L-R: Director, Country Marketing, Chipper Cash, Bolaji Banky; Board Director, Chipper Cash, Damilola Salawu; Marketing Director, Visa West Africa, Adaramola Oluwaseun; Vice President & Head, Visa West Africa, Andrew Uaboi; Chairman, Board Director, Chipper Cash, Dr. Babatunde Obrimah; Country Director and Head of Product, Chipper Cash, Abiodun Animashaun and Director of Corporate Communications, Visa West Africa, Niyi Adebiyi, at the Mufasa, The Lion King movie premiere, sponsored by Visa and Chipper Cash…on Wednesday in Lagos
has handed over 260 vehicles, bulletproof vests, helmets,
Fagbemi: No Governor Has Powers to Remove LG Chairman
Nigeria, Oliver Alawuba; Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State; GMD/ CEO, Zenith Bank, Dame Adaora Umeoji; and GMD/CEO, Access, Roosevelt Ogbona, during the
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
The Director General of the Budget Office of the Federation, Tanimu
L-R: National Chairman, CAN, Revd. Stephen Adegbite; Opeluwa of Lagos, High Chief Lateef Ajose Aderibigbe; Executive Secretary/CEO, Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF), Dr. Abdurrazaq Balogun; Board Chairman, LSSTF, Mr. Kehinde Durosinmi-Etti; Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Inspector General of Police, Mr Kayode Egbetokun; Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hazmat; SSG, Barr. Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin and Board member of LSSTF, Dr. Ayo Ogunsan, during the 18th Security Town hall meeting with the Governor, at the Lagos House, Alausa, Ikeja ... yesterday
NLC Protests Exclusion of Organised Labour from Formulation of Tax Bills
Northern
group wants inheritance tax, others expunged Oyedele insists all views will be considered Dogara criticises northern leaders over position on proposed law
Chuks Okocha, Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja and John Shiklam in Kaduna
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) yesterday kicked against the alleged exclusion of labour unions in the formulation of the new tax policy by the federal government, urging the National Assembly to halt deliberation on the proposed legislations until wider consultations were made on critical aspects.
It said that workers who are one of the critical stakeholders of any tax regime were not consulted by the initiators of the new tax reform bills, describing the said exclusion as unacceptable and as undermining the principles of tax justice. "If labour is not at the table, it is effectively on the menu,’ it argued.
Organised labour made its position known in a communique issued after it's National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held in Owerri, Imo state and signed by the NLC President, Joe Ajaero and General Secretary, Emmanuel Ugboaja.
NLC also described as disturbing a report that Nigerians paid a staggering N2.23 trillion in ransom to kidnappers this year alone, expressing concern over what it described as worsening insecurity in the country.
"The NEC raised alarms over the worsening insecurity in the country, referencing disturbing reports that Nigerians paid a staggering N2.23 trillion in ransom this year alone across 51.8 million recorded crime incidents. Also, 614,937 Nigerians lost their lives while 2,235,954 others were kidnapped within one year.
"This appalling state of insecurity underscores the urgent need for the government to take decisive action to safeguard lives and property, restore public confidence, and ensure the rule
Olawale Ajimotokan in
Abuja
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Internal Revenue Services (IRS) has reported a total revenue collection of N252.8 billion for the 2024 fiscal year from all sources.
The Acting Chairman of the FCT, Michael Ango disclosed this yesterday at the end-of-the-year media briefing, stressing that the money generated represented a 19.8 per cent increase on last year’s threshold of N211.1 billion and just about 100 per cent of the revenue target for the year. Ango also attributed the perfor-
of law prevails. Majority of the citizens who either lost their lives or are maimed as a result are workers," it added.
Besides, NLC decried the persistent cash scarcity in Nigeria, describing it as an unfortunate and exploitative burden on the already struggling populace. It said that the situation was unacceptable as its impact on small businesses and the informal economy exacerbates the economic woes facing the citizens.
NLC expressed worry that Nigerians are being forced to forfeit 5 per cent of their funds each time they access cash.
Also, the four tax reform bills currently before the National Assembly took centre stage during a debate organised by the League of Northern Democrats, with suggestions on how to make the bills operational in Nigeria.
The league of northern democrats said tax on inheritance contradicts religious and traditional practices and should therefore be expunged.
Specifically, all the contributors from former northern politicians, bankers and bureaucrats spoke on the disadvantages of the tax bill.
Also, the chairman of the presidential committee on the tax bills, Taiwo Oyedele assured the northern experts on tax issues that all views would be considered and explanations made where necessary.
However, convener of the group, Dr Ardo Umar, debunked insinuations that the group is against the administration of President Bola Tinubu, but said it is against any poor policy that would engender poverty and hardship on already poor Nigerians.
In a position paper presented by Senator Bala Na'allah, who is the chairman of experts, he said: “We are recommending that tax on inheritance be expunged from bills because it is both against traditional and unislamic.
“Even when the British considered
mance to the efforts of staff and management of FCT-IRS as well as support from secretariats, departments and agencies of the FCT for supporting and collaborating with the FCT in this regard.
Ango, who was appointed as acting executive chairman in August 2024, listed some of the significant steps to boost the revenue of the service to include a review and expansion of the organisational structure of the FCT IRS.
He said this was in addition to the creation of new departments such as the audit department, debt
tax on inheritance, it was rejected and opposed because the inheritance laws in the north is Islamic and therefore religious. It was so contentious to the extent that it was dropped'.
''We are consequently recommending the separation of the offices of the Chief Executive Officer and the Chairman of the Governing Board. The Chairman of the Governing Board when established should be occupied by a well-educated and highly experienced person in the areas of taxation, revenue generation and management, to provide for an effective oversight on the mandate and performance of the Revenue Service. The Chief Executive Officer of the Service will be a member and Secretary to the Governing Board.''
Na'allah said the distribution of the derivation allocation of October 2024 VAT collection to the 774 local governments in the country was used to undertake simple cluster analysis of the total share of all local governments in each state.
The group recommended: ‘“Notwithstanding any formula that may be prescribed by any other law, the total revenue accruing by virtue of the operation of chapter six of the Nigeria Tax Act shall be distributed as follows: 10 per cent to the Federal Government; 55 per cent to the State Governments and the Federal Capital Territory; and 35 per cent to the Local Governments.
“This is provided that 60 per cent of the amount standing to the credit of states and local governments shall be distributed among them on the basis of derivation," it argued.
Looking at the bills, it said there was the need to strike a balance between law and administrative regulation and monitoring procedures.
Earlier in his speech, the chairman of League of Northern Democrats,
management and enforcement, that were not previously existing.
“We also expanded the tax operations department by creating two new directorates, one mainly focused on ministries, departments and agencies and the other one focused on individuals, enterprises and partnerships.
“So for those of us who are not tax people, let me explain. Typically, in the FCT we collect taxes from individuals but also we collect taxes from the individuals through corporate entities,” he said.
He added that the service had also
Senator Ibrahim Shekarau said that the proposed tax reform initiative of the president was a bold attempt to address Nigeria’s long-standing challenges with fiscal inefficiency, a narrow tax base and inequities in revenue generation and allocation.
Collectively, he said that the four bills seek to broaden the tax base, simplify compliance, improve revenue collection and strengthen fiscal federalism. These reforms, if properly implemented, have the potential to transform Nigeria’s economy, unlocking opportunities for growth and development.
However, while tax reform is undoubtedly overdue, the bills, he said, have raised significant concerns, which must not be ignored.
Meanwhile, a former speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Yakubu Dogara on yesterday lashed out at Northern leaders, especially, governors for the ‘backwardness’ of the region.
Dogara accused some of the
governors of spending public resources, junketing around the globe with their family members in the name of looking for investors.
Dogara stated this in a keynote address at a Town Hall Meeting on tax reforms, organised by the Christian Awareness Initiative of Nigeria (CHAIN) for Christian leaders in the north.
According to him, once the federal allocation is shared, some governors storm bureau de change in Abuja to travel out with their families on the pretext of looking for investor. He regretted that the North had ruled the country for 40 years without bringing development to the region.
“I don't know if you have been observant. At the end of the month when they pay federal allocation, just notice when they pay, count one to three days, if you are in the business of dealing with dollars, go to zone 4 in Abuja and see what is happening.
“Just count five more days, and check the location of the people
processing our wealth in the north. I don't want to call their names, but some of you know who and who I am talking about”, Dogara said. He added: “If you check, 80 per cent of them are not in Nigeria, they are in Dubai, Brazil , Egypt, America. They go to so many other countries. What are they doing there, only God knows.
“If they are looking for investors and business partners after many years of junketing, after federal allocation, what have they brought home? That is where our real problem is. If you are wealthy and you want to travel, just go into the first class cabin of any aircraft, you will be shocked to see that their three or five years old child has first class seats. That is where the money is going.”
Dogora said even if the leadership of Nigeria should remain in the north till eternity it will not change anything. “If it is possible, we would have been a mini Dubai in the north having ruled for 40 years”, he argued.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the redeployment of Federal Permanent Secretaries.
The Director, Information and Public Relations Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Eno Olotu, stated this in a statement Thursday.
The schedule indicating the present and approved postings showed that Mr. Gabriel Aduda was posted as
reached an agreement with all the six area councils to remit all taxes on their behalf and disburse accordingly.
“We have different agencies in the FCT that collect revenue on behalf of the FCT administration and these agencies sometimes or as the practice is right now collect all these revenue items individually.
“As we know, even globally this is not best practice and so the minister has decided or has directed that all the agencies in the FCT must have one central point for revenue collection,” he said.
He allayed the fears of the area
the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Women Affairs to Ministry of Defence.
Mr. Olumuyiwa Enitan Abel was moved from Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction to Ministry of Education (to understudy the Permanent Secretary).
Mr. Temitope Peter Fashedemi, Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security was moved to State House; and Dr. Shuaib Mohammed Lamido Belgore from Ministry of Regional
councils on revenue losses that the revenues would be collected on their behalf.
“However, this revenue will remain theirs. All we are doing is to assist them to collect and aggregate it. Thereafter the monies will be disbursed to them in their various accounts,” he added.
The chairman revealed that FCT-IRS had also finalised plans to collect entertainment tax which will be collectable from relaxation grounds, parks, restaurants, event centres and other entertainment activities.
Development was moved to Ministry of Housing and Urban Development. Others are Dr. Marcus Olaniyi Ogunbiyi, redeployed from Ministry of Housing & Urban Development to Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security; Adebiyi Olusesan Olufunso, State House to Ministry of Works; Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, Ministry of Defence to Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development and Dr. Yakubu Adam Kofarmata, Ministry of Works to Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction.
Also affected by the posting are Raymond Omenka Omachi, Common Services Office, OHCSF to Ministry of Finance (Special Duties); Mrs. Tinuke Watti of former Ministry of Sports Development, who was redeployed to Ministry of Regional Development and Dr. Maryam Ismaila Keshinro, Ministry of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs to Ministry of Women Affairs.
The statement added that the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, has also directed that all handing and taking over processes are to be completed on or before 31st December, 2024.
Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja
SIGNING OF AN MOU FOR DISBURSEMENT OF N75 BILLION INTERVENTION FUND...
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Bank of Industry (BOI), Dr. Olasupo Olusi (left), and President of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Dele Kelvin Oye Esq. (right), at the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the disbursement of a N75 billion intervention fund for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), at BOI’s Office, in Lagos, on Thursday, December 19, 2024.
NERC Hands over Electricity Regulation, Oversight Powers to Lagos Government
Orders Eko, Ikeja Discos to create subsidiaries for state's electricity market
Peter Uzoho
The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has formally transferred the power of regulation and oversight of the electricity market in Lagos to the newly-set up Lagos State Electricity Regulatory Commission (LASERC).
The national power regulator also ordered the two main electricity distribution companies (Discos) in the state - Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC) and Ikeja Electric to create subsidiaries in the Lagos
electricity market to improve power service delivery in the state.
NERC announced this in a statement issued yesterday. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State had recently signed the Lagos Electricity Bill 2024 into law.
The Electricity Act 2023 decentralized the hitherto centralized Nigeria's power sector, giving states the autonomy to generate, transmit, and distribute electricity.
In the statement, NERC stated that based on the provision of the Electricity Act, the government of
Lagos State has complied with the conditions precedent in the laws, duly notified NERC and requested for the transfer of regulatory oversight of the intrastate electricity market in Lagos State.
The move aligns with Nigeria’s constitutional reforms, which allow states to establish and regulate their own intrastate electricity markets. Lagos State, having fulfilled the legal requirements, had formally requested the transfer of regulatory authority from NERC to LASERC.
In response, NERC issued an order
mandating the incorporation of new subsidiaries by Eko Disco and Ikeja Electric to manage intrastate electricity supply and distribution exclusively within Lagos State. These subsidiaries, according to NERC, must secure operational licences from LASERC within 60 days, with the full transition set for completion by June 2025.
This swift action emphasized Lagos State’s determination to take charge of its electricity market, improve supply reliability, and attract investment into its energy sector.
Lagos State has become the 8th
NACCIMA, BOI Seal Deal for Disbursement of N75 Billion Intervention Fund for MSMEs
The Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA) and the Bank of Industry (BOI) yesterday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the disbursement of a N75 billion intervention fund aimed at supporting Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across the country.
The deal was sealed between the NACCIMA President, Dele Oye and the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of BOI, Dr. Olasupo Olusi, at BOI’s office, in Lagos, a statement from the association said. Olusi, who expressed optimism about the partnership noted: "Today’s MoU is a reinforcement of our commitment to create a more vibrant and accessible financing environment for Nigerian businesses. With the support of NACCIMA, we believe we can expand our reach and magnify our impact.”
Oye described the BOI as an engine of growth, and a catalyst for transformation in Nigeria's industrial landscape, noting that the intervention will help address the funding challenges of MSMEs.
According to him, it will also galvanise the growth across a diverse array of sectors, from agro and food processing to creative industries, healthcare, and renewable energy, among others.
“As the apex chamber of commerce in Nigeria and the largest business organisation in West Africa,
NACCIMA has always stood on the frontline of advocating for policies and practices that elevate the business environment and invigorate the entrepreneurial spirit across our land.
“Our broadest objective is clear to champion the cause of commerce and industry so that Nigerian businesses can thrive in a competitive global landscape. We are driven by the belief that a prosperous business community is the bedrock of a prosperous nation.
“Today, as we sign this MoU, we acknowledge the critical role that the BOI has played as a beacon of hope, an engine of growth, and a catalyst for transformation in Nigeria's industrial landscape. The BOI’s commitment to providing financial and advisory support to our industries resonates deeply with our vision at NACCIMA.
“By extending long-term financing and expert advisory services, the BOI has empowered large, medium, and small enterprises alike, galvanizing growth across a diverse array of sectors - from agro and food processing to creative industries, healthcare, and renewable energy,” Oye said.
However, he said that if the full potential of the nation must be reached, there must be more advocacy for increased funding and robust resources for the BOI to enable the bank to extend its reach, amplify its impact, and support more businesses in realising their visions.
“A thriving industrial sector is not just a story of numbers and balance sheets; it is about people. It is about the farmer who dreams of
processing and exporting the finest organic produce, the innovator with a groundbreaking idea and the entrepreneur poised to revolutionise our creative industries.
"It's about the small business owner who believes that her hardearned dreams can shape the future. These are the voices we must lift, and these are the dreams we must support.
“With a history that reflects over six decades of dedication to Nigeria's
development financing, the BOI has continuously evolved to meet our country’s changing needs. However, this evolution relies significantly on our collective efforts as stakeholders.
“NACCIMA stands ready to strengthen its partnership with the BOI, to be its advocate, and to rally our members and the broader business community in providing the necessary support for our shared goal: a resilient, dynamic, and inclusive economy,” he added.
state approved by NERC to establish and regulate a state-owned electricity market, joining the ranks of Enugu, Ondo, Edo, Imo, Ekiti, Oyo, and Kogi.
The states have therefore advanced the approval from the NERC to establish and operate state-owned electricity markets.
Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja
The federal government has estimated that the leather industry in the country can generate N23 billion and create 700,000 jobs if its potential is properly harnessed.
Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Maiha asserted this yesterday at the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria’s Annual Lecture with the theme: “Food Security in Nigeria, Which Way Forward”.
The event was attended by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris; Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Aliyu Abdullahi; the Emir of Zazzau, Ahmed Bamalli; the Emir of Wase in Plateau State, Alhaji MuhammaduHaruna among other dignitaries. Vice President, Kasim Shettima was the special guest of
Godman Akinlabi Launches N50m Enterprise Devt Fund
Godman Akinlabi, author, leadership expert, international speaker, and renowned global lead pastor of The Elevation Church, has officially launched the Godman Akinlabi Enterprise Development Fund to mark his 50th birthday anniversary celebration.
The grant, a statement said, is dedicated to financially empowering faith-based entrepreneurs, driving innovation, and championing sustainable business practices, all with the goal of creating a lasting societal impact.
With an initial endowment of N50 million personally funded by Akinlabi, the inaugural initiative will provide grants to deserving businesses, laying the foundation for transformative impact.
“Designed to remain entirely non-profit now and in the future, the Fund represents the start of an ambitious journey to evolve into an annual programme dedicated to supporting high-potential enterprises with sustainable impact.
“Over time, it will welcome contributions from individuals, partners, and organisations united by a shared vision of building a more inclusive, prosperous, and impactful economy,” it said.
As part of the commemoration of his 50th birthday, Godman Akinlabi will host an exclusive leadership lecture at the Oriental Hotel, featuring keynote speaker and renowned thought leader, Leke Alder, it said.
This event will serve as a platform
to explore transformative ideas on governance, leadership, and their critical roles in driving societal progress.
With a focus on equipping attendees with actionable insights, the lecture underscores the values of visionary leadership, ethical governance, and strategic innovation essential for shaping a more sustainable and prosperous future.
A recent report by the International Trade Centre (ITC) highlighted a stark reality: the vast majority of Nigerian SMEs remain underfunded, with only 15 percent able to access formal credit. This financial gap, worsened by an economy strained by inadequate cash flow, stifles the growth and potential of small businesses.
honour.
Maiha noted that the leather industry is a part of the livestock industry value chain that was hidden for 64 years, until the administration came on board and created the Livestock Ministry.
“Nigeria is indeed endowed with a lot of land resources, land and water resources that can support livestock production for both local consumption and export. If the value chains in the livestock sector, looking at cattle, beef, dairy, piggery, rafting, poultry, fishery, goat and sheep are all harnessed, including leather, by our estimation, the leather industry can employ almost 700,000 jobs. It is worth almost N23 billion. And yet, these value chains were hidden until this administration came on board.
“If these are properly harnessed, they will provide employment opportunities, essential jobs, address food insecurity, and poverty reduction. Beyond national self-sufficiency, there is a huge export potential today for livestock as well as export of livestock products.
“We are talking of beef, dairy products, hides and skin, bones, horns, hooves, pie, as well as opportunities for organic fertilizers. Distribution needs are also getting better,” Maiha said. The minister lamented that the 150 million cattle in the country were performing sub-optimally, saying the average Nigerian cow will only produce 1.1 litres of milk.
“On my farm, in the place that I observe, I produce 25 cows. And there are opportunities for them doing much more than that. The intention of the ministry is to inject fewer genetics in our livestock and to make sure that productivity is much higher than the average on a global scale.
“It is the intention of the ministry and part of our mandate to abandon the livestock sector for active private enterprise, for private sector enterprises, to promote the value chains, and drive employment as well as poverty reduction.
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
When the going gets tough… the tough get rewarded!
Awards2025
the men and the women and the institutions rebuilding Democratic Nigeria.
Nominations are now being invited for the consideration of the Board of Editors of the THISDAY ARISE Group in the following categories:
Titans of the Year
The men and women who through their vision, Action, Guts and courage have made a lasting impact on Nigeria.
Man of the Year
That man who has significantly influenced major events that defined the year 2024.
Woman of the Year
That woman who has significantly influenced major events that defined the year 2024.
Bank of the Year
The bank which has used innovation, technology and inclusion for growth in earnings and shareholder value.
Banker of the Year
The banker whose leadership and impact changed the banking landscape for good.
Global bank of the Year
The bank with the most global impact on Nigeria.
Brand of the Year
That brand whose impact and identity have created memorable and unforgettable experiences.
Company of the Year
A well‑regarded company with most impact in the lives of nigerians in 2024.
Product of the Year
A strong, life ‑ changing product whose value proposition is better than any other in the marketplace.
Minister of the Year
That Minister who stands out in the cabinet as an agent of reform.
Governor of the Year
That governor who combines vision, passion, dedication and courage to make the lives of the people of his state better.
Senator of the Year
That senator With legislative impact for the greater good.
Representative of the Year
That House member With Legislative impact for the greater good.
Government Agency of the Year
The government agency whose leadership and action promote service to the people of Nigeria.
Investor of the Year
The investor with most impact on the lives of the people of Nigeria.
Young global leaders of the Year
Driven, young and daring leaders under 40 shaping the future of the world according to Nigeria.
Nominations close on 25th of December 2024; winners will emerge on 31st December, 2024 for the Awards Ceremony in January 2025 in the usual THISDAY style where global leaders and legends will gather to celebrate the best of Nigeria.
Submit your nominations, stating the contributions of your nominees, to - awards2025@thisdaylive.com; awards2025@arise.tv
OANDO MARKS 30TH ANNIVERSARY AND END OF YEAR PARTY...
R-L: Group Chief Executive , Oando PLC , Wale Tinubu CON; Chief Executive Officer, UTM Offshore Limited , Dr. Julius Rone OFR and his wife , Yutee Rone
themed Symphony of Success at Eko Hotel.... yesterday
Africa Intelligence: NNPC Set to Finalise New $2 Billion Crude-backed Loan
Fund meant to balance finances, boost oil output National oil
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) is seeking a fresh $2 billion to balance its finances and invest in new oil installations to raise crude oil production, Africa Intelligence has reported.
According to the report, the NNPC should announce in the next few days that it has finalised the new syndicated crude oil-backed loan.
Christened Project Leopard, the operation, it said, will enable the company to raise $2 billion in total, with the first $1 billion tranche already concluded and the NNPC Group Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kyari, and his staff, now putting the finishing touches to the second tranche for a similar amount.
The loan, the plans for which were first revealed by news agency Reuters in July, but without the value, the report said, should serve to restore the NNPC's finances and enable it to invest in new oil installations with the aim of increasing its crude oil output, according to Kyari.
"We have no problem covering our gasoline payments. This is just money for normal business and not a desperate act. It will be a syndication with critical but regular partners who have been in business with our company to forward the cash," THISDAY recalls Kyari telling Reuters in July, adding
that he expected to conclude the deal in the next two months from then.
Efforts to get a fresh response from the national oil company on the desk were not fruitful last night. A text message to a spokesman of the NNPC was not immediately responded to.
But at the time the information first became public, the Chief Corporate Communications Officer, NNPC, Olufemi Soneye, said that the national oil firm would only make an official announcement anytime the company was ready to proceed with the deal.
He noted that though the company would require funding to carry out its capital-intensive operations, it would follow due process in announcing any financing arrangement.
“When we are ready to proceed with any of the initiatives mentioned, we will make an official announcement. As a global energy company, we need funding to undertake aggressive drilling campaigns. Naturally, we will require financing for our high capital expenditure projects.
“Our financing arrangements are typically announced through our financial advisers and arrangers. When the time comes, new financing transactions will be announced to the market,” Soneye stated in July.
Nigeria, where oil sales are one of the country's main sources of
income, has been looking for months to boost its revenues and foreign currency reserves. In July, the federal government set itself the target of increasing oil production to 2 million barrels per day (bpd) by the end of the year. In November, production stood at 1.7 million bpd.
But according to the information, Nigeria's Oando group, which is headed by Adewale Tinubu, and the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), are among the parties financing the loan.
However, the report noted that Oando and ADNOC declined to comment when contacted. As for the NNPC, it told Africa Intelligence that "at this stage, it is premature to discuss or disclose details regarding any deal that has not been finalised".
A few months ago, Oando loaned the NNPC $500 million as part of another syndicated loan operation called Project Gazelle. Swiss group Gunvor International and Nigeria's Sahara Energy Resources also took part in the $3.175 billion
operation, which was arranged by Afreximbank. It said that when it asked Afreximbank if it was involved in the new loan operation, the pan-African bank, headed by Nigerian national, Prof Benedict Oramah, declined to respond.
ADNOC considered participating in Project Gazelle, but finally demurred, the report said.
The 11.58 per cent interest rate on the loan was also considered to have been particularly high,
firm mute
prompting former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to describe the operation as "shady".
By way of comparison, on December 2, 2024, in its first Eurobond issue for two years, Nigeria raised $1.5 billion, repayable over 10 years at an interest rate of 10.375 per cent. The NNPC should obtain a more favourable interest rate this time, it said. According to an estimate made by Kyari in July, the loan will be backed by the sale of 30,000-35,000 barrels of crude oil daily.
FG Signs MoUs with UK Varsities to Enhance Tech Transfer in Oil Sector
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
The federal government has signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoU) with Robert Gordon University (RGU), Aberdeen, and the University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, to foster collaboration, information exchange, and technology transfer in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
The agreement was signed by the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri on behalf of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF), and the universities’
Principals, Prof. Steve Olivier of RGU and Prof. Sir Jim McDonald of Strathclyde, respectively.
A statement in Abuja signed by the Minister's Special Adviser on Media and Communication, Nneamaka Okafor, said the development marked a significant milestone in advancing Nigeria's local capacity in line with global best practices.
Aside from setting out a framework for academic exchange and technology transfer to enhance professional programmes at the College of Petroleum & Energy Studies in Kaduna, the initiative also
Buhari: My Personal Land Not Revoked by FCTA
Contentious land belongs to Muhammadu Buhari Foundation Says he rejected land allocated to him as President
Former President Muhammadu Buhari has formally reacted to news making the rounds that the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) revoked his plot of land in a highbrow area of Abuja Buhari, in a release issued on Thursday by his spokesperson, Mallam Garba Shehu, stated that his personal land was never revoked or confiscated by government. Rather, he said the land in contention belonged to Muhammadu Buhari Foundation, which was floated by certain utilitarian individuals who met a brick wall in the course of
processing the land's Certificate of Occupancy.
The ex-president, who alluded to the fact that he owned a plot of land in Abuja, pointed out that he rejected another offer of land in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) while serving as President between 2015 and 2023. Buhari, in the release, stated, "As with anything Buhari – and there is no surprise in this at all – there is a lot of buzz in the media on the reported seizure of a piece of land by the authorities of the Federal Capital Territory Abuja, FCTA, allegedly belonging to the former president, Muhammadu Buhari.
"President Buhari is personally
not the owner of the said plot of the land, which is allocated in the name a ‘Muhammadu Buhari Foundation.’
"The foundation was itself floated by some utilitarian individuals around him, who, it must said, went about it in a lawful manner with the support of a number of well-meaning persons.
"But they ran into a roadblock in the land department of the FCDA, which handed them an outrageous bill for the issuance of the certificate of occupancy, very high in cost that did not at all compare with the bills given to similar organisations.
"It may have been that this was not erroneous, but a deliberate mistake, making the revocation of land as no
surprise to anyone.
"As a person, the former president has a plot of land to his name in Abuja.
"When he and his cabinet members were invited to fill the forms and obtain land during his tenure in office, he returned the form without filling it, saying that he already had a plot of land in the FCT, that those who did not have should be given. He, therefore, turned down the offer.
"So, please, let all those jumping up and down in the digital space talking about the rightfulness or the lack of it on the reported seizure of Buhari’s land in Abuja get their facts right, and stop dragging down the name of the former president."
aims to provide domestic training at the same global standards previously achieved abroad.
Speaking at the event, Lokpobiri highlighted the partnership’s significance, stressing the federal government's commitment to ensuring global best practices in sustaining operations in the country's hydrocarbons sector.
“This collaboration underscores our commitment to bridging the gap between global best practices and local capacity. By bringing these knowledge transfer programmes home, we are laying the foundation for a self-sustaining oil and gas sector driven by highly skilled Nigerians,” Lokpobiri said.
Also, the Executive Secretary of PTDF, Ahmed Aminu, signed a partnership agreement with both universities to formalise their roles in the collaboration, describing both tertiary institutions as dependable partners over the years as well as hosting Nigeria's foreign-sponsored scholars.
“With these agreements, we are strategically bringing those experiences and expertise home to not only develop in-country capacity but also increase opportunities for more Nigerians to benefit from the PTDF scholarship scheme,” he stated.
With a mandate to build capacity in Nigeria's oil and gas sector, the PTDF chief executive stressed that the fund had consistently ensured the training of manpower equipped with world-class knowledge in various disciplines.
The PTDF added that the initiative aims to ensure that more scholars are trained domestically with the
same global standards previously achieved abroad.
“In line with the provisions of the college governing law, processes are at an advanced stage towards instituting a lean governance structure to steer the affairs of the college through its critical formative years.
“Therefore, all necessary steps will be taken immediately to activate the enrolment process towards commencement of the 2024/2025 academic session at the college,” Aminu said.
Also speaking, RGU Vice Chancellor, Olivier expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership.
He said: “We are proud to continue our long-standing relationship with PTDF, now extending our expertise directly to Nigeria. This partnership will ensure that the College of Petroleum & Energy Studies becomes a hub for innovation and excellence.”
On his part, McDonald of Strathclyde University, said the collaboration was a testament to the power of global partnerships in transforming education and industry. “Together, we are building a brighter future for Nigeria’s energy sector,” he stated.
According to the release, the initiative is a key part of PTDF’s reform agenda, focusing on localising capacity building and fostering sustainable growth in the oil and gas sector. With the agreements now in place, the College of Petroleum & Energy Studies, Kaduna, it said, is poised to become a world-class centre of excellence, supporting Nigeria’s energy ambitions through cutting-edge education and research.
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
at Oando 30th Anniversary and end of the year party
PHOTO : KUNLE OGUNFUYI
No masquerade at the event please
2024 Grooming Centre University Grant Awardees
The Research grant, a Corporate Social Responsibility initiative of Grooming Centre, aims to promote research in the area of Inclusive Finance, Microfinance and Poverty Alleviation, Micro- Small- Medium Scale and Social Enterprise, Digital Transformation, Rural Development and Women in Development. The beneficiaries of 2024 awards, which is the sixth in the series are listed below.
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VICTORIA Undergraduate Kogi state university
26 AYODEJI OLUWATOMILOBA TEMITAYO Undergraduate Olabisi Onabanjo University
27 AYOK MALCOM KATUNG Undergraduate Nile University Abuja
28 AYOMIDE
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76 ONYENANKEYA STELLA AMARACHI Undergraduate Imo state University owerr
62 OGBONNA ONYIYECHI GIFT Undergraduate Imo state University owerri
63 OGBOTUOBO JOAN Undergraduate Lagos State University
64 OGBUOKIRI CHIGOZIE CHINWENDU Undergraduate Imo state University owerri
65 OGUNBADE FELICIA Undergraduate Federal Polytechnic Ilaro
66 OGUNJOBI OLABODE SIMEON Undergraduate Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko
67 OGUNTOYINBO FEMI Undergraduate MINN Federal University Of Technology Minna
68 OLAJIDE ITUNUOLUWA Undergraduate Lagos State University
69 OLORUNFEMI DEBORAH Undergraduate Lagos state University
70 OLORUNSAYE ESTHER Undergraduate University of Lagos, Akoka. Lagos state.
71 OLULETI ESTHER Undergraduate FUT Minna
72 OLUSANYA, JESUBORI DANIEL Undergraduate Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye
73 OLUWASHINDARA ALABA Undergraduate Olabisi onabanjo university
74 OLUWATUYI OLUMIDE HENRY Undergraduate University of Abuja
75 OMOSUYI HELEN Undergraduate Obafemi Awolowo University
and and stay up to date.
US Hosts over 450 Firms, Honours Nigerian Business Owners in Lagos
Says two-way trade reached $11.2bn in 2023
Emmanuel Addeh
in Abuja
The US Commercial Service, Nigeria, led by Commercial Counselor Julie LeBlanc and Commercial Attaché, Blake Murray, has hosted over 450 Nigerian companies for the Networking with the USA (NUSA) Awards and Business Networking Event.
Held at the Civic Centre in Lagos, the NUSA appreciation event was organised to honour Nigerian business owners who promote US products and services, a statement from the US Embassy in Nigeria said.
It added that the awardees have contributed significantly to the achievement of the goals and objectives of the US commercial Service in Nigeria and expansion of trade and investment between the US and Nigeria.
US Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, Jr., who delivered the welcome remarks to the attendees, highlighted the robust US-Nigeria trade and investment relationship.
In his remarks, Mills thanked the Nigerian companies for being vital contributors in strengthening a strong
economic relationship that continues to grow, noting that two-way trade reached $11.2 billion in 2023, up from $10.4 billion the prior year.
Acting US Consul General, JoEllen Gorg, delivered the keynote address of the day to the audience, underscoring the important contributions Nigerian companies were making to deepen the bilateral commercial relationship.
“The United States and Nigeria share a strong commercial relationship, and our NUSA network stands as a testament to our commitment to
strengthening these ties and fostering economic growth,” she said.
Attendees had the opportunity to review and reflect upon 2024 NUSA activities. Highlights of the year included leading 10 official Nigerian trade show delegations to the United States, 20 trade events that brought US companies to Nigeria’s doorstep in Lagos and Abuja, and over 7,000 b2b meetings facilitated by the US Commercial Service, among other high-visibility events.
The activities, the statement said, demonstrated the real impact
FAGBEMI: NO GOVERNOR HAS POWERS TO REMOVE LG CHAIRMAN
Alex Enumah
Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, has insisted that no governor has the legal powers to remove elected local government officials from office. Fagbemi said this yesterday in Abuja, while responding to questions from journalists regarding the recent suspension of chairmen of the 18 local government areas of Edo State by Governor Monday Okpebholo.
The occasion was a citizen engagement forum on Justice Sector Reforms under the AGF.
Regarding the Edo local government issue, Fagbemi said he might not have the details of what transpired, but maintained that under the administration of President Bola Tinubu, and before the law, no governor had the powers to remove elected local government chairmen and their councillors.
The minister stated, "I am aware that since July 11, when the Supreme Court delivered a landmark judgement, local government administration has taken a new turn, different from the old order.
"At any rate, we are still studying the situation, but before final reaction, it must be stated categorically and emphatically that for now, local government chairmen can only be removed through the legislative arm of the local government itself and not
the state House of Assembly."
Okpebholo had on Tuesday suspended the state’s council chairmen and their deputies over alleged acts of insubordination and misconduct after the purported approval of the House of Assembly.
The governor said the refusal of the local government officials to submit their financial accounts, as demanded by him, amounted to gross misconduct, hence, their suspension.
But Fagbemi reiterated the commitment of the Tinubu administration to the rule of law and well-being of Nigerians.
He stated, "As we continue on this reform journey, let me reaffirm our commitment to upholding the rule of law, ensuring equitable access to justice, and building a justice system that is fair, transparent, and responsive to the needs of all citizens.
"Together, we will foster a justice sector that inspires confidence and delivers on its mandate to serve the people."
The minister stated that the justice sector had of recent made remarkable progress owing to the dedication and hard work of the departments and units of the ministry, partners, and stakeholders.
He listed some of the ministry's achievements to include development and adoption of the National Policy on Justice, 2024 – 2028; National Policy on Arbitration and Alternative
Dispute Resolution, 2024; and implementation of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), 2015.
Others included the review and validation of Restorative
Justice documents for the FCT; signing of and unveiling of Plea-Bargaining Guidelines for Federal Prosecutors; NonCustodial Sentencing Initiatives; and facilitation of speedy
NUSA members contribute to both economies.
The attendees also heard from two NUSA members and a US company about how their relationship with the US Commercial Service and attendance at trade shows and other events have had a lasting and profound impact on their businesses.
The US Commercial Service is the trade promotion arm of the US Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration. Its office in Nigeria, Commercial Service Nigeria, has the primary objective
dispensation of justice.
Fagbemi said, "The ministry built and furnished courts in Kirikiri Prison in Lagos State and also installed a Virtual Court System, to fast-track trials and
decongest the custodial centres. “I will be handing over the keys to two of the court rooms to the Honourable CJ Federal High Court and one court room to the CJ Lagos State High Court."
Accrued Pension Rights: FG Still Owing 18,000 Retired Employees
As PenCom plans to remodel micropension scheme
Nume Ekeghe and Ebere Nwoji
Despite the N44 billion released by the federal government for payment of Accrued Pension Rights of its retired employees last month, (November) the National Pension Commission (PenCom) has said that government is still owing 18,000 retired workers’ Accrued Pension Rights. PenCom said to boost the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS), it would remodel the Micro Pension Scheme in 2025.
The Director General National Pension Commission (PenCom), Ms. Omolola Bridget Oloworaran, who disclosed this yesterday at the 2024 media retreat organised by PenCom for journalists in Lagos, said the 18,000 retirees whose Accrued Pension Rights are yet to be paid were workers who retired between October 2023 up to date.
She said the N44 billion paid last month which was provided
TANIMU YAKUBU: HOW TINUBU WILL CUT INFLATION FROM OVER 34% TO 15% IN 2025
implementation of next year's budget.
“We used to spend as high as one-third of our foreign exchange earnings to import refined products. With Dangote Refinery coming on stream and small local refineries adding to the supply, we think this will substantially reduce the pressure on the naira,” Tanimu said.
The DG of the budget office explained that with the growing confidence in the Nigerian economy, foreign investments were being expected in 2025, while the spending in agriculture was being raised to ensure that food inflation is tamed.
“We used to spend up to 30 per cent of our foreign exchange to import refined petroleum products. With the takeoff of the Dangote refinery, certainly we'll spend a lot less. The successes that have been recorded in reducing the number of ungoverned spaces all over the country enabled farmers to return to work, and we expect a bumper harvest this year.
“Mr. President has also decided to spend N120 billion to flood the country, in particular public hospitals, with free drugs and also to provide medicines that are particularly for indigent patients, people with lifethreatening diseases like tuberculosis, HIV and the rest of them, but are unable to afford the cost of such drugs.
“These are some of the factors that drive inflation. In particular, you also need to know that the Dangote and other refineries will not only be meeting the domestic supply gap, they are also going to be exporting refined products which will bring in
additional export revenue,” he stated.
According to him, what this means is that Nigeria will have more revenue than it has ever had, while its foreign reserves which is currently at about $42 billion will rise significantly.
He pointed out that Nigeria was also doing everything to reduce the cost per barrel of crude oil production, enhancing more efficiency in crude output and making more money available.
“Mr President is disturbed that we have one of the highest costs of production in the upstream sector. He has assured us he will take every measure to ensure a substantial decrease in the cost of production, which again will bring us more foreign exchange,” Tanimu said.
He noted that with current strategies, Nigeria will exceed its target oil production quota, noting that this could hit over 2.6 million barrels per day, especially with the 130,000 bpd initial output boost expected in 2025.
“Nigeria has sufficient investment to actually drill 3 million barrels per day, but it looks like some forces somewhere have decided that the country cannot get more than 900,000 barrels per day,” he noted.
Answering a question on rebasing of Nigeria's Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Yakubu said that it will not be out of place to do it, explaining that Nigeria has not conducted a GDP rebase in over a decade, whereas it should ordinarily be done every five years.
“We are supposed to rebase the GDP every 5 years, we haven’t done it in a decade, certainly, some of the
indices that could have given us a higher level are not even sure. But the normal assumption is that those sectors that were under-assessed or even new economic activities that have not been brought into our GDP will certainly boost the GDP level. We expect the outcome to be announced very soon,” he stressed.
The former Chief Economic Adviser to late President Umar Yar'Adua attributed the rising food prices to hoarding, but pointed out that this will be corrected as agricultural harvests increase and the Nigerian currency stabilises.
“The harvest season is ongoing and the hoarders think that scarcity will prevail, so they are hoarding, but when they see that the currency itself is firming up and that there is tangible evidence, that more food was produced this year than last year, it will be rational on their part to begin to empty their stores, and then we would see that prices are actually coming down,” he assured.
He noted that when President Bola Tinubu talks about food security not being negotiable, what he means is that security is improving and the sector will further gulp N6 trillion this year to ensure more farmers return to their farms.
“What he means is that these ungoverned spaces all over the country, in the Niger Delta creeks, in the northwest where bandits have taken over, in the northeast where we used to have very serious security challenges that undermined the farmer's ability to go back to the farm, (are filled.)
by government during this year’s budget covered rights of government employees who retired between March to September 2023, as well as some deceased employees.
The PenCom Director General said in its 20 years of practice in Nigeria, the CPS has recorded a lot of achievements.
She however said despite these achievements, some of which were growing the sector’s assets from over N2 billion deficit to the current N21.9 trillion assets and record of 10.5 million contributors, the challenge of inflation which has reduced the purchasing power of retirees and delay in payment of Accrued Rights of workers have remained major challenges of the CPS.
She however said PenCom was making efforts to ensure that the federal government cleared all outstanding Accrued Rights of its retired employees.
The PenCom DG stated: “Inflation, for instance, continues to erode the purchasing power of pensioners, and we are actively seeking innovative solutions to address this issue. We also continue to face the persistent issue of delays in the payment of Accrued Rights.
equipment to the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).
The presentation took place at the Lagos State House, Alausa, during the 18th Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF) Security Summit themed: “Data and Technology-Driven Security: The Way Forward.”
The summit underscored the importance of integrating technology into policing, with Sanwo-Olu highlighting the state’s recent acquisition of drones to enhance crime-fighting efforts.
Revealing that the state government recently acquired some drones, SanwoOlu said it had become expedient to take advantage of innovative technologies to combat crimes.
He urged his colleagues across the country to do more to support the police for improved security. “We bought some drones. Lagos is well mapped. This will enable our gallant officers to fish out criminals no matter the location.
“We also provided some bulletproof vests to protect our officers. Lagos State Government will keep supporting you with equipment,” he said.
According to the governor, the state last year promised to donate 200 vehicles to the police but surpassed the number and handed over 260 vehicles to support their operations.
He said: "Lagos State, as the economic hub of our great nation,
“Recently, N44 billion was approved under the 2024 budget appropriation to settle Accrued Pension Rights for retirees from March to September 2023. Moving forward, we are working with the federal government to put in place a sustainable solution that ensures retirees receive their benefits promptly and without undue stress”.
She said the theme of this year’s conference, “Tech-Driven Transformation: Shaping the Pension Landscape,” couldn’t have been more fitting than now when technology has become the backbone of transformation across all sectors, and the pension industry could not be exempted.
“At PenCom, we have embraced this transformation wholeheartedly. Today, we have over 10.5 million contributors and oversee pension assets in excess of N21.9 trillion as of October. This progress demonstrates the strength of our contributory pension system”.
She said since her assumption of office, her team had focused on strengthening compliance, enhancing service delivery, diversifying pension assets to optimise returns, improving benefits, and expanding coverage to include more Nigerians, especially
understands the importance of security.
The fact that this is the 18th edition of the security summit attests to the fact that we are deliberate about keeping Lagosians safe.
"At the last summit, we promised to give out 200 vehicles but here we are, we have surpassed our goal. We are giving out 260 vehicles alongside other equipment. I would like to thank all our sponsors because this is a collaborative effort from corporate organisations and private individuals that have made donations over the years. Nothing is too small to donate,’ said Sanwo-Olu.
Receiving the vehicles, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun reiterated the commitment of the police to safety and security across the country, while commending Sanwo-Olu for his exemplary leadership.
LSSTF Chairman, Kehinde Durosinmi-Etti emphasised the role of data and technology in addressing evolving security challenges. He called for more collaboration between public and private sectors to sustain such initiatives.
“This is a collaborative effort. Whether through predictive analytics or AI-driven threat detection, technology is reshaping how we respond to security challenges,” he said.
The Lagos State Government’s commitment to security was lauded as
those in the informal sector.
According to her, the micro-pension initiative in particular was something the present administration in PenCom was very passionate about.
“It is our way of saying that no one should be left behind, no matter how small their earnings might be. Technology plays a vital role in driving this inclusion, from mobile enrollment to real-time account management to benefits administration. We intend to use technology to scale the micro-pension plan,” she said.
She highlighted some of the initiatives and achievements of her administration saying this year, the commission has achieved a major milestone with the launch of the e-Application Portal for Pension Clearance Certificates (PCC) in October.
According to her, the initiative replaces the previous manual process, enabling companies to seamlessly apply for and receive PCCs online. She noted that since its deployment the commission has issued over 38,000 Pension Compliance Certificates significantly enhancing ease of doing business and ensuring compliance.
a model for other states as Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed that Lagos, as Nigeria’s economic hub, would continue to prioritise safety.
Stakeholders at the event also opined that with the contributions, Lagos was setting the pace in security innovation and welfare, reinforcing its commitment to a safer state for all residents.
In a separate ceremony at the Police Store, Ikeja, the German government, through its Supporting Police Accountability and Transformation (SPAaT) initiative, donated 10 solar-powered mobile clinics to the NPF.
The German Ambassador to Nigeria, Annett Günther, represented by Deputy Consul General Gerald Wolf, described the gesture as part of Germany’s commitment to modernising Nigeria’s police force and improving welfare.
“These clinics are not just healthcare assets; they are strategic investments in the stability and security of Nigerian communities,” said Günther.
The clinics, equipped with advanced medical equipment, solar power systems, and patient beds, will be stationed at police training institutions nationwide. They were developed following a 2022 needs assessment conducted by the UNDP in collaboration with the Global Security Sector Reform Foundation.
LAGOS BOOSTS POLICE OPERATIONS WITH 260 VEHICLES, GADGETS
of opening market opportunities for US and Nigerian businesses.
US President Joe Biden
in Abuja
RECEPTION HOSTED BY MARKETING EDGE TO CELEBRATE BIODUN SHOBANJO AT 80...
A'Ibom Seeks FG, Investors’ Collaboration to Realise Ibom Deep Sea Port Project
Okon Bassey in Uyo
Akwa Ibom State Government has called on the federal government and investors to collaborate with the state government in other to realise investment in the Ibom Deep Sea
Port project in the state. Eno said the call is in recognition of the project's immense economic potential to the nation.
Speaking at an inter-ministerial briefing in Uyo, the governor reaffirmed his administration’s
commitment to prioritizing the Deep Sea Port project.
Eno said: “The Ibom Deep Sea Port remains a priority on our developmental agenda. While the financial requirements are significant, we have placed the project back on the
front burner with a defined timeline for its realization. Collaboration with the federal government and private investors is indispensable."
The governor regretted that while efforts to attract investors had initially yielded promising results, two major
investors withdrew due to petitions from the host community.
During the briefing, the governor also highlighted his administration’s focus on the aviation sector, including plans to acquire additional aircraft for the state-owned Ibom Air, complete
Another Court Grants Former Kogi Gov Yahaya Bello N500m Bail
Enumah
A High Court of the Federal Capital Territory has admitted the immediate past governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, to bail in the sum of N500 million with three sureties in like sum. This is coming barely one week after Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court, admitted Bello to bail in the same sum, over alleged corruption charge at the Federal High Court.
Recall that the trial judge of the FCT High Court, Justice Maryanne Anenih, had last week declined Bello's application for bail on the grounds that the application was
premature.
However, Bello through his team of lawyers led by Chief Joseph Daudu, SAN, had brought another application which was heard and granted on Thursday.
When the matter was called for hearing, Daudu, informed the court that the defence counsel had filed a further affidavit in response to the counter affidavit filed and served by the prosecution counsels.
He however applied to withdraw the further affidavit, saying, "We do not want to make the matter contentious."
Since the counsel to the prosecution, Olukayode Enitan, SAN, raised no objections the court,
therefore, granted the application for withdrawal, striking out the further affidavit.
Speaking further, Bello's lawyer drew the court's attention to an understanding reached by parties towards the speedy trial of the matter. He therefore urged the court to release his client on bail to enable him prepare adequately for the trial.
Meanwhile, the senior lawyer prayed the court to kindly review the bail conditions for the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd defendants.
According to Daudu, the court should broaden the scope of properties to be used as bail sureties to include locations across the FCT, rather than limiting the location
Civil Servants Decry Months of Power Outage in Rivers Secretariat Complex
Despite effort by the Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara to ensure civil servants discharge their duties in comfortable atmospheres, workers in the state have decried months of power outage in parts of the State Secretariat Complex in Port-Harcourt.
THISDAY gathered that the situation resulted from a major electrical fault in the power installation of the secretariat.
Areas affected include Block A made of 7 floors, housing the Ministry of Health and that of Agriculture as well as Block B made of 7 floors housing the Ministries of Physical Planning and Urban Development, Budget and Economic Planning, Commerce and Industry, as well as Culture and Tourism.
The situation, it was gathered, has rendered the elevators of the two buildings non-functional with the attendant implications on the health of the civil servants, government functionaries and visitors as they go through great difficulties daily while climbing long staircases to access offices.
The situation has also resulted
in poor sanitary conditions and its health implications in the toilets of most of the affected Ministries due to lack of water supply occasioned by the prolonged power outage.
The affected Ministries, Departments and Agencies now engage the services of local water vendors popularly known as ‘mai-ruwa’ for daily water supply in their toilets.
While some ministries are able to run on generator, others are unable to do so. The situation is seriously hampering the general activities of Ministries, Departments and Agencies of government at the State Secretariat. Service delivery and productivity of the affected ministries have been negatively impacted by the power outage.
Some civil servants and government functionaries manage to work under unfavourable conditions, others work remotely from the comfort of their homes and elsewhere to meet up their job targets regardless of the continued power outage.
THISDAY further gathered that the power situation in the affected areas of the Rivers State Secretariat has been allegedly reported to the office of the Head of Civil Service
of the State and the Ministry of Power whose duty it is to fix the electricity problem.
Some of the civil servants who spoke on the condition of anonymity lamented the effect of the prolonged power outage on their productivity and health.
The civil servants, while commending the efforts of Governor Fubara in the improvement of their welfare, appealed to him to intervene in the power outage in parts of the State Secretariat by ensuring that power is restored quickly in the affected areas.
A civil servant at the secretariat who pleaded anonymity, said: “We have suffered for almost three months now for the light and when there is no light there will be no elevator. Our women and men are suffering on a daily basis to climb to the 7th floor and come down.
“I appeal to the governor to do something; he should call the Ministry of power in the state in order to visit the affected buildings and compel them also to fix back the light. It’s not good for workers to be suffering like this, in this building there is no water, people go out to access the toilet.”
solely to Maitama.
Responding, Enitan said: "I confirm the evidence given by the distinguished member of the bar that is leading the defence, J.B. Daudu, SAN, that he has been in conversation with the leader of the prosecuting team.
"As with the legal tradition that we should cooperate with members of the bar when it does not affect the course of justice, we have decided not to make this contentious, bearing in mind that no matter how industrious the defence counsel might be in pushing forward the application for bail and no matter how vociferous the prosecution counsel can argue against the bail application, your lordship is bound by your discretion to grant or not to grant the application.
"We are therefore leaving this to your lordship's discretion."
Justice Anenih, while delivering the ruling acknowledged that the offence the 1st defendant was charged
with was bailable and subsequently granted him bail in the sum of N500 million, with three sureties in like sum.
The sureties, according to the judge must be notable Nigerians with landed property in Maitama, Jabi, Utako, Apo, Guzape, Garki and Asokoro.
In addition, the 1st defendant is to deposit his international passport and other travel documents with the court and is to remain at the Kuje Correctional Center pending the perfection of his bail.
The former governor is facing an alleged money laundering trial to the tune of N110 billion, along with two others.
They were last month arraigned before the FCT High Court on a 16-count charge bordering on corruption, breach of trust amongst others.
They however pleaded not guilty to all the counts brought against them by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
the terminal building, expand the runway and taxiway, and construct a state-of-the-art medical village.
The governor invited constructive feedback from the public, stressing that “Government is not flawless - far from it. We are open to criticism, but it must be constructive. Condemnation without purpose weighs people down and stalls progress.”
In her presentation, the Chairman of the Ibom Deep Seaport Project, Barr. Mfon Usoro, disclosed that both the project’s design and feasibility study are on course to be completed by 2025, with the first phase of operations, featuring two container terminals, slated for commissioning in 2027. Usoro expressed gratitude to Governor Eno for his unwavering support, noting that while the project experienced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it is now back on track.
“We are optimistic that the Ibom Deep Sea Port will become a reality under this administration,” she posited.
The interministerial briefing drew a cross-section of stakeholders, including traditional rulers, non-governmental organizations, women groups, youth representatives, and professional bodies.
It also provided commissioners from the ministries of Works and Fire Service, Economic Development and Lands with an opportunity to outline their achievements and present their goals for the upcoming year.
STEAM Project Begins in 6 Pilot
States with 222 Teachers
Kuni Tyessi in Abuja Academicians working towards the implementation of the Science, Technology Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM), initiative in Nigeria have called for the integration of the scheme into pre-primary, primary and secondary schools to enhance growth in technological advancement.
Piloted in six states of Adamawa, Ebonyi, Nasarawa, Ondo, Rivers and Sokoto with 222 teachers selected by the Ministry of Education for interaction with the implementation team, the project is said to be critical for Nigeria’s competitiveness in science and technology-driven world.
Speaking at the presentation of the project report in Abuja yesterday, the Chairman of the Implementation Team, Prof Emeritas Naorgu, expressed confidence that STEAM
would promote interdisciplinary learning, critical thinking, problemsolving and hands-on activities.
She added that its integration in schools across the country would also improve the performance of candidates in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination, UTME.
She however lamented that despite the benefits of STEAM education, in Nigeria the project lacks the necessary priorities and support for its full implementation and therefore stressed the need for the initiative to imbue students with the ability for critical thinking at a very young age.
“When you introduce design into learning, programme it makes it better and you can start teaching children at a younger age, moulding them to have critical minds at a younger age,” she said. She disclosed that the Nigerian
Academy of Science, The Nigerian Academy of Letters and the Nigerian Young Academy are working with the implementation team for the objective of implementing locally appropriate STEAM education policies into the curriculum of schools, strengthening the capacity of teachers and creating awareness in the schools.
Naorgu said one of the achievements recorded so far by the project was its inclusion in the 2024 education roadmap of the federal government, and a draft policy document for STEAM in Nigeria.
She recommended the replication of the STEAM educational activities in the 30 remaining states of the federation, noting that the team expects improvement in UTME performance in the 6 pilot states of the STEAM project.
L-R: Managing Director, Marketing Edge Limited, Mr. John Ajayi; Chairman of the Occasion, Mr. Vincent Maduka; Senator Akin Odunsi; Celebrant, Dr. Abiodun Shobanjo; his wife, Joyce; and Chairman of STB McCann, Sir Steve Omojafor, during a reception hosted by Marketing Edge to celebrate the Chairman of Insight Communications, Dr Biodun Shobanjo at 80 in Lagos on Tuesday
PHOTO: ABIODUN AJALA
Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt
Alex
in Abuja
Politics
Acting Group Politics Edito r DEJI ELUMOYE
Email: deji.elumoye @thisdaylive.com
08033025611 s M s O n LY
Kalu: Committed to People-oriented Legislative Frameworks
Udora Orizu writes that the deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, is committed to championing people-oriented legislative and policy frameworks that address the yearnings of the citizenry.
Agreat leader’s courage to fulfil his vision comes from passion, not position, says John C. Maxwell. One leader in Nigeria presently that exemplifies this quote is the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu. A man of impetuous passion, Kalu always exhibits enthusiasm, love and empathy in advancing the cause of the people.
As a representative of the National Assembly, the Deputy Speaker of the 10th House understands that to give real service, you must add something that cannot be bought or measured with money, hence his commitment to championing legislative and policy frameworks that address the yearnings of the citizenry.
Since he emerged Deputy Speaker in June 2023, the Abia born lawmaker resumed his second term in office hitting the ground running, consolidating, thriving and within the last one year has impressively surpassed his previous enviable legislative outings.
The fulcrum of Kalu’s legislative interventions is on the welfare and well-being of Nigerians. On a daily basis, he engages in many activities geared towards the betterment of the citizens.
In the last 18 months, Enyi Abia as he’s fondly called stands tall, sponsoring over 100 important bills, with one assented to by President Bola Tinubu, some have been passed by the House and Senate while others are awaiting first or second reading or at the Committee stage.
As a people-oriented leader, Kalu who represents Bende Federal Constituency, reintroduced the South-East Development Commission Bill which was rejected by previous assemblies. The bill sought to address the socio- economic and infrastructural deficit in the South-East caused by the civil war.
He worked tirelessly with his colleagues from South-East who co-sponsored the bill and eventually the 54-year-old jinx was broken by President Bola Tinubu who signed it into law.
Kalu expressed optimism that the Act which is already being implemented with the board constituted said the South East Development Commission (SEDC) will actualise the aspirations of the people of the region.
Another laudable legislation is the bill seeking, among others, to alter the relevant sections of the 1999 constitution to pave the way for states to establish their policing outfits.
The Deputy Speaker at a national dialogue on the bill assured that the national assembly will provide the right frameworks, legislations and oversight that will make state policing work better for Nigerians.
He expressed optimism that through collaborative efforts and a commitment to evidence-based solutions, the parliament can establish a policing system that is not only effective in combating crime but also earns the trust of Nigerians and cooperation between law enforcement and the communities they serve.
As an accomplished lawyer who believes in quick dispensation of justice, the lawmaker as well as seven others, sponsored a Bill seeking to amend the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja Act to provide for an increase in the number of Judges in the FCT High Courts.
The Bill which passed for second reading on November 21, 2024 seeks to address a fundamental aspect of the judiciary’s ability to deliver timely justice, which is an increase of the number of judges in the High Court of the FCT, Abuja, from the current maximum of 75 to a minimum of 100.
Another key bill he sponsored was the Bill for an Act to Amend the National Eye Centre Act, Cap. N38, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 to Provide for the
Establishment of More Specialist Eye Care Centres and for Other Related Matters.
Some of his other notable legislations include, “University of Nigerian Languages, Aba (Establishment, etc) bill, 2024, which seeks to upgrade the National Institute for Nigerian Languages (NINLAN), Aba, Abia State to a University of Nigerian Languages, Bill for an Act to Provide a
Policy Framework for the Development of Bio-Fuels Energy Industry in Nigeria; Establish the Bio-Fuels Energy Regulatory Commission; Establish the Bio-Fuels Research Agency and many others.
“Bill for an Act to Establish the Federal Capital Territory Education Resource Centre Charged with the Responsibility To, Among Other Things, Plan and Implement
Curriculum; Measure and Evaluate Students and Other Applicants for Placement into Schools Under the Administration of the Federal Capital Territory; and for Related Matters, Bill for an Act to Amend the Federal Character Commission (Establishment, etc.) Act, Cap. F7, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 To Strengthen the Act, Prosecute Violators, and Stiffen the Punishment for Offenders; And for Related Matters, Bill for an Act to Repeal the National Universities Commission Act, Cap. N81, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 and to Enact the National Universities Commission Act for the Purposes of Establishing the National Universities Commission; to Reform the Nigerian University System in Line with Modern Realities and International Best Practices; and for Related Matters and so many others.”
When he’s not busy making laws for the betterment of the lives of the people, the Deputy Speaker is focused on pursuing policy actions to combat global warming and prepare for its impacts.
Just last month, Kalu beamed searchlight on the impact of natural disasters such as flooding and erosion, calling for data on the internally displaced persons in Nigeria as well as those in the neighbouring countries rendered homeless by natural disasters.
He made the call while playing host to the Federal Commissioner, National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and IDPs, Tijani Ahmed, in Abuja.
-Orizu is media aide to House Deputy Speaker.
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2025 Budget: Steering Edo Towards Prosperity
Fred Itua in this piece writes that there is prospect for a brighter future for Edo state with the recent presentation of the 2025 budget proposal to the State House of assembly by Governor Monday Okpebholo
The 2025 budget presentation by the new Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has sparked public discourse, though for all the wrong reasons. While critics have fixated on a fleeting moment during the governor’s speech delivery, they fail to recognize the transformative and forward-thinking policies embedded in the budget itself. In reality, this budget represents a bold and strategic effort to rebuild Edo State after eight years of stagnation and neglect under the previous administration of Godwin Obaseki.
This moment should not be reduced to superficial commentary but celebrated as the beginning of a new era—one rooted in action, accountability, and a commitment to the people of Edo State. The governor’s focus is not on theatrics or oratory; it is on delivering real results that will chart a new course for growth and development.
The 2025 budget, titled “Edo Rising: Rebuilding for a Prosperous Future,” reflects the governor’s vision to reinvigorate the state’s economy, infrastructure, and governance. Coming into office after years of underperformance and systemic decay, the governor faces significant challenges. Yet, his budget outlines clear, actionable plans to address these issues with courage and determination.
Key highlights of the budget include:
•Massive Infrastructure Investments: The new administration has prioritized the rehabilitation of decayed infrastructure, with a significant allocation for roads, bridges, and urban renewal projects. This is a marked departure from the previous administration, which largely neglected critical infrastructure.
•Boosting Internally Generated Revenue
(IGR): Recognizing the over-reliance on federal allocations, the governor’s budget introduces innovative revenue collection reforms, including digitizing tax systems and expanding the tax base to the informal sector.
•Job Creation and Youth Empowerment: With unemployment hovering at 20%, the budget allocates substantial resources to youth training programs, vocational education, and entrepreneurship initiatives, targeting the creation of 200,000 jobs in 2025 alone.
•Agricultural Transformation: Leveraging Edo’s fertile land, the budget introduces plans to establish agro-industrial parks in each geopolitical zone, creating jobs, ensuring food security, and positioning the state as an agricultural hub.
The previous administration’s eight years in office left Edo State struggling under the weight of systemic failures. Key sectors such
as education, healthcare, and infrastructure suffered from chronic underinvestment, while governance was plagued by inefficiency and waste. The state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) stagnated, leaving it heavily reliant on federal allocations.
One glaring example of neglect is the state’s infrastructure. Roads across urban and rural areas fell into disrepair, hampering trade and movement. Healthcare facilities remained under-equipped and underfunded, while schools across the state struggled with inadequate resources.
The new governor’s administration has inherited these challenges, but the 2025 budget clearly signals a break from the past. It is a blueprint for recovery and progress, laying the groundwork for a better future.
While critics dwell on the governor’s brief speech difficulties, the people of Edo State are more interested in the tangible benefits of his administration’s policies. Leadership is not about flawless oratory but about action and results. The governor’s focus has been clear: addressing the pressing issues facing Edo State and setting the state on a path to growth.
In just a short time in office, the governor has demonstrated his commitment to this mission:
•Launching an Anti-Corruption Drive: The administration has already begun audits to eliminate ghost workers and reduce financial leakages in government.
-Itua is Chief Press Secretary to Edo Governor
NOTE: Interested readers should
Kevin Okyere’s Springfield Hits New Milestone with Afina-1x Well Appraisal
Springfield Exploration and Production Limited (SEP), led by Kevin Okyere continues to rewrite the narrative of Ghana’s oil and gas industry, especially with the latest successful appraisal of the Afina well offshore Ghana, writes Nume Ekeghe
Springfield Exploration and Production Limited has again proven its operational capacity and understanding of its terrain, with the recent successful appraisal of the Afina-1x well, a move that could significantly shape Ghana’s energy future.
This development, led by the company’s CEO, Kevin Okyere, has captured the attention of not only industry stakeholders but the entire nation as it demonstrates a local operator’s resilience, adaptability, and technical proficiency in a domain often dominated by multinational giants.
The recent activities surrounding the Afina-1x well, along with the associated unitisation ruling, have placed Springfield at the forefront of Ghana’s oil sector and could play a key role in supporting the country’s economic ambitions and long-term energy security.
This move toward a more robust and locally-driven oil industry can be traced back to a landmark tribunal ruling that directed the government of Ghana to permit Springfield’s completion of the Afina-Sankofa unitisation. The ruling was pivotal because it clarified the legal framework within which Springfield would operate, ensuring that its endeavours were well-supported by the government’s trust and the affirmation of Springfield’s legal position. It resolved a dispute between the government, Eni Ghana Exploration, and Vitol Energy, ultimately favouring Springfield. By doing so, it placed a Ghanaian company at the heart of an initiative that could help mitigate production decline and significantly boost the nation’s oil output, reinforcing the idea that local operators can not only hold their own against international competition but can excel and drive industry-wide progress.
On October 17, 2024, a key milestone was reached as the Deepsea Bollsta offshore rig, contracted from the Northern Ocean in Norway, arrived at the Afina-1x well in the West Cape Three Points Block 2. This event marked the start of Springfield’s mandated six-month appraisal timeline as outlined by the tribunal’s decision in July.
The presence of the Deepsea Bollsta at the site was not merely symbolic; it reflected Springfield’s ability to secure a top-tier rig in a highly competitive market. As Springfield’s CEO, Kevin Okyere, highlighted, securing a rig at a time when they were scarce was no small feat. The company managed to find one and commence drilling within just three months despite industry-wide constraints.
Okyere’s pride in reaching this milestone was evident. “We have a clear understanding of what being an upstream operator entails, and so we have hired the best possible team with over 60 years of collective experience working for all the super-majors and majors of the world,” he said.
“We work with all the best blue-chip companies to execute all technical works, studies, and drilling programmes. Being a smaller operator but working with the same expertise and diligence as the big operators, we can make decisions swiftly to benefit all our stakeholders, including the government and people of Ghana,” he added.
For Springfield, this phase of work on Afina-1x was more than just another oilfield operation. It formed part of the company’s broader vision for an independent and resilient Ghanaian oil sector. The project, representing a $200 million investment to date, symbolised what can be achieved when local enterprise takes bold steps into areas historically dominated by larger international firms.
The mandated appraisal, estimated at $65 million, aimed to solidify Springfield’s position while underscoring the importance of technical precision and collaboration with world-class partners. The project spanned six weeks and served as a testament to Springfield’s thorough approach to exploration, development, and production.
The significance of the endeavours went beyond corporate growth. It signified a strategic step in ensuring that Ghana’s production does not stagnate or decline. There is a fundamental national interest in stabilising and enhancing output from key oil fields, and Springfield’s efforts, backed by strong government support, align perfectly with this national priority.
As Okyere himself stated at a stakeholders’ engagement: “We’re going ahead to build this
appraisal well to help stop the decline in Ghana’s production and boost output for our economy.”
Such a statement underlines the alignment of Springfield’s corporate interests with Ghana’s broader developmental goals. Okyere’s commitment to the national cause is further reflected in his words: “With the properties that we’ve seen, it should be beyond a miracle for the oil not to flow.”
The approach taken by Springfield has not been without its fair share of challenges. The company had to navigate complex legal, technical, and logistical hurdles to ensure that the Afina-1x appraisal became a reality.
“Our research has shown that during this busy time in the drilling industry, rigs would not be available for another year, and yet Springfield managed to find one, and drilling commenced. This has all happened within a space of three months. It is worthy of note that consistent with its track record and show of resilience, despite what challenges Springfield has faced, it always bounces back stronger and find solutions for every situation it finds itself in,” Okyere also said.
Beyond the initial arrival of the Deepsea Bollsta and the launch of the appraisal drilling, Springfield’s most recent success is the completion of the appraisal well test activity of the Afina discovery by a re-entry of the same well. The Afina-1x, drilled in 2019, sits at a water depth of 1030 metres and was drilled to a total depth of 4085 metres.
It encountered light oil with a gross thickness of 65 metres, with 50 metres light net oil pay in good quality Cenomanian sandstones. The secondary target at the edge of the structure, contained in Turonian age sands, encountered 10 metres of hydrocarbonbearing sands consisting of gas/condensate. This geological data was previously indicative of the block’s potential, but the latest drill stem tests (DST) have now crystallised those expectations into tangible proof of reservoir productivity.
The Afina-1x DST conducted on the Cenomanian sandstone flowed at a maximum rate of 4500 barrels of oil per day, confirming good reservoir productivity on the upper end of pre-test expectations. Pressure transient analysis revealed reservoir pressure depletion compared to 2019 levels, indicating that depletion had occurred through production.
A mini-DST on the Turonian sandstone confirmed the presence of gas/condensate and indicated an estimated flow rate potential of up to 12,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day (boepd). Pressure transient analysis from this reservoir showed pressures consistent with those collected in 2019.
With the successful completion of the appraisal well-test activity, Springfield continues to make history as the first Independent Ghanaian and African Energy Company to operate a deep-water asset and find hydrocarbons.
Chief Executive Officer of Springfield, Kevin Okyere, said: “We are extremely happy with the results of the appraisal programme, which has further confirmed our understanding of our geological, geophysical, and reservoir models and demonstrated our operational capacity.
“Afina-1x is a vertical well and we are confident that a horizontal well or other well completion options that maximise reservoir exposure in the fields would deliver much higher production rates. This provides an incredible platform for reaffirming commercial development options for the Cenomanian and Turonian reservoirs.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Springfield team and Northern Ocean’s Deepsea Bollsta crew and all service partners for conducting this activity safely and on schedule.”
For Ghana’s oil and gas industry, these developments come at a crucial time. Increased indigenous participation in the upstream sector has long been an ambition of the Ghanaian government and its people. Achieving this goal requires consistent
demonstration that local companies can match or exceed the technical competencies and operational efficiencies of their international counterparts. Springfield’s journey—from obtaining government backing through the tribunal ruling, to securing a rig in a tight market, to delivering successful appraisal results—emphasises a critical narrative: Ghanaians can and are capable of leading complex exploration and production projects in their own waters. It is not just about national pride, however. The financial and economic implications of Springfield’s work on Afina-1x are profound. If further development leads to sustained production, the increased output can bolster Ghana’s revenue from the oil sector. This in turn can support development projects, enhance public services, and contribute to long-term economic growth and diversification. Additionally, this appraisal success might attract further investment into Ghana’s upstream sector.
As the Ghanaian energy sector looks toward a future marked by indigenous innovation, economic empowerment, and resilience, the Afina-1X appraisal may indeed prove to be a turning point. It lays the groundwork for improved production profiles, confirms that reservoirs can deliver rates at the higher end of expectations, and shows that gas and condensate reservoirs can be tapped for substantial future output.
Springfield’s journey may herald a new era in the Ghanaian oil and gas sector—one defined by local leadership, better resource management, and a sustainable growth trajectory that benefits the government, the economy, and the people of Ghana.
As Okyere stated at the beginning of the appraisal: “With the properties that we’ve seen, it should be beyond a miracle for the oil not to flow.” With the oil now confirmed to flow, it seems that the miracle he spoke of has already begun to unfold, carrying with it the promise of a brighter future for Ghana’s energy landscape.
Okyere
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opinion@thisdaylive.com
RIDDING
KADUNA OF CRIMINALITY HASSAN
ABUBAKAR writes that repentant bandits are being re-integrated into the society
See page 20
KEMI BADENOCH AND THE NIGERIAN POLICE
The police are a reflection of the Nigerian society, argues JOSHUA J. OMOJUWA
page 20
EDITORIAL THE RIGHTS OF DOMESTIC AIR TRAVELLERS
YUSUPH OLANIYONU pays tribute to Abubakar Bukola Saraki, former President of the Senate
SARAKI AT 62: AS DIFFERENT AS IT IS THE SAME
In the past ten years, he has been like a paradox. The more I think nothing has changed about Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki who turned 62 yesterday, the more I also see his new sides. This is a man who after he left public office, has continued to serve his country, political party, community, faith, creator, and humanity at different levels such that he remains busy and his attention sought across many fronts.
His itinerary remains filled to the brim such that many associates have to be assigned the responsibility of representing him on important occasions. This is part of what has remained the same with him even when his position has changed. Like when he was in office as Governor, chairman of Nigeria Governors’ Forum, Senator, and President of the Senate, his relevance has remained undiminished. Up till today, he would arrive at public functions and become the centre of attraction.
Even when he is not under pressure to deliver on promises to the electorate, he has continued to immerse himself in public policy analysis, discussing national issues with friends, associates, and aides.
As it was before 2019, he still spends long hours at his desk in the office located in his residence, attending to issues, persons, businesses, and family. While he has slowed down on attending political gatherings in recent times, he keeps in touch with political associates at the national level. He enjoys discussing current national, partisan, and international issues with people who come around to see him, such that the regular lunch on his brown dining table has oftentimes turned out to be sessions for the exchange of ideas and providing insights.
He is still, no doubt, the man who cares about understanding public policies and developing solutions to national challenges. Since I started relating with him, he has come across as a man who believes in tasking himself or his aides about the need to constantly develop solutions to challenges in governance. He believes that every thorny and intractable national problem lingers because those who are in charge have not been persistent, consistent, and deliberate in seeking deep-rooted, radical solutions.
A very humorous man, his jokes are sometimes like those of the typical British. They are meant to draw out certain information from you and sometimes to give you a hint about the information that you do not ordinarily want to share, but which is already available to him. If you know him very well, when these jokes are
put forward as a question, you should be reluctant to answer so that you do not end up falling into his trap.
Those who know the stuff with which he is made believe that the country has under-utilized his ability to take on difficult assignments and refuse to give in until the knotty issues are cracked. It is for this reason that after over one decade of tackling the formulation of a comprehensive and effective law to govern the nation’s petroleum industry, it was the 8th Senate under Saraki that gave the country the insight into how to forge forward and how to deconstruct the ossified and behemoth challenge. Though the Buhari regime frustrated the passage of the law piecemeal as achieved by the 8th National Assembly, that breakthrough gave insight into the succeeding session of the National Assembly on how to consolidate the various bills and get them passed as one law. The nation experienced a similar situation with the Police Reform Act, Company and Allied Matters (CAMA), (Amendment) Act, and the Electoral Act (Amendment) 2022.
Dr. Saraki remains a rallying force among past and serving senators on some key issues. In the PDP, he remains a national leader. Throughout last year, he came under serious pressure from leaders of the party across the country to become national chairman. He staved off all entreaties in this direction by insisting he did not need to hold any office to help put the party in good stead to successfully challenge the ruling APC.
In his community back home in Kwara State, he remains the foremost donor to all good causes. He sponsors scholarship programmes for university students, provides social amenities for the benefit of the masses, funds health services to the needy, feeds the Muslim faithful during Ramadan, provides financial and material succour to people during fasting and festive periods, distributes fertilizer and herbicides to farmers during planting season, and generally providing help to people. He has continued to make so many interventions in the lives of many
ordinary Nigerians directly or through his Abubakar Bukola Saraki Foundation. Yours truly has been a beneficiary of the generosity of this philanthropist. He paid for my surgery in Egypt when affliction struck me. The fast rate at which he responded to the distress call made to him on my behalf was amazing. I know he had done the same thing for many people who have not had the opportunity or platform to mention the gestures publicly.
He is perhaps one person who is out of the office and still has the grade-A relevance that made it look like nothing has changed between when he was holding powerful posts and now that he is just an influential citizen. This assertion was given expression by how the entire national elite, the international community, and the less privileged people came together to mourn with his family when his mother, Chief (Mrs) Florence Morenike Saraki died last June.
From President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, federal and state legislators, governors, ministers, members of the diplomatic community, royal fathers, religious leaders, heads of government agencies, the leadership of various associations of people living with disability, artisans, and many youths, partisan and non-partisan organisations, they all came together in support of the celebration of life and funeral ceremonies in honour of Mama Saraki.
Also, one of the things that has changed about him is that in his 62 years on earth, it is the first time he would have a birthday without his mother, Chief (Mrs) Florence Morenike Saraki being around to pray for him. The man whose siblings believe has a magic wand that works on all issues with their mother is now a complete orphan.
He is also a man who has learned to spend more time glorifying the name of his maker for His many favours on him. Just a few months ago, he produced the third generation of United Kingdomtrained medical doctors in his family as his daughter, Teniola, qualified as a medical doctor. Teniola follows the footsteps of her late grandfather, Oloye Olusola Saraki, and her dad, Abubakar Bukola Saraki, who are also medical doctors.
While it is too early to read the mind of the Waziri of Ilorin, Turaki Raya Kazan Nupe, and Dan Iyan Kaura Namoda (Kebbi State), one may just safely believe he would, for now, be watching events before deciding how to navigate his way forward. I wish him a happy birthday and many happy returns.
Olaniyonu, a journalist and lawyer, writes from Abuja
HASSAN ABUBAKAR writes that repentant bandits are being re-integrated into the society
RIDDING KADUNA OF CRIMINALITY
how the
It's no
administration is ridding Kaduna of terrorism, especially banditry and kidnapping. Over the last decade, a few parts of the state have progressively turned into troublespots for residents. But that tide is changing. And what is the secret?
For those not in the know, it is the Kaduna Amnesty programme whereby repentant bandits are disarmed, demobilised and re-integrated into the society. For that, the Sani administration inaugurated the Peace Dialogue Group in collaboration with some federal agencies to engage stakeholders to build trust. The move which was initiated over six months ago saw the handing over of the first set
of repentant bandits in Birnin Gwari in November.
“We are committed to finding a lasting solution to the security challenges that have plagued our state for years,” said Sani at that event.
“The ‘Kaduna Model’ is a comprehensive framework that addresses the root causes of insecurity and provides a sustainable solution to the problem. Let us resolve disputes through dialogue, not violence. Enough is enough. The days of kidnapping, cattle rustling, force levies, and other criminal activities are over.”
However, some critics have asked what stops them from going back to their crimes. And Sani responded during a recent TVC programme, 'Beyond 100 Days,' outlining the measures he kick-started to make Kaduna safer.
"What happened is that there was a trust deficit and some people used money,” the governor explained.
“But in this one, nobody is getting one naira. And we're doing this with experts. There is a Head of Counter-Terrorism. And we're following international best practice. And I can assure you, since this agreement started, nobody in Kaduna State would tell you anybody has been kidnapped in Kaduna. We're making progress. The communities are jubilating. Everybody in Kaduna knows me. I'm someone that doesn't believe in religious difference, ethnic difference or political affiliation since I became governor.”
That over 200 kidnapped citizens have been released since the beginning of the programme earlier this year is good testament. The governor agrees the root cause is economic, hence advocates that the solution should go beyond countering with brute force and extend to interventions such as economic, social and political activities. These interventions revolved around working in synergy with other federal security apparatuses like the Office of the National Security Adviser, Army and Police to forge solutions with stakeholders like traditional, religious, community, youth and political leaders in affected communities.
"It's more of an economic issue to some extent," Sani said while describing the banditry in the northwest.
"And that is why I say we cannot address the issue using only a kinetic approach. We must always
look at the non-kinetic approach too. If anyone tells us we can address the issue of kidnapping, insurgency in the northwest only using kinetic approach, we would not succeed. I remember the first meeting I had with the Chief of Defence Staff, Christopher Musa, who fortunately is from Kaduna, Zango-Kataf. He was the first person that told me, “'Look, your excellency, you have to focus on a non-kinetic approach. Who am I to argue with him because he's an expert? He's someone that was involved in a lot of issues like that and he showed me the results.'”
It is important that Sani has a listening ear and consults different stakeholders for lasting solutions. It is largely as a result of such quality consultations that has resulted in the peace which is returning to Kaduna and everyone is enjoying once again. Take Birnin Gwari for instance. It was a hotbed for terrorists. But that is not the case anymore. Indeed, in October, during a commissioning of a road to link 62 agrarian communities in Birnin Gwari, Sani remarked on how the area used to be kidnappers' haven.
“The most important thing is that this process (amnesty) has been in place for the last six months,” Sani said.
“The day we had the first agreement in Birnin Gwari local government, I made it clear to everyone and it was widely covered that the programme started about six months ago. And of course, on that day, you would see there was a representative of the office of National Security Adviser, representative of the Chief of Defence Staff, and all the relevant security agencies in Nigeria were there.”
According to Sani, it is just about six local governments out of the 23 local government areas that are affected by terrorism.
“When you go to some local governments and you talk to them about insecurity, they have no idea of what you are saying,” said the governor.
“They would be looking at you. They are farming there. They are doing everything and nobody was kidnapped.”
However, when pleas from the communities bogged down by insurgency through the State Security Council reached government, the Sani administration acted. And the governor talked about how the state government partnered with federal security agencies as well as local stakeholders. He also disclosed that a government team was in Kubau local government a day earlier to re-integrate the repented bandits while those in Kachia local government would be reintegrated in a fortnight.
Over the past decade, insurgency in Kaduna had forced the closure of 400 out of the 4, 000 government schools. To remedy that situation, the Sani-administration re-opened 162 of the schools and arranged them in a secure cluster to prevent a repeat of the ugly incidence of mass abductions of school children.
Major markets are also being reopened. In November, Sani reopened the Birnin-Gwari cattle market. The Kidandan market in Giwa Local Government Area was reopened too. This is coming after both markets had been closed for about 10 years due to insecurity.
While some persons have raised unfounded claims that the amnesty programme targets Christians and churches, Sani clarified the matter. He said that during the parleys, no one focused on religion. In fact, he said members of the communities, including Christians, were happy about the development. The governor even said he was with the Kaduna State Chairman of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) shortly before coming on air.
On the settlement of victims of terrorism, Sani said his administration is collaborating with the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) and the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) to profile any victim's needs, resettle them and secure for them justice.and compensation.
The police are a reflection of the Nigerian society, argues JOSHUA J. OMOJUWA
KEMI BADENOCH AND THE NIGERIAN POLICE
A casual observer was going to get away with thinking Kemi Badenoch had become the No. 1 hate figure for Nigerians on social media. Before the play that turned the tide, the leader of the UK’s Conservative Party was never going to truly occupy such a position amongst Nigerians considering the several other options back home. That said, it did look like there was a consensus on the Badenoch bashing by online users until she offered the audience their favourite hate figure; the Nigerian Police. What followed was stories on the many tragic experiences suffered by Nigerians in the hands of the police.
Apart from those who have permanently been protected by their access to power, every Nigerian south of Abuja has a bad police story to tell. For several unlucky others, those stories resulted in the death of loved ones, their disappearance or even incarceration, for doing nothing other than being citizens of Nigeria living in Nigeria who happened to find themselves in the same space and time with the police. When it comes to this subject matter, the question is how do you fix it? Unfortunately, whilst there appears a consensus that policing is broken, we have stayed stuck on what to do to fix it for years now.
Kemi Badenoch had been asked about the British Police. Because her ambition is solely focused on becoming the Prime Minister, she sidestepped the subject of the British Police and instead offered the interviewer the Nigerian Police. Gimba Kakanda said it best, “it was an unnecessary deviation that reveals her desperation to perform for the British public in her quest to shake off any allegiance to a nationality other than British. Interestingly, if I were in her shoes and asked to compare life in Abuja and London, my story would’ve been different. The first and only time I was ever robbed in over three decades of my existence was in London, on a busy street in central London.
“When I reached out to the Metropolitan Police, I was directed to fill out an online form. Less than 24 hours later, they responded and said there was nothing they could do, even though CCTV cameras were all over the area and the robbers weren’t masked. You can’t even wear a decent watch and walk the streets of London without nursing the fear of being mugged. That should be Kemi’s concern if she aspires to lead the UK someday, because the excuse was that the police in the UK had no budget to chase muggers. Again, Kemi Badenoch’s account of the Nigerian police is valid. Many of us have had terrible encounters with them, no doubt, but that wasn’t what the interviewer asked her about. Her account also doesn’t negate the fact that there are outstanding police officers in Nigeria, individuals who defy mainstream stereotypes in their policing duties. They also deserve the benefit of our microphones”.
This is not a black or white conversation, at least in my opinion. There are nuances and hard truths. Tough ones about Nigeria and its unwholesome realities. One cannot defend the Nigerian Police. It’d appear Kemi could not defend the British Police either. She’d have had to speak about the submission that it is racially biased for starters. For someone seeking to lead the country, that was a no-go area.
Adebayo Amoo, British-Nigerian tech founder, brought it home for the UK politician when he posted to X that, “You represent Northwest Essex constituency as MP, most of
the crimes committed in your constituency include violent and sexual offences - does that make every constituent of yours a violent/sexual crime offender? Do you see how ridiculous your assertion about Nigeria is?”
The Nigerian Police is our collective shame and pain. This isn’t a denial of the outliers within its ranks. That said, Kemi knows what she is doing. Take her views on colonialism and white privilege. I guess she feels a sense of need to defend the old empire she represents. Then there is naked ambition. Add that to, not what is being said, but why it is being said, how and when it is being said and for whom. Against whom?
The question was, “do you trust the British Police?” and she went, “remember my experience in Nigeria was very negative”. Okay. I respect the person in question, her accomplishments are worthy of one’s respect. However, I don’t care about her enough in the way I would someone of Nigerian origin in her position. I think she can care about Nigeria’s challenges in the way that she seems to do and still care about the people. There are ways you can address Nigeria and Africa’s issues without turning the people against you.
You can see through this person and acknowledge Nigeria’s failings that make it easy for her to use the country as punching bag. That Africa and the rest of the Global South get to be thrown those punches too shows that it is at least as much about what it was for her in Nigeria, as it about the position she clearly so desires and obsesses about. There is a reason she became leader of the Conservatives as soon as they were out of power. We will find out when they take power again.
To the rest of us, we must remember that “officers of the Nigerian Police Force are not from a different planet. They are ordinary Nigerians, just like the rest of us, who have jobs in the police force. When they misbehave, it's because they are just being Nigerian. If you replaced the entire police force with other Nigerians who are not currently officers, I doubt there would be any significant change in the behaviour of the Nigerian Police Force. Nigerians, look in the mirror. Your police officers reflect society – they are your family, neighbors, friends, and former classmates,” to say it almost exactly how Nojeem Yusuf put it. We are, in more ways than one, our police. ]
Omojuwa is chief strategist Alpha Reach/BGX Publishing
fluke
Uba Sani
Abubakar
Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA
Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com
THE RIGHTS OF DOMESTIC AIR TRAVELLERS
Airlines should operate within the rules and regulations
We fail to understand why domestic airlines in the country find it difficult to serve passengers refreshment whenever their flights are delayed for hours. More concerning is that refunding passengers their money is an extremely hard decision for the domestic airlines. Even in instances when airlines refund passengers after a long process, they still make all kinds of deductions from already in-built charges. Meanwhile, in some jurisdictions, airlines are now required to give passengers a cash refund if their flight is significantly delayed or cancelled, even if that person does not explicitly ask for a refund. That all domestic airlines behave in the same manner suggests a systemic problem.
We therefore endorse the recent position by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), chiding domestic airlines on their seeming reluctance to refund passengers money who did not eventually travel with the assigned flight. The NCAA has insisted that airlines must abide by the regulation, as enshrined in the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulation (NCAR) 2023 as amended. The agency has also reiterated that airlines must adhere to the strict timelines stipulated in Part 19 of the NCAA Regulations, which aim to safeguard passenger rights. According to the regulatory authority, tickets purchased in cash must be refunded to the passenger immediately, while electronic payments, including mobile apps and internet banking, must occur within 14 days.
sometimes, outright cancelation. A passenger on scheduled travel anywhere in the country at a particular time is never sure when the flight would take off or if they would embark on the journey at all. This disorganises business plans, appointments and other engagements while giving rise to inconvenience and frustration. This situation, which has gone on for years, cannot be allowed to continue.
Passengers need to be guided by the regulatory authority on their rights and processes that should be followed while requesting a refund
EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU
DEPUTY EDITOR WALE OLALEYE
MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO
DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU
CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI
EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA
GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU
We are aware that some delays are caused by bad weather, and the airlines cannot be blamed for this. But many of the times, there is no rational explanation for the delay and cancellations leading to suspicion that they are deliberate, most often to take in more passengers. There is also the notorious ‘VIP movement’ which is now frequent. The authorities must deal with this nuisance. Another cause of delay is poor infrastructure at the airports. Passengers spend unduly longer time at security screening points because of inadequate number of X-ray machines as many passengers often queue at security screening points, especially at peak hours. Ideally, it should take no more than 30 seconds to screen a passenger but in Nigeria it can take up to two minutes with the screening officials more interested in extortion than doing their job. This poses a problem for the airlines. On the issue of refund, the NCAA promises that henceforth it would strictly enforce the rules when airlines negate their responsibility towards passengers and would sanction erring airlines that fail to abide by the regulations.
The intervention is particularly important during this holiday season when many people will be travelling for Christmas considering the cynical manner operators treat customers, especially regarding frequent delay of flights and
DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE
Passengers need to be guided by the regulatory authority on their rights and processes that should be followed while requesting a refund. Deploying subterfuge to deny aggrieved passengers refund for their ticket is wrong and we urge the NCAA to come down hard on these unwholesome practices.
COMMEMORATING INTERNATIONAL CIVIL AVIATION DAY
As the world celebrates International Civil Aviation Day, Nigeria’s aviation sector takes center stage, reflecting a blend of triumphs and challenges. With a theme focused on “Advancing Innovation for Global Aviation Development,” the day underscores the critical role of aviation in connecting nations and driving socio-economic growth. For Nigeria, the sector’s journey mirrors its aspirations for regional leadership and global competitiveness.
The Nigerian aviation industry boasts a history that dates back to the mid-20th century, once symbolized by the national pride of Nigeria Airways. However, decades of economic turbulence, policy inconsistencies, and mismanagement led to the eventual collapse of the carrier in 2003. Its absence left a void that successive governments have tried, yet struggled, to fill.
Currently, private operators like Air Peace, Aero, Arik, Ibom Air, and others have worked to bridge this gap, ensuring domestic and regional connectivity. Their efforts, though commendable, face significant constraints, including high operational costs, limited infrastructure, and volatile policies. The resilience of these airlines is a testament to their commitment to the industry’s survival.
One of the most pressing challenges in Nigerian aviation is the state of infrastructure. Many airports, especially those in regional
cities, lack modern facilities, hindering passenger comfort and operational efficiency. While efforts have been made to upgrade major hubs such as Lagos and Abuja, smaller airports require urgent attention to enhance nationwide connectivity.
Additionally, the high cost of aviation fuel remains a thorn in the industry’s operations. Until the Dangote Refinery came on stream recently, Nigeria imports most of its aviation fuel.
Flight delays and cancellations are another recurring issue, often linked to poor weather but mainly due to inadequate capacity. These disruptions not only inconvenience passengers but also tarnish the country’s aviation reputation, especially for international travelers. On the safety front, Nigeria has made notable progress. The country’s attainment of Category one safety status by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration is a milestone. It signifies adherence to international safety standards and inspires confidence among foreign airlines operating in Nigeria.
In recent years, the government has attempted to address the absence of a national carrier through the Nigeria Air project. While the initiative has faced legal and financial hurdles, it remains a beacon of hope for those yearning for the resurgence of a state-backed airline.
Furthermore, bilateral air service agreements (BASA) have opened Nigeria’s skies to more international airlines, fostering partnerships and improving global connectivity. However, these agreements must be carefully managed to ensure mutual benefits and protect local operators from unfair competition. The aviation sector's role in economic development cannot be overstated. By facilitating trade, tourism, and investments, the industry significantly contributes to GDP growth. Yet, its full potential remains untapped due to systemic challenges that need urgent redress.
Government policies and regulations also play a crucial role in the industry's trajectory. Inconsistent and unpredictable policy shifts have, at times, deterred investors, highlighting the need for stability and transparency to attract foreign direct investment.
Aviation also has environmental implications, particularly concerning emissions. As global discussions on climate change intensify, Nigeria must align with sustainable aviation practices, such as investing in greener technologies and adopting policies that minimize the environmental impact of air travel.
Fatima Tijjani, Mass Communication Department, Borno State University, Maiduguri
Arthur Eriye
Recent data released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), has revealed that African investors, excluding Nigerians, accounted for 22.76 per cent of Nigeria’s foreign capital inflows in Q3 2024, contributing $285.11 million. This marks a significant role for African countries in Nigeria’s capital importation landscape, though it reflects a decline of 43.73 per cent
from $506.68 million in Q2 2024 and a 16.77 per cent drop compared to $342.55 million in Q3 2023. According to the Bureau, Nigerian investors showed remarkable growth, with foreign capital inflows rising to $10.84 million, a 261.33 per cent year-on-year increase from $3.00 million in Q3 2023 and a 198.63 per cent surge from $3.63 million in Q2 2024.
Mauritius and South Africa emerged the highest African
contributors, though their performances diverged. Mauritius brought in $97.63 million, a steep fall of 61.05 per cent from the previous quarter’s $250.70 million and a 56.85% decline year-on-year. Meanwhile, South Africa contributed $185.03 million, showing a 59.02 per cent increase compared to $116.37 million in Q3 2023 but a 27.73 per cent decline from $255.98 million in Q2 2024. Ghana emerged with $2.35 million, signaling renewed
interest, while Morocco remained a minor player with $0.10 million. Africa’s performance was dwarfed by significant contributions from Europe, North America, and Asia. Europe maintained its dominance, with significant contribution of $502.60 million by the United Kingdom, despite a drop from $1.12 billion in Q2 2024, and the Netherlands, which added $121.92 million. North America also recorded gains,
with the United States increasing its contribution to $163.86 million, up from $81.58 million in Q2 2024. Meanwhile, Asia saw notable inflows from Saudi Arabia at $28.01 million, China at $9.58 million, and Singapore at $5.63 million, though all experienced declines compared to the previous quarter.
Generally, Nigeria’s total foreign capital inflow in Q3 2024 fell sharply to $1.25 billion, a 51.89 per cent decrease from
$2.60 billion in Q2 2024, despite an annual increase of 91.35 per cent. Africa’s reduced inflows, particularly from Mauritius and South Africa, dampened its contribution, while Europe and North America solidified their positions as dominant sources. The increase in contributions from Nigerian investors is pointer to the growing confidence and, potential shift in Nigeria’s capital inflow streams.
There have been several agitations from airline operators over multiple taxes imposed on flight tickets by aviation agencies, insisting that such taxes are the reasons behind the failure of many airlines in the country.
The operators decried the multiple taxation, which according to them, is fluid, confusing and exploitative, noting that when these taxes are built into the ticket, travellers tend to think that the total cost of ticket is a take home for the airlines.
Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) at different fora have complained about the multi taxation. The operators said these taxes are stifling their operations and government seemed ambivalent in response to their call over the years.
Domestic airlines, on the average, said they pay about 35 per cent to 40 per cent of a ticket cost as taxes and charges that come under the
guise of statutory levies in addition to other charges.
The implemented charges range from Terminal Navigational Charges to enroute navigation charges, Overflight charges, clearance charges, and extension charges. Even foreign airlines don’t pay enroute charges or extension charges, which the local airlines are forced to pay.
The levies are divided into aeronautical and non-aeronautical revenues and are added to charges collected from passengers as air tickets by the airlines. Twenty of the charges are paid into the coffers of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), six are paid into the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) coffers, and the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) collects three while Bi-Courtney collects four of the charges from the airlines that operate at its terminal.
It was learn that the breakdown of aeronautic charges included
aircraft inspection, which is tickets and Duty Tour Allowance (DTA) paid to the coffers of NCAA for aircraft inspection overseas. The DTA, however, depends on the country the aircraft is being inspected. Also, landing charges are divided into two; day and night. During the day, airlines pay N25 per Kg kilogramme of the aircraft weight while they are charged N37.5 per kilogramme of the aircraft at night. FAAN collects the charge from airlines (maybe this has increased).
Also, FAAN collects about N400 per weight of aircraft after 30 hours from airlines as parking charges while the agency also collects between $40 and $50 from airlines for using the Avio Bridge for en-route charges, FAAN charges $70 from airlines on international routes while it collects about N3,000 for carriers on domestic routes.
AON said indigenous airlines are compelled to pay NAMA’s $75 as a charge for over-flight while it
equally collects $195 from airlines that operate international or regional flights outside the country while N6,000 is remitted by indigenous airline operators for the same terminal charge. The aeronautic agency also collects clearance fees for indigenous airlines.
The operators also said that besides, N2, 500 per passenger is remitted to the purse of BASL as Passenger Service Charge (PSC) for any air traveller airlifted by airlines at the terminal.The terminal operator also collects $50 from airlines for using its Avio bridge while it collects another $50 as extended Avio bridge usage.Also, BASL collects $00.50 from operators as a check-in counter fee (as at last year).
The breakdown of the charges indicates that the NCAA collects 5 per cent of total fare from airlines as Ticket Sales Tax (TST), and another 5 per cent each as Import and Export Charges for domestic operators.
The regulatory authority also
charges airlines 10 per cent each as Import and Export Royalties.
Also, FAAN collects N2,000 for domestic operations and $50 for international operations as Passenger Service Charge (PSC), and charges N12 per kilogramme as a Ports Charge.
The same agency collects N5 per kilogramme as Export Charge, N20 per kilogramme on Courier/Tarmac/ Pre-Release and N5 per kilogramme as Air Cargo.
Commenting, the Managing Director and CEO of Aero Contractors, Captain Ado Sanusi, called for a review of multiple taxes on flight ticket by aviation agencies and insisted that it is very important to streamline the payments.
“As a proposal to the federal government on these taxes, I have made several proposals. I will make one now. Let them scrap the 5 percent. Let them have a figure, one figure that airlines should be. One figure that scheduled airlines
should pay. And then let NAMA have one charge. So we know we are paying NAMA and NCAA for service. And then FAAN, or we can even have one figure and then they can share among the three of them.
“But for us to pay 5 percent, and then pay also for all the services that NCAA renders, is not good for the sustenance of airline business in Nigeria. So, I pay 5 percent of my ticket sales. And then I will pay for all the services that they will render. So if they are coming to inspect an airplane, they should pay for that. If they are going to do AOC renewal, they should pay for that. So you pay 5 percent and you pay that.
“I hope you are counting. And then you go to NAMA, you pay for enroute navigation, which I introduced (as former Managing Director) and then you pay terminal navigation.”
Chinedu Eze
Govt-funded Trips: Keyamo Pushes for Fly Nigeria Act
Stories by Chinedu Eze
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has started a move to legislate Fly Nigeria Act, designed to revitalise the aviation sector by mandating that all governmentfunded trips prioritise Nigerian flag carriers.
Keyamo described the Fly Nigeria Act as a bold initiative to support the country’s aviation industry, which he referred to as a ‘vital pillar of the Nigerian economy’.
He emphasised the sector’s critical role in driving economic growth, facilitating trade, and fostering connections within and beyond Nigeria’s borders.
The Act’s primary focus is
to ensure that Nigerian flag carriers are given priority for all government-funded travel, whether domestic, regional, or international.
“The summary of the Fly Nigeria Act is that every government-funded trip, whether from a ministry or agency, must patronise the Nigerian flag carrier first before any foreign carrier,” Keyamo stated.
He explained further that this prioritisation extends to connecting flights as well.
“If you are travelling to the US through London, and the first leg of that trip has a Nigerian flag carrier flying the route, you must use the Nigerian carrier for that leg before connecting to an international carrier,” the Minister said.
The Minister explained that the Act aims to create demand and
market opportunities, even for routes not currently operated by Nigerian carriers.
There has been campaign by aviation stakeholders for Fly Nigeria Act to be legislated and passed into law, but over the years the industry did not have a Minister that has the political will to do so until now.
Communicated through a memo to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, it highlights the importance of utilising Nigeria’s resources to stimulate the local economy.
The Aviation Minister also explained that while airlines are not obligated to serve Nigerian dishes, they must engage local caterers capable of meeting international standards, with quality control agencies ensuring compliance.
MMA2 Reinforces Safety Protocols at Year-end Meeting
The Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited (BASL), the operator of Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal 2 (MMA2), recently held a critical year-end safety meeting to reinforce safety protocols and ensure a seamless and secure travel experience for passengers during the peak holiday season.
The meeting brought together key stakeholders, including airport staff, airline representatives, and security personnel, to discuss safety best practices, emergency response procedures, and risk mitigation strategies.
The focus was on maintaining the highest safety standards and preventing incidents that could
Lagos Free Zone, the first privatelyowned free zone in Nigeria, has emerged the best infrastructure development company in Nigeria at the 2024 SERAS Africa Sustainability/CSR Awards ceremony held at Oriental Hotel, Lagos.
The Lagos Free Zone was declared the winner in that category ahead of other nominees such as Zenith Bank Plc, Nigerian Sovereign Investment Authority and The Building Practice Limited.
Speaking on the award criteria, the lead convener, SERAS Awards, Ken Egbas described the choice of LFZ
compromise passenger safety.
Safety is our top priority, insisted the acting Chief Operating Officer (COO), Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited, Remi Jibodu.
“By conducting regular safety reviews and training sessions, we aim to create a culture of safety and vigilance among everyone operating from our terminal, passengers and terminal users. We are committed to providing a secure and hasslefree travel experience for all our passengers,” Jibodu explained.
During the meeting, participants deliberated on specific measures to enhance terminal operations, sharing feedback and suggestions on ways to further promote and prioritise safety.
as truly deserving given the huge investments in infrastructure in the last 12 months and the subsequent increase in economic activities it has attracted to the Zone.
Egbas explained that the selection of LFZ was arrived at following a rigorous assessment of entries filed in by all the nominees. “No doubt, LFZ has demonstrated exemplary leadership, creativity and commitment to sustainability development for what they have contributed in the last 12 months with infrastructure in the Lagos Free Zone corridor. The
Also speaking, the Head, Safety Department, Nafisat Adeniran, said: “Stakeholders’ involvement and participation is very key in safety management, we used this stakeholder- focused approach to improve our safety culture.
“This proactive approach is to ensure that everyone is fully involved in safety both in aeronautical and non-aeronautical activities in line with our safety policy. Safety remains our topmost priority. This end of year stakeholder safety forum is to provide opportunities to address concerns, manage expectations from feedback received and to identify potential risks from a wider perspective for continual improvement.”
construction of Pipe Natural Gas pipelines, warehouses, and other essential facilities has contributed significantly in attracting new business to the Zone and boosting economic activity for the Nigerian economy as a whole,” he said.
In her remarks, the Chief Executive Officer of Lagos Free Zone, Mrs. Adesuwa Ladoja, described the recognition as a testament to the Zone’s efforts and commitment to creating an enabling environment for businesses and opportunities in the Nigerian economy.
Ebonyi Calls for Certification of Chuba Okadigbo Airport
The governor of Ebonyi State, Mr. Francis Nwifuru has sought technical support of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) towards certification of the Chuba
Okadigbo International Airport.
The request was made when the governor paid a courtesy visit to the acting Director-General Civil Aviation, Capt. Chris Najomo earlier in the
Group Business Editor
Eromosele Abiodun
Deputy Business Editor
chinedu Eze
Comms/e-Business Editor
Emma Okonji
Asst. Editor, Energy
Emmanuel Addeh
Asst. Editor, Money Market
Nume Ekeghe
Correspondents
Kayodetokede(CapitalMarkets)
James Emejo (Finance)
Ebere Nwoji (Insurance)
reporter Peter Uzoho (Energy)
week in his office in Abuja.
During the visit, Governor Nwifuru shared the state’s broader transport master plan, including its vision for the state- of-the-art airport which is to serve Ebonyi, Abia, Benue and part of Cross River States. Najomo, thanked Nwifuru for the visit, assuring him of NCAA’s commitment to supporting the project by providing needed technical
support and regulatory oversight in line with the federal government’s ease of doing business policy.
The airport was inaugurated last year by the former governor of the state, now the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, but shortly after, a massive rehabilitation job was done on the runway, necessitating more inspection by the regulatory authority.
Air
WAtCh
As NIMET DG Marks One Year in Office
Chinedu Eze
The Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), Professor Charles Anosike, has clocked one year managing the weather agency that provides critical information to many sectors of the economy.
Anosike exemplifies William Shakespeare’s famous words, ‘Uneasy lies the head that wears a crown’, going by what the records attribute to him as achievements in the last one year.
Anosike spent his end of first year in office on Monday, 16th December 2024; that was the day he had a strategic and performance review meeting with Directors of the agency, members of senior management and representatives of the labour unions.
Directors of the nine directors took turns in presenting the progress in their various directorates. The office of the Director General also presented a summary of what has been achieved in the agency under Professor Charles Anosike.
Speaking at the meeting, Anosike thanked the management team, the directors and staff for their understanding and also for supporting him as he continues to the execute mandate of the agency.
“I want to highlight the importance of collective bargaining with the unions. I want to assure you that I am committed to driving the mission of our agency,” Anosike said.
It was a torpid relationship NIMET had with the unions before Anosike came. He solved a long outstanding labour dispute and as he marked his one year in office on Monday, he noted, “Failing is not a problem. It is from failing that we learn. Failure and success go together. Collectively, we would do more in the coming years”.
During the period under review, NIMET organised a training session for the Directors and senior management staff of the agency. Because of the sensitive nature of weather forecast, training is very critical, especially in a sector, where advanced technology quickly makes yesterday skills obsolete.
So, training has been a continuum in NIMET for different categories of personnel. the training for directors and senior management staff was carried out in collaboration with management consulting firm Balanced Scorecard West Africa and was themed; ‘Balanced Scorecard Performance Management System’.
working closely with Nigerian farmers, experts, and officials.
The U.S. Embassy in Nigeria disclosed its government, through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), has supported over 5 million Nigerian farmers since 2019. According to the statement, this assistance, is part of a longstanding agricultural partnership, aims to boost food production and empower rural communities across Nigeria.
The embassy emphasized that all U.S. agricultural programs in Nigeria operate transparently and in full compliance with Nigerian laws. It addressed media reports portraying an inaccurate picture of U.S. initiatives, clarifying that its efforts include strengthening regulatory processes for agricultural biotechnology and
The embassy highlighted USAID’s practical support, such as improved market access, agricultural training, and research collaboration. It affirmed its commitment to addressing Nigeria’s food security challenges through locally-driven and consultative approaches.
Nigeria remains in a food security crisis, despite these efforts. As food crisis continues, over 20 million Nigerians faces acute hunger, worsened by conflicts in the North, rising food prices, and climate change. Recent data released by the National Bureau of Statistics, showed that Food inflation surged to 39.9% in November 2024.
Declaring the session open, Anosike said that management has prioritised staff welfare and capacity development as part of performance management in line with the seven-point agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and also in line with the performance bond signed with the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo and agencies in the Aviation Ministry which emphasised the development of human capacity within the aviation industry.
Anosike said: “We are starting a new journey at NiMet as we prepare to roll out a balanced scorecard performance management system. It is one of the global management tools that organizations use to translate strategy into performance. This workshop will help us to improve our strategy formulation, our ability to formulate strategies, and make way for enduring creativity in the agency.”
He said that the balanced scorecard performance management system enables organisations to communicate strategy clearly to all stakeholders.
“Value-creation activities in organizations are no longer strictly measured in the tangible things and fixed assets of the firm etc. Instead, value lies in the ideas of people in the organization, in service delivery and supplier relationships, in key information databases, and in cultures capable of innovation and
continually delivering quality. We can come together at NiMet to solve our problems and create value in never-imagined ways.
“I urge every one of us at NiMet, in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to embrace performance management as a foundation for improving performance. Strategy dictates the path forward. It is not the change effort itself that is likely to cause the failure. It is always the execution and development, the implementation, execution and development,” he added.
When Anosike assumed office at this time last year, he in his remarks emphasised the critical role of meteorological services in driving sustainable development for the nation.
Anosike highlighted the multifaceted impact of NiMet’s contributions, emphasising how the agency’s services play an integral role in various sectors of the economy and further stressed that weather services impact various sectors of life and NiMet’s essential contribution to the nation’s sustainable development position the agency as a key player in providing crucial services across diverse sectors and expressed his determination to elevate NiMet’s performance to a world-class standard.
With a clear vision for excellence, Anosike declared his dedication to implementing strategic initiatives leveraging the commitment and support of the staff to ensure NiMet continues to be a beacon of precision and reliability in meteorological services.
Reviewing the performance of Anosike, NIMET’s Director of Human Resources, Dr. Nasiru Sani, appraised the Director General and said that since he was appointed he has galvanized all sectors of the agency.
He said, “A lot is going on at NiMet at the moment. Across all the Directorates, not just in the area of capacity building. Shortly after the appointment of the Director General and Chief Executive Officer, also Nigeria’s Permanent Representative with World Meteorological Organization (WMO), Prof. Charles Anosike, he organized a management retreat for the newly appointed Directors and other senior management staff. That workshop was quite enlightening.
“We discussed vision and goal alignment. It was drilled down to the various directorates how what we do at NiMet must always align to what the Tinubu government is trying to achieve, linking it with the Aviation sector roadmap of Festus Keyamo,the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development.” Nasiru further said that Anosike and NIMET management team prioritised capacity development, and are working so hard at the same time to reposition the agency, adding that so many initiatives are ongoing in the agency, “but specifically looking at the HR Directorate that I head, in the first quarter of 2024, the agency has spent over N140 million on training of over 100 staff members.”
“In May senior staff embarked on another round of training focusing on leadership and performance management, while junior level staff were trained in ethics and performance management.
“Capacity development has become a culture under the new management. The staff say that this is unprecedented and we are seeing the effects already. Staff morale and motivation are higher. Productivity has increased in line with the federal government’s performance management metrics. We are strictly tasked to ensure accurate reporting of weather and climate information. There are new tools, software and ways of analysing weather patterns. Through training, staff members are able to adopt these new methods and perform their roles effectively and efficiently,” he said.
Arthur Eriye
L-R: The Managing Director Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho in a handshake with the Chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Zacch Adedeji, when Adedeji paid a courtesy working visit to the NPA boss at the NPA head office in Marina Lagos… yesterday
The Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA) and the Bank of Industry (BOI) yesterday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the disbursement of a N75 billion intervention fund aimed at supporting Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across the country.
The deal was sealed between the NACCIMA President, Dele Kelvin Oye Esq., and the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the
Bank of Industry (BOI), Dr. Olasupo Olusi, at BOI’s office, in Lagos. Olusi, who expressed optimism about the partnership noted, “Today’s MOU is a reinforcement of our commitment to create a more vibrant and accessible financing environment for Nigerian businesses. With the support of NACCIMA, we believe we can expand our reach and magnify our impact.”
Addressing journalists at the event, Oye described the BOI as an engine of growth, and a catalyst for transformation in Nigeria’s industrial landscape, noting that the intervention will help address
the funding challenges of MSMEs, while galvanizing growth across a diverse array of sectors, from agro and food processing to creative industries, healthcare, and renewable energy, among others. According to him, “It is indeed a great honour to stand before you today as the President of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA) at this significant occasion of our Memorandum of Understanding signing with the Bank of Industry (BOI). Today, we do not simply convene; we gather to forge bonds, to kindle a partnership, and to reaffirm
our collective commitment to the growth and sustenance of our nation’s economy.
“As the apex chamber of commerce in Nigeria and the largest business organization in West Africa, NACCIMA has always stood on the frontline of advocating for policies and practices that elevate the business environment and invigorate the entrepreneurial spirit across our land. Our broadest objective is clear—to champion the cause of commerce and industry so that Nigerian businesses can thrive in a competitive global landscape. We are driven by the belief that a
FIRS Boss Commends NPA on Success of Tinubu’s Sale of Crude Oil in Naira Initiative
Eromosele Abiodun
The Chairman, Technical SubCommittee, on the implementation of the Federal Government’s policy on domestic sales of crude oil and refined products in Naira, Zacch Adedeji, has commended the OneStop-Shop (OSS) team, led by the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) for ensuring smooth operations.
Speaking when he visited the NPA Headquarters yesterday in Lagos , 2024, Adedeji who is also the Executive Chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), thanked the team led by NPA for, “playing a pivotal role in the successful implementation of the presidential directive on the domestic sales of crude oil and refined products in Naira.”
According to Adedeji: “We recognize that this pioneering effort is a significant achievement,
and no doubt reflects your commitment and patriotism. Thus, we encourage you to maintain the hard work and dedication that has made this initiative a success. We also extend our gratitude to all participating agencies for their invaluable cooperation and support. Thank you for your outstanding teamwork and service to the nation.”
Responding, the Managing Director of NPA, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho said, “This commendation can only spur us to do more in advancing this noble initiative. Let me seize this moment to specially appreciate the Honourable Minister of Marine & Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola for providing the leadership that catalyzed our success on this venture. We also thank the tireless Chairman of the Technical Sub-Committee, Zacch Adedeji
for the unwavering support that culminated in this milestone.”
He added, “With the success of this audacious initiative to sell crude and allied products in Naira to domestic refiners, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has in addition to saving losses running into billions of Naira, guaranteeing national energy security, deepening balance of trade and creating jobs, also sustainably put an end to the scarcity of petroleum products and the excruciating queues that hitherto characterized the yuletide season.”
This development is coming on the heels of the announcement by Dangote Petroleum Refinery of a reduction in the ex-depot price of its Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) to N899.50 per litre.
Other members of the team are drawn from; Nigerian Maritime
Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Chief of Naval Staff, Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Export Processing Zone Authority (NEPZA), Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Comptroller General, Nigeria Immigration Service, Port Health Service, Nigeria National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and Dangote Refineries Limited. The Depot and Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPMAN), Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) and Major Energies Marketers Association of Nigeria (MEMAN) constitute the OSS team.
prosperous business community is the bedrock of a prosperous nation.”
Oye further noted, “Today, as we sign this MOU, we acknowledge the critical role that the Bank of Industry has played as a beacon of hope, an engine of growth, and a catalyst for transformation in Nigeria’s industrial landscape. The BOI’s commitment to providing financial and advisory support to our industries resonates deeply with our vision at NACCIMA. By extending long-term financing and expert advisory services, the BOI has empowered large, medium, and small enterprises alike, galvanizing
growth across a diverse array of sectors—from agro and food processing to creative industries, healthcare, and renewable energy.
“However, we find ourselves at a crossroads—a moment where we must seize the opportunity to enhance the Bank of Industry’s capacity to support our economy further. If we are to realize the full potential of this great nation, we must advocate for increased funding and robust resources for the BOI. This will enable the bank to extend its reach, amplify its impact, and support more businesses in realizing their visions.
Good Mama Detergent Rewards Consumers
Good Mama Detergent, a leading brand from Eko Supreme Resources Nigeria Limited, has successfully wrapped up its vibrant ‘Good Mama’s Day Out’ Event, leaving a lasting impact across multiple communities. Building on the success of the first-of-its-kind event, ‘Naija Queen Open Market Fashion Show’, this dynamic initiative brought the Good Mama experience directly to consumers’ doorsteps, creating memorable moments by encouraging them to showcase their best selves while rewarding their loyalty to the Brand. The campaign, which kicked off on Saturday, the 23rd of November in Ibadan, continued with popular celebrity and social media influencer Tomike Adeoye, also known as Olori Ebi, hosting the event in Lagos. The final event was done in Ilorin, ensuring all the attendees were taken on a whole new fashion adventure while also showcasing the relevance of the Good Mama brand to their day-to-day
looks and fabric care.
During the events, the Brand Manager, Ramat Haruna stated that the Good Mama’s Day Out was designed to celebrate personal style and community spirit and provide an engaging platform for consumers to showcase their best selves while connecting with the Good Mama brand in a more memorable and fun way. Reflecting on the campaign’s purpose and success, the Head of Marketing, Toyin Dania shared, “For the Good Mama brand, the consumers remain at the heart of everything that’s done, and the ‘Good Mama’s Day Out’ campaign was an opportunity to celebrate consumers’ confidence and style. This campaign allowed us to go beyond simply selling a product—we created a community-driven experience, recognizing our loyal consumers and giving them a platform to showcase their fashion statements in a fun and interactive way.”
The Flipside of Air Travel Experience in Nigeria
Nigeria has so much to offer the world, from its culture to tourist destinations, but foreigners who may want to visit the country face hostility at Nigeria’s airports due to actions of security operatives, writes Chinedu Eze
Over the years travellers leaving and coming to Nigeria narrate harrowing experience about the hostility, harassment and extortion that go on at the nation’s international airports, where officials from the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), the Nigeria Quarantine Service rake in money everyday from passengers and their cargo. There have been efforts to stem this obnoxiously ugly tradition by government but despite their efforts, eliminating corruption and touting at the airports has not worked. In fact, many times the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria
(FAAN) management had tried to check the excesses of these operatives but it gave rise to clashes between them and FAAN. When challenged, some of the security operatives would insist on staying at the airport because they were deployed from their headquarters and, therefore, nobody can upstage them. But recently, the Minister of Aviation and Aeronautical Development, Fetsus Keyamo, routed a Nigeria Immigration Service official who harassed a foreigner at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos.
GROwING LOvE FOR NIGERIA
In recent times one can notice that due to
the accomplishments of Nigerians in the Diaspora, the success of the entertainment industry in Nigeria and the obsession of some blacks in Europe and Americans to identify their root and visit Africa, many foreigners want to come to Nigeria, despite the reports of insecurity, but those people face two key challenges, the cumbersome process of obtaining Nigerian visa and the inefficient system of visa on arrival. The second and major factor is the way travellers are treated at Nigeria’s airports. Nigeria is a virgin, unravished land. It is the provenance of black Africa. With intentional efforts and good policies from government, it is projected that more foreigners would have
been visiting Nigeria, but Nigeria is not in the first and not even in the first 10 countries visited in Africa. This is despite its huge population, the export of inimitable tradition, its huge, ubiquitous workforce all over the world and the predilection of Nigerians to marry from anywhere in the world; yet, international tourism is still poor in Nigeria. In the data of five most visited countries in Africa (2018), Morocco is number one with 12.3 million visitors; Egypt – 11.3 million visitors; South Africa – 10.5 million visitors; Tunisia – 8.3 million visitors and Mozambique – 2.7 million visitors.
ProPerty & environment
WTC Abuja Driving Investment, Economic Transformation in Nigeria
Bennett Oghifo
The Minister for Industry, Trade, and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, has lauded the bold strides and progress of the World Trade Center (WTC) Abuja in promoting trade, driving investment, and contributing to Nigeria’s economic transformation.
As Abuja’s only AAA (tripleA) mixed-use development, WTC Abuja seamlessly blends functionality with sophistication. Its world-class offerings include state-of-the-art office spaces, luxury apartments, modern conference facilities, and a clubhouse equipped with a gymnasium, swimming pool, squash courts, tennis courts, a spa, and a dedicated children’s play area.
With its unparalleled amenities and prime location, the World Trade Center Abuja has firmly established itself as the ultimate destination for exceptional living, working, and lifestyle experiences in the city
Dr. Oduwole gave this commendation at the End-of-Year Cocktail Event of WTC Abuja held at the prestigious World Trade Center, WTC Abuja podium, aptly named Sapphire Soiree and themed ‘Resilience, Brilliance, and Sophistication.’
“I am truly impressed with the World Trade Center Abuja. When individuals and institutions set out to boost trade and exports, they deserve our full support. The current currency challenges present an opportunity for Nigerian businesses to export, as our local products have become globally competitive. Exports are Nigeria’s path to future growth,” she said.
She praised the initiatives
of WTC Abuja, describing it as more than a global brand but a “powerful engine for trade facilitation,” which her ministry fully supports. The Minister highlighted the success of WTC Abuja’s recent trade facilitation trip to India, the tech capital of Asia, emphasizing the vital role of public-private sector collaboration in driving trade, investment, and foreign direct investment.
While acknowledging the tough economic climate of the past year, Dr. Oduwole expressed optimism for 2025, noting that the economy is on the right trajectory. She disclosed that her ministry’s focus for 2025 would be on empowering SMEs through exports, leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) to eliminate trade barriers and open up the African market for Nigerian businesses.
In his remarks, the Vice President of WTC Abuja, Mr. Karim Ahmed Adelaja, highlighted the remarkable achievements and milestones of the WTC Abuja over the past year. These included signing strategic Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with MUSAID Nigeria and WTC Cairo, introducing innovative technologies such as the Smart Check application for building management at the facility, and fostering partnerships across diverse sectors, including oil and gas, defence electronics, and IT.
“Thanks to our residents and partners, WTC Abuja has become a beacon of opportunity in West Africa and a key player in the global WTC network,” Mr. Adelaja said. He also unveiled some of
WTC Abuja’s plans for 2025. These include launching a Trade Accelerator Programme to prepare Nigerian businesses for global markets, leading a delegation of Nigerian businesses to participate in the Global Business Forum (GBF) in Marseille, France, helping to strengthen trade ties and unlocking international opportunities, and integrating cutting-edge security measures to position WTC Abuja as the most secure commercial hub in the region. Additionally, the exclusive WTC Abuja Clubhouse, a private hub aimed at enhancing recreation, culture, and community well-being for residents, will be unveiled in the first quarter of 2025.
“Our mission is to attract international brands, foster innovation, and unlock global opportunities for Nigerian enterprises. WTC Abuja is more than a landmark; it is Nigeria’s gateway to global trade,” Mr. Adelaja declared.
Also speaking at the event, Mr. David Opeyemi Oke, Head of Trade Services at WTC Abuja, announced two MOUs signed with the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) and AfriLabs, a Pan-African network of over 450 innovation hubs. The partnership with AfriLabs focuses on advancing digital trade, technology commercialization, and entrepreneurship across Africa. It also includes cross-promotion of events, ecosystem convenings, and exploring opportunities in key sectors such as agriculture, health, and education. Through this collaboration, WTC Abuja will connect AfriLabs to global investment opportunities via the World Trade Center Association (WTCA) network.
The World Trade Center Abuja is a prestigious real estate complex strategically located in the heart of the Central Business District of Nigeria’s Federal Capital
Territory. It boasts the city’s only Grade A commercial office spaces, spanning 22 floors and offering over 33,000 square meters of premium lettable space. Complementing this
is a 24-floor residential tower featuring 120 super-luxury apartments, thoughtfully designed to meet the highest standards of elegance and functionality.
Landlords Appeal to Lagos as LABSCA Officials Allegedly Seal Homes Unlawfully
Fadekemi Ajajaiye
Some residents and property owners of Victory Estate in Alimosho LGA of Lagos State have petitioned the State Government, decrying the alleged malicious and unlawful sealing of their houses. According to them in a
petition written on their behalf on their instructions by their solicitor, FELIX Akinnisola Olubodun and Co, they were out on December
3, 2024 and returned home to meet their houses under locks and keys, allegedly by the State Building and Control Agency (LABSCA), stating that between October 4 and 29, 2024, more than three threatening notices were pasted on some selected properties in the community, with the landlords of the affected houses, reaching out to the persons whose phone numbers were written on the notices to inform them that they were already in the process of complying with Government directive on building documentation, aware of the amnesty for property owners to make it possible for them to update their building permits and all other necessities.
Surprisingly, in the words of some of the affected landlords, Engr. Mike Abulatan and Mr. Bodunde Adeyinka, without anyother notice of any form,
they returned home from their outings on the day to meet their homes locked up without any lawful justification, stating that it is even more appalling when it’s realised that none of the affected properties is distressed in any form, neither was there any undergoing construction or reconstruction work, all being wholly completed buildings fully tenanted a long time ago, with the residents aware of the State Government’s demand on property owners to regularise and update their building approvals and other relevant title documents and accordingly working already on them and were at various levels with relevant agencies, claiming that the threats and sealings were limited to some that the LABSCA operators perceived could be extorted and coerced to part with money for them by force,
FG Gives Building Owners on Lagos’ Shoreline a Month’s Ultimatum
Fadekemi Ajakaiye
The Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development has given owners of buildings and other structures along Lagos’ shoreline to do proper
clearance and documentation within a month or their property would be demolished. Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Mr Ahmed Dangiwa, stated this in Lagos during a stake-
holders’ meeting on land administration, as well as a physical tour and assessment of Banana Island, Osborne Phases One and Two, Park View/ Foreshore Estates and the shoreline.
Dangiwa said the federal government has authority over shoreline titles, adding developers who failed to comply with legal requirements of appropriate sanction.
their community under the siege, being deep inside, leaving other communities and buildings behind to move in there in a manner suggestive of a vindictive and malicious enforcement to make it unlawful, vengeful, vindictive, malicious and illegal, realising that the Government amnesty on the programme remains in place till December 31, 2024. To make it all the more suspicious, Abulatan and Adeyinka said as they got home on the day,they met their situation with the instruction that they meet them at their Boladele, Oshodi office and we inquired why, because we have always met with LABSCA officials at the Alimosho LG Secretariat, that being our LG and leaving them wondering till date why it has to be so this time, asking them to leave their LGA to go to Oshodi/Isolo LG, another LGA to meet them.
for Documentation
“To curb these practices, the ministry issued a onemonth ultimatum for all developers on shorelines to regularise their papers or risk having their properties revoked and demolished.
“We have observed numerous haphazard developments along the shoreline, where people have reclaimed and built on land without proper clearance or authorisation. This is unacceptable.”
WTC skyscraper, Abuja
L-R: Chief Operating Officer, Gracias Global Homes & Property Ltd, Mr.Wale Ponnle; Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arch. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa; Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Chairman, Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Housing, Hon. Segun Olabisi Ege; and Special Adviser to Lagos State Governor on Housing, Barr. Barakat Odunuga-Bakare, during a 2-dAY Lagos Real Estate Market Place Conference and Exhibitions organised by Lagos State Real Estate Regulatory Authority in Victoria Island, Lagos... recently
L-R: Business Development Manager, Mr. Emmanuel Anele Ugochukwu; Executive Director, Mrs. Marita Abdul; Managing Director, Dr. Adekunle Abdul; and Head of Operations, Mrs. Ochanya Udeme-Usoro, all of Metro and Castle Limited during the third edition of its ‘Realtors Hangout’, held in Lekki, Lagos...recently
L-R: Board of Trustees (BoT) of Ikuru Town HCDT members, Mrs. Lucy Owonfe and Sir Jonah Oke; Chairman, BoT of Ikuru Town HCDT, Prof. Lysias Dodd; and another member, BoT of Ikuru Town HCDT, Dr. Gogo Eneikareawaji, at the Lekoil Nigeria Limited and Green Energy International Limited inauguration of renovated school buildings and flag-off ceremony of Ikuru Town Water Project held at Ikuru Town in Andoni Local Government Area, Port Harcourt, Rivers State… recently
L-R: National President, Men’s Fellowship of the Methodist Church Nigeria, Dr. Kehinde Oladeji; President, Wesley Cathedral, Olowogbowo, Lagos Circuit, Brother Taiwo Akinya; and President, South West Zone and the Archdiocese of Lagos, Dr. Oladele Taiwo, at the just-concluded biennial South-west convention of the church men’s fellowship held in Lagos… recently
L-R: Secretary, Lagos State Grinding Machine Operators Association (LSGMOA) and beneficiary, Waheed Olaniyi; member of LSGMOA, Mr. Obaare Salami; member, representing Apapa federal constituency, Lagos State, Hon. Adedayo Adesola; and other beneficiaries and members of LSGMOA, Ibrahim Mudashir and Yemisi Oyialoye, during an empowerment programme and donation of items to members of the Apapa federal constituency by the House member in Lagos… recently
General Manager (Finance and Accounts), Federal Housing Authority, Mr. Adam Ndagi Mohammed (left), receiving his corrected version of his doctorate thesis in Public Sector Accounting, after a successful external defence from the External Examiner, the acting Vice Chancellor of IBB University Lapai, Niger State, Prof Hassan Ibrahim, during the ANAN University’s 7th doctoral VIVA VOCE in Abuja… recently
L-R: Groom’s father, Olusegun Bakare; bride’s mother, Mrs. Mercy Olufadebo; the newly wedded couple, Mr. and Mrs. Adesanya Blessing Bakare; bride’s uncle, Mr. Demola Ogungbesan; and groom’s mother, Mrs. Olukemi Bakare, at the wedding ceremony of the couple in Lagos… recently
The Administrator, Christ Healing Evangelical Church, Ketu, Lagos headquarters, Asst. Pastor Tomiwa Fesobi; his colleague, Asst. Pastor Iyabo Adelusi; retired Resident Pastor for Fadeyi branch of the church in Lagos, Mrs. Titilayo Noibi; her husband, Sir Tola Aramide Noibi; the United Kingdom, London branch Resident Pastor/General Overseer’s wife, Cecelia Ogunfowokan; and the General Overseer of the church, Pastor Samuel Babatunde Ogunfowokan, after the church 2024 Annual Thanksgiving reception held at its headquarters in Ketu, Lagos… recently
Christy ray okoye: Unbroken and Unstoppable Champion of Women’s empowerment
ifitedunu, a town in the dunukofia Local Government area of anambra State, is home to Chief (Mrs.) Christy ray Okoye, iyom Okwesilieze, a trailblazing woman of many accomplishments. as the highest traditional title holder given to a woman in igbo, she has made a name for herself in various fields, including education, business, and community service. Her passion for helping others has driven her to achieve great things. With a background in politics, where she witnessed firsthand the exploitation of women, Okoye remains committed to empowering women and creating positive change. Now, as she prepares to take on a new role as ambassador Extraordinaire to Eze dunu, igwe of ifitedunu, igwe (dr) Emeka ilouno, a position she will officially assume on december 29th, 2024, during the prestigious Ofala festival, Okoye continues to inspire women everywhere with her story of resilience and determination. in this exclusive interview with MARY MNAH, she opens up about her life, her experiences, and her vision for a brighter future for women and girls
Beyond COFHA, who is Christy Ray Okoye? Can you share with us the lesser-known aspects of your life and accomplishments?
Iam Chief (Mrs.) Christy Ray Okoye, Iyom Okwesilieze. Iyom is the highest traditional title given to a woman in Igbo. I am a chief and also an Iyom.
My father was a politician and held various political positions, ranging from chairperson of National Party of Nigeria (NPN), and then, Nigeria Peoples Party (NPP), at a point he was a chairman of Nigerian State Scholarship Board. He was a parliamentarian of the First Republic in the 60s. And then later on, he became a proprietor, built a school, Zixton Primary and Secondary Schools. It was a boarding school, the first of its kind in Eastern Nigeria.
I started schooling at Zixton, that’s my father’s school. That’s where I had my primary, part of my secondary school. Then, Queen of the Rosary College of (QRC) Onitsha. And then University of Nigeria, Nsukka, where I have a bachelor’s degree in Education Administration.
After my youth service, I took up a brief teaching appointment with the Lagos State Government. Brief, because I voluntarily retired after 13 years. I went into teaching because I got married then, and I felt I needed time for my children and family. So that’s what exactly took me to teaching.
I taught for 13 years and retired as the vice-principal to go into private business because I thought that I wasn’t quite fulfilled in terms of financial capacity with the teaching profession. So I went into business. I opened Raynes Oil and Gas business. In fact, I would describe myself as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Raynes Group of Companies. Under that, I had the Rays Oil and Gas, Raynes Jewelry and Raynes Fabric. So I had these three businesses running at the same time.
I had a brief touch on politics. As I said, my father was a politician, so I was interested in politics. I joined the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and went as far as being the woman leader of the presidential campaign, which exposed me to a lot of things that happened in politics. Particularly pertaining to women, it really exposed me.
But at the end of the day, I must fully confess that I discovered that my philosophy in life was not well aligned with the kind of politics that they did in Nigeria. Most times, the women are exploited. It’s either you are exploited or you don’t go far. That is the truth about it, or you have the Godfather. Women are really exploited.
This is part of why at my retirement, I decided that I have to go into a lot of charity work, particularly to help women. And children, because they are the most vulnerable. I saw it in politics, where women were exploited because they were looking just to contest a particular position. Of course, most of them didn’t have the money. So the men and the so-called Godfathers, felt they had the right to exploit these women.
So I had a lot of cases coming to me as a woman leader of the APGA presidential campaign. So those things threw me off in politics. That was not the kind of idea or the politics I saw my father play in the 60s. So because of that, I had to withdraw from active politics. And then, moreover, at my age, I think that God has blessed me enough that I think I have to give back to society. And that brings me to the various charity and mentoring organizations I belong to.
I will start with the primary one, the Committee of Friends for Humanity (COFHA), which I have been a member of for over 30 years. Since inception, I’ve been a COFHA member. And I was privileged to be the third president of COFHA, under which I have done a lot for the association.
And just to mention a few, during my time, I built the emergency centre at the Isolo General Hospital. That was one of the things I did. It’s there, it’s still there. Not only did it but it was built and furnished. Renovated Gbagada General Hospital, renovated that of the general hospital in Apapa Health Center, and also the Ikeja General Hospital. During my tenure, we refurbished all these hospitals.
And then we made numerous visits, so many visits in most of these same hospitals. Helping people settle all the bills and then, you know, help the sick. It was during my tenure that I started the Women Empowerment Programme in COFHA. And then during my tenure, we empowered over 100 women.
Not only in Lagos, I took the empowerment programme as far as Awka. Peter Obi was then the governor and his wife, Margaret, was of help to us. Then we did an empowerment and it was 50 women we empowered.
I must say that my personal experience has taught me the importance of empowerment. In my village,
I fought for my rights as a woman to inherit my father’s property. The kingsmen initially denied me and my sisters the right to inherit, citing traditional laws. However, we challenged this decision in court and eventually won.
This experience taught me that empowerment is crucial for women, especially in Nigeria. Without empowerment, women are often exploited and denied their rights. I believe that empowerment is key to changing the narrative and creating a more just and equitable society for women.
You are set to be installed as Ambassador Extra-Ordinaire to Eze Dunu, Igwe of Ifitedunu on Dec 29th during the 2024 Ofala festival. What does this appointment mean to you?
So, this question of this new title, Ambassador Extraordinary, bestowed upon me by His Royal Highness, Igwe (Dr) Emeka Ilouno, the Eze Dunu, the Igwe of Ifitedunu - like the letter he wrote to me, stating that he has watched me over the years and seen my commitment to women and children within his kingdom. He then decided to honour me by giving me, for the first time, the position of Ambassador Extraordinary. This is a historic moment, as it has not happened in the history of our time in Ifitedunu.
With this appointment, I will be in a better position to continue promoting the welfare of the girl child, encouraging and empowering them, and advocating for women’s equality and gender equality. This aligns with what we were told at the UN: that we need to strengthen structures and institutions to achieve these goals.
I thank God that with this position, I am in a better stance to communicate directly with the people in the cabinet and ensure that our women and girls receive what they deserve. This appointment means a lot to me.
As the saying goes, “to whom much is given, much is expected.” This appointment serves as a reminder that I need to work harder. While my past efforts have been acknowledged, I see this appointment as a call to action, urging me to do more.
Now, I will liaise with the Igwe, the cabinets, and the women who need empowerment and the girl child, to create more awareness. If they have problems, I can discuss them with the Igwe, and together, we can find solutions.
I’m happy to be retired, as I’m now prepared to dedicate more time to these efforts. I’ve been doing similar work, and my husband’s role as the traditional prime minister of our place is an added advantage. He is called Onowo, the traditional prime minister, and he is second to the Igwe.
How do you plan to balance your Ambassador Extraordinaire role with other commitments, and what sacrifices do you anticipate making? Definitely! You see, when you are doing what you like, you don’t feel it. My passion is helping people. That is my passion. So sometimes, I can quite admit it can be quite taxing. And sometimes you get tired. But for the mere fact that I said, no, no, no, I’m tired, leave me alone. Sometimes they call me for one thing. Maybe by that time I’m tired, leave me alone. But by the time I sleep and wake up, I said, no, I have to attend to this. I have to attend to that. So first of all is passion, and I thank God for grace. Whenever I refer to myself as an amazing daughter of an amazing grace, that is how I refer to myself. Everything I say, I say, amazing grace. It’s all by the grace of God. It’s not by my power, it’s not by my might, but I think it’s the grace of God. When God calls you for a particular job, he gives you all it takes. And sometimes I wonder, where do I get all the finance? How do I cope with all these environments? I’m retired, though some of my businesses are running, because I’ve done some investments that are yielding. But if I should tell you how much I spend on a monthly basis, I myself, I wonder, how do you make all this money? And I still do it. I’m happy doing it. You see, when you are doing what you have the call for, something that makes you happy, you don’t feel it. So I still continue to thank God and put my strength in God. Like I said, the grace of God is sufficient for me, once I have that grace of God with me. The sky is my limit.
What personal qualities have driven your success in community service, and how can others emulate them?
There is a proverb that says, “Seeing is believing.” When you see somebody doing something and you watch that person, you learn. For me, humility is my watchword. I can descend to any level, irrespective of my position. I never look at my status; I focus on the task at hand.
I believe this personal quality is a gift from God. He has given me humility and a strong sense of focus. Once I set my mind on something, I am determined to achieve it. There’s no turning back. This focus has been the key to my success in business and as the president of COFHA.
Additionally, I’m a very organized person. I plan and prioritize my tasks, keeping my eyes on the goal. Once I set my sights on something, I don’t get distracted until I achieve it. I believe
these qualities - humility, focus, and organization - are essential for success in community service, and I encourage others to cultivate them as well.
You should have been in politics to bring about changes in society with the kind of zeal and passion burning in you.
Remember what I told you - that I entered politics with a zeal to bring about change, having been raised in a political setting. However, when I realized that the system didn’t align with my philosophy of life, I knew I couldn’t continue. I have what it takes to make a difference, so why should I compromise my values to get a ticket? I witnessed how women were being taken advantage of, simply because they wanted to contest and needed a ticket. That’s not the kind of life I want to live. I want to earn things based on merit, not by licking someone’s boots. This appointment, for instance, was purely based on merit. I wasn’t even present when the Igwe in Council sat, but I received the letter. My husband wasn’t involved in the process, either. It was a recognition of my abilities, and that’s what matters to me. That’s why I left politics. I’m happy with myself because, in life, it’s essential to be happy with what you do. If your actions don’t align with your philosophy, you’ll experience inner conflict. But when you’re doing something that brings you joy, you remain happy. I always tell people that a life worth living is one where you make an impact and leave the world better than when you came. If you’re not making a positive difference, then you’re a liability to humanity. We should strive to make the world a better place. With my new appointment and the other things I’ve been doing, I feel very fulfilled. I’d rather be making a real difference than being a senator who simply mismanages funds meant for the poor and infrastructure. That doesn’t make sense to me.
What advice would you give a young woman who wants to go into politics?
If a young woman came to me saying she wanted to go into politics, I would tell her, “I wish you all the best.” But I would also be honest with her - it’s not going to be easy. As a woman in a male-dominated field, especially in Nigeria, you’ll face unique challenges. Although, if we need to change the narrative, we need women to be there. We need women in the House of Legislators and in the lawmakers’ chambers. Because most of the bills they pass favor men. So, we need to be there.
But how do we get there? I must tell you the truth - it’s not an easy task. I tried it myself. Those already in politics will also tell you what to expect. In Nigeria, politics is a male-dominated game. So, when I see young women interested in politics, I encourage them to try. But I also advise them to be confident and prepared. If you don’t have your head held high, you’ll end up getting hurt. If it works out, fine. If you’re lucky to have a godfather who can protect your interests, fine. But it’s not easy. One of the challenges is the amount of money involved. I know how much I spent during my time in politics. My business almost went bankrupt, and I wasn’t even contesting for a position. I was just supporting people I believed in.
I don’t think everyone should be in politics. If you see someone who is good enough, support them. That’s my philosophy. So, I’d tell the young woman, “I wish you good luck, but it’s not easy for women in politics.” It’s easier for men, which is why there are more men in politics. It’s not that men are more qualified than women; it’s just that the terrain is tougher for women, especially those who want to maintain their dignity.
When will you assume your role as Ambassador Extraordinaire, and what are your thoughts on the upcoming Ofala festival?
I’ve begun preparing for my new role, and I’ve accepted the appointment via a formal letter. The official installation ceremony will take place on December 29th, 2024, during the Ofala festival.
The Ofala festival is a significant event where chieftaincy titles and recognitions are conferred upon deserving individuals. It’s a wonderful opportunity, especially for the younger generation, to experience our rich cultural heritage. During the festival, the Igwe showcases his cabinet and expresses gratitude to his people for their support over the years. It’s a joyous occasion that brings the community together, allowing the Igwe to connect with his people and honor outstanding individuals within and outside the community. The festival is also an excellent opportunity for the younger ones to learn about our culture, as they get to see various masquerades and experience the richness of our traditions.
Christy Ray Okoye
African Development Bank, PMI Partner to Strengthen Capacity Building
Emma Okonji
In a significant move to further strengthen the internal capacity of its staff through a structured project management training and certification programme, the African Development Bank (AfDB) has entered into a partnership with Project Management Institute (PMI), the world’s leading authority in project management, to train its staff.
This will see an initial cohort of 200 AfDB staff being equipped with advanced project management skills, fostering greater efficiency and success across its extensive portfolio of development projects.
Speaking about the partnership, MD, sub-Saharan Africa at PMI, George Asamani, said: “As the project management landscape evolves rapidly,
partnering with PMI enables the Bank to access the latest methodologies, including PMI’s advancements in AIdriven project management tools. This collaboration places the AfDB at the forefront of best practices, empowering teams to tackle complex, large-scale projects with enhanced adaptability, agility, and the assurance of delivering measurable outcomes aligned with the Bank’s ambitious development goals.”
Membership will grant staff access to PMI’s extensive global network, resources, tools, and industry insights, fostering professional growth and connection within the broader project management community.
A key component of PMI’s support is a structured training and certification programme tailored to equip AfDB staff
with essential project management skills. PMI’s authorised training partner will deliver the programme to ensure employees receive industryrelevant training. PMI will administer the exams, with successful candidates earning the gold-standard Project Management Professional (PMP) certification issued by PMI.
“PMI is honoured to partner the African Development Bank, an institution whose work aligns closely with our purpose to maximise project success to elevate our world,” Asamani further said.
Under the visionary leadership of the President of AfDB, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, the institution has consistently emphasised the importance of building internal capacity to ensure effective project delivery.
Nigerian Banks Harp on Cybersecurity Measures at Resilience Workshop
Amid growing concerns over cyber threats in the financial sector, the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) hosted a groundbreaking Cyber Resilience Table-Top Simulation Exercise for board members and executives. The one-day workshop aimed to enhance the cybersecurity preparedness of Nigerian banks in the face of escalating global cybercrime trends.
Delivering the welcome address, the First Vice President of CIBN, Mr. Dele Alabi, representing
Prof. Pius Deji Olanrewaju, praised EGT Europe Africa’s leadership under CEO Mrs. Abigail Odufat for championing cybersecurity awareness. “Cybersecurity is no longer optional. As banking leaders, we must remain vigilant to mitigate cyber threats,” he emphasised. The session highlighted alarming statistics: global financial institutions faced $5.7 billion in average cyberattack costs in 2023, with 20% of reported incidents targeting the financial sector. Phishing attacks, accounting for 41% of global cybercrimes in 2022,
have become more sophisticated with advancements in artificial intelligence (AI). Experts predict that by 2025, AI, Internet of Things (IoT) security, regulatory compliance, and evolving ransomware tactics will redefine cybersecurity landscapes.
The workshop’s centerpiece was a simulation exercise, offering participants hands-on experience in managing cyber incidents.
According to Mr. Alabi, “This practical approach mirrors real-world scenarios, equipping leaders to respond effectively to cyber threats.”
U.S. Commercial Service Honors Nigerian Business Community
U.S. Commercial Service Nigeria, led by Commercial Counselor Julie LeBlanc and Commercial Attaché Blake Murray, hosted over 450 Nigerian companies for the Networking with the USA (NUSA) Awards and Business Networking Event in Lagos.
The NUSA appreciation event is organized to honor Nigerian business owners who promote U.S. products and services and who have contributed significantly to the achievement of the goals and objectives of the U.S. Commercial Service in Nigeria - expansion of trade and investment between the United States and Nigeria.
U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria Richard Mills, Jr. delivered recorded welcome remarks to the attendees, highlighting
the robust U.S.-Nigeria trade and investment relationship. In his remarks, Ambassador Mills thanked the Nigerian companies for being vital contributors in strengthening a strong economic relationship that continues to grow, noting that two-way trade reached $11.2 billion in 2023, up from $10.4 billion the prior year.
Acting U.S. Consul General JoEllen Gorg delivered the keynote address of the day to the audience. She underscored the important contributions Nigerian companies are making to deepen the bilateral commercial relationship noting, “the United States and Nigeria share a strong commercial relationship, and our NUSA network stands as a testament to our commitment
to strengthening these ties and fostering economic growth.”
Attendees had the opportunity to review and reflect upon 2024 NUSA activities. Highlights of the year included leading 10 official Nigerian trade show delegations to the United States, 20 trade events that brought U.S. companies to Nigeria’s doorstep in Lagos and Abuja, and over 7,000 b2b meetings facilitated by the U.S. Commercial Service, among other high-visibility events.
The U.S. Commercial Service is the trade promotion arm of the U.S. Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration. Its office in Nigeria, Commercial Service Nigeria, has the primary objective of opening market opportunities for U.S. and Nigerian businesses.
Lekoil JV Awards Scholarship to 611 Host Community Students
Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt Green Energy International Limited (GEIL) & Lekoil Nigeria and Gas Investment Limited Joint Venture has awarded scholarships to 611 primary and secondary schools’ students from its host communities in Andoni Local Government Area of Rivers State.
This is as 1000 members of the communities also received bags of rice as livelihood packages from JV operators. The students beneficiaries were drawn from the host communities of the Joint Venture natives of Ugama Ekede, Ayama Ekede, Asukama and Asukoyet
communities in Andoni. The bursary/scholarships catered to students in primary, secondary, undergraduate and post-graduate levels from Ugama Ekede and Asukama communities.
A breakdown showed that 169 students from Ugama Ekede and 181 from Asukama benefited from the scholarship programme, while the bursary awards were given to 121 students from Ugama Ekede and 140 from Asukama.
Presenting the scholarships to primary and secondary school beneficiaries, representatives of the JV, Godwin Omayi, Security & Community Relations Officer (CRO), Lekoil, and Asuk
Michael Edwin, CRO, Green Energy, said the initiative was aimed at enhancing educational opportunities in the host communities, while serving as part of initiatives under the Ugama Ekede, Ayama Ekede, Asukama, and Asukoyet Host Community Development Trust (HCDT) Omayi stated; “This initiative underscores the commitment of Green Energy International Limited and Lekoil & Gas Investment Limited (GEIL/ LEKOIL JV) commitment to support youths’ educational advancement in host communities and fostering sustainable development through investment in human capital.
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 Basket
Crudes
made
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).
President, The Bridge Club (TBC), Abdulhakeem U. Mustapha and British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery, at TBC’s “An Evening With The British High Commissioner”, held in Lagos…recently
Agnes Ekebuike
Stock Market Sustains Positive Run for Eighth Consecutive Session, Gains N467bn
KayodeTokede
The Nigerian stock market sustained its positive run for the eighth consecutive session, appreciated by N467 billion yesterday over investors’ demand for Aradel Holdings Plc that gained 10 per cent.
Investors reacted by buying Aradel Holdings following the announcement of the Minister of Petroleum Resources’ approval for the sale of the Shell Petroleum Development Company
to Renaissance Africa Energy Limited.
The Nigerian Exchange Limited All Share Index (NGX ASI) rose by 770.56 basis points or 0.77 per cent to close at 101,248.02 basis points, with the Month-to-Date and Yearto-Date returns settling higher at +3.8per cent and +35.4per cent, respectively.
Also, market capitalisation gained N467 billion to close at N61.375 trillion.
On sectors, the NGX insur-
ance index (+3.8per cent), NGX Banking index (+0.7per cent), NGX Consumer Goods index (+0.7per cent), and NGX Oil & Gas index (+0.3per cent), while the NGX Industrial Goods index (-0.6per cent) index settled lower. Investor sentiment, as measured by market breadth, improved as 47 stocks advanced, while 17 declined. Honeywell Flour Mills, UACN and Aradel Holdings recorded the highest price gain of 10 per cent each to close at N5.50, N27.50 and
N730.40 respectively, per share.
MRS Oil Nigeria and Nigerian Aviation Handling Company (NAHCO) followed with a gain of 9.96 per cent each to close at N175.60 and N41.95 respectively, while Eterna rose by 9.88 per cent to close at N27.25, per share.
On the other hand, Tantalizers led the losers’ chart by 9.77 per cent, to close at N1.57, per share. Multiverse Mining & Exploration followed with a decline of 9.73 per cent to
close at N5.10, while John Holt declined by 9.68 per cent to close at N5.88, per share.
Caverton Offshore Support Group depreciated by 7.76 per cent to close at N2.26, while Omatek Ventures declined by 7.35 per cent to close at 63 kobo, per share.
Also, the total volume traded increased by 5.56 per cent to 411.374 million units, valued at N26.304 billion, and exchanged in 10,260 deals. Transactions in the shares of Universal Insurance
Thursday December 5th, 2024
Thisday Afrinvest Index Up 0.4%
Thisday Afrinvest 40 index rose 0.4% to print at 4,886.28 points due to price appreciation in GTCO (+2.0%), MTNN (+0.3%), and ZENITH (+0.2%). Cumulatively, these stocks account for 18.4% of the index.
Positive Close on Customs Street... ASI up 0.8%
Yesterday, the local bourse closed on an upbeat note as gains in TRANSCOH (+9.4%), GTCO (+2.0%) and NB (+7.1%) pushed the NGX -ASI up 0.8% to 101,248.02 points. Consequently, YTD return rose to 35.4% (previously: 34.4%), while market capitalisation advanced 0.8% to ₦61.4tn. Likewise, activity level strengthened as volume and value traded rose 5.6% and 185.9% to 411.4m units and ₦26.3bn respectively.
Bullish Sector Performance
Performance across our coverage sectors was bullish as five indices gained, while the Industrial Goods index fell 0.6% owing to profit-taking on BUACEMENT (-2.1%) and JOHNHOLT (-9.7%). Leading the gainers, the Insurance index rose 3.8% due to price uptick in AIICO (+9.6%) and CUSTODIA (+5.0%). Trailing, buying interest in GTCO (+2.0%), FBNH (+1.3%), NB (+7.1%) and NESTLE (+1.7%) pushed the Banking and Consumer Goods indices up 0.7% apiece. Similarly, the Oil & Gas and AFR-ICT indices gained 0.3% and 0.1% due to upbeat demand on MRSOIL (+10.0%), ETERNA (+9.9%), MTNN (+0.3%) and CHAMS (+2.6%).
Outlook
Investor sentiment, as measured by market breadth, improved to 0.51x (previously: 0.38x) as 47 stocks advanced, 17 declined while 69 closed flat. We expect the bullish performance to be sustained today, driven by year-end enthusiasm and portfolio rebalancing.
A Mutual fund (Unit Trust) is an investment vehicle managed by a SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) registered Fund Manager. Investors with similar objectives buy units of the Fund so that the Fund Manager can buy securities that willl generate their desired return.
An ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) is a type of fund which owns the assets (shares of stock, bonds, oil futures, gold bars, foreign currency, etc.) and divides ownership of those assets into shares. Investors can buy these ‘shares’ on the
floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange.
A REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) is an investment vehicle that allows both small and large investors to part-own real estate ventures (eg. Offices, Houses, Hospitals) in proportion to their investments. The assets are divided into shares that are traded on the Nigerian Stock Exchange.
GUIDE TO DATA:
Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira as at 18-December-2024, unless otherwise stated.
TRIBUTE
Nkechi Springs: Recognition of an Impactful Life
Nkechi Springs, a Maryland school musical owner —Hit Me with Music— real estate investor and philanthropist, was recently awarded an honorary doctorate by the Great Commission Theological Seminary while back home in Nigeria, the Abia government through the First Lady Mrs. Priscilla Otti, gave her an award of excellence for her humanitarian activities through the Erinma Oke Foundation. As she prepares for her fourth Annual Christmas Foundation to mark the birth of her school, NDUKA NWOSU writes about her impactful life of service
When Nkechi Springs left her country, Nigeria, she arrived in the United States the next day, January 21, 1995, immersed in a brutal winter experience. There was nothing pleasant about it. She often contemplated returning home to Nigeria. One of her missing ‘items’ was her dear mother, who, to date, she is very fond of.
“I was living a beautiful life in Nigeria. I wasn’t intrigued. I actually wanted to go back to Nigeria several times. I wasn’t excited like most people are when they come here. I missed my family, especially my mom,” she recalls. “I stopped Facebook after my mom passed. A lot of things stopped for me after that. God has been good with the pain.”
Beyond mother’s passage, Springs impacts her audience positively as a visionary who wants to leave behind a legacy for humanity and coming from a dynasty whose women were and remain Amazons walking on the sands of great achievements with their men. Interestingly, she is not wearing her impactful life like a pair of a workman’s overalls as she has time to attend to other vexatious issues of existence.
For the records, she is proud of her children because they have made her proud, evidence of how her American dream is something to talk about, “Ike will be 29 next month, Nnenna 24 and Ugo is 22. Ike was in the United States Air Force College (Intelligence) and served eight years. Nnenna studied Entrepreneurship with a minor in Media Marketing and Digital Fashion,” she says. “Nnenna works with Hollywood films under the wardrobe. Ugo graduated from Towson University and studied Psychology with Medicine Advisory. So, she is going to medical school in spring.”
Looking back, Springs can say staying back has paid off in every respect. Today, Springs is very much a part of the moving spirit in the educational upbringing of the young people of Maryland and where she lives. Did she prepare herself for this assignment in the general scheme of things? Her response is in the affirmative.
“I was at Alvan Ikoku College of Education first, then Abia State University and Montgomery College, Takoma Park, MD. and studied Education all through,” she adds. These exposures partly qualified her for her after-school music programme—Hit Me With Music—for young and talented minds in the city of Baltimore, Maryland. Sometime in September, the school had an open house musical programme with a complement-an art exhibition of the works of celebrity artist Dermont, including a painting on the wall of Chief Erinma Oke, who the daughter hinted was standing shoulder high with other musical greats. That means someday we shall be privileged to view and listen to the oeuvre of a musical legend on vinyl or a modern musical platform, among other talents of hers. It also gives us a glimpse of where the offspring, with her equally talented gifts, is coming from.
The programme provides children with enriching and transformative musical experiences, regardless of their background or financial situation. She observes that a dedicated team of passionate and talented individuals at Hit Me with Music Foundation is the organisation’s heartbeat. Each member
brings a unique blend of expertise, enthusiasm, and shared love for music, working tirelessly to create impactful programmes and initiatives.
As the Fourth Annual Christmas Foundation approaches, Springs has so much to crow about. She was recently awarded an honorary doctorate degree by the Great Commission Seminary College, an experience she titled ‘Grateful and Honored: A Recognition of God’s Grace’. In reaching out to her audience, she summarised the experience, which she penned as an immense honour in recognition of service in God’s vine yard. She added, “I had the immense honour of receiving an Honorary Doctorate in Christian Humane Letters from the Great Commission Theological Seminary, an accredited institution dedicated to equipping individuals for impactful
service in God’s kingdom. This moment was not just a recognition but a reminder of the greater call to live out God’s love in everything we do.
“For those wondering, Christian Humane Letters celebrates the study and application of moral and spiritual values in service to humanity. It’s about embodying the teachings of Christ—showing kindness, humility, and unwavering love for others. This recognition brought Galatians 6:9 to my heart: ‘Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up’.”
Springs also mentions that it is easy to feel discouraged in a world where good deeds are often criticised or overlooked. But let this serve as a reminder: our ultimate reward is in
While I am deeply honored to receive this recognition on Earth, I know it is God’s grace that sustains every good work. Let’s continue to press forward, doing good wherever we are planted. Together, we can sow seeds of hope, love, and faith in a world that needs it so much.
heaven. However, she points out that God sees every act of love, compassion, and service, whether recognised by people or not.
“While I am deeply honoured to receive this recognition on Earth, I know it is God’s grace that sustains every good work. Let’s continue to press forward, doing good wherever we are planted,” Springs explains. “Together, we can sow seeds of hope, love, and faith in a world that needs it so much. Stay encouraged, friends; your labour in love is never in vain.”
A distinguished Certified Home Healthcare Consultant with over 20 years of industry exposure, Springs owns several healthcarerelated businesses, including Atlas Home Consulting, Atlas Care Connect, Atlas Leesville, AtIas Home Healthcare Solutions, and NOW Behavioral Health, providing care for elderly patients and children in the state of Maryland and Arizona.
Renowned for her strategic consulting skills, she has launched over 500 healthcare businesses in the DMV Metro Area, offering operations, compliance, and business development expertise. With a bachelor’s degree in education, Springs is also a successful Real Estate investor. In her mission statement in setting up the children’s musical academy, Springs says it is to foster the holistic development of Baltimore City kids through music education and creative expression.
“We believe every child deserves the opportunity to discover his or her artistic potential and cultivate a lifelong love for music by providing access to high-quality music education,” says Springs. “We aim to inspire confidence, discipline, personal growth, student creativity and community engagement.”
She notes that the mission is complemented by a vision that seeks to continue to grow our after-school music education programme for Baltimore kids and positively impact their lives. Through our music education programmes, kids will learn music, valuable life skills, and other life-impacting values.
Back home, Springs has been etching an image of a fighter for what is best for society, especially the elderly, the less privileged and the downtrodden. Only recently did the Abia government honour her with pride. In a letter signed by the First Lady. Priscilla Otti. Early in the year, the Erimma Oke Foundation, founded by Springs, collaborated with the Abia LGA in the establishment of an ICT Centre. The whole episode from the state and local governments was one moment she again waxed lyrical about this mother from Israel.
“My mom was a force! I do not even know how to describe her. It all started with my grandma, Ugo, who was tall and very pretty. They called her Oguzo Oka! She was very tall and had a presence. She did not have a male child but turned my mom into a man,” Springs states. “My mom was a building contractor. I got into real estate from what I learned from her. I named my last child Ugo she reminds me of my grandma.” As the years unfold, the hope is that Springs will receive greater recognition globally and back home for her impactful life on humanity, doing good and asking for nothing in return like her grandmother Ugo and her mother Chief Erinma Oke, whose evergreen memories define her life and the values dominating her mindset.
Nkechi Springs
MINISTRY OF HEALTH'S TOUR OF SAGAR VITACEUTICALS...
L-R: National Coordinator, National Centre Control and Nuclear Medicine Programme, Federal Ministry of Health, Dr.
Oborevwori: States Should Support FG for National Progress Despite Party Affiliation
Says his govt's devt blueprint impacting Delta State
Omon-Julius Onabu in Asaba
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State has said for sustainable progress and national development, state governors should work in collaboration with the federal government, notwithstanding their political affiliations.
Oborevwori also asserted that his administration’s development blueprint, better known as the M.O.R.E Agenda, was visibly impacting the lives of the people of Delta State positively, less than two years since he took office.
The governor made the remarks in Asaba, at the commencement of the fifth Delta State Communication Workshop, themed, “Advancing Delta: Strategies for Public Communication and Effective Media Engagement.”
Represented by the Commissioner for Information, Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza, Oborevwori stated that it would be counter-productive for a governor interested in the peace, progress and development of Nigeria to be at loggerheads with the country's president.
He described the relationship between him and President Bola Tinubu as cordial, stressing that Mr. President is supportive of his administration.
Oborevwori said, "Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as the president of this country, is fully supporting our administration and it behoves us as government, media aides, partners and spokespersons to ensure that our strategic communication engagements must reflect and support the president, and reflect the policies, gains and advantages of the federal government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“It is only by doing this with
sincere commitment that we can attract comprehensive benefits and goodwill from the federal government for our people.
“It is also important to emphasise here, too, that as government spokespersons, media appointees, social media influencers and media partners, it is the communication policy of this administration that the best and sure way to respond to negative propaganda is to consistently present and promote our projects, initiatives and the verifiable, impactful achievements of the M.O.R.E Agenda, in order to counter their propaganda and shut them up decisively."
The governor charged government spokespersons, media appointees, social media influencers, and media partners to tackle propaganda and misinformation by show-casing the administration’s achievements to the people, stating that they are visible across the state.
He described as timely and appropriate the three-day capacity building programme, which was designed to enhance the skills and overall efficiency of media appointees and other participants.
The governor said, "Our projects, our accomplishments, and our M.O.R.E Agenda are steadily impacting positively on the lives of Deltans and bringing the dividends of democracy to our people across the three senatorial districts of the state.
“The need to enhance the skills and overall efficiency of media appointees to the governor in the propagation, promotion and dissemination of the achievements, activities, policies,
programmes and initiatives of our M.O.R.E Agenda, in its clearly defined components of Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms and Enhanced Peace and Security, cannot be over-emphasised.
“Your engagement and responsibilities as media personnel and partners with the Delta State government will, therefore, become even more expansive and comprehensive as we continue to deliver the pragmatic and life-impacting dividends of the M.O.R.E Agenda to Deltans.
“You must all be fully prepared for that in recognition and fulfilment of your critical importance, roles and responsibilities as government media personnel and partners, operating in
the dynamic social media sphere."
Oborevwori lauded the workshop coordinator and Director-General of Delta State Orientation and Communication Bureau, Dr. Fred Oghenesivbe, for sustaining the communication workshop.
Secretary to the State Government, Dr Kingsley Emu, said strategic communication was apt for any government, adding that the Oborevwori administration's strides in infrastructure are highlighted in the construction of 513 road projects across the state, while over 250,000 Deltans had been empowered by the state government under the various aspects of the D-CARES programme.
The Commissioner for Works
(Rural and Riverine Roads), Mr Charles Aniagwu, observed that Oghenesivbe had been consistent with promoting the state since the Okowa administration.
Aniagwu urged the workshop participants to remain attentive so as to benefit maximally from the training workshop.
Others who spoke were the Commissioner for Economic Planning, Mr Sonny Ekedayen; Director-General, Delta State Capital Territory Development Agency, Chief Patrick Ukah; Communications Manager to the Governor, Mr Jackson Ekwugum; former commissioner, Dr Festus Okubo; and Special Adviser to the Governor on Economic Planning,
Dr Barry Gbe.
Chief Trainer at the workshop, Professor Abigail Ogwezzy-Ndisika of the University of Lagos, said the workshop was a celebration of commitment to advancing media and communications in Delta State, adding that effective communication remains the bedrock of transformative governance.
In his welcome remarks, Oghenesivbe said the capacity training workshop began in 2019. He thanked Oborevwori for approving the 2024 workshop, and assured that modules had been designed purposely to equip the participants with the knowledge to do their jobs more efficiently and effectively.
FG Distributes Subsidised
The Federal Ministry of Agriculture on Thursday, begun the distribution of 16,000 bags of fertilizer to 6,000 wheat farmers across the state in this dry farming season.
The State Coordinator, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Isah Isyaku Hotoro, said the initiative was meant to increase the size of the food basket of the nation.
He said: "This is a special program that was designed to capture farmers,
smallholder farmers, the medium and of course the large-scale farmer in wheat production.
"And it is expected that the productivity per unit area of the farmers will be increased, and the expected returns of the farmers will also be increased.
"Farmers, especially the smallholder farmers with an average holding of 0.5 hectares, are expected to benefit with three bags of fertilizer, one bag of 50 kg wheat seed".
The coordinator further explained
that the distribution is expected to cover 3,000 hectares of land across all the 44 local governments areas of the state.
He pointed out that, on the rate of the subsidy given by the government to the farmers, 75% subsidy on three bags of fertilizer and one bag of wheat seed for which they pay only
N111,000 for the package.
A beneficiary, Sudawa Abdullahi of Bunkure Local Government Area said the scheme is timely as it will reduce the importation of wheat into
the country by enhancing the food basket of the nation.
According to Abdullahi, "The program is good, notwithstanding there are backdrop or backlash which we hope the government will address.
"The issue of the timing should be addressed as this is 19th of December but the goods have not been distributed yet. We want the government to commence the distribution around October for the irrigation farming.”
UNICEF Unveils World-class Pharmaceutical Warehouse in Katsina
Animal merchants in Kano State have concluded arrangements to supply processed meat to the southern part of the country, just as the state government and international partners built twenty modern slaughter houses in the state.
Chief butcher of the slaughter house, Alhaji Ubale Tattabara, disclosed this to journalists during inspection tour to one of the slaughter houses in Kura Local Government Areas of the state.
According to him, traders in Kano began preparation to export the processed meat instead of the usual way of supplying live ruminants like cows, sheep and goats to the region.
His words: "I want to tell you that beef and mutton would be processed, preserved here, and taken to Abuja FCT, the southern region and foreign countries for sale."
The move followed the provision of 20 slaughterhouses across 20 of the 44 local government areas of the state by the Kano the Agro Pastoral Development Project (KSAP), the Islamic Development Bank, Lives Livelihood Fund (LLF) and other international partners. According to the KSADP Infrastructure Engineer, Engr. Zaharaddeen Hamisu, each of the slaughterhouses has been built at the cost of N80 million, totaling N1.6 billion for the 20 abattoirs.
Hamisu elaborated: “Before then, if you visit any of the slaughterhouses in Kano City or any of the local government areas, you would hate to eat meat, because of the way the meat was being processed and handled.
“That was why the Kano State Government decided to upgrade and create 20 slaughterhouses in the state, install facilities and hand over to the Sarkin Powers of the areas.
“Now, the people are leveraging on this and are thinking of exporting processed meat instead of live animals.”
The Kura Slaughterhouse has four slaughter slabs. Two are short, for the cutting of light ruminants while the others are tall for small ruminants.
Francis Sardauna in Katsina
The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) has inaugurated a world-class pharmaceutical warehouse in Katsina State to ensure timely and equitable access to life-saving commodities in the state.
The pharma-grade warehouse, located in the premises of the Katsina State Drugs and Medical Supplies Agency, is part of UNICEF and partners’ initiatives to strengthen the healthcare system in the state.
Speaking during the unveiling of the warehouse, the Chief of UNICEF Field Office Kano, Mr. Rahama Farah, described its inauguration as a critical step in improving access to healthcare services.
He said the pharmaceutical warehouse will provide a secure, climate-controlled environment for the storage and distribution of essential medicines and vaccines in the state.
Represented by the UNICEF Health Specialist, Saudat Basheer, Farah explained that the warehouse will tackle stockouts and enhance healthcare for children and families across the state.
He reiterated that the warehouse will also boost the state’s medical supply chain and pave the way for the government to “better plan, manage, and distribute essential medicines and vaccines.”
Farah said the construction of the pharmaceutical warehouse in Katsina was part of UNICEF and
its partners’ nationwide initiative to upgrade 22 medical warehouses in 21 states to ultra-modern pharma-grade standard.
“The upgrade of 22 medical warehouses across 21 states to ultra-modern pharma-grade status underscore the need for sustained efforts to improve access to quality healthcare services, particularly for the most vulnerable populations. The commissioning of this pharma-grade warehouse is a critical step in this direction”, he added.
Inaugurating the warehouse, Governor Dikko Umaru Radda, said it will ensure the efficient storage of medical supplies and guarantee timely distribution to healthcare facilities across the state.
Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano
Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano
Nwokwu Uchechukwu; Director, Food and Drug Services, Pharm, (Mrs.) Olubunmi
Aribeana; Director, Hospital Services, Mr. Jimoh Salaudeen; Managing Director, Sagar Vitaceuticals SVNL Nigeria Ltd., Pharm. Aakash Kothari; Superintendent Pharmacist, Sagar Vitaceuticals SVNL Nigeria Ltd, Pharm. (Mrs.), Kolade Sarahpearl; and Head, Coordinating Unit, Hospital Services, Federal Ministry of Health, Dr. Paul Kwetishe, during the facility tour of Sagar Vitaceuticals SVNL Nigeria Ltd by the Federal Ministry of Health at the company's plant in Ogun State...recently PHOTO: SUNDAY ADIGUN
CORONA SCHOOL'S 70TH ANNIVERSARY CONFERENCE...
L-R: Member of the Governing Board, Corona Schools' Engr Kunle Adebajo; Chairman of the Governing Board, Corona Schools' Trust Council, Hon. Justice
the
a
conference
2025 National Budget Passes Second Reading at Senate, House of Representatives
Senators demand improved implementation
The Senate and House of Representatives, yesterday, passed for second reading the N49.7 trillion 2025 budget barely 24 hours after President Bola Tinubu laid the estimates before the joint session of the National Assembly.
In the upper chamber, senators, in a two-hour session chaired by President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, and his deputy, Barau Jibrin, debated the money bill.
No fewer than 43 senators contributed to the debate on the general principles of the estimates. None of them disagreed with Tinubu, whom they commended for the budget’s parameters and sectoral allocations.
Most of the senators commended the Tinubu administration on the N4.9 trillion the president allocated to defence and security. They said this was a sign that Tinubu identified insecurity to be a topmost challenge in the country.
Jibrin told the session, “Peace is sine qua non for a sound economy, for a sound and up-and-doing society. And we all know the problems we are facing in terms of insecurity.
“Now, the government has taken steps to deal with it frontally. This
is why defence and security got the highest allocation of N4.91 trillion. It shows the readiness of the government to deal with the problem of insecurity once and for all.”
The deputy senate president added, “What do you need after tackling insecurity? For a country that creates that environment of peace, what goes next is, of course, creating a developing environment for the economy to thrive and for business – the private sector to thrive.”
He also cited the allocation of N3.5 trillion to human capital development as a bold move to stimulate productive activities.
Senator Abba Moro, a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) lawmaker, called for increased funding of education to meet the requirement of 26 per cent of annual budgets set by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO).
Moro said, “Nigeria hasn't been able to meet the UNESCO recommendation, hence, we need to review upward the allocation to education.
“Our inflation rate of 34 per cent is also on the high side, despite the government's effort to bring it down.”
He equally held the view that
the exchange rate set at N1,500/ USD was not sustainable, paired against the current market rate of N1,700, and advised the government to work harder on shoring up the strength of the local currency.
Senator Mohammed Monguno observed that tackling insecurity with N4.9 trillion was commendable, especially when improved security would allow people to “engage in meaningful economic activity, including agriculture”.
Monguno expressed the same hope on the N4.6 trillion earmarked for infrastructure, which he said would have a multiplier effect on the economy by generating employment.
Like other speakers, Monguno, an All Progressives Congress (APC) senator from Borno State, called for better budget performance in 2025.
However, Senator Victor Umeh, while applauding key provisions in the budget, complained bitterly about the omission of the Eastern Rail Line, which runs from Port Harcourt to Maiduguri.
Umeh said, “Mr President offered free train rides to Nigerians this Christmas. But, how will the Nigerians on the eastern line benefit when there is no service there?”
A similar concern was raised by
Community Bemoans Withheld Diaspora Remittances, Arrested Devt Caused by Kingship Tussle
An Abia community has continued to the cost of a kingship tussle that has lingered for 11 years, dealing a devastating blow to its local economy and its development initiatives.
Speaking with journalists on the absence of coronated monarch following the long-drawn dispute, stakeholders of Laguru, Ubakala in Umuahia South Local Government Area said that diaspora remittances that used to flow into the community has since ceased.
The President General of Laguru, Andrew Omerenma said that indigenes of the community living in Europe and America no longer send funds home because of the divisions in the community.
According to him, Laguru people in the diaspora stopped the inflow of remittances because they became unsure of who to hold accountable for funds sent home since the Ezeship stool has not been settled.
He said that the civic centre of the community under construction
has become an abandoned project as funds dried up, adding that other development projects such as drilling of water boreholes have been halted.
The community leaders blamed the immediate past administration for igniting the kingship crisis by giving staff of office to "a usurper" in defiance to the will of the people and a court order.
A former Vice President General of Ubakala Clan, Chaplain Charles Ngwakwe, noted that the kingship impasse has put Laguru on edge and arrested its development.
He said that the action of the former government could have resulted to bloodshed if not for the sustained efforts of elders to restrain the youths of the community from resorting to self-help.
As a way out of the crisis, the stakeholders of Laguru pleaded with Governor Alex Otti to step in and redress the injustice done by the immediate past government.
They specifically want Otti to intervene and withdraw the staff of office, "wrongfully" issued to Cyril Ucheaga and give it to the rightful
Eze-elect, Chief Brown Ngadi Anozie, who had been formally presented to government for confirmation.
"Government should see the weight of this matter and give us justice," Ngwakwe said, adding that Laguru could not continue to be without a traditional ruler after 11 years now.
An Abia State High Court presided over by Justice C. Chido Nwakanma had in its judgment in Suit No.HU/130/2020 delivered on March 9, 2023 held that Anozie was "unanimously selected, elected and presented to the Executive Chairman of Umuahia South Local Government Area on December 5, 2013 as the next Eze of Laguru".
Justice Nwakanma said that since Anozie's emergence as the Eze-elect was "in compliance with the law (his name) having been forwarded to the governor for recognition is entitled to be recognized as the Eze".
He ordered that the claimant (Anozie) be recognized and given staff of office forthwith as the Eze and Traditional ruler of Laguru Autonomous Community, Ubakala".
Senator Seriake Dickson, who pointed out that no provision was made for the South South Development Commission in the budget, though he acknowledged that Tinubu had yet to sign the bill creating the commission into law.
The N49.7 trillion budget has a revenue projection of N34.820 trillion, expenditure of N47.960 trillion, and deficit of N13 trillion.
Its framework projects a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth rate of 4.6 per cent and crude oil price of $75 per barrel, as well as an exchange rate of N400 to $1, ultimately, and oil production of 2.06 million barrels per day.
The senator representing Lagos East Senatorial District, Adetokunbo Abiru, commended the federal government for surpassing its projected revenue for 2024.
Abiru said projections in the 2025 budget were achievable, including the oil prices production.
He added, “The ability to stabilise the naira is also not in doubt. With the plans of the government, it will help tackle the inflation rate.”
Senator Abdul Ningi (Bauchi Central) urged his colleagues to prioritise the interest of Nigerians when passing the budget.
Ningi stated, “I received yesterday's budget with very cautious optimism. The talking point now is not talking about what the government brought but what we can do as the parliament.
“The president has done his part but the ball is in our court. How do our people feel, what is their
economic situation? What about hunger, these are things that we should ask as a parliament. It is important that the president pays a lot of attention to insecurity.”
Osun East senator, Francis Fadahunsi, said the proposed amount for defence in the budget was not enough to fight insecurity, even as he criticised the exchange rate and said many of the projections of the budget were not achievable.
Senator Orji Kalu said the government needed to pay more attention to manufacturers and support the Bank of Industry for productivity.
Adamawa Central senator, Aminu Abbas, said with the proposed amount for defence in the budget, the Nigerian military would get adequate funds to acquire security equipment.
Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, led the debate on the general principles of the 2025 appropriation bill.
In his lead argument, Bamidele said the budget proposal demon- strated Tinubu's commitment to stabilising the economy, improving lives, and repositioning the country for greater performance.
The senate approved the budget for second reading and referred it to the Committee on Appropriations, and directed the committee to report back within four weeks.
The National Assembly adjourned plenary to January 14.
House of Representatives
In the House of Representatives, leading the debate, Leader of the House, Hon. Julius Ihonvbere,
commended the determination of the government to reduce inflation to 15 per cent in 2025.
Ihonvbere added that the target was realisable if all Nigerians contributed their quota, saying the president has demonstrated serious courage and leadership in moving the nation forward. He said Tinubu admitted during the budget presentation that Nigerians were going through rough times, and stressed that for once, Nigerians were seeing a government that was ready to refocus the economy.
In his submission, Minority Leader of the House, Hon. Kingsley Chinda, said the budget was overtly overambitious, in spite of the president’s optimism.
Chinda said if well-implemented, the budget portended something good for Nigerians.
He stated that Nigerians must not lose sight of the fact that the budget was merely a projection, adding that while considering whether the projections are realisable, the indices on the ground must be considered.
Former Deputy Speaker, Hon. Ahmed Wase, called for proper implementation and monitoring of the security budget. Wase said doing so could put an end to the security challenges in the country. He called for speedy passage of the budget to ensure that what was allocated to the various constituencies were implemented.
Wase added, “We should follow up the utilisation of the security budget to ensure value for money.”
Unruly Passenger Who Assaulted Crew Member Grounds United Nigeria Airlines Flight
Chinedu Eze
The United Nigeria Airlines yesterday aborted Lagos-Asaba 6:30 am flight when an unruly passenger allegedly assaulted a member of the crew.
A statement from the airline said it decided to ground the flight after the passenger physically assaulted a crew member at the point of take-off when every passenger had boarded the flight and the aircraft door was shut.
In a statement, the airline explained: “The commotion caused by this passenger lasted a long time and for safety reasons and in accordance with international aviation protocols, the aircraft was grounded, resulting in hours-long delay.
“Unfortunately, this disruption
may have a reverberating effect on other flights across our network and may cause more delay and cancellations. We are deeply sorry about this.
"We understand and respect our passengers' right to express their concerns. However, it is important to emphasise that any form of physical or verbal assault against any crew member is a serious offense under international aviation laws and is strictly prohibited.
“Such behavior not only endangers the safety and security of everyone on board but also disrupts the travel plans of fellow passengers."
The airline did not give details of possible fisticuffs in the unusual air rage, but urged its passengers to use appropriate channels, such as
customer service hotlines or online feedback forms, to address any issue or dissatisfaction they may have.
This ensures that concerns are handled efficiently and respectfully, without compromising the safety and comfort of other passengers.
"At United Nigeria Airlines, safety is not just a priority but the very foundation upon which our operations are built. Our commitment to maintaining the highest safety standards is unwavering, and we take all necessary measures to ensure the well-being of our passengers and crew.
"We sincerely appreciate your understanding and patience during this time. Thank you for your continued support and cooperation," the airline added.
Raliat Adebiyi; Member of the Board of Trustees, Mr. Dotun Sulaiman; Member of
Board of Trustees, Mrs. Bridget Itsueli; and CEO, Corona Schools, Mrs. Adeyoyin Adesina, at
press
in Lagos to flag off Corona Schools' 70th Anniversary, last Friday
Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia
Adedayo Akinwale and Sunday Aborisade in Abuja
PRESS BRIEFING OF THE NEXT TITAN NIGERIA SEASON 10...
L-R: Head, Corporate Communications, Arik Air, Mr.Adebanji Ola; Group Head, Corporate Communications, Sifax Group,Mr. Olumuyiwa Akande; Managing Director, Bravopoint International and Executive Producer, The Next Titans Nigeria, Mr. Mide Kunle-Akinlaja; Country Manager, Betano, Otunba Kunle Olamuyiwa; Media Manager, Lifemate, Orebayo Ejiemhen; and representative of Managing Director, Nikky Tourus, Mr. Yemi Bankole, during the press briefing of The Next
Nigeria Season 10 held in Lagos…recently
Tinubu: We’ll Determine If Negligence or Deliberate Act Informed Ibadan Stampede
Orders thorough probe, says event organisers must prioritise safety Police confirm 35 dead, six injured, eight arrested, including Ooni’s ex-wife
Deji Elumoye in Abuja, Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan and Sunday Ehigiator in Lagos
President Bola Tinubu, yesterday, ordered a probe into the tragic incident at the Children's FunFair in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, which resulted in loss of lives and left many injured.
Tinubu said his government would determine if negligence or deliberate action was behind the disaster.
The president, who expressed profound sadness over the incident, advised event organisers to prioritise safety of people at all times.
The Oyo State Police Command said 35 children had been confirmed dead in the Ibadan Children Christmas Funfair tragedy.
The command also disclosed that six people were injured, while eight persons, including the former wife of Ooni of Ife, Olori Naomi Silekunola, had been arrested in connection with the incident.
Tinubu, in a release by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, extended his heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Oyo State, as well the families, who lost their beloved children.
The president said he stood in solidarity with the affected families in this moment of mourning, and offered prayers to the Almighty God to grant peace to the souls of those
who died in the ill-fated event.
Tinubu directed the relevant authorities to thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding the tragedy. He emphasised that it was imperative to determine whether negligence or deliberate actions contributed to the incident, and ensure a transparent and accountable process.
The president urged the Oyo State government to take necessary steps to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Among the essential actions were a comprehensive review of all public events' safety measures, strict enforcement of safety regulations, and regular safety audits of event venues.
Tinubu also called on event organisers to prioritise the safety of all attendees, especially children, stressing the importance of integrating professional security, protocol, and logistics at events to ensure the utmost safety of participants.
"Our children's safety and wellbeing remain paramount. No event should ever compromise their safety or take precedence over their lives," Tinubu asserted.
Police Confirm 35 Dead, Six Injured, Eight Arrested
Oyo State Police Command said 35 children were confirmed dead in the tragedy. The state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Adewale
Osifeso, stated this in a release.
Oyefeso disclosed the figure in the release tilted, “Re: Ibadan Children Tragedy.”
He said the case had been transferred to the Homicide Section of the State Criminal Investigation Department, Iyaganku, for further investigation.
He also revealed the identities of the organisers of the event.
The revelation put to rest rumours about the involvement of Oriyomi Hamzat of Agidigbo FM, Ibadan, as the police described his radio station
as media partners of the ill-fated Children Christmas Funfair.
The PPRO further stated that among the eight people arrested was the main organiser, Olori Silekunola, and the principal of the school, Fasasi Abdulahi.
The statement said, “Sequel to the stampede incident recorded on Wednesday 18/12/2024 at the Islamic High School, Basorun, Ibadan, venue of the family event organised by Wings Foundation and media partners, Agidigbo FM, the Oyo State Police Command wishes to inform
the good people of the state that eight (8) persons have since been arrested for their various involvements.
“These persons include the main event sponsor, Prophetess Naomi Silekunola ‘f’ 31yrs; Fasasi Abdulahi, ‘m’ 56yrs (School Principal Islamic High School, Ibadan); Genesis Christopher, ‘m’ 24yrs; Tanimowo Moruf, ‘m’ 52yrs; Anisolaja Olabode, ‘m’ 42yrs; Idowu Ibrahim, ‘m’ 35yrs; and Abiola Oluwatimilehin, ‘m’ 25yrs.
“So far thirty-five (35) minors have been documented dead, while six (6) others are critically injured and
on various medical interventions. “In furtherance of the above, the case has since been transferred to the Homicide Section of the State Criminal Investigation Department, Iyaganku, with the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge leading theTheinvestigations.” command advised residents around the Basorun axis not to panic, “as they would witness high level patrols and visible police presence to prevent hoodlums from taking advantage of the unfortunate situation”.
The National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, yesterday, scored the military and other security agencies high in the ongoing counter-terrorism war and anti-banditry operations.
He said the administration of President Bola Tinubu had achieved over 80 per cent success in its counterinsurgency war, anti-kidnaping operations and fight against other forms of insecurity.
Ribadu, who spoke at the commissioning of the Multi-agency Kidnap Fusion Cell (MAAKFC) at the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), also averred that this silent achievement in the defence and security sub sector was recorded in a short period of less
than two years.
"Within a short period of time, in less than two years, we have achieved 80 per cent success. We don't talk about it.
"The success was a result of sacrifices of our security agencies some of whom are in the National Counter Terrorism Centre. They are some of the best that we have.
"We have soldiers and personnel of other security agencies, who are in the bushes, sacrificing their lives to make this country a better place, to rescue it and take it back on track so that we will have a normal lives.
"They are the unsung heroes, people don't talk about them. It is easy to say things but you don't know what people are going through to get things done," he said.
Alex Enumah in Abuja
The Supreme Court of Nigeria (SCN), Nigeria Press Council (NPC), the University of Ibadan (UI) and 12 others failed to comply with the 2024 Ethics and Integrity Compliance Scorecard (EICS) of the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission (ICPC), report showed. Out of a total of 330 Ministries, Departments, Agencies (MDAs) assessed by the ICPC in the outgoing year, while none of the MDAs achieved full compliance, 15 did not
comply at all with the EICS.
Specifically, these MDAs failed to conduct any forms of system studies or render financial and audit reports.
Besides the apex court, NPC and the UI, others which did not meet the EICS in the ICC's report presented to journalists, yesterday, in Abuja included Legal Aid Council, Abuja; National Hajj Commission (NAHCON), Abuja;Federal Civil Service Commission (FCSC) Abuja;andCouncil of Nigeria Mining Engineers and Geoscientists.
Also on the list were the Institute of Chartered Chemists of Nigeria; Federal Teaching Hospital, Gombe; National Obstetrics Fistula Centre,
Ribadu, however, lamented the negative impact of kidnapping in the society, noting that it has caused untold hardship to many families in Nigeria.
He said that kidnapping remained one of the most pressing security threats in Nigeria today, adding: "It has caused untold hardship for countless families, disrupted economic activities, and posed a severe threat to our national stability."
Earlier, the National Coordinator, National Counter Terrorism Centre, Office of the National Security Adviser (NCTC-ONSA), Major General Adamu Laka, said Multi-Agency Kidnap Fusion Cell would coordinate kidnap for ransom, rescue and prevention exercises and operations.
Ningi; Institute of Archeology and Museum; Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Umudike; Federal College of Forestry Mechanization, Mando, Kaduna; Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife; and Federal Polytechnic, Ede, Osun State.
The EICS served as a preventive tool used to assess and enhance the compliance of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) with ethical standards, policies, and anti-corruption measures.
The Commission, under Phase 7, between December 2023and December 2024, has in addition, tracked 1,500 project across 22 states; projects value: N610 billion; Cash Recovery made:
N346 million; Assets Recovered: N400 million, and Savings to Government: N30 billion.
The objectives of the initiative, according to the Director, Public Enlightenment and Education, Demola Bakare, was to identify organisational gaps and provide actionable insights; advise the government on policy development for oversight; promote self-evaluation and remedial actions within MDAs and establish an objective rating of MDAs to foster improvement.
Factors said to be responsible for the results included a lack of whistleblower policies, strategic plans, and effective stock verification units.
Rivers Governor, Fubara, Begs Loyalists to Resist Temptation of Attacking Detractors
Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt
Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has appealed to his loyalists to resist the temptation of fighting back with his detractors even in the face of provocation.
Fubara, made the plea yesterday during the inauguration of the Palace of Eze Apara in Rumuigbo, ObioAkpor Local Government Area of the State.
He told his supporters that in all circumstances they must maintain the peace in the state, saying at the end of the crisis, some of the troublemakers would be taken to court and charged
for some offences.
"The only thing I will ask in return is to continue to support this administration and be law-abiding. That is the only way we can get more progress and bring more development into your community.
"No matter the level of provocation, try to control your temper. You don't use fight to resolve fights. We need peace applied with Artificial Intelligence methods to defeat trouble.
“I know that when we finish this commissioning, some of you will be taken to court tomorrow and some of you will be charged for one offence or the other. But just be strong, we
will be there for you."
The governor asked the people of the area to protect the new palace, describing it as a legacy and warning them against fighting inside the edifice.
"We came, we saw and we conquered positively for you. Protect this palace; it is a legacy for you. When you are fighting don't come and fight inside here.
“Do that outside, knowing that when the Eze finishes another person will also come and operate from here. So, it is a legacy of the Kingdom and it belongs to everyone, it doesn't belong to the present Eze, so protect it," he said.
Linus Aleke in Abuja
Titan
PHOTO: ETOP UKUTT
ELECTRONIC FRAUD FORUM…
L-R: Commissioner of Police, Police Special Fraud Unit (PSFU), Ayotunde Omodeinde; Managing Director, Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS), Premier Oiwoh; representative of the Deputy Governor, Financial System Stability, CBN, Kunle Adeniji; Vice Chairman, Committee of e-Business Industry Heads (CeBIH)/Group Head, e-Business & Transaction, Premium Trust Bank, Abidemi Asunmo; Ag. Director, Payment System Management, CBN, Taiwo Oladimeji; Executive Director, NIBSS, Ngover Ihyembe-Nwankwo, and Chairman, CeBIH/Chief Partnership Officer, Wema Bank Plc, Ajibade Laolu-Adewale, at the 2024 general meeting of the Nigeria Electronic Fraud Forum hosted by CeBIH in Lagos… recently
Police Investigate Lady Who Swapped Blind Woman’s Card at ATM Point in Anambra
David-Chyddy Eleke inawka
The Anambra State Police Command yesterday commenced investigation into a viral video of the swapping of debit card belonging to a blind woman by a lady who opted to help her at an ATM point.
Video of the swapping of the blind lady’s debit card which was apparently captured by a closed circuit cameras at the bank has been trending for days. In the video, a young lady was captured trying to help a blind woman to withdraw money from an ATM point, and later swapped her card with another, and subsequently withdrew N2million from her account.
Niger Assembly Passes 2025 Budget
Laleye Dipo in Minna
Exactly one week after Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago presented the 2025 budget proposal to the state House of Assembly, the legislators yesterday approved the proposal.
As a result the executive is now empowered to spend N1.558 trillion for the year 2025 as requested by the governor. The passage of the
CHANGE OF NAME
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appropriation bill followed the submission of the report of the House Committee on Planning and Appropriation headed by the member representing Rafi state constituency Alhaji Zubairu Ismaila Zana at plenary.
The committee, however, carried out some adjustments in the budget based on its observations but added that these adjustments did not affect the entire budget size.
Zana said the committee observed that “the provision of the capital head of N1,920,000,000 for the legislature is grossly inadequate and therefore recommended that the sum of N1,196,097,350 be moved from special project/ stabilisation, to bring the total to N3,116,097,350 as total capital expenditure for the legislature.
NGO to Host Webinar on Tech-driven Business Growth
Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan
A non-governmental organisation, the Nigerian Youth Fashion Empowerment Week (NYFEW), will today (Friday) hold a two-day virtual webinar tagged: ProjectMakeMe 2024, to equip entrepreneurs and professionals in the creative industry with cutting-edge strategies for business growth.
The webinar with the theme: ‘Innovative Strategies for Business Growth: Turning Ideas into Profitable Plans with Tech-Driven Solutions’, expected to end tomorrow, will start from 11 a.m. to 1: 45 p.m. daily via zoom.
Speaking about the event, the Founder of the organisation, Matthew Kehinde, in a statement issued in Ibadan, Oyo State, emphasised that the webinar’s mission is to inspire innovation and collaboration within the creative industry.
The state Police Command’s spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, in a statement said investigation into the matter has commenced,
with a view to identifying, arresting and bringing the lady to book.
He said: “We have intercepted a trending video of an unidentified
Ardova: LPG Remains Nigeria’s
Kayode Tokede
Ardova Plc management, yesterday unveiled its transformative vision, underscoring the vital role of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) in shaping the nation’s economy future. The company has emerged as a pivotal player in Nigeria’s
lady in an Automated Teller Machine (ATM) of a Commercial bank in Nnewi, who allegedly swapped an ATM Card belonging to a 58 years old handicapped woman, and withdrew the sum of Two Million Naira (N2,000,000) in parts.
Hidden Catalyst for Economic Renaissance
drive for sustainable growth as it celebrates 60th anniversary under the evocative theme, “60 Years of Energizing Progress With Endless Possibilities.”
Chief Strategy Officer, Ardova, Mr. Abdul-Hakeem Buhari at a press conference in Lagos, articulated Ardova’s commitment to redefining value creation.
“Ardova embodies a vision where energy innovation meets economic empowerment,” he said.
At the heart of this vision is the company’s $500 million state-of-the-art terminal in Lagos, a feat that positions Ardova as a leader in West Africa’s energy infrastructure.
This facility, with a capacity to store 30 kilotons of LPG, meets 60per cent of Nigeria’s domestic demand, signaling an unprecedented opportunity to transform both industry and households.
Ardova’s investment in LPG infrastructure underscores its belief in gas as Nigeria’s bridge to a sustainable energy future.
Yahaya Leads Northern Govs in Plan to Restore Land, Boost Food Security
Segun Awofadeji in Gombe
The Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum and Governor of Gombe State, Alhaji Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, has led his counterparts in endorsing the first phase of the Strategic Catchment Management Plan (SCMP) developed by the Agro-Climatic Resilience
in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) stakeholders.
The validation event, held in Abuja, is part of a decisive step toward addressing the environmental and agricultural challenges affecting northern Nigeria.
Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Yahaya described the SCMP on Hadeja-Jama’are watershed as a comprehensive
framework capable of mitigating water scarcity, drought, and land degradation, which have significantly affected the region’s food security and livelihoods.
He called on all stakeholders to prioritise the implementation, ownership, and sustainability of the plan to ensure it achieves its objectives.
“The SCMP is not just a
document, it is a commitment to change, a call to action for all of us to secure the future of our region,” he stated.
The NSGF chairman assured stakeholders of the forum’s commitment to supporting initiatives like ACReSAL that enhance environmental resilience, promote food security, and improve the quality of life for all.
Osun Monarch: Arimoro’s Candidate Calls for Due Process, Warns against Imposition
As the race for the prestigious stool of Owa-Obokun gradually gains momentum, Prince Kayode Michael Adewale Arimoro yesterday declared that the stool of Owa- Obokun should not be allowed for sale, urging kingmakers to follow due process for selection.
Speaking yesterday when he declared his formal intention to contest for the esteemed throne of the Owa-Obokun Adimula of Ijeshaland, Arimoro also warned against imposition of Owa-Obokun for Ijesha land because it would not be in the interest of the Ijesha tradition. He said as a warrior with a vision rooted in tradition, driven
by progress, and committed to the sustainable growth and prosperity of all Ijesha people, he said his coming on board is to fight for the vulnerable and maximise the God-given potential of Ijeshaland and its people.
According to him, “For many years, I have observed with great concern the challenges
that our beloved land faces and the untapped opportunities. We are rich in culture, history, and resources, but it is time to channel this abundant potential towards building a brighter future. This is my solemn promise to you today; under my leadership, we will transform Ijeshaland into a beacon of progress, innovation, and unity.”
A’ Ibom Speaker Celebrates Birthday, Pays Hospital Bills of Patients
As part of the programme marking his birthday anniversary the Speaker of Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Elder Udene Otong has visited hospitals in Akwa Ibom to offset bills of some patients.
The speaker visited Mercy Hospital in Abak Local Government accompanied by member representing Okobo
State Constituency, Hon. Pius Bassey and Chairman, Abak Local Government, Hon Ime Charles. While receiving the speaker and his entourage, the Medical Director of Mercy Hospital Very Rev. Father (Dr) Canice Ekpo, said the hospital specialises in eye checking.
According to him, the hospital covers the entire state in its
services and other states in the country.
He appreciated the speaker for offsetting bills of patients in the hospital, explaining that presence of the speaker speaks volume in the hospital with hope of better expectations.
Rev. Father Ekpo thanked the wife of the Speaker, Deacon Margaret Udene Otong for the
encouragement and support to the husband and prayed for more of God’s blessings for the speaker and the family to enable them continue in their selfless services.
In his response, the Speaker, who expressed appreciation to the medical director informed him that he is a healthcare and social sciences professional.
NASFAT Commiserates with Bayo Alabidun over the Demise of Wife, Abibiat
With total submission to the will of Almighty Allah, the Nasrul-Lahi-LFatih Society (NASFAT) has deeply mourned the passing of Alhaja Abibat Abiola Alabidun, wife of its esteemed member, Alhaji Bayo Alabidun. Until her demise, she was the Director
of Pharmaceutical Services, Health District VI in Lagos State.
According to a statement by NASFAT, she departed this world at the age of 56 in the early hours of yesterday.
“Her life of service and devotion leaves an indelible mark on her family, community, and profession.
The President of NASFAT, Alhaji Ayodeji AbdulWahid AbdulRauf, consoles the family, describing Alhaja Abibat as a virtuous woman who lived a life of faith, integrity, and service. Her contributions to humanity, particularly through her profession and community engagements, will forever be remembered.”
“The Chief Missioner of NASFAT, Imam Maroofdeen AbdulAzeez Onike, prays for the repose of her soul. He urges all members to seek Allah’,” the statement noted.
Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo
FIFA Ranking: Super Eagles End 2024 as Africa’s Fifth Best Team
This December ranking is the worst for Nigeria in the last six years
Femi Solaja with agency report
After suffering a massive drop last month, the Super Eagles retained their traditional fifth spot in the continent but ended the outgoing year with their worst FIFA Ranking in six years as they were rated the 44th best team in the world.
The three-time African champions won nine, drew four and lost five matches in the outgoing year.
Super Eagles’ biggest nightmare this year includes failing to win a single game after four rounds of matches in the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign that has now left them vicariously on the verge of missing out of the mundial.
It has been a wobbling perfor- mance of some sort. Aside their performance in the AFCON 2023, finishing as runners up to Côte d’Ivoire the winners, Eagles have been fumbling and wobbling this outgoing year.
Of course, their performance in the AFCON 2025 qualifiers have
been encouraging, picking the ticket to Morocco with a game to spare was no mean feat.
According to the ranking released yesterday, Nigeria remain unchanged from its previous position, despite a challenging international break.
The ranking showed that Nigeria suffered a significant decline this year, dropping eight places to end 2024 ranked 44th globally.
In contrast, South Africa's Bafana Bafana, one of the main rivals for Super Eagles in the ongoing World Cup African qualifying tournament, has experienced a resurgence, climbing three positions to finish the year ranked 57th in the world. This improvement reflects their recent form and successful matches during the qualifiers.
Ghana also faced similar difficulties, ending the year ranked 77th globally.
In the global standings, Argentina remain at the top of the FIFA ranking, followed by France, Spain,
England, and Brazil making up the top five.
The ranking reflect a total of 1,181 international matches played throughout 2024, with only a limited number of fixtures since November contributing to minor changes in team standings.
Nigerians will hope the Super Eagles can improve their performance and reclaim a higher position among Africa's footballing giants in the new year barely 10 days away.
The upcoming 2025 AFCON will be crucial for their aspirations
to rise back up the rankings and secure a more improved position in the world.
Africa’s Top 10
Morocco - (14th)
Senegal - (17th) Egypt - (33rd)
Flamingos, Maidens to battle for Maiden WAFU U17 Girls’ Cup
Nigeria and Ghana will battle for the ultimate prize in the inaugural WAFU U17 Girls’ Cup on Sunday – incidentally, the same day the home-based senior men clash in Accra in the first leg of the 8th African Nations Championship qualifying fixture pitting both countries against each other.
On Thursday night, in the second semi-final of the WAFU U17 Girls’ Cup, World Cup quarter-finalists Nigeria defeated their counterparts from Benin Republic 2-0, both goals coming in the second half of the encounter at the Ghana Centre of Excellence in Prampram. Sunday’s final will also take place at the same centre, outside Accra.
Forward Mary Lucky Mkpa
scored from the penalty spot in the 70th minute to put Nigeria in front, eight minutes after gangling striker Janet Akekoromowei had missed a great opportunity to put the Flamingos ahead. Eight minutes after the opener, Peace Effiong profited from a goalkeeping error to extend Nigeria’s lead, but Akekoromowei’s 84th minute goal was chalked off by the referee as the forward was judged to have impeded the goalkeeper before scoring.
The Flamingos reached the final having scored 14 goals in three matches, conceding only two, and will start with much confidence against a Ghanaian side that defeated Cote d’Ivoire’s girls 5-0 earlier in the afternoon to reach Sunday’s final.
Another Nigeria, Ghana Clash on the Horizon Spurs Survive a Late Scare against Man
Tottenham Hotspur survived a huge late scare to beat Manchester United in a 4-3 thriller and reach the semi-finals of the Carabao Cup. It should have been a routine night for Spurs, who held a threegoal lead with ten minutes of the second-half played. After Dominic Solanke had given the hosts a halftime advantage, Dejan Kulusevski doubled the lead inside a minute of the restart and Solanke then added his second of the night to put Spurs in complete control. Or so it appeared. Fraser Forster’s terrible pass in his own box was cut out by Bruno Fernandes, who rolled it into the path of Joshua Zirkzee to leave the striker a tap-in.
The Tottenham goalkeeper was at fault again as the pressure was really piled on the hosts, Forster’s clearance charged down by the sliding Amad Diallo and into the
empty net. That left United with 20 minutes to find an equaliser against a nervous Spurs defence and Amad went close to netting his second, his strike from 25 yards out strangely kicked away by Forster. It remained right in the balance until the closing stages, when Heung-min Son scored straight from a corner to sum up a chaotic night in north London. Altay Bayindir insisted he had been fouled, but the officials did not come to his rescue as Spurs fans thought they could finally relax. There was still time for the home players to threaten another collapse. Jonny Evans flicked in a header in stoppage-time to leave Spurs with yet more work to do, but United ran out of time.
last February. Now, the former champions have dropped to their worst rating of 44 to cap the year
NSC Expresses Commitment to Hosting 13th
ECOWAS African Wresting Tournament
Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja
The Chairman Of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Mallam Shehu Dikko, has committed the country to hosting the 13th edition of the ECOWAS African Wrestling Tournament billed for March 4 to 10, 2025
Dikko gave the assurance yesterday when he hosted the Director of Youth and Sports Development, ECOWAS, Francis Njoaguani, when the latter visited to ascertain the country's preparedness to host the event which will hold two months to ECOWAS' 50th anniversary.
His words, "I want to assure you that we are committed. We will do everything possible to host the tournament. And we don't want it to be just a one-off. We want to do more of these tournaments."
He noted that hosting the event would be in tandem with the President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to the sub-region and sports in general.
Dikko expressed willingness to collaborate with ECOWAS to advance its sports development projects in the sub-region, while also thanking President Bola Tinubu for fulfilling the country’s all outstanding obligations to the sub-regional body that promotes economic integration and cooperation.
"Mr. President is committed to having first class facilities in the country starting with the Abuja Stadium. We want to fix our
stadium to make it available to host all sorts of tournaments. We are open to hosting daily events in this stadium. So you can bring, not just the traditional wrestling, but bring other sports that we can make our facilities available.
"The more events we can host, the more we are able to activate the sports economy we are trying to advance because anytime you
host an event you create a value chain of activities, market activities, sustained jobs, wealth distribution and all of that. We are ready to partner with ECOWAS to bring critical events to Nigeria, not just in Abuja, any state in Nigeria that is capable of hosting your events", he added.
Dikko noted that such events would also help to keep the youths positively engaged and deal with restiveness in the entire ECOWAS sub-region.
Njoaguani seized the opportunity to intimate the NSC chairman on the 3rd edition of the ECOWAS Abuja International Marathon also slated for March 2025, which Dikko also committed to collaborate to ensure its success and more value addition to the economy.
Kuti Begins Title Defence at Daniel Ford Elite T’tennis Tourney Today
Hostilities will commence today, Friday, December 20, 2024 as the 2nd Daniel Ford Elite Youth Table Tennis Invitational Championships kick off at the Molade OkoyaThomas Hall of Teslim Balogun Stadium.
Following a successful two-day coaching clinic, players will test their new skills. 2023 African Games gold medallist Matthew Kuti will begin his quest to become the first player to win back-to-back titles at this tournament, organised by the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation (NTTF) and funded by UK-based Daniel Ford International. Kuti, who has been in excellent form recently, will rely on his experience and exposure from several international tournaments
this year, including the Africa Championships in Ethiopia.
He however anticipates stiff competition from perennial rivals like Muiz Adegoke and Abdulbasit Abdulfatai.
The U-19 event promises excite- ment as Kuti faces a star-studded lineup of players over the two-day tournament. Determined not to let his guard down, Kuti is prepared to take on regular opponents, especially Muiz Adegoke, who might be paired with him in the doubles event.
Adegoke, who has yet to fulfil his potential at the national level, hopes to replicate his doubles success against the tournament's top players. "I can’t wait to get on the table because this is not going to
be a one-sided tournament. More young players are emerging from several continental tournaments in Botswana," he said.
A determined Adegoke admitted he would elevate his game this year to challenge favourites like Kuti. "I am hoping to make it to the final this year, and anything can happen when I get there. It is not going to be easy because everybody is playing well, but I am confident I can turn the tide against anyone on the table," he added.
For the national coach, Dotun Omoniyi, the staging of the clinic would make the tournament competitive this year as the players never hide their intention to humble one another.
Algeria - (37th)
Nigeria - (44th)
Côte d'Ivoire - (46th) Cameroon - (49th)
Mali - (51st ) Tunisia - (52nd)
South Africa - (57th)
*Global rankings in bracket)
Super Eagles posing for photographers shortly before the final of the 2023 AFCON in Côte d’Ivoire
CARABAO CUP
MISSILE
Afenifere to Farotimi’s Abductors, FG
“The delay in granting bail to Mr. Farotimi has confirmed the fear of well-meaning people all over the world that these processes are driven by extraneous considerations outside the facts and Laws in respect of the petition on which the police and the Chief Magistrate in Ekiti are hinging their actions. Afenifere, therefore, calls for the immediate unconditional release of Mr Farotimi...” --Deputy Leader of Afenifere, Oba Oladipo Olaitan, calls for immediate release of the incarcerated human rights activist.
AKIN OSUNTOKUN
Countdown To Yuletide
Auniquely memorable aspect of my youth was spending Xmas at Okemesi. There was the harmattan weather whose chill effect sometimes ran to a quale drizzling 17 degrees.
A compact close knit community, it lies between latitude 4.910E to 4.935 0 E and longitude 7.8150N to 7.860N. The borders are contiguous in relative equidistance of about ten kilometres radius with Imesi-Ile to the East, with Ikoro-Ekiti to the West, with Esa-Oke, to to the North East.
The complement of a clement weather all year long, culminating in a social intimacy inducing harmattan chill- in sync with the celebratory mood of Xmas, is a big predisposing incentive to the indigenes fixation with spending the yuletide season at the town.
Across the country, social activities culminated in the December end of year season. The consequential mass retreat to the countryside resulted in a concomitant desertion of the cosmopolitan cities.
It was the time for sparkling and initiating tender love relationships which often get consummated in marriage. Openly conducting the orchestra with a not too subtle (matchmaking) push were the expectant Dads and Moms in the mission of reproducing their all Okemesi wedlock.
The culture remains in vogue and It happened to me even though I was under no pressure to follow suit.
I left Nigeria in October 1994 for a three months journalism fellowship at the radio voice of Germany, Deutsche Welle, I left a broken hearted girlfriend behind who was looking forward to marriage.
On my return from Germany three months later I equally left a sorrowful German fraulein behind. No way I was going to marry òyìnbó anyway.
I decided that would be the last time I was going to abandon a girlfriend. At the age of 32 years I was already an old bachelor.
To tie my hands, I entered into a solemn covenant with God that whoever next captures my fancy as girlfriend would be God’s choice for me. And so it transpired.
Landing in Nigeria in December I headed for Okemesi to spend the Xmas break. At a random party, my junior sister introduced her friend, whom I had never met before to me. I fell for her and that was it.
The likelihood is that without bringing God into it, I would most likely lapse into cynical bachelorhood all over again.
I hardly swear. By nature I’m a conscientious person and ordinarily I would loathe to renege on any pledge I make. So it is near impossible for me to swear by the name of God and not fulfil my end of the bargain.
My peers and I always looked forward to spending Xmas at Okemesi. It was the occasion for annual family reunion and ours was quite large. My generation alone numbered in the 40s How we managed to squeeze ourselves
in one or two rooms remained a mystery to me. It was not that there was insufficient accommodation. We all just chose to sleep together in one spot.
It was the moment we witnessed our dads, uncles and aunties let down their guards.There regularly ensued a drama orchestrated by one of my uncles. He would summon this elderly relative (Baba Ogidi) who loves the bottle. Don’t we all?.
Ogidi was short of hearing.To have conversation with him you would need to substantially raise your decibels and to respond he would equally constrained to shout even if he didn’t realise he was shouting.
Soon enough the compound would erupt in the contrived shouting match and raucous merry making. It was the occasion to see my father dance to the drumbeat that heralded his grandfather to battle fronts. He was an excellent dancer.
With little to show for it, I sought to emulate him. He would be greatly pleased and amused that I bagged the ultimate warlord title, Balogun, same as the famous Ekitiparapo warrior, Fabunmi, who was the first and I’m the fourth in the line of succession.
My illustrious predecessors include Chief T.A Oni of the Oni&sons fame who was probably the richest Yoruba of his times. Being named Akintola, at the peak of the demonisation of the late Premier of Western region Ladoke Akintola), he took delight in taunting and loudly hailing me Akintola! I would then break down in tears remonstrating he should desist from calling me by that name. He would assuage me with a bottle of mirinda, fanta or Pepsi cola.
One of the futile steps I took as a six year old was the unilateral declaration of change of name to Akinjide.
There was my wise ebullient grandmother(Otoola) who would relentlessly treat us to the chant of our family panegyric (lineage praise poem called Oriki) and regale us with nightly rendition of vintage folklores.
The following morning, she would embark on marathon intercession prayers for all her
descendants beginning with my dad who was her first child to the latest grandchild. The hours-long prayers provoked my father’s heckling that his mum was monopolising God’s attention to the detriment of others.
Variants of the same scenario would unfold in several households across the community. But we were particularly aligned with the Oni, Adedeji, Omidiran, Okunlola, Durotoye and Fapohunda families.
We packed ourselves in convoys that took us on impromptu excursions around Ekiti. I remember we particularly loved to drop in on Pa Arokodare at Ijero to pick white guava. Our favourite spot was the warm springs resort at Ikogosi.
We embarked on mountain climbing to the scenic hills that completely enveloped Okemesi. It is a scenic beauty to behold.
Until 1973, one notable intervening variable was the tradition of yearly termination of the academic calendar in late December. It is the month in which your academic capability to proceed on the ladder of education is determined.
Your promotion examination results will determine whether you progress to the next class or not. More consequential, it is the month in which graduating secondary students sit for Western African School Examination Council, WASCE. It was the examination that determines your eligibility for higher education.
It was therefore a season for joy or sadness for primary and secondary school students who succeeded or failed in their examinations. The academic stars were pampered while the failures were made to feel like second citizens
On the reports of surpassing blissful celebration in the Igbo heartland, it remains my abiding wish to spend Xmas in the community. The massive movement of the Igbo from all over the country to their homeland is an indication of its unparalleled social significance.
Not even the trauma of being snared in the predictable traffic gridlock on the road for days would dissuade the massive retreat. In this regard, this year is positively unique for them.The celebration is bound to go several notches higher thanks to the completion of the life saving second Niger bridge that eases traffic movements.
This hacks back to the differential incorporation of colonialism in its various manifestations in Nigeria.
At the request of the leaders of the Sokoto caliphate, the British colonialists assured the insulation of the far North against the propagation of Christianity.
In the formation of the culture of the colonial and post colonial WAZOBIA the imperialist religions of Christianity and Islam have exerted varying influence on the cultural language groups.
In the Pan Islamic North, the theocratic rulers successfully negotiated the insulation of the region from Christian proselytization and evangelism. The latter readily granted the concession because it roundly suited the deployment of the indirect rule and his innate
bias for the region. This provided the North an ample opportunity to preserve their Pan Arabic culture and language in opposition to Westernization/ Modernisation.
This corresponded to a contrary preponderance of Christian acculturation of the South East. Prior to colonialism and contemporary Nigeria, the Igbo dominated Eastern region had remained impermeable to the jihadist spread of Islam thus ceding the playfield to the monopoly of christian proliferation and acculturation.
The Igbo Christianity trend was also inadvertently prompted by such seemingly unrelated external factors as the massive population dislocations and dispersal occasioned by the implosion of the oyo empire.
Professor Kenneth Dike attributed the phenomenon of the abnormally high population density of the Eastern Nigeria forest belt, in part, to an influx of people from the West and the North, seeking to escape the raids of slave chieftains in the more open country. Jihadist slave trade is almost synonymous with the propagation of Islam.
December 25th is the assumed birthday of Jesus Christ but like most knowledge concerning religion, it is a myth.
Following the perspective of the origins of Xmas in the revelry accompanying the winter solstice festival the Christian world tend to indulge in similar festivities and carnivals.
‘Almost certainly from existing pagan celebrations, the winter solstice (shortest day) had always been celebrated by primitive peoples as the beginning of hope for the arrival of spring. This continued into classical times. The Romans celebrated the festival of Saturnalia between 17th and 25th’
‘Some have stated that, around 350 AD, Julius I declared December 25 as the official date of the birth of Jesus. This is based on a letter quoted only in a 9th-century source, and this letter is spurious. At the time this was one of the commonly believed dates for Jesus’ birth’
‘The actual date of Jesus’s birth is unknown. It has been noted that 25 December is two days after the end of the Roman festival of Saturnalia. Some have speculated that part of the reason this date was chosen may have been because Julius was trying to create a Christian alternative to Saturnalia’.
‘Another reason for the decision may have been because, in 274 AD, the Roman emperor Aurelian had allegedly declared 25 December the birthdate of Sol Invictus and that Julius I allegedly may have thought that he could attract more converts to Christianity by allowing them to continue to celebrate on the same day’
‘He may have also been influenced by the idea that Jesus had died on the anniversary of his conception because Jesus died during Passover and, in the third century AD, Passover was celebrated on 25 March he may have assumed that Jesus’s birthday must have come nine months later, on 25 December’.
Compliments of the Season. See you all in January 2025.
