice Group’s total payments.

All of the above elements are integral to MultiChoice’s overall strategy to capture a larger share of consumer spending beyond television. Additionally, Irdeto, the global technology division of MultiChoice, is making significant contributions, particularly as it expands its digital security services to meet the growing demands of online and streaming platforms.

“We have successfully been implementing our strategy over the past few years, achieving key milestones such as our investment in KingMakers (MultiChoice’s gaming division),” said Calvo Mawela, MultiChoice Group CEO.

MultiChoice explained that the decline in subscribers across the Rest of Africa is mainly due to significant consumer pressure in Nigeria, where inflation has stayed above 30 percent for most of the past year. Additionally, extreme power disruptions in

Zambia have also contributed to this issue.

In addition to inflationary pressures, MultiChoice’s operations in Nigeria faced additional challenges due to exchange rate volatility, as the local currency significantly depreciated against the dollar. This substantial decline in the value of the naira led to a sharp increase in MultiChoice’s foreign exchange losses from a USD-denominated intergroup loan, amounting to 2.1 billion Rands.

MultiChoice’s operations in Nigeria faced significant difficulties during this period, worsened by its transactions with Heritage Bank, which had its operating license revoked by the Central Bank of Nigeria. The group wrote off $21 million related to the cash it held with the bank before its liquidation, bringing its total write-off for cash and cash equivalents to 378 million rand.

Recent years have been particularly challenging for businesses, as they are buffeted by high-velocity macroeconomic winds, which have yielded a harsher operating environment marked by stubborn inflation, exchange rate volatility and galloping energy costs, among others. These have, in turn, yielded a difficult consumer environment, with consumers placing the spending accent on essentials.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) recently released its “Household Expectations Survey,” which reveals that consumers prioritise spending on essential items such as food, household necessities, education, transportation, electricity, and medical expenses. The survey also shows that households are disinclined towards investing in vehicles or landed property during the months covered in the report.

“The Buying Condition Index for high-ticket items like consumer durables, motor vehicles, and real estate suggests that most respondents believe the current month is unfavorable for purchasing these items. Additionally, consumers do not anticipate the next three to six months will be ideal for acquiring such products,” the report stated.

Chukwuka, a business analyst writes from Lagos

Vice President, Kashim Shettima

Bonaventure Chukwuka

As NLRC Restates Commitment to Enforcing Lottery Regulations

Bennett Oghifo

The National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC) has told all stakeholders in the country’s lottery industry that it is committed to enforcing all regulations in the lottery industry to ensure sanity and economic benefit for the federal government.

Owing to this, the Commission called all stakeholders to a crucial meeting in Lagos during the week to brainstorm on the way forward.

The NLRC was established through the National Lottery Act of 2005. The Commission was primarily born out of the need to regulate the operations of lottery business, promote transparency and accountability in lottery; and protect the interests of players, stakeholders and the general public.

The Commission is committed to sustainable and transparent lotteries driven by professionalism and leading technologies for social and economic development, meeting the needs of stakeholders.

The Director General of NLRC, Lanre Gbaja- biamila, who presided over the meeting, read the riot act, stating that, “At the end of the day, what we want to take out of here is for us to do better for the industry, is to encourage the operators, because they have their challenges, and also to let the regulators know that without the operators, or the players, there cannot be a regulator. So that’s the only sense of being here to make sure that collectively, we are able to move this industry forward. It is a promising industry, the potential is there, the opportunities are there, if properly regulated.”

The DG said the lottery industry ceases to be an all-comers affair. “It’s not an all-comers affair. We’ve seen over the years a lot of unserious operators. We filter the applicants now, because we’ve seen that some of them just come to scrub the industry. They’re not putting their quota out there. And we have wrong numbers out there. They say that, Oh, it’s a billion-naira industry. How do we know it’s a billion-naira industry? Do we have data to showcase that? There’s no data to show. So anybody can say it’s worth billions or trillions of naira, but until we have proper data to access and know what comes in or what’s going on in terms of numbers, then we

can safely say what the industry is worth. But until then, we cannot, and the only way we can do that, to what I’ve been campaigning for, is to have our central monitoring system in place.

“The central monitoring system helps us to have all the operators connect to the platform, to the system, and we’re able to see real-time online transactions. We’re able to regulate responsibility. We’re even able to see the revenues from remote gaming operators that are outside the shores of Nigeria. So until we have that system in place, we can’t know the actual worth of this industry but the potentials are there.”

He said those engaged in shady deals can only do so for a while, stating that “We have mechanisms in place. We work with other agencies of government, like

the NFIU like NCC for the online operators. So we have so many, you know, we have to keep working with that. We have the Office of the National Security Adviser, for the online remote gaming operators as well, the EFCC. So there’s no hiding place for them. Then we also have a versatile monitoring and enforcement department at the lottery Commission. They do a good job.”

He listed some infractions that are very concerning to the Commission, saying, “Some operators have not been complying with percentage remittances to the government. The list of the erring operators will be drawn out and penalties will apply according to the breaches and penalties clause in the gaming Terms & Conditions.

Monthly Reporting Template

The Monthly Reporting Template provided to each operator (also downloadable from our website) is to be used by every operator for the submission of their reports. All entries are compulsory. Data is required to be generated from the reports for use by the Federal Government. The current operational address of operator must be stated in every monthly report. The contact details of the operator must also be included. Employee strength (direct & indirect) is also a required detail in the monthly report.

Terms & Conditions

Every operator is mandated to regularly read and comprehend their Terms and Conditions as ignorance of the law is never an excuse. However, from the feedback from this stakeholders meeting there may still be a need for further review. All payment receipts of monthly remittances must be sent to Commission’s email within 24 hours of payment. The Commission’s email address for REMITA payments is remittances@nlrc-gov. ng This email should also be entered into the REMITA form along with the operator’s email. He noted that operators should always use the name of their company to make payments as against personal names. Submission of receipt of payments (especially remittances) via the above email address should be done within 24hrs of payment. Proper narration for payments should be used for payments to the NLRC and NLTF. Select the correct entry from the drop down list on the REMITA platform for your remittances

and fees.

“All payments should be made separately and not lumped together. That is, Application Fee should be paid separately, as well as Permit Fee paid separately. Submission of REMITA receipts must be copies of the receipts issued by REMITA, not the ones generated by yourselves or your bank. Be guided as sending the wrong receipts to the Commission amounts to not submitting anything, and penalties will apply.

“Compliance with the Cybersecurity directive is mandatory for all existing and prospective operators in the gaming industry. Henceforth, the Commission will not entertain any requests from any operator without full compliance with the cybersecurity framework directive.

“Some operators submit payment receipts to the Commission without any corresponding Cover Note. Any document, especially payment receipts, been sent to the Commission must have a cover note giving details of what you are submitting. Henceforth, any receipt of payment sent to the Commission without a proper cover note will be rejected,” the guidelines stated.

Responsible Gaming

It also directed operators to form a committee to look into setting up of a not-for-profit non- governmental organisation (NGO) to handle the provision of counselling services for identified game addiction victims and proffer solutions to them. This activity will be funded by the operators. Quarterly reports shall be submitted to the Commission. The Commission will have supervision on the activities of the NGO.

Payment of Service Provider It was also been brought to the attention of the Commission that there is a feature on the platform of Payment Service Providers (PSPs) that allows punters who want to fund their wallets from their bank account to use a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) to transfer the money to their wallets through the PSP. This SPV lasts for only one hour. The SPV disappears after one hour. We think this feature is danger- ous and may be disastrous to the integrity of operator platforms. Operators should be wary of this feature. Copies of agreements between operators and PSPs should be forwarded to the Commission for review.

Beauty Industry Players Tasked on Growth TTMN Inspires Girl-child on Career in Tech

Operators in the beauty industry have been asked to embrace growth by being creative and exceptional.

The players were challenged to be extraordinary at the launch of the Ikeja branch of The Aesthetic Clinic (TAC) and Beauty Therapy Institute (BTI) in Lagos, recently.

The launch marked the company’s expansion drive in Nigeria’s $7.8 billion beauty industry, following its entry in the market in 2017.

Speaking at a training session alongside the launch, Chief Executive Officer of Parthian Capital, Ndidi Ukaonu, advised players, especially budding ones to up their game and redesign their business strategy to match up with present economic reality.

Ukaonu who analysed economic impact on the sector said it was important that operators explore opportunities in present situation and effectively manage their finances to breakthrough.

She said, “As much as we cannot shy away from the reality of inflation, we should not be weighed down by the situation, rather accept the reality and strive to stay afloat. We should endeavour to grow above inflation, otherwise, one may register growth, but not a real growth.

“More importantly, we must see to cutting cost by exploring cheaper alternatives so not to run at a loss. Reduce products that are forex dependence and embrace local alternative, however, implement strategies to attract forex.”

Speaking on the launch, the Chief Executive Officer of TAC, Dr. Ifeoma Abajue, stated that the move was important to serve customers within the axis, reiterating the firm’s commitment to excellence.

She said, “Despite economic challenge, our dedication to exceptional service remains unwavering, as demonstrated by our expansion to the mainland to further satisfy a broader customer base in this environment.

CITN Raises Bar in Tax Education

The Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN) has reviewed its tax education syllabus. The move was part of efforts to improve knowledge and practice in the country.

The institute also announced a transition from physical to Computer-Based Examinations (CBE), assuring this will boost examination efficiency and professionalism.

The taxation body disclosed this recently in a statement declaring the result of its just concluded 2024 Diet Examination. It noted that its examinations provide valuable opportunities for professional growth and development to continuously enhance standards.

The statement signed by CITN’s Registrar/ Chief Executive,Afolake Oso further clarified

need for students to familiariase with the new technology ahead of further exams, expressing institute’s readiness to put them through.

According to the institute, it has so far tested and recorded huge success with the CBT model, hence approved for professional examinations in the institute from 2025.

It stated, “We shall be hosting a sensitisation programme as an avenue to appraise students of CBT modalities and acquaint them with the functionality of the platform.

“This programme will also afford students opportunity to be tried in mock exam before the actual examinations. We encourage students to take advantage of this opportunities to intimate themselves with this new format by attending our sensitisation and demo program.”

A group, Techy Muslimah Network (TTMN) has reiterated the need for girl children to pursue a career in technology, citing its relevance to growth in the society and country at large.

In an enlightenment programme organised for teenage girls in Al Farouq College, Lagos, recently, the group emphasised the importance of diversity in tech, highlighting women and girls under-representation and its commitment to changing the narratives.

At the programme, Founder of TTMN, Olanike Alabi, explored the vast opportunities in tech sector, while exposing participants to career opportunities in tech.

Addressing programme’s theme, “Unleashing Innovation: Empowering Muslim Girls in Emerging Technology,” Alabi reiterated that exploring girls innovative potential was paramount to challenging stereotypes and biases, as well as fostering inclusive tech ecosystem and a more diverse future.

The programme featured interactive workshop,

mentorship programme as well as an extensive session in Artificial Intelligence (AI). She explained that AI among other tools like robotics and quantum computing are emerging trends in technology that must be embraced ethically and professionally.

On the motive of the programme, Alabi said, “As the World embraces fourth industrial revolution, it is crucial to bridge gender gap in technology so as not to be left behind. Empowering girls in tech is essential not only for innovation but for overall growth.

“We are dedicated to creating a supportive ecosystem for Muslim women and girls to thrive in technology, as we believe that introducing them to emerging technologies, we can unlock their potential and contribute to a more inclusive tech industry.”

A highlight of the programme was a role- modeling session showcasing videos from established TTMN community members and sharing insights into their tech careers.

Olam Pledges Food Security

Global agri-business, Olam Agri has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling food insecurity at the relaunch of its Supreme semolina in Lagos, recently.

At the event, the organisation engaged its trade partners, seizing the occasion to set new course for growth and expansion.

Speaking at the event, B2C Business Head, Grains and Animal Feed at Olam Agri, Nigeria, Siddarth Suri, stated that the improved product captures new market tastes and evolving consumer values.

He noted that the relaunched product demonstrated the company’s sensitivity and response to consumers changing demand for an enriched gastronomical

experience.

“The relaunch goes beyond a facelift. We have been able to strategically reassess the products key parameters and reexamine the overall customer experience. Essentially, this product captures a new packaging format that makes the product last longer and keeps fresh till use.

“Initial response to the relaunch has been remarkable and products are available in the market,” he said.

On his part, the company’s General Manager/ Head Marketing, Bola Adeniji, pledged the company’s devotion to farmers’ prosperity and a food-secured Nigeria, while unlocking values for consumers.

• Gbajabiamila

Emergence of Lakurawa Sect in Northwest Should Not Be Underestimated

Afakriya Aduwa Gadzama

The emergence of the Lakurawa Sect should not take the government and security agencies in the country by surprise. This is because those keeping track of activities of various insurgents groups especially the Boko Haram, the Islamic State West African Province (ISWAP) and some informed individuals have severally warned that such splinter groups and more radical and violent ones will likely emerge in the wake of the decimating of the Boko Haram and the Islamic States West African Province (ISWAP).

Several security analysts have also warned that the emergence of groups associated with these groups among which is the Lakurawa are in the Sahel. The country for several reasons is a favoured destination for the groups. Areas where these groups could emerge are places believed to be strongholds of fundamentalist groups and bandits whose motives are opposing the country’s secularity.

Areas that have been fertile breeding grounds to unguided militancy as predisposing factors are also places where there are abject poverty, misrule and, visible disconnect between the government and the ordinary citizens.

Another important fact that cannot be discountenanced among reasons for the surfacing of the group in the country is its suspected links with terrorist groups in the Sahel and the sub-region. The group’s link with terrorist groups in the Sahel and the sub-region provides it with resources it needs and the external support to pursue its objectives.

This piece is written so that the Government and security agencies in the country do not repeat the mistakes of the past. The revelations on the existence of the Sect in the North West most of us believe has given the Government and other stakeholders more than enough notice despite the lack of detailed information on its sponsors, its strength and extent of its penetration in parts of the country. This is not to say that the security agencies, particularly the DSS, the Military, and the Police do not have actionable information on the group’s presence in the country. Most security agencies will recall that despite the intelligence provided by the DSS and sister agencies at the time the Group started its violent campaign, the government then didn’t treat the threats with expected seriousness.

These are what should be avoided in the case of the Lakurawa. The actions despite the limited intelligence

should not be politicized. The whipping of parochial sentiments should not be allowed to take place. The security agencies as presently demonstrated by the military should be mobilised to rout the group out of the North West.

Despite limited intelligence on the group’s presence and activities at the moment, there is more than enough information that could be used in furtherance of desirable security action against the group at the moment. The possibility of its sleeper cells in Zamfara, Kaduna and Katsina States should not also be ruled out. In a situation like this, there should in addition be more than casual surveillance in neighbouring States such as Kogi, the FCT and Kano States.

Also, the belief that the Sect could have spilled over from neighbouring Niger Republic should be critically examined. Deserving of serious action are also States in the North East geopolitical zone. Areas on the Lake Chad Basin shores and those bordering Cameroon Republic, especially Gwoza,

Dambo and Askira Uba Local Government Areas where the group is suspected to be hibernating should be placed under close watch. Other areas deserving sustained surveillance and close monitoring are areas in Northern Borno especially those around the insurgence infested enclaves that are still battling with Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgents. Areas in Adamawa State especially those among Madagali and Mubi axis and by extension the Michika and Mubi axis bordering Cameroon equally requires close monitoring.

There are also at the moment reasons to suspect that the country’s porous and weak monitoring capabilities of Paramilitary and security agencies at the borders might have contributed to the group’s ability to infiltrate the country. The group might have used not only the porous borders with Niger Republic but borders with all the neighbouring countries. Some of us recall that the former President Umar Musa Yar’Adua was comprehensively briefed on the country’s vulnerability that could be exploited by criminal and terrorists on account of the weak border controls at the border. The DSS then provided and made a case for the creation of a Border Security Agency to secure the country against acts of sabotage and related criminality. The former President was favourably disposed to the idea and shared the idea with key facilitators in the Presidency and National Assembly to consider the setting up of the Border Security Agency. The idea unfortunately could not be materialized when the then President was taken sick.

The idea also could not take off due to objections from some vested interests. We believe that given the branches as the result of weakness at the borders in the country’s borders, revisiting the idea could be useful. Setting up of border security Agency as proposed then could be a major security step that could help to interdict insurgents, dangerous persons and interception of dangerous drugs and materials at the borders. Such an Agency could also help interdict acts of economic sabotage being committed at the borders.

It will also be recalled that the DSS had previously advised that strengthening of the Multilateral Joint Task Forces is an issue that should be revisited and strengthened. The fact should also be appreciated that the country’s neighbors especially Cameroon, Chad, and Niger Republic have been struggling with activities by many insurgent groups in recent years. The other area we have previously advised on is, accepting assistance from the United States, United Kingdom and France in dealing with insurgence, and possible terrorists acts.

This is in addition to minimizing acts of economic sabotage in the country. Relatedly, the Country should take a cue from the USA President-elect Mr. Donald Trump following his victory at the last elections when he nominated someone with the track record and pedigree to handle the country’s immigration and other border-related issues. The President’s nominee is also being elevated to a cabinet rank.

The Lakurawa Group based on available intelligence is a very deadly entity. The Group will definitely follow the footsteps of the Boko Haram and ISWAP groups with whom it shares their ideological views with, and could be related to them. It is important to note that parts of the country the group is known to have infiltrated are those previously ravaged by the Islamic States and Boko Haram. The threats constituted by the group should therefore be swiftly dealt with. It is important to note that the resources required to eliminating the insurgency in the Northern States, in terms of support to the security agencies especially the cost of supporting the desired operations is quite enormous. Similarly, the State Governments where the group is confirmed to be present will need to be assisted to save the country from the enormous burdens of dealing with an entrenched threat constituted by the group, and the need to take care of the citizens should be vital components of any action to be deployed to eliminate this undoubtedly dangerous group.

Gadzama is the Chairman, National Institute for Security Studies

L-R: Legal Practitioner, Mr. Etigwe Uwa (SAN); Wife of the Celebrant, Mrs. Mercy Amosun; Celebrant, Rev David Amosun; and Group Managing Director, Future View Group, Mrs. Elizabeth Ebi, at the 60th birthday thanksgiving service of Rev. David Amosun held at the Breakthrough Camp Akinwumi village, Ogun State...recently PHOTO: ETOP UKUTT

L-R: Member, Board of Trustees, Aviva women’s Network, Mrs. Olubunmi Odunowo; Founder, Executive Chairperson, Aviva women’s Network, Mrs. Michele Branco-Aiyegbusi; Representive of the First Lady of Lagos, Patience Ogunnubi; Member of Committee of Wives of Lagos Officials / Chairperson of the day, Mrs. Titilayo Akisanya and Executive Secretary, Aviva women’s Network, Ms. Minema Uko during the Aviva women’s Network Annual Conference, Theme: Inspiration In Action: Empowering women to Lead with Purpose and Passion. held in Lagos

L-R: Chief Operating Officer, Woven Finance, Ajibola Adeboye; Deputy Director, CBN, Aremo John Adeleke; MD/CEO Woven Finance, Mr. Obafemi Collins; and Divisional Head Payment Business, Wema Bank; Damola Bolodeoku during the Woven Finance Brand Refresh and Lifestyle Expo Weaving Connections, held in Lagos….. recently PHOTO: SUNDAY ADIGUN

L-R: Chief Talent Officer, YF Talent Partners, Mr. Yemi Faseun; Managing Consultant, StreSERT Integrated Ltd. Mrs. Roselyn Onalaja; Head, Talent Management, Wema Bank Plc. Dr. Jumoke Aleoke-Malachi; Deputy Head Operations, Stanbic IBTC Bank Plc. Mrs. Funke Amobi; and the Chief Operating Officer, StreSERT Integrated Ltd. Mr. Patrick Awodu at the Change Leadership Lunch.” Theme, From Crisis to Opportunity” held in Lagos….yesterday PHOTO SUNDAY ADIGUN

Ministerial Reshuffle: Tinubu Needs to Compensate C/River

When President Bola Tinubu inaugurated his first cabinet after winning the 2023 presidential polls, as constitutionally required, he made sure every state had representation in the cabinet. Thus, each state had either a substantive minister or, at the minimum, a minister of state.For Cross River State, it was a harvest of good fortune. The President allocated two slots to the state, appointing Dr. Betta Edu as Minister for Humanitarian Ministry, Senator John Owan Eno as minister of sports, and all substantive ministers. It was gathered that the President appointed two persons from the state for two reasons: the first slot was for the state, while the second slot was for the South-south geopolitical zone.In the months following their resumption in their respective ministries, each minister went to work and did as the spirit gave utterance. At the same time, Edu swung to office promising hope and readiness to deliver on her mandate of providing the human face of the administration, her inability to grow up and come to terms with the fact that the demands of a federal minister far exceed those of a state commissioner.Not too long, her youthful exuberance and idiosyncracies started to manifest and stories of her inability to uphold basic requirements of corporate governance became her greatest albatross. As a young woman unprepared for the discipline and rigorous scrutiny that the public subjects such officeholders to, she threw caution to the wind. Gradually stories backed by pictures started flying in the social media showing her dispensing dollar cash gifts to her close friends and acquaintances. Those close to her warned that she was heading for self destruct but she was blinded by the euphoria of new friends, parties, clothes, pieces of jewellery, money money and more money.Before long, the bubble burst, and a scandal unravelled that she had approved above her limit. If she was a humble and calm person, she would have acquainted herself with the accounting role of a chief executive of her standing. She needed to ask and be put through on what she could sign and what she could not sign. But if you’re greedy and power-hungry, you will pay the supreme price and she did. The President suspended her including two others pending the conclusion of investigations by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). When he announced a cabinet reshuffle, the thinking in some circles was that she had been cleared to return to her ministry. It was therefore a big surprise to notice that her name was conspicuously missing from the list. It was Presidential Aide, Bayo Onanuga who clarified that Edu had eventually been eased out of the cabinet and bringing

to an abrupt end what would have been an illustrious career for the APC poster girl.

While Edu literally blew away Cross River chance out of youthful exuberance, immaturity, inexperience and indiscipline, the fate of Senator John Owan Eno is quite different and explainable. Eno came to office with bragging rights. He had under his belt several illustrious years as a lecturer. He graduated to a lawmaker serving at the highest echelon as Chairman House Committee, Appropriation for several terms before winning his senatorial seat to represent Central senatorial district in Cross River. So he already had the experience, maturity and world view of what ought to be done and could fit in as minister.

Regrettably, his plethora of failures that greeted his entire time he suprintended the ministry didn’t indicate he knew neither the problems nor the solutions. To be fair, majority of the factors that led to these harvests of failures at international outings were none of his faults. He was blameless because these things were there long before he came along. However,

Police Nab, Parade Suspected Killers of Enugu Market Leader

•Gov Mbah: No hiding place for criminals

The Enugu State Police Command yesterday paraded two members of a daredevil robbery gang behind the killing of the Chairman of the Ogbete Main Market Traders Association, OMMATA, Enugu, Chief Stephen Aniagu on 14th September 2024.

This was as Governor Peter Mbah, vowed that there was no hiding place for criminals in the State.

The suspects, Chukwudi Aboshi, a 28-year-old native of Anike in Ikwo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State and Ani Innocent Ebuka (a.k.a. Excellent), a driver and native of IsigweUgbawka in Nkanu East Local Government Area, who also confessed to the crime in their interaction with journalists, were paraded at a press briefing by the Command’s Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, DSP Daniel Ndukw.

The suspects said Aniagu and one other were shot for “proving stubborn.” However, six members of the gang are still at large as police intensify manhunt for them.

Briefing newsmen at Enugu Police Command’ headquarters, the police spokesman said, “You will also recall that the Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, swiftly directed the state security forces to intensify efforts and ensure that all those involved in this crime are apprehended and held accountable.

“Consequently, through diligent intelligence work and coordinated efforts between Police Detectives of the Anti-Robbery Section (D9) of the State CID and Operatives of the AntiKidnapping Tactical Squad of the Command, the police arrested two male suspects involved in the crime on November 8 and 9, 2024.

“During interrogation, both suspects confessed to their active involvement in the crime. They provided detailed accounts of how they attacked Mr. Aniagu, snatched his vehicle, and similarly

shot another male driver severally at the same location on the night of the murder, snatching his Toyota Corolla as well. Fortunately, he is stable and undergoing treatment.

“Furthermore, the suspects confessed to having committed several other crimes, stating that their criminal camp was in a forest at Mmaku in Awgu LGA.

“They also mentioned the following names at large as members of their criminal gang and who were actively involved in the perpetration of the crimes: Obinna Nnamani (male), of Ndiagu Ogbo-Ezinne, Akpugo in Nkanu West LGA; Miracle (male, other names unknown, but has the nickname ‘C-C’ or ‘White’) of Mmaku community in Awgu LGA; Okoro Chisom (male) of Ihe community in Awgu LGA; Israel (male, other names and nativity unknown), Pius Anoja (male, a.k.a ‘Ezeobo’ and the chief priest of criminal group), Mosquito (male, real names unknown), and Anunti (male, real names unknown) all from Mmaku community in Awgu LGA and Inyiagboku (male, real names unknown), who hails from Akegbe-Ugwu in Nkanu West LGA.”

Ndukwe explained that the arrested suspects were assisting the police in the ongoing investigations to apprehend the mentioned accomplices on the run, and to recover the stolen vehicles and tools used to commit these crimes.

According to him, the Commissioner of Police, Enugu State, CP Anayo Uzuegbu, while appreciating the Enugu State Government, “under the proactive leadership of Dr. Peter Mbah, for its unwavering support to the police and other security agencies in the State,” has vowed to dismantle any remnant criminal gangs in the state and called on members of the public to assist security agencies with useful information.

One of the arrested criminals, Ani Chukwuebuka, confessed to the crime, as he was contacted by one Obinna, leader of the gang.

jushigiale@yahoo.co.uk, joseph.ushigiale@thisdaylive.com 08023422660 (sms

he can’t exonerate himself entirely because the buck on that ministry stops on his table. He failed because he did not know the problems of the ministry and he did not know because he also failed to undertake a forensic analysis of the ministry and why it keeps getting the same result year in year out. It simply meant that they were applying same solutions to same problems, same thing he was doing where as the president wanted a change.

Eno missed the opportunity to write his name in gold in the ministry. He ought to have carried out that forensic examination, and take radical decisions such as cancelling Nigeria’s participation in global competitions and utilized the money to start preparing athletes assiduously for future competitions.

This brings us to a very important aspect of this piece which is the place of the state in ministerial appointments. As it stands, going by the constitution, Cross River has no ministerial representative with Edu’s removal and replacement of a minister from another state. In the last appointment, the President picked two ministers from the same senatorial zone. Edu from Abi and Eno from Etung all from Cross River Central. Wise counsel now indicates that Cross River North should produce the next minister to replace Edu since Eno still represents the South South from Central too.

There are eminently qualified persons from the senatorial zone but the person that has served APC’s interest and will continue to serve its interest more is the immediate past governor, Prof. Ben Ayade. It is still a riddle as some people still find it hard to comprehend why Ayade lost out in the senate and ministerial tussles. For the recast of history, the entire South South was PDP controlled. But in the turn of 2015, Ayade and Minister of Works, Dave Umahi then Ebonyi governor, broke ranks and joined the APC. In Cross River, it was a sacrilege and many predicted it was his political suicide. Yet, Ayade, whose claim to political fame was just a first time senator, rose to the occasion, he won the state for APC including two senators and several House seats. Unfortunately, the grand conspiracy and fear of who emerged senate president and forces from Rivers torpedoed his march to the senate. When he was again denied a ministerial seat, a position that was handed to his other colleagues, it was considered very unfair. Nonetheless, the opportunity has presented itself for the President to right the wrong, give Cross River its constructional right and give Ayade the honour he deserves to serve Nigeria.

YABATECH to Honour First Lady, Abass, Graduates 8,139 Students

Funmi Ogundare

Yaba College of Technology will on November 21, confer fellowship award on the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu and the Speaker of the 10th House of Representatives, Dr. Tajudeen Abass, for their remarkable contributions to Nigeria as well as their leadership and vision.

The conferment will be at the convocation of a total of 8,139 students for the 2022/2023 academic session at Philip Adegbite Sports Complex.

Statistics of the graduating students showed that 316 had distinction, 2,381 students earned upper credit division, 3,939 graduated with lower credit, while 1,503 will be receiving diplomas with a pass grade.

The Rector, Dr. Ibraheem Abdul who briefed journalists yesterday, on the college’s 36th convocation ceremonies for the award of diplomas,

certificates and prizes, explained the Jumat service which kicked-off yesterday , November 15, in the College Mosque, led by its Chief Imam, will be followed by Interdenominational Service on November 17, at Yusuf Grillo Art Auditorium.

The convocation lecture titled, ‘Developing Exportable Alternatives for Nigeria’s Economic Recovery’, will be delivered by the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, on November 19, at Yusuf Grillo Auditorium.

Vice-President, Alhaji Kashim Shettima, is expected to chair the occasion.

The Rector explained that the conferment of the fellowship awards on the revered Nigerians centred on their achievements in public service which reflect the values of dedication, integrity, and excellence that the college seeks to instill in its students.

Three Nigerian-American Footballers Feature on Glo-sponsored African Voices

Three elite footballers who have featured in the American Professional Football League, commonly called The National Football League(NFL), are guests on this week’s edition of African Voices Changemakers, the magazine programme of the Cable News Network International.

The three footballers who are of Nigerian descent include Christian Emeka Okoye, Kenneth Odumegwu and Haggai Chisom Ndubuisi, and they will feature on the personality interview programme sponsored by digital solutions provider, Globacom.

Born August 16, 1961, Okoye, nicknamed “the Nigerian Nightmare”, played professional football fullback for the Kansas City Chiefs of the NFL from 1987 to 1992. Reputed

for his energetic running skills and ability to break tackles, he successfully ran a sixseason NFL career which produced an NFL rushing champion title in 1989, first-team All-Pro honors in 1989, second-team All-Pro honors in 1991, two Pro Bowl appearances in 1989 and 1991, and three playoff appearances. Reputed for paving the way for younger generation of professional American footballers , he mentored both Ndubuisi and Odumegwu as well as others. He was inducted into the Kansas City Chiefs Hall of Fame in 2000. On his part, Odumegwu, born in Lagos 29 November 2000, is a Nigerian professional Linebacker in the American football defensive end for the Seattle Seahawks of the NFL.

Tinubu

•Tourism •Arts&Culture

Promoting Arts, Culture

Charles Ajunwa writes that the reception and exhibition in honour of Professor Ben Enwonwu held in Lagos, was attended by art lovers from all walks of life

Art enthusiasts from all walks of life recently gathered at the National Museum, Onikan, Lagos for a reception and exhibition of sculptures by Professor Ben Enwonwu.

The event was to commemorate the repositioning of the artist’s renowned masterpiece in bronze of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. It was organised by the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM) in partnership with Coronation Group Limited and fine art auctioneers, Bonhams. The exhibition was themed: ‘Building A Nation: Ben Enwonwu and the Impact of Sculpture’.

Late Enwonwu, known globally as a great painter and sculptor, was commissioned by Queen Elizabeth II to sculpt her portrait, executed in London in 1957, and unveiled at the Royal Society of British Artists (RBA) later the same year.

As guests arrived and took their seats on the green lawn located at the middle of the museum, Izuchukwu Nwokejiezi, a violinist thrilled everyone with his mastery of a giant harp, releasing soul-moving vibes that charged the entire atmosphere. Besides, the major centre of attraction was a massive sculptural image of Queen Elizabeth II, a replica of Enwonwu’s original artwork erected within the reception ground. Many, astonished, trooped there to take photographs.

Dignitaries that graced the event included the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative, Hannatu Musawa; Director General, NCMM, Olugbile Holloway; Chairman of Coronation, Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede; Ambassador of France to Nigeria, Marc Fonbaustier, among others. Holloway, the chief host in his opening remarks, said, “As a child, Ben Enwonwu was captivated by the figures carved by his father at a shrine in Onitsha. Indeed, these figures inspired but they also frightened him.

“It was not until his father’s passing that Ben began to delve deeper into art, perhaps in an attempt to connect once again with his father. From the stained windows of cathedrals to carvings in ancestral shrines, there has always been a convergence between arts and spirituality. Art attempts to express the deepest aspects of what it means to be human and spirituality also seeks to do the same.

“Ben began to perfect his art and the rest, as they say, is history. Here we are, many years

later, gathered today to honour his greatness and appreciate the intricacy of his work,” Holloway said.

NCMM boss, who dwelt on why the past is important and should always be discussed, said “I believe the bricks we use to build the future often come from the past.The past is a repository of our shared human experience and serves as a guidebook for understanding who we are. In the old days, ships navigating the seas at night would rely on the North Star to find their way and stay true to their course. And so, in the same way, the past serves as our North Star as we navigate the seas of life.

“The past is an embodiment of our heritage. The stories passed down from father to son, from mother to daughter. These stories are told under the moonlight, passing down codified messages of our identity as a people to generations to come.

“Now, I invite you to travel back in time. The year is 1956 and Ben Enwonwu has just been commissioned to sculpt the Queen. This is the same year the Queen will visit Nigeria for the first time.

“Also in 1956, the sculpture of Enwowu that

welcomed you at the entrance of the museum was completed. A year later, in 1957, Kenneth Murray, the first director of antiquities and one of the founding fathers of the NCMM, opened the doors of this same museum. And the Nigerian House of Representatives passed the motion requesting independence from Great Britain.

“And in the same year, the bronze statue of this Queen was unveiled. Three years later, in 1960, Nigeria would gain her independence. And not too far from here, behind us at TBS (Tafawa Balewa Square), the Union Jack was lowered for the last time, and the Nigerian flag was hoisted.

“So, I ask again, why are we here? We are here today to pay homage to the past. Not just our colonial legacy or our fight for independence, but also the spirit of self-determination that was burning across our continent at the time. I am not sure it is possible to speak of a Renewed Hope Agenda without alluding to renewed heritage first.

“Hope looks at the future, but first must be anchored in an appreciation of the past. The Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, under the leadership of

our very capable minister, Hannatu Musawa, is steadfastly committed to ushering in what we call the Nigerian cultural renaissance.

“I’d like to recognise the cooperation of the National Gallery of Art, and thank Mr. Ahmed Sodangi for loaning us a magnificent wooden sculpture by Ben Enwonwu.”

In his remarks, Aig-Imoukhuede who displayed his understanding of Nigeria’s socio-economic and political tapestry acknowledged that, “everybody here is serious about art-loving nature, culture-loving life, and really enlightened type of thought.”

“I started coming to this very place when I was four years old when my mother worked here as a curator of this museum. I think probably the strongest thing that Africa has given to the world is the arts and culture. And I remember debates and listening to debates in this very museum then about who inspired who. Picasso or Enwonwu, the debate is still on now in many respects. Ben Enwonwu and several other prominent masters, we still have some alive with us, but most have passed, men and women, who were my uncles and aunties when I grew up.

“So aside from, of course, being, let’s just say, an African and therefore allied and affiliated to art in its every form, whether dancing, whether thinking, whether pursuing and so on, my understanding and belief in excellence was revealed in arts. Not in banking, not in finance, not in science, not in technology, but art. And I kind of bring everybody back to this defining question.

“When you labour in whatever form and you succeed, financially or otherwise, how do you express your success? Ninety-nine percent of the time it’s going to be expressed in trying to own a bit of what probably you cannot create, that is art.

“Whether it’s in the form of architecture, whether it’s in the form of a sculpture, whether it’s in the form of music, whatever it is, art is the ultimate expression of success. And I think that in Africa, certainly in Nigeria, we need to reconnect ourselves to this way of thinking, to this understanding that if we indeed lose our arts, if we lose our culture, our ultimate expression of success will come from somebody else, somewhere else. And indeed we may risk becoming somebody else, somewhere, or someone else.

Holloway, later took guests round the works of Enwonwu carefully preserved in different forms for posterity.

Women in Tourism Regional Congress Champion Gender-inclusion

The Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs of Sierra Leone, in collaboration with UN Tourism, recently hosted a three-day Women in Tourism Regional Congress with the theme: ‘Beyond Empowerment to Education, Innovation, and Finance Access.’

The Congress brought together over 500 participants from the public and private sectors of tourism, hospitality, and the cultural and creative industries across Sierra Leone and Africa, including arts and crafts exhibitors. With a focus on gender-responsive policies and expanding access to education, mentorship, technological innovation, and finance, delegates from 12 African countries enriched the discussions: Sierra Leone, Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of the Congo, The Gambia, Kenya, Liberia, Namibia, Nigeria, South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. The event featured an engaging format with panels, fireside chats, case studies, a technical workshop, a ‘Family Talk’ session (Fambul Tok), and cultural activities that fostered meaningful interactions and storytelling. Under the visionary leadership of Nabeela Farida Tunis, Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs of Sierra Leone, the Congress included prominent figures such as the Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Minister of Communication, Technology, and Innovation, and Her Worship Yvonne Aki Sawyerr, Mayor of Freetown, who outlined the city’s goal of creating 120,000 jobs for women and youth byVice2028.President of Sierra Leone, H.E. Dr.

Tunis

Mohammed Juldeh Jalloh, delivered a keynote address, emphasising tourism as a vital driver of benefits and an enabler of the Big Five Game Changers.

The Congress also featured contributions from the Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry of Zimbabwe, the Hon. Deputy Minister of Environment, Forestry and Tourism of Namibia, the Hon. Deputy Minister for Information, Cultural Affairs, and Tourism of Liberia, as well as former Nigerian Information and Culture Minister, Lai Mohammed, special advisor to the UN Tourism Secretary-General.

Director for Africa at UN Tourism, Elcia Grandcourt, was joined by representatives from

various international organisations, including UN Women and AUDA-NEPAD, as well as the UN Resident Coordinator for Sierra Leone.

In a commitment to inclusivity, the Congress facilitated participation for women with physical limitations by providing sign language interpretation and encouraging women with disabilities to engage fully in all activities.

“Every woman has a productive space in Africa´s tourism industry. So, take your space, claim it, and move,” Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Sierra Leone, Mrs. Nabeela Farida Tunis, said.

On gender-responsive policies, education and mentorship, technological innovation, Ms. Natalia Bayona, UN Tourism Executive Director, announced the allocation of 100 scholarships from the UN Tourism Online Academy to the Government of Sierra Leone: 50 ‘Introduction to Tourism Industry Management’ and 50 ‘Introduction to International Tourism and Travel Law’. This initiative addresses the urgent need for comprehensive education and skills development in the tourism sector, extending beyond traditional hospitality to include digital marketing and e-commerce among other themes, with governmental support for affordable education.

Experts also highlighted the importance of enforcing gender equality policies to ensure women’s representation in leadership and decision-making roles, and to foster a supportive environment for collaboration and networking. Innovative strategies leveraging social media and e-commerce were discussed as crucial tools for brand building and market engagement, while addressing the digital divide for vulnerable and geographically isolated women emerged as a priority.

In the framework of the Congress, a highly impactful technical workshop on finance access was held, equipping 80 women entrepreneurs from 30 organisations and associations with practical skills and insights to navigate financial ecosystems.

Participants learned about sustainable and inclusive microfinance, small business loans, market an investment readiness, and scalability strategies. Developed by UN Tourism in collaboration with Mastercard Africa, and moderated by Invest Salone, a key player promoting investment, export generation, job creation, and sector diversification in Sierra Leone, the workshop involved breakout sessions addressing specific themes, culminating in the presentation of key outcomes and recommendations to the wider audience on Day 2.

On the sidelines of the Congress, the Women in Tourism Africa Leadership Committee (WITLAC) convened two closed meetings to assess progress and further develop initiatives that support women´s empowerment in tourism. WITLAC, a Pan-African committee supported by various African Member States, and facilitated by the UN Tourism Secretariat, is currently chaired by Hon. Mrs. Nabeela Farida Tunis. This Congress marked a significant milestone for WITLAC, reinforcing its action plan focused on education, innovation, and access to finance, with tangible outcomes.

The Women in Tourism Regional Congress in Freetown expanded its focus beyond empowerment to building self-confidence, pursuing passions, and aligning actions sustainably with the UN Tourism Agenda for Africa - Tourism for Inclusive Growth, and SDG 5.

Director General, National Commission for Museums and Monuments, Olugbile Holloway (left) and Chairman of Coronation Group Limited, Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede sitting on a replica of the sculptural piece of Her Majesty, Queen elizabeth II executed by Ben enwonwu, during a reception/art exhibition of enwonwu’s works at the National Museum, Onikan, Lagos on Tuesday

Charles Ajunwa

Geely Global Relaunches in Nigeria With Coscharis Motors

Geely Auto International Corporation has named Coscharis Motors as its official retail partner in Nigeria. Consequently, Coscharis Motors became the exclusive franchise representative of Geely Global in Nigeria and is set to officially launch the latest Geely models into the Nigerian market very soon.

The House Committee on Industry commended Coscharis and the National Automotive Design and Development Council is excited with the local assembling, when they visited the plant at Awoyaya in Lagos during the week.

“We have carefully reselected our representative in Nigeria, because we are looking for a Partner with strong pedigree in the automotive sector in Nigeria that can deliver our brand promise, this we got in Coscharis Motors” says Scofield Wu, Head of Geely Auto International Middle East/ Africa Business Unit. “Coscharis Motors share our belief that the Geely models are the perfect fits to mitigate customers’ budget constraint especially those who require automobiles that are durable, reliable, technologically driven and have best aftersales offerings. This shared passion, along with their excellent reputation in the automotive industry, makes it the perfect partnership for Geely Auto International in Nigeria.”

Commenting on this partnership, the President/ CEO of Coscharis Group, Dr. Cosmas Maduka

“With our pedigree and experience of the Nigerian market, it is clear to us that the Geely Auto brand is what is needed today to bridge the gap between luxury and budget auto brands available in the market. The models, especially the All New Starry and GX3 Pro are game-changers in their respective segments. These vehicles have what it takes to meet customers’ expectations satisfactorily, especially government and companies who are looking at their middle management team and fleet vis-à-vis their bottom-line. At Coscharis Motors we are excited to re-launch the New Geely Coolray and Emgrand in addition to bringing the very newest models to Nigeria. We look forward to those existing and new customers because these models are definitely going to stir things up.”

enthused: “We are excited to celebrate the confidence that Geely Auto International has reposed on us to represent them in Nigeria.

“Geely Auto is in sync with Coscharis Motors towards ensuring our corporate brand promise to continue to create value for all our stakeholders. This milestone marks another step in the

Chery Showcases Power,

Chery made a commanding impression at the 2024 Lagos international trade fair with its dazzling display of vehicles that captivated attendees.

Chery’s lineup at the fair, which took place from November 1 to November 10 at the Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS) in Lagos, featured the Tiggo 8 Pro, Tiggo 4 Pro, Tiggo 2 Pro, and Arrizo 5. These vehicles stood out as a highlight of the event, drawing admiration from automotive enthusiasts and industry experts alike.

Present at the fair was a spectacular convergence of businesses from various sectors, premium brands. among the numerous companies present, Chery’s display was meticulously arranged to showcase the unique strengths and aesthetics of each model, with the Tiggo 8 Pro taking center stage. known for its luxurious design and cutting-edge technology, the Tiggo 8 Pro made a lasting impact on attendees looking for a blend of sophistication and performance in an suv. auto enthusiasts and prospective buyers were particularly captivated by the model’s spacious interior, high-quality finishes, and suite of intelligent features, which align with Chery’s reputation for engineering excellence. For those interested

CFAO Equipment, a subsidiary of CFAO Nigeria, has made a powerful appearance and presentation at a training workshop held recently in Lagos on alternative fuel. The company made presentations on two Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) powered products it distributes in Nigeria -the King Long bus and the Sinotruk Howo truck.

Aside from the automotive journalists, in attendance were the Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Michael Oluwagbemi, Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGi) and the Director General of the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), who were ably represented.

Organised by the Nigeria Auto Journalists Association (NAJA), the theme for this year workshop was ‘CNG/LPG/EV Initiative: Challenges, Sustainability, Opportunities, Alternatives to Fossil Fuels in Nigeria’. Making the company’s presentation, the Sales Manager, CFAO Equipment, Mr. Caleb Bamidele, stated that the CNG-Powered vehicles

evolution of the company towards remaining timeless in its relevance. We are committed to broadening our dealership’s scope to the public, and believe the Geely Auto brand provides a capable, refined and reliable vehicle option to our customers, especially in this economically challenging times.

One of the highlights of the official announcement of Coscharis franchise was the visit of members of the House Committee on Industry from the Federal House of Assembly who as part of their oversight functions had a facility tour of the Coscharis Assembly Plant located at their group head office in Lagos where the new Geely variants are being assembled. According to the Chairman of the Committee who led the House delegation, Rt. Honorable (Dr) Enitan Badru, ”our visit to Coscharis Assembly Plant is to have an on the spot assessment of the Plant for us to be able to know in specific terms where they need our interventions in terms of enacting relevant laws to protect such investment.

Elegance, Innovation at 2024 Lagos International Trade Fair

in compact suvs with versatility and style, the Tiggo 4 Pro was an instant hit. Its sleek design, fuel efficiency, and advanced safety features resonated with visitors seeking a reliable yet stylish vehicle for urban and adventurous lifestyles alike. the Tiggo 4 Pro’s appeal lies in its balance of form and function, and this resonated with

young professionals, families, and automotive aficionados who stopped by Chery’s exhibit for a closer look.

The Tiggo 2 Pro also attracted significant attention at the fair. known as a stylish, compact suv with a bold, urban design, the Tiggo 2 Pro struck a chord with those looking for a vehicle

that combines affordability with aesthetic appeal and performance. its smaller size, combined with a powerful engine, makes it an ideal choice for city driving, and visitors were impressed by its efficient fuel consumption and user-friendly tech features, making it a perfect fit for nigeria’s dynamic city life.

Adding to the impressive lineup was the Arrizo 5, Chery’s stylish sedan that combines efficiency with cutting-edge technology. many attendees were taken by the Arrizo 5’s seamless integration of petrol and cng technology, appealing to those looking for sustainable and budget-friendly commuting options. The sedan’s advanced safety features, plush interiors, and fuel efficiency made it a strong contender for those prioritizing both style and sustainability in a vehicle.

This year’s Lagos international trade fair saw an unprecedented turnout, with thousands of visitors exploring the diverse offerings from local and international brands. Chery’s exhibit not only highlighted the brand’s innovative automotive designs but also underscored its commitment to nigeria’s automotive market. The foot traffic at the chery stand was a testament to the brand’s growing appeal, as well as Nigeria’s evolving automotive landscape, where demand for highquality, dependable vehicles continues to rise.

are cost effective and environment friendly.

The 7-metre King Long CNG bus is aimed at reducing the financial strain on transporters and commuters, while also offering an environmentally friendly solution, he explained.

The King Long bus, equipped with four 80-litre CNG cylinders, ensures ample fuel capacity and reducing the need for frequent refills—a significant step forward in Nigeria’s efforts to lower transportation costs. With a spacious 25+1 passenger capacity, the bus is ideal for various transportation needs, including commercial transport, school shuttles, and staff buses.

Moreover, the bus’s top-mounted 12kW air conditioning system ensures that passengers travel in comfort. Added features like a rearview camera enhance the overall safety and ease of operations for drivers.

The King Long bus is powered by a YC4D140N-50 engine that complies with Euro V emission standards, offering both fuel efficiency and lower emissions. This ensures that bus owners can save on fuel costs while helping to reduce the harmful pollution associated with traditional petrol and diesel engines.

l-r: executive Director, Import, Coscharis Group, Mr. Daniel pinkrah; Chairman, Committee on Industry, House of representatives, Hon. Dr Dolapo Badru; and Group Managing Director, Coscharis Group, Mr. Josiah Samuel, during the recent visit by members of the House Committee on Industry and officials of National Automotive Design Development Council to Coscharis Assembly plant at their Group headquarters office in lagos… recently

l-r: Staff of CFAo Mobility ltd., Tajudeen Animashaun; Sales Manager, CFAo Mobility, Bamidele Caleb; Assistant Director, National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), Ikechukwu okoha; and Staff of presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (pCNGi), olayinka rufai; and Chairman, Nigeria Auto Journalists Association (NAJA), Mike ochonma, by the King long CNG-powered bus displayed by CFAo equipment at the 9th NAJA Annual Training workshop held in lagos… recently

Tiggo 8 pro

YOU are welcome to our clinic today: “Kano/Jigawa Customs intercepts trucks of smuggled food items” The Nigeria Customs Service will not, officially, intercept goods or items that were not smuggled. Only the bad eggs in the service will occasionally carry out such operations, illegally of course. So, delete ‘smuggled’ from the headline.

“ONSA, CBN join forces to crackdown (crack down) on forex speculators”

“FG uncovers 32 food smuggling (foodsmuggling) routes in Sokoto” Unless if the national newspaper weirdly meant that ‘the food was smuggling the routes’!

“Groups provide free HIV testing (HIV-testing) services” The preceding elucidation applies here equally.

“How incessant import duty hike (hikes) fuel cargo diversion, smuggling”

“ASUU raises alarm (the alarm) over emergence of new IPPIS, urges Tinubu to fish out brains behind it”

“Niger: Organised Labour begins warning strike as meeting with govt deadlocked” Please note that ‘deadlock’ and ‘deadlocked’ are noun and adjective, respectively. Therefore, its verbal usage here is wrong. Get it right: …as meeting ends in deadlock. Alternatively: as meeting remains deadlocked. ‘Deadlock’, on the other hand, can function as a noun and as a verb transitive. ‘Deadbolt’ means the same thing too.

“…says ex-governor develop (developed) his constituency”

Classic FM 93.7 introduces us today to Old English which ended about 1150: “If that is the criteria….” (Monday, October 21, morning belt)

Singular: criterion; plural: criteria

THE NATION ON SUNDAY of November 3 follows with its own Middle English versions which ceased to exist about 1500: “Why non interest

When Nation’s Economy Drains Its People Crackdown’: Noun, Phrasal Verb

Nigeria’s independence in 1960 held a promise of prosperity for its citizens, a dream underpinned by an abundance of natural resources, and a population driven by the prospect of prosperity. Economically, the 60s might have seemed simple; families could survive on modest incomes, and essentials were within reach for many. But that promise took on a new form in the early 1970s after the discovery of oil in massive, exportable quantities. An “oil boom” followed - a golden opportunity, one would think, to uplift Nigeria’s living standards. Instead, the newfound wealth was significantly mismanaged, particularly by the military regimes that intervened time and again, throwing the country’s economic balance off course.

Infrastructure and industry were neglected as easy petro-dollars flowed in, creating a national reliance on oil while sidelining critical sectors like agriculture and manufacturing that could have fostered economic resilience. The implications of these missteps are now evident in every ordinary Nigerian’s struggle with an unbearable cost of living.

Fast forward to the dawn of the Fourth Republic in 1999, and Nigeria was a changed landscape. The naira, battered by years of inflation and devaluation, had left ordinary Nigerians grappling with a life that was becoming prohibitively expensive. Essentials - food, healthcare, housing - were beginning to slip out of reach, transforming what was once a decent middle-class existence into a daily battle for survival, with a constant need to adapt to rising prices. Commuting costs soared, salaries stagnated, and for many, feeding a family on a budget that kept shrinking by the month was fast becoming an impossible task. The age-old naira and kobo no longer held the value they once did.

Successive administrations in Nigeria have made lofty promises to address this “cost of living” debacle. Each leadership era seems to bring new pledges to rein in

(non-interest) banking should be encouraged”

“…but nearly a decade had passed without a trophy before today’s result which led to criticism (criticisms) of the Gunners (Gunners’) boss.”

“Another feather to (in) Zuriel’s cap”

“Akpabio decries low uptake of mosquito treated (mosquito-treated) nets”

“…said Nigeria needs (needed) N1.92 trillion yearly to achieve….”

The next fault is from THISDAY of October 21: “…the last thing the public needs (need) now is to rub salt in (into) their wounds.” A reader drew my attention to this correction last week and pointed out that ‘public’ takes both singular and plural verbs. I know this full well, but it depends on the context. In this case, the pronoun, ‘their’. Is plural referring to the public (‘they’). Consequently, to avoid pronoun-verb disorder/admixture, the public in this instance (they) need—not needs.

The PUNCH of October 24 circulated just this blunder: “UK police arrest mother over (for) children’s death”

Daily Trust of October 24 voiced one of the headlines wrongly: “Jonathan commends Tinubu over (for/on) position on terror war”

“The appointment…is often greeted with lot of expectation….” (OPINION Page) This way: lots of expectations or a lot of expectations

“…we are indeed happy and proud to be associate (associated) with you….”

“We wish you more feather to your cap” Get it right: more feathers in your cap

“How four under-aged (underage) girls were rescued”

“I am going to Lagos in 2027 because it is available for grab (it is up for grabs).”

“I spoke to reporters on phone disassociating (dissociating) the party from the move.”

“If the party does not win elections, it will go into extinct (go extinct/go into extinction or become extinct).”

“Healed of barenness” Spell-check: barrenness

“…the more the desperadoes accuse her of all manners (manner) of things….”

“Huge gap on medical personnel to patient ratio”

A rewrite: Huge gap on medical personnel-topatient ratio

Finally from the Daily Trust Back Page: “Therefore, President Tinubu may do well to withdraw the soldiers and the police deployed to (in) the three states of Borno, Adamawa and Yobe.”

“They even argue over such things as sitting (seating) arrangements.”

THISDAY of October 24 goofed tragically: “Hardly does any month passes (pass) without a report of a boat accident and often with heavy casualty figures.”

“Brazilians will love Eagles (Eagles’) style, says….”

THISDAY of February 23 marketed commercialese instead of modern English: “Top players in the marketing communications industry, (dysfunctional comma) converged at (on) a summit organised by….”

The following contribution is from Ken Ugbechie. Please note that ‘reelect’, like ‘reelection’, is not hyphenated. ‘Title’/’headline’ is for the story while ‘caption’ is for the picture, photograph, cartoon, etc.

THE NATION of February 23 issued a couple of flaws from its advertorial to editorial pages: “…we wish you many happy return (returns) of the day.”

“We, the Management and Staff of RNL, heartily congratulate…for (on/upon) achieving this great feat….”

“…so the industry was going through crisis (a crisis or crises).”

“The number one tailor in Nigeria, your commitment, dedication, professionalism and good leadership quality has (have) earned you this well-deserved honour.”

“How can people gather together to rob?” Yank away ‘together’.

From Daily Independent Online of January 23 comes the next set of howlers: “Why we re-introduce

(reintroduced) boarding schools—Dickson”

“…I foresee an imminent explosions” (Why?) “ALGON President seeks LGs (LGs’) autonomy at national confab”

“It is such that some candidates have approached it as a do or die affair” Standard view: a do-or-die affair

“With our population, the highest, not only in the region but in (on) the entire continent….”

“…the tourism potentials inherent in our various geo-political (geopolitical) zones.” ‘Potential’, unlike ‘potentiality’, is non-count.

“Confessed witches apprehended in Benue” Community Mirror: Witchcraft-confessors (not ‘confessed witches’)

Let us welcome Blueprint to this forum. Its edition of February 21 goofed: “FCT residents groan over (at/with) security road blocks (roadblocks)”

“US based (US-based) Nigerian lawyer in trouble over $1.5m fraud”

“…the expected tally of between 12 to 15 items….” Between 12 and 15 or from 12 to15

“However, it is feared that the state of this oil blocs (these oil blocks) may….”

“Of course I have heard some delegates demanding for their own state.” Delete ‘for’.

“What the respected former intelligence officer was saying was that there are (were) gaps in terms of synergy….”

The next three blunders from the same page of Leadership of January 23 showed lexical laziness by employing the same verb, ‘urge’, in three out of the five headlines on the page: ”2027: Abia South leaders urge Abaribe to run for gov”; and “Ohaneze urges Tinubu to shut borders over insecurity” There are many synonyms for the abused word!

“Libya to expel illegal Nigeria (Nigerian) immigrants” “…if it gets its acts right (act together).”

inflation, create jobs, and empower the local economy. Yet, despite these assurances, the average Nigerian continues to endure an unrelenting climb in the cost of living. And here lies the tragedy: while inflation and currency devaluation affect nations worldwide, Nigeria’s scenario seems to be worsening with little to no relief in sight. Unlike their counterparts in Europe or North America, who receive some form of government relief during economic downturns, Nigerians face one crisis after another with no lifeline to grab hold of.

Other countries have indeed faced the ravages of inflation in recent years, but most have managed to curb its worst effects through prompt and decisive government interventions. In the UK, for instance, inflation reached 11.1% in October 2022, its highest in over four decades. In response, the government introduced measures like energy bill subsidies to cap household costs and increased the national living wage, along with adjustments to social welfare systems to protect vulnerable populations.

Similarly, in China, inflation has been relatively stable, averaging around 2% annually. To keep living costs manageable, the Chinese government has implemented extensive housing subsidies, slashed public transport costs, and invested heavily in social housing projects to avoid burdensome rent increases.

In stark contrast, Nigeria’s inflation rate hit a high of over 25% in 2023, a level that erodes purchasing power and pushes more families into poverty. Despite this, Nigeria’s response has been far from adequate. Policymakers often

announce grand economic roadmaps - such as the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP) - that promise subsidies in agriculture, fuel price stabilisation, and accessible housing loans. Yet, these ambitious plans often amount to little more than rhetoric, with minimal real-world impact. For instance, while government officials have repeatedly announced housing development initiatives to address the deficit of over 17 million housing units, affordable housing remains out of reach for the majority. Likewise, subsidy reforms in agriculture aimed at reducing food costs have largely failed, as food inflation continues to soar, making basic staples unaffordable for many.

The Nigerian public has every reason to question whether these blueprints are meant as genuine frameworks for action or merely as symbolic gestures to satisfy public outcry.

Consider the latest data from the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), which paints a bleak picture of where things are headed. With the recent naira flotation, a strategy aimed at stabilising the currency, businesses have reported losing close to ₦800 billion. The chairman of the Ogun State branch of MAN, George Onafowokan, revealed during the week: “The manufacturing sector incurred significant forex losses in 2023, which extended into 2024, forcing many manufacturers to either temporarily suspend or completely halt their operations. In fact, approximately 16 major manufacturing companies lost a combined total of N792 billion due to the depreciation of the naira resulting from monetary policy reforms. The impact on SMEs and smaller manufacturers has been equally devastating,”

This traumatic financial toll isn’t just an isolated issue; it signals a far broader economic decline. For manufacturing, a sector crucial for job creation and local production, such losses are a red flag that the economy is on a tailspin. And when industries falter, it’s not just the boardroom that feels it - it’s every Nigerian household that relies on

affordable goods and job stability.

The patchwork of temporary fixes we’ve seen in response to the cost-of-living crisis will not suffice. What Nigeria truly needs is a structural overhaul. Solutions lie in robust, long-term economic reforms: sustainable job creation, serious investment in agriculture and local production, and a strict regulatory framework to keep inflation in check. By boosting our agricultural and manufacturing sectors, Nigeria could reduce its dependency on imports, ideally lowering prices in the process. Moreover, it’s high time the government introduced subsidies on essentials like food and healthcare - not for show, but to genuinely ease the daily pressures facing families across the nation.

Despite the current administration’s lofty proclamations of taming inflation and fortifying the naira, Nigerians remain justifiably sceptical. Why shouldn’t they be? These promises have echoed through the halls of power before - only to dissipate as soon as political elites returned to their luxury, far removed from the daily realities of ordinary citizens. While leaders flaunt their comforts, they preach “sacrifice” to the people already enduring hardship.

True success won’t be measured by pledges or hollow declarations. It will be evident only when a bag of rice costs far less than national monthly minimum wage, when young graduates find actual job opportunities, and when the nation’s wealth ceases to be a privilege for a few. Until then, the average Nigerian will keep asking: is this the era of real change, or are we left to struggle in a system that seems increasingly designed to stretch our resilience to its breaking point?

GLOBAL SOCCER

Dream Fulfilled Gabriel Osho

His first insight of Nigerian football was in 2015, when he was invited to the Golden Eaglets team.TheAnglo-NigerianhoweverdidnotgetalookatituntilMarchthisyearwhenerstwhile Super Eagles Coach, Finidi George invited him for friendly matches against Ghana and Mali, but injury denied him of donning the green and white colours of Nigeria. However, ahead of the concluding matches of the AFCON qualifiers against Benin Republic and Rwanda, Gabriel Osho fulfilled his international dream of playing for the three-time African champions

AJ Auxerre defender, Gabriel Osho has expressed his excitement at the opportunity to represent Nigeria’s Super Eagles in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Benin Republic on Thursday and Rwanda on Monday.

The British-Nigerian initially received a call-up to feature in Nigeria’s double header friendlies against Ghana and Mali in Morocco under the former coach Finidi George. However, an unexpected injury just days before the match prevented him from making his debut. Ahead of Nigeria’s concluding 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, Augustine Eguavoen has named the Auxerre defender as a replacement for Semi Ajayi, who is sidelined due to injury.

Reflecting on his previous missed opportunity, Osho expressed his gratitude at finally being able to join the national team this time.

“I’ve been invited before but I couldn’t come because of injury and one or two other things,” he shared. “But when this time came, everything kind of aligned. So grateful to God that when the time came, I could finally join the team.”

Osho also pledged his full commitment to giving his best in representing Nigeria, acknowledging the high expectations from fans.

“I’m just going to work as hard as I can. I believe that is what every fan is going to expect from every single player here. Everyone is talented to be here. So as long as everyone

works hard.”

The former Luton Town defender has however been left in awe of talents in the Super Eagles squad.

The AJ Auxerre defender has revealed he’s been stunned by the amount of talent in the current crop of the senior Nigerian football team.

Following Luton Town’s relegation from the English top-flight, the 26-year-old joined French Ligue 1 side, AJ Auxerre and has been impressive for them this season, playing all nine games to help L’AJA to ninth place on the French table.

His solid performances saw him seal another invite to the Nigerian national team, and the talent in the team has wowed the

ex-Reading man.

“All you have to do is look at the frontline; you see the names of all the players that are here and the ones who could not be selected for the squad this time, the country is full of talented players.

“So it’s very competitive to get a call up, and like I said, it’s a great honour for me because I know there are so many great players from Nigeria that aren’t here,” the ex-Rochdale man said in an interview with the NFF Media.

Osho and his ex-teammate, Elijah Adebayo expressed their desire to play for the Super Eagles last season, but the Luton Town striker is yet to receive a call-up as he’s struggling in the EFL Championships this season.

Osho has committed his international future to Nigeria over his country of birth England and landed in Abidjan, Ivory Coast on Monday ahead of the cap-tying game for the three-time African champions.

Born and raised in Reading, the central defender has confirmed that he is qualified to play for the Super Eagles by virtue of being born to a Nigerian father and mother who are natives of Lagos.

Despite holding dual nationality, it is believed that Osho prioritised playing for Nigeria instead of England, given he was invited to attend a Golden Eaglets training camp in 2015.

Osho was handed his first call-up to the Super Eagles for their internationals in March 2024 against West African rivals Ghana and Mali, following his exploits with Luton Town in the Premier League.

The 26-year-old has confirmed that he was unfortunately unable to play his first matches with the Super Eagles eight months ago due to injury.

A serious hamstring injury suffered by another English-born centre-back, Semi Ajayi opened the door for Osho to be recalled to the national team for the competitive matches against Benin’s Cheetahs and Rwanda’s Wasps.

In an interview with the Super Eagles media team, Osho said: “My name is Gabriel Osho, defender for Auxerre and the Super Eagles. Both my parents were born in Lagos, I am happy to be here.

“I have been invited before but I couldn’t come because of injury and one or two other things, but when this time came, I could finally join up with the team.”

Osho was on parade for 46 minutes against Benin Republic on Thursday and has vowed to give his best if selected again for Monday’s game against Rwanda. He is impressed with the quality of players in the Super Eagles squad, especially the attack, which includes the likes of Victor Osimhen, Victor Boniface, Ademola Lookman, and Kelechi Iheanacho.

“I’ll just work as hard as I can. That’s what the fans can expect from every single player here, everyone is talented enough to be here.

“All you have to do is look at the frontline, you’ll see the names and all the players. The players that are here and the players that couldn’t be selected in the squad this time, the country is full of talented players.

“To get a call-up is a great honour for me because I know there are so many great players from Nigeria that are not here at the moment.”

Osho had his first training with the national team on Tuesday evening.

Osho (l) and compatriot, Adebayo celebrating Luton’s victory with Nigerian flag

Morocco 2025: Super Eagles, Amavubi Storm Uyo

Group winners, Nigeria and final-day opponents, Rwanda have both landed at the Obong Victor Attah International Airport in Uyo ahead of Monday’s Matchday 6 clash in the concluding round of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.

Deflated but not altogether supine, the Amavubi still have a mathematical chance of qualifying, though the supposition is not actually in their favour. They missed a big opportunity to enhance their chances when they lost at

home to Libya’s Mediterranean Knights on Thursday, and can only make it to Morocco 2025 if they defeat Nigeria in Uyo and Libya are victorious against Benin Republic’s Cheetahs in North Africa on Monday.

The Super Eagles, confirmed group winners, have nothing to chase other than national pride, and will play a more relaxed game against the visitors than the turgid contest with the Cheetahs at the Stade Felix Houphouet-Boigny in Abidjan on Thursday night.

Nigeria’s delegation flew

from the Ivorian capital, Abidjan, to Uyo aboard a chartered ValueJet aircraft, arriving at 3.50pm.

Rwanda’s delegation flew from Kigali to Lagos aboard a regular Rwandair flight, arriving at 1pm, before boarding an Ibom Air flight to Uyo. They landed in Uyo just before 5pm.

Godswill Akpabio Stadium is the venue, and a carnival atmosphere is expected as the Super Eagles celebrate for 90 minutes and afterwards with the AFCON ticket long in the bag.

Besiktas Join Everton in Race for Chukwueze

Süper Lig side, Besiktas have been credited with an interest in Super Eagles dazzling winger, Samuel Chukwueze ahead of the January transfer window.

Chukwueze has notched 50 career goals for club and country since turning professional, comprising 37 for Villarreal’s first team, four each for Villarreal’s B team and AC Milan, and five for Nigeria’s national team, the Super Eagles.

According to Sözcü Newspaper via NTVSpor, the Black and Whites

Super Eagles midfielder, Alex Iwobi, has earned high acclaim from Fulham boss, Marco Silva, for his adaptability and technical prowess.

The 28-year-old’s impressive displays for Fulham have caught the attention of fans and pundits alike, with his ability to excel in various midfield roles being a standout feature.

Iwobi’s style of play is characterised by his exceptional technical skill, ability to retain possession, and improvisational flair.

He is best suited to a possessionbased team, where he can utilise

According to Il Corriere dello Sport, Atalanta value their star striker Ademola Lookman at €50m.

The Nigeria international has had a stunning start to the season with eight goals and five assists in 14 appearances across all competitions with Atalanta.

He was approached by Ligue 1 giants, PSG over the

Manchester United’s new head coach, Ruben Amorim says he is confident of putting the club back where it “belongs”.

Amorim flew into Manchester on Monday after being confirmed as Erik ten Hag’s replacement.

The 39-year-old is the seventh man since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement in 2013 to take up the challenge of trying to get United competing for major

are keen to strengthen their team in the winter transfer window, and Chukwueze is one of the players being targeted by the club.

The 2015 Fifa U17 World Cup winner has struggled to secure a starting berth at AC Milan, thereby putting uncertainty around his future at the San Siro.

Chukwueze has started six games across all competitions for Paulo Fonseca’s side this term, all of which have been in the Serie A, and it appears that he is yet to earn the full trust of his

his technical skills to control the tempo of the game.

One of his greatest strengths is his capacity to keep the ball, even when under intense pressure.

The Hale End Academy product is comfortable dropping deep and rotating with his full-back to take charge of the build-up.

His inventive dribbling skills and guile enable him to navigate tight spaces, making him a valuable asset to Fulham.

Iwobi’s decision-making and skill selection is also quite noteworthy, showcasing his maturity and footballing intelligence.

summer, but Atalanta eventually persuaded him to remain at the club.

The striker’s contract at the Gewiss Stadium expires in June 2026, but the Serie A side have an option to extend it for a further campaign, raising his salary to €2m per season.

Yesterday’s printed edition of Corriere dello Sport reports

trophies again. None of them has been able to engineer a sustained Premier League title push, taking United beyond the last eight of the Champions League or completed three full seasons in the job.

In his first public comments since arriving in the UK, former Sporting boss Amorim told United’s club media he is determined to change that

manager.

Besides Besiktas, Everton have also been linked with the 25-year-old, but it remains to be seen whether he would be keen on joining the Istanbul-based side or the Premier League outfit or even leaving the Rossoneri in the next transfer window.

Another player on the radar of Besiktas is Olympique Lyonnais forward Rayan Cherki as they seek to capitalise on the financial predicament of the French side to sign the talented forward.

This season, Iwobi has demonstrated his versatility by registering impressive performances in different midfield positions.

According to Fulham boss, Marco Silva, Iwobi’s versatility is one of his most impressive attributes and he highlighted that the Nigerian likes to be deployed in central midfield.

“First, he is a really versatile player that can play in many, many positions, he can do many roles. I know where he’s capable, where he feels that he can perform better,” Silva told Fulham’s official website.

that any interested club will be required to pay at least €50m for the 27-year-old striker who moved to Bergamo from RB Leipzig for just €9.3m in the summer of 2022.

Atalanta is healthy financially, so the club is unwilling to sell Lookman in the January transfer window but may listen to offers in the summer.

narrative.

“I will try to do everything to put this club in the place that it belongs,” he said.

“And I believe a lot that we are going to succeed.”

United have posted a number social media images of Amorim meeting players, executives and some fans who were on a tour of Old Trafford when he walked into the home dressing room.

Sanwo-Olu Rewards Athletes, Commends Team Lagos Performance at 2024 NYG

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu has applauded the outstanding performance of the athletes who represented the state at the 8th National Youth Games in Asaba, Delta State for making Lagos proud by maintaining the second position, surpassing previous records.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, at the reception held at the Banquet Hall, Lagos House, Ikeja, to celebrate the youngsters, commended the courage, resilience, and discipline demonstrated by exceptional student-athletes across various sports.

“You are truly our pride, and we hold you in the highest regard. We are committed to supporting you every step of the way to reach your full potential. Your commitment to their growth and excellence reflects the spirit of Lagos, and with your continued support, we will reach even greater heights in sports and education. “Congratulations once again to Team Lagos and to all the families who made these achievements possible.”

He emphasised that his

administration’s THEMES+ agenda aligns with commitment to integrating sports and education, which has led to the full participation of students from both public and private secondary schools across the state’s six Education Districts and 20 Local Government Education Authorities.

“As we celebrate these achievements, let us remember that the journey of sports development and excellence is a continuous one. These young athletes embody the spirit of Lagos - resilient, bold, and always striving for greatness. Our commitment to nurturing their potential remains unwavering, and together, we will build a brighter future where sports and education thrive side by side, shaping the champions of tomorrow.”

Governor Sanwo-Olu awarded gold medalists N200,000 each, silver medalist N150,000 each, and bronze Medalist N100,000. He also awarded all athletes N50,000 each, and the coaches were not left out as they were awarded the sum N100,000 each.

Commissioner, Ministry of Youth and Social Develop-

ment, Mobolaji Ogunlende appreciated the efforts of the Lagos State Sports Commission, sponsors, parents of Athletes and the athletes at large.

Director General, Lagos State Sports Commission, Lekan Fatodu stated that the unique development was tied to the athletes’ different academic disciplines as different entities within the state will continue to support and play its role.

“We are changing the narrative around sports development. We will continue to watch the development and continue to support them to greater heights,” he said.

Representative of the parents, Mr. Godwin Egbebe, on behalf of the parents, expressed gratitude to Lagos State Government and Lagos State Sports Commission for finding their wards worthy of representing the state.

Representative of the athletes, Beauty Oyero -a nine-year-old golfer who won silver medal at the 2024 NYG also appreciated the State Government and Sports Commission, promising that the athletes will represent and bring glory to the state in more competitions.

Excitement as Para-Soccer Marks World Polio Day with Tourney

The Para Soccer match commemorating World Polio Day provided a vibrant platform for players to showcase their skills. The Polio Rescue team faced off against the Lagos team in a thrilling encounter on Sunday, at Agege in Lagos.

The Polio Rescue Association used this match to raise awareness about polio and advocate for the rehabilitation of people living with disabilities. The association continues its campaign to eliminate polio and support survivors.

While vaccinations remain the only solution to preventing infantile paralysis, the advo-

The first edition of the Interschool swimming competition for primary and secondary school students sponsored by NNPC-SNEPCo (Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company Limited) takes centre stage today at the Ikoyi Club in Lagos.

A total of 274 students from 20 primary and secondary schools in Lagos will compete in the inaugural talent hunt competition

cacy group emphasised the need for adequate government interventions to support those affected by the disease.

In an impressive display of talent, the Polio Rescue team scored in each half, while Team Lagos managed to reduce the deficit in the latter stages of the game, much to the delight of the fans in attendance.

Olugbenga Kuye, the event’s convener, highlighted the importance of the commemorative match. He called for laws to support people with disabilities, ensuring they do not have to beg for financial assistance. Kuye, the

The young swimmers, aged six to 15, will participate in various events including freestyle, butterfly, breaststroke, backstroke, and individual medley.

The Chairman of the Swimming Section at Ikoyi Club 1938, Ikedichi Kanu said all arrangements have been made to make this event glamorous for all participants and club members.

“For us, we set standards.

former Chairman of the Lagos State Para Soccer Association, expressed his excitement about the teams’ performances and announced plans to start a para-soccer league and host regular events to engage the players.

Kuye also praised the support from the Lagos State Sports Trust Fund (LSSTF) and urged the media to increase awareness, encouraging the government and well-meaning individuals to support people with disabilities.

The Polio Rescue Association’s annual para soccer match celebrating World Polio Day began in 2017.

The young ones will enjoy themselves and the officials will be there to take them through while our members will also have a fun-filled time on Saturday. We are always happy to host the young ones as the future super stars of tomorrow.

“We are committed to elevating the quality of swimming competitions. We expect more swimmers to join in future events. The competition format will see some updates as well.

Super eagles celebrate their late equaliser against Benin Republic in the AFCON qualifiers Lagos State athletes at 2024 NYG rewarded

Fulham Boss Showers Encomium on Iwobi, Hails His Versatility

MISSILE

FCCPC to DisCos

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OKEY IKECHUKWU

okey.ikechukwu@thisdaylive.com

The Other Gen. Lagbaja

He was a very simple man, who could easily be mistaken for a decent, peace-seeking and law abiding civilian. Even when fully kitted out in military gear, he still came across as a decent, self-effacing and unassuming man with a heart. There was always a spirit of ‘live and let live’ about the man, according to those who knew him for decades.

Easygoing and without pretensions about personal or professional authority, the immediate past Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, was never unduly obtrusive in any way. Yet he was also always conscious of his authority, but in such a way that he only exercised it in order to drive professionalism, efficiency and operational effectiveness.

The late Lagbaja was widely known for readily facilitating anything good that needed facilitation in the name of national security, and without putting on airs about it. Efficiency and professional effectiveness were his major focus, undergirded by knowledge and capacity for informed decisions that followed best practices.

I first encountered him at a public event, not too long after his appointment as Chief of Army Staff (COAS). “Ah, Prof I am seeing you live today, instead of always reading your numerous articles, or watching you on television. I love the fact that you always endeavour to be objective and professional in your media interventions”. Then he mentioned something I had said on television in the past, or something I had written in the newspaper.

It struck me that his voice was soft, firm, very clear and rose above the din without being raised. He said everything he wanted to say within that very short encounter; and did not place, or use, one word amiss. His sense of propriety was also that of a man who appears indifferent to much of what is going on around him, but who was actually fully aware of it at the same time. All said, he was a professional soldier with much success casually tucked under his belt.

Gen Lagbaja’s understanding of the security challenges facing the nation is much deeper than many can imagine. Towards the end of August, at the Chief of Army Staff Combined Second and Third Quarter Conference in Uyo, he said that the recent protests at the time were primarily driven by discontent over economic issues. He also urged his colleagues not to forget that “… as an Armed Force, we must not only focus on physical security and defence of the nation, but note that food and social security issues can snowball into physical security challenges.”

Not quite done on that occasion, he went ahead to draw attention to the fact that the protests were “…largely driven by provocative and inciting social media traffic, although it was professionally managed by the Nigeria Police, supported by the military and other security agencies”.

While presenting the first strategic personality lecture at the Institute of Peace and Strategic Studies (IPSS), University of Ibadan, Lagbaja harped on the need for us to adopt and implement a Whole of Society Approach to national security problems. He fingered unemployment, poverty and youth bulge as the fertilizers nourishing some aspects of our security challenges. He pointed out that the unemployed and poor are susceptible to recruitment by criminals and violent non-state actors, as he urged all stakeholders to leverage

the strengths of every demographic group for a cohesive and coordinated response to national security threats.

Consistent with his Command Philosophy, which emphasizes operational success “within a joint environment”, the late COAS always insisted that no single agency can solve the myriads of security challenges facing the country alone. For him: “The operating environment has evolved to a point where no single service or agency can effectively and independently tackle the threats to national security. Collaboration, communication, and cooperation are required for planning, sharing of intelligence, and the practical execution of all operations. Where synergy is lacking among security agencies, there can never be a coordinated approach to the prevailing security challenge”.

While commissioning Civil Military Cooperation (CIMIC) projects in Okuku community in Odo-Otin Local Government Area of Osun State recently, he said: “Military action alone cannot overcome the security challenges confronting the nation. The

nation’s security and progress depends on the synergy and cooperation of all stakeholders. And part of the reasons for COAS Special Civil Military Cooperation Intervention Projects in communities is ...to promote cordial co-existence, galvanize support and give impetus to ongoing efforts at combating security threats and challenges across the country”.

But by far one of the most telling interventions with a wide stakeholder base was Lagbaja’s charge to the DG of the Nigerian Army Resource Centre (NARC), Maj. Gen. G A Wahab, alongside NARC’s Programmes Partner, Development Specs Academy (DSA), to organize a national RoundTable on “Asymmetrical National Security Challenges” and their effects on national development and the Nigerian Army.

The late COAS did not want a retreat, conference, or summit on national security that would deliver only lamentations and detailed descriptions of the problems, as well as their historical origins and their negative impact on our lives, without proposing solutions. He asked for specific solutions to specific problems.

Consistent with his aforementioned procliviity for measurable results, Lagbaja wanted a purely solutions-based engagement, driven by objective and clear-sighted third-Party narratives. That was his reason for endorsing the NARC/DSA RoundTable, as a way of further refocusing our conversations about national security. For him, the national roundtable titled “Asymmetrical National Security Challenges, the Army and National Development” must interrogate .the issues and come out with specific Implementable Action Points (IAPs) for execution.

He saw the value of involving DSA’s Strategic Partners such as the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), the Voice of Nigeria (VON), the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the Institute for Strategic Development Communication (ISDEVCOM), Nnamdi Azikiwe Business School, and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), among others.

The point of securing the buy-in and deep commitment of these Strategic Partners was to make these credible and highly regarded professional bodies, institutes and institutions, as well as agencies of government that are headed by professionals in public communication, the dominant and credible

We all have a loss to feel sad about. There will always be the other Gen Lagbaja that you do not know, but whom somebody else knows and now misses. But in whatever capacity that might be, miss him many will. All are joint losers and mourners at the funeral of a good man. Let us all pray for the soul of a man who is missed today as father, husband, brother, nephew, professional colleague, mentor, friend and much more

voices to speak out on core issues of national security.

As was reported here on June 22, 2024, “The organizers of the Roundtable went round, consulted with Partners and other stakeholders, achieved some measure of consensus on the core issues and came out with a template for pragmatic and realistic solutions”.

The Roundtable thus stood out as a Third-Party initiative, designed to distil IAPs on pressing asymmetrical national security challenges in the country. This is with particular reference to “… security challenges that do not take the simple form of easily-identified, routinely compartmentalized, properly isolated and unilaterally targetable problems”. The challenges range from embedded targets, refusal to help the army and other security agencies with local intelligence, the targeting of military personnel for hostile civilian attention, unproductive community engagements, deliberate misrepresentation of the activities and achievements of the Nigerian Army through fake news, to deliberate misinformation and disinformation, among other disruptive environmental variables.

That gesture of endorsement from the former COAS gave rise to a people’s RoundTable, designed to drive non-partisan, and believable national interest narratives; anchored on the twin elements of objectivity and professionalism. The idea was to use it to promote public understanding of the roles, and achievements, of the nation’s military and security agencies, as well as the role of the citizens.

The task of “… creating a groundswell of that aspect of public communication that is usually best described as National Interest Communication without Propaganda (NIC–P) was thus given wider public ownership.

As things stand today, no one is exempt, or immune, from the clear and present dangers around us. And that roundtable, as approved by the late COAS, drove a new narrative, by getting Nigeria’s various publics to see and understand their roles, and the roles of other key actors, in the wider national ecosystem of synchronized security.

It re-emphasized the specific and general roles of the military, particularly the Nigerian army, in the cocktail of structures, activities and processes that constitute the national security architecture. It also addressed emerging challenges that derive more from deliberate misrepresentations of our men in uniform and showcased facts-based reviews of current asymmetrical national security challenges. This was done within a holistic perspective on the imperatives of a “whole of society approach” to national security challenges.

All said, that RoundTable established informed linkages between the negative fallouts of political decisions, overlooked multiplier effects of poor civilian political leadership and emerging national security challenges in different parts of the country. And it handed in a detailed set of recommendations, accompanied by implementation strategies to the former COAS.

As Nigerians mourn Lt Gen Lagbaja today, we all have a loss to feel sad about. There will always be the other Gen Lagbaja that you do not know, but whom somebody else knows and now misses. In whatever capacity that you may have known this man, chances are that you knew him as a good man. Miss him many will. All are joint losers and mourners at the funeral of a good man. Let us all pray for the soul of a man who is missed today as father, husband, brother, nephew, professional colleague, mentor, friend and much more.

Late Lagbaja