and
Peter Obi: Nigeria Can Feed Herself with Massive Investment in
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Worsened Arewa People’s Poor Conditions
Advises president to review reforms, give it human face Insists north’s interest best served by northerners Dismisses leadership selection process as flawed, worries about basing politics on personalities, and not issues
John Shiklam in Kaduna
Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), yesterday, told President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that his economic policies were insensitive to the precarious existential conditions of the north, lamenting that they had worsened the plight of the people.
ACF made its position known in a communique issued at the end of a National Executive Council (NEC) meeting yesterday in Kaduna.
In the communique signed by its spokesperson, Tukur Muhammad-Baba, the organisation advised Tinubu to review his economic reforms and give them a human face, insisting that north’s interests are best served by northerners. While interrogating the
Addeh in Abuja
Peter Uzoho in Lagos
Ndubuisi
L-R: Leader of the Senate, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele; Chinese Deputy Head of Mission in Nigeria, Mr. Zhang Yi;
Senator Godswill Akpabio; Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau I. Jubrin
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Jim Ovia, CFR FOUNDER AND CHAIRMAN, Zenith Bank Plc
His Excellency Kashim Shettima GCON Vice President, Federal Republic of Nigeria
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Executive Governor, Lagos State
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Guy Futi CEO, Orda
Danilo McGarry Global Expert on Digital Transformation, AI, Automation, Data & Innovation
Dr Auwal Adam Sa’ad Founder, ZamzamPay
Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi Director General, National Information Technology Development Agency
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Rupert Nicolay Director, Microsoft Worldwide Financial Services
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Gbenga Komolafe Seeks Stakeholders' Collaboration to Unlock Ondo's Potential
Fidelis David in Akure
The Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, has sought the collaboration of government, prospective investors, and energy and mining industry stakeholders in Ondo State to unlock the State's vast opportunities.
The NUPRC chief, who is an indigene of the State, stated this while delivering the keynote address during the Ondo State Political and Development Summit, held at Igbokoda, the headquarters of Ilaje Local Government Area of the State.
Specifically, Komolafe who spoke on the theme: "A Unified Vision for Ondo State: Political and Economic Renaissance for Sustainable Development,” said the collaboration was needed to unlock the vast
opportunities for leveraging the state's energy resources and market potential in positioning it and Nigeria, as a regional energy hub.
His words: "Ondo State is suitably positioned to become an economic powerhouse in the unfolding global energy dynamics given its population of over five million people and abundant natural wealth.
"In the downstream gas sector, Ondo State has an established network of around thirty licensed LPG refilling plants, with several other plants currently under construction.
“Currently, the State does not have LNG refuelling facilities, and CNG usage remains limited. The foregoing highlights the tremendous potential for expanding downstream gas access and business in Ondo State.
"The ELPS, serving as a major gas pipeline corridor through the state,
country's leadership recruitment process, which it dismissed as flawed, the forum said basing politics on personalities, as against issues, was the bane of governance in Nigeria. It expressed displeasure over the continuing impoverishment of the masses due to the Tinubu administration’s policies.
The meeting stated that northerners remained at great disadvantage, being already relatively worse off economically, compared to other parts of Nigeria.
offers valuable opportunities to grow the midstream and downstream sectors, ultimately promoting energy security, economic growth, and shared prosperity for the people of the Sunshine State.”
Komolafe noted that, with about 784.53 million barrels of crude oil and condensate, as well as 4.54 trillion cubic feet of natural gas as of January 2024, Ondo State’s contribution to Nigeria’s hydrocarbon reserves was worth noting, stressing that this resource underlines the State’s vital role in supporting Nigeria’s energy security and driving economic growth across the national economy.
"In addition to oil and gas production facilities, Ondo State is a host to several key infrastructure that play crucial roles in the oil and gas sector. A good example is the Escravos-Lagos Pipeline System
(ELPS): a 2 billion standard cubic feet (BSCF), 342 km pipeline which transverses Ondo State, transporting natural gas from the Escravos area to the Lagos region and supporting various power generation facilities, including the Omotosho II Power Plant," he added.
According to him, the fact that Ondo State contributes significantly to Nigeria's wealth of natural resources, with an array of minerals such as oil and gas, bitumen, quartz sand, clay, talc, granite, limestone, kaolin, coal, columbite, tin, feldspar, gemstones and gypsum underscores the immense revenue potential of the state.
"Hosting the world’s second-largest bitumen deposit makes Ondo stands out globally, and leading cocoa production within Nigeria. It is estimated that about 42.47 billion tons of bitumen, an in-place volume, valued
at approximately $17 trillion, based on current market prices of around $400 per metric ton is embedded in the state.
“This underscores the immense revenue potential of Ondo’s bitumen reserves and the transformative socio-economic impact that effective development could bring to the state and its citizens," he stressed.
To unlock the full resource potential in the State, Komolafe said it was crucial to advance policies that support partnerships and attract investments, mirroring the successful strategies of leading bitumen producers like the United States, China, Russia, Canada, India, and Malaysia.
"In this regard, a close partnership between the Ondo State Government and the Federal Ministry of Mines and Solid Minerals is recommended
to pursue the requisite international collaborations, accelerate development and position Ondo State as a key player on the world stage," he added. Besides, he said the NUPRC has fostered social inclusion with broader sustainability and community development goals, pointing out that, “the Commission has also fostered social inclusion aligning with broader sustainability and community development goals, strengthening the positive social impact of the oil and gas industry across regions.
Limited (NNPC) and First E&P Joint Venture (JV) on OML 83/85 ramps up output.
During an inspection offshore Bayelsa State, Lokpobiri applauded the facility’s progress and its ambitious production goals, a statement by Lokpobiri’s spokesperson, Nneamaka Okafor, stated.
Currently producing 60,000 barrels per day, the FPSO, Lokpobiri said, is on track to achieving 70,000 bpd in the near term, with plans to scale up to 100,000 bpd in the near future.
Speaking on the site, Lokpobiri emphasised the strategic importance of the facility, stating that the ongoing work reflects the collective efforts to increase Nigeria’s crude production.
“It is impressive to see such commitment from NNPC and First E&P, especially as First E&P pursues a 23-well drilling campaign to sustain and enhance output. This is a vital step toward achieving our national production targets,” he stated.
Lokpobiri lauded the role of joint ventures like the NNPC-First E&P partnership in driving growth within Nigeria’s oil sector, urging other indigenous operators to leverage the opportunities presented by ongoing reforms to further the country’s energy objectives.
“The Abigail Joseph FPSO stands is a symbol of progress and collaboration in Nigeria’s oil industry, demonstrating the transformative potential of indigenous-led partnerships and innovation in unlocking hydrocarbon wealth. With sustained efforts and strategic investments, the NNPC-First E&P
hosted by the Bauchi State government. The N1.411 trillion total distributable revenue comprised distributable statutory revenue of N206.319 billion, distributable Value Added Tax (VAT) revenue of N622.312 billion, Electronic Money Transfer Levy (EMTL) revenue of N17.111billion and Exchange Difference revenue of N566 billion.
With a gross revenue of N2.668 trillion available in October 2024, cost of collection gulped N97.517 billion while
ACF said, "Livelihoods are currently dependent on micro activities. The region faces acute and chronic food insecurity; its youths lack education and skills training. Daunting as these may be, they can be reversed. The time to think big is now.
"Notwithstanding the parlous state of Arewa's glaring challenging economic conditions,
the policies of the current federal government have continued to make matters much worse, with little indications of needed sensitivity to the precarious existential conditions of Arewa people.
"Succinctly stated, economic reforms, while, indeed, desirable,
should not impoverish the same people that they are meant to serve; the people may not be alive to reap the putative benefits."
The forum called on Tinubu "to review, reassess, re-evaluate and re-order the direction of his economic policies with a view to
NEW FPSO TARGETS 100,000 BPD OUTPUT, LOKPOBIRI LAUDS NNPC FOR DRIVING OIL GROWTH
Joint Venture is well-positioned to make significant contributions to the nation’s oil production capacity,” he added.
In his remarks, the Managing Director and Chief Executive of First E&P Limited, reaffirmed the company’s dedication to delivering results.
“We are fully committed to meeting and surpassing our current production goals. With the support of our partners and ongoing de-bottlenecking initiatives, we are confident of achieving 70,000 bpd and eventually 100,000 bpd in record time.
“This project underscores the capability of indigenous companies to deliver on ambitious targets,” he noted.
Also speaking, the Chief Upstream Investment Officer (CUIO) of NNPC Upstream Investment Management Services (NUIMS), Mr. Bala Wunti, assured the minister of the joint venture's alignment with national objectives.
“The milestones achieved here at Abigail Joseph FPSO are a testament to NNPC’s determination to deliver results through strategic partnerships and innovative approaches.
“With the stir of the Group Chief Executive, we are committed to meeting the minister’s directive to ramp up production in no distant time,” Wunti said.
Meanwhile, in a major boost for Nigeria’s crude oil production, revenue generation and economic growth efforts, the NNPC has officially unveiled its latest crude oil grade, the Utapate crude oil blend, before the international crude oil
total transfers, interventions and refunds accounted for N1.159 trillion, leaving N1.411 trillion for disbursement to the relevant stakeholders. According to the communiqué, gross statutory revenue of N1.336 trillion was received for October 2024, an amount higher than the sum of N1.043 trillion received in September 2024 by N293.009 billion.
Also, gross revenue of N668.291 billion was available from VAT in October 2024,
market.
In July, 2024, NNPC and its partner, the Sterling Oil Exploration & Energy Production Company (SEEPCO) Ltd introduced the Utapate crude oil blend, following the lifting of first cargo of 950,000 barrels which headed for Spain, a statement by NNPC spokesman, Olufemi Soneye, said.
During a ceremony held at the Argus European Crude Conference taking place in London, United Kingdom, yesterday, the Managing Director, NNPC E&P Limited (NEPL), Mr. Nicholas Foucart described the introduction of the Utapate crude oil blend into the market as a significant milestone for Nigeria’s crude oil export to the global energy market.
“Since we started producing the Utapate Field in May 2024, we have rapidly ramped up production to 40,000 barrels per day with minimum downtime.
“So far, we have exported five cargoes, largely to Spain and the East Coast of the United States; while two more additional cargoes have been secured for November and December 2024, representing a significant boost to Nigeria’s crude oil export to the global market,” Foucart told a packed audience of European crude oil marketers.
He added that since its introduction into the global market, the Utapate crude oil blend has enjoyed a positive response from the international crude oil market, due to its highly attractive qualities.
Foucart said the Oil Mining Lease (OML) 13, fully operated by NEPL and Natural Oilfield Services Ltd (NOSL), a subsidiary
N84.616 billion higher than the N583.675 billion available in September 2024.
The communiqué stated that from the N1.411 trillion total distributable revenue, the federal government received N433.021 billion, states received N490.696 billion, the local governments received the sum of N355.621 billion, while N132.404 billion representing 13 percent of mineral revenue) was shared to the benefiting states as derivation revenue. On the N206.319 billion
of SEEPCO Ltd, boasts a huge reserves of 330 million barrels of crude oil reserves, 45 million barrels of condensate and 3.5 tcf of gas.
“We have a number of ongoing projects to increase our production from the current 40,000bopd to 50,000 bpd by January 2025 and 60,000 bpd to 65,000 bpd by June 2025. Essentially, we are targeting opportunities to increase production to 80,000 bpd by the end of 2025,” Foucart added.
He said the Utapate crude oil terminal was sustainable, affordable and fully compliant with the rigorous environmental regulations and sustainability principles especially those aimed at reducing carbon emissions and other ecological effects.
Also speaking, the Managing Director of NNPC Trading Ltd (NTL), Mr. Lawal Sade said the pricing structure of the Utapate crude oil blend was similar to that of Amenam crude.
Sade noted that this is because it is a light sweet crude which is highly sought after by refiners across the world due to its low sulphur content, efficient yield of high-value products, API gravity and other similarities.
He said in bringing the new crude oil blend to the global market, NNPC wanted to optimise value for both its producers and counterparties across the globe.
To ensure predictability and sustainability of supply, the NNPC Trading, he said, intends to run a term contract on the Utapate crude oil blend cargoes, principally targeting off-takers from the European and the US
distributable statutory revenue, the communiqué stated that the federal government received N77.562 billion, the states received N39.341 billion and the local government councils received N30.330 billion.
The sum of N59.086 billion (13 percent of mineral revenue) was shared among the benefiting states as derivation revenue.
Similarly, from the N622.312 billion distributable VAT revenue, the federal government received N93.347 billion, state
East Coast refineries.
Produced from the Utapate field in OML 13 in Akwa Ibom State in Nigeria, the Utapate crude oil blend is similar to the Nembe crude oil grade. It has a low sulphur content of 0.0655 per cent and low carbon footprint due to flare gas elimination, fitting perfectly into the required specification of major buyers in Europe.
The NNPC E&P Ltd and NOSL partnership is also committed to operating in a manner that is safe, environmentally responsible, and beneficial to the local communities.
The Utapate field development plan, executed between 20132019 and approved in October, included converting wells and facilities from swamp/marine to land-based operations, the NNPC said.
The plan involved a multirig drilling campaign for 40 wells and the development of significant infrastructure such as production facilities, storage tank, a subsea pipeline and an offshore loading platform to facilitate crude oil evacuation and loading.
“The entry of the Utapate crude oil blend into the market is coming barely a year after the NNPC announced the launch of Nembe crude oil, produced by the NNPC/Aiteo operated Oil Mining Lease (OML) 29 Joint Venture (JV).
“This remarkable achievement signals the commitment of the NNPC to increasing Nigeria’s crude oil production and growing its reserves through the development of new assets,” the statement said.
hovernments received N311.156 billion and the local government councils got N217.809 billion.
The federal government also received N2.567 billion from the N17.111 billion Electronic Money Transfer Levy (EMTL) while states and local governments received N8.555 billion and N5.989 billion respectively.
Equally, from the N566 billion Exchange Difference revenue, the communiqué stated that the federal government received N259.545 billion, state governments received
giving it the needed human face". It also called on governors of the northern states to adopt a strong and coordinated approach to policy planning and implementation in the areas of security, education, skills acquisition, agricultural production, and health.
The forum urged the federal government to be receptive to criticism and suggestions, "not only in line with the principles of democracy but also because they improve, not retard, the policy process for the ultimately benefit of the people".
The communique called on the northern elite in all spheres of life to take it upon itself to counter negative narratives about the region, and also imbibe the spirit of community service, individually and collectively.
In an apparent hint on its 2027 presidential preferences, ACF said, "The interests of the north will be best served by northerners.”
The group lamented the food crisis in the country, and said despite the Tinubu government’s “short and long term measures, including imports, where needs be, but the ultimate solution is to achieve food self-sufficiency”. ACF stated, "People should take responsibility about our fast growing population. Public policy and the law should be adopted to achieve a balance.”
It stated, "Poor electricity supply will continue to hamper efforts to ameliorate poverty, unemployment and underdevelopment in the region. These have to be addressed with utmost urgency.”
ACF addressed the leadership recruitment process, saying, "Leadership selection appears flawed, which allows so many people without competence and/ or experience to rise to positions of power and authority.
"This has to be addressed. There is also a tendency to base politics on personalities, not issues, and this has compounded the sorry state of affairs. Arewa must ask how this came to be and what can be done to redress the situation."
N131.644 billion, and the local governments received N101.493 billion. The sum of N73.318 billion (13 percent of mineral revenue) was shared to the benefiting states as derivation revenue. Oil and Gas Royalty, Excise Duty, Value VAT, Import Duty, Petroleum Profit Tax(PPT), and Companies Income Tax (CIT) increased significantly while Electronic Money Transfer Levy (EMTL) and CET levies decreased considerably.
Komolafe
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SOLAR FOR HEALTH PROJECT...
L-R: Commissioner for Health, Enugu State, Prof. Emmanuel Obi; Head, Green and Digital Economy Section, European Union Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Inga Stefanowicz; Programme Manager, EU Nigeria, Godfrey Ogbemudia; Head of Trust, Transition and Inclusion, German Agency for International Development, GIZ, Duke Benjamin; Sharon Doshia Kaburuk (GIZ); Technical Advisor, Nigeria Energy Support Programme, Alexander Akolo; Technical Adviser, NTU International a working visit to the governor at the Government House, Enugu, on the sidelines of the launch of Health for Power Project in Enugu.. yesterday
Report: Nigeria Loses $384m as Global Losses to Tax Havens Hit $492bn
British Virgin Islands is leading tax haven
Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja
The global community, including Nigeria, loses $492 billion annually in tax to multinational corporations and wealthy individuals using tax havens to underpay tax, a new report by the Tax Justice Network has revealed.
The report featured no fewer than 20 countries (jurisdictions) under the Corporate Tax Haven Index (CTHI), a ranking of countries most complicit in helping multinational corporations underpay corporate income tax.
British Virgin Islands sits on top of the list with a score of 3,061, followed by Cayman Islands (2,891), Bermuda (2,478), Switzerland (2,279), Singapore (2,059), Hong Hong (1,948), Netherlands (1,945), British Crown Dependency, Jersey (1,756), Ireland (1 622), and Luxembourg (1,480).
The Bahamas is ranked 11th with a score of 1,313, followed by the Isle of Man (1,144), Guernsey (1 122), Cyprus (1,046), while Mauritius (the
only African country listed among the tax havens) is ranked 1,005.
China is ranked 974; United Arab Emirates (UAE), 964; United Kingdom (UK) is 894, France 883 and Malta 747.
The report further explained that the UK and its second empire is responsible for over a quarter of all countries’ tax losses (26 per cent), costing countries $129 billion a year.
Specifically, Nigeria incurs an annual loss of $383.9 million, arising from profit and tax losses to global corporate tax abuse, the report noted.
The just-released 2024 State of Tax Justice report, disclosed that of the $492 billion in global annual tax losses, $347.6 billion arise from cross-border corporate tax abuse by multinational corporations.
The total global loss comprises the combined costs of cross-border tax abuse by multinational companies and by individuals with undeclared assets offshore.
Nearly half the losses (43 percent)
are enabled by eight countries that are opposed to the United Nations (UN) tax convention to check tax loopholes.
They include Australia, Canada, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, United Kingdom and the United States of America.
Ironically, these eight which, by their action, are the biggest enablers of global tax abuse are also some of the biggest losers.
The eight, constituting a small group of higher-income countries, account for just about 8 per cent of the global population and are known to have blocked the whole world from agreeing tax rules at the United Nations which were designed to curb global tax abuse.
According to the report, the largest component of global tax losses continues to be cross-border corporate tax abuse, adding that multinational companies are responsible for around a third of global economic output, half of world exports and nearly
a quarter of global employment.
It explained that their tax abuse is a first-order global economic issue, depriving governments of tax revenues, increasing inequalities between and within countries, and undermining smaller and domestic businesses that generate the majority of employment.
Global tax abuse, the report argued, harms everybody, stressing that higher-income countries lose bigger sums, but lower-income countries losses make up a bigger share of their budgets.
"Lower income countries lose five times as much, as a share of their public health budgets, compared to higher income countries," it added.
The Tax Justice Network’s annual State of Tax Justice report measures how much tax every country loses to global tax abuse a year.
It stated that the most recent data (October 2024) indicated that multinational corporations are shifting $1.42 trillion worth of profit into tax
FG Set to Enforce ‘Drill or Drop’ Clause, NUPRC Sensitises Operators on PIA
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
The federal government is set to enforce the ‘drill or drop’ clause in the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), which gives operators a period of three years to begin oil production or relinquish the assets to the federal government.
To this end, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has convened a stakeholder engagement which focused on the application and implications of Section 94 of the PIA, 2021 which deals with the matter.
According to the section of the PIA:
“Within three years of the effective date, any marginal field that has not been transferred to government, shall be subject to the following process and the holder of the oil mining lease- present a field development plan for the marginal field:
“With the consent of the Commission and on terms and conditions as the Commission may approve under regulations, farm out the discovery or relinquish the field in accordance with the provisions of this Act.
“ The consent of the Commission to the farm-out of a marginal field under subsection (4) (b) shall, amongst others, be subject to the farmee presenting a field development. plan over a period of time agreed with the Commission and a regulation made under this Act
“The failure to present a field development plan under section 94 (4) (a) of this Act or within the time frame specified under section 94 (5) of this Act shall require the relinquishment of the marginal field”
The session, chaired by the Commission’s Chief Executive, Gbenga Komolafe, addressed key
provisions of the PIA and their impact on the upstream petroleum sector.
Represented by the Executive Commissioner for Exploration and Acreage Management, Bashari Indabawa, Komolafe emphasised the importance of effective management and administration of concessions to boost production and enhance the development of Nigeria’s hydrocarbon reserves.
He also highlighted the commission's strategies for implementing bid rounds to attract investments and optimize resource utilization.
The session, a statement posted on the commission’s social media handles, included a presentation on the NUPRC’s mandates as outlined in Sections 6, 7, and 8 of the PIA, focusing on the technical, commercial, and operational roles of the Commission.
Stakeholders, it said, were also briefed on Section 94(4) of the PIA, which mandates the relinquishment of marginal fields or discoveries left fallow for over three years, as well as related provisions under Sections 94(6), 94(7), and 94(8)(a)(b).
The engagement provided an opportunity for stakeholders to discuss the practical implications of these provisions for fostering growth, transparency, and sustainability in Nigeria’s upstream petroleum sector the NUPRC said.
Meanwhile, the he Lagos State Commissioner for Energy, Biodun Ogunleye, has solicited the support of the NUPRC in securing favourable pricing and an adequate supply of gas for power generation.
The appeal was made in Abuja when the Commissioner led a team from the Lagos State Ministry of Energy on a visit to the NUPRC.
havens a year, causing governments around the world to lose $348 billion annually in direct tax revenue.
The report disclosed that the eight countries which recently voted against UN tax convention terms lost $177 billion; $189 billion lost by 44 abstainers, and $123 billion lost by 110 countries voting for.
According to the report, multinational corporations are shifting more profit into tax havens and underpaying more on tax, evidencing failure of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD’s) tax reform attempts.
Offshore tax evasion by wealthy individuals dropped, but by far less than claimed, the report explained, adding that majority of wealth offshore are still hidden from tax authorities.
With countries set to vote shortly at the UN on whether to finally enter formal negotiations on the meat of a UN tax convention, the Tax Justice Network urged all countries to vote in favour of the negotiations.
“Governments now have a chance to choose differently at the UN, to choose to use tax to protect people, economies and planet," the report said.
NSE, Two Firms Sign MoU to Establish Demonstration Farms
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) yesterday signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoU) with two Nigerian firms to ramp up the establishment of additional demonstration farms nationwide, in line with the new agenda of the engineering body.
Speaking at the signing ceremony in Abuja, President of NSE, Margaret Oguntala, noted that the programme will not only lead to the creation of jobs for Nigerians, but will be mutually beneficial to all the parties involved.
The deal which was signed with Integrated Lancaster Farms as well as Assetrise Limited, will see the introduction of new technologies and innovation in solving Nigeria’s food insecurity, the proponents said.
Oguntala explained that the NSE was looking forward to delivering on its goals, especially as contained in the organisation’s strategic agenda.
“We expect that this will be a mutually beneficial relationship, which will not only enhance the activities of the NSE, but also improve your businesses. Because
at the end of the day, you also need to account to your shareholders what benefits you have been able to derive from this relationship.
“So we on our part, we will do all that we can to make sure that you get all the benefits that you should get from this relationship, which will then cascade to our members. Because again, it's all in the interest of our members,” Oguntala stated.
According to her, the deal will also be in the interest of developing Nigeria, particularly agriculture, stressing that this aligns with this year’s annual conference theme of the NSE.
In his remarks, the Group Managing Director of Assetrise Limited, Oluwadurotimi Ojamamoye, who led a team from the company, explained that the programme will involve an incubation hub for students who are graduating from school into owning their own farms.
At the Federal University of Agriculture, he said the school gave the firm 100 hectares in its campus where it is cultivating millions tubers of yams, noting that it was expanding the project to 1,000 hectares.
TINUBU MEETS IMF MANAGING DIRECTOR IN RIO...
Peter Obi: Nigeria Can Feed Herself with Massive Investment in Agriculture
David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka
Former Governor of Anambra State and presidential candidate of Labour Party in the 2023 general election, Mr. Peter Obi, yesterday, said Nigeria can feed her citizens and even have enough to export if it invests in agriculture.
Obi stated this when he visited Mary Agro Farms in Omughu community in Ezeagu Local Government Area of Enugu State.
The farm is situated on a 500-hectares land and is owned by the Catholic Diocese of Enugu.
Obi who donated N20 million to the manager of the project said the visit reinforced his belief that Nigeria
has enough land for cultivation of food that could feed the nation.
He said: "The vast land I have seen here is an assurance that we have enough land to cultivate food for ourselves, but we have lazy people, and leaders who are not investing right.
"This is what I have consistently maintained, that Nigeria can feed itself if we do the right thing. We must invest in productivity.
“If we invest in production and we can start by producing what we eat, and gradually graduate to exporting to other countries.
"We can't have hungry people everywhere, and yet we have vast land lying uncultivated. We must
NESREA Urges Producers, Importers, Distributors of Batteries to Manage Environmental Impacts
The National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), yesterday said it was mandatory for producers, importers and distributors of batteries in the country to manage the environmental impacts of their products.
The Director General/CEO, NESREA, Dr. Innocent Barikor, stated this in his welcome address at the Regulatory Dialogue on the National Environmental (Battery Control) Regulations, 2024, held in Lagos.
The National Environmental Regulations provide a comprehensive legal framework for the environmentally sound management of all types of batteries across their life cycle.
The regulations aim to prevent and minimise pollution and waste arising from used batteries and the management of the waste generated by used batteries.
This programme, organised by NESREA, in collaboration with the German Corporation for International Cooperation (GIZ Nigeria), was a crucial step towards ensuring the effective implementation of the regulations to address the environmental and health challenges posed by the improper management of used batteries in Nigeria, said Barikor.
The director general, who was represented by the Director South West Zone, NESREA, Mr. Elijah Udofia, said, “One of the key elements in the National Environmental (Battery
Control) Regulations, 2024 is the provision and criminalisation of the non-subscription of (battery) Producers to the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) programme. What this means is that every Producer is mandated to subscribe to the EPR Programme.”
The agency, in August this year, in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Environment, other key stakeholders, and with support from GIZ Nigeria, launched the National Environmental (Battery Control) Regulations, 2024.
He said the development of the regulation began in 2020 due to the public outcry on the crude handling of Used Lead Acid Batteries (ULABs) in the country. The activities of the sector have drawn the attention of the government to address the concerns by developing the legal framework that will regulate improper handling of the ULABs.
The EPR programme represents a forward-thinking, collaborative approach that involves all stakeholders both in the public and private sectors, working together to achieve a zero-waste society, he said.
As part of the EPR framework, NESREA has registered the Alliance for Responsible Battery Recycling (ARBR) as the Producer Responsibility Organisation (PRO) for the battery sector in Nigeria. Sector stakeholders including producers, collectors and recyclers are encouraged to collaborate with the ARBR to ensure the sustainable management of used batteries towards fostering a circular economy to benefit both society and the environment.
start by producing what we eat. I want to tell you that if we invest right, we can get more revenue from farming than oil."
The Auxiliary Bishop of Enugu Catholic Diocese, Bishop Ernest Obodo, who received the cheque on behalf of the farm described Obi
as a lover of humanity.
He reechoed Obi's belief that if Nigeria invests right, no one would go to bed hungry.
He said: "We know Peter Obi as a man who has a passion to make Nigeria work. I have a passion for agriculture and I believe that no
Nigerian should go to bed hungry, because we cannot grow enough food.
"Our problem is that we have corrupt leaders who do not want to invest in the right thing. This farm is on 500 hectares of land. We hope to establish oil mill here, garri
processing machine and others. We grow cassava, we are establishing a fish pond too.
“Our governor has promised to construct the road leading to this place, and we plan to provide over 10,000 jobs to indigenes of this place when we become fully operational."
Umahi: I Was Not Minister When N4.64bn Was Allegedly Stolen
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
The Minister of Works, David Umahi, yesterday said he was not minister when the alleged financial irregularities resulting in the misappropriation of about N4.64 billion was carried out in the ministry.
An audit contained in the AuditorGeneral of the Federation’s Annual Report had reportedly unravelled the amount under the erstwhile Federal Ministry of Works (Housing Section).
The report detailed several issues, including payments made without proper documentation, extra-budgetary expenditures, mobilisation fees exceeding approved thresholds, and
contracts awarded without following due process.
However, in a statement yesterday, the spokesman to Umahi, Mr Uchenna Orji, described the use of the current minister’s picture and name in the publication as a piece of petty and self-serving propaganda.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the publication, which is sponsored and circulated in different social media platforms, is nothing but an intentional, fraudulent, and mischievous misrepresentation of the inviolable report of the AuditorGeneral of the Federation.
“The report was said to have investigated the financial
management of the then Federal Ministry of Works and Housing between the period of 2020 and 2021 financial year and indicted the Housing Sector of the Ministry of financial mismanagement and unauthorised expenditure totalling N4.64 billon.
“While we know the intention of these detractors, we are surprised that they could be so petty as to brazenly and unconscionably put the picture and the name of the serving minister of works,” the statement added.
The statement stressed that the name of the minister was used in the caption of the national newspaper to
create an impression to the gullible and unsuspecting readers that the person referred to was Umahi.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the investigation was said to have been made on the financial management of the ministry under the previous administration and not under the Renewed Hope administration,” the minister stated.
Umahi said that he was not going back in his determination to rejig the works sector and free it from the ‘whims and caprices of cartels’, who he alleged had for years held back the wheel of progress of the ministry in giving Nigeria a cost effective and enduring road infrastructure.
Senate Okays CCT Chairman's Sacking by Tinubu
Sunday Aborisade in Abuja
The Senate has passed a resolution which authorised President Bola Tinubu to sack the Chairman of the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT), Mr. Danlandi Umar over alleged misconduct and negligence.
The resolution of the Senate followed its consideration and adoption of a motion titled: “Invocation of the provision of Section 157 (1) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999, as amended, for the removal of the Chairman of the Code of Conduct Tribunal.”
The Senate after of an hour executive session, resolved to, “invoke and activate the constitutional provision as enshrined in section 157 (1).”
The red chamber resolved to forward an address, supported by a two-thirds majority of the Senate to be acted upon by Mr. President for the official removal of Mr. Yakubu Danladi Umar, as the Chairman of
the Code of Conduct Tribunal.
The development, the upper chamber stated, would pave the way for the official resumption of Mr. Abdullahi Usman Bello as the new substantive Chairman of the Tribunal.
The motion was sponsored by the Senate Leader, Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele (APC - Ekiti Central).
The Senate said the action became necessary because Umar had allegedly, “fallen short of the requisite standard of a public officer to conduct the affairs of such Tribunal.”
The Senate also claimed that there were allegations of corruption and misappropriation leveled against the CCT chairman now being investigated by security agencies.
The Senate Leader in his lead debate, noted that the Code of Conduct Tribunal was one of the key components of the Federal Institutions in the country.
It is saddled with the sacred statutory responsibilities of maintaining
high standard of morality in the conduct of government business and to ensure that the actions and behaviours of public officers conform to the highest standards of public morality and accountability.
He said a statutory institution of such magnitude was expected to be an epitome of moral rectitude and should be seen to uphold the virtues of integrity, probity and accountability.
“However, the conduct of Yakubu Danladi Umar, who is the Chairman of the Tribunal has fallen short of the requisite standard of a public officer to conduct the affairs of such Tribunal,” he added.
He expressed concerns that the Senate had been inundated with a series of petitions and allegations of corruption/misconduct against the Chairman.
He said the situation necessitated the 9th Senate, through the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct and Public Petitions to invite him to a series of investigative hearings to unravel the circumstances surrounding those allegations.
Bamidele said, “However, he appeared before the Committee only once and thereafter avoided subsequent invitations.
“The Senate is also concerned about Umar's alleged absenteeism from office for more than one month, without permission and recuse to his position.
“This is coupled with a preponderance of corruption allegations, misappropriation, and physical street brawl with a security man in the FCT vis-à-vis his current investigation by the EFCC, ICPC and the DSS.
“All these are tantamount to acts of negligence and gross misconduct, unbecoming of a Chairman of such a reputable Tribunal
“Senate is aware of the series of overwhelming allegations against the Chairman, Mr. President, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, forwarded the name of Mr. Abdullahi Usman Bello to the Senate for confirmation as the new Chairman of the Tribunal.
Bennett Oghifo
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (right), received in audience Madame Kristalina Georgieva, Managing Director of International Monetary Fund (IMF),on the margins of the G20 Leaders Summit in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil ...yesterday
SEND FORTH DINNER ...
L-R: Minister of state for Finance, Dr. Doris Uzoka Anite; Coordinating Secretary Tax Appeal Tribunal (TAT), Mrs Anita Erinne; and President of Nigeria Bar
for the chairman and commissioner of the Tax Appeal Tribunal in Abuja…recently
NOA,
FMOH,
NCDC, Others Mobilise Nigerians Against Lassa Fever Outbreak
Red Cross: 108 Mpox cases recorded in 27 states
Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi and John Shiklam in Kaduna
The National Orientation Agency (NOA), in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), and other stakeholders, have launched a nationwide preventive campaign on the outbreak of Lassa fever.
Relatedly, Director of Health and Care at the Nigerian Red Cross, Dr. Mannir Jega, disclosed that 108 Mpox cases had been confirmed in 27 states across the country. Jega revealed this on Wednesday in Kaduna at the training of health workers from 15 states. He said Bayelsa State had the highest number of Mpox cases in the country, while the North-central region had the highest cases in the northern part of the country.
Flagging off the campaign in Bauchi
on Wednesday with a press briefing at the Federal Secretariat, Director-General of NOA, Lanre Isa-Onilu, declared, "Our objective is to educate Nigerians on the risks, prevention, and control measures to combat Lassa fever."
Isa-Onilu, who was represented by the Bauchi State Director of NOA, Mrs. Theresa Omaga, explained, "This press conference is a critical step in our efforts to mobilise Nigerians to take proactive measures against this deadly disease, especially that we are now in the dry season, a period of heightened vulnerability to the spread of Lassa fever."
He stated, "As you may be aware, Lassa fever has claimed precious lives in some parts of the country. This outbreak underscores the importance of collective action in preventing the spread of infectious diseases. We mourn the loss of lives and express solidarity with the affected families."
Isa-Onilu added, "We urge all Nigerians to take note of the following: Lassa fever is preventable, maintain good hygiene practices, including regular hand washing with soap and water, store food in rodent-proof containers, avoid contact with infected persons or contaminated materials and report suspected cases to the nearest health facility promptly."
He also stated, "As the agency of government responsible for value reorientation and attitudinal change with robust network, platforms and structures, we shall be doing the following: deploy our network of state and local government offices to disseminate information and utilise various media channels to amplify prevention messages."
The agency will also engage community leaders, traditional rulers, and influencers to mobilise grassroots support, and collaborate with schools
to integrate Lassa fever and other infectious diseases prevention into their teaching engagements, he said.
The director-general said called on Nigerians to “take personal responsibility for preventing Lassa fever, support public health initiatives and report any suspicious cases".
Isa-Onilu added, "We appreciate the support of the NCDC and other stakeholders within the One Health sector for their partnership and collaboration. Together, with little actions, we can change the narrative for good for the betterment of our country in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President."
According to him, "The fight against Lassa fever requires a collective effort. We must work together to prevent further spread and protect our citizens. I urge you, members of the press, to join us in amplifying these critical messages."
House of Reps Probes Discos' Activities
Urges FG to declare Discos non-state actors
Juliet Akoje in Abuja.
The House of Representatives has mandated its committee on power to investigate the activities of the Distribution Companies (DISCOS) in Nigeria, with the intent to hold them accountable, safeguard consumer rights and examine the implementation of strict regulations governing the operations of Discos, to ensure transparency and fairness in dealings with consumers.
The House also urged the Federal Ministry of Power to declare Discos as non-state actors and take immediate measures to address their reckless actions, threatening the nation’s economy. Consequently, the lawmakers
also urged Discos to undergo recapitalization of not less than 500 billion Naira and only those with the required financial muscle that can provide maximum satisfaction to consumers are allowed the space to continue to operate. These resolutions followed the adoption of a motion on the “Need to Address the Activities of Distribution Companies (DISCOS) in Nigeria,” moved by Hon. Ibrahim Ayokunle Isiaka at plenary on Wednesday. Isiaka noted the activities of Distribution Companies (DISCOS) in the country and their recent actions which is posing a threat to economic stability and welfare of the Nigerian populace. He said that Nigerian
consumers paid for electricity meters installation but Discos are demanding additional payments for replacement of these metres under dubious pretenses, undermining consumer trust and exacerbating financial burdens.
He lamented that consumers are being coerced into paying for meters which they have earlier financed causing financial strain on households and businesses already facing economic challenges.
According to him, "The sabotage of economic development by Discos, where essential services are used against citizens intended to serve thereby, stifling growth and development. Despite constant regulatory oversight and demand for accountability
by the Committee on Power from these companies, Discos remained recalcitrant in operating with impunity and disregard for consumer nights.
"Discos’ actions pose a significant threat to Nigeria's economic stability and welfare of citizens.
"Cognizant of the need to stand against injustices and prioritize constituents’ needs and rights."
The House however mandated its committee on power to activate public awareness campaigns and initiatives to educate consumers about their rights and the proper channels for addressing grievances related to electricity services and report within four weeks for further legislative action.
Jega said preparedness plans were being developed aimed at reducing transmission of the disease as well as protecting vulnerable populations in low-burden states.
According to him, the Nigerian Red Cross, in collaboration with Federal Ministry of Health, NCDC, and their partners at the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent, had activated a robust response plan.
He explained, “Mpox is a critical public health issue affecting our nation and the world.
“The Mpox outbreak has been declared a global health emergency by both the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Africa CDC. Unfortunately, Nigeria is among the affected countries.
“The latest figures from NCDC revealed 108 confirmed Mpox cases out of 1,395 suspected cases this year, spanning 27 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
“While we are fortunate that no fatalities have been recorded thus far, we must act decisively to prevent further spread and mitigate its impact.”
According to him, a similar training on combating the outbreak of the disease has been conducted in 17 states.
He said the current training programme included participants from Kano, Kaduna, Borno, Edo, and among other states.
Tech Group to Ignite Digital Revolution in Northern Nigeria
Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja
AREWA RISING, a technology innovation outfit has unveiled an initiative aimed at unleashing the inert potentials of the Hausa-speaking population in the northern part of Nigeria through creation of Hausa language digital ecosystem.
The move which was meant to accelerate digital inclusion within the states in the northern part of the country, seeks to create a sustainable digital ecosystem exclusively designed in Hausa language
Speaking at the unveiling of the initiative in Abuja on Wednesday, the initiator of the project and founder of KKI Learning Solutions, Mallam Ibrahim Mohammed, said he was inspired to embark on the project due to the unimaginable benefits and economic upliftment it will bring to people.
He said the group has commenced training and empowerment of 100 young Nigerians selected from across the northern states as a pilot scheme
which hopefully will be replicated by each of the states going forward.
He said: "The event, as you know, is called AREWA Rising. It's a digital inclusion initiative which is designed to kick start the creation and sustenance of a digital ecosystem exclusively designed in Hausa language.
“This means we want to build platforms in Hausa language using the most popular platforms that are being used in English cyberspace. Our aim is to replicate those sorts of platforms but with Hausa interfaces, so that they can be accessible to Hausa speaking users.
"Technology can do anything. You can use technology for agriculture, medicine, education, finance, services. You know, social networking, any of these platforms can give you a wide customer base."
Mohammed cited examples of the great economic turn-around achieved by countries like South Korea and China deploying the digital technology.
Association (NBA), Mr. Afam Osigwe, during the send forth dinner
KINGSLEY ADEBOYE
TRIBUTE
A Beloved Mother, Forever Remembered
Today, we gather to remember and celebrate the life of our beloved mother, Elder Mrs. Elizabeth Izegbuwa Idele (fondly known as Lizzy, Mama Idele), who transitioned to eternal glory on November 21, 2023. One year has passed since we lost you, Mama, yet your presence remains in our hearts, and your love continues to guide us.
In life, you were a beacon of light to all who had the privilege of knowing you. Your unwavering love, boundless compassion, and unshakable faith in Christ illuminated the lives of so many. As a mother, you were the epitome of selflessness, always putting others before yourself. Your kindness was evident in the way you welcomed others into your home, making them feel seen, loved, and valued. You were a nurturing and compassionate companion, not only to us, your six children, but to anyone who crossed your path.
Mama, you embodied what it meant to be a servant of God. As an Elder in the church, you devoted much of your life to guiding others and providing counsel in both spiritual and personal matters. Your wisdom was sought by many, and your role in church administration was one of great responsibility and respect. You dedicated your time to helping others grow in their faith, always leading by example. Whether it was organising events, offering advice, or praying for those in need, you always found a way to serve. Your tireless work in the church and the impact you had on so many lives are a testament to your deep commitment to the Lord’s work.
Your teachings were not only spiritual but also deeply practical. You instilled in us the values of putting others first, living with compassion, and always acting with integrity. You believed firmly in living a Christ-centred life, one that is marked by love, humility, and service. Your unwavering faith was the foundation of our family, and it was through your example that we learned how to navigate the world with grace and compassion.
One of the lessons that stands out most is
NEWS
the wisdom you imparted to us as children: “If you spare the rod, you spoil the child.” This was not just about discipline but about understanding the importance of setting boundaries, guiding us with love, and teaching us accountability. While your approach was firm, it was always wrapped in love, and we knew that every correction was aimed at helping us grow into better, more responsible individuals. Your patience, understanding, and encouragement were never far behind your discipline.
Mama, your giving nature was extraordinary. You had a heart that never hesitated to offer whatever you had to those in need, whether it was food, a listening ear, or a financial gift. You were a sacrificial giver, always seeking ways to bless others, even when you had little for yourself. We watched you give without expecting anything in return, always with a smile, always with love. Your generosity was not limited to material things but extended to your time, energy, and prayers. It is a lesson
we carry with us every day—to give freely and joyfully, just as you did. In every area of your life, you showed us the importance of integrity. You taught us that doing what is right, even when it is difficult or unpopular, is more important than anything else. Your strong moral compass was evident in all that you did. You lived your life with honesty, respect, and a profound sense of justice. You led us to understand that integrity is the foundation upon which lasting relationships are built, and it is something we must cherish and uphold, no matter where life takes us.
While the pain of losing you is still felt deeply, we take solace in the lessons you taught us, the love you gave, and the strength of character you embodied. You have left an indelible mark on all of us, your children, your grandchildren, your extended family, and your community. We are who we are because of your example, and we will continue to honour your memory by living the values you instilled in us.
Your legacy of love, faith, and generosity lives on in us. Every time we choose to put others first, offer a helping hand, speak the truth with courage, and serve others with a heart full of love, we carry your spirit with us. Your life was a testament to the power of a loving, giving, and faithful heart, and we are so proud to call you our mother.
Mama, we may no longer be able to see your smile or hear your voice, but we will always feel your presence in our hearts. As we continue on our journey through life, we know that you are watching over us, cheering us on, and praying for us. Your love continues to guide us, and your memory will forever be a source of strength.
As you rest in Christ, we take comfort in knowing that you are in the arms of the Lord, free from pain and suffering. We will hold your memory close, cherish the lessons you taught us, and pass them down to future generations.
Continue to rest in peace, Mama. We love you always, and we will never forget the incredible impact you had on our lives.
With love and eternal gratitude.
•Uwa Idele on behalf of your children (Ameze, Abieyuwa, Uwa, Efe, Osaro and Egbe)
Lateef Fagbemi Slams Cases of Conflicting Judgements Among High Courts in Nigeria
Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN) has expressed concern over the reported cases of conflicting court judgements among High Court of Justices in the country.
Fagbemi who spoke with journalists during a chat on Tuesday in Ilorin, Kwara State capital on the sideline of the ongoing three-day conference of the Justice Sector Reform Committee Teams in collaboration with Federal Ministry of Justice however said: “The issue of conflicting judgement was a recurring decimal but you find in recent times that has stopped and efforts are being made to address this issue”.
The conference was also being supported by the European Unionfunded Rule of Law and AntiCorruption (RoLAC II) Programme of the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International-IDEA).
According to him, “What used to happen was the effect of fundamental cause and you cannot continue to treat the effect in other to cure the cause rather it’s the cause that you have to look at, technology, over zealousness on the part of some litigants”.
He said: “Some unscrupulous lawyers would not bring to the attention of the court gathering there have been a decision that every lawyer has a responsibility to bring out cases that
are even against him.
“I as the Attorney General, I’m ready to complete this regard and I know that the leadership of the Nigeria Bar Association has also keyed into this and we need to put a stop to all these.
“I’m also aware that the judiciary itself has set up a panel to look at how to forestall future recurrence including imbibing what I will call technology so that if a case was given in Zaria for example, the man in Lagos will easily see it apart from that when you file a suit, you are supposed to disclose the right suit now, that no previous case file by you. If you fail to do that your case will be dismissed”.
On the conference, Prince Fagbemi stated: “The pursuit of justice lies at the heart of our collective aspirations for a fair and equitable society.
“It is a fundamental pillar upon which the rule of law rests, and it is essential for the maintenance of peace, stability, and social cohesion”.
He added: “However, as we gathered here today, we do so against the backdrop of persistent challenges that continue to hinder the effectiveness and accessibility of our justice system.
“As you are aware, the reform of the justice sector is at the heart of this administration’s developmental blueprint.
“You may recall that one of the cardinal items on our Renewed Hope Agenda as an administration, is to drive judicial reforms to achieve
sustainable socio-economic growth and investment, facilitated by rule of law, and to address the challenges militating against the administration of justice in our country.
“Accordingly, the federal government is committed to addressing challenges in our justice system, through strategic policies and other mechanisms that have direct impact in improving democratic norms, including the rule of law, access to justice and minimum standards for the enforcement of human rights.
“In furtherance of these objectives, we have undertaken a number of
reformative initiatives that drive critical reforms in the sector.
“For instance, I recently inaugurated the Presidential Committee for the Review and Update of the Laws of the Federation of Nigeria (LFN) 2004 to identify obsolete laws and take steps to update and consolidate our laws.
“Furthermore, with the support of all stakeholders, the National Policy on Arbitration and National Policy on Justice have been developed as blueprints that outline the desired reforms in the Justice Sector.
“It is pertinent for me to state also that at the heart of our reform agenda
in the justice sector is the National Policy on Justice, which identifies the root causes of the failures and inadequacies of the justice system, and its adverse impact on the nation.
“The policy seeks to consolidate on various reform efforts and achieve inter-agency (institutional) cooperation and coordination. Its purpose is to achieve a consensus amongst stakeholders for driving holistic development of all processes, or components of the Nigerian justice system.
“We clearly recognize that Nigeria practices a federal system
of government, which envisages a synergetic relationship between the center and the sub-nationals otherwise known as federating units.
“It is on this basis that we continue to engage with our colleagues from the states, in order come up with uniform strategies to address our common challenges”
Also speaking at the event, Kwara State governor and Chairman, Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) Alhaji AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq lauded the federal government on the present effort to rejig the justice system in the country.
NCTC Slams Exploitation of Young Girls for Suicide Mission, Sex Slavery by Terrorist Groups
Linus Aleke in Abuja
The National Counter Terrorism Centre, Office of the National Security Adviser (NCTC-ONSA), yesterday expressed displeasure over the use of young girls for suicide missions and sex slavery by terrorist groups operating in parts of northern Nigeria.
The National Coordinator, National Counter Terrorism Centre, Office of the National Security Adviser (NCTCONSA), Maj. Gen. Adamu Laka, expressed this displeasure during
the launch of a Technical Assistance Project on promotion and support for the rights and needs of victims of terrorism through the implementation of the model legislative provisions.
He said that the unveiling of the Technical Assistance Project, was part of united efforts to address the scourge of violent extremism and terrorism.
He thanked the United Nations Office of Counter Terrorism (UNOCT), and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC),
for partnering them, stating the imperative of their continuous support and commitment to preventing and countering violent extremism and terrorism in Nigeria.
According to Laka, “We have strengthened our capacity to respond to one of the gravest challenges of our time through our partnership.
“As you are aware, terrorism is a global issue, and Nigeria has borne witness to its extreme consequences since 2009. Our women, children, and youth have been disproportionately
affected over the years.
“We have seen children abducted and forcibly trained to fight, young girls used in suicide missions and exploited as sex slaves, and survivors left with deep scars of trauma and stigmatization.
“Tragically, children born out of forced marriages often face rejection and isolation. The case of the Chibok girls and other similar abductions serve as grim reminders of the enduring impact of terrorism on our society.
Uwa Idele
Late Mrs. Elizabeth Izegbuwa Idele
Hammed Shittu in Ilorin
Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com
Beyond Obasanjo’s Critique of INEC Leadership
Ezenwa Nwagwu in this report situates the recent critique of the leadership of the Independent National Electoral Commission by former President Olusegun Obasanjo alongside the questionable general elections conducted while the ex-leader held sway as nation’s number one citizen from 1999 to 2007.
The dust from the Ondo State Governorship Election is yet to settle when former President Olusegun Obasanjo fired a salvo, calling for the sack of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu and other officials at all levels.
The former President made the call recently during his address at the prestigious Chinua Achebe Leadership Forum held at Yale University in the United States, where he presented a paper titled “Leadership Failure and State Capture in Nigeria.”
As expected, the statement by the former President has stirred backlash. However, it is my opinion that Obasanjo’s statement provides a critical opportunity to contextualize Nigeria’s electoral journey, the progress made, and the challenges that persist despite attempts to reform our processes.
While many will see this as an opportunity to reprimand the former president and remind him of his democratic credentials; for me, this is an opportunity for a balanced review of Nigeria’s elections.
We must not miss this opportunity to remind and educate the younger generation, who had the privilege of participating in Nigeria’s elections for the first time in 2023. We must use this opportunity to remind young Nigerians where we are coming from and the progress that we have made in our elections and democracy.
For the younger generation, it is essential to understand the context of Nigeria’s electoral history, why and how we arrived at reforms like BVAS and IReV which represent a departure from the irregularities of the past.
This is an opportunity to remind Nigerians that in 2022, under this current leadership, INEC opened itself to scrutiny by publishing the voters register online for the first
time. Many Nigerians may have forgotten what our voters’ register looked like or how it was inundated with various forms of irregularities ranging from registration of minors, multiple registrations and registration of foreigners or aliens.
In fact, Nigeria’s voters register used to contain fictitious names such as Mohammed Ali, Mike Tyson, Michael Jackson, Barack Obama, Bill Clinton, to concoct victory for
political parties. This was how some states “manufactured” two million votes in past elections. A feat they couldn’t achieve in 2023 due to reforms by INEC
While INEC under its current leadership has come under criticism due to the functionality of the IReV portal, it is important to respectfully note that the IReV portal is an INEC initiative to improve access to election results. It may not have worked perfectly during the 2023 election, but there is no doubt that we have made progress.
That Nigerians have a result viewing portal or that Nigerians can do simultaneous accreditation and voting is a significant lift from what we had in the past. In the past, elections lasted into midnight because people had to do accreditation, go home and come back later to vote.
That Nigerians do not hear of people being killed on election day or ballot boxes being snatched and stuffed with ballot papers is significant progress
While these reforms are not perfect, they have shifted Nigeria’s elections towards greater credibility.
Since Obasanjo’s comment coincided with the Ondo state governorship election, let me provide some context into how this election is far better from what we had in the past.
The Ondo state election that was held on Saturday, November 16, 2024 had 111 domestic and international accredited observer organisations. Reports from the groups acknowledged challenges like vote buying and electoral violence, while commending early opening of polls and the rapid uploading of results to the INEC Results Viewing Portal (IReV). As at 7 PM on election day, 90% of the results were available online—a feat that demonstrates the impact of technological reforms implemented by INEC.
To understand the strides made in Nigeria’s electoral process, and why this context of Ondo election is important, it is essential to reflect on where we started in Nigeria’s return to democratic rule in 1999.
-Nwagwu, Executive Director, Peering Advocacy and Advancement Center in Africa, writes from Abuja
NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the online edition on www.thisdaylive.com
Gumi: My Defection from PDP to APC Not About 2027
a member representing Gumi/Bukkuyyum Federal Constituency of Zamfara State in the House of Representatives, Hon Suleiman Gumi who recently defected from Peoples Democratic Party to all Progressives Congress in this interview says his defection to the ruling party was not about the 2027 elections. Rather, he said his main focus at the moment is to bring development to his people. Adedayo Akinwale brings excerpts:
We just witnessed an unusual political rally to herald your defection from Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to All Progressives Congress (APC). What will you say was responsible for the massive turnout?
That shows there is something the politician is doing right and I know that this is what every politician aspire to have. What we witnessed today is just remarkable. I was also taken by surprise by the good gesture by my people because if you defect from another party I think you always leave some people behind, but in this case, you see the whole town defected with me from PDP to APC, which is just a joyous moment. And the message I passed to them is that politics is about people, it’s about representing people and doing what is right for the people, and offering justice and fairness to everyone. That is the message I passed across to all the politicians in my zone, that the way forward is not waiting till election time that you give out money, but be kind to the people, be just to them as you execute your official engagement and by doing so, people will always align with you.
Could this be a pointer to the 2027 election?
No, 2027 is far away we are not thinking about 2027. What we are thinking about is how do we bring development to your
people? Bringing development, the way forward, that is why you’re there, you are there to represent them properly and bring the goodness of politics to them, when they vote for
you, you return by being kind and being a good a good representative for them. The message is we should be responsible to our people.
What will you say was responsible for the massive turnout of party stalwarts at the rally?
It’s just a rare occasion where you see the executive of one party merging with another executive of another party under one umbrella. I think it was a remarkable sight to see, where the whole structure of Local Government is coming together to work for one individual towards achieving dividends of democracy. So, today was a very good event and I’m hopeful that when the time comes, there won’t be any much struggle to get re-elected or for you to get the support of your people.
You made certain donations to your Constituents during the rally, what informed the gesture?
Today’s donation is one of the things we do, we get items for them as much as we can from the federal level. Today was for the distribution of irrigation equipment, so that we can empower our youths to go back to farm. That is one way we can take out teeming youths out of joblessness to being gainfully employed through agriculture and that is what we are trying to promote. Apart from the solar pumping machines, we are trying to encourage the youths to go back to farm.
Gumi
Yakubu
Justice Over Profit: OWORAC Kicks against Water Privatisation in Africa
The fourth annual ‘Africa Week of Action against Water Privatisation’ officially kicked off recently, bringing together communities, civil society, and trade unionists from across Africa, under the Our Water, Our Right African Coalition, OWORAC, as they demand equitable access to safe water, free from the dangers of privatisation. Sunday Ehigiator reports
Every year, the Africa Week of Action Against Water Privatisation coincides with the World Bank and International Monetary Fund's annual meetings to serve as a people-centred counterweight to the institutions’ outsized influence over the economic policies of the Global South.
OWORAC efforts
OWORAC is a network of community leaders, civil society, and trade unionists from nearly a dozen African countries who have found a common cause in the movement against water privatisation and for a renewed, community-centred approach to meeting the needs of the African people and environment through sustainable public water management.
Through community engagement sessions, media sensitisation, engagements with policymakers and duty bearers plus those in seats of power, OWORAC members have been amplifying the growing demand for public accountability and an end to corporate acts of impunity that are depriving citizens’ rights to water, exposing them to diseases, slaughtering their economic source of livelihood, and further widening the poverty gap, however not much has been achieved.
Water issues in Africa
According to OWORAC, “The neocolonial forces of the World Bank and International Monetary Fund have been bearing down on the African continent for decades, entrapping states in debt and using this leverage to push anti-people policies which have undermined public welfare and environmental stewardship.
“Bilateral development agencies, such as the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), have also begun to pressure states to adopt similar policies, to the detriment of communities.
“The privatisation of essential services, especially water systems, is promoted by these institutions despite the widespread public opposition and ample evidence of its failures both globally and on the continent itself.
“Among these failures are the rising cost of water service, the jeopardised livelihoods and workplace safety of public sector workers, and the deterioration of infrastructure, which the state must ultimately pay for.
“It is evident that water privatisation schemes are a detriment to the community, the workers, and the state itself. So, we ask, who benefits from this callous commercialisation? Large multinational corporations, such as Veolia and Suez, and the shareholders they serve are the primary beneficiaries of corporate control schemes like privatisation and so-called public-private partnerships (PPP), which extract resources from the continent and funnel them into foreign bank accounts.”
From the foregoing, it is evident that water privatisation schemes are a detriment to the community, the workers, and the state itself. Across the African continent, communities face a variety of assaults on their human right to water from corporations and their backers.
Nigeria
A recent document from OWORAC revealed that in Nigeria, bilateral agencies and international organisations such as USAID, WaterAid, the UK’s FCDO, the Africa Development Bank (AfDB), and the Global Water Partnership, among others, have promoted water privatisation ventures.
Particularly, support for privatisation schemes and influence on water authorities in Lagos State has been connected to the sacking of hundreds of unionised workers in recent times and this is steering the megacity towards privatisation of the
water service.
Ghana
In Ghana, OWORAC said, “Unchecked corporate negligence, reckless extractive, and mining (galamsey) are catalysts for widespread water contamination and dangerous levels of pollution in local rivers.
“This is a poor situation which environmentalists and health experts predict could lead to future drought cases that could add to the current loss of livelihoods for fisherfolk and crop farmers who barely survive on economic activities connected to these carelessly harmed water bodies.
“Sadly, there has been an increase in cases of non-communicable diseases, deformed newborn babies, and the presence of heavy metals like cyanide and mercury in water even after treatment by Ghana.
“Water Company Limited (GWCL) has escaped the empathetic conscience of the Ghanaian government and the motivated perpetrators of the heinous crime who gloriously poison the waters in search for wealth over the citizens’ right to clean and safe water.”
Senegal In Senegal, OWORAC said, “French private water multinational, Suez, has taken control of Senegal’s water system through its management of Sen’Eau, to the detriment of workers facing abysmal working conditions and communities who are now dealing with skyrocketing water bills and unreliable service.
“A recent state audit of the privatisation scheme indicates that Sen’Eau is
being ‘looted’ by Suez itself. Adding to these man-made hardships, Sen’Eau has launched a series of aggressive attacks on trade unionists who have been vocal in opposing the company's unequal practices.
“These brave individuals, representing the interest of workers and communities, have consistently called for a system that places people's welfare over corporate profits. Instead of addressing their concerns, Sen’Eau has sought to silence these voices, further entrenching its exploitative approach.
Kenya and Others
OWORAC in its document noted that the recently adopted Water (Amendment) Act in Kenya has created the conditions for increasingly unaffordable water services and pathways for privatisation schemes like public[1]private partnerships to hand over control of water systems to corporations.
“Mozambique faces the threat of a national utility privatisation scheme that would impact communities in all corners of the country.
“And while privatisers have been kicked out of Cameroon and Gabon over the years, the spectre of privatisation and inequitable water access still looms large. Since the end of water privatisation in Cameroon in 2018, potable water distribution has been temporarily under control.
“But, so many preoccupations persist, notably the fragile financial
Our demands remain, among others: total halt to all water privatisation or PPP arrangements across the continent, increase government funding/investments in the water sector, participatory approach to water governance and governments’ commitment to public solutions to the continent’s water challenges
situation of the body that is in charge of managing and distributing water in the country, CamWater.”
Call for water justice.
In its address, the Executive Director of Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA), Akinbode Oluwafemi, advised African governments to shut down water public-private partnerships (PPPs), warning that such arrangements would increase citizens’ vulnerability.
According to him, “For us, our campaign on water is Rights Based. Water is life and it must be protected from corporate greed. This is further reinforced by the many cases of failed water privatisation across the globe.
“In November 2002, the UN Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights adopted this on the issue of water: ‘The human right to water entitles everyone to sufficient, safe, acceptable, physically accessible and affordable water for personal and domestic uses’.
“Against water privatisation, there are over 180 cities and communities in 35 countries, including Buenos Aires, Johannesburg, Paris, Accra, Berlin, La Paz, Maputo and Kuala Lumpur, that have ‘re-municipalised’ their water utilities after failed privatization or PPP misadventure.
“Among them, more than 100 are in the United States and France, 14 in Africa and 12 in Latin America.
“So this week, activists in Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Senegal, and Cameroun among others will be organising community events, water parliaments, protests and walks again to resist the water privatisation agenda.
“Our demands remain, among others: Total halt to all water privatisation or PPP arrangements across the continent, increase government funding/investments in the water sector, participatory approach to water governance and governments’ commitment to public solutions to the continent’s water challenges.
“Others are, expanded outlook on water justice beyond access to include affordability and quality, Pursue PublicPublic Partnerships (PUPs), Promote good governance and eliminate corruption, and improve labour relations.”
L-R: CAPPA's Policy and Research Analyst, Zikora Ibeh; Executive Director, CAPPA, Akinbode Oluwafemi; and CAPPA’s Programme Officer, Sefa Ikpa, at the international hybrid press conference held recently in Lagos to kick start the 2024 Africa Week of Action Against Water Privatisation
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PASTOR, PRINCE, AND PRINCIPAL MORAKINYO
OLUMODIMU pays tribute to Pastor Bayo Adeyokunnu who recently clocked 70
See page 21
DAY MAMMAN
VATSA HOSTED KEN SARO-WIWA TUNDE OLUSUNLE on the memory of two poets who were executed during the military era
See page 21 Thursday November 21, 2024
The government must arrest the country’s unhinged, depreciating socio-economic profile quickly, writes MONDAY PHILIPS EKPE
SHOULD WE IGNORE THAT IMF REPORT?
The latest report of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on the economic outlook of sub-Saharan Africa is far from reassuring for Nigeria and some other countries. The verdict is that the ambitious reforms (reckless and callous by many views) which the current Nigerian administration has been pursuing for one and half years are yet to show that they’re on the right track. Put bluntly, they are not working! That’s certainly not the sort of thing President Bola Tinubu and his team would love to hear.
That assessment is antithetical to the viewpoint expressed in Abuja only last month by the Chief Economist and Senior Vice President of World Bank (WB), Dr Indermit Gill, who praised the government for the courage to hit the ground running with its unprecedented decisions to remove petroleum subsidy and float the naira. Gill capped his eulogy with a strong appeal to the private sector and citizenry for their cooperation and patience. Of course, his physical audience let him know instantly that he had struck the wrong chord. He clearly underrated the trauma the nation was experiencing. Anyhow, that outing provided a window into the bank’s convictions about Nigeria’s tortuous quest for restored prosperity.
This unpalatable IMF dish has thrown a shadow over whatever is left of the country’s hope of exiting the woods soon. It was the turn of the fund’s Deputy Director, Catherine Patillo, to serve the menu last week at the Lagos Business School (LBS). She wasn’t sparing: ‘‘More than two-thirds of countries (in sub-Saharan Africa) have undertaken fiscal consolidation, with the median primary balance expected to narrow by 0.7 percentage points alone in 2024. And these have included notable improvements in Cote d’Ivoire, Ghana and Zambia, among others’.
“On the imbalances side, median inflation has declined in many countries. And it’s already within or below the target band in about half the countries…. Inflation is still in double digits in almost one-third of countries, including Angola, Ethiopia, and Nigeria, and above target in almost half of the region, particularly where monetary policy is not anchored by exchange rate pegs…. Looking further at exchange rates, we do see that foreign exchange pressures have largely abated since the end of 2023.” Two key elements of this declaration are truly painful. First, the astronomical increase in the cost of goods and services. The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS)’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) report for last month indicates a raise in headline inflation from 32.7 percent in September this year to 33.9 percent. Within the same period, prices of foodstuff rose to 39.16 percent from 37.8 percent. One depressing side of the story is that informed projections haven’t identified any grounds for optimism in the near future. Transportation and energy costs are compounding an increasingly impossible situation. Sadly, both rural and urban
populations are united in this long-suffering. Second, Nigeria, an erstwhile undisputed regional and continental political and economic leader, is tumbling rapidly, displaying mediocrity where less endowed nations earn better ratings. In few months, the country has descended from the lofty height of being Africa’s largest economy to the fourth position. How much lower can it go even in, say, one year’s time? So, beyond the obvious threat of the spiralling degeneration in the quality of life of Nigerians, the worsening ranking of their country among the comity of nations is set to deal more blows to the national pride garnered in the past decades. The effects, though intangible, are damaging nonetheless.
In addition to concerns about the nation’s present predicaments, the attendant vulnerability of its future is also captured in the IMF paper. According to it, “debt service capacity remains low by historical standards. In almost one-quarter of countries, interest payments exceed 20 percent of revenues, a threshold statistically associated with a high probability of fiscal stress. And rising debt service burdens are already having a significant impact on the resources available for development spending. The median ratio of interest payments to revenues (excluding grants) currently stands at 12 percent. Some three-quarters have already witnessed an increase in interest payments (relative to revenue) since the early 2010s (comparing the 2010–14 average with the 2019–24 average). In Angola, Ghana, Nigeria, and Zambia, this increase in interest payments alone absorbed a massive 15 percent of total revenue’’.
The borrower, without doubt, constantly puts himself at the mercy of his lender. Again, Nigeria, once virtually debt-free at the dawn of the current republic, is now comfortably in the company of some of the continent’s worst debtor countries. President Tinubu has just sought the resolution of the National Assembly to borrow 2.2 billion dollars, equivalent of 1.7 trillion naira, to implement part of the 2024 Appropriation Act. And nothing yet to suggest the end of borrowing in sight.
Neither is there much to elicit positive expectations, to give the largely frustrated
Nigerian people enough cause to rejoice and be hopeful. The other day in Benin City at the inauguration of Senator Monday Okpebholo as governor of Edo State, Tinubu delivered his signature smooth words through his vice, Alhaji Kashim Shettima. In his own reckoning, “we have weathered the hardest days as a nation. We have pulled back from the brink of economic collapse, and now we step forward into a time of growth…. When we took office, we knew that securing the future of our economy would demand serious reform—reform to stave off looming fiscal and monetary threats to the stability of this great nation.” That may be soothing to textbook macroeconomists who dwell inside bloodless data and analyses. Or diehard admirers of the president’s policies and programmes. But definitely irritating to most citizens and residents who bear the brunt of the prevailing choking realities. While it won’t be fair to accuse this government of not trying, it also would be provocative to give itself any form of pass mark at this moment. The sharply rising stress level in Nigeria today, occasioned by semi-baked economic experiments, is real. What people feel can be more compelling than figures rolled out to serve bogus propensities.
It’s not even that the people actually depend on submissions by either IMF or WB to tell them where it hurts. As in many other locations on earth, especially in the developing and underdeveloped world, these twin financial institutions are viewed with suspicion here, hopefully not hatred. It’s hard for those Bretton Woods organisations to shed the image of being oppressive agents of advanced nations and promoters of the status quo. As Prof. Ibrahim Gambari, a former Minister of External Affairs, explained it at a public function earlier in the week, “we are not rejecting partnership because we will not be in isolation but partnership in which we are real partners that will serve our interest. If the prescriptions of the World Bank and IMF are correct, we should not be struggling the way we are today…. We must be ready to harness our abundant human and natural resources to leapfrog our development to achieve the structural transformation that has eluded us for too long.
“We have the opportunity to insist on being joint rule makers so that the new global order being forged reflects our values and aspirations for a fairer, more inclusive, and equitable world. In this, we must ensure that our youth bulge is turned into an advantage that puts us at the forefront of the digital economy and the innovations underpinning it.” Well delivered. The perception out there that Tinubu is implementing recommendations from abroad isn’t helping. Only domestically-compliant remedies, sourced locally and externally, remain our best chances of surmounting these difficult times.
Dr Ekpe is a member of THISDAY Editorial Board
MORAKINYO OLUMODIMU pays tribute to Pastor Bayo Adeyokunnu who recently clocked 70
PASTOR, PRINCE, AND PRINCIPAL
October offered some of us the rare opportunity to celebrate someone who epitomizes leadership--a father whose life reflects a heart of service and commitment to faith, family, followers, and indeed to the Christian world as well as the global diasporic Yoruba communities. He is no other than Pastor Adebayo Adebanji Adeyokunnu, the Senior Pastor, Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Victory Temple in Bowie, Maryland, United States. A worthy Prince of the Bilaro Ruling House in Ilesa, Osun State, Pastor Bayo has for decades been a role model for many of us hence his 70th birthday was a time of celebration. Found by grace and built by mercy, his life and ministry are also a testament to divine operations and preparations.
Meanwhile, the platinum year is a unique milestone symbolizing wisdom, endurance, strength, adventures, and accomplishments woven together in the tapestry of time. Today, we celebrate not just another year added to Pastor Bayo but a life rich with profound experiences, growth, and impact. Within this capsule, which contains the days and months amounting to 70 years, Pastor Bayo has traversed them as a journalist, entrepreneur, writer, pastor, builder, and statesman.
It is remarkable that leadership beckoned on Pastor Bayo very early at the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University) when he served as one of the prime movers of the Christian Student Fellowship on campus, and that grace of Christ kept him on to a life dedicated to ministry with Full Gospel Business Men Fellowship and the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG). A call to higher service in the Vineyard took him through various leadership stages within the RCCG, starting in Nigeria. He pastored congregations in Lagos, cultivating his gift for shepherding God's people while preparing for his global impact. In 1996, Pastor Bayo pioneered the RCCG Victory Temple in Bowie, Maryland. Under his leadership, Victory Temple expanded to serve over 2,000 worshippers, becoming a beacon of hope and faith for the Nigerian diaspora and beyond.
By the grace of God and dint of hard work, Pastor Bayo rose through the ranks to become the Deputy Continental Overseer of RCCG in the Americas. He has planted over 50 churches in eleven states of the USA, including Maryland and West Virginia, Virginia, Delaware, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, North Carolina, Washinton State, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Washington DC. His missionizing and evangelistic efforts have led to the birth of dozens of churches in Uttar Pradesh State in South India.
For the Prince of Ijesaland, the journey and calling as a pastor, church planter, and entrepreneur has been shaped by a deep and consistent relationship with our Lord Jesus Christ through prayer and didactic study of the Bible. On a personal note, Pastor Bayo has made tremendous impact on my life, as he has on several people with whom he has come in contact. Before I came under his leadership, I had a prayer life, but being mentored by him released upon me the spirit of prayer. His grace for the secret place is one impartation that I
am eternally grateful for. Besides, from him, I have learned the value of loyalty to the leadership; loving your leader enough to pray for them every single day and loving your leader, even with his imperfections.
Before answering the call to full-time ministry, Pastor Bayo was a successful businessman and entrepreneur, running a travel agency in Ikoyi, Lagos, and consulting for government and private companies. His background in business informs his approach to ministry, ensuring that the churches he oversees operate with prudence, accountability, and strategic foresight. His grace and passion have inspired many younger leaders and ministers to do more for God. You cannot hang around Pastor Bayo and remain small; he would drive you to excellence by “fire by force.”
However, the finger of God is not yet done with Pastor Bayo Adeyokunnu at 70. We believe that 70 is just the beginning of a new chapter in his life--a new phase with a new assignment. A born shepherd, marking age 70 cannot be the end of his active contribution to human systems. It is the beginning of a new form of leadership in another realm in which he takes the living word of God beyond the walls of a church. Didn't God say in Isaiah, “It is too small a thing for you to be my servant to restore the tribes of Jacob and bring back those of Israel I have kept? I will also make you a light for the gentiles, that my salvation may reach the ends of the earth.”
For Pastor Pastor Adebayo Adebanji Adeyokunnu, joining the elite Septuagenarian Club is not a retirement from ministry. It is the beginning of a higher calling that will manifest in due season.
Olumodimu
is Senior Pastor at RCCG, The Upward Church, Clarksville, Maryland, United States
TUNDE OLUSUNLE on the memory of two poets who were executed during the military era
DAY MAMMAN VATSA
HOSTED KEN SARO-WIWA
He reincarnated in the form of a cream coloured, two-storey building in the bosom of the boulderbraided, writers' commune, in the rocky delight of Abuja's Mpape district. His happy host, like him an erstwhile member of the tribe of wordmongers was despatched over a phantom putsch one decade before him. But he rolled out a carpet of dry laterite with the steady onset of northerly harmattan, to receive his new guest and kindred spirit. The air was sedate, the biosphere alluring and serene as his name echoed from the signage hoisted in front of the structure. This, henceforth, will be the haven of scribblers from across the globe desiring genuine solitude to commune with their muses in the very intricate venture of creative expression. Not too many of the young writers who enthusiastically witnessed the recent commissioning of the *Ken Saro-Wiwa International Writers Residency* in Abuja, however, knew enough about the martyr who was so canonised, nor the nexus between Ken Saro-Wiwa and his figurative "host," Mamman Jiya Vatsa.
As part of the activities commemorating the 43rd International Convention of the Association of Nigerian Authors, (ANA), which held between Thursday October 31 and Saturday November 2, 2024, a newly built edifice christened after Saro-Wiwa, was scheduled for inauguration. Ken Saro-Wiwa remains one of Nigeria's most multitasking and most productive writers of all time. He lived for only 54 years but left behind an authorial legacy which continues to challenge the prolificity of successor writers. SaroWiwa was a compelling novelist, an engaging essayist, a consummate poet, an arresting dramatist, and a fearless public scholar.
Regarded as Africa's very first purpose-built writers’ village, the expansive hilltop project in Mpape, Abuja, was named after Vatsa, an army General who was a Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, (FCT), under the regime of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida. Less than seven months into the Babangida milieu in March 5, 1986, Vatsa was executed by firing squad for alleged "treason associated with an abortive coup." He was 45 at the time. Importantly, Vatsa was a writer who reportedly published about 20 poetry anthologies, including: *Verses for Nigerian State Capitals,* (1972); *Back Again at Wargate,* (1982); *Reach for the Skies,* (1984), and *Tori for Geti Bow leg and other Pidgin Poems,* (1985). Vatsa as FCT helmsman, it was, who allocated the generous swathes of hitherto pristine land with scenic views upon which the writers’ village is sited today. The complex is deservedly named after him in eternal gratitude by the writers’ fraternity. Ken Saro-Wiwa was the fourth President of ANA. He succeeded the renowned dramatist and Emeritus Professor of theatre arts, Femi Osofisan, in 1990, and was a very energetic personality, famous for the tobacco pipe, which was permanently seated on his lip, drawing parity with that of Ousmane Sembene, the famous Senegalese frontline African novelist and filmmaker. Saro-Wiwa had a multitasking career which saw him as a university lecturer in his earlier years, an administrator and public servant, and an environmental activist, at various times. He was leader of the Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP), which prosecuted a nonviolent campaign for the protection of Ogoni land and water resources from devastation by oil multinationals. He backed up this enterprise with regular interventions in the public space as a writer and columnist for a number of authoritative newspapers. He consistently drew attention to the despoliation of the natural resources of his people and wrote regularly for Vanguard and Sunday Times, among other publications. He was a regular, long-staying guest of the gulags of successive military governments, through the administrations of Ibrahim Babangida and Sani Abacha. In 1994, he was arrested and charged with instigating the murders of four Ogoni leaders, May 4, 1994, on a day he was indeed barred from accessing Ogoniland. Saro-Wiwa and his eight "accomplices"
were executed by hanging at the Port Harcourt prison where they were held and convicted, on November 10, 1995, exactly one month after his 54th birthday on October 10, 1995.
By some uncanny calendrical coincidence, the *Ken Saro-Wiwa International Writers Residency,* was inaugurated early November 2024, the very same month he was despatched 29 years ago in 1995. Global outrage trailed the killing of Saro-Wiwa and his compatriots, with the Commonwealth suspending Nigeria for three years, among other sanctions. The death of Sani Abacha in June 1998, the subsequent acceleration of processes which returned Nigeria to civilian rule by Abacha's successor, Abdulsalami Abubakar, and the enthronement of the Fourth Republic in 1999, gradually tempered the world's coldness towards Nigeria.
At least three dozen book titles are credited to Ken Saro-Wiwa's name. These include novels, novellas, anthologies of poetry, plays for radio and television, memoirs and diaries, and so on. His works have received requisite some international attention such that they have been translated into German, Dutch and French. Posthumously, his family, foreign concerns and nongovernmental organisations continued to call-up manuscripts from his personal library to publish new works by him. A personal diary he kept while he was in incarceration before his eventual annihilation was published with the title ‘A Month and a Day: A Detention Diary,’ in 1995. Over 20 years after his demise, some of his essays were assembled as ‘Silence would be Treason: Last Writings of Ken Saro-Wiwa,’ and published by Daraja Press in Ottawa, Canada, in 2018.
The ‘Ken Saro-Wiwa International Writers Residency’ is one of the first major physical projects delivered by the leadership of Usman Oladipo Akanbi. Fortuitously, Akanbi's deputy, Obari Gomba, winner of the 2023 *NLNG Prize for Drama,* is from Saro-Wiwa's Ogoni country. He must have felt gratified by the honour done his ‘countryman,’ whose trajectory he followed as a much younger writer. The eventual breaking of the ice, the decisive commencement of the physical development of the hitherto forlorn and controversial expansive hectarage of ANA property was consummated under the leadership of Denja Abdullahi in 2017. Obi Asika, DirectorGeneral of the National Council for Arts and Culture, (NCAC), commissioned the ‘Ken SaroWiwa International Writers Residency.’
The ceremony was witnessed by an impressive array of writers, headlined by Emeritus Professors Osofisan and Olu Obafemi, both former Presidents of ANA, as well as Nuhu Yaqub, OFR. Yaqub holds the distinction of being the only Nigerian scholar thus far to have served as Vice Chancellor in two federal universities, those of Abuja and Sokoto.
Olusunle, PhD, Fellow of Association of Nigerian Authors, (FANA), teaches Creative Writing at the University of Abuja
Editor, Editorial Page PETER
ISHAKA
Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com
OF TARIFFS AND SERVICE DELIVERY
Telecom operators demand cost-reflective tariffs, customers want better quality of service
Amid persistent calls by the Association of Telecommunication Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) and the Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria, (ALTON) for an upward review of tariff, Nigerians have continued to experience poor service quality. Even in the face of the challenges of the operators, it makes little sense for consumers to pay more for poor and unreliable services. The demand of the telecom operators is predicated on rising operational costs, weakening national currency, vandalism of their equipment and increasing cost of energy and infrastructure maintenance.
We urge the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to be more alive to their regulatory responsibility of enforcing compliance in the sector. It is also important for the NCC to address some of the challenges which the telcos have highlighted as being responsible for the regime of poor service quality.
We task the NCC to dialogue with the telecom operators on the issue of cost-reflective tariffs for the sector considering the current exchange rate regime. We also urge the relevant agencies to protect telecommunications infrastructure
According to ATCON president, Tony Emoekpere, the current tariff structure is no longer tenable if the sector must survive. “These tariffs have been frozen for such a long time and to keep them stagnant is totally unrealistic,” Emoekpere argued. “We understand the fact that any price increase will have an effect but what the tariff hike will provide is better quality of service to subscribers.”
Operators have always blamed poor infrastructure in the country characterised by inadequate power generation and supply as one of the reasons for the atrocious quality recorded in the sector. They have at different times also complained about road constructions and repairs leading to cable cuts, vandalism of equipment, and other security issues. While some of these challenges may be dismissed as convenient excuses, the issue of multiple taxation, cost reflective tariffs, etc., should be examined by relevant authorities.
Meanwhile, the mobile telecommunications sector has grown to become a very important contributor to
T H I S D AY
EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU
DEPUTY EDITOR WALE OLALEYE
MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO
DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU
CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI
EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN
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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA
GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU
DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE
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Letters to the Editor
the country’s Gross Domestic Products (GDP). The sector has expanded the broadband, internet penetration and most importantly, subscriber base in the country. Recent market figures reveal a penetration rate of 87 per cent of the population. Unfortunately, due to a combination of factors, subscribers are experiencing poor service quality. Key among the subscribers’ complaints are connection failures, poor data service, fluctuating network, data roll over challenges, illegal credit deductions and uncompleted calls. The drop in service quality has been attributed to the fact that some of the mobile network operators failed to meet industry standard. According to industry data, all the telcos fall short of the four major key performance indicators: dropped call rate, call set up rate, stand-alone dedicated control channel congestion rate and traffic control channel congestion rate. We task the NCC to dialogue with the telecom operators on the issue of cost-reflective tariffs for the sector considering the current exchange rate regime. We also urge the relevant agencies to ensure adequate security for telecoms facilities and engage stakeholders on the need to protect telecommunications infrastructure. The sector will continue to grapple with poor service delivery if criminal elements are not stopped from tampering with telecoms infrastructure across the country.
However, the message from the NCC to the operators should be very clear: It is not just about increasing the tariffs but that there should be a commensurate increase in the quality of service they provide. Making a simple voice call has become a problem and holding a brief conversation has become even more burdensome. The current level of frustrating experiences characterised by high rate of dropped calls, high rate of call attempts, call interference, loss of audio and recurrent down times, have therefore become unacceptable. Nigerians are tired of constant promises from the stable of operators on what they plan to do on the improvement of quality on their networks. They want concrete action.
Letters in response to specific publications in THISDAY should be brief (150-300 words) and straight to the point. Interested readers may send such letters along with their contact details to opinion@thisdaylive.com. We also welcome comments and opinions on topical local, national and international issues provided they are well-written and should also not be longer than (750- 1000 words). They should be sent to opinion@thisdaylive. com along with photograph, email address and phone numbers of the writer.
GARLANDS FOR FALLEN HEROES
Commitment, persistence, and focus in service often draw blood, sweat, and tears. They engender loneliness too. The sacrifice that true service entails mean death in so many respects even if one’s breath is to cease only once and no more. Days before the Nigerian Army confirmed the presence of Lukarawas, a new terrorist group which has already marked its introduction into the Nigerian terrorism scene with devastating attacks in Kebbi and Sokoto states, Nigeria lost its fearless commander in its multifaceted war against multiple enemies.
Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja who was sworn in as Nigeria’s 23rd Chief of Army Staff on 19 June 2024 died in Lagos on 5 November 2024, after a brief illness. His death at the age of 56 has thrown the entire country into mourning at a time when the country most needs the presence of a man who was the quintessence of bravery and soldiery. Before he became Nigeria’s 23rd Chief of Army Staff, Lagbaja had withstood many tests and survived countless dangerous assignments in service of a country he loved with all his heart.
The Nigerian Army has continued to serve as the last line of defense against terrorists who are determined to overrun the country. Without the heroic efforts of Nigerian soldiers who are ever willing to make the ultimate sacrifice in defense of their country, terrorists would have recorded far more successes than they have especially in those areas where they are far more suited to rugged terrains, which soldiers find treacherous.
Nigeria’s decade-long battle against terrorism have recorded highs and lows with the Nigerian Army always managing to have the upper hand despite extremely difficult conditions. Terrorists who had established conclaves in many parts of the country, terrorizing locals and defying the country, have been routed again and again as soldiers have largely stuck to their task of securing and defending Nigeria. There have been many painful losses in the course of war against terrorism. Many gallant soldiers have been forced to pay the ultimate price in defense of the country but the most devastating losses have been reserved for the enemies of the country who have suffered heavy casualties
even in their so-called strongholds.
Like every other war, the prosecution of the war against terrorism in Nigeria has not been perfect. There have been murmurs of discontent about diversion of funds meant for weapons, poor welfare of soldiers, and saboteurs among soldiers. But despite the diversionary discourses of detractors, the shortcomings of few persons cannot distract from the excellent job soldiers are doing to keep terrorists on the run. It is reason enough to celebrate them.
It Is enough reason to commiserate with the country and their heartbroken families whenever they lose their lives. Nigeria which has had to contend with many forces since independence owes them an unpayable debt. Remembering them, celebrating them and keeping them in the national consciousness where they deserve to be is the least the country can do. May God comfort the Nigerian Army and the families of all those who have laid down their lives in the service of this great country.
Ike Willie-Nwobu, Ikewilly9@gmail.com
Emma
SNS Telecom & IT, a global research and consulting company has predicted that global revenue for 4G and 5G private network infrastructure would reach $6 billion by 2027, double the sum recorded in 2023.
The SNS Telecom’s report stated that global spending on 4G and 5G private network infrastructure would grow at a CAGR of around 20 per cent between 2024 and 2027.
Close to 60 per cent of related investments, or $3.5 billion, are expected to come from the build out of standalone (SA) 5G private
networks. The SA 5G private networks, according to the report, will become the predominant wireless communications medium to support the ongoing Industry 4.0 projects.
The Industry 4.0 initiatives include digitisation efforts by businesses and the automation of manufacturing processes, according to SNS Telecom.
The report further stated that private network revenue growth would be one of the few bright spots in an otherwise gloomy wireless telecommunications industry, which includes a slowdown in public mobile network infrastructure spending and operators struggling to monetise 5G investments.
“This unprecedented level of growth is likely to transform private Long Term Evolution (LTE) technology and 5G networks into an almost parallel equipment ecosystem to public mobile operator infrastructure in terms of market size by the late 2020s,” the report said. SNS Telecom estimates that by 2030 private networks could account for as much as a fifth of all mobile operator network infrastructure spending.
Meanwhile, in Nigeria, more subscribers are moving towards 4G and 5G networks as telecom operators like MTN and Airtel increase their infrastructure
investment nationwide. Giving insight into the growth of 4G in Nigeria, the Chief Executive Officer of MTN Nigeria, Karl Toriola, said during a recent forum that the number of 4G sites deployed by MTN Nigeria grew 2.7 per cent, a development that increased 4G usage among its customers from 79.1 per cent to 81.5 per cent.
The number of MTN’s 5G sites also saw the most growth rising from 588 to 2,106 sites and pushing 5G penetration to 11.3 per cent from 3.1 per cent.
During the commercial launch of MTN’s 5G network in Lagos in 2022, Toriola promised that the
advanced 5G technology would extend the reach and capacity of MTN Nigeria’s data network in Nigeria and enable much faster speeds and lower latency, giving customers near-instant access to the things they care about and downloads that take seconds, instead of minutes.
Airtel, another major telecoms operator, in 2023, deployed its 5G networks in four states in Nigeria, which include Lagos, Ogun, Rivers and Abuja.
Speaking at the 5G launch, the Chief Executive Officer of Airtel Nigeria, Carl Cruz, said: “The 5G revolution opens a new vista of
opportunities and it is a quantum leap from the existing 4G network.” He said with 5G, there would be more collaboration among stakeholders in the telecoms space to do new things with Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Internet of Things, Smart Cities, among others.
Giving details about 4G and 5G penetration level in Nigeria, Chairman, Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), Gbnega Adebayo, however said 4G has gained deeper penetration than 5G in Nigeria, owing to the high cost of deploying 5G infrastructure.
Emma Okonji
Global tech and environment leaders attending the ongoing Unite Nation’s COP29 climate summit in Baku, Azerbaijan, have endorsed a declaration on boosting climate action with digital technologies while cutting the environmental impacts of those same technologies.
In total, endorsements representing over 1,000 governments, companies, civil society organizations, international and regional organizations, and other stakeholders were received for the COP29 Declaration on Green Digital Action.
The declaration was presented at the weekend during a high-
level roundtable of the COP29 Digitalisation Day convened by the COP29 Presidency with the support of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).
During the presentation, President of COP29 and Azerbaijan’s Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources, Mukhtar Babayev, said: “The firstever Digitalisation Day at COP29 marks a new chapter in climate action, embedding digital technology as a transformative tool. With the launch of the COP29 Declaration on Green Digital Action, we have a unique opportunity to combat the climate crisis while urging the digital industry to take responsibility for its environmental footprint. From
Artificial Intelligence (AI) in climate modelling to optimising renewable energy systems, digital advancements are key to accelerating sustainable solutions on a global scale.”
Digitalisation Day, the first ever at a UN Climate Conference and the resulting Declaration are part of a series of COP29 activities focused on tech and climate action organised by ITU and its partners for Green Digital Action 2024.
According to ITU SecretaryGeneral, Doreen Bogdan-Martin, “This milestone moment for Green Digital Action at COP29 should propel us forward with the shared belief that we can and must reduce the environmental footprint of digital
technologies while leveraging their undeniable potential to tackle the climate crisis. Let’s keep building our green digital momentum all the way to COP30, and with it, a more sustainable digital future for generations to come.”
The COP29 Declaration on Green Digital Action recognises the importance of digital technologies to mitigate and adapt to climate change.
The objectives in the declaration underscore how digital innovations can reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and provide life-saving tools to inform and warn global communities.
Azerbaijan’s Minister of Digital Development and Transport, Rashad
Nabiyev, said: “These technologies are an important driving force towards achieving the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, especially in areas such as climate monitoring, early warning systems and building resilience to climate challenges.”
The declaration also highlights the adverse impacts of digital technologies themselves on the climate, such as the growing resource consumption and emissions associated with data centres and AI, the carbon and pollution footprints of tech manufacturing. The growing challenge of e-waste is also underscored.
The declaration, which also promotes digital inclusion and
accessibility, is built around eight common objectives. Sharing best practices for digital policies and technologies to reduce GHG emissions and enhance adaptation and resilience, World Bank’s Vice President for Digital Transformation, Sangbu Kim, said: “The World Bank is committed to supporting a green digital transformation. Last year, our green digital investments increased three-fold to $700 million. We are committed to expanding this support to help countries implement the objectives of the Green Digital Declaration.”
Okonji
Simplice-Banjoko: Gomoney Customers can Enhance their Account Security Using Biometric,
Two-factor Authentication
In this interview, Head of Banking Operations, Gomoney, Oluwafeyiyemi Simplice-Banjoko speaks on how Gomoney customers can enhance their account security by using biometric authentication or two-factor authentication (2FA) in the app and how the company tackle the challenges of technology interruptions by investing in a resilient infrastructure that minimizes downtime. Excerpts
What makes gomoney expense tracking and insights stand out and what are the challenges that comes with it?
Gomoney’s expense tracking and insight features stand out because of its innovative design, user-centric features, and ability to enable customers to manage their finances well. This feature also provides customers with useful information about their spending habits and helps them understand their patterns for better budgeting. There have not been any challenges with this feature so far; however, like with any feature, some customers may not use it because they do not fully understand how it works or the financial insights it provides. Gomoney is committed to making sure the expense tracking feature remains a valuable tool for customers to manage their finances effectively.
How can your customers use biometric authentication or two-factor authentication (2FA) in the app?
Customers can enhance their account security by using biometric authentication or two-factor authentication (2FA) in the app. Biometric authentication, which the user sets up, allows users to access the app using facial recognition or a fingerprint quickly. For two-factor authentication (2FA), customers will receive a one-time passcode (OTP) via SMS or email, which must be entered and their password for sign-in. Without this second layer of authentication, their account cannot be accessed. These security features provide an added level of protection for our customer’s personal and financial information.
How does gomoney handle SIM swap fraud, and are there additional verification steps for high-value transactions
Gomoney treats SIM swap fraud with utmost importance and has extra verification steps during sign-in, which requires a passcode or biometrics. For high-value transactions, Gomoney incorporates the use of a Personal Identification Number (PIN), which helps reduce the risk of unauthorized access. These measures minimize the chances of fraud.
On the Fraud Awareness Week, what does the management stand to pass across to its customers?
During this Fraud Awareness Week, our goal is to sensitize customers on the importance of identifying and preventing fraud. We aim to raise awareness about different fraud schemes and educate customers on how to protect themselves from fraud risks. This includes informing customers not to compromise their PIN or password, ensuring their card details are used only on secured sites, and taking proactive steps to safeguard their accounts and financial information.
Digital fraud in Nigeria has become increasingly prevalent due to the rapid adoption of digital banking, online transactions, and mobile technology. What message do you have for new and existing customers on the safety of their hard-earned money?
With the rapid adoption of digital banking, online transactions, and mobile technology in Nigeria, raising awareness about the risks of digital fraud and the importance of implementing effective mitigation measures has become very important. To our new and existing customers, we are committed to providing the highest level of security through our app with strong security measures like two-factor authentication (2FA), biometric verification, and our ongoing transaction monitoring to detect suspicious activities. I also urge customers to stay vigilant and never to compromise their credentials (PIN or Password). Additionally, with the increase in scams, customers should always conduct thorough due diligence before making any payments and be cautious of financial offers that seem too good to be true.
Gomoney has incorporated gamification elements through the goPlay Cards to help users learn about personal finance in an engaging way. Kindly explain what this does to your customers in terms of managing expenses and savings?- Marketing Team.
In order for our customers to properly manage their finances, they need to first understand their finances; their spending habits and money goals.
The goPlay cards which is a gamification element of gomoney is a deck of cards made up of 100 questions, prompts, did you know’s and discussions created to enable our customers have more insight into their personal finance to help them make informed decisions towards their everyday expenses and targeted savings. It also makes financial conversations across all relationships fun & easy to have. These cards can be purchased on the gomoney app and are straight to the users preferred address.
Technology interruption has been a major challenge affecting the digital banking space in Nigeria. What are how you are tackling these challenges?
At Gomoney, we tackle the challenges of technology interruptions by investing in a resilient infrastructure that minimizes downtime. We regularly conduct system upgrades and failover tests to identify and resolve potential issues before they impact our operations.
In addition, we maintain a comprehensive disaster recovery plan to ensure swift recovery of our operations in the event of a disruption. We also collaborate with regulators and industry partners to stay informed on industry updates and ensure we are prepared for any changes that could affect the digital banking landscape. Our customer success team is dedicated to providing timely responses to customers who contact us with inquiries or complaints through our customer support channels. These efforts are to ensure our customers receive the most efficient and secure banking experience for our customers.
What inspired the creation of Gomoney and how has the vision of the company evolved since its inception?
The inspiration behind Gomoney’s was the desire to redefine traditional banking by delivering a modern, seamless experience tailored to the needs of digital natives. The goal was to go beyond standard banking services by integrating innovative personal financial solutions that empower users to transact and manage their money with ease and transparency.
The global payment ecosystem is fast evolving with new innovations. Are these innovations happening in Gomoney too?
Yes, gomoney has been involved in innovative initiatives. ( More input form the product team).
Consumer protection and loss of trust in digital banking are two major issues plaguing digital banking in Nigeria, on
the issue of trust, how would you convince a prospect to choose Gomoney over other big players in the digital banking space?
Transparency and a user-friendly mobile app are the core of our operations. Our mobile app provides clear insights into customers’ transaction and spending patterns, with no hidden charges. Our customer success team is highly responsive, addressing inquiries promptly through our support channels and social media platforms. Our mobile app has enhanced security features like two-factor authentication(2FA) and biometric features for sign-in. Beyond being a digital bank, we focus on financial management with features like split bills and other innovative solutions that will be launched soon. We are committed to building trust through transparency, fostering innovation, and delivering exceptional service.
Cyber fraud is often associated with digital banking, what plans does Gomoney have in changing this narrative?
Gomoney is redefining the narrative about cyber fraud being associated with digital banking by implementing thorough KYC (Know Your Customer) processes for all customers during onboarding. We also use secure authentication including biometric verification and multi-factor authentication, to provide enhanced security on our customer’s accounts. Customer’s sensitive data are hashed. We conduct regular account monitoring and reviews to maintain the integrity of our systems. Additionally, we sensitize customers on fraud prevention. By collaborating with financial industry partners, we ensure alignment with best practices to combat fraud and cyberattacks.
Credit risk is a major concern with digital banking in Nigeria, how do you guide against this trend?
Currently, Gomoney does not offer credit facilities to customers. However, as part of our plans in progress, we would launch a credit product in partnership with SnapCash. Through this collaboration, we are able to extend credit facilities to our customers.
The requirements for all credit facilities will be determined by SnapCash, and Gomoney will adopt these criteria. This partnership allows us to leverage on an established loan product with systems and control while providing our customers access to credit facilities and minimizing risk.
Where do you see gomoney in the next 5years? Marketing Team.
What advice will you give to the Minister of
Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy on how to move the sector forward?
I would recommend that the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy focus on expanding digital infrastructure, such as fiber-optic networks and 5G technology, to enhance connectivity across the nation. Promoting digital inclusion is equally essential by ensuring that underserved communities gain access to affordable internet services and digital tools, creating equal opportunities for all. Additionally, providing incentives and funding for startups in the technology and innovation sectors will encourage creativity amongst the youth and support small businesses, driving economic growth. Integrating sustainable practices into digital initiatives is critical to protecting the environment while fostering development. For example, The National Broadband Plan (NBP) 2020–2025, aimed for effective data coverage to at least 90% of the population by 2025 and ensure affordable internet access across Nigeria. Through these initiatives, the Minister can help build a robust ecosystem that promotes inclusive and sustainable development in the digital economy.
Consumer data protection has been a topic for some time now,and digital banks have been accused of the breach in Consumer data rights, what measure does Gomoney take to protect privacy of its users’ data.
At Gomoney, we proactively address the risks associated with data breaches by implementing robust risk management techniques and adhering to industry best practices. Key measures we employ include:
Access to our systems and network is strictly limited to authorized staff with specific rolebased needs. This approach minimizes the risk of unauthorized access or data misuse.
Sensitive customer data is hashed ensuring robust security of customers’ data.
We periodically conduct risk assessments to identify vulnerabilities and take proactive steps to mitigate potential threats.
We have a comprehensive incident response plan where incidents are documented to, reduce risks, with prompt action taken as applicable. Our team members are regularly trained on data protection and cybersecurity best practices to ensure they are equipped to handle sensitive information responsibly.
Infrastructure is key to a seamless digital banking operation, how do you hope to navigate this challenge?
We recognize that infrastructure is key to seamless digital banking operations, and we navigate this by partnering with reliable and leading technology vendors. Our engineering team is dedicated to monitoring and optimizing system performance, ensuring that our infrastructure remains efficient and robust.
The digital banking ecosystem is still plagued by fraud. What is Gomoney doing to help stem the tide?
Our dedicated fraud desk team continuously monitors suspicious transaction patterns and activities, enabling quick identification and mitigation of any fraudulent pattern.
We collaborate with reputable financial institutions to strengthen our fraud prevention measures. These collaborations help us align with industry best practices and stay proactive against evolving fraud trends. Sensitive customer data is securely hashed, and we have a comprehensive incident response plan where incidents are documented to, reduce risks, with prompt action taken as applicable.
What security features does Gomoney have in place that make it stand out from the crowd?
Our mobile app has key security features, some of these features are:
• Requiring customers to provide their current passcode or transaction PIN before initiating any changes.
• Integrating biometric verification into the password and transaction PIN reset process.
• Sending instant email notifications to customers for successful sign-ins.
• Notifying customers via email for a new device sign-in.
• Sending prompt email alerts for successful resets of personal identification details.
• Implementing two-factor authentication (2FA) for signing in on new devices.
Simplice-Banjoko
L-R: CEO NGX Regco, Olufemi Shobanjo; Group Chairman NGX Group, Dr. Umaru Kwairanga; Chairman Haldane McCall Plc, George Oguntade (SAN); Group Managing Director, Dr Edward Akinlade;CEO NGX,Jude Chiemeka; Independent Non-Exec. Director Haldane McCall Plc, Adedapo Adekoje and Executive Director,
the Listing of
How Hackers Exploit QR Codes to Steal Credentials from Mobile Devices
Stories by Emma Okonji
Sophos, a global leader of innovative security solutions for defeating cyberattacks, has released the results of Sophos X-Ops research, which revealed how hackers use fraudulent QR codes, emailed by threat actors, to bypass the phishing security measures to steal credentials of companies.
According to the report, the fraudulent QR code, embedded in a PDF document attached to
an email, takes the form of a message about payroll, employee benefits, or other forms of official paperwork a business might send to an employee. Because QR codes are not readable by computers, the employee must scan the QR code using their mobile phone. The QR code links to a phishing page, which the employee may not recognise as malicious since phones are less protected than a computer. The goal of the attackers is to capture employees’ passwords and their multi-factor authentication
(MFA) tokens in order to access a company’s system by bypassing the security measures in place.
Giving details of the new threat from hackers, Principal Researcher at Sophos X-Ops, Andrew Brandt, said: “We spent a considerable amount of time sifting through all the spam samples we had to find examples of ‘quishing’. Our research has revealed that attacks that exploit this specific threat vector are intensifying, both in terms of volume and sophistication, especially when it comes to the
appearance of the PDF document.”
In addition to social engineering tactics, the quality of emails, attachments and QR code graphics, these attacks seem to be growing in terms of organization as well. Indeed, some malicious actors now offer as-a-service tools to run phishing campaigns using fraudulent QR codes. In addition to features such as CAPTCHA bypasses or the generation of IP address proxies to bypass automated threat detection, these criminal organisations provide a
PalmPay to Champion International Anti-fraud Awareness Week
To commemorate the upcoming International Anti-Fraud Awareness Week, PalmPay, a leading financial institution in Nigeria, is launching a series of community-focused initiatives to educate the public on fraud prevention and digital security.
The highlight of the initiative is a community walk themed: ‘United Against Fraud: Building a Safer Future’, set to take place across Lagos on November 22, 2024. The walk will gather key stakeholders from various sectors, PalmPay staff, and members of
the public, reinforcing a collective commitment to a safer digital finance ecosystem in Nigeria.
The walk will commence at designated PalmPay offices, moving towards Ikeja tech hub, Computer Village. Along the route, participants will distribute informative materials
and engage with local residents and passersby, sharing tips on fraud prevention and encouraging safe digital practices. The event is open to all who are interested in standing against fraud and learning about ways to protect themselves in today’s digital landscape.
Stakeholders Call for Data Protection at NIICF Forum
Industry stakeholders have emphasised the importance of prioritising robust data protection and cybersecurity measures to safeguard sensitive information and ensure digital resilience. This comes amidst growing concerns about data breaches and cyberattacks that can have far-reaching consequences for individuals and organizations.
The stakeholders made the call during the 12th edition of the Nigeria ICT Impact CEO Forum (NIICF) held recently with the theme: Strengthening Data
Protection, Cloud Infrastructure & Cyber Security’. Chief Executive Officer of Digital Reality, Ike Nnamani, stressed the importance of cybersecurity in the context of data localisation. “While we’re exploring ways to strengthen local hosting, cybersecurity is paramount. We can’t ignore the importance of cybersecurity when discussing data localization. Before promoting local hosting, we must prioritize the protection of sensitive data. The recent events highlight the government’s commitment to securing critical sovereign data.
While I support this initiative, we must ensure that we have the right safeguards in place,” Nnamani said.
Chief Executive Officer, Net Access System Limited, Mr. Lekan Balogun highlighted the importance of strengthening data protection, cloud infrastructure, and cybersecurity, especially in light of the increasing reliance on the internet and digital services.
He emphasised the need for robust data protection measures to safeguard sensitive information in an era of growing cyber threats. The company stressed
the importance of investing in necessary policies, infrastructure, and expertise to ensure a secure digital ecosystem.
Chief Executive Officer, VDT Communications, Mr. Abiodun Omoniyi, expressed his company’s commitment to advancing secure and efficient digital solutions, aligning with the goals of the forum. He highlighted its company longstanding partnership with the event and its dedication to quality, reliability, and innovation in the telecommunications industry.
Experts Highlight Blockchain, AI, e-Commerce Potentials for Africa
Stories by Agnes Ekebuike
Technology experts at the Africa Tech Alliance Forum (AfriTECH 4.0) held in Lagos recently, have highlighted the transformative potential of blockchain and AI in positioning Africa as a global technology leader.
The Director-General, National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, in his keynote address, titled: ‘Blockchain Technology, AI: Positioning Africa for the Future’, emphasised Africa’s unique position to leverage these technologies for economic and social development.
With mobile penetration at about 80 per cent and a rapidly growing youth population, Africa, he noted, remained fertile ground for digital transformation, noting that Blockchain and AI offer unparalleled opportunities to propel Africa into the future as a leader in the global digital economy.
“Both blockchain and artificial intelligence are powerful technologies that offer Africa unprecedented opportunities. By strategically integrating these technologies, we can propel Africa forward as a dynamic leader in the global digital economy,” he said.
In his presentation titled:
‘Navigating The Future of Technology In Africa:
The Intersection of AI, Blockchain, Cryptocurrency and Cybersecurity’, Chief Visionary Officer, Digital Encode Limited, Dr. Obadare Peter Adewale, examined adoption trends, industry impact, and the key challenges across these technologies.
Taking an overview of emerging technologies in Africa, Obadare who was represented by CISO and Group Head of Information Security at Digital Regional General Manager, QNET sub-Saharan Africa, Mr. Biram Fall, said: “With over 350 million unbanked adults, there is
a significant potential of financial inclusion and digital solutions for Africa, and a vast opportunity to expand access to financial security, event through electronic commerce (eCommerce).”
Presenting a paper titled: Building Digital Infrastructure for a Sustainable Digital Economy, through a representative, Mr. Nnamdi Onoh, of Galaxy Backbone, Prof. Adeyanju noted that technology has the potential to redefine Africa’s economic trajectory, and that at Galaxy Backbone, they are dedicated to building the foundational digital infrastructure that supports this vision.
sophisticated phishing platform that can capture the credentials or MFA tokens of targeted individuals, the report further said.
It therefore advised that organisations must be vigilant about
internal emails about HR topics, salaries or company benefits, as Sophos X-Ops’ research has found that social engineering tricks exploit these themes to trick employees into scanning fraudulent QR codes from their mobile devices.
WITIN Girls STEM Clubs & Outreaches has been announced as the winner of this year’s Inspiring Women in Science Outreach Award in London. Women In Technology In Nigeria (WITIN), was recognised for its attention in providing solutions to address the low representation of girls in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education in the areas of health, security, safe and supportive environment.
Executive Director and Founder of WITIN Girls STEM Clubs & Outreaches, Martha Alade, who received the award in London, said: “It is both humbling and affirming to be presented with the award. We approach girls in underserved areas with a single idea that access to knowledge is a human right. At WITIN, we work extremely hard to be an inspiration to girls who otherwise would not have these
In a significant milestone for women in tech, TD Africa has officially launched the TecHERdemy programme, an initiative aimed at equipping 400 young Nigerian women with essential digital skills to succeed in today’s technologydriven world.
The launch event, held in the Yudala Height Building of the company and co-sponsored by global brands like Huawei, Microsoft and Cisco, brought together participants who had completed a series of online assessments to secure a spot in this highly anticipated program.
The CEO of TD Africa, Mrs. Chioma Ekeh, expressed her enthusiasm for the TecHERdemy programme, emphasising how closely it aligns with TD Africa’s mission of ‘Empowering You’.
She reiterated that the training would offer the participants
opportunities, and we persist because there is a great need.”
Senior Vice President, Global R&D, The Estée Lauder Companies (ELC), Lisa Napolione, said: “We are delighted to celebrate the seventh year of the Nature Awards for Inspiring Women in Science. Each year, the calibre of applications from around the world gives me great hope, knowing the impact of these women who are at the centre of producing such exceptional research outcomes and those who are working to expand STEM outreach so more girls and young women around the world have the opportunity to do so in the future. At ELC, we believe that recognizing the breakthrough research being led by women and honouring their contributions toward developing the next generation of women scientists accelerates gender equality in STEM fields and beyond.”
invaluable skills and insights to help them thrive in the technology sector. “TecHERdemy is not just a training program; it’s a launchpad to a brighter future for each of you. I encourage you to seize this opportunity, as it is a chance to bring positive change, not only in your lives but also to empower others in your communities and beyond,” Ekeh remarked.
As the co-sponsor of the programme, Huawei was represented by Channel Director, Gary Li, who expressed Huawei’s commitment to partnering with TD Africa to make this initiative a success. “Huawei is proud to be part of TecHERdemy, a program that mirrors our commitment to innovation and equality in the tech sector. We are dedicated to supporting each participant’s journey, ensuring they gain industry-relevant skills to meet global standards,” Li said.
Haldane Abiola Elugbaju, during
Haldane McCall on Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) in Lagos … yesterday
Awojobi: Structured Framework Will Drive Digital Skills Development
Technical Adviser, Lagos State Safety Commission and Co-founder, Nest Technology Innovation Hub, Seun Awojobi, speaks on how Lagos government is leveraging technology to drive processes and the need for a structured framework that will enable tech hubs increase digital skills development across the country. Emma Okonji presents the excerpts:
How is Lagos State Safety Commission leveraging emerging technologies to drive processes that enhance citizens’ experience?
Technology is an enabler and Lagos State government is investing big in emerging technologies, through various agencies of government. The Lagos State Safety Commission, for instance, is an agency of government responsible for the safety of lives and property in the state and the agency is leveraging technology to drive its processes. Our mandate covers construction, manufacturing, hospitality, oil and gas, and general workplaces. The vision really is to ensure that every worker goes to work and returns home safely, free from accidents, incidents, and diseases and injuries. We carry out our work through what we call the four E’s programme, which include Evaluation, Engagement, Education and Enforcement.
What is your commission doing to harmonise the different databases of government that are in silos in order to create a single database for easy access?
When we got into office in 2019, there was no database of the organisations that we were meant to regulate. COVID, for us, was a game changer, because we realised that we didn’t have a single and extensive database. So under the leadership of the government of Lagos State, we created the database of all businesses within the event and hospitality space, which covered bars, lounges, hotels, event venues, gyms, clubs, and all the social centers in Lagos. So today, if you go on LASG Safety Reg, we have over 15,000 registered businesses. We have their locations,
and all the necessary information about their businesses, and they have been verified.
Now, what that helps us to do is, should there be any mishap or any safety breach, is to enable us to locate the space with easy and we will be able as government, to trace who is responsible for the safety breach.
Having gone digital, what were the responses from the people in terms of accepting the change from analogue to digital?
Before now, a lot of people did not want
the change to digital, but that is where the world is heading to and we had to insist on digital transformation for the state.
Today, government activities are online and could be accessed online by the citizens, a development that has eased congestion of people trying to find their ways to government offices to carryout government transactions.
The time they spend commuting between their various locations and the government secretariat has been minimized because people can now access all government activities online.
With digitization of government activities, one thing is clear about the response time, which has become a lot easier. Lagos population is fast growing and we believe that we cannot keep getting everybody into one space. So if we’re able to drive one digital adoption, what happens is, first we see that our revenue as a state will go up because you’ve cut all those bottlenecks in accessing government services. So I can say for free that a lot of government agencies are digitizing their processes.
How has The Nest Technology Innovation Hub impacted on the citizens and the Nigerian economy, since its inception?
The Nest Technology Innovation Hub was set up to address the needs of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), knowing well that the growth of SMEs will add great value to digital transformation in Nigeria.
So through training and support for
SMEs, we ensure that SMES are able to stand the test of time and cater for the businesses.
To achieve this, we offer a range of support services, collaboration, business support, training, skills development, mentorship, providing an accelerator for new businesses to come in or existing businesses to come in and then scale.
The Nest is a technology hub that caters to a number of startups. A number of startups come through our space, access a lot of our services, and we offer a wide range of those services to a lot of the startups within our space.
Is The Nest Technology Innovation Hub part of the 3MTT initiative of the federal government to train three million technical talents across special skills in Nigeria and what is your take on the initiative?
The Next Technology Innovation Hub is one of the hubs selected by the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy to train Nigerians on digital skills, I must say that the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy is doing a fantastic job. I think his vision really is to ensure that Nigeria is an exporter of tech talents, which is one of the things that have happened in India. If you go to a number of countries around the world, you see that there are lots of Indians in their tech space. Nigeria has a growing population of youth, which the minister wants to strengthen by ensuring that at least we’re able to train three million people on technical talents.
The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com
Awojobi
Redefining Corporate Social Responsibility
Raheem akingbolu writes on how brands and advertisers are redefining corporate social responsibility techniques to demystify the various financial challenges faced by Nigerians in their quest to acquire relevant knowledge in Sciences, Mathematics and Technology
The conviction that consumers’ perception could be changed to rate brand value through overtures from companies has continued to encourage more organisations to invest more in CSR. In Nigeria, records and performances in the market have shown that companies that invest in CSR grow more because of the natural connection between them and members of the public. As a result of this discovery, most companies are waking up fast to this global trend while a few are still living in the past.
Today, corporate organisations strive to engage consumers through advert placement across different media platforms even as attention spans are rapidly reducing. Experts have pointed out that brand sustainability is more than just advertising; it involves creating meaningful engagement through initiatives that endear consumers to the brand.
As part of the sustainability agenda, most brands including foundations and individuals embark on a series of initiatives to give back to society. In the area of education for example, some brands support initiatives around science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) while some support girl education, vulnerable children education, and others to support the actualization of the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4 which is to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all. However, much still needs to be done by brands, advertisers, and other stakeholders to help reduce out-of-school children.
Meanwhile, Nigeria has 18.3 million out-ofschool children according to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). As tuition fees are on the rise coupled with the increasing cost of products and services and changing economic realities in the county, experts forecast that out-of-school children may increase if something urgent is not done.
With a growing population of about 160 million young people, Nigeria is a huge market
for any brand that wants to strategically capture a significant share of the youth market through a well-thought-out initiative that will win their hearts like throwing its weight behind an initiative that supports free education for all.
StRategiC allianCe
Most adverts targeted at students or young people and other stakeholders in the education ecosystem are aimed at persuading them to take an action, buy a product or service, or support a course but giving back for viewing or clicking an advert has never been part of the option.
An independent survey shows that consumers want brands to support them, especially in this period of economic uncertainty while brands want value for every advert placement on any media platform whether on television, radio, newspaper, magazine, out-of-home advertising, or social media.
To marry the two, that is Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and advertising, Mobile Classroom, a frontline Edutech and audio-visual e-learning platform, recently launched a new feature on its app to enable advertisers to empower consumers to earn by just clicking on an advert, thereby making education free for Nigerians.
The effort will help raise the standard of education in the country, as well as save lives, and contribute to economic growth. In essence, students, lecturers, education institutions, parents, brands, and the country as a whole will benefit from the initiative. Students or learners earn for viewing ads and can use the money earned on the platform to pay their tuition fees for any institution they attend in the country and can also subscribe to lecturer materials made available on the platform by different lecturers.
The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com
PRAM
Fo nded in ith the crea on of the CARE Package , CARE is a leading h manitarian organi a on figh ng global po ert CARE places special foc s on orking alongside omen and girls. Eq ipped ith the proper reso rces omen and girls ha e the po er to li� hole families and en re comm ni es o t of po ert This ear, CARE and partners o r ke d i n co nt r i e s i m p l e m e n n g , p o e r t -fi g h n g d e e l o p m e nt a n d h manitarian aid projects and ini a es, that reached , , people. CARE Nigeria is registered ith CAC and has signed an MOU ith the Go ernment of Nigeria to implement de elopment and h manitarian relief assistance to affected pop la ons in Nigeria. CARE Nigeria's thema c areas incl de Food N tri on Sec rit and Li elihood, Women's Economic Empo erment, Se al Reprod c e Health and Rights, and Gender-based Violence (GBV) and Protec on ac i es.
The . - ear CAtal ing Strengthened polic aC on for heAlth Diets and resiliencE (CASCADE) project is being implemented b CARE and The Global Alliance for Impro ed N tri on (GAIN). B priori ing the essen al n tri on ser ices path a , CASCADE orks ith na onal and local go ernments to implement the N tri on polic and de elop a m lstakeholder strategic implementa on plan thro gh hich go ernment actors can coordinate to be er conte t ali e na onal food and n tri on policies. The program ill ork ith the go ernment and its technical commi ees to impro e the q alit of n tri on programs and strategies, s ppor ng the organi a on of for ms and polic dialog es to ad ocate for increased in estment in n tri on polic implementa on. The program ill strengthen the capacit of small and medi m enterprises (SMEs) to s ppl n tri on ser ices, incl ding for fied prod cts.
CARE Nigeria is iss ing a “Req est for Proposals” for: PARTICIPATORY RESILIENCE ANALYSIS AND MEASUREMENT-PRAM
I n t e r e s t e d b i d d e r s s h o l d
nga.procurement@care.org to e press their interest and req est for complete TOR st th doc menta on containing all details of this tender process from – No ember ith the s bject: . PARTICIPATORY RESILIENCE ANALYSIS AND MEASUREMENT-PRAM.
Note: Bidders sho ld take acco nt of the e pected s bmission me req ired and are responsible for ens ring that bids are recei ed ia the address indicated in the solicita on b the d e date and me. CARE NIGERIA REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL: PARTICIPATORY RESILIENCE ANALYSIS AND MEASUREMENT
ProPerty & environment
COP29: Simon Stiell Urges Parties to Step Forward Faster to Common Ground
Bennett Oghifo
The UN Climate Change Executive Secretary Simon Stiell has appealed to Parties to do all that is necessary to bring discussions to common ground.
Stiell made the call during the opening plenary session (week 2) of the UN Climate Change Conference (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan, on Monday 18 November 2024.
He urged the Parties to wrap
up less contentious issues as early as possible during the week, so there is enough time for the major political decisions.
“We’ve worked closely with the Presidency, who have just laid out a clear approach to get us to the finish line. We can’t lose sight of the forest because we’re tussling over individual trees.
“Nor can we afford an outbreak of ‘you-first-ism’. Where groups of parties dig in and
refuse to move on one issue, until others move elsewhere.
“This is a recipe for going literally nowhere. And could set global climate efforts back at a time when we simply must be moving forward.
“We will only get the job done if Parties are prepared to step forward in parallel, bringing us closer to common ground.
“Bluffing, brinksmanship, and pre-mediated playbooks burn up precious time and run
Erubami Urges Good Maintenance Culture for Sustainable Development
Fadekemi Ajakaiye
The National President of the Association of Facility Management Practitioners Nigeria (AFMPN), Mr. Paul Erubami, has said that good maintenance of infrastructure would extend their lifespan and protect the environment.
The president, who stated this in his opening speech at AFMPN’s annual conference in Abuja recently, said the body “seeks to advance the profession through education and advocacy, cooperation, and development.
It seeks to safeguard interest in excellence in the management of the built environment by equipping members with such knowledge and skills as may be needed to meet today’s challenges and beyond.”
The theme of the conference was, “The Maintenance Economy and the Built Environment: The Role of Facility Management.”
He said, “The economy of facility management is enormous, from cost-saving initiatives to optimization of resources used, such as low
energy consumption and minimizing the disruptions in operation. Facility management also provides employment and improves local economic development. By looking after our built environment, we safeguard the investment put in place for continued service delivery of those assets. The economic benefits of good facility management run deep and wide, having effects not only on organizational effectiveness in their own individual ways but outreaching into the national economy.
Ending Open Defecation in Lagos: Need for
Regulatory, Cultural, Social, Behavioral Rejuvenation
Lasisi Adedoyin
“According to World Health Organization (WHO) and United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Joint Monitoring Program (JMP) 2021 reports, 494 million people practice open defecation”. Most (92%) of these people lived in rural areas and nearly half lived in sub-Saharan Africa. Like other sub-Saharan African countries, Nigeria is slipping with the problem of open defecation. According to findings from the 2021 WASH NORM report, approximately 48
million Nigerians still engage in open defecation, and only 8% of the population practice clean handwashing. Sometimes in 2019, Nigeria became the number one open defecation nation globally. By 2025, it is estimated that 56 million people will be engaged in open defecation in Nigeria if urgent action is not taken. This means a total of 102 million people or 20 million households should have access to a toilet and use it. Besides, sanitation facilities have to be provided to numerous institutions such as schools, health centers, market centers,
motor parks, highway eateries, jetties, and religious places so as not to have any open defecation around these places. The adverse impact of open defecation is now well documented. According to a World Bank Report (2012), around 122,000 Nigerians including 87,000 children under 5 die each year from diarrhea; nearly 90% is directly attributed to water, sanitation, and hygiene.
A comprehensive review of 21 studies, covering several countries found a 36% reduction in diarrhoeal morbidity due to improved sanitation.
down the goodwill needed for an ambitious package.
“So let’s cut the theatrics and get down to real business. Yes, there are headwinds, everyone knows that, but lamenting them won’t make them go away. Now is the time to focus on solutions.
“I know we can get this done. The Presidency is working round the clock, with diligence, determination and even-handedness.
“The secretariat will continue to be the steady guide by their
side, while also supporting Parties, with a focus on inclusivity. So I urge everyone - now’s the time to get to work.”
Stiell also described National Adaptation Plans as “key to unleashing the transformative power of resilience and protecting communities and economies.”
National Adaptation Plans, he said, are more necessary than ever. They are truly vital.
“This year, we saw how every
bit of preparation – every policy, every plan – is the difference between life and death for millions of people around the world. Prudence demands we plan for the worst.
“Many of you know that these plans are not easy to put together. Resources are scarce, both funding and capacity – especially for the most vulnerable, in Least Developed Countries and Small Island Developing States.
Randomly Check All Tests Reports, Olayinka Abdul Cautions Technical Consultants
Fadekemi Ajakaiye
The General Manager of the Lagos State Materials Testing Laboratory Agency, Engr. Olayinka Abdul, has called for absolute caution on results emanating from its Technical Consultants to be valid and directed at aligning professional techniques in averting building collapse across the Lagos metropolis.
Speaking during a training forum organised on Saturday 16th November, at the Conference Hall of the Public Works Corporation amidst Technical Consultants of her Agency
as a collaboration with the Association for Consulting Engineers of Nigeria, Engr. Abdul disclosed that with the teaming population of Lagos State, it was imperative to deploy strategic standards at ensuring professionalism in its materials testing processes, for a zero - free buildings’ collapse State. This was contained in a statement issued by the Head, Public Affairs Unit, LSMTL, Salehu-Badejo Abimbola.
She said, “Lagos is a global city with opportunities for improved service delivery. That is why this training
is to enhance your reporting techniques, as well as your Laboratory scrutiny procedures on Materials Test to randomly check for faults on buildings. It is pertinent to have valid data collation, otherwise if litigation arises you will be blacklisted. Be credible and professional because you have to always defend every results from your office as our partners, while urging for a more stronger back up process. Remember, you are not proffer any remedy so you won’t misinform . Just conduct credible tests for building materials.”
Afriland Properties Appoints Olukayode Odebiyi as Executive Director
Fadekemi Ajakaiye
Afriland Properties Plc has announced the appointment of Olukayode Odebiyi as an Executive Director in the company. This strategic move is part of Afrilands ongoing efforts to enhance operational efficiency and expand its project portfolio in line with its vision of redefining the real estate landscape.
Olukayode, who previously served as Director of Property Development at Afriland Properties, has been instrumental in the
successful execution of several transformative projects that reflect the companys commitment to innovation, excellence, and sustainable development. In his new capacity, he will oversee Project Development, Business Development, and Facilities Management, driving strategic initiatives that align with Afrilands long-term objectives.
With over 24 years of professional experience in Real Estate and Portfolio Management, Strategy Development, Finance and Treasury Management, and
Business Development, Olukayode is a respected leader in the industry. His expertise spans project management, data analysis, and enhancing building efficiency, skills that will be invaluable as Afriland pursues its ambitious growth plans.
An alumnus of the Harvard Graduate School of Designs Advanced Management Development Program in Real Estate (AMDP), Olukayode also holds an MBA from the Lagos Business School and a BSc in Economics from the University of Ibadan.
Redan Calls on Wike to Investigate Alleged Illegal Demolitions in Sabon Lugbe, Abuja
Fadekemi Ajakaiye
The Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria (REDAN) has said they are deeply concerned about recent allegations from various quarters against the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike, regarding the authorization of demolitions worth over N200 billion in Sabon Lugbe, Abuja, allegedly without due process. They said these demolitions have left many Nigerians homeless. According to the legal representative of the affected developers, they possess all necessary title documents and building permits issued by the Development Control Department within the FCT Administration (FCTA). Despite this, the demolitions reportedly
proceeded without prior notice or a court order.
“As a key stakeholder in the housing and real estate sector, REDAN finds these allegations highly disturbing, especially at a time when our nation is grappling with a significant housing deficit and economic hardship due to the removal of fuel subsidies and the floating of the Naira. The demolition of housing at such a critical time amounts to an economic waste and benefits no one, as it further worsens the housing crisis. Given the current economic challenges, there is an urgent need for cautious and efficient management of our limited resources. Any action that renders Nigerians homeless should be condemned by all.
“REDAN believes that even
if demolition is deemed a last resort, it must be carried out with due process and the utmost transparency to protect the rights of all parties involved. The Minister’s alleged actions not only undermine public confidence but also risk damaging the reputation of the FCT Administration.
“In light of the seriousness of these allegations, REDAN calls upon the Minister of the FCT, Barrister Nyesom Wike, to clear his name by urgently setting up an independent panel of inquiry to investigate the events surrounding the demolitions in Sabon Lugbe. We believe that a transparent and thorough investigation will provide clarity, ensure justice for affected parties, and restore public trust in the administration of the FCT.
“REDAN stands for fairness and the rule of law in all matters concerning land and property
development. We also call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene in this matter to
ensure that the rights of all citizens are respected and that justice prevails.
L-R; GMD, Odu’a Investment Company Limited, Mr Abdulrahman Yinusa; Representative of Oyo State Governor/Chief of Staff, Hon Segun Ogunwuyi; OICL Group Chairman, Otunba Bimbo Ashiru and Commissioner for Lands, Housing and Urban Development, Mr Williams Akinfunmilayo, during the commissioning of the renovated Cocoa
Photo
L-R: Chairman, Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission (OGSIEC), Mr. Babatunde Osibodu, presenting the Certificate of Return to the Chairman-elect of Abeokuta North Local Government Area, Hon. Lanre Oyegbola-Sodipo, in Ogun State... recently
L-R: Medical Detector, Medical Art Centre, Dr. Mojisola Aderonmu; Chairman/Chief Medical Director, Mart Group of Health Services (Medical Art Centre), Prof.
Managing Director of Institute for Enterprise Management and Analytics
Raymond Smith, at the presentation of ISO 9001;2015 Certification to
Art Centre by IEMA, held in Ikeja, Lagos… recently
L-R: Consultant Urologist, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Prof Ikenna Nnabugwu; Brand Associate, Pharmacy Plus Limited, Ijeoma Nwosu; and Head of Marketing, Pharmacy Plus Limited, Iyke Aneke, at the unveiling of DUOSTAM, Smart and Logical Solution to the treatment of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) by Pharmacy Plus at the 97th edition of Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria Conference in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State... recently
L-R: Daughter, Chiagoziem Okonkwo; wife, Dr. Juliet Okonkwo; and Group Managing Director/CEO of Topwide Group Limited, Lagos, Mr. Tony Okonkwo, when the Okonkwos paid tributes to Late Senator Ifeanyi Uba at the Senators’ Night of Tributes in honour the departed federal lawmaker, held in Lagos… recently
L-R: Chairman, Anniversary Planning Committee, 30th Anniversary, Sir Bolaji Onabadejo; Chairman and Guest Lecturer, Sir Demola Aladekomo; Arch Bishop of Lagos Mainland Methodist Church, Most Revd. Dr. Obafemi Adeleye; Chief Launcher, Sir Adelana Odutola; and Presbyter/Minister-in-Charge, Very Revd. Olumuyiwa Adigun, at the 30th anniversary and fund raising ceremony of Methodist Church, Akowonjo, Lagos… recently
L-R: Trade Graduate, Lewis Chineyoke; Brand Manager, Hero Lager, Stephanie Nwosu; and Trade Master who trained Lewis, John Chijioke Goodwill, as
being rewarded by Hero Lager during the
in Umuahia, Abia State, in commemoration of the Hero Apprentice to Business Owner Campaign… recently
both traders
Hero’s Walk held
Oladapo Ashiru; and
(IEMA), Dr.
Medical
The Chief Executive Officer of Polaris Integrated and GeoSolutions Limited (PIGL) Chigozie Dimgba, and Executive Director, PIGL, Nnenna Dimgba (middle); flanked to left by the CEO, Dover Engineering, Eloka Ejeh (right); the SPE Chairman, Nigeria Council 2019, Debo Fagbami; and friends and well-wishers as they cut the 20th anniversary cake of PIGL in Lagos… recently
Insurance Commissioner Tasks Directors on Commitment, Governance, Risk Compliance
Ebere Nwoji
The commissioner for insurance, Mr Olusegun Ayo Omosehin, has emphasised the need for Board of insurance companies to demonstrate genuine commitment and strict adherence to governance, risk, and compliance principles.
Omosehin, who stated this at the 2024 Insurance Directors’ Conference held in Lagos, said as the highest policy making organ of every insurance institution, members of board of every insurance firm must demonstrate genuine commitment and strict adherence to governance, risk, and compliance principles.
This year’s conference has the theme, “Board Performance in the Nigerian Insurance Industry: A GRC Approach.”
He said to overcome these challenges, the board should help to improve decision-making process, increase transparency and accountability, and ultimately
improve regulatory compliance.
“However, as a regulator, we believe that one of the key challenges that the insurance industry is currently grappling with is the issue of subpar corporate governance practices, poor risk management and a very low compliance culture.
“In today’s global business landscape, integrating GRC at the board level is vital for business success and sustainability. It is no longer optional, but an essential ingredient for enhancing decision-making, transparency, accountability and risk management. Effective GRC ensures that boards have the necessary tools to make informed decisions, identify potential risks, and maintain the highest standards of compliance,” he noted. Omosehin added, “NAICOM is committed to aligning the insurance sector with the president’s goal of growing the Nigerian economy to $1 trillion by 2030, and to achieve this, the commission was committed to
creating the necessary regulatory framework required to achieve meaningful contribution from the insurance sector.
“De-risking a trillion-dollar economy takes more than mere rhetorics. To this end, we are fully committed to working with the National Assembly in delivering the required legal and regulatory framework which would flow from the successful passage of the 2024 Insurance Reform Bill.”
He stated that as part of the Commission’s strategic plan, it has set five key priorities that would deliver on this agenda, namely: Safeguarding policy holders and improving confidence in the insurance industry; strengthening our supervisory capabilities; improve safety and soundness of our institutions; foster innovation and sustainability of the insurance industry and enhance overall insurance accessibility and penetration in Nigeria.
FCMB Partners with EStars to Bring Esports Education to Nigerian Schools
First City Monument Bank (FCMB) has said that it is working with EStars to bring esports education to Nigerian schools.
“We want to introduce Nigerians aged 7 to 14 across primary and secondary schools to essential skills for thriving in a digital world early in life.
EStars launched its educational esports platform in Nigeria on July 16. The platform provides a fun and structured way for students to learn teamwork, communication, and problemsolving through gaming. These skills are essential for success in today’s world but are often not a focus in traditional classrooms.
“The EStars platform is safe and helps students to immerse themselves in skill-building activities. It includes tourna-
ment management tools, team collaboration functionalities, and resources for integrating esports into school curricula. It also offers coaching and training materials to help students develop their esports skills and explore potential career pathways in the growing esports industry, “it said in a statement.
Managing Director of FCMB, Mrs. Yemisi Edun, commented on the partnership: “EStars has brought a fun and innovative way to advance students’ knowledge and life skills. This platform allows schools to harness the power of play to cultivate a love for learning.”
This initiative aligns with FCMB’s commitment to fostering education and youth development in Nigeria. Mrs. Edun added, “At FCMB, we
believe in equipping the next generation with the skills they need to thrive in the age of AI and automation. We are not just preparing them for the future but empowering them to shape it.”
EStars’ founder, Mags Byrne, echoed this sentiment: “Our mission is to empower young minds with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive in the esports industry and beyond. The partnership aims to bridge the gap between traditional education and the burgeoning esports industry, providing students with valuable skills and potential career pathways.
As Jonny Baxter, British Deputy High Commissioner. Esports is now fully professional and is expected to contribute significantly to the UK economy.”
US-Nigeria Trade Gets a Boost as Kango Express Enters Market
Mary Nnah
Kango Express, a leading shipping company, has officially launched its operations in Nigeria, poised to transform its shipping industry.
The launch event, held at the residence of the US ConsulGeneral in Ikoyi, Lagos, recently, was attended by stakeholders, clients, and friends.
US Consul-General, Mr. Williams B. Stevens, hailed Kango Express’s entry into the Nigerian market, describing its services as “the best” and its fees as “extremely cheap” compared to others. He emphasised that this development will further strengthen the long-standing business relationship between
the United States and Nigeria, fostering increased trade and economic cooperation.
As an independently owned franchise of Kango Express Inc USA, Kango Express Nigeria Limited brings its expertise to Nigeria, having already established a presence in Ghana, Tanzania, Cote d’Ivoire.
The CEO, Michael Brockert, expressed optimism about Nigeria becoming their best market, citing unmatched shipping options that prioritise efficiency, customer satisfaction, and safe, quick delivery.
Kango Express offers a comprehensive range of services, including consolidated
package shipping, direct rapid shipping, and assisted payment and delivery solutions. These services cater to individuals, small businesses, and large corporations, providing reliable and affordable shipping solutions from the United States.
The launch is expected to boost trade between the two nations, enhancing business opportunities and economic growth. Nigeria’s growing economy and large consumer market make it an attractive destination for US exporters.
Kango Express’s presence will facilitate smoother trade transactions, reduce shipping costs, and increase access to US goods.
FBNQuest Asset Management Wins BAFI Excellence Award
Nume Ekeghe
FBNQuest Asset Management, a subsidiary of FBN Holdings Plc., was recently honoured with the prestigious Excellence in Asset Management Award at the recent BusinessDay Banks and Other Financial Institutions Awards.
This recognition highlights FBNQuest Asset Management’s unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional investment solutions and fostering financial growth for its clients. The
award ceremony, celebrated the outstanding achievements of financial institutions across Nigeria, highlighting those that have demonstrated innovation, excellence, and unwavering commitment to quality service.
Managing Director, FBNQuest Asset Management, Ike Onyia said: “We are immensely proud to receive this award, which reflects our dedication to excellence and our focus on creating value for our clients.
This achievement is a testament to the hard work and expertise
of our team, as well as the trust our clients place in us. We will continue to strive for excellence in all that we do.”
He further stated: “FBNQuest Asset Management offers a range of investment solutions, including mutual funds, discretionary portfolio management, and alternative investments, tailored to meet the diverse needs of its clients. The firm remains committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity and professionalism in the asset management industry.”
Saharan Blend (Algeria), Djeno (Congo), Zafiro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basrah Medium (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).
The Prime Minister of India, Mr Narendra Modi fourth from right with Executive Council Leaders of OFBJP in Nigeria at a meeting in Abuja... recently
Haldane McCall Lists on NGX Main Board with N11.99bn Market Capitalisation
KayodeTokede
Haldane McCall Plc, yesterday, officially listed on the Main Board of the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX), listing 3.12 billion ordinary shares of 50 kobo each at N3.84 per share with a market capitalization of over N11.99 billion.
The listing, conducted by way of introduction, highlights Haldane McCall’s commitment to transparency, corporate governance, and sustainable value creation. It also positions the company to lever-
age the opportunities provided by Nigeria’s capital market for expansion and long-term growth.
Speaking during the event, the Chairman, Haldane McCall, Chief George Oguntade stated that the company listing on NGX is a game changer in the Nigeria’s housing sector.
He added that the Haldane McCall is determined to bridge housing deficit in Nigeria aimed its historically listing on the bourse.
Also, the Group Managing Director of Haldane McCall,
Mr. Edward Akinlade further highlighted the opportunities the listing presents. “The listing of Haldane McCall Plc on the Main Board of NGX marks a significant milestone in our journey of growth and innovation.
“This step not only enhances our visibility in the capital market but also equips us with the resources to expand our operations and contribute meaningfully to addressing Nigeria’s housing deficit. We are committed to delivering value to our share-
holders while driving sustainable development in the real estate and hospitality sectors.”
Speaking earlier, the Group Chairman, Nigerian Exchange Group Plc, Alhaji Dr. Umaru Kwairanga stated, “This listing is a testament to Haldane McCall’s commitment to transparency and innovation, as well as its pivotal role in addressing Nigeria’s housing deficit.
“At Nigerian Exchange Group, we remain dedicated to providing the right platform for companies
like Haldane McCall to achieve their growth ambitions while driving sustainable economic development in Nigeria.”
CEO of NGX, Mr. Jude Chiemeka described the listing as a milestone for both Haldane McCall and Nigeria’s real estate sector. “Today’s listing represents a significant achievement, not just for Haldane McCall Plc but also for the Nigerian capital market. By embracing the NGX platform, Haldane McCall gains increased visibility, credibility,
and access to capital, which will support its efforts in addressing Nigeria’s housing deficit while delivering value to shareholders,” Chiemeka said. While the Nigerian Exchange continues to support businesses through its platform, fostering economic growth across various sectors, Haldane McCall’s listing is expected to contribute to job creation and help address Nigeria’s 20 million-unit housing deficit, positioning the company for long-term growth.
PRICES FOR SECURITIES TRADED ASOF NOVEMBER 20/24
Gamin G Week
Edited
Why NLRC Will Continue to Review Terms, Conditions with Operators
Nseobong Okon-Ekong appraises a recent Stakeholders Interactive Meeting between the federal government regulator in the betting and lottery industry and operators
So much engagement was packed into the opening day of a recent Stakeholders Interactive Meeting hosted by the Director General of the National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC), Mr. Lanre Gbajabiamila and his management team at the Oriental Hotel in Lagos. Based on the privilege given to the first speaker, Dr. Lekan Fadolapo, Director-General of the Advertising Regulatory Agency of Nigeria (ARCON), it may be right to assume that the meeting sought to highlight trends in advertising and how they relate to the lottery and gaming industry.
For instance, it was emphasised at the meeting that gaming is in a special category of vetting
L-R: Hon. Canice-moore nwachukwu, Dr. maryam keshinro, Hon. Zaphaniah Jisalo, minister
Duties and intergovernmental affairs, Lanre Gbajabiamila and Tosin adeyanju
when it comes to advertising because of the specific requirements demanded. Why is this? Simply put, lottery and gaming operators make a lot of promises in their advertisements, which need to be validated so that the end consumer is not taken advantage of.
Fadolapo mentioned instances when advertisements, not necessarily in the lottery and gaming industry, have touched the raw nerves of sensitive members of the Nigerian society, leading to immediate stoppage and producers of the advert being dragged to the Advertising Offences Tribunal. He reminded lottery operators of the need to prevent their advertisements from being vetted early. Otherwise, they must be ready to pay additional charges for accelerated vetting.
JP Morgan and the Future of Esports Finance
As the eSports financial stakes continue to grow, so does the need for specialized financial services to support its sustainable expansion, writes Davidson Abraham
The convergence of traditional finance and e-sports has set the stage for a significant transformation in both industries. Esports, once seen as a niche hobby, has become a global powerhouse, drawing millions of dedicated fans, significant sponsorship deals, and substantial investments. As it continues to grow and evolve, the e-sports sector now finds itself in need of sophisticated financial strategies and solutions. Major financial institutions have taken note, and JP Morgan is emerging as a key player, prepared to shape and support the future of e-sports finance.
ThE rApiD risE AND EcONOmic pOTENTiAl Of EspOrTs
Esports has undergone an astonishing evolution, transforming into a worldwide phenomenon that captivates audiences across demographics. Competitive gaming leagues and tournaments are now as popular as some traditional sports, with high-profile events filling stadiums and drawing millions of online viewers. This explosive growth has led to unprecedented levels of investment from a range of stakeholders, including technology companies, traditional sports franchises, venture capitalists, and media corporations. As the industry’s financial stakes grow, so too does the need for specialized financial services to support its sustainable expansion.
While e-sports organisations have historically relied on sponsorships, advertising, and streaming revenue, the industry is maturing to a point where these revenue streams alone are insufficient. To scale
effectively, e-sports organizations need a diverse array of financial options that only established institutions like JP Morgan can provide.
Jp mOrgAN’s rOlE iN EspOrTs fiNANcE
As a global financial leader with extensive experience in investment banking, asset management, and corporate finance, JP Morgan is well-equipped to bring valuable services to the e-sports sector. With its knowledge of managing assets and facilitating mergers, acquisitions, and capital-raising efforts, JP Morgan has the capacity to address the unique and varied financial needs of the e-sports industry.
JP Morgan’s involvement in e-sports finance can offer stability to a fast-moving and sometimes volatile industry. With tailored strategies for growth, access to a global investor network, and expert advisory services, JP Morgan can become a trusted partner for e-sports organizations looking to establish themselves financially. Below are some of the primary areas in which JP Morgan can impact the e-sports industry.
mErgErs AND AcquisiTiONs
The e-sports sector, much like the tech industry, is highly competitive and ripe for consolidation. As e-sports organisations grow, many find themselves facing the decision to merge with or acquire other entities to remain competitive.
The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com
At the meeting, it also emerged that the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) has placed new demands on operators for compliance with a new cyber security audit, for which a set of consultants have been appointed with the operators to ensure adherence. Part of the fresh stipulations from the NSA is that directors/owners and top management staff of lottery businesses will have to submit themselves for screening to assess their integrity. This is to strengthen the Anti Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing efforts carried out by the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). To underscore the importance of the new directive, Gbajabiamila sounded a note of warning that no form of engagement with operators
will be entertained without compliance with the cyber security framework.
Another area of focus at the meeting between the federal government regulator and operators in the lottery industry was the significance of data protection audits. Since a couple of lottery operators fall into the category of companies designated as Data Controller of Major Importance, those who process data of over 70 million Nigerians, the legal obligations placed were brought to the fore. For instance, it is binding on them to place a Privacy Notice on their website clearly stating, among other things, who they are, what they need the data for.
Adeyanju Urges States to Lift Ban on Lottery
The Executive Secretary/CEO of the National Lottery Trust Fund (NLTF), Comrade Tosin Adeyanju, has made a passionate appeal to state governments to permit lottery operations within their territories.
He made the appeal during the Regional Conference on Climate Change-Induced Conflicts in Northern Nigeria, hosted by the Kaduna State Bureau of Interfaith in collaboration with the humanitarian organisation International Alert.
“In Nigeria, we often lament over everything while we don’t do much on the solution,” Adeyanju said. “I’m aware that there’s a lot of misinformation about lottery. What we do is Good Causes, which we do through the lottery proceeds that come to the Federal Government.”
The NLTF boss emphasised that the lottery proceeds are utilised to meet the needs of Nigerians in critical areas such as water interventions, environment, education, sport, agriculture, health, and humanitarian interventions.
Adeyanju also highlighted the role of the gaming industry in addressing climate change issues.
“Earlier, we spoke on what climate change has caused due to scarce resources. The gaming industry, which contributes to the development of nations worldwide, and Nigeria is not an exception, can be leveraged to solve some of the issues surrounding the climate change-induced crisis ravaging northern Nigeria,” said Adeyanju.
The NLTF boss further noted that many communities have benefited from lottery proceeds, which have been utilised to meet various needs.
“Many communities have written to us seeking assistance in many areas, which we have already assisted and still working towards assisting others
using proceeds of lottery coming to the Federal Government,” he stated.
Adeyanju urged the states that have banned lottery operations to reconsider lifting the ban and cooperate with the state branches of the NLTF in order to ensure smooth operations, as he stressed that the purpose of the establishment of the agency by the Federal Government is for the execution of Good Causes.
Dr. maryam keshinro and Lane Gbajabiamila
A NEW BEGINNING AT NIHT...
The newly appointed Director-General of the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism, Dr.
Stakeholders Split Over Chartered Out-of-
Home
Media Practitioners Establishment Bill
FG, NPC, ARCON kick against proposed law
Sunday Aborisade in Abuja
The Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation; the Nigerian Press Council and the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria and other stakeholders in the advertising industry yesterday kicked against plans by the Senate to establish the Chartered Outof-Home Media Practitioners of Nigeria Bill.
However, the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN); Advertisers
Association of Nigeria and the Advertising Agencies of Nigeria, among others, welcomed the proposed legislation.
The stakeholders bared their minds at a public hearing jointly organised by the Senate Committee on Establishment and Public Service; Information and National Orientation and the Media and Public Affairs.
The Bill was sponsored by the Chairman, Senate Committee on Power, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe. Abaribe told the gathering
Rivers: Court Fixes Jan 21 for Ruling in Suit Seeking to Sack 27 Lawmakers
Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt
A Federal High Court sitting in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, has adjourned till January 21, 2025, to rule on applications in a suit filed by the Labour Party (LP), seeking that the seats of the 27 members of the State House of Assembly who allegedly defected from their Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) be declared vacant.
In the case filed by the Labour Party and registered in Suit number FHC/PH/25/2024, the Labour Party is also seeking the court to determine whether the alleged defection of the 27 lawmakers was proper.
The suit is further seeking that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) should conduct a by-election to fill in the alleged vacant seats of the State House of Assembly, where the Labour Party and other interested parties can participate.
THISDAY observed in court that the claimant, who is the Caretaker Committee chairman of Labour Party in the State, Hilda Dokubo was present in court while the matter was being deliberated. Meanwhile, during the sitting on Wednesday, counsel for 2nd to 28th defendants in the matter including Martin Amaewhule, the embattled Speaker of the Assembly, PDP, others, Ferdinand Orbih (a Senior Advocate
of Nigeria), told the court that the 29 defendants in the case planned to consolidate their applications in the matter.
Orbih told the court that the applications deal with the same subject matter which is praying the court to direct parties in the matter to file and exchange pleadings and call for evidence in prove of their respective cases.
He said: "We respectively pray for your order consolidating the three applications".
Counsel for defendants furthermore presented their motions, insisting that the applications are backed up with paragraphs of affidavits and urged the court to grant the applications.
In his argument, the claimant’s counsel, Clifford Chukwu, did not object to the consolidation of the applications, but opposed to the applications submitted by the defence counsels.
Chukwu urged the court presided by Justice Emmanuel Obele to dismiss the motion by the 1st, 2nd-28th, and 29th defendants.
He said: "The defendant did not file a further affidavit. It is law that failure to file a counter affidavit amount to an admission to all facts stated in the counter affidavit".
Reacting to the submissions by the parties in the matter, the trial judge, Justice Obele adjourned the matter till January 21, 2025 for ruling on applications by the parties.
that the Bill seeks to establish a regulatory body that will oversee, promote, and enhance the practice of out-of-home media in Nigeria.
He said the out-of-home media industry, encompassing billboards, transit advertising, and digital displays, plays a pivotal role in the country's advertising landscape.
He said: “It’s a bill of significant importance, one that addresses the multifaceted impact of out-of-home (OOH) media on our environment and the need for professionalizing engagements in this sector.
“This bill aims to ensure that the practice of owning and managing OOH assets is elevated to a standard that promotes quality, uniformity, and environmental aesthetics.
“The sector faces numerous challenges, including a lack of standardized regulations, inadequate professional development, and inconsistent practices that hinder its growth and efficacy.
“This Bill aims to address these challenges by establishing the
COREN, ADVAN, OOAN, others seek passage
Chartered Out of Home Media Practitioners of Nigeria.”
Abaribe said the proposed body will be tasked with several critical functions in advancing the profession.
He said: “The body will promote the art and science of out of home media practice, ensuring it evolves with technological advancements and international best practices.
“By determining and periodically reviewing the standards of knowledge and skill required for practitioners, the body will uphold high professional standards and ensure that members are well-equipped to meet industry demands.
“The body will foster a culture of excellence, competence, and ethical conduct among its members, enhancing the credibility and effectiveness of the profession.
“The body will engage with both public and private sectors to promote the advancement of out-of-home media practice, driving innovation and growth in the industry.
“OOH media, encompassing billboards, digital displays, posters, and transit advertising, is a ubiquitous presence in our urban and rural landscapes.
“While it serves as a crucial channel for advertising and information dissemination, it also poses several environmental challenges.
“Unregulated and haphazard installations can lead to visual clutter, detracting from the natural and architectural beauty of our cities.
“Moreover, poorly maintained structures can become safety hazards, posing risks to pedestrians and motorists alike. Environmental degradation is another critical concern.
“By establishing and promoting standards, we can ensure the quality, uniformity, and safety of OOH assets, thereby enhancing the aesthetics of our environment.”
Speaking on behalf of the Ministry of Information, the Director overseeing the office of the permanent secretary, said creating
an agency out of ARCON will be putting pressure on governance. Similarly, the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Press Council said there is already a unit that is currently doing the work the proposed body seeks to perform.
The Director General of the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria, Olalekan Fadolapo, said creating another agency would be counter-productive and would be against the Steve Otonsanye panel's report being implemented by the Bola Tinubu's administration. However, the representative of COREN at the occasion, Dipo Mabogaje, said since the ARCON is regulating the messages of the advert contents, it is better to have an agency that would regulate the ways billboards are mounted and the quality of materials being used.
The President, Advertising Association of Nigeria, Osamede Uwubanmwen and the President of the Advertising Agencies of Nigeria, Lanre Adisa also welcomed the idea of the bill and urged the Senate to pass it.
FG Recommits to Reducing Spate of Out-of-School Children
Kuni Tyessi in Abuja
The federal government has recommitted its stand in tackling the challenge of out-of-school children and curbing learning poverty through maximizing the roles of the commissions in charge of the responsibilities.
It said Nigeria is facing two major challenges in basic education delivery, and while grappling with the challenge of the large number of school age children who are not in school, there is also the problem of those in school who are not learning.
The Minister of State for Education, Dr. Suwaiba Said Ahmad, who stated this yesterday in Abuja on the occasion of the opening ceremony of a nationwide training and sensitization workshop of the 774 local government area education secretaries, said there are on-going programmes being
implemented by different agencies under the Ministry of Education and which will require review, redirection and proper coordination.
She reiterated that primary school education is today bedeviled by what is now popularly called "learning poverty" which is responsible for primary school children performing below their capacity, and stressed that this must be arrested.
She added that the ministry will continue to focus on and improve factors that impact quality education delivery, such as teacher quality, school environment, availability of instructional materials, efficient school governance and supervision.
According to her, "At the primary level, Nigeria is facing two major challenges in education delivery. While we are grappling with the challenge of the large number of school age children
who are not in school, there is also the problem of those in school who are not learning.
"There are on-going programmes being implemented by different agencies under the Ministry of Education, which will require review, redirection and proper coordination.
“For example, there is a Commission for Almajiri and Outof-School children education whose mandate is to reduce the number of school age children who are not attending school."
She assured that the federal government will remain committed to supporting the local and state governments in ensuring that the goal of Universal Basic Education programme is achieved in the shortest time.
The Executive Secretary of the Universal Basic Education Commission, UBEC, Dr. Hamid
Bobboyi, in his speech, said the training for the executive secretaries is imperative, noting that they serve as mentors and coaches to head teachers and teachers and must be trained for better supervision.
He said the commission expects that with the recent autonomy granted local government areas in Nigeria, more responsibilities will be devolved to them with the possible direct disbursement of primary education federal intervention fund to states through the Local Government Education Authorities.
According to him, "Apart from the supervisory and other administrative functions they perform, they also provide professional leadership to head teachers and teachers, as support officers, mentors and coaches. They are to ensure that whatever is required for schools under them to perform effectively are
Abisoye Fagade (middle), formally assumed office to take briefings on the state of affairs at the agency... yesterday
STAKEHOLDER'S INTERACTIVE FORUM OF OYO STATE GAMING AND LOTTERY BOARD...
L-R: Representative of Chief of Staff to Oyo State Governor and Permanent Secretary, Cabinet, Governor's Office, Mr Akeem Salami; Chairman, Ibadan South West Local Government, Mr Kehinde Akande and Director General, Oyo State Gaming and Lottery Board, Mr Olajide Boladuro, during the 2024 Stakeholder's Interactive Forum of Oyo State Gaming and Lottery Board, held at Horizon Hall, Oluyole, Ibadan.
Tinubu Sacks UNIZIK Council, VC, Registrar, ProChancellor of
Otukpo Varsity of Health Sciences
Okays leadership changes at Oye and Lokoja federal varsities
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
President Bola Tinubu has approved dissolution of the Governing Council of the Nnamdi Azikiwe University in Awka, Anambra State, and the removal of the new Vice Chancellor, Prof. Bernard Ifeanyi Odoh, as well as the Registrar, Mrs. Rosemary Ifoema Nwokike.
The council, led by Ambassador Greg Mbadiwe, included five other members namely Hafiz Oladejo, Augustine Onyedebelu, and Engr. Amioleran Osahon, and Major General Funsho Oyeneyin (rtd).
According to a release issued on Wednesday by the Special
Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the sacking of the governing council and officials followed reports that the council illegally appointed an unqualified vice-chancellor without following due process.
After the controversial appointment, the federal government stepped in to address tensions between the university's Senate and the governing council of the 33-year-old institution.
The government expressed concern over the council's apparent disregard for the university's governing laws in its selection process.
President Tinubu also
approved the removal of Ohieku Muhammed Salami as the Prochancellor and Chairman of the governing council of the Federal University of Health Sciences in Otukpo, Benue State.
The decision followed Salami's alleged illegal actions, including suspending the Vice-Chancellor without following the prescribed procedures.
Despite the Federal Ministry of Education's call for the unlawful suspension to be revoked, Salami refused to comply.
Instead, he allegedly resorted to abusive and threatening behaviour towards the Ministry’s Directors, including the Permanent Secretary.
The federal government reiterated that the primary responsibility of university councils is to ensure the smooth operation of university activities in accordance with the act establishing each university.
President Tinubu warned the councils not to create distractions in their universities as his government is focused on improving the country's education standards.
Also on Wednesday, President Tinubu approved the immediate swap of the Pro-Chancellors and Chairmen of the Governing Councils for the Federal University Oye-Ekiti and Federal University Lokoja.
In this reshuffling, Senator
House Committee Seeks Special Intervention Fund to Revamp FMBN
Bank seeks FG’s return of balance of N19bn wrongly deducted
The House of Representatives Committee on Housing and Habitat has said that the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN) should be granted a special intervention fund by the federal government to ensure its continuous operation.
Speaking when he led the committee on an oversight visit to the FMBN headquarters in Abuja, the Chairman of the Committee, Dr. Abdulmumin Jibrin, noted that as a critical institution in the housing sector, the FMBN must not be left to continue to struggle for funding.
After a presentation by the Managing Director of the FMBN, Shehu Osidi, Jibrin said that it was obvious that the bank was poorly funded and needed some form of lifeline.
“We've just concluded our exercise. We've scrutinised the presentation of the management and we've also looked at the challenges that they are faced with and as a committee, I wish to actually state that the FMBN is in dire need of life support. I can see they need a life support.
“They are so poorly funded and everybody knows that the FMBN is the most authentic organisation that can access the low income and the medium income offtakers.
“And by the time an organisation like that, that has had a lengthy history in the housing sector in Nigeria cannot advance mortgages and do not even have the liquidity to carry out its statutory function, then I will say the housing sector in Nigeria is in a mess,” he stated.
As for the for the committee, Jibrin stated that it has taken a position and it will draw the attention of the federal government to it , in order to take all necessary measures with a sense of urgency to resuscitate the organisation.
He added: “And that has to be done without further delay. Otherwise, if it collapses, then we will be in real trouble. And apart from that, there are a lot of interventions that are currently going on.
“And I'm actually surprised, one of the reasons why we came here, we actually thought that the FMBN was a key beneficiary of some of the interventions that are going on, only for us to realise that a lot of such
interventions are not domiciled here.
“So, as a committee, we've taken a position to make a presentation to the federal government to ensure that any intervention that will become a special component is put aside, to be extended to the FMBN so that they can continue to carry out their function,” he added.
In a brief to the committee, the Managing Director, Osidi, stressed that the FMBN continues to provide long-term loans at single digit interest rate of between 6 per cent to 7 per cent, which is the lowest in the market, to drive affordability.
In support of the federal government's Renewed Hope Agenda for the Housing Sector, the bank, he said, provided a N100 billion bankable off-taker guarantee to real estate developers executing the construction of affordable houses coordinated by the Federal Ministry of Housing & Urban Development. However, he stated that the federal government had wrongfully deducted N19 billion from its accounts , following a directive that 40 per cent of revenues from Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) should be removed.
“During the period, in compliance with the federal government directive to deduct 40 per cent of revenues from MDAs including the FMBN, the Office of the Accountant-General deducted 40 per cent of National Housing Fund (NHF) inflows erroneously misconstruing it as revenue, which they are not.
“A total sum of N19 billion was deducted from NHF collections under this directive and domiciled with the Office of the Accountant-General for the Federation at the time we assumed office in February 2024.
“The bank has been in constructive engagement with the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy on the need to stop the 40 per cent deductions form NHF and access the 19 billion in trapped funds.
“As a result of our engagements over the issue with the minister as well as the OAGF, a sum of 12 billion has been returned to the bank. We are still engaging relevant authorities on this matter and the engagement continues until the deductions are stopped and we recover the outstanding balance of the trapped NHF funds,” Osidi explained.
Victor Ndoma-Egba currently serving as the Pro-Chancellor of Federal University Lokoja, will take over at Federal University Oye-Ekiti.
Kayode Ojo, who previously held a similar position at Oye-
Ekiti, will assume the role in Lokoja. This strategic change is part of President Tinubu’s initiative to foster diversity and national cohesion in the management of the country’s universities.
Senate Probes Contractors Handling Odukpani-Itu Highway, Seeks Project Completion
Sunday Aborisade in Abuja
The Senate yesterday mandated its Committee on Works to investigate the contractors handling the repairs of the Odukpani-Itu Highway with a view to ascertaining reasons for its delays.
The red chamber also asked the panel to assess the utilisation of funds allocated for the project over subsequent budget cycles.
It also directed the Committee to summon relevant agencies, including the Federal Ministry of Works, and the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA).
The Senate said the contractors involved in the project, to provide detailed reports on the status of the highway and challenges being encountered.
It urged the federal government to prioritise the immediate completion of the highway to alleviate the suffering of the people and unlock the economic potential of the region.
It also enjoined the federal government to limit its policy on use of concrete for road construction to new contracts and allow existing ones to be completed using asphalt to hasten pace of work on the projects.
The resolutions of the Senate followed its consideration and adoption of a motion of urgent national importance titled: “Urgent need to investigate the slow pace of work on the Odukpani-Itu Federal Highway in Cross Rivers State.
The motion was sponsored by Senator Asuquo Ekpeyong and cosponsored by Senator Ekong Sampson. Ekpeyong in his lead debate said the Senate is aware that the Odukpani-Itu Federal Highway is a major highway in Cross River State that connects Calabar, the first capital of Nigeria, to Itu in Akwa Ibom State.
He said it was also a major route for transportation, commerce, and social
integration within Cross River State and the broader South-Eastern and South-South regions of Nigeria.
He noted that the highway is the primary corridor for facilitation of the transportation of agricultural produce, such as cocoa, palm oil, cassava, and yams, and bananas from rural areas to urban markets, and also provides access to tourist attractions such as the Obudu Mountain Resort and the Agbokim Waterfalls.
He said the road also serves as an evacuation corridor for the supply of solid minerals across the South-South and South-East regions from quarries in Cross River State, to the Calabar Port which is strategically important as a bulk cargo port for petroleum products being conveyed to the North Central and North East of Nigeria.
He lamented that the highway has been in a state of disrepair for years, with significant portions uncompleted despite repeated promises and allocations in federal budgets.
He said the delay in completing the highway has caused untold hardship to commuters and residents, disrupted economic activities, and increased transportation costs for agricultural produce and other goods.
He averred that the completion of the Odukpani-Itu Highway is not only a matter of infrastructure development but also a moral and economic obligation to the people of Cross River State and the Niger Delta region at large.
He said he believed that the completion of repairs on the Odukpani-Itu Highway would directly support the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu by “fostering economic growth, improving connectivity, and enhancing social welfare in Cross River State and beyond through job creation, improved market access, and support for MSMEs through improved infrastructure.”
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
PRESENTATION OF AWARD FOR THE MOST INNOVATIVE FOAM BRAND IN CONSUMER ENGAGEMENT...
L-R: Chief Operating Officer, Insight Communications Limited, Seyi Layade; Brand Manager, Mouka Foam Limited, Tolani Tijani;and Chairman, Advertising Standard Panel, Emmanuel Agu, at the presentation of the award for the Most Innovative Foam Brand in Consumer Engagement to Mouka Foam at the Brandcom Awards in Lagos…recently
PDP Governors Meet Saturday Ahead 99th NEC to Decide Damagum’s Fate
Embattled chair battles to stay till Dec. 2025
Senators: Party bigger than Damagum, Wike NWC dismisses Ikem’s purported suspension
Chuks Okocha and Sunday Aborisade in Abuja
Governors elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) will Saturday meet in Jos, Plateau State, to take a decision on the party’s acting National Chairman, Amb Iliya Damagum, ahead of the 99th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting
holding next Thursday.
The meeting summoned at the instance of the chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, Senator Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, is to determine the choice of who will replace Damagum, a development that has hitherto divided the governors into two different camps.
According to a PDP source, ''The
first camp is led by Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi state, while the other camp is led by Seyi Makinde of Oyo State.
The governor of Enugu State, Peter Mbah and Osun State governor, Ademola Adeleke were said to be neutral,
According to sources within the party, the Seyi Makinde camp is an
off-shoot of the former Rivers State governor, Nyesom Wike, which is insisting that Damagum should continue in office till December 2025.
The outcome of the Saturday meeting will decide whether the November 28 NEC meeting will produce a substantive national chairman.
As at press time, the north central
UK Govt Backs Stakeholder Roundtable to Address Cybersecurity Challenges in Nigeria
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
Key stakeholders from government and the private sector have converged in Abuja and Lagos at the Nigeria Cybersecurity Stakeholder Roundtable organised with support from the UK’s Department for Business and Trade (DBT) to discuss practical steps to address the country’s cybersecurity challenges.
The roundtable had in attendance, top cybersecurity and tech experts from diverse sectors to engage in critical deliberations on current and
emerging digital security issues.
It emphasised the critical role of collaboration in addressing Nigeria's cybersecurity challenges.
The roundtable emphasised the critical role of collaboration and information sharing in addressing Nigeria's cybersecurity challenges including to: Foster a synergized approach to addressing Nigeria’s cybersecurity challenges, leveraging the collective expertise of participants; and establish a platform for continuous collaboration and knowledge exchange among
stakeholders from various sectors to enhance cybersecurity practices.
Others include: Identify and assess cross-cutting needs and challenges across regulatory, supply, and demand sides, to inform future cybersecurity strategies and policies; Create a platform that enables demand and supply side actors to have visibility and access to state-of-the-art cybersecurity solutions that benefit all.
Key takeaways from the roundtable, according to a statement signed on Wednesday
by the Senior Press & Public Affairs Officer, Comms Lead, Prosperity and Economic Development, Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office, British Deputy High Commission, Ndidiamaka Eze, include the importance of public-private partnerships in combating cyber threats, the need for continuous education and training for cybersecurity professionals, the development of effective strategies to combat cybercrime and the promotion of cybersecurity awareness among individuals and organisations.
Acting COAS Oluyede: Troops' Welfare, Protection of Nigeria's Territorial Integrity, My Key Priorities
Linus Aleke in Abuja
The Acting Chief of Army Staff (Ag. COAS) Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, yesterday pledged to prioritize troops' welfare and protection of Nigeria's territory integrity throughout his tour of duty as the Chief of Army Staff. He also tasked troops of the Nigerian Army to be ruthless to criminal elements across the federation.
The Ag. COAS made this pledge during the official handing over of the Infantry Corps to his successor, Maj. Gen. Abdulkalifa Ibrahim, in a regimented ceremony at the
Headquarters Infantry Corps Jaji, Kaduna State.
A statement by Director Army Public Relations, Maj. Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, recalled that until his appointment as the Ag. COAS on 30 October 2024 by President Bola Tinubu, he was the 56th Commander Infantry Corps of the Nigerian Army.
Speaking during the handing over ceremony, Gen. Oluyede described his successor as a competent senior infantry officer and a perfect gentleman whom he believed will sustain the trajectory of moving the corps forward. He charged all officers and soldiers
of the corps to give him all the needed cooperation and support to succeed.
The Ag. COAS also expressed gratitude to all officers and soldiers of the NA for their massive turnout and support during the internment of the late COAS Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja and beseeched God to grant him eternal rest and continue to give his family the fortitude to bear the loss.
While addressing troops of the Infantry Corps at the Major Bulama Parade Ground, the Ag. COAS charged all officers and soldiers of the NA to put the unfortunate incident behind them, get back to work and deal
ruthlessly with all criminal elements perpetrating insecurity in the country. He reassured them that their welfare would be prioritised. "I am aware of your challenges and will tackle them head-on. Rest assured that anything that is yours will be given to you," he pledged.
In his remarks, the new Commander Infantry Corps, Maj. Gen. Abdulkalifa Ibrahim, said he was delighted to take over command of the Infantry Corps from the Ag. COAS, who until a few weeks ago was the Commander Infantry Corps.
zone was yet to reach a consensus on who to replace Iyorchia Ayu. The only option that is being mentioned is Senator David Mark, but sources said he was ruled out due to medical challenges.
Notwithstanding the outcome of the meeting and bearing any further changes, Damagum, may have secured the support of the 36 states chairmen and the chairman of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to stay in office till December 2025,when a substantive national chairman would be elected.
The meeting was attended by 29 out of 37 states chairmen and FCT as members of the NEC with voting powers.
As part of the plot to thwart the decision of the November 28 99th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, the National Working Committee (NWC) meeting has released the time table for six zonal congresses in the geopolitical zones of the country.
It was gathered that the decision to allow Damagum continue in office was the inability of the North Central zone to produce a consensus replacement to Ayu, who was sacked by his ward in Gboko and confirmed by a Benue State High Court in Gboko.
Though, Damagum at the meeting with the states chairmen said the meeting was aimed at formilarising members of the NWC with the newly states chairmen of the party.
But some of the state Chairman had agreed that there would be a NEC meeting on Thursday, November 28, but the meeting would not entertain any agenda to replace Damagum.
Briefing newsmen after the closed door meeting, Imo State PDP Chairman and Interim Chairman, PDP Chairman’s Forum, Austin Nwachukwu, said, ''The meeting is simply to familiarise ourselves with the National Working Committee. Recall that few months back, a lot of state congresses were held from wards, local government to the state.
''The NWC deemed it feet to
gather all of us in Abuja to enable you know each other. It is essentially to familiarise ourselves with the NWC and those of them whose tenure are still running and will be running out next year.''
National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba, National Legal Adviser Adeyemi Ajibade and the National Financial Secretary were absent at the meeting.
Senators: PDP Bigger Than Damagum, Wike
PDP Senators, yesterday, declared that the party's identity transcended its acting National Chairman, Umar Damagun or the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
The senators made the declaration while addressing journalists after a two-hour closed-door meeting at the National Assembly complex.
The Senate Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro (PDP, Benue South), who spoke on behalf of his colleagues, stressed the need for the PDP to focus on strengthening its structure and preparing for future electoral challenges.
“The PDP is not just about Damagum or Wike; the PDP is about its members. We are working tirelessly to ensure that the party returns to its winning ways,” Moro said.
Reflecting on the party’s recent setbacks in gubernatorial elections, Moro acknowledged the challenges but maintained optimism about the PDP’s ability to bounce back.
“We discussed the life of our party, particularly in the context of recent electoral losses. While it is painful to lose, every failure is a lesson for future success.
“Our efforts are now geared towards ensuring PDP does not face such setbacks again, especially in states like Osun where we currently hold government.” Moro also criticised the Independent National Electoral Commission over its handling of elections, calling for reforms to restore credibility in the electoral process.
BURSARY AWARD PRESENTATION...
Ganduje: Ondo Governorship Election Not Influenced
Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja
National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Ganduje, has said the outcome of the Ondo State
by Presidency, External Forces
governorship poll, which saw the election of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, was not influenced by the presidency or any other external force. Ganduje made this known yesterday in Abuja while
Pay Special Constabularies Four Years Arrears, Court Orders Police
Alex Enumah in Abuja
The National Industrial Court of Nigeria (NICN), yesterday,ordered the Nigeria Police Force to pay the Special Constabularies a total of their four years stipends in arrears.
Justice Rakiya Haastrup gave the order while delivering judgement in the suit brought against the Inspector General ( IG) of Police, the Police Council, the Police Commission and the Attorney-General of the Federation.
Specifically, the court faulted the police for failing to pay the claimants their monthly stipends since they were engaged as Special Constabulary, and directed the IG and the Police Council to pay the claimants a monthly sum of N54, 566 starting from January 2021 to May 2024.
The plaintiffs, who were trained and engaged on community policing through intelligence gathering, had sued the police for refusing to pay them their monthly stipends despite making them serve the nation diligently for the past four years.
Contrary to the claims of the Police that the services of the constabularies were voluntary, the plaintiffs claimed and tendered documents showing that at the time of their engagement, the police had agreed to give them monthly stipends commensurate to the basic allowance of a constable in the Nigeria police force.
In the suit filed on their behalf by a constitutional lawyer, Chief Sebastine Hon, SAN, the constabularies alleged that the action of the police in denying them the stipends was not only unlawful but had put their lives in jeopardy as they could no longer meet with
basic needs of life.
They, therefore, urged the court to hold that, having been lawfully engaged by police, they were entitled to the monthly stipends to enable them perform their duties effectively and diligently.
Besides, they claimed that due to the hazardous nature of their jobs, wherein seven of their members had already died in three states of the federation, they were entitled to receive pension from the police.
While only the AGF was represented and filed a response to the originating summons, the IG, Police Council and Commission did not respond despite evidence of being served with the court case.
In her judgement, Justice Haastrup agreed with the senior lawyer to the claimants that they had established that there was a contractual agreement between parties.
The Judge held that based on the agreement, the plaintiffs were entitled to the monthly stipends for their job.
While observing that the exact amount to be paid as stipends was not fixed by police, she held that the claimants were entitled to the basic allowance of N54, 655 monthly, pending when the IGP will fix their monthly allowance.
She, therefore, ordered the IG to within two months of the judgement date fix the amount due to the claimants.
She further ordered the defendants to forthwith issue letters of appointment to the claimants, having trained them, equipped them, issued them with uniforms and identity cards and deployed them to the states of the federation and the FCT.
receiving the governor-elect at the APC national secretariat.
He said, “There is no subterranean support from any quarters. No external influence from the government, the presidency or any other external forces.
“The election is not the effort of the elite alone. It is not the effort of the middle class alone; it is the effort of the grassroots.
“This must be an issue that was embraced by all.”
Ganduje told Aiyedatiwa, “You enjoyed the support of the
electorate in the state. We have to congratulate you for this landslide victory. I know Ondo people are progressives, which is why they will cooperate with you.”
Ganduje emphasised that the people of Ondo State voted en masse for the governor across the 18 local councils.
He said the victory recorded by the party in 202 out of 203 wards spoke volumes for the level of acceptability of APC in the state.
Expressing optimism that APC would sustain its winning
streak after Aiyedatiwa’s tenure, Ganduje charged the governor to consolidate on the achievements of his predecessor, late Rotimi Akeredolu.
Ganduje said it behoved Aiyedatiwa to ensure even spread of development projects and avoid falling into the trap of abandonment of projects.
Aiyedatiwa had earlier expressed gratitude to the party and the electorate in Ondo State for their overwhelming support for him in last Saturday's governorship poll.
He added that the people of Ondo State knew who they wanted and they voted for integrity, continuity, and good leadership, which APC represented. The governor said, “I cannot but come here to appreciate the party — the platform that gave me the opportunity to run the race. Come here to stop over to thank you. It’s not a case of being disrespectful not to present my certificate of return to you, but to wait for the return of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”
Nigeria's Security, Development Citizens' Responsibilities, Declares Gen. John Ochal
Gbenga Sodeinde in Ado Ekiti
Commandant of the Nigerian Defence Academy, NDA, Kaduna, Major General John Ochal, has urged individual Nigerian citizens to focus on ways to contribute to national development and security of the nation, saying those were major responsibilities of the citizens.
Ochai, who spoke at the 4th Aare Afe Babalola personality Lecture series held at the Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti, (ABUAD) campus,
yesterday, pointed out that the security challenges and National development were responsibilities of the individuals in the society.
Ochal, a guest lecturer, spoke on the topic: "Insecurity, Leadership & Peacebuilding in Nigeria: Dynamics, Challenges and Opportunities".
According to him, "To address insecurity requires a whole of the society. The military, government, civil society organisations, education institutions, all security agencies, and even individual citizens.
"Like I said, it is the responsibility of all our citizens to pass information to the security agencies. That is the key role and responsibility of each citizen.
"Aare Afe Babalola has created a niche for himself in education sector, healthcare entrepreneurship and environmental sustainability. Other entrepreneurs should follow in that line by giving back to the society what nature has gifted them.
"He did it through dint of hard work, focus and
charity. We should have more charitable individuals who are contributing to the development of the society, thereby creating employment, wealth, educating the teeming youth population and also providing healthcare services.
"This is what is needed to develop our society today, to keep our youths away from crime and other acts inimical to the wellbeing and development. Afe Babalola University, is the light of the educational sector of our dear nation. The university is a shining light."
Bwala: Nigeria'll Appeal $25m Judgment In Favour of Chinese Firm
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
The federal government on Wednesday vowed to appeal a recent judgment by the British Virgin Islands High Court, which granted a Chinese firm, Zhongshan Fucheng Industrial Investment Co. Ltd, the right to seize $25 million from Nigeria's foreign assets.
The company had sought relief over a failed trade zone agreement signed with
Ogun State under former Governor Ibikunle Amosun's administration.
Commenting on the issue on Wednesday, Special Adviser to the President on Policy Communications, Daniel Bwala said: "This is not a judgment that will be enforced immediately."
According to him: 'The ruling serves as a warning, and until Nigeria has the opportunity to enter its defense, the judgment cannot be enforced. We still have
the chance to appeal and vacate the ruling".
He emphasized that "the Presidency remains committed to defending Nigeria's interests. We will continue to examine all options and take the necessary steps to address these legal challenges, ensuring that Nigeria's rights and assets are preserved".
The dispute stems from a 2010 agreement in which Zhongshan secured rights to develop a free
trade zone in Ogun State. However, the project was terminated by the Ogun State government in 2016, leading to Zhongshan initiating an investment treaty arbitration under the bilateral investment treaty between China and Nigeria. The arbitration tribunal ruled in favor of Zhongshan, awarding compensation. Nigeria argued for state immunity, but this defence was rejected by the UK courts.
L-R: Head of Department, Education and Library Services, Apapa Local Government Council, Mr Makinwa Babatunde; Council Manager, Mrs Sonate Adebanji; one of the beneficiaries/ Law Student, Lagos State University (LASU), Miss Fareedat Okunade; Vice Chairman, Apapa Local Government, Hon. Ganiu Ismail; Secretary to the Local Government Council , Hon. Gibraltar Njowusi; and Special Adviser on Education, Youth and Sports to the Council, Dr. Mike Egbayelo, at the Apapa Local Government Council 2024 Bursary award presentation in Apapa, Lagos ... yesterday ETOP
SUPPORTING FLOOD-AFFECTED COMMUNITIES...
L:R: Sustainability and Corporate Brands Manager, Saroafrica, Funke Bolodeku and Borno State Governor,Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum., during the presentation of the Saroafrica Group's relief package to support floodaffected communities in Borno State ... recently
Jimoh Ibrahim: $2bn Insignificant, Nigeria Needs to Borrow over $50bn
Disagrees
Nume Ekeghe
The senator representing Ondo South District, Jimoh Ibrahim, yesterday called on President Bola Tinubu to prioritise borrowing substantial amounts of what he termed “good money” to invest in critical infrastructure that will stimulate economic growth.
He urged the federal government to pursue a significant loan of at least $50 billion to address critical infrastructure deficits and economic stagnation.
Speaking on Channels TV, the billionaire-turned-politician dismissed the recently approved $2.2 billion loan as ‘insignificant’, arguing that incremental borrowing does little to resolve Nigeria's fiscal challenges. “To be realistic, you need to borrow good money, not all these $2 billion. You can raise bonds. If Mr. President decides to visit the United States and launch a national bond at 10 years for 10 per cent, you will get $100 billion,” he stated.
Citing Dubai’s $168 billion
infrastructure driven transformation as an example, Ibrahim emphasised that strategic borrowing can yield significant economic benefits if properly managed.
He added: “Dubai borrowed $168 billion and used it for infrastructural development, which now drives tourism and innovation. Nigeria must follow this path to remain competitive globally.”
The senator’s comments is coming against the backdrop of the federal government seeking the National Assembly’s approval for a fresh N1.767
trillion external borrowing plan to partly finance the 2024 budget deficit. Ibrahim urged the administration to ensure that any fund borrowed is directed toward transformative projects.
Also, addressing former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s recent comments at the Chinua Achebe Leadership Forum at Yale University, where he described Nigeria as a failing state, Ibrahim disagreed, saying such remarks were unhelpful and did not reflect the nation’s true position.
He said: “I disagree with President
Insurgency: Senate Seeks Tougher Military Actions against Lakurawa in Sokoto, Kebbi
Sunday Aborisade in Abuja
The Senate, yesterday, lamented the invasion of Sokoto and Kebbi states by Lakurawa terrorists and urged tougher military actions against the invaders.
The senator for Kebbi North, Yahaya Abdullahi, drew the attention of his colleagues to Lukarawa's insurgents’ invasion of some communities in Sokoto and Kebbi states.
Abdullahi’s motion was titled, "Urgent Need for the Federal Government to take Stringent Measures to Stop the Infiltration of violent terrorists known as Lakurawa from Entrenching themselves in some North
Western parts of Sokoto and Kebbi States.”
He said the terrorists were allegedly entering Nigeria from neighbouring Burkina Faso and Mali.
The senator specifically informed the senate that the Lakurawa terrorists infiltrated the country through the NigeriaNiger border, at Illela, Tangaza and Silame local government areas of Sokoto. He said from those crossings, the terrorists attacked communities in Augie and Arewa local government areas of Kebbi State.
He said the terrorists had raided and dispossessed the communities prior to the large-
scale invasion of Mera, a village in Augie Local Government Area on November 8, which resulted in the killing of more than 20 people and stealing of livestock estimated at hundreds of millions of naira.
Abdullahi said he, along with Senator Adamu Aliero (Kebbi Central) and Senator Garba Musa Maidoki (Kebbi South) and some members of the House of Representatives, from Kebbi State, had been to the affected arears to commiserate with victims of the attacks on behalf of the National Assembly.
All the senators, who spoke on the motion, commended the prompt action taken by the
military to curtail the spread of violent attacks by the insurgents.
Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Jibrin Barau, in his contribution, said, "I stand in solidarity with the people of Kebbi State because this is a new dimension to the problem of insecurity in that area.
"It is sad that while our security agencies are working very hard to deal with the current situation that we have or the situation that was there before, these people came into Kebbi State.”
The senate directed the military to work with the communities and other security agencies, to set up early warning mechanisms to forestall further incursions.
Petitions against Iyase of Ogwashi-Uku Withdrawn at Delta Commission of Inquiry
Omon-Julius Onabu in Asaba
The fact-finding on the kingship and land disputes within Ogwashi-Uku and neighbouring communities continued yesterday at the Commission of Inquiry instituted by the Delta State Government into the various disputes. At the event, there was the withdrawal of petitions relating to the Iyase title of Ogwashi-Uku kingdom, as held by Chief Mike Chukwuka Nwaukoni. he withdrawal followed an oral application by Counsel to Obi Ifechukwude Aninshi Okonjo, Prince Chike Onyemenam (SAN) based on the fact that the issue of Iyaseship
title of Ogwashi-Uku was not in the terms of reference of the seven-man commission.
Ruling on the application, which was not opposed by counsel to the Iyase of Ogwashi-Uku and the Agidiase community, Chief Efe Akpofure (SAN) Chairman of the Commission, Justice Ejiro Emudianowho, struck out petitions number JP1/2024/001, JPI/2024/014 and JPI/2024/024, filed by the Ogwashi-Uku monarch against the Iyase Nwaukoni, the traditional prime minister.
Following persistent references to the Iyase of Ogwashi-Uku during cross-examination of a witness to the Agidiase community, Francis Okolie,
by Counsel to the Umu-Igbeke and Umu-Uti families, H. T. Ogidi, Counsel to the Iyase, Chief Akpofure, requested that all paragraphs referring to the Iyase in all affidavits be expunged, which was granted.
In his evidence, the witness to the Agidiase community, Francis Okolie Esq, attributed the crisis in Ogwashi-Uku to the alleged annexation of the community and family lands by the Ogwashiu-Uku king, contrary to the customs and tradition of Ogwashi-Uku.
He cited the appointment of Okuabani, which hitherto was the exclusive preserve of the Iyase, but which the Obi allegedly unilaterally
hijacked without recourse to the selection process reserved for the communities making the appointment..
The witness deposed to a 16-paragrsph affidavit, including a survey plan of Agidiahe, Ogbe-Onicha and Ogbe-Ishagbe quarters,, as well as proofs of alleged land sales with documents bearing the Obi's signature, which were admitted as exhibits by the panel
However, under cross-examination, H. T. Ogidi tendered a judgement delivered by Justice Z. A. Smith of the State High Court, which vested ownership of Ogwashi-Uku Lands on the Obi as trustee, which was also admitted as an exhibit
Obasanjo that Nigeria is a failed state. We are in peacetime, and the language of war is unnecessary. Developing countries are often referred to as failed states in international relations. Does that diminish their potential? No.”
Ibrahim highlighted Tinubu’s reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies, as signs of progress and noted that international institutions like the International Monetary Fund (IMF) are supportive of the administration’s economic direction.
“Tinubu is implementing bold reforms that will reshape the economy, and these efforts are gaining global recognition,” he said.
He further proposed negotiating debt forgiveness or restructuring as a larger borrowing strategy.
“If we borrow $100 billion, we can renegotiate and pay off existing debts with part of the new funds while using the remainder for development. Debt forgiveness is achievable if aligned with global policy conditions.
Linus Aleke in Abuja
The House of Representatives Committee on Police Institutions has sought to enhance the powers of the Police Service Commission to properly oversight the Nigeria Police Force.
The Committee members visited the Commission's headquarters in Abuja to interact with the Management of the Commission to understand the challenges and see how it could Intervene to put the Commission in proper shape to render its oversight responsibilities on the police.
They also stated that civilian oversight of the police was an indispensable mechanism for promoting transparency, accountability and public trust in law enforcement.
This was as the Nigeria Police Force has expressed grief over the passing of an officer, Assistant Inspector General of Police, Njangor Egbe Njom (Rtd.), who died on Sunday, November 10, 2024, at the age of 82.
A statement by Head, Press and Public Relations, Ikechukwu Ani, said the leader of the delegation and Chairman of the House Committee on Police Institutions, Hon. Aliyu Boya, said civilian oversight of the police "is an indispensable mechanism for promoting transparency accountability and public trust in law enforcement institutions.
He averred that there was need to
“The alternative fiscal austerity and underinvestment will only deepen unemployment, food insecurity, and naira depreciation,” he added.
In response to a question that suggests Nigeria’s borrowing history has raised concerns about accountability and the misuse of borrowed funds, Ibrahim called for stringent safeguards, including legislative oversight and legal penalties for the diversion of funds.
“If the National Assembly lists 50 projects for funding, any deviation should result in severe penalties. This will instil discipline and ensure that loans are used effectively,” he said. Besides , Ibrahim defended President Bola Tinubu’s economic agenda, including securing international credit.
“President Tinubu has established global legitimacy, attracting interest from potential lenders. However, the focus must shift to securing large-scale loans to unlock transformative growth,” he stated.
strengthen the Commission's ability and authority, adding that, to function effectively, there was need to provide adequate budgetary provisions, legal backing and operational independence for the Commission.
The Committee Chairman said he was aware of the financial challenges the Commission was facing and said he had discussed it with his colleague in the Appropriation Committee.
The Chairman of the Commission, DIG Hashimu Argungu rtd, who received the visiting delegation at the Corporate Headquarters of the Commission expressed his happiness at the decision of the Committee to visit the Commission.
Argungu said the visit was timely and remarkable and appealed for the support of the Committee in ensuring adequate budgetary provision for the Commission.
The PSC Chairman said the constitutional responsibilities of the Commission has suffered due to financial incapacitation, but assured the Committee of the preparedness of the Commission to improve the services of the Nigeria Police Force through credible and efficient oversight. Meanwhile, a statement by Force Spokesperson ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi said the deceased Njom who passed away peacefully in his sleep, was born on March 15, 1942, in Etomi Village, Etung Local Government Area of Cross River State.
diGiTaL iNNOVaTiON ON THEir MiNds…
L-R: West Africa Regional Head, ANDE, Ms. Em Ekong; Special Adviser to the Executive Governor of Kano State, Dr Danyaro Yakasai; Chairman, ISN Hubs, Mr Charles Emembolu; National Coordinator, ONDI, Ms. Victoria Fabunmi; Director, IT Infrastructure Solutions, National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Mr Olawumi Oladejo; Head of Project, GIZ/DTC Nigeria, Dr Thuweba Diwani; Director-General, National Council of Arts & Culture, Mr. Obi Asika; Executive Director, ISN Hubs, Ms. Oga Nnaife; Principal Secretary to the Governor of Abia State, Mr. Chinenye Mba-Uzoukwu; and Honourable Commissioner for Science, Technology and Innovation, Abia State, Mr. David Kalu, at the 6th Policy Dialogue on Nigeria’s digital innovation ecosystem in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State…recently
PDP Challenges Okpebholo to Disclose Procurement Procedure for Flyover
adibe EmenyonuinbeninCity
The party also stated that spending money without appropriation is an impeachable offence.
In a statement yesterday, the
The Edo State’s chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has called on the state governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, to make public the procurement procedure for the newly flagged off ‘emergency’ overhead bridge at Ramat Park, Benin City, noting that the flyover is a white elephant project to reward godfathers for their role in subverting the will of Edo people at the just concluded gubernatorial election.
Food Delivery Platform, ChefCook.NG, Launched in Lagos
sunday Okobi
A group of Nigerian entrepreneurs has unveiled a new food delivery platform called ChefCook.NG, in Lagos.
While unveiling the new platform in Ikeja, Lagos, recently, the group stated that with the innovation the platform brings to the Nigerian food delivery space, Nigerians need to know more about ChefCook, the services it brings to the marketplace, and why it should be chosen above other food delivery platforms in Nigeria.
At the unveiling ceremony in Lagos anchored by Nollywood top actor and director, Charles Okafor,
the Chief Executive Officer of the company, JohnBosco Onyeme, told journalists that the platform is a unique one as it offers opportunities to every restaurateur, no matter how small in Lagos, to showcase their services on the platform.
According to Onyeme, “We are unique. We are not just after the big restaurants with our services, we want the Suya man in the street; the Amala woman, and even that Akara woman in the street to come on board. We want those people who don’t have any person to talk to them, those who don’t have the money to advertise largely to come on board the ChefCook food delivery platform.
Police Kill Labourer, Injure Three in Ebonyi
Benjamin Nworie in abakaliki
Men of the Crack Squad of the Ebonyi State Police Command yesterday shot dead a yet-tobe-identified Labourer, and critically injured three other persons in the state.
The incident, which happened at Ugwuechara junction within the state capital, started when the Crack Team stopped a bike man and wanted to confiscate his motorcycle thinking he was into ‘yahoo’ (fraudster) business.
Publicity Secretary of the PDP Caretaker Committee, Chris Osa Nehikhare, said the people of the state demand and deserve transparency and clarity on the
cost of the project and timeline, how the contractors were selected and whether the process complied with the State’s Public Procurement Act, among other details relating
to the project. “The recent activities and actions of the Monday Okpebholo-led government in the past few days of assuming office have
confirmed our worst fears that the governor is going to run a profligate government, with blatant disregard for due process and fiscal irresponsibility.”
CSOs to IG: Don’t Succumb to Blackmail over Alowonle’s Arrest
Linus alekeinabuja
Civil society organisations (CSOs), yesterday urged the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun not to succumb to the emotional blackmail by Osun State government to get the governor’s appointee off the ongoing criminal investigation.
The CSOs operating under the umbrella of National Youths Inclusive Initiatives (NYII), and Societal Safety Network (SSN), noted that this appeal followed the arrest of the Chairman of Osun State Park Management Committee, Nurudeen Wakili, popularly known as Alowonle, with a police service
gun and ammunition.
Addressing a joint press conference in Abuja over the case, the CSOs also appealed to the police authorities not to allow the case to be swept under the carpet.
Speaking, the President, National Youths Inclusive Initiatives (NYII) Fasasi Sodiq, and Suleiman
Salahudeen, of the Societal Safety Network (SSN), extolled officers and men of the Osun State Police Command for their proactiveness, high sense of professionalism, diligence and patriotism in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities of maintaining law and order.
Gombe Gov Flags Off Construction of House of Assembly, High Court Complexes
segun awofadeji in Gombe
Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya has performed a groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of ultra-modern Gombe State House of Assembly and High Court Complexes as part of the larger 3-Arms Zone
initiative which will house the state’s executive, legislative, and judicial branches.
Speaking at the event yesterday, Governor Yahaya expressed his government’s commitment to providing a conducive working environment for all arms of government, to enable them function effectively and efficiently.
Describing the project as an unprecedented move to bridge the infrastructure gap, the Governor said: “Since its creation 28 years ago, Gombe State has never witnessed such a consolidated effort to create a befitting working environment for its civil and public servants. “By equipping them with world-class facilities, we reaffirm our belief in the sanctity of their functions and our commitment to strengthening the governance structures that underpin our democracy and societal progress,” he added.
Stakeholders Call for Establishment of Fund to Sustain Digital Innovation
Stakeholders have called for the establishment of the Nigerian Innovation Fund (NIF) aimed at sustaining and scaling digital innovation across the country. The call was made at the sixth Policy Dialogue on Nigeria’s digital innovation ecosystem in Uyo, Akwa-Ibom State.
“As the policemen removed his cap and started hitting him with their guns and the bike man tried to resist them, possibly to snatch one of their guns, one of the team members fired, which killed one labour seekers, who usually gather at the junction to look for daily job.
“Another three persons were also critically wounded and were rushed to the hospital. The corpse and the bike man were later taken to the station by the men of the Crack Squad,” the source narrated.
An eyewitness narrated that the bike man introduced himself to the policemen as a military personnel but the Crack Team started to molest him.
NIWA Boss Identifies Human Errors, Drugs, Disobedience as Causes of Mishaps
The Managing Director, National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Mr. Bola Oyebanji, has identified human errors, drugs, and disobedience to the rules and regulations as the major causes of boat mishaps that has occurred in past three years.
Oyebanji, who disclosed this while fielding questions from the members of the House Representatives Committee on NIWA who were on oversight function to the headquarters of the Authority in Lokoja
yesterday stated that the NIWA was committed to the safety of the Nigerians using water transportation.
The managing director pointed that 99 percent of the mishaps on the waterways were a result of human errors, noting that research has shown that the operators are committing avoidable mistakes which could not have caused havoc.
He stated that some of the operators lived on drugs to influence their activities to make them high and eventually influence them to make unpardonable mistakes.
Themed “Catalysts for Change, Building a Vibrant
Digital Economy,” the event was hosted by the Digital Transformation Center (DTC) Nigeria alongside the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), and the Innovation Support Network (ISN) Hubs.
Industry leaders, government officials, and the private sector were among the critical
stakeholders who deepened the conversation on the need to shape the future of Nigeria’s digital economy through targeted policies and cooperative action.
The event drew on insights from an extensive survey that revealed top priorities for Nigeria’s digital growth.
The five key focus areas included digital literacy and skills development, support for the startup ecosystem, access to finance, funding for innovation and research, and strengthening digital infrastructure. These priorities laid the foundation for a series of group discussions aimed at creating actionable strategies to navigate current challenges.
Event Professionals Must Embrace Innovation or Risk Obsolescence, Says Expert
Mary Nnah
The events industry is facing an unprecedented crisis with professionals struggling to keep pace with rapid technological advancements, shifting consumer preferences, and evolving business models.
This was the view of the Convener and Founder of the annual BusyBee Event Business Summit, Bisi Sotunde, during a press briefing yesterday to announce the highly anticipated 8th edition of the BusyBee Event Business Summit, scheduled for November 26 to 28 in Lagos.
According to Sotunde, the sector’s survival hinges on its ability to innovate and adapt, noting that: “The theme of this year’s summit: ‘The Forward Thinking Event Professional - Innovation Meets Imagination’, underscores the urgent need for event professionals to rethink their strategies and harness the power of creativity and technology.” She noted that the statistics are alarming. Recent surveys reveal a significant majority of event planners fail to incorporate technology into their events, leading to disappointing revenue expectations and a lack of formal training in event management.
Advocates Want Ministry of Women Affairs Changed to Ministry of Gender Mainstreaming
Bassey inyang inCalabar
The Centre for Gender Development (CGD), University of Calabar, has urged he federal government to change the name of the Ministry of Women Affairs to the Ministry of Gender
Mainstreaming.
The suggestion comes against the backdrop of the celebration of International Men’s Day observed on November 19,.a day earmarked to highlight various challenges faced by men, including abuse, homelessness, suicide, and violence.
Lagos, UNICEF
Oluchi Chibuzor
The Lagos State Government and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) have both pledged their commitments to ensure climate related issues do not affect the rights of children in the state.
The Centre, which specialises in gender issues, hosted the inaugural International Men’s Day event with the theme: ‘Men’s Health Champion’, reaffirming its dedication to combating genderbased violence and advocating gender equality.
The Executive Director of the Centre, Dr. Brenda Akpan, said that this observance is a time to recognise the lives, achievements, and contributions of boys and men, particularly in relation to their roles in nation-building, society, and family life.
Pledges to Protect Children’s Rights
They both stated this yesterday at the celebration of 2024 World Children’s Day event held in Lagos. Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Lagos State Ministry of Youth and Social Development, Mr. Mobolaji Ogunlende, said the global
celebration symbolises the unity and commitment of world leaders to protecting children’s rights around the world. He said children deserve the best for adequate survival, development, protection and participation in matters that affect them.
According to him, “His Excellency sent his regards and appreciations to UNICEF Nigeria and in particular, the UNICEF Lagos field office for their continuous support to the State in the area of capacity building for social welfare officers.”
ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja
THURSDAYSPORTS
Napoli Reject Man Utd’s Player Plus Cash Offer for Osimhen
Femi Solaja with agency report
Ahead of the coming winter transfer window in January, Italian Serie A side, Napoli, have adopted the ‘Dead on Arrival’ attitude to Manchester United’s request to sign Super Eagles forward, Victor Osimhen.
The Red Devils are offering a player plus cash for the reigning African Player of the Year who is on loan at Turkish side, Galatasaray.
The AFCON 2023 silver medal winner with Nigeria last February in Cote d’Ivoire has been in fine form for Okan Buruk’s side, scoring eight goals and providing
four assists in nine games in all competitions.
Yesterday, Cult of Calcio, an Italian sporting medium, quoted top sources in Naples confirming Manchester United’s interest in Osimhen and the speculated cash plus player offer to Napoli. Specifically, they named Joshua Zirkzee as the player that United are willing to add to the money they are offering Napoli.
However, Napoli appear not too keen on the offer on the table.
The two-time Italian Scudetto winners want cash payment upfront for the 25-year-old
Nigerian striker from any team interested in his services and will hold out for that, even if they have to wait until next summer.
Despite Osimhen and Galatasaray ruling out the possibility of a January departure, Napoli clarified that it will depend on the offers they receive. The suitors will also have to reach an agreement with the Turkish outfit. Another transfer will be possible if a team activates the striker’s reduced release clause of €75m.
Manchester United’s swap deal will see Napoli get €30million
plus Zirkzee, a deal that falls short of their initial target of about €45million. Additionally, Antonio Conte’s side are not looking for another striker at the moment and are content with Romelu Lukaku’s services.
Rather than tweaking the frontline, Antonio Conte has asked for some reinforcements in the defence. Napoli would need to make sales for that to happen.
Reports in the Italian outlet also claimed that Chelsea are still interested in Osimhen, but any talks will have to be continued after the season ends in May.
Ex international, Ben Iroha, has given a pat on the back to the Chairman of the NPFL, Hon Gbenga Elegbeleye, declaring that he has changed the face of the Nigerian topflight league.
The United States of Americabased former Nigerian defence strongman who was in Uyo over the weekend to see the Super Eagles play Rwanda in the final AFCON 2025 qualifier, disclosed that he has been following the nation’s domestic league from his base.
Iroha who was full of praise for the NPFL boss said it is good to see that Hon Elegbeleye has changed the face of the league for good.
“Hon Gbenga (Elegbeleye) has changed a lot of things. I have been following the league closely and I am impressed with the job he is doing. Just last weekend Kano Pillars returned to their base and the visiting team secured a draw in Kano. Pillars also won some weeks back in Enugu.
for Falcons of Aba that is today Enyimba. I played for Heartland before going Overseas. Our league is getting back to what it used to be. I want to tell Hon Elegbeleye not to relent. He is doing an excellent job.
Hon Elegbeleye is a person that I have known for over two decades and I know he is a serious minded person. I want corporate bodies to come and support and identify with the ongoing turn around,” the former Super Eagles defender further observed.
Iroha stressed that with corporate support, players would be well paid at home and situation which he noted would help the Super Eagles.
“You can see that South Africa has a good number of their players plying their trade at home. This is because those playing at home are well paid. My appeal is that corporate bodies should support the NPFL so that clubs at home can retain some of their best legs. That way, we won’t be relying 100 percent on foreign-based players to prosecute our matches,” he observed further.
Oshoala Misses out of CAF Player of the Year Award
Super Falcons forward, Asisat Oshoala, has been left out of the nomination for this year’s women’s CAF Player of the Year Award. Oshola, 30, has won six CAF Player of the Year with her first win 10 years ago.
‘Agba Baller’ moved from all-conquering Barcelona Femeni to newly-founded Bay FC in the USA.
However, compatriot and fellow Super Falcons goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie, made the short list of nominees for the prestigious award.
Nnadozie has also been listed for the Goalkeeper of the Year Award, which she won last year.
Monle Oyono of Edo Queens also made the nomination for Goalkeeper of the Year prize.
Nnadozie was outstanding for Nigeria to qualify for the Paris 2024 Olympics after a 16-year hiatus.
“Beyond the improvement in officiating, there is improved security at match venues and this is why the referees are bold enough to officiate fairly. We are gradually going back to the good old days,” reasoned Iroha.
He stressed further that: “Don’t forget that as a player, I played for several clubs in Nigeria. I played
She also played a big role in her French club FC Paris featuring in the group stage of the UEFA Women’s Champions League in the period under review.
The Falcons, Flamingos and Falconets were also nominated for the women’s National Team Ben Iroha Hails Elegbeleye for
Iroha expressed confidence that the Eagles would get back on track when the World Cup 2026 qualifiers resume early next year, even as he congratulated Augustine Eguavoen and his players for landing in Morocco for next year’s AFCON.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and Lagos State Chapter of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) have commiserated with the family of veteran journalist,
Award.
The coach of the Flamingos Bankole Olowokere, Chris Danjuma of Falconets and Moses Adukwu of Edo Queens have also been
nominated for the Coach of the Year category.
Both Flamingos and Falconets reached the knockout rounds of their respective World Cups, while
Sotuminu, who died in Lagos yesterday morning after a brief illness.
NFF General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, said in
The 63rd edition of the annual FirstBank Lagos Amateur Open Golf Championship teed off to a good start on Monday with the discovery of yet another golf talent in Olamide Afolabi, who grossed a score of 73, 2-over the course par to emerge winner in the Search for Stars category; an integral part of the Lagos Open aimed at discovering new golf talents.
While Afolabi sits atop in the Search for Stars category, Ifeanyi Sylvester grossed 76 to finish second, leaving Segun Olaseinde with 78-gross score in the third position.
Known for growing sports at all levels, the FirstBank Lagos Amateur Open Golf Championship has become a nursery of some sorts for would-be golf professionals, many of whom have gone on to
join the elite professional cadre after winning the championship. In 2002, Port Harcourt based Willy Gift stunned bookmakers when he tore through the tight fairways of Ikoyi Course, emerging victorious over a field of over two hundred players. That victory earned Gift sponsorship and turned professional the following year. Andrew Oche Odoh, another amateur sensation stole the show in Ikoyi, winning the 2003 edition. Today, Odoh is not just a professional golfer but one of Nigeria’s best ever.
Danjuma Farouk, Ajayi Tajudeen, Bello Abiola Moruf, Austin Akpodiete are some golf talents that have passed through the FirstBank Lagos Open. Today, Lagos Amateur Open is one of the most sought after golf tournament in the continent.
Cycling enthusiasts, are gearing up for an exhilarating experience this Saturday, November 23rd, as FXTM proudly sponsors the Lagos State Monthly Crit at Dolphin Estate, Ikoyi, Lagos. According to organisers of the cycling race, interested participants “should register at 6:30am and prepare for the main race, kicking off at 7:30am.” Participants are expected to compete in three categories: Professional, Junior, and Veteran. The top prize starts at $500, adding an exciting competitive edge to the event.
There will also be refreshments, music and an opportunity to socialise with like-minded individuals.
FXTM, known for its global
commitment to promoting fitness through charitable cycling events, is thrilled to bring this spirited race to Lagos. Riding has always been synonymous to freedom, matching the company’s value of freedom to succeed.
The event not only aims to foster a love for cycling but also to enhance community fitness and well-being.
The stand-in Country Representative for FXTM, Kelechi Ehibudu said: “We are thrilled and delighted to sponsor this event as part of our charitable project.
“We look forward to an exciting time with all participants from all works of life. It’s going to be action packed event,” he concluded.
his condolence message to the Sotuminu family yesterday. “This is shocking. I have known Dapo for more than two decades and have always been impressed with his zest for thoroughness and of course, his passion for women’s football from the beginning of the game in Nigeria.
“Words are not enough to describe his stature as a professional and someone who showed immense respect and regard to fellow professionals and other human beings. We pray that the Almighty will grant him eternal rest, and also grant his family, friends and the sports-writing fraternity the fortitude to bear the big loss,” he said.
The Lagos SWAN Chairman, Debo Oshundun, noted in his condolence message that “this is a loss that strikes the heart of the association and serves as a painful reminder of the toll taken on the journalism and sports community.
Sotuminu’s untimely departure is a case of one too many as we battle with the death of another member, Adeyinka Adebayo. This will surely leave an indelible mark on Lagos SWAN and its members.”
Oshundun described the late sports journalist as a consummate professional and passionate
journalist because he would always be ready to stand and be counted when called.
Sotuminu gave up the ghost at the hospital he was rushed to yesterday morning after he suddenly fell ill at home.
Sotuminu, a sapient and prolific professional for several decades, worked at, among other media houses, TNT Newspapers (Deputy Sports Editor), New Telegraph Newspapers (Deputy Sports Editor) and Compass Newspapers (Sports Editor).
Victor Osimhen… Napoli reject Manchester United’s cash plus player offer to sign the Nigerian striker
Asisat Oshoala...misses out of nomination for 2024 CAF Player of the Year award
Late Dapo Sotuminu
Edo Queens were beaten in the semifinals of the CAF Women’s Champions League. The awards ceremony is fixed for December 16 in Morocco.
Dapo
MISSILE
Michael Ogunsina to Abdullahi Ganduje
Aliko Dangote to Federal Government
“Insteadofeasingpeople’sburden,whatpreoccupiestheAPCanditsleadershipisthe captureofstatesandtheabductionofpeople’sdestinies.Wherethenisthedifference between what the APC does and what forest bandits do? Our state has been an oasis ofpeaceandgoodgovernanceinthemidstoftheruinswreakedbytheAPCacross thecountry.Wedonotintendtosurrenderourfreedomtopredators"–OyoStatePDP SpokesmanrespondingtotheAPCNationalChairmanpledgeto‘capture’Southweststates.
“To ensure sufficient feedstock availability we will need to stop mortgaging crude. It is unfortunate that while countries like Norway are putting oil proceeds into a future fund through their national wealth funds, in Africa, we are spending oil proceeds from the future today” - The President of Dangote Group, on why the federal government should ensure the availability of crude feedstock for local refineries.
OLUSEGUN ADENIYI
olusegun.adeniyi@thisdaylive.com
Pot of Soup Democracy: A Sequel
Is there Justice for Workers in Nigeria?
OThe National Industrial Court of Nigeria (NICN) held its 2024/2025 Legal Year ceremony yesterday in Abuja. With a retired Justice of Supreme Court, Ejembi Eko as Chairman, I was the guest speaker. Below is a slightly abridged version of my presentation that speaks not only to labour justice and public interest but also the rule of law and the role of Judges in Nigeria.
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In the eve of last Saturday’s gubernatorial election in Ondo State, Tokunbo Ajasin, son of Second Republic Governor of the old Ondo State (now Ondo and Ekiti States), predicted what would happen. “I believe the incumbent will win. There is no strong opposition, and the APC (All Progressives Congress) candidate is the incumbent,” the 75-year-old scion of the late Michael Adekunle Ajasin told PUNCH newspaper. He then summed up the factor that would determine the outcome: “Ordinarily, the performance of the APC at the national level could have some effect but you know the way things are, nobody looks at performance. It is about whether you can take care of stomach infrastructure. That is the state we are in. If you are not able to take care of stomach infrastructure, I don’t know how you will win. The APC being in power will be able to do that sufficiently.”
That was exactly what transpired last Saturday in a contest in which votes were openly traded between operatives of leading parties and the Ondo electorate. A viral video from the election shows a female voter saying the process was free, fair and devoid of violence but that they all collected money for their ballot. Indeed, tales abound of how political undertakers invaded the polling stations with cash (and mobile phones for online bank transfers) to negotiate the price of a vote that went from between N3,000 and N20,000 depending on the location.
But for those expressing indignation, this is just a mere replay of an old game. A research paper is posted on the website of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS) titled, ‘Vote Buying and its Implication on Democratic Governance: A Case Study of Ondo State 2020 Governorship Election.' According to the researcher, Adebayo Zaka Jimoh, while Ondo electorates "are aware of the damage electoral corruption can do on democracy, they continue to accept bribes during elections as witnessed in the case study."
As I stated earlier, there is nothing new in what happened last weekend in the state or in 2020. Eight years ago, after the election that brought the late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu to power, I wrote, ‘Pot of Soup Democracy’. Below are excerpts from that column, first published on 1st December 2016. Readers can then draw their own conclusions before I get to mine.
consider it an honour and a privilege to stand before this august gathering as you celebrate the 2024/2025 Legal Year. I expect many of you may be wondering what qualifies me to be here and why a journalist is presenting a paper on labour justice and public interest. Perhaps I should let you in on a secret. I got the invitation for this assignment when I met an energetic man playing ping pong (table tennis) sometime last year. Had I not been introduced to the gentleman before I watched him toss the ball upward with his left hand and strike it fiercely with his right, it would have been difficult for me to believe that he was the Honourable Justice Benedict Kanyip, President of the National Industrial Court of Nigeria (NICN). Even though we exchanged contacts that day, I decided not to dwell too much on the promise because I thought it was one of those spur-of-the-moment decisions people make while in a jolly mood. But early this year, the honourable justice followed up with a call to remind me that I would indeed be the speaker at the 2024/2025 Legal Year ceremony. I cannot thank Justice Kanyip enough for the honour. Let me also appreciate other Judges of this court. My understanding of the contributions of the NICN to labour jurisprudence in our country has been enriched in recent days. To prepare my paper, I spent considerable time at the Court’s library. And, as it is with most libraries in Nigeria, the environment could be better. But I was fortunate to encounter two dedicated library staff who painstakingly provided me access to relevant materials, including ‘Digest of Labour Cases in Nigeria (1960 to 2012)’ and ‘Digest of Judgements of National Industrial Court (1978 – 2006)’ edited by Oluwole Kehinde with foreword (to both books) written by a former President of this Court, Justice Babatunde Adejumo. These materials, and a few others I browsed through, catalogue hundreds of cases decided by this court to advance the course of justice for workers in Nigeria.
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memory), once described as a game of “financial shootout” in which victory is almost always to the highest bidders.
This includes access to courts and other formal dispute resolution mechanisms in pursuit of effective remedy.
new phenomenon in Nigeria, most reports indicate that it was taken to a new level last weekend in Ondo State. Meanwhile, it is interesting that ‘pot of soup’ is fast becoming the defining metaphor for this season. When examined critically, there is only one conclusion to draw from the unfortunate Ondo spectacle: those buying the votes and the ballot sellers were united by the quest for a ‘pot of soup.’
The parameters in any given jurisdiction to measure labour justice include fair wages, which indicates that workers are to be compensated by their employers in a manner commensurate with their output; safe working conditions that guarantee protection from foreseeable danger and defence of their inalienable right to organize protests and negotiate collectively. There are of course several others, including not being discriminated against on the basis of religion, race, gender, age etc. If these parameters encompass the principles and practices that ensure fair treatment and protection of workers in their employment context, it goes without saying that the aim of labour justice is to address power imbalances between employers and workers, and to promote the dignity of labour.
While the voters were desperate to satisfy their immediate hunger, those buying the votes were thinking more of a lifetime of feeding frenzy at public expense. As things stand, most of the people elected into public offices at various levels are not thinking about the welfare of the people, they are only concerned about their own ‘pot of soup.’ And because of that, they bait voters with what could only satiate for a day while plotting for themselves a lifetime of opulence. That is the real essence of “Dibo ko se ‘be”.
Unfortunately, despite a plethora of legislation and the fact that Nigeria is a signatory to numerous conventions that should guarantee access to justice for workers, the reality is quite different. This can be glimpsed from the way key aspects of labour justice are resolved in our country. Not necessarily to the satisfaction of workers. These include freedom from discrimination, the ability to engage in collective bargaining, modalities for addressing unfair dismissal, among others. This then brings me to the issue of specialized labour court which the NICN represents in Nigeria.
The constitutional amendment of 2011 assented to by President Goodluck Jonathan changed the narrative by altering sections 6 and 254 of the 1999 Constitution and including the NICN as a Superior Court of record with coordinate jurisdiction with High Courts. The amendment also expanded the jurisdiction of the court to handle human right cases emanating from the workplace. The court is also saddled with jurisdiction to resolve disputes between the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC) and government.
of us places his person and authority under the supreme direction of the general will”. But what happens in Nigeria today is a situation where most elected public officials believe they are in no way accountable to the people. However, by helping unscrupulous politicians to power, those who accept gratification for their votes are also putting their future and that of their children in jeopardy…
ENDNOTE: I wrote the foregoing eight years ago but except we want to deceive ourselves, the malaise of vote buying is not restricted to Ondo State, it is a national challenge. That’s why it’s rather simplistic to put the blame for all our electoral woes on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Ordinarily, off-season elections (arising from court rulings that overturn previous elections or death of elected officials) should be easy to conduct. But they are not, essentially because desperate politicians in the leading parties have turned them into a cash-and-carry affair. Besides, it’s only in Nigeria that elections are conducted every other day. It doesn’t happen in other countries.
Before I continue with the issue of labour justice and public interest, let me make a general point about justice administration in Nigeria. It is important because the extent of justice available to workers in any given society is a function of the extent of rule of law available in that society. It is doubtful that citizens as workers can expect a higher degree of labour justice than what is available within the larger society. In her speech at the special session of the Supreme Court commemorating its new Legal Year and the induction of the latest set of Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs) on 30 September 2024, the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Honourable Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun emphasised that obedience to court orders will, under her watch, be “non-negotiable”. And that “No individual or institution, irrespective of their standing, will be permitted to treat the judgments of our courts with levity or disregard”.
I have been asked to speak on labour justice and public interest. There could not have been a better time to interrogate this topic in Nigeria as both labour and government were recently locked in negotiating an appropriate national minimum wage—the lowest amount of salary that employers of labour, whether in the private or public sector, should earn in the country. After much drama, it is gratifying that the two parties were able to reach a consensus on the issue, despite the fact that the agreed amount cannot even buy a bag of rice in the market.
The situation of workers in Nigeria is further complicated by the fact that those in the informal sector are practically excluded from any form of labour justice. Today, the only avenue for redress for most is to appear on radio programmes. That is how Ahmed Isah, an activist and on-air personality who anchors ‘Brekete Family’ on Human Rights Radio Abuja, has become not only the ‘Ordinary President’ for the vulnerable of our society but also their ‘Chief Justice.’ Such is the flagrant violation of workers’ rights by all
The Ondo State gubernatorial election has come and gone and by most objective accounts, the votes were properly cast, they were counted, and they count—at least to the extent that majority carried the day. We must commend the outgoing Governor Olusegun Mimiko for his maturity in congratulating the winner and all the contenders for displaying sportsmanship. Of course, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has promised to go to court, but if the party leaders are honest with themselves, they will accept responsibility for their woes and begin to put their house in order. Notwithstanding, there was something about the election that should worry us, and this has been highlighted also in many reports: the transparent buying and selling of votes by agents of the parties, with the main culprit being the PDP that currently controls the state and the APC that is in power at the centre. According to reports, at most of the polling units, agents of the APC and PDP engaged one another in what my brother, Ferdinand Agu (now of blessed
levels of government and the private sector that even foreign owned entities operating in Nigeria have been emboldened to treat our people with disrespect. In a clear breach of extant labour laws, many of these companies resort to unwholesome practices that deny their Nigerians workers job security and appropriate benefits. Even where there are statutory compensation provisions for work-related diseases, injuries, disabilities, or death, they are mostly observed in the breach. In several cases, affected workers or their next of kin receive little or no compensation for death or permanent injuries, including when they occurred while carrying out assigned duties.
The apostle of ‘stomach infrastructure,’ Governor Ayo Fayose of Ekiti State has alleged that the Ondo election was fought on the basis of “Dibo ko se ‘be” (vote for our candidate guarantee for yourself a pot of soup). While vote buying may not be a
In addressing the poser, “why do politicians buy votes?”, Razvan Vlaicu, a senior research economist at the Inter-American Development Bank's Research Department, argues that it happens in countries where political parties fail to build brands capable of convincing voters that their electoral promises can be trusted. “Citizens, especially the poorest and most marginalized, can come to see the disbursement of cash before elections as the one and only thing they get from an ineffectual government,” Vlaicu wrote. “They can come to depend on it. As a result, a vicious circle emerges. Those who suffer most from corruption become paradoxically those least likely to oppose it.”
The idea of the social contract theory on which government is founded, according to Jean Jacques Rousseau, “may be stated simply: Each
OThe concept of Labour justice and public interest are interwoven. Any initiative that engenders fair treatment in the workplace impacts positively on societal wellbeing. Indeed, the United Nations (UN) has on many occasions highlighted the importance of access to justice which essentially means the right to have one’s cause heard before an impartial arbiter. The international reference point for the concept of labour justice, as we are all aware, is the International Labour Organization (ILO) which, in several instruments, enshrines the right of workers to access justice without encumbrance.
n 2 September 2023, President Bola Tinubu recalled all the 42 career and 41 non-career ambassadors appointed by former President Muhammadu Buhari. These were men and women serving in many of our 109 diplomatic missions worldwide, comprising 76 embassies, 22 high commissions and 11 consulates. More than a year after these envoys returned home, they are yet to be replaced. Earlier in the year, Foreign Affairs Minister, Yusuf Tuggar, attributed the development to financial constraints. “We met a situation where Foreign Affairs was not being funded like the way it should be. It is a money problem,” Tuggar explained in May this year. “There is no point sending out ambassadors if you do not have the funds for them to even travel to their designated country and to run the missions effectively, one needs funding.”
While I felt it didn’t speak well that our country would advertise to the world that Nigeria cannot appoint ambassadors because there is no money to fund them, I still concluded it might not be a big deal. Until I encountered a retired Nigerian ambassador in Washington DC, United States, last weekend. “Hi Segun, why have you not written about the fact that President Tinubu has not appointed
The evolution of industrial courts can be traced to 1806 in France, 1869 in Germany and 1919 in the United Kingdom. But it was not until 1976 that authorities in our country signed on to the idea with the NICN. Established to address labour justice in all its ramifications, the court became functional in 1978. In the early years, the NICN faced several challenges that affected its effectiveness and efficiency. But even when operational, the court provided no reprieve for aggrieved workers for decades as its judgments were unenforceable due to the lack of laws and procedures required of a Superior Court of record.
In their book, ‘How Democracies Die’, Steven Levitsky and Daniel Ziblatt argue that the greatest danger to democracy are elected leaders who work to subvert the very process that brought them to power. I subscribe to their thesis. In societies where leaders appropriate to themselves and their immediate families the collective ‘pot of soup’, it is easy to understand why elections are increasingly being reduced to mere bazaar for the highest bidders. Yet, if the underpinning philosophy of a political system is to trade votes for money, then it is not only democracy that is in danger, but also the very survival of such a society.
Who Will Tell the President?
The problem started with the Supreme Court decision in the case between the National Union of Electricity Employers (N.U.E.E.) and Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE). The apex court held that, despite the provisions of Decree 47, the NICN had neither exclusive nor coordinate jurisdiction with state high courts. The fact that the court was powerless for about 28 years of its operation was acknowledged on 5th May 2003 by the then NICN President, Justice Adejumo in a scathing remark. This was the way he put it: “The NICN remained practically moribund. The court sat only in Lagos for those years. It was clearly unknown and its decisions and pronouncements hardly respected.”
The extent of justice available to workers in any given society is a function of the extent of rule of law available in that society...If there is anything to take from what transpired before last Saturday’s local government election in Rivers State, it is the willingness on the part of an alarmingly increasing number of judicial personnel to accept and play the role of hitmen for influential political actors as against serving the interest of the country and the public good.
ambassadors for any of our missions? Or you think it is not important?” I really did not know how to respond to his questions. But I didn’t have to. The retired diplomat went on a long lecture on the role of an ambassador before he shared insider information about what is going on in Abuja. He said a few career diplomats were appointed as Consul Generals to New York and Atlanta (USA) and Shanghai (China) among others “but this is not the same thing as appointing substantive ambassadors”. Right now, according to him, “we have no ambassador in Washington DC, none in Beijing, none in London, none in Paris, none in Moscow and no Permanent Representative at the UN headquarters in New York, or Geneva and Vienna. Yet, Nigeria is supposed to be gunning for a permanent seat at a reformed UN Security Council. What a joke!”
The retired diplomat asked, “So, who follows up on those agreements being signed by President Tinubu everywhere he goes in search of some imaginary foreign investment? You think a CDA (Chargé D'affaires) can do that? Diplomacy is a rank conscious affair. In most countries, a CDA would only be referred to some desk officers in their Ministry of Foreign Affairs. I served as CDA in an important
country before I became an ambassador. So, I know how these things work.”
After asking whether I had time to visit the Nigerian embassy in Washington DC to buttress his point and I said such was not within my plan, he continued, “an officer of our foreign ministry who strangely was posted to act as CDA here (Washington DC) was also asked to oversee the UN Permanent Mission during that period. It is not only bizarre but totally unacceptable. Nigeria should not be in such a position.” He told me several other things about the situation in many of our embassies, high commissions and consulates abroad before he concluded the monologue: “What I fail to understand is why a president who has so many people managing his personal image at home cannot see the importance of appointing those who should manage the image of our country abroad.”
This, indeed, is as it should be in a society governed by ‘rule of law’. But ‘rule of law’ is not the same as ‘rule of judges.’ According to worldjusticeproject.org, “The rule of law is a durable system of laws, institutions, norms and community commitment that delivers four universal principles: accountability, just law, open government, and accessible and impartial justice”. In contrast, ‘rule of judges’ denotes impunity towards the law by the very persons who ordinarily are invested with the functions and responsibilities of upholding ‘rule of law’. It is a situation in which a judge places himself/ herself above the law or makes himself/herself the law rather than a servant of the law or shepherd of the ‘rule of law’. Regrettably, the loud and overpowering noise of the latter is becoming definitive of Nigeria’s judiciary in the perception of most people. Nothing gives better expression to that than the statement, “Go to Court” by conscious wrong-doers, often followed by “Goonappeal” by their hand-in-glove judges! Aside the indiscipline of conflicting judgements, there is also the disgraceful issue of courts of coordinate jurisdiction nullifying one another since forum shopping has been institutionalised in Nigeria. In recent days, we have seen how the judiciary has been dragged into the power struggle between the godfather and his godson in Rivers State. If there is anything to take from what transpired before last Saturday’s local government election in the state, it is the willingness on the part of an alarmingly increasing number of judicial personnel to accept and play the role of hitmen for influential political actors as against serving the interest of the country and the public good. That should also be of serious concern to Justice Kekere-Ekun.
I still cannot fathom how any self-respecting Judge would grant an injunction, using subterfuge to restrain the police from performing their primary responsibility of restoring law and order during an election process...
I agree with the diplomat. The same president who will not appoint ambassadors has appointed 12 people at senior level to manage his media. So, it is a question of what President Tinubu considers a priority between his personal image and that of the country. I hope someone will impress it upon him that Nigeria needs ambassadors abroad.