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Says state voted for Tinubu and he must listen to them Warns president will see real colour of north if situation persists
Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi
Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, has reechoed his concerns over the federal government’s tax reform bills, insisting
Dismisses allegations as disingenuous CDS says nation won't allow foreign military base, warns those dealing with terrorists Omokri mocks junta leader, Abdourahamane Tchiani, says he’s in panic mode
Chuks Okocha, Olawale Ajimotokan, Linus Aleke in Abuja and Onuminya Innocent in Sokoto
The federal government, last night, described allegations by the Nigerien junta, Gen. Abdourahamane Tchiani, that there was a covert collusion between Nigeria and France to destabilise his country as an attempt to blackmail Nigeria over the principled stance of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) against the unconstitutional seizure of power in that country.
Describing the allegation as disingenuous and doomed to fail, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, in a statement, insisted the claim was “non-existent”.
That was as Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, maintained that the Nigerian military will not allow any foreign military base in the country. Musa also warned those said to
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
Despite the provision of $1 billion funding for the Ogoni cleanup exercise in Rivers state, the federal government agency set up to carry out the exercise ‘failed completely’ to carry out the mandate for years, a report by the Associated Press, quoting leaked United Nations documents, has indicated.
The site, outside the city of Port Harcourt, was on a cleanup list kept by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and was supposed to be restored to green farmland as the Delta was before thousands of oil spills turned it into a byword for pollution.
Instead, the AP report pointed out that the land was left a sandy “moonscape” unusable for farming, according to UN files, with emails, letters to Nigerian ministers and minutes from meetings obtained by the news agency showing senior UN officials increasingly concerned that the Nigerian agency had been a “total failure.”
The agency, the Hydrocarbons Pollution and Remediation Project (HYPREP), selected cleanup contractors who had no relevant experience, according to a UN review, AP said, sending soil samples to laboratories that didn't have the equipment for tests they claimed to perform.
In addition, auditors were physically blocked from making sure work had been completed, while a former Nigerian minister of the environment told the AP that the majority of cleanup companies are owned by politicians, and minutes showing similar views were shared by UN Thereofficials. have been thousands of crude oil spills in the tidal mangroves and farmlands of the
Niger Delta since oil drilling and production began in the 1950s, with crude leakages still occurring frequently till date.
After a major UN survey of spills more than a decade ago, oil companies agreed to create a $1 billion cleanup fund for the worst affected area, Ogoniland, and Shell, the largest private oil and gas company in the country, contributed the lion's share. The Nigerian government handled the funds and the UN was relegated to an advisory role.
To oversee the work, the government created HYPREP, which was first meant to address sites that were supposed to be easy to clean, like the one outside Port Harcourt. Then it would move on to complex ones, where oil had sunk more deeply into the ground.
But a confidential investigation by UN scientists last year, the AP report said, found the site outside Port Harcourt was left with a “complete absence of topsoil” and almost seven times more petroleum in the subsoil than Nigerian health limits.
The company that performed that work has since had its contract revoked, Nenibarini Zabbey, the current Director of HYPREP, who took over last year, told the AP.
The head of operations when the contract was awarded, Philip Shekwolo, called allegations in the UN documents “baseless, mischievous and cheap blackmail.”
Shekwolo, who used to head up oil spill remediation for Shell, said by email to AP that he knows more about tackling pollution than any UN expert and insisted the cleanup had been successful.
But the documents show UN officials raising the alarm about HYPREP with Nigerian officials
since 2021. A January 2022 UN review found that of 41 contractors allowed to clean up spill sites, 21 had no relevant experience. Not one was judged competent enough to handle more polluted sites. They include Nigerian construction companies and general merchants. The websites of two construction firms, for example, make no mention of pollution cleanups.
In the minutes of a meeting with UN officials, the UN delegation warned that despite their inadequate work, these companies were being rewarded with contracts for tougher sites.
But a HYPREP Director, Zabbey,
insisted that the cleanup of the simple sites was not a failure, stressing that 16 out of 20 had been certified as clean by Nigerian regulators and many returned to communities. Hyprep always complied with guidelines when issuing contracts, Zabbey said, and their monitors were UN-trained. Two sources close to the cleanup efforts in the Delta, speaking anonymously for fear of loss of business or employment, told AP thG the test results held up by HYPREP as proof of cleanup could not have been real because when officials visited the laboratories, they found they did not have the equipment to perform those tests.
In a letter to its customers, one laboratory in the UK frequently used by HYPREP acknowledged its tests for most of 2022 were flawed and unreliable. The UK laboratory accreditation service confirmed the lab’s authorisation to carry out the tests was suspended twice.
Zabbey defended the cleanup agency in a statement to the AP, saying it monitors contractors more closely now. Labs adhere to Nigerian and UN recommendations and are frequently checked, he said, and the UN could have trained local lab staff if it chose to. However, the UN cited another problem — contractors were allowed to assess pollution levels
at their sites. No government agency was setting a baseline for what needed to be cleaned up at oil-damaged sites.
This, it said, meant companies were monitoring their own progress, effectively handing a “blank check,” UN Senior Project Advisor, Iyenemi Kakulu, is recorded as having said in minutes of a meeting in June of last year between the UN, HYPREP and Shell.
The U.N. warned the Nigerian government in an assessment in 2021 that spending at the cleanup agency was not being tracked. Internal auditors were viewed as “the enemy” and “demonised for doing their job.”
In a bid to make borrowing less burdensome and more affordable to very poor and vulnerable countries, the World Bank has announced the scrapping of several loan fees, even as it projected about 10 per cent drop in global commodity prices till 2026
The global development institution announced in its official X handle (formerly Twitter) the removal of the prepayment premium on the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) loans, a grace period for
commitment fees on undisbursed balances, and extended low-cost pricing for small, vulnerable states.
IBRD is one of the members of the World Bank Group.
It said: “The bank is working hard to make it easier for countries to borrow and to pay back their loans more easily by removing some fees on IBRD loans."
The reforms are designed to ease financial pressure on nations in need of development financing, and form part of the bank’s broader strategy to increase lending capacity by $150 billion over the next decade.
It further explained that this
Bassey Inyang in Calabar
Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has granted assent to the state's 2025 appropriation bill of N538.5 billion passed into law by the state House of Assembly.
Speaking at the signing ceremony of the budget document titled “Budget of Sustainable Growth,” into law on Christmas Eve, Otu said the 2025 budget is a significant step toward sustainable development, anchored on infrastructure development as a cornerstone of the administration’s agenda for next year.
Speaking in the presence of the Speaker of the State Legislature, Hon. Elvert Ayambem, who presented the
budget for approval, Otu highlighted the administration’s vision to drive economic growth and enhance the quality of life for citizens.
“The 2025 budget, with a total size of N538,523,915,715.99, reflects our deep commitment to economic growth, infrastructure development, and improving the well-being of our people.
“Infrastructure is the backbone of sustainable development, and we are resolute in our determination to create world-class infrastructure for Cross River State,” he said.
He said a significant 62 percent of the budget, amounting to N333,343,387,290.83, has been allocated for capital expenditure.
Otu said: "These funds will be directed towards critical infrastructure projects, including road construction, healthcare facilities, educational infrastructure, and other long-term initiatives aimed at fostering development and creating jobs.
"The remaining 38 percent of the budget, equivalent to N250 billion, is dedicated to recurrent expenditure. This allocation covers essential government operations, such as salaries, pensions, healthcare services, and education, ensuring the seamless functioning of public institutions and services."
The governor commended the state legislature for its diligence in
reviewing and passing the budget in record time.
“Their commitment has ensured that we remain on track with our budget timeline, enabling us to begin 2025 on a strong footing,” Otu said.
Earlier, Speaker Ayambem shed light on the budget’s progression from the initial proposal submitted by the governor on October 28, 2024, at N498 billion, the legislature, through its finance and appropriation committee, reviewed and increased it to N538.5 billion.
Ayambem said that the final budget breakdown includes N202,613,937,499.90 for statutory expenditure and over N333.3 billion for capital projects.
includes adjustments to the IBRD’s equity-to-loans ratio from 20 per cent to 18 per cent, unlocking $70 billion in additional lending, alongside $10 billion from bilateral guarantees and $1 billion from the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank. These measures are designed to make borrowing easier and more affordable for countries facing significant challenges.
In a related development, the World Bank has projected that although they will remain higher than pre-pandemic, global commodity prices are to plummet by nearly 10 per cent from 2024 to 2026.
In its 2024 year in review report released yesterday, the bank stated: "Unfortunately, this will do little to alleviate the pain of high food prices in developing countries where food-price inflation remains high, double that of advanced economies.
"In general, overall commodity prices will remain 30 percent higher than in the five years before the COVID-19 pandemic."
The review titled "2024 Key Development Challenges in Nine Charts: How the World Is Off-Track to Reduce Poverty," noted that after several years of multiple, continuous shocks, the global economy is finally showing signs of stabilising.
According to the report, despite the grimmest predictions, the world managed to avoid a global recession this year.
It stated: "However, while advanced economies have largely
recovered, developing countries have yet to catch up. Low-income countries risk being left even further behind.
"The world faces a harsh reality: despite decades of progress, ending extreme poverty everywhere by 2030 is out of reach. Amid anemic economic growth, the lasting effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, crushing debt burdens, and rising fragility and conflict, the pace of reducing global poverty has effectively stalled.
"Devastating climate shocks and extreme weather threaten to slow or reverse progress even more.
"As we close out the year, here are some of the most pressing development issues countries faced in 2024 and how the World Bank Group is working with them to overcome these challenges."
The Bretton Woods institution revealed that 1.2 billion people around the world face life-changing risks from climate-related hazards, such as floods, heat waves, droughts or cyclones.
Many of them, it explained, are in International Development Association (IDA) countries, where nearly half of the population is at high risk, adding that countries need a combination of more rapid development, more resilient development, and targeted adaptation interventions to reduce climate risks. Global growth is expected to hold steady at 2.6 per cent in 2024 before edging up to an average of 2.7 per cent in 2025 and 2026.
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has gotten for drug kingpins arrested in connection with the historic seizure of 2,139.55 kilogrammes of cocaine at an Ikorodu residential estate in 2022. They were convicted by a Federal High Court, Lagos, presided over by Justice Yellim Bogoro who sentenced them to various jail terms totaling 28 years with hard labour.
The convicts: Soji Oke, 71; Wasiu Akinade, 55; Emmanuel Chukwu, 67; and Kelvin Christopher Smith,
44, a Jamaican, were charged with six counts in charge number: FHC/L/607C/2022 in October and December 2022, while the trial of the fifth suspect, Oguntolure Sunday arraigned along with them is still ongoing in court.
The charges border on conspiracy to form and operate a drug trafficking organisation (DTO); management and financing of a DTO; importation and possession of 2,139.55 kilogrammes of cocaine, among others.
A press statement on Thursday by the spokesman of the NDLEA, Femi Babafemi read: “operatives of
a special operations unit of NDLEA had in a well-coordinated and intelligence-led operation on Sunday 18th September, 2022 raided a house located at 6 Olukuola Crescent, Solebo Estate, Ikorodu, Lagos, where the over 2.1 tons of cocaine were seized, the largest singular cocaine seizure in the history of Nigeria’s anti-narcotic operations.
He added that the drug kingpins were picked from hotels and their hideouts in different parts of Lagos between the night of Sunday 18th and Monday 19th September, 2022. Babafemi said after over two
years of diligent prosecution, the trial judge handed the Jamaican, Kelvin Smith, four years imprisonment with hard labour; Emmanuel Chukwu got a total of 16 years; Soji Oke got five years with hard labour and Wasiu Akinade three years with hard labour.
He disclosed that the trial judge however gave the convicts varying options of fine with the exception of one of them who will serve his full jail term without an option of fine.
Babafemi said they were also to forfeit a grey colour Toyota Tacoma SUV marked AAA-734HT registered
in the name of Emmanuel Chukwu; $50,000:00 belonging to Chukwu; N55,099,509.50 also belonging to Chukwu; the sum of N9,003,168.06 belonging to Wasiu Akinade and N3,052,295.20 also belonging to Akinade.
The spokesman said the agency also in another suit marked FHC/L/ MISC/672/2024 and filed before Justice Bogoro on 9th December 2024 after an initial interim forfeiture order, secured the final forfeiture of two houses linked to members of the drug cartel.
The trial judge said: “That
Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja
In order not to compound Nigeria's already huge debt burden, a university don and former Commissioner for Finance, Imo State, Prof. Uche Uwaleke has advised the federal government not to spare any effort to ensure that all long-term funds sourced from the debt capital market are tied to self-liquidating projects. His admonition was contained in an article titled, "2025 Proposed Budget: Concerns, Nuts and Bolts," which he made available to THISDAY.
Uwaleke, who is also the President, Capital Market Academics of Nigeria (CMAN) and Director, Institute of Capital Market Studies, Nasarawa State University, Keffi, said as the National Assembly considers the 2025 budget proposals presented by the President, it was important that the contents are properly interrogated before the appropriation Bill is passed.
"A major snag to a thorough interrogation of the Bill is its late presentation to the National Assembly. Much as section 81 of the Constitution allows the President the liberty to lay the Appropriation Bill at any time before the commencement of the next financial year, it goes without saying that late submission of the budget Bill makes it difficult for the National Assembly to undertake proper scrutiny of the proposals and so the approval process is hamstrung by the limited time available for debate.
"Extant literature supports the fact that the timing of the submission of budget proposals significantly affects the quality of analyses and deliberations by the Legislature.
"As a rule of thumb, a national legislature requires a minimum of three months for effective consider-
ation of the annual budget estimates. Regrettably, this has not been the practice in Nigeria over the years," Uwaleke said.
To help close this identified gap in the budget process, the financial expert submitted that a budget law similar to the US Congressional Budget Act of 1974 which lays out a formal framework for developing and enforcing a “budget resolution” to guide the budget process be established in Nigeria.
The envisaged budget law, he stated, should provide a timetable for the various budget stages; strengthen a non-partisan National Assembly Budget Office to aid in budgetary information and planning as well as encourage stronger collaboration between the various stakeholders.
Such a law, he added, should ensure that, like the General Bills, the Appropriation Bill is subjected to public hearing.
"Indeed, the review of the budget Bill by the National Assembly provides a major opportunity for public scrutiny and civic engagement in respect of any concerns the public may have.
"I have a concern that the 2025 budget will most likely witness a high level of off-budget funds thereby masking the true picture of government fiscal position.
"Although recurrent (non-debt) spending has made provision of circa N846 billion for the new minimum wage related adjustments, it is doubtful if this amount will be sufficient to accommodate the attendant bailouts to Sub Nationals by the Federal Government in support of the implementation of not only the new national wage floor but also agreements with various labour unions
including those of universities given the paltry balance in the Excess Crude Account.
"These potential off-budget funds are capable of undermining government’s plan to progressively reduce deficits and borrowings over the medium term. For the 2025 budget not to run into a major hitch, it is important that, as much as possible, all claims on public financial resources are identified and reconciled within the framework of the budget possibly incorporating potential investment income from restructuring of MOFI as well as positive impact of expected tax reforms to fund such claims in the event that the oil revenue projections do not materialise.
"A related concern I have is the financing of the N13.4 trillion deficit in which asset sale/privatization proceeds will contribute a mere N312 billion, while N3.8 trillion represents multilateral/Bilateral project-tied loans.
"The bulk of the borrowings (N9.3 trillion) will be largely discretionary and non-project tied. In order not to compound the already huge debt burden the country is facing, every effort should be made to ensure that all long-term funds sourced from the debt capital market are tied to self-liquidating projects.
"The budget breakdown, contained in the Executive proposal, is meant to provide the nuts and bolts that will facilitate budget implementation
and control.
"Besides the concern which the financing of the deficit raises, there are equally other weighty issues that deserve careful scrutiny by the National Assembly. For example, a thorough review of the line items that make up service wide votes and capital supplementation can free-up significant funds that can be channeled to other critical areas such as agriculture and solid minerals.
"For instance, the National Assembly should interrogate the composition and rationale for the ‘margin for increase in costs and recurrent adjustment (N12 billion) as well as the line item tagged ‘contingency recurrent’ (N36 billion).
an Order of final forfeiture and confiscation is granted in favour of the Federal Government of Nigeria, Landed Property/House Number 6 Olokunola Street, Sholebo Estate, Ikorodu, Lagos State, as contained in Exhibit NDLEA 2A, 2B, and 2C attached to this application used for the storage and concealment of 2,139.55 kilogrammes (More Than Two Tons) Cocaine, an illicit substance similar to Heroin and LSD. “That an Order of final forfeiture and confiscation is granted in favour of the Federal Government of Nigeria, Landed Property/House Number J9, Road 3, Close 1, Victoria Garden City (VGC) Estate, Lagos, Lagos State, as contained in Exhibit NDLEA 3 attached to this application reasonably believed to be bought with proceeds derivedfrom trafficking in illicit drug substances (proceeds of crime) as in relief 1 of this Motion. “That an Order is granted directing the sale or disposal by any other means provided by law of the forfeited House/Landed Property by the Applicant and the payment of the proceeds therefrom to the Federal Government of Nigeria.” Meanwhile, the Chairman/Chief Executive of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (rtd), while commending all the officers and men of the agency involved in the extensive investigation and prosecution of members of the drug cartel, said the case is a historical blow to the drug cartels and a strong warning that they’ll not only go to jail but will equally lose all their investments in illicit drug consignments including all the properties and wealth acquired through the criminal trade.
Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt
Justice Chinwendu Nworgu of Rivers State High Court in Port Harcourt, has adjourned till January 17 & 24, 2025, for continuation of cross examination in the N5.074billion claim by Macobarb International and its Chief Executive Officer, Shedrack Ogboru, against the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG).
Macobarb International Limited, an indigenous contractor had dragged the NLNG to court claiming over N1bn (now amended to N5.074bn) for alleged breaches to a contract (B130142PPI, Access Control) in the NLNG plant area with three years duration.
The suit said the contract provided
that Macobarb be paid bit by bit progressively based on the value of verified work done.
In its claims, Macobarb said the contract also forbade delay of any kind in the project and provided for penalty on whoever caused the delay. It also provided for alert system should anything want to cause a delay.
Macobarb said it activated the alert clauses when payment delays began to happen but that nothing was allegedly done to rectify the delays until the contract was terminated.
Meanwhile, a fierce cross examination has continued in a Port Harcourt High Court in the N5.074bn claim against the NLNG.
The defence lead counsel, Prof. Bayo Adarelegbe, continued his
detailed cross examination with Ogboru in the witness box.
The law professor and legal practitioner spent hours on the last day of the case hammering on the terms of the contract to prove it to the claimants that Ogboru was not a party to the contract on his individual recognition.
On the resumed date, he shifted questioning to the provision for the contractor to produce a ‘performance bond’ within two weeks of the take-off of the contract.
Ogboru tried to show that the dispute that led to the termination was not from submission of performance bond, but Aderelegbe pinned Ogboru to a ‘yes or no’ answer situation until he (Ogboru) admitted he did not
submit it at any point in time. Ogboru rather told the court that both parties continued to transact on the contract despite the absence of the bond as he said bills and vouchers were submitted and vetted and some paid for without reliance on the performance bond.
The claimant’s counsel, A.J Okanje, intervened many times to defend his counsel from what he considered the defence counsel’s fierce questioning. This made the judge, Justice Chinwendu Nwogu, to step in once in a while to resolve matters and moderate the cross examination. However, the trial Judge, Justice Nworgu adjourned the case to January 17 and 24, 2025, for continuation of cross examination.
Okon Bassey in Uyo
Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has assured civil servants in the state of paying them the sum of N80, 000 as their new
minimum wage. Although the governor didn't disclose when the payment would be effected, he stressed that government is working with the organized labour, to ascertain
Leading Digital-to-Home (DTH) television service platform, GOtv, has announced a special offer for subscribers the festive season.
From December 27 to 29, every GOtv channel will be available to all subscribers, regardless of their current package or subscription status - connected or disconnected.
This end-of-year gesture is part of GOtv’s mission to bring people together and ensure that families nationwide can enjoy top-tier entertainment as they celebrate the festive season.
“The festive season is a time for connection, and we want to ensure that all our subscribers can end the year with unforgettable moments of joy and entertainment," said Tope Oshunkeye, Head of Marketing, MultiChoice Nigeria.
He added: "By opening up all our channels, we’re giving everyone a chance to experience the very best of GOtv."
Subscribers can explore popular channels such as M-Net Movies,
Africa Magic, SuperSport, and GOtv Kids, which offer a diverse range of programming tailored to every member of the family. This includes everything from adrenaline-pumping football matches and laugh-out-loud comedies to heartwarming dramas and educational shows for children.
Accessing this special offer is seamless. All subscribers need to do is power on their GOtv decoders to enjoy the wealth of premium entertainment available.
This initiative reflects GOtv’s dedication to delivering exceptional value and ensuring every customer ends the year with a memorable entertainment experience.
For three days, households across Nigeria will have the chance to explore the full depth of GOtv’s content library, fostering shared moments of laughter, excitement, and connection.
It’s an opportunity for families to celebrate the season in style while experiencing the variety and quality GOtv has to offer.
actual number of state workers in the system.
His words: "We have already paid the 13-month salary popularly known as ‘Eno-mber’. Together, with the Organized Labour, work on the verification exercise of actual number of public service employees is ongoing and we hope the process will end very soon so we may commence the payment of the 80 thousand Naira minimum wage we have agreed on.
"We will continue to focus on the needs of our people, while challenging them to arise and flourish through the creative application of the talents and creativity God has embedded in us all."
The governor in his Christmas
message to the people of the state said bags of rice have been given out to bring Christmas cheers to every corner and cranny of the state.
His words: "We have released 20 bags of rice to be given to each of the 2, 272 gazetted villages in the State. This is a season of glad tidings and we are hopeful that other stakeholders all over the 368 wards will complement the efforts of government to touch the lives of the people in their respective communities.
"Our state is peaceful, safe and secure, and I urge our great and resourceful youths to help maintain this status during the Yuletide.
"I enjoin them to shun anti-
social tendencies or acts capable of disturbing public peace.
"Let us wear our unity and love as badges of honour and continue to celebrate our bonds of kindredship, which, thankfully, is currently in full display at the Christmas Unplugged 2024 edition.
"I am aware of the extraordinary cultural display and renaissance currently on going at the Christmas Village and the thousands of visitors that are trooping in daily. This is who and what we are all about- the spirit of Akwa Ibom: Happy, industrious, united, creative and God-fearing people, bound by shared aspirations, hopes and dreams.
"As we celebrate Christmas
today, may this spirit of unity and oneness lead us safely and triumphantly into the New Year. "We have been humbled greatly by what we have collectively achieved across sectors, and as we get ready to usher in the New Year, we will continue to roll our sleeves and work harder to ensure we produce enough food to feed our people, extend more development to the rural areas, expand our infrastructure, ensure our state remains an oasis of peace and tranquility and get our children to remain focused in their educational pursuits, so they may compete with their peers all over the world, in the spirit of our Arise Agenda."
Francis Sardauna in Katsina
Concerned Katsina elders under the auspices of Katsina Consultative Forum (KCF), have raised concern over the 74.1 per cent poverty rate and perennial drug abuse in the state.
The forum said the pervasive poverty rate toiling under excruciating economic conditions is contributing immensely to insecurity, illiteracy, drug and substance abuse in the state.
The Chairman of the Forum, Aminu Danmusa, raised the alarm
while briefing journalists in Katsina on some revolving strategies adopted by the group to tackle poverty and drive sustainable development in the state.
While quoting a 2020 report by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Danmusa said the Northern region of the country bears the brunt of poverty “with Katsina State standing out as one of the most severely affected.”
He reiterated that the NBS reported a poverty headcount rate of 74.1 per cent for Katsina in the
year under review, reflecting the dire situation in the state that needed collaborative effort to identify and implement long-term solutions to the problem.
“This pervasive poverty contributes immensely to other societal challenges, including insecurity, illiteracy and rising cases of drug and substance abuse”, he added.
Danmusa, however, said the KCF would hold a stakeholders’ dialogue aimed at identifying actionable and sustainable long-term remedies for poverty, drug abuse and other critical
issues bedevilling the state. He noted that the roundtable dialogue billed for December 29, 2024, has intellectuals, professionals and policymakers that will brainstorm extensively on lasting solutions to the challenges confronting the state.
“At the conclusion of the dialogue, a comprehensive communiqué will be developed, specifying actionable recommendations for every stakeholder in line with their expertise and capacity to drive progress and betterment of Katsina State and its people”, he said.
John Shiklam in Kaduna
The Kaduna State Government has empowered 4,912 women under its poverty alleviation programme - "
A Kori Talauchi".
Ayuba Bello, Principal Private Secretary to Uba Sani, governor of Kaduna State, disclosed this at an interaction with journalists on Thursday in Kaduna.
Bello also said the government had supported 100 food vendors during the Kaduna Food Festival which held on April 2024 in Kaduna. According to him, the government has instituted a revolving loan scheme to enable civil servants to meet their financial needs "with seed
of N500 million at a single - digit rate of five per cent.
"This initiative aims to promote access funds for civil servants to meet financial obligations.
"More so, the administration has been clearing pension arrears. The state government has to date, paid approximately N4.7 billion for clearance of death and gratuity benefits", the PPS said.
Speaking further, Bello said: "As servants of the people, the Uba Sani Government places great premium on accountability.
"Transparency and accountability are not principles to be trifled with.
"Last month, the Centre for Fiscal Transparency and Public Integrity
Watch (CeFTPIW) ranked Kaduna State as the first subnational in its Transparency and Public Integrity Index.
"The ranking which was done for the entire 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, placed Kaduna State as number 1, with a score of 51. 42, in its 2024 Integrity Index Report...
"In addition, Kaduna state came second out of 36 states in the ICAN Accountability and Transparency Index, reflecting its commitment to transparency, accountability, and effective resource utilization."
Bello said in the last 18 months, since Sani assumed office, the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR)
profile of the state has improved.
"Last November, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) released the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of all in the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and Kaduna State raked in N62.49 billion last year, emerging the state with the highest IGR earnings in the north", he said.
He said Sani’s policy of financial inclusion and widening the tax net and the reorganisation of the Kaduna State Internal Revenue Service (KADIRS) is responsible for the feat.
The PPS said since Sani came on board, KADIRS has been expanding the tax net in a horizontal manner
as against the vertical approach of the past which led to stagnation.
He said: "Above all, the policies of the Uba Sani administration which have a human face, have made businesses and companies that have left Kaduna State in the past, to return.
"Coupled with that, he has initiated a lot of business-friendly policies which are having positive impact on revenue generation.
"In addition, the rural transformation programme of the Kaduna State Government has improved voluntary tax compliance because people can see how their money is being spent.
"Besides, KADIRS is effectively deploying technology in its operations
to ensure effective service delivery to taxpayers.
"A major component of the Uba Sani Governance Agenda is nurturing citizens engagement, with a view to carrying the people along in decision making processes, especially on how their resources are allocated. Consequently, the government has been holding Town Hall Meetings and consultations with critical stakeholders like Traditional Rulers, Religious Leaders, Elders/ Influential Citizens, and Leaders of Women and Youth Groups, as well Development Organizations, on major Government policies and programmes, especially the yearly budget proposal."
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) has announced the establishment of a Production Monitoring Command Centre (PMCC), which it said is a transformative step in hydrocarbon operations in Nigeria.
This initiative, driven by NNPC Upstream Investment Management Services (NUIMS), a statement by the company's Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, said, aims to track oil barrels produced by the country.
According to him, it builds on the success of the Command and Control Centre to enhance
monitoring, operational efficiency, and production within the oil and gas sector and aligns with President Bola Tinubu's policy to increase efficiency and boost production in the industry.
“The PMCC serves as a unified platform for monitoring hydrocarbon molecules from production to export terminals, covering Joint Ventures (JVs) and Production Sharing Contracts (PSCs).
“By consolidating real-time data from various operators, the PMCC provides a comprehensive overview of production activities. This ensures timely identification of anomalies, minimises unplanned disruptions, and supports seamless operational
continuity.
“With advanced analytics and integrated data, the PMCC empowers stakeholders with actionable insights for proactive decision-making. This capability enhances planning, resource allocation, and risk management, enabling operators to meet production targets efficiently and maintain high operational standards,” the NNPC stated.
It said a standout feature of the PMCC is its support for predictive and preventive maintenance. By monitoring equipment performance and coordinating maintenance activities, the system, the NNPC said, ensures the reliability and longevity of assets.
"Additionally, the PMCC promotes collaboration among stakeholders by providing a secure platform for data sharing and communication, fostering effective problem-solving and continuous improvement across the sector.
“The PMCC’s role in minimising downtime and optimising maintenance directly contributes to increased production and revenue. Under Mele Kyari’s leadership, NNPC has achieved a production increase to 1.8 million barrels per day (bpd) and is working towards a target of 2 million bpd. The PMCC is integral to achieving this goal by driving efficiency and enhancing production capabilities,” the statement stressed.
The national oil company pointed out that the centre operates 24/7, staffed by trained professionals, and utilises cloud-based solutions to ensure seamless data exchange with internal and external stakeholders.
With direct communication links to the Industry-Wide Security Command and Control Centre, the PMCC, it disclosed, also enhances the security of production operations.
“As NNPC continues its modernisation journey, the PMCC reflects its commitment to innovation and excellence in the oil and gas sector.
This initiative not only aligns with national goals but also strengthens Nigeria’s position in the global energy market, ensuring long-term growth
FG: NIGER ATTEMPTING TO BLACKMAIL NIGERIA OVER ECOWAS’ STANCE, SAYS IT’S DOOMED TO FAIL
be doing business with terrorists to desist from such criminality.
Former presidential spokesperson, Reno Omokri, said Tchiani’s allegation was an indication that he was in panic mode.
But League of Northern Democrats (LND) asked President Bola Tinubu and his security aides to come clean about the Nigerien leader’s allegations.
Niger’s Head of State had accused France of providing financial support to the Nigeria government to establish a military base in Borno State, purportedly to destabilise Niger Republic and its neighbours.
Tchiani made the allegation on Christmas Day in an address, where
he accused Niger’s former colonial masters of meddlesomeness and hatching ulterior motives in the sub-region’s political affairs.
But Idris, who refuted the claims, said they existed solely in the realm of imagination of the Nigerien authorities. He insisted that Nigeria had never engaged in any overt or covert alliance with France – or any other country – to sponsor terrorist attacks or destabilise Niger Republic in the wake of the undemocratic change in the leadership of that country.
Idris, who challenged the Nigerien junta to substantiate his allegation with credible evidence, urged the Nigerian public to disregard the
false and unmeritorious allegations.
“Any attempt to blackmail Nigeria over ECOWAS’s principled stance against the unconstitutional seizure of power in the Niger Republic is disingenuous and doomed to fail,” he said.
According to the information minister, “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR), as Chairman of ECOWAS, has demonstrated exemplary leadership, keeping the doors of the sub-regional body open to re-engaging Niger Republic, despite the political situation in the country. Nigeria remains committed to fostering peace, harmony, and historic diplomatic ties with Niger.
“Nigeria’s Armed Forces, in collaboration with partners in the Multinational Joint Task Force, are succeeding in curbing terrorism within the region. It is, therefore, absurd to suggest that Nigeria would conspire with any foreign power to undermine the peace and security of a neighbouring country.”
Idris added, “Neither the Nigerian government nor any of its officials has ever been involved in arming or supporting any terror group to attack Niger Republic. Furthermore, no part of Nigeria has been ceded to any foreign power for subversive operations in Niger Republic.
“We reiterate our full support to
BAUCHI GOVERNOR: TAX REFORM BILLS FAVOUR ONE SECTION OF NIGERIA, SHORT-CHANGE NORTH
Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs in Nigeria (SCIAN) had not been fair to him over published comments on the creation of the Sayawa Chiefdom and siting of the headquarters in Tafawa Balewa town.
Mohammed spoke while addressing members of the Christian community, who paid him a Christmas homage at Government House, Bauchi. He urged the federal government to re-evaluate its economic policies in the light of the increasing hardship faced by Nigerians.
The chairman of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors' Forum emphasised the need for leadership that prioritised the well-being of citizens, and challenged the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to implement people-centred policies.
A visibly angry Mohammed berated the policies introduced by the administration of Tinubu, especially the tax reform bills, describing them as "anti-northern Nigeria".
According to him, "The tax reforms bills are aimed at favouring just a section of the country and aimed at short-changing northern Nigeria. We voted the presidency in this state and other states, they must listen to us.
“They must not come up with policies that favour only one section of the country or even one state in the country. It is not about religion, it is not about tribe, it is about national unity, it is about national hegemony and this is what we are all about – good leadership.
“We will continue to be loyal for the time being, if the situation persists, they will see our real colour, we are going to fight for it."
The governor called on the president and his team to listen to the people over whatever policies they brought, saying they should change such policies when there are complaints.
He stressed that no policy should be imposed on the people because Nigeria does not operate an oligarchic system of government or a military rule.
Mohammed told the Christian community, "I call on you to pray for Nigeria and pray for all the leaders of Nigeria, including my humble self, because Nigeria needs prayers. We are facing difficulties. There is a lot of wahala, there is a lot of hunger, and it is something that we have to pray for God to obliterate. We have to say it but, certainly, we are not insulting anybody.
"We are calling on the presidency and the federal government to change their style. Whenever a policy is not popular, they should listen to the people, they should not be arrogant
and think that whatever we bring must be.
“This is not an oligarchy, this is not a military rule, they must listen to the people and that is what makes a good leader. And we pledge to be loyal to them, but anything they are doing contrary to that, they are calling for anarchy.
“They are calling for intransigence and it is unacceptable. There is a lot of wahala.”
The Bauchi State governor added, We must work together across the party lines, across the tiers of government to provide succour and solace to the
Nigerian people.
"It is not about pride or ego, we must be able to do things that people will be assisted because whatever it is, the situation was not like this before. If the situation was bad before I came, tell me! And I must change and that is why the presidency must listen to the cries about the tax reform.
“It is not a good policy for northern Nigeria because we are not going to get money to pay you salaries, to do roads. They must listen, otherwise, they are calling for anarchy. And that is not good.”
Mohammed insisted, "We are
not afraid of them, even if it's the president, we are not afraid of them, except that we only show respect. Whether it is traditional institution, or it is the federal government, or it is the president, honestly, we are not afraid of them, but we can only show our obedience and respect to leadership. But we will not allow anyone to denigrate us.
"People are suffering and are hungry. They need to look at their leadership style. Leadership is listening to the people and being sensitive to their feelings. Leadership is doing what the people want.
senior Nigerian government officials for their untiring commitment to fostering peace and security between the government and people of Nigeria and Niger, and for their efforts towards stronger cooperation in the ECOWAS region.”
The minister also reiterated that Nigeria had a long-standing tradition of safeguarding its sovereignty and territorial integrity, adding that unlike some nations, the country has never permitted foreign powers to establish military bases on its soil.
While adding that the policy demonstrated the country’s commitment to national independence and regional leadership, Idris also denied as unfounded and counterproductive Niger’s accusation that Nigeria was seeking to sabotage its northern neighbours’ pipelines and agriculture.
He insisted the federal government had consistently supported Niger’s economic development through joint energy and infrastructure projects, such as the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline and the Kano-Maradi Railway Project, saying it would be illogical to suggest that Nigeria would undermine initiatives it had actively promoted.
Idris stated, “The claims about the alleged establishment of a so-called Lakurawa terrorist headquarters in Sokoto State, purportedly orchestrated by Nigeria in collaboration with France, are baseless. Nigeria has been a
and profitability for all stakeholders,” the
regional leader in combating terrorism, dedicating significant resources and lives to ensure stability in the Lake Chad Basin and beyond.
“Recently, the Nigerian military launched Operation Forest Sanity III, specifically addressing the Lakurawa threat, code-named Operation Chase Lakurawa Out. How can a government actively fighting the Lakurawa menace now be accused of harbouring the same group within its borders? These accusations lack credible evidence and seem to be part of a broader attempt to deflect attention from Niger’s internal challenges.”
The minister urged Niger to focus on constructive dialogue and collaboration rather than peddling baseless accusations. He described Tchiani’s allegations as “not only unfounded but also a dangerous attempt to divert attention from his administration’s shortcomings”. He asserted Nigeria’s firm commitment to fostering regional stability to continue to lead efforts to address terrorism and other transnational challenges.
CDS: We Won’t Allow Foreign Military Base
Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, said the Nigerian military will not allow any foreign
Continued on page 35
HOW ACCESS BANK OVERTOOK OTHERS, BECOMES FIRST TO SCALE CBN'S N500BN RECAPITALISATION HURDLE
its target amount.
In a statement, the Company Secretary, Sunday Ekwochi, said the success from the capital mobilisation had positioned the company's flagship subsidiary, Access Bank, as the first bank to meet the CBN's minimum capital threshold, well ahead of the March 31, 2026 regulatory deadline.
That was as the Nigerian equities market surpassed analysts’ expectation, gaining N21.03 trillion in 2024 amid an unstable foreign exchange market, soaring inflation rate, among other macroeconomic challenges.
The gain in market capitalisation between January and December 24, 2024 came against the backdrop of a 34.60 per cent inflation rate as of November 2024, and the naira trading at N1,537/$ on the last day of trading before Christmas.
With the capital raise success, Access Bank's share capital would increase to N600 billion, N100 billion above the regulatory minimum requirement.
Reacting to the feat, Chairman, Access Holdings, Mr. Aigboje AigImoukhuede, said, "We are pleased that this time we are the first to breast the tape."
Aig-Imoukhuede added that the Access brand had always resonated strongly with the local and international capital markets.
According to him, "The success of the Rights Issue demonstrates the resilience of Nigeria's capital market and reinforces our shareholders’ confidence in the present value and potential of our company."
He pointed out that since 2004, the bank had raised billions of dollars in capital to meet successive CBN recapitalisation directives.
Aig-Imoukhuede said the success of the rights issue further demonstrated the resilience of the country's capital market and "reinforces our shareholders’ confidence in the present value and
potential of our company".
He said, "We deeply acknowledge the invaluable and strong support of the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Securities and Exchange Commission who both played crucial roles in ensuring the integrity and efficacy of our rights issue exercise.
"We are also grateful to our valued shareholders, whose loyalty to the Access brand and vision for over 22 years has been most inspiring and unwavering.
"As we enter into the new year, we are well-positioned to leverage our enhanced capital base to deliver sustainable value for our stakeholders."
Access Holdings remains the first CBN licensed and regulated financial holding company to successfully execute a fully digital rights issue, embracing the power of technology to improve access to equity capital market – in further testament to its commitment to innovation leadership.
The company secured the full regulatory approvals from both the central bank and SEC of its recently closed Right Issue of 17.77 billion ordinary shares of 50 kobo each at N19.75 Kobo per share.
The offer was extended to shareholders who held shares as of June 7, allowing them to purchase one new share for every two shares owned.
The company received an overwhelming 24,181 applications, amounting to 18.82 billion shares valued at about ₦371.77 billion—reflecting an oversubscription rate of 105.76 per cent.
The development was a significant achievement for Access Bank, further reinforcing its place as a leading financial institution in the country.
By leveraging the NGX's E-offer platform, the company provided its shareholders with a seamless, efficient, and convenient subscriber experience significantly reducing barriers and democratising participation in the
rights issue.
The CBN had on March 28 announced new minimum capital requirements of N500 billion and N200 billion for commercial banks with international and national authorisation, respectively.
The apex bank further unveiled new capital base of N50 billion for banks with regional licenses, and also pegged the new minimum capital for merchant banks at N50 billion, while non-interest banks with national and regional authorisations are mandated to raise their capital thresholds to N20 billion and N10 billion, respectively.
CBN Governor, Mr. Olayemi Cardoso, in his address to the Annual Bankers’ Dinner in November 2023, pointed out that the recapitalisation programme aimed to enhance banks' resilience, solvency, and capacity to continue supporting the growth of the Nigerian economy, particularly achieving President Bola Tinubu's aspiration for a $1 trillion economy.
Meanwhile, THISDAY’s analysis of trading numbers showed that the Nigeria Exchange Limited (NGX) market capitalisation closed December 24, 2024 at N61.944 trillion, representing about N21.03 trillion or 51.4 per cent gain in investors net returns in 2024 from N40.918 trillion the stock market opened for trading this year.
Specifically, the listings of Aradel Holdings Plc, Transcorp Power Plc, and surge in Dangote Cement Plc stock price, among other blue-chip stocks, contributed to the market capitalisation increasing to that value in the period under review.
Similarly, the Federal Government of Nigeria foreign exchange policies impacted on foreign investors' increasing participation in the stock market, despite increasing the Monetary Policy Rate, from 18.75 per cent in 2023 to 27.5 per cent in 2024.
The NGX All-Share Index also closed
December 24 at 102,186.03 basis points, about 36.66 per cent Year-till-Date (YtD) gain as of December 24, 2024 from 74,773.77 basis points the stock market closed for trading in 2023.
The reported 36.66 per cent YtD gain in NGX ASI means the Nigerian stock market still maintains its position among the top four best performing exchanges in Africa.
Sectoral performance closely aligned with broader market sentiment, with all major NGX indices closing in the positive territory as of December 24, 2024 — Oil & Gas (+160.36per cent), Insurance (+102.96per cent), Consumer Goods (+51.97 per cent), Industrial Goods (+31.45 per cent, and Banking (+23.23 per cent) indices.
As in previous years, the NGX Oil and Gas index remained the top-performing index in the market, propelled by favourable industry policy interventions. Key developments in the period include the approval of the $1.28 billion Seplat-Mobil divestment transaction after two years of delay and Oando’s acquisition of Nigerian Agip Oil Company (Agip).
Also, the Consumer Goods sector showed resilience, advancing, despite challenges from currency depreciation, cost pressures, and high interest rates that impacted the earnings of industry players.
Capital market analysts stated that the stock market performance in 2024 was on the backdrop of mixed corporate earnings by listed companies, the federal government’s reforms in the foreign exchange market, and fuel subsidy removal.
Analysts at Cordros Research, in a report titled, “Nigeria in 2025, Reform to Recovery: Navigating the Rebound,” stated that the financial market in 2024 had been a story of “two unequal halves.”
They said in the first half, the domestic equities market surpassed
previous highs, hitting the 100,000- point mark for the first time, as elation about reforms remained rife among investors.
The report stated, “In the second half, fixed income yields hit unprecedented levels, moving in tandem with the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) aggressive stance and, thus, reinstating investors’ belief in the rate transmission mechanism.”
Responding to market performance in 2024, Vice President, Highcap Securities Limited, Mr. David Adnori, stated that investors were trading based on sentiment.
He stated that the emergence of President Bola Tinubu further energised the stock market since market participants had hope in his ability to rejig the economy and implement economy-friendly policies.
Adnori, however, said the stock maintained its positive momentum in H2 2024 on the backdrop of banking sector recapitalisation and 2024 corporate earnings by most, especially, banks listed on the exchange.
Amid a hike in the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) to 27.5 per cent, capital market experts stated that its impact had created sentiment trading among investors, who saw the fixed-income market as an alternative investment opportunity to hedge against doubledigit inflation.
An investment banker and stockbroker, Mr. Tajudeen Olayinka, stated that the N21.03 trillion market capitalisation gain in 2024 told of the presence of huge liquid funds in the hands of institutional investors, who currently dominated activities in the stock market.
Olayinka said, “It also indicates the fact that the future is brighter for some of the listed companies, hence, investors are positioning their portfolios for that brighter future. This is also the reason the market remains resilient in spite of the high interest rate regime.”
L-R: Leader of the Senate, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele; Vicar of Babamuboni Memorial Anglican
Senate Committee on Defence, Senator Thomas Joel-Onowakpo
Says country attempted to hijack last round of protests in Nigeria Avers Russia, China, Iran deploying disinformation, election interference, others Puts number of displaced Africans at 45 million
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
The Africa Center for Strategic Studies, an academic institution within the US Department of Defence, established and funded by the American Congress, has accused Russia of attempting to undermine democracy in Nigeria and at least 27 other countries in Africa.
Specifically, the centre established in 1999, in a new report titled: “Africa's 2024 Security Trends in 10 Graphics”, fingered Russia in the recent antigovernment protests in Nigeria, saying
it sought to undermine the people's trust in the Nigerian government.
The Africa Center says its mandate is to study security issues relating to Africa and serve as a forum for bilateral and multilateral research, communication, training, and exchange of ideas involving military and civilian participants.
Describing Russia, China and Iran as ‘foreign authoritarian actors’, the report added that these countries have facilitated the democratic backsliding witnessed in Africa in recent years.
“Through disinformation, direct election interference, deployment of mercenaries, support for extraconstitutional seizures of power, and undermining of the United Nations, these foreign actors have attempted to prop up undemocratic authorities and normalise authoritarianism while paralysing popular sovereignty as a means of expanding their influence in Africa.
“Russia has sought to undercut democracy in at least 28 African countries spanning the continent.
Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt
The Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, has assured the Commission will, in February 2025, begin a new round of project commissioning across the Niger Delta region.
Dr. Ogbuku gave the assurance during an interactive session with newsmen at the Commission’s Headquarters in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Ogbuku said that some of the landmark projects to be inaugurated include the multi-purpose emergency shelters in Bayelsa, Delta, and Rivers States, which would provide relief to Internally Displaced Persons, IDPs, in the event of flooding in the Niger DeltaTheregion.NDDC Chief Executive Officer noted the Commission was determined to make the Renewed Hope Agenda of the federal government a reality in the Niger Delta region.
He restated his commitment to the mandate given to the Commission by President Bola Tinubu to change the narrative in Nigeria’s oil-producing region.
He said: “The President gave us a matching order during our inauguration to positively turn things around in the Niger Delta region. The Board and Management have worked vigorously to meet Mr. President's expectations.
“Six months after our inauguration, we were able to commission some significant projects as part of the one-year anniversary of President Tinubu’s administration".
The MD said further: “My reappointment alongside the current NDDC Board is not just a vote of confidence in me by Mr. President but a symbol of trust. For me and a few
other persons who were reappointed to this present board, Mr. President gave us the reappointment on trust".
Ogbuku pledged that the NDDC would adhere strictly to the President’s directive to the Commission to complete all ongoing projects in the region, including roads, bridges, schools, and healthcare facilities.
He remarked: “The President is encouraging us in the area of funding.
He approved our raising N1 trillion from financial institutions in the 2024 budget to complete legacy projects.
“Today, the NDDC has an approved 2024 budget. The last budget of this commission was in 2020 and I believe this is the only agency operating without a budget for this long period.
“So, these things have been achieved in collaboration with the Presidency, the National Assembly and other regional stakeholders.”
The Managing Director affirmed that the Commission was engaging all stakeholders to ensure harmony and cooperation in the task of developing the hitherto neglected Niger Delta region.
He noted: “It is not only by our efforts; it is a synergy and combined efforts from all the stakeholders who believe the time has come when there should be stability in the NDDC and that stability is a challenge to us to ensure that we deliver development to the people of the Niger Delta region.
“Today, there is peace in the NDDC and the region. The youths and other stakeholders are happy with our efforts. That is the success we have toiled so hard to achieve for our people.
“We thank our stakeholders for their support and encouragement which has boosted our desire to ensure that we give them what they deserve. We appreciate the state governments for
supporting us and partnering with us in several areas of development.”
Reflecting on the achievements of the NDDC, Ogbuku said: “We believe that in partnership with stakeholders, we are going to achieve more, and development in our region will be faster and more holistic. We are not competing with any state government, as we only compliment their efforts.”
He recalled that between May 18 and May 28 this year, the NDDC commissioned five major development projects across the Niger Delta region.
He said this included the 27.5-kilometre Ogbia -Nembe Road, constructed in partnership with Shell Petroleum Development Company, SPDC.
The road, with seven bridges and 50 culverts, connects 14 communities in Bayelsa State.
Information manipulation and political interference have been Russia’s most frequently used methods.
“These tools have likewise been deployed in Nigeria and Kenya in an attempt to hijack protests to undermine trust in government and democracy,” the report noted.
Besides, it said that China had become more active in promoting its dominant party model in Africa in recent years, advancing norms on the ‘subservient’ role of the state, media, and military to the party.
The US group noted that this trend was underscored by the opening of China’s first political school in Africa, expanded training for African party leaders, and an effort to shape Africa’s media environments.
“There has been a fourfold increase in disinformation campaigns, otherwise known as Foreign Information Manipulation and Interference (FIMI)) targeting Africa since 2022. These campaigns continued to proliferate throughout 2024, particularly in Africa’s conflict zones. West Africa has emerged as the continent’s disinformation epicenter.
“Aided in their power grabs by FIMI, military juntas in the Sahel have become laboratories for Russia’s disinformation toolkit, which has paired with the juntas’ persecution of the media to turn the region into a highly malleable information environment.
“Russian FIMI covertly tilts national debates in targeted countries such as South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria, while the Kremlin-linked African Initiative has recruited local intermediaries to spread conspiracies about public health across the continent,” the centre said in the document.
It added that FIMI, sponsored by the Chinese Communist Party has leveraged its opaque control of African media to produce skewed and misleading coverage that is then amplified by Chinese disinformation campaigns.
“African democratic elections continued to be prime targets of disinformation campaigns, with countries like South Africa and Ghana facing an onslaught of false and misleading messaging by external actors.
“ However, both countries took the threat seriously and began developing layers of resiliency to detect, analyse, and effectively alert and empower citizens and key stakeholders, including the media, in the face of these campaigns,” the US centre added.
Africa’s persisting conflicts are compounding crises of governance on the continent, it stressed, straining already fragile regions and opening the door to foreign exploitation through proxy forces, resource trafficking, and information manipulation.
According to the Africa Centre report, a graphical snapshot of Africa’s security trends in 2024 illustrates the compounding effects of unresolved conflict, violent extremist insurgencies, external authoritarian actors vying for influence, and natural disasters.
Collectively, it noted that these trends highlight the escalating strains on the coping capacities of affected countries and regions—and the resulting widening gap between areas of stability and instability.
Besides, the group pointed out that the spillover from this escalation in the Sahelian countries is being felt in coastal West Africa where there have been over 500 violent extremist
events in or within 50km of their borders in 2024, compared to just over 50 such events in 2020.
“The number of Africans forcibly displaced has risen for the 13th year in a row—to over 45 million people. This figure represents a 14 per cent increase from the previous year. 14 of the top 15 countries in total number of forcibly displaced populations are in conflict.
“With 3 per cent of its total population forcibly displaced, Africa has both a larger share and absolute number of forcibly displaced people than any other major region in the world.
“There has been a doubling in the forcibly displaced population in Africa since 2018. Three-quarters of these people—34.5 million—are internally displaced. Africa now hosts more than 48 per cent of the world’s internally displaced people,” the report added. It added that acute food insecurity affected 163 million Africans in 2024, over one-tenth of the continent’s population. This total, it disclosed, is nearly triple the number of five years ago, highlighting the rapid escalation in Africa’s food emergency.
“80 per cent of Africans facing acute food insecurity live in countries experiencing conflict with famine, having been confirmed in Sudan and reported in parts of South Sudan and Mali.
“While Nigeria, Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo are the countries with the greatest number of people confronting acute food insecurity—each with over 20 million people impacted—23 out of Africa’s 54 countries have at least 10 per cent of their populations facing acute food insecurity,” the document stated.
David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka
The Anambra State Government has said it will punish those who make bonfires on tarred roads in the state as a way of welcoming the new year. It has for long been a tradition for people to make bonfires on the night of 31st December, as a way of sending off the outgoing year and welcoming the new one, but this has been found to be detrimental to tarred roads, as they cause cracks that later grow into huge craters.
Managing Director of Anambra State Civic and Social Reformation Office
(ANCISRO), Mr. Chuks Nnabuife, stated this in a press release, saying that such activities are detrimental to the lifespan of roads already constructed by the state government.
Nnabuife said: "As natives and residents of Anambra celebrate the festivities on the Christmas and New Year season, Anambra State Civic and Social Reformation Office (ANCISRO) urge them to celebrate wisely without embarking on any activity that will hinder the current progress in infrastructural development in the state.
"Setting up bonfires on tarred roads
is one of the fastest ways to draw back the development. Burning tyres, woods, and all sorts of items on tarred roads is a fast way of destroying the roads.
“No level of festive mood justifies such insensitive action as the roads cost the state and communities very huge amounts of money and time achieve.
"In recent time, especially within the last two and half years, Anambra State has reaped huge infrastructural benefits in all her 21 local government areas (LGAs).
"These are as a result of the grace of God, good governance and the focus
on people's wellbeing by the Solution Government of Gov. Chukwuma Charles Soludo."
The agency said roads construction was one of Soludo-led government's most notable achievements, insisting that it is costing government heavily to put up such construction, and should not be destroyed by mere euphoria of celebration mood. Further according to ANCISRO, "Tarred roads are opened or opening up in many towns across the urban areas and hinterlands of the state. The roads cost the state very huge sums to build and maintain.
PRE-DISCONNECTION NOTICE
MADE PURSUANT TO THE NIGERIAN COMMUNICATIONS ACT 2003 AND THE GUIDELINES FOR PROCEDURE FOR GRANTING APPROVAL TO DISCONNECT TELECOMMUNICATIONS OPERATORS, 2012
The Nigerian Communications Commission hereby notifies the public that approval has been granted for the disconnection of Exchange Telecommunications Limited (Exchange) from MTN Nigeria Communications Limited (MTN) as a result of nonsettlement of interconnect charges.
Exchange was notified of the application and was given opportunity to comment and state its case. The Commission, having examined the application and circumstances surrounding the indebtedness, determined that Exchange does not have sufficient reason for non-payment of the interconnect charges.
The public is, therefore, requested to TAKE NOTICE that:
1. The Commission has approved the Disconnection of Exchange to MTN in accordance with Section 100 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003 and the Guidelines on Procedure for Granting Approval to Disconnect Telecommunications Operators, 2012.
2. At the expiration of 5 (Five) days from the date of this notice, MTN will discontinue passing voice and data traffic through Exchange and will, thereafter, utilise alternative channels in interconnecting with other Network Service Providers.
Please note that this disconnection will subsist until otherwise determined by the Commission.
Dated this Day, Friday, 27th December, 2024.
Signed: Reuben Muoka Director, Public Affairs
Plot 423 Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja, Tel: +234-9-461-7000-29 fax: +234-9-461-7514
Toll Free No: 622. E-mail: ncc@ncc.gov.ng www.ncc.gov.ng
www.ncc.gov.ng
Congrat la ons on o r a ard of Ugwu Aro of Arochukwu
Kindgom b His Eminence, Eze
Dr. Eberechukwu Oji, Eze Aro.
This a ard is a testament to o r e emplar leadership and recogni on of o r contrib on to the gro th of o r comm nit , Nigeria and h manit .
Signed
Mazi (Sir) Nnadozie Udensi (Ugwu Aro)
President General, Nzuko Arochukwu
Mazi Dr. Kanu Ohuche (Ugwu Aro)
Secretary General, Nzuko Arochukwu
www.thisdaylive.com
EZINWANNE ONWUKA
argues that progress is not just about rising figures but about how these figures translate into improved living standards
page 20
ENO AND PURSUIT OF ACCOUNTABILITY
Governor Eno has displayed a high level of prudence, and selflessness in the pursuit of public good, writes ANIETIE USEN
opinion@thisdaylive.com
As required by the 1999 Constitution, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on 18th December 2024 performed a crucial aspect of the annual budget ritual when he laid before a joint session of the National Assembly the 2025 budget proposals with aggregate expenditure of N49.7 trillion and a projected N13.4 trillion deficit which is nearly 4% of GDP. The budget priorities reflect its title with the lion shares going to defense/security (N4.91 trillion), infrastructure (N4.06 trillion), education (N3.52 trillion) and health (N2.48 trillion). The key parameters adopted for the 2025 ‘Budget of Restoration: Securing Peace, Rebuilding Prosperity’, include crude oil price of USD75 per barrel and oil production of 2.06 million barrels per day. On the back of expected reduction in importation of petroleum products alongside increased export of finished petroleum products, bumper harvests enabled by enhanced security as well as increased foreign exchange inflows, the budget projects inflation will moderate to 15% in 2025 while the naira will appreciate to N1,500 per US dollar.As the Lawmakers consider the 2025 budget proposals presented by the President, it is important that the contents are properly interrogated before the appropriation Bill is passed. A major snag to a thorough interrogation of the Bill is its late presentation to the National Assembly. Much as section 81 of the Constitution allows the President the liberty to lay the Appropriation Bill at any time before the commencement of the next financial year, it goes without saying that late submission of the budget Bill makes it difficult for the National Assembly to undertake proper scrutiny of the proposals and so the approval process is hamstrung by the limited time available for debate. Extant literature supports the fact that the timing of the submission of budget proposals significantly affects the quality of analyses and deliberations by the Legislature. As a rule of thumb, a national legislature requires a minimum of three months for effective consideration of the annual budget estimates. Regrettably, this has not been the practice in Nigeria over the years.To help close this identified gap in the budget process, I submit that a budget law is required similar to the US Congressional Budget Act of 1974 which lays out a formal framework for developing and enforcing a “budget resolution” to guide the budget process. The envisaged budget law should provide a timetable for the various budget stages; strengthen a nonpartisan National Assembly Budget Office to aid in budgetary information and planning as well as encourage stronger collaboration between the various stakeholders. Such a law should ensure that, like the General Bills, the Appropriation Bill is subjected to public hearing. Indeed, the review of the budget Bill by the National Assembly provides a major opportunity for public scrutiny and civic engagement in respect of any concerns the public may have.I have a concern that the 2025 budget will most likely witness a high level of off-budget funds thereby masking
the true picture of government fiscal position. Although recurrent (non-debt) spending has made provision of circa N846 billion for the new minimum wage related adjustments, it is doubtful if this amount will be sufficient to accommodate the attendant bailouts to Sub Nationals by the Federal Government in support of the implementation of not only the new national wage floor but also agreements with various labour unions including those of universities given the paltry balance in the Excess Crude Account. These potential offbudget funds are capable of undermining government’s plan to progressively reduce deficits and borrowings over the medium term. For the 2025 budget not to run into a major hitch, it is important that, as much as possible, all claims on public financial resources are identified and reconciled within the framework of the budget possibly incorporating potential investment income from restructuring of MOFI as well as positive impact of expected tax reforms to fund such claims in the event that the oil revenue projections do not materialize. A related concern I have is the financing of the N13.4 trillion deficit in which asset sale/privatization proceeds will contribute a mere N312 billion, while N3.8 trillion represents multilateral/ Bilateral project-tied loans. The bulk of the borrowings (N9.3 trillion) will be largely discretionary and non-project tied. In order not to compound the already huge debt burden the country is facing, every effort should be made to ensure that all long-term funds sourced from the debt capital market are tied to selfliquidating projects.The budget breakdown, contained in the Executive proposal, is meant to provide the nuts and bolts that will facilitate budget implementation and control. Besides the concern which the financing of the deficit raises, there are equally other weighty issues that deserve careful scrutiny by the National Assembly. For example, a thorough review of the line items that make up service wide votes and capital supplementation can freeup significant funds that can be channeled to other critical areas such as agriculture and solid minerals. For instance, the National Assembly should interrogate the composition and rationale for the ‘margin for increase in costs and recurrent adjustment (N12 billion) as well as the line item tagged ‘contingency recurrent’
(N36 billion). Curiously, the same figures appeared under service wide votes in 2024. Equally, under capital supplementation is a line item known as ‘contingency capital (N200 billion) which also featured in 2024 budget for same amount. The opaque description of these items as well as their presentation calls for closer scrutiny. In the same vein, a situation in which projects are merely listed as ‘ongoing’ without stating the completion target expected in 2025 leaves much to be desired. For example, listed under Ministry of Transport as ‘ongoing’ are 10 projects for which the sum of N42 billion is earmarked. These include the completion of AbujaKaduna railway project; Lagos-Ibadan and its associated additional works; rehabilitation of Itakpe-Ajaokuta rail line and ‘construction of 12 Nos station buildings and track laying works at railway ancillary facilities areas Agbor’. Others include ‘installation of signal and telecommunication system on ItakpeAjaokuta-Warri railway line, installation of acoustal sensing security surveillance system for the Abuja (Idu)-Kaduna and other security gadgets’, as well as completion of feasibility studies for new standard gauge rail lines. To see the shortcomings in this presentation, most of these projects also featured in the 2024 budget breakdown where a provision of N33 billion was made. Even the ‘feasibility studies for new standard gauge rail lines’ listed as completed in 2024 budget is also appearing to be completed in the 2025 budget! Besides, the document was silent on the completion stages of these projects and did not indicate how much each of these projects would cost. This sort of narrative does not allow for a correct assessment of progress made in the projects’ execution. The same presentation flaw is observed with respect to projects listed under the Ministry of Works in the 2025 budget where about N290 billion has been allocated for the rehabilitation/repair of roads. For example, the sum of N1 billion each has been provided for the ‘ongoing’ construction of Rijiya Gusau Road in Zamfara State and Nsukka-ObolloAfor-Ehamafu-Nkalagu road in Enugu State. It stands to reason that long-term projects such as roads or railways spanning several years should first be included in a country’s perspective plan (or at least medium-term plan) indicating timelines and then each year, the annual budget draws from it showing (preferably in kilometres as opposed to ‘sections’) achievable targets. This renders the use of “ongoing” a poor indicator to have in an annual budget. It bears repeating that for the budget information to discipline fiscal actions, it must be transparent. This demands the avoidance of the use of opaque and arbitrary language to enable the electorate verify the budget information as well as monitor performance.
Uwaleke is a Professor of Capital Market and the Director of the Institute of Capital Market Studies, Nasarawa State University, Keffi
ONWUKA argues that progress is not just about rising figures but about how these figures translate into improved living standards
When I first heard Nasboi's song ‘Hunger Games’, I was greatly amused. The lyrics, delivered with a catchy rhythm, seemed to capture the plight of the average Nigerian in a lighthearted way. But today, the humour which I found in that song has vanished, replaced by the grim reality of poverty and despondency that has become the hallmark of President Tinubu's economic policies.
In less than 18 months, transportation costs doubled, several businesses folded under the weight of rising expenses, school fees have become unaffordable for many parents, and the prices of basic commodities, fuel inclusive, skyrocketed beyond the reach of many. While the government promised palliatives to ease the hardship, these promises have proven grossly insufficient, leaving thousands in dire straits. The situation is just as Nasboi sang: “Food no dey for boys to focus. Rice no dey, even garri cost… Things too cost for dis kind regime. Ulcer dey, no food to treat am o.”
The desperation of Nigerians to survive was tragically exposed a few days ago when stampedes at palliative distribution centres led to loss of lives. In Ibadan, a stampede at a funfair of which the organisers promised participants “exciting prizes like scholarships and other bountiful gifts” led to the death of several children. A similar tragedy occurred in Abuja, where a crowd gathered for palliatives became uncontrollable, resulting in chaos and fatalities. In Anambra State, the story was no different; a stampede at another distribution point left families mourning their loved ones. These are not isolated incidents—they are the result of widespread hunger and misery.
The images of mammoth crowds scrambling for food packs were heart-wrenching, a visual indictment of the ruling party's failure to prioritise the welfare of its citizens. I agree with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) that “it is heartbreaking that despite our abundant resources as a nation, Nigerians have been subjected to an agonising life where they die struggling for food.”
I also agree with presidential aspirant Omoyele Sowore's remark that “If anyone didn’t know how bad things are and how our people are really desperate for survival, this unprecedented but unwarranted death by hunger-suicide tells the real story.” These tragic events are indeed an “ugly testament to the alarming level of misery, poverty, hunger, starvation, and sense of hopelessness and desperation for survival currently plaguing our nation,” according to the PDP. It is heartbreaking that a government which
promised Nigerians ‘renewed hope’ has plunged the nation into renewed despair. Families can no longer afford to eat three square meals a day, children are dropping out of school, and the middle class, once a buffer against extreme poverty, is steadily disappearing under the weight of harsh economic policies. Even in rural areas, where subsistence farming was once a reliable source of survival, the high cost of fertilisers and transportation has made agriculture increasingly unsustainable. Many farmers have abandoned their fields, unable to cope with rising expenses.
Amidst these travails, Mr President, during his media chat on Monday night, stated that his reforms were necessary for the country’s growth. However, focusing solely on economic growth— measured by GDP and other statistical metrics— ignores the critical realities faced by the citizens. True progress is not just about rising figures but about how these figures translate into improved living standards, affordable healthcare, quality education, and access to basic necessities. When millions are battling hunger and poverty, growth figures offer little consolation.
Unfortunately, President Tinubu's economic reforms have done little to address the pressing needs of the people. What we see instead is a government out of touch with the realities of the masses. It is embarrassing that a nation as rich in resources as Nigeria cannot provide food security for its citizens so much so that citizens now flock to charity events for their daily bread.
Meanwhile, Mr President, in his Christmas message, has assured that “Nigeria is on a promising path of restoration and hope, with every indication pointing towards a bright future.” While the President’s words may sound reassuring, they ring hollow for the millions of Nigerians struggling with the daily reality of hunger and hardship. Promises of a ‘promising path’ and a ‘bright future’ cannot fill empty stomachs or console families grieving the loss of loved ones due to desperation-induced tragedies. Actions speak louder than words, and so far, the government's actions—or lack thereof—have painted a bleak picture.
‘Hunger Games’ by Nasboi has become the painful anthem of Nigerian reality. The lyrics tell of the struggles of a nation where hunger and despair have become commonplace. If the current administration is serious about its promise of ‘renewed hope,’ it must address these issues head-on. Hunger dey o! And the time for rhetoric is over. Nigerians deserve more than words—they deserve action.
Onwuka
via ezinwanne.dominion@gmail.com
Governor Eno has displayed a high level of prudence, and selflessness in the pursuit of public good, writes ANIETIE USEN
For three days, from December 16 to December 18, 2024, 18 months into his administration, Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State broke new grounds in openness, accountability and transparency in public office.
This time, the Governor, in a very transparent and pragmatic approach, hosted what he called the Ministerial Briefing/End of Year Review of his Administration. In a first-of-its-kind town hall-style summit, the Governor, his entire cabinet and critical agencies, brought their annual performance report openly before a cross-section of political and business leaders in the State, along with the leadership of the media, labour and civil liberty organisations.
The idea was not only to subject his annual performance to public scrutiny and evaluation, or carry along these critical stakeholders in the next steps of the government, but more importantly to seek their inputs and buy-in into the plans and goals of the government from Day One of 2025. Prince Enobong Uwa, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), in his opening remark at the occasion called it “bottomup” approach.
In a well-tailored approach designed to accomplish specific deliverables, every head of MDA did not only present their report cards for the outgoing 2024 but their programmes and goals for 2025 and beyond. In the process, all leaders of MDAs also laid bare before stakeholders their leadership skills and grasp of issues under their watches.
There was no doubt whatsoever in the minds of stakeholders that the Governor himself was on top of his game, as his depth and insight into every aspect of his government were profound and second-tonone. From the land, air, and sea gateways of the State economy, Governor Eno demonstrated uncommon managerial acumen that compelled and assured stakeholders that the ship of State in Akwa Ibom is in good hands.
As the world grapples with the challenges of corruption, malfeasance, and pervassive wrongdoings in the public sector, the importance of transparency and accountability in governance has never been more pressing. From the Nordic countries' exemplary open-government initiatives to Brazil's innovative use of e-governance to track public spending, nations around the world are demonstrating that transparency and accountability are essential ingredients for good governance, economic prosperity, and social justice.
This is what delighted Akwa Ibom stakeholders most about Governor Eno’s government and leadership style, which is simultaneously attracting national attention. Just as the three-day ministerial briefing/ review was in session, the respected Leadership Newspaper, announced the Pastor turned politician, as the Nigerian Governor of the Year 2024, for bringing “pragmatic and imaginative leadership that reverberates with success within a very short time….”
Close watchers of his administration and style of leadership are not surprised. His style combines a large dose of participative leadership which has involved team members in the decision-making process, with the servant leadership style which prioritises the needs of populace and entity over and above the interest of the leadership. Governor Eno has displayed a high level of prudence, transparency, and selflessness in the pursuit of public good that has captured the imagination of many, including his political opponents.
One of the governor’s opponents in the last governorship primaries who is now actively supporting the governor confided in this writer his amazement with Governor Eno’s sterling performance, transparency and openness to public scrutiny. “I hope you will not quote me, but honestly, whenever I look at the performance of this governor, I ask myself, would I have measured up to this very high level and standards of performance?”
Said Governor Eno at the opening of the three-day ministerial briefing/review: "We came into office with an overwhelming electoral victory. Eighteen months
later, I believe it is time we should sit together and look critically on what we have been able to achieve together as a government. We will be here together for three days to take stock, to see the things we have done right and to consolidate on them, and to see the things we should do right and to learn to do them right…It is simply an opportunity for us as a government to have feedback and learn".
It turned out that the learning was a two-way exchange. A cross section of stakeholders who jam-packed the sprawling Banquet Hall of the Government House learned with great delight, not just about the bold and daring economic and infrastructural steps Governor Eno has taken to make Akwa Ibom a proud sub-national in Nigeria, but they also were proud to know first hand that the State is lucky one more time to be steered by a competent transformational leader.
Stakeholders said his job approval rating in 18 months is probably unrivalled in the history of the 37-year- old State. Those who spoke inside and outside the briefing venue were united in their perception and opinion on the calibre and capacity of the businessman turned Governor. Senator Effiong Bob, the political leader of Uyo Senatorial District, was effusive with his rating of the Governor: “When you have a good product, it is easy to sell. This ministerial briefing is a novel idea, because we have never had it so good and open in Akwa Ibom State”.
Otuekong T. O Akpan, an elder statesman and former member of the Cross River State House of Assembly, spoke along the same lines: "I am very excited to be a part of this event. Coming from the private sector, the Governor has brought innovation into governance, leading to an unprecedented development in all components of the ARISE Agenda for the good of Akwa Ibom people."
Goddy Umoh, Chairman, Akwa Ibom State Assembly Service Commission, said the ministerial briefing was very illuminating. “Through the ministerial briefing, we are able to know clearly what the Governor has been doing in the last 18 months and what the Governor intends to do in 2025. It is very rare to see a state governor in Nigeria put all his cards on the table for all to see…” For the Oku Ibom Ibibio, the patriarch of Ibobio people, Dr. Solomon Etuk, his joy as the traditional father of the Governor was obvious. "I am proud of the Governor, not because he is my own son, but because he has excelled in everything he has initiated and beyond. I am so delighted to be an eye-witness of this unprecedented initiative of openly rendering the account of his stewardship… While Chief Nduese Essien, former minister of Housing and Environment said the ministerial briefing is a unique idea that “has never been done in any state of the federation…”, Senator Emmanuel Ibok-Essien said that “after eight years, many states will not be able to compete with Akwa Ibom State, at the rate Governor Eno is performing”.
Usen is an author and
Editor, Editorial Page PETER
ISHAKA
Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com
The health authorities should do more to contain the scourge
It is obvious that many Nigerians are not paying attention to the growing fatality rate of Lassa fever, a deadly disease that took its name from one of our communities. In the past few months, Lassa fever has claimed the lives of dozens of our citizens, going by figures from the Nigeria Center for Disease Control (NCDC). “There has been an alarming increase in Lassa fever cases and deaths in the last four weeks, signalling the outbreak’s severity,” the NCDC Director General, Jide Idris, disclosed on Monday in Abuja. “Cumulatively this year, we have recorded 9,492 suspected cases, 1,154 confirmed with 190 deaths.”
It is unfortunate that Lassa fever has been a serious health challenge in Nigeria since it was first diagnosed in Lassa (the village for which it was named) in Borno State in 1969. Even though there have been efforts in the past to contain the scourge, the country has been witnessing frequent outbreaks in recent years. This, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO) “could be attributed to reduced response capacity in surveillance and laboratory testing.”
control measures. Healthcare workers should also be advised to always be careful to avoid contact with blood and bodily fluids in the process of caring for sick persons.
What the current outbreak has shown clearly is that if indeed there have been any preventive strategies, they were not implemented
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
Lassa fever is an acute febrile illness which is caused by a virus with an incubation period of between six and 21 days. The onset of the disease is usually gradual, starting with fever, general weakness, before being followed by headache, sore throat, muscle pain, chest pain, nausea, vomiting, cough, and bleeding from mouth, nose, etc. However, because the symptoms of Lassa Fever are so varied and non-specific, clinical diagnosis is often difficult, especially early in the course of the disease. For that reason, steps should be taken by the government, at all levels, to emphasise routine infection prevention and
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA
GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU
DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE
DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI
SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH
ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI
CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI
DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO
TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com
Experts have advised that people should ensure their food (cooked or uncooked) is properly covered while regular handwashing should be adhered to always. The bush around the home should also be cleared regularly while windows and doors of the house should be closed especially when it is nighttime. The public should also be adequately enlightened on the dangers posed by rats in their homes. This should be the responsibility of both the federal ministry of environment and that of information that can deploy the National Orientation Agency (NOA) for a public awareness campaign on the issue. Against the background of repeated commitments by various stakeholders to prevent a recurrence of this disease, what the current outbreak has shown clearly is that if indeed there have been any preventive strategies, they were not implemented. And if implemented, they are not working. We therefore believe that the authorities need to do more if we are ever to rid the nation of the disease that claims the lives of dozens of our citizens on an annual basis. With effective coordination, the current outbreak can be contained quickly before it becomes another national epidemic. But the real challenge is to work towards its total eradication from Nigeria as it has been done in many other countries. To rid our country of Lassa Fever, we need concerted efforts from all stakeholders to deal with the health challenge. We hope the authorities will take both preventive and long-term measures this time around so that we do not continue to lose our citizens to the virus that has for decades been an emblem of shame.
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The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), under the stewardship of the Minister Nyesom Wike, is determined to usher in a new era of reforms aimed at enhancing governance and service delivery across the Mandate Secretariats.
Spearheading these reforms is the Health and Environment Secretariat under the proactive leadership of Dr. Baba-Gana Adam, the Permanent Secretary whose initiatives and introduced reforms is designed to improve healthcare delivery at all levels.
The Health and Environment Secretariat, under Dr. Adam’s leadership, has made strides in enhancing secondary and tertiary healthcare services.
These reforms include improved funding mechanisms to ensure the sustainability of health programs, implementation of the Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF), which has bolstered staff morale and improved success rates in postgraduate medical training.
Other reforms include the expansion and modernization of healthcare facilities, ensuring a conducive environment for both patients and healthcare workers as well as continuous training and development of the health workforce to build capacity and improve service quality.
Another notable achievement under this reform is the revival
of the Drug Revolving Fund monthly meetings, which had been dormant for years. This effort ensures the availability of essential drugs in healthcare facilities while improving transparency in fund utilization.
Additionally, the secretariat has revisited and enforced technical committees, streamlining operations and ensuring alignment with strategic goals. These reforms aim to create a sustainable framework for decision-making and service delivery.
Since his assumption of office, Dr. Baba-Gana Adam has shown unwavering dedication to reshaping the health sector in the FCT.
Recognizing that primary healthcare is the foundation of any effective health system, Dr. Adam has prioritized the restructuring of the FCT Primary Health Care Board. He has charged staff to uphold diligence and professionalism, emphasizing that the board’s success depends on its workforce.
In line with this, the administration is actively addressing challenges in grassroots healthcare delivery, including funding, infrastructure, and capacity-building. The goal is to establish a robust primary healthcare system that meets the needs of FCT residents, particularly in underserved communities.
Dr. Baba-Gana Adam’s extensive public service experience spans
over three decades, encompassing roles in logistics, project evaluation, and city management.
The former FCT Director of Outdoor Advertisement and Signage has demonstrated exceptional leadership, earning multiple accolades for his contributions to urban renewal and public service. His track record in social advocacy, particularly in tuberculosis eradication, further highlights his commitment to public health. As the Chair of Stop TB Partnership Nigeria, he championed initiatives to improve access to healthcare for vulnerable populations.
While collaborating with Mandate Secretary Dr. Adedolapo Ayokunle Fasawe, Dr. Adam is building a forward-looking health sector in the FCT. Their combined efforts aim to redefine healthcare delivery, aligning with Wike’s vision of a progressive FCT where residents have access to quality and affordable healthcare services. Nyesom Wike’s decision to prioritize competence in selecting Permanent Secretaries is yielding tangible results. The health sector’s transformation under Dr. Adam is a testament to what visionary leadership can achieve.
Acting
Email: deji.elumoye @thisdaylive.com
08033025611
Gbenga Sodeinde writes that Governor Biodun Oyebanji recently ensured the payment of the new minimum wage to civil servants in Ekiti state to coincide with his 57 birthday celebration.
According to Proverbs 29, 2 in the Bible: “When the Godly are in authority, the people rejoice. But, when the wicked are in power, the people groan”.
This is the deep reflection of the situation of things in Ekiti state under the progressive leadership of Governor Biodun Oyebanji, whose 57th birthday on December 21, 2024 could be best described as celebration of Ekiti people’s happiness.
This could be predicated on so many exhilarating grounds. Oyebanji has proven to be a man of his words. Little wonder, he is known by many residents of the State as “a talk and do Governor” or better still “A promise keeper”. All these sobriquets have become his symbols, character traits and philosophy of life.
Recently, at a meeting with the joint session of labour unions, he promised to start paying the N70,000 minimum wage from December, 2024. Due to the lean purse of Ekiti, the promise looked impossible and impracticable. But the governor against all odds fulfilled the promise to the exhilaration of the entire workforce in Ekiti.
On December 19, news filtered into town that civil servants have started receiving their salaries with huge reflection of the new wage bill. Interestingly, this coincided with the governor’s 57th birthday. The ecstasy sparked off spontaneous joy among civil servants, who described this gesture as Oyebanji’s birthday gift to them.
When the civil servants received their salary alerts of the new minimum wage, they stormed the office of the Governor in their hundreds in Ado-Ekiti, dancing and singing in appreciation of payment of the new minimum wage as reflected in their December salary, which was paid in about three days to Governor’s birthday.
Among the joyous civil servants were Permanent Secretaries and other highly placed officials, who dropped their titles and danced to praise the governor for redeeming his pledge to make them happy. They applauded Oyebanji for including them in the new wage, thereby ending several years of exclusion in the wage arrangement.
The development, according to them, confirmed the genuineness of Governor Oyebanji’s promise to ensure that every category of worker benefitted from the new minimum wage.
The ecstasy and the songs that rented the air around the governor’s office took Oyebanji by surprise. The razzmatazz reached the governor who was then superintending over the State executive council meeting. He emerged from the state executive council meeting, accompanied by Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, Secretary to the State Government, Dr Habibat Adubiaro and some state commissioners to receive the jubilant workers.
In fact, it was as if Ekiti never had it so good like this. It became obvious that the entire civil servants, who are most of the time known to have lukewarm attitude towards government were all happy with the Governor evidently with the way they showered praises on him. This reflected lucid display of love and passage of confidence vote in his leadership.
The farmers, market women and men, youths, persons with disabilities, senior citizens, retirees, teachers civil servants and politicians, including those in the opposition, have enjoyed unfettered patronage from Oyebanji. They all speak well of him, because of his leadership style, which is quite unique and “charming”.
Charming in the sense that his leadership style is difficult to fault. Unlike many politicians and leaders, Governor Oyebanji’s humility knows no bounds. He is putting on the garment of love, with Omoluabi’s cap of compassion, which radiates primacy of selflessness and generosity, with passion and face that are showing commitment to the
task ahead.
His progressive politics is down- to -heart and convincing. He has that ability to turn enemies to friends, all in a bid to make Ekiti united and develop. Gradually, opposition is waning, not because they don’t exist, but they have become more emasculated by Oyebanji’s mastery of inclusive governance and politics .
Little wonder, there are groundswell of support for his government. His 57th birthday had attracted outpouring of praises, commendations, and prayers for him from various groups, leaders, and sectors, which confirmed that Ekiti people got it right with the current governor.
One of such groups is Ado Heritage, which celebrated the Governor on his
birthday. The members, who are professionals from different backgrounds, saw it as an opportunity to let him know that he is doing well and that the people are really pleased with him.
In fact, Ekiti State stands united in gratitude as it celebrated a governor whose leadership has redefined progress.
In a tribute signed by the President of Ado Heritage, Bashorun Tope Alabi and the Secretary, Akeem Bello, the group commended the governor for his remarkable achievements across multiple sectors, including agriculture, infrastructure, security, workers’ welfare, and care for pensioners.
According to the group, one of the most groundbreaking milestones under Oyebanji’s administration is the completion of the Ekiti State Airport initiated by his predecessor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi. This monumental project has placed Ekiti State on the global economic map, opening the doors for international trade, boosting agricultural exports, and creating numerous job opportunities.
The airport, equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, will attract investors and increase the state’s revenue inflow, positioning Ekiti as a center of innovation and commerce in Nigeria.
The group commended the governor over his recent achievements, especially the commencement of the minimum wage payment, which was a testament to his commitment to improving the lives of civil servants. This bold initiative has not only uplifted the morale of workers but also strengthened the economic foundation of families across the state.
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Oguejiofo Ujam writes about steps being taken by Governor Peter Mbah to transform Enugu into a model state through provision of infrastructural facilities across the three senatorial districts.
In five months’ time when the current administration clocks exactly two years in office, it would be clear how the various elected representatives, both at the centre and at the sub-nationals have fared. In terms of preparedness for the job and ability to deliver, it could be said that Enugu State stands to be counted.
Quite a lot happened in the state recently. And to some extent, it became more obvious that the state governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, had succeeded in opening up the state for public interest amid the attendant scrutiny.
The eventful week, which started with the recognition of the governor among first-term governors that succeeded in attracting foreign direct investment, culminated in the honorary Doctor of Laws (LL.D) bestowed on him by the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
But, far from being a reward for the governor’s strenuous efforts at justifying his mandate, the LL.D honoris causa by our institution came as an icing on the cake.
This is so, because it does seem that Enugu State nay Nigeria has not seen the entire length and breadth of Governor Mbah’s developmental paradigm.
Ever since he mounted the saddle as the Enugu State chief executive, the former Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Pinnacle Oil and Gas Limited, has not relented in demonstrating his private sector approach to governance.
He had been steadfast in mouthing the contemporary languages of socio-economic development. The Owo, Nkanu-East born lawyer, who grew his signature company, Pinnacle Oil and Gas, from a struggling start up to one of the giant oaks in the downstream oil
industry, captured national attention when he boasted about his intention of growing Enugu State’s $3million to a $40billion economy.
As he registered that ambitious vision of adopting disruptive strategies to achieve his target, sceptics did not fail to align his thoughts and talks with the usual cheap sloganeering of politicians.
But, without going into the governor’s performance record in the past 20 months, particularly his aggressive programme of restoring water supply across the state and the wave-making smart schools initiatives, this intervention was propelled by two unique offerings from the Mbah administration.
The governor, who had been speaking the languages of impactful and measurable development, reaffirmed his knack for walking the talk, when he announced the implications
of a $100 million Austrian investment. While assuring Enugu residents that the investment agreement with the Austrian firms would not lead to high water payment rates, Governor Mbah explained that the agreement with consortium of investors was to ensure the seamless reticulation of potable water to every home within the metropolis and environs.
According to the Enugu State chief executive, from an occasional two million litres, his administration was able to raise water generation to 120 million litres. He stressed that the $100 million Foreign Direct Investment in the downstream water sector would not only improve water supply, but also enhance reticulation.
Residents of Enugu State will recall that the last time pipe borne water flowed in the state was around 1976, and that efforts by the Governor of old Anambra State, Chief Jim Nwobodo, to redress that water supply problem were thwarted by fire outbreak that damaged metal pipes that were packed at Ninth Mile corner. Also, the disruption of the Nigeria Peoples Party (NPP) administration by the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) in 1983 aborted that remediation plan. It was therefore against that background of long term neglect that Governor Mbah literally swore to break the jinx and give Enugu people water. That policy thrust also meant that the rustic and dilapidated and worn out asbestos pipes should be replaced with ductile pipes.
-Prof Ujam writes from Nsukka
Chinedu Eze
Some Nigerians, especially those who returned from overseas with their families have shunned commercial airlines and opted for charter of private jets to take them from Lagos and Abuja and to other parts of the country.
Those who can afford the cost, it was learnt, decided on that option because of the uncertainty associated with schedule commercial airlines, which include flight delays, cancellation and spiraling airfares to some destinations in the country.
It was learnt that some private jets with charter permit from the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) have been making the kill since early December as they have been criss-crossing the country, airlifting passengers from one airport
to another. On Tuesday, about 10 private jets were sighted at Asaba Airport, capital of Delta State, and on the same day, about six private jets were parked at the Chinua Achebe International Cargo Airport, Umueri, Anambra State.
THISDAY learnt that there is increasing demand for charter services that aircraft that have permit for non-schedule commercial operation cannot meet.
Some private jets on Permit for Non-Commercial Flight (PNCF), which by law should not operate commercial charter service are being tempted to join the market because of the high demand.
One of the private jet, a Bombardier Challenger 601 parked at the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport, Owerri, Imo State with registration number withheld,
is one of the busiest jets in Nigeria since this past week. It belongs to Orlu billionaire (name withheld). It’s been doing multiple flights between Abuja, Lagos and Asaba, Umueri, Owerri, Enugu and Port Harcourt airports since this last week.
According to a source, “A one way trip on the Jet cost between N7 million-N10 million, which is about the lowest possible charge this season. Given the cost of flying the regular commercial airlines per person, people with large families are opting for private jet charters, which provides flexibility, comfort and are less time wasting. The fact that the jet accommodates 12 persons makes it more cost effective.”
The Managing Director of Chinua Achebe International Airport, Umueri, Anambra State, Martins Nwafor, confirmed to THISDAY on
Wednesday that chartered private jets have been dropping families at the airport.
He said that people are taking private charter as a more reliable option because of the high cost of fares on schedule commercial flights, noting that private jets are more reliable and abide by the client’s time.
“Instead of paying N400, 000 per flight on commercial schedule airline, those who can afford it charter private jet. The advantage is enormous. You will be on time and you can get it at about $7, 000. I recall that we have two or three of such flights, which landed here and dropped some families. It is more reliable because of the high cost of flight and delays and cancellations,” he said.
THISDAY tracked the cost of flights from December 22 to
December 25 2024 and discovered that average fare to eastern part of the country is about N300, 000 for economy class. Flights between Abuja and Lagos still go on average of N250, 000 and to northern part of the country still go for N180,000 to N200, 000 and Lagos to Akwa Ibom is about N250, 000.
The lower fares to northern parts of Nigeria obviously have to do with the demand. Demand is not high on those destinations this season, while they are high on the southern part of the country, especially South-east and South-south.
It was also learnt that passengers are still rushing for flights despite the efforts of the airlines to acquire more aircraft on wet lease for the Christmas season.
“I was surprised that even on Christmas day passengers filled
the airport and were still rushing to board their flights. In the last five days it is still the same and it will continue like that till December 28 and even beyond that. In fact, there is no seat in Uyo, Enugu and Owerri flights in the next three days. The rush is really much. I paid 302, 000 for a seat for Uyo passenger today.
“I didn’t imagine that there will be this number of passengers this year, looking at the economy but I am surprised that even more than last year, there is rush for flights on Christmas day. This has not happened before and we are expecting that this rush will continue till December 28 or even into the next year,” an airport protocol official told THISDAY.
United Bank for Africa Plc and other Nigerian banks have donated multi-million-naira relief materials to victims of recent floods with a commitment to continue to provide supports for socio-economic development of the country.
The donations to victims of floods in Jigawa State were made under the auspices of the Committee of Nigeria’s Banks’ Chief Executive Officers.
A delegation of the banks’ chief executives visited Jigawa State to empathise with the residents and government and provide assurances of continuing supports.
The delegation included Group
Managing Director of United Bank for Africa (UBA) and Chairman of the Committee, Dr Oliver Alawuba; Group Managing Director of Access Bank Plc, Mr. Roosevelt Ogbonna, Group Managing Director of Zenith Bank, Dame Adaora Umeoji and Managing Director of Fidelity Bank Plc, Dr Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe.
Also on the entourage were President, Association of Corporate Affairs Managers of Banks (ACAMB), Mr Rasheed Bolarinwa and Registrar and Chief Executive, Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), Mr. Akin Morakinyo. Alawuba, who spoke on behalf of the banks, said the banks were in Jigawa State to lend helping
hands to the state government by donating relief materials in support of the affected residents, and also critical institutions that provide care such as public hospitals.
He noted that the multi-million naira relief materials consisting of food items such as bags of rice, cartons of vegetable cooking oil, mattresses, and beverages would go a long way in providing comfort and lessen the burden of the victims impacted by the floods.
He said the humanitarian gesture was a testament to the Nigeria banking sector’s commitment to supporting the well-being of Nigerians in times of need.
“As bankers, we are not just concerned about the economic
implications of natural disasters; we are also deeply troubled by the human suffering that accompanies them. We believe that it is our collective responsibility to support those affected and help them rebuild their lives,” Alawuba said.
He recalled that banks had continuously shown supports for national interests citing the previous donations for victims of national disasters and more than N32 billion galvanized for national healthcare during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The Nigerian banking industry has a long history of interventions, dating back to the 2011 and 2013 flooding when 28 and 32 states were affected by floods. In trying moments, we provided significant support to
the affected states and communities.
More recently, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Nigerian banking sector played a critical role in supporting the governments at all levels efforts to contain and manage the spread of the virus.
“Notably, we were proud to be part of the Central Bank of Nigeria-led Private Sector Coalition Against COVID-19 (CACOVID) Relief Fund, where we contributed significantly to the Fund’s efforts to provide palliatives to vulnerable Nigerians and strengthen the nation’s healthcare infrastructure.
The intervention of the banking sector resulted in over N32 billion being pooled to fill a significant funding gap for the governments during the unexpected global pandemic.
“Furthermore, as we navigated the post-pandemic era, Nigerian banks played important roles in helping businesses recover. Banks in Nigeria supported firms of all sizes, to mitigate the impact of the extended lockdown and disruption to business activities in many ways. Through the stabilization funds, Nigerian banks provided loans and credits to small and medium businesses to stay afloat, thereby ensuring business sustainability, preventing job losses, and fostering national economic growth.
Stories by Chinedu Eze
Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited (BASL), operators of the Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal 2 (MMA2), has issued a firm reminder to passengers and the public about the importance of maintaining decorum and respect within the airport premises.
The statement follows recent incidents of unruly and violent behavior by some passengers, which BASL described as unacceptable and contrary to the standards expected at its facility.
Acknowledging the frustrations
caused by flight delays and cancellations, BASL urged passengers to channel their grievances through appropriate mechanisms.
The company referenced Part 19 of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations (Nig.CARs), which outlines the rights and responsibilities of passengers, as well as the obligations of airlines, travel agents, and tour operators.
BASL emphasised its zerotolerance stance toward unruly or violent behavior, warning that such actions will lead to immediate legal consequences.
This includes prosecution and potential inclusion on nofly lists. The airport operator reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety, security, and well-being of passengers, staff, and stakeholders.
In light of the yuletide season, BASL called on passengers to cooperate with airport personnel, exercise patience, and report inappropriate behavior to security staff for prompt attention.
The company stressed the importance of creating a secure and peaceful environment for all airport users.
The Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, recently stressed on the significance of the newly signed Practice Direction on the Cape Town Convention.
In her remarks at the just concluded Aviation Safety Round Table Initiative (ASRTI) breakfast meeting in Lagos, she described the development as a game-changer for Nigeria’s aviation sector, with the potential to enhance investor confidence, streamline financing, and position Nigeria as a competitive aviation hub.
Kuku noted that the Cape Town
Convention was designed to simplify cross-border financing and leasing of commercial aircraft and engines.
“This is an extremely welcome development,” she said, referencing her background in infrastructure finance.
“Aviation is a highly capitalintensive industry that thrives on strong investor confidence,” she added.
She acknowledged the commendable steps taken by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) towards compliance but stressed the need for thoughtful implementation to address challenges related to securing interest in aircraft
and the legal application of financing.
According to her, the convention presents both opportunities and challenges, particularly for airlines and the broader economy.
Kuku also harped on the government’s efforts to engage critical stakeholders, including the insurance sector, to address major cost drivers such as financing and aviation fuel.
She expressed optimism that the Practice Direction would attract additional investments, bolster Nigeria’s reputation, and stimulate economic benefits such as job creation and enhanced access to leased aircraft.
Aero Contractors recently hosted its long service award ceremony, a momentous event dedicated to honouring distinguished retirees for their exceptional service and unwavering commitment to the organisation.
The ceremony, which celebrated loyalty and excellence, featured the presentation of recognition plaques and the disbursement of retirement benefits to the honorees. Among those celebrated were: Capt. Gerald Nmoka, Stephen Kukoyi, Promise Amadi, Victor Aitanun
and Nwankwo Stephen.
The management of Aero Contractors expressed gratitude to the outstanding individuals, whose dedication and expertise have significantly contributed to the airline’s growth and success over the years.
Speaking at the event, Aero Contractors’ Managing Director, Capt. Ado Sanusi, underscored the importance of celebrating excellence and fostering a culture of recognition within the organisation. “Our retirees
have exemplified the highest standards of professionalism and commitment. Their legacy will continue to inspire our team as we build a brighter future for Aero Contractors. As a leading airline in Nigeria, Aero Contractors remains committed to supporting its employees and creating an environment that values their contributions. This commitment reflects the company’s ongoing efforts to uphold its reputation as a trusted, value driven airline,” he stated.
Hello Energy, a trailblazer in the Compressed Natural Gas industry, has recently completed the construction and beautification of the Creek Road roundabout in the Fegge community, Onitsha, Anambra State.
Speaking during the decoration ceremony, Mr. Okide Ezigbo, Managing Director of Hello Energy, highlighted that the project was part of the company’s Corporate
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Chinedu Eze
A major downside of airline business is when an airline takes its aircraft overseas for maintenance because there are no maintenance facilities in their respective countries.
In the case of Nigeria, the airline faces the lack of stability in the exchange rate and the unpredictable slot time, which aircraft maintenance organisations subject aircraft to.
Industry experts assert that this is one of the major reasons why Nigerian airlines have short lifespan because they spend more money than their counterparts that have maintenance facilities in their countries. They also take their aircraft out for a long time because ferrying the aircraft overseas and returning it back to service is another protocol, which costs money, faces immigration issues and then customs issues.
When the aircraft is taken out for a long time, the airline loses revenues, and in recent time, Nigerian carriers left some of their equipment overseas because of high foreign exchange rate and outrageous charges levelled at the airlines by the facility managements due to prolonged stay of the aircraft in their facility.
One can still see some aircraft owned by defunct Nigerian airlines in some maintenance hangar in different parts of the world, starting with the defunct Nigeria Airways Limited (NAL).
When Arik Air started operating with its brand new Boeing 737-700 and 800 aircraft, it signed agreement with Lufthansa Technik, which was being paid in dollars while the airline was earning most of its revenues in Naira. Then the exchange rate was not so high compared to now; yet it was challenging because huge resources are deployed for aircraft maintenance and for purchase of spares.
business. Egyptair and SAA too. ET and Egyptair will invest in an aircraft type complete with simulators, thus owning their own ecosystems and able to offer these services to others.
“Egyptair invested in 12 A220-300s plus a flight simulator and cabin crew mock up at once. We don’t know how profitable or not Egyptair is with this model, but they put their eyes on the big picture. They have to have a modern airline to profile and market Egypt and bring people to Egypt. ET has shown us that building your own ecosystem gives you efficiency advantages that make you a reliably profitable airline as long as you keep your focus. African airlines will just have to try to create their eco systems in one way or another or rely on one another to secure the efficiencies that are required to build proper airlines. Good luck to TAAG and all of us.”
As at the last count, over 50 per cent of aircraft owned by Nigerian airlines are either parked at airports or at maintenance facilities in Nigeria or overseas, a development that has led to reduction in capacity and hike in airfares. The situation has compelled airlines to continue to scale down their operations.
This has fanned the fears that domestic operations may be grounded or may shrink to skeletal levels that could affect the nation’s economic activities.
Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives aimed at giving back to the community.
Ezigbo explained that the gesture was designed to create a joyful and memorable Christmas experience for the residents.
“This Yuletide season, Hello Energy Ltd. has brought a magical Christmas ambiance to Anambra State by constructing and decorating the Creek Road roundabout in Fegge, Onitsha,” he stated.
He added, “This project, undertaken as part of our CSR initiatives, not only enhances the community’s aesthetics but also fosters social impact and creates lasting memories, especially for the children and youth.”
It is the view of many in the industry; that if Nigeria has a major Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility, it would cost less to maintain domestic airlines fleet because they would pay in Naira, which takes away the high cost of seeking for dollars. The cost of ferrying the aircraft overseas would be saved and the aircraft may not stay in the maintenance facility until when the engineers are ready to attend to it; then it would be moved from the airport to the facility; that will safe cost of daily rental for parking the aircraft in the facility.
The major cause of the challenge, according to industry observers, is the inability of airlines to obtain foreign exchange to pay for the maintenance of the aircraft due to the depreciation of the naira, high cost of foreign exchange and the fluctuating foreign exchange regime, which leaves much to uncertainty. It was learnt that airlines have reduced their flight service to many airports, thus selling fewer seats that do not meet the demand of travellers, hence relative higher prices at low season.
Former Managing Director of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) who was also former Director General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Captain Fola Akinkuotu, once told THISDAY that the biggest killer of Nigerian airlines is the huge cost associated with C-checks
It’s fun, laughter and premium entertainment as Genesis Cinemas, Nigeria’s leading cinema operations of multiplex cinemas in Nigeria, a subsidiary of Genesis Group opens its Lagos Flagship in the heart of Lekki Phase 1, Lagos. This is its third outlet in Lagos state coming after Genesis Cinemas, PURLE Mall, Maryland and Genesis Cinemas, Festival Mall, Festac. This news is coming barely after its sister company; the Film Distribution arm of Genesis Group, Genesis Pictures distributed the biggest summer video game movie - Borderlands and signed a co-distribution contract to distribute Ayo “AY” Makun’s new theatrical movie titled “The Waiter” in December. The new Genesis Cinemas, Lekki anchors the new PURPLE Mall, along Freedom Way, Lekki phase one and features state-ofthe-art audiovisual experience, with
stunning seats and luxury fittings designed to give guests maximum comfort, premium relaxation and first-class cinema experience they crave. This also affirms the motto of Genesis Cinemas; To be West Africa’s first choice premium entertainment brand, driven by cutting edge technology.
Group Managing Director of Genesis Cinemas; Dr Nnaeto Orazulike stated, “This new Genesis Cinema further reinforces our commitment and our ambition to bring the luxury cinema-going experience to a wider audience. We are looking forward to introducing customers to our new cinema over the coming months and are confident that the anticipated December release schedule will offer amazing surprises for everyone, while continuing to support the growth of the creative industry in Nigeria.”
Recently, Angola national carrier, TAG Angola Airlines signed agreement with Lufthansa Technik for the maintenance of the two aircraft types. Many industry observers believe that such agreement would erode the airline’s finances, but if Angola has a major aircraft maintenance facility, it would save money and time on the aircraft. In addition, having a local MRO encourages manpower development, as the citizens will develop the skills to maintain the aircraft themselves. This creates jobs and job mobility.
Reacting to the challenges of maintaining aircraft overseas by Nigerian carriers and other African carriers, the Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer of Ibom Air, George Uriesi, said: “This is one of the most debilitating challenges confronting the airline business in Africa. You have an airline and you procure modern equipment, but you cannot maintain these aircraft yourself. You have to outsource it to other foreign airlines who are competing with you. They provide services for you at a huge premium, while competing against you. Every maintenance done for you costs way more than theirs costs them because they do it for themselves. As a result, our business model is heavily inefficient.
“This is why South Africa Airways (SAA) (when it was SAA), ET (Ethiopian Airlines, Egyptair and Royal Air Maroc (to an extent), are different. ET built capacity over time as it was clearly essential that this component of the business had to be ‘inside’ to be an efficient and profitable airline. The savings from maintaining their aircraft themselves and offering commercial 3rd party maintenance to others puts them right at the center of the modern global airline
“This is because most airlines are unable to pay for the checks and eventually abandon the aircraft at the foreign MROs which usually refuse to release the aircraft to the airlines until all invoices are settled. You may want to ask if the airlines don’t know of the costs before sending out their aircraft in the first place. The truth is that in the agreement, the MRO may charge a very attractive standard C- Check fee of $500, 000. But when the aircraft gets to the facility and the actual work begins and panels are opened, there are usually findings, which are beyond the quoted cap that must be rectified. This is where the huge difference comes in that dramatically raises the final C check cost.
“On the domestic front, our Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) in its wisdom has imposed a calendar limit for a C- Check at every 18 months and depending on the scope of work to be performed, an average C- check costs $1million. This can be said to be conservatively N1.5 billion per aircraft every 18 months. 60 percent to 70 percent of this cost is labour costs while the balance is the cost of parts and engineering services associated with the C-Check,” Akinkuotu said.
He noted that this is a huge capital flight in the very scarce foreign currency that ought to remain in the country if such checks are performed locally.
“When the fact that the labour rates are significantly lower in this part of the world, compared to Europe, Asia and the Americas, the need to establish a standard MRO locally is beneficial in more ways than one. Not only would the airlines enjoy a significant drop in the cost of C-Checks, the pressure brought about by the demand in foreign currency to pay for the checks will reduce drastically by between 60 to 70 per cent,” Akinkuotu had said.
In order to encourage intra-African trade that will boost the region’s economy and create jobs, all the major cities in the continent must be connected through affordable air fares to enable more people travel and trade among themselves, writes Chinedu e ze
According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the number of air travel in Africa is lower than any other region in the world.
The major disincentives to air travel in Africa are the high cost of ticket, the high cost and multiple airport taxes and immigration bottlenecks.
In 2023, BBC reported that flying within Africa is more expensive than just about anywhere else in the world, noting that travellers pay higher ticket prices and more tax.
“It is often cheaper to fly to another continent than to another African country.
For a quick comparison, flying from the German capital, Berlin, to Turkey’s biggest city, Istanbul, will probably set you back around $150 (£120) for a direct flight taking less than three hours.
“But flying a similar distance, say between Kinshasa, capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Nigeria’s biggest city, Lagos, you will be paying anything between $500 and $850, with at least one change, taking up to 20 hours.
This makes doing business within Africa incredibly difficult, and expensive - and it is not just elite travellers that are affected,” BBC wrote.
BBC quoted IATA, which stated that if just 12 key countries in Africa worked together to improve connectivity and opened up their markets, it would create 155,000 jobs and boost those countries’ Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by more than $1.3 BILLION
“Aviation contributes directly to the GDP in every country. It generates work and it activates the economy,” IATA’s regional vice-president for Africa and the Middle East, Kamil al-Awadhi, had said.
SAATM
It is this challenge that begat the vision of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), which is a flagship project of the African Union Agenda 2063, an initiative of the African Union to create a single unified air transport market in Africa to advance the liberalisation of civil aviation in Africa and act as an impetus to the continent’s economic integration agenda. IATA stated that SAATM will ensure aviation plays a major role in connecting Africa, promoting its social, economic and political integration and boosting intra-Africa trade and tourism as a result.
The SAATM was created to expedite the full implementation of the Yamoussoukro Decision, which simply means open sky in Africa that would guarantee easy movement on the continent with little immigration barriers. Now, high taxes piled on the ticket by individual countries make airfares high and added to these are airport charges, which shut up the cost and making it difficult for average citizens to travel by air to do business from one country to another in Africa.
As noted by the BBC report, it is cheaper for Africans to travel to Europe and China to do business than to travel from Nigeria to Cote’Ivoire in West Africa to do similar business because of high cost of ticket and other protocols that could arise. THISDAY investigations revealed that many Africans from Code’Ivoire, Ghana, Senegal and others come to buy commodities in Nigeria by road, which takes them days and it is very cumbersome and discouraging. However, travel experts believe that if airfares are affordable, more Nigerians will travel to Senegal, Niger, Guinea, Mali and other places to buy goods and offer services. Currently, Africans travel to other regions to buy the things that emanate from their continent due to poor air
connectivity and high cost of fares.
OverlAnd AIrwAyS
Last week Nigeria’s rising carrier, Overland Airways had inaugural flight to Banjul, capital of The Gambia, a day after it launched flight service to Freetown, Sierra Leone. This was a move to realise the set goals of SAATM, which is to connect more people to places in the African continent.
In The Gambia, Overland was welcomed by the top Gambian officials who were elated that the Nigerian carrier would connect the country to other destinations in the sub-region with three-weekly flights with firm plan to become daily in the next few months.
In his welcome speech, the Director General of The Gambia Civil Aviation Authority, Nfansu Bojang, spoke about how to make it easy for Africans to travel and engage in intra-African trade and tourism. Bojang observed that if the goals of SAATM would be realized, air tickets must be made affordable to business travellers, investors and tourists in order to encourage trade among African nations.
The Gambia decided to set example by domesticating the route between the country and Senegal. What it means is that airlines leaving The Gambia to Senegal will not pay international charges and taxes. These are waived to make fares cheaper so that more Africans can afford to fly between the two countries and The Gambia has started the campaign, urging other African countries, especially West and Central Africa to do the same in order to lower the cost of air ticket
“I never had any doubt in his commitment and confidence in the promotion of the integration of African connectivity.The YD, we know, is more than three decades old. And the YamoussoukroDecision that came was 15 years old now. Now we have SAATM. And SAATM is an AU project. But we don’t want SAATM to be inactive for another 10 years. We want SAATM to take effect now. And for SAATM to take effect now, we must believe in ourselves. And we as regulators and operators and service providers, therefore, owe it to ourselves to support our airlines in any way possible. And one of the ways to do that is to make air travel affordable to our citizens.
“We know one of the key obstacles or bottlenecks in increasing our numbers in connectivity is the high cost of air travel. Most of the travels within our region are government official travels. Our ordinary citizens find it very difficult because the prices are exorbitantly unaffordable; hence, the concept of trying to domesticate destinations between our sub-regional countries. That Is why Gambia and Senegal, as a first step, have agreed and domesticated points between Banjul and Dakar. What this means is all charges associated with international travel will now be waived from the cost of the ticket,” Bojang said.
He noted that waiving those taxes in both countries will see a significant drop in the cost of the ticket.
“It is incumbent on us, therefore, as operators of airports and regulators to do whatever we can and emulate our counterparts in the developed world, like in the EU, where you can have travel between states for $30. There
are no destinations between Africa, African countries, where you can travel for less than $100. And if they can do it, we can do it. But if we try to hold on to the high taxes, then we will not go.But if we reduce the cost of travel, then economies of scale is bound to kick in and the numbers will shoot up. So whatever we lose in the short term, by giving discount, we are sure to regain in the long term. So we are happy to have Overland Airways here,” he added.
FIFTh FreedOM
Speaking in the same vein, the Gambian Minister of Transport, Works and Infrastructure, Mr. Ebrima Sillah, said the Gambian government has granted Overland Airways fifth freedom rights to enhance regional air connectivity and foster economic growth.
According to him, the fifth freedom right will enable the airline operate flights between two foreign countries while originating from their home base and this will enhance the optimization the airline’s operations, expand networks, and serve underserved routes.
The Minister said The Gambia granted fifth freedom right to Overland Airways because of its commitment to regional integration and the vision of SAATM and the country’s plan to deepen its tourism market with the hope that Overland Airways will bring tourists and entrepreneurs to the West Africa nation to enjoy its beaches and top hospitality offered by the many resorts and hotels located along the beautiful beaches of The Gambia.
“The Ministry of Transport, Works and Infrastructure believes that establishing direct air links between Lagos and Banjul will greatly benefit the two sister countries, as it will enable greater movement of our people, which will lead to wider economic benefits and prosperity. Therefore, I wish to assure you of my Ministry’s commitment to provide all necessary support to the airline and all those that are interested in establishing their industries in the Gambia, in the form of incentives, granting of rights and auto routes, as well as designation where necessary.
“As a SAATM PIP State and founding member of the Banjul Accord Group (BAG), the decision to grant Overland Airways Fifth Freedom Rights aligns with Article 3.1 of the Yamoussoukro Decision (YD). I wish Overland Airways every success in its Banjul operation, and I am confident that this service will unlock the great potential of our air transport industry, leading to improved load factors for airlines and others that intend to operate in the Gambia,” he said.
The representative of Charges D’ Affaires of the Nigeria High Commission, Banjul, Kelechi Nwosu, also commended Overland Airways for the bold step it has taken to connect destinations in West Africa.
“Connectivity is not just about moving people and goods. It is about moving ideas, expanding opportunities, opening new pathways for progress. With this inaugural flight, Overland Airways is helping to further bridge the gap between fraternal brothers, Nigeria and the Gambia.
“Two countries that, while geographically
separated, share deep historical, cultural, and economic ties. Today’s occasion builds on an already laid foundation for a more prosperous future, one where West African nations grow together through shared economic opportunities. In this regard, Nigeria, as one of the continent’s largest economies, and the Gambia, with its growing market and strategic position on the Atlantic coast, both stand to benefit from closer economic collaboration.
He noted that the airline’s launch of service to The Gambia,“is not just a milestone for Overland Airways, but a reflection of the airline’s commitment to supporting regional integration and development.” He reiterated that Overland Airways has been at the forefront of facilitating air travel in West Africa, connecting key cities within Nigeria and beyond. This new route to The Gambia underscores the airline’s vision and provides more accessible, reliable, and efficient transport services that support both economic development and human connectivity.
In his speech, the Chief Operating Officer (CEO) of Overland Airways, Captain Edward Boyo, who is SAATM Ambassador for West and Central Africa, said: “Overland Airways is very pleased to be here today. Today, Overland Airways presents itself under the African Union, the African Civil Aviation Commission, Single Air Transport Market programme, which is a program designed to open the skies of Africa and raise the integration of African states.
“Air travel is currently, I would say, confined to the well-to-do. But we are trying to make air transport affordable and available for everybody so that African continent can progress in economy, in trade, and in the integration of people. Our flight from Lagos to Banjul takes 3 hours 30 minutes.”
Earlier in the year, the Managing Director of Asky Airlines, Mr. Esayas WoldeMaria, had frowned at the high cost of tickets in Africa and established that air travel in Africa is costly and cumbersome due to huge government taxes and immigration bureaucracies, a development that is retarding economic growth of the African continent.
WoldeMaria said there was need for Africa to integrate more for its economic development, insisting that government must cut down on the huge taxes charged on air travel that are significant disincentive to travel, trade and tourism.
He regretted that the enormous taxes collected by governments of various countries in Africa were not ploughed back to develop aviation infrastructure and that explained why Africa has undeveloped airport infrastructure, adding that Africans would have had freer movement if airfares are low and travel by Africans in Africa is visa free.
WoldeMaria stressed that there is stronger unity in West Africa compared to other regions, but travel in West Africa is cumbersome and costly due to taxes and charges, urging for drastic reduction of immigration protocols to enhance trade and higher economic growth.
If African countries want to change their poor representation in the global rating of passenger movement by air, increase internally generated wealth, create millions of jobs and encourage inter-African trade and tourism, African leaders should disrobe air tickets, the many clusters of taxes that made air travel a very expensive experience in the region.
Bennett Oghifo
The Building Collapse Prevention Guild (BCPG), Ikoyi-Obalende Cell, has warned developers and
construction stakeholders in Lagos State about the risks associated with direct labour construction arrangements for high-rise buildings. While acknowledging
that such arrangements may save clients the contractor’s overheads on materials, the Guild described these practices as inappropriate for high-rise construction. It emphasised the
importance of quality assurance, quality control, and adherence to standard building practices to ensure structural safety and environmental sustainability of multi-storey construction
Fadekemi Ajajaiye
HRM Oba Alayeluwa Saheed Ademola Elegushi Kusenla III of Ikate Kingdom, Lekki, Lagos State made a surprise stop over visit recently to the scintillating, newly completed Richmond Pearl Estate located in Ikate, Lekki, Lagos.
A statement issued by Mr Tayo Sonuga, the Chief Executive Officer of Haven Homes, the famed Lifestyle developer and promoter of the project, announced that the Kabiyesi was accompanied on the visit by his good friend, Chief Hakeem Bolarinwa. He was received by the Haven Homes’ team made up of the CEO, Mr Tayo Sonuga, the Managing Director, Mrs Ufuoma Ilesanmi and the Technical Director, Mr Babajide Olowu.
The Kabiyesi and his en-
tourage were taken round on an inspection tour of the vast estate, including the elegant multi-storey Maisonette Blocks and the depth of facilities on the ground.
The Haven Homes’ statement noted that the Kabiyesi has always supported the project from the i nception and had created a very conducive and peaceful environment for the developers to thrive in his Ikate Kingdom.
While celebrating the achievement with the Kabiyesi, Sonuga shared his vision with the Kabiyesi that had been translated on the ground, acknowledged the grace and mercy of God that led to the success.
He said: “At Haven Homes, the future is not just imagined, it’s being built one brick, one vision at a time.”
endeavours.
This warning was delivered during a sensitisation lecture organised by BCPG IkoyiObalende Cell, commemorating the collapse of the 20-storey building on Gerrard Road, Ikoyi, Lagos.
Speaking on the topic “Ikoyi in Transition: From High-Brow Residential Scheme to Mixed Development – Keeping an Eye on Standards,” Tpl. Ayo Adediran, Chairman of the Lagos State Physical Planning and Building Control Appeals Committee, reflected on Ikoyi’s history as a colonial enclave known for its planned neighbourhoods and green spaces.
Tpl. Adediran noted Ikoyi’s transformation into a mixed-use urban district, highlighting the urgent need for stricter government oversight to maintain quality standards, enforce building codes, and prevent property abandonment and structural failures. He also emphasised collaboration between the government and professionals to safeguard Ikoyi’s appeal, preserve pedestrian walkways, and bolster public confidence in high-rise investments.
Former Chairperson, Women Association of Quantity Surveyors in Nigeria (WAQSN) and the immediate past Secre-
tary Marketing and Corporate Affairs of the Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (NIQS), Mrs. Aderonke Oyelami prescribed the Bills of Quantities (BOQ) as an important tool or instrument for guiding construction costs, enabling prices to be effectively reviewed in line with inflation in order to avert quality compromise. Expressing her deep concern over incessant building collapse in Nigeria, QS. Oyelami cited a document presented by the leadership of the Quantity Surveyors Registration Board of Nigeria (QSRBN) to a Federal Government agency recently, which made reference to Section 14.2.b of the Constitution of The Federal Republic of Nigeria, which states that “the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government..” Hence, the government could be held accountable for the loss of lives in collapsed buildings, especially in a situation where building regulations were poorly implemented.
Dr. David Adio-Moses, a senior lecturer at the Department of Architecture, University of Lagos, in his presentation, identified gaps in the domestication and implementation of the National Building Code.
Fadekemi Ajakaiye
The Chief Executive Officer of Casafina Development, Mr. Olufemi Seyi said his company has delivered some housing units that can have high rental returns than what obtains presently.
Seyi stated this at the unveiling of some housing units built by the company in Anthony Village, Lagos, recently.
On what inspired this project, he said, “One of the things we’ve noticed is that rental income in Nigeria is pretty very low. It’s
usually in the range of 3% to 5%, so we set out to say, can we actually build a purpose built investment property and target a higher return, maybe 10 to 15% so that real estate can also compete with maybe federal government bonds that is giving significant return or other fixed income instrument, and is actually still more secure because there is the element of capital appreciation, it goes up in value, apart from the cash return.
“So we acquired this property in prime location, and renovated it. Its a total of 24 units of one
bedroom apartment. I’m glad to say that we did pre-launch reservation, and we were sure that we will do at least 30% to 40% occupancy for our clients. And with the current rental rate, you probably will be able to rent it out. An average investor will get about 20% to 25% return annually on these properties. And you know, the figures speak. So it’s not just about so if you look at it, do 30% occupancy which is possible, meaning 10 days in a month, N50,000 per night. That’s 500 times 12. That’s December.
It’s a bit busier, so that’s N6 million per annum. There are very few instruments that will provide that kind of return. So that’s basically the inspiration behind it. And then we also want to use this to showcase what is doable, and then to launch a second project like this, which is another 24 units of one bedroom maisonet, a bit more luxurious, somewhere in Adeniyi Jones, we think that we can repeat what we have in terms of return for investors.
“It’s total of 24 units with a rooftop lounge, of course, armed
security, 24 hour water and 24 hour security, as the case may be, those are the basic features because this was a test case, and we’ve seen that it’s successful.
“So, subsequent projects will now include other amenities, like the next one, we’re doing rooftop swimming pool, apartment swimming pool on the ground floor. We’re doing a party lounge. You can actually do 60-man party on the rooftop with a pool and all. The beauty of this place. And significantly, all the location we are going to pick is the fact that we take
Fadekemi Ajakaiye
The profile of Expidale Logistics Services Company has further risen with its emergence as the top logistics company in Lagos State in 2024.
into consideration where do people want to go. So if you are here, you are like 20 minutes away from the airport. You are like 20 or 30 minutes from Victoria Island, if you want to exit Lagos, you’re coming from US, UK, wherever you drop, you come here. You want to quickly go to visit your relative in Ibadan you actually can easily go. So it’s like center of town. It took us a while to get the property that fits what we wanted, but it’s a good fit for what we wanted.
The CEO of Expidale Logistics Services Company, Dr Oluyemi Owolabi described the award as a remarkable achievement.
Speaking at the Top Notch Nigeria Businesses and Professional Award (TNNBP) in Lagos on Wednesday, Owolabi attributed the achievement and consistent success of the company to continuous improvement along their customer delivery value chain.
This achievement reflects the trust and support of our valued customers and the steadfastness of our employees.
He said the award “will propel us to do more in 2025.”
According to the organisers of the, event, “the national prestigious award is set up to connect and network, recognise, honor and award
outstanding businesses and professionals for making impacts in their chosen business fields.
The CEO of TNNBP, Taiwo Adegboye advised all awardees to keep going, keep expanding beyond their zones and even beyond Africa. Owolabi was among other top business profes-
Fadekemi Ajakaiye
Engr. Sheriff Daramola has been elected as the 15th President of the International Facility Management Association (IFMA) Nigeria Chapter. This announcement was made at the association’s Annual General Meeting held on December 10, 2024. In his acceptance speech, Engr. Daramola expressed gratitude and a renewed commitment to advancing facility management (FM) in Nigeria.
He emphasized, “Today marks a milestone for the growth of FM in Nigeria, with a focus on contributing to the nation’s GDP, empowering our members, and driving the profession forward. I challenge facility management professionals to take the lead in fostering sustainability by reducing carbon footprints and minimizing wastage in service delivery.” He pledged to prioritize advocacy, education, training, and skills development, aligned with IFMA’s 11 careerbased competencies.
Engr. Daramola outlined an ambitious agenda for his tenure, including fostering collaborations, promoting FM curricula, enhancing mentorship programmes, and hosting the prestigious IFMA Global Africa event. With a keen focus on integrating smart technologies and innovative practices, he aims to position Nigeria as a leader in global FM standards.
A seasoned engineer and FM professional with over 30 years of experience, Engr. Daramola has a remarkable track record
in infrastructure maintenance, project management, and integrated facility solutions. His career highlights include leadership roles at Stallion Property and Development Company Limited (NNPC subsidiary), Amalgamated Estes Limited, and Family Health International.
Engr. Daramola is an active member of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, the International Facility Management Association (IFMA), and the Institute of Directors. He has held key
sionals that received national award;ranging from real estate, fashion, Non Government Organisations (NGO) among others.
Speaking to journalists on the side line, Dr Oluyemi Owolabi attributed the erratic power supply and high cost of petroleum products as the major cause of rising cost of doing business in Nigeria. He noted that though the Federal government policies “are geared towards improving the economy but they are yet to address massive hunger in the land.”
positions within IFMA, including Vice President, Chairman of the Training Faculty (2022-2024), and General Secretary (20192022) and the Lead Coordinator for external conferences and exhibitions.
Owolabi said is company’s guiding principles are “premised on integrity and consistency.”
at Lagos Business School and international training in facility management.
An alumnus of Mechanical/Production Engineering from Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi, and a Postgraduate Diploma in Management from Lagos State University, Ojo. He has further honed his expertise through the Owners Managers Programme Daramola
By Louis Achi
In conceptualizing education and development planning templates, hope is certainly not a plan. It’s then little wonder that historically education and human development planning remain twin ‘weapon-grade’ tools progressive states deploy to transform their societies.
Lending an enduring authority to the crucial importance of education, Africa’s eminent sage Nelson Mandela firmly believed that education is the most powerful weapon which can be used to change the world
With little question, Governor Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto of Sokoto State recognizes the necessary complementarity and synergy between his administration’s first agenda - education - and the imperative transformation of Sokoto State. The other elements of his 9-point agenda include - health, water, agriculture, security, youth empowerment, local government autonomy, religious affairs, and economy.
Whereas an educational development plan delivers a vision, a matching budget provides the operational framework for its realization. The transition from a plan to a budget involves the deployment of often complex control machinery.
Budgeting guarantees orderly development. It’s no secret that governance without sound targeted budgeting will definitely translate into jumbled development - if there is any development at all. In educations matters, this is even more important. Incidentally, the governor being a financial expert understands this more than many. It’s not disputable that Sokoto is a conservative society. Thinking out of the box in a highly conservative milieu surely presents its challenges but doing otherwise will surely diminish the best of Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s efforts. The youthful governor has taken up this challenge because he recognizes that the 21st Century can only align with progressive thinkers and not slackers.
Sokoto State’s 2025 budget of “Transformation and Infrastructural Sustainability,” notching N526,882,142,484.39 would undoubtably, consolidate achievements of the 2024 budget. The Sokoto State 2025 budget has a recurrent expenditure of N176,295,602,130.14 billion and a whopping N349,386,540,354.25 billion for capital expenditure, a 34:66 percent recurrent to capital ratio. As in the 2024 budget which gave education over 30 per cent, next year’s budget also unapologetically prioritises education. According to the Commissioner for Information and Orientation in the State, Hon. Sambo Bello Danchadi, “Some key areas of focus for the 2025 budget include: Education: with 25% allocation; devoting substantial portion of the state’s budget to education is a significant commitment to improving the sector. This move will help address infrastructural deficits, fund educational programs, and ensure
the effective delivery of teaching and learning.
“By surpassing UNESCO’s recommended benchmark of 15-20%, the administration is demonstrating its priority for education, which is critical to achieving sustainable development.”
From the basic to tertiary levels in the state, the governor’s premium on education is obvious from the re-accreditation of several courses in its tertiary institutions and the massive construction of schools, renovation of dilapidated buildings, provision of furniture, and instructional materials, the prompt payment of examination fees for students writing the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and National Examinations Council (NECO) examinations, and the payment of outstanding scholarships for students undergoing various degree programmes.
Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s vision for educational transformation is mirrored in various specific interventions. His APC-led administration has prioritized education as a cornerstone of societal progress.
A significant highlight of his tenure is the intervention for 88 Sokoto State medical students affected by the crisis in Sudan. Rather than allowing these future healthcare professionals to languish in uncertainty, his administration facilitated their transfer to Usmanu Danfodiyo University Medical College, ensuring their education remained uninterrupted. This bold initiative underscores his administration’s commitment to nurturing human capital and fostering resilience in the face of challenges. Moreover, the government has invested heavily in educational infrastructure and teacher training programmes. By creating enabling environment for both students and educators, the administration is building foundation for a more enlightened and competitive youth population in Sokoto State.
Hon. Danchadi, the state information commissioner also revealed that over 800,000 children in the state have been enrolled into basic education schools, marking a drastic increase in the number of enrolments into public primary schools and attributes the increased enrolment
to the efforts of the state governor to improve education infrastructure across the state.
Significantly, the administration accomplished these feats without borrowing a kobo from any bank or financial institution within or outside the country.
Further, a good education development plan must be modern and up-to-date; can be ranked according to relative importance and form a network; possess desired results and events, including goals that must be interconnected and mutually supportive and carry the citizenry along to avert legitimacy crisis.
Empirical feedback from Sokoto State after eight years of former governor, Senator Aminu Tambuwal’s regressive administration, indicate that the state’s cheerless education narrative has been changed even as the current administration of Governor Ahmed Aliyu is just warming up and shaking up the system.
Governor Aliyu’s leadership panache is clearly characterised by his unique vision, strategic thinking, and innovative problem-solving footing. His innate ability to navigate complex, tough governance environments and make bold decisions clearly stands him out.
Youthful Governor Aliyu also covets knowledgedriven innovations, proactive engagement with stakeholders, relevant institutions, policy makers and more importantly, sure-footed action. These dimensions have been boldly mirrored in his governorship of Sokoto State, despite the overarching challenges.
As it were, a powerful vision draws in ideas, people and other resources. It creates the momentum and will to catalyze change. It inspires individuals, complementary organizations and institutions to commit, to persist and to give their best. Keying into this enduring philosophy, unassuming Governor Aliyu has also deployed impeccable professionalism, discipline and persistence to transform the education sector in Sokoto State.
As Sokoto ‘weaponizes’ the crucial tool of education to achieve accelerated transformation in a development-hungry milieu, Governor Aliyu must also scaleup the place of technology to ‘game’ diverse development models in the world and settle for the best “Next-Level” option. Technology is a key development facilitator.
Evaluating the Asian Tigers’ education planning templates is a worthy intellectual excursion that could provide the additional kick needed to totally exit the cheerless depression of the last administration.
Governor Aliyu intimately knows that development is not something to be wished into existence but a process to be firmly guided by very bold, intentional actions. He also knows that to effectively weed out poverty, education must be mainstreamed.
Indeed, Sokoto State means business.
The Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) has urged Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State to intervene in the face-off between some manufacturing companies and the Lagos State Water Regulatory Commission (LASWARCO) over nonpayment of water abstraction levies.
It also urged the commission to toe the path of support for struggling businesses and stop the ongoing misinformation and media onslaught tantamount to economic sabotage.
Speaking in a public statement that urged LASWARCO to stop the unhelpful business disruption,
NECA alleged the face-off has also led to purported closure of the factories of some major manufacturing companies in Lagos by LASWARCO over nonpayment of water abstraction levies.
the Director General of NECA, Mr. Wale-Smatt Oyerinde, “appealed to the business-friendly executive governor of Lagos State, to kindly intervene in this matter to save businesses in Lagos from further woes.”
Oyerinde stated the purported news of the sealing of the premises of some businesses on the allegation of non-compliance with water abstraction regulations is not only misleading but also likely to send the wrong
message on the already harsh business environment in the country.
He said: “The reported comments and activities of the commission have the damaging potential of scaring away investors, aggravating employees’ apprehension about the security of their jobs, and portraying Lagos State as unwelcoming for legitimate businesses.”
According to him, it is worrisome that all these are taking place at a
Onuminya Innocent
No fewer than ten people and many livestock were killed in a military airstrike while pursuing bandits in Gidan Bisa village of Silame Local Government Area of Sokoto State in the early hours of yesterday. According to the Chairman of the LGA, Abubakar Gitta Rana, the incident occurred at about 6am when two military fighter jets erroneously dropped bombs in the village, leaving 10 villagers and many livestock dead.
Gov. Ahmed Aliyu, in company of the APC leader in the state, Sen. Aliyu Magarakarda Wamakko and the Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammadu Maigari Dingyadi, defied the difficult terrain of the village and joined other villagers for the funeral prayers for the deceased.
While condoling the community, Governor Aliyu described the incident as unfortunate and an act destined to happen by the Almighty Allah.
“The military jets were on their mission to eliminate armed criminal
groups terrorizing the state, and mistakenly bombed innocent people of this community.
“We consider this as a mistake because the same military had on several occasions successfully raided so many criminal hideouts in the state,” he added.
The governor further said a thorough investigation would be conducted to find out what led to the avoidable mistake, so as to guard against its recurrence.
Governor Aliyu also prayed
to Almighty Allah to forgive the deceased, and give their families the strength to bear the loss.
Earlier, the Secretary to the State Government, Muhammad Bello Sifawa, announced a donation of N20million and 100 bags of assorted food stuffs to the families of the deceased.
He added that the state government will also settle the medical bills of those hospitalized as a result of injuries they sustained from the bombardment.
time when many multinationals are either exiting the country or carrying out global restructuring with Nigeria and Lagos especially being one of the hardest hit nations/states in divestments and job losses.
He said: “It is no gainsaying that businesses have faced probably the harshest economic situation in recent times, with many declaring humongous losses.
“It is, thus, expected that the commission will be innovative enough to come up with legitimate ways to generate revenue without adding to the woes of businesses by demanding unjustifiable multimillion amounts as water abstraction levies from businesses that already pay many other forms of taxes for the same activities, they use the water for.”
Speaking further on the role of government and the private sectors, Oyerinde reiterated that it is the responsibility of the government to provide water for its citizens and businesses.
He argued that “if this noble responsibility is currently not being fulfilled for whatever reason by the government, it will be highly insensitive, harsh and punitive for the same government that has failed to adequately provide water to also
impose punitive levies on businesses that are constrained to make investments in providing water to run their businesses”.
Oyerinde noted that “this action of the commission is more worrisome because there is an ongoing engagement with a section of the Organized Private Sector (OPS) to amicably resolve the issues.
He said that while some companies had been compelled to pay “in the hope of avoiding disruption to their operations, we counsel against the unhelpful tactics being deployed by the commission.
His words: “It should be noted that organised businesses are not against responsible regulation, however, we will embark on all legal and legitimate means to resist any form of highhandedness that does not demonstrate empathy with the plight of struggling Nigerian businesses.
“In the quest for revenue generation, the commission and indeed all other regulatory agencies should adopt more legitimate and civil approach, rather than the predominant disruptive pattern of recent times, which are directly against the efforts of the federal government to attract investment, promote job creation and facilitate responsible regulation.”
as the festive season sweeps across Nigeria, Globacom, one of the nation’s leading telecommunications brands, has delivered a heartwarming gift to its audience through two captivating television commercials (TVCs). Titled “Merry Christmas” and “Feliz Navidad,” Chiemelie ezeobi writes that these campaigns celebrate the joy, togetherness, and cultural richness of the yuletide season, reminding Nigerians of the power of connection
The festive season is a time of togetherness, celebration, and joy. As families and friends gather to exchange gifts and share meals, many corporate organisations seize the moment to engage with their customers in creative ways.
Globacom, one of Nigeria’s leading telecommunications giants, has once again demonstrated its knack for resonating with audiences through its thoughtfully crafted television commercials (TVCs).
With the release of two new festive campaigns, “Merry Christmas” and “Feliz Navidad,” the brand has set a high standard for Yuletide advertising in 2024. A Tradition of Excellence
Globacom’s reputation for creating captivating TVCs is well-established. Over the years, its advertisements have become a staple of Nigeria’s festive landscape, known for their creativity, cultural resonance, and emotional appeal. The 2024 Yuletide offerings are no different, earning widespread acclaim from viewers and marketing experts alike.
Ademide Gafar, an industry analyst, notes that, “Globacom’s TVCs are always a delight to watch, and this year’s offerings are no exception. The brand’s commitment to spreading joy and festive cheer is evident in every frame of the commercials.”
The two TVCs, while distinct in their themes and execution, share a common goal: to celebrate the spirit of Christmas while reinforcing the importance of staying connected.
“Merry Christmas” TVC: A Nostalgic Journey
The first of the two, “Merry Christmas,” transports viewers back to the 1970s and 1980s, capturing the essence of rural Nigeria during Christmas. It is a masterful blend of nostalgia, culture, and celebration, offering a vivid portrayal of a traditional village Christmas.
Set against the backdrop of a lively village party, the commercial features legendary musician King Sunny Ade and his ensemble. Their infectious rhythms and energetic dance moves provide the soundtrack to a scene teeming with festive excitement. Women in vibrant Aso Ebi fabrics bustle around open-air kitchens, preparing local delicacies that fill the air with mouth-watering aromas. Children play joyfully, while families and friends gather to dance and celebrate.
The commercial’s attention to detail is striking. A vintage Peugeot 504 car, quintessential of the 1980s, makes an appearance, further grounding the scene in its historical setting. King Sunny Ade’s music ties it all together, creating a jubilant atmosphere that leaves viewers both entertained and nostalgic.
At its heart, “Merry Christmas” underscores the importance of staying connected with loved ones during the festive season. The catchy tagline, “Better don come,” serves as a reminder of Globacom’s promise to enhance connectivity, no matter the distance.
“Feliz Navidad”: A Star-Studded Celebration
In contrast, the “Feliz Navidad” commercial offers a modern, cosmopolitan take on the festive season. It is a vibrant celebration of culture, unity, and joy, featuring an array of Nollywood stars and performers.
The commercial’s Christmas party scene is electric. Tap dancers take centre stage, their intricate footwork perfectly synced with the upbeat melody of “Feliz Navidad.” The lively rhythm is complemented by a music band whose harmonious vocals and vibrant instruments fill the air with festive cheer.
The star-studded cast includes Timini Egbuson, Uche Nwaefuna, Chigozie Stephanie Alichi (Chizzy Alichi), Tomi Ojo, Eronini Osinachim, Kiki Bakare, and Tope Adenibuyan (Teddy A). Their camaraderie and infectious energy bring the celebration to life, making viewers feel like part of the festivities.
John Michael, a marketing communications expert, describes the commercial as “a testament to Globacom’s leadership in the telecommunications sector. Globacom is not just a leader in the telecommunications sector but a prominent creator of unforgettable commercials.”
The ad culminates in a heartwarming toast to the season, with laughter, music, and dance symbolising the unity and warmth that define Christmas.
The Power of Storytelling
Both commercials showcase Globacom’s ability to tell compelling stories that resonate with diverse audiences. “Merry Christmas” appeals to those who cherish tradition and nostalgia, while “Feliz Navidad” captures the vibrancy of modern celebrations. Together, they highlight the universal themes of love, togetherness, and the joy of giving.
The production quality of the TVCs is another standout feature. From the carefully chosen settings and costumes to the impeccable casting and music, every element is meticulously crafted to create an immersive experience.
Connecting Cultures and Generations
Globacom’s TVCs also serve as a bridge between cultures and generations. By featuring a legend like King Sunny Ade alongside contemporary Nollywood stars, the brand pays homage to Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage while appealing to younger audiences. This inclusivity reinforces Globacom’s identity as a proudly Nigerian company committed to celebrating the nation’s
L-R: General Manager, Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), Dr. Tunde Ajayi; Permanent Secretary, Office of Drainage Services, Engr Mamud Adegbite; Commissioner, Environment and Water Resources, Lagos State, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab; Executive Secretary, Lagos State Water Regulatory Commission, Mrs. Funke Adepoju; and the Deputy Director of Water Resources, Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Babatunde Akinwunmi, at a joint press conference on declaration of zero tolerance for noise pollution in Lagos State during the yuletide because of its health implications on human beings and environment held in Alausa, Lagos…recently
Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq of Kwara State has disclosed that between 2023 and now, his administration has delivered 145 roads of different specifications across the state, while 50 are currently ongoing.
Abdulrazaq disclosed this in Ilorin on Tuesday during the 59th national conference of the Ilorin Emirate Descendants Progressive Union (IEDPU) held at the forecourt of the Emir of Ilorin.
He said this flowed from the commitment of the administration to boost the infrastructural development of the state.
The governor also said the administration has embarked on the urban renewal programme to give Ilorin, the state capital, a new lift and other parts of the state.
He stressed the gains of the urban renewal initiative under which several roads have been upgraded within and outside Ilorin metropolis, as well as other major economic projects, are meant to spread prosperity among the people.
His words: "My team and I commend Mai Martaba the Emir of Ilorin, IEDPU leadership, and all of you for the support so far given to our administration and to the government of His Excellency President Bola Tinubu. We do not take this for granted.
“About three years ago, a guest lecturer at this august occasion mentioned how socioeconomic
legacies of Ilorin people were going into extinction and how this should get the attention of all.
“Yes, we are proudly transforming the landscape of Ilorin. From Sulu-Gambari Road to Oja Oba, Balogun Fulani to Gambari, Ibrahim Taiwo Road to General Roundabout, Unity to A- Division, Omoda to Idi Ape, Challenge to Ahmadu Bello Way, Tanke Junction to Tipper Garage, and many others.
“Ilorin now stands shoulder to shoulder with leading capital cities in our country as we rapidly upgrade the infrastructure and restore law and order for the good of all.
“This urban renewal initiative is moving to other parts of the state, including Offa, with the massive reconstruction work on the Ibrahim Taiwo Road."
Abdulrazaq noted further:
"Beyond this, we are reviving the economic legacies of our community.
"Massive work has commenced on the dada pottery, just as we have mobilised contractors to the Patigi Motel to breathe life back to local economic activities in different parts of Kwara State.
“The Ilorin Smart City project, which I announced here last year, has now commenced. We did not hijack land from anyone.
"All families and private individuals affected have been notified and compensated. For some, the compensation process is still ongoing.
“In 2025, we are constructing 250 units of mass housing in the
first phase, while access and inner roads for the smart city will begin. We invite all of you to be part of this historic development.
“Furthermore, we have made provisions for the takeoff of the Kwara State University of Education, Ilorin, in 2025. Along with other projects of the administration, this opens a new frontier for socioeconomic growth and collective prosperity.
“Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, we have long yearned for massive infrastructural turnarounds of our state and the capital city.
"This is happening already. Between 2023 and now, we have delivered 145 roads of different specifications across the state, while 50 are ongoing as I speak to you".
The governor however used the event to commend the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari and all stakeholders for their support and understanding.
Abdulrazaq also lauded the IEDPU and other stakeholders for their support for the initiative, pledging the support of the administration for the completion of the body’s innovation hub project to upskill young people and improve social mobility.
In his remarks at the event, the IEDPU President Abdulmumin Ayo AbdulMalik praised the urban renewal projects and other developmental programmes of the administration which he said are crucial for beautification and physical development of the capital city.
He said Ilorin is increasingly expanding with many new communities, and called on the government to further expand the infrastructure, including roads, schools, and healthcare centres.
“The union is delighted with the rate of ongoing developments in the state. The completed and the numerous ongoing projects which the state government is executing are laudable.
"When completed, the projects will completely change the face of not only Ilorin, the state capital, but also the entirety of Kwara State,” he said.
Abdulmalik highlighted some of the projects the union is currently executing including the Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari skills Acquisition
Hub.
He requested the government to further assist the union by equipping the center with computers, and providing for the interior and exterior fittings to have a befitting look.
Also speaking, the chairman of the event and former vice chancellor of University of Ilorin, Prof. Shuaib Oba Abdulraheem, congratulated the people of the Emirate on the occasion which he noted reflects love, unity, and sense of patriotism. Prof. Oba praised Governor AbdulRazaq’s commitment to peace, social protection, and infrastructural development in the state and urged him to do more on empowerment programmes for the downtrodden, particularly women.
Dipo
The Christian Association of Nigeria CAN has asked the Niger State Government to punish anyone found to have diverted the Christmas rice palliatives donated to Christians in the state through the association.
It was said that some government officials took it upon themselves to share the palliatives rather than
allowing CAN officials to handle the exercise.
It was also alleged that some of the government officials diverted some of the bags of rice to their "foundations" during the sharing.
Apparently reacting to the development, the state CAN Chairman, Most Reverend Dr. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, said the organisation welcomed the new sharing policy but submitted
Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi
The Northern Youth Association of Nigeria (NYAN), has strongly condemned the recent accusations made by Amnesty International against the Nigerian military. NYAN in a statement signed by Godiya T. Adams Bogoro, President, made available to journalists in Bauchi yesterday stated: "These allegations are not only unfounded, but also detrimental to the morale of our brave men and women in uniform who risk their lives daily to protect our nation."
According to NYAN, "It is
appalling that Amnesty International has chosen to ignore the tremendous progress made by the Nigerian Military in recent times, particularly under the leadership of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa. “The CDS has demonstrated unwavering commitment to the welfare of military personnel, respect for human rights, and the security of our nation."
The group stressed that General Musa's leadership has been marked by significant achievements, including enhanced security as the Nigerian military has made considerable gains in the fight
against terrorism and insurgency, ensuring the safety and security of our citizens.
It also has respect for Human Rights as the CDS has prioritized human rights, promoting a culture of respect and adherence to international humanitarian law within the military, the group stated.
“Another thing is welfare of military personnel as General Musa has implemented various initiatives to improve the welfare of military personnel, including enhanced training, equipment, and benefits.
"We commend the Chief of
Defence Staff for his exemplary leadership and vision. His commitment to national security, human rights, and the welfare of military personnel is a testament to his dedication to the Nigerian people," it added.
NYAN further stated: "We plead with the CDS to remain steadfast in the delivery of his committed services to Nigeria and the Nigerian people, no amount of distraction from Amnesty international or any mischief makers should dissuade him, we fully recognize his efforts and that of all military personnel that are always aware so we can sleep sound."
that: "We are beyond grateful for the new initiatives and modality introduced this year for the sharing of the Christmas gift of rice to the Christians in the state
"I am very delighted with this new development and we are giving one hundred percent support to the idea. I believe most people will benefit from your generosity and kindness, especially with modality we also introduced to the share given the CAN body at the Local Government Areas of the State".
"Please your Excellency, do not hesitate to punish those who may want to subvert or circumvent any of the laid down procedures for the sharing formula so as to a serve as a deterrent to others" Reverend Yohanna said in his Christmas message made available to newsmen in Minna on Wednesday.
In the message themed: “A new command I give you: Love one another as I have loved you” (Jn 13:34), Dr. Yohanna noted: "At these times of economic hardship where most people can no longer afford to eat three square meals or feed their families, let us extend our love by giving and sharing the little we have."
He added: "It is by so doing that the new commandment of love will be expressed in action not by words of mouth but by what we say and do"
The CAN Chairman also sued for peace and unity among the faithful pointing out that: "Christmas beckons all to set aside discord and embrace love, fostering relationships founded on comprehension and mutual esteem" which he said: "By centering on these ideals, we can convey a more profound message of solidarity during this joyous season" and beyond "I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought."
Yohanna also drummed support for Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago and his administration saying he has been running "a government of inclusiveness and accountability which I believe will go a long way in bringing about progress and development in the state which has suffered many setbacks in past".
Meanwhile, Governor Bago for the first time in the history of the state sent Christmas and New year greeting cards and roll up banners to all Christians through their churches.
Bago assured of transparent leadership and determination to bring to fruition the New Niger Agenda in the banners.
L-R: Management Efficiency Programs Lead International Breweries PLC (IBPLC), Adeboyejo Adebola Olayemi; Communications & Sustainability Manager IBPLC, Damian Igwe; Chairperson TruCSR and Local Organising Committee SERAS, Mary Ephraim-Egbas; Imo State Commissioner for Digital Economy and e-Govemment, Dr. Chimezie Amadi; Corporate Affairs & Regulatory Director, BPLC, Temitope Oguntokun; and Founder, The SERAS Africa Sustainability Awards, Ken Egbas, at the SERAS Awards Ceremony where IBPLC clinched Best Company in Poverty Reduction, Best in Climate Action and 2nd Runner up, Most Responsible Organisation in Africa... recently
Governors and other Nigerian leaders, yesterday, identified with Christians all over Nigeria as they celebrated Christmas, being the anniversary of the birth of Jesus Christ, yesterday.
This was as no fewer than 11 persons were reportedly killed on Christmas Day when gunmen suspected to be herdsmen and Jukum militia attacked communities in Kwande Local Government Area (LGA) of Benue State.
But celebration went on yesterday in many parts of the country.
Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya
Gombe State Governor, Alhaji Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, received members of the Christian community, under the auspices of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) on a Christmas homage at the Government House. He used the occasion to offer commiserations over the accident involving Christian youths on Christmas procession in Gombe, assuring them of support for victims under medical care.
Speaking while receiving the
procession, Yahaya felicitated with them on the occasion of this year's Christmas, and enjoined the faithful, especially the youths, to use the occasion to promote peace and unity and avoid indulging in social vices.
The Governor described Christmas as a season of joy, happiness, and reflection, urging the faithful to follow the teachings of the holy book exemplified by Jesus Christ.
Valerie Fubara
Wife of Rivers State Governor, Lady Valerie Siminalayi Fubara, has noted that the Rivers children were well-behaved, and admonised them to remain supportive of their parents while striving always to make a difference wherever they find themselves.
Lady Fubara gave the counsel at the 2024 Christmas Children Party, attended by children from the 23 Local Government Areas of the State, including non-indigenes, at Government House in Port Harcourt.
The Christmas Children Party also witnessed the presence of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, who stopped over to share moments with them, walking from one canopy to another, waving at them, and at other times, shaking hands with them to leave lasting memories on them.
The Rivers first lady pointed to the importance of the celebration of Christmas, which drew attention to the birth of Jesus Christ, demanding of people to have a deep reflection of the love that is demonstrated and mission of the birth, which is to redeem mankind.
Usman Ododo
Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, has felicitated with Christians on Christmas day, reminding them of the core values that bind them together and prayed for peace and unity of Nigeria. In a Christmas message personally signed, Ododo said, "As we celebrate this season of joy, love, and hope, I extend my heartfelt Christmas greetings to you and your families.
“Christmas is a time to reflect on the boundless love of God, exemplified through the birth of Jesus Christ, whose life inspires us to embrace compassion, generosity, and"Thisunity.season reminds us of the values that bind us together as a community – peace, tolerance, and the unwavering spirit of resilience. Let us use this time to show kindness to one another, especially to those in need, and to strengthen the bonds of love and friendship within our
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
President Bola Tinubu has expressed sadness at the passing of Mrs. Elizabeth Nana Abdul (née Bartels). She was aged 70. Mrs. Nana Abdul was the wife of Chairman of the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP), Otunba Aderemi Abdul.
The President, in a release by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said Mrs Nana Abdul was a remarkable woman whose life was defined by grace, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to her family and community.
“Her nurturing spirit and unwavering dedication to the well-being of others earned her the admiration and respect of all who had the privilege of knowing her.
"Mrs. Elizabeth Nana Abdul was not only a devoted wife and mother; she was also a beacon of light and strength for her family and an inspiration to her community. Her legacy of kindness, resilience,
and generosity will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her," Tinubu stated.
The President joined family, friends, and loved ones in mourning this irreparable loss and extended his heartfelt condolences to Otunba Aderemi Abdul, his old friend, their children, and the entire Abdul and Bartels families.
He added: "As you navigate this difficult time, may you find solace in the cherished memories you shared with her and in the outpouring of love and support from all those who stand with you.
“Mrs. Abdul's influence reached far beyond her immediate family touching many lives through her quiet acts of kindness and steadfast support for community development initiatives. Her passing leaves a significant void that her community will deeply feel, but her legacy of love and service will live on.”
While praying for comfort for the Abdul family and the eternal repose of Nana Abdul's soul, the president said, "May the Almighty
grant the family strength and peace during this time of mourning. We are with you in prayer."
families and neighborhoods.”
Abba Yusuf
Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, while extending felicitations to Christians on the occasion of 2024 Christmas celebration, also donated money to the Christian groups in the state.
In a goodwill message, Yusuf rejoiced with Christians who, by the bountiful mercies and favour of Almighty Allah, preserved to witness yet another moment of celebration.
In the statement signed by his Spokesperson, Sanusi Bature DawakinTofa, he urged Christians in Kano to embrace spirit of mutual respect and peaceful coexistence, as they relish the season.
The governor emphasised the need to strengthen the spirit of brotherhood, foster unity, and stimulate love inspite of diversities, as that's the only driving force to progress in the country.
Opeyemi Bamidele
Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidle, has said Christmas presented humanity the opportunity to appreciate God Almighty for His redemption plan and the birth of Jesus Christ.
“Christ is indeed the real reason for this season and nothing more. It is not just a season for winning and dining, but also of deep reflection about Christ’s birth and mission, about His care and love, and about His sacrifice and travail for us all, even for the unborn generations.
“The reason for the season is, no doubt, a huge lesson for all humanity far and near. As we celebrate His faithfulness and goodness in our homes, we must also remember
the needy in our neighbourhoods and consciously minister to them as Christ will have done.
“We need to reflect on the travail of the vulnerable nationwide and rekindle enduring hope in their hearts. We must reach out to those in troubled areas and show them the care of Christ our Lord.”
Herdsmen kill 11 in Benue Communities
Eleven persons were reportedly killed on Christmas Day, when gunmen suspected to be herdsmen and Jukum militia attacked communities in Kwande Local Government Area (LGA) of Benue State.
According to a source, the invaders stormed the communities shortly after the residents returned home from the Christmas Day church service and were preparing for the day’s celebrations when they came shooting sporadically and chasing the residents.
A former aide of the immediate past governor of the state, who also hails from one of the affected communities, Solomon Amande, who confirmed the development, said he got the report of the incident from eyewitnesses in the area claiming the attack was allegedly carried out by a combined team of armed herdsmen and Jukum militia.
“I was briefed about what happened. I was told that given the relative peace for some time now in the communities, the people who deserted their homes due to the activities of armed herdsmen decided to go back home and reside in their communities.
“They settled in their communi-
ties and went about the normal activities. Unfortunately, yesterday (Wednesday), being Christmas Day, they went to church, and after returning home from the service, families were preparing meals, and some were gathering and relaxing at spots to celebrate Christmas when a combined team of armed herdsmen and Jukum militia started attacking from five different places.
“They were chasing people and shooting sporadically, and whoever they caught up with was killed. They did that till they got to Government Secondary School, Anwase.
“They killed about 10 people at Anwase in Mbaikyor Council Ward of Turan. And they also killed one person at Iyaav Council Ward, which is my Council Ward, around Tse Jam River Crossing.
“They carried out the killings in communities at the foot of the mountain. It was indeed a sad Christmas for our people. In fact, there is a combined team of military personnel and police stationed at Jato-Aka, our immediate town. And it is expected that the recently launched state security team would also be on the ground because it is a crisis-prone area.”
Also, the President of Mzough U Tiv, MUT, MUT, worldwide, Chief Iorbee Ihagh, who is from Moon Council Ward, another deserted community in the LGA, confirmed that apart from the 11 dead victims, many others were reported missing and unaccounted for after the attack.
He said, “11 persons were killed, and many are still missing from the attack. The leaders of the affected communities have already reported the incident at the police station.”
Bennett Oghifo
The healthcare system in Nigeria will receive a boost with the local manufacture of pharmaceuticals.
This was disclosed by the Managing Director of Sagar Vitaceuticals Nigeria Limited, Aakash Kothari, when officials from the Federal Ministry of Health visited its plant in Sagamu, Ogun State, recently. According to Kathari, the project commenced in 2020 with a construction area of 120,000 square feet with a manufacturing area of 65,000 square feet.
On the new plant's delivery capacity, Kathari said: “The company per
day production capacity in tablets is 9.5 million; capsule; two million, dry powder/sachets; 200,000, cream/ ointment; 172,000 and tubes with liquid of 172,000 bottles.”
Speaking on the visit to the company, the Director, Food and Drugs Services, Olubunmi Aribeana, said: "We are here to collaborate with Sagar Vitaceuticals on local manufacturing. We are from the Ministry of Health and, as a government body, we seek to focus on, at least, 70 per cent production of locally manufactured products of what Nigerians need for their healthcare.
"We have seen the new factory,
having gone through the various departments. We are highly satisfied with what we have seen. Based on that, we can assure Nigerians of quality medicine coming from the company."
In his remarks, the Director of Hospital Services, Dr. Jimoh Salaudeen, hailed Sagar Vitaceuticals Nigeria Limited for its quality services and facilities. "We commend the company for its efforts so far to ensure local manufacturing of pharmaceuticals in the country. We have gone round, we have seen the level of equipment, hygiene, facilities, the level of commitment and dedication from staff to the
manufacturing of drugs and we are highly satisfied.”
Also speaking, the Coordinator, National Cancer Control and Nuclear Medicine Programme, Dr. Nwokwu Uchechukwu, urged the company to liaise with foreign counterparts to locally produce cancer drugs in the country, stating “This will aid reduction in the cost of cancer treatment and medication.”
Kathari while thanking the officials for the visit, said: "Sagar Vitaceuticals Nigeria Limited is open to collaboration and partnership with relevant agencies and companies within and outside the country to boost local production of drugs.”
Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City Members of the Oredo Local Government Council Legislative Arm have pledged their loyalty and support to the council chairman, Dr. Tom Obaseki. The 12 Legislative members of the council, who made their pledge while
paying Christmas visit to Obaseki vowed to support the council's commitment towards the people. The solidarity was an apparent
move by the councillors to avoid being used to remove the council chairman and vice chairman through suspension by the state lawmakers
that drew the anger of Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN. However, this development, has
Chuks Okocha in Abuja
The Catholic Archbishop of Abuja Diocese, Most Rev Ignatius Kaigama, has condemned what he described “verbal demonisation of the Catholic Church” by some agents of government in responding to the stampede at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja, during a palliative distribution exercise.
About ten casualties were recorded during the distribution of palliatives given by St. Vincent de Paul charity arm of the Catholic church.
According to Kaigama, the detention of the priest as well as some officials of the church and the threat to slam criminal charges on the Church “is to say the least, uninspiring, unfriendly and a misplaced zeal,
and one wonders what purpose these were meant to serve.”
The cleric said the government should have been immediately concerned with assisting the Church to explore safety methods to preclude future occurrences in the nation’s earnest desire to do good.
Kaigama, who expressed these views in his Message titled: “Christmas: A Season of Hope and Renewal”, called on Nigerian leaders to avoid greed by ensuring that the wealth and resources of the nation were not hoarded by a few but used to alleviate poverty, improve education, create jobs, and provide affordable healthcare.
He said in the midst of the shadows that loomed large over the nation, he was extending my
Says NEC will hold when due
Mr. Sunday Ude-Okoye, has vowed to assume office as the National Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)tomorrow, following an order of the Court of Appeal.
Ude-Okoye, who spoke to reporters Abuja, said that would assume office in obedience to the court of appeal order last Friday.
The court of appeal sitting in Enugu, sacked Senator Samuel Anyanwu, because he did not resign when he contested as PDP governorship in the Imo State gubernatorial election in September 2023.
But Anyanwu swiftly filed an appeal at the supreme court, asking the apex court to stay the execution of the court of appeal court judgement
According to Ude Okoye, "Court of Appeal that upheld high court order in my favour is the second highest court in Nigeria. It mandated me to assume office within 24 hours and I intend to keep faith with the court order.
''There were two high court orders
on the same matter, so I appealed the judgement of the high court because the two high court orders are of equal jurisdiction and powers.
"It is only a stay of execution that will stop me from assuming office. But as we speak, there is no stay.
So, I will assume office as national Secretary because nature abhors vacuum,” Ude Use Okoye stated He explained, that he was surprised that Senator Anyanwu did not resign in 2023 as he then promised before September Imo State governorship election.
Use Okoye said Anyanwu has filed a Notice of appeal, no stay has been granted, stressing that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has been notified of the Court of Appeal order and the subsequent enrollment order.
On the level of support he enjoys, he said the chairman of the PDP Board of Trustees Chairman, Senator Adolphus Wabara and other elders of the party, including Senator BenObi, had spoken in support of the party obeying the Court of Appeal order.
heartfelt wishes to Nigerians in this Christmas season.
“Christmas this year has come with a poignant blend of joy and solemn reflection, shadowed by tragedies related to the struggle for what to eat in Ibadan, Abuja, Okija, and Suleja.
“We in the Catholic Archdiocese of Abuja deeply mourn the tragic loss of lives resulting from the unfortunate stampede also in our own Holy
military base in the country.
Musa made the disclosure yesterday in Sokoto during a Christmas Luncheon with the troops of Operation Fasan Yamma.
Musa stated, “We will continue to partner together bilaterally because we do training together and we will consistently send our officers, which is a normal thing, but having foreign military base in Nigeria is not part of our plan.”
He urged the troops to crush all terrorists and criminals, including the emerging Lakurawa sects, before the end of 2025.
Musa said as part of the effort to eliminate Lakurawa terrorists in Kebbi, Sokoto and Zamfara states, he recently deployed a special brigade to the states.
He implored the troops to be professional in their operations, stressing that the military is an institution of reward and punishment.
On border operations, he maintained that the ministry of interior was taking steps, in collaboration with the military, to contain the activities of smugglers and stop the proliferation of arms in the country.
Musa, who saluted the courage and resilience of the troops, enjoined them to sustain the tempo.
He appealed to Nigerians to support the military in its bid to stamped out criminals, saying security is a collective responsibility.
On the incident in Sokoto yesterday, where Sokoto State Government accused the military of bombing civilians, leaving no fewer than 10 persons dead, Musa explained that military carried out a legitimate operation in the area.
He stated that, “If you turn yourself to a rat, a cat will go after you.”
He warned people not to harbour
Trinity Catholic Church, Maitama.
''This incident has left the Archdiocese and the parish community in profound grief, and our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims.
“The verbal demonisation, however, of the Catholic Church by some agents of government responding to the tragedy was needless. They should have been immediately concerned with assisting the Church to explore
terrorists, otherwise, the military would treat them as the same.
Speaking after a charity visit to patients at the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) Medical Centre, as part of the Christmas celebrations, which coincided with his birthday, Musa warned against prioritising personal interest against national interest.
He said those doing business with terrorists, bandits, kidnappers and other illegal non-state groups were threats to national security.
According to him, these categories of citizens are directly sabotaging the federal government's effort to end the threats posed by nefarious activities of the criminal elements and restore a peaceful environment.
Musa spoke following intelligence that some unpatriotic elements had been trading with criminal groups. He cautioned those engaged in such illicit businesses to desist, saying such inordinate quest for wealth is an attack on the government's counter insurgency effort.
The defence chief said the military and other security agencies had made significant progress in the fight against terrorism and insecurity in 2024, and assured that more would be achieved in the coming year.
On his part, General Officer Commanding 8 Division, Major General Ibikunke Ajose, and Commander Sector 2, Operation Yasan Yamma, explained that much successes had been recorded, saying many terrorists and their commanders have been neutralised by the Nigerian military.
In another development, the senator for Sokoto South senatorial district, Senator Aminu Tambuwal, urged the military to investigate the airstrike in the state that left about 10 persons dead Tambuwal expressed shock and
safety methods to preclude future occurrences in our earnest desire to do good by denying ourselves what we need in order to help others without discrimination.
''The detention of our priest as well as some officials of our church and the threat to slam us with criminal charges is to say the least, uninspiring, unfriendly and a misplaced zeal, and one wonders what purpose these were meant to serve.”
condemned the tragic airstrike that mistakenly targeted two innocent communities, Gidan Bisa and Rumtuwa, in Silame Local Government Area of Sokoto State.
The attack, which occurred on Wednesday morning, resulted in numerous casualties.
In a statement, Tambuwal extended his deepest sympathies to the grieving families, who lost loved ones in the unfortunate incident. He expressed his heartfelt commiserations to the injured and pledged solidarity with the people of Silame in their time of difficulty.
Omokri: Tchiani in Panic Mode
Former presidential spokesperson, Reno Omokri, said the leader of the Nigerien junta, Abdourahamane Tchiani, was in panic mode, when he made wild and totally unfounded allegations against Nigeria.
Omokri said regarding Tchiani, “His anxiety is caused by the fact that he is in precisely the same situation that Bashar al-Assad was until recently.
Like Bashar al-Assad, he is facing a rebellion and multiple domestic agitators, especially in the Sahel.
“And just as al-Assad did, he turned to Russia. Now, the penny has dropped, and Tchiani has seen that Russia could not save Bashar al-Assad, when push came to shove. He is beginning to feel naked and vulnerable.
“But he cannot stand up to his new friends. He is completely beholden to them. So, he has to look for an outlet, a target to vent his frustrations on.
“Tchiani's wild and unfounded allegations against President Tinubu are a classic case of siege mentality,
continued to generate reactions from members of the public, who berated the governor over the suspension order.
The Supreme Court judgment in Abuja recently, bolstered by a subsequent Edo State High Court ruling in Benin, has validated the mandate of the 18 council chairmen.
The two judgments restrained the Executive and State House of Assembly from interfering in the affairs of the local government councils in the country, thereby safeguarding democratic principles and upholding the rule of law.
This legal affirmation fortified the Chairmen's positions, thwarting perceived attempts to undermine democratic processes.
Therefore, in a show of unwavering solidarity, 12 councillors, led by Harrison Izekor, alongside the Vice Chairman, Patricia Oghogho Ero reaffirmed their loyalty to the council chairman, Dr. Tom Obaseki
reflecting his present agitated state of mind.
“He feels fearful of neighbours that Niger has shared for centuries because of his paranoia and fears that if Russian and Wagner forces could not prop up their ally in Syria, how can he feel confident.”
Come Clean about Accusation, Northern Group Tells Tinubu, NSA, Others A group, League of Northern Democrats (LND), asked President Bola Tinubu, former Director General of Nigeria Intelligence Agency (NIA), Ahmed Rufa’i, and the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, to tell the truth about the Nigerien leader’s allegation that Nigeria was colluding with France to distabilise his country.
LND expressed concern over the allegations made by the Nigerien leader, in a Hausa video clip that went viral. It accused France of complicity in funding and equipping Boko Haram and also implicated prominent Nigerian officials.
In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Ladan Salihu, LND said, "Notwithstanding the poor diplomatic relations between Niger, on the one hand, and France and Nigeria, on the other, these allegations made by a sitting president with access to sensitive intelligence and specific information, are too significant to be ignored as mere international politics.
“Considering the severe impact of Boko Haram’s insurgency on northern Nigeria, these claims demand a transparent and immediate response from the Nigerian government to uphold national security and restore public trust.
Edited by nseobonG
okon-ekonG | gamingweek1117@gmail.com | Tel: 08114495324
Over the years, Nigeria’s gaming ecosystem has evolved significantly, transitioning from a time without clear regulatory frameworks to achieving milestones that have driven innovation-led growth. Over the past two decades, it has steadily risen to become one of Africa’s leading gaming destinations. 2024 marks a year that experienced groundbreaking shifts, celebrated milestones, and unexpected controversies shaping its trajectory. From landmark legal battles to rising players and changing leadership, this year has been key for stakeholders across the sector. Nseobong Okon-Ekong and Ikenna Bede delve into some of the most significant developments that have defined the industry this year.
ThE SuprEmE COurT ENdS FEdEral mONOpOly OvEr lOTTEry OpEraTIONS
Arguably, the most transformative event in the industry was the Supreme Court’s ruling that nullified the National Lottery Act of 2005, effectively ending the National Lottery Regulatory Commission’s control over lottery operations. The ruling, spearheaded by Lagos, took close to 16 years to resolve. It has opened the door for states to independently run their lottery businesses, save for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.
This historic judgment symbolises a shift in power dynamics, allowing states to innovate and customise their gaming systems to suit local needs while dismantling the perceived monopoly of the NLRC.
rECOgNITION FOr
INduSTry pIONEErS aT OyO INTEraCTIvE FOrum
The 6th edition of the Oyo State Gaming and Lottery Board Interactive Forum became a high point in the industry’s calendar. Among its highlights was the recognition of Nseobong Okon-Ekong, founder of GAMING WEEK, who received a Special Recognition Award. His contribution to establishing a dedicated media platform for the gaming and gambling sector has been a pioneering act, providing visibility and fostering critical discourse around the industry.
NIgErIa SECurES a SpOT amONg ThE glOBal ESpOrTS ElITE
This year, Nigeria made significant strides in the global eSports scene, breaking into the
top 56 countries in the International eSports Federation (IESF) ranking. This achievement reflects the growing acceptance and popularity of competitive gaming in Nigeria, spurred by innovative tournaments, increased investment, and the establishment of professional gaming platforms.
Nigeria’s leading sports betting operator, Bet9ja, has officially launched the biggest-ever Christmas campaign in the country.
Tagged ‘N1 Billion Xmas Countdown’, this campaign is in tune with the spirit of the season and is designed to reward loyal customers all over the country with prizes worth N1 billion.
The betting giant is spreading festive cheer this season, offering its customers an exciting opportunity to win exclusive gifts.
This includes a brand-new Changan CS 15 SUV, sports and casino bonus funds, Apple and Samsung Galaxy smartphones, television sets and a life-changing cash prize for a special winner.
With thousands of daily winners and a massive N100 million jackpot prize to be awarded to one lucky player on Boxing Day, this campaign is the perfect way for loyal customers to end 2024 on a celebratory note.
The campaign officially kicked off on December 12 and will have its grand finale on December 26 with a raffle draw to pick the grand prize winner.
Commenting on the thinking behind the campaign, Bet9ja’s CEO, Ayo Ojuroye, stated, “We’re thrilled to reward our customers with this amazing reward programme. As a proudly Nigerian brand, we have decided to reward our millions of loyal customers.
“This campaign reflects our commitment to providing
best-in-class player experiences and enriching the lives of our customers by giving back in the spirit of the festive season.”
Bet9ja’s customers stand to win a whopping ₦1 billion worth of prizes simply by placing bets on the platform.
Owned and operated by KC Gaming, Bet9ja is Nigeria’s biggest sports betting company. It continues to be the market leader in innovation and delivering world-class products & services.
ThE uNSTOppaBlE rISE OF 10N8E
10N8E, a key eSports service provider in the gaming sector, continued to redefine the eSports narrative this year through various tournaments such as the Nigeria Pro League and the DECACUP. Known for its high-profile tournaments and community-driven initiatives, the platform has elevated local talent and fostered a vibrant gaming culture. Its strategic moves have positioned it as a trailblazer, inspiring other operators to adopt forward-thinking approaches.
aFrICaCOmICadE gamaThON BrIdgES ThE CONTINENT
AfricaComicade’s 2024 edition of Gamathon was a standout event, bringing together game developers, industry enthusiasts, and gaming delegates across Africa and beyond. Delegates from countries like South Africa, Kenya, Ethiopia, and even a representative from France attended the six-day event, celebrating the creativity and innovation of African game developers. The Gamathon showcased the depth of talent within the continent, fostering collaborations and creating opportunities for African developers to shine on the global stage. Its success highlighted AfricaComicade’s role in positioning Africa as a vibrant hub for gaming innovation.
BImpE akINgBa’S CONTINENTal lEap
One of the standout individual achievements in 2024 was the move of Bimpe Akingba, a lawyer, to a leading continental player in the gaming space, Mchezo, owner of BetPawa. Her appointment as regional manager (Africa - Business Development and Regulatory) signifies the recognition of Nigerian professionals on the continental stage, further highlighting the depth of expertise within the country’s gaming sector. Akingba’s former role was executive secretary with the Association of Nigerian Bookmakers (ANB).
lEadErShIp ShakE-up aT aNB
The ANB underwent a notable transformation this year with a change in leadership. Sheriff
Olaniyi of Surebet was appointed Chairman, while Zuma Oladele-Alabi and Olafadeke Akeju took on the roles of executive secretary and spokesperson, respectively. The reshuffle is expected to introduce a fresh perspective and address longstanding challenges in the organisation, particularly in fostering collaboration among stakeholders.
NuglOW aT a CrOSSrOadS
The National Union of Gaming and Lottery Workers (NUGLOW) finds itself at a pivotal moment, facing challenges in fulfilling plans for a Stakeholders’ Summit on December 14 and a Delegates’ Conference scheduled for January 23–25, 2025 to elect new leadership. These delays have sparked conversations about the union’s ability to address workers’ needs effectively. Despite a recent rebranding effort introducing NUGLOW, the union has yet to translate this change into measurable improvements in its impact or operational efficiency.
The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com
L-R(front row): Dr. Ayo Oluranti ;Senior Regional Overseer (SRO) Music, Moutain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM) Pastor Sam Oloyede; wife of the General Overseer(GO) , MFM, Dr (Mrs.) Folashade Elizabeth Olukoya; the GO,MFM, Dr. Daniel Kolawole Olukoya , Assistant General Overseer(AGO), MFM, Pastor Kehinde Adegbolahan; Chief Organist,MFM, Pastor Segun Olutunmida; Dr. Mary Omosebi and Coordinator, Association of Nigerian Female Organists(ANFO), Mrs. Abiodun George ( behind the GO), during the maiden edition of ANFO concert series organised by MFM in Lagos…recently
George Okoh in Makurdi
Eleven persons were reportedly killed on Christmas Day when gunmen suspected to be herdsmen and Jukum militia attacked communities in Kwande Local Government Area (LGA) of Benue state.
According to a source, the invaders stormed the communities shortly after the residents returned home from
the Christmas Day church service and were preparing for the day’s celebration when they came shooting sporadically and chasing the residents.
A former aide of the immediate past governor of the state, who also hails from one of the affected communities, Solomon Amande, who confirmed the development, said he got the report of the incident from eyewitnesses in the area claiming the attack
Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano
The Kano chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has described as laughable the claim by embattled former Kano State Governor Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, that he would significantly reduce the APC’s votes in state during the 2027 elections.
In a statement yesterday in Kano, the Chairman of the state chapter, Abdullahi Abbas warned Kwankwaso to stop daydreaming and channel his energies towards reclaiming his membership in the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP).
APC described Kwankwaso as a political refugee, who has chosen to cling to the state Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf like a leech in a futile attempt to regain relevance in the scheme of things in the country.
Abbas further warned Kwankwaso that APC would not allow a repeat of the vote manipulation and allocation that created the impression that the NNPP is well rooted in Kano state in the 2023 general election.
“Our teeming supporters in the APC have no cause to worry about Kwankwaso who has been booted out of NNPP due to his cluelessness and self-centeredness. We expect Kwankwaso to keep wondering why he has become a wanderer in the political terrain,” APC noted.
“He ran away from APC because he couldn’t fit into our progressive ideals. His over-bloated ego and domineering posture forced him to abandon the PDP and he has now become a political refugee because the NNPP refused to accommodate him.”
The APC chairman assured the people that the party is already waiting in the wing to not only reclaim Kano state but save the people of the state from the undue influence of Kwankwaso from his Miller Road castle.
Kwankwaso made the declaration at his residence while receiving some former councillors and senior special advisers, who served under Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje’s administration, and other stakeholders from Tsanyawa Local Government Area.
Determined to technologically address the burden of orthopaedic trauma in Nigeria, IfeanHealth, a United States(US)-founded health tech company, has entered a strategic partnership with Nigerian Orthopaedic Association(NOA) to boost prosthetics care.
For a decade, IfeanHealth has been an active participant in the NOA conference, progressively elevating its presence. This year, however, the brand is setting a new standard by branding the conference podium and expanding its booth to display cutting-edge prosthetic solutions in partnership with Ottobock.
Speaking at the 2024 edition of the NOA Conference in Enugu recently, Brand and Marketing Director at IfeanHealth, Chijioke
Ahamefula, emphasised the importance of not only providing high-quality prosthetics, but also offering emotional support to patients who face the trauma of amputation.
According to Ahamefula, this personalised approach to prosthetic care focuses on patient rehabilitation, offering customized solutions that help patients regain mobility while also supporting their mental well-being during recovery.
He said the brand’s message is clear as it’s about empowering patients to live fuller lives postamputation, adding that this can be achieved by elevating patient-centric care through the collaborative innovation of professionals at NOA.
was allegedly carried out by a combined team of armed herdsmen and Jukum militia.
He stated:“I was briefed about what happened. I was told that given the relative peace for some time now in the communities, the people who deserted their
homes due to the activities of armed herdsmen decided to go back home and reside in their communities.
“They settled in their communities and went about the normal activities. Unfortunately, yesterday (Wednesday), being
Christmas Day, they went to church, and after returning home from the service, families were preparing meals, and some were gathering and relaxing at spots to celebrate Christmas when a combined team of armed herdsmen and Jukum militia
started attacking from five different places.
“They were chasing people and shooting sporadically, and whoever they caught up with was killed. They did that till they got to Government Secondary School, Anwase.
David-Chyddy Eleke in awka
The governorship aspirant of Labour Party (LP) for the Anambra State 2025 election, Mr. John Nwosu, has berated the state Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, over his seeming sluggishness is tackling the growing insecurity in the state.
Within the period of yuletide, there have been cases of kidnapping by criminals, including that of the member representing Onitsha North state constituency 1 in the state House of Assembly, Hon Justice Azuka, which happened on the Eve of Christmas.
Nwosu said: “Clearly, the Soludo administration has failed
in articulating what ought to be priorities for Ndi Anambra.
“Statistics indicate a drastic drop in the number of those returning to Anambra State for the 2024 Christmas and 2025 New Year festivities.
“Incidentally, for some inexplicable reasons, the state government said it had mapped out ameliorative measures for tackling insecurity in the state which it would put in place in January 2025. This seems to be a case of putting the cart before the horse.”
Soludo had recently announced that his government plans to launch a joint security operation codenamed: ‘Operation Udo Ga Achi’, in late January 2025.
Sunday Okobi
Some groups in Lagos State, Society Against Illegal Demolition and Forced Eviction, and United Action for Democracy, yesterday alleged that the state House of Assembly Speaker, Hon. Midashiru Obasa, is being shielded against fresh allegations of corruption, calling for his investigation
The groups claimed at a press conference held yesterday in Ikeja that he (Obasa) was alleged to have used N15billion to rebuild a gate “that is not worth more than N15million,” describing it as unambiguously unacceptable, “given the mass poverty that is in Nigeria as a country today, and one that has shamelessly put Lagos top of the chart of cities with the largest poverty
and insecurity. “While other cities are competing for the best, Lagos is going far backwards with all sorts of anti-developmental bad strides.”
At the conference, which was addressed by the Secretary of the Society Against Illegal Demolition and Forced Eviction, Opeyemi Ogunlami, on behalf of all the groups, the bodies expressed
sadness that with so many allegations and facts against Speaker Obasa, “he is still the head of parliament in Lagos. He said: “What a house of impunity led by the exemplars of office abuses, heavy misappropriations and the over ambitious undermining of landslide growth for Lagos; a very promising and popular city globally.”
Goddy Egene
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), Mr. Akintunde Sanyerr, urged students in higher institutions across the country to apply for more loans, assuring them that the process is transparent and without any interference.
Sawyerr, who spoke at a press briefing in Lagos, stressed that NELFUND is doing everything possible to ensure fairness in the granting and disbursement of loans to students who apply for them.
According to him, a total of N23 billion has been paid to students in 228 universities,
N18 billion for tuition fees and N5 billion for upkeep. The NELFUND boss disclosed that so far, 326,000 persons have applied for the loan, noting that the federal government is adequately prepared to fund the scheme.
.Sawyerr explained that in order to ensure that the loans were open to all, the registration was made available online, noting that the online application was to eliminate bias.
“You don’t have to know anybody to get the loan,” he said. The NELFUND CEO restated that the loan was interest-free, just as he emphasised that the government was interested in ensuring that no one was denied the opportunity to be educated due to lack of funds.
Ayodeji Ake
In commemoration of its 11th anniversary, one of the most popular clubs in Lagos, Quilox, has kicked off a campaign against counterfeit drinks, saying they dangerous to human health.
Speaking at a media parley organised in Lagos recently by the management of the club, the Chief Operating Officer (COO),
Akinlabi Peller, confirmed that to intensify the fight against fake drinks, the club has formed a strategic partnership with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).
He assured the public that the club maintains quality and standard products for its customers. According to him, “We want to appreciate NAFDAC for their
cooperation and for saving lives. Quilox has a lot of measures in terms of what we serve our customers and we are celebrating a decade and one.
“We have been genuine with our dealings. We have a scanner that enable us scan the bar codes to prove to our customers we don’t sell fake drinks. We are always conscious that people who come around here get the best.”
The Deputy COO of the club, Mr. Olushola Farinloye, enlightened journalists that as part of quality check, the process of drink delivery from the source to the club are properly investigated to ensure that it customers get the best.
“We have a way of taking our process from delivery of drinks. We don’t buy drinks from open market but the brand sellers.”
Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan
A professional group, Omituntun Initiative in the Diaspora (OID), has commiserated with the Oyo State Government and families of the victims of the tragic stampede which occurred in Ibadan during a Christmas funfair, which reportedly claimed lives of over 35 children.
The group in a statement issued by its spokesperson, Ayotomiwa Adebayo, described the incident as unfortunate and totally avoidable.
“We are deeply saddened by the devastating news about the event organised to thrill the children but turned tragic due to stampede that preceded the festivity funfair,” the statement stated.
The group commended the swift intervention of the Governor Seyi Makinde-led administration and the efforts of various rescue agencies towards the tragedy.
It said: “Also, the governor’s humbleness, sensitive and selfless approach to the citizen’s welfare by cancelling his birthday celebration to honour the victims and their families is highly commendable. Indeed, we stand with you and honour your ineffable love for the departed children.
L-R: Baale of Marine Beach, Chief Joseph Omobolanle Ogunmola; Member, Federal House of Representative, representing Apapa/ Igammu Federal Constituency, Hon. Adesola Adedayo; one of the beneficiaries, Shakiru Jimoh; Chairman, Governance Advisory Council (GAC) Lagos State, Prince Tajudeen Olusi, and former All Progressives Chairman, Lagos State, Tunde Balogun, during the distribution of Christmas palliatives to constituents of Apapa/ Igammu Federal Constituency in Lagos… recently etOP UKUtt
Dike Onwuamaeze
The Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) has urged the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu to intervene in the face-off between some manufacturing companies and the Lagos State Water Regulatory Commission (LASWARCO) over non-payment of water abstraction levies. The NECA alleged that the face-off has also lead to purported closure of the factories of some major manufacturing companies in Lagos by LASWARCO over non-payment of water abstraction levies. It also urged the commission to toe the path of support for struggling businesses and stop the ongoing misinformation
Chinedu Eze
Nigeria’s major carrier, Air Peace, has denied the report that any of its flights was involved in air crash and described the report as malicious and false, noting that Artificial Intelligence (AI) was used to generate a crashed aircraft in the airline’s livery.
In a statement signed by the Head of Communications, Air Peace, Dr. Ejike Ndiulo, the airline alleged that the person who posted the false report on social media has a predilection for posting fake reports about air accidents.
The airline also said it is a deliberate attempt to spread misinformation and tarnish the impeccable safety record of Air Peace.
“Our attention has been drawn to multiple social media posts circulating false and malicious information that an Air Peace aircraft has crashed in the Western Sahara region, resulting in fatalities, including the purported death of a prominent individual. We categorically state that this information is false and malicious
“This is a deliberate attempt to spread misinformation and tarnish the impeccable safety record of Air Peace. It is important to note that the author of this post has a history of disseminating false and alarming information about non-existent tragic incidents. The circulating images accompanying these false reports are clearly AI-generated and do not reflect any real incident.
An indigene of Ikare, Chief Mohammed Adetunji Abdul (ATM) has commended the Olukare of Ikare, His Royal Majesty, Oba Akadiri Saliu Momoh IV, has been commended for the transformation that the town has witnessed from a sleepy village to a modern township.
Speaking on the 40th coronation anniversary of the Olukare, Abdul said that the significant advancements in infrastructure, education, and healthcare that the town has witnessed was
The families of LAWAL and BELLO wish to be known as one family and to be referred to as BELLO-LAWAL. The changes shall be effective from the date of publication and will apply to all legal documents and records of members of the family. We request that all relevant organizations and institutions be informed via this publication and update their records to reflect the new name.
as a result of the manner the monarch has managed affairs of the community.
Abdul said Oba Momoh has not only attracted development to Ikare Akoko with his pragmatic approach to leadership, but his reign has also witnessed unprecedented peace and tranquility in the last 40 years.
He emphasized that the monarch’s wisdom and dedication have fostered unity among the people, enabling them to work together towards common goals.
“I want to join the people of Ikare Akoko, Ondo State, and Nigerians in wishing our revered Royal Majesty, Oba Akadiri Saliu Momoh IV, more years in the reign. I have no doubt that Allah will give him more years on the throne to further his developmental visions for Ikare and Akoko at large. Kabiyesi, the 40 years you have spent on the throne of your forefathers are just the tip of the iceberg, as I believe Allah will keep you strong and healthy for more years to witness the Ikare Akoko of your dream,” Abdul said.
and media onslaught that is tantamount to economic sabotage.
Speaking in a statement that urged LASWARCO to stop the unhelpful business
disruption, the Director-General of NECA, Mr. Wale-Smatt Oyerinde, “appeals to the business-friendly executive governor of Lagos State, to kindly intervene in this matter
to save businesses in Lagos from further woes.”
Oyerinde stated that the purported news of the sealing of the premises of some businesses on the allegation
of non-compliance with water abstraction regulations is not only misleading but also likely to send the wrong message on the already harsh business environment in the country.
David-Chyddy Eleke in awka
Police in Anambra State have recovered the vehicle of the kidnapped state House of Assembly member, Hon Justice Azuka.
Spokesperson of the state Police Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, who revealed this, said there has been an ongoing intense operation to rescue him since his kidnap.
He said: “The recovery (of his vehicle) followed an
Azuka, the member representing Onitsha North state constituency 1, was on Christmas Eve kidnapped by suspected gunmen while returning to his village for the Christmas celebration.
intense ongoing operation by police operatives attached to the Inland Town Division.
“A separate rescue team sighted the abandoned vehicle at Upper Iweka Road, and the Commissioner of Police has charged the deployed rescue team to intensify efforts for the possible rescue of the honourable member.”
Azuka was seized at about 9p.m. last Tuesday while going to his community to celebrate the Christmas at Ugwunabamkpa area of Onitsha.
As at the time of filing this report, it is still unclear if his abductors have reached out to the family for payment of ransom or to free him.
Olusegun Samuel in yenagoa
The umbrella body of Ijaws youths worldwide, the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), has raised the alarm over the series of unprovoked attacks against Ijaw communities by militants from Eket in Akwa in Akwa Ibom State.
The body, which convened a
stakeholders’ interactive session to draw the attention of the public and relevant authorities to the attack in statement by its spokesman, Binebai Princewill, claimed that the development had resulted in injuries to Ijaw people and the destruction of property amounting to millions of naira.
On February 26, 2024, tensions
escalated when Eket militants allegedly blocked the sole access road to Ibeno, leading to violent confrontations that claimed lives and caused extensive destruction.
He stated that recently, on November 10, 2024, an invasion by Eket militants in Inua Eyet Ikot 11 within the Ibeno Local Government Area further devastated their communities, including the destruction of critical infrastructure such as a government-built health centre. Princewill stated: “It is important to highlight that these brutal attacks have increased following the controversial actions of former state Governor, Emmanuel Udom, who made attempts to remap Ijaw territories.”
Ayodeji Ake
Some Nigerian civil society organisations and stakeholders have joined forces to create awareness and combat the exploitation of young Nigerian women through Russia’s controversial Alabuga Start programme, which has been accused of deceiving participants into assembling military drones for use in conflict zones.
The programme, operating within
Russia’s Alabuga Special Economic Zone in Tatarstan, marketed itself as a legitimate work-study initiative offering vocational training and employment opportunities.
Through a press release, the Founder of the Godspower Oshodin Foundation in Abuja, Dr. Godspower Oshodin, said it’s a “systematic exploitation of our youth under the guise of educational opportunities represents a dangerous intersection of human trafficking and international
conflict. We’re witnessing not just a brain drain, but the weaponization of our daughters’ dreams for a better future.
“The programme’s recruitment tactics specifically targeted young African women through social media campaigns promising professional development and competitive salaries. Upon arrival, participants reportedly faced a stark reality: confiscated passports, minimal wages, and stringent surveillance in their workplaces.” Director of Welfare at Help from the South Initiative in Lagos, Ms. Funmilola Akerele, emphasised the urgency of the situation.
“These predatory schemes exploit the vulnerabilities of our youth. We’ve documented cases where participants were promised monthly allowances of up to 135,825 rubles ($1,327) but received far less, while working in hazardous conditions without proper protection.”
Segun Awofadeji inGombe
Gombe State Governor, Alhaji Muhammadu Yahaya, has received members of the Christian community under the auspices of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) on a Christmas homage at the Government House in Gombe. This was as he offered commiserations over the accident
involving Christian youths on Christmas procession in Gombe, assuring them of support for the victims’ medical care.
Speaking while receiving the delegate, Governor Yahaya felicitated with them on the occasion of this year’s Christmas.
He enjoined the faithful, especially the youths, to use the occasion to promote peace and
unity and avoid indulging in social vices.
The governor described Christmas as a season of joy, happiness, and reflection, urging the faithful to follow the teachings of the Bible as exemplified by Jesus Christ.
“We are people of different colours, tribes, faiths, clans, nations, and so forth. Let our diversity be
a blessing. Let us be our brother’s keeper, live in peace, embrace one another so that our state and country can move forward,” he remarked.
Yahaya described the visit as both heartwarming and a moment for reflection, following the unfortunate accident involving some Christian youths during a procession, which left many injured.
Sunday Okobi
The Senior Partner of Punuka Attorneys and Solicitors, Dr. Anthony Idigbe (SAN), has hailed the renaming of the University of Abuja to Yakubu Gowon University, saying it was a fitting way to honour the former Head of State.
The SAN said in a statement
made available yesterday to journalists that: “The federal government’s decision to rename the University of Abuja as Yakubu Gowon University is a deserving honour for General Yakubu Gowon (rtd).
“It recognises his pivotal role in fostering national unity and stability as Head of State.
“General Gowon has
demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the unity and progress of Nigeria. We have a few good men left and Gowon is one of them.
“His no victor, no vanquished post-war policy, the institution of the NYSC programme and massive infrastructure laid the foundations for a Renaissance.
“He and his foundation, Gowon
Centre, played a significant role in eradicating polio and Guinea worm diseases in Nigeria.
“I congratulate our elder statesman, General Yakubu Gowon (GCON) on the honour, and also thank His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for immortalising the iconic leader in his lifetime.
Nigerian internationals, Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey were in action on Boxing Day as substitute Rodrigo Muniz scored the winner late into six minutes of stoppage time as Fulham staged a magnificent late comeback to stun Chelsea 2-1 at Stamford Bridge.
Fulham were relentless in pursuit of at least a point and got full value for their ambition, securing their first win at Stamford Bridge in 45 years.
Iwobi, who was substituted in the second half, recorded his 18th appearance in the colours of Fulham this ongoing season while Bassey made his 17th appearance and has bagged five yellow cards.
Chelsea looked to be maintaining the pressure on Premier League pace-setters Liverpool as they defended a lead given to them by Cole Palmer's smooth 16th-minute strike.
Fulham, however, never took a backward step and were rewarded in the most dramatic fashion with two late goals as Chelsea's title aspirations
suffered a serious setback.
Marco Silva's Fulham substitutions worked to perfection, first when Harry Wilson headed the equaliser after 82 minutes before Muniz steered a low finish past Chelsea keeper Robert Sanchez in the 95th minute.
Chelsea were never comfortable, even after Palmer's strike which was his 26th Premier League goal in the calendar year, breaking the Chelsea record set by Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink in 2001.
Elsewhere, nothing seems to be going Manchester City's way at the moment - and star striker Erling Haaland is not a happy man after missing a penalty kick against Everton yesterday. If there was any player currently in the Premier League you would hand the ball to for a penalty to win a match, it would be the prolific Norwegian. Not on this occasion,
Zenith Bank Women’s Basketball League’s MVP Receives MFM's Accolades
The profile of the Most Valuable Player of the 2024 Zenith Bank Women’s Basketball League, Hembam Wandoo, continued to rise as she is set to lead Nigeria cadet team to the world stage after her historic performance for MFM Women Basketball team, helping them to win back-to-back league titles.
It has been an interesting year for the 16-year-old leading both the MFM team and the U-16 J’Tigress to great height and is ready to take her stock further at the 2025 FIBA U-18 Women’s World Cup in Czech Republic.
In recognition of Wandoo’s contributions to the success of the team, MFM catalogued the various individual and team honours the national U-18 J’Tigress’
star attained in recent time.
The Benue State-born Wandoo played pivotal roles in MFM’s championship winning performances in 2023 and 2024, winning the Most Valuable Player award in the later.
At National Sports Festivals, she picked up silver while representing Benue State in 2020 and gold with Delta State in 2022.
Gushing about the exploits of the talented ball handler, MFMWBBC’s Chairman, Godwin Enakhena, chose glowing words to describe Wandoo.
“One of the most dedicated players in the team. We’ve a team made up of very committed players, and she’s one of them,” Enakhena said. “A team player. The world is at her feet.”
though.
Looking to land a knockout blow, Haaland saw his second-half strike saved by spot-kick expert Jordan
Pickford, as Manchester City's crisis continued with a 1-1 draw against Evertonat Etihad Stadium.
"How do you react mentally?" asked boss Pep Guardiola about the penalty miss. "Life is not easy. Sport is not easy. When it happens,
it is OK. "There are still a lot of minutes to play and we had the chances afterwards. We created, incredible how they ran and fight. In some games it was not good but today well played."
Stand-in Head Coach Daniel Ogunmodede insisted yesterday that the big focus of the Super Eagles B players and officials ahead of Satur- day’s African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifying game against Ghana’s Black Galaxies is to attain victory that will spring Nigeria to the finals of the competition early next
Bothyear.illustrious regional rivals battled to a scoreless stalemate in Accra on Sunday and the final qualifying fixture is delicately poised ahead of the decider at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on
“WeSaturday. are doing everything to stay focused by avoiding any distractions. Yes, we got a scoreless draw in the first leg away and now playing at home, but we are not in any way carried away. Our objective was to score an away goal in Accra but that did not happen.
“On Saturday, we will approach the game like our lives depend on it. Our watchword is getting the win that will qualify us for the African Nations Championship finals coming up in East Africa.”
The eighth instalment of the competition reserved for footballers plying their trade in their nation’s domestic Leagues will take place across Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda, 1st – 28th February 2025.
Nigeria defended stoutly at the Accra Sports Stadium while relying on counter-attacks, but will have to launch onslaughts from the blast of the referee’s whistle at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium. Their bitter regional rivalry, Ghana’s failure to qualify for next year’s Africa Cup of Nations finals and results of previous encounters in the African Nations Championship
are indices that have rendered Saturday’s match a potentially-explosive affair with endless fireworks.
The Black Stars have failed to reach the 35th AFCON finals, from a group that included Sudan, Angola and Niger Republic, and the Galaxies will throw the kitchen sink at the Super Eagles B to ensure they don’t follow in that negative trend. Ghana last missed the Africa Cup of Nations in 2004.
For Nigeria, Ghana have dominated their African Nations Championship clashes, with the Eagles winning only one of six
previous clashes. Three have resulted in scoreless draws. Ghana won 3-2 in Accra in 2008 and also 2-0 in Accra in 2022, and to boot, have claimed victory in even in the ones that ended in ties.
The 0-0 draw in Calabar in 2008 meant Ghana sailed through to the inaugural CHAN finals in Cote d’Ivoire on the strength of their 3-2 win in Accra two weeks earlier, and when their semi-final clash in the third instalment of the final tournament in South Africa in 2014 ended 0-0, the Galaxies prevailed 4-1 after a penalty shootout.
Ogunmodede’s charges have earned Nigeria’s best result against Ghana in the African Nations Championship on away ground, and look poised to gain victory in Uyo on Saturday.
The Confederation of African Football has selected Moroccan official Hamza El Fariq as referee for the match, with his compatriots Abdessamad Abertoune, Zakaria Bouchtaoui and Hicham Temsamani to serve as assistant 1, assistant 2 and fourth official respectively. Prince Kai Saquee from Sierra Le- one will be the commissioner while Miboti Moise from the Democratic Republic of Congo will be in the role of referee assessor.
Ajimotokan
Nigeria's elite marathon runners from Jos-based High Altitude Athletics Club have revealed their priority for the year 2025 is to compete and win the top 10 positions at the ECOWAS Abuja International Marathon.
Their decision is informed by the lucrativeness of the race, especially the 21 km and the organisers' record of prompt payment of prize money.
This was disclosed by the Director of High Altitude Athletics Club and manager of most of the elite marathoners in Nigeria, Stephen Nuhu, before the Christmas break.
He said they had all agreed to prioritise the ECOWAS Abuja International Marathon.
“We all left Pankshin where we normally train a few days ago to spend Christmas and New Year with our families, by the special grace we will regroup the first week of the new year, and our focus for the new year is the ECOWAS Abuja International Marathon.
“We arrived at this conclusion because we have a very good chance of winning about eight of the top 10 positions in the ECOWAS race because it is a half marathon. For example, if our club produces the winners of the men and women’s races that is $10,000.00 each which comes to about N40 million in today’s exchange rate, we can’t get that kind of money elsewhere.
“Even if we place fourth or fifth in the ECOWAS Marathon, it is more
rewarding financially than what we will get when we win a full marathon elsewhere. We are grateful to ECOWAS because their race is empowering us and lifting us out of poverty,’’ Nuhu stressed. The coach also praised the organiser for the prompt payment of prize money and the general organization of the race, saying they had never experienced a delay in the payment of the race's prize money.
The 2025 ECOWAS Abuja Inter- national Marathon which is slated for March 1, 2025, will feature the 21 km and the 5 km races. The 21 km will start and finish at the ECOWAS Commission, Asokoro and the 5 km race will start at the Eagles Square and also finish at the ECOWAS Commission.
“It would be the first time that a thing of this nature is happening in the state and we believe the decent nature of the governor prompted Mr. Obasa to outstep his bounds. Would he have tried that with any of the former governors? He would not even moot the idea. But because of the governor’s nice and kind nature, he thinks he can ride roughshod over him? Impossible” --Leader of Eko United, Bolakale Akano, condemns Lagos State House of Assembly Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa’s alleged disrespect to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
In 1991, Nigeria was in the full throes of the interminable transition to civil rule programme of General Ibrahim Babangida. The effort by the regime in 1991 to relocate their terminal date from 1992 to 1993 coincided with a planned meeting in Ibadan, south-west Nigeria, of the leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS). At that time, security agencies had secreted on major campuses around the country, assets masquerading as students. The University of Ibadan was no exception. The unsuspecting NANS leadership were taken by surprise when the SSS swooped on their meeting, abducted their entire lot and dumped them at the Kirikiri Maximum Security Prison in Lagos with notice to no one. The abductees included then President of the NANS, Mahmud Aminu; their Svengali, Bamidele Aturu, as well as other notables in the movement such as Naseer Kura and Funso Omogbehin.
To make the grab look lawful, the regime issued a back-dated order for their detention under the State Security (Detention of Persons) Decree No. 2 of 1984 effectively making them hostages in law. On a routine professional visit to the Kirikiri Prisons in 1991 to see some other detainees, the then Officer in Charge (O/C) of Records at the facility pulled me aside and whispered about the presence in the prison of the leadership of the NANS. Until then, nearly 10 days after they went missing, no one knew where they were. If Mungo Park had made the journey, the history books would probably have recorded that he “discovered” the then leadership of the NANS in Kirikiri Prisons.
The lead lawyer for such matters then was Kanmi Isola-Osobu, a brilliant Life Bencher who was also a lawyer to Fela Anikulapo Kuti. Kanmi’s office was opposite Adekunle Police Station in Yaba, Lagos; beside Dr Tunji Otegbeye’s hospital. There were no cellular phones. I visited Kanmi’s office on a Monday afternoon to brief him about the detained students, hoping he could lead the legal proceedings on their behalf. He was busy. With a familiar glint lighting up his face, Kanmi later informed me that he had been busy lubricating the struggle. The case went before Nureini Abiodun
Kessington, whose court at the time had a deserved reputation as the graveyard of bloated professional egos. With subversive invention, Kessington promptly ended the abduction of the student leaders and ensured that they were released with no substantial interruption to their academic careers or lives thereafter.
Those of us who became active against military rule then were inspired largely by two things. One was the hope that the end of military rule would see the end of such practice; the other was the dutiful resistance of some courageous judges like Kessington. In hindsight we may have been naïve about the nature of power and the resilience of its methods. A quarter of a century after the end of military rule the practice continues to prosper. To make matters worse, courageous judges appear to have become extinct.
First, the politicians discovered they could emulate the soldiers. In January 2017, Audu Maikori had been a lawyer for nearly sixteen years. He was a leader in entertainment law in Nigeria and president and Chief Executive Officer of a thriving start-up in the sector, known as Chocolate City Group, with interests in radio, television, events, movies, and music. A son of Southern Kaduna, Audu was also a powerful voice and amplifier for the sufferings of the people under
the predatory rulership of then Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir el-Rufai.
On or around 17 February 2017, police officers from the Kaduna State Command of the Nigeria Police Force abducted Audu from Lagos and embarked on a cross-country dash with him; first to Abuja where he was detained in the police cell in Asokoro. The following day they ferried him to Kaduna for further detention. After two days of detention, the police in Kaduna granted him bail.
It was in Kaduna that Audu discovered that his abduction was in connection with a post on his Twitter feed about the crisis in Southern Kaduna. A fortnight after Audu’s release on bail, then governor of Kaduna State, Nasir el-Rufai while headlining the Social Media Week in Lagos on 4 March, promised that he was “trying to link the dates of [Audu’s tweets] to attacks that may have happened the next day on Fulanis and if we are able to establish that causation,…. we know what it means.” Under his orders, the police snatched Audu again and this time detained him in nasty conditions in the State Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS). He had become a hostage in law.
Audu subsequently sued el-Rufai and the Police. On 27 October 2017, John Tsoho, then a judge of the Federal High Court, issued a judgment invalidating Audu’s abduction from Lagos. The judge held that “a warrant of arrest issued by a Magistrate in Kaduna was not valid for execution in Laos, except and until endorsed by a court in Lagos. Not even a warrant issued by a State High Court can be validly executed in another State without endorsement by a competent court within the State where it is to be executed.” He awarded N40 million in damages against Governor el-Rufai. After the Court of Appeal reaffirmed the essence of the judgment by the Federal High Court, el-Rufai appealed to the Supreme Court to assert his right to abduct Nigerian citizens at will and hold them as his hostages in law.
Two years later, judges and magistrates invented jurisprudence to ground the practice of hostage-taking through law. Unlike in Audu’s case, the police officers who abducted Steven Kefason from Port Harcourt on the orders of Nasir
el-Rufai in May 2019 could not even be bothered with a warrant. After snatching Steven, they secreted him in a cell in Mini Koro, Rivers State overnight before ferrying him by road in a brutal ride to Kaduna. Over three days, they denied him food, access to communication or personal sanitation.
In Kaduna, Steven was interrogated in equally brutal conditions under the personal supervision of the Governor’s legal adviser. The reason for the abduction - it turned out - was a tweet by Steven around 20 April 2019 in which he said that “while over 12k Kajuru IDPs were living in a terrible condition, their LG Chairman, Cafra Caino, was hosting his old school mates to a birthday party at Kajuru Castle….” The facts were not in dispute, but el-Rufai nevertheless instructed the abduction of Steven on charges of incitement and injurious falsehood. One month after Steven’s initial abduction, the Magistrate in Kaduna denied him bail on 20 June 2019 because, according to the Magistrate, “while on bail, [he] further made social media posts further insulting the person of the Governor and that of the Chairman of Kaduna and Kajuru LGAs respectively.”
On 27 February 2020, Peter Mallong, a judge of the Federal High Court in Kaduna, denied Steven’s request for judicial review of his abduction and the decision of the Magistrate claiming, in an extraordinary travesty of jurisprudence that he was bound by the decision of the Magistrate to deny bail because the issues were the same and the parties were largely the same. Following his abduction, Steven suffered as hostage in law for over six months with no redress and came close to losing his life. The injustice of the judgment cried out to the Heavens for redress.
In July 2023, Peter Mallong died at 60. Those who wonder how the country ended up with the utterly shameful charade being orchestrated in a squalid courtroom in Ekiti in the case of Dele Farotimi have Peter Mallong to thank for having written the manual on judicial enablement of the practice of rendering citizens into hostages in law. This narrative has wider ramifications. •A lawyer and a teacher, Odinkalu can be reached at chidi.odinkalu@tufts.edu