Zenith Tech Fair 4.0 Ends on a High as Hackathon Finalists Get N77.5 Million Cash Reward
A total sum of N77.5 million in prize money was won at the end of a keenly contested hackathon session at the Fourth Edition of the Zenith Tech Fair, themed "Future Forward 4.0: Embedded Finance, Cybersecurity & Growth Imperatives – The
Impact of AI ", which held on Thursday, November 21, 2024, at the Eko Convention Centre, Eko Hotels & Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.
The prize money was shared among ten finalists who emerged from the over 1,700 contestants that took part in the hackathon, with JumpnPass, a self-checkout
technology solution reshaping the retail landscape in Africa emerging as the overall winner and taking home the grand prize of N25 million. This is in addition
to a six-week mentorship and incubation program designed to help them grow and scale
Continued on page 5
ICC Issues Arrest Warrant for Netanyahu over Alleged ‘War Crimes’ in Gaza...
L-R: Founder/Director, Nistad Limited, Ada Jabaru; Director-General/CEO, NIMC, Engr. Bisoye Coker-Odusote; Special Adviser to the President on Economic Matters, Dr. Tope Fasua; Partner, Africa, AI & Data Leader, Deloitte, Jania Okwechime; Founder & Chairman, Zenith Bank Plc, Jim Ovia, CFR; Group Managing Director/ Chief Executive, Zenith Bank Plc, Dame (Dr.) Adaora
Global
AI,
Strategy & Digital Implementation Specialist, Robin Speculand; and the Honourable Commissioner for Science, Innovation & Technology,
Tech Fair 4.0 held at Eko Convention Centre, Eko Hotels & Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, yesterday.
Continued on page 5
Tinubu to IMF: Our Reforms Now Bearing Positive Results
Says his govt will continue to prioritise welfare of the poor and vulnerable States Nigeria tinkering with tax reforms to further stimulate economy Georgieva lauds social investment programmes as a way of cushioning effects of reforms Says IMF injected $1trn into world economy in last two years
President Bola Tinubu has assured that his administration will continue to prioritise the welfare of the poor and most vulnerable, saying his government’s economic reforms have started to bear fruit.
Tinubu gave the assurance Wednesday night in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, when Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Kristalina Georgieva, paid him a courtesy call. A release issued by Adviser on Information and Strategy to the President, Bayo Onanuga, said Tinubu acknowledged that his administration’s reforms had weakened the purchasing power of many Nigerians, during the meeting held on the side-lines of the G20 Leaders' Summit.
Segun James The tourism and creative sector is expected to take a huge leap forward in Lagos, with the sector as well as other key economic areas, taking a chunk of the state’s expenditures in 2025 fiscal year. Continued on page 5
Welcome to a growth-centric partnership, unparalleled and well-suited to Shape Your Future.
Umeoji, OON;
Expert on
Danilo McGarry;
Lagos State, Mr. Olatunbosun Alake during the Zenith
Nume Ekhege
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
NNPC to Deploy Low Security Risk, High Integrity Oil Pipelines Nationwide
Gas minister decries incessant vandalism of Nigeria’s crude transport infrastructure Stakeholders seek fresh investment in nation's pipeline network
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) yesterday said it was working to ensure the deployment of high integrity crude oil and gas pipeline infrastructure nationwide that would cost less to secure.
NNPC stated that it will invest heavily, along with its partners, in technology to upgrade the existing oil and gas transportation infrastructure as well as ensure that the network met modern trends in the sector.
Speaking in Abuja yesterday at the 2024 edition of the Nigeria International Pipeline Technology and Security Conference (NIPITECS), Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of NNPC, Mele Kyari, said
effectively, which will run from December 2024 to February 2025.
The first runner-up, CreditChek , a credit and verification service provider which leverages AI and open banking to streamline income and credit history verification for financial institutions, won N20 million and a mentorship programme, while the second runner-up, Salad Africa, a start-up which offers seamless integration of credit products for digital platforms and software companies won N15 million as well as a mentorship programme. Other finalists who took home N2.5million each include Regxta, CashAfrica, Middleman, Messenger, Pocketfood, Famasi Africa, Kitovu.
Earlier during the programme, the Group Managing Director/ CEO of Zenith Bank Plc, Dame (Dr.) Adaora Umeoji, OON, in her welcome address expressed her appreciation to the Founder & Chairman, Dr Jim Ovia, CFR, for birthing the idea that led to the establishment of the Tech Fair initiative 5 years ago, she thanked him for his vision and foresight in utilizing technology to revolutionize the world of business and banking.
Commenting on the Hackathon, she said, “This prestigious annual event was created to empower and nurture young fertile minds. We hope to produce the likes of Bill Gates, Mark Zuckerberg, Steve Jobs and Elon Musk from the Zenith Bank Hackathons in the nearest future. According to the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics, 70% of Nigeria’s population are youths which is an economic asset when
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu laid bare what would be the priorities of the Lagos government in the coming year, as he presented the State’s 2025 budget to the House of Assembly yesterday.
The governor proposed a total of N3.005 trillion budget estimates, earmarking a huge capital investment of N908.7 billion to Economic Affairs sector — a cluster of key Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs). They comprise Tourism and Creative Arts, Agriculture, Transportation, Works and Infrastructure, Industry and Investments, Wealth Creation and Employment, Energy and Mineral Resources, Waterfront Infrastructure, and Commerce.
The 2025 Appropriation Bill, christened “Budget of Sustainability”, represents a 32.5 per cent increase over the current year budget, totalling N2.3 trillion.
The increment, Sanwo-Olu said, reflected the growing citizens’ demands for sustainable
the upgrade will involve the use of fibre optic technology, geo-tagging/ sensing technology, radio frequency, among others.
The event organised by Pipelines Professionals Association of Nigeria (PLAN) had the theme, “Pipelines: Critical Assets for National Economic Development and Environmental Sustainability.”
NNPC has over 5,120 kilometres of pipeline network nationwide, which is supposed to supply crude oil to the state-owned refineries and evacuate refined products for distribution across storage depots.
However, a huge portion of the pipelines have been subjected to vandalism and outright sabotage, as well as the effect of ageing. Some
properly harnessed. This is part of the reason why Zenith Bank is hosting this event to support the development of technology startups. Their success not only fosters innovation and growth in Nigeria, but it also plays a vital role in creating employment opportunities for our youth.” She also stressed on the importance of innovation and embedded finance in ensuring strong and enduring institutions. According to her, “it is paramount that we adapt and adopt technology to stay ahead of the curve. We have seen various cases of companies that failed because of their lack of innovation. It is quite obvious that when companies fail to innovate; they can easily be displaced, so this is not the time to be orthodox, innovation should be a top priority for us.”
In his goodwill message, The Governor of Lagos State, His Excellency, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu called for a global approach to doing business in the country. According to him, “What we need to do is to be able to enhance our product and services in order to compete in the world. We can’t continue to act local, we need to think global. Anything that we're doing now, we need to be able to know that we are not just serving a local market, we actually want to serve the global market, and that's why I'm glad that consistently, for the past four years, I have kept up with the Zenith Tech Fair. I am sure 5.0 should be bigger and better than what we have today, but for us as a government, what we need to do is to continue to
interventions in programmes and projects that would further raise productivity and energise economic growth in the State.
In response to citizens’ demands, he said the proposed budget was structured to ensure stability, stewardship and social equity around five key pillars, including infrastructure sustainability, economic diversification, social inclusion and human capital development, environmental sustainability, governance and institutional reforms.
The governor noted that sustaining investment in infrastructure in key areas of priority would enable the state build up momentum for more growth, stressing that his administration’s infrastructural drive would further get a boost in the coming fiscal year.
Sanwo-Olu disclosed that the government had completed 30 roads projects, including bridges, across the State, which had all been scheduled for commissioning from beginning of next month.
of the pipelines have lasted over six decades.
Represented by Managing Director of a subsidiary of NNPC, Nigerian Pipelines and Storage Company Limited (NPSC), Folorunso Kareem, the NNPC GCEO stated that the national oil company had eight pump stations, located at Abaji, Abudu, Auchi, Biu, Izom, Lokoja, Sarkin Pawa, and Zaria, to ensure desired flowrate and pressure, as well as 22 product depots/terminals and one crude oil terminal in Escravos.
Kyari stated that NPSC had implemented a programme to guarantee the reliability of the pipelines, including the repair of pipelines and use of security and maintenance contracts.
use platforms like this to reassure you of our readiness to provide an enabling environment for your ideas and innovative solutions.”
Described as a huge success by participants, the Fair featured the launch of the bank’s digital wallet, EazyByZenith, which will help to support the bank’s retail and financial inclusion strategy. The fair also included presentations on the leading technological innovations that cut across different aspects of life, such as Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Risk Management, Compliance, Financial Intelligence, Cloud Computing and Communication
Since 2016, he said the national oil company had had an incentivised contract with a security company, which included security and maintenance services.
He added, “The contractors are also responsible to perform minor repairs to stop leakages. Contractors are penalised for leakages over one per cent. As a result, the leakage on pipelines is aligned with industry standards.
“Crude lines to Warri and Port Harcourt experience less than one per cent leakage.”
However, he said the current system created significant cost due high security expenditure, and assured that a new pipeline network would solve these issues.
Technologies, with the keynote address, "Banking Transformation in a Digital World", delivered by Robin Speculand, a renowned Strategy & Digital Implementation Specialist.
The event also featured goodwill messages by Jim Ovia, CFR, Founder and Chairman of Zenith Bank; His Excellency, Hon. Kashim Shettima, GCON, Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (represented by Dr. Tope Fasua, Special Adviser to the Presidency on Economic Matters). Other eminent IT practitioners from top global brands who also made presentations include; Robin Speculand, renowned Strategy &
Kyari stated, “The new strategy is to construct high integrity, low risk pipelines as well as new engineering solutions (HDD) to bury pipelines deeply in high risk areas. Then new technology solutions for monitoring and management-fibre optic technology, geo-tagging/sensing technology, radio frequency etc.”
He added that the project will be financed through private investment to construct the pipelines through Build Operate and Transfer (BOT) model, which will ensure return on investment provided through a throughput fee.
According to Kyari, “The throughput fee would be higher than the current costs of security
Digital Implementation Specialist; Danilo McGarry, Global Expert on Digital Transformation and AI; Jania Okwechime, Partner, Africa, AI & Data Leader, Deloitte; Rupert Nicolay, Director, Microsoft Worldwide Financial Services.
The panel session had Wole Odeyele, Client Technology Lead for Microsoft Inc. as its host, and featured six discussants including Ada Jabaru, Founder & Director, Nistad Limited; Funke Opeke, Founder & Chief Executive Officer, MainOne; Guy Futi, Chief Executive Officer, Orda; Dr Auwal Adam Sa’ad, Founder, ZamzamPay; Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, Director
and losses. Pipelines play a critical role in achieving national economic development and environmental sustainability.
“They serve as the backbone of a country's energy infrastructure, enabling the efficient and safe transportation of essential resources such as oil, natural gas, and refined petroleum products.
“NPSC with the largest petroleum product pipeline network in Africa is poised to contribute to the nation's energy security, industrial productivity, and overall economic growth.”
General, National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), and Engr. Bisoye CokerOdusote, Director General/Chief Executive Officer, National Identity Management Commission (NIMC). The Zenith Bank startup pitch competition and incubation program seeks to identify and fasttrack the growth of high-potential Nigerian startups innovating in key sectors, including Embedded Finance, Cybersecurity, Fintech, HealthTech, Agritech, E-commerce, and more. The program provides an ideal platform for startups to showcase their groundbreaking ideas and gain access to invaluable resources to scale their businesses.
TINUBU TO IMF: OUR REFORMS NOW BEARING POSITIVE RESULTS
But the president said his government will continue to provide social safety nets to cushion the unintended consequences.
Congratulating the IMF chief on her election for a second term, Tinubu appreciated her support in implementing the reforms, calling for more institutional backing for stability and sustainable growth.
“We have started seeing positive results from our reforms, and the Nigerian people now understand the need for them, but we have to reduce the hardship that has resulted from the implementation,” Tinubu stated.
He emphasised the critical need for educational access, saying, “We have too many children out of school, and we know that education is a way out of hunger and poverty. That is why we are designing ways and incentives to
The governor also announced that Lagos had sealed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Federal Government’s Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI) to kick-start exploratory work on the development of the 68-km Green Line, which will connect Marina to the Lekki Free Trade Zone — a fast-growing industrial corridor in Lagos.
He said: “This 2025 budget is not just a fiscal document but a blueprint for continuity, resilience and shared prosperity for every Lagosian. As a key economic hub, Lagos stands at a crossroads: a nexus of challenges that test our resolve and opportunities that call for bold action.
“ In crafting this budget, we have listened to our citizens’ voices, studied the global and local economic realities, and reaffirmed our commitment to ensuring that Lagos continues to thrive sustainably for generations to come.
“Next year, we are making significant progress in revitalising
keep these children in school, and we need your support for these kids who want to stay in school."
Tinubu stressed that substantial resources must be invested to achieve the much-needed infrastructural development in the country.
He stated that Nigeria was working on tax reforms to further stimulate the economy.
He said, “We are engaging stakeholders and sensitising Nigerians to expand the economy's tax base for inclusive developmental growth. We are doing this without necessarily increasing the taxes on our people who have already given a lot. We will require your support on this.”
In her remarks, the IMF managing director, who expressed a desire to visit Nigeria, commended the Tinubu administration's economic reforms and their positive indicators. She assured the president of
cultural, religious and recreational infrastructure across the state.
These initiatives are aimed not only towards preserving the rich cultural heritage of Lagos, but also to unlock tourism economy by creating spaces for recreation and artistic expression.
“I am also pleased to note that we have recently signed MoU with MOFI to kick-start exploratory work on the development of the 68-km Green Line, which will connect Marina to the Lekki Free Trade Zone. In road construction and repairs, we have completed 36 road projects, including bridges, link bridges and pedestrian infrastructure, all of which are scheduled for commissioning from December.”
The 2025 budget proposal is made up of recurrent expenditure of N1.239 trillion, representing 41 per cent of the total budget, and a capital expenditure of N1.766 trillion, which represents 59 per cent of the budget.
Sanwo-Olu disclosed that the state would be financing the
further support in diversifying the Nigerian economy.
Georgieva specifically lauded the social investment programmes as a way of cushioning the effects on the most vulnerable and promised the assistance of the fund in this regard.
Contrary to popular perception, Georgieva said IMF was focused on developing vulnerable societies and devoting substantial resources to emerging economies.
She expressed the fund's readiness to offer technical support for the budgeting process in Nigeria, adding that it will assist the country to achieve the best possible results from loans.
Georgieva said the world had suffered some shocks from the covid 19 pandemic that caused damage to world economy, adding that over the last two years, IMF has injected about $1 trillion into the global economy.
budget through a combination of projected revenue inflow of N2.597 trillion, and a deficit financing of N408.9 billion. The revenue sources, he said, include Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) projected to be N1.971 trillion, and federal transfers of N626.1 billion.
The governor said the budget’s deficit would be financed through external and internal loans, and issuance of bonds, which, he said, would be within the State’s fiscal sustainability parameters.
Highlighting the sectoral allocation in the 2025 budget, he said Lagos Government will be spending N233.176 billion in Environment, N204.005 billion in Health, N208.376 billion in Education, N124.073 billion in Security, Safety and Public Order, while Social Protection will gulp N47.077 billion.
Sanwo-Olu described the performance of the current year’s budget as “excellent”, noting that the 2024 budget had been implemented to the tune of
While the developed countries managed the shocks better, the developing nations did not, she stated.
She said IMF was working with developing countries to build resilient institutions to better manage future global economic shocks.
According to her, it is the right of every country to benefit from the fund after a critical analysis of its priorities.
The IMF boss informed Tinubu that the organisation's Executive Board had approved the third Chair for Sub-Sahara Africa (SSA), to enhance the African voice.
She congratulated Nigeria on hosting IMF's African Caucus meeting in Abuja in August.
Georgieva also advocated deepening regional economic ties, saying IMF is ready to support this process.
N1.423 trillion, representing 84 per cent performance as at the end of third quarter.
While presenting the 2025 budget, the governor urged the lawmakers to play their part in ensuring thorough scrutiny of the proposal, just as he called for its speedy passage.
Sanwo-Olu said: “Let me assure the House that this budget is not just a statement of intentions but a practical, actionable framework designed to impact lives.
“From students and entrepreneurs in Yaba to the farmers and fishermen in Epe and Badagry, from the business executives and market women on Lagos Island to the factory workers in Ikorodu, this budget is all about the people of Lagos alone.
“I also assure our residents of my commitment towards ensuring that this proposed budget is able to effectively recalibrate the state’s economy, stimulate economic growth and strengthen the positive trajectory.”
Kyari
SANWO-OLU PRESENTS N3 TRILLION BUDGET OF SUSTAINABILITY.. .
Mr. Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu presenting the year 2025 budget at the State House Assembly...yesterday
National Assembly Approves Tinubu's Request to Borrow $2.2bn External Loan
Sunday Aborisade, Adedayo Akinwale, Chuks Okocha in Abuja and Dike Onwuamaeze in Lagos
Nigeria’s bi-cameral national legislature have approved President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s request to borrow an external loan of $2.209 billion which is the equivalent of N1.767trn.
Both the Senate and House of Representatives, Thursday, separately granted President Tinubu’s loan request which would be used to finance part of the N28.7 trillion 2024 budget as already captured in the Appropriation Act of the current fiscal year.
On the Senate’s part, the decision was taken after the Senate Committee on Local and Foreign Debts, presented its report during yesterday’s plenary.
While presenting the report, Chairman of the panel, Senator Aliyu Wamakko, said the external loan will be sourced from the country's Eurobonds in international capital
markets and gains from financial laws of the country.
Meanwhile, the House of Representatives also gave its approval at plenary on Thursday after considering the report submitted by the Chairman, House Committee on Aids, Loans and Debt Management, Hon. Abubakar Nalaraba.
It said given the significant increase in the official exchange rate from $1.00/₦800 to approximately ₦1,640, it was recommended that the exchange rate excess resulting from this adjustment be exclusively utilised for implementation of capital projects in 2024.
Reacting to the $2.2 billion external loan, former Vice President Atiku Abubukar said that despite the reforms of the President Tinubu-led federal government, Nigeria remains the third most indebted country to the International Development Agency.
He added that Nigeria is sinking deeper into debts, while describing the
reforms of the reforms of the federal government as bone crushing, while the National Assembly has become an accomplish in the sufferings of Nigerians.
In another related development, the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) warned that the burden of debt servicing in foreign currencies that would arise from the federal government’s proposed $2.2 billion borrowing would retard execution of capital expenditures and cause the value of Naira to depreciate further.
The Director General of LCCI, Dr. Chinyere Almona, gave this warning yesterday in a public statement titled “LCCI Statement on Federal Government’s Fresh $2.2 Billion External Borrowing Plan,” which said that the public concern over the proposed external borrowing is driven by the country’s weak economic fundamentals.
A Eurobond is a debt instrument
that's denominated in a currency other than the home currency of the country or market in which it is issued.
Eurobonds are important because they help countries or organisations raise capital while having the flexibility to issue them in another currency.
President Tinubu sought the approval on Tuesday in accordance with the provisions of Sections 21 (1) and 27 (1) of the Debt Management Office and the approval of the Federal Executive Council.
Aliyu Wamakko, the senator representing Sokoto North Senatorial District, while presenting the report explained that if the external borrowing request was approved, it will strengthen the nation's foreign reserve.
The senator said members of the National Assembly will collaborate with the Ministry of Finance to ensure that the fund is appropriately utilised when it is finally sourced.
Wamakko said the loan will be
We Built Oil Refinery When No IOC Was Willing, Says Dangote Group’s Edwin
Peter Uzoho
The Vice President of Oil and Gas at Dangote Industries Limited, Mr. Devakumar Edwin, has taken a swipe at Shell, ExxonMobil and Chevron as well as other international oil companies (IOCs), saying they were unable to build a multi-billion refinery in Nigeria like Dangote.
Edwin specifically said Dangote Refinery had done what Shell, ExxonMobil, Chevron, or other international oil companies can’t do by building a $20 billion plant in Nigeria. He made the assertion while
receiving members of the Senate Committee on Trade and Investment at the refinery complex in Lekki, Lagos State. Edwin told the senators, led by the Chairman of the Committee, Sadiq Umar, that Dangote Refinery, a Nigerian company, took up the challenge to build the largest singletrain refinery in the world. He said about six companies in the world could do the same.
“Here, a Nigerian company took up the challenge that nobody, like Shell, Chevron or ExxonMobil, has ever done in any part of the world. So, the Nigerian company—Dangote
Projects Limited—took up the challenge and built the refinery on time. And this is the world’s largest single-train refinery,” he said.
On his part, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Trade and Investment, Umar, assured the refinery of the National Assembly’s support. According to him, the $20 billion project is a national asset that must be protected.
Umar stated: “For us as legislators, you can rest assured that we know what you have done here; we know what it means to the country. We will do anything within our power to see how we can support you to
succeed so that Nigeria can succeed.
“This investment we have seen here is an investment for the country and the world, not necessarily for Dangote himself. It is our responsibility to see what we need to do to encourage him.
“I am sure you can see a lot of actions in what the president has done to support him so that the country will be better for it."
This comes as Bloomberg reported on Wednesday that the 650,000-barrelper-day Dangote Refinery has resumed crude imports from the United States after three months to ramp up production capacity.
sourced through Eurobonds in the International Capital Market, Issuance of debut sovereign Sukuk in the International Capital Market, with a Guarantee from Islamic Corporation for Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC) and Bridge Finance/ Syndicated Loans.
The senator said the loan will be at the official exchange rate of $1.00/ N1,640 for the implementation of capital projects as contained in the 2024 budget.
The committee chairman said that the federal government needed the fund in order to complete ongoing implementation projects and
programmes in the budget. Besides completion of ongoing projects, Senator Wamakko said the issuance of the bonds will contribute to the implementation of the Debt Management Strategy.
He said this seeks to reduce the cost of borrowing, lengthen the maturity of the public debt stock, free-up space in the domestic market for other borrowers and will help increase Nigeria's external reserves.
The chairman therefore recommended the approval of the issuance of the bond to enable the federal government settle outstanding claims and liabilities.
Data Privacy Breach:
NDPC to Prosecute Offenders Next Year
Oghenevwede Ohwovoriole in Abuja
The National Data Protection Commission (NDPC) stated yesterday that it will from next year begin the prosecution of data privacy breach offenders, saying that the formative stage where it concentrated on creating awareness was over.
NDPC's Head, Legal Enforcement and Regulation Department, Babatunde Bamigboye, made the disclosure in Abuja during a one-day cybersecurity awareness campaign with the theme, "Utilising AI-Powered Services for Proactive Cybersecurity."
The event was organised by SOPHOS UK in collaboration with SPOKES Network and Net-Trix Solutions, to enhance networking with industry experts and how Artificial Intelligence (AI) is shaping the future of cybersecurity.
Bamigboye stated that because of the implications of data privacy breaches in Nigeria, the commission
took time to create awareness, adding that beginning from next year, the Commission would prosecute any data controller or processes that breach the Act . He noted: "At this moment we have investigated quite a number of cases and in terms of prosecution; as you know as a lawyer that means going to court but we haven't taken any matter to court.
"This is the formative stage; we know the implication for the country as a whole. And usually when you talk about prosecution as well as it involves some criminal activities. So as of this moment, what we have concentrated on is to create awareness.
"But from next year, we will step up around this area of enforcement. What we have done is that we have taken remedial actions against certain data controllers, processors who defaulted under the Act."
He assured investors that the Nigerian cyberspace is safe for digital transactions.
ON AHMADU BELLO'S VISION THEY STAND...
L-R:
NEC Moves to End Grid Collapse, Sets Up 13-man C’ttee on National Electrification
Shettima: Private sector-distributed renewable energy generation vital to increasing electricity access NEC gives FCT, Kwara, two other states one week to submit position on state police States’ position on state police ready next month KACRAN asks northern govs to drop idea of establishing state police
Deji Elumoye and Michael Olugbode in Abuja
The National Economic Council (NEC), yesterday, rose from its monthly meeting at the State House, Abuja, with a resolution to reinforce implementation of the National Electrification Strategy in a bid to end the constant collapse of the nation’s power grid.
This was as Vice-President Kashim Shettima told members of the Council that access to energy was a fundamental right and not a privilege because electricity was the oxygen of economic growth.
Accordingly, the Council has constituted a13-man committee on National Electrification to help address the challenges in the power sector.
The formation of the committee
was among the decisions taken by NEC at the end of its 146th meeting chaired by Shettima at the Council Chambers.
The committee headed by Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, is to work towards deepening states’ engagements within the Electricity Reform Act 2023 and the National Electrification Strategy and Implementation Plan.
Following a presentation by the Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), NEC observed that Nigeria needed a reformed and diversified electricity system, noting that by empowering states, accessibility and affordability of electricity could be enabled, ensuring that all regions effectively meet their specific energy needs.
Members of the committee
Alleged N4.6bn Fraud: Ohanaeze Demands
Fashola's Probe
Benjamin Nworie in Abakaliki
The apex Igbo socio-cultural organization Ohanaeze Ndigbo has called for a comprehensive investigation into the actions the former Minister of Works and Housing, Barrister Babatunde Fashola over alleged unauthorized payments and expenditures of N4.6bn during 2020-2021 fiscal year.
In a statement issued by the Secretary General of the body, Okechukwu Isiguzoro, Ohanaeze Ndigbo emphasized that these allegations, which carry significant implications, must not, under any circumstance, be allowed to be brushed aside as public trust is predicated upon transparent governance.
The body also exonerated the current Minister of Works David Umahi, noting that during the 2020-2021 fiscal year under scrutiny, Umahi, was in office as the Governor of Ebonyi State from 2015 to 2023.
According to them, "Recent revelations from the Office of the Auditor-General of the Federation
have outlined significant discrepancies in the financial dealings handled by Mr. Babatunde Fashola during his tenure.
"It is incumbent upon him to clarify these allegations, as transparency is non-negotiable in public office. The citizens of Nigeria, particularly Ndigbo, deserve to know the truth of these serious allegations concerning mismanagement of public funds".
"Ohanaeze Ndigbo hereby issues a resolute call for a full-scale investigation into the alarming report concerning unauthorized payments and expenditures amounting to #4.64 billion during the fiscal years 20202021, which have been attributed to Mr. Babatunde Fashola, the immediate past Minister of Works and Housing".
Isiguzoro said that Ohanaeze Ndigbo has undertaken a thorough forensic investigation into the allegations of misappropriation labeled against Mr. Fashola and therefore reject any attempts to conflate Senator Umahi’s commendable work as Minister of Works with the alleged improprieties of his predecessor.
included Governors Dikko Radda of Katsina, Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe, Ademola Adeleke of Osun, Hope Uzodimma of Imo, and Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau.
Others were Ministers of Finance, Mr Wale Edun; Budget and Economic Planning, Sen. Atiku Bagudu; Power, Mr Adebayo Adelabu; Special Adviser to the President on NEC and Climate Change; Special Adviser to the President on Power; Managing Director, Rural Electrification Agency (REA), and Managing Director, Niger Delta Power Holding Company.
Earlier, Shettima had outlined issues before the Council that required urgent attention to include energy infrastructure, human capital development, creative industries, fiscal strategy, industrial innovation, and longterm development planning, describing them as foundational to the transformation Nigeria needs.
Shettima explained that, it was for this that experts and
stakeholders from some of the critical sectors had been invited to share their insights and contributions.
He said: “The past few months of collapses in our national power grid compel us to reinforce the pace with which we are adopting and implementing the National Electrification Strategy. Energy access is a fundamental right, not a privilege. It is the oxygen of economic growth.
“Our blueprints must, therefore, strive to expand access, empower rural communities, and drive productivity, especially for MSMEs. I hope that our discussions today will inspire solutions to light up homes, power businesses, and fuel Nigeria’s industrial future.
“Whatever path we agree upon, it is clear that a privatesector-led distributed renewable energy generation approach is essential to increasing electricity access for households and small enterprises alike.”
The vice-president also urged
the Council to take Nigeria’s creative industry seriously, saying it presented an avenue to redefine the nation’s economic trajectory.
According to him, “New technologies have not only amplified the global appeal of our arts, crafts, and culture but also opened up revenue streams and job opportunities for Nigerians.
“Our music, films, art, and cultural heritage are not just global symbols of Nigeria’s soft power but also vital engines of economic growth. We cannot afford to relegate the promise of turning creativity into wealth, empowering our youth, and positioning Nigeria as a hub of innovation and cultural excellence,” he added.
Meanwhile, the position of the subnational on state police will be ready by the next NEC meeting.
Deliberating on the updated submission on the establishment of state police, Council mandated
states that were yet to make their submissions on the subject matter should comply within the next one week to enable NEC to come up with a unanimous position on state police at the next meeting. Shedding more light on the issue while speaking with newsmen after the meeting, Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State disclosed that NEC gave the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and the three states namely Adamawa, Kwara and Kebbi, that have yet to submit their position on the creation of state police one week to come up with their report.
“Council was updated with the submission of the establishment of state police, and it was reported that 33 states have submitted their positions, while three states are yet to do so, and these three states are Adamawa, Kebbi and, incidentally, Kwara, which is the chairman of our forum, and the FCT, are yet to submit their positions.
HIV/AIDS: 2030 Zero Infection Target Achievable, Says NACA
Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt
The South-South Zonal Coordinator of the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), NnamnsoOwo Thomas, said the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) 2030 zero HIV infection target can be achieved.
Thomas, who stated this in Port Harcourt, during a two-day NACA South-South Zone Stakeholders Coordination Meeting, said given the right things being done, including political will, leadership, others, the target is achievable.
He said: "It is possible because, with the political will, leadership, and ownership, it's possible".
Noting that currently the HIV response in Nigeria is donor driven, and that over 80% of response comes from donors, who are mostly
international, he said ownership of the response is a must.
"If the state governments are ready to support the State Agency for the Control of AIDS (SACA) in all the states, through funding, and the Local Agency for the Control of AIDS (LACA), it can be possible to achieve the 2030 target", he said.
He explained further that, "as it stands now, in Nigeria, and, in fact, in HIV response, no one should be HIV positive because we have the science and all that is required for someone not to be HIV positive".
According to him, this is because if people duly go for testing, especially those directly exposed to HIV infection, such as rape victims, they will be placed on Post Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP), and will subsequently not be positive. In the same way, he said, if
"somebody involved in risky behaviour is on Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), the chances of contracting HIV is also very limited.
"If we have the right funding, it will increase our prevention activities and others, so that we can close the gap and even meet our target before 2030".
He advised participants in the meeting to ensure they execute the recommendations from the meeting in order to close the gaps identified in HIV response in their various states.
"As they're going, they need to engage with the government, because beyond the government approving budget, they need to start releasing those approvals for SACA to be able to carry out their mandate.
"We discussed a lot of things, but the one that stood out for me
is for them to increase engagement with (their) state government, so that the impact will be more felt, and the government will now begin to support them", he said.
Speaking on the gaps identified in HIV response in the meeting, the State Representative, UNAIDS, Dr. Idayat Uth, said they include "nonanalysis of HIV data for decisionmaking for HIV programming".
She continued: "Another thing that came out clearly is the sustainability of fund for HIV response in Nigeria and the South-South Zone.
"It was seen that most of the time, the government budget include HIV response yearly, but, unfortunately, the funding allocated hardly gets disbursed for SACAs, or the state, to even implement programmes related to HIV, and this has stood out as a challenge to HIV programming.
Minister of Budget and Planning, Alhaji Abubakar Atiku Bagudu; Arewa Think Tank Convener, Muhammad Yakubu; and MD/CEO of Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation, Engr Abubakar Umar at the foundation’s function in Abuja
Theme:
Collaborative Action Against SIM Theft and Mobile Number
Lehle Balde Media Entrepreneur & Financial Inclusion Advocate Head, Business Development, MTN Chenosis
Head, Cybercrime Investigation, (EFCC) Lagos State Command
Abbah Sambo Usman
Ag. Head, Industry Fraud Desk, NIBSS
Oluwatosin Obadimu
Joshua Chijioke
UBA MICRO SMALL MEDIUM ENTERPRISE (MSME) BUSINESS SERIES...
Civil Society Groups Storm National Assembly, Protest Fuel Importation By NNPCL
Says National Assembly lacks capacity to probe rots in oil, gas sector Proposes broad-based masses committee to investigate nation's oil firm Insists NNPCL, FG must divulge whereabouts of $20bn allocated for refinery repairs since 2007
Sunday Aborisade in Abuja
Non-governmental groups under the aegis of Nigerian Coalition of Civil Society Organisations (NICOCSO), besieged the National Assembly yesterday, and demanded the continuation of the plans by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPCL) to import over 1.6 billion litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).
The group led by the spokesperson Kennedy Tabuko described the policy as misstep and a deliberate attempt to undermine Nigeria’s local refining capacity.
He said the move would also harm the economy, and worsen the hardships faced by ordinary Nigerians.
The NICOCSO spokesperson said the coalition had perfected plans to stage nationwide protests in Abuja and other states if the nation's oil firm failed to rescind its decision.
The group maintained that Nigerians must demand accountability, transparency, and policies that would prioritize local refineries.
It argued that importing such a large quantity of PMS would put unnecessary strain on Nigeria’s foreign exchange reserves.
He said: “With the Naira already struggling against major currencies, this decision will only worsen the depreciation of our currency.
“A weaker Naira would lead to higher inflation, making everyday goods and services even less affordable for Nigerians.
“The cost of importing fuel undermines the goal of achieving energy independence and diverts resources that could have been invested in local refineries.”
NICOCSO therefore vowed to hold those responsible accountable, and insisted that Nigerians cannot allow decisions that jeopardize the country’s future to go unchecked.
He said: “The importation of 1.6 billion litres of PMS by NNPCL is an affront to our nation.
“It undermines our economy, delays our journey to energy independence, and places a tremendous burden on
the Nigerian populace.
“NICOCSO will remain steadfast in ensuring that public resources are utilized for the benefit of every Nigerian.”
Members of the coalition, armed with placards with various inscriptions noted with regret that the Nigerian populace has been assured of functional refineries for too long without success.
Tabuko said: “However, despite the staggering investment of over $20 billion since 2007, our refineries remain in disrepair.
“Rather than prioritizing the establishment of local refining, NNPCL continues to foster a dependency on imports, stifling opportunities for local investment, economic growth, and job creation.
“The NNPCL and the federal government must divulge the whereabouts of the $20 billion allocated for refinery repairs since 2007. Why are our refineries still inactive?
“NNPCL must provide explicit timelines for the operation of our three major refineries. Transparency
and accountability are essential for the Nigerian people.
“NNPCL should abandon its monopolistic justifications and foster competitive policies that encourage local refining and attract private investment.
“We urge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to immediately cease the importation of 1.6 billion litres of PMS and investigate the procurement process to ensure it is transparent and accountable.
“The President should also remove NNPCL leaders responsible for these detrimental decisions.
“Should our demands go unheeded, NICOCSO will escalate protests across the nation. It is crucial to hold NNPCL accountable for its betrayal of public trust.
“In our pursuit of justice, NICOCSO is excited to announce that the first leg of our nationwide rallies will kick off Thursday, November 21, 2024, starting in Abuja (North Central).
“The rallies will extend to other states from Friday, November 22.”
The NICOCSO spokesperson said
Nigeria, Turkiye $2 Billion Furniture, Textile Market to Grow by 300 Percent
Segun James
The Nigeria and Turkiye furniture and textile market is set to grow from $2 billion to over $6 billion in the next three years. This figure represents over 300 percent growth.
This is as former lawmaker, Shina Peller, along with key stakeholders from the furniture and textile sectors have shared insights on how the federal government can foster growth in this crucial sector of the growing real estate market in the country
The President of MEEI Program, Martins Arebun, in a paper on the Economic Significance of Furnitue and Textile Sectors on the nation's economy, disclosed that they also contribute significantly to the national GDP, employment and export.
According to him, while Turkiye is one of the top global exporters of textiles and accounts for over 3.5 percent global exporters, Nigeria along
with South Africa and Ethiopia among others are leaders in the production of cotton and wool.
Arebun disclosed that Turkiye trade volume within continent exceeded over $40 billion in 2023 and it is growing with the textile and furniture sectors accounting for significant portion.
"Nigeria's furniture markrt is valued at over $2 billion and it is growing annually with a potential for over 300 percent growth in in the next three years,” he said.
Speaking on the Role of Policy, Innovation, Standards, and Etiquette in Boosting Nigeria’s Furniture and Textile Sectors at ongoing Furniture Expo and Exhibition held at the Land Mark Centre, Victoria Island, the founder of MEEI, Dr. Daniel Ayodele, said that the sectors are "not just integral parts of our economy; they also reflect our culture, creativity, and capabilities.”
Said Ayodele: "The furniture industry has seen local artisans produce unique, culturally relevant
pieces that reflect the rich heritage of our nation. Additionally, the textile sector boasts a vibrant history, from traditional weaving to contemporary fashion design.
“However, to truly elevate these industries, we need cohesive policies that foster development, incentivize innovation, and reinforce standards while embracing proper business etiquettes.
"First and foremost, effective policy-making is paramount in driving growth within the furniture and textile sectors. Policies must be designed to support local manufacturers, attract investments, and ensure fair market competition.
“The restriction placed on importation of furniture, textile materials and other items made by the then administration of President Buhari was commendable. By creating a favorable business environment, policymakers can stimulate production and encourage new entrants into the
market."
In his paper, Shina Peller, an entrepreneur and former member of the 9th National Assembly, emphasized the importance of effective policymaking in driving sectoral growth.
"Policies must be crafted to support local manufacturers, attract investments, and ensure fair competition," Peller stated.
He lauded the restriction on the importation of furniture and textile products under the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing it as a step in the right direction, he stressed that creating a conducive business environment will help stimulate production and encourage new market entrants.
The President of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Dr. Charles Idahosa, in his speech, stressed that the Expo has opened potential opportunities to Nigerians in the growing furniture market in the country.
the group does not believe that the National Assembly joint committee currently probing the rots in the oil and gas sector has the capacity to do a thorough job.
He therefore urged the federal government to set up a broad-based committee comprising the civil society organisations, the organised labour unions, the private sector, the students and the market leaders, to carry out a holistic probe of the sector.
He said: “First of all, you remember that there was an initial committee constituted by the National Assembly.
However, because of power plays, that committee was dissolved and a new one was constituted.
“Up to the next tomorrow, nobody has heard anything from them. The federal government, as led by President Bola Tinubu, should constitute a special committee of the people, comprising the trade union, market women, students, and whatever.
“Let's go and investigate what is actually happening in this refinery. The National Assembly probe will lead to nowhere like the previous ones because they lack the capacity to do the job”
NPA MD Elected First Nigerian Chairman of Africa’s Premier Maritime Body, PMAWCA
After over 50 years of agonising wait, the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho was yesterday elected Chairman of West and Central Africa’s premier maritime body, Port Management Association of West and Central Africa (PMAWCA), at the 44th annual council and 19th roundtable of Directors General of PMAWCA holding in Conakry-Guinea.
PMAWCA was established in October 1972 under the auspices of the Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) and it covers the seaports located along the West Coast of Africa including Mauritania and Angola.
The shipping area covers a coastline about 12,000 km. Its ports handle about 300 million tons of maritime import/export trade for the sub-region excluding crude oil.
In his acceptance speech, Dantsoho said the recognition represents a significant milestone in the continuing march of West and Central Africa Maritime states towards global competitiveness and delivery of world class services.
He added that the Nigerian government’s commitment to a revolutionary turnaround of Nigeria’s maritime industry, has been characterised by reforms in critical segments of the industry, including port rehabilitation and modernisation, infrastructure, digitisation and automation.
These measures, he added, would undoubtedly boost operational efficiency as well as revenue generation, while augmenting the federal government’s efforts to diversify the economy by boosting non-oil exports.
According to him, “It is with great honour and privilege that I stand before my friends from the countries of West and Central Africa today to accept the mantle of leadership of our great association, PMAWCA and to serve as its chairman.
“I would like to seize this occasion to affirm Nigeria’s will and determination clearly demonstrated by the Hon Minister of Marine & Blue Economy Alhaji Adegboyega Oyetola in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Ahmed Bola Tinubu to sustain the momentum established by my predecessor, Mr. Martin Boguikuoma, Managing Director of Gabon Ports Authority, and to continue to put all efforts needed in order to further consolidate the economic cohesion of the region and to actualize the interests of member ports . While calling for collaboration among member states, he said it is only through robust commitment and collaboration that mandates can be achieved.
“Therefore, I will be seeking your usual cooperation and advice in helping to ensure that we continue to develop the maritime sector in our various countries and the West and Central African sub-region in general.
Eromosele Abiodun in Guinea Conakry
L-R: Directorate Head, Resources, United Bank for Africa, Tomiwa Sotiloye; Founder Terra Culture and Award winning Film Director, Producer, Bolanle Austen-Peters; Multimedia personality, Toke Makinwa; Founder, Happy Coffee, Princess Adeyinka Tekena; and Group Head Corporate Communications, UBA, Alero Ladipo, during the UBA Micro Small Medium Enterprise (MSME) Business Series tagged ‘Profit with Purpose, Business Continuity’, held at UBA House, Marina…yesterday
Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)
...Power to the People! Motto: Justice, Unity and Progress
National Secretariat: Wadata Plaza, Plot 1970 Michael Okpara Street, Wuse Zone 5, Abuja. www.peoplesdemocraticparty.com.ng
SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT
NOVEMBER 21, 2024
RE: NOTICE OF 99TH NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING
Distinguished members of the National Executive Committee (NEC) may recall that the NEC meeting scheduled for Thursday October 24, 2024 was rescheduled to hold on Thursday, November 28, 2024 after an extensive meeting of leaders, critical stakeholder and r elevant Organs of the Party held on Tuesday, October 22, 2024.
However, at its meeting of Wednesday, November 20, 2024, the attention of the National Working Committee (NWC) was drawn to the programme of events of the funeral ceremony of the late First Lady of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Mrs. Patience Umo Eno , wife of the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, which events coincide with the scheduled dates of activities for the 99th NEC meeting.
After due consideration, the NWC, recognizing the need for Party leaders to commiserate with Governor Umo Eno and also participate in the funeral, hereby wishes to notify distinguished members of NEC of our Party that the 99th NEC meeting earlier scheduled for Thursday, November 28, 2024 will now be held on a date that will be communicated to members in due course.
All NEC Members should please note the change of date and be guided accordingly.
The NWC sincerely regrets inconveniences this change of date will cause distinguished members of NEC.
Signed:
Senator Samuel Anyanwu National Secretary
HIS EXCELLENCY LATE PRINCE ABUBAKAR AUDU
FORMER GOVERNOR OF KOGI STATE
YEARS 9Remembra nce
Dear Dad,
It is unbelievable that nine years have rolled by since we lost a doting f
visionary leader.
How many of your numerous legacies can we enumerate?
Yo u b a n i s h e d i g n
institutions; you reduced road mishaps and quicken j o u r n e y s b y b
improved the people's health by establishing and funding healthcare facilities.
You discouraged crime and kept the young fit by building and equipping sports arena. You lifted millions of families from poverty by creating vast employment opportunities.
All who crossed your path were impacted positively t h r o u g h y
philanthropy, integrity, hardwork and leadership drive.
The vacuum created by your transition is yet unfilled and shall remain so for a long time. Kogi State in particular and Nigeria in general is better off for having had a great personality like you transverse this plane of existence. As a true hero, you fought for the good of all.
To us, your descendants, you bequeathed an example and good nam
. We
patriotism and selflessness. You were our dream come true.
We remain proud of your numerous achievements in f
engineering.
May Allah continue to shower his mercies on your soul and grant you eternal peace.
Signed: Alhaji Mohammed Abubakar Audu FOR THE FAMILY
Politics
Acting Group Politics Edito r DEJI ELUMOYE
Email: deji.elumoye @thisdaylive.com
08033025611 s M s O n LY
On Reuters’ Spurious Allegations against Nigerian Military in N’East
The National Human Rights Commission’s panel set up to investigate the allegations by an international news medium, Reuters, of unprofessional and inhuman war in the Northeast recently submitted its report and came out with some far reaching recommendations, Michael Olugbode reports.
It is absurd and unbelievable that an Army in its own country, though fighting a rebel organisation, would mastermind the abortion of 10,000 pregnant women in order not to further add strength to the rebel forces.
This looks more like a script for a movie written with the intention of winning an Oscar rather than a news report from a respected media outfit. But it was reported against the Nigerian military fighting the Boko Haram insurgency in the Northeast by a respected media outfit, Reuters.
No wonder many could not but lampooned the report as a mischief with a dastardly intention package to undermine the fight against terrorism and the battle to liberate the people of the Northeast who shares borders with some Francophone countries and who were at an advance stage of commencing oil exploration.
One of those that from the world go believed that the Reuters report was a planned strategy to undermine the fight against Boko Haram and to allow Nigeria benefit from the economic resources of the North East region was Karen Goulding, who in her published opinion over two years ago said the report against the military by Reuters was nothing but “half-truths and illogical conclusions.”
She alleged that there is a history. The attack by Reuters against the Nigerian Army dated back to when the Boko Haram crisis was at its peak. It was common knowledge then that whenever the Nigerian military was making gains, Reuters was in the habit of churning out reports that would destabilize the troops and allow the Boko Haram terrorists to regroup and launch attacks against the military.
She said: “This has been their stock in trade; therefore, the recent triple attack against the Nigerian Military didn’t come as a surprise. Aside from the fact that the reports lacked objectivity, they showed a strong disdain for Nigeria.
“The report on forced abortion in North East Nigeria is, at best, a miscarriage in journalism. It was a highly defective enterprise that exposed the shallowness of the promoters of Reuters. It read like a low-budget movie. That is what it is.
“The second report was more of a caricature of what news reportage represents. It promoted innuendos rather than facts. It granted a flashy headline but was empty in content. It was a rehash of previous failed reports that failed. It was, at best, a story meant for kindergarten.
“The third report on massacred children is not a topic for conversation. It remains one of the most illogical articles from a supposed international news agency. I am at a loss how such a story was sanctioned for release, and Reuters promoted it like an award-winning story. It was a poor plot that was laced with mischief and malice. It reinforces the hatred the promoters of Reuters have against Nigeria.
“I am tempted to assume that this drive is not any different from previous failed attempts to dampen the morale of the Nigerian Military in the prosecution of the war against Boko Haram terrorism. The pertinent question is, why now?”
If the truth must be said, the Reuters report should not have been respected with an inquiry but the Nigerian government through its Human Rights police, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) decided to honour Reuters by setting up a probe into the allegations, calling on actors and stakeholders in the crisis for questioning. One of those invited at the time was Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Lucky Irabor who declared as spurious, the human rights violations allegations levelled against the Nigerian military by the news agency, Reuters.
Reuters in a series of reports had alleged the military in it’s counter-insurgency operations in the Northeast over the decade of human rights violations including forceful abortion of over 10,000 pregnancies of women believed to be linked with the Boko Haram terrorist group and several killings of children who were fathered by alleged terrorists.
Irabor, while appearing in Abuja before the National Human Rights Commission investigative panel on rights violation in counterinsurgency operations by the military in the North-East, said the allegation was “not only shocking but also spurious.”
The CDS, who held various posts in the theatre
of war in the North-East, including Theatre Commander of Operation Lafiya Dole and Commander, Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), told the panel that having been involved, there was no time he saw any abortion being carried out on women and girls to prevent regeneration of Boko Haram insurgents.
He said: “I have been involved in the operation. I never saw any of sort (abortions). It was a surprise to me for someone to orchestrate such report (Reuters’ report).
“I am glad that this panel was constituted to investigate the allegations. It was a rude shock that such allegations could be attributed to the armed forces of Nigeria.”
He described the Reuters’ allegation as unfounded, insisting that the report that over 10,000 abortions were enforced by the military in the North-East through a deliberate policy as a strange allusion, declaring that if such policy was in place, it was not the responsibility of the armed forces to execute such.
He said: “These are strange allusion. The Armed Force of Nigeria engages in internal security to defend the people and the country and fight criminal elements.
“On what ground do we want to stop regeneration of Boko Haram criminals? If this so-called principle is in place, it is not the responsibility of the armed forces to be involved.”
He assured that he would give the soldiers Reuters claimed it interviewed in its report immunity with a view to enabling them to come before the panel to testify.
Irabor told the panel that throughout the period he spent in the theatre of war, he never heard of any group of women called wives of Boko Haram to the extent that their freedom was restricted.
Irabor while describing the massacre of children claimed in the report as gory, said that children could not have been massacred by members of the armed forces, adding that military code of conduct prohibits members of the forces from engaging in such acts.
NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the online edition on www.thisdaylive.com
Oyebamiji: Turning Around the Fortunes of NIWA
Ismail Omipidan writes about moves by the Managing director of National Inland Waterways authority, Mr Bola Oyebamiji, to turn around the fortunes of the agency one year after assuming office.
Bola Oyebamiji is a noble man by all standards. Humble. Generous. Hardworking. He is one individual whose love and compassion for community and the less privileged in the society is unrivalled.
My close relationship with him in the last five years showed clearly that he has no issues relating with people - mighty, high and low. He served as the Finance Commissioner, while I served as the Chief Press Secretary to Osun state Governor.
The job of propagating and publicising the activities of the government and the governor as Chief Press Secretary is never an easy one, as not everyone even within the cabinet would accord you the necessary and legitimate support to excel.
However, some cabinet members deserve special mention for supporting me with material and resources to succeed in the discharge of my duties as the Chief Press Secretary to Osun Governor (2019-2022).
One of them was Bola Oyebamiji.
As the Commissioner for Finance, he ensured that whatever was approved to carry out the task of my office was released in good time. In fact, on one or two occasions, he went out of his way to ensure my team got what it needed for media and publicity without being subjected to mental torture by the ministry/ agency concerned.
Today is his birthday and I have chosen to celebrate him because of my admiration for how he has carried himself so far since he happened on the public service scene in 2012.
He belongs to the class of public servants who use power and influence positively. His dedication to supporting his boss and Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola to make a positive difference in the sector is truly inspiring.
As the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Oyebamiji has, within one year of his appointment, turned around the fortunes of the agency, as he follows religiously the details of the Performance Bond he signed with the Minister, Oyetola.
But this is not the first time Oyebamiji would be turning around the fortunes of the places he had the opportunity to oversee.
Before he was named the Managing Director of Osun State Investment Company Limited (OSICOL) in 2012, the place was almost becoming moribund. But within five
years, he turned around the fortunes of the company, growing it up from about N300million to about N3billion.
It was that impressive performance that threw him up for the position of Commissioner for Finance in Osun State in 2017; and when Oyetola became the governor in 2018, he did not need to look farther before settling for a man widely regarded as a public sector expert in human resources, finance and policy formation.
In my own estimation, Oyebamiji stands out in the crowd of those that may have managed Osun’s Ministry of Finance so far.
Oyebamiji was born in Ikire, Osun West part of the state, where he had his early formation. He attended ADC Primary School, Oke-Ada (1971-1977), and proceeded to Ayedaade Grammar School, Ikire, from 1978-1982 for his secondary school education.
From there, he proceeded to the prestigious The Polytechnic, Ibadan, where he obtained his Ordinary National Diploma (OND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) in Banking and Finance.
His quest to further horne his intellectual capacity saw him obtaining two master’s degrees in Public Administration and Business Administration from Lagos State University, Ojo, and the University of Ado-Ekiti, respectively.
-Omipidan writes from Ila Orangun, Osun State.
Photo
Wife of the late Senator Ifeanyi Uba, Mrs. Uchenna (middle), flanked by two relations during the valedictory session in honour of late Senator Uba in Abuja...recently PHOTO: JULIUS ATOI
L-R: The Chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Mr. Zacc Adedeji, receiving a souvenir from the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Director-General, Brigadier-General Yushau Dogara Ahmed, during his advocacy visit to the FIRS headquarters in Abuja… recently
L-R: Prof Usman Zagga of SAHAD Hospitals; Chief Medical Director of SAHAD Hospitals, Dr. Muhammad Hardawa; and Director of Studies of ACME College of Nursing Sciences, Dr. Abubakar Jimoh, after the signing of MoU for the training of nurses to fill vacuum caused by ‘Japa’ syndrome, held in Abuja… recently
Group Managing Director, Explicit Group, Mr. Tunde Thani (right), on a courtesy visit to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Chairman, Mr. Olanipekun Olukoyede (left), in his office in Abuja… recently
Olori Aderonke Elegushi, wife of the Opemoluwa Elegushi of Ikate land in 1966 post-graduate of the Methodist Girls High School, Yaba, Lagos, with some of the pupils of the school at the recently concluded 145th year foundation anniversary celebrations of the school.
L-R: Executive Director and Chief Financial Officer, Providus Bank, Mr. Deoye Ojutoye; Executive Director, MTN Foundation, Mrs. Odunayo Sanya; Managing Director of Providus Bank, Mr. Walter Akpani; Director, Enterprise Development Centre (EDC), Pan-Atlantic University, Dr. Nneka Okekearu; Consul-General, United States Embassy and Consulate in Nigeria, Mr. Will Stevens; and President, Academy for Women Entrepreneurs Alumnae Association Nigeria, Adebisi Odeleye, during the Women Enterprise Day, a series in the entrepreneurship week organised by the GEN Nigeria and EDC, held in Lagos... recently
www.thisdaylive.com
Friday November 22, 2024
opinion@thisdaylive.com
TRANSFORMING
SANITATION IN PUBLIC SPACES
ELVIS EROMOSELE examines the health implication of the dearth of public toilets in Nigeria
See page 21
THE SOURCE OF OUR POVERTY
JOSHUA J. OMOJUWA writes on the importance of time management
See page 21
EDITORIAL
MAKING PUBLIC TOILETS
YUSUF MAITAMA TUGGAR wades on the Middle East crisis and the way forward
THE STRUGGLE FOR PALESTINIAN STATEHOOD
A liminal moment is a time of realization that the way things are is no longer sustainable, yet the way thing will become is yet to happen. In other words, a liminal moment is a period of transition. The quest of Palestinians for statehood and the right to exist is going through a transition period in which the world is awakening to the fact that Israeli occupation of Gaza and the West Bank and the institutionalised system of segregation used to administer the territories is neither tenable nor sustainable. Although the violence and carnage being meted out to the Palestinians appears at first glance to strengthen the hands of the Israeli government and provides opportunity for settlers to expand territorial ambitions, a closer examination reveals it to be a pyrrhic victory. The resolve of the innocent civilians on the receiving end is only getting stronger, determined to avert another Nakba, the term referring to the exodus that followed the 1948 partitioning that created the state of Israel. Many Palestinians lost their homes in the event, never to return again. Families still clutch on to the keys of their houses as mementos of a mistake passed down from one generation to another, that must never be repeated again. The struggle for Palestinian statehood is the liminal moment of our time.
When it comes to standing up against injustice and racial discrimination, Nigeria has maintained an admirable consistency. We deployed resources and energy over three decades towards the liberation of Angola, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Namibia and Apartheid South Africa. Nigeria follows the dictum of International Relations guru Hans Morgenthau of making ethical foreign policy behaviour an integral part of its state objective. President Bola Tinubu continued this tradition when he spoke out equably for an end to the violence in Palestine and Lebanon during the Arab-OIC Extraordinary Summit in Riyadh on 11th of November 2024, calling for the actual implementation of the two-state solution that has been the subject of several UN Resolutions, dating back to Resolutions 242 and 338 of 1967. President Tinubu’s intervention was considered by other countries in attendance as providing the missing mechanism when he suggested the creation of a secretariat to monitor implementation of the Summit’s resolutions and provide regular reports to the leadership, until peace is achieved. This was unanimously adopted as a late addition to the draft resolution and hailed as a departure from previous ones that lacked implementation mechanisms. President Tinubu has remained deeply concerned by the human suffering in Gaza, especially of children and women. For this reason, Nigeria worked with Red Cross officials and employed its diplomatic channels to facilitate the evacuation of sick and injured children to Egypt, UAE and Jordan. Today three-year-old Alaa Madhon, nine-month-old Salma Chagu of Khan Yunus, another three-month-old baby Alaa and baby Suhail are all alive with the
help of Nigeria’s back channel diplomatic efforts. In his speech, President Tinubu reminded the world that the conflict did not begin on October 7th, contrary to media reporting that often gives the impression that the Hamas attack and kidnapping of civilians was the casus belli that justified Israeli aggression and discounting the daily aggression meted out to Palestinians living under the apartheid system in Gaza and the West Bank. He candidly challenged leaders by stating it was not enough to issue empty condemnations and although a country in a rules-based international order had the right to self-defence, they had to consider the proportionality of violence they applied, especially on innocent civilians. President Tinubu pointed out that an entire civilian population cannot be dismissed as collateral, in meting out revenge for October 7th. The contradiction of justifying the Israeli aggression against innocent civilians within the context of a rules based international law and order is that the whole point of international law is to rule out revenge. Justice is antithetical to revenge. Those who attempt to give religious colouration to standing up for what is right and just betray a lack of understanding of the Palestinian quest for statehood. Some of the most prominent figures in that struggle have been Christians; academic Edward Said, PLFP founder George Habash, political activist Hanan Ashrawi are among the recognisable names. And within the state of Israel exist Arabs that are Muslim, Christian and Druze. The Republic of South Africa
that instituted a genocide case against Israel in the International Court of Justice is 82% Christian. The nationhood journey of South Africa and the struggle against apartheid make it the most morally appropriate nation to file such a case against Israel where a similar apartheid system confines over 2.2 million people in an open-air prison called Gaza. Like South African Bantustans or homelands, those living within require passes to move around, their fundamental human rights restricted. So South Africans can identify more easily with the plight of the Palestinians as non-citizens on their own land.
But Nigeria can also identify with such a system and share the pain because of our own journey to nationhood. Apartheid was simply an extreme form of indirect rule. The system designed by Lord Lugard and Jan Smuts to answer the native question was to segregate a black majority, creating Sabon Garis and Zangos that restricted movement and mingling among the owners of the land. Black people were not allowed to venture into the Government Reservation Areas (GRAs) of Ikoyi in Lagos and Nasarawa in Kano, else one would be arrested for “wandering”. Late Ibrahim Gusau (who later became a Minister in the first republic) was punished by the colonial authorities for being found in Sabon Gari, with a copy of the West African Pilot, published by anticolonial agitator Nnamdi Azikiwe. It was therefore not surprising that after gaining independence, Nigeria’s foreign policy maintained a proclivity for standing up against discrimination and injustice. Apart from supporting liberation movements to free others from the colonial choke hold, Nigeria refused to sell oil to Apartheid South Africa and penalised businesses that dealt with racist regimes on the continent. The Balewa government lobbied for the expulsion of South Africa from the Commonwealth and set up the National Committee Against Apartheid across the country, the Gowon government helped strengthen the United Nations Committee Against Apartheid and pushed for recognition of Guinea Bissau and Cape Verde as independent states, the Murtala/Obasanjo administration created the Southern Africa Relief Fund (SAFR) or Mandela tax as it was popularly known, and the Shagari government engineered the Lancaster House Conference that paved the way for Zimbabwe’s independence. President Tinubu continues this noble tradition by standing up for the actualisation of the two-state solution.Nigeria’s diversity gives it an advantage on the world stage in consensus building through the hard work of conversation and virtues of principled compromise. Though this may be taken for granted at home because it comes naturally to us, it remains an uncommon trait abroad much admired by others. It is a gift that we must continue to tap into in our shared political project both at home and abroad.
Tuggar is Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs
ELVIS EROMOSELE examines the health implication of the dearth of public toilets in Nigeria
TRANSFORMING SANITATION IN PUBLIC SPACES
I had the opportunity to visit several Nigerian cities in recent weeks, from Lagos to Bayelsa, through Benin, and Warri. Although these cities provided rich cultural experiences and stunning scenery, one prevalent problem that caught my attention was the condition of public sanitation, especially in motor parks and markets. The unpleasant stench, overflowing trash, and unhygienic conditions of many of these areas confirmed the urgent need for significant improvements in sanitation in Nigeria's public parks and markets. We'll discuss the roads another day.
In commemoration of World Toilet Day 2024, a global observance dedicated to raising awareness about sanitation, it is time to reflect on the need for cleaner, healthier environments in our communities, especially in places where large numbers of people gather. World Toilet Day, commemorated annually on November 19, highlights the critical issue of global sanitation and aims to ensure that everyone, everywhere, has access to safe and clean toilets.
This year’s theme, 'Toilets – A Place for Peace', underscores the connection between sanitation and the broader goal of peace and well-being. While it may seem like a simple issue, access to proper sanitation is a fundamental human right that remains out of reach for millions around the world, including in Nigeria. With rapid urbanization, population growth, and the increasing movement of people in and out of public spaces, the absence of adequate sanitation facilities has become an even more pressing issue.
In Benin and Warri, overcrowded motor parks and markets often lacked basic sanitation facilities, forcing people to resort to open defecation or dispose of waste improperly. The unpleasant odours that emanated from these places were a stark reminder of the poor waste management systems in place and the lack of public toilets.
In motor parks, from which millions of people travel, the absence of functioning restrooms makes the experience less enjoyable and even unhealthy. In markets, where tens of thousands of people shop and interact daily, the lack of toilets is not just a matter of convenience—it’s a matter of public health and dignity. Poor sanitation contributes to the spread of diseases such as cholera, typhoid, and dysentery, which are prevalent in many parts of Nigeria due to inadequate waste management systems.
World Toilet Day 2024 calls on governments, organisations, and individuals to take urgent action to address the sanitation crisis. In line with this year's theme, I'd like to say that sanitation is not just about hygiene; it’s about health, safety, and human rights. Without access to toilets, people are forced to endure the indignity of open defecation, which often leads to contamination of water sources, the spread of diseases,
and, in some cases, even violence or exploitation.
While the challenges of inadequate sanitation in public spaces are significant, practical, scalable solutions exist that can help address this issue.
Firstly, private-public partnership (PPP). Yes, partnerships between the government and private businesses to build and maintain public toilets will jumpstart progress. These partnerships can include companies specializing in sanitation and waste management, offering their expertise and resources to ensure that toilets are clean, functional, and regularly serviced.
Secondly, the government should provide incentives for the construction of affordable, sustainable public toilets. These toilets should be accessible to all, regardless of socioeconomic status, and placed strategically in motor parks, markets, and other public spaces. The focus should be on maintaining hygiene standards, and ensuring toilets are well-kept and functional.
Thirdly, local communities should be encouraged to take ownership of sanitation in their areas. This can include setting up volunteer groups to monitor and clean public toilets or establishing waste management campaigns to raise awareness of the importance of keeping public spaces clean. Community engagement can go a long way in changing attitudes towards sanitation and ensuring that facilities are used properly. Community Development Associations (CDAs) should come into play here.
In addition, to complement the construction of toilets, there must be a concerted effort to improve waste management. Proper waste collection, disposal, and recycling systems ensure that public spaces remain clean. Local governments should invest in infrastructure that makes waste disposal easy and efficient, reducing the likelihood of littering and improper disposal. Cart pushers, who dump refuse indiscriminately, must be addressed here.
Moreover, raising awareness about the importance of sanitation and the need for better facilities in public spaces is critical. The government, NGOs, and community organisations must work together here. We must consider innovative solutions such as composting toilets, bio-digesters, mobile toilets and other water-saving systems. Again, the theme, 'Toilets – A Place for Peace', reminds us that sanitation is not just about hygiene, but about providing dignity and safety to everyone. The time to act is now. Our motor parks, markets, and public spaces can and must be transformed into places that promote health, dignity, and peace. By prioritizing sanitation in these spaces, we can take a significant step towards addressing Nigeria’s sanitation crisis and improving the quality of life for all its citizens.
Eromosele
JOSHUA J. OMOJUWA writes on the importance of time management
THE SOURCE OF OUR POVERTY
I saw an internet meme suggesting that people often wonder about the source of people’s wealth, but they never ask about the source of their poverty. It got me reflecting as to why that is the case. Is it because poverty is so commonplace, no one cares about its source? Is it taken for granted, like some inevitable part of our collective reality. Or is it because the source of poverty is deemed to be self-evident, there is no need to ask questions about its source? However, if the source of poverty is self-evident, why then are most people in Africa still poor?
Back when I was at the university, I decided to attend a Student Representative Assembly. The lawmaking arm of the Students Union Government. The meeting had not really started when someone called for a five-minute recess. Things started to get interesting for me when the debate for this recess started to extend well past twenty minutes. I was thinking, these folks are disagreeing on whether to go or not to go on a five-minute recess and they have spent about four times that period debating the motion. I could not wrap my head around what I considered extremely irrational. It looked to me like they were not serious people. I left that meeting and I never returned to witness whatever happened in that assembly again. You could not prove to me that they were going to do anything useful on the back of what they showed me that day.
That story is fundamental to the question of our collective poverty. Our (lack of) respect for time. We treat time as a suggestion, an afterthought, an inconvenience, or sort of guide that is not really that important. We build systems and processes that are made to look orderly and serious but are designed to bite and eat away time. The tragedy is nowhere near the fact that we have little understanding on these actions and the cost to our lives. When I say, “we”, I do not mean every one of us. However, there are too many guilty parties on this front, it is the prevailing norm.
What is saddest is that we know what we are doing. We do because we are prompt when it comes to keeping to international flight times as passengers and even more so when it comes to making visa appointments. These two have something in common; they involve people and protocol from other countries. We somehow adjust our behaviour to meet the expectations of these countries, then revert to the norm as soon as we are done with those. We are also quite different when abroad. The expectations of those societies and the punishments put in place to punish tardiness immediately enforce the adjustment of our behaviours. Those that are late to change are soon to pay the cost of carrying their home behaviour outside.
The richest economies are doing everything to ensure the fastest movement of goods and people via a transportation system that does not entertain traffic jams and processes that do not require people queuing. Here, the reverse appears to be the case. It is almost as though queuing or making people queue is how we exert authority on people. Processes that ought to be done online are required to be done physically. Even when we “automate” such processes, we still find ways of defying automation by making the same people who could have completed such processes online to come physically submit what a click on the computer would have helped submitted.
Life and everything within it are subject to first principles. No matter how complex a machine, it is built on the first principles of physics. The most complex mathematical equations are built on the first principles of arithmetic. Once you understand and abide by the first principles, you can build a civilization or other complex systems on the back of that.
What is the first principle of wealth creation? It is time. Time. Time is money. We all have 24 hours of the day, however, the richest amidst us have found a way to have a lot more than 24 hours by using their resources to shrink time in a sense and duplicating themselves, by hiring other people to help them further maximize time. The source of our collective poverty is our misuse of time. We waste time. And when we appear to not be wasting it, our productivity is lower than most places around the world. It is there in the data. We are not producing enough. And even when we produce, what is the general quality of our products? How much time do we dedicate towards ensuring our products meet the required standards? Let’s be clear, complex phenomena are that because it takes more than one tool to address them. However, whatever those tools are, their operations, whether social, physical, mechanical or whatever, whatever the solutions are, they cannot defy the first principles of their discipline. It is why someone said if you cannot explain a phenomenon for a child to understand, then you do not know it enough.
I am often fascinated by airplanes, whether whilst I am airborne in the plane or just lodged by the airport watching them land and take-off. There is just a part of me that refuses to agree that a body so massive can carry so many people and still hang in the air for several hours. This is a sense of wonder I will never lose because it just stays fresh within me. All a plane needs to fly is to obey the Principle of Flight. This comprises four fundamental forces of lift, weight, drag and thrust. Lift and weight oppose each other, whilst drag and thrust do same with all of them finding the right balance. It gets complex in practice, but that complexity exists in this simple principle. Just like Time and Wealth, or Poverty. You will see this at play today, our insistence on butchering time, in continued service to our collective poverty.
Omojuwa is chief strategist, Alpha Reach/BGX Publishing
Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA
Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com
MAKING PUBLIC TOILETS AVAILABLE
Health authorities must work with other stakeholders to end public defecation in Nigeria
With the theme, ‘Toilet – A Place for Peace,’ the United Nations on Tuesday highlighted the importance of sanitation to the health and wellbeing of society during the World Toilet Day 2024. But the oft-repeated charge that “everyone must have access to a toilet connected to a sanitary system that effectively removes and treats human waste” remains a mirage in Nigeria. It is a common sight in many of our towns and cities to find people urinating or defecating either on the roadside or in seemingly obscure corners, sometimes in the full glare of passers-by. Since people who are hardpressed in the public often must ease themselves in the most inappropriate places, the health hazards posed by this repugnant habit cannot be over-emphasised.
The urge to ease oneself most often comes without much warning. When such an urge arises, it should be conveniently responded to. At present, that is not readily available in most Nigerian cities. The embarrassment that this could cause is better imagined than experienced. That is why the provision of public toilets and conveniences is an imperative in modern society, not the least one wooing investors and tourists. Otherwise, where would a person, outside home, who suddenly feels the need to either pass urine or stool, ease themselves without debasing their human dignity?
progress in the fight against open defecation in Nigeria.
What saddens is that the entire country is fast becoming one huge field, where people defecate, without shame, and without putting into consideration the impact of their action on the health of others. In many rural communities, people still build houses without provision for toilets, or as the case may be, latrines where waste can be emptied without others coming in contact with it. In the urban centres, the issue is pervasive. And experts have consistently warned that when large numbers of people are defecating outdoors, it’s extremely difficult to avoid ingesting human waste, either because it’s entered the food or water supplies or because it has been spread by flies and dust.
Considering reports that majority of the public facilities in Nigeria either do not have toilets or they are broken, this emblem of shame deserves urgent attention. The government must work towards removing this social impediment in our country
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
THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE
This culture is more noticeable at motor parks, public schools, markets, bus and train terminals, and public squares where there are either no toilets or poorly kept ones. Even some of the nation’s airports have no functional toilets. Where such facilities exist, they are poorly maintained. It is amazing how authorities at all levels should ignore such basic needs as toilets. Available statistics from the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF) reveal that there has been limited
T H I S D AY N E W S PA
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA
GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU
DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE
The government may not be able to provide every facility needed in a city. However, it must demonstrate not only the inclination to do it, but also create the enabling environment to encourage the private sector to do so. The 774 local government authorities in the country have the primary responsibility of providing and maintaining such facilities.
Beyond that, government, at all levels, must initiate and sustain a re-orientation campaign to educate and enlighten the people on the need for observance of basic hygiene in our communities or cities. It is the loss of this once cherished culture of cleanliness that has made certain public places a no-go area because of indiscriminate defecation. Schools, churches, mosques and other agents of socialisation should also join the campaign if the nation is to be spared the possible consequences of non-availability and poor use of public toilets.
Considering reports that majority of the public facilities in Nigeria either do not have toilets or they are broken, this emblem of shame deserves urgent attention. The government, at all levels, must work towards removing this social impediment in our country.
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.
ABIA’S LAUDABLE INITIATIVE
Nigeria’s quest to confront what is a spiraling crisis in the education sector was always going to be an uphill task without government commitment and adequate political will. As the chief funder and operator of the education sector, the government’s input and priority list showing where education fits is a pointer to the achievements and expectations in the sector.
In its bid to boost education in the state, the Abia State government has declared that education will be free from primary to junior secondary school levels. According to Okey Kanu, who is the state commissioner for education, education from primary school to junior secondary school will be free and compulsory throughout the state, and parents and guardians who deny their wards the opportunities under new policy will be prosecuted under the Abia State Child Rights Law of 2006.
For years now, the rising number of Nigeria’s out-ofschool children has become simply frightening. The numbers which are especially high in the North point to more profound problems in the country while promising future
problems. As insecurity has debuted on the scene to complicate Nigeria’s convoluted difficulties with poverty, the many groups hounding Nigeria from all sides have found an inexhaustible pool of conscripts in Nigeria’s unemployed, and out-of-school children. This has proven a slippery slope as Nigeria has rallied to confront what is a burgeoning concern.
When children stay out of school, enormous resources are wasted instead of saved. A country that allows many children to stay out of school is a country wasting away its future and promise. Prosecuting parents and guardians will be a disincentive for those who see their children only as more mouths to feed and more hands for the farm. But beyond what the government wants, and what it is prepared to do to get what it wants, there must be a sustainable path to economic prosperity. Parents ordinarily want their children to have the best life. Having the best life is impossible without quality education.
Quality education has always been expensive but crucial to a fulfilled life, which is why developed countries invest
resources into making quality education available and accessible to everyone. By subsidizing education, those who desire it are able to access it. The truth, however, is that no parent can fully focus on the business of providing quality education to their children if they are crushed by the burden of providing food, shelter as well as healthcare for their children.
The more prosperous a society becomes, the likelier it is to provide quality education for its children. In turn, quality education feeds economic prosperity and advancement, as no society can grow without enlightened citizens. It is clear that giant strides are being made in Abia State by a governor who mustered the support of the people during the last election to demolish a decades-long hegemony on power by a political that had reduced ‘God’s own state’ to a laughingstock. A country that doesn’t pay attention to the education of its children is one which digs its grave with its hands. It is only a matter of time.
Ike Willie-Nwobu, Ikewilly9@gmail.com
Expert: Hub Airport Will Boost Aviation Sector Contribution to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product
Chinedu Eze
For Nigeria to develop its air transport sector and raise its contribution from the current 0.6 per cent to five per cent, which is approximately $14. 166 billion annually, it has to develop hub airport built around one or two major carriers, Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer of Ibom Air, Mr. George Uriesi has said.
He said Nigeria currently has originating and destination airports but needed a hub airport where passengers could be funneled to
other airports from the hub.
According to him, if the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos, for example, is a hub airport, all arriving passengers will connect to all other airports from Lagos.
In June 2020, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) released a report showcasing the significant contribution of air transportation to the national economy by providing 241, 000 direct and indirect jobs and contributing $1.7 billion, to the nation’s economy, which represents
about 0.6 per cent. It was projected that in the next 15 to 20 years, with proper planning, this can increase to five per cent, with projected contribution of about $14.166 billion per annum.
But this is predicated on taking the right actions to boost business in the sector and the primary demand is the development of airport infrastructure to elevate the facilities to compete with that of OR Tambo International Airport, Johannesburg, Cape Town International Airport and Cairo International Airport.
Uriesi who was a former Managing Director and Chief Executive of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and former General Manager, Cape Town International Airport, South Africa, explained what it would entail for Nigeria to have major airports that meet the standards of the aforementioned airports which are some of the best in Africa.
“Let me start with OR Tambo and Cape Town. Both airports are part of the network of ACSA (Airport Company of South Africa) airports, which were designed as
part of an overarching strategy. OR Tambo was designed to be the hub airport of the network, funneling all inbound, connecting traffic from the rest of the world into Southern Africa and channeling all outbound connecting traffic from Southern Africa to the rest of the world. So only ORT would be a hub airport in the network and was designed in very close cooperation with SAA (South Africa Airways), the home base carrier, whose strategy the airport needed to key into.
“Cape Town on the other hand, was designed as an Origin and
Destination (O&D) airport, with traffic specific to it. For instance, you couldn’t book a flight into South Africa through Cape Town, to connect to anywhere else immediately. You would have to do at least 24 hours in Cape Town first before you could connect. Same applied to Durban on a much lesser scale. And these were deliberate designs so as not to cannibalize the hub traffic for which ORT was built,” he said.
Sunday Ehigiator
The Bank of Industry (BOI) has revealed that it has recorded an increase of N500 billion in its authorised share capital over the past 16 years, raised $5 billion from international capital markets in seven years, while also establishing a presence in 33 states across the nation, just as it reaffirmed its commitment towards driving sustainable industrialisation in Nigeria.
The Bank’s MD/CEO, Dr Olasupo Olusi made this known while addressing journalists at the BOI’s 65th Anniversary Press Conference held yesterday in Lagos.
According to him, “In 2007,
BOI’s authorised share capital was increased to N250 billion to put the bank in a position to address its mandate better; this was subsequently increased to N500 billion in May 2023.
“In recognition of the pivotal role of MSMEs in national economic development, the Bank in 2014 engaged 122 SME consultants and entered strategic alliances with 10 SME-friendly commercial banks. Today, we have over 300 Business Development Service providers supporting SMEs nationwide.
“In 2015, BOI commenced a national footprint expansion by opening eight state offices. This drive has continued through the years, and I am proud to say that
today, the bank has a presence in 33 states nationwide.
“In 2017, BOI commenced raising funds on the international market with a US$750 million AFREXIM loan. Since then, we have successfully raised over $5 billion from the international capital markets through Eurobonds, loan syndications, and green finance instruments.”
He added, “This month, we concluded a global loan syndication that raised nearly 2 billion euros which is the largest fundraising in BOI’s history and indeed the largest syndication in the history of African DFIs.
“BOI recently signed a partnership agreement with
SMEDAN to provide Nano and Micro Enterprises in Nigeria with a N1 billion fund at a single-digit interest rate. We have partnerships with several other public agencies like NCDMB, to support specific sectors.
“In November 2023, the Federal Government of Nigeria appointed BOI as the executing agency for the N200 billion FGN MSME Intervention Fund, which includes a N50 billion Presidential Conditional Grant Scheme (PCGS), a N75 billion Manufacturing Sector Fund, and a N75 billion MSME Intervention Sector Fund.”
The program, he stated, is currently being disbursed and there are numerous stories on
the impact on private enterprises adding that in 2024, it introduced our six thematic focus areas to drive developmental impact; Gender, Climate and Sustainability, Youth and Skills, Digital Economy, and Infrastructure.
These themes, he added, stem from their importance to Nigeria’s overarching development and will guide our financing interventions in the Nigerian economy.
“This year, we launched the Rural Areas Program on Investment for Development (RAPID) program, to promote financial inclusion and support the development of micro and small businesses in rural Nigeria, focusing on youth and women.
“We are improving on our product
offerings with plans to scale up NonInterest Banking (NIB), Export Credit Agency (ECA) and Supply Chain Finance (SCF) to provide adequate financing to various economic clusters, recognising our national diversity to drive economic growth.
“In
Najomo Calls for Financial Reforms to Boost Aviation Growth
Stories by Chinedu Eze
The acting Director General, Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Captain Chris Najomo, has urged stakeholders in the industry to prioritise strengthening financial frameworks, which according to him, is key in the growth of African aviation.
Speaking at the inaugural International Air Transport Conference organised by the World United Consumer Organisation in Abuja, Captain Najomo emphasised the theme, ‘Air Transport in Africa: Prospects and Challenges’, as a critical starting point for addressing the sector’s pressing issues.
Najomo identified key strategies like enhancing regional connectivity, fostering innovation, and building capacity for the sector’s growth.
Collaborative efforts for sustainability are also essential to realising the industry’s full potential, according to Najomo.
Najomo pointed out that Africa’s aviation sector faces significant financial hurdles that hinder its growth.
“The perception of risk remains a significant barrier to investment in African aviation. We must establish regulatory frameworks that enhance transparency and predictability for financiers and lessors to operate confidently,” Najomo said.
He further emphasised fostering public-private partnerships to address challenges and unlock investment for infrastructure expansion across the continent, saying that improving regional connectivity is, therefore, a priority for driving intra-African trade and tourism.
“Initiatives like SAATM must be supported to reduce operational costs and improve access to underserved routes. This strategywould enable the seamless movement of people and goods, significantly boosting economic integration. Furthermore, it aligns with the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).Promoting innovation and technology in the aviation sector is critical, Najomo continued, particularly as Africa aims to align with global standards. He encouraged stakeholders to adopt digitalised operations and green energy solutions to enhance efficiency and sustainability.
“From modernising systems to deploying eco-friendly technologies, innovation must be central to our long-term strategy,” he stated.
Air
WAtCh
Rage over Sale of Tickets in Foreign Currencies
Chinedu Eze
As part of its efforts aimed at putting smiles in the faces of its global community, the Nigerian Aviation Handling Company Plc (nahcoaviance) has commissioned five borehole projects in a school in Badagry, Lagos State as well as a community in Ondo State.
The Group Managing Director/ CEO of the Company, Mr. Indranil Gupta, said the organisation looked forward to a time it would do even more to further impact positively the lives of its communities.
At Ode – Aye, Southwest Ondo State where the company constructed and donated four boreholes, the GMD/CEO, represented by the AGM Corporate
NIMASA, NPA
Communications, Mr. TayoAjakaye, advised the users of the boreholes to take ownership and ensure that they are well maintained.
According to the NAHCO’s GMD, it is such a good maintenance culture that would encourage, not only NAHCO, but also any other willing donor to do more knowing fully well that whatever is donated would be well – maintained.
In his address, the Halu of Aye Kingdom, HRM Oba William Akinmusayo Akinlade, thanked NAHCO for its thoughtfulness.
According to the traditional leader, it is such beneficial project that the town has been looking forward to adding that the projects
Chiefs
The Port Security Officers Forum of Nigeria (PFSON) has finalised arrangements to celebrate 20 years of implementing the International Ships and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code, established by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), at its 2024 annual conference just as event will feature the participation of the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) and the Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA).
In a statement, PFSON Chairman Mr. Adewole Gege highlighted the significance of the milestone, emphasizing that the conference would serve as a platform to review achievements over the past two decades and renew the commitment to strengthening maritime security and efficiency.
Themed, “Charting the Future
Group Business Editor
Eromosele Abiodun
Deputy Business Editor
chinedu Eze
Comms/e-Business Editor
Emma Okonji
Asst. Editor, Energy
Emmanuel Addeh
Asst. Editor, Money Market
Nume Ekeghe
Correspondents
Kayodetokede(CapitalMarkets)
James Emejo (Finance)
Ebere Nwoji (Insurance)
reporter
Peter Uzoho (Energy)
will go a long away in ameliorating the suffering of the people even as the dry season sets in.
Oba Akinlade also thanked the Board of NAHCO and expressed the hope that the Board and its chairman will do more for the Community.
Also speaking, High Chief Petu of Aye Kingdom, Chief Kayode Adebusoye thanked the Company and its management assuring that the town will pray for its continued success.
The project coordinator for the town, Sir Soji Aguda, promised that the residents of the streets where the boreholes are located will safeguard the facilities.
to Attend PFSON Annual Conference
of Maritime Security: Two Decades of ISPS Code Implementation and Emerging Challenges in Nigeria’s Waters,” the conference aims to provide a forum for knowledge exchange and partnership-building to address the future of maritime security in Nigeria.
Gege said: “This year’s conference underscores the vital role maritime security plays in shaping our nation’s economic and social progress.. “We are privileged to host esteemed dignitaries, including the Director General of NIMASA and the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority, whose leadership has significantly advanced maritime safety and security in Nigeria.”
“We also welcome representatives from key agencies such as the Nigeria Customs Service, Immigration Service, Nigeria Police, NDLEA, Nigerian Navy, Port Authority Police, Marine Police, and notable maritime associations. Your participation reaffirms our collective dedication to addressing the unique challenges and opportunities within the maritime sector.
“The conference promises an engaging lineup, starting with a keynote address from a distinguished guest speaker, followed by thoughtprovoking presentations and a panel discussion on innovative strategies for addressing current and emerging security issues in Nigerian waters,” he said.
and response towards mitigating the effects of oil activities in Nigeria.
The Nigerian Institute For Oceanography And Marine Research and Marine and Coastal Areas Management for Both West and Central Africa (MarCNoWA) have called for the adoption of Earth Observation( EO) Satellite technologies in the management of oil pollution in the country.
For them, economic consequences of oil spills, impact on fisheries, marine ecosystems, and coastal communities can be averted through satellite technology.
This was stated at a workshop in Lagos themed, “Leveraging Earth Observation (EO) for Oil Spill, Transshipment, and Ship Detection.”
Speaking at the event, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Adegboyega Oyetola, said the workshop aims at enhancing stakeholders’ understanding of the environmental impact of oil pollution, oil spills, ship detection, as well as building capacity for monitoring
He said Nigeria being among the foremost major oil producers in the world, with a production capacity of approximately 1.1 to above 2 million barrels of crude oil per day at low and high premiums.
According to him, “While this production can contribute significantly to the nation’s economy, it has also caused severe environmental challenges, such as oil spills, ship detection, transshipments, and marine pollution.
“Consequently, oil production and related activities has adversely impacted Nigeria’s coastal and marine environments. Hence, the need for a robust monitoring and rapid response system to mitigate the results of ecological damage.”
Speaking, the Executive Director/ Chief Executive Officer of NIOMR, Prof. Sule Abiodun, called for regional cooperation and investment in advanced technologies to safeguard Nigeria’s marine environment.
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) under the new management headed by the acting Director General, Captain Chris Najomo, is making significant efforts to make airlines that operate in Nigeria serve travellers better and also make passenger understand their obligations to airlines.
At the Consumer Protection National Stakeholders Summit, organised by NCAA in Lagos, the National Association of Ni¬geria Travel Agencies (NANTA) petitioned NCAA over sales of air tickets in foreign currencies by some foreign airlines in Nigeria.
Travellers who attended the summit also pointed out issues they had with the airlines and urged that such issues should be identified and resolved, just as airlines have been told to comply with Part 19 of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations (Nig.CARs) 2023 in passenger compensation.
Participants at the summit observed that some foreign airlines had continually violated the Bilat¬eral Air Service Agreement (BASA) arrangements signed with Nigeria by selling air tick¬ets in foreign currencies.
However, apart from the United States carriers, which had Open Skies agreement with Nigeria that enables its carriers to sell tickets in dollars, other air¬lines are required to sell tickets in naira for flights emanating from the country.
But overtime, some of the foreign carriers had consistent¬ly violated this agreement with Nigeria, while no major punitive measures had been taken against them.
President of NANTA, Mr. Yinka Folami, who confirmed the development, said that NANTA had already peti¬tioned NCAA on the violation, hoping that the regulatory agency would address the issue.
The Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, NCAA, Mr. Michael Achimugu, confirmed the submission of the let¬ter by NANTA, but said the issue would be addressed by the appro¬priate department.
Since the period when Nigeria was unable to allow foreign airlines to repatriate their revenue due to scarcity of foreign currency, some foreign airlines have been tempted to sell their tickets in dollars, a behaviour, which travel agents have resisted, but some of the airlines find ways to force passengers pay for their tickets in foreign currency.
This has persisted, even after the federal government fully paid off the trapped funds, hence NANTA’s petition to NCAA, the regulatory authority.
Participants also observed that airlines hardly complied with Part 19 Nig.CARs which has to do with compensating the passengers when flights are either delayed, cancelled or overbooked.
A renowned lawyer and traveller, First Baba Isa, in his keynote address at the summit, regretted that airlines, both local and interna¬tional have continually treated air travellers shabbily.
According to him, no fewer than seven cases of poor passen¬ger handling, especially physical¬ly challenged passengers, were being pursued in different courts across the country by his chambers.
He said: “Airlines should ad¬dress the issue of refund to air travellers. There are no fewer than seven cases that I am attend¬ing to in the courts against some local and foreign carriers espe¬cially the poor way they handle disabled passengers.
“It is essential to make the airlines accountable to air pas¬sengers in case of flight cancel¬lations, delays and overbooking. Adequate compensations in line with the NCARs 2023 must be paid to the affected passengers.”
Also, the Chief Operating Officer (COO), Ibom Air, Mr. George Uriesi, in his presentation, canvassed for investment in hu¬man capital through training, re-training, re-orientation and strict adherence to the industry recommended practices as set by the
International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO). Uriesi, who was represented by the Director, Airline Ser¬vices, Ibom Air, Mrs. Amaka Echetabu, insisted that for technology to work seamlessly in the sector, human capital de¬velopment must be taken with all the seriousness it deserved, adding that this would also boost tourism growth.
He added: “Collaboration and partnership among the chains of aviation practitioners is import¬ant for industry growth. Consum¬er complaints can be further re¬solved through the adaptation of technology.”
During the summit, NCAA reiterated that if an operating air carrier (airline) places a passenger in a class lower than that for which the ticket was purchased, it shall immediately reimburse the difference to the passenger in accordance with the mode of payment within 30 days from the date of travel.
This is in addition to 30 per cent of the price of the ticket for all domestic flights immediately and 50 per cent of the price of the ticket for all international flights within 14 days.
Assistant General Manager (AGM), Flight Operations and Adjudication, NCAA, Ifueko Abdulmalik, made this known while addressing participants at the summit.
For flight delays, the AGM said that according to Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulation (Nig. CARs), 2023, Part 19, it stipulates that there should be information 30 minutes after the scheduled departure time and refreshments, telephone calls, SMS after two hours.
She also emphasised that there should be reimbursement and re-routing when it is beyond three hours while hotel and transportation are to be provided at a time beyond 10 pm till 4 am, or at a time when the airport is closed at the point of departure or final destination.
“Compensation is to be made after six hours for domestic flights and 4 hours for international flights.
“25 per cent of the fares or passenger ticket price for all flights within Nigeria. 30 per cent of the passenger ticket price for all international flights. When passengers are offered re-routing to their final destination on an alternative flight the arrival time of which does not exceed the scheduled arrival time of the flight originally booked: by one hour, in respect of all domestic flights; by three hours, in respect of all international flights, the operating airline may reduce the compensation provided for in by 50 per cent”, she said.
According to her, over the years, passengers have been faced with issues such as flight cancellations, delays, poor service, and inadequate compensation mechanisms.
Abdulmalik however, affirmed that the Consumer Protection regulations offered a strong regulatory framework to provide consumers with better protection against such situations, ensuring their rights are respected. Inclusivity and Fairness:
“The aviation industry must be accessible to all segments of society, including people with disabilities, women, and marginalised groups. This includes equal air travel access and appropriate services for all passengers”, she added.
While ensuring that all stakeholders—airlines, passengers, and airport operators—are treated equitably, Abdulmalik pointed out that Consumer Protection Regulations are designed to ensure that consumers are treated with respect and transparency.
Echetabu, in her reaction to the interface between NCAA and the airlines, especially the Consumer Protection Directorate (CPD), said that it had been a smooth interface between the regulatory authority and Ibom Air, as far as passenger issues were concerned and insisted that they work well with NCAA to protect both passengers and airlines’ interest.
Oluchi Chibuzor
BA’s Declining Service Amid Competition
Air travellers and the media are of the view that British Airways service is declining, in comparison with its competitors, the Middle East airlines. Despite the perceived decline in service, anxious customers of the European mega carrier are hoping that the airline will bounce back to its old winning ways, writes Chinedu eze
British Airways is a premier airline that has built invaluable goodwill globally and a pride to world’s airspace, as it connects cities from different countries in different regions of the world.
In Nigeria, flying British Airways gives one status, which is the high status symbol. There are rich families in Nigeria that have been flying BA for decades since the 1960s because of the airline’s good records and premium service, coupled with the fact that the United Kingdom (UK) is second home to many Nigerians.
There was a time the airline passengers can agree to this: “The British Airways Experience is more than a flight. It’s about making every single journey as special and original as you are, whatever your reason to travel. We’re always here to help you feel relaxed and secure from the airport to boarding and beyond,” but these days some travellers have expressed misgivings about its service.
Mail online (https://www.dailymail.co.uk) published a report written by Alex Brummer on November 15, 2024, indicating that British Airways’ service is declining and alleged, “It has the worst delays of any Heathrow airline. Complaints about the decline of its food are legion” and wondered if the iconic British carrier would ever be world favourite airline again.
The report also stated: “The deterioration in BA service standards on transatlantic travel, where it is the dominant carrier and earns a large chunk of its profits, is shocking. It’s not good for Britain’s reputation as the hub of global finance and can only benefit American rivals United and Delta, which offer cheaper fares and have upped their game.”
The GeneSiS
A media consultant who has worked for British Airways in Nigeria, Simon Tumba, told THISDAY that COVID-19 had adverse effect on many major airlines in Europe, including British Airways. And this is followed by competition by the Middle East carriers like Emirates and Qatar Airways, owned by countries with deep pocket that operate state of the art equipment with enviable in-flight service.
“COVID-19 became a harbinger to the poor performance of most businesses and the post-COVID-19 era was also a huge challenge to most carriers. BA has its challenges with maintaining Heathrow as its hub and competing with low cost carriers in Europe, which encroached its market share. Remember the
tag line, which was one time the World’s most favourite airline, has to be abandoned over a decade ago.
“However, competing with the Middle East carriers in the premium cabin has become a major issue with BA and other carriers in Europe, including the US. BA will surely find it tough to lower the cost per seat (considering its ageing fleet) and upgrade their premium cabins and the perks offered by its competitors, considering the economies of scale enjoyed by the Middle Eastern carriers and the young fleet at their disposal,” he said.
The DeCline
Reviewing the performance of British Airways over the years, one of the airline’s regular customers and the Founder and Managing Director of Travel Lab Nigeria Limited, Mrs. Shalom Asuquo, confirmed that the mega European’s carrier performance has degenerated.
She gave details about the literal inversion of the gulf states in the UK, investing significantly in different sectors of the economy and almost eroding the British Airways market.
Asuquo, who has been flying BA for decades said: “As someone who has flown extensively with BA and other global airlines, I agree: the decline is apparent. There was a time I joined the BA wine tasting club. On one of my trips to Nigeria, I had a carton of 12 bottles of assorted wines delivered to my door in London and
I flew to Nigeria with it.
“In today’s fiercely competitive aviation industry, Middle Eastern carriers like Emirates and Qatar Airways have set new benchmarks for excellence in service and loyalty programmes. Unfortunately, BA seems to be struggling to keep pace, and for many passengers, including myself, the frustration has reached a tipping point.
She said that BA’s service quality once stood as a gold standard, but it now feels lackluster compared to the innovative offerings of Emirates and Qatar Airways, remarking that BA’s Economy and Premium Economy cabins, in particular, have been criticized for cramped seating, outdated interiors, and uninspired inflight dining. Even its Business Class (Club World), despite recent upgrades, lags behind competitors in terms of comfort and innovation.”
“Contrast this with Emirates, which redefined luxury air travel with its A380 flagship aircraft, featuring onboard lounges and shower spas. Emirates’ Economy Class is leagues ahead, offering spacious seats, gourmet meals, and an award-winning inflight entertainment system. Similarly, Qatar Airways has set the bar with its Qsuite, a Business Class product that offers unparalleled privacy, comfort, and dining experiences.
“When compared, BA feels like it’s still clinging to its legacy rather than evolving with customer expectations. The consistency and attention to
detail offered by Emirates and Qatar Airways make British Airways feel outdated, even on its flagship London routes,” she said.
loyAlTy
ProGrAmme
Asuquo described BA’s loyalty programme as a tale of frustration and observed that BA’s Executive Club, built around its Avios points system, remained one of the most established airline loyalty programs globally. However, for many customers—especially those in Nigeria—it’s a source of endless frustration. She explained that redeeming Avios points often feels like navigating a maze of restrictions, with limited availability, high taxes, and hefty fees that often negate the value of “free” tickets.
“Take my case: despite accumulating over 200,000 points both in executive club and on business, I found it impossible to redeem them for a flight to London. Instead, I opted to fly with another airline, despite my loyalty to BA. This is a common grievance among Nigerian customers who feel that BA doesn’t prioritize their needs or offer flexibility in redemptions.
“On the other hand, Emirates Skywards and Qatar Airways’ Privilege Club shine in this department. Emirates’ Skywards program makes it easy to redeem points for flights, upgrades, and even exclusive experiences. Qatar Airways’ Privilege Club, now integrated with Avios, offers seamless point usage across its routes, with minimal restrictions. Both programs emphasize customer convenience, something BA has yet to master,” she said.
Looking at it as a Nigerian, Asuquo said that British Airways had long been a preferred airline for Nigerian travelers, particularly those flying to London for business or leisure.
“However, the airline’s waning service standards and loyalty program inefficiencies have led many to reconsider. In contrast, Emirates and Qatar Airways have aggressively captured market share in Nigeria by offering superior customer experiences, including better inflight service, modern aircraft, and accessible loyalty rewards.BA’s inability to adapt to this competitive environment risks alienating a key market like Nigeria, where discerning travelers demand value for their money and loyalty,” she stated.
The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com
manufacturing Sector’s Performance Still on Downward Curve
A report by the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria has reveals that the productivity and fortunes of the country’s industrial sector is still downward slopping curve, writes Dike onwuamaeze
The performance of the Nigerian manufacturing sector in the first half of 2024 was particularly weak. This is the verdict contained in the “Executive Summary of MAN Economic Review for H1 2024,” which was released last week.
The review presented the summary of finding of the survey of manufacturing sector by the MAN for the first half of 2023. The survey is designed to monitor changes in manufacturing sector performance indicators viz-a-viz the behaviors of macroeconomic and policy environments during the period of the survey. The focus manufacturing indicators include capacity utilisation, production value, inventory, level of utilisation of local raw materials, investment, expenditure on alternative energy sources, etc.
According to the findings of the survey that provided materials for the economic review, the capacity utilisation in the Nigerian manufacturing sector showed a slight year-on-year decline to 56.4 per cent in H1 2024, from 56.5 per cent in H1 2023. Also, the real manufacturing output in Nigeria declined by 1.66 per cent year-onyear in H1 2024, falling to N1.34 trillion from N1.36 trillion in H1 2023. However, the magnitude of the decline would be appreciated more if its value is expressed in dollars, bearing in mind that that value of the Naira to the dollar by H1’23 was about N666/$ against the current value of more than N1700/$.
In addition, the inventory of unsold finished products in the manufacturing sector also surged by 357.57 per cent year-on-year; reaching N1.24 trillion in H1 2024. Also, the employment generation capacity of the manufacturing sector continued its
decline, with only 2,606 jobs created in H1 2024, which represented a 29.99 per cent reduction from H2 2023.
According to MAN, the first half of 2024 was marked by significant challenges for Nigeria’s manufacturing sector, including high operational costs, declining consumer demand, and rising inflation.
While some sectors showed resilience and growth, others struggled with declining production values, rising inventories, and reduced employment.
The report underscored the urgent need for Nigeria to implement decisive and coherent economic reforms to address these challenges.
Key areas of focus include enhancing policy consistency, improving the business environment, and fostering economic diversification.
“The success of these reforms will be crucial in reversing the current economic downturn, creating jobs, reducing inflation, and improving the overall welfare of Nigerian citizens.
“As the country navigates through these
turbulent times, the resilience of its policy framework and the effectiveness of its economic management will determine the path forward,” MAN said.
CAPACiTy UTiliSATion
The half year review stated that capacity utilisation in the manufacturing sector showed a slight year-on-year decline to 56.4 per cent in H1 2024, from 56.5 per cent in H1 2023. However, there was a 2.8 percentage point increase compared to H2 2023, reflecting some recovery.
According to the review, “the sector faced significant challenges, including high energy costs due to a 200 percent increase in electricity tariffs, forex scarcity, and declining consumer demand. These factors collectively resulted in elevated operational costs and a difficult business environment for manufacturers.”
reAl mAnUfACTUrinG ProDUCTion VAlUe
The real manufacturing output in Nigeria declined by 1.66 per cent year-on-year in H1 2024, falling to N1.34 trillion from N1.36
trillion in H1 2023. Despite the decline, the sector witnesses 9.97 per cent increase during the period under review compared to H2 2023, driven by a baseline effect.
Some of the factors responsible for the declining manufacturing output included rising electricity tariffs, exchange rate volatility, and higher energy costs, which heightened production costs amidst declining consumer demand.
The review said that “persistent increase in interest rates by the Central Bank of Nigeria further strained the sector.”
nominAl mAnUfACTUrinG ProDUCTion VAlUe
In nominal terms, the report showed that the manufacturing sector’s output increased by 30.38 per cent year-on-year, reaching N5.34 trillion in H1 2024. This growth was primarily driven by the sharp rise in domestic prices, as reflected in the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which surged to 34.19 per cent in June 2024.
But “the increase in nominal output masked the underlying difficulties faced by manufacturers in maintaining real output levels, highlighting the impact of inflationary pressures on the sector,” the review said.
rAw mATeriAl SoUrCinG
The manufacturing sector’s local raw material sourcing, it said, improved slightly to 56.03 per cent in H1 2024, up from 55.4 percent in H1 2023. “This modest increase indicated a gradual shift towards local sourcing, driven by difficulties in obtaining foreign exchange. However, some sectors, like Non-Metallic Mineral Products and Textile, Apparel & Footwear, faced declines in local sourcing, reflecting the challenges of shifting away from imported raw materials,” it said.
Shaping the Future of Insurance through Growth and Innovation
Sunday Chucks
The insurance landscape is undergoing a rapid evolution, driven by shifting customer expectations, technological advancements, and a growing emphasis on sustainability. As consumers become increasingly sophisticated and demanding, they are seeking insurance solutions more tailored to their individual needs, easily accessible, and priced competitively. This shift is requiring providers move away from traditional product-centric models and embrace a consumer-centric approach which prioritises value and personalisation.
According to Uta Niendorf, Partner, Wavestone, “The insurance industry must quickly move away from the company-centric view of product development and placement (inside-out), which is geared exclusively to achieving internal goals. Instead, the focus must be on the customer with their requirements and expectations and on developing suitable products, services and communication strategies.
The most important sources of innovation are no longer the market and competition, but the needs of the customer.”Technological advancements are reshaping the insurance landscape with digital technologies such as
artificial intelligence, machine learning, and blockchain disrupting traditional models and creating new opportunities for innovation aligned to customer needs.
Insurers who leverage these technologies are streamlining their operations, improving risk assessments, and most importantly, developing innovating products that meet the evolving needs of their consumers. This focus on agility, innovation, and customer satisfaction is helping the industry navigate complexities and meet new demands. Customer satisfaction is especially crucial as the industry continues to grow across markets. Allianz estimates that in 2023 “the global insurance industry grew by an impressive 7.5 per cent, the fastest rate since the pre-Global Financial Crisis (GFC) era.”
This growth is expected to maintain over the next decade with an anticipated 5.5 per cent annual growth rate. In particular, the life insurance sector is anticipated to accelerate to a 5.1 per cent annual growth, buoyed by higher interest rate. Whilst the insurance industry is experiencing significant growth globally, the market is still in its infancy in Africa. Many Africans, especially low-income earners,
have limited awareness and understanding of the benefits of insurance, leading to low penetration rates except among the upper and upper middle classes.
In Nigeria, less than 1 per cent of its population is estimated to have any form of insurance, despite government policies aimed at boosting coverage. However, the past few years have seen some progress, as gross premiums have gone from N326 billion in 2016 to N726.4 billion in 2022, with life insurance seeing the most growth.
In fact, Nigeria’s life insurance market is the fifth largest African market with a gross written premium of $770 million.
In Q4 2023, the Nigerian life insurance business witnessed significant growth, expanding by 52 per cent quarter on quarter. Consequently, its market share increased from c.35 per cent to c.39 per cent of the total premium income. Its growth can be distinctively attributed to insurers developing innovative solutions beyond premium and coverages, that speak to local nuances and needs.
Through this, they are differentiating themselves in the market and building long-term sustainable relationships with their customers.Prudential Plc, a global life
and health insurance and asset management leader, has been at the forefront of this push combining global expertise with local insights to drive growth and value. Renowned for its commitment to protecting lives and securing futures, Prudential has been a pioneer in the insurance industry, providing innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of customers worldwide – including Nigeria.In 2017, Prudential made a strategic entry into the Nigerian market by partnering with Zenith Life Insurance to form Prudential Zenith Life Insurance (PZL).
This collaboration marked a new chapter for both companies, combining Prudential’s global expertise (18 million customers across 24 markets in Asia and Africa) with Zenith’s deep-rooted local presence. Over the years, PZL achieved remarkable success, expanding its market share and introducing innovative insurance products tailored to the specific needs of Nigerians.The partnership between Prudential and Zenith not only positioned PZL as a key player in Nigeria’s insurance industry but also showcased the power of combining international experience with local insight.
Uchechukwu Mojekwu: Birthing Possibilities by
empowering and Transforming Lives, Businesses
Across Africa
Uchechukwu Mojekwu, a trailblazing leader, is the visionary Principal Consultant at Makarios Consulting Services Limited. renowned as a Peak Performance and Life Transformation Coach, she combines her expertise in Management Consulting, Human resources, and Emotional intelligence to inspire individuals and organisations to reach their full potential. a certified John Maxwell speaker and trainer; diSC Personality assessment consultant and Neuro-Linguistic performance consultant, Mojekwu has impacted over 3,000 professionals and 500 teens across africa, equipping businesses and leaders with the tools to grow, transform, and thrive in competitive markets. in this interview with Chiemelie Ezeobi, the faith-driven amazon shares how she continues to leave a legacy of value, excellence and innovation in every industry, birthing possibilities in sectors like- FMCG, real Estate, Banking, Manufacturing, iT, Hospitality, Power, and Oil & Gas, thereby equipping them with the tools to achieve growth, transformation, and lasting success
Makarios Consulting Services is focused on equipping African businesses to operate professionally and enhance their longevity prospects, why is that and how do you achieve that?
Our training and consulting interventions are psychology-based, and that is our niche. We understand that prolonged low performance is more of a mental state issue than it is a skill set problem. You would have noticed the focus on psychology and mindset, yes, this is the missing link in the many interventions imported into Africa, that is why text book economics hasn’t been able to transport to us our desired economy.
We believe strongly that hidden within a people and their immediate environment are the solutions to their thriving and sustenance, Creation will be self-sabotaging if the primary resource required to move an individual or a people forward is resident within an unknown stranger somewhere in the world.
The question we help our clients answer every day is, how do we work around mindset, process, strategy and leadership issues in a way that we can create a business that will outlive us? So our interventions are focused on giving Africans minds, tools to help us dig deep within and navigate through the intellectual faculties of the mind in a way that unravel answers to our growth, expansions and sustenance as a people.
Nigerians and Africans are smart and very gifted people, let me explain what has happened to us?
Imagine that David wore the gallant but borrowed war regalia of king Saul the day he faced Goliath in battle, It would have been a disaster and his carcass long forgotten- yet David made so much impact starting with just a local sling. The nation of Israel celebrated the 2000 reign of kind David recently-
This analogy succinctly describes how we appear dead on arrival when we borrow certain foreign ideologies and theories in our work places and offices, for Nigeria to escape being a 3rd world, we must run with systems and structure that help us to dig deep and find answers that are original to us, China did it so why not Nigeria?
What influenced your passion to work on people’s mindset to achieve that mental shift needed for productivity and creativity?
You will be shocked to know that what we do know as an organisation is the answer to the question I asked at age 8. I queried God-I asked Him why he bothered to bring humans on earth to suffer- why would You live in a beautiful heaven and dispatch humans to a suffering earth-I wondered why life seemed like a gamble.
It didn’t make sense to my young impressionable mind that a wise God will set up humans He loved on location earth to gamble- I needed some guaranteed way of predicting result in life so I follow through. When I couldn’t get my answers as a little child but God took me through my entire 8-5 journey to watch and observe, to learn and get exposed so I could recognize and embrace the answers and make it a solution I now share with my world.
So here is the second part of the story- I started my banking career in Standard Chartered Bank Head Office in Ahmadu Bello Way- I was intrigued that the bank was about 150 years old as the time, with branches all over the world yet my work flow and reporting lines in and outside of Nigeria were seamless, the bank structure and process were such that I can predict my year-end figures by October. It didn’t take long a Nigerian bank pouched me and doubled my salary- I was young. I moved to the Nigerian back and honestly, I had a culture shock, from access to data and budgeting and forecasting model reporting lines, everything seems different and I was in that float or drown dilemma.
However, I have always been a very inquisitive person, UBA became a further breeding and learning and stretching ground for me, I served in UBA Africa and that exposed first hand to other African market. Fast forward years later, I got tired of banking so I left and got employed in an HR Consulting outfit as the business manager- I had another level of culture shock, but UBA already prepared me. –The issues of how to optimize People, Structure, Culture and Leadership to mirror where I was coming from became my primary preoccupation- this is a huge gap that still exists today in many SMEs and startupsLost in this thought, I was sincerely burdened with one question; how can I show more people the professional way of building business systems and structures and processes that can run without them. One beautiful morning a word dropped in
my mind from nowhere, I googled it- Business Process Reengineering- Boom!, That was how I started this Journey.
I later became a fellow of the institute, but it didn’t end there, while I was helping organisations build processes and structures, HR interventions, Trainings, I noticed another problem, the success of any intervention relies heavily on the Mindset of the primary drivers of that vision-It said that a leader is the Lid of the organisation. Some of the interventions we were providing were frustrated by the same individual that hired us.
The mental, behavioral and cultural programing of the business driver must match the level of psychological and emotional awareness required to drive the transformation else- I realised that Havard Business school Jacket doesn’t automatically take off unresolved trauma and emotional states of hurt ,anger pride, complex, excessive need for validation- So this took me to the drawing- are the tools available for predicting navigating, excavating constructing mindset?
It was like I found the missing link the answer to the question I asked at age 8- As a man thinketh in his heart so is he creates. If the mindset is right, then we can build systems processes, people that will support transgenerational businesses. - I enrolled to be trained and certified by the John Maxwell leadership Team USA and i then while in class my most admired mentioned Neuro Linguistic Programing- Hmm what is that? I went in search for NLP classes- it was in this class June 2018 that all my answers came to me, subsequently, I became an Emotional intelligence specialist , DISC personality assessment consultant – All these are now the tools we use to fix People, Process, Strategy and Leadership gaps in organization in a way that position them to achieve profitability and longevity goals –
The third phase was to text our solution-I got an opportunity to work with SMEs and business owners and seeing the transformation that took place, I knew we were up to something good. Till date, we have worked with 50 organisations in Nigeria and trained more than 3,000 persons across Africa and over 500 Teens, including creating a free mobile library for teens. We served different industries: FMCG, Real Estate, banks, Manufacturing, IT Hospitality Power Oil and Gas to mention but a few.
At Makarios, what are the services you render?
We offer services like Human Resources Management, Consulting and Outsourcing, Corporate Training, Enterprise Process Improvement, Executive Coaching and Recruitment, amongst
others.
You seem to have done it all from the banking sector to the oil industry, now you have successfully delved into the world of Training, Consulting and Coaching, what pushes you?
What pushes me- I think I inherited patriotism, good work culture and problem-solving skills form my late Dad. My Dad was that special principal that will always be posted to troubled schools to fix it. From church, school and community development issues, I watched my Dad write letters to different boards, governors’ philanthropist just to achieve his definite aim- He was a fixer and education was his primary tool. My Dad at 84 insisted that his security man must learn to read and write, His convictions was that every family in my clan must produce at least one graduate and he drove that vision. I have no doubt that I have been called into the space of mind enlightenment and transformation, I feel so much sense of urgency to do more living in the current Nigeria. A nation that will not prioritise mind development will continue to remain a 3rd world- The wiser we are, the better we live- As a man thinketh in his heart so is he- So if I can help as many people in Africa to expand their frame of reference and elevate their quality of thoughts, it means I would have helped them improve their quality of life- it is a law!
Ever asked why are all the theories we’ve learnt in school are of western origin, these are ordinary people who existed long before great civilisation but used primarily their mind to discover solutions that moved the entire world forward.
- As a man thinketh, so is he – I believe strongly that hidden within a people and their immediate environment are the solutions to their thriving and sustenance, Creation will be self-sabotaging if the primary resource required to move an individual or a people forward is resident within an unknown stranger somewhere in the world.
I am looking forward to a day when theories learnt in school and practiced all over the world will be of African origin- Africa will arise and shine! So it is the quest for behavioural modification, the investment in people and seeing them transformed. Tangible changes in human behaviour.
What are the gains you have made thus so far in this career path?
Till date, we have worked with 50 organisations in Nigeria and trained more than 3,000 persons across Nigeria and three African countries and over 500 teens, including
creating a free mobile library for teens. We given out over 300 copies of books to different institutions and individuals- We have noticed another gap and we positioning to close it- Through a concept I call – Spirituality, Psychology, Entrepreneurship and Venture Capitalism (SPEV) – Makarios Consulting Services has been a journey of unravelling questions and finding solutions.!
Of course, there must have been some impediments on the way. How did you tackle them?
Maybe I was wired differently, Maybe it’s my Dad, maybe it’s the strong Christian background I was born into, maybe it is my personality and the grooming I got back home and a solid support system God gave me,- but the so called impediments have brought out a version of me I never knew existed- I can’t fail! And when life happens, I learn the lessons and build up again. I know that by the law of polarity, my awareness of battles is a pointer to the existence of victories- so you see I focus on how to create victories - Looking back I have had to be grateful for the impediments that life brought my way- To me impediments literally are growth prompters- You don’t pray for impediments but the wiser you are, the more you learn to listen and obey your God guts and the spirit of God the less mistakes you make - Here is my quote- Every experience and everything i have been through makes the perfect wood for the fire I am born to ignite- The consciousness that I am a spirit being that can’t be caged runs deep through my veins neither will I allow my soul to cage my upward movement.
What about mentoring. Are there people down the chain that you train and show the way too?
Yeah, we have three categories of coaching and mentorship programs that are focused on the different segment we cater for he 4th is on the way– we have- Career Coaching Programs & mentoring; Individual life Coaching & Mentoring; Executive Coaching SPEV – Focused on Micro Medium and Smart Enterprise Owners.
For most of your trainees, do you often do post assessment to ensure what was taught was truly retained?
Sure! – Typically, we start by conducting a pretraining assessment, then while in class, we observe behavioural patterns of participants, for some we are able to provide interventions immediately or schedule a private sessions with the individual. Subsequently we conduct a post training assessment and share report with the HR team/MD.
Do you think the coaching and Training Industry is where it’s supposed to be and if not, why. Also what do you think is the solution?
Definitely, not where it ought to be and that is mostly because of our cultural orientation and priority- Not a lot of people appreciate the impact of psychology based training and coaching services- Since these services are intangible in nature- we must continue to educate the populace on the gains of consistent training and the gap that coaching helps to close for individuals and corporate organisation.
Is there need and room for government partnership and support for this industry?
Yes, especially with the government focus on SMEDAN which is a target market for us. Our faculty members are CBN BDSP and Alumni of EDC. LBS and National Institute- Kuru Jos-this positions us to collaborate with government bodies to serve this target market.
Any room for expansion to have physical offices in some states and even Africa?
Oh well Yes, though we are not planning to be physically present in all 36 states of Nigeria, but we’ve been able to serve clients in over eight states in Nigeria. Last year, we had a three weeks physical training in Rwanda, this opened up conversations for more collaborations and expansion plans beyond Nigeria- definitely on the pipeline.
What are the potentials you are aiming for and where do you see Makarios in the next five years?
In the next five years- Our SPEV would have supported over 1000 MMSME business owners; we would have lots of products lunched so we can reach out to more people and businesses across Africa; and we must have established a strong corporate presence in at least two African countries.
Uchechukwu Mojekwu
Redeemers’ Health Village Chief Operations Officer Harps on Wellness at Work Place
Mary Nnah
Employers of labour in Nigeria have been urged to prioritise employees’ welfare by ensuring physical wellness and a good environment conducive to maximum effectiveness. Mrs. Laura Ade, Chief Operations Officer (COO), Redeemers’ Health Village (RHV), Redemption City of God, Mowe, Ogun State spoke at the weekend in Lagos during a panel discussion at this year’s Masterpiece Resource Development Centre annual entrepreneurs’ conference and trade expo.
According to the RHV Chief Operating Officer, from an operational point of view, organisations should create employee assistance programmes, provide an environment for team bonding, and provide regular employee checks: pre-employment and on-the-job, to ensure sustainable wellness of the workforce.
Ade enjoined corporate organisations to take advantage of the various discounted employee wellness packages at the Redeemers’ Health Village
to ensure that its staffers enjoy a healthy body and sound mind. She recalled that RHV held a Day Out for all staff of the organisation recently, from consultants to cleaners and gatemen which enabled everyone to bond together, sit and eat at the same table
irrespective of positions in the organisation.
Speaking on the role healthcare professionals and institutions can play in providing quality health services, Ade said affordability and accessibility are keys to good community health. According
to her, Redeemers’ Health Village emphasises preventive care and wellness and offers a range of affordable healthcare services from counselling to preventive health and treatment across several medical fields such as cardiology, oncology, endoscopy, obstet-
The Baby Convention 2024 Empowers New and Expectant Parents with Tools
The Baby Convention 2024, themed “Work-Life Balance for Mums: Myths, Magic, or Must-Have?”, recently unfolded at La Madison Event Center in Lekki, Lagos.
The event brought together parents, caregivers, and pediatric experts for two days of insightful discussions, interactive sessions, and family-friendly activities.
Hosted by pediatrician Dr. Ayodele Renner, the event explored critical topics in parenting while fostering a sense of community among attendees.
The event started with a karaoke session led by Dr Renner, after which he gave his welcome address.
Attendees participated in sessions like Dr. Renner’s masterclass on building a village to raise a child, Dr. Cole Adeife’s discussion on baby skincare, and the panel “Powering Moms,” which explored how childcare can support career goals.
This panel featured contributors such as Fab Mum NG, Ify Mogekwu, and Caring Africa.
CREDICORP Launches
The Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP) has launched Project S.C.A.L.E. (Securing Consumer Access for Local Enterprises), a groundbreaking initiative designed to connect Nigerian consumers with local manufacturers and vendors through affordable credit.
This program, a key part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s consumer credit agenda, aims to enhance the quality of life for Nigerians, curb corruption, and catalyze local industries.
S.C.A.L.E. seeks to bridge the gap between consumer needs and locally made products by providing credit-backed purchasing power to at least one million Nigerians in its first phase.
By targeting critical sectors of the economy, the program is expected to drive demand for locally manufactured goods, create jobs, and boost industrial growth.
“The public has followed
Fatherhood took center stage on the second day with “Fatherhood 101,” where actors Stan Nze, Akah Nnani, and Dr. Chinonso Egemba (Aproko Doctor) shared personal experiences and practical insights on parenting.
Other discussions included managing screen time, led by influencers like Seyi The Nifty Mum, and a session on feeding toddlers by Sisi Yemmie.
In addition to the knowl-
edge-sharing sessions, the event offered engaging activities, including baby-olympics and a lively karaoke segment.
Vendors displayed a range of baby products, from innovative parenting tools to clothing and accessories, allowing attendees to learn and shop.
Reflecting on the event, Dr. Renner emphasized its significance in building a support network for parents. “Parenting
for Parenthood
doesn’t come with a manual, but platforms like this provide valuable guidance and a sense of community,” he said.
With expert-led discussions, interactive activities, and networking opportunities, The Baby Convention 2024 delivered an enriching experience for parents and caregivers. It has solidified its position as a key event for parenting insights in Nigeria.
The convention’s success was bolstered by the invaluable support of its partners and sponsors, including Caring Africa and Caring Blocks, Cussons Baby Nigeria, Avon HMO, DanovitaKids, Renzo’s Vitamins for Kids, August Secret, Gidi Cakes, Kunbis Music Company, The Nimichen Brand, Radiance Cookware, The Baby Lounge, Fab Mum, Mum Confessions, Wives and Mothers and Young Nigerian Mom, Lagos Mums and That Good Media, whose contributions helped create a truly impactful experience for attendees.
S.C.A.L.E. Program to Boost Local Enterprises and Consumer Credit
CREDICORP’s journey from an idea by Mr. President to now seeing over 30,000 civil servants benefiting from consumer credit.
S.C.A.L.E. takes this vision further by making consumer credit accessible to the general public while encouraging the purchase of locally produced goods,” said Engr.UzomaNwagba,MD/CEO of CREDICORP.
The program focuses on five high-impact sectors: home improvement, mobility, electronics, energy solutions, and general merchandise.
Each area has been chosen to address key consumer needs while stimulating growth in local production and value addition. In the home improvement category, S.C.A.L.E. aims to enable Nigerians to upgrade their living conditions with access to locally manufactured furniture, appliances, and building materials.
Affordable credit will incentivize households to invest in
better living standards while supporting local artisans and manufacturers in the home goods sector.
The mobility sector is another priority. S.C.A.L.E. promotes access to compressed natural gas (CNG) and electric vehicles, including cars, motorbikes, and bicycles.
This focus aligns with Nigeria’s push for cleaner, more sustainable transportation solutions, while fostering growth in the nation’s burgeoning automotive industry. Electronics and digital inclusion are also at the heart of the program.
By providing affordable financing for digital devices like smartphones, tablets, and laptops, S.C.A.L.E. seeks to bridge the digital divide, enabling more Nigerians to participate in the digital economy and access online services.
In the energy solutions space, the program addresses Nigeria’s
Gov oTTI , oTH ers T o r ece I ve GAMA AwA r D s n ov 23
Convener of GAMA and Chief Executive Officer of Global Affairs Magazine, Regina Robinson, has announced Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, as one of the awardees for the third edition of the Global Affairs Magazine Awards (GAMA).
Robinson, who disclosed this in a statement said Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu would be the Chief Host and Dr. Segun Musa, former Lagos State gubernatorial candidate as Chairman of the occasion.
She said the award ceremony which comes up on Saturday, November 23 at the Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, was meant to celebrate and honour outstanding A-list changemakers who have made significant contributions across various sectors.
She revealed the theme for the ceremony as ‘Global Impact Awards’, saying it will be an evening brimming with inspiration, celebration and unforgettable moments.
“GAMA is a platform that promotes, rewards and celebrates human excellence in the care of mankind.
“This is the third edition, and the event has become a muchawaited fixture in the media and social calendar as it brings together the creme-de-la-creme of global society from all works of life.
“This is indeed another opportunity to remind the world that it is possible to get it right if you determine to do it.
“As we celebrate this milestone and indeed set the excellent benchmark, we are hosting all our awardees with groundbreaking records of humanitarian activities to top media recognition and ceremony.
“We have dedicated immense effort and passion into making this year’s edition of GAMA a truly grand celebration of the remarkable achievements of our impressive nominees and the feedback has been overwhelming.
“The profound significance these awards hold for awardees will go a long way to let the world know that you begin to succeed with your life when the wellbeing of others matters to you,’ she said.
She said the renowned international Flautist, Dr. Omatshola Iseli, popularly known as “Tee Mac” would be the Chairman of the Award Screening Committee.
“Highlights of the event include the unveiling of Global Affairs Magazine Foundation (GAMF) official theme song ‘The World is Watching”, produced by renowned Reggae artiste, Orits Williki.
“There will be a professional music performance from renowned international Flautist, Dr. Tee Mac; lectures and presentation of awards to well deserving personalities with credible and enviable track records.
“The keynote speaker is no other than frontline filmmaker and former president of Association of Movie Producer (AMP), Mr. Madu Chikwendu.
“Guest speakers include Nigerian broadcaster Rufai Oseni, Comedian Ali baba and the event will be compered by Koffi Tha Guru,” she said. Other outstanding awardees include, Olorigun Obaigbena, Mr. Kayode Akintemi, Mr. Babajide Kolade-Otitoju, Hon. Lukman Oyewole Lawal, Mr. Fayoade Adegoke AIG, Mr. Tayo Akanle, and Dr. Ebose Osegha. Mr. Adenrele Oni, Global Transport Policy, Nkechi Onyenso, Mr. Joshua Uloko, Ajinomoto, Cornel Medial Consult (CMC), Mr. Olukokun Adepeju, Kate Nnanna-Ibemgbo, Onoruoiza Onuchi, Phina Don and Olatunde Martins.
AHeAD of IGue fesTIvAl, DrAMA revs In lAGos
Ahead of this year’s celebration of the Igue Festival, an annual traditional festival of the Benin people, the Association for Cultural and Economic Renaissance of Edo (ACERE) is re-enacting this historic event through a theatrical performance
The play, titled ‘Igue – the Annual Thanksgiving Festival of Benin Kingdom,’ is written by Omorodion S. Uwaifo. It will be staged at Agip Hall, MUSON Centre, Onikan, on Sunday November 24, 2024. This is the first theatrical production of ACERE, a non-governmental and apolitical organisation dedicated to the cultural and economic growth and promotion of Edo.
persistent energy challenges by making solar panels and efficient generators more accessible. This move is expected to empower small businesses and households with reliable and sustainable energy options, improving productivity and quality of life.
The general merchandise category will target healthcare, apparel, textiles, and food and beverages. By facilitating credit access for essential goods, CREDICORP ensures that consumers can meet their needs while boosting local production in these vital industries.
CREDICORP is inviting local vendors and manufacturers to join the program to create a robust network of suppliers who can meet the anticipated demand surge. Interested parties are encouraged to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the S.C.A.L.E. website by December 15, 2024.
The performance as stated by the playwright, Uwaifo, an Engineer, turned prolific playwright, with many titles on Benin dramaturgy, to his name, chronicles, ‘‘the events that birthed Igue, dating back to earlier than 1441. The occurrences defined the life of Prince Ogun, crowned Oba Ewuare I, and eulogised as Ogidigan, for his triumphs as warrior-king.
‘‘He renamed Benin, Edo to honour his saviour of that name. He built the inner moat and walls of Benin City. He created guilds such as Ikpema for drummers, Owina for artisans, Igun Eronmwo for bronze and brass casters and Igbesanmwa for elephant tusk carvers.’’
The playwright, who is a co-winner of NLNG Prize for Literature, further said of the dramatic piece, ‘‘Igue is also a human story and the basis of the annual festival of thanksgiving by an adoring people of Benin Kingdom since his (Oba Ewuare) reign as Oba.’’
This historic piece that defines the enduring and fascinating culture and traditions of the Benin people, will be directed by Segun Adefila, drawing on his wealth of experience as a dedicated artiste and one of Nigeria’s leading live theatre directors, to breathe life into the piece that promises to be quite entertaining and revealing.
He would be bringing on stage a talented ensemble of artistes that would utilise all of the elements of live theatre - music, dance, and storytelling as well as customs in a very colourful and enchanting manner to bring alive this epic drama of communal festivities.
The Association for Cultural and Economic Renaissance of Edo (ACERE) is a problem-solving, development-focused and progress-fostering platform that is apolitical and non-religious. ACERE seeks to positively transform Edo State in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM).
L-R: Senior Special Assistant to Lagos State Governor on Health, Dr Toni Adeyemi; Chief Operating Officer, Redeemers’ Health Village, Dr Laura Ade; Founder, Masterpiece Resource Development Centre (MRDC), Mrs Modupe Oyekunle; Board of Directors, MRDC, Mrs Olubunmi Fabamwo and Founder, Salt Spa & Wellness Centre, Mrs Vandana Kaushal at the Redeemers’ Health Village-sponsored 9th annual Entrepreneurs Conference and Trade Expo 2024, held on Saturday in Lagos
Convener of the Baby Convention, Dr. Ayodele Renner, with Stan Nze, Dr. Chinonso Egemba (Aproko Doctor) and others
Yinka olatunbosun
Experts Disclose Tips for Building Successful Businesses at UBA Business Series
Oluchi Chibuzor
Building businesses that stand the test of time requires a blend of innovation, unwavering focus, and passion. This was the key takeaway from the latest edition of the United Bank for Africa (UBA) Business Series, hosted on Thursday, With the theme: “Profit with Purpose, Business Continuity,” the event which was held at the UBA House, Marina, Lagos, brought together top industry leaders and entrepreneurs who shared actionable insights and strategies for ensuring business resilience and sustainability in today’s dynamic economic environment.
Founder, Terra Kulture, Bolanle Austen-Peters, Chief Executive of Asadtek Group Limited, Ghana; Dr. James Asare-Adjei; Award win-
ning TV Personality & Multi Media Entrepreneur, Frank Edoho, Celebrated multimedia personality, Toke Makinwa and founder of Nigeria’s pioneering indigenous premium coffee brand, Happy Coffee, Princess Adeyinka Tekena, were on ground to share their business journey and give insights on how businesses can stand the test of time and thrive in a competitive environment.
Bolanle Austen-Peters who is also a Prominent Lawyer, Award Winning Film Director, and Producer, was the keynote speaker at the event and she spoke on the need for small and medium scale businesses to define their purpose, build a workable framework and have a team that shares in your vision.
James Asare-Adjei from Ghana, who also shared that
key essentials like being innovative and having integrity said that MSMEs need to identify areas that they can excel at and work towards building it.
For Frank Edoho, passion remains an essential ingredient that drives business growth. “Passion is very important, as business owners, you should stick to your guns and learn from what others are doing and add it to your experience to make your business better,” he explained.
UBA’s Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Communications, Alero Ladipo, who commended the participants for sharing valuable insights explained that with these regular capacity building programs, UBA focuses on empowering other business owners to build sustainable businesses.
Promo: Wema Bank Rewards 131 Customers with N11m
Wema Bank has said it disbursed a total of N11,000,000 to 131 customers across Nigeria in the first monthly draw of its 5 for 5 Promo Season 4.
Over three seasons, it said the initiative has disbursed N153.3 million naira to its customers across the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria; and with Season 4, the bank raised the stakes significantly with a N135,000,000 cash prize slated for this season alone.
“Season 4 of the Wema Bank 5 for 5 Promo kicked off on October 1, 2024, with a special Independence Day Draw that saw 64 customers win N5,000 each as Nigeria clocked 64. mSince the season kicked off, a total of 544 Wema Bank customers have won N5,000 each in daily and weekly draws,” it said in a statement.
The financial institution held the first monthly draw of the Wema Bank 5 for 5 Promo Season
4 at its newly commissioned branch in Festac, Lagos.
With an N11,000,000 total cash prize, the long-anticipated first monthly draw of the Wema Bank 5 for 5 Promo Season 4 saw 131 Wema Bank customers across Nigeria win cash prizes ranging from N25,000 to N1,000,000 each.
80 customers won N25,000, 40 customers won N100,000, 8 domiciliary account customers of the Bank won N250,000 and for the first time ever, 3 Wema Bank customers won N1,000,000 each in the Wema Bank 5 for 5 Promo monthly draws; topping the standard 2 millionaires monthly in the past seasons.
Among the three millionaires were Rosemary Etim Ekpo, Onochi Akubor, Augustina Chikaodinaka Chukwuemeka and a customer from Festac branch where the draw held.
Wema Bank’s MD/CEO, Moruf Oseni, emphasised the bank’s commitment to customer support, and putting smiles on their faces.
He said, “For us at Wema Bank, we do not take for granted the indispensable role that our customers play in our progress and success as a bank. We are deeply customer centric, and in appreciation for the loyalty and trust our customers continue to show us, we launched the Wema Bank 5 for 5 Promo with the goal of giving back to our customers. A deeper look into the journey of the 5 for 5 Promo would reflect how intentional we have been about increasing the rewards, optimising the eligibility criteria for financial inclusion and expanding our reach to ensure that more Wema Bank customers can win, regardless of their location.”
Access ARM Expands Financial Literacy Campaign to 100 Nigerian Schools
Nume Ekeghe
Access ARM Pensions has expanded its flagship corporate social responsibility initiative, Shape Your Future, to 100 schools across Nigeria, underscoring its commitment to fostering financial literacy among young Nigerians.
Now in its second year, the program is designed to equip primary and secondary school students with practical financial management skills, laying the groundwork for long-term financial independence.
The “Shape Your Future” project lead at Access ARM Pensions, Oluchi Maduwuba, described the initiative as a vital
tool for empowering the next generation.
“The Shape Your Future financial training program has grown immensely since its inception. The first edition, launched last year, was met with tremendous success. This year, we are thrilled to expand our reach to 100 schools nationwide, impacting even more students and instilling essential financial skills that promote long-term financial well-being,” Maduwuba said. The initiative has scaled up significantly, broadening its coverage from 37 schools in the inaugural year to 100 schools in 2024. This expansion includes participation from schools in all six geopolitical
zones, showcasing a concerted effort to reach students in diverse socioeconomic backgrounds.
Delivered by Access ARM Pensions staff, the training sessions focus on fundamental topics such as saving, budgeting, financial planning, and understanding income and expenses.
The interactive curriculum is designed to make complex financial concepts accessible and engaging for young learners.
“Feedback from students and teachers has been overwhelmingly positive. Students now understand the importance of budgeting and saving, which equips them with practical tools for their daily lives and future aspirations,” Maduwuba added.
Group Vows to Strengthen Nigeria-India Economic Relations
Overseas Friends of BJP (OFBJP) have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening Nigeria and India economic relations.
This was the crux of the meeting between the group and Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi during his recent visit in Abuja, capital of Nigeria. According to the group, the meeting was also to reflect on the long-standing, historical and cultural ties between Nigeria and India.
The event brought together members of the OFBJP’s executive Committee and other community leaders to discuss their ongoing efforts in promoting awareness about the commendable initiatives led by PM Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in India and across the globe.
Speaking at the event, the Spokesperson, OFBJP, Lagos, Dr. Anil Grover, said, “Support groups like OFBJP play a crucial role
MARKET INDICATORS
in fostering a positive and transparent image of the BJP.
“We are dedicated to spreading awareness about the visionary leadership of PM Modi and the BJP’s efforts to bring transformative change not just in India but around the world.”
“The meeting also reflected on OFBJP’s contributions in Nigeria, including organising charity drives, hosting cultural events, and building networks to strengthen India-Nigeria relations.
The price of OPEC basket of twelve crudes stood at $87.33 a barrel on Monday, compared with $86.00 the previous Thursday, according to OPEC Secretariat calculations. The OPEC Reference
Saharan Blend (Algeria), Djeno (Congo), Zafiro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basrah Medium (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny
(Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).
L-R: Consultant, International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI),Hakeem Ajeigbe; Senior Scientist, Institutions and Innovation, ILRI, Rupsha Banerjee; Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), Prof. Charles Anosike; Program Leader of Livestock, Climate, and Environment, ILRI, Anthony Whitbread; and Coordinator, Training, Centre for DryLand Agriculture, Bayero University, Kano Prof. Murtala Badamasi, during a courtesy visit to the Director General and Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), Prof. Charles Anosike in Abuja…recently
Stock Market Decline by N142.4bn on Sell Pressure in Oando, GTCO, 22 Others
Kayode Tokede
The Nigerian stock market yesterday surrendered to investors selling pressures on profit-taking in Oando Plc (-5.6 per cent), Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (-2.5 per cent) and 22 others.
As a result, the overall capitalisation depreciated by N142.4 billion to N59.391trillion, to end its four-day gaining momentum.
Consequently, the Nigerian Exchange Limited All Share Index (NGX ASI) lost by 234.95 basis points or 1.75 per cent to close at 97,992.55 basis points with the Month-to-Date and Yearto-Date returns moderated to +0.4per cent and +31.1per cent, respectively.
Analyzing by sectors, the NGX Banking Index (-1.2per cent) and NGX Oil & Gas Index (-0.3per cent), while the NGX Consumer Goods
Index (+0.4per cent), NGX Insurance Index (+0.3per cent), and NGX Industrial Goods Index (+0.2per cent) gained.
However, market breadth closed positive as 36 stocks gained relative to 24 losers.
Austin Laz & Company recorded the highest price gain of 10 per cent to close at N2.42, while Eunisell Interlinked followed with a gain of 9.98 per cent to close at N17.52, per share.
Haldane McCall went up by 9.95 per cent to close at N4.64, while Honeywell Flour Mills and SUNU Assurance appreciated by 9.93 per cent each to close at N4.98 and N2.99, per share. On the other hand, Wapic Insurance led the losers’ chart by 9.82 per cent to close at N1.01, per share. University Press followed with a decline of 9.09 per cent to close at N3.50, while Sovereign Trust Insurance
up by 8.96 per cent to close at 61 kobo, per share.
Universal Insurance depreciated by 8.82 per cent to close at 31 kobo, while Japaul Gold & Ventures declined by 8.26 per cent to close at N2.11, per share.
The total volume traded rose by 23.2 per cent to 467.676 million units, valued at N9.590 billion, and exchanged in 10,659 deals. Transactions in the shares of FBN Holdings (FBNH)
topped the activity chart with 51.107 million shares valued at N1.380 billion. Tantalizer followed with 48.780 million shares worth N52.531 million, while Lafarge Africa traded 39.670 million shares valued at N2.315 billion.
Fidelity Bank traded 26.622 million shares valued at N429.990 million, while Zenith Bank sold 22.321 million shares worth N997.672 million.
SIGNING OF A MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING...
ICC Issues Arrest Warrant for Netanyahu over Alleged ‘War Crimes’ in Gaza
The International Criminal Court (ICC) yesterday issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, his former Defence Minister, Yoav Gallant as well as Hamas Military Commander, Mohammed Deif, for alleged war crimes.
Netanyahu and Gallant were accused of crimes against humanity and war crimes committed from at least October 8, 2023 until at least May 20, 2024, a statement from the court said.
According to the ICC, there were reasonable grounds to believe that Gallant and Netanyahu intentionally and knowingly deprived the civilian population in Gaza of objects indispensable to their survival, including food, water, and medicine and medical supplies, as well as fuel
and electricity.
But in a response, Netanyahu’s office said in a statement that “Israel rejects with disgust the absurd and false actions levelled against it by ICC”, stressing that Israel won’t “give in to pressure” in the defence of its citizens.
The court also decided unanimously to issue an arrest warrant for Hamas’s military commander, Deif, for alleged crimes against humanity and war crimes committed in Israel and Palestine from October 7, 2023.
It accused him of crimes including murder, torture, rape and other forms of sexual violence.
But Israel claimed to have killed Deif in an air raid in southern Gaza in July, although the court decided to proceed with the warrant, saying it was “not in a position to determine whether he had been killed or remains alive.
ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan had applied for arrest warrants against the Israeli officials and three Hamas leaders in May for alleged crimes committed during the Hamas-led October 7, 2023 attack on southern Israel and Israel’s subsequent war on Gaza.
Netanyahu fired Gallant earlier this month, saying he had lost confidence in him over the management of Israel’s wars in Gaza and Lebanon.
Israel is not a member of the ICC and Netanyahu has previously called the prosecutor’s accusations against him a “disgrace”, an attack on the Israeli military and all of Israel.
“Today, on 21 November 2024, the International Criminal Court, in its composition for the situation in the State of Palestine, unanimously issued two decisions rejecting challenges by the State of Israel brought under articles 18 and 19 of the Rome Statute. It also issued warrants of arrest for Mr Benjamin Netanyahu and Mr Yoav Gallant.
“Warrants of arrest for two individuals, Mr Benjamin Netanyahu and Mr Yoav Gallant, for crimes against humanity and war crimes
committed from at least 8 October 2023 until at least 20 May 2024, the day the Prosecution filed the applications for warrants of arrest.
“With regard to the crimes, the Chamber found reasonable grounds to believe that Mr Netanyahu, born on 21 October 1949, Prime Minister of Israel at the time of the relevant conduct, and Mr Gallant, born on 8 November 1958, Minister of Defence of Israel at the time of the alleged conduct, each bear criminal responsibility for the following crimes as co-perpetrators for committing the acts jointly with others: the war crime of starvation as a method of warfare; and the crimes against humanity of murder, persecution, and other inhumane acts.
“The Chamber also found reasonable grounds to believe that Mr Netanyahu and Mr Gallant each bear criminal responsibility as civilian superiors for the war crime of intentionally directing an attack against the civilian population.
“The Chamber found reasonable grounds to believe that during the relevant time, international humanitarian law related to
international armed conflict between Israel and Palestine applied,” an ICC statement said.
Furthermore, the ICC said it found reasonable grounds to believe that no clear military need or other justification under international humanitarian law could be identified for the restrictions placed on access for humanitarian relief operations by Israel.
It stated that despite warnings and appeals made by the UN Security Council, UN Secretary General, States, and governmental and civil society organisations about the humanitarian situation in Gaza, only minimal humanitarian assistance was authorised.
“In this regard, the Chamber considered the prolonged period of deprivation and Mr Netanyahu’s statement connecting the halt in the essential goods and humanitarian aid with the goals of war.
“The Chamber therefore found reasonable grounds to believe that Mr Netanyahu and Mr Gallant bear criminal responsibility for the war crime of starvation as a method of warfare,” the ICC noted.
The warrants by the Hague-
based organisation put Netanyahu and Gallant at risk of arrest if they travel abroad to any of the 120 ICC member countries.
The court’s chief prosecutor, Karim Khan, had requested the arrest warrants in May, saying there were reasonable grounds to believe Netanyahu and Gallant bore “criminal responsibility” for causing mass starvation in Gaza that constituted war crimes and crimes against humanity.
The US has previously welcomed ICC war crimes warrants against Vladimir Putin and other Russian officials for atrocities committed in Ukraine, while denouncing the court’s pursuit of Netanyahu and Gallant, a mixed stance which has exposed the Joe Biden administration to accusations of double standards from many UN members, particularly from the global south.
Some of the world leaders for whom warrants have been issued by the court since its creation more than two decades ago, include: Vladimir Putin of Russia, Omar Hassan al-Bashir of Sudan as well as Muammar el-Qaddafi of Libya.
The Nigerian military yesterday responded to viral allegations credited to the founder of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo, that the Nigerian Navy is aiding and abetting oil theft in the Niger Delta region, insisting that the military will not succumb to cheap blackmail.
The military also called on the management of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited to collaborate with it to defeat oil theft and increase the volume of daily crude oil production, instead of stoking conflict to score cheap political goals.
The Director, Defence Media Operations, Maj. Gen. Edward Buba, who made this call while responding to questions during the biweekly briefing at DHQ in Abuja, also recalled that he was in the theatre of operations before his current tour of duty and therefore cannot compromise on professionalism.
Recall that while Tompolo’s company accused the Navy of undermining efforts to combat crude oil theft. The nation’s apex maritime force described Tantita’s allegations as false, arguing that it had recorded many successes in recent times.
But responding to questions during the biweekly briefing in Abuja, Buba said: "We seek cooperation and not conflict. We must improve the volume of crude oil production in our country.
That is the mainstay of our economy.
"We will not succumb to this cheap blackmail. We should work together in the interest of our nation. The military had done extremely well in curtailing the activities of oil theft and economic saboteurs.
"We would not join anybody to score cheap political goals. The military should be commended and not vilified".
Speaking on the palpable fear expressed by natives of Umuopara, in Umuahia South LGA of Abia State, over possible reprisals from the troops following the unprovoked killing of three military personnel in the line of duty, Buba assured that troops will not harm innocent villagers.
He however vowed that the terrorist elements behind the killing of personnel must be tracked down and forced to face the wrath of law.
According to him, "We are a professional force and that is not how we operate. Even as much as there are going to be consequences for the terror group that escalated that situation, our targets are not innocent villagers.
“Just a few days ago, our team intercepted a vessel in Port Harcourt, and the Navy opened fire on Tantita Security while we were accompanied by the police, DSS, and Civil Defence," Tompolo had said while appealing to the Nigeria Bar Association, NBA, president and his team for support.
House Rejects Bill Seeking 6-year Single Term for President, Govs, Council Chairmen
Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja
The House of Representatives has rejected a bill seeking amendment of the 1999 Constitution to provide for a single term of six years for the offices of the president, state governors and local government areas’ chairmen.
The bill also seeks zonal rotation of presidential and governorship seats, as well as holding of the elections in one day.
The intent of the proposed legislation was to ensure inclusive governance and to curb wastages occasioned by four-year periodic elections.
The bill specifically seeks to alter Sections 76, 116, 132, 136, and some others of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
However, the bill which was sponsored by Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere and 33 other lawmakers was voted against at the plenary on Thursday.
The synopsis of the bill showed it seeks amendment of Section 132
of the Principal Act by inserting a new Sub-section (2), deleting the extant Sub-section (4) and renumbering the entire section accordingly to provide that an election to the office of President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria shall be rotated between the North and the South regions of the country every six years.
The bill also seeks to amend Section 76 of the Principal Act by inserting a new Sub-section (3) as follows:
“(3) For the Purposes of Section (1) of this section, all elections into the offices of president, governors, national assembly and state houses of assembly shall hold simultaneously on the same date to be determined by the Independent National Electoral Commission in consultation with the National Assembly and in accordance with the Electoral Act.”
It added: “Section 116 of the Principal Act is amended by inserting a new a subsection (3) as follows; For the purposes of
Sub-section (1) of this Section, all elections into the offices of president, governors, national assembly, state houses of assembly and local government councils shall be held simultaneously on the same date to be determined by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in consultation with the National Assembly and in accordance with the Electoral Act.
“Section 132 of the Principal Act is amended by inserting a new Sub-section (2), deleting the extant Sub-section (4) and renumbering the entire section accordingly: An election to the office of President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria shall be rotated between the North and the South regions of the country every six years.
“Provided that where it is the turn of the North or South to present a candidate for election into the office of President, it shall be rotated among the three geo-political zones that constitute the regions.
“The extant subsection (2)
becomes subsection (3) The extant subsection (3) becomes subsection (4) The extant subsection (4) is hereby deleted. The extant subsection (5) remains subsection (5).”
The bill also seeks to amend Section 136 of the Principal Act by deleting the extant Sub-section s 1 & 2 and replacing them with new Sub-section s I, 2 and 3 as follows:
“If a person duly elected as president dies before taking and subscribing the oath of allegiance and oath of office or is for any reason whatsoever unable to be sworn in, the person elected with him as First Vice President shall be sworn in as president and he shall appoint a new First Vice President with the approval by a simple majority of the National Assembly at a joint sitting.”
However, when the bill was put to a voice vote by the Speaker, Hon. Tajudeen Abass, who presided over the plenary session, it was the nays that had it.
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
Linus Aleke in Abuja
L-R: Director, Legal, National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM), Dr. Babatunde Adebiyi; Curator Lagos Museum, Mrs. Nkechi Adedeji; D.G, NCMM, Mr. Olugbile Holloway; CEO, IHS Nigeria, Mr. Mohamad Darwish and Group Chief Human Resources Officer, IHS Towers, Mr. Ayotade Oyinlola, during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) by IHS Nigeria with the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM) and the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, and the Creative Economy (FMACCE) at IHS Corporate Headquarters in Lagos....yesterday
ABIODUN AJALA
GROUND BREAKING CEREMONY OF ERUWA AGRIBUSINESS INDUSTRIAL HUB...
L-R: Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde; Director General, Nigeria Country Department African Development Bank, Dr Abdul Kamara; Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon Debo Ogundoyin; and Senior Special Adviser on Industrialisation to the President of the African Development Bank, Prof Banji Oyeleran-Oyeyinka, during the ground breaking ceremony of Eruwa Agribusiness Industrial Hub, Eruwa
Appeal Court Nullifies Judgement against Rivers
LG
Polls, It
Points
to More Wins, Says Govt
The Abuja division of the Court of Appeal, yesterday,voided the judgement of the Federal High Court, Abuja, against the conduct of the October 5, Local Government Area election in Rivers State.
A three-member panel of the appellate court led by Justice Onyekachi Otisi, held that the judgement of the trial court was delivered outside of its jurisdiction.
The Rivers State government has however described the Appeal Court judgement as a pointer to more wins for Rivers people.
Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court in Abuja, had in September, set aside all steps taking so far by the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) towards the conduct of the October 5 polls.
Justice Lifu also restrained the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from releasing the voter’ register used in the conduct of the 2023 general election to the Rivers SIEC, for the purpose of conducting the October 5, 2024 local government elections in the state.
Miffed by the decision, the Rivers State government approached the appellate court to set aside the judgement on grounds that Justice Lifu lacked the necessary jurisdiction to entertain the suit in the first place.
Delivering judgement in the appeal, the three-member panel agreed with the appellants that Justice Lifu did not have the legal authority to hear the suit filed by the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State.
According to Justice Otisi, Section 28, of the Electoral Act, upon which the judge relied on to assume jurisdiction of the case did not cover elections conducted by states but,
only federal elections, governorship and area council elections of the FCT.
Besides, the appellate court held that Justice Lifu erred in law, when he issued an order restraining security agencies from providing security during the poll.
Justice Otisi subsequently set aside the judgement of Justice Lifu which ruled against the election conducted on October 5.
The RSIEC had gone ahead with the poll, citing an earlier order issued by a High Court in Rivers State, which had cleared the coast for the conduct of the October 5 polls.
Justice I. Igwe of the Rivers State High Court had in a judgement delivered on September 4, ordered the Rivers State electoral body to conduct this Saturday’s LG polls using the 2023 voters’ register.
He also subsequently ordered that all necessary arrangements be made to ensure the conduct of the election
on October 5, 2024, as announced by RSIEC.
While the suit in Rivers was filed by the All People’s Party (APP), that of Abuja was filed by the All Progressives Congress (APC), which claimed that before the SIEC could announce date for conduct of the local government elections, the voter’ register from INEC to be used for the polls must be updated and published 90 days to the poll.
Celebrating the news, Commissioner for Information and Communication, Joe Johnson, said the judgement has confirmed that Governor Siminalayi Fubara has always made right decisions.
Speaking to THISDAY on the phone, Johnson said, "We expected it, we knew that the court of appeal will do justice to that setback that the federal high court tried to manipulate.
“But I am happy that it has confirmed that the governor makes
After Several Notices, FG Terminates N740bn Contract with Julius Berger on Abuja-Kano Road
Umahi hands over two agencies to new minister of state
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
The federal government yesterday terminated the N740.7 billion contract for the rehabilitation of the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano road with Julius Berger, after failing to reach an agreement with the German company on some terms.
In a letter seen by THISDAY, addressed to the company, the Minister of Works, David Umahi, reminded Julius Berger of previous efforts to ensure that a deal was reached, but which was rejected by the company.
Signed by the Director of the ministry’s Legal Department, C.O. Assam, Umahi stated that upon receiving the letter, the company should make arrangements to vacate the site to allow for work to continue.
“I am directed to refer to the above contract and to invite you to recall the approval of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) in its meeting held on 23rd September, 2024 whereby the above contract was re-scoped and reviewed to the sum
of N740,797,204,713.25 with expected completion period of 14 months for the completion of the outstanding works (flexible pavement) in Section I (127km), Section II (73.4km) and Section III (128km).
“It should be noted that an independent consultant, Yolas Consultants reviewed the quantities and unit rates which were presented to the ministry which fixed the contract sum at N710,831,802,660.35 and your company initially accepted the work items, but later rescinded your acceptance laying claims to astronomical increase in prices of construction materials.
“The Honourable Minister of Works graciously granted the upward review of the unit rates on basic items of work from N710,831,802,660.35 to N740,797,204,713.25 which formed the basis of the FEC approval, despite the consultant’s submission,” the letter stated.
According to Umahi, the approval was conveyed to the company as final offer vide letter Ref. No: WR. 15022/
Vol.T/304 dated October 23, 2024 requesting the company to indicate in writing an unconditional acceptance form otherwise of the offer within seven days.
However, the minister stated that the company rejected the sum of N740.7 billion and unilaterally prepared a revised document, reducing the quantities and increasing the unit rates of work items, thereby altering the work items already approved by FEC.
“Upon receipt of your letter Ref. No: D12.90.1AKR.L.2024.0190 dated 29th October, 2024 the ministry viewed your alteration of the work items approved by FEC as a counter offer and therefore unacceptable.
“You have once again deployed your usual delay tactics to further frustrate the ministry in delivering the project as scheduled thereby worsening the situation of the road and causing untold hardship to commuters and other road users. This shows clearly you are not interested in continuing with the work,” a portion of the letter stated.
Consequently, the minister directed
that the contract be terminated forthwith, in accordance with clause, 63 Standard Condition of Contract (Road Works) Volume 1, 1999 edition with effect from the date of service of the letter.
“You are also by this letter be informed of the intention of the federal ministry of works to enter upon the site and the works and take over same from your company with effect from the date of service of the letter on your company.
“The engineers representative shall upon service of this letter on you, arrange with you for a joint measurement of work preparatory to taking over the site and work from your company. This is without prejudice to the exercise of other rights of the federal government under the contract,” Umahi added.
Meanwhile, the minister has officially introduced and handed over to the newly appointed Minister of State, Works, Bello Goronyo, to supervise two agencies under the ministry.
right decisions. This one is just a pointer to the many more wins that will come.
"I am believing God that in the affairs of Rivers State, all the matters that is before the jurists will get reasonable judgement and it will be favourable to all Rivers people."
Also reacting, the State Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Ezebunwo Ichemati, said the appeal court judgement has reaffirmed the peoples trust in the justice system.
Ichemati who is the Mayor of Port Harcourt, said despite meeting all the necessary conditions to conduct the election, Justice Lifu delivered a judgement disqualifying a polls to allegedly satisfied appellant (APC)
expectation.
At the same time, the APC leadership in the state led by Emeka Beke, has lauded the Appeal Court for setting aside the judgement of Justice Lifu on the Rivers LG elections. The factional spokesperson of the party, Darlington Nwauju, in a statement yesterday, welcomed the judgement delivered by a three man panel led by Justice Onyekachi Otisi "We had strongly condemned the unpatriotic moves initiated by Mr Tony Okocha and his co-travellers, to target and punish local government workers, state civil servants and indeed Rivers people by attempting to use the courts to deny the state her rights to federal allocations," he said.
House Probes Illegal Egg Donations, Assisted Reproductive Tech in Nigeria
Juliet Akoje in Abuja.
The House of Representatives has mandated its Committee on Healthcare Services to investigate the spate of illegal egg donations and practice of assisted reproductive health technologies in Nigeria, recommend measures to prevent further incidents and report within four weeks for further legislative action.
The House also urged the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Development, and the Ministry of Women Affairs to create support systems for women who have participated in egg donation to help address health complications and psychological impacts.
Consequently, the lawmakers urged the Ministry of Health and Social Development, and the Ministry of Information and National Orientation to intensify public awareness initiatives focusing on the risks and ethical considerations of egg donation to help inform potential donors and discourage exploitation.
These resolutions followed the adoption of a motion on illegal Harvesting and Commercialisation of Human Eggs in Nigeria moved by Hon. Kwamoti Bitrus La’ ori at plenary on Thursday.
La'ori noted that the
commercialization of human eggs, particularly in the context of illegal harvesting, poses significant ethical, legal, and health concerns globally as the issue has gained prominence due to a growing demand for assisted reproductive technologies amid insufficient regulations in Nigeria.
The lawmaker also noted that Nigeria's healthcare system, particularly reproductive health is still evolving coupled with increasing infertility rates among couples seeking assisted reproductive treatments, thus leading to a flourishing market for human eggs.
"The demand for human eggs has led to exploitative practices such as illegal egg harvesting and commercialization, often targeting vulnerable women, particularly poor teenagers unaware of the risks involved."
She recalled that in 2021, Nigerian authorities discovered an illegal egg harvesting scheme in Lagos, where a network of medical professionals and agents lured young women, mostly students or low-income earners, with the assurance of monetary rewards for their eggs, reportedly, women received between N200,000 and N500,000, or $120 to $300, for their participation which is below international pricing standards.
Alex Enumah in Abuja and Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt
FOSTERING RELATIONSHIP BEYOND ADVERTISING...
ACF Suspends National Chairman over Unauthorised Statement, Meets with LND
The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), has suspended its National Chairman, Mr. Mamman Mike Osuman, SAN, for issuing unauthorised statement.
The suspension was announced in a statement in Kaduna, jointly signed by Alhaji Bashir Dalhatu and Alhaji Murtala Aliyu, the forum's Chairman and Secretary Board of Trustees respectively.
According to the statement, Osuman, issued a statement on Wednesday during the forum's meeting in Kaduna, saying the North would back a northern candidate for the presidency in 2027, which was reported in some media platforms.
The forum said Osuman made the statement without consulting or
discussing with other leaders and members of the ACF and therefore reflected his personal opinion only.
"The attention of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has been drawn to widely reported statements credited to Mr. Mamman Mike Osuman, (SAN), Chairman, ACF National Executive Committee (NEC), which were made during the meeting of the NEC, held Wednesday, November, 2024, at ACF Headquarters, Kaduna.
"In particular, Mr. Osuman was quoted as saying the North will back a northern candidate for the presidency, come 2027. The statements were made by the NEC Chairman without consulting or discussing with other leaders and members of the ACF and thus, reflected Mr. Osuman’s personal
opinion only.”
At the same time, a Northern group, Arewa Think Tank (ATT), has described as ‘fabricated lies’ insinuations that the ACF, had dumped President Bola Tinubu and endorsed northern presidential candidates for the 2027 elections.
The group stated that the ACF couldn't have spoken on behalf of other political parties against Tinubu because ACF remained apolitical and a sociocultural organisation whose members do not have a common political interest.
In a statement in Abuja, the Convener of ATT, Muhammad Yakubu, said some of the media reports might have misquoted the position of the ACF following its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting on Wednesday.
"ACF is not a political organisation that can speak as an opposition party. ACF is apolitical and all its members belong to different political parties, including the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC). So, the forum cannot decide for political parties against President Tinubu.
"Some media reports that the ACF has announced its support for Northern presidential candidates in the 2027 general elections is nothing but an imaginative news story hanging on the heels of fake news,” the group stated.
It insisted that the ACF, had also said it got a message from a group, the League of Northern Democrats, but that it told the group that should their ultimate focus be for the year 2027, their charity should begin now, and at home.
Shettima: Nigerian Youth Indispensable to Repositioning Africa
Says they're the fulcrum of Tinubu's development agenda
Vice President Kashim Shettima has affirmed the federal government's commitment to youth empowerment as the foundation of Nigeria's development strategy and Africa’s broader integration goals.
He, therefore, called for a unified effort to bridge generational divides in Nigeria, emphasising the pivotal role the youths play in shaping Nigeria and the continent’s future.
Speaking on Thursday during the 2024 Youth Legacy Conference at the Banquet Hall of the State House, Abuja, Shettima noted that the youths are the fulcrum of President Bola Tinubu’s renewed hope agenda with their prominent role in driving national progress.
The Vice President, represented by Deputy Chief of Staff to the President (Office of the Vice President), Senator Ibrahim Hassan Hadejia, said, “There is no nation that can prosper without investing in its youth. They are not just leaders of tomorrow; they are also the anchors of today.
"President Tinubu is deeply committed to ensuring that the youth not only have a voice but are active participants in shaping our collective destiny.”
The event’s theme, “Shaping Africa’s Future with AfCFTA and Agenda 2063,” highlighted the alignment between Nigeria’s youth-focused initiatives
and Africa’s development blueprints. Shettima noted that the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and Agenda 2063 present vast opportunities for young Nigerians to thrive as innovators, entrepreneurs, and leaders.
According to him: “AfCFTA is not just about trade; it is about creating opportunities for our youth to connect, innovate, and lead Africa into a new era of prosperity. Agenda 2063 envisions an integrated and prosperous Africa, but it is the energy, creativity, and resilience of our youth that will transform this vision into reality".
The Vice President commended initiatives like the Mandela Washington Fellows for their exemplary leadership and service, adding: “You have shown us what is possible when the youth are given the tools to succeed. Your work in education, healthcare, and social justice serves as an inspiration for generations to come.”
A key highlight of the conference was the launch of the Ubuntu Trade App, a digital innovation designed to bolster Africa’s trade integration and market access for young entrepreneurs.
Describing it as “a testament to the genius of our young minds,” Shettima lauded the app as a critical step in advancing Africa’s digital transformation.
“This app embodies the spirit of innovation that defines our youth. From agriculture to technology, our young people have consistently
demonstrated their ability to create solutions that reshape industries and connect markets. Nigeria’s youths are the ladder upon which we climb to lead in technology, agriculture, and the creative industries,” he said.
The Vice President also emphasised the administration’s deliberate inclusion of youth in governance and critical sectors.
He said: “Our engagement with the youth is not symbolic; it is a necessity. By infusing fresh ideas into seasoned experience, we create a synergy that strengthens our nation. You are not spectators; you are architects of the future. This government is your partner in progress, and together, we will shape a legacy that future generations will be proud of."
Declaring the conference officially open, Shettima expressed confidence that the deliberations and initiatives launched would drive sustainable growth for Nigeria and Africa. “The future is bright because you are in it,” he added.
In his goodwill message, the United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard M. Mills, urged the association to build a network of a free trade area as a way of ideas and human connections between all the people of the African continent. Mills, represented by the Deputy Chief of Mission, Embassy of the United States of America, David J. Greene, commended Vice President Shettima for his tremendous support towards the successful hosting of the event.
He said the fellowship provides leadership training, and networking opportunities for young Africans working to fast-track economic growth and prosperity to strengthen democratic institutions and to enhance peace security in communities, particularly Nigeria and across Africa.
"Over the past decades, the programme has facilitated the emergence of employment and promotion of thousands of young Africans," the diplomat said.
Earlier, the Technical Adviser to the Vice President on Women, Youth Engagement and Impact, Hajiya Hauwa Liman, said the event is a testament to the federal government's shared commitment to advancing Africa’s development by empowering its greatest resource - its youth.
She pointed out that the theme of this year’s conference speaks directly to the vision of a prosperous, integrated, and peaceful Africa driven by its people.
"The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) offers a unique opportunity to redefine Africa’s economic trajectory, while Agenda 2063 provides the roadmap for the Africa we want - a continent of shared prosperity, unity, and innovation.
"Today, as we launch the Ubuntu Trade App, we mark a significant milestone in fostering intra-African trade, empowering young entrepreneurs, and creating access to markets that transcend borders.
"From the ACF chairman's speech, Arewa Think Tank believes that the ACF’s position was well misquoted by some media coverage, because from the speech there is no place saying that the ACF has dumped President Tinubu over 2027 presidential election.
"However, we challenge ACF leadership to deny or own up to some of the media reports that the North has dumped President Tinubu over the 2027 presidential race," the statement said.
Meanwhile, the League of Northern Democrats (LND), has met with the ACF, with a view to "form a transformative coalition" to address the challenges facing the North.
Speaking at the meeting which held at the ACF secretariat in Kaduna, Chairman of the LND and former Kano State governor, Senator Ibrahim Shekarau, said the situation in the North today was ugly, but reversible.
Shekarau who was represented by Ibrahim Bio, a former transport
minister, lamented that the challenges facing the north were poverty, insecurity, illiteracy, religious intolerance, disunity, and diminishing political influence.
"This marks the beginning of what we hope will be a transformative coalition for Northern Nigeria. The challenges facing our regionpoverty, insecurity, illiteracy, religious intolerance, disunity, and diminishing political influence – are indeed serious.
"The North is today in an ugly situation. Yet, we all know that the situation is reversible. It only requires commitment, collaboration, and a shared vision from all of us. In truth, we owe ourselves and the generations behind us the solemn duty to do so.
"I am convinced that it is the spirit of this duty that has brought us all together today," he said, commending the ACF for its contributions in preserving the values, culture, and dignity of the North.
Sokoto Moves to Complete Independent Power Plant
As Hamdiya Sidi charged for incitement recants, apologises
Onuminya Innocent in Sokoto
The governor of Sokoto State, Dr. Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto, has restated the commitment of his administration to restart and complete the state Independent Power Plant (IPP).
Governor Aliyu made this known after a State Executive Council meeting which held at the Executive chambers of the government in Sokoto.
Meanwhile, in another significant development, Hamdiya Sidi, the lady facing prosecution by the Police in Sokoto State over alleged incitement of the public to violence, has recanted and tendered an apology to Governor Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto.
On the IPP, according to the governor, the state government would do all that is necessary to ensure completion of the power plant.
He said the completion will boost efforts of the government to complement efforts of the governor to boost economic activities in Sokoto.
The governor further stated that his administration would up the ante in support to security agencies to fight insecurity in the state.
He said efforts are already underway to improve logistics support to security agencies. This, he stated, is among other key decisions taken to improve the state. Speaking in an update on his
X handle, Gov. Aliyu said, "I am pleased to announce that the Sokoto State Executive Council, under my leadership, has approved several key projects aimed at enhancing the security, infrastructure, and cultural heritage of our beloved state.
"We will be acquiring additional security vehicles to strengthen our efforts in combating insecurity and ensuring the safety of our citizens.
"Additionally, we have approved the renovation of the Sokoto State Historical Museum (Waziri Junaidu History and Culture Bureau) to preserve our rich history and culture for future generations.
"We are also committed to completing the Sokoto State Independent Power Project (IPP) to provide adequate electricity, which is vital for our economic growth and the overall well-being of our people.
"Moreover, we have approved the construction of new roads, including Zurmi Road, Gobir Road, Argungu Road, and the road from Kalambaina to the Arkilla Fulani Roundabout. These improvements will enhance connectivity and facilitate trade and movement within the state.
"Lastly, we will renovate six major religious centres to support the continuation of religious practices, ensuring our communities have the necessary facilities for worship.
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
John Shiklam in Kaduna and Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
Mrs Ngozi Akintujoye - Team Lead, Senior Sales Executive Oj&t Ltd; Kingsley Aigbokhaevbo - Deputy Managing Director, ProvidusBank; Phil Nelson - Executive Vice President, CNN; Walter Akpani - Managing Director/CEO, ProvidusBank; Mrs. Lola Akpata - MD/CEO OJ&t Ltd (CNN Reps in Nigeria); Zara Driss - Sales Director, CNN; and Richard Wells - Senior Sales Planner, CNN, on their visit to ProvidusBank to discuss how to foster their relationship beyond advertising and media buying in Lagos...Tuesday
UNVEILING OF AM JOURNAL...
L-R: Past President of West African Insurance Companies Association (WAICA),Mr. Eddie Efekoha; Publisher, AM JOURNAL, Mr. Roland Okoro; Director, Financial Sector Division, Ministry of Finance, Ghana, Mr. Samson Akligoh; Personal Assistant to Samson Akligoh, Ms Carolyn Tetteh; Acting Commissioner of Insurance, Ghana, Mr. Kofi Andoh; Acting Managing Director, Ghana Reinsurance, Monica Amissah; WAICA President, Mr. Bubarkar Jarju; and President, Ghana Insurers Association, Mr. Seth Aklasi, at the unveiling of AM JOURNAL during the 2024 WAICA Education Conference in Accra, Ghana recently
Ohanaeze: Simon Ekpa's Arrest Huge Relief for Ndigbo, Agitator Imprisoned in Finland
The apex Igbo sociocultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has described the arrest of Simon Ekpa, the self-proclaimed leader of the Biafran independence movement, as a huge relief for the Ndigbo.
The organization said Ekpa's arrest marked a significant milestone in the collective journey towards healing and reconciliation.
A Finnish court had sent Ekpa to prison for spreading terrorist propaganda on social media.
A district court of Päijät-Häme remanded him after the Finnish National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) arrested him alongside four other men over alleged terrorist offences.
The Nigerian military, however, reacted to the report of his arrest, saying it was elated about the development.
In a statement by the Secretary General of Ohanaeze, Okechukwu Isiguzoro, the group noted that arrest and detention of Ekpa was expected to resolve the pervasive insecurity challenges that have beleaguered Southeastern Nigeria for far too long.
Isiguzoro added that Ekpa's intention to publicly declare a Sovereign Biafra Nation on December 2, 2024 was not only misguided but indicative of a reckless disregard for the profound consequences such a declaration would evoke.
"His intentions could have sparked uncontrollable civil unrest
and perhaps culminated in another Biafran War, a prospect that the Igbo people have conclusively rejected and remain unprepared to engage in.
“The echoes of the previous conflict, which left indelible scars on our history, stand as a stark reminder of the devastation war brings.
"Upon this crucial arrest, Ohanaeze Ndigbo categorically denounces the notion that individuals like Simon Ekpa possess the capability or legitimacy to summon the Igbo Nation into a conflict.
"This organisation acknowledges Ekpa's disturbing record over the last three years, wherein he has systematically wreaked havoc upon the very fabric of our society
and economy, implementing his illegitimate Monday Sit-At-Home directive with the aid of armed men, who have terrorised our communities.
"The financial toll from these activities is staggering, amounting to a loss of over 22 trillion naira in investment opportunities, thereby stifling the economic viability of our region."
Ohanaeze said it was compelled to express its longstanding suspicions regarding the Finnish government's inaction regarding Simon Ekpa's activities over the past three years.
"As a Finnish citizen, he exploited the freedoms offered within that society to orchestrate broadcasts that incited violence and animosity against the very nation in which he resides.
“It is a matter of profound concern for all of us that mercenaries, veiled as agitators, infringe upon our quest for peace while undermining our autonomy," Ohanaeze said.
It stressed that the Ndigbo sought a restructured Nigeria that would foster peace, dialogue, and development, rather than retracing steps towards conflict.
Ekpa Sent to Prison over Terrorism Charges
A Finnish court has sent separatist agitator, Simon Ekpa, to prison for spreading terrorist propaganda on social media.
A district court of Päijät-Häme remanded him after the Finnish National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) arrested him alongside four other men over alleged terrorist offences.
The self-declared Prime Minister of the Biafra Republic Government in exile was said to have committed the crime in 2021 in Lahti municipality.
suspects of the crime have been arrested during the beginning of the week.
“International cooperation has been carried out during the preliminary investigation. Claims will be heard in Päijät-Häme district court today, November 21," the statement added.
There had been calls for the arrest of the separatist following his alleged involvement in the Sit-At-Home that has relatively crippled economic activities in the South East.
The Finnish government had Tuesday said it had started acting on the complaint by the Nigerian government against a Nigerian – Finnish citizen, Simon Ekpa, accused of leading brutal pro-Biafra secessionist campaigns in Nigeria’s South-east region.
Minister for Foreign Affairs of Finland, Elina Valtonen, said in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, during a press conference she addressed alongside her Nordic counterparts, that Mr Ekpa’s case was now before Finnish courts.
Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has ordered the closure of schools in Nnewi for a week.
This followed threats by separatist elements who vowed to attack those who visit the town for the burial of the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah.
This is also coming as after a violent clash on Wednesday night, where security operatives were said to have engaged gunmen, leading to the burning of an SUV said to belong to the group.
In a circular shared through school WhatsApp groups and said to emanate from the ministry
of education in the state, school principals were urged to communicate the closure to parents and caution against students wandering in school uniforms during this period.
The message read: "Good morning Noble Principals. I am directed to inform you to close all schools in Nnewi Zone on Thursday 21/11/2024 and Friday 22/11/2024.
"Please circulate this information on your school WhatsApp groups and inform parents of your students.
“Try your best to find proper channels of reaching these students so that they would not be found wandering on the streets with their school uniforms."
Though THISDAY was unable
to reach the Commissioner for Education, Prof Ngozi Chuma-Udeh, a school manager said the circular was authentic, and was from the state government.
Meanwhile, police in Anambra have clarified the Wednesday night's shooting incident in Nnewi, saying it was not a case of attack, and was not related to plans by separatists to stop people from attending Ubah’s burial.
The Command's Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Tochukwu Ikenga, in a press release, stated the incident was rather an attack by security operatives, who mistook police personnel for non-state actors, leading to the exchange of gunfire.
He said: "Preliminary investigations reveal that the security operatives were trailing a suspect when the gun duel ensued at a security checkpoint.
"Unfortunately, bullets hit the fuel tank of a Toyota Venza Sedan carrying the police personnel, causing it to catch fire. Two innocent bystanders were injured in the crossfire and are currently receiving medical attention."
The police assured the public that the situation was under control and that the attack was not an attempt to disrupt the burial ceremonies of late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah.
The remains of Ubah would be buried in his country home in Nnewi today, and is expected to attract a lot of dignitaries to the state.
Appeal Court Reinstates Samuel Ortom’s Suit against Governor
The Court of Appeal, Makurdi Division, yesterday, set aside the ruling of the Benue State High Court, striking out the suit filed by the immediate past governor of Benue State, Chief Samuel Ortom, against a probe panel set up by Governor Hyacinth Alia.
According to a local report, the Central Criminal Police in Finland confirmed the arrest in a statement on its website on Thursday.
The police said the main suspect was arrested “on suspicion of public incitement to commit a crime with terrorist intent”, while “four other persons are suspected of financing the aforementioned activity. All five
“We have taken this up and discussed this with the Nigerian authorities… and the entire process is within our judicial system,” Ms Valtomen said, informing the gathering that the issue came up during a meeting with Nigerian government officials on Tuesday. She did not provide details of the legal process.
George: Nigeria in Political Intensive Care
Segun James
A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Olabode George, has raised the alarm that the nation under the All Progressives Congress (APC) was on the precipice and in political intensive care, which only a quick turnaround could save.
leave PDP and go to your business partner in APC. At least, you did it before."
He lamented that the crisis in the country under the APC was because of the PDP failure on governance.
But in response to the probe panels, Ortom filed a suit, challenging their legality on the grounds that, the Auditor General of the state had already audited the accounts of the state within the period (2015-2023) under review.
He added that the auditor-general had equally submitted the report to the State House of Assembly, which
In February 2024, Alia had set up two separate panels to probe the management of the state’s finances and assets under Ortom.
accordingly acted on the report as required in line with provisions of the 1999 Constitution.
Joined in the suit was the governor of Benue State, the Chairman of the Income and Expenditure Commission, Justice Taiwo Taiwo and 11 others. Ortom argued that, having reported the situation of finances of Benue State for the period of 2015-2023 to the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, it was wrong for the Alia administration to set up the probe panels to investigate finances of Benue State within the same period as it would amount to double investigation of the same issues by two different bodies. Ortom filed a motion for extension of time to regularise his processes, which was opposed by all the respondents in the suit.
George, who stated in a statement issued as part of his 79th birthday celebration also warned that the PDP might have headed for disaster in 2027 unless there was a deliberate effort for turnaround.
Specifically addressing the 2023 presidential candidate of the PDP, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, he said, "Why is Atiku so desperate? Some of us won't allow your desperation to destroy this party. You can even
"I owe it a duty to declare openly that all is not well with our party. In fact, our party is derailing. And this is unfortunate because the crisis in our party has further complicated the present tragedy in the socio-economic indices of our dear nation.
"As a life member of the Board of Trustees (BoT) – the Upper Chamber and the conscience of our party – I am raising the alarm today that our party is at the precipice of a dangerous looming crisis, if pending critical party issues are not urgently addressed.
Chuks Okocha, Linus Aleke in Abuja and Benjamin Nworie in Abakaliki
David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka
George Okoh in Makurdi
DONATION AND INAUGURATION OF 400 CAPACITY HALL...
L-R: Archbishop of Ibadan Archdiocese, Rev. Gabriel 'Leke Abegunrin; Alhaji Barrister Ahmed Raji; and Catholic Bishop of Oyo Diocese, Revered Emmanuel Adetoyese Badejo, during the donation and inauguration of 400 capacity hall for St. John the Baptist Catholic Church by Barrister Raji, in Isalu, Iseyin, Oyo State ... recently
Plot to Abort 99th NEC Meeting Averted
North Central chairmanship only pathway to fixing PDP, says Ologbondiyan
Chuks Okocha in Abuja
Plots to use the burial ceremony of the late wife of the Akwa Ibom State governor, Mrs Patience Umoh, as an excuse to shift the 99th National Executive Committee (NEC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has been aborted.
At the National Working
Committee (NWC) of the party, some members of the NWC had suggested that the NEC be shifted to another date to enable the party' participate at the burial rites of Mrs Umoh.
Rather, the NWC meeting adopted the position that if there would any further shift, should be done by the meeting of the PDP governors expected to hold in Jos this weekend.
It was agreed that the party leadership should proceed to Uyo
But the moment the issue was raised, it was gathered that the National Treasurer, Mohammed Yayari, opposed the suggestion and insisted that the NEC must hold as planned.
immediately after the meeting next Thursday.
Meanwhile, a former National Publicity Secretary of the party, Kola Ologbondiyan, has said the pathway to fixing the PDP was by respecting the time-tested succession arrangement as provided for in Section 47 (6) of the PDP Constitution (2017 Amendment).
Carnival in Warri as First Glo ‘Festival of Joy’ Prado Winner Receives Prize
Warri, Delta State, was agog with carnival yesterday as the first winner of a brand-new Toyota Prado in Globacom’s Festival of Joy promotion, Mr. Daniel Mayuku, the Board Chairman of Delta State Security Trust Fund, received his prize.
At a colourful presentation ceremony witnessed by hundreds of people at Gloworld, Delta Mall, Warri, Mayuku was presented the keys to his brand-new SUV by the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, and the Chairman of Uvwie Local Government Area, Chief Anthony Ofoni.
Friends, admirers and other Glo subscribers joined in the celebration which turned into a carnival in the city with electrifying performances by Ema Dance Troupe.
57-year-old Mayuku who emerged in the first of draw of the promotion held in Warri last Thursday expressed gratitude to the digital solutions company.
He said: “When I received the first call that I won a Prado in Glo Festival of Joy promo, I believed it was a scam and I immediately told the caller not to call me again.
“However, after a few minutes, I started receiving calls from friends and I decided to call my friends in Glo and they confirmed it. I was in disbelief; I thought it was a scam.
“ I jokingly asked for the car immediately and I was told to come to Glo office for verification and today the jeep has just been presented to me. Globacom is truly Nigerian, a network that delights its subscribers every year.
They are still the best”.
Other lucky winners also went home with tricycles (Keke), power generating sets, sewing machines and grinding machines.
Ovueve Efejiro, a native of Ughelli, who won Keke, said, ”I am very grateful to Glo. This Keke will help my family. My brother will use it for commercial purpose immediately”, while a generator winner Felix Gabriel thanked Globacom for always remembering Nigerians every year in its annual promos.
Speaking at the presentation, Speaker of Delta State House of Assembly, Guwor, who was the special guest, said “Globacom is a network that is known for giving. Over the years, many Nigerians have been empowered by Glo.
“The people of my constituency in Warri South West and entire
Delta people are grateful to Glo. We will continue to use Glo and I also want to be part of the winners one day soon. So, I will ensure that my line is always on and ready. Kudos to Glo and our own Dr. Mike Adenuga. Please keep on empowering Nigerians”.
Similarly, the Head of licensing and operation, National Lottery Regulatory Commission, Delta State office, Mrs Anwuli Efejuku, commended Globacom for the transparent nature of the promo.
She said: “We witnessed the raffle draw few days ago here in Warri where it was conducted in the presence of everyone and today the winners that emerged have been presented their prizes. Congratulations to all the winners. “
MDCAN COOUTH Hails Tinubu for Intervening in UNIZIK VC Crisis
David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka
The Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria (MDCAN) has hailed President Bola Tinubu for intervening in the crisis in Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka.
President Tinubu had on Wednesday ordered the Minister of Education to dissolve the governing council of the institution and also remove its recently installed Vice Chancellor, Prof. Benard Odoh and the registrar.
This is coming three days into a warning strike declared by the
national body of the association to protest the exclusion of their members from contesting the position of Vice Chancellor.
The chairman of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital branch of the association, Dr. Amaechi Nwachukwu, PhD, who spoke to journalists praised Tinubu for harkening to the cry of the association.
He said the action taken by Tinubu shows that he is a listening leader, and also ready to do the right thing.
He said: "I'm happy that President Bola Tinubu has taken a decisive action over the crisis in UNIZIK.
"You remember that just three days ago, MDCAN commenced a warning strike. We the COOUTH Chapter of the association also held a press conference where we supported our national body and quickly called for the sack of the VC, dissolution of the council, and readvertise the position of VC of UNIZIK to including medical professionals.
"We are happy that the president has shown that he wants things to
be done right. We are also calling on him to look into other requests we tabled before him.
"We are asking too that any where doctors are working, be it in universities or parastatals, they should be paid with the consolidated salary structure.
"We also told him that the current review of our salary structure by the federal government, which added 35 percent of our basic to the salary, some are not paying it, while some have not paid the arrears. We are asking for him to look into all these."
Ologbondiyan, who stated this when he spoke with North Central youths in Abuja, yesterday, noted that respect for the Constitution of the party remains the only pathway to fixing the issues in PDP and pave the way to fix Nigeria.
"Anything outside of this demand will end up an exercise in futility," he stressed.
“Leaders must look at the bigger picture and address the truth wherever it is required. We must tell those who have undertaken to either kill the PDP or render it comatose that the party is not a one-man organisation.
“The founders named it the
Peoples Democratic Party. It is, therefore, owned by the people of Nigeria and not any individual, no matter how well-placed in the society.”
He noted that the Acting National Chairman of the party, Ambassador Umar Ilyasu Damagum, as well as his backers, should know that they were hurting Nigerians, they should allow PDP to be fixed so that Nigeria can also be fixed. According to him, Damagum must not be encouraged to disrespect the soul of the party as embodied in the various organs of the PDP.
Resource Centre Lauds Supreme Court for Upholding Legality of Anti-Corruption Agencies
KuniTyessi in Abuja
The Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education, CHRICED has commended the Supreme Court for its landmark ruling that rejected the lawsuit brought before it by 16 states governors led by Kogi State.
The lawsuit had challenged the legality and operational authority of key anti-corruption agencies, namely: the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, ICPC and the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit, NFIU.
The Executive Director of CHRICED, Ibrahim Zukirullahi, in a briefing yesterday titled - "Affirmation of the legitimacy of Anti-Corruption Agencies - A Positive Step Towards Restoring the Integrity of the Judiciary" - said the court did not play to the gallery, but has listened to the voice of reason and the public outcry in dismissing the frivolous lawsuit which he said lacks merit.
He explained that by addressing the root causes of corruption, the government can unlock significant financial resources that would otherwise be lost to corrupt practices, thereby a more sustainable environment.
In calling the government to fight against corruption, the executive director remarked that a determined approach to tackling corruption is a far more effective strategy for enhancing revenue generation rather than the imposition of taxes, fees and burdensome costs of
PMS on the general populace.
The centre also called on the National Assembly to enhance the legal frameworks that government anti-corruption agencies have and this should involve constitutional integration of agencies, bolstering their operational independence and provision of technical and financial resources to fulfill their responsibilities effectively.
He said: "The Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education, CHRICED commends the Supreme Court of Nigeria for its landmark ruling that rejected the lawsuit brought before it by 16 states.
"By addressing the root causes of corruption, the government can unlock significant financial resources that would otherwise be lost to corrupt practices, thereby y a more sustainable environment.
We urge the National Assembly to enhance the legal frameworks that government anti-corruption agencies. This should involve constitutional integration of agencies, bolstering their operational independence and providing with the technical and financial resources to fulfill their responsibilities effectively.
"Concurrently, these agencies must adhere to their mandates, operate with professionalism and transparency, and maintain accountability in their actions.
"A determined approach to tackling corruption is a far more effective strategy for enhancing revenue generation rather than the imposition of taxes, fees and burdensome costs of PMS on the general populace.
LASEPA STAKEHOLDERS’ WORKSHOP…
L-R: Technical Consultant, Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), Dr. Saka Babatunde; General Manager, LASEPA, Dr Tunde Ajayi; representative of the Special Adviser on Environment and Director Sanitation Services, Lagos State Ministry of the Environment, Dr Hassan Sanuth; and Director, Zonal Directorates, LASEPA, Mr. Abiodun Ogunleye, at the stakeholders’ workshop on current trends in chemical handling and usage organised in Lagos…
Ozigbo Visits Released Music Composer, Blames Insecurity on Soludo’s Nonchalance
David-Chyddy Elekeinawka
A governorship aspirant of Labour Party (LP) for next year’s election in Anambra State, Mr. Valentine Ozigbo, has expressed happiness over the release of Liturgical music composer, Dr. Jude Nnam’s release from the kidnappers den. Nnam was kidnapped last week Thursday, and was freed last Wednesday night. Ozigbo, who visited Nnam yesterday, said it was unfortunate that while insecurity is engulfing Anambra State, the state Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, seems to be in a deep slumber.
Yusuf Reunites 76 Pardoned Minors to Families, Urges them to be Good Ambassadors
Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano
Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has handed over the 76 pardoned minors to their family members after undergoing various medical checkup at the Muhammadu Buhari Specialist Hospital in the state.
The 71 youths were accused of looting property during the last #Endbadgovernance protest on August 1.
The governor, who was represented by the his Chief
Kemi Olaitan inIbadan
A member of the 1984 set, Elder Olugbenga Ajayi, has been elected the National President of the prestigious Fatima College, Ikire Old Boys Association (FACOBA).
Ajayi, the immediate past National Vice President, emerged winner with 77 votes during the 2024 Annual General Meeting (AGM), held at the School Hall, defeating Otunba Muyiwa Olaore, who scored 39 votes.
He said: “I visited the legendary Christian music composer and director, Dr. Jude Nnam, today. He was released yesterday by kidnappers.
of Staff, Alhaji Wada Sagagi, urged the youths to be good ambassadors of the state and always respect the rule of law.
He also urged them to be law-abiding and shun all acts of unlawful protest in the future, as the state government concluded arrangements to sponsor their education to the higher level. He further explained that the state government has directed the Ministry of Education to ensure adequate follow-up on the reformed minors in order to achieve the set objectives.
FACOBA Elects New Executives
“Dr. Nnam is only one among
a long list of unfortunate Anambra citizens who have either been kidnapped or killed by hoodlums in Anambra State. Just last Monday,
five people were shot dead across two communities in the state.
“I join the rest of Anambra citizens in thanking God for the
safe return of Dr. Jude Nnam and to pray that the spate of criminality is reduced while the number one citizen slumbers.
Lawyer Assassinated as Police Parade 34 Arrested Criminals
George Okoh in Makurdi
Assassins last Wednesday night killed an Otukpo-based lawyer, Mike Ofikwu, at his residence on Otukpa Street in Otukpo, Benue State
A source close to the deceased, who spoke on
the condition of anonymity, disclosed that the lawyer was ambushed by two armed men while waiting for his gate to be opened.
“Two armed men had laid an ambush for him. As he was waiting for his people to open the gate, the assailants emerged
from hiding and shot him at a close range,” the source said.
The victim was rushed to a nearby hospital, but medical personnel pronounced him dead on arrival.
Confirming the incident, the spokesperson for the Benue State Police Command, Catherine Anene, said an investigation was underway to apprehend those responsible for the attack.
“This incident is confirmed, and investigations are ongoing. I commiserate with his family and friends, and assure them that justice will be served,” Anene said in a brief statement.
‘Why Military Interventions Persist in West African Sub-regions’
Hammed Shittu in Ilorin
Former Permanent Representative of Nigeria to the United Nations (UN), Prof. Tijani Muhammadu Bande, yesterday disclosed that the quest for change of leadership in the West African countries by military forces was due to
poor leadership.
Prof. Bande made this disclosure in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital yesterday during the Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellows Alumni Association of Nigeria(COSFAN) event to mark the 80th birthday of former Chief of Staff(CoS) to
former President Muhammadu Buhari, Prof. Ibrahim Agboola Gambari.
The event was also used to unveil the book written by the COSFAN titled: ‘Readings In Diplomacy, Democracy, Peace and Development’, in honour of the celebrant, Prof. Gambari.
Prof. Bande, who as the
book reviewer at the event, stated that: “Most changes to constitutions in West Africa countries are about more powers to the president yet there is little to show that concentrated power meant improvement in the lives of citizens, and Togo and Guinea are cases in point.
NAFDAC Warns Katsina Water Producers against Substandard Products
Francis Sardauna in Katsina
Other highlight of the AGM was the inauguration of the Administrative Block of the school which was renovated by a member of the 1986 set and Managing Director, Petrocam Training Nigeria Limited, Dr. Patrick Ilo. Ajayi in his post-election speech, assured Nigerians of running an inclusive, transparent and accountable administration, stating that being in the system of leadership of the association for over 20 years prepared him for the position.
He lauded members of the association for making the election a huge success as their participation, enthusiasm, and commitment to the association are inspiring, pledging that he and other members of the executives would not shirk the enormous responsibilities placed on their shoulders.
LUCOSA Celebrates 38 Years of Excellence
The stage is set as the Lumen Christi Old Students Association (LUCOSA) gears up for its 5th Grand Reunion and Annual General Meeting, an event celebrating 38 years of excellence and legacy. Scheduled for Saturday, 30th November 2024, this landmark occasion will take place at the prestigious Law School Auditorium, Lagos. With the theme, “The Strategic Role of Alumni Associations in Fostering Resilience and Economic Growth Amidst VUCA Challenges,” this year’s gathering promises to deliver engaging discussions and actionable insights on the transformative power of alumni
associations in addressing today’s volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA) world.
The grand reunion and AGM of LUCOSA will feature distinguished guests, including Executive Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide SanwoOlu, and Executive Director, Corporate Services and Finance, Aso Savings & Loans Plc, Enesi Makoju.
It will be a platform for alumni to reconnect, exchange ideas, and celebrate their shared history. Highlights of the day include keynote speeches, panel discussions, and opportunities to network with fellow alumni and industry leaders.
Former OAU
Funmi Ogundare
The Katsina NAFDAC Coordinator, Musa Momodu Ikhazobor, gave the warning during a one-day sensitisation workshop for members of the Association of Table Water Producers (ATWAP)
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has warned water producers in Katsina State against producing and selling substandard products to their consumers in the state.
organised by the agency, on Thursday, in Katsina.
He said members of the association should strive to adhere strictly to the regulatory standards guiding the production and selling of water, and prioritise the safety and well-being of those consuming their products.
He explained that water as a veritable source of “spreading waterborne diseases” such as cholera and typhoid could be averted if the water producers produce and sell quality and safe products to their customers.
VC Advocates University Transformation to Drive National Devt
A former Vice Chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, and current President of the Pan-African Society for Agricultural Engineering, Prof. Michael Faborode, yesterday called on Nigerian universities to redefine their role in national development by aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Africa Agenda 2063.
He made this known at the 18th annual scientific conference of OAU’s Faculty of Dentistry with the theme: ‘Innovation and Collaboration in Research for Sustainable Development’, and sub-theme: ‘Bridging the Gap between Dentistry and other Disciplines’. Faborode called for a transformation of traditional universities into entrepreneurial hubs.
He said it is important to organise groups into multidisciplinary teams, develop blueprints/strategic plans and implementation plans, and establish special purpose vehicles (including technology parks, innovation hubs, incubation centres, etc) for research output uptake and diffusion.
LEAP Africa: Experts Advocate Solutions to Critical Social Challenges in W’Africa
Sunday Okobi
Experts at this year’s LEAP Africa 11th edition of its Social Innovators Programme and Awards (SIPA) have advocated the advancing of catalytic solutions to critical social challenges in West Africa.
At the event, which has the theme: ‘Actions to Deepen Catalytic Capital in West Africa’, held at the prestigious West Africa Deal Summit at the Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos, many thought leaders, impact investors, and social innovators from across the region were all
focused on ways and solutions to critical social challenges in West Africa.
The Social Innovators Programme, a LEAP Africa initiative, was also set up to celebrate young change makers by equipping them with essential skills and resources to establish sustainable social enterprises. Twenty social innovators from across Africa were welcomed into the programme, marking another milestone in LEAP Africa’s commitment to fostering impactful, long-term social change.
90s Model Management Celebrates Fifth Anniversary
Mary Nnah
A leading modeling agency in Nigeria, 90s Model Management, is celebrating its fifth anniversary. In an industry where beauty and talent are synonymous with success, the company has stood out as a
beacon of excellence, empowering young African models to conquer the global fashion scene.
Since its inception in 2019, 90s Model Management has disrupted traditional scouting methods, adopting a revolutionary approach focused on discovery, development, and direction.
Founder and Head Booker Maurice Sokari’s vision was clear: create a platform that empowers young models to achieve their full potential. She said: “We find our models on the streets, give them a better purpose, and guide them to become international sensations.
Our scouting techniques are built on three fundamental principles: discovery, development, and direction.”
Head of Development, Adeyemi Herbert, shared his personal experience, highlighting the agency’s commitment to empowering models.
yesterday ETOP UKUTT
CSOs Demand Removal of Osun Anti-kidnapping OC
Yinka Kolawole in osogbo
The Inspector General(IG) of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has been asked to direct the removal of the Officer-in-Charge of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit of the Osun State Police Command, SP Moses Lohor, within seven days or face mass protests. The police chief was also urged to immediately direct an urgent investigation into the shooting of the Chairman of Osun State Transport Management System (OSTMS), Nurudeen Iyanda, popularly known as Alowonle. Addressing a press conference in Osogbo, spokesperson for the Concerned Civil Society Groups in the state, Comrade Stephen Olanrewaju, decried the arrest and
shooting of the transport workers boss, alleging the involvement of political interests in the situation.
The groups also condemned the involvement of law enforcement agents, especially the police in the arrest of perceived political enemies of some political actors, saying the act is capable of truncating the peaceful coexistence of the state.
Olanrewaju said: “The inexcusable shooting of the Chairman of the Osun State Park Management System, Nurudeen lyanda Alowonle, by men of the Nigerian police anti-kidnapping squad headed by Moses Lohor in the early hours of Tuesday, November 19, 2024, is not only condemnable but unlawful and totally unacceptable.
“Before this particular shooting of Alowonle, there were widespread allegations of high- handedness, indiscriminate arrests, extortion, and unannounced killings by the same anti- kidnapping unit of the Osun Police Command led by Moses Lohor.
“Following the narrative surrounding the shooting of the park chairman as put out by the police themselves, one can easily pick holes and conclude that the incident was a direct and intentional attempt to eliminate lyanda Alowonle for obvious reasons.
“The claim that Alowonle attempted to escape and was shot cannot hold water because the victim was shot in the abdomen. Common sense dictates that a suspect trying to escape will ordinarily have his back facing the police and not the other way around.
CHANGE OF NAME
I formerly known and addressed as Anthony EkhorAgbon now wished to be known and addressed as EkhorAgbon Anthony. All former documents are remain valid the general public should please take note.
I Formerly known as MISS EkWEonU FLorEnCE ChIAMAkA now wish to be known, called and addressed as MrS EgbULEZE FLorEnCE ChIAMAkA All documents and certificates bearing my former names remains valid. Nigeria immigration service, authorities concerned and the General Public please take note.
I, formerly known and addressed as UZoDIkE ogEChUkWU CECILIA, now wish to be known and addressed as UZoDIkE ogEChUkWU CECILIA grACE. All former documents remain valid. Authority concerned and general public please note.
I, formerly known and addressed as oLAWALE SoDIQ AbIoLA, now wish to be known and addressed as ShUAIb SoDIQ AbIoLA. All former documents remain valid. Authority concerned and general public please note.
I, formerly known and addressed as oWoh IFEoMA JULIEth, now wish to be known and addressed as ChIME IFEoMA JULIEth All former documents remain valid. Authority concerned and general public please note.
I formerly known and addressed as nkEMDILIM hELEn IFEoMA. Now wish to be known and addressed as bASSEy hELEn EDIMo. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.
CONFirMAtiON OF NAME
This is to confirm to the General Public that oZIE ELIZAbEth IJEoMA and LIZZy IJEoMA ngoZI oZIE is one and the same person, and now wish to be known as oZIE ELIZAbEth IJEoMA. All former documents remain valid. The General Public please take note.
How to Reframe Your Negative Thoughts (1) WORLD OF ISLAM
By: Sumayya Khan/SoundVision
Does life ever seem to play out unfairly for you? Does it often feel like the walls are closing in on you and you can’t get out of a situation? Or that everything that is bad is only happening to you? If these statements feel true to you, it may be that you need to reframe the outlook on your life. And if you want to progress positively in your personal goals, relationships, career, and especially in your relationship with Allah, then there are certain unhelpful thinking styles that will impede in that.
Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, experienced many trials in his life, however, he never lost hope in Allah and tried to think positively about his situation, many times advising his followers to do the same. He has mentioned that a believer’s condition is always a win-win situation. Shuaib narrated that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said:
“Amazing is the affair of the believer. Definitely, all of his life is good and this is not for anybody except the believer. If something of good happens to him, he is grateful and that is good for him. If something harmful befalls him, he is patient and that is good for him.” (Saheeh Muslim #2999)
In our moments of despair or hardship, it is the ultimate show of positivity when we express belief and hope in Allah’s Mercy. As we have seen lately, our brothers and sisters in Palestine have time and again said “Alhamdulillah” (All Praise is to Allah) after suffering extreme injustice and hardships such as losing a loved one or facing starvation. SubhanAllah (Allah is Exalted). May Allah grant ease and comfort to them and all of our other brothers and sisters in Islam facing the same trials in this world. Ameen.
Unhelpful Thinking Styles
There is a list of thinking styles defined in the discipline of Psychology that many therapists use to explain their client’s outlook on life. When going through treatment, patients are often asked to ask themselves how they perceive a distressful situation so that they could eventually dismantle their negative style of thinking. These styles are defined below. See if you find yourself thinking in some of these patterns regularly.
According to Thrive Global, a software company that promotes positive behaviour through technology, and many other psychologybased resources, there is a general list of negative thinking styles that professionals use to help clients identify if they are using any of them in their daily life.
Mental Filter: Focusing on only the negative aspects of a situation without touching upon the positive sides, creating a tunnel vision.
Example: A person who engages in mental filtering sees the glass half empty despite having succeeded or experienced positive things, and as a consequence, their anxiety worsens.
Black and White Thinking: Thinking in an absolute way where one thinks in the extremes rather than what can be in between. There is no such thing as nuance in this style of thinking.
Examples: Statements such as, “If you’re not wealthy, you must be lazy” or “Some experts think AI will usher in the apocalypse, while others believe it will lead to a utopian future.”
Overgeneralizing: Perceiving a single negative event as the norm.
Example: While talking to someone, we learn they adhere to a different political ideology than we do. Based on this, we assume all kinds of things about the other person (overgeneralizing), causing feelings of anger or even disgust.
Personalization: Blaming yourself unnecessarily for external events.
Example: A mother blames herself for her child getting bullied in school. She says, “If I placed my child in a different school, this could have been avoided.”
Catastrophizing: Negatively exaggerating a situation. It seems that the walls are closing in or it is the “end of the world” when something does not go as you expected. And this happens often, even when life is quite mundane.
Example: A person says, “If I don’t recover quickly from this procedure, I will never get better, and I will have a disability my entire life.”
Labeling: Using sweeping, negative statements to describe yourself or others.
Example: A person says, “I failed this test because I’m just not smart enough. I’ll never be smart enough.”
Magnification and Minimalization: Magnifying the positives in others, while discounting your own.
Example Magnification: Thinking that a minor disagreement with a friend is a sign that the entire friendship is doomed. Or saying, “I can’t believe I forgot to turn in that report on time. My boss is going to be so mad and I’ll probably get fired. My whole career is ruined.”
Example Minimization: Believing that a major accomplishment or success is just luck or coincidence. A person may say, “I got a promotion at work, but it’s probably just because the boss felt sorry for me. I’m not really that good at my job.”
Jumping to Conclusions: Assuming we know what will happen or what someone is thinking without any evidence to support our claims. It also entails “Predictive Thinking” where we predict negative outcomes, usually overestimating negative emotions or experiences. Example: When a person’s friend walks past them in the street and ignores them one day, they immediately believe that their friend is having negative thoughts about them. That might be true, but a simpler explanation may be that the friend just didn’t see them.
Emotional Reasoning: Assessing situations through a negative lens of what you are currently feeling.
Examples: A person says, “I feel anxious, so this must be dangerous/bad, so I must avoid it” or “If I feel disappointed, the restaurant did a bad job, it’s someone else’s fault.”
Should-have or Must-have
Statements: Having unreasonable expectations for yourself.
Example: A person says, “I should have had this living room cleaned up before this unexpected guest came in. Other moms always have a tidy living room! Why can’t I?”
Our Past Affects Us
We may have developed these unhelpful types of thinking because of past traumas or the environment we were raised in. For example, an unpredictable caregiver can make one jump to conclusions, catastrophize, or even delve into personalization – where we blame ourselves for the problems created by the irrational adult.
Or it could be that your boss at work always criticized the work you did despite your best efforts, therefore, enabling you to magnify others’ efforts positively and minimize your own. Moreover, you may have a spouse, parent or sibling who consistently mentioned your negative traits, never praising you, causing you to make negative labels or make should-have statements about yourself. Furthermore, you may have gone through a series of difficult events in your life that lead you to overgeneralize or have a negative mental filter about eventual positive events of your life.
Therefore, we should treat ourselves gracefully, taking the time to heal our self-image and nuance our outlook on life.
Allah Is Always There for Us
Here are a few reminders from our Deen and some worldly practices that should help to dismantle these styles of thinking. First and foremost, Allah has said in the Qur’an that believers should never lose hope in His Mercy when facing hardship. Allah says in Surah Yusuf:
“… and despair not of relief from Allah. Indeed, no one despairs of relief from Allah except the disbelieving people.” (Surah Yusuf, 12:87)
This ayah stems from the story of Prophet Yusuf when his father Prophet Yaqub (peace be upon them), asked his sons to go find their missing younger brothers Yusuf and Binyamin. He was very distressed at their disappearance, as any parent would be in the event of a missing child, but he told his sons to not despair and have hope in Allah that He will keep them safe and bring them back. There are many examples of looking at distressing situations positively when it all seems to be going downhill. That is because Allah is in Control of everything that happens around us and in the universe. Having trust and faith in His Power and Ability as He is Al-Qaadir, The Most Powerful with the ability to measure out everything. Whenever He decrees a thing, it is. And nothing can interrupt or disturb the will of Allah. He is the most capable without any limitations. Knowledge of this is what should drive us towards optimism as we have Him to handle it all. SubhanAllah.
Libyans Accuse Super Eagles of Match-fixing Loss to Rwanda
Benin Republic demands sanctions against Libya over ‘Acts of Barbarism’
Duro Ikhazuagbe with agency report
Despite Super Eagles playing without seven regulars in the final AFCON 2025 qualifier against Rwanda in Uyo on Monday, a Libyan news outlet, Libya Akhbar has alleged that Nigeria deliberately lost the home match to Amavubi to shut out the Mediterranean Knights from the continental fiesta scheduled for Morocco next year.
The Libyans last qualified for the AFCON in 2012 and had a controversy-ridden confrontation with Nigeria in the Match-days 3 and 4 of the AFCON 2025 qualifiers. They lost three points three goals to Nigeria as punishment for their over 20-hour abandoned airport lockdown of the Super Eagles delegation last month and were held to a barren draw in their final game by Benin Republic to crash out on seven points.
Both Benin Republic and Rwanda finished on eight points but the Cheetahs went through on superior goals difference. Nigeria topped the Group D on 11 points.
But the Libyan news outlet insisted yesterday that Nigeria
lost deliberately to Rwanda.
“The question of Nigeria’s defeat to Rwanda (1-2) remains hanging in people’s minds: Was there an intention to exclude Libya from the competition?
“The answer may remain ambiguous, but what is certain is that Libyan football needs radical reforms, whether in technical planning or crisis management football needs radical reforms, whether in technical planning or crisis management.”
“On the other side of the group, Nigeria’s 2-1 defeat to Rwanda in the Green (Super) Eagles’ home ground added more controversy, especially since the result raised doubts about Nigeria’s intentions in this encounter.
“The match between Nigeria and Rwanda was a shock to the Libyan fans.
“The fans expected a comfortable win for Nigeria, which would have kept Libya’s hopes alive if they defeated Benin.
“However, the scenario was contrary to expectations. Nigeria’s
one-goal lead turned into a two-goal loss, as if the Green (Super) Eagles had abandoned their competitive spirit.
“The scene raised many questions in sports circles: Did Nigeria deliberately lose to eliminate Libya?”Libya Akhbarasked in an editorial published online.
Meanwhile, the Government of Benin Republic has condemned in very strong terms “acts of barbarism” by Libya during their final AFCON 2025 qualifier in Tripoli on Monday and demanded sanctions against the North African nation.
Video clips showed Benin being attacked after they held hosts Libya to a scoreless draw to qualify for the AFCON in Morocco.
Benin Captain Steve Mounie described the situation as “a war zone”.
Benin Government spokesman, Wilfried Léandre Houngbédji, announced on Thursday that official protests were immediately made to the relevant football authorities.
Edo Queens Go for the Bronze Against Egypt’s FC Masar
Duro Ikhazuagbe
As Edo Queens file out today against Egypt’s FC Masar in the bronze match of the CAF Women’s Champions League in Morocco, all eyes will be on Emem Peace Essien to dveliver for the Nigerian champions.
Queens were close to a place in the final on Tuesday evening before they were pecked back 3-1 in added time goals by DR Congo’s TP Mazembe Ladies.
Essien who scored the equalising goal against the South African team, Mamelodi Sundowns in their final group game, was again the scorer of Edo Queens’ goal against Mazembe in the 65th minute. She lobbed over goalkeeper Ngoy in the 65th minute to fire the Nigerian representatives into the lead till the added time goals to stopped their fairytale run.
Speaking ahead of the match, Edo Queens Coach, Moses Aduku, expressed his hope of winning the third place match today. He will find in Essien, the perfect striker to deliver the goals in this their last match of the tournament.
“I am expecting my girls to go all out and see how they can win the bronze medal.
“I know it’s not going to be an easy one, the Egyptian team is also a good team. The last time
Super Falcons to Know WAFCON 2025 Group Stage Foes Today
Nine-time champions Nigeria will know their opponents for the group phase of next year’s Women Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) competition when the draw is conducted at the Technic Centre of the Mohamed VI Football Complex in Sale, outside Rabat, Morocco this Friday evening.
The field of 12 finalist-teams will be framed into three groups of four teams each, with the top two teams in each group, as well as the best two third-placed teams in the three groups, advancing to the quarter-finals of the competition scheduled for Morocco.
Of the 12 previous tournaments held since Nigeria hosted the
inaugural in 1998, the Super Falcons have been victorious nine times, with Equatorial Guinea winning twice and South Africa sweeping to victory in the last edition, also hosted by Morocco in July 2022.
All the four top-placed teams in that last edition are also in the field of 12 this time, viz Cup holders South Africa, hosts Morocco, Zambia and Nigeria.
Also qualified are Ghana, Algeria, Botswana, Democratic Republic of Congo, Tunisia, Senegal, Tanzania and Mali.
The 13th Women Africa Cup of Nations finals will take place between 5th and 26th July, 2025.
we play them it was goalless but I believe goalless will not give us a bronze. So, definitely, we need to go all out to win,” observed Coach Aduku.
Essien’s journey from playing street football to becoming a formidable force in Edo Queens is inspiring.
Spires 5-Aside Street Soccer Tourney off to A Flying Start
The last 16 fixtures of Spires 5-Aside Street Soccer Tournament kicked off on a blistering note yesterday at the Prestigious Stable Football Pitch, Surulere, Lagos.
The opening matches saw fans going wide with excitement as the players put up fine football artistry. Results of some of the matches played showed 2 Odds FC defeat Zion FC 4-2 while Yahweh FC also smiled away 4-3 against Peckins FC. Toprocks FC were 5-3 winner against ASD Academy while VVD FC also defeated Owibesebe FC 4-2.
The opening fixtures was witnessed by several football
Named Woman of the Match twice in the tournament, Essien’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and remarkable talent. From her early days inspired by her father’s encouragement to her current role as a key player in Edo Queens.
personalities, among whom was the CEO of Spires Media, Dr Femi Bankole-Alibay, the organisers of the tournament.
Dr Bankole-Alibay expressed his excitement over the quality of games played in the opening round of the Last 16.
“I am excited with what I am seeing today, the turn out and the excitement created around this tournament.
“The overall aim of the SPIRES 5-Aside tournament is to unearth talents on the streets of Lagos not captured by the various football academies.
Before achieving her dream of helping Nigeria to win the World Cup in future, Essien will
be called to action this evening to first make the third place match victory possible for Edo Queens. “I want to contribute in every way possible to help Edo Queens succeed, especially by scoring goals. I aim for us to be the first Nigerian team to win the CAF Champions League. On a national level, I aspire to help Nigeria win the World Cup,” concludes Emem Peace Essien in her interview with CAFonlinemedia yesterday.
Balmoral Group X Game Rush’s 2nd edition to Hold Dec. 26
Game Rush, the leading sports and entertainment subsidiary of Balmoral Group—a 360-event solutions company—is delighted to announce the second edition of its premier boxing event, ‘Chaos in the Ring’. The highly anticipated event is set to take place on 26th December 2024 at the Balmoral Convention Centre in Lagos.
Following the success of the inaugural edition, the upcoming December event promises an even more electrifying showcase of talent, with participants coming from four African
countries namely; South Africa, Ghana, Cameroon, and Tanzania—and an international referee from Belgium.
Speaking at the press briefing held to herald the event, Dr. Ezekiel Adamu, Chief Executive Officer, Balmoral Group, shared the company’s vision for this year’s edition. “I want us to see this event as our very own. It’s not just about the Balmoral Group—it’s about empowering individuals, transforming the lives of our boxers, and showcasing African talent on a global stage.
15,000 Athletes to Compete in 2024 Gateway Games, Says Olopade
James Sowole in Abeokuta
As the date for the commencement of the 22nd National Sports Festival, tagged “2024 Gateway Games,” scheduled to take place in Ogun State in early January next year draws closer, between 12,000 and 15,000 sportsmen and women have been listed to participate in the national sports fiesta.
The former Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) of the 2024 National Sports Festival who is the now the Director General of the reintroduced National Sports Commission (NSC), Mr. Bukola Olopade, disclosed this after a closed-door meeting with the Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, and the Chief Executive Officer of Premium Trust Bank, Mr. Emmanuel Emefienim, at the Governor’s Office, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta yesterday.
Olopade said the LOC was working towards creating an Olympic-standard Games Village, that would accommodate all the athletes in one location, a development which
he said has not happened before in the history of the festival.
Olopade said: “The LOC has done a lot to ensure that we host the best festival in the country. My biggest joy as the chairman of the LOC is the governor’s commitment to creating legacy projects around the games.
“If you look at the MKO Abiola Stadium today, look at the Ijeja Sports Centre and some of the things done at Babcock University sports complex and crossing over to Remo Stars Stadium, you will see some of the things we have done, like the new basketball courts for the games.
“My biggest joy is that when you walk into the MKO Abiola Stadium (in Abeokuta), you will know that in the next 20 to 30 years, children of Ogun State, Nigeria, and the world will be happy to exhibit their God-given talents in the world-class facilities at the stadium.”
He revealed the inclusion of a digitized feeding and volunteer system, as well as a catering system where food would be scientifically tested to guarantee the health and safety of the athletes.
Kelechi Iheanacho (right) fired blanks as Rwanda shocked Super Eagles 2-1 in the final AFCON 2025 qualifying match in Uyo on Monday
Edo Queens’ Emem Peace Essien will be expected to deliver the goals as the Nigerian champions battle Egypt’s FC Masar in the third place match this evening in Morocco
CAF WOMEN’S CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
Friday, November 22, 2024
MISSILE
Gambari to IMF, World Bank
“Frankling speaking, all the prescriptions of the IMF and World Bank over the years, where has it gotten us? Now that I’m no longer part of government, I can speak more freely. It’s time we define our problems and design ways to solve them. If the IMF and World Bank’s prescriptions had been correct, we should be living happily today --but we are not. To make matters worse, the World itself is changing...”- Former Chief of Staff to President Buhari and Former Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Prof. Ibrahim Agboola Gambari, warns that IMF, World Bank’s policies have failed Nigeria, and should be reconsidered.
AKIN OSUNTOKUN
DIALOGUE WITH NIGERIA
Gakinosuntokun@thisdaylive.com
Tinubu’s Own Goals
iven the guardian angel role he has taken upon himself to play in the affairs of Nigeria (since he left office), and a prior not too good disposition towards incumbent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, there was a sense of inevitability about the present altercation between former President Olusegun Obasanjo and Tinubu.
What is of significance to the Nigerian public is that, objectively speaking, there is hardly any detached observer of the Nigerian situation (presented with the same evidence as Obasanjo) who can come to different conclusions.
We cannot, in all honesty, find the critical assessment and surveillance rendered by the former President as lacking in objectivity and merit. What is it that Obasanjo said that has not been repeatedly tendered by unbiased interrogators of the Tinubu presidency?
Obasanjo was not speaking as Yoruba and would take umbrage at being classified as such but several Yoruba commentators have expressed the concern that there appears to be a growing conspiracy of silence (by the Yoruba) on the obligation to call out Tinubu on the critical inadequacies of his government.
Moreso, when the Yoruba were always at the vanguard of holding previous governments to account.
Said Babafemi Ojudu “Now, I pose this question to my Yoruba brothers, many of whom shared the struggle with me: What has changed? Is it because we now have a Yoruba president that dissent must cease, and those who oppose the current order must be labelled as dangerous troublemakers and foreign invaders?”.
But beyond the governance aspect of Tinubu’s presidency, there is also the political dimension. In this regard, If you were his political adviser, how would you counsel him to manage Obasanjo and his other predecessors?.
Many moons back I once occupied the position of the same description. So I might as well ask myself the same question.
My recommendation is that on getting to the presidential villa, he should, metaphorically, knock on the doors of all his predecessors and greet them ‘ẹ ku iwaju o’ (I acknowledge and greet you as my predecessors) even if he is not on all fours with everyone of them.
Even if you think the worst of Obasanjo there is a pertinent Yoruba realpolitik that counsels “ ba je kafi obi fun osika, ko fi enu ara re wure (let us prevail on the wicked to lead the prayers so he will be compelled to wish us well).
It would cost the president next to nothing to initiate a three minute goodwill telephone call with each of his predecessors. You would then have, in a manner of speaking, fulfill all righteousness and put the ball in their courts to acknowledge and respond in kind.
Where Nigeria is concerned, Obasanjo is a tough customer to please. In the same breadth and being human, the probability is that he would pull his punches and criticise you tongue-in-cheek, in the customary honeymoon interlude.
Despite an earlier indication to heed this counsel, the President ultimately chose to call the bluff of all who believe his political purposes are better served by warming up to a personality with capacity to do damage.
My position is that a newly elected President is obliged to honour his predecessors with at least a courtesy telephone call once he resumes office. This is good etiquette, moreso in the context of Yoruba culture where the younger party is expected to defer to the older.
I was surprised to see that an acclaimed master of political pragmatism could not transcend personal reservations in such a situation of realpolitik. Partisan differences, notwithstanding, when one has attained to his ultimate ambition, it is in the enlightened self interest of the oga-at-the-top to cultivate stoic consciousness and the doctrine of no permanent foe.
The big elephant in the room is that for nearly all the Presidents Nigeria has had, it is difficult to speak objectively about any of them without it looking like a deliberate and hostile take down of their government.
And If there was anything worse than the obasanjo take down of the President at the Yale university, it was the response from the Presidency. Amongst other infantile diatribes from the Bayo Onanuga riposte was this stand alone embarrassment.
“The current economic crisis the All Progressives Congress administrations have been battling since 2015 is the product of the poor choices in economic management made by Obasanjo and the two successors from his party. Obasanjo prides his government on paying the $15 billion debt owed to the Paris Club. Still, it was not a wise decision as it was done when the country’s critical economic infrastructure across sectors was in shambles”.
In a few months from now it will be ten years since the APC assumed the reins of the Nigerian Presidency. If the abysmal record of
General Muhammadu Buhari is the standard to which Tinubu holds itself, this will be the worst indictment of his eighteen months stewardship.
For that matter, in the course of once addressing himself to the nation, the President made this oblique reference to his predecessor, “after darkness comes the glorious dawn”.
It is a measure of the gross incompetence and escapism of the ten years old APC government that they are still seeking extenuation for their failure in this pathetic blame game.
There is this Yoruba aphorism that if you take all of ten years to threaten that you are going to go mad, then for how long will you be able to practice the insanity.
Right in the thick of the rough and tumble with Obasanjo, came another evidence of the capacity of this government to self-destruct.
In addition to an already bloated assemblage of a media task force comprising two special advisers and about seven senior special assistants and special assistants, Daniel Bwala was appointed another special adviser on publicity. It was a recipe for cacophony and so it quickly manifested in public altercation between Bwala and Onanuga.
How does this self-abnegating display of incoherence, chaos and mindlessness speak well of the Tinubu presidency. Should anyone be in doubt about this tower of babel, the first assignment Mr Daniel Bwala, took upon himself was to initiate a turf war and thereby provoke Onanuga to a Bolekaja skirmish in the marketplace.
This follows in the tradition of the philosophy of governance (by spiritual revelation and impulse) that the President himself enunciated at his inaugural ceremony where he declared that “oil subsidy is gone”. According to the president, this policy pronouncement was a product of nothing more than ‘a spirit of courage that momentarily washed over him.
This is the culture of the illogic of the pronouncement of policies and appointments before thinking them through. For instance, as we speak, nobody has been able to articulate the rationale behind the national Anthem fiasco. What is the thinking that necessitated the switch and the emergency nature of the passage into law.?
Since he assumed office as President I have not made any effort to see him but the grapevine has it that it is easier for the camel to pass through the eye of the needful than make a succees of any contemplation to visit the president.
Explanations of this Inaccessibility will be found in the limitations his alleged poor health has imposed on him. Such limitations invariably breed power vacuum which will be filled by cabals whose agendas are often than not at variance with public service.
Notable among those who took this position was Pat Utomi ‘I would not be seeking public office at his (Tinubu) age,.. I told my children to confine me if I’m running around after 70’.
‘it’s a personal principle, I’m not saying it should apply to everybody. But our country has suffered so much from having idle leaders’.
‘Tinubu is not fit. You can see he is ailing. Let’s not lie to ourselves. Let him go through
a medical (checkup) like they do in the US,”
This Umaru Yar’adua syndrome wrought a devastating effect on the Mohammadu Buhari government, where anything that could go wrong, went wrong. Apparently, there is a linkage between the peripatetic nature of Buhari and increasingly that of his successor.
This is at a huge cost to Nigeria not just in terms of the medical bills incurred but more importantly, the governance void that a country suffers when the president is frequently missing in action
As the 2027 general elections looms so are we looking at a consequential worsening of the socioeconomic situation of Nigeria. If Tinubu is going to seek reelection, he would begin the race next year and this distraction would further impair his capacity to grapple governance. Generally, incumbents are most vulnerable when seeking reelection, especially, in the manifestation of corruption and abuse of office. Given the implausible prospect of an economic turnaround from its dire straits in the near future, the worse it all gets for Tinubu and Nigeria.
He will be running against the backdrop of the bitterness of the most critical constituency that brought him to office without the compensation of an equivalent replacement.
He has deeply offended the far North by serving them the bitter taste of the medicine that his predecessor liberally served others, rampant nepotism and parochialism in favour of his Moslem North redoubt.
In a similar manner, Tinubu has brazenly cultivated the habit of prioritising and overcompensating his Yoruba constituency. In the prevailing dispensation of economic depression and alienation of the far North he has his task cut out for him.
When this push comes to shove, any attempt to rationalise and foist a rigged election is guaranteed to foment a gigantic crisis
Good Night, Asabi
With all the enveloping despair and hopelessness at the Nigerian front compounded by the disastrous relection of Donald Trump as American President, I thought the cup of iniquity was full and overflowing. How tragically wrong was I?
There followed a swift escalation of the rainfall to a massive downpour.
Asabi was my junior sister. Her regular name was Jumoke but when we were young, my grandmother called her no other name than the pet name she gave her, Asabi. I grew up liking the name so much that I inherited its usage. Since the tragic news broke out on Monday I now woke up dreading I will never hear from her again. What makes her passage doubly tragic was the inexplicable human errors that worked together to terminate rather than save her precious life. I pray that God will fill the vacuum that has been created in the lives of her children, Tunde, Isaiah and Elizabeth. It is now time for me to say sayonara, fare thee well.
