Zenith Bank Emerges ‘Bank of the Year, Nigeria’ in The Banker Awards 2024
Zenith Bank Plc has emerged as ‘Bank of the Year, Nigeria’ in The Banker’s Bank of the Year Awards 2024. The award, which was announced by The Banker Magazine, Financial Times
Group, United Kingdom, during the awards ceremony held in London on December 4, 2024, is in recognition of the bank's strong management, sound business model and strategy,
and approach to sustainability and ESG banking practices.
The Banker's ‘Bank of the Year’ accolade is among the most coveted and widely regarded award in the
banking industry. Often contested by the world’s leading financial institutions, the winners span across Africa, Asia-Pacific, Central & Eastern Europe, Latin America, the Middle
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Plc, Dame (Dr.) Adaora Umeoji, OON, said “We are delighted and honored to have been recognized as
East, North America and Western Europe. Commenting on the award, the Group Managing Director/ Chief Executive of Zenith Bank Continued on page 32
THISDAY/Arise Group Board of Editors Invites Nominations for 2025 THISDAY Awards
Selection closes December 25, winners to emerge 31st Global leaders, legends to attend award ceremony scheduled for January 22
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
The THISDAY/Arise Group Board of Editors yesterday invited nominations for various categories in its annual
awards ceremony billed for 2025, aptly tagged: “When the Going Gets Tough... the Tough Get Rewarded!” Global leaders, legends are expected to grace the ceremony
scheduled for January 22, 2025. The awards will cover several categories, mostly for the ‘tough and resilient’, including the men and the women and the institutions
rebuilding democratic Nigeria. They include ‘Titans of The Year’, for the men and women who through their vision, action, guts and courage have made a lasting impact on Nigeria and ‘Man of the Year’ for the man who has significantly influenced major events that defined the year 2024. Also available for nomination
Oyedele: Derivation Formula'll Reduce Inequitable Resource Distribution
Says tax reform bills necessary to end struggles by Nigeria’s poorest Insists consultants won’t be involved in collection Senate suspends further action on public hearing, sets up 'elders' committee to douse tension
Emmanuel Addeh, Chuks Okocha, Sunday Aborisade, Kuni Tyessi in Abuja and Emma Okonji in Lagos
The Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Taiwo Oyedele, yesterday argued that derivation formula in the tax reform will reduce inequitable distribution of resources. He stated that some states pushing back on the proposed 60 per cent Value Added Tax (VAT) derivation formula may end up with 100 per cent if the courts eventually decide so.
The Senate proceeded to set up a 10-member committee of 'elders' led by Senate Minority Leader, Abba Moro to meet with Attorney General of the Federation's team on areas of concerns in the bills to douse the lingering tension of the tax reform.
Speaking on Arise Television, Oyedele said that it was surprising that the same states for which the committee was fighting were the ones kicking against the passage of the tax reform bills.
The tax expert’s remarks came
Continued on page 32
2025 BUDGET READY TO GO...
Delta
and
L-R:
State Attorney-General
Commissioner for Justice, Ekemejero Ohwovoriole (SAN); Governor Sheriff Oborevwori; Clerk of the state House of Assembly, Mr. Aghoghophia Otto; and Speaker of the assembly, Hon Emomotimi Guwor, during the signing of the 2025 Appropriation Bill into law by the governor at Government
CELEBRATING 80 YEARS OF BRITISH COUNCIL IN NIGERIA...
Shettima: $1 Trillion Economy By 2030 Will Remain Mirage Without Private Sector,
Urges stakeholders to tackle inequality, drive financial inclusion
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
Vice President Kashim Shettima has warned that Nigeria’s vision of building a $1 trillion economy by 2030 will remain an illusion except the private sector and development partners are fully engaged.
Shettima, who handed down the warning on Wednesday at the inaugural Development Partners Roundtable on Economic and Financial Inclusion at the State House, Abuja, warned that Nigeria’s vision of building a $1 trillion economy by 2030 will remain an illusion except the private sector and development partners are fully engaged.
He ssid: “We have come this far because we are continually assessing the extent of economic and financial inclusion in Nigeria. However, the results of this assessment reveal some disturbing gaps that demand our urgent attention. One such gaps is the low penetration of digital financial services among women—only 23% compared to 43% for men.
“This, as we have learned, is driven by socio-economic barriers such as low income, limited education, and restricted access to financial tools like credit and insurance. Women in the northwest and northeast are particularly disadvantaged. The task before us, then, is clear: to bridge these systemic inequalities and foster an inclusive, equitable financial system that benefits all Nigerians, regardless of gender or geography.”
The Vice President, who was represented by Special Adviser to the President on General Duties (Office of the Vice President), Aliyu Modibbo Umar, implored development partners and other stakeholders to bridge systemic
inequalities and foster an inclusive, unbiased financial system that benefits all Nigerians irrespective of gender or geography.
In this regard, he identified some unsettling gaps yawning for serious attention, including low penetration of digital financial services among women, just as he listed some socio-economic barriers behind these inequalities including low incomes, limited education, and restricted access to financial tools like credit and insurance.
Shettima however expressed optimism that the inaugural roundtable will provide a fertile ground for meaningful conversation that would “pave the way for a future where every Nigerian is a significant part of the nation’s financial data.”
He further said: “This roundtable is yet another important opportunity to harness our collective potential and chart a sustainable path forward. It is designed to provide a holistic view of the obstacles impeding economic and financial inclusion in Nigeria.
“As we engage in discussions today, I invite all of us to join hands, collaborate, and align our efforts in crafting lasting solutions. Whatever we do as a government, we know it cannot materialise fully unless we work together with you—our development partners, the private sector, and all stakeholders committed to progress.”
The Vice President hinted at the inauguration of a Presidential Committee for the Implementation of the Aso Accord, saying it will guarantee the success of the initiative championed by President Bola Tinubu.
His words: "Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, to guarantee the success of the transformative initiatives championed by His Excellency,
President Bola Tinubu, I am pleased to announce the inauguration of a Presidential Committee for the Implementation of the Aso Accord.
“It is my honour to chair this Governance Committee, which will primarily consist of the esteemed signatories to the Aso Accord, reflecting our collective commitment to ensuring
its success. The Committee will be backed by a dedicated secretariat housed within the Office of the Vice President".
Noting that discussions on the state of economic and financial inclusion in Nigeria had become a matter of priority at the National Economic Council (NEC) since April
Partners
of this year, Shettima said, “The committee will report to the NEC on a quarterly basis to ensure that the integrated framework we have established not only implements the Aso Accord effectively but also achieves its ambitious goals.
“Once again, I call on all development partners here today to collaborate
with this team to ensure the successful implementation of the Aso Accord. Your support is critical to this mission. We will rely on your technical expertise and continued assistance in accelerating the implementation of specific programmes and initiatives. None of us can deliver on this task in isolation,” he added.
Uzodimma: Nigeria Has No Reason to Struggle to Feed Its Population, Provide Employment for Youths
Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma has said Nigeria was well positioned to be a great agricultural nation and has no reason to be struggling to feed its population and create sustainable job opportunities for its youths.
He said the nation's huge potential in agriculture had been demonstrated in the past when Nigeria not only fed its population, but exported agricultural produce to engender economic growth and national development.
Uzodimma expressed this view at the 12th Convocation lecture he delivered at the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike (MOUAU) titled, 'Agriculture and National Development in a Diversified Economy: A Vision of Renewed Hope Through Town and Gown Entrepreneurial Partnerships.'
In the lecture read by the Imo State Commissioner for
Tertiary Education, Prof. Victor Nwachukwu, who represented Uzodimma, noted that the three regional governments that constituted the Nigerian federation in the first Republic survived on agriculture.
"With agriculture, Michael Okpara made Eastern Nigeria's economy the fastest growing one in sub-Saharan Africa," he said.
"Okpara believed so much that agricultural reforms were crucial to Nigeria's economic prosperity. His developmental model of 1962 to1968 focused on using agriculture to achieve industrialisation."
He regretted that it was the discovery and exploration of crude oil that misled Nigeria into abandoning agriculture, which he described as "a natural gold mine provided by God to enable people have quality life".
Uzodimma stated that with, "a geographical land mass of 923,768 square kilometers Nigeria is ranked the largest nation in Africa for agricultural activities," hence
Senate Passes Bill Empowering SEC with More Regulatory Powers
The Senate yesterday passed the Investments and Securities (Repeal and Enactment) Bill 2024, following the consideration and adoption of recommendations made to that effect by its Committee on Capital Market Chaired by Senator Osita Izunaso (APC Imo West)
The Committee in the report, informed the Senate that the repeal and enactment bill, when signed into law, would make the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the apex regulatory authority for the Nigerian Capital Market.
The objectives of the proposed
law, as clearly stated in the bill, were strategically streamlined within the contemplation of emerging global best practices in Investments and Securities.
It would protect the integrity of the security market against all forms of market abuse and insider dealings, preventing unauthorised, illegal, unlawful, fraudulent and unfair trade practices, relating to securities and investments.
The Chairman of the panel said the amendments would enable the SEC to regulate cryptocurrency in Nigeria.
Izunaso said, “Nigeria is a leading market in cryptocurrency in Nigeria and it is not regulated.”
Part of the report read, "That the extant law as revolutionary as it was at its inception, after many years of its operation, requires systemic substantial updates to align with the evolving financial markets and regulatory frameworks globally, to make it more attractive to both local and foreign investors.
“That the enactment of this proposed legislation will undoubtedly provide a significant opportunity to drive the growth of the capital market and diversification, thereby creating a conducive atmosphere for investors in the Nigerian Capital Market.
"That the Bill contemplates addressing modern forms of financial malpractices and reinforces investors'
protection by engendering robust regulations around market abuses, insider trading, and governance standards for publicly traded companies
"That the Bill envisages a regulatory framework for digital currencies and fintech activities, including the supervision of blockchain and cryptocurrency transactions to support the integration of innovative technologies within the scope of the capital market.
"That the Bill seeks to set a clear-cut delineation of roles amongst regulatory bodies in order foster transparency and reduce regulatory overlap, thereby enhancing the operational efficiency of Nigeria's Securities and Exchange Commission.
every effort should geared towards diversifying the economy through agriculture.
"A nation that records progress in agriculture will experience a leap in national development through food security, employment generation, particularly in the rural areas, poverty reduction, rural development, sustainable and industrial development, social stability, trade and foreign exchange earnings," he said.
The Imo Governor said Nigeria should emulate several nations around the globe, including African countries like Kenya, Uganda, that had made agriculture the mainstay of their economy.
He noted that even Ukraine which is currently at war with Russia has maintained its status as a major exporter of grains like corn and wheat hence Nigeria should wake up and intentionally make its agricultural sector more productive.
Oborevwori Felicitates Orodje of Okpe at 78
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has congratulated the Chairman of Delta State Council of Traditional Rulers and Orodje of Okpe Kingdom, HRM Maj. Gen. Felix Mujakperuo (rtd), Orhue I, on his 78th birth anniversary.
In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Festus Ahon, in Asaba, the Governor highlighted the monarch's significant role and influence in Nigeria as a bridge-builder with unwavering integrity.
Oborevwori said the monarch's "decades of outstanding contribution to peace and development," underscored his longstanding efforts in fostering harmony and driving progress within the state and the nation.
He described him as a respected and exemplary monarch, a guiding figure and a guardian of the culture and traditions of the Okpe people.
Oborevwori said: "Over the years, Orhue I has made significant contributions to the progress and development of the kingdom, Delta State and Nigeria."
Oborevwori praised the monarch, noting that his reign had greatly benefited the Okpe kingdom, Delta State, and humanity.
The Governor also lauded the revered royal father for his steadfast support of his administration and for uniting his subjects and the broader traditional institution in the state in alignment with its goals.
“On behalf of the Government and people of Delta, I warmly congratulate His Royal Majesty, Maj. Gen. Felix Mujakperuo (rtd), CFR, the Orodje of Okpe Kingdom, Orhue 1, on his 78th birth anniversary.
"As a government, we deeply value your exceptional support in various areas and firmly believe that you will continue to uphold your domain as a beacon of peace and unity.
“As the Chairman of the Delta State Council of Traditional Rulers, you have consistently exemplified peace advocacy, impeccable leadership, and humility, serving as a model of excellence in leadership.
"The Government and people of Delta deeply value your constant wisdom and the efforts you and your colleagues make in your respective kingdoms to support governance in the state. Your contributions towards realising the M.O.R.E Agenda of our administration, are greatly appreciated," Oborevwori added.
Sunday Aborisade in Abuja and Kayode Tokede in Lagos
Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia
L-R: Chief Amobi Ogum; Hon Akin Alabi; British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery; Head of Marketing, British Council Edemegong Uyo; and Director Programs, British Council, Chikodi Onyemerela, at the 80 years celebration of British Council in Nigeria in Abuja ... yesterday PHOTO: JULIUS
BUDGET OF HOPE...
We‘re Committed to Sustainable Local Content Development in Nigeria, TotalEnergies Declares
A multinational oil and gas firm, TotalEnergies EP, has once again reiterated its commitment to renewable energy, content development and sustainable development in the Niger Delta and Nigeria, adding that the people are its major focus in its drive to contribute to their well-being.
Executive Director, JV Assets, TotalEnergies EP, Mr. Obi Imemba Obi, who spoke yesterday on the theme, “Next frontier for Nigeria Content: Divestment and Offshore Opportunities,” at the ongoing 13th Practical Nigerian Content (PNC) Forum’s in Yenagoa stressed his company’s commitment to the preservation of the region’s biodiversity as well as developing young talents.
Obi, who highlighted the opportunities and development strides in local content development since
inception, urged other operators to focus not only divestments but on also human capital development
According to him, “climate change is a global challenge and we believe that whatever we do, if want a sustainable future for all of us, we need to make sure that our activities are not detrimental to the environment.”
He added: “There is growing need for energy, so we will continue producing energy here but we have to produce this energy in a sustainable manner. And when you talk about sustainability, there are many angles to it.
“When we talk about sustainability, some people just talk and about think about climate. But the first pillar of sustainability is the people. And that is where capacity building comes up of those people that will be the anchor that will drive the production
in a sustainable manner.
“For example, there is the knowledge gap we discovered about 25, 30 years ago regarding the people that are ready to work in the industry, whether it is shallow water, onshore or deep offshore. We used to go for recruitment campaign in the US, in Europe and all over the world trying to look for talents.
“But we became intentional in 2003 and established what we call the Institute of Petroleum Studies, Uniport which is a tripartite partnership between IFP School in Paris, Uniport and us (Total Energies). “And this school has been operational for 21 years and they have produced more than 700 master's degree and the MSc PGD candidates.
“So when they finish we offer them a year internship within Total Energies offshore onshore offices. And after that, there is the possibility
of recruitment. A lot of them are recruited within Total Energies and outside.
“The models are designed to address the needs in the industry. We updated the curriculum to include the main point of fighting climate change.
“So we have called it the Institute of Petroleum and Energy Studies now to be able to incorporate new energies at the main point of the environmental concerns that are associated with fossil fuel production.”
He lauded the NCDMB for deepening local content in the country, noting that TotalEnergies has done remarkably well in this direction.
“We have achieved more than 94 percent local content in terms of 100 percent from engineering, installation, construction and installation among others and this was done during the COVID period. We were able
60,000 bpd Port Harcourt Refinery Running Smoothly, NNPC Insists
Says blending not a crime
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) yesterday insisted that the 60,000 barrels per day Old Port Harcourt Refinery was up and running, with loading operations in full swing, contrary to insinuations in certain quarters.
The Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr Mele Kyari, gave the confirmation at the commissioning of the NUPENG Towers in Lagos, a statement from the NNPC’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, said.
In a goodwill message at the event, Kyari extended invitation to human rights activist and lawyer, Mr Femi Falana, and all those in doubt to join the NNPC on a tour of the refineries in Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna to verify their status.
Although the refinery was said to have commenced operation after several postponements, a cross-section of Nigerians have expressed doubt over the veracity of the claims by the national oil company.
The NNPC has had announced that the facility was churning out 1.4 million litres per day of petrol, aside other products like kerosene, diesel and others.
But the statement said that Kyari
also shed light on the controversy around products blending, stating that blending was not a crime as it is an integral part of the refining process.
to train a lot of welders, fitters, technicians.
“One thing we are very proud about is our intentionality developing the capacity of our people from our communities. This is very cardinal for us in whatever we do. For every project we identify people from the communities that we will give all levels of training.”
Adaeze Udom Organises Art Exhibition in Lagos
The second solo art exhibition being organised by Adaeze Charlyn Udom in collaboration with the Gemini Art Gallery will be held December 7th and 8th in Lagos.
The theme of the event is, “Life is Your Canvas, Not Your Hiding Place.”
Udom, who holds a Certificate of Achievements in Arts, Paris France, in a chat with THISDAY, stressed that the motivation behind the exhibition stemmed from her belief that “life is a canvas, not a hiding place.”
to see life as an opportunity to create, evolve, and thrive. “On a broader scale, I hope it fosters greater appreciation for African art and culture, both locally and globally. I also look forward to supporting youth empowerment through the Green Hope Youth Empowerment Initiative, as 20 percent of all proceeds will go toward this cause.”
Also, the author of four books, pointed out that government at all levels has a vital role in revitalising the arts sector by investing in historical research and excavations to preserve and showcase the country’s cultural heritage, “thereby creating an identity for our people, as it is the identity of man that drives man.”
“ Blending is necessary to bring products to the specification of different countries or regions," the statement quoted Kyari as explaining.
Kyari also congratulated NUPENG on the successful completion of the NUPENG Towers and urged the union to continue to prioritise
"If you don't blend, you will bring out off-spec products which will destroy your vehicles. Every refinery blends because what is on specification in the United States of America will be off-spec in Nigeria and elsewhere.
dialogue and co-operation in its relationship with NNPC Ltd and the Federal Government.
He disclosed that President Bola Tinubu‘s interventions in the oil and gas industry by way of Executive Orders were yielding positive results, with more investments coming in and prospects of more jobs in the industry.
She added: “I want to inspire people to overcome their fears, embrace their individuality, and create a life they’re proud of. My work celebrates African culture, identity, and resilience, drawing on our rich heritage to encourage self-expression and transformation. This exhibition is also a platform to showcase the beauty and depth of African artistry to the world.”
Speaking further on her expectations from the exhibition, Udom, who is presently a doctoral candidate of Policy and Strategic Studies at Covenant University, Ogun State, said: “I expect the exhibition to spark meaningful conversations and inspire people
He also urged governments to revitalise museums and make the history of Nigerian art come alive through interactive exhibitions and modern displays; encourage partnerships between the arts and tourism sectors to position Nigeria as a global cultural hub, adding that by supporting these initiatives, the government could ensure arts thrive as a source of cultural pride and economic opportunities.
NSITF, BPP Partner to Strengthen Procurement Practices
The Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) and the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) have announced a series of strategic initiatives that can help champion the adoption of open competitive bidding among small and mediumscale enterprises (SMEs) The goal is to foster the growth and development of SMEs across Nigeria.
This partnership was made known during a courtesy visit to BPP's new Director General, Adebowale Adedokun, by NSITF's Managing Director, Oluwaseun Faleye in Abuja Tuesday.
A statement signed by the NSITF General Manager, Corporate Affairs, Nwachukwu Godson, said the meeting also considered ways to ensure the
commitment of both organisations to stimulate SMEs’ participation in open competitive bidding for contracts, thereby promoting transparency and inclusivity in public procurement processes.
He quoted Adedokun as having stated that the NSITF has a crucial role to play in the vision of the BPP to democratise access to public procurement opportunities for small businesses.
He also emphasised the importance of adjusting procurement policies to be more accommodating to SMEs, citing successful models being operated in Kenya, Tanzania, and Rwanda that support participation from diverse business owners including women and persons with disabilities.
He said the NSITF remains a piv-
otal organisation that could champion the adoption of open competitive bidding among stakeholders, adding that by promoting fair competition, small business owners could be empowered to participate, thereby increasing revenue and fostering trust among Nigerians in the system.
“Are there ways to do it through our processes? Are there waivers? These are the things I want to put on the table. We are going to work on this together. “I’m going to come up with policies that will drive small and medium scale businesses because it is cumbersome for them to participate with all the guidelines.
“It is happening in Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda where they streamline the requirements for categories of people - disabled, women, etc. to
enable them participate with minimal mandatory requirements. And if we want to grow this economy, we have to go that way.
“We cannot ask small business owners to do the same thing as big contractors and multinationals. We need to streamline the requirements.”
In response, NSITF Managing Director, Oluwaseun Faleye highlighted the proactive measures already taken by NSITF to engage with stakeholders in the informal sector and enhance their participation in the economy.
"We are committed to implementing open competitive bidding by 2025 and are adjusting our processes to ensure SMEs can compete effectively for contracts," said Faleye. He also noted ongoing efforts to tailor
compliance requirements for small businesses and extend social security nets across Nigeria.
“We recognise the importance of the informal sector in the sustainability of the Employees’ Compensation Scheme. The sector holds the key for enhanced contributions, besides giving us more opportunities to extend our social security nets across Nigeria.
“Within our processes, we are reflecting on how best to reach out and accommodate them the more. Before this meeting, we have already declared that from 2025, all of our procurement engagements with our stakeholders will be through open competitive bidding to broaden the space to accommodate small businesses.”
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, presenting the 2025 Appropriation Bill to members of the state House of Assembly... yesterday
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
Olusegun Samuel in Yenagoa
When the going gets tough… the tough get rewarded!
Awards2025
the men and the women and the institutions rebuilding Democratic Nigeria.
Nominations are now being invited for the consideration of the Board of Editors of the THISDAY ARISE Group in the following categories:
Titans of the Year
The men and women who through their vision, Action, Guts and courage have made a lasting impact on Nigeria.
Man of the Year
That man who has significantly influenced major events that defined the year 2024.
Woman of the Year
That woman who has significantly influenced major events that defined the year 2024.
Bank of the Year
The bank which has used innovation, technology and inclusion for growth in earnings and shareholder value.
Banker of the Year
The banker whose leadership and impact changed the banking landscape for good.
Global bank of the Year
The bank with the most global impact on Nigeria.
Brand of the Year
That brand whose impact and identity have created memorable and unforgettable experiences.
Company of the Year
A well‑regarded company with most impact in the lives of nigerians in 2024.
Product of the Year
A strong, life ‑ changing product whose value proposition is better than any other in the marketplace.
Minister of the Year
That Minister who stands out in the cabinet as an agent of reform.
Governor of the Year
That governor who combines vision, passion, dedication and courage to make the lives of the people of his state better.
Senator of the Year
That senator With legislative impact for the greater good.
Representative of the Year
That House member With Legislative impact for the greater good.
Government Agency of the Year
The government agency whose leadership and action promote service to the people of Nigeria.
Investor of the Year
The investor with most impact on the lives of the people of Nigeria.
Young global leaders of the Year
Driven, young and daring leaders under 40 shaping the future of the world according to Nigeria.
Nominations close on 25th of December 2024; winners will emerge on 31st December, 2024 for the Awards Ceremony in January 2025 in the usual THISDAY style where global leaders and legends will gather to celebrate the best of Nigeria.
Submit your nominations, stating the contributions of your nominees, to - awards2025@thisdaylive.com; awards2025@arise.tv
Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com
As Sani Moves to Tackle Insecurity in Kaduna...
John Shiklam writes on various steps being taken by Governor Uba Sani, to tackle insecurity and unite the people of Kaduna state since he assumed office in May, 2023.
Governor Uba Sani’s policy of inclusiveness, fairness and equity has given renewed hope and new lease of life to residents of Kaduna state. His style of leadership is a far departure from the immediate past where the state was sharply divided.
Upon assumption of office over a year ago, Sani took bold steps by ensuring that every section of the state, especially, the Southern part of the state which consistently accused the eight-year administration of former governor Nasir El-Rufai of alleged discrimination and marginalisation are united.
Upon assumption of office on May 29, 2023, the governor was emphatic about his desire for a peaceful and united Kaduna state.
He promised to reshape the state and make it a model of development, ethnic harmony and cooperation.
“We have committed ourselves to running a pro-people, pro-poor and all inclusive administration.
“Under my watch, equity and justice shall reign supreme in Kaduna state. Kaduna State is a miniature Nigeria.
“If you understand Kaduna State, chances are that you will understand Nigeria with its challenges, complexities and possibilities.
“There is no settler/indigene dichotomy in Kaduna state. We are all citizens of Kaduna state with equal rights, privileges and responsibilities”, the governor said while speaking at a conference on “Tackling poverty and insecurity in Nigeria.
He also put a stop to the demolition of houses, shops and markets, which destroyed the livelihoods of many people during the El-Rufai administration. Many victims of the demolition have not been able to recover from the destruction of their homes or means of livelihood.
According to Sani, the people remain the strength and inspiration to his administration. His desire to achieve peace and security informed his decision to interface with key stakeholders, traditional and religious rulers, to chart the way forward for a peaceful Kaduna state.
Besides series of engaging town hall meetings with the citizenry, the governor rejuvenated the Kaduna Elders Forum, whose members are revered senior citizens of Kaduna state, co-chaired by the duo of Major General Zamani Lekwot (rtd) and a former head of service and former Organising secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Abubakar Mustapha.
At a meeting with the governor in October 2023, the Forum declared its support for Sani, noting that he has started well.
The elders promised to lend their support to the governor towards his move to revitalizing agriculture and boosting the rural economy.
“As elders, we have promised to do our best to support him to succeed in order to take our state to the promised land”, Lekwot said after the meeting.
Since then, Sani has been leveraging on this relationship with the elders for counsel and support.
The Southern Kaduna Peoples Union (SOKAPU), an umbrella body for ethnic nationalities in the Southern part of the state, was among the various groups to declare support for the governor.
President of the union, Tabara Samuel Kato, while highlighting the importance of inclusive governance, during a visit to the governor in February 2024, said, “We appreciate the fair and inclusive manner in which projects are being executed, reflecting a commitment to the well-being of all citizens.”
Also the 10-man committee set up by the governor to resettle residents of Southern Kaduna who had been displaced following the long years of crisis in the area, has
endeared him to them.
Kaduna is one of the North west states ravaged by banditry and kidnappings.
Until his assumption of office, hardly a day passed without attacks, killings or kidnappings in Kaduna state.
Besides identifying the root causes of the multifaceted problem of insecurity - ignorance, poverty, unemployment and poor leadership, Sani took steps to tackle the menace headlong. His administration’s approach to insecurity and other related crimes, has contributed to the relative peace in the state.
The deadly activities of bandits have been drastically reduced in the state through the upgrading of security infrastructure.
The state government recruited and trained 7,000 Personnel of the Kaduna Vigilance Service (KADVS) to enhance security across the state.
The massive recruitment drive was aimed at augmenting the
capacity of conventional security agencies, providing a much-needed grassroots presence in combating crime.
Members of the vigilantes who are drawn from local communities, are familiar with the terrain of the communities and making them a critical component in complimenting security agencies in the fight against banditry and other forms of criminal activity.
The state government also distributed 150 Hillux Security Vehicles and 500 Patrol Motorcycles to all security operatives in the state. The vehicles and motorcycles, were equipped with advanced technology, improve mobility and response times.
This enables security forces to respond swiftly to incidents and patrol in vast and often challenging terrains in communities.
This is a game-changer, ensuring that security personnel can cover more ground and reach troubled spots with greater efficiency.
A forensic Laboratory and Training Centre has also been constructed.
The collaboration between the government and the security agencies has contributed in crushing many bandits resulting in a significant reduction in
Kaduna is one of the North west states ravaged by banditry and kidnappings. Until his assumption of office, hardly a day passed without attacks, killings or kidnappings in Kaduna state. Besides identifying the root causes of the multifaceted problem of insecurity - ignorance, poverty, unemployment and poor leadership, Sani took steps to tackle the menace headlong. His administration’s approach to insecurity and other related crimes, has contributed to the relative peace in the state.
their criminal activities.
Governor Sani noted that his administration has ‘’recorded major milestones in the conflict - impacted Birnin Gwari, Chikun, Giwa, Igabi, Kachia, Kajuru and Kagarko LGAs.”
He said: ‘’Through the efforts of the Peace Dialogue Group, jointly established by the Kaduna state government in collaboration with federal agencies and security services, peace has returned to Birnin Gwari.
‘’I was in Birnin Gwari on Thursday, 28th November 2028 to reopen the famous and strategic Kara Livestock Market, thus signaling the commencement of commercial activities. The long abandoned Birnin Gwari Road is now back to life.”
Sani’s proactive measures have not only strengthened the morale of the security forces but have also instilled a sense of hope and safety among the residents of Kaduna state.
These initiatives no doubt underscores the governor’s philosophy that without security there will be little or no development.
To address youths unemployment, Sani has embarked on the construction of a state of the art skills acquisition centre to address the issue.
Already the Skills Development Council has been inaugurated to provide overall leadership and strategic direction for the development of strategies and implementation.
According to the governor, the initiative is a milestone in the efforts towards addressing skills deficit and empowering citizens, especially, the youths, to be relevant in a fast changing world.
“We are determined to decisively address the skills deficits of our people. We want our citizens to have the requisite skills to fill positions in the industries and other businesses we have attracted to the state”, the governor said.
According to him, the construction of the Vocational and Technology Skills Acquisition Cities in Rigachikun, Samaru Kataf and Soba have reached advanced stages. He noted that long-term impact of the centres in terms of employment generation and economic growth, will undoubtedly be far-reaching as the target beneficiaries would be equipped with the essential skills and entrepreneurial opportunities for financial independence.
He said, “The trainees will be equipped with a variety of vocational and technical skills including Welding and Fabrication, Articulated Vehicle Driving, Automobile Gas Conversion, Automotive Mechatronics, Solar Power Installation, Electrical Installation, Tiling, POP Making, Carpentry and Joinery, Fashion and Design, Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), Aluminum Fabrication, and Refrigeration and Air Conditioning.
“The construction of the remodelled Panteka Market in Tudun Wada, Kaduna, is also progressing steadily.”
He added that the remodelled Panteka Market will be a major centre for skills acquisition and job creation as the youths will be trained in carpentry, welding, painting, roofing, plumbing, electrical work and other trades.
According to him, the Kaduna state government is collaborating with the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) to provide the National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF) certification which is an instrument approved by the Federal Executive Council for the development, classification and recognition of skills, knowledge and competencies acquired through technical and vocational training.
“This is a globally recognised certification which will provide our youths with employment opportunities across various industries within and outside the country”, the governor stated.
Sanni
www.thisdaylive.com
opinion@thisdaylive.com
NEITI AND PARTNERSHIP WITH REMTRACK
OBIAGELI ONUORAH writes why the public should use the tool for public accountability in Nigeria’s extractive sector
THE TRIAL OF YAHAYA BELLO
FUNKE ODUMOSU argues for a fair trial of the former Kogi State governor
Tenacity, wisdom and empathy are required to push the much-needed reforms through, writes MONDAY PHILIPS EKPE
TAX REFORM BLUES IN DESPONDENT TIMES
The 19th Century French writer, JeanBaptiste Alphonse Karr, was right. “Plus ca change, plus c’est la meme chose. (The more things change, the more they remain the same).” The article I wrote in the OctoberDecember 1995 edition of the Londonbased Safara International Magazine for Business and Leisure in Africa, now elicits déjà vu. Titled “After SAP Comes VAT”, it attempted to weigh the performance of the major fiscal revolution that was introduced only two years earlier.
It reads in part: “The general basis for the popular pessimism was the failure of government to productively harness and utilise Nigeria’s financial potential over the years. Indeed, the view (which is not entirely out of place) is that the public sector is more adept at allocating or consuming than at generating or producing useful resources…. The din of rejectionism that greeted the introduction of Value Added Tax (VAT) sounded much more believable since, like most other tax systems, it depended much on the willingness of tax payers for its success.
Experts affirm that tax payers’ response to taxation is often influenced by the state of the economy, the popularity of the government of the day and the dexterity of the tax administrators both to collect taxes and penalise tax evaders. The truth, however, is that the Nigeria of today does not really qualify to implement VAT if these parameters are considered. Yet, VAT has become Nigeria’s newest goldmine. In May this year alone, the 30 state governments and Abuja got about N386million as their allocations while the local governments got about N276million in the same month.
“The sad thing is that roads, schools, hospitals, water projects and other social amenities are yet to be given adequate attention. Right now, the revenue yield is high but how that will be sustained will depend very much on whether or not the government satisfies its own side of the bargain…. VAT is increasing in profile. But will it be like oil? Will it be used as a vehicle for development or will it become another pot of gold to squander? The years that lie ahead will tell.”
Three decades down the line, drawing comparisons between what obtained then and now may not be fair as the enabling variables have shifted drastically. For one, although the political atmosphere that General Sani Abacha presided over that time was fouled and overshadowed by the aborted presidential mandate of the late Chief Moshood Abiola, the economy then registered one of its most stable periods in the country’s history. Abacha and his aides apparently seized that glorious moment to optimally position a tax that was ironically loathed at inception. Today’s economic climate is manifestly antithetical to that era.
The hysteria that has broken out in the course of the ongoing moves to reform the existing tax laws is, no doubt, a reminder
that the tax collector is still not a well loved and received person after centuries of the practice of compelling citizens of countries around the world to directly contribute their money towards nation-building. Of all the four relevant executive bills before the National Assembly - Nigeria Tax Bill, Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Bill and Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill - the aspect that deals with VAT has raised dust the most. And for good reasons. It’s now reported to yield more for the country than the almighty oil sector, among others, with the potential to do even much more.
One key mystique of VAT is that most payers aren’t usually conscious of the obligations they meet at the points of payment, hence the inconsequentiality of their anger towards the mostly unaccountable governments. They simply consume and pay automatically! And since we’re largely a nation of consumers, ceaseless inflow of cash into public coffers is guaranteed.
Unfortunately, politicians and some other leaders have thrown sectional and other base sentiments into the mix, as usual. Arguments of the north being deliberately targeted for ill have injected sour taste into what should have been robust engagements for genuine progress. Equally sad is, this season provides yet another opportunity to paint the north as ignorant and indolent, not willing to let go of its ‘parasitic’ existence. But these sickening underbellies can only further push Nigeria down the path of underachievement and self-defeat.
But what can save Nigeria from these divisive tendencies, even when faced with existential questions? In the words of a former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara, “we should remove the cap of regionalism, the cap of sectionalism, the cap of religion and put on the cap of leadership because that is what will resolve the quarrel that we have. One of the major objections is related to the issue of timing. When you talk about timing the way I have heard them talk about it, it is a tragic misconception of the notion of time itself because there’s nothing like the future. There’s nothing like the past. All we have is now. It is what you are doing now that will become your past. It is what you are doing now that will affect your future.”
Of course, his philosophical interpretation of the time factor can complicate this matter, especially for the uninitiated. For average Nigerians, the picture they have is the past, present and future that are mixed together and controlled by the twin monsters of misappropriation and theft. This opaque and bankrupt utilisation of monies derived from taxes is enough disincentive to tax compliance. So, any discussions relating to these fiscal schemes may well be exercises in cacophony. From experience, the current debate is truly not about the poor. It’s more about the elite, those self-indulgent leaders who nevertheless love to be viewed as being in the business for the general good.
The other day, the Chairman of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reform Committee (PFPTRC), Taiwo Oyedele, tried to market the reforms. His words: “There are tax exemptions for small businesses with annual turnover of N50 million or less, including withholding tax, value added tax, and zero percent corporate income tax rate. It also proposed an exemption from personal income tax (PAYE) for minimum wage earners and reduced tax burden for over 90 per cent of all workers in the private and public sectors, as well as VAT at zero percent for food, education, health care and exemption for rent, public transportation, fuel products, and renewable energy. These items constitute an average of 82 percent of household consumption and nearly 100 percent for low-income households to ameliorate the rising cost of living for the masses….
“Our proposal aims to create a fairer system by devising a different form of derivation, which takes into account the place of supply or consumption for relevant goods and services, whether they are zerorated, exempted or taxable at the standard rate. A state that produces food shouldn’t lose out just because its products are VATexempted or consumed in other states. The state where the supply originates should be recognised for its contributions. The same principle should apply to services like telecommunications—VAT distribution should reflect where subscribers are located.” The man has been rolling out more advantages of the package he’s determined to pursue to their logical conclusions. Oyedele and his team shouldn’t relent. But they should be mindful of the acute acidity of the atmosphere at present which makes thinking straight difficult even for the usually rational. The VAT, against some initial odds and sundry negative predictions, is a success story. Its management and distribution needn’t cause any earthquake. Like gold-refining, much patience, understanding and skill are required for greater productivity and cohesion. And, hopefully, an enduring, bankable legacy.
Dr Ekpe is a member of THISDAY Editorial Board
OBIAGELI ONUORAH writes why the public should use the tool for public accountability in Nigeria’s extractive sector
NEITI AND PARTNERSHIP WITH REMTRACK
The Nigerian Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI), a national Chapter of the global Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) and a coalition of civil society, government and industry operators was established in 2004, in the context of the comprehensive socio-economic reform programme embarked upon up by the federal government. The reform programme was enshrined in the National Economic Empowerment Development Strategy (NEEDS) hinged on improving Nigeria’s macro-economic environment; pursuing structural reforms; strengthening public expenditure management; and implementing institutional and governance reforms.
The mandate of NEITI as set out in its establishment Act includes ensuring due process, transparency, accountability and zero corruption in the determination, payments, and receipts of all government revenue accruing from the extractive sectors and in the application of the resources for national development. The major reasons for Nigeria’s joining the EITI were to promote prudent and accountable management of revenues from the country’s abundant natural resources, reduce poverty and ensure sustainable development. NEITI carries out its mandate by conducting, publishing and disseminating annual independent reports of Nigeria’s oil, gas and mining industries with the goal of facilitating the good governance of Nigeria’s extractive sector and ensure that it is managed for the benefit of Nigerians. NEITI seeks to achieve its mandate via three work routes - Reporting, Dissemination, and Remediation. The NEITI industry reports usually make profound revelations by identifying several processes and governance lapses in the sector while offering appropriate recommendations on how to fix identified challenges.
For instance, figures from the latest NEITI industry reports of the oil and gas sector covering 2022-2023 revealed that Nigeria earned between 1999 and 2023 (25years), a total of $831 billion. The NEITI report also showed that there is still an outstanding collectible revenue of over $6 billion due to the Federal Government as of June 2024. Meanwhile, just last week, the National Assembly approved the borrowing of $2.2 billion (N1.7 trillion to enable government to fund its budget. These potential revenues come at a time when government is borrowing about a third of this figure to fund its infrastructure projects, secure lives and property of the citizens, but most importantly create opportunities for its 230 million people to feed. Similarly, the NEITI reports over the years have revealed the volume of crude lost to theft, vandalism and other operational inefficiencies. The reports have gone ahead to also put value to these figures and what it could contribute towards improving the life of the average Nigerian. The story from the solid minerals sector is more saddening. In 18 years, the sector just posted the trillion Naira revenue contribution to the Nigerian economy with a GDP contribution of less than 1% despite the huge minerals deposit straddling every belt, region and state in the country. The sector is also known to be dominated by artisanal miners and is still exporting ores and other minerals in their raw forms (Free on Board), consequently exporting jobs meant for Nigerian youths to other climes.
By providing a seamless and efficient transparency and accountability corridor, NEITI promotes prudent management of the country’s revenue and supports government domestic revenue mobilisation. From inception, the EITI/NEITI process was conceived along the three constituent groups – government, companies and civil society. Of the three, only the civil society is not profit minded and directly represents the interest of the citizens. Built on this tripod, government is to receive rent from Nigeria’s resource endowments and manage same on behalf of the citizens. Companies on the other
hand make investments that will yield returns. NEITI, thus is a vital vehicle for the purposes of empowering citizens and stakeholders with accurate and verifiable information about the country’s natural resources and management. To make the NEITI/EITI process more impactful, citizens are expected to use the NEITI reports to stimulate debates and engage the companies and government agencies involved in managing the country’s natural resources with the ultimate goal of holding them accountable. NEITI has deployed the use of traditional media (Newspapers, Radio and Television) to communicate and disseminate information contained in its reports. It has also broadened and expanded the reach of its dissemination efforts by using the social media and other digital platforms for communication. The EITI/NEITI process therefore expects that through the civil society, the citizens will get a seat at the table and participate in the decision-making processes and management of the country’s resource wealth. In the past two decades of the EITI in Nigeria, the civil society have played in this space, but not so effectively. The third sector has also sought ways to bridge the gap in the NEITI reports, by creating ingenious ways to track the implementation of the report recommendations.
One of these innovations is the REMTRACK, an online application designed to unpack the complex web of remedial issues highlighted in each NEITI industry reports into user-friendly on-the-go pieces of information and advocacy in furtherance of transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s extractive sector. Remtrack was thus created to fill the gap in tracking the implementation of extractive industries report findings and recommendations. The APP was developed by a Nigerian parliamentary monitoring non-governmental organisation-Orderpaper. Remtrack was launched on the 4th of December 2019 in collaboration with NEITI and supported by the Facility for Oil Sector Transformation (FOSTER).
The App was designed to facilitate transfer of knowledge and information, mobilise citizens for engagement and drive advocacy for extractive sector reforms in Nigeria, (orderpaper.com). According to OrderPaper, Remtrack is a global innovation being the first of its kind throughout the world conceived to foster the implementation of the EITI process in Nigeria. The app clearly aligns with the drive of the global EITI to encourage the use of data and technology to promote the key objectives of transparency and accountability in the extractive sector of all implementing countries.
At inception, the sole source of information for Remtrack was the NEITI industry reports. Series of meetings were held at the NEITI Secretariat with representatives of Orderpaper, NEITI and some civil society actors. NEITI provided updates on the progress of implementation of the recommendations in its industry reports and considered the remedial issues as resolved, unresolved and pending or ongoing. The content of the APP has been expanded to include information and issues on extractive industries both locally, nationally and globally. A look at the platform of the APP shows information culled from OPEC, NNPCL, International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), World Bank, EITI, NEITI, etc.
Onuorah is the Acting Director, Communication and Stakeholders Management, at NEITI; onuoraho@ gmail.com
FUNKE ODUMOSU argues for a fair trial of the former Kogi State governor
THE TRIAL OF YAHAYA BELLO
Former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, made an appearance at the FCT High Court on Wednesday, November 27. Aside from putting a lie to insinuations that he is a fugitive from the law, his appearance in court before Justice Maryann Anenih turned into a carnival as many admirers, supporters and fans from across diverse divides thronged the courtroom.
Many lawyers inside and outside the courtroom were stunned by the organic love displayed by these Nigerians. While some persons were quick to conclude that it was a rented crowd of emergency admirers, what this writer and many other persons noticed was a crowd of genuine fans standing in solidarity with Bello.
The surge of humanity on the court premises and even inside the courtroom could not have been rented. They cut across gender, demography, party affiliations, ethnic divides and religion. To any discerning mind, the presence of such huge crowd, described by AIT reporter in the station’s prime time news at 8pm on that day as “unprecedented” more than justified the popularity and the love many Nigerians have for Bello despite endless social media defamation by his known and unknown political enemies.
Without prejudice to the outcome of the cases instituted against him by the EFCC, the messages on the lips of many of those who thronged the court was that the Commission was not prosecuting Bello, but persecuting the former Kogi governor whom many claimed was paying for his political principle of refusing to step down or step aside for anybody in his party, the APC, during the political hustings leading up to the 2023 election.
Yet, many others don't even believe this slant. They, instead, attribute Bello's ordeal to the continuous struggle for the control of Kogi State, which the opposition believe is currently in the firm grip of the former governor unless he is "tamed". He broke an age-long political structure by paving the way for another Ebira man to be governor after his eight years despite the perceived dominance and influence of the Igalas.
Some made allusions to the pile of cases before the EFCC, which the Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, has effectively ignored. Some of those with open fraud cases at the EFCC are now ministers, senators, chairmen of political parties and major actors in the Tinubu government.
They wonder why the EFCC has turned a blind eye to these cases, knowing full well that the suspects have no immunity hence should be prosecuted.
The Bello sympathisers accuse the EFCC of bias, insisting that despite the posturing of Olukoyede that the EFCC under him has been reformed from a persecutorial to prosecutorial anti-crime agency, nothing has changed.
Some even claim that rather than reforming the agency to adhere to basic principles of law and due process in dealing with economic crimes, Olukoyede has deformed the agency, turning it into an attack terrier in the hands of the powers that be. And there is enough ground to believe this school of thought.
In the case of Bello, it appears that the EFCC has been breaching the law in the manner it has acted in its wild attempts to arrest a man who has a validly procured court order restraining the agency from arresting, harassing and intimidating him. In some cases, the EFCC tried, gestapo-style, to arrest Bello even when there was a pendency in court of the case of violation of his fundamental human rights, a constitutional right and privilege bestowed on him as a citizen of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
If there had been any party in this ongoing saga behaving in the most undemocratic manner, it’s the EFCC, not Bello.
This is the sense in which the public should see the various attempts by EFCC to paint Bello as a fugitive from the law as a ruse, a perfect alibi to deflect public scrutiny of the agency’s pernicious actions.
As one lawyer said during the court appearance of Bello and the show of enthusiasm by the operatives
of the anti-graft agency, if the passion being exhibited by EFCC on the Bello case is deployed in cases of former governors who had been investigated and fingered in multi-billion naira scams including those who stuffed dollars into the pockets of their overflowing ‘agbada’ and those who are now in the senate making laws for the ‘good governance’ of the nation, Nigeria would have become corruption free. But it has to be emphasised: Bello was and is not running away from the law. Just as his legal team said, Bello embraces the law, respects and believes in the sanctity of the judiciary. All the rights by way of court orders that restrained the EFCC from trampling on him without fair hearing were given to him by the courts. Such a leader who believes in the judiciary cannot be said to be running away from the same judiciary. Bello showed up in court on November 27 after exhausting his legal rights up to the Supreme Court.
On the issue of the huge crowd that thronged the court, this cannot be tagged ‘rented crowd’ or a show of disrespect for the court. Huge crowd in courtrooms or on court premises is as old as legal proceedings. Socrates, the Greek philosopher was in 399BC charged with sacrilegious corruption of the youths because of his teachings. Whereas there was no TV to record proceedings at that time, history has it that huge crowd of followers and supporters thronged the open arena where he was tried.
Have we forgotten the September 6, 2004 trial of Indonesian journalist, Tempo editor, Bambang Harymurti, who faced charges of defamation and spreading false news that provoked social discontent? A crowd of journalists, civil liberty organisations, lawyers and others besieged the court calling for the acquittal of Harymurti and forcing the judge to shift the judgment day by a few days.
Court cases involving US celebrities, O.J Simpson, Michael Jackson, the undisputed King of Pop, and many others have been known to attract huge crowds. These are usually cases of popular people, sometimes made popular by the media, their social equity or by their sheer courage to remain defiant and refusal to capitulate to state capture or institutional oppression. Bello, as Nigerians now know, is a victim of his own act of courage and defiant disposition to tyranny of the majority and institutional bullying. Whatever may be the prognosis of the legal dogfight, it must be noted that Bello is not being prosecuted on account of corruption, otherwise how can EFCC in self-righteousness explain to Nigerians why many former governors with proven cases of corruption, some with living and walking evidences, are not being prosecuted but are allowed easy transmutation as senators, ministers and free men and women?
Odumosu writes from Abuja
Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA
Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com
TRAGEDY ON THE WATERWAYS
Regulators should do more to ensure safety standards are maintained
It is understandable that boat accidents are inevitable in the creeks and coastlines especially given the fact that the people living in those areas have no alternative means of transportation. And perhaps because of that, they tend to pile into whatever watercraft happens to be moving towards their destinations. In the latest of what is becoming a festival of deaths on the nation’s waterways, the National Inland Waterways (NIWA) last weekend confirmed that no fewer than 200 market women from Kogi State lost their lives last Friday. The unfortunate victims were on their way to the Katcha weekly market in Niger State, riding on a boat when it capsized along the Dambo-Ebuchi sections of River Niger. A day earlier, according to the Niger State Emergency Management, another set of 22 passengers had lost their lives in a boat mishap on the same River Niger.
Although reports of these accidents are hardly released to the public by NIWA, most people know the cause. It is a notorious fact that there is hardly any ferry, canoe or the so-called “flying boat” that keeps to the exact passenger number specification. In some instances, boats that were constructed to carry not more than 20 persons could be loaded with 50 or more passengers especially at peak periods when people are in a hurry to get back to their places of abode. Consequently, when the canoes encounter stormy conditions along the water, the sheer weight of the human cargo and other luggage could make them easily susceptible to capsize.
Aside from overloading, most of these boats are old and suffer from lack of proper maintenance
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
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA
Aside from overloading, most of these boats are old and suffer from lack of proper maintenance. Perhaps more important is the obvious lack of safety standards. In fact, not much is known about the existence of any mandatory operational guidelines for ownership of ferries and boats and the minimum standards that must be met to be in the business of ferrying people through the waters. This is where a
GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU
DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE
DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com
Letters to the Editor
lack of regulatory oversight comes in. Established in 1997, NIWA is saddled with the task of managing the nation’s 3000 navigable waterways from the Nigeria/Niger Republic and Nigeria/Cameroon borders to the Atlantic Ocean. These comprise Rivers Niger and Benue as well as the creeks, lagoons, lakes, and intra-coastal waters. NIWA’s mandate also includes providing “regulatory, economical and operational leadership in the nation’s inland waterways system and develop infrastructural facilities for efficient intermodal transportation system that is safe, seamless and affordable”. But the agency has been reduced to counting bodybags after these tragedies. It is unfortunate that almost everything worthwhile and ordinarily should be easily achieved always looks like a mountain in Nigeria. With the existence of waterfronts in various parts of the country and the increasingly devastating state of our roads, innovative leaders would have ordinarily explored the options of water transportation by heavily investing in our waterways with a view to making them safe. That sadly is not the case despite the fact that water transportation is one clear source of de-congesting the roads in places where road travel could result in frustrating hours on the traffic. Going forward, we reiterate our call that operational standards be enforced nationally for those in the business of ferry and canoe transportation. Provision of emergency services along the waterways is also worth considering. It is even more disturbing that we have marine police in the country who always seem to be nowhere to be found in environs where water tragedies occur. If they are marine police, shouldn't they be permanently stationed around waterways and swiftly swing to action when tragedies occur on the waters by promptly rescuing victims?
The authorities must put in place the necessary safety measures. Travelling by water should not be a suicide mission.
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.
TAX REFORM BILL: A PATH TO EQUITY AND UNITY
Taxation is not merely a tool for generating revenue; it is a cornerstone for fostering national balance and ensuring the collective survival of all citizens. Recognizing this, Nigeria has, with wisdom, exempted many essential goods and services such as agricultural produce, fertilizers, certain baby products, and healthcare items from taxation or VAT. This policy ensures that food items like rice, maize, sorghum, millet, beans, and meat—produced in states like Kano, Borno, and Adamawa, Taraba, etc., can reach markets in Enugu, Lagos, and Port Harcourt, where they are accessible to Nigerians at reasonable prices.
Conversely, products such as fertilizers, agricultural machinery, baby items, and healthcare essentials manufactured in industrial hubs like Aba, Ibadan, Warri, and Lagos, etc., remain affordable across the country, including the northern states, because they are VAT-exempt. This interconnected economic framework fosters interdependence among states and promotes equitable access to essential goods, irrespective of geographic location.
However, the current discourse surrounding the proposed tax reform bill, particularly its provisions on VAT, has raised
concerns about fairness and equity. Rather than serving as a unifying mechanism, the proposed VAT contributions and their sharing formula have become a source of tension, with some Nigerians—especially from the North—perceiving the system as skewed in favor of economically dominant states like Lagos. This perception has fueled suspicions, leading to terms like “Lagos colonialism” being used to describe the perceived imbalance in resource allocation and benefit distribution in the new VAT bill if passed into law by two chambers of the National Assembly.
To address these concerns, the tax reform bill must be designed not only to generate revenue but also to reflect the principles of fairness, inclusivity and Nigeria’s complex politics.
Taxation policies should be a tool for strengthening national unity, ensuring that every Nigerian, regardless of region or state, feels an equitable share of the nation’s prosperity. There is no need to rush to nowhere- the government must patiently engage in transparent dialogue and adopt a balanced approach that considers the diverse economic contributions and needs of all states.
One of key reasons for the rejection of the bills by the north
is largely because President Tinubu’s administration is facing growing suspicion among many Northerners due to certain policies, programs, and appointments. This is a troubling development for a government that, prior to coming to power, proudly counted the North as its political stronghold and key support base.
Such distrust is damaging, not only for the administration’s credibility but also for national unity. To maintain the confidence of all Nigerians, it is crucial for the government to address these concerns transparently, ensuring that its actions reflect inclusivity and fairness. Economics and politics often intertwine. When political backlash outweighs economic benefits, retreat and consultation are essential.
The Tinubu government must strive to deliver on its promises while fostering trust across all states and demographics, particularly among those who placed their faith in its leadership.
In essence, taxation should not be seen as a divisive tool but as a bridge that connects the unique strengths of each state and region, fostering a truly united and prosperous Nigeria. Zayyad I. Muhammad, Abuja
Following incessant submarine cable cuts and damages in the deep sea, which usually disrupt connectivity across all sectors of the global economy, including banking and telecommunications, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the United Nations Agency for Digital Technologies, and the International Cable Protection Committee (ICPC), the leading industry organisation promoting submarine cable protection, have launched the International Advisory Body for Submarine Cable Resilience to strengthen the resilience of vital telecommunication infrastructure.
The Advisory Body is cochaired by Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, and Chair of the Board of Directors
Emma Okonji with agency report
Report from the Facts and Figures 2024 presented by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), has revealed that internet connectivity continues to increase worldwide, but revealed the complexities of reaching communities in low-income countries.
According to the report, an estimated 5.5 billion people are currently online in 2024, an increase of 227 million individuals based on revised estimates for 2023.
The report said while an estimated 68 per cent of the global population is now online, stubborn digital divides persisted, as about
of the National Communications Authority of the Republic of Portugal, Prof. Sandra Maximiano. Submarine telecommunication cables form the backbone of global communications, carrying most of the world’s internet traffic and enabling critical services across the globe, including commerce, financial transactions, government activities, digital health and education.
The advisory body will address ways to improve cable resilience by promoting best practices for governments and industry players to ensure the timely deployment and repair of submarine cables, reduce the risks of damage, and enhance the continuity of communications over the cables.
Damages to global submarine cables have been on the rise, with an average of 150 to 200 faults occurring globally each year and
one-third of the world’s people remained offline.
Giving details of the report, ITU Secretary-General, Doreen Bogdan-Martin, said: “Facts and Figures 2024 is a tale of two digital realities between high-income and low-income countries. Stark gaps in critical connectivity indicators are cutting off the most vulnerable people from online access to information, education and employment opportunities. This report is a reminder that true progress in our interconnected world isn’t just about how fast we move forward, but about making sure everyone moves
requiring about three cable repairs per week, according to the ICPC.
The primary causes of damage include accidental human activity, such as fishing and anchoring, alongside natural hazards, abrasion and equipment failure.
On March 14, 2024, 13 African countries witnessed internet disruptions, which led to operational downtime for all businesses connected to the internet, including banks, where bank customers could not carry out banking transactions for hours.
The disruptions were caused by multiple cuts in the submarine cable around the coast line of Senegal and Cote d’ Ivoire, a development that disconnected Internet Service Providers (ISPs), as well as broadband connectivity providers from the internet and from the broadband connections, as they could not provide connectivity
forward together.”
The report showed that internet use remains tightly linked to the level of development.
In high-income countries, 93 per cent of the population is estimated to be using the internet in 2024. This contrasts with low-income countries where only 27 per cent of the population is estimated to be online.
Connectivity challenges also remain in the least developed countries (LDCs) where only 35 per cent of the population is estimated online and landlocked developing countries (LLDCs) with only 39 per cent online.
access to their customers in banks, schools, churches, mosques, business centres, call centres, as well as to organisations across different sectors of the economy.
Considering the effect of the cable cut, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), the telecoms industry regulator had called for a coordinated and multilateral approach by the region to protect shared telecommunications infrastructure, and diversify connectivity to ensure uninterruptible connections.
Executive Vice Chairman of NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, made the submission in a statement delivered at the 21st West Africa Telecommunications Regulatory Assembly (WATRA) Annual General Meeting (AGM), which held in Freetown, Sierra Leone, from the 19th to 22nd March 2024. Maida, who was represented at
In total, an estimated 2.6 billion people are offline in 2024, accounting for 32 per cent of the world’s population. This is down from the newly revised estimate of 2.8 billion for 2023, which represents 35 per cent of the population.
Director of ITU’s Telecommunication Development Bureau, Cosmas Luckyson Zavazava, said: “The world is inching towards universal access at a time. While we continue to make progress on connectivity, our advances mask significant gaps in the world’s most vulnerable communities, where digital exclusion makes life even more
the WATRA AGM by the Deputy Director, Public Affairs of the commission, Nnenna Ukoha, had stated that the submarine cable cuts that resulted in nationwide outages on multiple networks in 13 African countries, raised the urgent need for the sub-region to establish a mechanism to protect itself from damage to submarine infrastructure and its attendant impact on the sub-region.
Speaking at the launch of the International Advisory Body for Submarine Cable Resilience, ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin, said: “Submarine cables carry over 99 per cent of international data exchanges, making their resilience a global imperative. The Advisory Body will mobilise expertise from around the world to ensure this vital digital infrastructure remains resilient in the face of disasters, accidents, and
challenging. We must intensify our efforts to remove the barriers that keep people offline and close the usage gap, and renew our commitment to achieving universal and meaningful connectivity, so that everyone can access the internet.”
Key findings of the report include: The world is moving slowly towards gender parity in internet use, as an estimated 70 per cent of men use the internet worldwide in 2024, compared with 65 per cent of women. Although there are 189 million more men than women using the internet, the report found that the world has been moving towards gender parity
other risks.”
ICPC Chair, Graham Evans, said: “The formation of this International Advisory Body with ITU marks another step toward safeguarding our global digital infrastructure. By working together, we can promote best practices, foster international collaboration, and create a consistent approach to protect the vital submarine cable networks that underpin global connectivity.”
According to Tijani, “Submarine cables are essential to the functioning of our connected world, but they face risks that require coordinated, proactive action. We are happy to host the inaugural Submarine Cable Resilience Summit to be held in Nigeria in early 2025.”
except in LDCs. (According to the revised estimates, an estimated 68 per cent of men and 63 per cent of women were using the internet in 2023.)
Another finding by the report is the lack of progress in bridging the urban-rural divide. Globally, an estimated 83 per cent of urban dwellers use the internet in 2024, compared with less than half of the population in rural areas (48 per cent). Of the estimated 2.6 billion people offline in 2024, 1.8 billion people live in rural areas.
Emma Okonji
Wema Bank Hackaholics 5.0: Empowering Innovators, Shaping Africa’s Digital Future
Wema Bank Plc, through its flagship initiative, Hackaholics, has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to fostering innovation and supporting tech entrepreneurs, writes Oluchi Chibuzor
Innovation is reshaping the world at an unprecedented pace, with technological advancements transforming economies, industries, and societies. As the global landscape evolves, Africa finds itself uniquely positioned at the forefront of a digital revolution, ready to drive growth and prosperity across the continent. According to a report by the International Finance Corporation (IFC), Sub-Saharan Africa’s digital economy could reach $180 billion by 2025, creating immense opportunities for innovation and entrepreneurship. Realizing this potential requires equipping the next generation of problem solvers with the tools to tackle the region’s unique challenges head-on.
Wema Bank, Nigeria’s most innovative financial institution and the pioneer of ALAT—Africa’s first fully digital bank—has consistently championed this cause. Through its flagship initiative, Hackaholics, Wema Bank has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to fostering innovation and supporting tech entrepreneurs. Since its inception, Hackaholics has served as a beacon for young entrepreneurs, cultivating an ecosystem rooted in creativity, collaboration, and measurable impact. With over 1 million participants from five countries, 18 universities, and $300,000 in grants awarded, Hackaholics has set a new benchmark for innovation initiatives in Africa.
From modest beginnings, Hackaholics has evolved into a transformative platform, addressing real-world challenges and expanding its reach exponentially. Each edition deepens its impact across multiple tech-driven verticals, including fintech, agritech, healthtech, and edutech. By combining ideation, mentorship, funding, and capacity-building, Hackaholics offers a holistic framework for nurturing Africa’s next generation of innovators.
This year, Hackaholics 5.0 marked a significant milestone, attracting 3,500 applications from across Nigeria. Themed Meta Idea: Digitech Solutions for Africa’s Prosperity, this edition focused on scalable, sustainable digital solutions to some of the continent’s most pressing challenges. The journey to the grand finale began with a nationwide tour of nine pitch centers—eight physical and one
“The next 5 to 10 years will be catalytic for Nigeria. Wema Bank’s investment in young people and the startup ecosystem is transformative. Initiatives like this give underserved areas the tools to harness digital skills, creating an inclusive economy across all states.”
virtual—strategically designed to provide access, support, and guidance to innovators.
Esteemed institutions such as Nile University of Nigeria, Covenant University’s Hebron Startup Lab, Lagos State University, Bayero University in Kano, Afe Babalola University, the University of Port Harcourt, the University of Ibadan, and the Wema Bank Purple Academy hosted these centers, amplifying the program’s national reach.
The tour commenced at Nile University in Abuja, setting the tone with five exceptional pitches that reflected the diversity and creativity of African innovation. Abubakar Muhammad Umar’s Northino platform empowered African native speakers with localized digital skills, while Onimisi Charles Atere’s Nimsy provided solar-powered agro-equipment solutions to transform farming practices. Ibrahim Ahmed-Rufai introduced Our Haven, an automated household management system, and Hanif Adedotun’s Celia proposed seamless peer-to-peer payments. Finally, Efemena Hilda Onovre’s Nadir connected volunteers to meaningful opportunities.
Building on this momentum, the tour progressed to Port Harcourt, where entrepreneurs like Precious Tom presented Pandascrow, a secure escrow platform fostering trust in e-commerce. Similarly, Kelvin Edionwe’s Paywise integrated savings and investments, and Ajirioghene Amadi introduced TrashCoin, a platform simplifying personal finance through savings.
The excitement continued at Covenant University’s Hebron Startup Lab, where innovators like Elegbe Osiforegan Renny pitched Hebron Chain, ensuring transparency in Nigeria’s food supply chain. Bepo Joy’s Paystrait stood out with its QR-based platform, completing transactions in just seven seconds.
Lagos State University highlighted transformative ideas like Verse Hough’s Gnergy, promoting compressed natural gas as a sustainable alternative. Oluwadamilare Ololade’s University X revolutionized education management, while Akpan Emmanuel’s AI Teacha empowered educators with personalized tools. Meanwhile, Anita Orji introduced Code Red, which optimized emergency care using real-time hospital bed data.
This narrative of ingenuity continued at the University of Ibadan, where solutions like Temiloluwa Shonubi’s EduGaze brought immersive learning through augmented reality. Innovators like Oloruntoba Ajayi (Dokia), Kemi Olakunle (Health 4 Moni), and Lawal Oluwatimileyin (Gbale Prime) showcased solutions addressing health, housing, and insurance gaps.
The virtual pitch center underscored Hackaholics’ inclusivity, showcasing diverse ideas such as Uyodhu Agadaga’s Airify for real-time air quality monitoring and Michael Ikirodah’s Kwab for simplifying cash-driven transactions. Other notable pitches included Benjamin Onakoya’s Apisentry and Ugonna Ginigeme’s Feegor, a B2B wholesale marketplace integrating credit access.
The final stages of the tour included Afe Babalola University, Bayero University in Kano, and Wema Bank Purple Academy, presenting revolutionary ideas from fields like healthtech, agritech, and edutech. Among the standout innovations were
“We are delighted to celebrate the brilliance of our youth through the Hackaholics initiative. At Wema Bank, we are more than a bank; we are enablers of dreams and drivers of transformation. Earlier today, the total prize money was N75 million. But, inspired by the potential I saw, I decided to nearly double the prize pool to N145 million. Wema Bank’s legacy of 80 years remains rooted in innovation. Through initiatives like Hackaholics, we continue to empower lives, shape futures, and drive prosperity for Nigeria and Africa. This is not the end; it is only the beginning.”
MyItura, DigiLands, Bloom Beauty, and Preview, reflecting the program’s far-reaching impact.
From a pool of 35 exceptional innovators, the top 10 finalists advanced to the grand finale. These finalists represented the very best ideas from the pitch centers, encompassing scalable, impactful, and forward-thinking solutions. Feegor, a B2B wholesale marketplace integrating credit through a Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) model, emerged as the overall winner at the Hackaholics grand finale. Ugonna Ginigeme, Feegor’s CEO, expressed heartfelt gratitude, saying, “I feel very grateful to God, my team, and everyone who has been part of this journey. Winning among so many great startups and entrepreneurs is humbling. I sincerely thank the Managing Director, Wema Bank, and its management for this incredible opportunity. These are still early days, but we are determined to keep working, building, and creating a positive impact for SMEs and the Nigerian economy while building an all-around successful company.”
The grand finale also attracted dignitaries and industry leaders, including Commissioner for Science, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Ekiti State, Seun Fakuade, who passionately highlighted innovation’s role in driving Nigeria’s economic growth.
He remarked, “The next 5 to 10 years will be catalytic for Nigeria. Wema Bank’s investment in young people and the startup ecosystem is transformative. Initiatives like this give underserved areas the tools to harness digital skills, creating an inclusive economy across all states.”
Similarly, Commissioner, Innovation, Science, and Technology, Lagos State, Tubosun Alake, lauded Wema Bank’s pivotal role in advancing innovation. “When I was invited to this event, I thought, How wonderful. You can’t write the story of financial sector innovation without Wema Bank. It’s incredible to see the bank set up a platform like Hackaholics to enhance innovation.”
Keynote speaker and Founder and Executive Director of Ideathon Hub Africa, Debola Deji-Kurunmi, shared insights on technology’s transformative power. She noted, “Tech is no longer a sector; it’s an enabler for every sector. We must shift the narrative for women, positioning tech as an enabler to democratize opportunity. Hackaholics exemplifies Wema Bank’s commitment to empowering the next generation of African entrepreneurs.”
The grand finale culminated in a record-breaking N145 million prize pool, nearly double the previous amount, reflecting Wema Bank’s belief in the ingenuity of Nigeria’s brightest minds. Feegor emerged as the overall winner, receiving N50 million for its innovative solutions. Empayment AI secured the first runner-up position with N35 million for its AI-powered invoice discounting platform, while Bloom Beauty claimed second runner-up with N20 million for its personalized, AI-driven beauty solutions.
In the women-led category, MyTherapist took home N12 million for its accessible mental health therapy platform, and MyItura earned N8 million for its remote healthcare services. Honorable mentions included Northino and University X, which received N10 million each. Northino was lauded for bridging traditional knowledge with modern technology through digital skills training for African native speakers, while University X impressed with its tertiary education management platform.
Reflecting on the grand finale and Wema Bank’s longstanding dedication to innovation, CEO Moruf Oseni declared, “We are delighted to celebrate the brilliance of our youth through the Hackaholics initiative. At Wema Bank, we are more than a bank; we are enablers of dreams and drivers of transformation. Earlier today, the total prize money was N75 million. But, inspired by the potential I saw, I decided to nearly double the prize pool to N145 million. Wema Bank’s legacy of 80 years remains rooted in innovation. Through initiatives like Hackaholics, we continue to empower lives, shape futures, and drive prosperity for Nigeria and Africa. This is not the end; it is only the beginning.”
L-R Winner, Hackaholics 5.0 and Founder of Feegor, Ugonna Ginigeme and the MD/CEO Wema Bank Plc, Moruf Oseni at the Wema Bank Hackaholics 5.0 Grand Finale in Lagos
L-R: Co-Founder/Executive Director of TAJBank Limited, Mr. Sherif Idi; a Director of the bank, Tata S. Umar; and TAJBank’s Founder/CEO, Mr. Hamid Joda during the bank’s 5Th Anniversary event held in Maitama-Abuja… recently
Mastercard, Others Collaborate to Drive Financial Inclusion for 10,000 MSMEs
Stories by Emma Okonji
Mastercard has collaborated with Alerzo, a leading Nigerian B2B e-commerce company, and the USAID-funded e-Trade Alliance to accelerate the digital transformation of and enhance financial inclusion among micro, small, and mediumsized enterprises (MSMEs) in Nigeria.
The collaboration aims to empower over 10,000 MSMEs with cutting-edge digital and financial solutions, enabling them to achieve sustainable growth and thrive in the digital economy.
Speaking about the collaboration, Country Manager, West Africa, Mastercard, Folasade Femi-Lawal,
said: “Mastercard is committed to driving financial inclusion and empowering small businesses worldwide. Our collaboration with Alerzo, and the e-Trade Alliance in Nigeria provides MSMEs the digital tools and resources needed to thrive in today’s digital economy. Facilitating seamless digital payments and offering comprehensive business management solutions, will enable us foster a more inclusive financial ecosystem and drive innovation and growth within the sector. The collaboration demonstrates the immense possibilities that can be unlocked through the power of public-private partnerships.”
CEO, Alerzo Limited, Adewale
Opaleye, said: “We are delighted to collaborate with Mastercard, and e-Trade Alliance for this digital transformation project in Nigeria. As the leading partner of choice for informal retailers and MSMEs, we recognize our responsibility to introduce digital retail solutions that will strengthen the economy and facilitate the adoption of a cashless society for the collective benefit of all. This initiative is part of our commitment to connecting millions of MSMEs in Nigeria to a world where digital connectivity is integrated into their businesses, making them more profitable and fulfilling.”
WACT-APMTerminals Wins CG of Customs BestTerminal Operator Award
West Africa Container Terminal
(WACT)-APM Terminals Nigeria has been honored as the “Best Terminal Operator” at the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Comptroller General of Customs Awards held in Abuja on Friday, November 29, 2024.
This prestigious recognition highlights WACT-APM Terminals Nigeria’s exceptional performance and its significant contributions to the development of Nigeria’s maritime sector.
The award underscores the company’s commitment to operational excellence, innovation, and customer satisfaction. WACT-APM Terminals Nigeria
has distinguished itself through its focus on efficiency, safety, and environmental sustainability, earning a reputation as one of Nigeria’s leading trade facilitators.
Receiving the award on behalf of the company, Innocent Ogbuji, WACT-APM Terminals Nigeria’s Government and Public Relations General Manager, expressed gratitude to the NCS.
“WACT-APM Terminals Nigeria is proud of this recognition and appreciates the Comptroller General of Customs for this award. We remain committed to maintaining our position as a leading terminal operator by leveraging cutting-edge
technology, prioritizing safety, investing in human capital, fostering a strong team culture, driving Corporate Social Responsibility, and implementing sustainable practices — all while facilitating seamless trade operations with the Nigeria Customs Service,” he said.
Located within the Oil and Gas Free Zone in Onne Port, Rivers State, WACT-APM Terminals Nigeria is Nigeria’s first greenfield container terminal built under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. Over the years, it has evolved into the most efficient gateway for markets outside Lagos, serving as a critical trade hub for eastern Nigeria and beyond.
Firm Lists Strategies to Boost Financial Inclusion in Emerging Markets
Raheem Akingbolu
Financial institutions in the emerging markets across the world can successfully weather the storm of their operations and record growth if the right tools are made available, the Chief Executive Officer and co-Founder of Orandian, Antonio Separovic, has stated.
Separovic, who led a conversation at a media parley in Lagos recently, as part of the “Oradian Core Banking Summit: The Future Is Now”, reeled out the company’s mission to transform financial inclusion across Africa and Southeast Asia.
Though the CEO admitted
that the place of technology in the financial sector cannot be undermined, he pointed out that having the right technology on its own doesn’t automatically mean that everything is fixed, adding that the right technology is one of the enablers of financial inclusion.
To this end, he pointed out that the foundation of financial inclusion lies in providing the right tools that empower individuals and communities while enabling financial institutions to thrive.
According to him, a good financial inclusion regime will enable individuals and businesses to have access to financial
products and services like savings, loans, easy payment systems and insurance.
To enable financial institutions to work better and grow, he said Oradian, a global core banking platform and SaaS provider has created innovative banking software which assists to solve problems that are from the ground up.
The CEO, who stated that Oradian focuses on emerging markets, said the company has over 55 financial institutions – banks, microfinance, digital banks, all in 13 different countries in Africa and Southeast Asia, with a deep understanding of what the targeted financial institutions needed.
Agency Urges African Brands to Take Central Stage
The management of Reuben&Samuel, a Brand Consultancy firm, has advised brand owners in Nigeria to be deliberate and assertive in telling the Nigerian story. The company has also recognized the glaring gap in global conversations, where African brands are often sidelined and undervalued, and called for a proactive measure that will change the narrative.
In a statement issued by the promoters of Reuben&Samuel,
after the media unveiling of the firm in Lagos, it was indicated that the agency was established as a forward-thinking PR agency committed to reshaping how African brands are perceived globally.
According to the statement, “With an unwavering commitment to helping brands tell their stories authentically and driving compelling narratives that position them on the world stage, they are on a mission to become Africa’s most promising
PR and Communications agency, redefining African excellence.”
The statement, which underscored the agency’s vision, emphasised that: “It is time for African brands to take the central stage and tell our stories in our own way”. This declaration marks a pivotal moment for African business, as it is the guiding philosophy of the agency’s services to elevate businesses by making sure they are seen, heard, and celebrated in global communities.
HealtH & lifestyle
Combatting Hypertension, Diabetes in Nigeria to Foster Healthier Population through Project 10Million
To combat hypertension and diabetes across Nigeria, The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) recently unveiled the Project 10 Million, P10M, initiative, an ambitious healthcare program designed under the theme “Know Your Number, Control Your Number”. Chiemelie Ezeobi writes that this project aims to screen 10 million Nigerians for blood pressure and blood sugar levels, provide free health screenings, improve healthcare access, reduce prevalence of non-communicable diseases, and as well as get medications to underserved communities
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has taken a bold step in advancing public health with the launch of the “Project 10 Million” (P10M) initiative.
Officially unveiled on October 30, 2024, at the FCT Secretariat in Abuja, the program aims to provide free health screenings and essential medications for managing hypertension and diabetes to over 250,000 residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Under the theme “Know Your Number, Control Your Number,” the initiative is poised to screen 10 million Nigerians across the country, including reaching 200 underserved communities within the FCT.
According to Bola Ajao, the SSA Media, Health Services and Environment Secretariat, this collaborative initiative brought together the FCT, the Forum of Commissioners for Health, the Nigeria Governors Forum, the Federal Ministry of Health, and development partners.
With a significant focus on early detection and prevention, P10M stands out as a model for addressing non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Nigeria, improve healthcare access and foster a healthier population.
A Step Toward Proactive Health Management
Non-communicable diseases such as hypertension and diabetes are often called “silent killers.” According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), these conditions are major contributors to mortality rates globally, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
Nigeria is no exception, with rising cases of undiagnosed hypertension and diabetes leading to severe health complications like heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure.
The FCT Minister, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, highlighted the importance of knowing one’s blood pressure and blood sugar levels.
“Empowering individuals with this knowledge is a crucial step toward prevention and management,” he said at the launch event.
Through P10M, the FCTA aims to address gaps in healthcare access, ensuring that even the most vulnerable populations are not left behind. By targeting high-risk populations and deploying health workers to easily ac -
cessible locations, P10M is reducing barriers to healthcare.
Screenings are being conducted in workplaces, markets, religious centres, garages, farms, and other community hubs across the six area councils of the FCT, making it easier for residents to participate.
A Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration
P10M is not just an FCTA initiative; it is a collaborative effort involving various stakeholders committed to improving healthcare outcomes in Nigeria. The project reflects a synergy between state governments, health commissioners, and national entities like the Federal Ministry of Health.
This united approach ensures that resources are pooled effectively and that the initiative can be scaled up across the 36 states of Nigeria. Dr. Dolapo Fasawe, the Mandate Secretary of the Health Services and Environment Secretariat, emphasised the importance of collective action: “When we work together, we can amplify our efforts to reduce the prevalence of hypertension and diabetes.”
The project is also backed by development partners, whose contributions help sustain free medication distribution
and provide technical support for screenings.
Addressing the Burden of NonCommunicable Diseases
Non-communicable diseases have become a significant challenge in Nigeria. These conditions are often exacerbated by lifestyle factors such as poor diet, physical inactivity, and stress, alongside limited access to early diagnostic services.
The Permanent Secretary for the FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Dr. Baba Gana Adam, described hypertension and diabetes as “silent killers” that require urgent attention.
He noted that many people remain unaware of their condition until severe complications arise. Through initiatives like P10M, the FCTA aims to shift the focus toward proactive health management by prioritising early detection, prevention, and treatment.
Empowering Communities Through Awareness
A significant aspect of the P10M initiative is its emphasis on public health education. To this
end, Wike and Dr. Fasawe have both stressed the need for greater awareness of the dangers of untreated hypertension and diabetes.
The initiative’s theme, “Know Your Number, Control Your Number,” encourages residents to take ownership of their health by monitoring their blood pressure and blood sugar levels regularly.
To foster widespread participation, the program has leveraged communitybased strategies such as partnerships with religious and traditional leaders, market associations, and grassroots organisations.
Media outlets have also been called upon to amplify the campaign, ensuring that accurate information reaches every corner of the FCT. The initiative complements other health programs, including the Renewed Hope Medical Palliative Initiative, which addresses healthcare disparities by providing subsidised treatment and medication for vulnerable populations.
Together, these efforts aim to build a healthier, more informed community that prioritises preventive healthcare over reactive measures.
Free Treatment for Vulnerable Populations
A standout feature of P10M is its focus on providing free medications and treatment to the most vulnerable groups. Under the FCT Health Insurance Scheme, individuals who meet specific criteria will receive comprehensive care at no cost. This includes initial medication supplies for newly diagnosed cases and referrals to government health facilities for more serious conditions.
Such measures reflect the FCTA’s commitment to ensuring equitable healthcare access for all residents, regardless of socioeconomic status. “Health is a fundamental right, and this campaign reflects our dedication to providing accessible, preventive healthcare to every resident,” Minister Wike affirmed during the launch.
As the P10M initiative continues to roll out across the FCT and beyond, it serves as a blueprint for other states to adopt similar proactive health management strategies. By addressing the root causes of non-communicable diseases and prioritising preventive care, the program has the potential to significantly reduce the burden of hypertension and diabetes nationwide.
The Mandate Secretary HSES, Dr. Dolapo Fasawe; Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate; and Alh. Isa Kano at the HSES screening stand at Transcorp Hilton hotel, Abuja
Screening of HRH Luka Ayedu Nzassa, the Etsu of Kwali by the Director Medical & Diagnostic, Dr Ahmad; the MS , Dr Dolapo Fasawe and the Permanent Secretary, Dr Baba Gana-Adam
Screening exercise by mobihealth staff at FCT screening centre in Abuja
By Reducing Maternal, Infant Mortality We’re Expanding Access to Quality Care Across Nigeria – MD Iwosan Lagoon Hospitals
Iwosan Lagoon Hospital, one of the largest private tertiary healthcare providers in West Africa, has been at the forefront of delivering high-quality medical care and innovative treatments. Over the years, the hospital has built a strong reputation for providing high-quality, patient-centred healthcare, with a special focus on improving maternal and child health. In an interview, the Managing Director of Iwosan Lagoon Hospitals Ikeja, Dr Oluyemisi Odubayo, highlights the hospital’s recent achievement of the JCI Gold Seal of Approval for the fifth time, underscoring its dedication to meeting global healthcare standards. He also talks about the journey from 1986 to becoming one of Nigeria’s leading healthcare providers and its commitment to enhancing healthcare accessibility, and the continuous focus on maternal and child health in Nigeria and West Africa. Rebecca Ejifoma brings excerpts
Can you share a bit about the journey of Iwosan Lagoon Hospital and its commitment to delivering top-tier healthcare in Nigeria?
Iwosan Lagoon Hospital’s journey began in 1986, with a clear commitment to providing high-quality, compassionate healthcare to Nigerians. Over the years, we have built a reputation as one of the country’s leading healthcare providers, consistently focusing on patient-centred care and pioneering specialized healthcare services in Nigeria. What started as a single hospital in 1986 has since expanded into a network of healthcare facilities across Lagos State, incorporating advanced medical technologies and a team of highly trained professionals. Today, Iwosan Lagoon Hospital Ikeja stands as a centre of excellence in maternal and child healthcare. Our dedication to excellence, ethical practices, and particularly our work in maternal and child health, has earned us the trust of both local and international patients.
Achieving the JCI Gold Seal of Approval for the fifth time is a significant milestone. What does this mean for the hospital, especially in delivering exceptional maternal and paediatric care to your patients?
Achieving the JCI Gold Seal of Approval for the fifth time is a significant reflection of our ongoing commitment to global healthcare standards. This prestigious recognition validates our continuous efforts to provide the highest quality care, particularly in maternal and paediatric services. It ensures that our hospital adheres to the most stringent guidelines for patient safety, quality of care, and clinical best practices. For us, this milestone goes beyond accreditation—it underscores our dedication to ensuring that mothers and children receive the safest and most effective care throughout their treatment journey. Moreover, this achievement directly contributes to our efforts in reducing maternal and infant mortality, further aligning with the global goal of improving health outcomes as part of the Sustainable Development Goals. It’s not just about maintaining standards; it’s about
Dr Oluyemisi Odubayo
continually improving, so we can offer our patients the very best in care.
The rigorous JCI accreditation process ensures safety, quality, and patientcentred care. How has this process shaped your hospital’s daily operations, particularly in terms of safety, patient care, and quality?
This rigorous process also encourages staff at all levels to be proactive in identifying and addressing potential safety risks. It has led to systematic improvements in our internal protocols, such as more effective hand hygiene practices, enhanced patient education, and better care coordination between departments. Ultimately, this commitment to constant improvement helps ensure that we provide not only safe and efficient care but also compassionate and
patient-centred experiences for everyone who comes through our doors.
What are the strategic priorities for Iwosan Lagoon Hospital as it continues to expand access to world-class healthcare in Nigeria and West Africa, especially in the area of Mother and Child health?
Our strategic priorities include expanding access to high-quality healthcare for underserved communities, particularly in maternal and child health. We are also focusing on integrating cutting-edge technologies and improving the patient experience. Additionally, we aim to enhance our outreach programs and partnerships to increase awareness and education on maternal health, ensuring that more women and children benefit from our services across Nigeria and West Africa.
As healthcare evolves globally, what new technologies or innovative care models do you see shaping the future of maternal and child healthcare at Iwosan Lagoon Hospital?
As healthcare evolves, we are seeing a shift towards more personalised, data-driven care. In maternal and child healthcare, telemedicine, remote monitoring, and mobile health applications are transforming how we provide care, especially in metropolitan cities like Lagos, where patients often struggle to find time for hospital visits. In the near future, we will integrate AI-driven diagnostic tools and advanced imaging technologies to improve the early detection of complications during pregnancy and childbirth. These innovations will allow us to deliver more precise, timely, and effective care to mothers and children.
With Iwosan Lagoon Hospitals now under Iwosan Investments Limited, how has this partnership influenced the hospital’s approach to infrastructure and healthcare innovation?
The partnership with Iwosan Investments Limited has strengthened our infrastructure
development and healthcare innovation. It has allowed us to expand our facilities, incorporate state-of-the-art equipment, and enhance our overall patient experience. This collaboration supports our mission to provide world-class healthcare services and enables us to focus on long-term sustainability and continuous improvement, ensuring that we stay ahead of healthcare trends and provide the best care possible. This, again, is a testament to our JCI reaccreditation.
Can you highlight any recent initiatives or projects, underpinned by this partnership, that have directly enhanced patient care for mothers and children?
One of the key initiatives supported by our partnership with Iwosan Investments Limited is the expansion of our maternal and child healthcare services. We have upgraded our neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and maternal wards with the latest technology and equipment. Additionally, we have launched an outreach program to provide free maternal health education and subsidized screenings, ensuring that more women and children can benefit from early interventions and preventive care.
Given the rising demand for quality maternal and paediatric healthcare, how is the hospital addressing accessibility and high standards of care for mothers and children in underserved regions across Nigeria?
We are actively expanding our outreach programs to provide essential maternal and paediatric healthcare services in underserved regions. Through partnerships with local hospitals in our Lagoon Hospital referral network, community organizations, and telemedicine platforms, we are bringing quality healthcare to areas that may not have easy access to it. Additionally, we are working to improve affordability by offering subsidized services and collaborating with insurance providers to ensure that more mothers and children can benefit from our high standards of care.
Surrogacy as an Option for Infertile Couples
Dr. Tambari Femi-Oluwole
Intending parents who experience difficulties with childbearing are often confronted with a bewildering range of treatment options. In cases where one or both partners have conditions that make it impossible for them to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term, surrogacy may offer the only viable path to parenthood.
Surrogacy is the practice where a woman carries and gives birth to a child for another person or couple. There are generally considered to be three main types of surrogacies: traditional, gestational, and altruistic.
In traditional surrogacy, the surrogate mother is the biological mother of the child, as she is inseminated with the intended father’s sperm. The surrogate’s own egg is used, so she is genetically related to the child. With gestational surrogacy, the surrogate mother carries a pregnancy with an embryo that is genetically unrelated to her. The embryo is created using the egg and sperm of the intended parents or donor gametes. The surrogate has no genetic link to the child.
Altruistic surrogacy refers to surrogacy arrangements where the surrogate mother does not receive any financial compensation beyond reasonable expenses. In these cases, the surrogate acts out of goodwill and a desire to help the intended parents. There can also be variations and combinations of these main types of surrogacy arrangements.
The key characteristic of surrogacy is that a woman (the surrogate mother) agrees to become pregnant and carry a pregnancy to
term on behalf of another individual or couple. The surrogate mother may be genetically related to the child if her own egg is used, or she may carry an embryo created with the egg and sperm of the intended parents or donors. After giving birth, the surrogate mother relinquishes all parental rights and responsibilities to the intended parent(s), who become the legal parents of the child. Surrogacy arrangements can be commercial, where the surrogate mother is paid a fee, or altruistic, where no money is exchanged. In some key circumstances surrogacy can be a viable family-building option
for infertile couples.
If the woman is unable to carry a pregnancy to term due to a medical condition, such as a malformed or non-functional uterus, surrogacy may be an option. Couples who have experienced multiple miscarriages or are unable to sustain a pregnancy for medical reasons may turn to surrogacy.
If one or both partners carry a genetic condition they do not want to pass on to a child, surrogacy with donor eggs/sperm can allow them to have a child that is not genetically related to them. In addition, as women get older, their egg quality declines. Surrogacy allows older women to have children using donor eggs.
Surrogacy is a complex and evolving legal and ethical issue, with laws varying greatly between different countries and jurisdictions.
The legal position on surrogacy in the USA varies from state to state, as there is no federal law governing surrogacy. Some states have laws allowing and regulating surrogacy (e.g., California, Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, Washington) while others have laws prohibiting or restricting surrogacy (e.g., Arizona, Michigan, Nebraska, North Dakota). Louisiana prohibits surrogacy, with criminal penalties.
The enforceability of surrogacy contracts varies by state. Some states enforce contracts, while others do not. Intending parents may need to adopt the child or obtain a court order to establish parenthood. Surrogate compensation is allowed in some states but prohibited or restricted in others.
The American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) provides ethical guidelines for surrogacy, including screening, informed consent, and disclosure.
In the UK, surrogacy is legal but is heavily regulated. The Surrogacy Arrangements Act 1985 makes it illegal to pay a surrogate more than reasonable expenses, advertise for or as a surrogate, or act as an intermediary without a license.
The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act 1990 allows surrogacy, but only for couples. It requires the surrogate’s consent, the intended parents’ consent, and a written surrogacy agreement which, however, is not legally binding. The intended parents can apply for a Parental Order to become the legal parents within 6 months of the child’s birth.
Both surrogacy agencies and clinics providing surrogacy services must be licensed by the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA).
In South Africa, the Surrogacy Act regulates surrogacy, allowing altruistic surrogacy and setting strict guidelines while in Uganda the Surrogacy Bill restricts surrogacy to Ugandan citizens and permanent residents, with a focus on altruistic arrangements.
Kenya allows both commercial and altruistic surrogacy, although there are no comprehensive laws governing the practice. In 2015, the Kenyan Parliament passed the “Assisted Reproductive Technology Bill,” which includes provisions about surrogacy, but the implementation of this law has seen delays.
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Dr. Tambari Femi-Oluwole
Anambra Innovation Week: U.S Consul General Commends Soludo as State Partners Meta
The Acting United States Consul General, JoEllen Gorg has applauded Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo of Anambra State, for the state’s Innovation Week, which is geared towards the technological revolution in the state, with youths trained in ground-breaking skills for entrepreneurship.
The commendation came at the grand ceremony of this year’s Anambra Innovation Week, where Soludo rewarded participants of the state’s ‘One-Youth-Two-Skill programme, ‘One Million Digital Tribe, Solution Innovation District (SID), and the ‘Code Anambra Programme’.
Gorg affirmed that the Innovation Week which encompasses the digital innovation programmes of Governor Soludo will
attract the required skills needed for the growth of the state’s economy considering the pool of people that will be proficient in different technological training and business enterprise.
This is as the state announced partnership with Meta, a technology company that builds platforms to connect people, find communities, and grow businesses.
This giant stride in fostering development in the state and Meta’s collaboration underscores Anambra State’s commitment to fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship. With this, Anambra State aims to leverage Meta’s cutting-edge technology and expertise to drive economic growth, create jobs, and improve the overall quality of life for its citizens.
The pact between the state and Meta was formally launched at the inaugural Anambra Innovation Week which culminated on Thursday, 29th November 2024, in Awka, the state capital.
According to Gorg, the United States has been collaborating with institutions in Africa in research and development (R&D) to attain knowledge in technology, and, interestingly, the Soludo administration has taken the right move in its digital innovation schemes.
She stated that the technology system in the country and Africa is booming and that there is a need for collaboration with Nigeria, and the Soludo government to take its initiatives to enviable heights.
Nestlé Nigeria Expands Empowerment Initiative to Support Women Entrepreneurs
Nestlé Nigeria has expanded its Nestlé Empowering Rural Women in Nigeria Initiative to include 50 more female retailers in Calabar, Cross River State. At the event to launch the project, the participants were trained in merchandising, bookkeeping, and customer service.
Speaking on the importance of this project, Corporate Communications, Public Affairs, and Sustainability Lead, Nestlé Nigeria, Victoria Uwadoka, said, “Nestlé is committed to contributing to efforts to build thriving communities. One of the pillars for achieving this objective is empowered women. For us therefore, the Nestlé Empowering Rural Women in
Nigeria Initiative is one of the ways we create shared value, contributing to the wellbeing of every stakeholder along our value chain while driving business success. This initiative has already yielded positive results among women in the seven rural communities already reached, and we are confident that we will have the same success stories among the 50 women participants from Calabar.”
Nestlé Nigeria’s Commercial Manager, Mr. Boladale Odunlami, provided more details about the project. Odunlami said, “The rural women empowerment project was created out of a need to address a gap. When our data showed that women retailers
in rural communities were not growing as consistently as others, we partnered with FDC Consult to train the women, attach them to coaches and mentors and to support them with grants in the form of products worth about 300% of their monthly sales turnover.”
Special guests at the event included the Vice Chairman, Akpabuyo Local Government Area, Honorable Chris Effiong, and the Paramount Ruler of Akpabuyo, His Royal Highness, Etinyin Francis Edem Efa, who both commended Nestlé for empowering the women and urged beneficiaries to use the grants wisely to expand their businesses.
Glenfiddich Launches Nine-year Bordeaux Cask Finish with Grand Château
Glenfiddich, the world’s most awarded Single-malt Scotch whisky, has launched the limited-edition Grand Château as part of its prestigious Grand Series. This 31-year-old whisky, matured in American oak and finished in Bordeaux red wine casks for an exceptional nine years, is now available in Nigeria. The Grand Château exemplifies Glenfiddich’s innovative spirit, combining single malt traditions with influences from France’s renowned wine region to create a uniquely indulgent and richly layered whisky.
To mark this launch, following an exclusive event in partnership with Delphino Brunch at the Wings Complex in Lagos, Glenfiddich hosted the main launch of the limited-edition whisky in Abuja on October
29th at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel. Graced by diplomats, top business leaders, and luxury connoisseurs, both events were further enhanced by the presence of Nollywood icon and Glenfiddich Meta-range collaborator, Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD), who joined as the guest of honour. A testament to Glenfiddich’s commitment to craftsmanship, the Grand Château’s nine-year Bordeaux cask finish adds distinctive notes of caramelised cherry, apple, warming spice, and toasted oak, creating a balance of opulence and earthy richness. Brian Kinsman, Glenfiddich’s Malt Master, remarked on the unique qualities imparted by Bordeaux casks: “Nine years spent in these extraordinary casks intensifies Glenfiddich’s fruity character, bringing an intriguing balance
with deep oak and vanilla tones. Although wine cask maturation is growing in popularity, the Bordeaux red wine cask finish remains rare in single malts, making this release both collectable and distinctive.”
Also commenting on the launch during the events, Prestige Manager of William Grant & Sons, Nigeria, Eddie Madaki, noted, “As the parent company and distillery behind Glenfiddich, one of the world’s most celebrated Single-Malt Scotch whisky brands, William Grant & Sons is proud to introduce the Grand Château to Nigeria. With its extended finishing and exceptional flavor profile, this masterpiece is a distinguished addition to Glenfiddich’s Grand Series, pushing the boundaries of whisky craftsmanship with every note.”
Sundry Foods, Sundry Markets Hold Blood Donation Drive in Port Harcourt
Sundry Foods Limited (SFL), owners and operators of Kilimanjaro restaurants and its sister company, Sundry Markets Limited (SML), owners and operators of Marketsquare Supermarkets, last Thursday in Port-Harcourt, Rivers State, jointly organized a blood donation drive to commemorate World Blood Donor Day 2024. The blood donation initiative, held at their corporate headquarters located at 23 Nzimiro Street, Old GRA Port Harcourt, provided an opportunity for the management and staff to voluntarily donate blood
to save the lives of those in need in society. Executive Director of SFL, Nnamdi Opara, said in a statement that both companies participated in the selfless act of donating blood as responsible corporate citizens of Nigeria, desirous of contributing to making a positive impact on the community. Commenting on the occasion,Opara said: “Positively influencing the lives of the people and communities we serve has been a top priority for us at SFL and SML. Our corporate social responsibility (CSR) teams
are focused on identifying ways in which we can make a bigger impact in society. I am pleased to highlight that we have undertaken this generous initiative to underscore the importanceof safe blood and blood products and how their transfusion is a critical aspect of care and the responsefrom our employees has been remarkable. Donating blood is one of the easiest and simplest ways to boost community well-being, support our health system, and engage in something that can be potentially lifesaving for people critically in need.”
The price of OPEC basket of twelve crudes stood at $87.33 a barrel on Monday, compared with $86.00 the previous Thursday, according to OPEC Secretariat calculations. The OPEC Reference
Saharan Blend (Algeria), Djeno (Congo), Zafiro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basrah Medium (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).
L-R;Airport Manager, Victor Attah International Airport. Uyo, Dr. Aniema Ukpong; Director of Studies, ESUT Business School, of Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Prof Fred Eze; and Board Member, Akwa Ibom State Primary Health Care Development Agency, Hon. Isaac Ukutt, at the 20th convocation ceremony of Enugu State University Science and Technology for the Award of Degrees, for Bsc , Post Graduate Diploma ,Master and PhD held in Agbani, Enugu State.... recently
Finally, Senate Passes Investment and Securities Bill 2024 into Law
KayodeTokede
In a major boost to the operations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Nigerian capital market, the Senate yesterday passed the Investments and Securities Bill (ISB) 2024 into law.
The ISB meant to repeal the SEC Act, was passed on the floor of the Senate.
During the consideration of the report on the Bill from the committee on Capital
Market, Senate Chief Whip, Tahir Monguno stated that it will protect investors and eliminate fraudulent dealings in the capital market.
Leading the debate, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Capital Market, Senator Osita Izunaso said the bill sought to repeal the Investments and Securities Act, of 2007 and enact the Investments and Securities Act, 2024 stating that the ISB is capable of transforming the capital market, encourage the
influx of foreign investors as well as boost investors’ confidence, among others.
Izunaso said: “The Bill seeks to repeal the existing Investments and Securities Act 2007, and to establish a new market infrastructure and wide-ranging system of regulation of investments and securities businesses in Nigeria especially in the areas of derivatives, systematic risk management, financial market infrastructure and Ponzi
scheme and platforms.
He said, “It was meant to establish the SEC as the apex regulatory authority for the Nigerian Capital Market. It will be a regulation of the Market to ensure capital formation, the protection of investors, maintenance of fair, efficient and transparent market, and reduction of systemic risk.”
Izunaso further said the main objective of the bill was to enact legislation that aligned with global dynamics
as they relate to the regulation of capital market through the provision of an innovative regulatory framework.
“It will protect the integrity of the security market against all forms of market abuse and insider dealing. It will prevent unauthorised, illegal, unlawful, fraudulent and unfair trade practices, relating to securities and investments.”
He said that the overriding purpose of the proposed legislation was to strengthen the
capacity of the Commission for the effective performance of its statutory mandate as well as reposition that vital sector of the economy for national economic transformation.
While announcing the passage of the Bill, President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio said a lot of people would be happy to infuse funds into the capital market when they know a lot of the risk has been minimised. He,thereafter, declared the bill passed.
PRICES FOR SECURITIES TRADED ASOF DECEMBER 4/24
Gamin G Week
Edited by nseobonG okon-ekonG |
In Oyo, Stakeholders Exchange Opinions on Sustainable Future for Gambling Industry
Nseobong Okon-Ekong reports that conferees at a recent Stakeholders Interactive Forum organised by the Oyo State Gaming and Lottery Board sought ways to stop the Nigerian gambling industry from devolving into a space where consumer exploitation and societal issues overshadow the benefits of innovation
For six years, the Oyo State Gaming and Lottery Board has organised an annual stakeholder’s Interactive Forum that pools influencers and knowledgeable persons in the industry. Normally held in Ibadan, the state capital, this year, the discourse revolved around ‘Boom or Bust: Balancing Innovation and Consumer Safety in the Gaming Industry’. The major aim of the conference was to highlight significant risks associated with the exponential growth in the gaming and lottery business in recent years to institute proper regulations and safety measures.
Conferees sought ways to stop the Nigerian gambling industry from devolving into a space where consumer exploitation and societal issues overshadow the benefits of
innovation. Panellists at the different sessions thoroughly discussed the delicate balance between embracing innovation and ensuring consumer safety, emphasising how a boom could be sustained or turn into a bust due to unbridled enthusiasm. Expressing happiness at the turnout of operators and other stakeholders, Director General Oyo State Gaming and Lottery Board, Olajide Boladuro, reeled out a score that includes sustainable collaboration and the creation of a level playing ground for all operators and setting up policies that promote ease of doing business which has led to increasing investor confidence; evident in the increased numbers of licensed operation in Oyo state. He also held up the reduction of underage gaming menace to an all-time low, regulation and digitisation
of gaming and lottery agents’ enumeration and registration. Other achievements of the board, as spelt out by Boladuro, include increased stakeholder buy-in for corporate social responsibility partnerships with the Oyo state government and significant growth in IGR through effective regulations and reforms.
The first panel, which dealt with ‘Innovations in Game Design in Gambling: Opportunities or Threats to the Industry’s Sustainability?’, comprised Gossu Ukanwoke, MD/CEO of Betking, Olabimpe Akingba, Regional Manager, Africa, Mchezo Limited, Ken Nwankwo, Head Human Resources and Administration, Premier Lotto, Mrs. Ibraheem Bukola, Regional Manager, West, Winners Golden Group and Mr. Masade Francis, MD, Velex Advisory. Ukanwoke set the ball rolling with strong advocacy for the
How NNPCR Is Revolutionising Wealth Redistribution
iyke bede
The Nigerian National Patronage Cash Reward (NNPCR) has emerged as a revolutionary initiative to redefine consumer engagement and wealth distribution in the country. Introduced as a means to invigorate the economy, the NNPCR allows consumers to benefit financially through everyday purchases.
The NNPCR operates on a simple yet innovative principle: consumers earn national reward points for patronising participating businesses. These accumulated points make them eligible for the National Consumer Draw held every Friday. This weekly draw offers participants the chance to win cash prizes ranging from ₦5,000 to an impressive ₦100 million.
“The country can truly go to the next level if we explore all the opportunities that we have,” Chief Visioner of the NNPCR, Dr Lai Labode, noted the avenues for growth and development the programme will bring about.
Established to oversee and ensure the compliance of all lottery-related activities in Nigeria, the National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC) will play an integral role in the successful implementation and regulation of
the NNPCR, ensuring fairness for all parties.
The NNPCR has been strategically designed with clear objectives that address key economic and social goals. One of the primary objectives of the initiative is to encourage Nigerians to support local businesses.
By rewarding consumers for purchasing locally made products and services, the NNPCR aims to strengthen domestic industries and create a culture of supporting homegrown goods.
The programme seeks to instil loyalty among consumers by offering them a direct financial benefit for their continued support of participating businesses. This loyalty boosts businesses and empowers consumers, fostering a win-win environment and stimulating the economy.
The initiative aims to increase the visibility and customer base of local businesses. The NNPCR acts as a tool for wealth redistribution. Through the patronage contributions of businesses, which range from one to five per cent of their revenue, the programme ensures that wealth generated through consumer spending circulates back into the economy, providing financial upliftment to individuals and families.
The NNPCR is more than a cash reward initiative—it is a revolutionary approach to economic engagement, setting the stage for a new era of financial inclusivity and national development.
The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com
progressive advancement that technology has brought to the gambling space. “With tech,” he argued, “you can accomplish in seconds or minutes what it would normally take days to achieve. You can generate adverts with AI, have AI answer your questions and have a better understanding of customer behaviour.”
According to the Betking boss, technology allows operators in the gambling industry to have targeted products for customers, adds more value to the industry and enables the industry to give a lot more back to the community where they do business.
For Akingba, the application of technology in the gambling space should not be all about making money. The welfare of the punters, she emphasised, should be paramount. “It must be seen that we care. This shouldn’t be about putting the 18+ sign only. It should be clear to underage gamblers, for instance, that they will lose both their deposit and winnings,” said Akingba.
L-R ken nwankwo, olabimpe akingba, Gossu Ukanwoke, olajide boladuro, bukola ibraheem, Francis masade and bukola omosanya
olajide boladuro (left) and bashir are
Lai Labode
MIKE ADENUGA ANNUAL LECTURE...
L-R: Chairman of Board of Trustees of Dr. Adenuga Professorial Chair, Professor Taiwo Osipitan; Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Olayide Adelami; 1st Occupier of Dr. Mike Adenuga
Chair, Professor Sunday Adebisi; Vice Chancellor, Unilag, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, and Chairman of the occasion, Dr. Ibukun Awosiika, at the second annual lecture of Dr.
Professorial Chair in Entrepreneurial Studies at University of Lagos, last Thursday
Adenuga
FG to Commence Negotiation on $2.5bn FX Forwards Owed Manufacturers
Dike Onwuamaeze
The Minister of State for Industry, Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, Senator Owan Enoh yesterday promised to commence negotiation with the governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) on resolving the unsettled $2.5 billion FX forward transactions owed to members of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN).
Owan made the pledge in Lagos during a Town Hall Meeting that was organised by MAN and other members of the Organised Private Sector (OPS) in response to the remark made by the President of MAN, Mr. Francis Meshioye, that some companies were on the brink of closure due to the CBN’s breach of FX forward contracts.
He said: “I will get in touch with the governor of CBN so that we can begin discussion on this. I am not one who come to a session like this and listens to things like this without following it up with actions.
“So, I am going to see the CBN governor and whatever is the outcome I am going to share it with MAN and the OPS. ”
The minister also promised to assist manufacturers to buy gas at lower prices in order to enhance their competitiveness.
Owan acknowledged that President Bola Tinubu had taken some tough decisions to grow the Nigerian economy, but assured the manufacturers that he would collaborate with them to push a case for certain interventions that would be targeted at the industrial sector.
“This is a thing that we need to
work together to see how we can achieve them. It is not going to be a sprint race but would require sustained efforts and incremental wins and enduring partnership to make it happen,” he said.
The minister said that monetary policies alone would not be enough to address the country’s economic challenges because fiscal measures are needed to resolve some challenges like low patronage of “Made in Nigeria” products facing the industrial sector.
He said: “There are lot of things to be done, including the will to put Executive Orders 003 and 005 into effect. How many industries are functioning below installed capacity just because there is no local demand?
“These things are not rocket science. They can be done. What is required is commitment and the love of country.”
Owan noted that the Nigerian textile industry is almost “dead” and assured that the government would do something to resuscitate the sector.
In his remarks, Meshioye said that the organised private sector was operating in an environment characterised by high interest rate, high energy crisis, multiple taxations, dilapidated infrastructure, high level of insecurity and excessive regulations by government agencies amongst others.
He said that there was need for the ministry to urgently address these challenges in order to restore the industrial sector to its strategic position, enhance wealth creation and increased economic development in Nigeria.
He identified high exchange rate as
the major problem causing closures and exits of industries from Nigeria to other parts of Africa in the past few years.
He said: “To worsen the matter, the CBN refused to honour $2.5 billion forward contracts that are due to the industries. If this is not settled many companies will close.
“It will also discredit them in
getting further facilities from their suppliers. This breach of contract by the CBN has caused financial losses and operational disruptions.”
In his presentation themed:
“Overview of the State of the Industrial Sector” during the town hall meeting, the Director General of MAN, Mr. Segun Ajayi-Kadir, said that Nigeria’s manufacturing
sector had declined over the past few decades, which has raised concerns among industrialists.
Ajayi-Kadir attributed this situation to factors such as unstable economic indicators, high inflation, poor infrastructure, electricity challenges, and high cost of credit, Naira devaluation, foreign exchange shortages and multiple taxations.
“These have led to closure of companies, high unemployment rate and increase in crime rate. For instance, as at 2023, 335 manufacturing companies became ailing,” he said. He also called on the CBN to engage the MAN with a view to revisiting the list of 43 items not valid for foreign exchange allocation.
Ogun: Abiodun Presents N1.055trn 2025 Appropriation Bill to State Assembly
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, yesterday, presented the state's 2025 Appropriation Bill of N1.055 trillion to the State House Assembly.
The appropriation bill, christened "Budget of Hope and Prosperity" we made up of N600.98 billion for Capital Expenditure and Recurrent Expenditure of N453.56 billion.
Abiodun said the budget is expected to be funded through Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), allocation from the federal government and from internal and external loans.
Disclosing the expected revenue of the bill, Abiodun said N120.97 billion is expected from Ogun State Internal Revenue Services (OGIRS), N193.85 from Ministry, Department and Agencies (MDAs) and Capital Receipts of N472.66 billion comprising internal and external loans.
Occupier of Dr. Mike Adenuga Jr. Professorial Chair in Entrepreneurial Studies, University of Lagos, Professor Sunday Adebisi, has proposed a new economic model, ‘New Enterprise Nigeria’(NEN), as an immediate solution to the nation’s economic problems.
Professor Adebisi who spoke at the University of Lagos on Thursday, while delivering the second edition of the Dr. Mike Adenuga Jr. Professorial Chair in Entrepreneurial Studies lecture entitled, “Navigating the Present Stormy Nigerian Economy: The New Enterprise Nigeria as the Anchorage” said the NEN intervention is the most feasible route to resuscitate
the nation’s economy, leading to long term growth.
He said: “The New Enterprise Nigeria" (NEN) Intervention, which is anchored on transparency and accountability, includes fit-for-all purpose infrastructural projects, integration of all ministries’ activities in synchronization with Nigerian needs, 25 years food security plan, stop borrowing and push for debt rescheduling plan and digitalization of Bureau-De-Change transactions in Nigeria that will help to revitalize the nation’s economy. “Aggressive Job creation through enterprise and startup, creations and investment into innovation drivers, subsidy removal management,
combating inflation, politicopreneurship, Acada-solution consortium, intentional and continuous youth re-orientation as well as wealth creation opportunity are other components of NEN highlighted by the university don.”
In her welcome address, the Vice Chancellor of University of Lagos, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, expressed gratitude to Dr. Mike Adenuga for partnering the university in enhancing the frontiers of entrepreneurial academic knowledge and skills acquisition at the University of Lagos.
This partnership, she said, is made possible through the endowment of the Adenuga Professorial Chair.
governor said infrastructure will gulp N284.456 billion, Education N177.8 and Health N134.5 billion.
He said the budget proposal, is expected to touch all the major areas of focus of the administration which include infrastructural development, social welfare and wellbeing, education, youth empowerment and agriculture.
He said: "This budget, aptly christened the ‘Budget of Hope and Prosperity,’ is more than a financial document - it is a visionary roadmap for our collective future, a blueprint for sustainable growth, and a bold declaration of our unwavering commitment to improving the lives of every citizen in our beloved state.
"The 2025 budget represents a
carefully designed strategic roadmap aimed at accelerating our development agenda.
"It is a manifestation of our shared vision for a prosperous Ogun State - a state where infrastructure, quality education, healthcare, security, and economic opportunities are accessible to all.
"Importantly, this budget underscores our commitment to addressing critical sectors with a strong emphasis on fiscal discipline and the sustainability of our economy.
"The expenditure policy for 2025 aligns with the Ogun State Economic Development Plan and Strategy (2021–2025), targeting fiscal sustainability, human development, food security, a favorable business
environment, energy sufficiency, enhanced transport infrastructure, and industrialization with a focus on Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)."
Prior to the presentation of the appropriation bill, Abiodun inaugurated the State Assembly Complex, which was newly renovated. Responding, Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Hon Oludaisi Elemide, appreciated the governor for his support for the assembly and called for more in the area of autonomy, increasing monthly cost and constituency allowance. He promised that the house will take a look at the appropriation bill and give it speedy passage in the interest of the state and the people.
Stakeholders List Challenges of Family Planning Campaign in Nigeria
Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja
Health Experts and promoters of family planning have identified high fertility rates, and low family planning uptake, as major contributors to poor maternal and child health outcomes which has further exacerbated rapid population growth in Nigeria.
Speaking at the commencement of a 3-day Nigeria Family Planning conference in Abuja on Wednesday, Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Dr. Ejike Orji, said there is need for a stronger and more determined collaborative effort if the goal to achieve the family planning (FP2030) targets are to be met.
The conference was jointly organised by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and Association for the Advancement of Family Planning (AAFP) with sponsorships from Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation UNFPA, FP230, Children Investment Fund Foundation and MacArthur Foundation.
Ejike said: “In Nigeria, family planning programmes are making strides, but challenges persist. Disparities in assets shaped by regional, educational, and socioeconomic differences continue to deny millions of women and girls the autonomy to make decisions about their reproductive health."
Ejike said that Nigeria has rolled out ambitious goals to strengthen advocacy, improve supply chains, and promote innovative solutions.
Further according to him, "The commitments were renewed for AP2030 with a stronger and more determined collaborative effort to show results.
Despite these milestones, Nigeria's contraception pre-variant rate, CPR, marginally increased to 15 percent from 12 percent, with unmet need at 21 percent.”
According to global statistics, over 222 million women in developing countries face an unmet need for modern contraception, underscoring the urgency of our shared mission.
While highlighting some of the
key challenges, Orji said that high fertility rates, coupled with low family planning uptake, contribute to poor maternal and child health outcomes and subsequently exacerbate rapid population growth.
He said: "These challenges demand renewed urgency, innovation, and collaboration to achieve the AP2030 targets. Subsequently, the Nigerian government demonstrated growing dedication matched with action and released $4 million for this counterpart support that has made it a very major landmark announcement and taking every laudable initiative to tackle our growing population.
"May we applaud the federal government for that. Namely, the renewed commitment to the AP2030 global initiative, setting a financial target of 1% of the health budget to be set aside for FP, the launch of the strategic plan for the implementation of the right population policy, and the setting up of the population advisory group at the National Population Commission.
James Sowole in Abeokuta
Jr. Professorial
Mike
Jr.
S'Africa Targets Nigeria's Lithium for Electric Vehicle Revolution
Backs its bid to join G20
Both nations activate advisory council to boost trade and investment House calls for lithium industry development roadmap
Deji Elumoye and Juliet Akoje in Abuja
President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa has expressed his country's readiness to collaborate with Nigeria to harness critical minerals, particularly lithium, to drive the green energy transition and support the development of electric vehicles (EV) batteries.
This emerged as the House of Representatives called for the creation of a roadmap for developing the infrastructure required by potential lithium mines in Nigeria.
Speaking in Cape Town, South Africa, at the Nigeria -South Africa Business Roundtable, President Ramaphosa proposed leveraging Nigeria's vast lithium reserves as a cornerstone for industrialisation efforts in the EV sector.
He urged the private sector and development finance institutions to collaborate in building infrastructure and scaling up manufacturing capabilities in this sector.
According to him: "There is also much opportunity for cooperation on pharmaceuticals. Our two countries are strategically positioned to benefit from the rapid growth of clean energy manufacturing industries.
"South Africa has developed a Just Transition Framework and an
Investment Plan that anticipates massive investments in renewable energy and the green economy over the next few years.
"As part of the broader global transition to a low-carbon economy, we must leverage the abundant natural resources that exist in our countries to promote green industrialisation.
"We should leverage each other's capabilities in minerals processing. We must work together to ensure critical minerals are beneficiated at source.
We call on businesses to support and involve themselves in these initiatives."
Ramaphosa also disclosed that South Africa will "keenly support the bid of Nigeria, a valued sister country," to become a member of the G20 club of the world's major economies.
He gave the promise at the official launch of South Africa's presidency of the G20 in Cape Town, few minutes before he received Tinubu at Tuynhuys to co-chair the 11th Bi-National Commission between Nigeria and South Africa,
Ramaphosa reiterated this stance during his tete-a-tete with Tinubu and the expanded meeting with officials of both countries at the BNC.
South Africa and the African Union are the continent's only representatives in the G20.
Ramaphosa said other key African countries should also be admitted to the club "so that we can raise the voice from Africa, the neglected continent for the longest time."
He noted that South Africa had been the lone voice for Africa in the G20 before the admission of the African Union last year after his country had lobbied for it to become a member.
"We have a voice, we have a presence, and we will be the biggest growth story in years to come.
"Our population is going to grow by leaps and bounds, and therefore, as a continent, we are going to be a big noise, and we want that big noise to be recognised in the form of countries that will be part of the G20 right now," he said at the official launch of the G20 presidency.
Nigeria and South Africa have also fully activated the Joint Ministerial Advisory Council on Industry, Trade, and Investment to enhance economic cooperation between the two leading African economies.
Ramaphosa who stated this at the Nigeria -South Africa Business Roundtable recalled that the Joint Ministerial Advisory Council on Trade was launched during his State Visit to Nigeria in 2021. It aimed to address trade and investment challenges, foster policy alignment, and
create a conducive environment for business growth in both countries.
"Today, we agreed on the full operationalisation of the Council. This will support a conducive environment for improved trade and investment. Through the Council, we hope to ensure the efficient resolution of trade- and investment-related challenges,” he said.
He acknowledged the strategic importance of both nations in their respective regions and the need to diversify trade relations to move beyond oil and gas dependency.
"South Africa runs a large trade deficit with Nigeria, mainly due to oil and gas imports. We need to diversify our trade to ensure a mutually beneficial partnership.
"We are greatly encouraged by the presence of South African companies in Nigeria, just as we welcome Nigerian companies in South Africa.
"We do recognise that challenges still exist within our respective operating environments that limit the expansion of investment and sometimes impact on the operations of companies," he said.
At the roundtable, Tinubu assured that Nigeria was open for business and ready to provide stability, security, and the rule of law for businesses to thrive.
At the event attended by business leaders, government officials, and trade stakeholders, Tinubu expressed commitment to address issues discouraging South African investors from growing their businesses and franchises in Nigeria and called on South Africa to reciprocate by allowing Nigerian companies to operate and flourish in South Africa.
He assured that Nigerian officials would continue collaborating with their South African counterparts to facilitate the implementation of the agreed mandates under the Bi-National Commission.
"Nigeria and South Africa are cojoined twins tied by the hips not only for survival but for the prosperity of the people," he said.
Tinubu said Nigeria was undergoing stringent positive economic reforms to serve the people of Nigeria and bring prosperity to Africa.
"The reforms have begun to see the light of the day. You have no better investment than in Nigeria. You cannot earn better on your investments elsewhere except in Nigeria," he said.
Meanwhile, the House of Representatives has called for the creation of a roadmap for developing the infrastructure required by potential lithium mines in Nigeria.
OYEDELE: DERIVATION FORMULA'LL REDUCE INEQUITABLE RESOURCE DISTRIBUTION
as the Senate yesterday directed its committee on Finance to stop further action on the landmark tax reform bills, pending when grey areas of concern raised on the proposed legislations by stakeholders are properly addressed.
But Oyedele explained that the current VAT allocation formula, based on 20 per cent derivation, 50 per cent equality of states, and 30 per cent population, was flawed.
He cited litigation initiated by Lagos and Rivers States, in which they argued that VAT collection should be under state control, since it is not explicitly mentioned in the constitution, arguing that if the case goes their way, it will mean that VAT will be based on 100 per cent derivation, further deepening the current inequity among states.
He defended the urgency of the tax reform bills, emphasising the need to address economic challenges, promote fairness, and ensure equity in revenue sharing, outlining how the reforms aim to resolve systemic issues in the VAT system and provide relief for struggling Nigerians.
He said: “Most likely, if we get the judgement from the Supreme Court,
it will say states should administer it. When a state administers VAT, then it becomes 100 per cent derivation.
“It is important for us to understand that our proposal to move derivation to 60 per cent is actually a middle ground. If we lose the opportunity of getting this 60 per cent derivation, we are likely to end up with 100 per cent derivation, which, to be honest, is not bad but is going to create a lot of problems for businesses and economic growth.”
Asked why the federal government was in a rush to ensure that the bills were pushed for emergency passage, Oyedele maintained that the challenge of streamline Nigeria’s tax system was indeed an urgent matter.
“We are at a stage today where the majority of people are struggling. Small businesses face over 60 official levies and taxes, over 200 unofficial ones. If you want to provide relief for your people, you should do it in a hurry because it’s urgent; it’s an emergency,” he pointed out.
According to him, the current system which attributes VAT revenue to states where payments are made
THISDAY/ARISE GROUP BOARD OF EDITORS INVITES NOMINATIONS FOR 2025 THISDAY AWARDS
that defined the year 2024 in Nigeria.
Others include: ‘Bank of the Year’, for the bank which has used innovation, technology and inclusion for growth in earnings and shareholder value as well as ‘Banker of the Year’, for the banker whose leadership and impact has changed the banking landscape for good. Also listed are: ‘Global Bank of the Year’ for the bank with the most global impact on Nigeria; ‘Brand of the Year’ for that brand whose impact and identity have created memorable and unforgettable experiences and ‘Company of the Year’, expected to be taken by a well-regarded company with most impact in the lives of Nigerians in 2024.
In addition, there is the ‘Product of the Year’ category reserved for a strong, life – changing product whose value proposition is better than any other in the marketplace, at the event slated for January 22, 2025.
According to a release from the editors, there will also be the category for the ‘Minister of the Year’ for that minister who stands out in the cabinet as an agent of reform as well as ‘Governor of the Year’ for that leader of any sub-national who combines vision, passion and
dedication and courage to make the lives of the people of their states better.
“Nominations close on December 25, 2024; winners will emerge on December 31st, 2024 for the awards ceremony in January 22, 2025 in the usual THISDAY style where global leaders and legends will gather to celebrate the best of Nigeria,” the organisers of the awards said.
In addition, there is a segment reserved for ‘Senator of the Year’, with legislative impact for the greater good; ‘Representative of the Year’ involving the House Member with legislative impact, as well as ‘Government Agency of the Year’, whose leadership and action have promoted service to the people of Nigeria.
Other categories are: ‘Investor of the Year’, with the most impact on the lives of Nigerians; ‘Young Global Leaders of the Year’, for driven, young and daring leaders under 40 shaping the future of the world, according to Nigeria.
Nominations are expected to be submitted stating the contributions of the nominees, to - awards2025@ thisdaylive.com; awards2025@arise. tv,” the message from the board of editors added.
rather than where consumption occurs, disproportionately benefits Lagos State and to a lesser extent Rivers state.
In 2023 alone, Oyedele said that Lagos accounted for over 80 per cent of VAT revenue, despite its economy being about 30 per cent of the national total, urging those opposed to the current bills to imagine a situation where Lagos collects all its VAT.
“To promote equity and stimulate economic activities across the country, the reform proposes attributing VAT to where consumption takes place and increasing the share of VAT revenue states retain,” he stressed.
Oyedele, who also responded to insinuations that adequate consultation was not carried out by the committee, said that there were at least four meetings with finance commissioners as well as revenue service chairpersons, and with governors, to a lesser extent.
“We also had engagement with the governors themselves, but you would imagine that if you manage to get the airtime to speak to governors, either through the governors’ forum or the national economic council, they are unlikely to give you one hour or two hours, so there was a particular meeting where we got 15 minutes,” he disclosed .
He added: “We understand they have a very busy schedule. We also recognise that they may not be in the best place to deal with the technicalities of what we were dealing, that is why we spent more time with their finance commissioners and with the revenue
service chairpersons across Nigeria.”
Stressing that Tinubu has never interfered in the work of the committee, he said that the body was able to convince the federal government to reduce its share of VAT from 15 per cent to 10 per cent, reallocating the remaining 5 per cent to states,.
“This amount exceeds what states currently collect from multiple consumption taxes and ensures efficient, centralised tax collection,” Oyedele argued.
He also dismissed allegations of third-party involvement in tax administration, especially consultants, noting that the bills explicitly prohibit the use of such consultants for tax collection or assessment.
Separately, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Policy Communication, Daniel Bwala, has said that the opposition from the north against the bill was just a mere plot for political negotiate
Speaking on Arise television programme, Prime Time, Bwala said: ''I have a feeling that this whole opposition thing, I see it even more of playing the politics for negotiation.''
Bwala, who hails from Borno, said contrary fears expressed in some quarters , the bills would not impoverish the north.
“I am from the north, and I am really saddened by the notion generated in the media that it is a north versus the south thing. This is not from the media in the sense of media people, but people creating the
narrative that the tax reform bills are built or designed to afflict the north.
“I have seen lots of northerners who supported the bill, lots of them from different parts of the north, north-central and north-west. The very opposite is the point of the bill, because if you say that the bill is going to impoverish the north or is going to afflict poor people, it is actually this proposed bill that is addressing the problem that the poor people encounter.
“But the reason why I’m very emphatic about this issue of poverty is because I come from the north and the conversation in the north is that this will bring poverty to you, or this one will impoverish you. The tax is in favour of the poor,” he maintained.
Also yesterday, the Senate directed its committee on finance to stop further actions on the landmark tax reform bills pending when grey areas of concern raised on the proposed legislations are properly addressed.
The Deputy President of the Senate, Jibrin Barau, who stated this at plenary, specifically asked the Senate Committee on Finance, to put the proposed public hearing on hold for now.
He said a team of the Senate will today (Thursday), meet a delegation of the federal government led by the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN).
Barau said: “It's on this note that the Committee on Finance that the
The lawmakers also called for the design of the regulatory and legal framework governing the sector and also urged the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development to cause the creation of the Nigerian Lithium Production Agency in line with Part II Section 4(P) of the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act 2007 with the mandate to develop a vertically integrated lithium industry. Furthermore, the House also urged the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development to request increased funding of the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency (NGSA) to enable it to carry out mineral site mapping and high-resolution airborne surveys, including radiometric and electromagnetic surveys, to accurately determine the quantity of lithium deposits in Nigeria.
bills have been referred to, should put on hold further action on it, that is, public hearing and other issues until we resolve these issues.
“All sides will be given the opportunity and we shall resolve the issues before anything is allowed to go.”
Barau said the proposed meeting with the AGF was aimed at resolving the criticisms on the proposed tax reform bills currently before the two chambers of the National Assembly. Barau said the meeting will be held at the National Assembly Complex, Abuja and that it was necessary for the lawmakers to have extensive interaction with the government officials before passing the tax reform bills.
He said the Senate Minority Leader, Abba Moro will lead the senators in the meeting. Other senators who will attend the meeting according to the Deputy Senate President are: the Senate Chief Whip, Tahir Monguno; Adamu Ailero, (PDP, Kebbi Central), and Seriake Dickson (PDP, Bayelsa West).
Others are: Titus Zam (Benue South), Abdullahi Yahaya (Kebbi), Adeola Olamilekan (APC, Ogun West), Sani Musa (APC, Niger East) and Adetokunbo Abiru (APC, Lagos East). Barau said: “Of the tax reform bills that are before us, this is in consonance with the fact that we understand at all times that this Senate is the highest assembly in this country.
Continued
ZENITH BANK EMERGES ‘BANK OF THE YEAR, NIGERIA’ IN THE BANKER AWARDS 2024
the Bank of the Year, Nigeria in The Banker’s Bank of the Year Awards 2024. This award is a testament to the unwavering trust and loyalty of our esteemed customers, the unparalleled leadership and guidance of the Board and Management as well as the hard work and dedication of our staff. It also reflects our bank's steadfast commitment to delivering excellent services to our customers and contributing to the growth and development of the Nigerian economy. We will continue to invest in innovative technologies, expand our range of products and services, and maintain our commitment to exceptional customer service in order to sustain our position as Nigeria’s Number One Bank.” She lauded the Founder and Chairman of Zenith Bank Plc, Jim Ovia, CFR, for his visionary role in laying the foundation for a reputable, dominant
and globally recognised financial institution known for innovation, superior performance, and the creation of premium value for all stakeholders.
In November 2024, Zenith Bank commissioned its Paris Branch following the granting of the final approval by France’s banking regulator, the Autorité de Contrôle Prudentiel et de Résolution (ACPR). This is part of the bank’s global expansion strategy, and its commitment to serving clients wherever their businesses are around the world.
Zenith Bank has continued to earn numerous awards, with this latest accolade coming on the heels of several recognitions. These include being recognised as the Number One Bank in Nigeria by Tier-1 Capital for the fifteenth consecutive year in the 2024 Top 1000 World Banks Ranking, published by The
Banker Magazine. The Bank was also awarded the Bank of the Year (Nigeria) in The Banker’s Bank of the Year Awards for 2020 and 2022; and Most Sustainable Bank, Nigeria in the International Banker 2023 and 2024 Banking Awards. Further recognitions include Best Bank in Nigeria for four years from 2020 to 2024 in the Global Finance World’s Best Banks Awards and Best Commercial Bank, Nigeria for four consecutive years from 2021 to 2024 in the World Finance Banking Awards. Additionally, Zenith Bank has been acknowledged as the Best Corporate Governance Bank, Nigeria, in the World Finance Corporate Governance Awards for 2022, 2023 and 2024 and ‘Best in Corporate Governance’ Financial Services’ Africa for four consecutive years from 2020 to 2023 by the Ethical Boardroom.
The Bank’s commitment to
excellence saw it being named the Most Valuable Banking Brand in Nigeria in the Banker Magazine Top 500 Banking Brands for 2020 and 2021, and Retail Bank of the Year for three consecutive years from 2020 to 2022 as well as Bank of the Year, 2023 at the BusinessDay Banks and Other Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards. The Bank also received the accolades of Best Commercial Bank, Nigeria and Best Innovation in Retail Banking, Nigeria, in the International Banker 2022 Banking Awards. Zenith Bank was named Bank of the Decade (People’s Choice) at the ThisDay Awards 2020, Bank of the Year 2021 by Champion Newspaper, Bank of the Year 2022 by New Telegraph Newspaper, Best in MSME Trade Finance, 2023 by Nairametrics and Most Responsible Organisation in Africa 2021 by SERAS Awards.
South African President, Ramaphosa
MANUFACTURERS ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA’S 36TH ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING...
L-R: Chairman, Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), South East Zone, Lady Ada Chukwudozie; Chief Executive Officer of Nedcomoaks/Victoria Crest Homes and Recipient of MAN Award as the Pioneer of Renewable Energy and Sustainability Innovation, Dr. Kennedy Okonkwo; and President, MAN, Otunba Francis Meshioye, at the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria’s 36th Annual General Meeting, Awards and Gala Night, held in Enugu...recently
Ekiti Court Remands Activist Dele Farotimi over Alleged Defamation Petition by Afe Babalola
Atiku, Afenifere condemn arrest, demand his release
A magistrate court in Ado-Ekiti has ordered the remand of human rights activist and lawyer, Dele Farotimi, in a correctional facility over charges of defamation against prominent legal figure, Chief Afe Babalola, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN).
The court's decision followed Farotimi's arraignment by the Nigeria Police on allegations of defaming Babalola in his book, titled, “Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System.”
Farotimi, who pleaded not guilty to all 16 charges, was accused of making false and defamatory statements about Babalola, which allegedly harmed his reputation.
In his defence, Farotimi’s lawyer, Dayo Akeredolu, argued that the charges were bailable, requesting
that his client be granted bail on self-recognisance or on liberal terms.
Akeredolu stressed that Farotimi posed no threat to society, given his public figure status, and should be presumed innocent until proven guilty.
However, Police Prosecutor, Samson Osun, opposed the bail application, citing the need for further investigation.
Magistrate Abayomi Adeosun denied the bail request and ordered Farotimi's remand in custody.
The case centred around claims made in Farotimi's book, where he allegedly accused Babalola and others of judicial corruption.
The charge sheet included statements from the book, such as allegations that Babalola "corrupted the Supreme Court to procure a fraudulent judgement" and other similar defamatory remarks.
The court adjourned the case to December 10 for further hearing.
Farotimi faced multiple counts under Sections 373 and 375 of the Criminal Code Act, relating to defamation, which are punishable by law.
Atiku, Afenifere, Others Condemn Arrest
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar condemned the arrest and detention of Farotimi, describing it as a reminder of the dark days of military dictatorship.
In a statement, Atiku said, “The arrest and detention of lawyer and human rights advocate, Dele Farotimi, are unequivocally condemned.”
He added, "It serves as a grim reminder of the dark days of military dictatorship when the iron fist of tyranny sought to crush all dissent.
''I am made aware that Dele is being accused of defamation — an offence that, under normal circumstances,
should not warrant the involvement of law enforcement.''
Atiku said the police intervention in such matters was nothing less than the use of a sledgehammer to swat a fly, an overreach of unimaginable proportions.
According to the former vice president, "This alarming trend, particularly the recent abduction — or rather, the arrest — of Dele Farotimi, is emblematic of this administration’s insidious agenda to suffocate the fundamental right to free expression.
''The aim is clear: to intimidate and harass citizens, particularly those who oppose the regime and the press, thus, paving the way for the establishment of a one-party state.
“It is imperative to remind the Tinubu administration that these repeated acts of arrest stand in direct contradiction to the principles of democracy."
Benue Agog, as Dangote Cement Seals Multimillion Naira Development Accord
George Okoh in Makurdi
A wave of jubilation swept Gboko, Benue State on Wednesday as Dangote Cement Plc and six host communities signed an historic Community Development Agreement (CDA).
The landmark accord, which commits Dangote Cement to multimillion-naira development initiatives, was celebrated as a transformative milestone, with the communities pledging to uphold a peaceful coexistence.
His Royal Highness, Ter Gboko, Gabriel Shosum, hailed the pact as the dawn of a new era, affirming that the communities’ longstanding aspirations had been realized.
The monarch extended gratitude to Alhaji Aliko Dangote, President of the Dangote Group, for his commitment to addressing the needs of the host communities, while urging local leaders to sustain peace and harmony to support the company’s operations.
Mrs. Bimbo Sariat Olawoye, representing the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, expressed pride in the achievement and called for collective efforts to ensure the full implementation of the CDA.
Hon. Elias T. Yina, Executive Chairman of Gboko Local Govern-
ment Area, described the agreement as unparalleled in the company’s over 40-year history, highlighting its potential to benefit not only the local government but also the state.
Plant Director, DCP Gboko, Louis K. Raj, said the achievement of the CDA is as a result of the support from the Benue State Government, as well as from the Gboko Local Government Area, community leaders and the ministry of Solid Minerals Development, among other stakeholders.
The Plant Director added: “This important occasion marks the beginning of concrete infrastructural development and social support in the areas of Education, improved access to Healthcare, Economic Empowerment programs targeted at the Youths, the women groups and the farming population.
“The company’s social investment will also facilitate improved access to potable water, improve electrifica-
tion and power supply to the host communities, among other things.
“The Gboko Plant’s CDA also provides for scholarship grants for students in secondary and tertiary institutions to promote excellence in educational pursuits of indigent students from our host communities.”
Head of Social Performance, Mr. Wakeel Olayiwola, described the signing of the CDA as historic and key to the implementation of key projects in the host communities.
Afenifere also condemned the action of the Nigeria Police and dismissed it as illegal, crude, uncivilised and most unacceptable in a country that laid claims to democratic practices.
Afenifere called for the “immediate release of Dele Farotimi or that he be taken to court immediately as he is presumed innocent of all charges, the proof of which is the burden of
his accusers no matter how highly placed. “Dele Farotimi is a known critic of government, an anti-corruption crusader in the judiciary and advocate of equity and true federalism and should not be subjected to terror under the guise of interrogation for nebulous allegations by the security forces and other agencies of government.
The regulator of the oil and gas sector, the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), yesterday emphasized the Board's oganised youths’ summit which was part of its 13th Practical Nigerian Content (PNC) 2024, was to mentor young persons and introduce them to the opportunities in the sector.
Speaking on the theme: 'Empowering the Future: Unlocking the Opportunities in the Niger Delta Oil and Gas Sector', the Executive Secretary (ES), Engineer Felix Ogbe said the event was organised in partnership with DMG Events.
He said it had become a permanent feature in the Nigerian Oil and Gas industry's events calendar, stressing that while the main PNC conference focusses on major issues that confront Nigerian Content implementation in the sector, the youth summit was organised to
Zuma International Film Festival 2024 Ends in Abuja
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
The 14th edition of the Zuma International Film Festival (ZUFF), which commenced on December 1, is expected to end today in Abuja.
The Chief Executive of the Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC) who also doubles as the Chairman of the Festival’s Central Planning Committee, Dr Alli Nuhu, in his address, emphasised the unique power of cinema as a tool for cultural exchange and societal change.
Addressing a diverse audience of government officials, global creatives, and film enthusiasts, during the
event themed: “Digital Renaissance: Embracing the Future”, Nuhu said technology can play a transformative role in the development of cinema.
“Cinema, from the Nigerian perspective, is more than just entertainment—it is a profound collective activity that celebrates heritage and fosters global unity,” he said.
Besides, he applauded the Nigerian film industry for its significant economic impact and cultural contributions, bolstered by events like ZUFF.
“Our unwavering commitment to hosting this festival annually is a testament to the belief in the
transformative power of cinema.
The economic impact of past editions has sparked increased interest and stakeholder participation in Nigeria’s film industry.
“The support from our domestic and international partners has been instrumental in achieving the festival's objectives,” he remarked
He stated that this year’s theme underscores the pivotal role of digital technology in connecting Nigerian filmmakers to global audiences, describing the digital renaissance as a call to leverage emerging technologies to enhance storytelling and amplify Nigerian voices worldwide.
“It is a call to adapt to the changing landscape of digital media, harness the power of technology to tell our stories, showcase our culture, and promote our values. By doing so, we can truly embrace the future.
“Digital technology has not only democratised filmmaking, giving a voice to the voiceless, but it has also expanded the horizons of our imagination, allowing us to explore new realms and push the boundaries of our creativity,” Nuhu said.
He called on participants to tell stories that matter—stories that heal, inspire, and unite.
mentor young persons and introduce them to the opportunities in the industry and the linkage sectors of the economy.
Represented by Mr. Olugbenga Shega, Manager, Capacity Building, NCDMB, the ES said: "Our mandate is to develop human capabilities and material capacities in the Nigerian oil and gas industry and to monitor and enforce compliance with the provisions of the Act.
“The theme for this year's Youth Event is 'Empowering the Future: Unlocking the Opportunities in the Niger Delta Oil and Gas Sector.
"This theme speaks to our determination and on-going efforts to introduce youths from the Niger Delta to the opportunities that abound in the oil and gas industry.
"Just a few weeks ago we partnered the Nigeria LNG to kickstart the Nigerian Content Human Capacity Development (NC-HCD) Basic Training Programme for a total of 331 young graduates.
"The trainings cover ICT, Engineering, Welding and Fabrication, Non-destructive Testing (NDT), Lifting and Working at Heights, Quality Management Systems, Marine and Offshore Services, and Facility Management and Maintenance.
"We also organised training for youths with the Industrial Training Fund (ITF), Waltersmith Petroleum and other organisations."
Ogbe said that as part of the agency's initiatives in the Niger Delta, they had developed two oil and gas parks at Emeyal 1, in Ogbia Local Government Area and Odukpani, in Cross River State. He also said: "We also invested in a lube oil blending plant being developed by Eraskon Nigeria Ltd
Olusegun Samuel in Yenagoa
Chuks Okocha in Abuja, Wale Igbintade in Lagos and Gbenga Sodeinde in Ekiti
SIGNING OF MOU BETWEEN CIG MOTORS AND FCMB...
L-R: Head of Legal, CIG Motors, Mr. David Aloh; General Manager, Management Centre of Choice Inter8q⁸q national Group, May Li; Executive Director, CIG Motors, Mr. Jubril Arogundade; National Head of Sales, Mr. Emmanuel Comla; Regional Head (Lagos), Mrs. Omowunmi Kalejaiye; and Group Head, Consumer Assets, Mr. Olajire Awofisibe, all of First City Monument Bank (FCMB) at the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between CIG Motors and FCMB for an Auto Loan Scheme during the CIG Motors Grand Auto Fair in Lagos...yesterday
NAF Acquires 64 New Aircraft in Three Years, Takes Delivery of 38 in 2025
Promises to respect, protect human rights, wings 28 new pilot trainees Honours personnel for killing bandit leaders in Zamfara, signs MoU with aviation agencies
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, yesterday said that the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), acquired no fewer than 64 brand new aircrafts of various types in three Abubakaryears.also revealed that NAF is expected to take delivery of another set of 38 platforms of various types in 2025. This, he said was in addition to the two T-129 helicopters and one KA 360i aircraft expected to be delivered before the end of this year.
In another development, the CAS yesterday said NAF under his leadership has instituted robust measures to uphold the highest standards of human rights, reaffirming the service's unwavering commitment to protecting and serving the nation.
He said that some of these protective measures include strict adherence to air targeting cycle and use of precision-guided munitions. This was as the NAF, also winged no fewer than 28 student pilots who completed their training at home and abroad.
Meanwhile, NAF also yesterday honoured personnel who took part in the operations that led to the killing of notorious bandit leaders and their combatants in Zamfara State as part of effort to boost their morale.
As part of its inter-agency cooperation, NAF also signed a revised Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau and the Hybrid Health, Safety, and Environment Group, to further strengthen their collaborative efforts to enhance safety standards across the aviation sector.
The CAS made this disclosure on the service’s aircraft acquisition while welcoming guests and participants to the Nigerian Air Force Training, Operation and Safety Seminar 2024, at NAF Conference Centre and Suites, Kado, Abuja.
He said the situation, ceaselessly seemed to be on the increase in recent times.
The Senate at plenary yesterday summoned the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, and other stakeholders in the sector over rampant cases of flight cancellations and delays in the sector.
The resolution was sequel to the adoption and approval of a motion by the Chairman, Senate Committee on Aviation, Senator Abdulfatai Buhari, who is representing Oyo North Senatorial District in the National Assembly.
Titled, “Incessant Delayed and cancelled flights by Airline Operators in Nigeria,” the Senator in his motion, drew the attention of his colleagues to the worrisome development.
Buhari noted a series of reportage in both the print and electronic media as well as the social media in the country, on the incessant delay and cancellation of flights by Airline operators in Nigeria.
He added, “The Senate notes that this development is worrisome as air travel is one of the most reliable, dependable and quicker means of transportation.
“Air travels are often undertaken for business/official purposes and to keep to other scheduled appointments, which are usually time-bound.
“Therefore, unwarranted flight delays and cancellations will be counterproductive to the socioeconomic growth and development of this “Thecountry.
Senate further notes that as part of interventionist measures to check unethical and unwholesome practices of the practitioners in the aviation sector, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), is statutorily empowered, through the enactment of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Act, to among other things, provide oversight.
He noted that the seminar is perfect for this time of the year as the service reviews its operational activities for 2024 and refine its strategies for deploying airpower to address all threats to national
security in the coming year.
Observing that training, operations, and safety are integral and inseparable pillars that collectively underpin NAF's constitutional mandate and raison d'être as an Air Force, the CAS said that the seminar holistically integrates these three distinct yet interdependent domains, for meaningful dialogue and critical introspection.
According to him, "Under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, the Nigerian Air Force has witnessed a remarkable renaissance, evident in the renewal of our aircraft fleet and enhanced operational readiness.
"Over the past one year, we have taken delivery of 12 advanced aircraft. These include two KA-360i aircraft, four DA-62 aircraft, four T-129 helicopters, and two AW-109 Trekker helicopters.
"Before the end of this year, the Service is expecting additional deliveries of two T-129 helicopters and one KA 360i aircraft.
"Next year, the NAF is also
set to receive 10 AW-109 Trekker helicopters, 24 M-346FA aircraft, and three CASA - 295 aircraft as well as 12 AH-1Z attack helicopters. This makes a total of 64 brand new aircraft in about three years".
Giving further details of the acquired platforms, the CAS said, "That's not all. In addition to these new acquisitions, we have also procured 12 pre-owned A-Jet aircraft from the French Air Force through SOFEMA.
"While all 12 aircraft are ready for shipping, it is anticipated that six will be restored to operable status, with the remaining six used as spares to support the Alpha Jet fleet.
"It is therefore no exaggeration to state that the Nigerian Air Force is experiencing a golden era under the current administration".
Meanwhile, speaking at the winging ceremony of no fewer than 28 student pilots who completed their training at home and abroad, in Abuja, the CAS said that the service has continued to work with
international stakeholders like the United States Air Force and British Military Advisory and training team (BMATT) to introduce new tactics, techniques and procedures for improved air/ground integration. This renewed international collaboration is not unconnected with the occasional bombing of wrong targets with its attendant civilian casualties, he added.
According to Abubakar, "I recently gave my approval for a committee of officers to draw up the Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response-Action Plan to improve our capacity to manage and mitigate civilian harm resulting from air operations.
"In the aspect of training, we gained significant mileage this year as 405 airmen and 186 officers completed various foreign courses, seminars and trips, while 64 are currently ongoing.
"Additionally, 5,474 and 1,331 personnel have completed and are undergoing various local training courses, respectively.
Changing World Order: Varsity Dons Urge Strategic Global Engagement
University professors and political analysts, yesterday, stressed the importance of African nations adopting pragmatic global strategies that will prioritise their interests. They made this known during a webinar on 'Donald Trump's Presidency: Implication for Africa, African Diaspora and World Peace', organised by the Centre for Black Culture and International Understanding in collaboration with the Department of Political Science, Fountain University, Osogbo. A professor of political science, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Femi Mimiko, expressed concern over the neglect of Africa during Donald Trump's first term, noting his lack of engagement with
ILO: Over 3m Workers Die of Occupational Accidents, Diseases Annually
Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja
The International Labour Organisation (ILO) has said that more than three million workers die each year due to occupational accidents and diseases, with more than 395 million non-fatal work accidents
According to recent ILO estimates (2023), more than 3 million workers die each year due to occupational accidents and diseases, with more than 395 million non-fatal work accidents.
ILO Country Director Vanessa Phala said the data corresponded to an increase of more than 5 per cent compared to data for 2015.
" Beyond the physical and moral suffering, these accidents and illnesses constitute economic losses, which represent nearly 4% of GDP worldwide.
"All these accidents and illnesses result from risk factors that could have been avoided by developing strategies to achieve a safe and healthy work environment," she said.
Phala spoke at the maiden Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Summit held on Tuesday in Abuja. She said there was an increase of more than 5 per cent compared to data for 2015.
Her words: "Beyond the physical and moral suffering, these accidents
and illnesses constitute economic losses, which represent nearly 4 percent of GDP worldwide.
"All these accidents and illnesses result from risk factors that could have been avoided by developing strategies to achieve a safe and healthy work environment.
"That's why, the tripartite constituents of the ILO adopted on June 10, 2022, during the 110th ILC an amendment making the safe and healthy working environment" one of the fundamental principles and rights at work, with Convention C155 (on occupational safety and health) and C187 (on the promotional framework for OSH) which have become the
fundamental conventions.
"This decision further calls out the various actors in the world of work on the numerous dangers to which workers are exposed in the workplace and on the need to act together to better control the risks of industrial accidents and occupational illnesses which constitute harmful consequences on workers and their families but also on the productivity of companies and the development of the national economy."
The Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, has highlighted serious challenges facing the country in occupational safety and health.
African countries.
He emphasized that Africa must pursue strategic relationships, particularly through platforms like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and BRICS, to navigate a rapidly shifting global landscape.
"Global dynamics are shifting rapidly, and Africa must be prepared to assert itself strategically in the emerging order," he stated.
He commended Nigeria's current foreign policy, which focuses on strengthening ties with Europe and China while advancing regional economic integration.
Mimiko who is the former Vice Chancellor of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, Ondo State, criticised Trump's confrontational stance with global powers, including China and Europe, warning that such isolationist policies risked damaging the global economic system.
He further stressed the inevitability of globalization, stating that no country, including the U.S., could thrive in isolation.
“The American economy thrives within a globalised system, and isolating it would be akin to cutting off the waters in which it swims,” he stated.
Dr. Abdulfattah Adesina Raji of the
Political Science Department, Fountain University, Osogbo, highlighted the complexities of global peace in an era of shifting power dynamics. He commended China's growing engagement with Africa, but cautioned about potential tensions with western powers as China's influence in the region expands. He however warned of the potential for rivalry between Western powers and China as the latter continues to expand its influence in Africa.
“China has a clear business plan in Africa, and Western nations may attempt to counterbalance this growing influence,” he stated. Raji also stressed the role of Islam as a cultural force and how western misunderstandings of it fuel conflicts, particularly in the Middle East.
“Islam is not just a religion; it is a culture and a civilisation,” he said.
“The western world has historically sought to suppress Islam, seeing it as a challenge to their global order.”
Dr. Dapo Thomas, a senior lecturer of the Department of History and International Relations, Lagos State University (LASU), expressed concerns about the potential impact of Trump's policies on global trade and peace efforts.
Linus Aleke in Abuja
Sunday Aborisade in Abuja
Funmi Ogundare
AWARD PRESENTATION CEREMONY...
L-R: Permanent Secretary, Office of Environmental Services, Lagos State Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, Dr. Omobolaji Gaji Tajudeen; Representative of the Overall Winner of the Year 2024 Lagos Industrial Pollution Abatement Awards, Guinness Big Plc, Mr Daniel Ogu and General Manager, Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), Dr Tunde Ajayi, during the award presentation ceremony in Ikeja ... recently
2025: Oborevwori Signs Delta's N979.2 Billion Appropriation Bill into Law
Threatens to sanction erring public officials
Delta State Governor, Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, yesterday raised the prospects of enhanced overall development of the state as he assented to the state’s 2025 Appropriation Bill of N979,228,818,719 billion.
This is as Governor Oborevwori warned that he would not fail to sanction any public official found wanting in the discharge of their duties or whose conduct is established to be at variance with the administration’s vision and mandate.
The approved budget is made up of N630.461 billion as capital expenditure, while N349.767 billion is for recurrent expenditure.
While signing the budget tagged "Budget of Fiscal Consolidation" into law, Governor Oborevwori said the 2025 budget was geared towards consolidating on the many projects of his administration.
He said: "It is with immense joy that I have assented to this law christened 'Budget of Fiscal Consolidation' 20
days after its presentation to the Delta State House of Assembly.
"My joy is also for its prompt passage after going through the necessary legislative procedures. The increase in capital and decrease in recurrent expenditure over the 2024 estimates also gives me joy.
"We are now imbibing the culture where our budgetary estimates meet global best practices. A prompt passage and assent to this bill allows us to conveniently implement projects
during the 2025 dry season.
"The budget has been drafted in such a manner that it will impact positively in the promotion and preservation of public trust and our well being.
"This reaffirms our commitment in advancing Delta State through the prompt and qualitative service delivery as enshrined in our MORE Agenda."
On the Southern Delta University, Ozoro, Establishment Amendment Law 2024, Governor Oborevwori said:
Sokoto Govt Seeks Partnership with National Institute’s Alumni Body
Governor Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto has expressed his readiness to partner the Sokoto State Chapter of the Alumni Association of National Institute, AANI, for the state’s development.
He made this known when he received members of the state chapter of the association on a courtesy visit.
In another development, the Commissioner for Water Resources in Sokoto State, Alhaji Yusuf Maccido, has said that people of the state
are anxious to know findings of the probe into the administration of Aminu Tambuwal.
He said the report would shed more light on how Tambuwal managed Sokoto in the eight years that he was governor.
Governor Aliyu expressed confidence that each member of the AANI has a peculiar contribution to make having come from different disciplines and professions.
His words: "Let me use this medium to remind you that the state government had made a huge
investment in sponsoring you to attend this prestigious institute, therefore, the state expects much from your vast experience."
The governor also said his administration had recently donated two vehicles for use by the institute's Muslim community, which is an indication of the concern and regard the state has for it.
He assured the association that his doors are always open for them, in order to discuss on issues bordering on the development of the state.
Earlier, the Chairman, Sokoto State
Tinubu Rejoices with Elder Statesman, Tanko Yakassai, at 99
Elumoye in Abuja
President Bola Tinubu has extended heartfelt congratulations to elder statesman and politician, Alhaji Tanko Yakassai, as he marks the remarkable milestone of 99 years on December 5, 2024.
In his tribute, President Tinubu while acknowledging the significant contributions of Alhaji Yakassai to the development of Northern Nigeria and the nation as a commended him for his dedication to public service and
advocacy for the rights of citizens.
As a human rights activist and former Parliamentary Liaison Officer to President Shehu Shagari during the Second Republic, Pa Yakassai’s insightful critiques and advice have played a pivotal role in shaping government policies over the years.
His commitment to fostering dialogue and understanding in our society remains an enduring legacy, President Tinubu says.
President Tinubu expressed his gratitude to Alhaji Yakassai, a
founding member of the Arewa Consultative Forum, for his steadfast support during the recent elections and for believing in his vision for a united and prosperous Nigeria.
The President assured Alhaji Yakassai that he will remain committed to serving the Nigerian people and not disappoint the trust placed in him.
President Tinubu offered prayers for continued good health and longevity for Alhaji Yakassai and eagerly anticipates the celebration of his centennial birthday next year.
Chapter of AANI, Shehu Usman Ladan, mni, commended Governor Aliyu for the various developmental programmes being executed across the state.
Ladan said: "Your Excellency, we commend the transformation taking place in the areas of Security, water supply, social welfare, and Infrastructural development, among others.
"Before now, with the name University of Science and Technology, we cannot accredit all courses. But now, assenting to the bill, the name is now Southern Delta University, Ozoro.
"The change in name will enable the accreditation of more courses and increase the intake of students into the university."
Other bills assented to are the Delta State Structures and Signage and Advertisement Bill 2024; Delta State Human Trafficking Prohibition Law 2024; Special Cases Court Amendment Law 2024 and the Delta State Protection of Persons with Disability Law 2023.
The governor, while thanking the State Legislature for the speedy passage of the bills, assured Deltans of more infrastructural and human capital development in the 2025 fiscal year.
He added: "As the year 2024 winds up, let me express my appreciation for the support I have received from all arms of the Government. It is my sincere expectation that we will sustain this collaboration and synergy in 2025.
"I also want to appreciate Deltans for the love and support they have shown to this administration, for the peace we are enjoying and for the progress that we have achieved.
"For running this state for months
without borrowing, it shows that we are very disciplined in our finances. We have been managing our resources very well and we are not going to borrow for now.
"What we have as a reserve can withstand any economic shock. We are very confident as a state and we are paying contractors and even mobilizing them.
"We are doing that to encourage the contractors to have speed in their works because we are not too stable economically. We don't know how it will be tomorrow and I want to assure Deltans that we will continue to move Delta State forward."
Presenting the Appropriation Bill, Speaker of the Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, said that the Bill was presented to the House on November 14 and passed on November 26 after passing through all legislative processes.
The Speaker said the House took cognisance of some objectives that underlined the 2025 Appropriation Bill which included the completion of ongoing projects and the addition of new projects; expansion of the revenue base; enhancing transparency and accountability in public expenditure management; and initiatives to cushion the economic challenges confronting the people.
NESREA Releases New Environmental Audit Guidelines
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
The National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) has unveiled new guidelines on environmental audit in the country.
This was unveiled on Wednesday in Abuja at a workshop-cum-report release programme organized by NESREA in partnership with the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), a global think tank based in New Delhi, India, having in attendance over 350 participants comprising NESREA accredited consultants and staff of the agency.
According to the Director General of NESREA, Dr. Innocent Barikor, an environmental audit is a series of activities undertaken with respect to the operations of a facility or an organisation to evaluate its environmental performance, noting
that it is not a one-time step but an ongoing activity that aims to identify and correct environmental issues that arise during the operation of a project and improve operating and environmental conditions in industries.
He said the review of the guidelines was necessitated by observations that existing audit reports lacked essential technical data, hindering accurate assessments of industrial performance.
Barikor while officially unveiling the Environmental Audit Guidelines and manual, said: “The Agency has observed that audit reports received from consultants come in different formats, lack important information, and in some cases, do not reflect the actual status of the process of the operating facility.
“Also, these reports do not adequately cover the information
included in the Environmental Management Plan (EMP) developed during the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). The new guidelines are intended to streamline the processes associated with undertaking and review of the environmental audits”.
Barikor added: “This revised guideline is an outcome of the collaborative efforts between CSE and NESREA. I would like to extend my appreciation to CSE for the support they have provided to NESREA in the development of these guidelines needed to standardize environmental audit reports in our country.
“Going forward the agency will be verifying the parameters in the audit report submitted by consultants and will also take a decisive action against any consultant that engages in falsification, fabrication and plagiarism.”
Deji
Onuminya Innocent
THE SUSTAINABLE FINANCE DAY (SFD) 2024...
L-R: Bankole Oloruntoba, CEO, NCIC; Amb. Peter Ryan, Ambassador, Republic of Ireland to Nigeria; a winner of the Naija SDGs FinTech Hackathon; Mr. Emmanuel Etaderhi, Executive Secretary, FC4S Lagos; Mrs. Titilope Oguntuga, Director, Sustainability, IHS Towers; and Mr. Chidi Mike-Eneh, Head, Credit Risk, Infracredit
Makinde: Osun, Oyo People Waiting to Teach APC Lesson, Hails Governor Adeleke
Oyo State Governor, 'Seyi Makinde, yesterday, boasted that the people of his state and neighbouring Osun were waiting to teach the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) some lessons during their next bout of elections.
Makinde spoke on Wednesday in Osogbo, while commissioning some projects executed by Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke. Makinde, who commended Adeleke, for his investment in infrastructure, declared that the national chairman of APC, Alhaji
Ibrahim Ganduje, might have been a bit distracted, when he said APC would capture Osun and Oyo states.
The governor maintained that the statement, which came on the heels of the Edo and Ondo states governorship elections, was misguided.
According to him, the people of Osun State, who have been blessed to see the light that Adeleke represents, would show APC “pepper” in the next governorship election in the state.
Makinde congratulated the people
Senate Okays One Year Jail Term for Unprocessed Maize Exporters
The Senate, yesterday, amended the maize export prohibition bill to prescribe among others, one year imprisonment for persons found guilty of exporting unprocessed maize in large quantities.
The amendment was contained in a bill from the House of Representatives, which the red chamber also passed for concurrence at plenary.
The proposed legislation sought to prohibit the exportation of maize or its derivatives in large commercial quantities.
It was passed after majority of the senators passed it by voice vote.
The bill was amended to prescribe specific punishment for exporters of unprocessed maize, whether in grains, on cobs, fresh or dry, in large commercial quantity of a minimum of one metric ton or higher, out of Nigeria.
It equally prescribed punishment for any person, who contravened the provisions of subsection.
It specifically stated that such a person would be liable on conviction to a fine in momentary value of the goods exported or sought to be exported or imprisonment for a term of one year or both.
Others are: “A customs officer or other person who aids, counsels, procures or conspires with another person to commit an offence under this section, is liable on conviction to the penalty under subsection (2). The Federal High Court has jurisdiction over any offence committed under this Bill.”
The lead debate on the bill for concurrence was presented by Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, who said the bill aimed to prohibit the exportation of maize and sought to address the on-going food crisis in Nigeria.
of Osun State on their decision to support Adeleke two years ago, saying the governor has been delivering dividends of democracy to his state.
Lauding Adeleke for not abandoning projects he inherited from his predecessors, Makinde stated that the attitude of ensuring the people had value for their money had also been a forte of his administration in Oyo State since the last five years.
Makinde said one of the best ways to tackle the economic challenges facing Nigerians was for administrators to implement policies and projects that would impact their people, adding that the Osun governor has been doing well in this regard.
The Oyo State governor said, “I want to congratulate my brother, the governor of Osun State. This is not about data or using NBS (National Bureau of Statistics) to cover the lies some people tell about their achievements.
“On our drive from the Government House to this place, I counted new building projects and looked at the number of people that must have been employed. So, this is for real.
“The people know what they are getting and I congratulate the people of Osun State on their choice. I also want to commend Governor Adeleke for delivering dividends of democracy to the people.”
“The reward for hard work is more work. So, give him more
work to do for another four years.
Makinde said, “I am so happy to be here this afternoon to celebrate the good works going on in Osun State and I want to, on behalf of our people in Osun and Oyo states, congratulate you.
“We are one, not just in culture, language and tradition, but for my brother and I, we are one in ensuring that when public money has been spent on a project, whether by two or three administrations before you, you have to complete it.
“On this road project, he has done that and value has been extracted for the good people of Osun State. This road was started by former Governor Aregbesola, but Governor Adeleke completed it. So, I thank
you for completing this road project.
“This is cementing your position in leadership. I am glad that Nigeria has become too advanced for mediocres and minds that cannot think one inch deeper. It is such minds that will say, ‘I did not start the project and I am not supposed to complete it.’
“Some may even say that because they belong to another political party, they won't complete a project.
“No, the people must come first. Now, a new set of leaders is coming up."
Earlier, Adeleke appreciated Makinde's presence, stating that it is a manifestation of the strong bond of brotherhood between Oyo and Osun states.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo Apologises to Obasanjo over Insults, Debunks Leadership Crisis
Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia
The leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has apologised to former President Olusegun Obasanjo over "uncharitable remarks against the iconic personality" by "agent provocateurs”.
In a press statement by National Publicity Secretary of the apex Igbo sociocultural organisation, Dr. Chiedozie Ogbonnia, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide said it was embarrassed by the activities of people faking Ohanaeze Ndigbo.
"It is inconceivable and, indeed, very worrisome that any sensible Igbo
ACF Lifts Suspension on Chairman
The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), has lifted the suspension slammed on its chairman, Chief Mamman Mike Osuman (SAN). Osuman was suspended on November 22, for allegedly issuing an unauthorised statement during the forum's meeting in Kaduna.
The ACF chairman was accused of issuing a statement, saying the North would support a northern candidate for the presidency in 2027, without consulting other executive members of the forum.
However, in a statement yesterday in Kaduna, the forum
said the suspension has been lifted following the intervention of Dr. Mahmoud Yayale Ahmed, Chairman of ACF's Unity, Peace and Reconciliation Committee.
The statement signed by Murtala Aliyu, Secretary General of the ACF, gave details of the development.
"Sequel to the recent suspension of the Chairman of the National Executive Council of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) Chief Mamman Mike Osuman, SAN, OFR, by the leadership of ACF over an alleged unauthorised political statement not in consonance with ACF's non partisan position, the following press statement in
respect of the subject matter is hereby issued:
"That the ACF Unity, Peace and Reconciliation Committee under the chairmanship of Dr Mahmoud Yayale Ahmed, CFR (Ajiyan Katagum) has intervened in the recent crisis.
"It had invited some stakeholders, including the Chairman of the Board of Trustees and that of the National Executive Council, among others, and have had a family discussion on the unfortunate development.
"Consequently, the issue has been amicably resolved in the interest of the great people of Arewa and the suspension is hereby withdrawn."
will, so soon, make some uncharitable remarks against the iconic personality of His Excellency, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo," Ogbonnia said.
He stated that Obasanjo had, more than any former Nigerian president, "shown an unwavering love and commitment to the Igbo in diverse ways", hence, any attack on his person was ill-conceived and an outrageous display of disrespect and ingratitude.
"On behalf of the Igbo nation, I wish to apologise to Baba, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, for unfounded mischievous imaginations against him by the most unscrupulous among the pedestrians," Ogbonnia stated.
The Ohanaeze spokesman said, "It was Obasanjo who stood firmly
with the Igbo when it mattered most in 2023," describing him as "ardent Igbo benefactor".
He recalled that early this year Obasanjo joined the South-east governors at a meeting in Enugu, along with the late Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, and the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Achebe, "for the well-being of the Igbo".
Ogbonnia, who reeled out other ways that Obasanjo also said, "It was Obasanjo who has eloquently condemned the obnoxious Igbophobia and malicious stereotypes against the Igbo in Nigeria.”
Ogbonnia regretted that "for a long time, some scoundrels have been obsessed with a phantom
crisis in Ohanaeze, a product of their perverted imaginations.
"We still plead with the agent provocateurs, charlatans, meddlesome interlopers and conflict entrepreneurs to desist from desecrating the hallowed name of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide”.
He stated that the leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide had "explored all channels of peace to dissuade Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro from issuing press releases using the hallowed name of Ohanaeze Ndigbo to no avail.
"Therefore, any press release by Ohanaeze that does not bear the imprint of Ambassador Emuchay should be taken for what it is, fake," the Ohanaeze spokesman said.
Linus Aleke in Abuja
The Police Service Commission (PSC), yesterday, said the ongoing post JAMB screening and admission into the Police Academy Wudil Kano, must be protected to run on merit, fairness and equity.
Chairman of the Commission, DIG Hashimu Argungu, said this when he led a delegation to the academy to supervise the commencement of the 2024 Post JAMB admission processes into
the higher Institution.
A statement by Head, Press and Public Relations, Ikechukwu Ani, said the chairman who also took a studied tour of the facilities in the Academy directed that any candidate for admission into the institution caught trying to compromise the process should be disqualified.
Argungu further warned that any candidate negotiating to pay money for consideration should be weeded out.
The chairman who noticed some
complaints on the functionality of the computers in some of the centres directed that the systems should be quickly rectified or changed. He commended the Commandant of the Academy, AIG Abubakar Sadiq for his innovative initiatives especially for the current post JAMB screening. He said the commission would ensure the Academy was run on merit and fairness and that accountability and Transparency must be their watchword.
John Shiklam in Kaduna
Sunday Aborisade in Abuja
MINISTER HOLDS TOWN HALL MEETING WITH MANUFACTURERS...
L-R: The Special Adviser to the President on Industry, Mr. John Uwajimogu; the President of Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Otunba Francis Meshioye: Minister of state for Industry,
Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment Ambassador Nura Abba Rimi; the Director General of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Dr.
to the President on Trade and Investment, Hon. Adamson Ayinde, during the Town Hall Meeting hosted by the minister with MAN and the Organised Private Sector in Lagos…yesterday
and
Nigeria, Obasanjo Hail Namibia for Electing Nandi-Ndaitwah Her First Female President
Michael Olugbode in Abuja and James Sowole in Abeokuta
Nigeria and former President Olusegun Obasanjo, have congratulated Namibia for electing Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah her first female president.
In a statement by the acting spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, Nigeria congratulated the Federal Republic of Namibia.
“The Federal Republic of Nigeria congratulates Netumbo NandiNdaitwah on her historic election as the first female President of the
Republic of Namibia.
“Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah is the current Vice President, and her electoral victory as confirmed by the Electoral Commission of Namibia, will extend the ruling SWAPO’s reign in power since independence.
“The people of Namibia have indeed voted for stability. Therefore, the Government of Nigeria looks forward to further strengthening our historic, strong, and vibrant relationship during her tenure in office for the benefit of our people.”
Obasanjo, on his part, said the election indicated that the good people of the country had spoken.
In a congratulatory letter to the new President, copy of which was made available to newsmen by his Special Assistant on Media, Kehinde Akinyemi, in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Obasanjo was particularly happy, that the people of the country reposed their trust and confidence in a woman, who has become the first female President of Namibia.
"No doubt, the good people of Namibia have spoken and have decided to repose their trust and confidence in your leadership, particularly as the first female President of Namibia.
"By this clear victory, Namibians
have not only given you a mandate to lead with the sound policies that will bring much socio-economic progress to the country but also to reassure you of their faith in your leadership, given your experience, background and resilience in the polity of Namibia which have undoubtedly prepared you for the great responsibility ahead as the leader of Namibia.
"I, therefore, wish you God's guidance as you face, with vision and vigour, the challenges of lifting the nation up to greater heights.
"It is my hope that your assumption of office as President of Namibia
Nigeria, UK to Partner on Movies, Music Production
Oghenevwede Ohwovoriole in Abuja
Nigeria and United Kingdom (UK) are to collaborate on movies and music productions.
The British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr. Richard Montgomery made the disclosure at the 80th anniversary celebration of the British Council in Nigeria yesterday.
The event was themed, "Amplifying the Voices of the Future."
Speaking on the outcome of the British Council's conference recently held in Abuja Nigeria, titled 'Going Global Africa 2024, High Commissioner', Montgomery said there were practical things coming out of the conference already.
"There are some practical things coming out of the dialogue between the UK and Nigeria. So, we have agreed to work on a co-production agreement that helps Nigerians and UK people in the film industry work together and produce more products for both domestic and the international markets. We really want to grow the mutual links between our economies.
"The UK government will continue to support Nigeria's creative economy.
"In my year and a half as High Commissioner, I am seeing Nigeria soft power begin to grow. It is growing through the incredibly talented people in enriching very senior positions in UK academia, institutions from the Diaspora, and indeed, in many other countries.
"Of course, it is evident in the way in which Nigerian afrobeat is taking popular music globally not just in the UK."
The acting Director, British Council, Chilufya Besa was represented by the Director, Programmes/Chairman Board of Directors, British Council Nigeria, Chikodi Onyemerela spoke
on achievements so far and the Council's future plans.
"Together, we've empowered million of young people with skills education and connections that opened doors, transformed lives and supported institutions and system.
"These achievements underscore the strength of the UK/Nigeria relationship, which we are proud to support and nurture for mutual benefits.
"Nigeria has one of the youngest populations globally, with nearly 70% of its population under 30. By
adopting this theme, "Amplifying the Voices of the Future," we are indicating our commitment to empowering young people, who are Nigeria's future leaders, creators, and innovators " she said According to her, " the theme also aligns with our long-standing objective of equipping young people with the skills, platforms, and confidence they need to make positive impact in their lives and communities."
She stressed that the mission was rooted in education, cultural exchange, and creating opportunities
that are steeped in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those focused on quality education, inclusion, and reduced inequalities."
She added that "by amplifying young voices, we support global aspirations for a fairer, more inclusive world."
She said the Council remains as committed as ever, to fostering deeper connections, creating opportunities for young people, and building a future that respects cultural heritage while embracing innovation and inclusivity.
will witness a further strengthening of the existing fraternal relations between our two countries and peoples,” Obasanjo said.
Obasanjo who is in Burundi
said the news of Nandi-Ndaitwah's victory was received with "great delight and it is with a deep sense of pleasure that I convey to you hearty felicitations."
Oil Firms Not Complying with Community Devt Plans in A'Ibom, Group Alleges
Okon Bassey in Uyo
A Non-governmental Organisation, Initiative for Africa Society Inclusion and Diversity, has expressed worry that oil companies operating in Akwa Ibom State were not complying with community development plans of their Host Community Development Trusts (HCDTs).
The Executive Director of the group, Olayinka Akeredolu-Martins, raised the alarm at a one-day town hall meeting held in Uyo, stressing the need for oil companies to prioritise community development.
"It is unacceptable, a situation where oil companies have now made community development plan a document shrouded in secrecy. Regrettably, many communities have no access to it. In some cases, the supposed content of the development plan has been altered by them.
"Some of them now give mo-
OYEDELE: DERIVATION FORMULA'LL REDUCE INEQUITABLE RESOURCE DISTRIBUTION
“The Senate is composed of men and women of wisdom, of pedigree that this country has entrusted to legislate for them for the peace and tranquility and the development of this country. The Senate of the Federal Republic, as known by everyone and indeed other Senates in the entire world, are known to be the stabilisers of every country.
“When there are difficulties and disagreements, the Senate of this country comes in with solutions through dialogue and consensus at all times to solve such problems, and the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has been doing that since 1999.
“Because of this, we decided to put politics, ethnicity, and regionalism aside to sit among ourselves and find the way forward with respect to the issues surrounding the tax reform bills.
“It is on this note that we extended our view to the executive arm of government and it was agreed that there should be a forum to sit down to look at the areas that are creating disagreements to resolve them so that the entire country will remain united - united in our effort to solve
our problems.
“Before the introduction of these bills, we know we've been faced with several problems and insecurity that we've been trying to solve. The president has been trying, and we're also working with him to solve issues about our economy, which is in line with global economic problems.
“We also agree that we shouldn't allow anything else to aggravate our country's problems. It is on this note that it has been agreed by the executive and also by us that there should be a forum that will sit with the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) so that we can sit down and sort out all these problems in the interest of this nation,” he stated.
He therefore proposed that by tomorrow (Thursday) there will be a meeting with the committee to sit with the Attorney General of the Federation to look at the issues and resolve them.
President Bola Tinubu had on Tuesday directed the Ministry of Justice to work with the National Assembly to address some of the concerns generated by the Tax Reform Bill currently before the Legislature.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris who disclosed this in statement he issued in Abuja, said the nationwide debate on the new tax reform bills was commendable.
Meanwhile, the Colleges of Education Academic Staff Union (COEASU) has warned of grave consequences for the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), if the bills are passed and implemented
The teachers’ union said if the bill sails through in the National Assembly, the sources of funding for TETFund might become impeded, thereby stifling the tertiary education in the country.
In a statement issued in Abuja, COEASU President, Dr. Smart Olugbeko criticised aspects of the proposed tax administration reforms, which he said threaten to cut off TETFund’s critical funding sources.
He described the move as a “dangerous ambush” that could severely undermine the development of public tertiary institutions in Nigeria.
He argued: “Our Union, COEASU, has noted with serious concern the
inimical effect of the proposed tax reforms of the federal government on tertiary education in Nigeria.
“The tax reform is nothing but a dangerous ambush aimed at destroying public tertiary institutions in Nigeria. We strongly reject the aspects of the proposed tax administration which aims to withdraw or impede on the source of fund to TETFund.
“Such injury, if allowed to stand, is bound to undermine the development of public tertiary education in Nigeria,” Olugbeko added.
Emphasising the pivotal role of TETFund, Olugbeko noted that the fund was a product of decades-long advocacy by academic unions, particularly the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), adding that before its establishment, Nigeria’s tertiary institutions were grappling with decayed infrastructure and inadequate funding.
“It is shocking to note that no Nigerian government in the last two decades or more has committed up to 9 per cent of the annual budget to education despite UNESCO’s recommendation of 26 per cent,” the statement added.
torcycles as development project, and one hundred thousand naira bursary as against scholarship to students.
"As we move forward, it is essential that we continue to work together, as equal partners, to ensure that Hostcom is implemented in a way that is fair, equitable, and beneficial to all stakeholders. This will require us to be proactive, to be creative, and to be committed to finding solutions that work for everyone," she stated.
Stakeholders at the meeting cautioned that companies that fail to comply with the provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (2021), regarding the setting up of the Host Community Development Trust (HCDT) should face sanctions. They posited that the issue of non-compliance with community development plans is a recurring concern in Nigeria's oil-rich regions.
COEASU warned that withdrawing TETFund’s funding source could push public tertiary institutions into the stock market, transforming them into profit-driven ventures accessible only to the wealthy.
“Except for TETFund, which has become the spine and lifeblood of public tertiary education funding, Nigerian universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education would have gone comatose.
“TETFund has been playing an indispensable role in the development of tertiary institutions in Nigeria, providing funding for infrastructure, research, teaching, and staff development,” Olugbeko stated.
COEASU accused the political elite of attempting to dismantle public tertiary institutions in favour of private, profit-driven alternatives, as was done with public secondary schools.
“Rather than killing TETFund through the purported tax reform, the federal government should strengthen and expand its revenue accrual sources with a view to sustaining the fund’s commendable efforts in our institutions,” Olugbeko stressed.
Senator John Owan Enoh; the
Segun Ajayi-Kadir;
the Special Adviser
PROJECT MaNaGERs aNNUaL CONFERENCE…
Registrar, Chartered Institute of Project Managers of Nigeria,Henry
and the Presidential
at the Institute’s 2024 Annual Project Management Conference and Induction ceremony held in Abuja ...recently
Kwara Demotes Teacher over Assault on Serving Female Corps Member
Hammed shittu inIlorin
The Kwara State Government yesterday announced the demotion of a school teacher, Mrs. Hamzat Fatimoh Nike of Government Secondary School, Kulende, Ilorin, who allegedly assaulted a female serving National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member of the school.
Mrs. Hamzat last Thursday was accused of attacking a female
serving corps member of the school for allegedly refusing to greet her.
The development, however, led to crisis between her and the corps member which eventually led to the tearing of the clothes of the corps member.
But Hamzat has since denied the assault on the affected female serving corps member of the school.
The management of the NYSC in the state has withdrawn the 10 serving corps members from
Anambra Sacks Six Head Teachers for Levying Pupils
david-Chyddy Eleke in awka
The Anambra State Universal Basic Education Board (ASUBEB) has issued a stern warning to teachers and school heads who are sabotaging the state Governor, Chukwuma Soludo’s free and compulsory education policy.
The board said six teachers have been sacked for having been found to be sabotaging the process by charging money for sundry reasons.
The Executive Chairman of ASUBEB, Dr. Vera Nkiru Nwadinobi, disclosed this at a press briefing in her office yesterday.
She listed the defaulting headteachers who were sacked as Mrs. Okoye Uju of Awada Primary School, Mrs. Nwafor Eunice
Nwanneka of Awada Primary School, Mrs. Nwakaku Patience Obioma of Awada Primary School, Mrs. Aniwetalu Elizabeth Ekene of Awada Primary School, Mrs. Odionu Gloria Nkolika of Awada Primary School, and Mrs. Muluako Augustine Chinwe of Awada Primary School.
She said: “They have been mandated to refund all monies collected from pupils and also hand over to the next ranking officer, and step down from their positions.”
0Nwadinobi emphasized that the state government would no longer tolerate such irresponsible conduct and will recommend outright dismissal from service for any head teacher or principal who goes contrary to the free education policy.
Imansuangbon MembershipResigns of LP
adibe Emenyonu in benin-city Former governorship aspirant of the Labour Party (LP) in Edo State, Kenneth Imansuangbon, has resigned his membership of the party He contested for the Labour Party governorship ticket and lost to Olumide Akpata as the party candidate in the September 21 gubernatorial election in the state that came a distant third position.
Imansuangbon, a popular political figure in the state, in his letter of resignation addressed
the National Chairman of the party, Julius Abure, and copied his ward 2 chairman in Ewohimi, Esan South East Local Government Area of the state.
The educationist, nicknamed the ‘Riceman’ owing to his free annual rice distribution across the state, was a former member of the APC and PDP, while citing reasons for his resignation said he can no longer belong to the LP fold, adding that the party has continued to be bugged down by intractable division and lack of internal democracy.
FG to Run End-of-the-Year Special Train Service
The management of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), in compliance with the federal government’s directive through the Federal Ministry of Transportation, has announced that the NRC shall operate end-of-the-year special train services for all Nigerians in commemoration of Christmas and New Year celebrations.
In a statement issued by the Deputy Director, Public Relations, NRC, Yakub
Mahmood, the corporation said:
“This end-of-the-year special train service on scheduled passenger trains is part of the government’s gesture towards an enjoyable end-of-the-year celebration.
“Dates and modalities of the end-of-the-year special train service shall be communicated in due course.We wish all our esteemed customers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year in advance.”
the school because of the ugly development. The state government has also condemned the attitude of the teacher and decided to set up a panel of inquiry to unravel
the ugly development.
However, a joint statement issued in Ilorin yesterday by the state Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development,
Hajia Sa’adatu Modibbo Kawu, and the Executive Chairman of the Kwara State Teaching Service Commission, Mallam Bello Tauheed Abubakar, stated that: “The
panel has sanctioned the school teacher accused of maltreating a youth corps member posted to Government Day Junior Secondary School, Kulende, Ilorin.
Sanusi, Abaribe, Anyim, Okorocha Pick Holes in Country’s Leadership Style
Kuni Tyessi in abuja
The Emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi; Senator representing Abia South, Enyinnaya Abaribe; former Senate President, Pius Anyim, and former Governor of Imo State, Rochas Okorocha, have picked holes in the state of the nation.
In response, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, assured Nigerian citizens, particularly women, that the National Assembly would always enact laws to address Nigeria’s challenges.
They spoke yesterday in Abuja at the 2024 Nkata Ndi Inyom
second Annual Conference with the theme: ‘Driving Transformation through Value Reorientation, Inclusive Leadership and Sustainability’.
Sanusi lamented about the stealing in the system and how those in leadership positions amass wealth that would outlive them, instead of using such funds to address the challenges affecting the girl-child and development of the country.
The monarch said: “So for me, I always say a country that does not recognize the pivotal role and the importance and the centrality of its women will never develop.
SMEs Workers Stage Peaceful Protest over Power Blackout in Kano
ahmad sorondinki in Kano
Thousands of workers from the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) yesterday staged a peaceful protest following a total blackout which has impacted their business activities in Kano State.
Speaking with Journalists
shortly after the protest at Dakata cluster of the small scale industries, the leader of the protest, Surajo Musa, said the total blackout has disrupted their businesses and their livelihoods.
The protesters accused the Kano Electricity Distribution Company (KEDCO) of deliberately cutting
off power supply to their cluster which has put over 10,000 members at risk of losing their businesses and livelihoods.
“Our situation has worsened because over three months, the total blackout in this industrial area has brought small-scale businesses to the brink of collapse.
UN Advocates Inclusion of PWDs in Procurement
Michael Olugbode in abuja
The United Nations (UN) has advocated the inclusion of Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) in procurement processes.
The advocacy was made in Abuja yesterday by the UN Resident Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohammed Fall, at the one-day symposium with the theme,
‘UN procurement: advancing opportunities for PWD.’ Fall, who was represented by UN Nigeria Operation Management Team (OMT), Vanessa Phala, who also doubles as Director of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) Country Office for Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia and Sierra Leone. Fall said: “The symposium is
This prolonged power outage has severe consequences on us and our immediate family members.” According to Musa, his members incurred losses of millions of Naira due to total decline in productivity which forced majority of their members to look elsewhere for survival.
Processes in Nigeria
organised by the procurement network at the core of the network, to ensure procurement of UN goods and services is fair, transparent and inclusive.
“Last year, a similar symposium was organised and targeted on inclusion of female entrepreneurs to equally give opportunities to women that are enterprising in business.
“This symposium is mainly focusing on PWD, to ensure we include PWD in the services and goods we want to procure on behalf of the UN.
“This is to foster collaboration with PWD: we cannot issue forms for submission of proposals and PWD do not understand rules that governs procurement of UN goods and services.
Marwa: NDLEA Arrests 14,480, Seizes Over 2.4m kg of Illicit Drugs in 10 Months
Michael Olugbodeinabuja
The Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig.-Gen. Buba Marwa (rtd), has said that 14,480 suspected drug traffickers were arrested between January and October 2024 in
connection with the seizure of 2.4 million kilogrammes of assorted illicit drugs seized by the anti-narcotics agency at seaports, airports, land borders and communities across the country.
Marwa gave these figures yesterday while briefing members of the House of Representatives
Committee on Narcotic Drugs who were on oversight visit to the national headquarters of NDLEA in Abuja.
He said with the record of work done by the agency in the past 10 months, “we can say with certainty that we are on course to beat the performance of the previous three years.”
Marwa said: “Between January 1 and October 30, 2024, we recorded 14,480 arrest of drug offenders, including 15 drug barons. Within the same time, we have been able to secure 2,867 convictions in court. This is far more than what we have achieved in each of the past three years.
FCTA Commits N177bn to Provide Education Infrastructure
Olawale ajimotokaninabuja
The FCT Administration has committed the sum of $1,045,176,470 billion (approximately N177 billion) towards the development of infrastructure in the education sector.
FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, disclosed at the sixth International
Conference on Learning Cities held in Jubail industrial city, Saudi Arabia.
The minister, who was represented by Minister of State FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, said this was inclusive of the N3.5 billion counterpart funding from Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), bringing the
total commitment on infrastructural development to approximately N177 billion.
He also noted that Abuja’s annual budget for the development of education had surpassed the UNESCO benchmark of 26 per cent.
While highlighting the total investment in different sectors of
education, the minister said a total of 21 primary and junior secondary schools were renovated completely, while a total of 30 senior secondary schools were also established. Wike also stated that the FCT Administration had committed the sum of N14.5 billion to the completion and launch of FCT University, Abaji.
ElectHER Launches Website to Champion Public Advocacy on Independent Candidacy Bill
A leading advocate for inclusive governance, ElectHER, has officially launched a website, www.independentcandidacybill. ng, to advance public awareness and support for the Independent Candidacy Bill.
This development was
announced yesterday in a press statement issued by the Head of Programmes for ElectHER, Olarotimi Olaitan.
The Independent Candidacy Bill, sponsored by Akin Rotimi, proposes amendments to Sections 65, 106, 131, 177, 7, and 221 of
the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999.
These amendments aim to allow qualified Nigerians to contest elections without affiliation to political parties, creating leadership opportunities for disenfranchised and underrepresented groups and
ensuring a fairer, more inclusive democracy. “This bill represents a bold step toward breaking barriers that have historically excluded capable Nigerians from leadership roles,” the CEO of ElectHER, Ibijoke Faborode, was quoted as saying.
Mbadiwe (left),
Candidate of Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the 2023 general election,Prince Adewole Adebayo,
Chiamaka Nnadozie Guns for Double Honours in CAF Awards
Danjuma, Edo Queens, Okwuchukwu, Falcons nominated in
Duro Ikhazuagbe
Nigeria’s stock in women’s football took an upward swing yesterday following the nomination of the country’s players, coach and teams in all the women’s categories of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) 2024 Awards scheduled to hold on December 16, 2024 in Marrakech, Morocco.
Super Falcons and Paris FC safe hands, Chiamaka Nnadozie, leads the country’s nominees as she was listed amongst the five top players in the continent in line for prestigious Player of the Year award.
Nnadozie however have Zambia and Orlando Pride’s goalkeeper, Barbra Banda and Malawi’s Chawinga sisters (Tabhita and Temwa) to battle for the award. Morocco’s Sanaâ Mssoudy of AS FAR is the fifth player shortlisted in this category of players to battle to replace Nigeria’s Asisat Oshoala as Player of the Year.
Nnadozie also featured in the list of five players shortlisted for the Goalkeeper of the Year category.
The other four nominees for the goalkeeper of the year award include; Fideline Ngoy of DR Congo / TP Mazembe; Habiba Sabry of Egypt / FC Masar; Khadija Er-
Djokovic to Begin Bid for 25th Grand Slam in Brisbane
Novak Djokovic will play at the Brisbane International before he starts his bid to win a 25th Grand Slam at Melbourne's Australian Open in January.
The 37-year-old, a 10-time winner in Melbourne, is tied with Australian Margaret Court on a record 24 Grand Slam singles titles.
The Serb, ranked seventh in the world, failed to add to his Grand Slam tally during a frustrating 2024.
The tournament in Brisbane, which runs from 29 December until 5 January, is one of the final warm-up events before the Australian Open begins on 12 January.
"I'm excited to be kicking off my Australian swing at the Brisbane International and to compete again at Pat Rafter Arena," said Djokovic.
"I am looking forward to experiencing the incredible support from the Australian fans and making this tournament one to remember."
With 99 ATP titles to his name, Djokovic is aiming to join American Jimmy Connors (109) and Swiss Roger Federer (103) as just the third man in the Open era to win 100 career titles.
The field in Brisbane features Nick Kyrgios, defending champion Grigor Dimitrov and Holger Rune.
Djokovic appointed Andy Murrayas his coach for the Australian Open last month.
The former British number one was beaten by Djokovic in the final of the Australian Open on four occasions.
An exact date for when Murray will start his coaching role has not been finalised but BBC Sport has been told the Scot is not currently planning on being in Brisbane with Djokovic.
Djokovic reached the semi-finals of the Australia Open earlier this year, losing to eventual winner Jannik Sinner.
alongside Cameroon’s Under-20 women’s team.
For the Coach of the Year category, Super Falconets’ gaffer, Chris Danjuma, will contend with TP Mazembe’s Morocco-born gaffer, Lamia Boumehdi; Egypt’s FC Masar coach, Ahmed Ramadan; Morocco’s AS FAR coach, Mohamed Amine Alioua and Thinasonke Mbuli, coach of University of the Western Cape (South Africa) is the fifth nominee in this category.
In the Club of the Year category, Nigeria’s representatives in this year’s CAF Women’s Champions League, Edo Queens FC of Benin City got a mention here. They will however contend with champions TP Mazembe Ladies; FC Masar (Egypt); AS FAR (Morocco); and Mamelodi Sundowns of South Africa.
Chiamaka Okwuchukwu of Port Harcourt-based Rivers Angels was also nominated for the Young Player of the Year category alongside Habiba Sabry of Egypt and FC Masar; Doha El Madani of Morocco / AS FAR; Lina Mokhtar Jamai of Morocco and Paris Saint-Germain. Nthabiseng Majiya of Mamelodi Sundowns (South Africa) is the fifth nominee in this category. According to CAF, the winners of each category will be determined through votes from the CAF Technical Committee, media professionals, head coaches and captains of Member Associations, as well as clubs participating in the group stages of Interclub competitions. The 2024 CAF Awards cover the period from January to October this year.
*PLAYER OF THE YEAR
1. Tabitha Chawinga
2.
5.
Banda (Zambia / Orlando Pride)
South-east Athletes, Others Gear up for Tobias Igwe Memorial Classic
As a mark of honour for one of Nigeria’s greatest athletics manager, the late Coach Tobias Igwe, athletes from all five south-east states of the federation and others from the south-south and south-west region are warming up for the maiden memorial classic honour of the late coach.
Although the Classic, the first of its kind in the country is scheduled to hold in 2025, the organisers are already having hectic time trying to contain the increasing number of athletes who have signified interest to be part of the event.
Sponsor of the Classic, United States-based former 400m hurdler, Victor Okorie, stated yesterday, that
the maiden Tobias Igwe Memorial Classics would hold in Enugu.
“We are looking at May 31, 2025, as date for the Classics,” began the ex hurdler.
Okorie was one of the most gifted hurdlers that rose from the school sports system to rule the National Sports Festival, winning back-to-back in the 400m hurdles at Imo ‘98 and Bauchi ‘2000. He was one of the athletes discovered and nurtured to stardom by the late Tobias Igwe in the city of Enugu during the golden era of Nigerian athletics.
According to Okorie, a representative of the South-east on the Board of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria
(AFN), arrival date for the Classics is Friday, May 30, 2025.
“Initially, we wanted only athletes from the five south-east states to take part in the maiden edition, but as we speak, athletes from some states in the south-south and south-west have indicated interest to be part of the event. Everybody want to be part of the Classics to show their respect for the late Tobias Igwe for the good work he did for Nigeria athletics,” Okorie, a silver medallist at COJA 2003 African Games said.
Apart from Victor Okorie, the late coach Tobias Igwe (popularly known as Toblow) discovered and nurtured top Nigerian track and field stars, including
Charterhouse Lagos Backs Fencing World Cup as S’Arabia Indicates Participation
Charterhouse Lagos has confirmed its support for the upcoming Fencing World Cup, coinciding with Saudi Arabia's recent registration for the International Fencing Federation (FIE)-ranking tournament scheduled for Lagos from December 14 to 15. Director of Education at Charterhouse Lagos, John Todd, expressed excitement about Nigeria hosting this global event and pledged the school's commitment to fostering the sport's growth in the country. "Charterhouse Lagos is the first British independent school in West Africa, part of the 400-year history of Charterhouse School in the UK. Fencing is a traditional part of the UK independent school programme, so this is a natural fit for us," Todd
explained. He continued, "We have worldclass facilities and have been seeking partnerships with top-tier sports organizations. Our facilities are unmatched in Lagos, making this partnership a natural choice. We plan to bring in our fencing coach and equipment as part of our long-term strategy. We fully support the Fencing
Federation of Nigeria's efforts to bring the Commonwealth Championship to Nigeria. This partnership aligns with our core values and offers an excellent opportunity for our school to nurture talent."
In addition to Saudi Arabia, countries such as Hong Kong, Benin Republic, Greece, Togo, Senegal, Angola, and Ghana have
confirmed their participation. Kenya has also recently shown interest in joining the tournament. To ensure strong representation, Nigerian fencers Wisdom Okanlawon and Shemilore Fashola have expressed confidence in their ability to compete against international opponents when the tournament begins on December 14 with individual events.
Iheagwam, Charity Opara amongst others. These athletes went on to make great impact in the athletics world, giving the Americans a run for their money when Nigeria athletics was a force globally.
Okorie recalled how the late Toblow took him from the street of Enugu some years ago.
“Coach Igwe was a legend, a hero and a great Nigerian. He was the one who took me from Enugu State, where I was residing at that time to represent Abia (my state) at Imo ‘98 National Sports Festival. I won gold medal for Abia State. Under Coach Igwe, I was able to defend my sports festival title at Bauchi 2000 before leaving Nigeria for a scholarship in the U.S.
“Coach Igwe was like a father to me and to many other Nigerian athletes. He was a man of peace and never held grudges against others. Coach Igwe would use his last kobo to make sure that his athletes were fed. He sacrificed so much for those around him to make their lives better. Let this great legend of our country get a well-deserved Memorial Classics. His legacy will continue to live on,” Okorie recalled with nostalgia.
(Malawi / Olympique Lyonnais)
Chawinga (Malawi / Kansas City Current)
3. Sanaâ Mssoudy (Morocco / AS FAR)
4. Chiamaka Nnadozie (Nigeria / Paris FC)
Barbra
Rmichi of Morocco / AS FAR) and Andile Dlamini of South Africa /
Mamelodi Sundowns. In the National Team of the
Year category, Nigeria, Morocco, South Africa and Zambia are listed
Chiamaka Nnadozie...nominated in two categories of CAF Awards 2024
Novak Djokovic...gunning for 25th grand slam
Mary Onyali-Omagbemi, Davidson Ezenwa, Uchenna Emedolu, Clement Chukwu, Raphael Ihunaegbo, Tina
Olusegun Obasanjo to Yakubu Gowon
“I want to acknowledge my boss, General Yakubu Gowon...when I came out of prison, I had the opportunity of hearing about friends inside and outside (the country) who contributed to appeals and prayed for my release. And I went around the world, thanking those who had been pointed out to me...I did not know that you wrote a personal letter for my release until you said it yesterday. I thank you for it”—After Gowon revealed how he sent a letter to the lateAbachatosparetheformerpresident’slife
OLUSEGUN ADENIYI
olusegun.adeniyi@thisdaylive.com
Tinubu and the VAT Pandora Box
The controversy surrounding the proposed adjustment to the formula for sharing the states’ portion of the Value Added Tax (VAT), especially the derivation component, in the tax reform bills submitted to the National Assembly by President Bola Tinubu is yet to abate. What I find interesting is that many readers are asking for my take on the issue. When I respond with ‘Tinubu, Wike and the Politics of VAT’ published on this page on 16 September 2021, everyone to whom I have forwarded the column replied that it is worth publishing again because it addresses many of the issues that are currently in the public domain. As I wrote in the column almost two years before he became president, the VAT battle was ignited by Tinubu as Lagos State governor. But is he handling the issue well now that he is president of Nigeria? Before I draw my conclusions on this vexatious issue, let me also state for the benefit of those who do not know me and may not be familiar with my writing that I am not the author of a piece being circulated on WhatsApp credited to one Olusegun S. Adeniyi. Aside the fact that Kwara State, from where I hail, is in the northern part of Nigeria, I don’t subscribe to unhelpful and divisive rhetoric. Now to the slightly abridged column of September 2021, before I conclude with my take on the current logjam.
In September 2018, there was an interesting exchange in Premium Times between Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and his ‘illustrious predecessor’ (as he described him), Alhaji Atiku Abubakar. The issue in contention was restructuring of the country. The latter had taken on the former on his postulation that what Nigeria required was “managing resources properly and providing for the people properly.” To Atiku, Osinbajo failed “to appreciate the connection between Nigeria’s defective structure and its underperformance.”
Defending his stance, Osinbajo argued that “good governance involves, inter alia, transparency and prudence in public finance,” before throwing this punchline: “Surprisingly, Alhaji Atiku leaves out the elephant in the room – corruption. And how grand corruption, fueled by a rentier economic structure benefits those who can use political positions or access to either loot the treasury or get favorable concessions to enrich themselves.”
However, the bit that is relevant here is where Osinbajo explained “the issue of deeper fiscal federalism or restructuring” and “how the then Lagos State Government, led by Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, decided to fight for greater autonomy of states.” Osinbajo then listed sundry issues on which he, as Attorney General of the state, took the federal government to court, before concluding: “Years later, we also filed an action at the Supreme Court arguing that the Value Added Tax, being a consumption tax, should exclusively belong to the States.” I have spent considerable time in the past week investigating the VAT case under reference and my findings are quite revealing. In the statement of claim filed at the Supreme Court, the LASG under Tinubu had stated: “The House of Assembly of Lagos State of Nigeria is the body entitled, to the exclusion of any other legislative body, to enact laws with regard to the imposition and collection of tax on the supply of all goods and services within Lagos State of Nigeria and that Lagos State of Nigeria, or
any agency of the State, is the body entitled, to the exclusion of any other body, to assess and collect such tax, and that the revenue of the Lagos State Government has been and continues to be affected by the enforcement of provisions of the Value Added Tax Act.”
Based on this claim, Lagos then urged the Supreme Court to determine “Whether upon the coming into effect of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, the said Value Added Tax Act is an existing law within the meaning of Section 315 of the said Constitution, being a federal legislation, which is deemed to be an Act of the National Assembly.”
Apparently mindful of the implications of the case against the background of some earlier rulings, the Supreme Court counselled Lagos to seek a political solution on the issue. That was understandable. A few years earlier, when the state challenged the powers of the federal government to grant licenses and permits to erect structures in Lagos without prior knowledge or consent, the Supreme Court ruled in favour of
the state. The apex court held that any item “not expressly mentioned in the Exclusive Legislative List or Concurrent Legislative List is Residual and within the legislative competence of the state government.”
Knowing it had a solid case on VAT, Lagos refused to toe the suggested line of political solution. Eventually, the federal government filed a preliminary objection on technical point, asking the supreme court to strike out the case on grounds that there was no dispute between it and Lagos. The authority being challenged by Lagos, according to the federal government, was that of the Federal Inland Revenue Services (FIRS) so the suit ought to have been filed at the Federal High Court (FHC). The federal government averred: “The Plaintiff’s cause of action relates to acts of a federal organ and cannot form the basis of invoking this Honourable Court’s Original Jurisdiction to entertain this suit; and the entire suit constitutes an abuse of court processes.”
In determining the case, the Supreme Court held that based on the affidavits filed, the grouse in question was about “…a dispute pertaining to the operation of an agency of the federal government.” With that, the Supreme Court concluded that it was the FHC “that was imbued with jurisdiction to the exclusion of any other court in civil causes and matters relating to the revenue of the government; connected with or pertaining to taxation of companies and other bodies; the operation and interpretation of the constitution in so far as it affected the federal government or any of its agencies…
ENDNOTE: Interested readers will find the conclusion of that old column online. Meanwhile, not only did I see this problem coming more than three years ago, but I also suggested the way forward. “From my reading of the whole situation and given the experience of Lagos on this issue, a political solution appears the surest bet to the VAT imbroglio,” I wrote at the time. “For that to happen, President Muhammadu Buhari must show leadership. He can delegate Vice President Yemi Osinbajo to use the instrumentality of the National Economic Council (NEC) which he chairs to negotiate with the states.”
Not surprisingly, Buhari did nothing. And in dealing with the issue, his successor has compounded the problem. Not only did President Bola Tinubu discard the NEC recommendation to withdraw the bills before the National Assembly to pave the way for more comprehensive
Like the policies on fuel subsidy and Naira exchange rate, the motivations behind them were good but their reckless implementation has negatively impacted the people...The same could happen with the tax bills which ordinarily are not a bad idea. If the president bullies his way to get the laws passed without the buy-in of critical stakeholders, the consequences may be too difficult to manage in a
consultation with key stakeholders in the country, he also dismissively told the council, headed by Vice President Kashim Shettima and comprising all the 36 governors, to direct their reservations to the National Assembly. That statement was in bad taste.
Considering recent Supreme Court rulings which suggest a stance to uphold the federal nature of our constitution, presidential handlers may feel that the law is on their side on this matter. But that will be a myopic reading of the situation in a country like ours. The Waziri Adio-led Agora Policy, a think tank focused on development and governance, has done extensive work on the tax bills and their implications in practical terms. The main takeaway from their interventions is that there will be losers and winners on the VAT issue, and it will impact revenue in many states. You don’t handle a policy like that the way this administration has gone about it.
For instance, Agora Policy’s disaggregation of the ‘percentage gains and losses on actual and proposed VAT for states for October 2024’, indicates that no fewer than 14 states will suffer revenue deficit with ten of them from the North if the proposed VAT formula scales through with adjustment. But that does not even tell the whole story. Of the 22 states that will ‘gain’, only nine are from the North, and if you remove Kano (42.32%) and Kaduna (35.24%), the accruing benefits for the other northern states are marginal. In fact, my state (Kwara) would gain only 1.16%. Meanwhile, 13 of the 17 Southern states are projected to witness a massive revenue jump with an additional VAT revenue of 86.17% going to Delta, 62.43% to Ogun, 53.58% to Imo and 50.09% to Anambra. Such fundamental changes in fiscal outlook in each of the 36 states (for better or worse) cannot be treated in such a cavalier manner. When the stakeholders (federal government, 36 states and 774 local governments) gather each month to share the proverbial ‘national cake’ at the meeting of the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC), the main source used to be from Statutory Revenue: oil and gas plus solid minerals and all other taxes/levies from the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and Nigeria Customs Service (NCS). Not anymore. On 24 November when they last met to share accrued revenues for the month of October, for instance, only N206.32 billion came from that source (after sundry deductions, which is another story by itself). Meanwhile, that N206.32 billion from Statutory Revenue is about 15 percent of the net sum shared, raising questions about the management of the Federation Account. In contrast, of the N1.411 trillion shared at FAAC for the month, the VAT component was N622.3 billion!
Like the two policies of the current administration on fuel subsidy and Naira exchange rate, the motivations behind them may have been good but their reckless implementation has negatively impacted the people, to put the situation mildly. The same could happen with the tax bills, which ordinarily are not a bad idea. Because most states rely on money shared at FAAC to fund their budgets, it is no surprise that we now have a political crisis that has divided the country along sectional lines. I continue to urge President Tinubu to dialogue with the governors on this issue. If he bullies his way to get the laws passed by the National Assembly without the buy-in of critical stakeholders, especially from the North, the consequences may be too difficult to manage in a fragile country like Nigeria.
