Amid Higher Food, Commodities,
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FEC Okays N47.96trn for 2025 Budget Proposal
Explains why Tinubu will present it to N'Assembly tomorrow Renames Abuja varsity after Gen. Yakubu Gowon Approves free train services during yuletide Goes on recess from Dec. 18 to January 6, 2025 Mutfwang commends president for honouring ex-Nigerian leader
Deji Elumoye in Abuja and Seriki Adinoyi in Jos
The Federal Executive Council (FEC), yesterday, rose from its last
meeting in 2024 with the approval of a N47.86 trillion budget proposal for the 2025 fiscal year.
Minister of Budget and Economic
Planning, Senator Atiku Bagudu, made this known while briefing newsmen at the end of the FEC meeting, presided over by President Bola Tinubu.
According to him, the 2025 budget framework was based on oil price benchmark of $75 per barrel, oil production of 2.06 million barrels per day and exchange rate of N1,400 to a dollar. “Today (yesterday) the Federal Executive Council approved the budget proposals for 2025 with amendments which Mr. president
directed following a presentation to the Federal Executive Council led by the Director General of the Budget
Continued on page 14
Shell’s $5bn Bonga North Deepwater Investment Excites Tinubu
President describes feat as milestone for nation's energy sector Oil giant anticipates first oil production by 2030 Asset to produce 110,000 bpd at peak Lokpobiri: Deal proves Nigeria's investor-friendly environment Analysts, contractors hail achievement
Deji Elumoye, Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja and Peter Uzoho in Lagos President Bola Tinubu yesterday welcomed Shell and its four partners' namely the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), ExxonMobil, TotalEnergies, and Eni's
announcement of a Final Investment Decision (FID) on the Bonga North Deep Offshore Field. According to the President, the landmark development, Nigeria's first deep-water oil project in over
Continued on page 14
Ademola Lookman Voted 2024 Africa's Best Player!... Page 31
DONATION TO LAGOS STATE SECURITY FUND...
L-R: Group Deputy Managing Director, United Bank for Africa (UBA), Muyiwa Akinyemi; Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu; and Group Chairman, UBA, Mr. Tony Elumelu, during the presentation of N500m to Lagos State Security Fund by UBA Foundation, the corporate social responsibility arm of UBA, held at Lagos House, Marina on Sunday.
James Emejo in Abuja and Dike Onwuamaeze in Lagos The Consumer Price Index (CPI), which
SANWO-OLU INAUGURATING NEWLY BUILT NETWORK OF ROADS...
Deputy
Soneye: NNPC's Crude-backed $1 Billion Support Critical to Dangote Refinery’s Success
Says
national oil company has exceeded its profit projections
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) yesterday highlighted the role its over $1 billion investment in the 650,000 barrels per day Dangote Refinery formed a critical pillar of support for the facility located in Lagos.
Speaking at an Energy Relations Stakeholder Engagement in Abuja, the Chief Corporate Communications Officer of the national oil firm, Olufemi Soneye, said that the crude oil-backed loan was even more important, given that at the time, Nigeria had serious liquidity challenges.
Stressing that the Mele Kyari-led NNPC had achieved ‘groundbreaking milestones’, redefining the trajectory of Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, Soneye explained that the restart of the Port Harcourt Refinery marked a significant turning point in Nigeria’s quest for energy self-sufficiency.
According to him, the development also reaffirmed the company's commitment to revitalising the nation's refining capacity.
In addition, the NNPC spokesman noted that the company NNPC has also championed the adoption of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as an alternative energy source, offering Nigerians a cleaner and more cost-effective solution amidst
rising global energy costs.
“A strategic decision to secure a $1 billion loan backed by NNPC’s crude was instrumental in supporting the Dangote Refinery during liquidity challenges, paving the way for the establishment of Nigeria’s first private refinery. This initiative underscores NNPC’s dedication to fostering public-private partnerships that drive national development,” Soneye stated.
In a ‘historic’ achievement, NNPC under Kyari’s leadership, he said, also declared profit for the first time in decades, marking a significant financial turnaround.
Soneye added that the company has already exceeded its profit projections for 2024, describing it as a testament to the ‘transformative’ reforms Kyari has implemented.
“Additionally, Kyari facilitated the $3 billion Gazelle loan, a critical intervention that helped stabilise the federation during a challenging foreign exchange crisis. As a responsible energy company, NNPC continues to strengthen Nigeria’s energy sector while solidifying its legacy as a transformative force and a global game-changer,” he added.
Energy relations, he said, are the backbone of NNPC operations and strategic aspirations as an integrated energy company,
especially in a rapidly evolving global energy landscape.
The NNPC spokesman stressed that this has fostered strong relationships with stakeholders across the value chain, indicating that it's not just a priority but a necessity for achieving the company's objectives and ensuring energy sufficiency.
He added that the company had been at the forefront of a transformative era in the global energy landscape, where collaboration, innovation, and sustainability are
key to success.
“Energy relations are the backbone of NNPC Ltd’s operations and strategic aspirations as an integrated energy company. In a rapidly evolving global energy landscape, fostering strong relationships with stakeholders across the value chain is not just a priority but a necessity for achieving our objectives.
“As your trusted partner, NNPC remains committed to fostering meaningful relationships, driving excellence, and delivering value
across the energy value chain. This meeting underscores our shared vision to ensure energy security, economic growth, and environmental stewardship for the benefit of all,” he added.
Head of Efficiency at the NNPC, Arinze Okafor, who took participants on the core business of the company, said that as a limited liability company, distinct from the corporation, in terms of governance, the NNPC has changed.
“...So what that means is that like
for 2024
many years ago, where we could go back to the government, to say please, we need this amount, we need you to fund this, we need you to fund that. Today, we are going to be funded by our own balance sheet.
“So what that means is that we don't have any other option than to make sure that our businesses that we do today, all our commitment is viable, it must have a commercial orientation, it must be able to deliver value at the end of the day,” he added.
Tinubu Urges Media Backing for Tax Reforms, Says BillsWillCreateNationalWealth,EmpowerNigerians
Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja and Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan
President Bola Tinubu has appeased the media to support his administration’s proposed tax reforms, describing it as a springboard that will create an enduring national wealth and prosperity for all Nigerians.
The President echoed this at the
2024 Nigerian Media Merit Awards, held at the Muson Centre in Lagos.
Likewise, at Ibadan yesterday, Tinubu said the ongoing deliberation on the four proposed Tax Bills before the National Assembly was a good example of collaboration needed to deepen the nation's democracy.
However, speaking in Lagos, Tinubu, who was represented by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said there was a national consensus on the need for a complete overhaul of the current tax administration system even though there are divergent views on the details of the proposed tax reforms.
requires reform. We may not all agree on every detail of the required reform, but there will be many areas of convergence,” the President said, He stated that the tax bills before the National Assembly would streamline the number of taxes, ease the burden on vulnerable Nigerians, increase the share of taxes going to the states and foster business growth through targeted incentives.
state and local governments also have their policies and programmes, meant to complement ours,” he said. He also stated that aside the increased revenues being received and distributed monthly to all tiers of government, there was a similar effort that went into ensuring financial autonomy for local governments, the closest tier of government to the people.
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
The 2024 annual Nine Lessons and Carols Service, with the theme “Immanuel, Our Restorer of Hope,” was organised by the wife of the President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja, with prominent dignitaries and faith leaders in attendance.
The event featured scripture readings by notable personalities, including former Head of State and elder statesman, General Yakubu Gowon; Deputy House Speaker, Hon Benjamin Kalu; Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume; Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyeosom
Wike; President of Court of Appeal, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun; Chairman, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Olanipekun Olukoyede; First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu ending with Bishop Tunde Adegbite.
In a sermon delivered during the 2024 Christmas Carol and Nine Lessons service, Vice President of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Rev. Baba Payan, called on Christians to embody the spirit of love that defines the season.
Titled “Let Brotherly Love Continue,” he emphasised the importance of compassion and kindness in a world often marked by division. Payan anchored his message
in key biblical passages, including Hebrews 13:1-2, which urges believers to let brotherly love continue and to entertain strangers, as some have unknowingly hosted angels.
He also referenced 1 John 4:7-9, declaring that “God is love,” and John 3:16, which articulates the core of Christian belief: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him will not perish but have everlasting life.”
The cleric highlighted that Christmas is fundamentally about love. “This season invites us to reflect on how we can show love to those around us,” Payan stated, adding that love transcends boundaries of ethnicity, religion, and social status.
He, however, expressed optimism that through the ongoing dialogue on the tax reforms, there would be many areas of convergence of opinions.
“I will say with every sense of conviction that our policies are deliberate and well-thought-out. We are headed toward the restoration of Nigeria, on a path requiring a comprehensive approach that addresses economic diversification, human capital development, infrastructure development, wealth creation, and inclusive growth.
“Among our various landmark reforms is the one focused on tax, by far one of the most profound steps necessary for setting Nigeria onto the path of enduring national wealth and prosperity for all our people.
“There is a consensus that the tax administration system in Nigeria
The President added that the reforms and other programmes being implemented under the Renewed Hope Agenda, including subsidy removal, unification of multiple exchange rates, and tax restructuring, were wellthought-out, bold but necessary steps designed to free resources and redirect them toward economic growth, infrastructure development, and human capital advancement.
“Just days ago, the Federation Accounts Allocation Committee recorded the highest-ever revenue distribution figure in the history of our country. These are the much-needed resources being freed up for investment in critical areas of the economy.
“At the federal level, these revenues are already financing impactful initiatives like the consumer credit scheme, students loan fund, presidential grants & loans scheme, the MSME clinics, three million technical talent programme (3MTT), presidential CNG initiative, massive road infrastructure projects, among many others. In the spirit of our federation, the various
The President urged the media to amplify the narratives around the reforms for better public understanding, emphasising their critical role in countering misinformation and guiding Nigerians with accurate and purposeful information.
He congratulated the 2024 NNMA Awards winners and their media organisations, and reiterated the commitment of his administration to ensuring that the fundamental rights of the press are upheld.
He said his administration was committed to ensuring that the fundamental rights of the press were guaranteed, adding the media and civic spaces must be protected at all times in the interest of Nigeria and her fledgling democracy.
Tinubu said: "This guarantee of media freedom comes with the associated obligation to exercise responsibility in the exercise of that freedom, especially in this digital age with its unstoppable viral mechanisms that sadly appear to favour falsehoods more than truth."
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
L-R:
Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat; Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; member of the State House of Assembly, Hon. Desmond Elliot; Senator representing Lagos West, Dr. Idiat Adebule; Secretary to the Lagos State Government, Barr. Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin; and Special Adviser to the Governor on Infrastructure, Engr. Olufemi Daramola (behind deputy gov), during the inauguration of newly built network of roads: Babafemi Dada with bridge – Yinka Folarin – Jamiu Lawal – Shalom Academy in Alimosho Local Government Area ... yesterday
FEDERAL EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEETING...
FEC Okays 161.3 Million Euros For Siemens Power Project Phase One
Approves N1.7bn for acquisition of
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
The Federal Executive Council (FEC) on Monday okayed 161,328,228 Euros for the execution of contracts in the first batch of the Phase one of the Siemens Power projects across the country.
The FEC meeting presided over by
President Bola Tinubu also approved N1.7 billion for the acquisition of the office complex for the National Electricity Liability Management Company (NEMCO) in Abuja.
Briefing newsmen after the meeting held at the Council Chamber of the State House, Abuja, Minister for Power, Adebayo Adelabu said
"At the Federal Executive Council meeting held this afternoon, there were basically two approvals for the Federal Ministry of Power, as I presented. The first was actually an approval for the award of contract for engineering, procurement, construction and financing for the implementation of the 331 32 KV And
132 33 KV substations upgrade under the Phase One of the Presidential Initiative, popularly known as the Siemens project, consequent upon completion of the pilot phase of this project.
"So, the Federal Executive Council at today's meeting considered it necessary for us to move forward
AfDB: Nigeria, Others Require $10bn Annually for Debt Refinancing by 2025
The African Development Bank (AfDB) has sounded the alarm on Africa’s rising debt burden, revealing that Nigeria and other countries on the continent would require an average of $10 billion annually for debt refinancing starting from 2025 to 2033.
The announcement was made during the launch of the Debt Management Forum for Africa (DeMFA) in Abuja yesterday, where the bank emphasised the urgency of adopting debt policies that promote sustainable growth and economic transformation.
Speaking at the hybrid event, which was its inaugural policy dialogue on “Making Debt Work for Africa: policies, practices, and options” AfDB Vice President and Chief Economist, Prof. Kevin Chika Urama, detailed the complexities of Africa’s debt crisis, highlighting the continent’s need for strategic reforms to address its debt sustainability challenges.
He noted that Africa’s public debt has surged by 170 percent since 2010 due to structural flaws in the global debt architecture, compounded by recent economic shocks and domestic vulnerabilities.
Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Wale Edun lauded the establishment of the DeMFA, noting its significance in addressing the unique debt management needs of Africa’s 54 nations.
He urged DeMFA to become an in-
novative platform to deliver solutions beyond existing debt management practices, particularly in light of Africa’s growing debt distress.
Urama disclosed that the continent's debt servicing obligations were set to hit $74 billion in 2024, with private creditors accounting for 54 percent of this amount. This shift toward private debt ownership presents both opportunities and challenges, with African nations paying up to 500 percent more in borrowing costs from private markets compared to multilateral development banks like the AfDB and the World Bank.
He added: “Africa’s debt service costs have however risen sharply, diverting resources away from infrastructure investment, thus constraining future GDP growth and economic transformation. For 49 African countries, average debt service cost rose sharply from an average of 8.4 percent of GDP in 2015–19 to 12.7 percent in 2020–22.
“According to the African Economic Outlook Report (AEO) 2024, in 2024, African countries are expected to spend around $74 billion on debt service, up from $17 billion in 2010, of which $40 billion is owed to private creditors, representing 54 percent of total debt service.
“As at today, 20 African countries are in debt distress or at high risk of debt distress and refinancing risks could further increase going forward, especially for countries with large bullet redemptions.
“This leads to what I call the paradox of debt and development
financing in Africa. Debt sustainability and debt refinancing risks are increasing.
“Short-term debt with increased service costs presents significant financing risks, constraining economic stability, and elevating default risks, with 20 African countries now at high risk or in debt distress.
“There is increasingly limited access to affordable liquidity. The continent needs over $74 billion in 2024 for debt service only. When hidden debt and all contingent liabilities are considered, the figure could be much higher.
“The liquidity needs for debt refinancing remain high at about an average of $10 billion per year from 2025 to 2033, with African Eurobond yields that have risen to 15 percent in 2023, double the 2019 rate, complicating debt refinancing.”
To address these challenges, Urama called for a rethinking of global financial systems and the implementation of homegrown solutions to strengthen Africa’s fiscal buffers.
He also advocated for the establishment of the African Credit Rating Agency to counter biases in sovereign ratings that inflate the perceived "Africa Risk Premium" and unnecessarily raise borrowing costs.
He noted that the newly launched DeMFA aims to serve as a platform for African policymakers, debt officers, and development partners to share best practices and formulate innovative strategies to manage the continent's debt sustainably.
Furthermore, he said: “Africa
can build and strengthen its fiscal buffers, and address the perennial challenges posed by the global debt markets that have engrained debt sustainability challenges in African countries.
as promised by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria at a meeting he held with the President of the Republic of Germany last week. The cost of this first batch of the phase one of the Siemens project that was 161,328,228 Euros. And the Phase One of this Siemens projects, as it relates to the transmission, upgrade and expansion actually include 14 brownfield substations that need upgrade and revamping, and 21 Greenfield substations, which are new substations to be built across the country to improve the transmission segment.
"And the first batch of this Phase One of the projects include: Onitsha 331,3233 KV substation, under the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company; Offa 132 33 KV substation under the Ibadan Electric Distribution Company, there is the new Abeokuta 331 3233 KV substation. We have Ayede 331 3233 KV substation. And lastly, Sokoto 132 33 KV substations." According to him, the five substations are to be worked upon and under the first batch of the Phase
One of the Siemens project. His words: "We expect that this will further improve and stabilize the transmission segment of the power sector value chain in no distant future on completion
"Another approval that was given at the FEC this afternoon actually relates to the award of contract for the acquisition of an office complex for the Nigeria Electricity Liability Management Company, which you all know as a NEMCO, and the office complex approved for outright purchase is at plot number 2148, Cadastra Zone, Wuse 1 District Abuja for NEMCO and the cost of this acquisition is 1.7 billion naira inclusive of 7.5% VAT.
"We all know that NEMCO is the product of the Electricity Power Sector Reform Act of 2005 with a very specialized role to play in ensuring the success of the electricity sector reform. And the company currently resides in this particular facility, but it is experienced that the property be acquired to avoid the escalating rent which is being increased regularly due to inflation.
UBA Donates N500 Million to Lagos Security Trust Fund
Oluchi Chibuzor
The United Bank for Africa(UBA) through the UBA Foundation, its corporate social responsibility arm, has donated the sum of N500 million to the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF), as part of its continued commitment to secure environment for individuals and businesses
According to a statement yesterday, the N500 million cheque was presented to Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, by the UBA Group Chairman, Tony Elumelu, who was accompanied by the bank’s Deputy Managing Director, Mr. Muyiwa Akinyemi, at the State House, Marina, Lagos on Sunday.
Speaking during the presentation, Elumelu reiterated the bank’s dedication to supporting initiatives that ensure the safety and prosperity
of communities across Nigeria adding that, “At UBA, we understand that security is critical for economic growth and societal well-being.
“Our donation to the Lagos State Security Trust Fund is a reflection of the bank’s belief in building safer communities to enhance the quality of life for all. We are proud to partner with the Lagos State Government to achieve this shared vision of a secure environment conducive to investment and development.”
While receiving the N500 million cheque, the Lagos State Governor expressed appreciation to the UBA Group and UBA Foundation for the significant contribution and commended Elumelu for its unwavering commitment to impactful projects, state’s progress and well-being.
He added, “We are grateful to the UBA Group for their significant contribution to the Lagos State
Security Trust Fund. This donation will strengthen our efforts to enhance security and protect our citizens. Together we are building a safer Lagos for all.”
The statement noted that the latest gesture aligned with UBA Foundation's Special Projects initiative, which focuses on addressing pressing societal issues through strategic partnerships and impactful interventions.
“Over the years, UBA Foundation has actively contributed to enhancing education, the environment, and economic empowerment and special projects such as these critical donations across Africa.
“The Foundation’s commitment to security as a driver of sustainable development is evident in its support for programs like the LSSTF,” it added. Furthermore, Elumelu emphasised the bank’s role as a leader in giving back to society.
L-R: Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo; Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim and the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake at the Federal Executive Council meeting held at the Council Chambers of the Presidential Villa, Abuja …yesterday
PHOTO: GODWIN OMOIGUI
Nume Ekeghe
NIGERIA SHIPPERS COUNCIL VISITS ABIODUN...
Edun: FG to Fund N13tn Deficit in 2025 Budget Via Borrowing
The federal government has declared that the N13 trillion deficit in the N48 trillion 2025 budget proposal will be financed through borrowing.
Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Wale Edun, made this known on Monday while addressing newsmen after the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting presided over by President Bola Tinubu at the State House, Abuja,.
He outlined the government’s financial plans for the coming year, revealing that the projected revenue for 2025 is estimated at N34.82 trillion, while total expenditure is pegged at N47.96 trillion.
This represents a 36.8% increase from the 2024 budget and leaves a
deficit of N13.14 trillion, equivalent to 3.89% of Nigeria's Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
Edun emphasized that the 2025 budget reflects the administration's progress over the past 18 months, focusing on fiscal sustainability and economic growth.
He stressed the importance of balancing revenue, expenditure, and borrowing to create a conducive environment for economic expansion.
“Like governments around the world, we are concerned about achieving fiscal sustainability. It is about creating a balance between revenue, expenditure, and borrowing to foster an economy that can grow sustainably,” Edun said.
The Minister highlighted the role of private-sector investment in driving growth, creating jobs, and alleviating
Tinubu Approves Harmonised Service Terms For Military Personnel
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
President Bola Tinubu on Monday presided over the National Defence Council meeting, during which he approved the new Harmonized Terms and Conditions of Service (HTACOS) for officers and enlisted personnel in the Nigerian Armed Forces.
President Tinubu, who chaired the high-level defense council meeting, reiterated his commitment to supporting the armed forces in their crucial role of safeguarding national security.
The approval, which was disclosed by the Special Assistant to the President on Social Media, Dada Olusegun, represents a major step towards improving the welfare of officers, soldiers, ratings, and airmen across the nation.
The revised HTACOS is expected
to address longstanding concerns within the military regarding service conditions, streamlining policies for officers and enlisted personnel alike.
Olusegun, in his verified X handle, wrote:
"President Tinubu presides over the National Defense Council meeting , approved the new harmonized terms and conditions of service (HTACOS ) officers, soldiers /ratings /airmen",. By adopting the harmonized framework, the Tinubu administration aims to bolster morale and enhance the operational readiness of Nigeria’s defense forces. The development reflects his administration's broader strategy of prioritizing welfare reforms and strengthening institutional structures.
Details of the harmonized terms are expected to be released by the Ministry of Defence in the coming days.
poverty, noting that private-sector-led economies, such as Nigeria's, rely on investors to fund projects that enhance productivity and economic expansion.
According to him: “Investors play a critical role in boosting productivity, creating jobs, and bringing people out of poverty. Our reforms are aimed at creating an environment where private sector investment can thrive".
He cited recent reforms under
President Tinubu’s administration, including the removal of petroleum subsidies, market-driven foreign exchange policies, and electricity tariff adjustments, as key factors driving economic improvement.
Edun also pointed to growing investor confidence in the Nigerian economy, referencing announcements by Shell and Total of multi-billiondollar investments in the country. “These investments signal renewed
confidence in our economy and are a testament to the government’s ongoing reform agenda,” he noted.
The minister underscored that the 2025 budget prioritizes essential government spending while fostering private-sector-led investments.
He also highlighted a significant milestone in the energy sector, with Nigeria resuming domestic refining of petroleum products for the first time in 25 years.
His words: “For the first time in about 25 years, we are refining petrol domestically, not just for fuel but also as raw materials for industries like pharmaceuticals, construction, and textiles".
The proposed 2025 budget, according to Edun, is designed to ensure critical government spending while paving the way for robust private-sector participation to drive long-term economic growth.
Sanwo-Olu: Our Administration Committed to Lagos’ Development
Inaugurates
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, yesterday reiterated his administration's commitment to the development of every part of the State in line with his seven-point policy document.
Sanwo-Olu made the statement during the inauguration of the Babafemi Dada with a bridge and the Yinka Folarin, Jamiu Lawal and Shalom Academy network of roads in the Alimosho Local Government Area of Lagos.
The Governor said the commissioning of the project was another fulfillment of his administration's commitment to fostering sustainable development through the continuous provision of efficient infrastructure, as well as a testament to the enduring partnership between government and the good people of Lagos State.
The project inaugurated by SanwoOlu included a bridge and a network of four roads with a total length of 1.8
network of roads with bridge in Alimosho
kilometres, including a 250-meter-long deck on a pile with a nine-meter-wide semi-rigid pavement finish.
The infrastructure was further enhanced by the installation of solarpowered streetlights. It provides safe and accessible motorable routes for the Igando-Ayobo community and surrounding settlements.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony attended by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat; Senator representing Lagos West, Senator Oluranti Adebule; members of the State Executive Council and the Lagos State House of Assembly; traditional, religious and political leaders, among others, Sanwo-Olu expressed confidence that the delivery of the projects would further enhance economic achievements in the Alimosho area of the State.
The Governor said the critical infrastructure project delivered on schedule, reflected his administration's dedication to improving the lives of Lagosians through purposeful
NILDS DG Inaugurates Legislative Mechanisms to Track Impacts of Laws, Policies on Nigerians
Sunday Aborisade in Abuja
The Director-General of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), Abubakar Sulaiman, has inaugurated a mechanism to effectively track the impacts of laws and policies on the living conditions of Nigerians.
Sulaiman while inaugurating the Post-Legislative Scrutiny (PLS) unit in the institute in Abuja said the mechanism was fundamental in entrenching democratic values in the country.
The Director-General said that PLS was necessary for legislative effectiveness, as it would strengthen
the impacts of laws and policies on Nigerians.
He said the practice of PLS was germane for assessing the impact of the laws being enacted by policy makers on the lives of the citizens.
Sulaiman said: “As part of our mandate of providing capacity-building and support for the legislature in Nigeria and the ECOWAS sub-region, NILDS is well positioned and prides itself as the pioneer entity in Nigeria to establish such a critical unit.
“The establishment of this unit today therefore, will serve as a significant milestone towards the institutionalisation of PLS throughout
the Nigerian legislature.
“This will then ensure legislative compliance and impact assessment to legislative decisions and laws being passed by the legislature.
“It is important to underscore that the global practice of strengthening the impact of laws through PLS is necessary for legislative effectiveness.
“Citizens are more concerned about how government policies or legislations impact them, than just mere words on papers. This is one critical role I believe the PLS will play in our legislative governance space.
“It is also important to recognise that legislative mandate transcends pre-scrutiny of Bills, legislative
compliance, or routine, mandated oversight functions that simply police the operations of Ministries, Departments and Agencies.
“This is where PLS assists to evaluate the extent to which the implementation of laws passed by lawmakers achieve the intended social and economic impact.
“As a country, therefore, we must strive towards entrenching the values of democratic governance through ensuring that we move beyond simply having numerous laws passed, and reflect more deeply on how these improve the living condition of Nigerians through impactful legislation.”
governance.
He said, "This achievement underscores our administration’s resolve to back our words with action. For the good people of Alimosho, this is not just a road and bridge; it is a reaffirmation of our commitment to building infrastructure that serves both immediate needs and long-term growth.
"One of the fundamental needs in Lagos State is road infrastructure, which significantly impacts the health, welfare, and productivity of our people. This is why Traffic Management and Transportation was made the first pillar of the T.H.E.M.E.S.+ Agenda. “Adequate and high-quality infrastructure remains a critical challenge for any responsive government, and we have risen to meet that challenge.
"This infrastructure provides safe and efficient access while opening the axis for economic development, linking LASU-IBA and Condos roads. This project aligns with the State’s Strategic Transportation Master Plan, ensuring inclusiveness, accessibility, and sustainability.
"With its completion, we have improved the drainage network, addressed perennial flooding, and created jobs for over 342 individuals directly while generating opportunities for numerous others indirectly.”
He added: “Professionals, including engineers, quality assurance experts, suppliers, administrative staff, artisans, and unskilled labourers, have all benefited from this initiative. Allied industries, such as cement, steel, and solar light manufacturers, have also experienced economic growth.
"This infrastructure supports our broader vision of stimulating local economies and creating a framework for sustained growth. By reducing commute times and costs, the bridge and road network will enhance the quality of life for residents and promote productivity.
“The project represents a significant leap forward in improving transporta-
tion, fostering economic activity, and ensuring the equitable distribution of infrastructure."
Sanwo-Olu also charged the residents to take ownership of the project.
"I urge residents to take pride in this achievement and charge the CDAs to commit to its maintenance and responsible use. I want you to see this project as your own, because you are the direct beneficiaries of its dividends.
“I see you as our partners in this journey of state-building, and we value your cooperation and feedback on this and other projects," he said.
In his welcome address, the Special Adviser to the Governor on infrastructure, Engr. Olufemi Daramola, said the construction and commissioning of the bridge and network of roads stands as another milestone in Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration's commitment to infrastructure development that enhances the socio-economic well-being of Lagos residents. Daramola said with the successful completion of the Babafemi Dada with bridge and the Yinka Folarin, Jamiu Lawal and Shalom Academy networks of roads, the Lagos State Government has improved connectivity and alleviated traffic congestion, fostering economic growth and development in the Igando-Ayobo axis.
He said, "Previously, travelling from Ayobo to Igando via Egbeda took an hour; now it only takes 15 minutes.
“Additionally, the new road offers a shorter and more efficient route for motorists connecting LASU-Iba Road with Candos in Ayobo and the neighbouring Ayetoro-Lafenwa area in Ogun State.
"Projects like this transform our state's landscape and improve the quality of life for all Lagosians.
“It is very commendable that the incumbent administration made the achievement possible despite inflation and other economic challenges."
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
Segun James
L-R: Director, Inland Transport Services Department, Nigeria Shippers Council, Mrs Ify Okolue; Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer, Barrister Pius Ukeyima Akutah; Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun; Director, Legal Services, Alhaji Bala Saleh; Deputy Director, South West zone (Ibadan), Alhaji Garba Mohammed, during the Council's visit to the Office of the Governor at OkeMosan, Abeokuta... yesterday
Bloomberg: Chappal Planning Equity Sales after $860m TotalEnergies Deal
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja Chappal Energies, a Mauritius-based oil and gas exploration company focused on Africa is planning to bring on new investors once it completes the purchase of TotalEnergies SE assets in Nigeria, Bloomberg reported yesterday.
The company agreed in July to buy TotalEnergies SE’s 10 per cent stake in 15 oil mining leases and the Forcados and Bonny export terminals for $860 million, a deal it expects to close very soon, the report recalled.
“As a consequence of that transaction, we’ll be expanding our equity base” it quoted the Managing Director,
a decade, underscored the transformative impact of his policies and reforms in attracting investments in the oil and gas sector.
The Bonga North oilfield, located 130 kilometres offshore in Oil Mining Lease (OML) 118, represents an impressive estimated $5 billion investment and is expected to yield approximately 350 million barrels of crude oil.
Shell holds the largest operational interest, with 55 percent and operates the Bonga field in partnership with Esso Exploration and Production Nigeria Ltd. (20 percent), Nigerian Agip Exploration Ltd. (12.5 percent), and TotalEnergies Exploration and Production Nigeria Ltd. (12.5 percent), on behalf of the NNPC.
According to a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the FID signals renewed confidence in Nigeria's energy sector and demonstrates the effectiveness of the Tinubu administration's strategic focus on engendering a robust and competitive investment climate.
The President in his remarks said: "The Renewed Hope Agenda fundamentally focuses on attracting investments to transform the Nigerian economy and deliver prosperity to our people.
“We designed our policies and
Ufoma Immanuel, as saying during an interview.
“It’s fair to say that in order to grow and develop we need partnership and some of those partnerships will be on the capital side and that is what we’re focused on,” Immanuel added.
Earlier this month, Chappal closed the $1.2 billion purchase of Equinor Nigeria Energy Company, a unit of the Norway-based Equinor ASA. The deal required an immediate payment of $710 million with the balance structured as contingent payments.
Soon after, Chappal sold 5.14 per cent of its equity to Aradel Holdings, a Nigerian listed oil and gas firm, for an undisclosed sum.
reforms from the start of my administration to achieve this goal. Shell and its partners' decision to invest in Bonga North affirms the success of our efforts. We will continue to offer the necessary support to ensure their success and the realisation of Nigeria's energy potential."
Tinubu's strategic engagement with global energy stakeholders had been instrumental in this renewed wave of investments.
In July 2023, at the first of several high-level meetings with Shell's global leadership, President Tinubu had declared, "We are open for business and serious about creating a stable, predictable, and investor-friendly environment."
Presidential Directives issued in early 2024 had reinforced this commitment by fast-tracking regulatory approvals, reducing operational costs, and introducing competitive fiscal incentives.
The Bonga North project is the second of the blueprint projects President Tinubu selected to drive the implementation of the transformative Presidential Directives 40, 41, and 42 issued in the first quarter of 2024. These directives, which aim to enhance regulatory clarity, accelerate project timelines, and incentivise investment in Nigeria's energy sector, have yielded remarkable results.
Chappal expects to average about 20,000 barrels a day in production on the back of the Equinor acquisition, Bloomberg added.
Production from the TotalEnergies’ assets represented approximately 14,000 barrels of oil equivalent a day last year, the French energy giant said in a separate statement.
Chappal targets about 77,000 barrels of oil equivalent a day in the next two to three years with additional asset buys, Immanuel said.
Oil multinational have been offloading Nigerian assets, mostly in onshore and shallow water blocks, a challenging operating environment, where infrastructure damage from
Earlier this year, the Ubeta oilfield (OML 58), the first blueprint project under this initiative, achieved a FID through a partnership between TotalEnergies and NNPC Limited.
Dormant since its discovery in 1965, the Ubeta project would produce 350 million standard cubic feet of gas per day, bolstering domestic supply and expanding Nigeria's presence in the global energy market.
With both blueprint projects now achieving FID, the success of these initiatives underscores the effectiveness of the President's strategic vision for Nigeria's energy future.
Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, welcomed the announcement, stressing that it was a sign that Nigeria's business environment remains very attractive to investors.
Reacting to the development, Lokpobiri, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Nneamaka Okafor, noted that the announcement aligns with the federal government’s commitment to revamping Nigeria’s oil and gas sector through strategic reforms and investments.
“This announcement by Shell is a clear indication that our policies are working. It underscores the confidence investors have in the reforms and enabling environment being fostered under President Bola
FEC OKAYS N47.96TRN FOR 2025 BUDGET PROPOSAL
Office, Tanimu Yakubu.
"The 2025 budget proposal articulates the federal government’s financial plan for the 2025 fiscal year and aligns with the renewed hope agenda and the national development plan, 2021, 2025.
"Earlier, the medium term expenditure framework and fiscal strategy paper was designed to build on the advances in macro economics stability, security gains, infrastructure gains, human capital development effort and creative industries, manufacturing and all the measures that have been taken to expand economic activity, create consumer credit, national agricultural development fund, gas, CNG initiative, housing initiative.
"All of them intended to build economic activity and the the successes noted in 2024. The 2025 framework is based on a benchmark oil price benchmark of 75 dollar per barrel, oil production of 2.06 million barrels per day and the exchange rate of 1400 naira.
“All these are already included in the medium term expenditure framework of which we have presented here, which have also been approved by the National Assembly.
"So, the total projected revenue for 2025 stands at N34,820 trillion out of which the expenditure is projected at N47,960 trillion, which is an increase of 36.8% from the 2024 estimate, the deficit for 2025 is projected at N13.13 trillion representing 3.89% of GDP.
"If you recall, this administration inherited N6.1 trillion deficit from the 2023 budget. But given the success achieved in 2024, we were still able to maintain the deficit," he said.
Bagudu explained that comments were taken from members of the Executive Council and the president directed some consequential adjustment while, approving the figures.
Shedding light on why the
budget presentation to the National Assembly was shifted from the initial date of Tuesday, December 17, 2024 to Wednesday, December 18, 2024, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, explained that the National Assembly was yet to communicate to the executive on the date and time for the presentation.
According to him, before the budget presentation, the executive usually engaged with the leadership of the National Assembly for the suitable date and time, adding that the National Assembly would then communicate on the date and time chosen for such an important exercise.
The Minister said engagements were still ongoing between the two arms of government, expressing optimism that the budget proposal might take place on Wednesday.
FEC also approved the renaming of University of Abuja after elder statesman and former head of State, General Yakubu Gowon.
The University would now be known as Yakubu Gowon University Abuja in recognition of his contribution to the stability of the country. Gowon, who superintended over the Nigerian civil war between 1967 to 1970 is greatly acknowledged for keeping the country one. He went on to establish the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme which is still in place till date.
Government also approved free train services nationwide starting from December 20 to January 6, 2025 to help cushion high transportation fare during the Christmas season. Idris told reporters that the Council would write the National Assembly on the resolution and the name change for legislative action, adding also that cabinet members wouldembark on recess from 18th December and resume on January 6, 2025.
His words: "The Federal Executive
crude theft is a regular occurrence. Exxon Mobil, Eni have closed deals on their onshore and shallow water oil assets in the West African nation to domestic producers as they turn their focus on deep-water projects with better fiscal terms and less environmental degradation risks.
Port Louis, Mauritius-based MCB Group contributed $120 million in a $360 million senior secured bridge facility to part finance the acquisition of the Equinor assets, the lender said in an emailed statement on Monday, Immanuel, 45, said he expects to see more movement in Chappal’s balance sheet over the coming 24 months. The size of any future
Tinubu’s administration.
“This project is expected to add 110,000 barrels per day to Nigeria’s production capacity, creating significant economic value for the nation,” he added.
The minister had consistently assured Nigerians that major investment announcements would be made before the end of the year.
The Shell FID is one of several anticipated investments, as Lokpobiri reiterated the government’s commitment to providing the enabling environment for businesses to thrive.
“This is just one of many investments we are expecting. The federal government remains steadfast in addressing investor concerns, improving regulatory frameworks, and ensuring that the oil and gas sector continues to attract global players.
“Our goal is to use such investments to drive economic growth, create jobs, and improve the standard of living for Nigerians,” the minister added.
Lokpobiri commended Shell for its confidence in Nigeria and assured the company of the government’s support in ensuring the project’s success.
Besides, he emphasised that more initiatives were underway to sustain
Council meeting just ended with members of the executive council commending President Bola Tinubu for stewardship of the state for the last one year.
"Members of the Federal Executive Council also reiterated their commitment and support for his programmes and the leadership of Mr President.
"It's a brief one today. Not many items on the agenda. The first one is the 2025 budget that will be presented to the National Assembly.
"The Federal Executive Council will proceed on recess from the 18th of this month until the 6th of January, meaning there won’t be any federal executive council meeting during that period.
"Government is also happy to announce that, as we did last year, there will be free train service to all Nigerians from the 20th up until the 6th January. This is consistent with the President's desire to cushion the effect of transportation from the most vulnerable Nigerians.
"Recall that this also happened in the last Christmas period and the Sallah period. And Mr President has also approved that this year, from the 20th of December to the 6th of January, there will be free transport service nationwide."
Asked whether cities that don't have access to train services would be given free road transport services, he said the gesture was only for train services.
Idris further said, "The third item is that there's also a decision taken by the Federal Executive Council to rename the University of Abuja to honour elder statesman, General Yakubu Gowon.
"The University of Abuja will now be known as Yakubu Gowon University. Of course, the process will have to go to the National Assembly,
equity sale will be determined by shareholders, taking into consideration the scale of planned expansion and risk preference of target investors, he said.
The company aims to look beyond Nigeria to sub-Saharan Africa for acquisitions and growth as well as work with partners to optimise production from acquired assets, Immanuel told Bloomberg.
Chappal’s current shareholders are largely in three groups, Immanuel said. “There is management who own a portion of the equity, there is family office and strategic partnerships,” he said, without giving names of specific shareholders.
the momentum in attracting investments into the oil sector.
For her part, the Special Adviser to the President on Energy, Ms. Olu Arowolo Verheijen, was quoted to have said: "The Bonga North FID dispels the misconceptions about International Oil Companies leaving Nigeria. Instead, we are witnessing a strategic pivot of IOCs-powered capital and technical capacity to deepwater and integrated gas projects, which align with President Tinubu's vision of transforming Nigeria into a global energy hub.
“The divestments from onshore operations create opportunities for local oil and gas companies to expand and thrive, building a strong foundation for Nigeria's energy future."
Verheijen further noted: "The success of Bonga North and Ubeta demonstrates the efficacy of the reforms and directives championed by the President. These projects will trigger broader investments to revolutionise Nigeria's power generation, transportation, and manufacturing sectors. As we look ahead to 2025, we anticipate further FIDs from international and domestic players, marking a new era of growth and opportunity for Nigeria."
The statement further noted that
the Tinubu’s administration remains steadfast in positioning Nigeria as a global leader in energy innovation and investment, ensuring that these efforts translate into tangible benefits for all Nigerians.
Meanwhile, Shell in a separate statement issued from London, yesterday expressed optimism that the asset would reach a peak production of 110,000 barrels of oil a day and that first oil was anticipated by the end of the decade.
The project, according to the statement, involves drilling, completing, and starting up 16 wells (8 production and 8 water injection wells), modifications to the existing Bonga Main FPSO and the installation of new subsea hardware tied back to the FPSO.
It multinational oil giant stated: "Bonga North currently has an estimated recoverable resource volume of more than 300 million barrels of oil equivalent (boe) and will reach a peak production of 110,000 barrels of oil a day, with first oil anticipated by the end of the decade.”
“This is another significant investment, which will help us to maintain stable liquids production from our advantaged Upstream portfolio,”
INFLATION MAINTAINS UPWARD TRAJECTORY, INCREASES TO 34.60% AMID HIGHER FOOD, COMMODITIES, ENERGY PRICES
the persistent rise in the headline index, which reached a 28-year high, had continued to fuel a tense business environment as elevated prices constrained various business operations.
According to the CPI report for the period under review, yearon-year, inflation rose by 6.40 per cent compared to 28.20 per cent in November 2023.
Food inflation rate increased by 7.08 per cent, year on year, to 39.93 per cent in November, compared to 32.84 per cent in the corresponding month of 2023.
Year on year, the uptick in the food index was blamed on increases in prices of yam, water yam, coco yam, (potatoes, yam and other tubers class), guinea corn, maize grains, rice (bread and cereals class), beer, pinto (tobacco class), and palm oil, vegetable oil (oil and fats class).
Month-on-month, food inflation stood at 2.98 per cent compared to 2.94 per cent in October.
However, core inflation, which excludes the prices of volatile agricultural produces and energy, stood at 28.75 per cent in November compared to 22.38 per cent in same period of 2023.
The core index rose due to increases in taxi journey per drop, bus journey intercity, journey by motorcycle, rents, meal at local restaurants, accommodation service class, and hair cut service, and women's hairdressing, (hairdressing salons and personal grooming establishments class).
Month-on-month, core Inflation stood at 1.83 per cent in November compared to 2.14 per cent in October.
Year-on-year, urban inflation increased to 37.10 per cent in November compared to 30.21 per cent in the corresponding month of 2023. Month-on-month, the index also rose to 2.77 per cent, compared to 2.75 per cent in October.
Similarly, rural inflation increased to 32.27 per cent, year-on-year, compared to the 26.43 per cent in November
2023. The index increased to 2.51 per cent month-on-month compared to 2.53 per cent last month.
At the state level, all items inflation, year-on-year was highest in Bauchi (46.21 per cent), Kebbi (42.41 per cent), Anambra (40.48 per cent), while Delta (27.47 per cent), Benue (28.98 per cent), and Katsina (29.57 per cent) recorded the lowest price rise movement.
Month-on-Month, however, the highest increases were recorded in Yobe (5.14 per cent), Kebbi (5.10 per cent), Kano (4.88 per cent), while Adamawa (0.95 per cent), Osun (1.12 per cent), and Kogi (1.29 per cent) recorded the slowest rise in inflation rate.
Year-on-year, food inflation was highest in Sokoto (51.30 per cent), Yobe (49.69 pet cent), Edo (47.77 per cent), while Kwara (31.39 per cent), Kogi (32.95 per cent), and Rivers (33.27 per cent) recorded the slowest rise in food prices.
Month-on-month, however, food inflation was highest in Yobe (6.52 per cent), Kano (5.95 per cent), and Kebbi (5.68 per cent) while Borno (0.76 per cent), Adamawa (0.90 per cent), and Kogi (1.21 per cent) recorded the slowest rise.
Almona stated, "The LCCI is particularly concerned because, with the persistent and unabated rise in inflation, businesses should prepare for more stress from the burden of higher interest rates as we enter the new year.
“With the raging inflation rate, the unsuccessful attempt of the central bank to reduce the currency in circulation, and approaching a high-spending festive period, we are set to contend with even higher interest rates as the expected outcome from the next decisions by the CBN Monetary Policy Committee (MPC).” She pointed out that high inflation rate had far-reaching implications for business operators.
Almona said, “One of the primary effects is reduced consumer spending. High food and core inflation erode
disposable income, reducing demand for non-essential goods and services.
“Businesses also face increased business costs, as rising transportation, rent, and energy costs elevate production expenses, shrinking profit margins.
“Moreover, the uncertain macroeconomic environment weakens the investment climate, deterring both local and foreign investments. Persistent high inflation further threatens economic growth by diminishing the competitiveness of domestic industries and stifling expansion.”
The LCCI boss added that while businesses were confronted with a weak impact of interest rates on attempts to curb inflation, there was hope for a better performance of the reform measures implemented to boost production.
She said, “Hopefully, we may see more of the impact of these measures on fundamental indicators like inflation, interest rates, and exchange rates.
“A coordinated effort is required to drive oil production to earn more FOREX, which is needed to defend Naira in the short term.”
The chamber also said new investments recently entering the oil fields should be supported with a sound regulatory environment to sustain and attract more.
LCCI also stated that Nigeria’s negative capital importation at $1.25 billion during the third quarter of 2024 compared with $2.60 billion recorded in the preceding second quarter of the year testified that the country was unattractive for investors.
Almona stated, “Foreign Direct Investment, the most critical investment that shows long-term investor confidence, accounted for only $103.82 million, or 8.29 per cent
“We believe the ongoing reforms have the potential to pull through critical deliverables for the economy to return to a growth path and achieve positive levels of the critical economic indicators if sustained.”
SHELL’S $5BN BONGA NORTH DEEP-WATER INVESTMENT EXCITES TINUBU
Ufoma Immanuel
LAWYER
‘A
27th President of the NBa, Mr augustine alegeh, cON, SaN
Few Bad Eggs Soil the Reputation of the Judiciary’
LAWYER
‘A Few Bad Eggs Soil the Reputation of the Judiciary’
Quotable
‘I am in the National Assembly, and I can tell you for a fact that nobody brought anything to NASS to say please, approve this for the purchase of a new plane….What it means is that, part of the job of NASS which is a check on the Government, is not being efficiently carried out.’ - Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, APGA Senator representing Abia South Senatorial District
columnist
PROF MIKE OZEKHOME, CON, SAN, FCIArb, PH.D. LLD
Constitutional Democracy, means a system of government, in which political and governmental power, is defined, limited and shared by a grundnorm called the Constitution, which provides inbuilt checks and balances.
This column seeks to fiercely discuss constitutional, legal and political issues, with a view to strengthening, deepening and widening the plenitude and amplitude of democracy and good governance, without fear or favour.
The writer of this column, Prof Mike Ozekhome, SAN, is a Constitutional Lawyer, Human Rights Activist, Pro-Democracy Campaigner, Notary Public and Motivational Speaker. He co-founded the Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO), Nigeria’s pioneer human rights league, on October 15, 1987, the Universal defenders of Democracy (UDD), in 1992, and with Chief Gani Fawehinmi and others in 1998, the Joint Action Committee of Nigeria (JACON), to push out the military. In his early days, he lectured at the University of Ife. Prof Ozekhome is an author of many books. He is also a Special Counsel at the International Criminal Court (ICC), at The Hague.
Forfeiture Order Under Section 17 of the Advance Fee Fraud Act
Page IV
‘Address Growing Number of Pre-Trial Inmates’, Zarephath Aid
Page
Lagos State Governor Signs Laws to Improve Human Rights
Page V
onikepo braithwaite: editor, jude
Dele Farotimi’s Magistrate Court Case Adjourned to December 20
Page V
Supreme Court Rules 2024: Why the Reliance on Stale Constitutional Provision?
Page VII
P 27th President of the NBa, Mr augustine alegeh, cON, SaN
Dele Farotimi: The Trial Within a Trial
Legal Tussle So Far
FHC: As the controversy with Dele Farotimi and his book “Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System” rages on, last Monday, December 9th to be precise, he was arraigned on 12 counts of Cybercrime Charges contrary to and punishable under Section 24 of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention etc) Act 2015 (as amended) (CA) at the Federal High Court, Ado Ekiti (FHC). Mr Farotimi was arraigned and pleaded not guilty to the charges, his bail application was moved and granted, subject to certain conditions - 1) in the sum of N50 million; 2) surety resident in Ekiti; 3) surety having landed property within the jurisdiction of the court; 4) submission of Mr Farotimi’s passport to the court. I do not know whether Mr Farotimi’s bail conditions have been perfected. The FHC matter was adjourned to January 29, 2025.
Social media was then swamped with photos of Mr Farotimi in handcuffs, and juxtaposed with that of former Governor, Yahaya Bello unrestrained. Every time I have gone to court in recent times and accused persons are brought into the court room, they are in handcuffs. The handcuffs are removed in the court room, throughout the court proceedings. They are then restrained again, when they are leaving the court room. If that is the practice, there is no reason for Yahaya Bello to have been allowed to waltz in and out of the court unrestrained. This however, is an issue that concerns the law enforcement agency in whose custody the Defendant is in, and not the Judge or the Judiciary.
Magistrate Court: As for the charges of criminal defamation before the Magistrate Court in Ado Ekiti, I thought a fresh charge bordering on the old Counts I & II may have been filed, as they had been previously brought under Section 59(1) of the Criminal Code Act 1916 (CCA) which may be similar to Section 70(1)(b) of the Criminal Law of Ekiti State 2021 (CLES) and punishable with six months imprisonment or N100,000 fine under Section 70(1)(c) thereof. They are the only two charges that appear to be able to survive the Ekiti Magistrate Court’s Charge Sheet, as criminal defamation which is an offence contrary to Sections 373-375 of the CCA has been deleted from the CLES. See Section 36(8) & (12) of the Constitution. Mr Farotimi’s book is dated 2024, long after criminal defamation was decriminalised in Ekiti State. See Aoko v Fagbemi (1961) 1 ANLR 15 Page 400, in which adultery was held not to be an offence in Southern Nigeria as it wasn’t prescribed as such there. It was only a crime in Northern Nigeria, contrary to Section 387 of the PCA.
In the alternative, the 16 charges filed at the Magistrate Court Ekiti, could have been withdrawn, struck out by the court and refiled at the Magistrate Court in Abuja (or Ibadan for example, where criminal defamation still remains an offence). Chief Afe Babalola, SAN who alleges criminal defamation, has a thriving practice in Ibadan and Abuja, and the injurious falsehood levelled against the Supreme Court, the headquarters of the Nigerian Judiciary, which was also brought into odium, opprobrium, hatred and disrepute in Mr Farotimi’s book, is also located in Abuja, FCT. See the case of Aviomoh v C.O.P. & Anor (2021) LPELR-55203 (SC).
Appearance of SAN in Magistrate Court: One of the issues that was raised by the Prosecution Counsel before Mr Farotimi’s Counsel, Mr Olumide-Fusika, SAN, could move the preliminary objection questioning the jurisdiction of the Magistrate Court based on the fact that the offences on the charge sheet were not offences under the CLES, was whether a Senior Advocate can appear in a Magistrate Court. The matter was adjourned to Friday, December 20th, for the court to rule on these issues.
Section 36(6)(c) & (d) of the Constitution provides that everyone charged with a criminal offence is entitled to defend himself in person or by legal practitioners of his choice, and such person or legal practitioners can inter alia, examine any witnesses brought by the prosecution in any court or tribunal. The purport of these provisions appears to be that, any qualified legal practitioner can appear in any court or Tribunal, at least for criminal matters. However, I remember that as a new wig, there seemed to be a rule that a practitioner of 7 years standing and above couldn’t appear in a Magistrate Court, nor could one under the same 7 years appear at the Supreme Court (I’m not 100% sure); though, this was before the 1999 Constitution came into force. Also see Section 7 of the Legal Practitioners Act 2004 (LPA) on right of appearance and audience. The question that then arises, is whether these rules can stand in the face of Sections 36(6)(c),(d) and 1(1) & (3) of the Constitution which provide that the Constitution is supreme and binding on all persons and authorities in Nigeria, and any law that is inconsistent is void to the extent of its inconsistency. See the case of Awolowo v Sarki & Anor (1966) LPELR-25290(SC) per Adetokunbo Adegboyega Ademola, JSC (later CJN). In the recent case of Bamigboye v COP Appeal No. CA/IB/225C/2021 delivered on 16/7/24 per Ridwan Maiwada Abdullahi, JCA, which actually involved Mr Olumide-Fusika, SAN, the Court of Appeal held that a Senior Advocate of Nigeria doesn’t have a right of appearance at the Magistrate Court pursuant to Rules 2, 3, 4 & 6 of the Senior Advocate of
onikepo braithwaite
onIkepo BraIThwaITe
onikepo.braithwaite@thisdaylive. com onikepob@yahoo.com
The Advocate
“Former US District Judge Paul Grimm wrote that “unfair vilification of Judges is undermining the US justice system, and the onus is on Lawyers to increase public confidence by standing up for the Judiciary”. I concur. Our Judiciary is also being undermined with venomous criticisms by people like Mr Farotimi, and my stand has always been that, you cannot tar everyone with the same brush of iniquity”
Nigeria (Privileges and Functions) Rules. Is this decision in line with the Constitution? Can the SAN Rules stand up against Sections 36(6) (c), (d), 1(1) & (3) of the Constitution?
Mini Book Review
However, I decided to read Dele Farotimi’s book, from start to finish. When I wrote last week, I avoided talking about its contents, because I had only seen some of the excerpts of the book. Now that I have read the book which comprises of 9 Chapters and an Annexure, though it is rather poorly edited, fraught with too many errors to recount here (right from the beginning, you have ‘Table of Content’ instead of Contents), I did enjoy the parts of the book where Mr Farotimi talked about his childhood in his grandfather’s house in Inalende, Ibadan, and his grandmother, ‘Maami’ and her adjudicatory/mediation skills. It reminded me of Tales by Moonlight, that showed in the evenings on NTA or so when we were children. The Foreword of the book, that is, the introduction which should be written by a third party, is written by Dele Farotimi himself. This is obviously not surprising, as no right-thinking person would want to lend their name to any enterprise that could potentially land them in trouble. Or, shall I say that, it was rather considerate of Mr Farotimi not to involve any third party in the writing of such an abusive book. He states that the book is premised on one case, Gbadomosi Eletu & Ors v Oba Tijani Akinloye & Ors 2014 15 N.W.L.R. Part 1378 per Bayang Aka’ahs, JSC. He is dissatisfied with the outcome of it, as it may have been unfavourable to the Ojomu Family that he claimed to have been ‘integrated’ into, and possibly some subsequent client of his (as he wasn’t a Counsel in the case), and in Paragraph 10 of the Foreword, Mr Farotimi then proceeds to start to make his first derogatory, defamatory and illogical conclusions against the
whole Nigerian justice system, indicting it and running it down completely on the basis of this single case. I do not think this is fair, making such a blanket, all-encompassing judgement of the whole Judiciary, particularly to the many judicial officers who are upstanding. On the last page of the Introduction, Mr Farotimi states that “The Nigerian Judiciary has no justice to dispense, and has evolved to become part of the putrefaction that has overtaken the land”. Imagine referring to the whole Nigerian Judiciary as decayed, rotten, based on one case? The Judiciary cannot defend itself, no matter how wild the allegations against the institution are, as it must maintain its dignity. Former US District Judge Paul Grimm wrote that “unfair vilification of Judges is undermining the US justice system, and the onus is on Lawyers to increase public confidence by standing up for the Judiciary”. I concur. Our Judiciary is also being undermined with venomous criticisms by people like Mr Farotimi, and my stand has always been that, you cannot tar everyone with the same brush of iniquity. See Section 36(5) of the Constitution.
I have noticed the rather unsettling trend these days, where Lawyers, mostly the senior ones, become filled with sour grapes, particularly when they lose a case in court, and are happy to vilify the Judiciary as the Judiciary’s punishment for their loss, and they then get the public that doesn’t possess full knowledge to run with their perverse narratives, when, in reality, they are aware that they either they didn’t prepare their case properly and/or they didn’t have good a case to start with that they could win, and should have advised their client accordingly. But, possibly because of the fees they stand to gain from conducting such futile cases, they prefer to deceive their clients to go ahead with fruitless litigation, contrary to Section 14(1) & (2)(e) of
the LPA Rules of Professional Conduct for Legal Practitioners 2023 (RPC) and then turn around to blame their losses on a corrupt Judiciary! I cannot say that this negative trend of sour grapes, wasn’t present in Mr Farotimi’s book. Also see Sections 30 & 31(1) & (2) of the RPC on disrespecting the court. This must stop.
Mr Farotimi then proceeds to show how partial he is to himself, when in the Introduction of the book he narrates the story of how he stood surety for a lady Church member who had presented forged documentation to the British High Commission, in a bid to secure a visa to UK in order to probably ‘japa’, and then absconded (obviously to evade justice). He conveniently ignores the fact that not only did the lady and her travel agent commit criminal offences, and that standing surety for a person who absconds may lead to consequences for the surety (see Section 179 of Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015 (ACJA) & Section 132 of Lagos State Administration of Criminal Justice Law (ACJL)), Mr Farotimi appears to absolve himself of any responsibility, and instead says the EFCC was persecuting him; absolves the lady by saying she had lost hope in Nigeria, and this caused her to want to flee from the country by any means, and even absolved the travel agent who was also involved in this criminal enterprise, by saying he was just trying to earn a living by any means whatsoever. Yet, he shouts from the rooftops in interviews, that there’s no accountability in Nigeria, a bug that he too may have been bitten by.
Falsehoods: In Chapter 1 Page 1 of the book, Mr Farotimi goes on about how Nigeria is founded on lies, and he, on the other hand, is a truth teller, only to lie blatantly in Chapter 2 Page 7 that “The University of Ife wouldn’t admit anyone to read law without a first degree in those days”. This is untrue, as I know many people who studied law at that University as their first degree, including past President of the NBA, OCJ Okocha, SAN; my two predecessors-in-office, Funke Aboyade, SAN and May Agbamuche-Mbu; our Columnist (My Brief by SKB), Stephen Kola-Balogun; Femi Falana, SAN; first NLNG Company Secretary, Edith Unuigbe; Prof Mike Ozekhome, SAN; Dr Bayo Adaralegbe and Olasupo Shasore, SAN, to mention but a few. In Chapter 8, Mr Farotimi also mentions a Counsel who represented a client in the Eletu case; I contacted the Counsel, who stated that they had nothing to do with the case! In Owie v State (1985) LPELR-2847 (SC) per Adolphus Godwin Karibi-Whyte, JSC, the purport of the Supreme Court’s decision is that when a witness makes contradictory statements (previous statement and oral testimony in court), neither can be relied upon; the former is unreliable and the latter cannot be acted on by the court. Relying on this authority, means that we must take Mr Farotimi’s submissions with a pinch of salt. And, therefore, because of this fact, I am unable to fully discuss the Eletu case, as I am yet to read the certified true copy of the judgement, and cannot just take the facts of the case summarised in the Annexure of Mr Farotimi’s book, without reading the full judgement and the reasoning behind it first.
In Chapter 3 of the book, Mr Farotimi shows how he leverages on his personal relationships to be able to gain admission to the Nigerian Law School, which had a waiting list, since, as he recounts, the then Military Head of State, General Sani Abacha, moved the institution to Abuja and it obviously couldn’t cater for all the students. Upon graduation, when Mr Farotimi needed employment, he again sought the assistance of the same Justice Ope-Agbe (as he had done to enter Law School) to speak to Dr Wale Babalakin, SAN to give him a job. He is able to make use of the ‘old boy network’ for himself, but when others leverage on their own relationships like he does, they are corrupt and nepotistic, as he has hinted in at least one of his television interviews that I have watched! Double standard!
Mr Farotimi basically talks about his journey and love story up to Chapter 6, and then, how he and his wife partook in Ojomu land sales and obviously became close to them. His bias in favour of the Ojomu’s is clear, as he mentions his integration into the Ojomu Family in Chapter 8 Page 62. In Chapter 7, Mr Farotimi tells readers how he first met Chief Afe Babalola in person at the British Airways Lounge in London. It is from there till the end of the book that Mr Farotimi discusses the Eletu case, and makes many unsubstantiated allegations about the Judiciary, pouring invectives on all and sundry.
Conclusion
The allegations laid by Mr Farotimi against the Supreme Court and the Judiciary generally, are unsubstantiated; they are full of suppositions and conjecture. He doesn’t appear to support his allegations of a fraudulent judgement in Eletu’s case, with any proof. As I said earlier, it is also extremely unjust to those judicial officers who are upright and honourable. See Genesis 18:26-33, where God told Abraham that He wouldn’t destroy Sodom, if He found 10 innocent people there. Similarly, the reputation of the Judiciary must be preserved, for the sake of the good members therein (hopefully, it isn’t too late for that). And, proof against the bad eggs should be provided, so that they can be weeded out.
dele Farotimi
Forfeiture Order Under Section 17 of the Advance Fee Fraud Act
Facts
Sometime in May 2016, the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) engaged a consortium of consultants made up of GSCL Consulting and Bizphus Consulting Services Limited to verify, reconcile and recover over-deductions on London and Paris Club debts made on the accounts of the 36 States of the Federation between 1995 and 2002. After the verification and reconciliation exercise, the Consortium submitted its report dated 31st August, 2016 to the NGF, in which they arrived at a total sum of $6,483,282,424.61 as the over-deducted sum due for refund to the 36 States.
Meanwhile, the Appellant had also written a proposal dated 3rd August, 2016 to the NGF to provide consultancy services to the NGF. The NGF approved the proposal, and engaged the Appellant to verify and reconcile the data already generated in respect of the over-deductions on the States’ accounts on the London and Paris Club debts. Thereafter, the Appellant submitted its report, and the NGF paid the Appellant the sum of N3.2billion representing 0.77% of the amount recovered as the Appellant’s fees.
Following a reported case of money laundering involving the monies received by the Appellant and some sums it paid to the 2nd and 3rd Respondent, the 1st Respondent approached the Federal High Court and obtained an interim order of forfeiture against the monies in the accounts of the Appellant, the 1st Respondent and the 3rd Respondent on the ground that the funds were reasonably suspected to be proceeds of unlawful activity under Section 17 of the Advance Fee Fraud Act 2006 (“AFFA”). The Appellant’s subsequent application to set aside the interim forfeiture order was denied, while the 1st Respondent’s subsequent application for an order of final forfeiture of the said monies was granted. Dissatisfied, the Appellant appealed to the Court of Appeal; however, the appeal was unsuccessful. Consequently, the Appellant filed a further appeal at the Supreme Court.
Issues for Determination
The Supreme Court considered the following issues distilled by the Appellant:-
1. Whether or not the lower court was right in affirming the forfeiture of the Appellant’s funds to the Federal Government of Nigeria, when the said funds were direct proceeds of a contract which was never alleged to be illegal or unlawful or criminal.
2. Whether or not the 1st Respondent discharged the burden and standard of proof required to establish that the Appellant’s funds ought to be forfeited to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
Arguments
On the 1st first issue, Counsel for the Appellant argued that for a property to qualify for forfeiture under Section 17 of the AFFA, it must be shown that it is proceeds from an unlawful activity. Counsel contended that the actual complaint of the 1st Respondent was that the Appellant did not perform the contract which it was paid for, and the performance or non-performance of a contract does not constitute unlawful activity upon which the provisions of Section 17 of the AFFA will be applicable. Counsel argued that since the funds in issue proceeded from a contract which is not itself unlawful or prohibited by any of the penal laws; it cannot be subject of forfeiture proceedings. In response, Counsel for the 1st Respondent argued that by Section 6(b) of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (Establishment) Act, the 1st Respondent is empowered to investigate all financial crimes including contract scams, and that Section 1 of AFFA defined properties obtained by false pretences to include even those obtained to induce through the medium of a contract. Counsel argued that the Appellant’s affidavit before the trial court showed that the Appellant was paid consultancy fee from public funds for doing absolutely nothing, and the facts presented at the trial court showed that the consultancy contract relied upon by the Appellant was part of a conspiracy to steal or misappropriate public funds, and this was the unlawful activity for which the order of forfeiture was made.
On the 2nd issue, Counsel for the Appellant argued that the two lower courts were in error to shift the burden of proof to the Appellant, to prove that the funds were not proceeds of unlawful activities.
In the Supreme court of Nigeria Holden at abuja On Friday, the 7th day of June, 2024 Before their lordships John Inyang Okoro adamu Jauro emmanuel akomaye agim Obande Festus Ogbuinya Habeeb adewale Olumuyiwa abiru Justices, Supreme court Sc/cV.1519/2019
Between MeLROSe GeNeRaL SeRVIceS LIMITed
And
1. ecONOMIc & FINaNcIaL cRIMeS cOMMISSION
2. WaSP NeTWORKS LIMITed
3. THeBe WeLLNeSS SeRVIceS
aPPeLLaNT
ReSPONdeNTS (Lead Judgement delivered by Honourable Emmanuel Akomaye Agim, JSC)
Counsel argued that the lower courts were in error to have decided the case solely on the reasonable suspicion of the 1st Respondent that the funds were proceeds of unlawful activity, and reasonable suspicion cannot take place of evidence needed to prove a case to reasonable satisfaction of the Court. Counsel for the 1st Respondent argued conversely that by the provisions of Section 17 of the AFFA, it is the 1st Respondent who has the initial burden during the interim forfeiture stage, to present sufficient facts in the ex-parte application to show that the funds are reasonably suspected to be proceeds of unlawful activity, after which the trial court will grant the interim order of forfeiture. Counsel argued further that, at the final forfeiture stage, the evidential burden shifts to the person who claims an interest in the property, to justify his claim that the funds or property sought to be forfeited are not proceeds of an unlawful activity. Counsel submitted that the lower court, did not misplace the burden of proof in the case.
“…. by the clear words of Section 17(1) of the Advance Fee Fraud Act, an order of interim or final forfeiture of property cannot be made by a Court under that Act, unless the Applicant has shown that the property is reasonably suspected to be proceeds of some unlawful activity under the Act, the Money Laundering Act 2004, the Economic and Financial Crimes Act 2004 or any other law enforceable under the EFCC Act…”
contained in existing reports already made by other consultants, which formed the basis of the consultancy fees paid to the Appellant by the NGF.
The Court held that the authenticity of the said documents was not challenged or denied by the NGF, and the NGF did not deny engaging the Appellant to verify and reconcile the data already generated in respect of the over-deductions on the London and Paris Club debts; neither did the trial court make any finding of fact contrariwise. The NGF did not also deny receiving Exhibit MSG4, or express any dissatisfaction with the work done by the Appellant.
The Apex Court held that, assuming the Appellant breached its contract with the NGF, Section 17 of the AFFA cannot be used as a tool to secure the performance of the contract, or to recover monies paid under the contract, or settle other disputes, as it is not a debt recovery or contract enforcement mechanism. The Court further held that it is only the NGF itself or its auditors that can decide the propriety or reasonableness of NGF entering into a contract with the Appellant to verify and reconcile the data in the GCSL/Bisplus report submitted to the NGF, and if the NGF decided to contract another consultant to have a second look at the data submitted to it by another consultant, such administrative discretion cannot be questioned or be a reasonable basis for suspecting that the money paid to the second consultant is the proceeds of unlawful activity under the Advance Fee Fraud Act or the EFCC Act or any other law enforceable under the EFCC Act.
The Supreme Court found that the 1st Respondent did not show that facts relied upon for the order for forfeiture of the Appellant’s money were unlawful under any of the legislations listed in Section 17(1) of the AFFA, hence, there was no basis for the grant of the order of forfeiture made against the funds in the Appellant’s account.
Court’s Judgement and Rationale
In determining the first issue, the Apex Court held that by the clear words of Section 17(1) of the Advance Fee Fraud Act, an order of interim or final forfeiture of property cannot be made by a Court under that Act, unless the Applicant has shown that the property is reasonably suspected to be proceeds of some unlawful activity under the Act, the Money Laundering Act 2004, the Economic and Financial Crimes Act 2004 or any other law enforceable under the EFCC Act; thus, by expressly listing those legislations, it excludes those not listed. In essence, the Applicant must adduce evidence or circumstances that justify or provide reasonable basis for suspecting that the property is the proceed of an activity that is made unlawful by the provisions of any of the legislations listed in Section 17(1), and not a mere suspicion which is baseless or whimsical or less than reasonable. The Court held that it is clear that Section 17 of the AFFA limits the unlawful activity to which it applies, to those under the legislations listed therein.
In determining the correctness or otherwise of the Court of Appeal’s affirmation of the trial court’s application of Section 17 of the AFFA in the circumstances of the case, the Apex Court proceeded to examine Exhibit MGS2 which is the letter written by NGF engaging the Appellant as a consultant; Exhibit MGS3 - the written contract between the Appellant and NGF which was signed for NGF by the NGF Chairman - the then Governor of Zamfara State and the NGF Director General, and for the Appellant by the Appellant’s CEO, and Exhibit MGS4 - the Appellant’s report of its completed verification and reconciliation of the data
On the 2nd issue, the Apex Court held that by the provisions of Section 17(1) of the AFFA, the primary burden is on the Applicant to show the activity that produced the property is in breach of any statutes listed in the provision, and it is illegal to grant the interim order or forfeiture without compliance with the requirements of the provision, and only for the purpose of compelling the owner of the property to show that the owner of the property to come to court to show that it is not the proceed of an unlawful activity or to explain its source, when the Applicant itself has not shown that the activity that yielded the property is in breach of any of the statutes listed in the Section 17(1) The Court held that the duty of a property owner to show that the property is not the proceed of an illegal activity arises only after an interim order of forfeiture of the property is made in strict compliance with the provisions of Section 17(1), and in the circumstance of the instant case, the 1st Respondent failed to discharge the burden of proof required of it for the grant of the interim order of forfeiture of the subject funds, or a final forfeiture order.
Dissenting Opinion of Honourable Habeeb Adewale
Olumuyiwa Abiru, JSC and Honourable Obande Festus Ogbuinya, JSC
The Learned Justices disagreed with the lead judgement, and instead found that in proceedings for civil forfeiture under Section 17 AFFA, there is no need for an Applicant to specify or prove any exact crime, so long as it is satisfied that the property in question constitutes directly or indirectly the proceeds of unlawful activity, as it is a unique remedy which targets the stolen property and not the perpetrator. The Learned Justices opined that there were several inconsistencies in the evidence of the Appellant, which implied that the consultancy contract was never executed by the Appellant to warrant the payment of the N3.5billion by the NGF, and led to a reasonable suspicion that the money was earned illegitimately and was thus, proceeds of an unlawful activity within the provisions of Section 17 of the AFFA. Appeal Allowed on a Ratio of 3:2, Order of Interim Forfeiture and Order of Final Forfeiture Set Aside.
Representation
Kehinde Ogunwumiju, SAN, Chikasaolu Ojukwu, SAN with others for the Appellant. E. E. Iheanacho with R. U. Adagba for the 1st Respondent. S. Ovia with F. D. Muhammed for the 2nd Respondent. Oluwaseun Alabi with others for the 3rd Respondent.
Reported by
of
Honourable
Emmanuel Akomaye Agim, JSC
‘Address Growing Number of Pre-Trial Inmates’, Zarephath Aid
Stories by Steve Aya
Zarephath Aid, an international criminal justice organisation has called for an audit of all correctional facilities across the country, to identify inmates and assess the status of each case.
The Founder, Ben Abraham, said this during a press conference in Ikeja, Lagos, to commemorate the United Nations International Human Rights Day. He expressed concern over the increasing number of pre-trial inmates in the nation’s correctional centres.
He highlighted the plight of individuals who have been awaiting trial for over ten years, due to case files being lost or stalled within the criminal justice system. Ben Abraham stated that such violations of rights, significantly deteriorate the quality of life of affected individuals.
He emphasised the urgent need for action, stating: “We must match our words with immediate action to address this significant issue within our criminal justice system”.
Section 469 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015 established the Administration of Criminal Justice Monitoring Committee (ACJMC), while Section 375 of the Lagos State Administration of Criminal Justice Law provides for the Lagos State Criminal Justice Sector Reform Committee. Other States in the Federation, have their Committees as well. These Committees need to take action and identify the problems present in the criminal justice system, particularly concerning pre-trial inmates.
An audit should be conducted in all correctional facilities, to identify inmates and review their cases. This Committee may need to collaborate with Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) to
achieve its objectives. The Attorney-General (AG) should create special Panels, to expedite the issuance of legal advice from his office. Retired Magistrates or High Court Judges may be employed on an ad-hoc
basis for these Panels. The Chief Judge can establish these Panels to address the backlog of cases awaiting trial in Magistrate and High Courts.
The Federal and State Governments have not
adequately involved NGOs in these issues, which is highly recommended. During Chief Obasanjo’s administration from 1999 to 2007, the office of the Attorney-General of the Federation collaborated with various organisations to decongest the prisons. This approach can be replicated, by working with NGOs that provide pro bono services.
The group has also intervened in the release of the longest-serving pre-trial inmates at the Medium Correctional Centre in Kirikiri, Moses Abiodun and Kazeem Adeshina, who each spent a total of 16 years in custody since their arrests in 1998 until their recent release.
Lagos State Governor Signs Laws to Improve Human Rights
Governor Babajide SanwoOlu has signed new Bills into law that address critical areas of public welfare, human rights, safety, and environmental sustainability, as part of the State effort to shape the future of Lagos and improve the quality of life for all residents.
The Lagos State AttorneyGeneral and Commissioner for Justice, Lawal Pedro, SAN, announced this at a news conference in Alausa, Ikeja. According to him, the new laws include: Consumer Protection Law; Human Organ and Tissue Transplantation Law; Fire and Rescue Service Law; Lagos Enforcement Training Institute Law; and Victim Assistance and Witness Protection Law.
“These laws are not just milestones in Lagos State’s legislative journey; they demonstrate our unwavering commitment to ensuring that Lagos remains a beacon of progress, justice, and opportunity in Nigeria”, he stated.
Mr Pedro emphasised that the Government’s priorities have always been to address the immediate needs of citizens, protect their rights, and ensure their safety, health, and prosperity. He noted that the recently signed laws address critical areas of public welfare, human rights, safety, and environmental sustainability.
“These laws have been thoughtfully designed to tackle some of the most pressing issues facing our
State while paving the way for a more just, secure, and prosperous future for all residents of Lagos”, he added.
The foremost law is the Lagos Consumer Protection Agency Law, which marks a significant advancement in enhancing consumer rights in the State. As Lagos continues to be a hub for commerce and trade, it is essential to safeguard the interests of its residents.
Mr Pedro highlighted this law, as a major step forward in protecting residents. “As Lagos thrives as a centre of commerce and trade, the rights of our citizens must be protected”, he said.
The law establishes the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency, tasked with investigating unfair trade practices, consumer fraud, and substandard products.
“This law empowers consumers to hold businesses accountable, and
ensures strict enforcement of their rights”, Pedro remarked.
Key provisions include the authority to seal premises selling hazardous products, and impose fines of up to N5 million for violations. Offenders may face penalties such as a custodial sentence of six months or fines starting at N1,000, with subsequent offenders facing stricter penalties, including fines of up to N2,000 and longer sentences.
Mr Pedro also discussed the Human Organ Harvesting and Tissue Transplantation Law, which aims to combat illicit organ trade and unethical medical practices. He described it as “a groundbreaking framework to regulate organ harvesting and transplantation in Lagos State”. The law prohibits organ harvesting without proper authorisation, and bans advertisements for
the sale of human organs. Violators risk up to 10 years imprisonment, or fines of up to N10 million.
The Victims Assistance and Witness Protection Law, provides support and protection for crime victims and witnesses.
“This law ensures that those who testify in court or suffer from crimes are not left vulnerable”, Pedro noted.
The law offers measures such as relocation, legal aid, and psychological support. “By safeguarding victims and witnesses, we create a safer environment and foster greater cooperation within the criminal justice system”, he added.
The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service Law, reorganises the State’s fire services to improve their capacity.
Mr Pedro emphasised its importance, stating, “This law transforms our
fire service into a worldclass safety and rescue organisation equipped to handle emergencies effectively”.
The law imposes penalties for fire safety violations, including fines of up to N2 million or two years imprisonment for severe offences. Companies may face fines of up to N5 million for violations resulting in catastrophic damage.
Finally, the Lagos State Enforcement Training Institute Law aims to professionalise law enforcement agencies, by providing enhanced training and capacity-building.
Mr Pedro concluded, “These laws reflect our government’s focus on protecting rights, improving safety, and ensuring the prosperity of every Lagosian. They are thoughtfully crafted to address pressing issues and secure a brighter future for all”.
Dele Farotimi’s Magistrate Court Case Adjourned to December 20
Chief Magistrate Abayomi Adeosun of the Magistrate Court in Ado-Ekiti, the capital of Ekiti State, has postponed a ruling on the application moved in the case of human rights Lawyer, Dele Farotimi until December 20, 2024. Farotimi was arraigned last week on charges of alleged defamation brought against him by the Police.
The charges stem from his book titled “Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System”, which Chief Afe Babalola, CON, SAN, claims contains defamatory material about
him.
Chief Babalola, SAN initiated legal proceedings against Farotimi, who pleaded not guilty to all 16 counts.
During the hearing, the Police Prosecutor, Mr Samson Osobu, opposed the appearance of Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Adeyinka Olumide-Fusika as Farotimi’s defence Counsel. Osobu argued that under the law, a Senior Advocate could not represent a defendant in a Magistrate Court. He referenced a recent judgement from the Court of Appeal in Ibadan, Oyo
State, delivered on July 16, 2024, which established that a Senior Advocate could not appear before a Magistrate. In response, Mr OlumideFusika, SAN contended that the Ekiti State Magistrate Court Law, enacted by the State’s House of Assembly, permits Lawyers of any status or title to represent clients in criminal matters, including this case. He urged the court to dismiss the Prosecutor’s argument, suggesting that the cited verdict may not have fully taken into account all Magistrate Court laws across the country.
Chief Magistrate Abayomi Adeosun decided to delay his ruling, to review the judgement referenced by the prosecution. He instructed the Senior Advocate to step aside, allowing the most senior Lawyer on Farotimi’s team to continue with the case until his ruling was made. Taiwo Adedeji subsequently, represented the Defendant.
The court adjourned the case to December 20, 2024, to deliver the ruling and ordered that Farotimi be remanded in prison custody.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu
Dele Farotimi
Ben Abraham
TalkIng ConsTITuTIonal demoCraCy
The Role of Courts in Enforcement of Judgements (Part 1)
Introduction
In Nigeria, the courts under the Constitution of Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Section 6, Constitution of Federal Republic of Nigeria, (as amended) 1999), have the power to hear and enter judgement in favour of a party to the matter, who has succeeded in proving his case. For any judgement delivered by a court of competent jurisdiction to become useful, it must be enforced, otherwise, the judgement cannot be used by the party to discharge the reliefs sought in the judgement by the court. There is no doubt, that the age long law, is that a judgement of a court of competent jurisdiction subsists until upset or set aside on appeal. See NCC v MOTOPHONE LTD & ANOR (2019) LPELR – 47401 (SC).
This article shall focus on the role of the Courts in Nigeria, in the enforcement or execution of judgements delivered by the courts in Nigeria.
Therefore, in reviewing the role of the courts in the enforcement of judgements in Nigeria, we shall also review what courts and enforcement really mean, the types of judgements that are enforceable under Nigerian jurisprudence, the challenges encountered by courts in the enforcement of judgements, if any, and when a judgement is said to be fully and legally enforced or executed by a party to the judgement, through the courts.
What is a Court?
A Court, simply put, is a forum, place or building where persons or corporate bodies, litigants who have a dispute come to state facts and adduce evidence to prove their individual cases or allegations at trials. A court is constituted and established often by government as an adjudicating body or institution, with authority to decide legal disputes between and amongst disputants and running and managing the processes of justice in criminal and civil courts and adhering to the rule of law, equity and natural justice. The presiding person or groups of persons of these courts are usually called Magistrates, Judges, Justices and/or Chairmen of Tribunals, which also serve as special courts. There are various types of courts established under the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria [as Amended], [CFRN], from the Supreme Court of Nigeria (being the highest court of record) to customary courts.
Functions of Courts
The courts function as temples of justice, equity and natural law. The courts in Nigeria have many functions, including but not limited to the following:
1. Interpreting the law: The Courts interpret the Constitution and other laws, statutes and case law.
2. Protecting rights: The courts define citizens’ rights and protect vulnerable groups.
3. Resolving disputes: The courts settle disputes between parties, through the application of rules and procedures.
4. Adjudicating: The courts determine guilt and administer punishment to those who have breached the law.
5. Guarding the Constitution: The courts are the guardians of the Constitution other laws, statutes and case law and upholds the rule of law.
6. Ensuring access to justice: The courts ensure that judicial services are accessible to everyone.
7. Upholding the rule of law: The courts protect and preserve the rule of law, and ensure that laws are in accordance with the
Constitution and other higher laws.
8. Respecting human rights: The courts respect human rights and follow principles of fairness, equality, impartiality, legality and natural justice.
9. Delivering effective remedies: The courts deliver effective remedies and exercise their remit with the highest level of integrity.
10. Functions imposed by Statute Law: The courts exercise the role imposed by statutes, laws and the inherent powers of the courts.
What is Judgement?
The word “judgement” can be termed as a pronouncement or a decision reached by a court, over a matter that is pending before it. A person who judgement is entered in his favour, is called the judgment creditor. The person whom a judgement is entered against is called the judgment debtor. It will suffice to say that, judgement must be entered in favour of one party and not both the Claimant and Defendant. The Supreme Court defined the word 'judgement' in SARAKI & ANOR v KOTOYE (1992) LPELR – 3016 (SC) as:
"A binding, authentic, official judicial determination of the Court in respect of the claims and in an action before it.”
Furthermore, UMANAH v ATTAH & ORS (2006) LPELR-3356(SC), Per NIKI TOBI, JSC, in defining what a judgement of court is, held that:
“The law is elementary that a minority judgement, as the name implies, is not the judgement of the court. The judgement of the court, is the majority judgement."
There are generally two types of judgements, to wit: Declaratory judgements and Executory judgements.
Declaratory Judgements
A declaratory judgement is a court ruling,
“A declaratory judgement is a court ruling, that defines or clarifies the rights of the parties involved in a legal dispute….. It is a settled law that, whilst an executory judgement is capable of immediate execution, a declaratory judgement gives no such right”
that defines or clarifies the rights of the parties involved in a legal dispute. It's a binding decision that can be used to resolve disputes, but it doesn't require the court to order any action to be taken; it merely proclaims, or declares the existence of a legal relationship, and does not contain any order which may be enforced against the judgement debtor. Furthermore, it is correct to state that a declaratory judgement is a binding judgement from a court, defining the legal relationship between parties and their rights in a matter before the court.
It is a settled law that, whilst an executory judgement is capable of immediate execution, a declaratory judgement gives no such right. It merely declares the rights of the parties. The rights which it confers on the Plaintiff can only become enforceable if another and subsequent judgement, albeit relying on the rights it declared, so decrees. Such a subsequent judgement conferring the power of execution, is the executor (See David Ogunlade v Ezekiel Adeleye (1992) LPELR – 23040 (SC)). In such an instance, the date of enforceability will be the date of the subsequent (executory) judgement and not the earlier judgement, which is merely declaratory.
Executory Judgements
An executory judgement declares the respective rights of the parties, and then proceeds to order the judgement debtor to act in a particular way, hence, it is enforceable. An executory judgement is a court order that is enforceable immediately after it is pronounced. It is also known as an enforceable judgement.
According to D.I. Efevwerhan¸ “every successful litigant desires to enjoy the fruit of his success, which is judgement.” Execution includes the process of carrying into effect the directions in a decree or judgement.
At this point, it may seem confusing for persons who are not well versed in law. However, this shall now digress to how a successful litigant can enforce a judgement against an unwilling judgement debtor.
Enforcement of Judgements
Enforcement or execution of judgments can be defined as is defined as: "the process whereby a judgement or order of court is enforced, or given
effect to according to law." (See TUKUR v GOVERNMENT OF GONGOLA STATE (1989) 4 NWLR (PT. 592) at 608). The execution of a judgement thus, encompasses the enforcement of the various writs provided under the laws for giving effect to a judgement and the most comprehensive laws governing enforcement of judgements are the Sheriffs and Civil Process Act, Cap S6, LFN 2004 and the Judgement (Enforcement) Rules. It is one thing to argue your case before a court successfully and get judgement; it is another thing for the judgement creditor to objectify the fruits of his/her judgement. Often times, aside the psychological gratification of the declaration of' judgement in the winning party’s favour, the winning party ends up with a barren trophy, and the tangible realisation of the fruits of the victory becomes a mirage. It is often times resulted from either ignorance, or from the tiredness of protracted trial.
Before we progress into enforcement of judgements, it is good we know the law applicable in the enforcement of judgements of Nigeria. Some of these laws are:
a. Judgement Enforcement Rules
b. The Sheriffs and Civil Processes Act c. The 1999 Constitution d. Foreign Judgements [Enforcement Reciprocal] Act 2004
e. Administration Criminal Justice Act 2015.
f. The Civil Procedure Rules (Federal or States) of the several courts.
There are different modes of enforcing executory judgements, as enforcement is according to subject-matter. Under enforcement of judgements, the modalities for enforcing monetary judgements are different from the modes of enforcing possessory judgements.
A) Monetary Judgements
Under monetary judgements, the judgement debtor is expected to pay the judgement creditor the awarded sum. This sum may be damages awarded or a debt the judgement debtor owed the judgement creditor, which may sometimes constitute the subject- matter of the suit.
Modalities for Enforcement of Monetary Judgements:
a. Writ of Fieri Facias
This is process is adopted by a judgement creditor in a court to levy execution against the property of the judgement debtor; whether movable or immovable. It should be noted that, the property must be within the within the jurisdiction of the court where the judgement was delivered. Under the Enforcement of Judgement, it can only be issued at the expiration of three (3) days from the date of delivery of judgement (see Order IV Rule 1(2) of the Judgement Enforcement Rules). The initial step, is on the movable property of the judgement debtor. However, it must be limited to the property that may be seized and exempts wearing apparel, bedding and tools and implements of the judgement debtor's trade to the value of N10, which is unarguably inconsequential, because of the devaluation of the Naira (see Section 25 of the Sheriffs and Civil Processes Act).
Another point to note is that, seized property cannot be sold until the expiration of five (5) clear days from the date of seizure, unless the goods are of a perishable nature, or the judgement debtor requests that they be sold in writing. Where the seized and sold property of the judgement debtor cannot settle the debt, his immovable property may be attached, but, with the leave of the High Court first. However, before the said leave can be obtained from a court by the judgement creditor, he must first show sufficient proof that the funds generated by the movable property did not settle the debt, and that the property he is seeking to attach actually belongs to the judgement debtor. (To be continued).
THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK
The Supreme Court is the last line of defence for the separation of powers, and for the rights and liberties guaranteed by the Constitution.
(Brett Kavanaugh)
PROF mike O zekh O me, san 0809 889 8888 sms Only
Introduction
The immediate past Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon. Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, GCON, on August 1, 2024 signed the Supreme Court Rules, 2024 thereby repealing the 1985 Rules. The 2024 Rules became operationalised on August 15, 2024 when it was published in the Official Gazette, though the soft and hard copy became accessible to members of the public and legal practitioners in the first week of October, 2024.
Notable Innovative Provisions
The innovative provisions of the 2024 Rules, have received commendable reviews from legal scholars and legal practitioners. One of the innovations is Order 3 Rules 1 and 2 that codified digital/electronic service of court process via the electronic mail (email) address, GSM telephone number (whatsapp) or other available mode of communications. It is debatable if the Supreme Court version on electronic mode of service is an improvement of Order 7 Rule 11 (1) of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory Civil Procedure Rules, 2018 that provides that; ‘Where service of an originating process is required by this Rules or any other enactment and the court is satisfied that prompt service cannot be effected, the court may upon application by the Claimant make such order for substituted service as may seem just’. Sub-clause e (i) of Order 7 Rule 11 (2) of the FCT High Court Rules stipulates further; ‘Email or any other scientific device now known or later developed and courier service or any other means convenient to the court’. Some analysts are of the view that the innovative sub-section e (i) of Order 7 Rule 11 (2) of the FCT High Court is radical, far-reaching and futuristic in content and context.
The other notable innovation of the Supreme Court new Rules, is the cognition of electronic signature as provided in Order 3 Rule 9(2) which aligns the Apex Court Rules with Sections 84C, 84D and 93 of the Evidence Act, 2011 as amended in 2023 that recognises electronic signature as acceptable and satisfies the requirement of the law for a human signature. Order 12 Rules 3, 4 and 5 of the 2024 Supreme Court Rules are significant too, as litigants and Counsel are forewarned of consequences of initiating appeal that is likely to be adjudged as an abuse of the Court’s process. Under this new regime, an adjudged abuser of the court process may be liable to pay the minimum punitive costs of N2million in civil appeal to the successful party. Where a Counsel is adjudged to have allowed himself prosecute a frivolous appeal, the punitive costs to be imposed is clearly stated and personally on the Counsel. State Counsel or any Counsel acting pursuant to a fiat of the Hon. Attorney-General of the Federation or of a State or a Counsel representing institutions such as the Police, the EFCC, the ICPC, etc is not spared from the imposition of punitive costs when the circumstance permits. Keen watchers of the justice sector believe that the regime of foreseeable and specific punitive costs imposable upon the infraction of the new Rules, will, to a large extent, deter the filing of appeals with scant substance and thereby, reduce drastically the workload/docket of the Apex Court.
Concern
However, despite the innovative milestones in the new Rules, concern has been expressed by the legal community over Order 4 Rule 16 of the 2024 Supreme Court Rules, that provides for leave of the Supreme Court to appeal against the decision of the Court of Appeal in respect of any civil or criminal proceedings in which leave to appeal is necessary…; The question remains, what is the basis, foundation or authority for the said Order 4 Rule 16 that provides for the mechanism of granting leave to appeal in ‘any civil appeal?
The Apex Court is a creation of the law, particularly Section 230 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal republic of Nigeria as altered. Before the Second Alteration Act, 2010, Section 233(3) of the 1999 Constitution stated thus; ‘Subject to the provisions of subsection (2) of this section, an appeal shall lie from the decisions of the
Sonny
Supreme Court Rules 2024: Why the Reliance on Stale Constitutional Provision?
This article by learned Senior advocate, Sonny ajala, discusses the new 2024 Supreme court Rules, its notable innovative provisions, and the concern raised about its Order 4 Rule 16, with regard to the seeking of the leave of the Supreme court to appeal against the decision of the court of appeal in civil matters in which leave is necessary, citing the fact that there is no foundation for same in the 1999 constitution of Nigeria (as altered)
Court of Appeal to the Supreme Court with the leave of the Court of Appeal or the Supreme Court. But, the Second Alteration Act, 2010; expunged sub-sections 3 and 4 of the hitherto Section 233 of the 1999 Constitution and leaving only sub-sections 1 and 2 as component of Section 233 of the of the 1999 Constitution as altered.
By the deed of the legislature (the Second Alteration Act, 2010), appeals from the Court of Appeal to the Supreme Court on civil matters became restricted as of right on questions of law alone. The said Section 233(2)(a) of the 1999 Constitution as altered provides that; ‘An appeal shall lie from decisions of the Court of Appeal to the Supreme Court as of right in the following cases: where the ground of appeal involves questions of law alone, decisions in any civil or criminal proceedings before the Court of Appeal.
Effectively, by the Second Alteration Act, 2010 that repealed and deleted sub-sections 3 and 4 of Section 233 of the Constitution that hitherto provided for leave to appeal in civil matters against the decision of the
“Under this new regime, an adjudged abuser of the court process may be liable to pay the minimum punitive costs of N2million in civil appeal to the successful party. Where a Counsel is adjudged to have allowed himself prosecute a frivolous appeal, the punitive costs to be imposed is clearly stated and personally on the Counsel”
Court of Appeal to the Apex Court, the Apex Court was divested of the power to entertain and grant leave to appeal in civil matters as the extant Section 233 that has only sub-sections 1 and 2 has no provision for the Supreme Court to entertain an application for leave to appeal in civil matters.
Since the courts derive their powers and jurisdiction from the Constitution or statute establishing it, the absence of such power or similar provision such as S.233(3) that was repealed by Second Alteration Act, 2010, the Supreme Court Rules 2024 with respect has no basis or foundation from the grundnorm to provide for application for leave, let alone granting leave to appeal. In Fasakin Foods v Shosanya 26 NSCOR, (Part 2) 641 at page 661-662, the Supreme Court, restated the law thus; ‘The Constitution, as has been well settled, is Supreme; the Organic or fundamental law and it is the grundnorm of Nigeria’. Stressing the import of courts to carry on their duties within the constitutional corridor, the Supeme Court, in the case of Oloruntoba-Oju & 4 Ors v Abdul-raheem & 3 Ors (2009) 5-6
S.C. (Pt. 11) 57 at 86-87 held that; ‘The jurisdiction of a court or tribunal is not inferred or imagined, but statutory. Courts are set up under the Constitution, Decrees, Acts, Laws and Edicts, they cloak the Courts with the powers and jurisdiction of adjudication.
If the Statutes do not grant Jurisdiction to a Court or tribunal, the Court and the parties cannot by consent endow it with Jurisdiction. The Jurisdiction of a Court is confined, limited and circumscribed by the Statute creating it’. Instructively, when an occasion presented itself on the construction of Section 233 of the 1999 Constitution as altered by the Second Alteration Act, 2010, the Apex Court of the land did not hesitate to give the seal
of imprimatur to the repeal of the hitherto sub-sections 3 and 4 of Section 233 in the case of Shittu v PAN Ltd (2018) 15 NWLR (Pt. 1642), 195, at page 210 when it stated that; ‘…by virtue of section 233(1) and (2) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 as altered, the Supreme Court can only hear appeals where the ground of appeal involves questions of law. The Supreme Court no longer has jurisdiction to hear appeals where the ground of appeal involves questions of mixed law and facts. Appeals on grounds of mixed law and facts end at the Court of Appeal’
With the emphatic pronouncement of the Apex Court in 2018 in the case of Shittu v PAN Ltd (Supra) that sub-sections 3 and 4 of Section 233 of the Constitution have been repealed, it is therefore of serious concern that the explanatory note to Order 4 Rule 16 of the new Supreme Court Rules is anchored on Section 233(4) of the 1999 Constitution that no longer exists. It is trite that the courts cannot amend the Constitution suo moto as was held by the Apex Court in Dapianlong v Dariye (2007) 30 NSCQR, 1022 at page 1087 that, ‘It is settled law that the court cannot amend the Constitution, neither can they change the words’. By the extant constitutional order and judicial pronouncement, there is no foundation for Order 4 Rule 16 of the new Supreme Court Rules that provided for leave to appeal against the decision of the Court of Appeal in civil matters where necessary. It is hoped the framers of the Supreme Court Rules, 2024 will for the sake of the certainty of the substantive and the adjectival law do the needful, to align the Rules of the Apex Court with the grundnorm of the land.
Dr Sonny Ajala, SAN, Abuja
Dr
ajala, SaN
Mr
‘A Few Bad Eggs Soil the Reputation of the Judiciary’
His tenure as President of the Nigerian Bar association (NBa), has remained a reference point in NBa history. He brought in innovations, which made the NBa the envy of professional associations in Nigeria. Some of his initiatives still hold strong, over a decade after his tenure. Most notable are the Stamp and Seal, and universal Suffrage by electronic voting in NBa National elections. Over the weekend, onikepo Braithwaite and Jude Igbanoi took time out to chat with Mr Augustine Alegeh,
coN, SAN, the 27th President of
the NBA. The quintessential Barman had a lot to say about discipline in the legal profession and Judiciary, among other things
The Nigerian legal sector has become heated over the ongoing cases filed against Dele Farotimi, a Lawyer, who stands accused of criminal and civil defamation of Chief Afe Babalola, SAN and other Lawyers, and also the Supreme Court and the Judiciary as a whole in his book ‘Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System’. Farotimi has been charged to court for the alleged offences and also civil
wrongs. What are your views on this?
The issues between Chief Afe Babalola, SAN and Dele Farotimi, Esq are currently before the Law Courts in both civil and criminal cases, and I would prefer not to comment on matters pending before our Courts.
Can a Senior Advocate of Nigeria appear in a Magistrate Court? Some have argued that they can, as Section 36(6)(b) of the Constitution allows a litigant to engage a legal
“However, the practice of Courts referring Lawyers to the LPDC has not taken hold in Nigeria. In other jurisdictions, where Counsel have misconducted themselves in the course of proceedings, the Courts usually refer the Lawyers to the Disciplinary committee for sanction. This has proved very helpful, in curbing the excesses of Lawyers in court proceedings”
practitioner of their choice.
The issue of the rights and privileges of a Senior Advocate are largely regulated by the Legal Practitioners Act and Rules made pursuant to the LPA. The rights and duties determined by the LPA cannot be waived by a Senior Advocate of Nigeria. The provisions of the LPA are known to litigants before they retain services of Senior Advocates.
The constitutional rights of the litigants to Counsel of their choice, must be exercised within the ambit of the Law.
We must also take as very important, the need to afford Counsel in the outer Bar the opportunity to build capacity.
The matters before Magistrates Courts, are usually matters that can be conveniently and effectively handled by Counsel in the outer Bar. In civil matters, the jurisdiction of the Magistrates court is usually limited. The Magistrates Court also do not
have jurisdiction in serious criminal matters. Consequently, I don’t see a major challenge on this issue. Why was it necessary for you to file a case against the Body of Benchers, as opposed to utilising the in-house dispute resolution mechanisms to resolve whatever issues you may have had there?
The case I filed in respect of my position in the Body of Benchers was occasioned by the circumstances on ground at the time. Thankfully, the matter has been amicably resolved by all the concerned Parties and we have agreed to work harmoniously in the best interest of our profession. Many Lawyers and non-Lawyers alike, believe that discipline needs to be infused into the legal profession and law practice, and at the same time, we require Judicial reform. As a past President of the NBA, a Life Bencher and a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, you have had the opportunity not just to observe from close quarters, but
Augustine Alegeh, coN, SAN
‘A
Few Bad eggs Soil the reputation of the Judiciary’
partake in decisions that affect both branches of the legal sector. Kindly, comment on this, and make some suggestions on the best way forward. For instance, there are complaints about the lack of accountability for Lawyers, and the recruitment process of judicial officers.
The issues of discipline in the legal profession and judicial reform are issues that have been discussed severally, and various efforts made at different points to address the issues. These are issues that negatively affect the smooth administration of justice, and we must continue to re-tool, rejig and re-strategise to deal with the issues for the development of our Country.
The discipline of Lawyers has been addressed in several ways. The Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee [LPDC] has been revamped in recent years. The procedure has been amended to allow Petitioners prosecute their Petitions more vigorously, as Petitioners can now engage their own Lawyers to handle their Petitions. I am aware that there are currently efforts underway to amend the Rules and Procedure again, to make them more efficient and effective.
However, the practice of Courts referring Lawyers to the LPDC has not taken hold in Nigeria. In other jurisdictions, where Counsel have misconducted themselves in the course of proceedings, the Courts usually refer the Lawyers to the Disciplinary committee for sanction. This has proved very helpful, in curbing the excesses of Lawyers in court proceedings. We must embrace this practice in Nigeria, to help deal with the issue of indiscipline at the Bar.
The issue of judicial reform must be dynamic, to be able to address issues and trends as they arise. There have been several commendable initiatives by the Judiciary and the Bar, but the issues in the Judiciary have not been totally resolved. The Judiciary has mostly hardworking and honest judicial officers, but the few bad eggs amongst them continue to clog the wheels of justice and soil the reputation of the entire Judiciary.
I do not see any significant difference between indolent, ignorant and corrupt judicial officers. The resultant effect of their acts is injustice and/ or miscarriage of justice, instead of justice. These bad eggs in the system should be identified, and exited from the Judiciary. An indolent and lazy judicial officer delays the administration of justice, and we always say “justice delayed is justice denied”. The ignorant judicial officer misapplies the law based on lack of knowledge of the law, and the resultant effect is a miscarriage and denial of justice and/or injustice. The corrupt judicial officer misapplies the law for personal gain, and the resultant effect is injustice.
The best way to deal with erring judicial officers, is to ensure that whenever there is injustice and/or miscarriage of the justice, the judicial officer involved is sanctioned. This is the only way to deal with the bad eggs. When, in the face of obvious injustice, occasioned either by indolence, ignorance of the law or corruption, we ask the Parties to appeal, then we are encouraging the bad eggs in the system. Even after the appeals are determined and the injustice is identified, nothing happens to the bad eggs. In some cases, the bad eggs are even elevated to higher courts, because the system does not sanction bad judgements.
The recruitment process of judicial officers has improved, but still remains far from perfect. There is no perfect system anywhere in the world. The process must be constantly adjusted and improved, to ensure that only the best materials in learning and integrity are appointed into the Judiciary.
The electronic election process which you initiated by universal suffrage in your tenure as NBA President has continued to receive criticisms. At every election, some Lawyers say there is no fraud-proof guarantee that the vote casting process isn’t compromised. To this extent, they say that the post-election audit doesn’t lend itself to scrutiny. What is your take on this? Is there any room
“The Judiciary has mostly hardworking and honest judicial officers, but the few bad eggs amongst them continue to clog the wheels of justice and soil the reputation of the entire Judiciary”
for improvement, or do you believe that these reservations are unfounded?
There is no option to universal suffrage and electronic voting, if we are to have a progressive and modern Nigerian Bar Association. We cannot have Lawyers who can vote at the National Presidential Elections to elect a President for Nigeria, but cannot vote to elect the NBA President. It is totally unacceptable. All Lawyers who have paid their practicing fees, must be entitled to vote to elect their Association’s National Officers. The argument that some Lawyers are too young or so ignorant that they should not be allowed to vote, is offensive and insulting. Those pushing that narrative, should hide their heads in shame. Those against Universal suffrage, are the same people opposed to electronic voting.
Electronic voting is the best and most efficient way, to give full effect to universal suffrage in NBA elections. Lawyers have since the 2016 NBA elections been able to vote from the comfort of their homes, and have always elected National officers of their choice to lead the NBA. The NBA National Officers elections have been challenged in Court several times, and in all the cases the Courts have upheld the elections. There has always been postelection audit, which is verifiable and transparent. The mode of the audit must always protect the sanctity of voters, for as long as we continue to have a secret ballot system. The electronic voting system allows contestants to easily determine those that voted for them, but the contestants appear to be too scared of the truth to take advantage of the system.
When you vote electronically, the system usually provides you with an “e-voting confirmation” showing those you voted for at the elections. This “e-voting confirmation” can be sent by e-mail to the contestant to enable him collate his votes, and identify any alleged manipulation. The question that begs for an answer, is why have those alleging manipulation never attempted to collate their votes. They can even ask their “supporters” to send the “e-voting confirmation” to them, even after the election results have been announced.
The best candidates have won the last NBA elections since 2016, and we must all learn to accept the verdict and decision of majority of the members of our Association.
NBA Annual Conferences have always been criticised, either for inadequacies, shoddy preparation and inability of the Conference Planning Committee to deliver to meet Conferees’ expectations. Many of us attend Conferences abroad, we don’t ever witness the kind of embarrassing shortcomings that we see at NBA Conferences. In the recently concluded 2024 NBA-AGC, many complained that despite the high registration fees that they paid, no Conference bags were distributed. Therefore, some have strongly suggested that organising Conferences should be contracted to proper event planning companies to handle, like is done by the International Bar Association and Commonwealth Lawyers Association. Would you support such a move?
Our NBA conferences are getting better each year. The NBA Annual Conferences have been marked by constant changes and innovations, aimed at ensuring that our Conferences are better. The NBA Annual Conference usually has well over
Mr Augustine Alegeh, coN, SAN
‘A Few Bad eggs Soil the reputation of the Judiciary’
15,000 Conferees each year, and the logistics of handling such a large number of Conferees is not an easy.
The best Event Planning Companies have always worked with NBA Conference Planning Committees in organising NBA Conferences for decades, so the thinking that they are required is not exactly correct. They are already actively involved. The main issue for the NBA Annual Conference should be inclusiveness. We must give Lawyers from all Branches and various fields an opportunity to participate, not just as Conferees but also as Resource persons. The practice of re-cycling a few of our members in dual capacities as Organisers and Resource persons, needs to be addressed. The NBA is full of able and competent persons at all levels, and we should use our NBA Annual Conferences to showcase our Resource base. The practice of re-cycling the same persons each year, or bringing Lawyers from other jurisdictions in large numbers to our Conferences should be discouraged. Our NBA Annual Conference creates a national and global platform, and our members should be given the opportunity to use the platform to enhance the reputation and status of the NBA.
The issue of encroachment into our practice space in Nigeria by foreign law firms is one that hasn’t been settled. It is still going on, and Nigerian Lawyers seem to be helpless. What do you suggest as a remedy to halt this ugly situation?
The practice of Law in Nigeria is regulated by the LPA. There appears to be a lack of knowledge of this simple fact in some quarters, and this has led to a seeming controversy. I believe the issue has since been nipped in the bud, and it is the Law in Nigeria that only persons authorised pursuant to the LPA can practice Law in Nigeria.
In your tenure as NBA President, you successfully organised a Conference of Bar leaders in Africa, which held in Lagos, and many African countries attended. Many who thought it would be an annual event have been disappointed, as there hasn’t been any other one held so far, whether in or outside Nigeria. Were there any benefits from this your initiative? Should this be revived?
The NBA is the largest Bar in Africa, and we must continue to play a leadership role in Africa. It was in furtherance of our leadership position in Africa, that the NBA organised the African Bar Leaders Summit. The Summit was very successful. It
“We
afforded African Bar Leaders an opportunity to exchange ideas, and review issues and trends affecting legal practice in Africa.
The idea of a meeting of African Bar Leaders is evergreen, and I believe that another African Bar Leaders Conference will be organised in future.
What are your suggestions to the new NBA Ecxo, to move the Bar to a higher point of national relevance, and to meet the aspirations of Nigerians as the voice of the voiceless people? Many say that the NBA is not really performing the functions of a Bar Association
The NBA National President is a seasoned and trusted leader.
He has served the Bar at several levels, and possesses the required experience to lead the Bar at this time. The other National Officers, have also mostly been involved at different levels of leadership at the Bar. The team is a good one.
Our expectation is that given the rich experience of the team, the NBA at this time will continue to fulfil its core mandate and objective of defending the rule of law in Nigeria, and providing for the welfare of all members of the NBA.
I do not share the view that, the NBA is not performing the functions of a Bar Association. We must understand that the NBA is not an opposition Party,
must understand that the NBA is not an opposition Party, but an independent body of Lawyers that should work with Government to promote and protect the Rule of Law, while at the same time holding the Government accountable at all times for the benefit of the development of Rule of Law and justice for all in Nigeria”
but an independent body of Lawyers that should work with Government to promote and protect the Rule of Law, while at the same time holding the Government accountable at all times for the benefit of the development of Rule of Law and justice for all in Nigeria.
Our President, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, certainly understands and appreciates the role of the NBA, and I believe he will lead the NBA creditably well at this time. Our President has already shown his willingness to collaborate with Government for the benefit of Nigeria, but has also been critical of the Government on other issues affecting the Law and Nigerians. Should pupillage be brought back to the profession, to enable young Lawyers to be groomed properly? Is Nigeria overproducing Lawyers?
I will answer in reverse order! Firstly, I do not think that with our population, we are overproducing Lawyers. Our current population figures indicate that we are currently about 200 million Nigerians, but the NBA has less than 200,000 Lawyers. This means there is one Lawyer for every 1000 Nigerians. These statistics show that, we are short of Lawyers in Nigeria.
Pupillage still exists in Nigeria. The concept of compulsory pupillage is what has been abolished. A large percentage of Lawyers just called to the Bar, prefer to learn the rudiments of the practice of Law through pupillage under senior Lawyers. The problem arises when having been called, they are unable to secure Law Firms for their pupillage. It will be most unfair to prevent them from practicing, just because they were unable to find pupillage spots in existing Law firms. We must also appreciate the fact that senior
Lawyers and existing law Firms, are not under any obligation to accept juniors for pupillage.
The Body of Benchers has introduced a mentoring scheme, under which juniors who may not have had the benefit of pupillage are attached to senior Lawyers to mentor and guide them in their formative years in the profession. This is a very laudable initiative.
Kindly, comment on the state of the nation. It has been an extremely tough year for Nigerians. Should Nigerians hold on to ‘Renewed Hope’ for a better 2025?
The Country is generally going through tough times. There is insecurity in the land, hunger, infrastructural failure, an unfavourable foreign exchange rate, amongst a multitude of other problems. However, we must appreciate that these are not new problems, but mostly problems inherited by this Government from previous Governments.
These problems cannot be wished away, solved by a magical wand or be resolved in one year. There must be planning and concerted efforts to provide permanent solutions to these problems. We must therefore, remain patient with the current Government, to enable the steps they have promised to take, and those they have so far taken to address these problems, to yield the desired results.
I am optimistic that Nigeria will get better. We are blessed with abundant human and natural resources, and all that is required is proper planning and good Government policies to enable Nigeria achieve her full potential. I have hope and faith, for a better Nigeria.
Thank you for your time. I wish you, all Lawyers and all Nigerians, a Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year, 2025.
Thank you, Learned Silk. We wish you the same.
Mr Augustine Alegeh, coN, SAN
Group Features Editor: Chiemelie Ezeobi
Email: chiemelie.ezeobi@thisdaylive.com, 07010510430
CP Ishola Olanrewaju: Redefining Policing in Lagos through Innovation, People-centric Approach
In Lagos State, Commissioner of Police Ishola Olanrewaju is setting a new standard for effective and innovative policing. From tackling cultism and organised crime to championing transparency, accountability, and community-driven strategies, his leadership reflects a deep commitment to service and empathy. Chiemelie Ezeobi writes that CP Olanrewaju is redefining policing in Lagos through innovative practices and a people-centric approach, fostering a safer and more inclusive environment for all
As a metropolitan city, ensuring the security of residents and visitors of Lagos State has always been a significant challenge. Taking cognisance of that, upon his appointment as the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Police Command, CP Olanrewaju Ishola has through grit, innovation, and a people-centric approach, redefined policing in Lagos, reshaping the relationship between law enforcement and the public while delivering results that speak volumes.
From winning the prestigious “Police Command of the Year” award by Crime Reporters Association of Nigeria (CRAN) to dismantling entrenched criminal networks, CP Ishola is steering the Lagos State Police Command right, especially this ember period that had hitherto experienced surge in crime rate. This achievement is not merely about statistics or accolades; it represents a shift in the ethos of policing—a legacy rooted in trust, innovation, and humanity.
Commitment to Service
CP Ishola’s tenure as the Lagos State Commissioner of Police has been marked by a commitment to service that goes beyond the conventional. His approach to leadership reflects a deep understanding of the unique challenges posed by Lagos’s dynamic socioeconomic landscape.
Building on the foundation laid by his predecessor, Assistant Inspector General (AIG) Adegoke Fayoade, CP Ishola has implemented reforms that have brought policing closer to the people. Where AIG Fayoade championed professionalism and respect for human rights, CP Ishola has elevated these principles, combining them with innovative strategies to address both traditional and emerging security threats.
“Leadership is not just about enforcing the law—it’s about listening to the people,” CP Ishola often emphasises. This mantra has shaped the Command’s operations, particularly during protests and demonstrations. Under his watch, crowd control strategies prioritised dialogue and de-escalation over force, a marked departure from previous approaches. His humane and empathetic handling of tense situations has earned him the respect of both officers and citizens.
Innovation in Crime Prevention
One of CP Ishola’s standout initiatives is the partnership with road transport unions to combat “one-chance” robberies—a notorious crime where unsuspecting passengers are robbed by criminals posing as commercial bus operators. Recognising the need for a proactive solution, CP Ishola introduced a tagging system for all commercial buses, ensuring that every vehicle is identifiable. This initiative has had a transformative impact on public transportation safety in Lagos. Commuters now board buses with greater confidence, knowing they can identify the vehicles they use. “Whoever enters a bus must know the bus they are boarding,” CP Ishola asserted during a briefing at the Command Headquarters in Ikeja. This simple yet effective measure reflects his commitment to addressing everyday security concerns with practical solutions.
Cracking Down on Criminal Networks
The Lagos State Police Command has dealt significant blows to criminal networks under CP Ishola’s leadership. In 2024 alone, the Command dismantled multiple armed robbery gangs and recovered a wealth of stolen goods, weapons, and contraband.
One notable operation involved the rescue of a 21-year-old kidnapping victim, for whom a ransom of ₦10 million had been demanded.
The victim was freed unharmed, showcasing the precision and skill of the Command’s operatives. The operation also resulted in the recovery of firearms, live ammunition, a vehicle, and substances suspected to be narcotics.
In another major breakthrough, officers arrested cultists responsible for a series of killings across Ikorodu, Ajegunle, and Epe. These efforts have restored a sense of security to areas that were previously hotspots for violence. The recovery of a Toyota Highlander stolen two years prior further underscores the Command’s relentless pursuit of justice.
Fighting Cultism and Organised Crime
Cultism, a long-standing menace in Lagos, has been met with a firm response under CP Ishola’s watch. The Command’s operations have not only disrupted cult activities but also sent a clear message that such crimes will not be tolerated. By addressing the root causes of organised crime and targeting its enablers, CP Ishola has demonstrated a strategic approach to law enforcement.
Moreover, the Command’s success in curbing motorcycle thefts and other
property crimes highlights its comprehensive strategy for combating crime. From high-profile raids to targeted intelligence-led operations, CP Ishola has ensured that the Command remains one step ahead of criminals.
Advocate for Transparency, Accountability
While tackling external threats, CP Ishola has also focused on reforming the police force itself. A staunch advocate for transparency and accountability, he has pledged zero tolerance for corruption within the ranks. Officers caught engaging in extortion face severe consequences, reinforcing the Command’s commitment to integrity.
This internal reform has not only improved morale within the force but also bolstered public confidence. For many Lagosians, CP Ishola’s unwavering stance against corruption signals a new era of professionalism in the Lagos State Police Command.
Leadership Rooted in Empathy
CP Ishola’s leadership is deeply rooted in the principles of empathy and humanity. During protests, his emphasis on dialogue and de-escalation has set a new standard for crowd control in Nigeria. By engaging with demonstrators and respecting their rights, the Command has earned the trust of communities that were once sceptical of law enforcement.
This approach builds on the legacy of AIG Fayoade, whose people-centric leadership laid
A staunch advocate for transparency and accountability, he has pledged zero tolerance for corruption within the ranks. Officers caught engaging in extortion face severe consequences, reinforcing the Command’s commitment to integrity. This internal reform has not only improved morale within the force but also bolstered public confidence
the groundwork for CP Ishola’s successes. AIG Fayoade’s tenure was marked by symbolic gestures, such as distributing bottled water and snacks to protesters—a move that humanised the police force and fostered goodwill. Together, these leaders have redefined what it means to serve and protect in Lagos.
Recognition and Accolades
The achievements of the Lagos State Police Command under CP Ishola’s leadership were crowned with glory when the Command won the “Police Command of the Year” award at the 2024 Annual Lecture and Award Ceremony of the Crime Reporters Association of Nigeria (CRAN). This recognition reflects not just the Command’s operational successes but also its commitment to innovation, transparency, and community engagement.
For human rights activist Comrade Aghedo Kehinde Stephen, the Command’s transformation has been revolutionary. “For the first time, we felt like the police were on our side,” he remarked, praising the professionalism and care with which officers handled protests.
A Safer Tomorrow
As Lagosians celebrate the strides made in 2024, the impact of CP Ishola’s leadership is undeniable. By prioritising trust, transparency, and results, he has reshaped the landscape of security in Lagos, proving that effective policing is not just about enforcing the law—it’s about creating a safer, more united society. CP Ishola’s vision for Lagos extends beyond immediate results; it is about laying a foundation for sustainable security. His commitment to innovation, integrity, and humanity ensures that the Lagos State Police Command will remain a beacon of hope in the fight against crime. In a year marked by challenges and triumphs, CP Olanrewaju Ishola has not only restored safety but also renewed faith in what policing can—and should—be. For Lagos, a city that never sleeps, his leadership has been a wake-up call to the possibilities of a brighter, safer future.
CP Ishola Olanrewaju with Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu
Nigeria Seeks Strengthened Institutional Capacity for ECOWAS Fiscal Transition Success
Oluchi Chibuzor
The Deputy Director in Charge of Customs Union in Nigeria, Muhammad Kamal has called on member states in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to strengthen institutional capacity to drive fiscal transition in the region.
Speaking at the regional meeting to follow up on the publication and implementation of regional directives and supplementary acts in Lagos, Kamal said fiscal transition aligns with the ongoing fiscal and tax policy reforms in Nigeria, which provide the prospect of facilitating sustainable economic growth and resource mobilization with the potential to deliver shared prosperity for Nigerians.
He further stated that regional integration and harmonisation are crucial for West Africa’s economic growth and development, as well as the management of
domestic taxation.
He said regional directives and supplementary acts are crucial instruments for fostering and promoting regional economic integration, stability, as well as development within the sub-region.
“The publication of fiscal directives and supplementary acts is a significant step towards achieving this goal. Today, we will be assessing the progress made so far, highlighting the benefits of regional integration, and discussing the specific challenges we face in the publication and implementation of these directives and supplementary acts
“We will also be exploring mechanisms and opportunities for increased cooperation between ECOWAS Member States. This is a critical aspect of our mandate, and we are confident that together, we can overcome the obstacles and achieve our
objectives,” he said.
He said despite these challenges hindering regional integration, Nigeria remains committed to overcoming them and ensuring that regional directives and supplementary acts are effectively implemented in Nigeria.
Also speaking, the Commissioner of Economic Affairs and Agriculture of the ECOWAS Commission, Mrs. Massandjé Litse-Toure, called on Heads of States in West African countries to prioritise their tax harmonisation systems to promote economic growth in West Africa.
She explained that regional directives and supplementary acts serve as essential instruments for harmonising tax policies, strengthening fiscal governance, and promoting economic stability across Member States.
Beta Glass Eyes Francophone Market, to Massively Invest in Tech
Sunday Ehigiator
West Africa’s leading glass packaging company, Beta Glass, has announced plans to invest heavily in cutting-edge technology and expand its operations into Francophone countries.
According to a statement released by the company in commemoration of its 50th anniversary, the move is part of the company’s strategic growth plan, aimed at enhancing its competitiveness, improving efficiency, and increasing its market share in the region.
The statement read: “The
milestones Beta Glass has achieved over the past fifty years are only the beginning of its transformative journey.
As Beta Glass looks to the future, the company is charting an ambitious course toward expansion and innovation. This is evident in its strategic entry into new markets, particularly Francophone Africa, highlighted by the launch of a French-language website.
“This step reinforces Beta Glass’ commitment to inclusivity and tailored solutions for diverse clients across the continent. By extending its reach into additional regions, the company is ensuring its
superior glass packaging solutions remain a cornerstone of industries across Africa. In the years to come, investments in cutting-edge technology and state-of-the-art facilities are sure to enhance sustainability, efficiency and product quality.
“At the same time, Beta Glass is cultivating a culture of inclusiveness and attracting top talent to equip itself with the expertise needed to continue leading the industry. These initiatives demonstrate a deep understanding of the interconnectedness between technological advancement, environmental stewardship, and community empowerment.”
‘How Berger Paints Helps Our Business Growth as Partners’
Elijah Temile, and his son, Oritsetimeyin Temile, both Business partners of Berger Paints Nigeria (BPN) Plc’s products, have attributed their success to the firm’s high-quality range of products and the management’s support.
According to them, the market appreciation and acceptability of Berger Paints’ range of products and the business growth strategy implemented by the Management of BPN are responsible for the success of the family business as business partners with BPN.
Explaining how he commenced business relationship with the company, Temile, recalled that his company had in 2015, established many
Colour World outlets through guided marketing and advisory support from Berger Paints.
In addition, he said Berger Paints offers a credit facility to partners and offers various rewards such as trips abroad. The company also gives good rebates,incentives and periodic promotions to reward customers and partners.
Temile explained in an interview that, “Berger Paints Nigeria Plc is known for its consistent competitive quality products. I say this not just as a business partner but based on the feedback I’ve gotten from my customers in different sectors, classes, and locations.”
The business partner attributed the increasing market
acceptability and the growth of the firm to its high-quality range of products and topnotch services. In his own words, “My customers have used their products for lots of projects across various sectors such as painting buildings, nondecorative products, industrial coatings, marine and protecton for the maritime and oil and gas sectors. The feedback has been positive, leading to repeat businesses.”
Narrating his experience, Temile, who was working in an engineering company, rendering services for International Oil Companies said it was initially difficult as a business partner because of the competition in the paint industry.
Rotary, Firm Partner to Offer Free Medical Care for 200 Women, Children
The Rotary Club of Lagos Island (RCLI) and Grover’s Hospital VI have partnered to offer free medical checkups for more than 200 women and children in Lagos Island.
The president of the Rotary Club of Lagos Island, Rotarian Hiro Rupchandani, at a free medical outreach for family health, mother and childcare jointly organised by the Rotary Club of Lagos Island and Grover’s Hospital VI in Lagos, said the move is to provide quality medical for the underprivileged citizens who cannot afford quality medical care
According to him, the initiative will go a long way to give access to many poor Nigerians, quality drugs, and medical advice, pointing out that the move is part of Rotary’s quest to give back to society.
“This is a health care programme which we have organised to concentrate mainly on women and children and of course, the men are also welcome. We are using this Medical Outreach camp to check blood pressure, Hemoglobin blood sugar etc . We test and discuss with the doctors, and if there is anything the doctor
can do, we provide them with medications,” he stated.
Speaking earlier, the Managing Director, of Grover’s Hospital, Chief Dr. Grover Anil, said the initiative is mainly focused on the health of mothers and children, maintaining that by giving back to the society, Rotary is aiming to put smiles on the faces of Nigerians who cannot get quality health care.
He said, “In this medical and health check-up program, our major focus is on the health of mother and child. A lot of mothers and children have been invited for this health check-up.”
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
following: Saharan Blend (Algeria), Djeno (Congo), Zafiro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basrah Medium (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).
L-R: Rotary Volunteer, Dr Arvinder Grover; Coordinator Medical Outreach, Dr Hassana Ohunene Muhammed; Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, and Chief Medical Director, Grover’s Hospital, Dr. Sonubi Kolawole and President, Rotary Club of Lagos Island, Hiro Rupchandani at a free medical outreach organised by Grover’s Hospital and the Rotary Club of Lagos Island in Lagos…recently
Buy Interest in Aradel Holdings, 34 Others Lift Stock Market by N330.24bn
KayodeTokede
The Nigerian stock market yesterday commenced the new week on a positive note as investors’ high demand for Aradel Holdings Plc and 34 others pushed the market capitalisation higher by N330.24 billion.
As Aradel Holdings gained 9.13per cent to close at N600.20 per share, the Nigerian Exchange Limited All-Share Index (NGX ASI) gained 544.57 basis points
or 0.55 per cent to close at 99,922.63 basis points. Also, market capitalisation rose by N330 billion to close at N60.572 trillion.
Investor sentiment, as measured by market breadth closed positive as 35 stocks advanced, while 25 declined. Royall Exchange and Infinity Trust Mortgage Bank emerged the highest price gainer of 10 per cent each to close at 66 kobo and N3.30 respectively, while International Breweries followed
with a gain of 9.90 per cent to close at N4.55, per share.
Guinea Insurance rose by 9.84 per cent to close at 67 kobo, while Caverton Offshore Support Group appreciated by 9.60 per cent to close at N2.17, per share. On the other side, University Press led others on the losers’ chart with 9.81 per cent to close at N3.77, per share. Haldane McCall followed with a decline of 9.62 per cent to close at N4.70, while International Energy Insurance shed 9.52 per
cent to close at N1.33, per share.
ABC Transports declined by 8.70 per cent to close at N1.05, while Sovereign Trust Insurance depreciated by 8.24 per cent to close at 78 kobo, per share.
The total volume traded advanced 36.13 per cent to 740.89 million units, valued at N16.88 billion, and exchanged in 10,430 deals. Transactions in the shares of Sterling Financial Holdings Company led the activity with 196.970 million shares worth N955.519 billion.
Wema Bank followed with an account of 150.445 million shares valued at N1.326 billion, while e-Tranzact International traded 70.097 million shares valued at N473.165 million.
Access Holdings traded 20.479 million shares worth N491.931 million, while United Bank for Africa (UBA) traded 17.612 million shares worth N589.037 million. Looking forward, United Capital Plc said “the equities market is expected to retain its buy interest as investors
cherry-pick undervalued stocks. However, given the high interest rates in the fixed income and money markets, we expect some bearish undertone to persist in the equities market as fixed income biased investors take advantage of the high yields in the fixed income space. Nevertheless, the Bulls will remain incentivized to persist in bargain hunting, given the tremendous mid-long-term opportunities in the equities market.”
PRICES FOR SECURITIES TRADED ASOF DECEMBER 16/24
POLITY
For Buhari, Ore Mekunu (Friend of the Poor), At 82
By Femi Adesina
This will stick in memory for life. It was March, 2020. The whole world was at the edge. A pandemic was on the prowl, and the auguries were not good. The Spanish flu of 1918 to 1920 killed between 25 and 50 million people worldwide. COVID 19 was going to mow down hundreds of millions, with Africa and Nigeria particularly vulnerable. Corpses would litter the streets of Africa’s most populous country.
Like leaders world over, President Muhammadu Buhari was rallying Nigerians for safety. There would be a lockdown of the country for weeks, as other nations of the world were doing.
There was a meeting of the Presidential Economic Advisory Council (PEAC), led by Prof Doyin Salami. It was more of a COVID 19 War Council. How would the pandemic affect the economy, oil prices in the international market, healthcare, agriculture, indeed all gamut of the lives of Nigerians? The projections were not good.
When the meeting ended after hours, President Buhari charged everyone to stay safe, take all the necessary precautions, and remain alive.
And to Zaynab Shamsuna Ahmed, his Minister of Finance, the President said directly:
“No matter what happens, make sure salaries do not fail. Workers may be home for months, but please pay them.
And also ensure that pensions don’t fail. Let our retirees have their dues. Life is difficult enough for these people when they are paid, than to consider when they are not paid at all.”
The Minister pledged that she would do her best. And true, the global lockdown lasted for about 7 months, yet salaries and pensions did not fail.
That was the vintage Muhammadu Buhari, always thinking of the poor and underprivileged. They come
first in his pecking order.
At a time everyone was seeking refuge, and it was every man for himself and God for us all, the poor and the underprivileged still had a place in his heart. The fears in the world were so palpable, and then there was this hilarious development. The President was to record a national broadcast, in which he would lock down the country. It was already general knowledge that cough was something to watch out for as symptom of COVID. As the broadcast was being recorded, he
let out one big cough.
He looked at those of us in the room with him, and jocularly exclaimed: “Ah, is the thing here already?”
We laughed.
A man in a privileged position, but who has a heart for ordinary people, is called Ore Mekunu (Friend of the Poor) in Yoruba language. There was a Governor in one of the Southwest states, who went by that cognomen. He loved ordinary people, and they loved and flocked round him in return. He drank agbo jedi (herbal medicine for pile) with them, stopped to eat at roadside restaurants, and generally demystified power.
On the day he was inaugurated for second term in office, he threw open the newly built N3.3 billion State House to the hoipolloi, the ordinary people. They were to make merry, and spend the night there. Which they did.
Buhari would not display such histrionics, but ordinary people always came first with him.
The conditions in which he inherited the country have been well documented. At least 27 of our 36 states could not pay salaries, he bailed the Governors out. Because of the people.
When at a Federal Executive Council meeting, a Minister remarked that the Federal Civil Service was bloated, with many idle hands all over the place. The suggestion was to cut the strength by half, and that the workforce would still be too large.
Not a bad proposal, as desperate times call for desperate measures. But what did President Buhari say?
“I understand what you are saying, Honorable Minister. We would save a lot by reducing the workforce. But if it lies within my power, I won’t want a single person to lose his or her job. Things are hard enough in the country, and to throw people into the unemployment market would be rather inconsiderate.”
That was the end of that proposal, for the eight years that the Buhari administration lasted. He even increased minimum wage from N18,000 to N30,000.
The Big Elephant in the room. Removal of fuel
subsidy. Did you think the Government didn’t know that the money guzzling monster had to be slain? It knew. But who ensured that subsidies remained as long as it did? Buhari. And why? The people, the ordinary people. His argument was always simple:
“When oil sold for at least 100 dollars per barrel in the international market, rising even to as high as 140 dollars per barrel, what did the ordinary people gain? Nothing! So why should they be the ones to bear the brunt when oil prices fall?”
By the time the administration ended, all, including the three main presidential candidates, were resolved that oil subsidies had to be removed. It was not unlikely that President Buhari shared the same conviction. But something that would throw society into a tailspin? He didn’t want to do it—for the sake of the ordinary people.
Ordinary people gravitate towards Buhari, like bees to the honeycomb. That was why he always had a basket of millions of waiting votes, even before the first ballot was cast. He clobbered the ruling People’s Democratic Party in 2015, and won with even larger votes in 2019, despite all attempts to denigrate and demarket him. When you love the ordinary people, they love you in return, and stand with you through thick and thin.
Now almost two years into retirement, get to Buhari’s house today. And you see the people milling around, just wanting to get a glimpse of the man.
Shortly before the 2011 election, Buhari wept. He said he wouldn’t offer himself to be President again after that year. It was because of the ordinary people that he wept. What would happen to them? But happily, he had a change of heart, ran in 2015, and won. Brought into power by the people.
As he turns 82 December 17, 2024, I salute the Ore Mekunu, a friend of the poor, who still draws the people like magnet, even in retirement.
*Adesina was Special Adviser, Media and Publicity to President Buhari, 2015 to 2023
Osidi: Driving FMBN’s Affordable Home Ownership Delivery
About 10 months after President Bola Tinubu appointed a new management team for the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN), led by Shehu Osidi as its Chief Executive, Emmanuel Addeh writes that some significant positive changes have taken place.
With a deficit estimated in the region of 20 million units, the task of even scratching the surface of Nigeria’s housing challenge remains a daunting one. This problem is further worsened by the rising cost of building materials, inflation, and general low incomes. With these in mind, the task ahead for the man appointed to lead the new era was clearly daunting, if not intimidating.
This enormous challenge was acknowledged by the Managing Director in one of his earliest speeches, but quickly followed by a plan to make the FMBN more impactful and responsive to the housing needs of Nigerians. As he has always observed, Nigeria has houses it doesn’t need, but needs houses it doesn’t have. This was a clear pointer to the fact that the challenge of housing in the country is characterised by the need for what is considered affordable housing for low- and middle-income earners.
But less than a year since that appointment, Osidi is showing a clear understanding of the challenge, engaging and partnering with critical stakeholders and leading a transformation at the bank. He has since initiated and pursued crucial reforms to strengthen the bank’s capacity to perform, optimise its processes, enhance customer service delivery, and generally increase its impact on Nigerians.
FMBN’s
Role in Affordable Housing Delivery
The FMBN boasts of standing in a pivotal position due to its structure and mandate. It is today seen as one institution with the capacity and design to provide the kind of housing solutions that Nigerians need.
For example, the FMBN is the only institution in Nigeria that offers housing loans and mortgages at single-digit interest rates, mostly between 6-7 per cent, while also offering a repayment tenor of up to 30 years. It says this is why it has done more in the provision of mortgages than any other mortgage or commercial bank in the country.
It is the institution mandated to oversee the National Housing Fund (NHF) Scheme, a contributory scheme set up to provide a pool of funds through monthly contributions from Nigerian workers. This includes economically-active Nigerians from both the public and private, formal and informal sectors.
Once an individual has contributed 2.5 per cent
of their monthly income to the scheme for up to six months, such an individual qualifies to apply for a mortgage loan of up to N50 million depending on affordability, and for up to 30 years, depending on age or number of years left before their 60th birthday. With mortgage products like the NHF Mortgage Loan, Individual Construction Loan, Rent-to-Own, Home Renovation Loan (HRL), Estate Development Loan (EDL), Cooperative Housing Development Loan (CHDL), as well as the soon-to-be-launched Rental Assistance Loan, and NHF Diaspora Mortgage Loan, the FMBN insists that it’s strategically positioned to cater to the varying needs on both the demand and supply ends of the housing industry.
In the last 10 months, Osidi, backed by other members of the executive management and the supportive staff of the bank, the FMBN says, has embarked on transformative initiatives that are spurring it to greater impact.
As of September 2024, barely seven months after Osidi’s takeover, the bank had delivered 1,033 housing units out of the 39,425 recorded since the FMBN’s inception. With these efforts sustained, according to the bank, the task of decimating Nigeria’s housing
deficit would witness significant positive results and restore the lost dignity of many Nigerians, especially those within the low and middle-income segments.
Similarly, a total of N10.477 billion in NHF refunds have been recorded within this short period of Osidi’s administration. Total loans disbursed within this period is placed at N28.328 billion out of a total of N453.954 billion disbursed since the bank’s inception. While these milestones have been recorded, the bank boasts 6,853 ongoing housing projects in 106 locations across the country, with a potential of creating 171,325 jobs for Nigeria’s teeming unemployed populations.
Deepening
Process
Automation
According to the FMBN, the importance of technology in driving business growth in today’s fast-paced business landscape cannot be overstated. Aware of this fact, the Osidi-led FMBN, said it had at the top of its seven-point agenda, “deepening process automation” to enable it stay ahead of the business curve.
To this end, the bank said it has been working on concluding the deployment of the Core Banking Application to usher in a new era of automated service delivery to its corporate and individual customers. By deepening process automation, the bank streamlines operations, reduces turnaround times, and improves service delivery. This will enable the bank to respond more swiftly to market demands and better serve its customers, ultimately repositioning FMBN as a leader in the mortgage finance industry.
Expanding Strategic Partnerships
FMBN says it’s cognisant of the fact that no organisation can achieve its goals in isolation. To this end, the FMBN adds that it has continued to leverage and expand strategic partnerships with key stakeholders, both within the public and private sectors. By building and nurturing these partnerships, the Bank leverages synergies, accesses new resources, and expands its reach. Accordingly, the FMBN currently engages with institutions like the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI), Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Shelter Afrique Development Bank, Federal Housing Authority (FHA), Nigeria Labour Congress, Trade Union Congress, Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association, Family
Homes Fund, as well as other key stakeholders in the housing and mortgage sectors, including REDAN, NiDCOM, CIBN, ANAN and a host of other private organisations and civil society groups.
“As a direct result of these engagements, the Bank was able to recover N12 billion out of the N19 billion trapped 40 per cent deductions from NHF by the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation (OAGF) through the intervention of the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun. Through these engagements also, there are positive indications that the pending issue of the Single Obligor Limit and the approval of our pending annual accounts would be completely resolved soon.
Also, as part of these strategic engagements, the Bank said it has concluded arrangements to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Shelter Afrique Development Bank to explore lines of funding for its new initiative like rental housing and the development of student hostels. Additionally, the Bank is also strategically engaging with the International Union for Housing Finance (IUHF) with a view to improving access to mortgage financing in Nigeria. Recently too, Shehu Osidi highlighted the pressing need for the Bank and other mortgage finance institutions in the country to pursue engagements with FinTechs and PropTechs. The Bank is mulling this kind of engagements, all geared towards easing business processes and enhancing customer service delivery.
Enhanced Customer Service Delivery
FMBN notes that under the leadership of Osidi, it has reinforced its commitment to delivering exceptional customer service. With customer-centricity as a pillar of the Bank’s core values, the current management has consistently emphasised professionalism and a customer-first approach. One such measure, it said, is the introduction of mystery shopping as a strategic tool to improve customer service delivery and enhance customer experience and satisfaction. This initiative is expected to ensure that staff conducts are properly monitored and a culture of excellent service delivery is enthroned.
Osidi
Former President Muhammadu Buhari
Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com 08033025611 SMS ON lY
Oyebanji’s Commitment to Citizens-Driven Development of Ekiti
ado Ekiti and other communities in Ekiti State were full of activities for days recently when Governor abiodun Oyebanji marked his two years in office but one innovation that many didn’t notice was how the governor succeeded in using citizens’ involvement to drive his development agenda. Raheem Akingbolu reports
Since October 16, 2022, when Governor Abiodun Oyebanji took over the mantle of leadership, the third week in October has become a harvest period for people of Ekiti State.
To commemorate his inauguration, the week has been set aside for anniversary, which is mostly characterized by flag off of new projects and inauguration of completed projects as well as providing a platform for the governor to present his scorecard to his people.
Among other activities, the hallmark of this year’s edition was the inauguration of laudable projects which many observers agreed would have far-reaching impact on the people of the state. But one noticeable trend was that the governor’s penchant to run an inclusive government that factors in citizens’ participation yielded fruits during the anniversary. At least three projects stood out while the anniversary lasted as beauties of such collaboration. They include; the new Ado- Ekiti New Town (housing) project, the Bver Hostel at the College of Nursing Sciences, Ado Ekiti and Dr. Mike & Grace Arokodare Lecture Building at the Ekiti State College of Health Sciences and Technology, Ijero-Ekiti.
Many development experts have argued that for any nation to be fully developed, its citizens have to be active participants in the governance process. In the same manner, Governor Oyebanji believes that for a community or state to develop, its citizens must contribute meaningfully no matter their status in the society.
A former president of Nigeria, Dr Goodluck Jonathan, once said, “any society or country that closes the vital valves of its democratic space can neither develop at a reasonable pace nor have good governance” and when the discussion is about democracy, citizen participation cannot be dismissed because it is a prerequisite for good governance.
Every society is intrinsically designed as an institutional system made up of economic, cultural, religious, political and other professional structures. And to achieve all societal good as well as goals of these structures; governance is key, but not just governance, good governance.
Through citizen participation and involvement, Oyebanji has demonstrated in the last two years that good governance is possible with an innovative leader that has foresight.
Since he became Governor of the Fountain of Knowledge, Oyebanji has not for a day shied away from telling critical stakeholders that he needs their support to deliver on his electoral promises. To this end, he has engaged various stakeholders within and outside the state and laid bare his projection for possible partnership and collaboration.
In most advanced countries of the world today, governance is marked by citizens’ participation, accountability and transparency. Painfully, even in this era of globalization, elected governments in countries like Nigeria have failed to fully acknowledge the importance of citizens’ participation to development. This is where Oyebanji has gotten it right as evident by what happened in Ekiti recently.
Through this citizen participation initiative, Ekiti State government in the last two years has extended hands of fellowship to individuals and organisations including the President of the Architects Registration Council of Nigeria (ARCON), Dipo Ajayi; Ijero-Ekiti born Philanthropist, Dr. Abiodun Arokodare and his wife, Mrs. Grace Arokodare and another private sector player for an housing scheme in Ado Ekiti.
Through a Public-Private Partnership by renowned entrepreneur Dipo Ajayi, the Nursing education in the state has received a significant boost under the governor’s infrastructure upgrade initiative with the inauguration of a 600-bed student hostel at the College of Nursing Sciences, Ado Ekiti. The hostel was built through the partnership with the renowned
entrepreneur.
During the inauguration of the N800 million project, Governor Oyebanji reaffirmed his commitment to aggressive infrastructure development in the state’s educational institutions, aiming to reposition and deliver effective higher education.
He explained that his administration’s commitment to expanding access to education had prompted increased investment in education and technology, in line with the third agenda of his government. He emphasised that his administration remains focused on providing physical infrastructure that will create a conducive environment for both teaching and learning in all stateowned institutions.
The governor praised Ajayi, for his steadfast dedication to the state’s development, despite the numerous challenges encountered in delivering the project.
In his remarks, Ajayi, who is also the Chairman of Bver Hostels and
Suites, stressed the importance of unity and cooperation among stakeholders for the state’s development. He revealed that the 600-bed hostel, constructed within six months, cost N800 million due to the rising cost of materials. He also called on the Governor to eliminate bureaucratic bottlenecks that hinder investors, to encourage more development projects in the state.
Ajayi commended the people for their unwavering support and acknowledged that the Governor’s visionary leadership and progressive policies had positively impacted education, healthcare, and infrastructure in Ekiti.
In the same vein, the state government also launched the construction of 1,000 affordable housing units under the Ado Ekiti New Town Project during the anniversary ceremony.
The project, in partnership with the private sector, is part of the governor’s strategy to enhance growth and development in the state.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, Oyebanji said, “My administration will prioritise the provision of a housing scheme that will help relieve the populace from the stress of building homes themselves.”
The governor also revealed that 1,000 units
In most advanced countries of the world today, governance is marked by citizens’ participation, accountability and transparency. Painfully, even in this era of globalization, elected governments in countries like Nigeria have failed to fully acknowledge the importance of citizens’ participation to development. This is where Oyebanji has gotten it right asw evident by what happened in Ekiti recently.
of housing would be delivered within one year. While pledging to leave a lasting legacy in the provision of mass housing in Ekiti State, Oyebanji noted that the state’s current housing deficit was of great concern to his administration. He emphasised the urgent need for the government to adopt a housing model that optimises limited space and delivers safe homes through public-private partnerships for the people of Ekiti.
At the Ekiti State College of Health Sciences and Technology, Ijero-Ekiti, where a philantropist, Dr. Abiodun Arokodare and his wife, Grace Arokodare donated a storey building for students, Oyebanji described the couple as rare breeds in the order of Aare Afe Babalola and Asiwaju Wole Olanipekun.
The governor also applauded the College Provost, Dr. (Mrs.) Olajumoke Adebayo not only for ensuring industrial harmony among staff of the College but also for effectively utilizing the institution’s meagre resources.
In her address, Provost of the College appreciated Governor Oyebanji for his love and passion for educational development, which she hinted was evident in the increase of government’s monthly subvention to the College, as well as the financial support for the institution at its last NBTE accreditation.
The Provost also hailed the Ajero of IjeroEkiti, Oba Adewole Adebayo for his immense support for the College, which he hinted served as motivation to the donor.
Adebayo further urged other notable indigenes of Ijero Community, eminent personalities in Ekiti State and others across the globe to emulate the kind gesture of Dr. Mike and Mrs. Grace Arokodare.
In all, Governor Oyebanji has demonstrated in the last two years that governance is the act of leading and exercising authority to enact policies and decisions that serve the overall good of the people in Ekiti State.
Oyebanji
Report: How Nigeria’s Oil
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
Nigeria’s crude oil production shrank by over 700,000 barrels per day in the 10 years spanning 2015 and 2024 amid failure of planned projects to boost production by several international oil companies.
Latest data from the ‘2024 Compendium of Investment in Nigeria’s Oil and Gas Industry’ showed that while Nigeria was producing as high as 2.2 million barrels per day in 2015 and indeed recorded an output of 2.3 million bpd in 2018, it has not come close that output level since 2020.
However, the document launched by the Ministry of Petroleum Resources did not indicate whether the production was a combination of crude oil and condensate or just the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) crude quota alone.
Dike Onwuamaeze
A report by the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), has revealed that the manufacturing sector’s contribution to Nigeria’s GDP declined in the third quarter of 2024 both on year-to-year and quarter-to-quarter basis.
MAN in its Quarterly Economic Report for 3rd Quarter of 2024, also stated that the Manufacturers CEO Confidence Index (MCCI) for the quarter under review dropped by 1.7 points to 50.2 points in Q3
But an analysis of the data indicated that crude oil production has dipped massively from the 2.2 million bpd output that year to the roughly 1.5 million bpd OPEC oil by November 2024, which was still the highest in over 40 months.
Crude oil volume pumped in 2016 was 2 million bpd; 2.1 million bpd in 2017; climbing to 2.3 million bpd in 2018; 2.2 million bpd in 2019 and 1.8 million bpd in 2020.
In the same vein, in 2021 the slump in crude oil production continued, dropping to 1.6 million bpd; 1.5 million bpd in 2022 and 1.4 million bpd in 2023. Nigeria’s production as of November 2024 was 1.5 million bpd, with the difference in production in 2015 and 2024 being an estimated 700,000 bpd.
Since at least April 2020, Nigeria has struggled to meet its oil production target, blaming oil
2024 from 51.9 points in Q2 2024.
It attributed the decline to prevailing harsh businessoperating environment occasioned by high energy prices, exorbitant exchange rate, soaring interest rates, persistent inflation and unstable fuel supply.
It noted that the economy is highly dominated by services which accounted for 56.7 per cent of GDP while agriculture and industries contributed 24.3 per cent and 19 per cent respectively.
It said: “At 46.5 per cent of
theft, deteriorating assets, lack of investment and outright sabotage for the challenges in the sector.
The country in the last few years has intensified efforts to reduce the massive theft of its commonwealth by collaborating with local security groups in the Niger Delta, a move that has led to a significant rise in output.
With the global energy transition gaining ground, Nigeria has also lost investment opportunities in its oil industry as International Oil Companies (IOCs) continue to cut their spending on fossil fuels and deploy more resources to renewable energy sources. production capabilities.
On projects that failed, it noted that while the industry had seen significant successes, it has also faced numerous challenges leading to the failure of several projects, both
industrial output, the manufacturing sector remains the leading contributor to the industrial sector.
“However, its overall contribution to GDP declined year-on-year and quarter-on-quarter from 8.42 per cent in Q3 2023 and 8.46 per cent in Q2 2024 to 8.21 per cent in Q3 2024.
“This underscores the harsh effect of hostile economic policies, which have largely constrained the country’s goal of rapid industrialisation and have left the economy struggling for survival.”
by Indigenous and international companies, which have hobbled the robustness of crude oil production over the years.
These failures, the federal government said, often stem from a combination of factors, including political instability, regulatory hurdles, security issues, and financial mismanagement.
In an overview, it listed Afren Plc, an independent oil and gas company, which was involved in various African operations, including Nigeria.
According to the document, the failure factors for the projects embarked upon by the company, included the fact that the company faced significant financial difficulties, leading to a collapse in 2015 due to poor governance and mismanagement of funds.
In addition, operational delays and
The report also noted that, “The dominance of the service sector portends a drawback for the country’s industrialisation agenda and aspirations of reducing forex demand pressures, promoting value addition, generating mass employment, increasing export earnings, driving industrial-led growth and ensuring sustainable development.”
MAN also disclosed that the employment generation capacity of the manufacturing sector has continued to decline, with only
underperformance in its Nigerian projects contributed to its inability to sustain profitability.
Another company which failed in Nigeria, according to the document was Petrobas Nigeria, the Nigerian subsidiary of the Brazilian oil company Petrobras which aimed to engage in oll exploration and production in Nigeria.
Petrobras, it said, faced challenges in navigating Nigeria’s complex environment which hampered its operational efficiency as well as prolonged delays and rising operational costs which led to the eventual scaling back of its Nigerian operations. Failed international projects, it said, included Shell’s oil production in Ogoniland, with its long-standing operations in the region having been marred by conflict and environmental degradation. It characterised
2,606 jobs created in H1 2024, a 29.99 percent reduction from H2 2023.
It stated, “Year-on-year, job creation fell by 37.83 per cent, reflecting the ongoing challenges within the sector, including economic uncertainties, inflationary pressures, and an unfavourable business environment.
the challenge as community backlash as protests from locals against environmental pollution led to operational disruptions and eventual withdrawal from the region.
Others were Chevron’s involvement in OML 98, aiming to expand its production capacity in the Niger Delta, but encountered persistent threats from militant groups in the region which led to project delays and a significant decline in production levels as well as Eni’s OPL 245.
The project, it said, had been mired in corruption scandals, impacting its operational viability and Investor confidence and the accompanying legal battles and regulatory scrutiny.
“The chemical and pharmaceuticals industry remained the highest job creator, while the motor vehicle and miscellaneous assembly industry created the fewest jobs.”
The report stated that the net loss of the Naira devaluation has been enormous for manufacturers, which baloomed the Naira value of its export earnings but imposed enormous import cost for raw materials on the sector.
It said: “The devaluation of the Naira highly contributed to the consistent increase in the value of manufactured exports.
Lokpobiri: Overhauling Petroleum Industry Act Will Enhance Better Implementation
Stories by Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
The Minister of State, Petroleum Resources, (Oil) Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, has stated
that the rework of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) was critical to Nigeria’s monetary and fiscal policy environment and for better implementation of the law. Lokpobiri stressed that this
was even more critical with crude oil contributing about 90 per cent of the nation’s foreign exchange and up to 65 per cent of the government’s revenue.
The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has assured consumers that it will always protect their right to quality electricity supply services from the Distribution Companies (Discos).
NERC Commissioner, Consumer Affairs, Aisha Mahmud stated this during a town hall meeting and complaints resolution forum in Kaduna state, in collaboration with Kaduna Electric, the commission said in a statement.
At the meeting, customers of Kaduna Electric had the opportunity to be enlightened on their rights and obligations while having their complaints resolved instantly by the customer care team of the Disco under the supervision of the NERC Consumer Affairs Division.
In emphasising the priority NERC accords to end-users of
electricity, Mahmud said: “NERC is committed to protecting consumer rights and ensuring quality service delivery.”
NERC also developed the Customer Protection Regulations which are dedicated guidelines that distribution licencees are bound to comply with in providing improved services to their customers.
“Customers have the right to efficient and reliable electricity supply, and we’ve implemented initiatives like customer enumeration and prepaid meter deployment to achieve this,” NERC added.
The NERC commissioner stressed the importance of collaboration, noting that customers, Kaduna Electric and NERC must work together to overcome challenges encountered by customers.
He highlighted this in his keynote address in Asaba, Delta State, during the 8th edition of National Council on Hydrocarbons (NCH) with the theme: “The Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021: The Journey So Far,” a statement from the ministry signed by its Assistant Director of Information and Public Relations, Christopher Ugwuegbulam said.
The new PIA repealed about 10 Acts of the National Assembly relating to the oil and gas industry and consolidated the laws into a single Act, Lokpobiri who was represented by the Director of Upstream Department in the Ministry, Kamoru Busari, said.
The minister informed his audience that the annual event of the ministry commenced in 2016 and has been sustained till date, explaining that it was established to garner ideas that will enhance good policy formulation and implementation in the energy
sector. “ Overhauling the Act would cover gaps and give room for better implementation,” he added.
Lokpobiri therefore urged the council to be focused in the discussions and be objective in taking decisions on the memoranda that will be presented.
“ Remember, the decisions you take today will affect positively or otherwise the future of this industry,” he said.
In his remarks, the Governor of Delta State, Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Kingsley
Emu, noted that the event was a testaments to Nigeria’s collective commitment to harnessing the vast potential of its hydrocarbon resources.
The governor reaffirmed that Delta State will remain committed to supporting the growth of the hydrocarbons sector.
“As the highest producer of hydrocarbons, we recognise the pivotal role this industry plays in shaping our nation’s economy, and are dedicated to creating an enabling environment for its continued prosperity,” he stated.
The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) has executed the engineering, procurement, and construction contract with Julius Berger Plc for the development of Oloibiri Museum and Research Centre (OMRC), to be located at Otuabagi, Ogbia Local Government Area of
Bayelsa State.
The Executive Secretary NCDMB, Felix Ogbe executed the contract at the board’s liaison office in Abuja, with the project construction to be delivered within 30 months, the board said in a statement.
The Oloibiri Museum and Research Centre (OMRC) is being financed by the Petroleum Development Technology Fund (PTDF), NCDMB, Shell Petroleum Development Company/Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) and the Bayelsa State Government, in the ratio of 40:30:20 and 10 respectively.
Group Business Editor
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Deputy Business Editor
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Comms/e-Business Editor
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Asst. Editor, Energy
Emmanuel Addeh
Asst. Editor, Money Market
Nume Ekeghe
Correspondents
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James Emejo (Finance)
Ebere Nwoji (Insurance)
Reporter Peter Uzoho (Energy)
The project is registered by guarantee, with the four organisations serving as partners. The contract agreement has been approved by the partners and signed by Julius Berger PLC.
The executive secretary of NCDMB serves as the chairman of the registered company, hence he signed the contract on behalf of the partners, with the Director Legal Services, NCDMB, Mr. Naboth Onyesoh, Esq serving as the Secretary of the company.
The President Muhammadu Buhari administration had in February 2023 awarded the contract for the Engineering, Procurement and Construction scope of the OMRC to Julius Berger at the sum of N 117 billion.
The governments of Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, Uganda and Zimbabwe have launched a $90-million project to reduce the releases of hazardous chemicals from plastics in a sector-based approach covering the automotive, electronics, and construction industries.
Hazardous chemicals, including Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs), are used in an array of different plastic products to enhance their properties, a statement by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
“POPs remain intact for decades,
Mary Nnah
In a move set to redefine the digital remittance landscape, OAPay, a leading digital remittance company, recently relaunched its services, offering faster, safer, and smarter cross-border payments for Nigerians and Africans at large.
Licensed in the UK and several states in the US, OAPay is dedicated to providing seamless and secure financial services to Africa. With a steadfast commitment to enhancing
accumulate in the environment, and are released throughout the lifecycle of these plastics, harming human health, the environment and the economy. Their presence in plastics also limits circularity, as POPs-contaminated materials cannot be safely reused, recycled or reintroduced in the value chain.
“The Stockholm Convention has been adding to its annexes POPs for global phase out, which are commonly used as additives in plastic components in industries. Addressing product design to avoid these ‘problematic additives’ is of
high priority for immediate action to avoid a future tsunami of hazardous waste and protect human health and the environment,” UNEP said.
African countries, it said, are both major importers and rapidly growing local producers or assemblers of plastic products likely to contain POPs,” it added.
The Director of UNEP’s Industry and Economy Division, Sheila Aggarwal-Khan, said: “Plastic additives have a range of harmful properties from environmental persistence, toxicity and endocrine disruption, and are present
everywhere, so this project has global relevance.”
Each project country has selected one sector - known to use plasticcontaining products with a high likelihood of POPs contamination - to work in, based on national context and priorities.
“By applying solutions in a total of three sectors, successful practices can be scaled in and outside the selected sectors,” Director of the Basel Convention Coordinating Centre for Training and Technology Transfer for the African Region,” Percy Onianwa,added.
user experience, OAPay is set to revolutionise digital transactions through a suite of user-centric features, including seamless international transfers, secure and reliable transactions, and competitive exchange rates.
Speaking on this milestone, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of OAPay, Tracey Abiola, stated, “Our mission is to provide the best money transfer services, as we help our valued members support their loved ones back home and
achieve economic success in our designated countries of operation. We are committed to bridging the financial inclusion gap in Africa and making a positive impact on the lives of our customers.”
Co-Founder/Director, Millicent Akuffo, added, “OAPay is a manifestation of a dream. With this relaunch, we are committed to continuous innovation and making a positive impact on the communities we serve. We are your people. We’re your friends,
family, and neighbors. At OAPay, we help you support your family because we’re all family. Together is Better.”
The African remittance market is estimated to be worth over $3 billion, with Nigeria being one of the largest recipients of remittances in the continent. OAPay’s relaunch is expected to disrupt this market, offering customers a faster, safer, and more convenient way to send and receive money across borders.
Peter
Uzoho
LEDCo Limited, a smart energy products and services provider, has sealed a partnership deal with the Lagos State Government aimed at boosting power supply in the nation’s commercial nerve centre with the implementation of a landmark Solar Street Lighting Project.
The new project will see the deployment of 20,000 units of LEDCo’s state-of-the-art NightSUN, an all-in-one solar light, across Lagos and will deliver 6MW of renewable solar power and 24.5MWh of energy storage in the state.
According to the company, each NightSUN unit integrates
advanced technology, including smart monitoring systems, GPS tracking, and a robust 10-year warranty, ensuring reliability and efficient operation.
The project is expected to further enhance public safety, urban mobility, and the sustainability of Lagos State’s energy infrastructure, while reducing its carbon footprint.
The agreement for the Solar Street Lighting Project was formally signed by the Lagos State Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Mr. Abiodun Ogunleye, and the Executive Director of LEDCo Limited, Ms Fatimata Abiola-Odunowo on behalf of both entities.
Abiola-Odunowo, the initiative
marks a significant milestone in the Lacks State’s journey towards achieving energy-neutral goals, aligning with the THEMES agenda of the state Governor, Babajide SanwoOlu, which prioritises sustainability, innovation, and environmental stewardship.
“By deploying cutting-edge technology and renewable energy solutions, we are paving the way for a cleaner and more energy-efficient future. This partnership exemplifies LEDCo’s commitment to advancing sustainable energy solutions and supporting Lagos State’s leadership in innovative urban infrastructure.
Our firm promises to deliver world-class energy solutions that
drive innovation, sustainability, and economic development.
“This transformative project builds on LEDCo’s long-standing partnership with Lagos State, which began in 2018. Over the years, LEDCo has supported the government’s energy-neutral ambitions through the deployment of innovative energy efficiency solutions.
“By deploying cutting-edge technology and renewable energy solutions, we are paving the way for a cleaner and more energy-efficient future and also further solidify Lagos State’s position as a leader in sustainable urban transformation, setting a benchmark for cities across Africa and beyond”, she said.
Joda: How Accion MfB is Revolutionising Digital Lending in Nigeria
In this interview with Sunday Ehigiator, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Accion Microfinance Bank, Taiwo Joda speaks on how the bank has revolutionised digital lending in Nigeria, its approach towards promoting financial inclusion and sustainability through branch expansion, seamless digital lending and partnership
Can you summarize your work on digital inclusion, current progress, and future goals?
Thank you very much. I think first and foremost, the whole concept of digital is not a new trend. It is what is taking over the world.
It’s about driving innovation and I would say, innovation is basically doing things more efficiently to achieve a better result. So if something has been taking three days to accomplish, then the human mind begins to conjecture and say, how can I do it in one day? Or how can I do it in one minute? And so the evolution of digital technology has been a long journey.
For example, the USSD that banks use, in Nigeria, it’s about 20 years old. So you can say the digital or technology approach to financial solutions has dated back very well.
It’s something that is there that, if you don’t do it, you become a dinosaur. You just waste away because everybody wants to do things at their convenience, in their room. If I ask us how many times we have stepped into a bank, you know, to do transactions, probably some of us won’t remember.
Somebody was telling me that, when was the last time I signed a checkbook? Apart from the one from the company, I’ve not signed a personal chequebook in about three years. And the same goes for the microwave you use. Instead of putting fire on your stove to heat your food, you have the microwave.
The same goes for virtually everything that we have experienced and has made life easier for us, so financial technology is about the customer. It’s about making life easy for the customer.
It’s about giving convenience and access to the customer, either to do transactions, to take loans, or to save money.
So we can say that digital lending now is to make it easy for customers to borrow. Digital lending allows you access to a loan in 10 minutes.
So rather than bring your long letter, okay, and everything you need to, the digital lending has, at the back end, complexities, and that has machine reading, that has some level of augmented intelligence that profiles you, look at your phone, how much you recharge your phone, look at the debts that are coming to your account or not, and is able, in two minutes, to tell from the back end, through your profile, to the front end, to the decision maker, that
this gentleman is worth N20,000, or N500,000, and so you can give him N20,000, N500,000, or N200,000.
That’s what it does, and in 10 minutes, that is concluded end-to-end. If you compare that to where you have to go to the physical bank to do a transaction, you first have to apply and book an appointment with your account officer, the account officer has to analyse you, print your statement of account, and then it takes you to risk management. Risk management processes it.
If they like your face, they grant the money. If they don’t like your face, they decline. So a lot of things, and then they come up with the alpha letter that you have to sign, documentation, and before you know it, three weeks are gone.
Compared to you having access in two hours, one hour, and 30 minutes, you have a loan. Yeah, so let me just ask. So this information you’re accessing, is it basically within your bank, or are you able to access the customer’s information in other banks? Yes, with the concept of a customer’s information.
How do you pull this through, are there partnerships?
So there are Fintechs organisations now that you can partner with, and are able to access all your statements of account. So the first thing is to educate the customer, because of his privacy rights. Now for us to take this decision, we need to access all of your accounts.
If you have applied recently to some embassies, they will simply ask you to send them a link. They won’t ask for you to print that huge statement of account. They’ll say, send us a link.
So you go to your bank, you send the link, and then you sign that they can open the link. And so they open the link, they see it. Now that’s technology.
So what the system does is that in milliseconds, it looks at the number of debits in your account for a whole year, the number of credits in your account for a whole year as well, across all the banks you use. It does this through your BVN, absolutely. Across all the banks you use. And it’s telling you that your total turnover in all of these banks, removing double counting of transactions, is N50 million in two years.
And if I build into the algorithm that I’m comfortable to do 10 per cent of your turnover in a year, so it says, or 5 per cent, says N50 million is your turnover, and I say, okay, 10 per cent of that will have been N5 million. 5 per cent of that will be N2.5 million.
It means that I said, if this person does an N50 million turnover annually, then it should be good for an N2.5 million loan etc. And the system reports back to you that that man is good for N2.5 million.
But the beauty of technology is that it also looks at inconsistencies. So if it’s only in one day that you just put in N30 million, it throws it up. That is an illusion of flow, so it’s down for you to override or accept.
What are the key challenges and risks involved in digital lending, from both the customer’s and lender’s perspectives?
So risk could be both internal and external. So risk involved is that there could be external
hackers who can steal individual people’s identities and use them to take loans.
When they apply for a loan, they take your BVN, they have access to your account number, and they use your name, use everything, and use it to take a loan. But then there are mitigating factors because now there are facial biometrics that link you to your ID and make sure you are dealing with the right person.
There’s also the internal risk of a system glitch. I mean, the system may not work the way you want it to work at times.
Like they say with systems; it’s garbage in, garbage out. It is the information you’re feeding it that comes up. It could also be, for most banks, it has always been the issue of talent.
Even in developing these things. The type of data scientists, the type of chief digital officers, you want to explore. They are not one; you don’t go to the market and see one that is designed especially for microfinance.
So if you want to get a talent, you are contesting with the likes of Microsoft. They have choices of where to work. You are contesting with the big banks.
So attracting the right talent, the developers for the system, the chief information security officer, the digital officers, the IT experts, attracting them to sit, work for you and retaining them is a major challenge to the continuity of the business.
Because where you have a very high turnover, okay, it could distort your process of innovation at the time that you want to drive innovation.
What’s your take on the impact of e-transfer levies on Nigeria’s financial inclusion drive? It’s an interesting question. And I don’t intend to hold proof for the government. But you see technology costs money. It also costs money to maintain. Enjoying convenience also costs money. I’ve had conversations with very concerned people. And I’ve asked the question; imagine you have an urgent transfer to make to a hospital because your mom is there or a loved one is there.
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CBN and Consistent Increase in MPR
The vision of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) is to be the most efficient and effective of the world’s central banks in promoting and sustaining economic development.
And the mission is to be proactive in providing suitable framework for the economic development of Nigeria through the effective, efficient and transparent implementation of monetary and exchange rate policy and management of the financial system.
PwC had noted that Central banks need to not just adapt to changing conditions, but should also be proactive and anticipate the shifts ahead and how they are going to change the playing field for monetary policy and financial stability.
CBN under the Governor, Yemi Cardoso is connected with the economy and is on top of the challenges of the economy.
Cardoso and his team have demonstrated cognitive creativity and high degree of knowledge towards finding ingenious solutions to the challenges of the economy.
The economy had dipped during the immediate past administration and before the present CBN management assumed office. But the challenges became aggravated by the removal of fuel subsidy and the floating of the exchange rate, both of which combined with other factors including devaluation of the naira, insecurity and reduction in productivity to escalate inflation.
It is important to note that both the removal of fuel subsidy and floating the exchange rate are not bad per se, instead they were necessary and desirous.
Hitherto, payment of fuel subsidy had been a source of huge leakage in the economy and it had denied the economy huge quantum of funds which, otherwise, would have been channeled into productive ventures.
It is expected that the removal of fuel subsidy will help to plug the leakages and rechannel funds back into essential economic and social infrastructures that will help to catalyze economic growth.
The advantages of floating the exchange rate is that it will lead to the increase in foreign
reserves because CBN would not have to use the reserves to intervene in the forex market to stabilize the exchange rate and which gives room for the government to possibly, use it for essential capital projects.
Presently inflation is the big challenge in the economy and CBN is working dedicatedly and using monetary policy tools to fight it towards setting the economy on a strong pedestal.
Inflation determines how a central bank regulate its money supply and managing inflation demands both technical and tactical strategies.
Raising the Monetary Policy Rate( MPR) is the immediate and ready made mechanism which central banks use to fight inflation and that is what CBN is doing.
CBN has consistently increased the MPR since February 2024 and also adjusted other monetary policy tools including the Liquidity Ratio( LR) and Cash Reserve Ratio( CRR) of banks, all of which are components of the monetary transmission mechanism which central banks use to influence aggregate demand in the economy.
In February 2024, the Monetary Policy Committee( MPC) of CBN raised the MPR from 18.75 per cent to 22.75 per cent, which was phenomenal and unprecedented in the record of the MPC. Subsequently in March 2024, the MPR was raised from 22.75 per cent to 24.75
per cent and further to 26.25 per cent.
Recently, the MPR was further raised from 27. 25 per cent to 27.50 per cent, which is a 25 basis point increase.
The CEO, Financial Derivatives Company, Bismark Rewane noted that the increase was a slap on inflation and that the market expected a 50 basis point increase. Cardoso had noted that the MPC was being scientific and often looked at the face of data before they took decisions and assured that CBN would moderate the spiking inflation. Inflation is currently at 33.9 per cent and is driven by transportation costs, exchange rate volatility, supply constraints, fiscal policy and money supply. The quantum of money in circulation has been on the increase and which is not healthy for the economy.
Money supply rose from N1.4 trillion to N3.2 trillion in seven years. In January 2024, it grew to N3.28 trillion and to N3.9 trillion in March.
And by October 2024, total amount of currency in circulation had increased to N4.1 trillion with 93 per cent of the amount said to be outside the banking system.
The development is not agreeable to CBN, thus the consistent increase in the MPR by to regulate money supply towards helping to achieve the macroeconomic objectives of government. But for good effect, government also need to demonstrate fiscal responsibility, avoid a runaway debt and maintain an effective money supply to avoid further inducing inflation.
Experts have noted that governments induce inflation when they incur debts, print money and increase the money supply at a much greater rate than the growth of the GDP.
CBN’s consistent increase
in MPR to fight inflation is similar to what Paul Volcker, a former US Fed Chairman( 1979-1987) did in the fight against inflation.
Volcker consistently increased the Fed Fund rate until the economy went into a recession, but he continued to increase the Fed Fund rate until inflation rate tumbled down and he became a hero and nicknamed as “the man who quashed inflation”.
• Nwobu, a Chartered Stockbroker and Policy Analyst wrote via arizenwobu@yahoo. com Tel: 08033021230.
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Arize Nwobu
Joda
Cardoso
UNVEILING OF A NEW FRAGRANCE, DEFENDER BY BOADICEA THE VICTORIOUS...
L-R: Director, Scentified by Cascades
Mr. Chike Memeh; Managing Director/CEO, The Nail
and
Mrs.
Mbah Inaugurates Enugu State Geographic Information System
Says era of land grabbing, double allocation, revenue diversion over
Gideon Arinze in Enugu
In a major move to sanitise and modernise land administration and management in Enugu State, Governor Peter Mbah, on Monday, inaugurated the Enugu State Geographic Information System, ENGIS, describing it as a major win for the people of the South East State.
Recall that Mbah had in March this year signed into law the Enugu State Geographic Information System Service Bill initiated by his government and passed by the Enugu State
FG
House of Assembly; He stressed it was in line with his administration’s campaign promise to automate governance process, starting with simplification and sanitisation of land administration and management in the state.
Inaugurating THE ENGIS office and system in Enugu, Mbah said:
“This is not just a win for government. It is a win for Ndi Enugu as well because nothing is as important as trusting the integrity of a process.
“Today marks the end of the era of land grabbing, unauthorised
to Give 28.6m
construction, double allocations, revenue diversion.”
The governor explained the milestone was in furtherance of his campaign promise to grow the state’ economy to $30bn and make it conducive for business, noting that whereas ENGIS could process an application for title in a few hours, a duration of 48 hours was stipulated to provide a buffer for other control elements built into the process.
Hie words: “We had during our campaign mentioned that we were going to invest hugely in the digital
sector and that we were going to ensure that we make Enugu State the number one in terms of Ease of Doing Business.
“If you look at the major indicators of the Ease of Doing Business, you would notice that two items there: the ease of obtaining your title and ease of obtaining construction permit, are core indicators.
“So, what we are launching today would enable us to accomplish our economic growth target because with the ENGIS, you are able to start and complete your application for title
Children Malaria Chemo-prevention Treatment
Onyebuchi
As part of measures to check malaria scourge in Nigeria, the federal government has commenced seasonal malaria chemo-prevention treatment on children across the country.
The Civil Society in Malaria Control, Immunization and Nutrition (ACOMIN) which disclosed this to journalists at the National Media Meeting on the Global Fund Malaria Community-Led Monitoring Project being implemented by ACOMIN, also said a campaign to create awareness amongst the populace on certain preventive and Control measures against malaria during the festive season is ongoing.
It said the festive season presents an opportunity to create awareness about significant health issues such as malaria which has continued to affect communities around the country.
ACOMIN's advisory came on the heels of the 2024 World Malaria Report recently released by the World Health Organization (WHO) which showed that Nigeria still carries the heaviest global burden of malaria, accounting for 26 percent of global malaria cases (about 68,136,000).
The same report showed that the country has 39.3 percent of global malaria deaths in children under 5 years and 30.9 percent of all malaria deaths globally.
In his message by the ACOMIN National Coordinator, Mr. Ayo Ipinmoye, said that Nigerians should take proactive steps to protect themselves and their loved ones from malaria
He said: "According to the 2024 World Malaria Report, Nigeria car-
ried the heaviest global burden of malaria, accounting for 26 percent of global malaria cases (68,136,000 cases estimated), 39.3% of global malaria deaths in children under 5 years, and 30.9 percent of all malaria deaths globally.
"Nigeria also had the highest number of children receiving at least one dose of seasonal malaria chemo-prevention (SMC), with 28.6 million children treated per cycle".
He said urged citizens to remember to adopt preventive measures that will help to control surge in malaria affliction.
Apart from keeping their surroundings clean, devoid of stagnant waters, Ipinmoye said they can use insecticide treated nets and indoor residual spraying.
According to Ipinmoye, despite advancements in understanding and managing malaria, certain factors still impede progress in controlling and eliminating the disease
ACOMIN Coordinator revealed that contrary to people’s beliefs that mosquito live in dirty water, the disease vector also likes to breed in clean, stagnant ponds.
"As we move forward into the festive season, we are calling on all community members to become malaria ambassadors. This means leading by example, taking ownership of personal and community health, and actively participating in malaria prevention activities," said Ipinmoye.
The coordinator said that communities can also educate their neighbours about the importance of using insecticide treated nets and
advocate for local solutions to control mosquito population.
"By working together, we can ensure that the joy of the festive season is celebrated safely, with malaria no longer posing a threat to the communities," he said.
On his part, the Executive Secretary, Country Coordinating Mechanism-Nigeria overseeing the HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, Malaria and RSSH, Mr. Ibrahim Tajudeen, said that relevant stakeholders should ensure more effective utilization of
available funds and materials towards eradicating the malaria scourge.
He said a network of organizations including development partners are presently working to ensure that there are enhanced collaborative effort in addressing malaria scourge at the grassroot level.
Ibrahim however said that for the target of malaria elimination to be achieved, massive sensitization is needed to help disseminate information on how to manage and prevent malaria.
within 48 hours.
“From the comfort of your home, you can apply for titles, conduct your searches, and you get the results almost immediately.
“It is also going to create transparency in our land management and administration. Thus, the era of opacity in our land transactions is also gone because you can now view everything.
“We believe this is going to motivate the investors a lot and is going to bring us closer to our dream of growing this economy from $4.4bn to $30bn in four to eight years.
“We know that we can achieve that because the value of real estate in our state is rising. You can see people trooping in.
“So, with ENGIS we are ready for business and we are open for business because we are now able to treat the title applications expeditiously.”
Mbah also congratulated his team, which he said worked extremely hard to achieve the feat in a very short time, converting to digital platforms land documents dating back to early colonial days when the entire Southern Nigeria, except Lagos, was at some point administered from Enugu.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner for Lands and Urban Development, Barr.
Chimaobi Okorie and the Coordinator of ENGIS, Dr. Cyril Ezeama, explained that the ENGIS would boost the revenue profile of the state and create an advanced geospatial centre
of excellence for land administration and data management.
Ezeama said: “With this system, we will enable the transparent, accurate, and efficient registration of land titles, provide reliable geospatial information and ensure sustainable geospatial management for Enugu State.
“The project is not only designed to eliminate revenue leakages, but is also projected to significantly enhance revenue generation, contributing an estimated N300bn annually to the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of Enugu State.
“ENGIS is the first of its kind in Nigeria because with this system, land applications and searches can now be initiated and completed entirely online seamlessly, conveniently, and without the need for physical visits.”
The Speaker of the Enugu State House of Assembly, Hon. Uchenna Ugwu; Chairman of the Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council, Igwe Samuel Asadu; Council Chairman of Enugu North LGA, Hon. Ibenaku Onoh; Chairman of Enugu Branch of Nigeria Bar Association, Barr. Venatus Odoh; his Nigeria Institution of Surveyors counterpart, Surv. E.C Nnamani; Chairman, Institute of Town Planners, Enugu State, Charles Ngene; and Chairman, Enugu State House of Assembly Committee on Lands, Hon. Pius Ezeugwu, lauded Governor Mbah’s digital transformation of governance in Enugu State, pledging full support for his development agenda for the state.
Awujale Seeks Govt’s Support on Provision of Health Amenities
James Sowole in Abeokuta
The Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, Ogun State, Oba Sikiru Adetona, has challenged philanthropists, corporate and socio-cultural organisations not to leave provision of social services and amenities to government alone because it could not do it alone.
The First-class traditional ruler, therefore, called on socio-cultural clubs, to support the government in its quest to make life meaningful to the citizenry.
Awujale spoke at the inauguration of the state-of-the-art medical office building donated by the 'Egbe Arobayo Obirin Akile Ijebu' to the Ogun State General Hospital, Ijebu-Ode, as part of activities to mark the 20th anniversary, of the socio-cultural club.
The one-storey building costing
of N60m, housed the Out Patient Department (OPD) waiting arena, consulting offices, toilets and medical director's office.
The building was also furnished with required gadgets, air conditioners and other hospital equipment.
The Awujale, represented by the Ebumawe of Ago-Iwoye, Oba Abdulrasaq Adenugba lauded the Ijebu age-grade for their selflessness and for heeding the clarion call to give back to the society.
Adetona said: "I must say that I am really impressed with the standard of this project executed by the Egbe Arobayo Obinrin to enhance qualitative healthcare delivery in Ijebu land and the state as a whole.
"This is good. It is a welcome development because it is a project that will further support government’s desire to improve on the health of its citizens.
"I therefore appreciate this group for their love for humanity and I encourage other age grade groups too, public spirited individuals and corporate organisations to make worthy investment in efforts that are tailored towards making life much better for the society.”
The monarch commended leaders and members of the club for the donation adding that the project would increase access to healthcare.
Speaking at the event which took place within the hospital premises, the Iyalode of Egbe Arobayo Obirin Akile Ijebu, Alhaja Taiwo Odunosu, said the project would significantly enhance healthcare services in IjebuOde and other communities around the town.
The leader and Iyalode of the group, Alhaja Taiwo Odumosu said the age grade usually called "Regberegbe" in Ijebu land decided
to embark on the project to mark its 20th anniversary.
Odumosu said that the storey building came in handy for the outpatient of the hospital who usually have the challenge of having a comfortable place to stay while being attended to by the medical personnel.
She said: "With the construction of this building, we have been able to provide a comfortable place for the patients to receive care whenever they visit the hospital, the challenge of being drenched whenever it rains has become history".
The Commissioner for Health, Dr Tomi Coker, represented by a Permanent Secretary, Dr. Wellington Ogunsanya, equally lauded the group for their thoughtfulness and partnership to support the state government in providing qualitative healthcare for the people.
Luxury,
Studio Limited,
Adetokunbo Awogboro; Commercial Director, Boadicea The Victorious Perfumes, Jeremy Taylor; Executive Director, The Nail Studio Limited, Mrs. Irene Syrimis;
Managing Director, Mac-Folly Hospitality Limited, operators of Lagos Marriott Hotel, Mr Chike Ogeah, at the unveiling of a new fragrance, Defender by Boadicea The Victorious distributed by Scentified by Cascades Luxury Limited held in Ikeja, Lagos ... recently
Ezigbo in Abuja
NAMING CEREMONY FOR EMEM FPSO AT DRYDOCKS WORLD DUBAI...
L-R: Executive Governor of Nasarawa State, Engr Abdullahi Sule; Representative of the President of Nigeria/ Vice President of Nigeria, Sen. Kashim Shettima; and Chairman of Oriental Energy Resources, Dr. Mohammed Indimi, at the naming ceremony for the EMEM FPSO at Drydocks World Dubai on Saturday
ECOWAS Launches $350m Women Empowerment Project
Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission launched US$365 million Sub-Saharan Africa Women’s Empowerment and Demographic Dividend Plus (SWEDD+) project, with Nigeria among the countries to benefit.
The regional initiative for sub-Saharan Africa, SWEDD, is a concerted response by the World Bank and the United Nations to the call for action made in 2013 by the Heads of State on the demographic challenges in the Sahel.
The programme aims to address development challenges through the empowerment of women and girls in the region, initially targeting five countries – Burkina Faso, Chad, The Gambia, Senegal, and Togo.
It later extended beyond the Sahel to support other countries in sub-Saharan Africa with Benin, Cameroon, Côte d'Ivoire, Guinea, Mali, Mauritania, and Niger to benefit.
Following its success with the empowerment of over two million girls since 2015, SWEDD is now broadened and renamed SWEDD+ project and Nigeria is brought in as one of the countries to benefit.
The initiative, chaired by Madame Damtien Tchintchibidja, Vice President of the ECOWAS Commission, aims to further address gender inequality and foster the economic and social empowerment of women and girls across the region.
The 365-million-dollar SWEDD+
project is funded by the World Bank with technical support from the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), while engaging regional institutions, such as ECOWAS and the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS).
Highlighting its importance, Tchintchibidja stated, "SWEDD+ is a call to action for countries to invest in reducing the vulnerabilities of adolescent girls and young women, enabling them to become active contributors to the economic and social development of their nations.
“The programme will expand interventions that have already made significant impacts in education with over 1 million girls have stayed in school, supported by scholarships, meals, and transportation."
She stated that more than 150,000 young women had gained access to job opportunities and skills training. With over 8,000 safe spaces and 5,000 male engagement clubs, SWEDD+ had fostered gender equality and tackled harmful norms, she said.
Tchintchibidja added that over a million new contraceptive users had been supported, with stock-out rates at health facilities reduced to 24 per cent.
She explained that the new phase of the programme introduced three transformative components: “Gender-transformative Interventions: promoting education, skills-building, and economic opportunities for women and girls.
“Strengthened Health Services: expanding access to reproductive, maternal, and adolescent health
services and training more healthcare workers.
“Policy Advocacy: strengthening institutional capacity for gendersensitive policies and combating
gender-based violence.”
The event, attended by key stakeholders including ministers, development partners, and regional leaders, also served as a platform to
assess SWEDD’s achievements and outline the roadmap for SWEDD+ implementation. With SWEDD+ poised to expand its reach, the project symbolised a
renewed commitment to empowering women and girls, fostering their active participation in development, and paving the way for sustainable growth across Sub-Saharan Africa.
TDCF, St. Jude Global Alliance, Partner on Improving Pediatric Cancer Outcomes in Nigeria, Others
Sunday Ehigiator
The Dorcas Cancer Foundation (TDCF) has partnered St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital Global Alliance, a network dedicated to advancing the fight against pediatric cancer worldwide, with the aim of improving pediatric cancer outcomes in Nigeria and Sub-Sahara Africa.
A statement from the partnership revealed that this milestone cements TDCF’s leadership in pediatric cancer care, advocacy and education in Nigeria and on the global stage.
“By joining the St. Jude Global Alliance, a network of more than 180 institutions and organisations across over 80 countries, TDCF will gain access to unparalleled resources, global expertise and innovative collaborations. This partnership also provides opportunities to integrate global solutions into local strategies, strengthening pediatric oncology care throughout Nigeria.”
Founded by Nigeria’s first certified pediatric radiation oncologist, Dr. Adedayo Joseph, TDCF has spent more than a decade addressing
critical gaps in pediatric cancer care.
According to Dr Joseph, the foundation has consistently advanced the detection, diagnosis, treatment, training, patient education and palliative care for childhood cancer, supporting hundreds of children across Nigeria.
Joseph, who received specialised training in pediatric radiation oncology in Germany, Australia, South Africa, and the United States, highlighted the importance of this achievement.
She stated that this milestone reflects the dedication of TDCF's team to improving the lives of children with cancer in Nigeria.
Her words: “Since its inception, TDCF has spearheaded transformative initiatives that have reshaped pediatric cancer care in low- and middle-income countries.
“The foundation was the first to release a free patient education handbook on pediatric cancer in Nigeria in 2018, distributing over 3,000 physical copies before making it available online.
“We are outlandishly strict about
Tax Reform Bills: IMPI Backs Move, Supports Revamping of Nigeria's Economy
The Independent Media and Policy Initiatives (IMPI) has supported fully, the tax reform bills currently awaiting approval by the National Assembly, and has emphasized that it is a bold move with potency to revamp Nigeria's economy.
Chairman of IMPI, Omoniyi
Akinsiju, who spoke yesterday in Abuja during a briefing, reiterated the significance of the proposed legislation, stating that it is crucial for generating revenue, fostering enterprise growth, and enhancing citizens' purchasing power. He outlined key provisions, includ-
ing removing the clause that makes companies pay taxes even when they have losses; small businesses earning less than N50 million per year paying zero percent tax, benefiting about 43 million registered small businesses as well as medium and large companies enjoying a phased reduction in Company Income Tax (CIT) from the current 30 percent to 27.5 percent in 2025, and 25 percent in 2026.
He expressed dismay over what he called 'unwarranted controversy' about the reforms, particularly the Value Added Tax (VAT) sharing formula, calling it a distraction from the transformative benefits of the bills.
According to him, “We have reviewed all four tax bills presently before the National Assembly, and after a historical and contextual analysis of the bills, we must admit our feeling of dismay at the unwarranted controversy that had been spurned around the bills,” he said.
Akinsiju clarified that the tax reform bills are designed to address Nigeria's long-standing fiscal challenges, noting that for the first time, the tax laws will integrate three crucial aspects: generating government revenue, supporting businesses, and enhancing citizens' economic well-being.
“The zero-tax payment is the equivalent of a fiscal elixir that helps
businesses survive tough economic conditions,” Akinsiju said.
He added that this shift will enable companies to reinvest in their operations with the money they earn from their businesses and grow organically.
He lauded changes to the Capital Gains Tax (CGT) system, which now exempts individuals from taxes on chargeable gains below N50 million, compared to the current N10 million threshold.
“This provision allows citizens to retain more of their income, stimulating consumer spending and, in turn, driving demand for goods and services,” he explained.
structure, order, policy, and science. Every project is designed to be replicable, sustainable, and scalable. We constantly evaluate to ensure that every initiative improves pediatric cancer survival.
“The foundation's programmes such as the Early Detection and Initiation of Cancer Treatment (EDICT) and the Look Again campaign, have trained primary healthcare workers in early cancer detection, creating life-saving referral pathways.
“TDCF’s Pediatric Radiation Oncology Virtual Course (PedROC) has trained more than 1,000 professionals, including radiation oncologists, nurses, physicists, and therapists, from over 50 countries in sub-Saharan
Africa, South America, and beyond.
“Joining the St. Jude Global Alliance strengthens TDCF’s ability to deliver on its mission and expand its impact. This partnership reflects our unwavering commitment to the children we serve.”
The Chief Operating Officer of TDCF, Dr Korede Akindele, underscored the significance of the alliance, noting that the partnership is an opportunity to elevate the standard of care for children with cancer in Nigeria. Akindele added that the collaboration empowers TDCF to expand its programmes, enhance capacity-building efforts, and deepen advocacy for equitable healthcare.
Doyen Lions Targets 500 Indigent Nigerians for Eye Care Treatment
Sunday Ehigiator
The Lagos Doyen Lions Club has announced plans to provide eye care services to 500 indigent Nigerians, as part of its ongoing efforts to support underserved communities in the country.
The initiative, which includes highly subsidised and free treatments for eye ailments such as cataract surgeries, underscores the club’s commitment to alleviating the burden of preventable blindness among vulnerable populations.
Speaking at the club's 60th Anniversary celebration in Nigeria, which also doubles as a fundraiser, the President of the Lagos Doyen Lions Club, Okey Egbuchu, stated that in addition to the eye Care project, the Club's long-term plan is to establish a foundation where Lions and non-Lions can freely give to support humanitarian causes.
Emphasising its extensive track record of humanitarian projects which include building the Ado Langbasa Clinic and regularly sup-
porting institutions like motherless babies’ homes, general hospitals, schools for the blind, and old people’s homes, he noted that this standout activity, however, remains the Club's dedication to eye care.
He said: "Over the years, we have provided thousands of free cataract surgeries and other treatments to Nigerians in need. We have consistently provided thousands of Nigerians with free cataract surgeries and other eye care regularly. Two beneficiaries of our free eye Care are here with us.
“We would be negligent if we did not celebrate this anniversary with more humanitarian work. We intend to expand our vision care to 500 more indigent Nigerians and towards this we would of course call on most of you here to assist us.”
Egbuchu while speaking with THISDAY on the sidelines of the event on the importance of the fundraiser as an avenue to promote social good.
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
Kuni Tyessi in Abuja
HLSSI 2024 END OF THE YEAR REACH OUT TO WIDOWS, CHILDREN AND VULNERABLE PERSONS...
EFCC Busts Cybercrime, Romance Fraud Syndicate in Lagos, Arrests Scores of Foreign Nationals
Recovers 500 local SIM cards Says foreign criminals exploiting Nigeria’s unfortunate reputation
and Alex Enumah
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has dismantled a major cryptocurrency investment fraud and romance scam syndicate in Lagos, arresting a total of 792 suspects during a landmark operation.
At a press conference held in Lagos, EFCC Chairman, Mr. Olanipekun Olukoyede, revealed that the operation, which took place on December 10, was carried out after months of surveillance and actionable intelligence.
The operation targeted the syndicate's hideout, an imposing seven-story building known as “Big Leaf Building”, located at No. 7, Oyin Jolayemi Street, Victoria Island, Lagos.
Olukoyede, represented by EFCC’s Director of Public Affairs, Mr. Uwujaren Wilson, disclosed that the raid led to the arrest of foreign nationals, including 148 Chinese, 40 Filipinos,
two Kazakhstanis, one Pakistani, and one Indonesian.
He said the suspects were operating from “Big Leaf Building”, which, despite appearing to be a corporate headquarters, was actually being used to train Nigerian accomplices in various forms of online fraud, such as romance and investment scams.
According to the commission, the foreign nationals used Nigerian identities to further their criminal operations.
Olukoyede said during the operation, investigators discovered that all the floors of the building were equipped with high-end desktop computers.
On the fifth floor alone, investigators recovered 500 SIM cards from local telecom providers, which were purchased for illicit purposes.
The EFCC investigation also revealed that the Nigerian accomplices were recruited by the foreign
kingpins to target victims, particularly, in countries, like the U.S, Canada, Mexico, and several European nations, using phishing tactics.
According to EFCC, armed with desktop computers and mobile devices, the Nigerian operatives were trained to create fake profiles and engage victims through online communication platforms, such as WhatsApp, Instagram, and Telegram.
Olukoyede stated, "The Nigerian accomplices were given specific instructions and tools, including foreign phone numbers (especially from Germany and Italy) linked to WhatsApp accounts.
“Their role was to engage victims in romantic conversations or discussions about fictitious business opportunities to lure them into investing on a fraudulent online platform called www.yooto.com. The activation fee to join this platform started at $35.
"The recruitment of these young
Nigerians was based on their proficiency in computer use, particularly typing skills. Successful candidates were given desktop computers and mobile devices and underwent a twoweek training programme on how to impersonate foreign women for romance scams and convince victims to invest in cryptocurrency schemes.
"Once a Nigerian accomplice had gained the victim's trust, the foreign scammers would take over the fraud, cutting off the Nigerian accomplice from the network. This left the accomplices unaware of the ongoing fraudulent activities."
The EFCC chairman said investigation revealed that the Nigerian suspects were unaware of the actual owners of the company they worked for.
"They did not receive formal appointments or payments through corporate accounts. Instead, they were paid in cash or through individual
accounts," he added.
Items recovered from the suspects included desktop computers, mobile phones, laptops, and vehicles.
Olukoyede said all the suspects had provided statements, and their devices were currently being examined.
The suspects were also being held under a valid remand warrant and will be arraigned in court in the coming days.
Olukoyede emphasised that the operation disproved widespread no-
tion that Nigerians were the primary perpetrators behind international fraud.
He expressed concern over how foreign criminals were exploiting Nigeria’s unfortunate reputation as a fraud haven to establish operations that masked their illegal activities. EFCC stated that further investigations were ongoing to assess the full scale of the scam and determine any potential connections to international fraud rings.
Unemployment: Senate Okays Bill to Instill Compulsory Tech Skills in Nigerian Students
importance, as it addresses a fundamental challenge facing our nation.
Tantita Boss
Battle Against Oil Theft: We Arrested 8 Vessels, 3 Tugboats, 16 Barges in Two Years, Says
The Managing Director of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, Chief Keston Pondi, has said the private security outfit arrested eight vessels in the course of fighting oil theft in the Niger Delta region since it was contracted by the federal government in two years.
Speaking over the weekend during Tantita's Award night christened "Honouring Excellence This Christmas," held at KFT Event Center in Warri, he disclosed that three tugboats and barges, 117 vehicles, 52 Tankers/Trucks were also apprehended. According to him, 47 Fibre/Speed boats, seven tricycle/motorcycles and 1,743 wooden boats involved in illegal operations were confiscated within the period.
"While it will be exhausting to highlight every detail of our journey to curtail the scourge of oil theft, a whole lot of other discoveries have been made by our team that has subsumed the scourge of oil theft as either a crime of need or that of greed" he said.
Pondi however noted that the successes recorded by Tantita was rooted in collaboration and the support received from the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led administration whose commitment and partnership, he said, have strengthened "our resolve and
amplified our impact".
He also expressed gratitude to the unwavering support of the government security agencies, especially the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Police Force, the Nigerian Civil defense, the Department of State Security Service and the Nigerian Navy adding "Your dedication to eradicate oil theft and vandalism has emboldened us to achieve milestones that were once thought unattainable".
While we recount the success story of the firm, Pondi expressed regrets about those who paid the ultimate price, adding: "The ones in whose blood the flag of our success rest on. The military, especially personnel of the Nigerian Army, Civil Defence; key informants and of course personnel of TSSNL that died in the course of ensuring that our nation have a booming economy, we mourn and celebrate your sacrifices in same breath".
Pondi specifically hailed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, for their relentless support and encouragement which enabled Tantita to excel in its mandate.
"Ladies and gentlemen, we (Tantita) won't be where we are today if not for the unparalleled support and encouragement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, NSA, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, all arms of the security agencies and our various communities in the Niger
Delta. We are eternally grateful to Mr. President, NSA, security agencies and our communities.
"We must also recognise the roles played by our fallen heroes. I mean our workers and other stakeholders who lost their lives in the course
of the struggle to totally eliminate crude oil theft in the nooks and crannies of the Niger Delta.
“They would not die vain and indeed, the steady increase in crude oil production has shown that they didn't die in vain," Pondi added.
The Senate has passed for second reading, a bill for an act to ensure that Nigerian students acquire necessary technical skills before they graduate from any secondary or tertiary institutions.
Tagged, “Strengthening Career and Technical Training Bill, 2024,” the proposed legislation was sponsored by the Chairman, Senate Committee on Finance, Senator Sani Musa.
Musa, who is representing Niger East Senatorial District in the nation's parliament explained that the bill is of utmost
Speaker Abbas: We Must Nurture, Empower Youth to Be Tomorrow’s Leaders
Juliet Akoje in Abuja
The Speaker of the House of Representatives Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D, has said the government must consider how its policies, programmes, and budgets affect the youths being one of the major drivers of development.
Abbas said the youth, as leaders of tomorrow should be empowered, nurtured, and motivated for the leadership roles they are about to take.
The Speaker, while declaring open a Youth Town Hall on the 2025 Budget, at the National Assembly Abuja on Monday, stated that young Nigerians should also be willing to take leadership responsibilities.
The youth town hall was the second in the series of engagements between the Speaker and Nigerian youths.
While noting the importance of the engagement Abbas recalled that at the first Youth Town Hall, he promised to institutionalise regular engagement with the youth, being “our nation's young people.”
“This gathering highlights the vital role of your voice in shaping the future of our nation. It acknowledges that you, the youth of Nigeria, are not just the leaders of tomorrow but active participants in the governance and development of today.
“Our energy, creativity, and resilience are transforming every sector of our society, from agriculture to technology, arts, sports, and entrepreneurship. Across these fields, you demonstrate that Nigerian youth can achieve greatness with the right support and opportunities.
“Yet, we must ask ourselves: how
can you do even more? How can we, as leaders, create an enabling environment that allows your potential to flourish fully?
“This dialogue is, therefore, so important to explore how government policies, budgets, and programmes can better support you in taking your rightful place as drivers of national development.”
Abbas further said all the stakeholders at the town hall must also discuss a critical subject that affects not just your future but the very future of our nation: leadership recruitment.
"The responsibility of building the next generation of leaders must not be left to chance,” he said, adding that political parties, as key institutions of democracy, have an urgent role to play in identifying, nurturing, and empowering young people to assume leadership positions.
He lamented the skills gaps between education and the labour market and stressed the need for a robust, job-oriented training for our workforce.
Sani noted that despite the nation’s abundant talent, many Nigerians remain unemployed or underemployed because they lack the technical skills required by modern industries.
His words: “Many of our educational programs are theoretical and do not equip students with practical, market-relevant skills.
“Nigeria risks falling behind in the global economy if we do not invest in building a highly skilled, competitive workforce.
“Emerging sectors such as renewable energy, ICT, and biotechnology require a workforce trained in cutting-edge skills.”
He added that the bill also seems to enhance career and technical education to meet the demands of Nigeria’s industries.
He said, “It will equip Nigerians with skills that lead to sustainable employment and entrepreneurship.
“It will promote partnerships between educational institutions, industries, and government for effective training.
“It will establish a framework for funding and monitoring technical training programme.
“The Ministry of Education, in collaboration with the Ministry of Labour, will design training programmes targeting highgrowth industries such as ICT, renewable energy, manufacturing, healthcare, and agribusiness,” he added.
L-R: Founder/President, Pan African Young Women Development Initiative, Dr. Jophia Nanker; President, Initiative for Women's Accelerated Development in Africa, Hon. Evelyn Onyilo; the Founder, She Forum Africa, Ms Inimfon Etuk; the Founder, Helpline Social Support Initiative (HLSSI), Dr. Jummai Ahmadu; and the National Vice President, Nigeria Association of Women Journalist (NAWOJ), Chizoba Ogbeche, showcasing some goods produced by Helpline Social Support Initiative (HLSSI) Clusters Widows Forum, during the HLSSI 2024 end of the year Reach out to Widows, Children and Vulnerable Persons in Abuja, last Sunday
Sylvester Idowu in Warri
Wale Igbintade
in Abuja
Sunday Aborisade in Abuja
ALUKO & OYEBODE'S SECOND ANNUAL SYMPOSIUM ON INTERNATIONAL TRADE...
L-R: Mr Oluwole Dada, Team Lead, Sales and Marketing, SecurelD Limited; Mr Innocent Ekpen, Managing Associate, ALN | Aluko & Oyebode; Mrs Mfon Usoro, Managing Partner, Paul Usoro & Co.; Dr Chinyere Almona, Director General, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry; Ms Ime Enang Executive Director, BD Foundation; Weyinmi Eribo, Director General, Women Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture; Tonye Krukrubo SAN, Partner, ALN | Aluko & Oyebode; and Tunde Fagbohunlu, SAN, Senior Partner, ALN | Aluko & Oyebode, during Aluko & Oyebode's second annual symposium on international trade centered on the Guided Trade Initiative (GTI) of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) which held recently
COAS Vows to Curb Further Spread of Lakurawa Terrorist Group in North West
Troops kill 8,034 insurgents in a year, military refutes arrival of French soldiers in Maiduguri Nigeria spent $16bn on insecurity between 2008 and 2018, declares Abbas
Akinwale and Linus Aleke
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt Gen Olufemi Oluyede, has vowed to curb further spread of the Lakurawa terrorist group in the North West zone.
Oluyede also assured Nigerians that the troops were intensifying effort to dismantle the new terror group in Nigeria.
The National Counter Terrorism Centre, Office of the National Security Adviser (NCTC-ONSA), had earlier said Lakurawa terror group posed a significant threat to national security, hence the need for a coordinated effort to dismantle the group in North West before it spread to other geopolitical zones in Nigeria.
Oluyede, however, said opera-
tion Fansan Yamma, was making concerted effort to speedily dismantle the Lakurawa terrorist group in the North-west.
Oluyede, who spoke while declaring open the Chief of Army Staff Annual Conference 2024, at Army Headquarters Mess 1 Asokoro Abuja, stated that the operation leveraged intelligence gathering, rapid deployment of special forces, and coordinated air and ground offences to establish control and neutralise threats in North-west.
He also added that efforts were ongoing to engage local communities in information gathering and sharing to foster trust as well as promote a united stand against Lakurawa and other terrorist groups. These strategies, the COAS said
underscored ongoing commitment to safeguarding the nation and ensuring the safety and security of citizens.
Troops Kill 8,034 Terrorists in One Year, Military Refutes Arrival of French Soldiers
The Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), has said troops of the Nigerian military killed no fewer than 8,034 terrorists in one year.
This was as the military yesterday dismissed as false, a viral publication alleging that first contingent of French soldiers had arrived Maiduguri to finalise arrangements to establish a French Military base in North-east Nigeria.
The Director, Legal Service and Coordinator, Strategic Communications Interagency Policy Committee at the Office of National Security Adviser
said that operational activities of troops within the period under review also led to the arrest of 11,623 suspected terrorists and felons and the rescue of 6,376 abducted hostages.
Mijinyawa made this disclosure during the end of the year joint press conference by security, defence and response agencies at the main auditorium of National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), in Abuja.
He also averred that these operational activities of the military equally led to the interception and recovering of over 8,215 weapons 211,459 rounds of ammunition, while also retrieving petroleum products worth over N57 billion.
He disclosed that the deployment of advanced naval assets, including
Olanipekun: Lawyers' Stance against Ladoja’s Removal Checked Arbitrary Ouster of Govs
Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan
A former President of Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN, has said the role he and other lawyers played to challenge the removal of former governor Rasidi Ladoja of Oyo State, checkmated what he described as arbitrary removal of governors and their deputies.
Ladoja was impeached from office in 2005 and later reinstated in 2006 after a judgement by the Supreme Court that described his removal as unconstitutional.
Olanipekun said he and other senior lawyers were the ones that went to the various courts to defend
the impeachment, which led to the reinstatement of the former governor.
The former NBA president made these assertions while delivering a keynote address at the opening of 70th anniversary of Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Ibadan branch.
The event was attended by the Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Barrister Abdul-Raheem Adebayo Lawal; Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin, who was represented by Chief Ademola Odunade and Minister of Justice and Attorney General, Lateef Fagbemi. Olanipekun, while addressing the gathering said he and other lawyers among whom were Mallam Yusuf
Ali, the late Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, Kola Awodehin, Adeniyi Akintola, Prof. Taiwo Osipitan, Afolabi Fashanu and Mohammed Adoke, were the ones that went to challenge Ladoja's impeachment at the Courts, stating that both the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court agreed with them and declared the removal illegal.
Olanipekun added that the decisions had clearly checkmated the recklessness on the part of some legislators all over the country at arbitrarily removing governors and deputy governors from office.
"And with those decisions, the trial High Court declined jurisdiction to entertain the impeachment proceedings
brought by the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly and some legislators, who were opposed to the wanton removal from office of the then Governor of Oyo State, Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja.
"Both the Court of Appeal and Supreme Court agreed with us, that is, counsel to the Speaker and later (when Ladoja joined as a party at the Court of Appeal (my humble self, Mallam Yusuf Ali, SAN, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, Kola Awodehin, SAN, Adeniyi Akintola, SAN, Prof. Taiwo Osipitan, SAN, Afolabi Fashanu, SAN, Moharnmed Adoke, SAN. (leading several other members of the Utter Bar).
2027: OBJ, GEJ, Buhari, Others Should Form New Party to Challenge Tinubu, Says Lukman
Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja
A former National Vice Chairman, Northwest, of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Salihu Lukman, has called former President Olusegun Obasanjo to rally other former leaders to unite the opposition in forming a new political party to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 elections.
He said Obasanjo alongside Gen. Yakubu Gowon (rtd), Gen. Ibrahim Babangida (rtd), Gen. Abdulsalam Abubakar, former President Goodluck Jonathan and former President Muhammadu Buhari have a huge
moral obligation of engaging all opposition political leaders in the country to unite in order to produce a functional political party. Lukman noted that if Obasanjo and other former leaders failed to assert their moral authority in ways that could lead to the emergence of Godly leaders, it was as good as working for the second term of Tinubu.
He stated this in a statement while reacting to a report where Obasanjo was quoted to have said that ‘a leader made by Satan is bound to fail, while God’s chosen one will thrive’. Lukman, in the open letter to
Obasanjo said: “Everything must be done to put Nigeria on the roadmap of producing Godly leaders.
“Leaders such as Your Excellency, together with Gen. Gowon, Gen. Babangida, Gen. Abdulsalam, former President Jonathan and former President Buhari have the huge moral obligation of engaging all opposition political leaders in the country to unite in order to produce a functional political party that can serve as the harbinger for the emergence of Godly leaders in the country.
“It is not enough to lament about the fact of Satanic leadership in the
country.
“So long as Your Excellency and other past leaders fail to assert their moral authority in ways that can lead to the emergence of Godly leaders, it is as good as working for the second term of President Tinubu and his team of failed leaders at all levels with all the problems they created.
Of course, it simply means preference for Satanic leaders.”
Lukman added that with such makeup, acts of impunity would continue to drive politics and even if new parties were formed with different names, such parties would at best be PDP and APC cloned.
personnel, helicopters, and UAVs, and conducting surveillance and interdiction across the Niger Delta region, contributed significantly to the improvement in maritime security.
Specifically, he said Operation DELTA SANITY, launched by the Nigerian Navy on January 10, 2024, under the leadership of Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, made significant strides in curbing crude oil theft and enhancing security in Nigeria’s maritime domain.
On the alleged arrival of French troops to conclude modalities to establish military base in Northeast, the Armed Forces of Nigeria said it was fake, totally false and mischievous.
A statement by Director Defence Media Operations, Maj Gen Edward Buba, recalled that the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, recently addressed this matter in different media forum, in which he debunked the news and speculations. Buba urged the public to disregard these news and speculations still making rounds in some quarters,
stating that these are the antics of mischief makers.
Terrorism: Nigeria Spent $16bn on Insecurity from 2008to 2018, Abbas Asserts Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, has revealed that between 2008 and 2018, about $16 billion was allocated to defence to tackle insecurity in the country.
He added that the amount represented more than 10 per cent of the federal budget over that period. The speaker also revealed that in 2020, the total budget for security accounted for 16.8 per cent of the total budget of $27.9 billion.
In addition, he noted that in 2024, N3.25 trillion was allocated to the defence and security sector, representing 12 per cent of the national budget.
Abbas disclosed this yesterday in Abuja at the workshop for security based committees on non-kinetic strategies to combat insecurity and terrorism in Nigeria.
SHELL’S $5BN BONGA NORTH DEEP-WATER INVESTMENT EXCITES TINUBU
Shell’s Integrated Gas and Upstream Director, Zoë Yujnovich, stated in the statement.
It maintained that the investment in Bonga North was expected to generate an internal rate of return (IRR) over the hurdle rate for Shell’s Upstream business.
Meanwhile, some industry players have expressed their excitement over the announcement of the landmark FID on Bonga North project.
Speaking to THISDAY, on the development, a former Chairman of the Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN) and Managing Director of CB Geophysical Solutions Limited, Mr. Bank-Anthony Okoroafor, called for similar FID to be taken on some other major upstream projects by ExxonMobil, TotalEnergies among others.
Okoroafor stated, "It's a very positive development. And this is something that should have been taken many, many years back. So, it's positive. And I hope they can do similar thing on some other major projects.
"You know, this one is Bonga. This one is Shell. Total has some other projects.
ExxonMobil has some other projects, major projects.
"So, I'm looking at Ntokong, Owowo, and all those big projects.
So, let's be moving. We are getting very late for dinner. It's taking years."
He added that the project would create a lot of huge opportunities for many service companies in terms of engineering, equipment procurement, installations, commissioning, and service.
Similarly, Nigerian oil and gas contractors under the aegis of the the Petroleum Contractors Trade Section (PCTS), described Shell's landmark Final Investment Decision (FID) on 300 million barrels Bonga North project as a testament to the resilience and potential of the country's energy landscape.
Chairperson of PCTS, Rosario Osobase, in a statement exclusivity sent to THISDAY, yesterday, noted that, "The FID on Bonga North by Shell represents a landmark development for Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
“For us at PCTS, an association committed to advocating for and fostering sustainable growth in the industry, this decision is a testament to the resilience and potential of the Nigerian energy landscape."
She added that the project not only promises to boost production capacity but also demonstrates renewed confidence in the Nigerian oil and gas value chain.
“We are confident it will create significant opportunities for local contractors, deepen local content participation, and contribute to the broader economic development of the country.
Adedayo
in Abuja
(ONSA), Zakari Mijinyawa,
PASSION FOR SERVICE KEPT ALIVE...
L-R: Immediate-past President, Ikeja Crystal Lions Club, Mr Ikechukwu Cosmas Ugwu; Multiple Council Chairperson, Lions Club District 404 Nigeria, Mr Anogwi Anyanwu; current President, Crystal Lions Club Ikeja, Apostle Tola Olukilede; Managing Director, Elizade Nigeria Limited, Mrs Taiwo Ade-Ojo; her husband and Chairman, Toyota Nigeria and Founder, Elizade University, Sir Michael Ade-Ojo (OON); his son and Managing Director, Toyota Nigeria Limited, Mr Kunle Ade-Ojo; and a guest, Alhaji Mustapha Ayinla, at the change of baton ceremony from past president to current president of Ikeja Crystal Lions Club, held at Marriott Hotels, Ikeja GRA, Lagos...recently
Atiku Congratulates Ozichukwu Chukwu on Ascendancy as President of Ohanaeze
Ex-VP’s aide says Wike in panic mode, remains PDP’s major problem
Chuks Okocha in Abuja
Former Vice-President Atiku
Abubakar, has congratulated Nze Ozichukwu Fidelis Chukwu on his election as the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo worldwide.
Atiku, in a message of felicitation, extended his congratulations to the entire Ndigbo community, as well as to Nze Ozichukwu personally, for his election and the seamless transition that heralded this pivotal moment in Igbo leadership.
Atiku lauded the dignity and grace that accompanied Ozichukwu's
ascension to the position, while also acknowledging the immense responsibility that such a leadership role entailed.
He expressed confidence in the capacity of Ozichukwu, describing him as a man of remarkable intellect and political acumen, fully prepared to shoulder the weight of the noble office with dignity and candour.
"The Ozichukwu I know is a man of great mental fortitude, a seasoned political strategist, and a leader imbued with the virtues of wisdom and integrity," Atiku remarked.
He further reminisced on Ozichukwu’s commendable service as the National Vice Chairman of the PDP, where his dedication and contribution helped the party foster good governance that continues to evoke fond memories among the Nigerian people.
He, however, urged Ozichukwu to lead Ohanaeze Ndigbo with a spirit of renewal and unity, fostering a dialogue that would strengthen the bonds of understanding and cooperation, while also laying the foundation for a brighter future that resonates with the hopes and
NDLEA, Customs Intercept N2.2 Billion Worth of Illicit Drugs at Tincan Island Port
Arrest two suspects
Sunday Ehigiator
In a major breakthrough, officials of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) have revealed that they intercepted 945.8 kilogrammes of illicit drugs valued at N2.2 billion, at Tincan Island Port, Lagos, while also arresting two suspects in connection with the incident.
In a jointly signed statement, they revealed that the operation, which took place on Friday, December 13, 2024, during a routine security examination of a container that originated from Montreal, Canada, destined for MIGFO bonded Terminal, Tincan Island Port, Lagos, has yielded unprecedented results.
In his reaction, the NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd), commended the NDLEA and Nigeria Customs Service personnel for their vigilance in detecting the illicit shipment.
Marwa appreciated the Nigeria Customs Comptroller, Tincan Island Port Lagos, Dera Nnadi, for coordinating the drug bust with the NDLEA Tincan Strategic Commander Ofoyeju Mitchell with the swift provision of logistics in conveying the suspicious container to the Customs Enforcement Unit for a 100 per cent examination.
“The joint coordination of the search operation by Comptroller Dera and Commander Ofoyeju Mitchell culminated in the successful interception of the massive drug
seizure and apprehension of the suspects.”
The statement further revealed that the clinical inspection jointly coordinated by the Nigeria Customs Service and NDLEA personnel revealed an astounding haul of narcotics. Officers recovered 44 extra-large bags containing cannabis indica, comprising 1,735 parcels with a total weight of 867.5 kilograms.
Additionally, six coolers were also found to contain 87 packs of methamphetamine, weighing 78.3 kilogrammes. In total, the seizure amounted to 945.8 kilograms of narcotics. The estimated value of the seized drugs is 2.2 billion naira.
According to Comptroller Dera, “We are delighted with this seizure because it's a product of teamwork. This could have caused a substantial threat to public safety save for the prompt interception.”
The NDLEA Commander, Tincan Island Port Strategic Command, Ofoyeju Mitchell, also expressed satisfaction with the discovery.
“This is the first time we are intercepting methamphetamine from Canada. The success represents substantial damage to the operations of the drug trafficking cartels.
“We will continue to collaborate with the Nigeria Customs Service and other stakeholders as we work tirelessly to protect our country from the dangers posed by drugs.”
Meanwhile, Gen. Marwa has commended officers for their strict compliance with drug control protocols that led to the successful
drug bust.
He added, “This significant seizure is a product of synergy and a testament to the quality inter-agency collaboration at the Tincan Island Port.
“This crackdown not only highlights the effectiveness of our drug control protocols but also serves as a stern warning to those engaging in similar illicit activities that their criminal investment will go down the drain. I commend the officers for their vigilance and professionalism.
“This latest seizure represents one of the largest drug interceptions in recent years, further positioning the Tincan Island Port Strategic Command as a frontline defence against the influx of narcotics.
for all legislation in that direction."
Making further clarification on the renaming of University of Abuja, Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, stated that FEC approved the change of the University name following the motion moved by the President during the council meeting.
"President Tinubu moved a motion for the renaming of the University of Abuja at the council meeting and the council approved that the University of Abuja be renamed Yakubu Gowon University, and FEC unanimously approved the motion.
"It was in recognition of the elder stateman's contribution to Nigeria's unity and his roles in upholding true federalism."
The minister said, following the
dreams of the Nigerian populace.
Wike in Panic Mode, Remains PDP’s Major Problem, Says Atiku's Aide
A member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and ally of Atiku Abubakar, Hon Oladimeji Fabiyi, has described the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, as a destructive element within the main opposition political party in the country.
Fabiyi was reacting to an interview granted by a media aide to Wike, Lere Olayinka, whom Fabiyi de-
scribed as “harbinger of falsehoods and malicious narratives.”
Fabiyi said contrary to the falsehood being peddled by Olayinka, “It is obvious to every Nigerian and, indeed, faithful party members that the only man who has been the major problem of the PDP is Minister Nyesom Wike.”
Fabiyi recalled that Wike was renowned for his abrasive rhetoric when he was the governor of Rivers State.
“We are witnesses to his destructive roles and behaviour in the local politics of Rivers State where he (Wike) was a pain in the neck of
Governor Fubara-led government and the Rivers people in general.
“We have also seen his negative energies being dissipated at the federal level of governance, with a plethora of complaints about how the FCT Minister has become a terror to FCT administration and land owners in the federal capital territory.
“In the PDP, too, Wike has constituted himself to be the lord of the manor, under the subterfuge of an unimpressive acting National Chairman of the party, Amb. Damagun and few other recalcitrant NWC members to distabliise the party.”
Alex Enumah in Abuja
The Supreme Court, yesterday, dismissed a suit seeking the removal of President Bola Tinubu from office, for being frivolous and vexatious.
A five-member panel of the apex court in a judgement, held that the suit brought by a former presidential candidate of the Hope Democratic Party (HDP), Chief Albert Owuru, was not only incompetent and lacking in merit but amounted to a waste of the court's precious time.
The panel led by Justice Uwani Musa Aba-Aji, subsequently ordered the appellant to pay the president the sum of N5 million as cost for defending the incompetent suit.
Besides, the apex court ordered its registry not to accept any frivolous originating summons from Owuru
approval of the council on the renaming of the University, "The Federal Ministry of Education will prepare necessary document to change the act of the University and it will be forwarded to the National Assembly for formal approval."
Alausa, therefore, lauded President Tinubu’s efforts in increasing budgetary allocation to human capital development for expansion of the education sector, adding that the president approved significant budgetary allocation to the sector.
Gowon:
again.
Owuru and the HDP, had in a petition filed on March 7, 2019 canvassed nullification of the election of President Muhammadu Buhari on three grounds. That they were unlawfully excluded in the poll, that the February 23 poll was illegal, unconstitutional and a nullity, because INEC has no power to shift the poll and that a referendum conducted on February 16 produced him as winner.
But the presidential election tribunal of 2019 and the Supreme Court dismissed the petition and appeal for being incompetent and lacking in merit.
Not satisfied, Owuru again came last year with a fresh suit challenging the inauguration of President Bola Tinubu as winner of the 2023
Bola Ahmed Tinubu for renaming the University of Abuja to Yakubu Gowon University, Abuja, describing it as a profound honour.
In a message of appreciation, the governor said the renaming was an honour, not only to General Gowon but also to the people of Plateau State, his birthplace, highlighting the selfless service and exceptional leadership of the former Head of State, which played a pivotal role in shaping Nigeria's unity, fostering peace, and promoting national cohesion.
presidential election. He predicated his action on the grounds that a suit over the rightful occupant of the seat of power remains pending at the Supreme Court. Owuru had claimed that by the doctrine of 'Lis Pendens', it is not yet the turn of Tinubu to occupy the Office of President of Nigeria, adding that the doctrine of Lis Pendens has rendered the 2023 presidential election as well as its outcome illegal and an exercise in futility.
In the suit, marked SC/ CV/667/2023, Owuru prayed the apex court to sack Tinubu on two major grounds: alleged non-qualification to hold office as Nigeria’s President and alleged usurpation of the office in contravention of the law.
matic acumen were instrumental in seeing Nigeria through one of its most turbulent periods, leaving an indelible mark on the nation’s history.
“General Yakubu Gowon is a cherished father figure and a beacon of peace to millions of Nigerians. His life and legacy continue to inspire change and serve as a guiding light for our nation
CommendsMutfwang
Tinubu
Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has commended President
In the statement signed by his Director of Press, Gyang Bere, he commended Tinubu for the welldeserved recognition of General Gowon’s enduring legacy, noting that Gowon's wisdom and diplo-
"On behalf of the government and the people of Plateau State, I warmly extend congratulations to General Gowon on the honour. May God’s continued blessings, good health, and strength abide with the elder statesman, as he continues to offer wise counsel and guide the nation to greater heights," the governor prayed.
THE NEW MONARCH…
Deputy Governor of Delta State, Monday Onyeme (left), presenting the Staff of Office to the
Local Government Area, Delta State…recently
Zamfara Governor Inaugurates Ring Road, Bridges in Rivers
Fubara plans establishing higher institution in hometown
Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt Zamfara State Governor, Dr. Dauda Lawal, has inaugurated the 7km Opobo Town Ring Road with three crossing bridges in Opobo/ Nkoro Local Government Area in Rivers State constructed by the state government.
This is as Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has pledged to attract an institution of higher learning to Opobo, his hometown, so as to drive sustainable academic and economic growth in the area.
policies to better the lot of Rivers people.
Governor Lawal noted that such critical infrastructure like
Performing the inauguration yesterday, the Zamfara State governor described Governor Fubara as a visionary leader who has championed development
Ondo Elections: NGO Says No Evidence in State Interference
KuniTyessi inabuja
A non-governmental organi-sation, Impact Development Initiative, which advances good governance and democratic rights in Nigeria, has said there was no evidence to suggest direct state interference in the November 16 Ondo State governorship election.
Describing the poll as partially free and fair, the organisation in its final statement on the election said it was conducted with notable efforts toward transparency and monitoring.
Speaking at a press conference
in Abuja yesterday, KDI Team Lead, Bukola Idowu, who said the organisation deployed 3,362 trained observers on the 203 wards of the state, said the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) demon-strated logistical efficiency and transparent communication of procedures.
Noting that this contributed to a well organised election and timely release of results on the INEC Results
Viewing Portal, Idowu further said the poll saw commendable efforts to ensure equal and secret suffrage with no reported cases of voter discrimination.
Sterling Bank Supports 10th Africa Fashion Week Nigeria
Sterling Bank Plc has reinforced its dominance as a driving force behind Nigeria’s creative revolution, boldly empowering artistic visionaries and entrepreneurial trailblazers to redefine global fashion narratives as the headline sponsor of the monumental 10th Africa Fashion Week Nigeria (AFWN).
Head of Brand Marketing, Sterling Bank, Chidimma Okoli, articulated the bank’s strategic, saying: “Our objective is clear – we are equipping Nigerian designers with the skills, networks, and opportunities necessary to
compete on the global stage. This is a deliberate, systematic approach to building national creative capacity.”
Also commenting, Head of Tourism, Creative Arts, and Business at Sterling Bank, Abiola Adelana, said:”Our support transcends traditional banking. We recognise the transformative power of our creative industries and are dedicated to providing meaningful platforms for emerging talents.”
According to the bank, a prime example of this commitment was the recognition of Lambert Fashion’s CEO, Ogboghodo Adesuwa Ella.
roads, particularly in rural communities as done by Governor Fubara, would promote socio-economic growth, enhance
well-being of the people and facilitate progress. He said the completion of the road project is a clear
demonstration of the vision and dedication of Rivers State Government, under the leadership of Governor Fubara.
InfraCredit’s Guarantee Green Infrastructure Forward Sukuk for Solar Power
Goddy Egene
InfraCredit, a ‘AAA’-rated specialised infrastructure credit guarantee institution, has announced credit enhancement of Prado Power Limited’s Guaranteed Fixed-Rate Senior Green Infrastructure Forward Ijarah Lease Sukuk under a co-financing arrangement with the £10 million
Climate Finance Blending Facility. The scheme was funded by the United Kingdom Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), the fourth transaction under the Facility.
The InfraCredit’s Clean Energy Funding Programme seeks to aggregate, de-risk, and unlock domestic institutional investments to support eligible clean energy
projects in Nigeria to contribute towards meeting the country’s universal electrification goal by 2030 and the SDG 7 target of ensuring access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all, whilst putting the country on a path to achieve net zero emissions by 2060.
It is the fourth transaction under the climate facility and the first blended local currency Green Infrastructure Forward Ijarah Lease Sukuk for a Solar Powered Rural Infrastructure Project in Nigeria. Green Sukuk is an Islamic Shari’ah-compliant finance instrument for eco-friendly projects, creating a new asset class for climate finance and offering investors non-interest based financial returns.
Nigerian Diaspora Investors Decry Coastal Road Diversion, Demand Accountability
SundayOkobi
The Association of Nigerian Diaspora Investors has raised the alarm over what it described as the Ministry of Works’ abuse of power and a potential setback to the nation’s economic growth.
In a statement jointly signed by the leaders of the group, Femi
Adekoya and Dr. Kimberly Stark, the association expressed deep concern about the diversion of the coastal road and the demolition of investment properties, primarily acquired by Nigerians in the diaspora, valued at over $250 million.
They said the affected investments, made in 2022, “were
intended to provide affordable housing and stimulate economic development in Nigeria.
“However, the project has faced significant delays, largely attributed to the ministry’s decision to reroute the coastal road.”
The association added that the ministry’s actions, under the leadership of Senator David Umahi, have made these investment property inaccessible, rendering them effectively useless and undermining the original purpose of the development. Adekoya, a representative of the investors, said in the statement that: “This is a grave case of impunity and a gross abuse of power by those entrusted with leadership.”
Mutfwang Hails First Female Pilot in the Nigerian Navy for Making Plateau Proud
Seriki Adinoyi in Jos
The Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang, has congratulated Lieutenant Changfe Maigari on her historic achievement as the first female pilot of the Nigerian Navy since its establishment in 1964.
In a congratulatory message, signed by his Director of Press, Gyang Bere, the governor commended Lt. Maigari for her courage, resilience, and dedication, which have propelled her to the groundbreaking accomplishment, describing her achievement as a
significant milestone, not just for the Nigerian Navy but also for Plateau State and Nigeria as a whole.
Mutfwang praised Lt. Maigari’s journey as a source of inspiration, noting that her steadfast commitment to
excellence exemplifies the virtues of hard work, discipline, and determination. He emphasized that her success underscores the growing role of women in strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture and fostering inclusivity in national development.
UNILAG Mass Comm Dept Produces First Alumnus to Deliver Inaugural Lecture
Funmi Ogundare
A Professor of Journalism and Communication Studies, University of Lagos (UNILAG), Akoka, Ismail Ibraheem, will tomorrow, December18, deliver an inaugural lecture chronicling the state of journalism practice globally and provide workable solutions to the multidimensional challenges facing the profession.
ASR Africa yesterday commenced the reconstruction of the Mallam Abdulkarim Jummat Mosque in Zaria. This event was organised by the Zazzau Emirate Council under the leadership of the Emir of Zazzau, His Highness Mal. Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli.
The lecture themed, ‘Casino Journalism and the End of History’, will rank as the first to be delivered by an alumnus of the university’s Mass Communication Department 58 years after the 62-year-old university established the department.
Prof. Ibraheem’s lecture, which is coming about 20 years after similar lecture was delivered by a lecturer in the department, will also be the first alumnus of the department to be delivering inaugural lecture.
Prof Ibraheem in a statement, explained that the choice of the theme was determined by the urgent need to address key ethical, funding, ownership and managerial crises rocking the global media industry, and particularly diverse societies such as Nigeria.
ASR Africa Reconstructs Mallam Abdulkarim Jummat Mosque in Zaria
The groundbreaking event marked the beginning of a remarkable journey and had in attendance distinguished personalities including the Chairman of ASR Africa and BUA Group, Alhaji Abdul Samad Rabiu, Royal fathers, Government officials, the Zazzau
emirate council and members of the public.
The Governor of the State, Senator Uba Sani, who was the host, acknowledged the presence of the royal fathers especially His Excellency, Alhaji Muhammad Abubakar Sa’ad Abubakar III, the Sultan of
Sokoto, as well as other special guests of honour including Abbas Tajudeen Speaker of the House of Representative, Mallam Balarabe Abass Lawal, Honourable Minister for Environment and Alhaji Abdul Samad Rabiu Chairman ASR Africa and the BUA Group.
Appeal Court Dismisses Defamation Suit against Leadership Newspaper, Reporter
Onuminya Innocent in sokoto
The Court of Appeal, Sokoto Division, has upheld the decision of Sokoto State High Court that dismissed a case against Leadership Newspaper
and its reporter, Sharfaddeen Sidi Umar.
Umar was allegedly accused of defaming the former Chairman of the Sokoto State Council of the National Union of Journalists (NUJ), Labaran Lumo Dundaye, through the newspaper. The judgement, which was read by Justice Victoria Nwoye on behalf of others, upheld lower court decision to dismiss the appeal.
THISDAY gathered that Dundaye filed the suit in 2016,
sued Leadership Newspaper as the first defendant and Sokoto State Leadership Newspaper Hausa reporter, Sidi Umar, as the second defendant seeking N50 million as damages and apology to be published in three national newspapers.
Odio-Ologbo of Irri Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Simon Wajutome Odhomo, Igbogidi 1, in Irri, Isoko South
TINUBU AND THE FUTURE OF ECOWAS
and military action and adopted the options of diplomacy and dialogue. This achieved little or nothing. In January 2024, Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger announced their decision to quit ECOWAS. They formed the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) as their own confederation as an alternative to ECOWAS. Their departure under Article 91 of the Revised ECOWAS Treaty would become effective on January 29, 2025. The resort to diplomacy, an afterthought by ECOWAS also yielded no results. In July, ECOWAS appointed President Bassirou Faye of Senegal as the mediator with the aggrieved countries. President Faure Gnassingbe of Togo was also sent on diplomatic shuttles to Niger. President Tinubu as ECOWAS Chairman, also sent other envoys to the Sahel.
Barely a month to the January deadline, there was a meeting of Ministers of Burkina Faso, Niger and Mali in Niamey last Saturday, December 14, where they reiterated that the departure of the three countries from ECOWAS, effective January 29, 2025 is “irreversible.” They however also resolved that the three countries would remain visa-free for all ECOWAS countries after the exit. While the latter resolution may alleviate fears about the free movement of goods and services, there is still the residual challenge of insecurity in the Sahel, and the threat of a further tumultuous season in that part of West Africa with wider implications for regional peace. It is perhaps out of this realization that the Authority of Heads of State and Governments at its 66th Ordinary Summit last weekend, Sunday, December 15 at the State House in Abuja, decided to vary Article 91 of the Revised Treaty and granted the departing trio an extension of six months from January 29 to July 29. This is basically to create room for further diplomatic negotiations in the hope that the three countries can be brought back into the fold. In Niamey, on Saturday, the AES Ministers still made it clear that ECOWAS leaders are too subservient to France. Without being specific, they may well have been referring to President Tinubu who recently returned from France where he was treated to a lavish and grand reception by President Emmanuel Macron. It remains to be seen whether the AES would reverse itself. It is a long wait but as certain as daylight, July 29, 2025 would soon be upon us. In the meantime, the ECOWAS Commission has been directed to begin work on the necessary withdrawal formalities, while the mediator continues with last-ditch efforts to keep the dream of the founding fathers of ECOWAS alive, giving the AES an opportunity to have a re-think.
It is further instructive that at the ECOWAS meeting of Heads of States and Governments, President Tinubu, Chairman, took time out to praise the just concluded general elections in Ghana and parliamentary elections in Senegal. He even praised Ghana’s Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) who conceded defeat to the candidate of the opposition, President John Mahama of the National Democratic Congress (NDC). He praised the government and people of Ghana for their maturity. This was a subtle dig at the leaders of the West African countries where the military chose to resort to force and aggression. Without a doubt, the rise of military juntas poses a threat to democracy in West Africa and peace in
the region. The romance of the juntas with Russia and China dangerously positions the region as a territory for proxy conflicts among major Western powers. It is an ill-wind. ECOWAS needs to do more to persuade the errant countries to restore constitutional order. The leaders also need to reinvent and retool the organization. By next July, it will be 50 years since ECOWAS was established. It would be pertinent to ask: how has the body fared? Has it so far fulfilled the ambitions of its founding fathers? Today, only one of those leaders who established ECOWAS in 1975 is still alive. Would General Yakubu Gowon of Nigeria be proud of what ECOWAS has become? What are the challenges facing the body? How can it be reformed? Mutual suspicion among the various blocs: Anglophone, Francophone and the Lusophone has been a major issue for ECOWAS: how can the goal of integration be better realized? In 50 years, whatever the challenges may have been, it can be said that ECOWAS has been pivotal in forging cooperation, integration and trade within the region. ECOWAS in 2010 adopted Vision 2020,
and also later a Vision 2050 roadmap to deepen the original objectives of the association. There may have been challenges: insecurity in the Sahel, Boko Haram in the Lake Chad Basin, Ebola, COVID-19 and the emergent threat of military juntas, but on the whole, the main achievements of the body deserve to be celebrated. ECOWAS fought to restore peace in Liberia and Sierra Leone, and has been vocal in insisting on good governance. There are hitches in person-to-person relations within the body, over trade, commerce and space, but the free movement of goods and services has been largely beneficial. ECOWAS ranks probably as the most successful regional economic bloc in the continent, in terms of conflict management. But ECOWAS has lost steam. It needs reorganization. It is unfortunate that the same ECOWAS that acted decisively in Liberia, Sierra Leone and The Gambia is now the same body that is now being treated scornfully by a group of military adventurists who have reversed democratic progress in the Sahel. Their effrontery is fuelled by the descent into poverty and anomie in their
AT 82, BUHARI WRAPS UP IN SILENCE AND DIGNITY IN DAURA
and Africa as a whole.
Nigerian leaders are praised while in office and discredited even after tremendous contributions by them after they leave office. Knowing this, President Buhari would rather be silent on the criticism of his administration-much of it unfair- in the belief that the truth, like oil buried under the soil has a way of coming to the top.
To use the words of Leo Tolstoy, two most powerful warriors are patience and time.
I make the admission that in all humans-leaders inclusive-there are limitations and shortcomings. As a leader, Buhari towers above many before him.
The former president said to the hearing everyone that once he handed over to his successor on that May 29, 2023 he would be as far away from the nation’s capital, Abuja so as not to cast a shadow over the new administration, to give the space to them to effectively take off and stabilize without distractions. Being willing to renounce power is his extraordinarily admirable trait.
Since leaving office, he visited Abuja just twice, first to officiate at the launching of Femi Adesina’s brilliant book “Working With Buhari,” and the second time as a guest of President Bola Tinubu when they convened a meeting of the Council State.
Unlike others, the Nigerian constitution has created a platform for interaction between the present and the past leaders of the country, the Council State which is set up to advise the sitting president on some important appointments and on sundry issues affecting the state.
to know how much cooperation goes on between current and former presidents.
countries. The clamour for change that compelled the people of Burkina Faso, Mali, Guinea and Niger to embrace the military is simply their frustration with the leaders in those countries. The people seek change and they embrace it in whatever shape it presents itself, with high expectations too, because they no longer trust their leaders who have alienated them and placed a greater accent on their own elite well-being rather than the common good for the people’s benefit. The people are led by persons who promote injustice, inequality, nepotism. They rig elections and do not allow the people’s vote to count. When the military intervenes, the people see the intervention as a form of liberation from the shackles of oppression. In Burkina Faso, Niger and Mali, they trooped to the streets in jubilation, almost like the situation today in Syria with the fall of Bashar Assad and the Assad dynasty, one of the most murderous ruling houses in the Middle East which clung to power for 54 years. In Mali in August 2020, when Mali’s President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita was removed in a military coup over allegations of corruption, fraud and electoral violence, the people were joyous. They carried placards saying “This isn’t a coup. It is a Revolution”. There was yet another coup in May 2021. Similarly in Niger in 2023, thousands of people gathered to hail the generals who led the coup in that country. The urgent matter that West Africa needs to resolve is the challenge of good leadership and governance. There is a need at the organizational level for a re-dedication to the ideals of ECOWAS, and to develop a higher sense of belonging among the member-states and the over 420 million people that make up the region. As ECOWAS steps into its 50thyear, it is in urgent need of reform and we need to see the members being faithful. At the last meeting of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of States and Governments, Omar Alieu Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, commended Nigeria for having paid up its community levies for 2023, with the 2024 levy paid up to July this year. He advised other member states to emulate Nigeria’s example. I guess it has become a habit among ECOWAS members to allow Nigeria to do the heavy lifting in terms of funding while others tag along and yet enjoy the benefits of membership. It is important that all parties pay their levies as and when due. The various structures of the body must be overhauled to ensure equity and deepen trade facilitation. The ideals of free movement of persons across the region should be enhanced. It must be possible for any national of an ECOWAS state to live and work in any of the member states without being subjected to undue discrimination or harassment. The celebration of ECOWAS at 50 must be an occasion for sober reflection and renewal. President Bola Tinubu was elected for a second term as Chairman of ECOWAS in July 2024. He would preside over the 50th anniversary celebrations before handing over the seat in July 2025. He may have listed some of his achievements as ECOWAS Chairman at the 66th Ordinary session in Abuja; he would be required to give a fuller account of his tenure and the status of ECOWAS as part of the 50th anniversary. There is a lot more that can be done.
as military leader and subsequently as elected president after two terms, President Olusegun Obasanjo has called and written on every head of state after him to put him to shame or disgrace, and in some cases outrightly asking for his resignation or ouster in the next election. General Abacha alleged that Obasanjo had a hand in a coup plot against him and had him imprisoned.
If President Buhari is not seen going about publicly for a while, it has to do with his expressed wish to be as far away as possible, not to be a distraction to the new administration. He earnestly is sympathetic to Tinubu in his challenging job of reforming the economy, and all the other leaders in expectations management of citizens, much of which is difficult- if not impossible- to meet. His view that subsides were unsustainable has not changed. But in the remoteness of Daura, he has found the atmosphere for a well-deserved rest, in silence and dignity and away from predatory pressures of Abuja.
Buhari maintains a very simple daily routine of catching up with the news on radio and television each morning, enjoying the company of his grandchildren, meeting with scheduled guests and a one to two hour walk around his expansive farm inspecting crops and livestock. An avid reader who must get all available newspapers, President Buhari now has plenty of time to read and watch his favorite TV shows. As he marks his 82nd birthday, may he always be remembered and honored.
•Garba Shehu is former Presidential Spokesperson.
Former President Muhammadu Buhari
President Bola Tinubu
Cooperation between serving and former Nigerian leaders is not new although it is difficult
General Gowon, the oldest surviving former leader would appear to be the most helpful of all of the nation’s past rulers. On the other hand since leaving office, first
Ademola Lookman Voted 2024 Africa's Best Player!
Chiamaka Nnadozie retains Best Goalkeeper award Super Falcons Best Women’s National
Duro Ikhazuagbe
Nigeria and Atalanta FC of Italy
forward, Ademola Lookman, has been voted as Africa's Best Player at the 2024 CAF Awards which held in Marrakech, Morocco on MondayLookmannight.succeeded his national teammate, Victor Osimhen, who won it last year as Africa’s best footballer.
It was also the first time Nigeria has had back-to-back winners in the Men’s award since Nwankwo Kanu (1996) and Victor Ikpeba (1997) were honoured almost three decades ago.
The 27-year-old forward who helped Nigeria to finish as runners
up at the AFCON 2023 last February in Côte d’Ivoire, scored a hat-trick as Atalanta defeated Bayer Leverkusen to win the UEFA Europa League last May.
It was the first major European trophy for his Italian club in almost 60 years!
Lookman was was selected ahead of four other nominees namely; Achraf Hakimi (Morocco and PSG), Serhou Guirassy (Guinea and Borussia Dortmund), Simon Adingra (Cote d’Ivoire and Brighton) and Ronwen Williams (South Africa and Mamelodi Sundowns) to the coveted award.
He becomes only the sixth Nigerian to be so recognised
after Rashidi Yekini, Emmanuel Amuneke, Nwankwo Kanu (twice), Victor Ikpeba and Osimhen were so honoured in the past.
The Wandsworth, England-born Lookman few minutes after he was handed the PoTY award, spoke in Yoruba to greet Nigerians in the Palais des Congrés, venue of the event as well as millions watching on television around the world.
“Nigerians, E kale. Mo ki gbogbo yin. Ese, mo dupe. First, I want to thank God for what He’s doing in my life. I want to thank the President, my teammates and my parents. It is a great day to be recognised as the best player in Africa.”
He further urged young African players never to give up on their dreams even in the face of daunting challenges.
Super Falcons’ goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie who was expected to make it a double for Nigeria failed to win the women’s version of the Player of the Year that went to Zambian star player Barbra Banda.
Nnadozie was however retained the Goalkeeper of the Year title she won last year as 2024 Africa’s best goalkeeper.
Victor Osimhen and Lookman were the only Super Eagles players listed in Africa’s Best XI while Super Falcons won the women’s National
ALL HAIL THE KING...
Top Pro Golfers Set for Ultimate Golf Challenge Showdown in Lagos
Top golf professionals drawn from across the country and neigbouring countries will storm the highbrow golf section of Ikoyi Club 1938 on Friday, December 20th, for the fifth in the series of the annual Ultimate Golf Challenge.
The 36-hole competition, which is already generating lots of interest within the country and beyond will see big hitters like former Order of Merit winner, Oche Odoh from Abuja, Ikoyi Club-based Monday Eze, Francis
Epe, Port Harcourt’s Willy Gift, Lakowe Lakes Golf Club’s Femi Olagbenro, Barry Yaw Dradey from Achimota Golf Club in Ghana, Bashiru Bakare, Kamalu Bako, Emos Korblah, another former Champion, Vincent Torgah and
Spartans Win Showtime Bowl Series XI with Record-Breaking Season!
Showtime Bowl Series XI wasn’t just a season but a movement. From the first whistle in September to Sunday night’s finale, this season flipped the script on what flag football in Africa can be.
The Spartans, back-to-back champions after their Season X win, claimed their second title in a row, defeating the Warriors to pocket the 6,000,000 grand prize.
But don’t get it twisted: the Spartans didn’t just show up, they had to fight for this and with 12 teams in the mix, this season was packed with surprises, new faces, and big moments.
The Warriors, with an unbeaten record in 11 games and the highest points scored in a single game this
season, fought hard to the end, grabbing 4,000,000 for second place. The Rebels and Outlaws rounded out the top four, taking home 2,500,000 each, all part of the record 20,000,000 prize pool.
“Season XI wasn’t just about the competition—it’s about everything that comes with it: teamwork, growth, and the rise of flag football in Africa,” said Adebare Adejumo, League Commissioner. “This year was special, but trust me, the best part is still ahead of us.”
This season went beyond just wins and losses. Showtime Flag Football League fans turned the Showtime Arena into a weekly battleground and turned the game into something bigger. MVPs
were named for unforgettable performances, and teams pushed boundaries to show why Showtime is the largest professional coed flag football league in Nigeria.
The finale? A spectacle in itself.
After the Spartans lifted their second trophy, Nigerian music legend Rudeboy closed the night with a concert that was the perfect end to a season that combined sports and entertainment like never before.
As Season XI wraps up, it’s clear we’ve come a long way. Showtime Flag Football has gone from a vision to the standard in flag football across Africa. But this success isn’t just about us—it’s about the players, the fans, and everyone who believed in the dream.
high flying defending champion, Sunday Olapade I’ll all be in a nation for this year’s edition of the mouth- watering encounter.
Also expected on the course is fast rising America-based Tokunbo Pedro. Pedro’s golf prowess is known to all golf aficionados. Having played golf both in China and America, the slightly built Pedro is one golfer to watch out for in this competition.
2025 Ultimate Golf Challenge in powered by Polaris Bank, GAC Motors, Jamz,Casava, Mactay, Megamound and GTI
In his pre-tournament speech, Chairman, Ultimate Golf Challenge Organising Committee, Akin Semowo, said all necessary arrangements at making sure this year’s competition goes as planned have been put in place, stressing that the tournament which was designed to grow the sport and encourage professional golfers will continue to contribute to the growth of the sports and its players.
“Our dreams and plans have always been to promote professional golf in Nigeria and to also promote the players. And we will continue to do all we can in this direction,” Semowo concluded.
Team of the Year.
Four Super Falcons players namely; Michelle Alozie, Osinachi Ohale, Rasheedat Ajibade and Asisat Oshoala made the CAF Women’s Best XI squad.
Surprisingly, Super Eagles
Captain, William Troost-Ekong who was voted the Most Valuable Player of AFCON 2023 last February was left out of the continent’s Best XI squad.
Also, Edo Queens lost out in the race for the Women’s Club of the Year won by CAF Women’s League champions TP Mazembe Ladies of DR Congo.
2024 CAF AWARDS WINNERS
CAF PLAYER OF THE YEAR (MEN)
Ademola Lookman (Nigeria / Atalanta)
CAF PLAYER OF THE YEAR (WOMEN)
Barbra Banda (Zambia / Orlando Pride)
CAF GOALKEEPER OF THE YEAR (MEN)
Ronwen Williams (South Africa / M’Sundowns)
CAF GOALKEEPER OF THE YEAR (WOMEN)
Chiamaka Nnadozie (Nigeria / Paris FC)
CAF INTERCLUB PLAYER OF THE YEAR (MEN)
Team
Ronwen Williams (South Africa / Mamelodi Sundowns)
CAF INTERCLUB PLAYER OF THE YEAR (WOMEN)
Sanaâ Mssoudy (Morocco / AS FAR)
CAF YOUNG PLAYER OF THE YEAR (MEN)
Lamine Camara (Senegal / AS Monaco)
CAF YOUNG PLAYER OF THE YEAR (WOMEN)
Doha El Madani (Morocco / AS FAR)
CAF COACH OF THE YEAR (MEN)
Emerse Fae (Cote d’Ivoire)
CAF COACH OF THE YEAR (WOMEN)
Lamia Boumehdi (TP Mazembe)
CAF NATIONAL TEAM OF THE YEAR (MEN)
Cote d’Ivoire
CAF NATIONAL TEAM OF THE YEAR (WOMEN)
Nigeria
CAF CLUB OF THE YEAR (MEN) Al Ahly (Egypt)
CAF CLUB OF THE YEAR (WOMEN)
TP Mazembe (DR Congo)
CAF GOAL OF THE YEAR
Mabululu (Angola)
Mbah Hails Lookman, Nnadozie, Falcons over CAF Awards
Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, has taken to his social media handles to congratulate Ademola Lookman, Chiamaka Nnadozie, and the Super Falcons on their wins at the Confederation of African Football, CAF, Awards 2024, describing it as a night of glory for both Nigerian football and the nation in general.
He said, "Congratulations to Ademola Lookman, Chiamaka Nnadozie, and the Super Falcons on their well deserved awards as Africa's Footballer of the Year, Female Goalkeeper of the Year, and
Female National Team of the Year, respectively, at the prestigious CAF Awards 2024.
"It was indeed a night of glory for Nigeria. You shone like a million stars through a dint of hard work and patriotism in the year under review and we are super proud of you all.
"I hope these serve as your stepping stones to higher ground in your individual footballing careers and for Nigerian football in general. Again, congratulations, " observed the Enugu State governor.
Nigeria Excited over Successful Hosting of Fencing World Cup
Nigeria has been praised for successfully hosting the first Fencing World Cup in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Under the leadership of Adeyinka Samuel, the Nigeria Fencing Federation organised a remarkable two-day tournament, which saw Egypt and Saudi Arabia emerge as the dominant forces.
The 2024 Men’s Junior Epee Fencing World Cup took place at the Charterhouse Lagos, marking the first internationals tournament hosted by the British College.
The event featured 39 fencers from eight countries competing for medals and world rankings.
Pat Aiyenuro, President of British Fencing, expressed her admiration for the tournament's organization, noting that it has positioned Nigeria as a promising host for future events. "I have been very impressed. The venue is amazing; the organization and refereeing were impressive. We are privileged to have some of the top fencing nations here, including a world champion, which shows their confidence in Nigeria's ability to host a top-tier competition," she said.
Samuel, President of the Nigeria Fencing Federation, highlighted the significance of hosting the tournament.
"We are grateful to host such an event. It has been challenging, especially financially, but our fencers gave their all. We aim to host more competitions and improve our capacity through partnerships with Italian and British fencing. This will help us host bigger tournaments and promote fencing across Nigeria," Samuel stated.
Egypt and Saudi Arabia excelled in the tournament, with Egypt winning the team event by defeating Greece in the final, while Saudi Arabia claimed bronze.
In the singles event, Egypt’s Shamel Youssef won gold, defeating Saudi Arabia’s Abed Hassan, while Egyptians Elsayed Mahmoud and Osama Eslam shared the bronze. Despite a tough preliminary group, Nigeria finished seventh in the team event. The highest-ranked Nigerian fencer in the singles event was Ige Olumuyiwa, who placed 27th after being edged out in the round of 32 by Greece’s Theodoropoulos Panagiotis.
L-R: CAF President, Patrice Motsepe, CAF 2024 Player of the Year winner, Ademola Lookman and FIFA President, Gianni Infantino, shortly after the Nigerian player was presented with CAF award in Marrakech, Morocco...on Monday night
Edwin Clark to President Tinubu
“ItisalreadyverysadthattheNigerDeltasufferingfromdecadesofenvironmental damage...So,imaginethatwecannotcommuteamongourselves,anddailyour regionproducesbillions tothenationalcoffersisdifficulttofathom...Itisdifficultto understandwhytheroadsinourregionshouldbeinthisverydeplorablecondition” --ElderStatesmanandNigerDeltaLeader,ChiefEdwinClark,appealstoPresidentBola AhmedTinubutodeclareemergencyonSouth-Southroadsin2025budget.
TUESDAY WITH REUBEN ABATI
abati1990@gmail.com
Tinubu And The Future Of ECOWAS
Two major meetings were held over the weekend that just passed that have implications for the future of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), and the possible resolution or otherwise of political developments among member-states in the last two to three years, with implications for the future of the sub-regional organization. ECOWAS was established in May 1975, when 15 West African states signed the Treaty of Lagos to establish a platform for the promotion of economic integration. This particular treaty was revised on July 24 1993, but the essential purpose of ECOWAS has remained consistent: trade facilitation, free movement of persons and goods, solidarity, promotion of human rights and peace. The sixteenth member joined in 1977, making the membership 16. In addition to its many guidelines and principles, ECOWAS has a general framework which also guides protocols and relations among members. In July 1991, it adopted the Declaration of Political Principles as a cardinal rule, and in 2001, the ECOWAS Supplementary Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance. One of those protocols is the underlying trigger for this commentary, to wit: the principle of customary international law enshrined in Article 2 (4) of the 1945 UN Charter which binds member-states against the use of force as a means of changing governments, in the absence of armed attack or self-defence. In
1978, ECOWAS signed a protocol on nonaggression against member states and in 1981, members agreed that in the event of any act of aggression against a member, they would come together in mutual self-defence and protect the victim-state to ensure peace,
GARBA SHEHU
security and stability, by military means if possible and if inevitable, as seen in the interventions of ECOMOG in Liberia (1990) and Sierra Leone (1998). Even the African Union (AU) enabled by its Article 4(h) can be called upon to intervene when the basic protocols have been breached. This however is a slightly complicated area of the subject which we need not bring into this commentary. What we know is that ECOWAS specifically sees pro-democratic intervention as its bounden duty, but the effectuation of this has been a problem in the sub-region over the years and to cite a recent example, in 2016, when ECOWAS threatened to deploy a standby ECOWAS force in The Gambia to restore the people’s wish if Yahya Jammeh refused to leave office. Jammeh was eased out and a standby force did not have to intervene. But a turning point came for ECOWAS when the military seized power in Mali in 2020 and 2021, Guinea in 2021, Burkina Faso in 2022, and Niger in July 2023. ECOWAS, with Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu as Chair, thought it needed to intervene to return these countries to democracy, the rise of military juntas in the sub-region being a threat to democratic consolidation. ECOWAS suspended the states in line with its protocols and proceeded to impose political and economic sanctions. It threatened to deploy troops if it became necessary. This was an act of political miscalculation.
In the four countries, there were civilian protests against ECOWAS, particularly in former French
colonies of Burkina Faso, Niger and Mali. The more interesting part of it is that the ECOWAS was accused of being too pro-French. In Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger, the people publicly denounced continued association with France and specifically in Niger, the people openly waved Russian flags and pulled down French flags. From Senegal to Niger, a wave of rebellion erupted in the former colonies, in what signalled a creeping failure of French relations with its former colonies in Africa. Senegal has had to shut down French military bases to assert its sovereignty, in Burkina Faso the military junta revoked gold permits that had been awarded to French companies, in Niger, the government similarly cancelled the mining permit of Orano, the French nuclear producer that runs the uranium mines in that country. In addition, Niger revoked its tax co-operation treaties with France as also did Mali, which broke off from its defence accord with France, and its 11 colonial agreements with the former overlord. In the vacuum created by these new realities, Russia and its Wagner group became the favourite partner of former French colonies in West Africa. The Sahel region has been a hotbed of violence and terrorism and naturally, there were concerns about the implications of the presence of Russia and Wagner in the subregion and the festering anti-West sentiments in the backyard of ECOWAS members. ECOWAS eventually had to review its threat of sanctions,
At 82, Buhari Wraps Up In Silence And Dignity In Daura
Muhammadu Buhari was sworn in as president following a decisive victory in the 2015 general elections and was reelected with an even bigger majority for a second consecutive term of office in 2019, underscoring the trust and confidence of the country in his administration.
As he marks his 82nd birthday, it is time to remind ourselves of certain qualities that stand him apart from the crowd.
Buhari is a very different leader with a strong attachment to the weak and poor, dedicated to improving their wellbeing and alleviating their suffering.
Politics and corruption go hand in hand in many countries, and Nigeria is not an exception. The general perception is that if you are a politician, you must be corrupt.
He is known as “Mai Gaskiya,” the truthful one for his honesty and simple lifestyle.
His campaign focused on a blend of economic development, security and the fight against corruption. His two terms ushered in a paradigm shift in governance with a strong focus on building the country’s long delayed
infrastructure and leadership through personal example.
Under Buhari, the country embarked upon remarkable initiatives to address multi dimensional poverty. The country became the
first on the continent to have a social security system. Several measures aimed at reducing poverty, the bane of the poor were introduced through financial inclusion.
Buhari prioritized efforts towards universal health coverage. His administration successfully removed the country’s name from the list of nations with endemic polio.
In 2021, his administration launched a campaign for five million off-grid solar power connections to villages without electricity impacting 20 million Nigerians without power more than 60 years after independence; took reliable, clean energy to the country’s major markets, electrified several federal universities, teaching hospitals and set up a funding scheme for mini grids in 100 hospitals across the country.
Agriculture was very close to the heart of the former president. Not only that he is, himself, a farmer growing crops and tending to livestock,President Buhari launched several initiatives in rice growing and 15 other agricultural communities leading to domestic self-sufficiency in some and boosting the export and increased foreign earnings in others.
Buhari believed that transportation is a key
path to the transformation of the country and embarked upon next generation infrastructure reconstructing the nation’s major roads and bridges,airports, inland waterways, the sea ports and significant advances in the development of standard gauge rail.
Under the administration, the country made improvements in the Ease of Doing Business and in the strong belief that the level of science and technology will, not far from now determine the strength, even the destiny of a country, Buhari ensured a lot of money went to the ministry as well as the research institutions under it throughout the eight years.
The president’s lifetime story, starting in Daura, a semi arid region and now within seizure of the Sahel desert taught him to be deeply passionate about the environment. The thrust of his policy was both reactive and proactive: it is easier to destroy the environment than to rebuild it.
Buhari’s foreign policy initiatives led in many respects to the realization of the country’s goal as a leading power in the West African subregion
President Bola Tinubu
Former President Muhammadu Buhari