2025: Experts Advise FG to Curb Inflation, Reduce Debt, Stimulate Growth...
Ribadu: No Foreign Military Base in Nigeria, We Even Refused US Request
back at Niger’s military junta, says Nigeria will maintain diplomatic relations with France, Russia, UK, US, others ECOWAS: Niger’s allegation unfounded Desperate politicians fueling crisis between both countries, northern group declares
Chuks Okocha, Michael Olugbode, Linus Aleke in Abuja and Sunday Ehigiator in Lagos
The National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu yesterday stressed that there was no foreign military base in Nigeria, pointing out that the country had recently refused an attempt by the United States to set up a base (AFRICOM) within its borders.
He also said Nigeria would not sever its diplomatic ties with France over the Republic of Niger's internal squabble with its erstwhile colonial master, adding that the country would also maintain diplomatic relations with Russia, the US, United Kingdom, China, and other countries in the world.
Weighing in on the matter, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) rubbished the claim by the Nigerien military junta that Nigeria and some other countries were sponsoring destabilisation of
L-R: Senior Partner, ALP NG & Co., Olasupo Shasore; Director & Founder, Shimaneni & Company Inc., Dr. Johannes Shikumuna Shimaneni; Partner, ALP NG & Co., Uyi Giwa-Osagie, and Partner, ALA,
Linus Aleke in Abuja
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ), yesterday said the coordinated onslaught against Lakurawa terrorists in Sokoto State by air and land components of
L-R: Jigawa State Governor Umar Namadi; Nigeria Governors' Forum (NGF) Chairman, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, and Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, during the visit of the NGF delegation to commiserate with Namadi on the death of his mother and son in Kafin Hausa…yesterday
2025: Experts Advise FG to Curb Inflation, Reduce Debt, Stimulate Growth
Nume Ekeghe and Omolabake Fasogbon
Economic experts have urged the federal government to prioritise reducing inflation, stabilising the naira, and implementing policies that promote sustainable economic growth and employment in 2025.
The call came amid mounting concerns over spiraling food prices, rising unemployment, and Nigeria’s unsustainable debt profile, which collectively posed significant threats to economic stability in the outgoing year.
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Anchoria Advisory Services, Sam Chidoka, in an interview with THISDAY, noted that inflation had the most pervasive impact on Nigeria’s economy in 2024, surpassing other economic challenges in its reach and effect.
He said: "In 2025, we should prioritise reducing inflation and stabilising the exchange rate between the naira and the dollar. However, inflation has had a more profound impact on our economy than any other factor. Its drag effect
Niger, insisting that it was unfounded.
Also, a northern group, the Arewa Think Tank (ATT) accused desperate politicians in the country of being behind the allegations by the military leader of Niger Republic.
The Niger Military Leader, General Abdourahamane Tchiani recently accused Nigerian authorities of colluding with France to destabilise his country.
Nigeria had in 2009, under late President Umaru Yar'Adua refused plans to host the U.S. African military command (AFRICOM) on the continent and recently when the U.S. had issues with Niger they tried to relocate the military command to Nigeria which was again refused.
Speaking during an interview with BBC Hausa Service yesterday, Ribadu said the allegation by Tchiani was not only baseless, but totally unfounded.
He averred that Nigeria’s relationship with France was based on economic cooperation, not military collaboration.
Ribadu said Niger and Nigeria ought to join forces to deal with Lakurawa which has constituted security problems for both countries.
According to Ribadu, “There is no doubt that the President of Niger knows Nigeria very well, but I want you, as journalists, to go to the places he mentioned and see for yourself, or ask the residents of the places if there are any foreigners, let alone soldiers from other countries.
influences every aspect of economic life."
Chidoka underscored the devastating effects of food inflation, which has placed basic necessities out of reach for millions of Nigerians.
"Food inflation is extremely high, making it difficult for many people to afford basic necessities. The soaring inflation has forced some companies to lay off employees, increasing unemployment. At the same time, many families struggle to make ends meet, pushing more people into poverty," he added.
On his part, speaking with THISDAY, Chief Executive Officer of Eczellon Capital, Diekola Onaolapo, highlighted the significance of the federal government’s recent policy measures, particularly the unification of the naira exchange rate. While acknowledging the short-term costs of the policy, he pointed to its longerterm benefits.
He said: "Whereas this led to a sharp depreciation of the naira in the short term, the long-term effects will improve prospects of international investments into the country while also blocking
“The leaders of the military regime in Niger should understand that we, Nigeria, are not a problem for them.
“These terrorists, whom we are fighting, are our problem. We should confront them together.”
Ribadu said Nigeria would continue to work with the Niger Republic, “because the two countries and their peoples are brothers”, adding that both should unite for the development of their respective societies.
The NSA pointed out that while Niger’s leadership may have issues with France, it was unreasonable to expect Nigeria to sever ties with France over her internal disputes.
According to Ribadu, "General Tchiani’s statement was both surprising and disturbing. The allegations are baseless and entirely unfounded. Nigeria has no intention of sabotaging or destabilising Niger.
"We have always maintained peaceful relations with our neighbors, including Cameroon, Benin Republic, and Chad.
"Why would we suddenly have a reason to be in conflict with Niger? It simply doesn’t make sense.
"This allegation is completely untrue. Nigeria has no history of hosting foreign military bases.
"Even the United Kingdom, our former colonizer, has never attempted to establish a base here.
"Nigeria firmly resisted an attempt by the United States to set up a base (AFRICOM) within our borders.
"On the contrary, Niger had hosted
CHINA RENEW N3.28TRN CURRENCY SWAP AGREEMENT TO BOOST BILATERAL TRADE
was the CBN Governor.
The transaction was aimed at providing adequate local currency liquidity to Nigerian and Chinese industrialists and other businesses, thereby reducing the difficulties encountered in the search for third currencies. Among other benefits, the agreement was expected to provide naira liquidity to Chinese businesses and provide RMB liquidity to Nigerian businesses respectively, thereby improving the speed, convenience and volume of transactions between the two countries.
It was also expected to assist both countries in their foreign exchange reserves management, enhance financial stability and promote broader economic cooperation between the two countries.
Vice-President Kashim Shettima recently expressed satisfaction with the continuous increase in the volume of trade between Nigeria and China, saying it was one of the highest in Africa.
malpractices.”
Onaolapo further noted the importance of broadening Nigeria’s revenue base beyond oil to mitigate the risks associated with debt.
One of the more innovative policies Onaolapo commended was the federal government’s initiative to finance the purchase of made-in-Nigeria vehicles through dedicated car loans. "This will reduce the import burden and could potentially extend to other industries, fostering domestic production," he observed. However, he cautioned that "implementation, enforcement, and ensuring these policies are not sabotaged will be critical to their success."
Chief Executive of CFG Advisory, Tilewa Adebajo, echoed concerns about Nigeria’s escalating debt burden, which he described as unsustainable.
He said: "The debt profile is too high and is not sustainable. The federal government has to put in policies that can grow the economy and create employment.”
The Chief Executive Officer of the Centre for the Promotion of Private
such bases, including one established by the United States which they recently expelled.
"France has military agreements with its former colonies, but Nigeria has never been part of such arrangements.
"The claim that France is using Nigerian territory to launch an attack on Niger is both implausible and baseless. It will not happen. How could it even happen?
"Moreover, Nigeria’s relationship with France is based on economic cooperation, not military collaboration.”
Speaking further, the NSA said: "While Niger’s leadership may have issues with France, it is unreasonable to expect Nigeria to sever ties with France over Niger’s internal disputes.
"The military leader also mentioned specific locations in Nigeria, which reflects his familiarity with the terrain. However, I urge journalists and the public to verify if there are any new foreign settlers, let alone French nationals, in these areas. Nigeria has no intention or reason to destabilise Niger."
Urging Niger’s leadership to
Enterprise (CPPE)' Dr. Muda Yusuf, told THISDAY that economic players in the Nigerian economy were yet to recover from the shocks of the current economic reforms.
Yusuf said they were still grappling with the challenges of weak currency, high energy cost, prohibitive interest rate, high cost of logistics, exorbitant cargo clearing cost and weak consumer spending.
He, therefore, said that policy focus in 2025 should be targeted at fixing these challenges.
Yusuf said the restoration and sustenance of macroeconomic stability could be facilitated by ensuring that fiscal operations should be less expansionary with lower fiscal deficit, reduced debt profile and consequent moderation in debt service costs.
President of Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), Samuel Agbeluyi urged the federal government to reorder its step by narrowing its focus. He said this was crucial to enable the administration stay on track and measure performances in key economic sectors.
reconsider its stance, the NSA said severing ties with France and aligning with other powers would likely bring more difficulties.
"We had previously warned them about hosting a U.S. base, but they didn’t listen and later regretted it. As a brotherly nation, we continue to advise Niger to focus on cooperation and mutual stability," he said.
Meanwhile, ECOWAS has rubbished the claim by the Nigerien military junta that Nigeria and some other countries were sponsoring destabilisation of Niger, insisting that it was unfounded.
The statement by the regional bloc read: “ECOWAS expresses deep concern over the allegations being made against Nigeria and other ECOWAS member states.
“The Commission stands firmly with Nigeria and other ECOWAS member states against allegations that they are sponsoring terrorism.
“For years, Nigeria has supported peace and security of several countries not only in the West African subregion but also on the African continent. The recent successes recorded by the
DHQ: SECONDARY EXPLOSION
operation Fansan Yamma were not responsible for the alleged civilian casualties.
The military said civilian casualties resulted from a secondary explosion, contrary to the erroneous media report that military airstrikes hit wrong location and killed no fewer than 10 armless and innocent citizens in a village in Sokoto state.
He had therefore called for constant improvement of relations between the two nations, maintaining that the two countries are friends that have sustained mutual respect and honour for each other.
Shettima made this known when he played host to a delegation from China led by the Vice-Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, Mr. Zhang Qingwei, recently.
Expressing satisfaction with the volume of trade between Nigeria and China, the vice-president had said:
“Last year in 2023, our trade relations with China got to $22.6 billion, one of the highest in Africa, if not the highest, and that trade relationship is growing by 33 percent every year.
“Mind you, the Nigerian economy is picking up but that did not stop our business relationship with China. So, I want to reassure you that we will support you in whatever way we can. We believe in you, we respect you and we cherish our relationship.”
Also yesterday, the Nigerian military allayed fears of citizens over the acquisition of drones by Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (BH/ISWAP) terrorists to attack troops' locations.
On December 25, a coordinated joint operation was conducted between the air and land components of Operation Fansan Yamma to destroy Lakurawa terrorist groups in their hideouts at Gidan Bissah and Gidan Rotuwa in Jilukon Forest, in Sokoto State killing no fewer than 10 villagers.
Refuting the alleged killing of civilians during airstrikes in Northwest operational theatre, the Director Defence Media Operations Major General Edward Buba, revealed that locals confirmed that the Lakurawa terrorists stayed in the village and used the area for the conduct of their operations.
Buba stated that intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance as well as human intelligence reports prior to the operation consistently indicated the hideout was a high concentration terrorist location.
He maintained that government needs to prioritise economic growth and set clear deliverables in 2025, affirming that this was a precursor to revenue growth and social development.
He expects the government to address endemic impunity across all sectors and at individual levels, insisting that saboteurs across the board should pay for their actions.
"The authority needs to seek out and engage with experienced professionals and experts. I mean there are several technocrats out there who can carry out national tasks even pro-bono,” the tax expert added.
For the Founder/Pioneer President of the Chartered Institute of Forensics and Certified Fraud Investigators of Nigeria (CIFCFIN), Dr. I.B Gashinbaki, while the policies on subsidy removal and forex rates unification may not have augured well for most Nigerians in 2024, the federal government must ensure that dividends of these policies spread down to justify these decisions.
"We need to see the benefit of the removal of subsidies in clear terms. Savings here must be effectively
Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), which Nigeria leads, demonstrates the country’s commitment to peace and security across the region.
“ECOWAS therefore refutes any suggestion that such a generous and magnanimous country would become a state-sponsor of terrorism.
“ECOWAS calls on all states in the region to promote dialogue and stability and refrain from making accusations that are not supported by any evidence.”
In the meantime, the ATT has accused desperate politicians in the country of being behind the allegations by the military leader of Niger Republic.
In a statement yesterday, by the Convener of ATT, Muhammad Alhaji Yakubu, the group said the claims were the imagination and calculated moves by desperate politicians to frustrate President Bola Tinubu from giving Nigerians the much-needed dividends of democracy.
It argued that Nigeria has never engaged in any overt or covert alliance with France or any other country to sponsor terrorist attacks or destabilise
According to him, "The air strikes at the end of the day had minor impact on the surrounding villages.
"The air strikes indeed hit logistic base of the terrorist which led to secondary explosions and it was these secondary explosions that led to some casualties that was earlier reported.
"The neutralised lakurawa terrorist combatants were burnt indeed beyond recognition because they were hit directly by the strikes".
Buba noted that the terrorists are known to blend within the local populace.
"We knew about this and it is for this reason that we painstakingly made sure that we minimise civilian casualty in this strike and because the terrorists blend among the civil populace, it is often difficult to differentiate friend from foe.
"In summarising, I would say that troops target terrorists and not innocent citizens. Having said that, we must also remember that war is ugly and horrible in every sense. War is never beautiful and it is the worst human endeavor ever,” he stressed.
This, he said was the reason the military often explain what troops were doing in the field knowing that by so doing they have a better chance to deny the enemy to manipulate things and use it for their purposes or to their advantage.
Buba said every innocent soul lost in the course of their operation was a
deployed to benefit citizens,” he emphasised.
The analyst also touched on the widely debated tax reform, a policy he said was long overdue.
Acknowledging concerns about the impact on the poor, he explained that the reforms already included provisions to exclude lower-income earners and incorporate progressive measures like VAT attribution and derivation.
President of Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria (CIPM), Ahmed Gobir, stressed a need to prioritise comprehensive human capital development agenda that fosters a robust and future-ready workforce.
He said focus should be on enhancing educational outcomes through collaboration with academic institutions to align curricula with industry needs, as well as life-long learning in digital and technical fields.
He called for policies supporting entrepreneurship, innovation, and job creation, while ensuring inclusive access to resources for marginalised communities.
the Niger Republic in the wake of the undemocratic change in the leadership of that country. The statement read: “We are therefore warning desperate politicians not to mismanage our relationship with the Niger Republic and cause acrimony between the two neighbouring countries.
“Nigeria has a history of living peacefully with the world, not to talk of living peacefully with its neighbours. The election has come and gone; it is time for governance. Politicians should wait until the whistle is blown for another election before they start doing what they want to do for the electioneering campaign.
“For now, we want peace in the country so that we can enjoy the dividends of democracy. These desperate politicians should allow President Tinubu to govern well. If they have issues with him, they should meet him for an amicable settlement, but not to rock the boat. They should not show their desperation to destabilise the country because there must be a
tragedy and they do sympathise with their loved ones and their families whenever such occurs.
"But we must be reminded that our troops are very professional in their actions and are indeed turning the tide against the insurgents and terrorists.
'We encourage citizens and say that together we make an extraordinary difference even as ordinary people. We call on your support always and we want to thank the people in that community that tremendously helped our operation to be this successful.
"We wouldn't have been able to do it without their cooperation and the intel that they provided us. Thank you very much. The Armed Forces have to protect our citizens and it is for these reasons that we carry out our operations to make sure that citizens are protected and our territory and our territorial integrity is also secured.”
Meanwhile, the Nigerian military yesterday allayed fear of citizens over the acquisition of drones by Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (BH/ISWAP) terrorists to attack troops locations.
The military said there was no cause for alarm as the drones used by the terrorists are not military-graded unmanned aerial vehicles.
Buba, said this while fielding questions from journalists during a press briefing in Abuja yesterday.
Buba said the drones used by terrorists were "toys" to harass civilians.
"The report about the usage of drones. I don't think that there's need for any unnecessary panic about the usage of drones.
"We are in war against terrorists and against insurgents across our country and all you need to know is not far from what you see happening in Ukraine, Russia, Israel, Hamas and all that. The use of drones in the battlefield is not new.
"Now when we are talking of drones, we don't want unnecessary panic because these are not professional drones, not military-grade drones.
"These are toys that they went to buy and found a way to put one or two things on board and use them. How effective were they? They were not effective. Are we doing something about it? Yes, we are.
"Since we now know that this is where their thinking and their thoughts are going, we have to take measures to control such attacks. I don't call them really attacks, I call them harassments," he said.
Buba further clarified that there was no foreign military base in Nigeria, adding that Nigeria has refused to be a ground for any proxy war.
According to him, "We don't have any foreign military base. We said this more than one time, we do not have any foreign military base in Nigeria. “Anyone who is saying that is trying to be mischievous… trying to be misleading and definitely he has an agenda.
THE OBJ UNSCRIPTED LAGOS PREMIERE...
Edo APC, State Govt Trade Words over N9bn Fresh Loan Approval
Adibe emenyonu in Benin City
Ayo Teriba Urges Government to Prioritise Equity Bonds in 2025
Edo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), yesterday, urged Governor Godwin Obaseki to stop securing loans, noting that the N9 billion loan recently approved by the House of Assembly was needless and will plunge the state into financial distress.
Argues Nigeria’s new borrowings
has been swindled by Obaseki-led administration with an unassailable, humongous debt profile of N135 billion and $35.6 billion, the governor is unyielding and unstoppable in his characteristic design to leave Edo State in ruin, by asking for a facility of N17.5 billion few days ago, which was said to be N9 billion."
2025 budget is going to go on interest payment alone.
The Chief Executive Officer of Economic Associates Limited, Dr. Ayo Teriba, has advised the federal government to prioritise the issuing of equity investment bonds by securitising its assets for domestic and external borrowings in order to enable Nigeria to enjoy the benefits of correct and efficient borrowing.
But in a swift reaction, the Edo State Government said it was perplexed to learn of what it termed “laughable and incredibly ridiculous tantrums attributed to the new acting chairman of the Edo State chapter of APC, Jarret Tenebe where he made baseless and spurious allegations on the fiscal management of our dear state by the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led government.”
Addressing a press conference yesterday, Tenebe had said the state was already suffering under a debt profile of N135 billion and $35.6 billion.
He said, "While it is a monumental disaster that Edo State patrimony
Teriba gave this advice this week in an interview segment of Arise TV’s Morning Show where he stated that Nigeria is largely borrowing to service its debts obligations rather than infrastructure spending. The economist averred that the fact that the deficit portion of the proposed 2025 federal budget is less than the amount earmarked for debt servicing is a clear indicator that the country’s borrowing pattern is inefficient and should be discouraged.
Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan
He said: “Part of the crisis that we have is that a third of the proposed
“It is a sign that we have borrowed extremely inefficiently when there are more efficient means of raising liabilities.
“We should not continue to fund deficits year in year out with debt. Nigeria has debt as a possibility but it also has equity as a possibility.
Tenebe, said "It is important to state, that it is now in public and political space that the fiscal budget of Edo State was passed few weeks ago before the Edo State House of Assembly proceeded on leave without the commencement of the execution of the budget by the executive.
“We go every time to Europe but we do not issue equity. We only issue debts while the likes of Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Malaysia that issue equity like bonds raise money more heavily than we do.”
Teriba added: “I do not think that Nigeria’s new borrowings are going into any capital spending.
It is most disheartening that the Edo State Government now is requesting for a facility of N17.5 billion with no corollary of project attached there to the said facility and also that the facility is not contained as loan to be taken in the 2024 fiscal budget just recently passed. A cursory perusal of the entire budget does not reveal where the project for the facility is ever
“Interest payment as proposed in the next year’s budget is higher than the deficit. The deficit is about N13 trillion while the debt repayment is going to be about N16 trillion.
“It means that Nigeria is merely borrowing to pay interest. Let us just
captured. "Information at the behest of the members of the Edo State House of Assembly is to the effect that they were recalled from their holiday or leave by the Speaker on the request of the state governor for the immediate approval of the said facility which according to them is said to be N9 billion but as event unfolded, after the mammoth request by the opposition in the House as to the rationale for a facility as
not going into capital
understand that we are borrowing just to pay interest.”
He also described the last Eurobond issue by Nigeria’s government at 10 per cent on a dollar liability as cheer recklessness. “You are issuing junk bonds and nobody can put Nigeria in that kind of situation,” he said.
Teriba suggested that one key performance indicator for the Federal Ministry of Finance should be the quality of the debt instrument the country is
lid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has described the United States as Nigeria’s longstanding ally and strategic partner for the nation’s mining sector development.
stupendous as N9 billion for fathom projects which only existed in the imagination of the governor, it was discovered that the facility was not even N9 billion but a figure wrapped in secrecy as much as N17.5 billion to which the opposition in the house rejected and or refused to be part of the approval.
the state Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki across all sectors of the state over the past seven years.”
deploying both at home and abroad to raise money.
But in its reaction, the Edo State Government stated that the Edo APC was “obviously pained by the achievements of
According to him, Nigeria should not be celebrating that its debt issue was oversubscribed but should rather borrow a leaf from Saudi Arabia that has “Triple A” rating and whenever it issued its Sukkuk the institutional investors would be glad to subscribe to it at a rate close to what the United States’ government is going to borrow.
“Let Nigeria show that kind of
Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja
“In his infertile rambling, Tenebe made wild and completely off-themark comments suggesting that Edo State is owing $35 billion. Even if that was what was written for him, he should have known that the figure is wrong and can't be true.
spending but interest payment
seriousness. You have heard Dangote Industries issuing investment grade bond. The Nigerian government has never issued an investment grade bond.
Let us get that clear.
“Tenebe has been on a frenzy looking for lies to tell since he assumed office as Acting Chairman. Rather than focus on reawakening his completely comatose party, which is unable to provide constructive criticisms expected of a viable opposition, he has resorted to spreading misinformation in a desperate attempt to curry cheap popularity.
“We should not go on a road show issuing junk bonds again. We should start looking at assets that we can securitise,” Teriba said.
He also stated that what that is needed for Nigeria to achieve stable exchange rate is the country’s net foreign
"In reality, our debt stock is not a secret and in fact, we are ‘under borrowed’. Emperor Tenebe would have known this if he understood the economics of governance, fiscal responsibility and debt-to-GDP ratio.
reserve and not the gross reserve of $42 billion that it has been showcasing and celebrating.
According to him, “what matters for the stability of the exchange rate is the net foreign reserve.
“The lesson is that the reserves are key and unless you achieve the reserve adequacy you are not going to be able to stabilise the Naira. And until you stabilise the Naira, inflation is not going to come down.
Mutfwang: Security Has Improved Considerably in Plateau
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
The Director General, National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, has announced plans to launch a 37,000 Citizens’ Brigade in primary schools across the country.
other state matters.
among the youthful population. He said the government is worried that about 72 per cent of the nation’s youthful population have become foreigners through the influence of cartoons and movies which are foreign in contents, values and cultures.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State yesterday disclosed that security situation in the state has improved considerably if compared to the situation about a year ago.
He made the disclosure while speaking with journalists in Ibadan during a working visit to Oyo State.
He said 1,000 Citizens’ Brigade would be set up in each of the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to promote national values as of old, stating that the essence of the Brigade was to revive and rebuild the national values and create positive models
Mutfwang, who spoke with journalists after paying a courtesy visit to President Bola Tinubu at his Ikoyi, Lagos residence, stated specifically that things were looking up for the state in recent times.
Explaining the purpose of his visit to the President, the governor said "I came to see the President of the country, who has been very concerned about the security situation on the Plateau.
Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan
"You would recall that 2023, around this period, Plateau State was mourning and he has been so concerned and now that we've been able to celebrate Christmas with relative peace and we are marching towards a new year, I needed to brief him on what has been happening on the Plateau and, of course, to discuss
Issa-Onilu said as a way out of the malaise, NOA would soon launch a Mobile App containing indigenous cartoons through which local contents, national values and culture would be promoted.
Mutfwang said presently things are looking rosy and getting better by the day on the Plateau especially in the area of security.
His words: "The update on the plateau is that things are getting better. Security-wise, certainly we are better off this year than we were last year and apart from the fact that the security forces on ground are doing their best, we have also invested a lot in technology, we have been able to do a lot of mobilisation of communities and so there is a lot of consciousness that has kept people aware.
According to him, "These various policies are geared towards changing the narratives and the wrong impression that the outside world is having about the country.
"It hasn't been 100 per cent, there have been a few incidences here and there, but on the whole I can tell you that things are getting better. Well, with the support of Mr. President, I can assure you that we are not going to take our foot off the pedal. We are going to make sure that we cross the Ts dot the Is as far as security is concerned, and make sure that we make it more difficult for criminality to take place within our borders.
The Oyo State Government, yesterday, suspended Oba Gbolagade Muritala Babalola, as the Onido of Ido in Ido Local Government Area of the state. The government, in a letter dated 2nd of February, 2024 and signed by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon. Olusegun Olayiwola, indicated that Governor Seyi Makinde approved the suspension on 1st of February, 2024. The letter read in part, "I wish to inform you that His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Oyo State of Nigeria, in exercise of the powers conferred on him by Sub-section 1&2 of Section 26 of the Chiefs Law, Cap. 28 Vol I, Laws of Oyo State of Nigeria 2000 and by virtue of all other enabling powers in
Speaking while receiving
Nigeria has taken a significant step in bolstering its economic relations with Saudi Arabia, with a high-level visit to that country led by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun.
“We are establishing, this year, 37,000 Citizens’ Brigade in Primary School. 1,000 in each state, including FCT, Abuja. These Citizens’ Brigade are going to be like Boys’ Scout and Girls’ Guild of the olden days.
Other members of Nigeria’s delegation to Saudi Arabia were the Minister of Budget and National Planning; Mr. Wale Tinubu, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, who is also a member of the Presidential Economic Coordination Council; Special Adviser to the President on Finance and the
“Across the world, Nigerians are known to be the smartest people on earth. This is a positive development but some people mischievously tend to portray us in negative light. But this is not who we are as a people.
Charge d'Affairs, US Embassy, David Greene, in his office on Thursday, Alake lauded the United States’ commitment to fostering cooperation with Nigeria in diverse sectors of the economy, stating that it underscores the significance of the smooth bilateral relations between both countries.
Economy, Ms. Sanyade Okoli, and Deputy Governor (Economic Policy), Central Bank of Nigeria, Mr. Muhammad Sani Abdullahi.
also want to be part of the move to reduce global emissions and put our mining sector on the global map. We have critical minerals that are in commercial demand globally,"Alake said.
Tinubu and the Presidential Economic Coordination Council (PECC), led a delegation to Riyadh to strengthen economic cooperation between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia.
formalisation of artisanal miners into cooperatives amongst others.
Nigeria Explores Stronger Economic Ties with Saudi Arabia
A press statement issued by the Director, Press and Public Relations, Ministry of Finance, Mohammed Manga, said the delegation's engagement with key Saudi ministers and institutions marked a new chapter in bilateral cooperation between the two countries.
"The Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, representing President Bola Ahmed
“I thank you for your visit. I met the US Assistant Secretary of State for Energy Resources, Geoffrey Pyatt, on the sidelines of the Mines and Money conference in London past year, and we had a fruitful engagement. I did analyse all our issues, and fundamentally, we just want to diversify our economy from oil. Not just for our own economic survival but also to be in tune with global trends for reduction in global warming. We
The minister welcomed partnership with the US on investments in the mining value chain, expanding access to technology in extracting and processing minerals and securing mining areas.
"During the visit, the delegation engaged in high-level discussions with Saudi EXIM Bank, focusing on developing export credit and insurance frameworks as well as in expanding market access between the two nations.
Throwing light on reforms embarked upon by the federal government, the minister highlighted revised Community Development Agreement (CDA) guidelines geared towards reducing friction in host communities; on-going plans for new security architecture to secure natural resources; efforts to generate big geo-data; the
"The bank expressed interest in deepening relationships with Nigerian institutions and participating in future transactions involving Saudi Government entities.
"The mining sector provides a veritable avenue for increased trade between Nigeria and the United States, especially in the area of value addition, which implies processing of extracted minerals and setting up factories here. We would also require financing from multilateral institutions for our local operators. We are providing incentives for investments like tax waivers for mining equipment, policy of full repatriation of profits to home countries amongst others," Alake emphasised. In his remarks, the US Ambassador commended the renewed interest of Nigeria in solid minerals, stressing that the sector has huge potentials to rival the contribution of oil to the nation's economy.
"Additionally, the delegation held strategic talks with the Saudi Development Fund to explore potential areas of collaboration aimed at boosting infrastructure and economic development in Nigeria," the statement said. It added that the delegation also met with the Saudi Agricultural and Livestock Investment Company (SALIC) to advance ongoing conversations about their investments in Nigeria. "SALIC reaffirmed its commitment to exploring further opportunities, emphasizing responsible investment practices that prioritize food security, output growth, and job creation in Nigeria.
Otti Signs Abia's 2025 Appropriation Bill into Law, Says It's Push for Infrastructure Devt
Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia
“To change the negative narratives, we are setting up the Citizens’ Brigade to produce young Nigerians and create positive models to rebuild the national values."
Ibadan
Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has signed into law the state's 2025 Appropriation Bill into law, 17 days after he presented the N750,282,200,000.00 before the State House of Assembly.
Alex enumah in Abuja
"This budget that was passed is a budget that will give us the impetus to continue to fire on all cylinders to ensure that our people are living a good life," he said.
bordering on terrorism and murder.
as a serious-minded government, so anything we present, we are ready for scrutiny."
this state out as one of the dirtiest states like it was in 2023," Otti stated.
that regard, has approved your suspension as the Onido of Ido in the area of authority of Ido Local Government Area of Oyo State." It directed Oba Babalola to hand over all government properties in his possession to the Chairman of Ido local government. In the meantime, the state government has vowed to hit hard at anyone, no matter how highly placed, who contravenes the law.
The governor's assent was given to the 2025 appropriation bill yesterday, barely 24 hours after it was passed into law by the state legislature without any amendment whatsoever. Otti commended the state lawmakers for giving the bill an accelerated hearing and passage, saying that the budget would make it possible for his government to sustain the fulfilment of its promises to Abians.
Justice Bolaji Olajuwon of a Federal High Court in Abuja, yesterday, dismissed the application by two Rivers State indigenes challenging the jurisdiction of the court to try them over alleged complicity in the burning of the Rivers State House of Assembly complex in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Though the 2025 budget was delivered to him intact, Otti nonetheless, noted that the members and the leadership of Abia House "did a thorough job in record time".
.He praised the state legislature profusely "for a great job you did in scrutinising the budget, disagreeing in a few areas, and also being flexible enough to accept when reasonable responses are given."
According to Otti, his administration is noted for timely execution of projects hence "We pride ourselves
Chime Eguma Ezebalike and Prince Lukman Oladele, were among five persons charged with terrorism and murder. The others are Kenneth Goodluck Kpasa, Osiga Donald and Ochueja Thankgod. They were last week arraigned on a seven-count criminal charge
He said that the christening of the 2025 budget was deliberate as it demonstrated the sustained momentum in infrastructural development across Abia which was why capital allocation got 82 per cent of the total budget.
"When we say sustained momentum, we know that we have taken off and the challenge is to continue because the easiest thing to do is to accelerate and deaccelerate".
"We can assure you that this government has its eyes on the ball and will continue to do those things we promised our people that will take this state out of poverty, that will take
Although, they pleaded not guilty to all the charges, the judge however, ordered that they be remanded at the Kuje Correctional Center, pending the hearing of their bail application fixed for February 2, as well as the motion of the 1st and 2nd defendants challenging the jurisdiction of the court to entertain the suit against them. Ezebalike and Oladele had argued that by the provisions of the Terrorism Act, it is only the Attorney General of the Federation that can file any charge of terrorism against them. Their lawyer, Mr. Lukman
He also explained that the huge outlay for Infrastructure meant that there would be no compromise in quality, adding that "when you have capital expenditure over 80 per cent, it speaks to what you want to do with infrastructure, things that would out-last all of us".
The governor listed some of the major road projects that commenced in 2023 would be completed in 2025 to include
Fagbemi, SAN, submitted that the charge having been filed by the Inspector General of Police, was incompetent and asked the court to strike out counts 1,3,4,5,6, and 7 of the charge or strike strike out the entire suit for been incompetent. Responding, Police lawyer, Mr. Simon Lough, SAN, urged the court to dismiss the application for lacking in merit. According to Lough, besides Sections 4 and 66 of the Police Acts that empower them to bring the charge against the defendants, Section 5 and 99 of the Terrorism Act, shows that the police have powers to also initiate terrorism charges against the defendant.
L-R: Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy of Nigeria, Wale Edun; Chairman, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede and the Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Olayemi Cardoso, in a Strategic Alliance to Stimulate the forex market in Abuja…yesterday
Port Harcourt road in Aba, Umuahia - Uzuakoli -Abiriba - Ohafia road, the Ohafia - Arochukwu to the boundary in Ini, the Okobo -Abamroad, the Omenuko bridge, Nunya road, among others.
Dike Onwuamaeze
L-R: Former President Olusegun Obasanjo; former Governor of Osun State, Olagunsoye Oyinlola; Writer/Producer, The OBJ Unscripted, Ife Akinmoyo, and Otunba Oyewole Fasawe, during a panel session at the launch of The
OBJ Unscripted Lagos Premiere… yesterday
ADIGUN
2024 REMO DAY…
Party Membership: UK’s Farage Threatens Legal Action Over Kemi Badenoch’s Comments
Oluchi Chibuzor with agency report Nigel Farage has threatened to take legal action against Tory leader, Kemi Badenoch if she does not apologise for accusing him of publishing a "fake" ticker showing Reform UK's membership increasing to overtake the Conservatives.
The Reform UK leader reacted furiously to Badenoch's assertion that he was "manipulating (his) own supporters" with a ticker that is "coded to tick up automatically" after it showed the insurgent rightwing party had gone past 131,680 members - the number of eligible
Conservative Party members in its leadership election in the autumn. According to Sky News, he demanded an apology from Badenoch for the "accusations of fraud and dishonesty" that he labelled "disgraceful", and said he was "not going to take it lying down".
Asked by Sky News in a call with journalists if he was going to sue the Tory leader for libel, Farage said: "I'm going to take some action in the next couple of days. I've got to decide exactly what it is, but I'm certainly not going to take it lying down. "I think it's an absolutely outrageous thing for her to have said," he
continued. "I know she's got a very bad temper. I know she's well known for lashing out at people, but I am not at all happy, and I'm going to take some action."
He added that he will confirm within two days exactly what this action would be if she does not apologise for the "intemperate outburst".
Reform showed Sky News the coding used to link the ticker to the member count within their account on the platform NationBuilder. The demonstration provided strong evidence that the ticker was not automated.
A Tory source told Sky News: "Fake Farage is clearly rattled that his Boxing Day Publicity Stunt is facing serious questions over a fake clock and hundreds of 'members' seemingly joining in the middle of the night. "Like most normal people around the UK, Kemi is enjoying Christmas with her family and looking forward to taking on the challenges of renewing the Conservative Party in the New Year."
The row started after Reform UK said on Boxing Day that it officially had more members than the Conservative Party, which Farage, party leader and MP for Clacton-on-Sea, hailed as a
National Industrial Court Fixes March 6, for Police Officers’ Promotion Judgement
The National Industrial Court, Abuja, has fixed March 6, 2025, for judgement in a case filed against the Nigeria Police Force and the Inspector General of Police (IGP) by 4,449 police officers on the grounds that the IGP refused to decorate them with their new ranks, after they were promoted and approved by the Police Service Commission
pursuant to its Act.
After five hours of heated legal arguments between Muka’ila Yahaya Mavo, counsel representing the Claimants in the case, presiding Judge, Hon. Justice R. B. Haastrup, heard the arguments of both counsel in the matter and adjourned the case to March 6, 2025 for judgement.
Mavo argued that the powers of the Police Service Commission in respect of promotion of police officers
in Nigeria was sacrosanct as stated by the Supreme Court in the case of Nigeria Police Force & 2 Ors V. Police Service Commission & 10 Ors (2023) 95, Part 1 NSCQR. Therefore, he said the Inspector General of Police cannot take away that powers except through legislation by amending the Constitution of Nigeria and the Police Service Commission’s Act.
He further argued that the IGP was appointed in accordance with
the provisions of the law of the land and he was under an obligation to respect the law of the land.
The decision of the Commission was in line with section 6 (1) (a) of the Police Service Commission Act and section 16 (3) (a) of the Police Act.
Counsel to the Police Force CSP Celestine U. Odo argued that issue of promotion of officers was at the discretion of the IGP.
Obasanjo’s Granddaughter Unveils Documentary, The OBJ Unscripted
Ife Akinmoyo, the granddaughter of Former Nigerian President, Olusegun Obasanjo yesterday unveiled a documentary she titled, ‘The OBJ Unscripted.’
The documentary’s screening took place at Ebony Life Place and offered a rare glimpse into the expository everyday life of one of Nigeria’s most respected leaders. As part of the premiere events an
exclusive round table discussion with the former president and select youth leaders was held prior to the screening.
The discussion was an opportunity for the youths to connect personally with the former president in what turned out to be an inspiring engagement that birthed insights and motivation to continue to pursue the Nigeria of our dreams.
The former president spoke at length in reply to the questions he was asked during the roundtable discussion and
The Chairman of the House Committee on Banking Regulations, Hon. Mohammed Bello El-Rufai, has called for greater public understanding of the Central Bank of Nigeria's (CBN) independence as a cornerstone of economic stability. He delivered this message during a speech at the CBN Legal Services Department’s Retreat Gala Night held recently, while speaking on the theme 'Independence and Autonomy of the Central Bank of Nigeria – Enhancing Public Understanding'. El-Rufai emphasised the critical role of the CBN in stabilising Nigeria's economy. He highlighted how the Bank’s independence allows it to implement long-term
ensured he was precise with giving his audience the right answers to what was asked. Hosted by Sade Onabowale, the host of Bridging The Gap, a podcast aimed at closing the knowledge gap in Nigeria, the discussion was enlightening. Speaking about what inspired the project, Ife disclosed that, “On a normal day I work in finance as I am a banker but this year I embarked on an exciting journey titled, OBJ Unscripted and it’s a short documentary that gives viewers a sneak peek into the life of my grand pa.
policies aimed at controlling inflation, stabilising prices, and promoting sustainable economic growth.
He underscored the need to balance the CBN's autonomy with transparency and accountability.
Citing the Banks and Other Financial Institutions Act (BOFIA), he described it as a vital legal
“I kind of wanted people to see him as a regular man and who he is just outside of the concept of a global leader and politician everyone knows him as. So in the video, you would see him playing squash and see him being him. But you would still get to see that even when he tries to be him all the other responsibilities of who he is still play a big role in every part of his day. I hope the documentary inspires people to push their God giving gifts and dreams.”
framework that ensures the CBN operates effectively while maintaining public trust. Addressing public reactions to recent policies, such as the Naira redesign and the cashless economy initiative, El-Rufai advocated for a proactive communication strategy to bridge the gap between CBN policies and public perception.
"historic moment", describing his party as "the real opposition".
Reform UK also shared a video of the membership tracker being projected on to the Conservative Party headquarters in London.
But Badenoch accused the party of issuing misleading figures: "Manipulating your own supporters at Xmas eh, Nigel?. It's not real. It's a fake... [the website has been] coded to tick up automatically."
Posting on X, she added that the Tories had "gained thousands of new members since the leadership election."
Some tickers are indeed "coded to tick up automatically". This is often done when the data isn’t updated regularly and so, in the meantime, the counter is made to increase at realistic intervals.
Kano,
Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano
Kano State Government under Kano State Agro-postoral Development project, has established five Milk Collection Centres at Falgore town, Doguwa Local Government Area of the state.
The five centres would serve as a platform that would provide a stable source of income to Fulani herdsmen and reduce their reliance on nomadic grazing.
An official of the centre, Ibrahim Wada made the disclosure while briefing journalists yesterday at one of the milk collection centres in Falgore town, Doguwa LGA of the state.
He said the project which was financed by the Islamic Development Bank with support from Kano State Government, was aimed at providing clean milk for sale to companies producing yogurt in Kano, Kaduna
He stressed that clear and consistent messaging is essential to fostering trust and enhancing understanding of the CBN’s role in Nigeria’s economic future.
The lawmaker also called for collective efforts to safeguard the CBN’s independence and strengthen its legislative framework.
Any ticker showing government debt, unemployment or global temperatures, for instance, is almost certainly going up at a regular, preprogrammed rate.
Sky News analysed Reform UK’s ticker to see if this was the case for their membership ticker. Specifically, we looked at a video posted by Nigel Farage on X, which shows an uninterrupted view of the counter from 4pm on Christmas Day to 2pm on Boxing Day. Political parties in the UK aren't required to reveal their membership numbers, much less provide data that can be independently verified. However, Reform UK did show Sky News its account on Nation Builder, an independent platform widely used by political parties and campaigns to track and manage their memberships.
and other neigbouring states.
“The five Centres are part of the 100 Milk Collection Centres being constructed and equipped across milk producing communities in Kano State.
“Each centre is equipped with 550 litre milk storage tank and its accessories, solar powered borehole, toilet facility, solar lightings and office, “ the official said.
One of the beneficiaries, Mallam Musa Adamu, maintained that when the project is completed, each of the centre will create employment opportunities for local communities, contributing to poverty reduction among Fulani communities.
"We are going to see an increased in milk production by providing a market for milk, our people may be incentivised to increase their milk production, leading to economic growth in Kano State and Nigeria in general.
He described this as crucial to ensuring the Bank continues to play a pivotal role in Nigeria’s financial and economic progress.
El-Rufai’s remarks were seen as a strong endorsement of the CBN’s autonomy and a call to action for better collaboration between the Bank, lawmakers, and the public to achieve economic stability and growth.
Oluchi Chibuzor
Tosin Clegg
L-R: Representative of the Awujale of Ijebu land and Orimolusi of Ijebu-Igbo, Oba Lawrence Jaiyeoba; Chief of Staff to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Rt. Hon Femi Gbajabiamila; Akarigbo and Paramount Ruler of Remoland, Oba Babatunde Ajayi; Speaker, House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abass; Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun; his wife, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, and the Ogun State Deputy Governor, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, during the grand finale of the 2024 Remo Day, held in Ogun State…yesterday
REWARDING CUSTOMER LOYALTY…
L-R: Head of Direct Sales, Parallex Bank, Adewale Owoeye; Grand Prize Winner, Oluwaseun Fadare; Head of Products, Parallex Bank, Abdulazeez Arogundade, and Partnership Manager, Morenike Agwu
Bank’s Save and Win Promo Draw in Ibadan…yesterday
the
NCAA: 5,225 Flights Delayed, 190 Cancelled in Two Months
Reads riot act to passengers who engage in violence at airports Onyema decries negative attacks on airline
Chinedu Eze
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has disclosed that in September 2024, airlines operated 5,291 with 2, 434 delays and 79 cancellations and in October 2024, domestic airlines recorded 5513 flights with 2791 delays and 111 cancellations.
Director General, NCAA, Captain Chris Najomo, who revealed this, also vowed to deal decisively with unruly passengers who destroy airport facilities, fight with airline and airport staff whenever flights are delayed or cancelled.
This was as the Chairman and CEO of Air Peace, Dr. Allen Onyema, has decried orchestrated negative reports against the airline and insisted that there was plan to undermine the airline, culminating in the fake report that the airline was involved in air crash in Western Sahara.
Addressing airline representatives, aviation agency officials and others at the interactive forum organised by NCAA for domestic operators, Captain Chris Najomo, who expressed his determination to end the unruly behaviour of passengers, also directed Nigerian airlines not to sell tickets to
Abiodun Lauds Remoland for Advancement in Agriculture, Education, Industrialisation
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has commended Remoland for the progress it has made in agriculture and industrialisation.
Speaking at the maiden edition of the Remo Day celebration held at the Gateway International Stadium, Sagamu, Abiodun said Remoland has achieved many breakthroughs in the area of agriculture, education, science and technology through a united front
"Over the past years, Remoland has made significant progress, from advancements in agriculture and industrialisation to breakthroughs in education and technology. These achievements highlight what a united and visionary community can accomplish.
"Remoland is home to Ogun State Gateway International Airport and is also a reference to the Gateway Agro-cargo Special Processing Zone," he said.
Abiodun said the Remo Day celebration would continue to be a shining example of how culture could help bring the people together and foster a sense of pride and identity, observing that it would grow to become a major tourism activity that would attract people from around the world.
The celebration, the governor added, is a testimony to the unity, resilience,
and progressive spirit of Remoland, adding that it holds a central place in the government agenda for tourism potential and the socio-economic development of the state.
The governor also promised that Community Development Associations whose projects engender growth and enhance development would receive funding from the state government.
He noted that his administration was committed to ensuring that the grassroots experience accelerated development.
He said: "I want to assure all the citizens of Ogun State that our administration will continue to support meaningful community development projects proposed by our Community Development Associations.
"As a government, we are committed to ensuring that all our citizens, especially those at the grassroots, are actively involved in the development process. We will continue to provide the enabling environment for community initiatives and self-help projects."
Abiodun said his administration has worked diligently to enhance public service, improve infrastructure, and promote sustainable development, noting that the promotion and sustenance of cultural and tourism potential in Remoland for future generations would be intensified.
destinations the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NIMET) has indicated in its reports would have unfavourable weather, in order to mitigate delayed and cancelled flights on domestic routes.
The Director General said that the authority would put measures in place to checkmate the actions of unruly passengers at the airports.
He said that NCAA would not condone passengers beating up airline staff when flights are cancelled or delayed due to bad weather or at any other time and insisted that any passenger who goes against the rules at the airport would be persecuted.
Addressing the airlines during the interactive forum, Captain Najomo said airlines must abide by the conditions provided by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulation (NCAR) in making sure that passengers are efficiently served.
“Air travel is not just about transporting passengers from one point
to another; it is about doing so with reliability, efficiency, and accountability. When delays and cancellations occur, they disrupt plans, cause financial losses, and undermine passenger confidence in our aviation system.
"Delays and cancellations are sometimes inevitable, but poor management of these disruptions is not. It is the responsibility of airlines to ensure that every disruption, whether due to operational, technical, or weather-related challenges, is handled with the utmost professionalism and regard for passengers’ rights.
Particularly as we are in the harmattan season with poor weather conditions that will affect flight operations,” he said.
Najomo lamented the high rate of flight cancellation and delays, saying that actions must be taken to improve timely operations, from the airlines to the provision of infrastructure at
the airports.
“I must remind all operators of the NCAA Regulations on Passenger Rights during disruptions, as outlined in the Nigeria Civil Aviation (Consumer Protection) Regulations, 2023. These regulations are not optional; they are mandatory obligations that ensure: passengers are promptly informed of schedule changes, delays or cancellations. Accommodation, refreshments, and alternative travel arrangements are offered when disruptions exceed the acceptable limits. Adequate compensation is provided where applicable,” he said. According to him, non-compliance with these regulations will not be tolerated, and going forward, “the NCAA will not hesitate to impose the necessary penalties where violations are observed. I have instructed my team to monitor and enforce compliance and apply sanctions. My team has engaged
the industry in the last one year by organizing awareness, sensitization and training sessions for the airlines and the association of travel agents to re-educate them on the provisions of the Nigeria Civil Aviation regulations and airline obligations to passengers in the event of disruptions.
“This is also extended to passengers to also educate them on their responsibilities as the NCAA will also be joining airlines to enforce whatever penalties will be applicable for unruly behavior because with Rights comes responsibilities.”
Meanwhile, the Chairman and CEO of Air Peace and also the Vice-President of Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), Dr. Onyema, has said that there is orchestrated plan to run down Air Peace and also the aviation industry and insisted that unruly passengers are determined to destroy air transport in Nigeria.
Gunmen Kill Catholic Priest in Anambra As Retired Anglican Bishop Remains Missing
David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka
The Catholic Diocese of Nnewi has announced that a priest of the diocese, Reverend Father Tobias Chukwujekwu Okonkwo, has been brutally murdered.
This incident was coming barely two weeks after the abduction of
a 75-year-old retired Anglican Archbishop, Most Reverend Godwin Okpala, of the Nnewi Diocese, whose whereabouts remains unknown.
According to a statement signed by Rev. Fr. Raphael Ezeogu, Chancellor of the Nnewi Diocese, Fr. Tobias was killed between 7p.m. and 8p.m. along the Onitsha-Owerri Expressway.
The statement described the incident as a devastating loss, saying he was a devoted priest and pharmacist, who was shot dead by unidentified assailants in Ihiala, Anambra State, on Boxing Day, December 26, 2024.
The 40 years old priest as at the time of his death, was said to be
serving as the Manager of the Schools of Nursing, Midwifery, and Medical Laboratory at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital Ihiala. The Catholic Diocese of Nnewi has called on the faithful to offer prayers and Holy Masses for the eternal rest of Fr. Tobias and to console his bereaved family.
Bauchi Governor Signs N467bn 2025 Budget into Law
Appoints new SSG, private secretary
Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi
Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed yesterday, signed the 2025 appropriation bill of N467 billion that had been passed by the State House of Assembly in law. On November 21, 2024, the governor proposed a N465 billion appropriation bill to the assembly which was passed. Presenting the report at the Government House, Speaker Suleiman Abubakar , explained that lawmakers
jacked up the proposed budget by adding N2 billion making it N467 billion.
Abubakar said that two laws- the 2025 Appropriation Law and the Bauchi State Water and Industrial System Lawn- were presented to the governor for his accent.
“We promised the governor and the people that the House would submit the 2025 proposed budget bill to the necessary legislature before the year runs,” he said.
“Accordingly, the House, through its various committees, meticulously reviewed the proposal to ensure that allocations aligned with demands of the state. The engagement was thorough and transparent .
“The other law will establish a system framework for the management and sustainable use of our water resources. Access to clean and safe water is crucial to the wellbeing of residents.
“This law will empower local
communities to participate in water management, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility.
“Both of these laws are instrumental to promoting good governance, transparency and accountability in our state’s financial management and resources utilization”
Assenting to the 2025 budget, Mohammed thanked the Speaker and the members for their exceptional commitment and spirit of patriotism in service of the state.
James Sowole in Abeokuta
during
Parallex
WSHELP and Restoration of Adamu’s Hands
In Praise of President Buhari
hen President Muhammadu Buhari took over the reins of power on May 29, 2015, Nigeria was sadly a broken state in many respects. As a result of many other factors including bad governance and untold level of corruption, government could not live up to its financial obligations to citizens and service providers at both the federal and state levels.
omeone sent me a horrific photo of a 12-year-old who was amputated in Gombe State. I was outraged and could not sleep. I have been unable to get this awful image off my mind. I am shocked beyond belief and comprehension that a human being could inflict such cruelty on another. I have been overwhelmed with two other projects to empower alleged witches and promote critical thinking in schools. I was not ready to embark on another project.
Indeed one of the first official assignments that President Buhari carried out was the approval of billions of Naira in bailout funds to enable state governors pay something as basic as workers’ salaries. Granting those bailout funds was a huge boost to national security because the pressure of arrears of unpaid monthly salaries building dangerously all over the country was a ticking bomb.
But different questions have been agitating my mind: How does this boy continue with his life? How does one ensure that Adamu gets back his ‘hands’? How can we get him prosthetic hands? How can we get him to use his ‘hands’ again, move things, and make calls?
by the EFCC, President Buhari by his action has successfully brought back to the public consciousness the need to treat public funds with the highest level of transparency and accountability.
Even if the government succeeded in prosecuting and jailing the amputators, that would not answer these questions. It will not restore Adamu’s hands. This boy needs his hands back, and we as a generation can make this happen.
After keeping treasury looters on their toes and at bay through the EFCC, particularly, President Buhari moved to curb unnecessary spending habits of the nation on what economists call articles of ostentation. Part of the disclosures of the President’s stock taking was how the country frittered away billions in foreign currency by importing goods, which can be produced at home. One of such items was rice, a major staple among Nigerians. By banning rice importation into the country, the President on one hand had saved the nation billions in foreign currency annually.
Qatar’s Al-Jazeera Calls for Iran to Nuke Up
Stop Ritual Attacks and Killings
TAAsk the naysayers and they would readily remind you of how long it took President Buhari to appoint his ministers and how that contributed to collapse of the economy as if, without ministers, governance was frozen. But buying that narrative would amount to what a famous Nigerian writer, Chimamanda Adichie, termed “the danger of a single story”. Yet the whole story was that many of our citizens did not know how decrepit a state President Buhari inherited in 2015.
But when I saw the photo of Adamu recently, I could not ignore it. I had to do something because this case fit into the HELP idea. For some time I have had in mind a humanitarian program to support and care for victims of religious persecution, including alleged blasphemers, whether they are hum anists or not. The Advocacy for Alleged Witches is an aspect of this project, the HELP program HELP stands for Humanist Enabling Love Project. HELP codifies my humanist sense of humanitarianism, that is, a care for humanity and nature rooted in the notion that this is the only life and world that we have and that we have to make the best of this life and this world for ourselves and for others.
It will not speak well of us that we turned a blind eye to this inhumane act, and refused to do something about it, when we can. To this end, I contacted the journalist from the Punch who covered the story, and he graciously shared contacts of Adamu’s family members. We are in touch with family at the moment. I have also contacted Handicap International and Humanity and Inclusion, US. I am waiting for their response. Another friend sent me the contact of a guy who produces prosthetics, that have melanin skin tone. I spoke with him, and he agreed to send me a quotation. I hope these moved would translate into the restoration of Adamu’s ‘hands’.
And, on the other hand, the President has boosted domestic production of rice and in the process had nudged the country into self sufficiency in food production. He also created millions of jobs for young people in the rice value chain.
It was therefore necessary for him to take stock against the background of the fact that the departing government did not, reportedly, cooperate full well with the incoming government in terms of leaving workable handover notes. Although President Goodluck Jonathan was gracious in defeat, many of his appointees were still sulking over what they saw as their personal losses and therefore pulled all the stops to make things difficult for the Buhari government.
Unlike the religious sense of humanitarianism that regards any care in this world as inferior to the eternal joy, love, and happiness in the hereafter, HELP does not have that baggage. Within the framework of HELP, the care that we give or get here, in this world, in the here and now, is all, that there is. Any other care beyond this life and world is illusory. It is merely fantasy, some superstition. So, in the quest to live the fullest, and to be the best, that we can, we must care to the fullest. We must care to the best that we can. This is the driving principle of HELP. It is help for humanity’s sake. It is doing good, for goodness sake.
Even with the obvious and unpatriotic obscurantist behaviour of the PDP appointees and their supporters still in government hell-bent on making things difficult for Buhari, the President moved on with his methodical repair of a broken country. The first thing he did was to identify all possible sources of income to the nation and directed that all inflows be paid into one single account in line with the policy of Single Treasury Account (TSA).
The TSA policy, interestingly, was mooted by the PDP government but its penchant for imprudence and lack of accountability denied it the courage of implementing the policy. What the President literally did was to gather all the nation’s money into one box and locked it up with a big padlock and watched for any thief to come close.
I have been wrestling with the HELP idea for a while. So Adamu’s case presented an opportunity to test and translate the HELP principle into practice. So, I tried to read and understand the context of the incident, including what motivated this vicious act. Amputation of criminals is common in Northern Nigeria; amputation is sanctioned by sharia law, which is enforced in the region. So, how does one respond to this faith-based abuse without some pushback, beyond condemning this horrendous act?
According to the story, as published in the Punch, Adamu was amputated for allegedly stealing a phone. I mean: “Stealing a phone?”
Let’s join hands and help Adamu have and use his ‘hands’ again. It is possible.
What is most admirable about President Buhari and his government is its frugal management of scarce national resources to attain optimum goals. Recall that since President Buhari stepped in the saddle, oil revenue dropped abysmally as if to sabotage him knowing all the big promises he made to citizens during his campaigns. But with the little resources that trickle in, the President is achieving what governments that received oil windfalls could not dream of.
Leo Igwe is a humanist and lives in Ibadan.
Today, the trains are up and running daily from Abuja to Kaduna. And from Lagos to Ibadan a brand new rail track was started and completed; citizens are already commuting daily to and fro these two major cities in the country seamlessly as they reap from the dividends of democracy. And with the way this government is going, before 2023 when the President would leave, the entire country would be linked by rail with all of its economic advantages.
THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER
EDITOR OBINNA CHIMA
Ainofenokhai Ojeifo, Abuja
DEPUTY EDITOR AHAMEFULA OGBU
MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO
DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU
CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI
EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN
THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER EDITOR YEMI ADEBOWALE
THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE
DEPUTY EDITOR AHAMEFULA OGBU
s anti-Semitic countries and institutions go, Qatar and Al-Jazeera are up there at the top employing guile and deceits to attempt to alter the course of normal world events. Qatar and Saudi Arabia are heavily anti-Judeo-Christian in every sense of it: the 19 hijackers of 9/11, Boko Haram cutting terror swathes through Nigeria, attacks at Christmas markets in the West, Janet Jackson, plenty of Nigerian sportspeople forced to convert to Islam because they are induced to represent Qatar at international tournaments, etc. Al-Jazeera’s masquerading is classic: gather a posse of British-talking limeys to represent this news network, pay them great wongas, and have them espouse anti-Semitic, anti-Western, and anti-Trump opinions. A few days ago, one such Western-bunch panel advocated for the acquisition of nukes by Iran because Israel exposed Iran’s “paper-tiger” posture. The Brit media mercenaries spoke, really, but those calling the shots at Al-Jazeera are Qataris who abhor Israel and the West on account of what their faith instructs them. The naivety thinking of the Qataris is if Iran acquires nukes and obliterates Israel, Israel shall be honour-bound to obliterate just Iran and the Middle East shall be free of a major Jewish enclave and a Shite Sunday Adole Jonah, Department of Physics, Federal University of Technology, Minna, Niger State
Dec 25 April Fool’s Day?
MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO
DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI
THISDAY NEWSPAPERS LIMITED
EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN MANAGING EDITOR BOLAJI ADEBIYI
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA
TThe Nigerian Bar Association in Gombe is trying to ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice. Will they? The proposal to prosecute the offenders is a public relations gimmick. Nothing would eventually happen to the person(s) who committed this atrocity.
Who can blame the President for almost developing paranoia over the safeguard of the national treasury with revelations and reports of mind-boggling looting that took place in the 16 years of the PDP? With such disclosures of how billions meant for fighting insurgency in the Northeast ended up in the pockets of a few individuals while our gallant soldiers fought with bare hands and on empty stomach, President Buhari was duty bound to bring sanity and accountability back in national spending.
Thus, under President Buhari, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which had remained comatose for years, was woken up to resume its duties. Apart from the trillions of Naira of looted
GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU
OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE
DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE
DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI
SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH
THISDAY NEWSPAPERS LIMITED
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GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU, IJEOMA NWOGWUGWU, EMMANUEL
DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO
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he Advocacy for Alleged Witches (AfAW) urges the Nigerian public to stop ritual attacks and killings because the notion of ritual money and wealth is completely baseless. AfAW is making this call following the reported arrest of suspected ritualists in Oyo State in southern Nigeria. The local media reported that members of the Western Nigeria Security Network, Amotekun, arrested suspected ritualists with the body parts of a 73-year-old man. The suspects, who were apprehended in the Boluwaji area in Ibadan, said that a Muslim cleric asked them to procure some human body parts for rituals. Ritual attacks are widespread in Nigeria. Irrational conceptions of how to make money or become wealthy and successful undergird these atrocities. Many Nigerians strongly believe in blood money, known in some local languages as Ogun Owo (Yoruba) or Ogwu ego (Igbo). They think that they could become rich, or successful through ritual sacrifice. Unfortunately, this is not the case. Ritual wealth has no basis in reason, science, or reality. Home movies known as Africa magic or Nollywood films have not helped matters. These movies continue to reinforce these mistaken notions and other superstitions. Families, churches, mosques, and other public institutions do not encourage the interrogation of these traditional occult beliefs. There are no robust efforts to criticize or dispel these irrational and paranormal claims in schools, colleges, and universities. So millions of Nigerians grow up blindly believing that they could make money through ritual sacrifice of human body parts. The belief has led many Nigerians to commit crimes and perpetrate atrocities. Many Nigerians have been jailed or are undergoing court trials due to ritualrelated attacks and murder.
he papers are reporting that Donald Trump wants Greenland as the 51st state or as a protectorate at least. Usually April Fool’s Day is April 1st, not December 25 but then again with some of the presents given over the decades, it’s not that certain.
On the more serious side Denmark is boosting the defence of Greenland and any increase in military action is always a worry. Does he also know that Greenland is mostly ice and Iceland is mostly green? A lot of 78 year old seniors start to get confused easily. Dennis Fitzgerald, Melbourne, Australia
Not too long ago, the police arrested some young Nigerians for stealing female pants, which they intended to use for ritual sacrifice. AfAW is asking all Nigerians to desist from ritual-related abuses because ritual money beliefs are baseless superstitions. Nigerian media, schools, and colleges should help educate and reorient the public. They should assist in reasoning Nigerians out of this killer-superstitious absurdity and nonsense.
Leo Igwe directs the Advocacy for Alleged
Merry Christmas...
LUXURY BRAND LAUNCH…
L-R: Wholesale Director and Managing Director for Africa, Montblanc, Johann Dahann; Executive Director, Polo Limited, Jennifer Obayuwana, and Managing Director, Polo Limited, John Obayuwana at the exclusive Great Gatsby-themed Collectors Cocktail to launch Montblanc’s Great Characters Homage to The Great Gatsby collection in Nigeria held in Lagos…recently
Jonathan, Buhari, Atiku, Governors Condole Gov Namadi Over Mother, Son’s Death
Chuks Okocha and Deji Elumoye in Abuja
Former Presidents Goodluck Jonathan, Muhammadu Buhari, former Vice President Atiku Abubukar and Governors in the country have commiserated with Jigawa State Governor, Umar Namadi, over the passing of his son, Abdulwahab Namadi, who died in a car crash barely 24 hours after the passing of his mother, Hajiya Maryam Namadi.
Jonathan in a condolence message issued yesterday, expressed sadness over the tragic loss, describing it as shocking and painful.
Jonathan stated: “I convey my deepest condolences to you and your family over the tragic loss of your beloved mother and son
within such a short span of time. I am profoundly saddened by this devastating news, and my thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
“Losing a cherished mother is an irreplaceable loss, as is the untimely demise of a beloved son. I cannot imagine the depth of pain you must be enduring. I want you to know that my heart goes out to you and your family. Please take solace in the Almighty’s grace and in the cherished memories of the moments you shared with them.”
Buhari described as painful and terrifying the death in a sequence of Namadi's mother and son within 24 hours of each other.
He urged him to accept what happened as the will of Allah, “Who gives and takes away life.”
The former president, in a telephone call with the bereaved governor yesterday, remarked that anyone who believed in humanity would be touched by the double tragedy.
“I convey my heartfelt condolences to the members of your family and the large number of your friends and admirers, and to the government and the entire people of the state,” the ex-President further said.
For his part, Atiku wrote, ''I am deeply saddened to hear about the loss of your eldest son, Abdulwahab, barely 24 hours after the passing of your beloved mother, Hajiya Maryam Namadi.
''The twin tragedies - the loss of a mother and your first fruit - is heartbreaking.
''The pain of losing a child —
especially one as promising and beloved as Abdulwahab — is a grief no parent should ever have to endure.'You are not alone in your grief, my dear brother. My thoughts and prayers and those of my family are with you and all yours in this moment of grief," Atiku said.
Also, Governor of Kwara State and Chairman, Nigeria Governors’ Forum, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, expressed sadness and shock over the tragedy, saying, ''its profound grief and extends heartfelt condolences to His Excellency, Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State, on the tragic loss of his beloved mother, Hajiya Maryam Namadi, and his dear son, Abdulwahab Namadi."
The chairman of the Governors' Forum further said, "It is truly devastating that within just 24
Azerbaijan Says Plane Hit By ‘External Interference’ Before Crash
Azerbaijan's transport minister yesterday said the Azerbaijan Airlines plane that crashed on December 25, was subjected to "external interference" and damaged inside and out, as it tried to land in Russia's southern republic of Chechnya.
"All (the survivors) without exception stated they heard three blast sounds when the aircraft was above Grozny," BBC quoted Rashad Nabiyev to have said.
The plane was thought to have come under fire from Russian air defence systems before being diverted
across the Caspian Sea to Kazakhstan, where it crashed with the loss of 38 lives.
The Kremlin has refused to comment, but the head of Russia's civil aviation agency said the situation in Grozny was "very complicated" at the time and a closed-skies protocol had been put in place.
"Ukrainian combat drones were launching terrorist attacks on civilian infrastructure in the cities of Grozny and Vladikavkaz," said Dmitry Yadrov, head of Rosaviatsia, in a video statement posted on Russia's Tass news agency.
"Because of this a 'Carpet plan'
was introduced in the area of Grozny airport, providing for the immediate departure of all aircraft from the specified area," he said. "In addition, there was dense fog in the area of Grozny airport."
Later yesterday, White House spokesperson John Kirby told reporters that the US had seen "early indications," that the plane may have been downed by Russian air defence, but declined to comment further.
The Washington Post reported Kirby had said the indications the US had seen went beyond the widely-circulated photos of the damaged plane.
Tinubu Mourns India's Ex-Prime Minister,
Ukrainian presidential spokesman Andriy Yermak said Russia must be held responsible.
Azerbajian Airlines said yesterday that a preliminary inquiry had blamed both "physical and technical external interference", without going into details.
However, aviation experts and others in Azerbaijan believe the plane's GPS systems were affected by electronic jamming and it was then damaged by shrapnel from Russian air-defence missile blasts.
The transport minister said investigators would now examine "what kind of weapon, or rather what kind of rocket was used."
Manmohan Singh
Congratulates Sununu on conferment of Yauri traditional title
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
President Bola Tinubu yesterday extended heartfelt condolences to the government and people of India on the passing of former Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh.
This was as the President yesterday extended heartfelt congratulations to the Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Tanko Yusuf Sununu, on being conferred with the esteemed traditional title, Danmadin Yauri by His Royal Highness, Dr. Muhammed Zayyanu Abdullahi, the Emir of Yauri in Kebbi State. Singh, India's Prime Minister between 2004 and 2014, died Thursday
at the age of 92.
Prime Minister Singh's official visit to Nigeria in 2007 was historic as he earned the distinct honour of addressing a joint session of the National Assembly, a privilege accorded to only a few global leaders.
The President, in a release issued by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, paid tribute to Dr. Singh's dedication to strengthening the Nigeria-India relationship, noting that his diplomatic efforts remain a reference point in the history of the bilateral relations between the two nations.
President Tinubu recounted the establishment of the Strategic
Partnership between Nigeria and India under Singh's tenure, which has continued to flourish, driving political and economic prosperity for both countries.
He further lauded Prime Minister Singh's efforts to forge improved cooperation in defence, trade, culture, education, health, science and technology, and information computer technology (ICT).
Expressing gratitude to the people of India for celebrating the life and accomplishments of this selfless leader and distinguished economist, the Nigerian leader hailed Singh's role in steering India's economic reforms during globally challenging times.
He prayed that the departed Prime Minister's dedication to service will inspire the people of India.
Meanwhile President Tinubu in a statement issued by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, applauded the Emir of Yauri for recognising Dr. Sununu’s qualities and contributions as a vital member of the Renewed Hope administration’s cabinet and his significant efforts to enhance the humanitarian sector in Nigeria.
The President expressed confidence that this recognition from his community will further inspire the minister to continue his dedicated service for the advancement and well-being of the nation.
hours of mourning the passing of your mother on December 25, 2024, Your Excellency has been confronted with yet another heartbreaking tragedy—the loss of your 24-year-old son, Abdulwahab Namadi, in a road accident along the Dutse-Kafin-Hausa road on December 26, 2024.''
He said that the governors stand "united with Your Excellency, your family, and the people of Jigawa State during this profoundly difficult time. We acknowledge the weight of this double loss and share in your sorrow as you navigate these moments of intense grief.
''We pray that Almighty Allah, in His infinite mercy, grants you and your family the strength, patience, and fortitude to bear these irreparable losses. May He envelop your family in comfort, grant eternal rest to the souls of Hajiya Maryam Namadi and Abdulwahab Namadi, and bestow peace upon your hearts.
''The entire Nigeria Governors’ Forum mourns alongside with you and offers unwavering support in this moment of deep sorrow. Please accept our deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences,'' the governors stated.
Ruthwiphdale Foundation Donates to Orphanage
Christmas celebration was recently made easier for Children of Compassionate Orphanage, Isheri/ LASU Road, Lagos, as a result of donations of money and clothes by Ruthwiphdale Foundation, a charity arm of Ruthwiphdale Schools.
While many highbrow primary and secondary schools around the country were busy increasing fees to meet the ever-growing administrative cost as a result of rising prices, Ruthwiphdale Schools, an upscale institution that combines Nigeria and British curriculum located in Lagos has chose to be different.
For the past 10 years, the school has been making donations to orphanages in money and material through its charity, Ruthwiphdale Foundation.
The London-trained proprietress of the school, Mrs. Adenike Odetola, in a statement, said before the downturn in the economy currently
being witnessed across the country, "We had chosen to play up our social responsibility through the Ruthwiphdale Foundation, and we decided to adopt Compassionate Orphanage where we give money, material and counseling to the orphans among other things annually for the past ten years."
Odetola who is an expert in Early Years Learning with over 35 years experience in leading British schools said giving back to the community where she operates is an important decision she can never regret. She said, “the Foundation visits the orphanage twice a year to issue cheques based on the money raised for it, but from time to time, we send donations from parents and pupils of Ruthwiphdale Schools to the orphanage. These donations include food and clothing items among others.
ALP International Expands Alliance with Namibian Company
The ALP International Practice Group, comprising ALP NG and Co. (Nigeria), ALP Professional Services Limited (Nigeria), ALP East Africa (Kenya, Uganda, South Sudan, and Tanzania), and Africa Legal Associates (ALA Ghana), continues its expansion across the continent with a landmark partnership in Namibia. This alliance with Shimaneni and Company Incorporated marks a significant step toward consolidating the Group’s presence in Southern Africa. Renowned for its strong domestic market expertise and commitment to excellence, Shimaneni and Company
Incorporate shares the ALP Group’s vision of delivering innovative and comprehensive legal and professional services across Africa. In the alliance agreement signed on December 15, 2024, the partners emphasised their shared goals of collaboration, capacity building, and knowledge sharing to provide cost-effective, client-focused solutions across the continent and beyond.
Both parties reiterated their commitment to advancing the goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement (AfCFTA) and creating a seamless, continent-wide platform for legal and professional services.
Oluchi Chibuzor with agency report
MEDIA BRIEFING...
Yuletide: Police Apprehend 23 Armed Robbers, Cultists, Hoodlums
Linus Aleke in Abuja
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF), yesterday, said that their operatives across the country successfully apprehended multiple groups of armed robbers, cultists and hoodlums targeting
fun-seekers and engaging in gangsterism during Christmas celebrations.
A statement by Force Spokesperson, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, said that the arrests followed the directive of the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to commands
Golden Terra Oil Wins LAIF Award
The Lagos Advertising & Idea Festival (LAIF) awards celebrated its 19th edition with Golden Terra Soya Oil among the winners.
Themed “Staying A’LAIF,” the festival brought together the best minds in the Integrated Marketing Communications (IMC) industry, a statement explained.
It noted that Golden Terra’s brand’s ‘Pour Pure Love’ campaign not only dominated conversations but also earned the prestigious Best Campaign of the Year Award in the FMCG category.
“This recognition placed Golden Terra in a league of its own, celebrating the power of a message that resonated deeply with audiences across Nigeria.
The Pour Pure Love campaign went beyond marketing, it was a movement. By emphasising themes of care, togetherness, and nourishment, the campaign spoke directly to the heart of the Nigerian family. It reminded everyone that meals are not just sustenance but moments of bonding and expressions of love. From its visually captivating storytelling to its culturally relevant messaging, Pour Pure Love showcased Golden Terra’s commitment to enriching lives, one
meal at a time,” it added.
President of the Advertising Agencies Association of Nigeria (AAAN), Lanre Adisa, highlighted the importance of such campaigns during his opening remarks, calling the LAIF Awards a platform that "celebrates dreams and creativity that inspire the world."
Reflecting on the campaign’s success, Chief Marketing Officer, TGI Group, Probal Bhattacharya, said, "Pour Pure Love’ is a testament to our belief that a brand can do more than just sell a product. It's about crafting stories that resonate with people's lives and aspirations.
“This campaign pays homage to the world's moms, celebrating the warm, delicious meals that nourish not only our bodies but also our souls. Winning the Best Campaign of the Year Award underscores the authentic connections the 'Pour Pure Love' campaign fosters, evoking nostalgia and a deep appreciation for a mother's love. Clearly, our brand messaging struck a powerful chord.
“Golden Terra Soya Oil is a premium, all-purpose cooking oil made from 100% pure soya beans, sourced and manufactured in Nigeria.”
CAN Commiserates with Members in Gombe over Accident That Got Scores Injured
Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi
Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Bauchi State, Abraham Damina Dimeus, has commiserated with the Gombe State chapter of CAN for the unfortunate incident that left many Christians injured on Christmas Day.
The CAN chairman described the accident as most unfortunate coming when Christians were supposed to be in a joyous mood celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ.
He called on the concerned authorities to investigate the situation and bring to book anyone that was negligent leading to the unfortunate incident, thanking God that no life was lost.
The CAN chairman praised Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, for
ensuring a peaceful and successful distribution of Christmas food items to Christian community across the state.
Damina made the commendation Thursday while speaking to journalists on the occasion of the 2024 Christmas celebration in Bauch noting that while some states experienced tragedies during the distribution of food items, Bauchi State was spared due to the governor's wisdom and leadership.
The CAN chairman attributed the successful distribution of the items to the governor's fear of God and his commitment to the welfare of the people and revealed that Christians in Bauchi State received various gifts, including rice, palm oil, rams, cows, clothes, and other items, courtesy of the governor and his cabinet.
Targeting Fun-seekers
and formations of the force to emplace watertight anti crime strategies to ensure adequate safety and security during this festive period.
This was as the Federal Capital Territory Police Command, also begun operational assessment of key recreational centres across the FCT, including Millennium Park, Jabi Park, Lugbe ShopRite and Magic Land, to ascertain the operational effectiveness of the Command's deployment during Christmas celebrations.
The force spokesperson said that on 25th of December 2024, at about 1a.m., the police operatives attached to Lagos State Command, received a distress call that a group of hoodlums armed with dangerous weapons was operating around the Safejo area of Amukoko, Lagos State.
He said that the swift response by the police operatives to the scene led to the arrest of three of the suspected hoodlums identified as Emmanuel Okoli ‘m’, 20 years, Ogunde Tejiri ‘m’, 20 years,
and Emmanuel Orji ‘m’, 18 years, and also the recovery of the weapons they had used in carrying out robbery attacks on innocent fun-seekers in the area.
According to him, "The police have emplaced intensified searches to apprehend the fleeing members of the gang.
"In a similar development, police operatives attached to Saminaka Division of the Kaduna State Command on 25th December 2024, at about 8p.m., successfully apprehended one Sule Muhammad ‘m’, 25 years, who has been actively involved in multiple kidnapping incidents within the Saminaka area.
"Further investigation led to the recovery of a fabricated AK-47 rifle from the suspect. The suspect confessed to being a member of a notorious kidnapping gang who had been evading arrest since the arrest of other gang members on August 16, 2024, until his recent arrest on 25th December 2024.
"Following cooperation received from Muhammad, efforts are in top gear to apprehend other members of his gang and recover more arms and ammunition in their identified camp.
"Commendable efforts of the Nigeria Police Operatives have also been witnessed in states including Delta, Ogun, Katsina, Benue, FCT and Imo, leading to the arrests of several suspects in various locations during the Christmas celebration period."
The IG has commended the officers involved in these operations for their vigilance and commitment to public safety, highlighting their display of exemplary dedication in safeguarding our communities, especially during this joyful season.
Egbetokun urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.
He further assured citizens that the Force is fully committed to creating a safe environment for everyone as they partake in the joy and cheer of
the holiday season.
"As the celebrations continue, the Nigeria Police Force remains steadfast in its mission to protect all citizens and ensure that the spirit of festivities during this period remains unmarred by criminal activities," IG said.
Also, the Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, Olatunji Disu, said the deployment and assessment of the operation is part of the Command’s proactive measures to ensure the safety and security of residents during the festive season.
A statement by Police Public Relations Officer, FCT Police Command, SP Josephine Adeh, said the CP evaluated the strategic security deployments in these areas to foster safety during the celebration.
The CP's operational visit underscored the Command’s commitment to boost police visibility, enhancing public confidence, and reassuring residents of their safety.
Ondo AG Raises Alarm Over State Assets in Private Hands
The Ondo State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo (SAN), yesterday raised the alarm about the alarming state of public assets in private hands one year after the untimely passing of former Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu (SAN).
In a statement he made available to journalists in Akure, the AG claimed that a significant portion of the state's assets had been unlawfully transferred into private hands.
Ajulo who denounced it as completely unacceptable, called for a united stand against the “misappropriation of public resources.”
During a candid review of the
past year under Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Dr. Ajulo emphasised, “As Attorney General, I must say, this is wrong; we cannot continue on this path.”
He stressed the immediate need for transparency and accountability, referencing serious previous allegations about forged signatures used to facilitate dubious transactions before
Tantalizers Ventures into Blue Economy, Signs MoU to Acquire Fish Trawling Company
Tantalizers Plc, a food and quick-service restaurant company, has announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to acquire all assets of Apapa-based marine and fishing company, DanBethel Marine Services Limited.
In a statement yesterday, the fast food company said the move was to continue the transformation and deliver value to its shareholders.
It stated that the acquisition marked a significant step in the company’s strategic expansion into the blue economy space specifically focusing on industrial fish trawling, aquaculture, mariculture, seafood supplies and marine operations sector.
“Apapa-Lagos based DanBethel is renowned for its fleet of fishing trawlers and related marine assets. The company has over the years established itself
as a player in the domestic seafood supplies space.
“With the increasing demand and emphasis on seafood as healthier source of protein, sustainable food systems and marine industries based opportunities, this venture aligns with the Tantalizers’ new vision of expanding into innovative, more dynamic and sustainable growth sectors.
“The DanBethel team brings decades of expertise in fish trawling and processing, thereby positioning Tantalizers Plc to tap into the vast potential of seafood production, supply chain integration, and valueadded processing in aquaculture. This acquisition targeted for completion within the next 180 days represent a critical step in exploring new markets and providing high-quality seafood products for our customers, both domestic and
international,” it explained.
It noted that MoU attested to the new Tantalizers leadership’s commitment to diversifying its portfolio and creating long-term value for its shareholders while supporting sustainable marine practices in Nigeria’s over 853 kilometres coastline.
Commenting on the MoU signing, MD/CEO of DanBethel,Tope Fagbamila, stated that, ”Our team admires the courage and capacity of the new Tantalizer’s leadership and are excited to be part of pivoting the company to a new height.”
Adam Nuru, Tantalizers Plc Chairman also stated that “DanBethel acquisition is an excellent strategic fit for us as we further invest over the next five years in the company’s fleet to capture significant opportunities in the largely unexplored Nigerian fishing and aquaculture industry.”
Akeredolu’s death.
As the Chief Law Officer of the state, Ajulo highlighted his constitutional responsibility.
“I must ensure that Ondo State operates within the framework of our constitution and laws. Our law enforcement and regulatory agencies must be fully accountable.”
He also expressed concern over attempts to withhold crucial information from Governor Aiyedatiwa, warning that efforts to silence inquiries through blackmail and baseless accusations against the governor and some of his commissioners would not be tolerated.
“Only the guilty should fear,” he said. Ajulo noted the resistance encountered when questions are raised, observing, “Some vested interests have resorted to blackmail, alleging that Governor Aiyedatiwa is tarnishing the memory of the late Governor Akeredolu and attacking his nuclear and political family. But how? When? Where?. Some of these individuals have resorted to media attacks, yet they fail to explain why they continuously react without provocation."
Reflecting on the legacy of the late Governor Akeredolu, Ajulo remarked, “Arakunrin Akeredolu I knew would never have allowed state funds to be exploited like this.”
He called on those involved in the misappropriation of assets to come forward or face the full force of the law.
Fidelis David in Akure
L-R: Group Legal officer, Confederated Facilitators Limited Group, (CFL), Chukwuka Okolo; Group Head, Real Estate Sales Manager, Babatunde Ajayi; Group Managing Director /CEO,CFL Group, Dr. Lai Omotola; Group Company Secretary, Emmanuel Odigie: and Group Accountant, Akinosho Olatunji, during the group’s end-of-year media parley held in Lagos…recently
INAUGURATION…
UN, Nigeria Condemn Post-election Violence in Mozambique, Call for Calm
The United Nations (UN) SecretaryGeneral, Antonio Guterres, and the Federal Government of Nigeria have expressed concerns over the unrest in Mozambique.
The UN and Nigeria expressed their concerns in separate statements obtained yesterday.
Violent protests rocked Mozambique since presidential polls were held on October 9, resulting in the deaths of 248 people, including 33 in a prison break on Wednesday, according to Plataforma Decide, an election
monitoring group.
More than 1,500 inmates fled Maputo Central Prison in Matola, located about 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) from the capital Maputo, where police reported the casualties.
Protests started in late October after Daniel Chapo of the ruling Mozambique Liberation Front (Frelimo) was declared the winner of the presidential polls, defeating main opposition leader Venancio Mondlane, who is in exile.
Mondlane has rejected the results, claiming widespread vote rigging and calling on his supporters to protest.
Emenike: We'll Rebuild Abia APC Despite Setbacks, Internal Sabotage in 2023 Poll
Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia
The Abia State governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2023 General election, High Chief Ikechi Emenike, has said that the party would rebound after the setback it suffered.
He gave the assurance yesterday while addressing the party faithful after his family's annual thanksgiving held at St. John Methodist Church Umukabia Okpuala, Umuahia North Local Government.
Emenike stated that the rebuilding process of Abia APC would start in earnest by the end of the first quarter of 2025, adding that the party remains strong even though the governorship poll did not work out in its favour.
"We are not down. Those who think we're down should wait and see. We're going to rebuild," he said.
The party leader noted that the party's chances at the 2023 poll in Abia was wrecked by some members that didn’t share in the passion for the development of the state as outlined in his vision.
He said that Abia APC has found itself among the opposition parties because the internal saboteurs "deliberately destroyed" all that the party had invested to get a favourable outcome at the poll.
But the former governorship flag bearer encouraged genuine party members to remain steadfast because "as our redeemer liveth, we shall overcome in Jesus name".
In his remarks, the Chairman of Abia APC, Dr. Kingsley Ononogbu, told party members that the party leadership was yet to come to terms with the electoral injury inflicted on the party by those that pretended to be members.
"If not because of sabotage we will not be in opposition in Abia State today," he lamented.
Nonetheless, he enjoined the party faithful to remain steadfast and strong with the hope that "tomorrow will be better, by God's grace".
Earlier in his homily at the thanksgiving service, the Founder/ President, God's Heritage Ministries International, Port Harcourt, Rev Felix Akara, lauded Chief Emenike for always making out time to thank God in every circumstance.
He described the development economist cum politician as a great leader, who is straightforward and has impacted positively on the society by building human capital.
However, the man of God regretted that the Nigeria paradox has made it difficult for visionary and forthright people like Emenike to gain access to executive political office because "his kind is usually resisted".
Akara, who preached a message of hope, stated that Nigeria would emerge from the current economic hardships and massive loss in value of the national currency.
"It baffles me that in my own generation I'm watching the value of the Naira degenerate so much that a loaf of bread today costs as much as a brand new car in the 80s," he said.
But the cleric insisted that the bad situation would eventually expire, saying, "I see a great Nigeria coming, a nation devoid of corruption, a nation rid of insecurity, hunger and illiteracy."
"We are looking forward to a nation that is not mocked at the entry points (of other nations), a country where justice, equity and righteousness will be the cornerstone," Akara said.
He has vowed to install himself as president on January 15.
"The Secretary-General is concerned about the post-election violence, which has resulted in loss of lives and the destruction of public and private property," spokesman to the UN scribe, Stephanie Tremblay told reporters.
Guterres continues to follow
developments closely, Tremblay said.
"He urges all political leaders and relevant national stakeholders to defuse tensions, including through meaningful dialogue and legal redress, refrain from the use of violence, and redouble efforts to seek a peaceful resolution to the ongoing crisis in a constructive manner, which is
essential to the collective future of Mozambicans," she added.
For its part, the Nigerian government expressed concern over the escalating post-election violence in the Republic of Mozambique.
The Federal Government of Nigeria in a statement yesterday signed by the acting spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, called for calm and advised the aggrieved political players to explore appropriate legal means to seek redress. The statement added that: “Our thoughts are with the Government of the Republic of Mozambique and the families of all those affected by the dreadful crisis.”
Lagos Imam to Tinubu: You've Not Disappointed Us
Deji Elumoye in Abuja and John Shiklam in Kaduna
Chief Imam of Lagos Central Mosque, Ridhwan Jamiu, has declared that the competence and capability of President Bola Tinubu was never in doubt saying he's not disappointed the people.
Jamiu made the remark same day the National Secretary of Labour Party (LP), Umar Farouk Ibrahim, stressed that Tinubu’s economic reforms have caused untold hardship to Nigerians.
country before anybody can govern.”
According to him, “desperate politicians should not collaborate with foreign enemies to destroy this great country. They have been trying to destroy this great country for a long time. We won't allow them to do it. By God's grace they will not succeed, Tinubu will succeed.
“Arewa Think Tank strongly rejects allegations made in a viral video by the military leader of Niger Republic, General Abdourahamane Tchiani, claiming non-existent collusion between Nigeria and France to destabilise his country.
“These claims exist solely in the realm of imagination, as Nigeria has never engaged in any overt or covert alliance with France - or any other country - to sponsor terrorist attacks or destabilise the Niger Republic in the wake of the undemocratic change in the leadership of that country.
“It is on record that President Tinubu as Chairman of ECOWAS, has demonstrated exemplary leadership, keeping the doors of the sub-regional body open to re-engaging the Niger Republic despite the political situation in the country.
In a statement yesterday in Kaduna, Ibrahim said the harsh economic policies were responsible for the hunger and poverty in the country.
Delivering a sermon yesterday as Tinubu observed the Jumat prayer at the Lekki Central Mosque in Lagos afternoon alongside the Muslim faithful, the Chief Imam assured the President of the steadfast prayers and support of the Muslim Ummah as he governs the nation.
Acknowledging the President's
“We believe that Nigeria remains committed to fostering peace, harmony, and historic diplomatic ties with Niger.”
It insisted that, “the accusation that Nigeria seeks to sabotage Niger’s pipelines and agriculture was both unfounded and counterproductive,” adding that, “Nigeria has 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.
“It is illogical to suggest that Nigeria would undermine initiatives it has actively promoted.
“We also see it as the handiwork of desperate politicians. 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 regional leader in combating terrorism, dedicating significant resources and lives to ensure stability in the Lake Chad Basin and beyond.”
However, the League of Northern Democrats (LND) said the federal government’s response to the accusations by Niger’s military leader,
presence, Imam Jamiu offered prayers for his success in leading Nigeria towards peace, security, and prosperity.
His words: "We are proud of you.
I remember that we encouraged people to vote for you during the campaigns. We thank God that you have not disappointed us.
"We know you are capable. We know you have the sagacity. We know you are competent.
"We believe and pray that you
at was not good enough as it only raises more questions.
The League in a statement by its Director of Publicity, Ladan Salihu said the response of the federal government through the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris did not address and some of the questions posed by the Nigeriern leader.
The spokesman of the league of northern Democratic said, ''A critical analysis of the government’s denial and its supporting arguments reveals significant gaps in logic and veracity.''
The northern political pressure group said, “the government categorically denies colluding with France to destabilise Niger. However, France’s track record in Africa - supporting insurgencies and covert operations to secure resources - casts doubt on this outright dismissal.”
Ladan Salihu said that the assertion that Tinubu had demonstrated exemplary leadership as ECOWAS Chairman was contradicted by the deepening tensions among ECOWAS member states where five states had severed ties with France leading to three states leaving the regional body.
are not going to disappoint us. May Allah continue to be with you. Allah has entrusted Nigeria to you and will ask you for this trust.
"Remember accountability and responsibility to the people. Responsibility is to the people, and accountability is to Allah when you return to Him.
"Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said, 'The most beloved of all people to Allah is the righteous and just leader.'
"We have seen righteousness in you and fairness and justice in you. Please keep it up and sustain it.
"You bear one of the names of Prophet Muhammad, Ahmed, someone who does what is praiseworthy. This name has been reflected in your past actions, and we hope it will reflect in your actions now."
Jamiu, urged people to be grateful to Allah during times of fortune and patient during adversity.
He reminded the faithful that unwavering hope and faith are essential to believers, even in challenging circumstances.
It was the President's first public outing since attending prayers at the Alausa Central Mosque last Friday. The President, spending the festive season in Lagos State, arrived in Nigeria's commercial capital on December 18 after presenting the 2025 budget to the joint session of the National Assembly.
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
L-R: Chairman, Board of Trustees (BOT), Alumni of All Alimoso Grammar School Association (Aligrams), Dr. Frederick Odutola; National Secretary, Mrs. Yemisola Osagie; Secretary to the BOT, Mrs. Modupeolaoluwa Shosanya; First Vice President, Mr. Babatunde Ogundele, and National President, Amb. Yomi Begbaaji, at the inauguration of Aligrams in Lagos..recently
Ferdinand Ekechukwu - 08035011394
Email: ferdi_adthisday@yahoo.com
Notable Events, Moments, Personalities in Entertainment 2024
In this concluding piece on the Nigerian entertainment scene in 2024, Ferdinand Ekechukwu highlights notable events, moments and personalities that dominated the industry in the outgoing year
Kunle Remi Viral Wedding Days
Movie star, Kunle Remi’s nuptial trended for good reasons. His wedding to the love of his life, Boluwatiwi (Tiwi) Oye, a niece to billionaire businessman, Femi Otedola, was at the centre of attention for days. The ceremonies which started on January 18 – January 20, 2024 went viral with pictures and clips from the engagement, traditional, and white wedding.
Junior Pope: A Sad Story
The death of actor Junior Pope was one sad event that threw Nollywood and a large part of the country into mourning following his tragic demise in 2024, alongside three others in a boat mishap on their way back from a movie shoot in Anambra State. The actor and other members were working on a movie titled, ‘The Other Side of Life’, produced by Adanma Luke.
Wizkid’s Heated Rant
What started as an interactive session with Wizkid and his fans on April 29, soon escalated into a feud online, bringing Wizkid against Davido in a manner never seen before. It pulled their fans, followers, and colleagues like Don Jazzy into the fray. Wizkid’s rant was believed to be influenced by Rema who had a day earlier declared and ranked himself in the same category among the big afrobeats stars – Burna Boy, Wizkid, Davido, and himself, bringing the number to four.
Mohbad Refused to Go Away
Issues surrounding Mohbad lingered in the outgoing year, attracting all sorts of arguments, most bothering on a DNA test to pressure the late singer’s wife. Also, due to an unending family drama championed by his father Joseph Aloba. Mohbad’s remains exhumed, his large fan base, and observers anticipated an autopsy result would reveal the cause of his death.
2Baba, Efe Omorogbe No More
The legendary artiste Innocent Idibia popularly known as 2Baba and his longtime manager and business partner, Efe Omorogbe officially parted ways in 2024, after 20 years of working together. Though industry observers believed there were more to the reason given for their separation, the maturity with which both handled it was quite admired and commended.
AY, Mabel Makun’s Dreams Taking Different Directions
Popular Nigerian comedian, Ayo Makun (AY), and his wife, Mabel, became estranged after 20 years. AY had revealed in a post shared on his Instagram page. He admitted to personal flaws that affected their 20-years relationship. Reacting to AY’s statement Mabel wrote “Although my dreams of a lifelong marriage have taken a different direction now, I’m committed to moving forward with grace and resilience.”
Ali Baba’s April Fool
The ace comedian, Ali Baba had deliberately on April 1 announced his wife delivered triplets three months earlier. Not a few Nigerians and his colleagues took his April Fool’s Day post as a joke and it went viral. It was later confirmed during a ceremony that attracted other celebrities and his friends at a church service dedication of the triplets that it wasn’t a joke after all.
Deborah Odutayo’s Retirement Project
In July 2024, seasoned producer, Deborah Odutayo after more than three decades of her illustrious career announced and embarked on what she called her “retirement project” with a comedy-drama series titled Debbie’s Salon. Odutayo’s decision surprised many of the ‘old hands’ in the industry who see the 2018 African Magic Viewer’s Choice Award (AMVCA) Head Judge as still having more to offer.
AMVCA 10, Breath of Life
The edition surprised many that Funke Akindele’s “A Tribe Called Judah” was edged out completely by “Breath of Life, a Prime Video original which carted the highest number of awards on the night, leaving Funke Akindele’s with none despite having a record breaking blockbuster movie. Directed by BB Sasore, Breath of Life was seen to bear a breath of fresh in Nollywood for its artistic commendation.
#Chivido2024 and Davido’s Shamble Status
The mother of all celebrity wedding in 2024 unfolded the epic love story of music superstar Davido and his longtime girlfriend turned lover, and now wife, Chioma. The lavish ceremony buzzed unending with the hashtag #Chivido24. Content creators, artistes and other creatives had to suspend whatever they had for the wedding day. And most recently, Davido’s remarks about the Nigerian economy not cool and in shambles generated widespread backlash.
Brainjotter Going Viral with Mike Ejeagha
From an innocent addition to a content creation by one of Nigeria’s finest comedians, Brain Jotter,
Braveleo Couture: Redefining African Luxury for the Global Stage
Osima Orugba, founder and CEO of Braveleo Couture, has earned the spotlight as one of Nigeria’s most innovative fashion visionaries, blending Isoko cultural heritage with modern luxury. The “Orugba” Collection, recently showcased on Nollywood’s celebrated actor Ray Adeka and other prominent figures, is a testament that redefines Africa’s fashion for a global audience.
The “Orugba” Collection is a masterful demonstration of cultural storytelling through
fashion. At its core, the collection highlights Isoko heritage, using intricate floral and textured patterns to create pieces that are both visually arresting and deeply symbolic. This approach bridges tradition and modernity, elevating African couture to meet international luxury standards.
Ray Adeka’s floral two-piece suit stands out as a cornerstone of the collection. The intricately crafted floral motif draws inspiration from Isoko artistry, reimagined in a bold yet refined manner. The tailoring is exceptional, showcasing Braveleo Couture’s commitment to precision and elegance. While the suit’s full-pattern design makes a powerful
statement, its boldness risks limiting its appeal to highly formal or statement-driven events. A restrained adaptation—featuring the motif as an accent on lapels or cuffs—could widen its versatility while maintaining its cultural integrity.
The leopard-print blazer, paired with distressed denim, showcases Osima Orugba’s versatility as a designer. This piece appeals to younger, fashion-forward audiences, combining luxury with a street wear aesthetic. However, the styling could benefit from more cohesion to reinforce the narrative of African luxury—perhaps through the inclusion of tailored trousers or premium accessories that reflect the sophistication of the collection.
Harvesters’ Foundation Awards N15m to Over 100 Beneficiaries
In a heartwarming demonstration of their commitment to transforming lives and building brighter futures, the Harvesters Africa Empowerment Foundation (HAEF), led by the visionary Pastor Bolaji Idowu, has awarded scholarships worth 15 million naira to over 100 deserving beneficiaries at a scholarship award ceremony held recently in Lagos.
The scholarship program, which was part of HAEF’s broader mission to empower individuals and uplift communities, was designed to support students with exceptional potential but limited financial resources. With the increasing cost of education, this intervention ensures that many young people can pursue their dreams without the financial burden that often hinders
nation, could not hide their excitement and gratitude. Many shared emotional stories of how this scholarship has lifted a significant weight off their families and renewed their hope for a better future.
It was reiterated that it is Pastor Bolaji Idowu’s heartfelt desire to see lives transformed through education. It was also emphasised that this initiative is not just about financial support but about creating opportunities for the next generation to excel and make meaningful contributions to society. Education is a powerful tool for change, and at Harvesters Africa Empowerment Foundation, we believe in creating opportunities for people to thrive, regardless of their background.
This remarkable initiative is one of many ongoing projects by the foundation aimed at putting smiles on faces and fostering hope within communities.
the song, Ka Esi Le Onye Isi Oche by Gentleman Mike Ejeagha undoubtedly became a nationwide sensation. Though not the comedian’s first time of using sounds or music for his skit, this particular one took an unexpected turn, becoming viral, getting appraisals and also backlash over royalty.
Onyeka Onwenu One Love No More
The Elegant Stallion, Onyeka Onwenu passed on shortly after performing at a friend’s birthday party at 72. She reportedly collapsed following her performance at the 80th birthday of Stella Okoli, owner of Emzor Pharmaceuticals. She was subsequently pronounced dead at a hospital in Lagos. It was a major but devastating incident.
P-Square Breaks-up Again
They only reconvened in 2021, after a long drawn messy disagreement involving their families and businesses. Prior to their recent breakup, reports had filtered out in June, 2024 about the music duo Peter and Paul being at war again. This time Peter had dragged their elder brother, Jude to EFCC over alleged “embezzlement” of their royalties. Paul was invited for some clarifications.
Rema, a Global Sensation Rema was on the spotlight during the year for some reasons. One was him performing at the wedding of the son of India’s richest man in Mumbai. His record, ‘Calm Down’ continued its remarkable success streak, carting away awards and topping charts across the globe. He dropped his sophomore album, ‘HEIS’ to the delight of his fans worldwide.
D’banj: Since ‘04 to ‘24
Music powerhouse, Dapo Oyebanjo popularly known as D’banj was a highpoint in 2024 as he specially marked his career in the music industry, celebrating two decades of his journey as a performing artiste with a series of activities and events heralding his anniversary album, titled ‘Since 04’. There were also great performances with shows celebrating the milestone.
In a momentous celebration of Igbo culture and heritage, Chinaza Nwabueze was crowned the 20th Adandiigbo beauty pageant queen. This milestone marked the 20th season of the prestigious Igbo cultural pageant. As the newly crowned queen, Chinaza Nwabueze embodies the beauty, intelligence, and charm that the Adandiigbo pageant represents.
Her achievement is a testament to her hard work, dedication, and passion for Igbo culture. Hrm Chinaza Nwabueze’s well-deserved win shines with elegance, poise, and beauty, both inside and out. As the reigning queen, she is expected to be an inspiration to other young women everywhere, promoting Igbo cultural heritage and achieving great heights. Her style which she says keeps her real and natural involves a beauty retinue that includes a lot of natural water and exercise. An indigene of Azumini in Ndoki, Abia State, Hrm Chinaza Nwabueze has poised to take Igbo cultural heritage appreciation by our youths to greater heights.
Kunle remi and wife, Boluwatiwi
Beneficiaries of the Harvesters Africa empowerment Foundation Scholarship Award
Dayo Adejobi
Ferdinand ekechukwu
Ferdinand ekechukwu
Chioma akpota:
An Actor’s Strength Lies in Ability to Be Versatile
Nigerian Actress, Chioma Akpota stunned fans and critics when she featured in Femi Adebayo’s love drama series, Seven Doors.
Her exceptional acting was matchless and proved how good of an actress she is. Seven Doors was primarily in Nigerian Yoruba language and circled around major actors of it’s same industry but she defied odds, explored her artistry and gave her role in the movie a perfection that shows her years as an actor has evolved her to be a force to be reckoned with.
Chioma at a recent media parley expressed how she got into act while shooting Seven Doors stating that, “First of all for me as an actor there has to be a connection, and for this movie I had to put myself in a situation that it had to be real. I imagined if it was me and that’s
the first step in giving a character life before you start addressing other elements that give the character the most desired boost it needs.
“Normally I’m that kind of person that if we’re in a relationship it should be me because why do you look elsewhere? So I would support you and for me I don’t see any other person when I sold out to you. And I give you my all hundred percent and don’t look back because love in itself is a decision you make not the feeling. So that’s where I had to bring myself into this movie.”
Her exceptional acting career began in 2000 with her debut in the movie, The Apple and also featured in The Handkerchief. Fast froward into 2007, she won the Africa Movie Academy Award for “Best Actress in a Lead Role” for her performance in Sins of the Flesh. With over two decades of experience, Chioma has appeared in scores of Nollywood films and earned numerous awards. As a filmmaker, she has produced or co-produced over eight movies, including the critically acclaimed and
award-nominated blockbuster On Bended Knees. Beyond her work in film, Chioma Chukwuka is a respected public speaker and mentor, inspiring many with her achievements and dedication to her craft.
For Chioma she believes the strength of an actor lies in their ability to be versatile and expressed further stating, “One of the issues most times is that if fans see you in a particular way they just want to see you like that. They don’t want you any other way and at the early years of my career a lot wanted to see me in particular way but it took a lot to break out of it as I believed there is a lot more I could do. But if many can calm down and get along they would see the versatility of the actor.”
Chioma has continued to show that her talent can surely shine in a wide range of genres which could roll out from romantic dramas to intense thrillers. And with her applauding role in Seven Doors she reawakens her effortless artistry which continues to capture the emotions and nuances of her characters.
Jimmy Jatt to Celebrate 40 Years on Stage with Lagos Concert
This December, the iconic onair personality, Yaw, will join forces with legendary Cool DJ Jimmy Jatt to present a night of nostalgia and music.
The Rewind ‘A Flashback’ Concert is set to take place on Monday, December 30th, 2024, at Eko Hotel & Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.
The star-studded concert would bring together some of Nigeria’s biggest music legends, including TuBaba, Daddy Showkey, 9ice, Style Plus, Duncan Mighty, Tony Tetuila, African China, Jazzman Olofin, and many more. The event promises to take the audience on a
journey through the golden era of Afrobeat, celebrating the artists and sounds that defined Nigerian music.
In a remarkable turn of events, this concert also marks the return of Cool DJ Jimmy Jatt to the stage after a period of recuperation.
In 2021, the renowned DJ underwent a lifesaving kidney transplant in Lagos, Nigeria, and spent time in the United States focusing on his health. His survival story has inspired many, as Jimmy Jatt became the second Nigerian celebrity to publicly share his battle with kidney disease. The Disc Jockey who began his career in 1984 would also seize the opportunity to celebrate 40years in the entertainment world.
Reflecting on his health journey, Jimmy Jatt shared in a documentary shot at the medical facility where he was treated, “I want to be a
Music, Magic, and Glenfiddich: The Experimental Night that Stirred Benin City
The magic of the festive season lit up Benin recently as Glenfiddich, brought in all the glitz, glam, and fun at its first-ever Experimental Night Concert held in the buzzing city of Benin.
The landmark event, part of the Celebrate the Bold Futurecampaign, showcased Glenfiddich’s dedication to inspiring boldness, creativity, and innovation. The night delivered an experience etched in the memory of the constellation of souls who graced the event.
As the sun set, the doors opened to an Afrofuturist scenery that resonated with the very beauty of Afro-culture. Whilst Rave Lavida DJ stilled
the atmosphere with a symphony of pulsating music, the red carpet welcomed the arrival of the gorgeously dressed guests to meet and greet the Ventura Creatives.
The occasion featured the presence of Ifeanyi Nwune, a visionary collaborator for the 12-year-old Glenfiddich bottle whose ingenuity in curating creative pieces in the fashion world celebrates bold values of perseverance, creativity, and a strong commitment to breaking boundaries ideals that perfectly framed the theme of the night.
The night unfolded into soulful music, with DJ Ajaz and DJ FLO weaving harmonious beats that set the stage ablaze. Hypemen Manolo Spanky and Influencer Akaba took the spotlight, their lively cheers filled the crowd with excitement, turning the event into a vibrant celebration of music.
Genesis Cinemas Opens in Lekki Phase One
It’s fun, laughter and premium entertainment as Genesis Cinemas, a subsidiary of Genesis Group opened in the heart of Lekki Phase 1, Lagos.
This is its third outlet in Lagos State coming after Genesis Cinemas, PURPLE Mall, Maryland and Genesis Cinemas, Festival Mall, Festac.
This 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-of-the-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.
The energy surged forward with a thrilling performance by the Ventura Creatives, igniting the crowd with a vivid fusion of imagination and rhythm. As DJ Gigi Jasmine’s beats filled the air, the performers dazzled with acrobatic feats, contorting perfectly with the music. DJ Fisayo elevated the evening further, taking over seamlessly with a set that echoed through the crowd, carrying them on a rhythmic journey.
Intensifying the event with contagious energy, Victony performed his hit Apollo and Holy Father. Runtown infused the crowd with his signature sound, as Mad Over You and Lagos to Kampala set the mood ablaze. Then came the iconic legend, 2baba (2Face Idibia), who took the stage, serenading the audience with unforgettable classics like Implication and 4 Instance, his powerful vocals resonating deeply with every heart in the room.
face of the survival of kidney disease. I did not want to be a victim. I have been through it, and from now on, I will be very open to talking to people about it on any platform to let them know what it is like.”
According to Steve Onu (Yaw), “the Rewind ‘A Flashback’ Concert is more than just a musical event—it’s a celebration of resilience, survival, and the evolution of Afrobeat music.” Jimmy Jatt, Yaw and other incredible artists, are ready to bring Lagos a night to remember!
As the producer of ‘Rewind...A Flashback Concert’ Yaw brings a wealth of experience and a stellar reputation to the event. Steve Onu has produced high-profiled events such as Funnybone Live, Chupez Concert, Davido Live in Asaba, KCee’s Thanksgiving, Headies Award Atlanta (co-produced) and much more.
Eva Adelaja Girls Junior Secondary School, Bariga recently hosted its 10th Annual Speech and Prize Giving Day, themed “Honouring Achievement, Inspiring the Future.” The event celebrated the remarkable accomplishments of students who excelled in the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE), highlighting their dedication and hard work.
Two outstanding students were recognised for their exceptional academic performances, setting a benchmark of excellence within the school and across Lagos State. Okafor Augusta Adaeze emerged as the Best Graduating Student, achieving an impressive 3 A1s, 3 A2s, and 4
A3s. Her hard work and dedication earned her a cash prize of N100,000 awarded by Deola Durodola, a Development Professional and Executive Director of United Way Greater Nigeria. Similarly, Abolaji Adeshina Saadat Ejide was recognised as the Overall Best Student, achieving 1 A1, 5 A2s, and 4 A3s. Ejide stood out for exceptional character, diligence and commitment. She was presented with a cash prize of N50,000, a reward for her consistent academic brilliance. These achievements place the students among the top performers in Lagos State, serving as a testament to their determination, resilience, and the school’s unwavering commitment to fostering academic success.
Tosin Clegg
Tosin Clegg
Tosin Clegg
Tosin Clegg
Tosin Clegg
Chioma Akpota
Jimmy Jatt
Glenfiddich
Jeremy Taylor: There is Huge Potential for Luxury Fragrance in Nigeria
The Group Commercial Director of Boadicea the Victorious, Mr. Jeremy Taylor, was in Nigeria to officially introduce bold and captivating new fragrance, Defender, to the COUNTRY’S market and discuss the allure and future of luxury fragrance in the country. Taylor shareS insights on the growing demand for luxury fragrances in Nigeria, the unique appeal of Boadicea the Victorious and the brand’s commitment to innovation with select journalists. Dike onwuamaeze brings the excerpts:
Kindly share with us your journey into the world of luxury fragrance?
My first foray into the world of beauty, the wider beauty business, was with Molton Brown some 24 years ago. So, I spent some time there and then I have worked with several fragrance brands, including L’Artisan Parfumeur, Miller Harris and Floris London. I have been with Boadicea: The Victorious fragrance brand for six and a half years as commercial director. I would say that it formed the vast majority of my career. I have had a few little forays into other industries, but I always tend to come back to fragrance, so clearly it is in my heart and it is a passion for me.
Can you tell us a story of how this particular fragrance began and how it has evolved over the years because it will be good to have a little insight into how the brand has come to be over the years?
We launched the brand in 2008. We launched it as an exclusive brand in Harrods in Knightsbridge and then subsequently rolled the brand out to Selfridges. In the UK we worked with Selfridges, Harvey Nichols and Harrods and enjoyed great relationships with all of them. And then gradually the brand has grown particularly strong in the Middle East and our Middle Eastern customers used to be our biggest customer base in Harrods until Nigeria took the lead. So it is great to see how the brand has evolved in different markets around the world. We recently reduced the number of fragrances in our range to around 40 so that we feel that we can communicate much better with our customers and tell the story of the brand. And I think that is what is working really well with the addition of our new brand and marketing director. So we are very excited about the future. We have two new product launches coming up next year and there are still a lot of markets that we have not tapped into but we are enjoying some really good growth and some good success.
How would you describe the fragrance market in Nigeria and what opportunities do you see as a brand? Well, the fragrance market in Nigeria, for me, is incredibly exciting at the moment. Whilst Harrods in The United Kingdom is our biggest customer, our biggest international spending customers in Harrods are actually Nigerians. So, there is clearly a thirst and a desire and an interest in luxury fragrance here in the Nigerian market. So, it is a really good opportunity to be able to really continue the great partnership we have with the Scentified by Cascades Luxury team in Nigeria to build on that opportunity. One of the things that I find as I travel around the world is that it is really important to find partners in international markets that share the same values and share the same passion for luxury fragrance. We have had several years’ worth of partnership with the Scentified by Cascades Luxury team. It is a great opportunity to really capitalise on what we have built up over the last few years and really take that to the next level.
What sets Scentified by Cascades Luxury apart in the Nigerian luxury fragrance industry and makes it special and outstanding?
I think what I find really in Nigeria is that the consumers are discerning. They are knowledgeable about quality fragrance and luxury fragrance. Having that in mind, we are totally committed to providing fragrance of the best quality; we have this Defender, which is our latest launch. It is cram packed full of wonderful ingredients and there are 12 different fragrance accords in there. And that is the kind of thing that appeals to the Nigerian customers. I have spent time with the store teams here in Lagos and they clearly want to know. And the reason that they want to know about what is inside the bottle is because that is what their customers want to know. So there is that thirst and desire to not just wear something that smells great, but I think there is this thirst for education as well. So, people want to know more about the industry and the juice inside. The Scentified by Cascades Luxury stands out in the luxury fragrance market because of their niche. They stand out and with their consistency in quality and delivering value to their customers over the years, they have become a leading luxury fragrance brand in
Nigeria and beyond.
How has the partnership with Scentified by Cascades Luxury worked?
The partnership with Scentified by Cascades Luxury has been a fruitful one and the synergy has made us work seamlessly over the years. The inspiration for us to work together is the commitment and the shared brand values to luxury fragrance and the ability to reach the Nigerian market through its network of beautiful stores spread across the country.
Who are your distributors in Nigeria?
Our only distributor in Nigeria is Scentified by Cascades Luxury with a network of 28 stores across the country. We have a longstanding partnership with them. Cascades has selected a few top retailers in Lagos like Polo, Nail Studio, RJ 4 and Reeves & Scents
What strategies are you putting in place to drive the growth of your brand in Nigeria?
I think one of the biggest strategies that we are committed to and looking at is education by educating the people that are selling the fragrance, the people that are distributing it,
and ensuring that we are responding to the needs of the consumers. The consumers, as I said earlier, are increasingly knowledgeable about fragrance. And in order to cater to that need, we need to ensure that the people on the ground know as much as they can. So it is very much an information sharing. So the more I can support them at the front end, when they are dealing with the consumer, then it trickles back. So it means that it is almost like a virtuous cycle of benefits for everybody.
What is next for Cascades in terms of product innovation and market expansion in Nigeria?
Well, for Scentified by Cascades Luxury, as a representative of Boadicea the Victorious, I sincerely hope that the innovation is something that they would work on with this great brand. We have a great relationship with them, and they have a commitment to quality and to luxury. We will be having two new product launches next year. With the strengthening of our brand and marketing team back in London, my ambition is to work much more closely with the team here in Nigeria, so that we can activate the new product launches. It is a growing market for us. There is a desire for luxury fragrance, which has been really proven by the success that we have already enjoyed with the brand here in Nigeria. And one that I hope will be mirrored with the launch of Defender.
How do you envision Scentified by Cascades Luxury contributing to the growth of the Nigerian fragrance market?
I think the commitment that they have shown already is something that knows no bounds. In my discussions with the Scentified by Cascades Luxury team here in Nigeria, I have every confidence that they will continue to grow. And possibly not just in Nigeria. There is no reason why they cannot expand beyond the borders of Nigeria into West Africa.
How does the concept of engagement and experience shape the approach to selling luxury fragrances in today’s market?
The world of luxury fragrance goes far beyond simply selling a product that smells good. It is about creating an experience and engaging deeply with consumers. Fragrance is an extension of one’s personality; it enhances how you feel or helps you embody how you want to feel, whether for a big meeting or a glamorous gala dinner. To sell luxury fragrance effectively, it is essential to focus on the story, the emotions, and the experience it evokes for the wearer. Customers must feel confident not just about their purchase but also about the experience of wearing the fragrance. Confidence is key because the more confident a customer feels, the more they enjoy both the process of choosing a fragrance and the emotional impact of wearing it. It is about creating a journey that transforms a simple purchase into a memorable and personal experience.
Adeleke Approves Haastrup as Owa Obokun, Abikoye as Asaoni
Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke has approved with immediate effect, the appointments of Prince Adesuyi Haastrup as the new Owa Obokun Adimula of Ijesha land and Prince Johnson Adekanmi Abikoye as the new Asaoni of Ora Igbomina
A statement issued by the State’s Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, to that effect, indicated that the approval of the two monarchs was ratified and approved during the seating of the Osun State Executive Council Meeting presided over by its Chairman and Governor, Adeleke yesterday. The appointments of Haastrup
was sequel to the demise of the immediate past Owa Obokun Adimula of Ijesha land, Oba Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran II on the 11th of September 2024 while that of Abikoye as the new Asaoni of Ora Igbomina followed the demise of Oba Tinuoye Atolagbe on the 19th of Nov.2023.
According to Alimi, Adeleke while congratulating the two newly approved monarchs whom he said their choices followed due processes in line with the Chiefs’ law of Osun State 2002( cap 25), enjoined all sons and daughters of the two towns to co-operate with their new traditional rulers, particularly in allowing peace and unity to take the centre stage . In the meantime, Adeleke “also during the State Executive Council meeting today, the last in the year 2024, passed a vote of confidence on all members of his Executive Council for what the Governor described as a job well done in the about to be concluded year 2024.
“The Governor who was extremely glad and happy for their performance, however, challenged them to surpass the feats made by all of them in the coming year 2025 by being alive to their statutory duties and responsibilities as members of Osun State Executive Council,” the statement added.
Taylor
Eulogies as Family, Friends Gather for Pa. Bazuaye’s 100th Birthday Celebration
Adibe Emenyonu
On Tuesday, November 5, 2024 the Bazuaye family of Benin Kingdom rolled out drums in celebration. The entire family members were not alone in the joyous occasion. They were joined by friends, associates and other wellwishers from all walks of life to celebrate their patriarch, Pa Augustine Omoregie Bazuaye. The celebration was not just an ordinary one but remarkable, especially at a time when only a few persons hardly cross the biblical age of 70.
Pa Bazuaye’s celebration was extraordinary. It was unique in the sense that he added 30 years to the biblical age of 70 to mark a centenary (100 years) on earth.
According to his son, Dr. Enoma Alexander Bazuaye, the Knight of St. Mulumba’s (KSM) birthday ceremony, “is not just ordinary but one with wisdom, resilience, and love that not only shaped his life but also all who have had the privilege to know him.”
Little wonder children of the celebrant decided to commemorate the 100 years of their father and patriarch in grand style. The ceremony to mark this centenary celebration began with a Mass at Holy Cross Catholic Cathedral, Mission Road, Benin City presided by Archbishop of Benin Metropolitan See, His Grace, Dr. Augustine Obiora Akubeze.
In his homily, Archbishop Akubeze likened PA Bazuaye’s life to one of the ten lepers who fell on his face at Jesus feet, giving him thanks (Luke 17:11-19) which read, “At that time: On his way to Jerusalem Jesus was passing along between Samaria and Galilee. And as he entered a village, he was met with ten lepers, who stood at a distance and lifted their voices and said, Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.”
When he saw them he said to them, “Go and show yourselves to the priest.” And as they went they were cleaned. Then one of them, when he saw he was healed, turned back, praised God with a loud voice; and fell on at Jesus feet, giving him thanks. Now he was a Samaritan. Then said Jesus, “were not ten cleansed? Where are the other nine? This, the archbishop said typifies the lives of the celebrant who recognises the importance of God in his life as it is not easy to attain 100 years, adding that for this to happen takes the grace of God in the life of the celebrant who came to give thanks to God for sparing his life to this age. He admonished people to emulated the life of the celebrant who is always close to God, a committed family man who God has given everything yet remains humble. According to him, “You are a good leader per excellent because you are exceptionally good, that was why you were sent overseas for training.”
Early Life
Pa Augustine Omoregie Bazuaye was born on the 5th of November, 1924 into the Emehi family by the late Johnson Asiriuwa Bazuaye. His father, who served in the then Forestry Department, died on the 22nd of February 1944 barely five months after his retirement. He was a disciplinarian and this influenced his son’s life (Pa A. O Bazuaye by making him strong to face life challenges. Born into a polygamous home but in spite of the unfavourable conditions attached to it, providence smiled on him that he was able to go to school, first at St. Joseph Catholic School, Asagba (1933-1940) before gaining admission into Edo College in 1941 and left in 1947.
Career
After his college education, Pa Bazuaye sought employment in the Judiciary in 1948 as a Clerical Assistant. In 1954, he was one of the three young clerks posted to Ibadan to open the Chief Registrar’s office. Among his colleagues in the Chief Registrar’s office at that time was Hon. Justice Olajide Olatawura JSC (rtd). He served in the then judicial department in various capacities
such as Lagos, Ibadan, Benin, Warri, Sapele, Ugheli to mention a few. Also in 1953 as a result of his intense brilliance on the job assigned to him, he was considered among those to attend an in-service training in Oshogbo and after a successful training was transferred to the newly created Midwest Region along with other civil servants.
Being a man who stands erect and looks the world in the face and does his duty without fear or favour and with a knack for solving problems, Pa. Bazuaye was sent to Great Britain for another in-house training for High Court Registrar to study court administration and this was accomplished with flying colours and was posted to Benin in 1969.
As a result of the education and experience he gained in British, the Attorney General of then Bendel State requested for his posting temporarily to the Ministry of Justice to help re-establish the Customary Courts in the state in 1980 where he was made to tour some parts of the country to study the Customary Court system.
His reports formed the basis of the Customary Law, of 1980 and for this efforts he received commendation from the then Commissioner for the Board of Internal Revenue, Mr. D.P. Lawani. He rose to the position of Assistant Chief Registrar before his retirement in 1982 after serving the mandatory 35 years.
Due to his wealth of knowledge, Pa Bazuaye in 1984 was reappointed on a contract basis to nurture the re-establishment of the Customary Court earlier scrapped in 1980 which formed the basis of a recommendation made by then President of the Customary Court of Appeal, Justice I.O. Aluyi to then Military Governor of Brendel State, Jeremiah Useni which was approved and finally endorsed by the Civil Service Commission. After holding the position of President of District Customary Court and Member, Area Customary Court respectively,
His outstanding feat in the Judiciary was based on his selflessness, always well-dressed, humility, boldness, high standards, and exemplary overwhelming credentials that were further expressed in concrete terms by the Honourable Justice I.O. Aluyo (rtd) of the Customary Court of Appeal in the following words: I cannot hide my joyous feelings of the appointment of Pa. A.O. Bazuaye who served the Judiciary for many years and retired
but had to be re-engaged on contract to enable us tap his administrative expertise to prepare a solid base for the administration of the New Customary Court of Appeal system in the state. His years of experience in the Judiciary made him to be conversant with the rules of Court which hopefully enhanced the quality of Justice which is determined by those who administered it.”
Family Life
Pa Bazuaye decided to quit finally from active service voluntarily to enable him spend more time with his family especially his grandchildren. Given his virtuous background Pa. Bazuaye has all along lived a good and worthy life , having positively touched the lives of a lot of people which resonated with the words of former British Prime Minister, Sir. Winston Churchill words in his book titled, “Character of Greatness of Winston Churchill (Hero in a Time of Crisis) that goes thus, “What is the use of living if it is not strive for noble causes and to make this muddled world a better place to live in after we are gone.”
Pa. Bazuaye is an accomplished father, a dedicated husband, caring family man whose high moral rectitude is manifested in the character formation of his children. He gave his best while denying himself luxuries to ensure that his children were properly trained for a better and brighter future.
As someone from a Catholic background, Pa. Augustine Omoregie Bazuaye was baptized on 19th day of June, 1943 and confirmed on April 13, 1977. He was an active member of Society of St. Vincent De Paul, a charity body of the Holy Cross Catholic Cathedral, and was initiated into the honoured Order of Knight of St. Mulumba on May 27, 1983 in Onitsha, Anambra. State. The avid reader and lover of sports particularly football league matches is happily married and blessed with seven children, five sons and two daughters including many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
In their various congratulatory messages, his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, Congregation of Catholic Archdiocese of Benin, his old Student of Edo College, fellow knights, friends and associates were unanimous in affirming the celebrant, Pa. Augustine Omoregie Bazuaye as truly a unique fellow with exemplary character worthy of emulation; a man who has witnessed a world of change, from the simplicity of his early years to the complex of modern life.
LGA Chairmen Suspension: Oshiomhole and Derail of Constitutional Democracy in Edo
Crusoe Osagie
Desperate to justify the alleged ongoing extermination of constitutional democracy in Edo State, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, has, as usual, resorted to barefaced lies to window dress the shameful takeover of the 18 local government councils by thugs engaged by the Governor-select, Monday Okpebholo. In a video circulating on social media, Oshiomhole, flanked by Okpebholo and the Secretary to the State Government, Musa Ikhilor, like primary school children being directed by their fearsome headmaster, made statements that are totally false but in line with what now looks like the retired labour leader’s final life ambition, which is to attack and destroy His Excellency, Godwin Obaseki. Oshiomhole in the video erroneously stated that the local government councils were paying huge sums of money to Obaseki, and that is why they were suspended by Okpebholo.
Although no reasonable person takes Oshiomhole seriously, considering his intimidating profile as a blatant liar, it is yet necessary to put it on record that as usual, these careless comments from Oshiomhole are not different from all the lies and double speak which are clearly second nature to him.
He described Okpebholo as a man with minimum words and maximum wisdom but I believe Edo masses should be allowed to be the judge of that, but if all that have happened so far in the Okpebholo government are anything to go by, from the disgraceful outing in the State House of Assembly to the promise of several white elephant projects, then I think Oshiomhole’s verdict on Okpebholo’s performance so far is no different from his usual lies.
Meanwhile, It is now abundantly clear that the APC government which Oshiomhole and his illk broke all known electoral laws and regulations to enthrone in Edo State has now set aside the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and are enforcing their individual interests and caprices with the help of vile and violent thugs
and other nonstate actors sponsored by Okpebholo.
Under Okpebholo’s leadership, the judgments of the Supreme Court, as well as State and Federal High Courts have been mindlessly disregarded. The advice of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu through the Attorney General of the Federation jettisoned, with thugs now moving from council to council in Edo State literarily with whips and dangerous weapons to enforce Okpebholo’s suspension of Local Government Chairmen despite the position of all the courts in the land.
We however have one warning for the perpetrators of the ongoing crisis in Edo State and that is: by the time the ravenous beast they are currently feeding with illegality attains full strength, it will need to consume both the victims and its masters, to quench it’s insatiable thirst for blood.
The wind currently blowing in Edo State is an ill wind, which will blow no one no good.
Osagie was the Media Adviser to Godwin Obaseki, former Governor, Edo State
Pa. Bazuaye cutting his 100th birthday cake
Survival Tips for Beauty Entrepreneurs in Tough Economy
The Nigerian beauty and personal care industry remains a significant contributor to the national economy, driven by burgeoning urbanisation and unending desire of all to look good.
Notwithstanding the prospect of the sector projected to reach $5.28 billion by 2026, players are struggling to stay afloat. Like other sectors, this space is not immune to economic challenges that have literally kept the country under pressure. With rising costs of raw materials, reduced purchasing power, inflation and unstable foreign exchange rates, beauty entrepreneurs face new hurdles to survive.
Acknowledging hard time in the sector at a forum recently, a renowned Aesthetician, Dr. Eyitope Jones noted that the desire to look physically attractive has never been stronger, especially as people seek to conceal the stress and struggle that define the period.
She revealed however that patronage for beauty services have not increased in tandem with growing demand.
Corroborating her submission, the Chief Executive Officer of The Aesthetic Clinic, Ifeoma Abajue stated that as much as every woman wants to look good, many cannot have it as they wished because of overriding priority, including food.
“I observe that beauty enthusiasts are buying or subscribing to beauty routine less than before. Unfortunately, prices of products and raw materials keep increasing as a result of forex, hence constrain us to reducing our costs,” she submitted.
On how she still manages to run the company, she said, “We try as much as possible to keep our cost reasonable, not compromising on quality. We do this, however, enduring low margin.”
The submission of these stakeholders further highlight the dilemma in the billions of dollar industry, putting players at a crossroads.
But an analyst in the sector and CEO of Parthian Capital, Ndidi Ukaonu, maintained that an unstable economy could present new opportunities for players to look inward and chart new growth path, away from being glued to everyday routine.
As far as the beauty industry is concerned, Ukaonu posited that the panacea for fluctuating economy is innovation, in addition to adopting resilient financial strategies.
Of importance too is growing revenue and cutting costs, she stressed.
“By expanding revenue, cutting costs wisely, and staying customer-focused, businesses can thrive even in uncertain
Recapitalisation: Sterling HoldCo Bolsters Capital Raising with Full Regulatory Approval
Sterling Financial Holdings Company Plc said it has achieved another milestone with the approval of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) recognising an additional N75 billion in its capital raise.
The approval represents the final leg of the capital injection that was achieved through a private placement in September 2024, the bank explained in a statement yesterday.
Building on the private placement’s success, Sterling launched a Rights Issue in October 2024, structured to provide existing shareholders the exclusive opportunity to deepen their stakes in the company and share in its growth story.
The rights issue received significant interest and participation, highlighting the confidence and trust the company has cultivated among its shareholders over the years. Regulatory approval for the process is currently under- way, marking another significant step in the recapitalisation journey.
“The public is eagerly awaiting Sterling’s Public Offer, which will present an exciting opportunity for individuals to invest in the company. It is anticipated that the recapi- talisation process will be completed with a Public Offer early next year, allowing wider participation from the public and further strengthening its commitment to shared value creation,” the bank noted.
its current status as a diversified financial holdings company. Powered by cutting-edge technology and a flexible operational model, the company has consistently demonstrated its ability to navigate market difficulties and seize growth opportunities.
Reflecting on Sterling’s accomplishments, Odubiyi acknowledged the instrumental role of stakeholders, including regulators, investors, and customers.
“We are grateful for the unwavering support and trust in our strategy, which has been pivotal to our journey. This recapitalisation strengthens our ability to unlock new opportunities, create value, and drive economic growth,” he added.
times. Failure should be our teacher, not our undertaker. It is delay, not defeat,” she added.
Still on growing revenue, the financial expert advised that the focus should shift towards diversifying revenue sources, adding that cost-cutting should be without compromising quality.
More tips to boost income and trim cost according to Ukaonu are provided below:
Product and Service Expansion
Introducing new services, such as premium skincare treatments or custom formulations, can attract a broader clientele.
Vertical Integration
Beauty businesses can forward-integrate by offering in-house makeup services or backward-integrate by developing their own product lines and sourcing raw materials directly.
Niche Markets and Brand Development
Tapping into underserved markets—like eco-conscious consumers or specific skin concerns can set a brand apart.
Assessing Staff and Location Costs
Optimise team size and relocate to cost-effective spaces if necessary.
Budgeting and Cost Discipline
Conduct regular audits to identify non-essential expenses. Start by tracking your income and expenses to identify your inefficiency, then create a comprehensive budget that allocates resources effectively. Prioritise essential expenses such as rent, inventory and staffing, while minimizing discretionary spending.
Customer Retention
Loyal customers are more valuable than ever. Offering “at-home care products,” or personalised service packages can keep customers engaged. This also aligns with the rising demand for convenience in the post-pandemic era.
Financial Strategies
In addition to operational adjustments, businesses must adopt robust financial strategies. Earning interest at parity with inflation and reducing currency dependency are crucial. This might involve exploring stable currency revenue sources or leveraging high-interest savings accounts.
Creativity Businesses need to rewire their thinking by embracing innovation and re-evaluating traditional methods. For instance, partnering other brands or adopting digital tools can enhance visibility and efficiency.
Group Chief Executive, Yemi Odubiyi, in a statement, described the capital injection and the approval as a validation of the company’s strategic direction and operational excellence.
“This milestone reflects the confidence of regulators and stakeholders in our vision to redefine financial services in Nigeria and beyond. Our enhanced capital base empowers us to pursue transformative opportunities, deliver sustainable value to all stakeholders and drive impact across critical sectors of the Nigerian economy,” he stated.
Odubiyi emphasised the company’s evolu- tion from its origins as a merchant bank to
The capital boost follows a year marked by robust financial performance and significant strategic achievements for Sterling. As at the last week in December 2024, Sterling witnessed a 19 percent surge in stock price, contributing to a remarkable three-year growth of 287.42 percent. In the first half of 2024, the company recorded a 51 percent increase in profit before tax compared to the same period in 2023 and achieved a 20 percent growth in total assets. These results demonstrate Sterling’s resilience and ability to deliver superior outcomes despite the complexities of Nigeria’s economic landscape, marked by high inflation and currency volatility.
“As Sterling looks ahead, its focus remains firmly on innovation, sustainability, and value creation. With a fortified capital structure, the company is well-positioned to execute its ambitious growth plans, deepen its impact across critical sectors, and set new benchmarks for excellence in Nigeria’s financial services industry. This latest milestone marks a transformative chapter for Sterling Financial Holdings Company Plc as it continues to redefine the future of financial services in Nigeria and beyond,” it added.
AccessHoldCo Commends NGX Group’s Digital Innovation
The Chairman, Access Holding Company Plc, Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imuokhuede, has commended the digital innovation efforts of the Nigerian Exchange Group following the successful N351billion Rights Issue completed to comply with the regulatory directive of the Central Bank of Nigeria.
According to the statement from Access HoldCo, Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imuokhuede said “By leveraging the NGX’s E-offering platform - NGX Invest, the Company provided its shareholders with a seamless, efficient, and convenient subscriber experience significantly reducing barriers and democratizing participation in the Rights Issue.”
In an article published by the World Federation of Exchanges, the Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Exchange Group Plc, Mr Temi Popoola had
emphasised that the platform was at the core of NGX Group’s digital strategy, stating that it was designed to streamline the distribution of securities in the Nigerian capital market. “Its user-friendly interface allows investors to onboard seamlessly and verify their identities through the Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS), using their Bank Verification Number (BVN). With NGX Invest, the traditionally complex and time-consuming process of investing is reduced to a few clicks, making it easier for investors across Nigeria, including those in underserved areas, to participate in the capital market.”
The success of Access HoldCo’s capital raise, making it the first bank to officially comply with the CBN’s Banking Recapitalisation directive, is a key social proof and testament to the robustness of NGX Invest and demonstrates the potential of NGX Group’s platform to support the growth and business goals of its Issuers.
Zularich Properties Marks Third Anniversary, Rewards Realtors
Lagos-based real estate firm, Zularich Properties has marked its third anniversary, reiterating its commitment to offering secured and profitable real estate investment opportunities.
At the ceremony which held in Lagos, recently, the firm also took time to appreciate its realtors who at the same went away with attractive gift items.
Four realtors, including Miracle Josiah, Lauretta Asemota, Adetoyese Damilare and Juliet Akuche were presented with brand new cars.
CEO of Zularich Properties, Dr. Johnpaul Enemuoh, stated that the company remained committed to creating valued and affordable property investment opportunities to those seeking wealth through real estate.
He commended realtors, including those selling houses, buildings, and land, describing them as the engine room of the real estate industry worthy to be celebrated.
“Right from the beginning, we have set out to deliver excellence and value, and we have fulfilled our mandate so far. To our esteemed realtors and partners, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for being an integral part of our
success in 2024,” Enemuoh said. Partners and realtors present at the event testified to the company’s strides and landmark deals in the course of the year.
In June 2024, the company recorded the take-off of two new projects, Zularich Residences Phase One, at Sangotedo, and Sports City at Epe.
Chief Executive Officer of Eystone Development,Hassan Ismail said, “Zularich’s growth has been phenomenal, and the company continues to contribute to the growth of the real estate sector in Lagos. That is why we are celebrating with them today”.
Also testifying , CEO of Zylus group, Dr. Oluwatosin Olajuyoye said that the company’s milestone is a testament to the continuous demand for real estate in Nigeria, despite the economic situation.
President of Billionaires Realtors Group (BRG) Dr Emmanuel Abikoye added , “I believe in the Zularich vision and i’ve supported the firm with the BRG brand from day one. Here we are today, celebrating a great milestone . It is one of the companies we are very proud of.
Kayode Tokede
Muyiwa Adejobi:
I’m Unrepentant, Stubborn in Fighting Indecency, Corrupt Practices
The blue-blooded police spokesman is fearless, blunt, fun-loving and accessible. His love for the police stems from his childhood. Nigeria Police Force Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, talks about the widespread misconceptions surrounding the force, most notably the distrust and fear ingrained in society. Drawing attention to the global nature of this challenge, he reflects on the unfairness of public perceptions that tarnish the police, often due to frustrations with government actions. He explains how, despite the immense pressure and personal sacrifices of the job, including sleepless nights and strained personal relationships, his dedication to public service remains unshaken. Adedayo Adejobi brings the excerpts
In your experience, what are the most common misconceptions the public has about the police force, and how have you worked to address or correct these misconceptions?
The major challenge is trust deficit, and it’s not limited to the Nigeria Police Force alone.Membersofthepublic,allovertheworldhave always had natural fear and trust deficit against the police and it’s a big societal problem. At times when you speak, people doubt what you say. Trust deficit is a very great problem. Operating in a very hostile society, people transfer their problems, grievances and aggression to the police in most cases because the police is seen as a baby of the government.Sotheyflogthebaby,toflogthefather. That’s just our own case, and it’s quite unfortunate. Aprofessorwhodeliveredthelectureataprogram organised by the King Foundation and UNODC on accountability recently said, we expect the police thatoperatesinasocietytobehavedifferently.The police is a reflection of the society. Considering so many parameters and variables, it’s always very, difficult to get an exceptional, police institution in such society. I’ve managed crises, particularly complaints against our members of the force. The demands of the job is enormous, and so I’ve had to make my personal phone number available so people can get across to me. In most cases, people don’t believe in our official numbers, and so they just want to talk to me , and that makes it very, very difficult.Recently,someonedrewmyattentiontomy gray hair and noted that it is because of the stress. My sleeping pattern has changed. The earliest I sleep is 2 am. Even the Inspector General of Police sleeps around 3am- it’s quite unfortunate. When the IGP leaves the office, there is another office at his home where he continues to work. The job is demandingandchallenging.AsFPRO,peoplethink you don’t have your private life. You are regarded as a public figure. I like to dance, but I can’t have a party or a loud ceremony, because whatever I do, meaning will read to it. And so one, must be conscious of everything. We make sacrifices, to maintain the name, integrity, and reputation of the police.Wedealwithmanycriticalissuesdaily, some administrativechallengeswhichsometimesinvolve correcting some erring officers. Sometimes you step on toes of some senior officers, subordinates or colleagues who pick offenses at move to effect changes in maintaining a good image for the police. Once I am upright, within the confines of the law, modernpolicingvaluesanddictates-thereisnothing to be afraid of. As PROs and representatives of the police,we manage the image of the police. With so much duty on our on our shoulders, we have a lot to do. I feel so sad when the public attempt to, or attack PROs for even coming to their aid. Many don’t understand that a PRO is even closer to them than any other any other person. PROs they suffer internal challenges in defence of the public, yet the public they defend still attack them. Where do you want them to run to? But we’re happy.
What is your relationship and that of other PROs with the Inspector General of Police?
I have a robust relationship with my boss. We had PRO conference and workshop in Asaba recently, and IGP flew to Asaba to declare the event open. He was there almost all day and left in the evening. He’s interested in making sure we have better engagements in the Nigerian police
force. We are lucky to have him as father, mentor, leader, and our IGP. I’ve seen cases of some PRO’s wanting to leave because of threats, abuse cyberbullying,bythepublicwhohideunderpseudonyms. The IGP is supportive of the work we do and we support his vision for a professionally competent, compliant,service-drivenandpeoplefriendlypolice. Becausewehavealotofworktodo,allthePROsare constantlyadequatelytrained,andtheIGPcontrols their postings. As PROs, we feel the heat, but I’m always very happy to do this because I’ve spent many years of my service in Public Relations in the police force. I’m used to the system, seen the good, bad, and ugly.
What do you consider your biggest achievement so far?
My achievement is always to make sure that my IGP, or any IGP succeeds. This is my second term in office. I started with IGP Usman Alkali who tried his best. With the coming of IGP Egbetokun, we had a seamless transition. He retained all the staff, aides officers that worked with his predecessor in the office. Having been in the system and corridors of power in the police for a while, that is not common. He’s been so fantastic. I’m always very happy to do my job. And when it comes to fighting indecency, corrupt practices, I can be unrepentant and stubborn. I am not a perfect man, but in every indecency, there must be decency. I always say it with the pride that my parents were teachers. I grew up in the palace and they taught me values and our culture. It will be ridiculous to engage in
certain things. I’m not a perfect man, but in every indecency, there must be decency.
Whatdoyouthinkarethemostcommon, misconceptions,youknow,thatthepublic have against the police and how have you sort of addressed this, or corrected these misconceptions?
Extortion. It’s annoying that some Nigerians make uncomplimentary unguarded utterances, and believe that from the IGP downwards, we share money. It is unfair. These are criminal offenses, and if you go ahead to prosecute them, they will say the policeareaftertheirlives.Thosedentingthe image of the police force are infinitesimal. Meanwhile, those good ones doing great things are not honoured. How will the IGP know what is happening in Anambra or in, Osun, Ogun, Adamawa or Makurdi? It’s not possible. The Police force has structure and a chain of command. We are more than an agency, we are closer to the grassroots. Because a lot of people don’t understand thelegalframework,existenceofmanylaws, letalonetheprovisionsofthelaw-hencethe hatred towards the police. A video went viral sometime with a policeman cautioning a dog owner asking for certificate of the dog. Many don’t know that every dog must be licenced, and every dog must hang his or her, identity card and certified anti-rabies. It is the law, but many don’t know. I buy five
dogs. I have many dogs in my house and they are all licenced and certified anti-rabies. We have a very complex situation in Nigeria, but we shall get there one day.
What drives you to stay motivated in both your personal life and professional career? Asaboy,mylatefather,ateacherlovedthepolice. And so, almost all my siblings and our wives are in the police. The Adejobi clan is akin to the Nigeria Police Force family. Because of my father’s love for the police, he encouraged us to love the police, and so we joined the police. I love the police. When I joined the police, I wanted to make impact. I am not an accidental public relations practitioner.I joined the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations in 2004 before I even joined the police in 2005. PublicrelationsismycallingandwhatIlove.Ibelieve PR can settle all issues in life-. societal, political, academic, and security issues. I know that people know me and people comment.Those who abuse online give me gifts when they see me. When I go shopping in Nigeria and outside the country,they tell me, ‘‘I abuse you on X formerly twitter, but I enjoy and love you. Can I give you a gift? Take this on me.’’ Many Nigerians love the police. If you hear about the hatred against the police in most cases, it is fake, not genuine. I am motivated to do more in this line and in a general police force.
Thedemandsofjobcanbeveryoverwhelming. Considering the high-pressure nature of your job, how do you manage, you know, work life balance?
I’masocialperson.Iliketopartyandattendevents. Don’t forget. I see, I read, I write write articles, go to the farm and ranch whilst still pursuing my PhD. I multi-task. I don’t have time to travel. But when time permits, I got to see and spend time with my family. I also pray to God. If time permits, I go to church. Because I am from a Muslim background, if my people have functions, I join them. Same with festivals in my village-its what I have grown doing as a palace boy. I’m not a free thinker. I know there’s God. I’m a Christian, but I don’t hate any religion. When I close at night, I play tennis from 9;30pm till midnight at times. Tennis is my second wife.
What’s the best piece of advice that you’ve received that has impacted your career?
Fear nobody but respect all. That is the advice father gave me before he died. I fear nobody, but I respect all. You cannot intimidate me. Another quote I live by is- in every indecency, there must be decency. It’s guides me you a lot. I also don’t take gifts from anybody anyhow. I’m averse to anyone who is unduly friendly. I’ll suspect you. My father was a king. I grew up in the palace. My father studied Yoruba literature, and he taught me so many things in Yoruba, before I went to study geology. An archaeologist, I am grounded in Yoruba culture and traditions. I still embrace my moral values.
Ifyoucouldchangeonethingabouthowpeople viewthetheNigeriapoliceandlawenforcement, what would it be?
BecauseweliveinapluralisticsocietylikeNigeria, people tend to hate law enforcers. It’s a natural thing. If I could change one thing about how people view the police and law enforcement, it would be how we are perceived.
Adejobi
Assessing Uba Sani’s Impact in Southern Kaduna
Olu Yohanna badugu
Snce his assumption into office in April 2023, the Governor of Kaduna State, Sen. Uba Sani has shown tremendous leadership qualities which has explained the reasons for his sobriquet- ‘the democrat”.
Under his visionary leadership, the state also known as the Queen of the North has witnessed unprecedented growth and development- from investing in education and healthcare to promoting economic development and infrastructural growth, as well as promoting policies that have positively impacted the lives of countless citizens.
One of his most notable achievements is the significant reduction in poverty rate, thanks to the innovative initiatives and collaborations with private sector partners.
His commitment to transparency and accountability has earned him the trust and respect of the Southern Kaduna people who are spread across the state. He has consistently demonstrated a willingness to listen and engage the industrious people of the area by ensuring that everyone has a voice and is heard.
Since taking over the helms of affairs in the state, his administration has brought unity and peace among the people of Southern Kaduna and the state as a whole
While noting the level of peace Uba Sani’s administration has brought to the development of Southern Kaduna through his rural transformation agenda and his inclusive style of leadership, as well as the inclusion of women and youths, the inclusion of sons and daughters of the region into key positions of his cabinet cannot be taken for granted.
At this juncture, the focus will be on the recent appointments of which two sons of Southern Kaduna, namely Dr. James Atung Kanyip and Comr. Yunana Markus Barde commissioner for Humanitarian affairs were given the portfolios of commissioners for Internal Security and Home Affairs as well as Humanitarian Affairs respectively.
In his visionary style of leadership which comes with
rewards of hard work, Dr. James Kanyip’s appointment came as a result of his commitment and dedication to his work as deputy chief of staff, likewise Yunana Markus Barde, the immediate past chairman of Jema’a local government area whose diligence in handling the crises of insecurity during his tenure as local government chairman needs to be studied.
Another in the catalogue is the Director of Kaduna Internal Generating Revenue, Mr. Jerry Adams for his prowess in putting the state amongst the first four out of the 36 states of the Federation and the first in the north.
The humanitarian service of the workaholic party stakeholders’ chairperson of Jema’a local government and former Accountant General and Commissioner of Finance Hon. Shizzer Nasara-Bada was only possible as a result of the support that was powered by the governor.
Uba Sani in his efforts to ensure rural transformation agendas, has approved numerous projects in Southern Kaduna and these include the continuation of Kafanchan Road , Madakiya to kafanchan road project, Sanga through KIBAM to godogodo and Kaninko Dangoma to Godogodo road project, amongst several others in the region.
Also, he has ordered for the immediate completion of all projects across Kaduna State and Southern Kaduna, particularly the Kafanchan road projects which he has given 6 weeks as time frame for the completion. Another, is the Madauchi and Madakiya road project that links to the Kafanchan road projects.
In terms of support for women and youths, His Excellency goes against all odds to retain the deputy governor, Dr. Hadiza Balarabe, and bringing on board- Hon. Larai Sylvia Ishaku from Jaba local government as council chairperson as well as two female councilors from Southern Kaduna and one from the Northern part of the state.
He also brought young and vibrant individuals into his administration which alone has led to the emergence of so many young people as Local Government Council chairpersons of which Hon. Peter Tanko Dogara who through his philanthropy and humanitarian services to his people, was
chosen by the governor and accepted by the stakeholders and the masses.
To whom much is given, much is expected and being an Oliver Twist of good things, I’d still call on His Excellency to consider the Southern Kaduna region for more appointments and developmental projects whenever the opportunity presents itself.
Thank you, Your Excellency, for being a shining example of exceptional leadership and dedication to public service.
Badugu (Takau Ward), was a former aspirant, Kaduna State House of Assembly, Jema’a constituency
Aiyedatiwa Flags Off Construction of New High Court Named After Akeredolu
Fidelis David in Akure
Governor of Ondo State, Mr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has flag-off the construction of the new High Court Complex (Judiciary Village), named after the former Governor of the State, late Oluwarotimi Akeredolu.
This was as family, friends and political associates gathered to mark the first anniversary of the death of the former governor at St Andrew’s Anglican Church in Owo.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, Aiyedatiwa described the project as a
historic milestone for Ondo State and emphasised his administration’s unwavering commitment to the advancement of justice and the welfare of judicial officers in the state.
The Governor announced that the project was named after Akeredolu because it was under his leadership the vision for the project was conceived.
The Governor said: “This is a milestone celebration as we flag off the construction of a New High Court Complex in our dear state. Since the creation of Ondo State in 1976, no attempt has been made to provide a modern edifice for the
administration of justice. Today, we are not only making history but also fulfilling a long-standing dream of the judiciary.
“This development is the actualization of the dream and vision of our late leader, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu. It was his desire to provide a state-of-the-art High Court Complex to enhance the workload and welfare of our judiciary. Naming this project the Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu Judiciary Complex is a fitting way to immortalise his legacy,” he said.
Aiyedatiwa also highlighted the importance of embarking on the project
despite financial challenges.
“Let me state with all sense of responsibility that we are embarking on this project at this time not because the state is too buoyant financially but because of our commitment to providing a good working environment with modern facilities that will enhance the welfare of our judicial officers, workers, and people seeking justice, with the overall aim of speeding up the dispensation
of justice in Ondo State,” he said.
Highlighting the features of the Judiciary Village, the Governor said, “This complex will include a ceremonial court, modular courts, a registry, a library, exhibition buildings, a utility building, and modern parking facilities. It is designed to create a conducive environment for the administration of justice and to speed up the dispensation of justice in Ondo State.”
L-r: Children of the deceased, Oladele Latunji, Omobolaji Latunji, Olumuyiwa Latunji, Omolola Awosika and bukky Latunji during the burial service for late mrs Olufunmilayo Christiana Latunji (nee majekodunmi) at the Holy Trinity Anglican Church, Ikate, Surulere, Lagos.. recently
L-r: Former General manager, Zenith bank and daughter of the deceased, ms. bukky Latunji; Founder, rose of Sharon Foundation, Apostle Folorunsho Alakija; and former Executive Director, Exxonmobil, mr Jide Agbabiaka, during the burial service for late mrs Olufunmilayo Christianah Latunji at the Holy Trinity Anglican Church, Ikate, Surulere, Lagos... recently
L-r marketing Activations manager, beiersdorf Nigeria, Oluwadamilola Adeyemi; Country manager, Oladele Adeyole; brand manager Central East and West African region, Nnenna Onoh; General manager Central East and West African region, mathieu Levasseur; marketing Intern, Olumide Alfred; and Shopper Insight and Analytics Specialist, Laraba mibwala at the SAbI school activation campaign in Lagos.. recently
L-r, One of the Guests, Lady rose John; guest, Dr. (mrs.) Jennifer Odutola; and the Co- Founder, michael and Cecilia Ibru University, Dr. (mrs.) Cecilia Ibru, at the 2024 Ibru’s Get-together in Ikoyi Lagos …recently
Sani
•Tourism •Arts&Culture
Charles Ajunwa
• 08064268968 • ajunwacharles@gmail.com
As Continental Hotels Shares Expansion Plan
The Group General Manager, Continental Hotels, Karl Hala and General Manager, Lagos Continental, Christoph Schleissing, recently unveiled projects already embarked on at the Lagos and Abuja hotels aimed at leaving enduring legacies and memories with guests and tourists, writes Charles Ajunwa
As I walked into the Lagos Continental Hotel that Morning after the usually detailed security checks through a smaller door as maintenance work was ongoing at the main entrance, guests and tourists were already checking in and out seamlessly with their luggage well arranged on the ground floor lobby. Within and outside the imposing structure on Abayomi Street, Victoria Island, there was this aura of fecundity in the air.
The Group General Manager, Continental Hotels, Karl Hala, General Manager, Lagos Continental, Christoph Schleissing and other senior staff by 11 a.m. prompt were on the third-floor venue of the meeting to welcome us. As the lift opened, we were warmly received with pleasantries exchanged before breakfast was served.
Hala, who has lived in Nigeria for 16 years with his family, hit the ground running by unveiling the reason for the meeting. According to him, Lagos Continental Hotel and Abuja Continental both formerly Intercontinental and Sheraton respectively, epitomise the luxury and lifestyle hospitality in Nigeria.
“Together we have 947 elegantly big-sized rooms and suites and they do offer you unparalleled comfort. You know when you come somewhere, you have a feeling, like you just mentioned, in Asmara, when you feel, ah, I have arrived!
“That is Continental. So what they offer is this unique experience that reflects this rich culture and diversity of Nigeria. What else we have and which is extremely iconic are our convention, media and banquet facilities. Both hotels have 5,000 square metres of meeting space, and can accommodate up to 3,500 delegates. Important to note, both are top state-of-the-art, both are pillarless, both have been refurbished recently, both are the centre for best conferencing in Nigeria, whether it’s the government enhancement delegation conference, whether it’s corporate gatherings, weddings or board meetings. So we provide all of that. It’s flexible, versatile and it’s covered by the best teams in the country.
“To further support this, we just opened the Ladi Kwali Sports Village in Abuja. And that is a place which features sports facilities from tennis courts, volleyball, squash and table tennis. And a brand new gym which just opened last month (November).together with the gym in Lagos, which will enhance both of them, absolute top of fitness anything you wish within the technology.
“So this Ladi Kwali building the sports facilities we added two paddle and two pickleball courts. So, when I was first told paddle built I said of course. So I went back and googled paddle. Paddle is the fastest growing sport in Africa and in Europe. But it has existed since the 60s in the US.
“So are pickles. Now you can see it coming all over. So we have that in our premises in Abuja. So that serves as a hub for team-bonding and
the togetherness and brainstorming for smaller groups, bigger groups. You want to have your visions for the next three years to come.
“You work this and you can build in addition fun exercises. You can have this creativity and fun together. But you do the brainstorming sessions. You come up and challenge your mindset by being fit.
“So it’s physical health and health creates future success for your team and for your company. That really has fostered teamwork and collaboration amongst all bodies. Whether it’s the big companies, whether it’s Oriflame or the MVCs or governmental bodies or the UNs, whoever it is, this is the way forward. And we are triggering this success through and through this new Ladi Kwali Village. And then we have a very impressive selection of culinary options in both hotels across 12 restaurants and bars.
“We offer the finest Nigerian and international
kitchen. And now the challenge. Michelin star. Michelin star is the pinnacle of acknowledgement being the best in the restaurant business. Do you know how many Michelin star restaurants there are in Africa? All over the world, they are in their thousands, but not in Africa. All over the world they are. In their thousands, but not in Africa. So I looked around and there are between LA, London and Dubai eight Nigerian restaurants. And one of them got a Michelin star. It’s Adejoke Bakare, the first black lady in the UK to be awarded. The restaurant is called Chisuru. Challenge through the media, the Mishla guide. Africa, we are here. If you take the story, this is an interesting ending, it has to do with Yam, yeah? So the ancient lore of the humble Nigerian Yam in all different variations. And we have it all over. We created. Now, if we can have success in LA, in Dubai, and in London, therefore, why not here. Shall we take it up
together? We help, we push.’
Talking about the festive season which he described as “festive wonderland, festive continental,” adding, “We are to celebrate. It’s a very joyous season. And I must say, I’ve come to Nigeria for the last 16 years, and it has become very joyous. Decorations are there, events are there, you feel more mellow.
Hala, who acknowledged the two hotels in Abuja and Lagos are finishing on a strong note economically in the last five months, said Abuja of course celebrates as well from gingerbread houses to amazing landscaping.
“So when you come into Abuja because of the 14 hectares, it is a festive Christmas land you’re going to be overwhelmed with. When you come through, you will celebrate between the Christmas Eve’s because here one celebrates on the 25th at lunch, correct? So where we come from, 24th in the evening, so we celebrate both of those.
“So they have wine pairings in the evenings, lavish Christmas, Santa lunches on the 25th, and then get ready for the crossovers on the 31st, where it will be between the restaurants and the pool bar. And the swimming pool has just been reopened. Brand new dialing, decking, whatsoever. Again, another brand new feature for us in Abuja.
“And then they have very exclusive staycation packages. Makes families welcome to bring their family along and enjoy the sports village, the culinaries, the swimming pool, or just a walk, I want to say in the park, but it is like a park actually. We have a coconut garden, we have a lot of greens and all this around. This is the difference between Abuja and Lagos, the tranquility of Abuja. Greens, the hills, mountains around. It’s an amazing picture. I love both.
“We also have Santa surprises for the children, workshops, cooking, everything around Abuja will offer. So similar to Lagos Abuja, just come, see and enjoy and relax. It’s the place to be for families this Christmas and then the crossover of course will be sensational. Not just fireworks, the fireworks will be on a culinary level with the entertainers, the singing, the dancing. And then we put a bit of light into the air, crossover.
“For the next event, March, April, before Easter, we want to talk a little bit about academies, development, and how to bring the best skill set out of our teams. Don’t forget, indirectly and directly with Continental Hotels, we have over 1,700 colleagues. So we do have a platform we want to work with and we want to develop. Because the striving talent in Nigeria is always exciting. There is an eagerness to learn, to see, to perform. Now we want to make sure we realise it to the best with all the platforms which we can offer.It means the engagement with our employees comes to the best and up to the strengthening of the leadership. But we’ll discuss this in much more detail with much more exciting news like our own Academy just before Easter.
Goethe Institut Nigeria, Sahara Centre Train 12 Creatives on Art Space Negotiations
Goethe Institut Nigeria and Sahara Centre recently organised the Art Space Projects Presentation and Exhibition for 12 young Nigerian creatives drawn from different disciplines especially artists, architects and photographers after six months of rigorous trainings on art Space negotiations which took place in some parts of Lagos. The team also produced the first-ever tool kit which will help future creatives on how to either negotiate or renegotiate spaces in different parts of Nigeria and make them religiously, economically and socially viable.
The initiator of the idea, Kolawole Oludamilare, a Programme Coordinator at the institute and Coordinator of the Arts Space Negotiation Project, said what inspired him was when he discovered many art spaces closing down, especially the African Arts Foundation, “and some spaces that I knew when i was coming into Lagos, art spaces that are free, and art spaces that you can create. I saw these art spaces closing down and other major research showed that we don’t have what ought to have creative
of
spaces. Of course, there was this pressure on spaces that are not making immediate profits to close down. We started thinking of how to creatively think about the art and the space
in a way that we will in some few years in Lagos tackle the issue of art desert spaces. If you look at all of the communities in Lagos except the Island, art spaces are not part where
we originally built our communities. You see churches, mosques, beer parlours, car wash spaces, you see every other space but you don’t see an art space.
“As a worker here (Goethe Institut), when foreigners come and they ask where can we screen this or where can we do this? We can only mention a few places, they really want to go into Lagos and experience of course because they hear a lot about the arts in Nigeria. They want to come and experience and unfortunately there are no spaces to host all of these spaces that they hear about. So that is the idea behind this project of negotiating spaces because we know that we can compete to get spaces. How can we negotiate to make sure that the idea of art space doesn’t go into extinction in Lagos.” Speaking on criteria for selection of fellowship members, he said though new to everybody, “we are looking for a creative way to address the issue. So we picked from architects, arts entrepreneurs and artists. The idea of space is what some governments and private organisations are now putting into their programmes because nobody thought about state space before now. We wanted a diverse creative society.
L-r: Assistant Director, Sales and Marketing, Lagos Continental, Caroline wilson-Obasa; Group General Manager, Continental Hotels, Karl Hala; General Manager, Lagos Continental, Christoph Schleissing; and Director of rooms, Lagos Continental, Cuthbert Onuoha, during a press conference in Lagos
A staff of Lagos Continental displaying how wine turns to 24 carat gold
L-r: Members
the Advisory Board of Lantern Art Space programme, executive Director, The Sahara Centre, Dr. Adun Okupe; Director, Lagos State Council for Arts and Culture, Mr. Idowu Johnson; Director, Goethe Institut, Dr. Nadine Siegert; CTO, plenty Tech Jobs Africa, Mr. Tolu Adelowo; and Chief resilience Officer, Lagos resilience Office, Dr. Folayinka Dania, at the presentation and exhibition on art space negotiations held at Goethe Institut, Victoria Island, Lagos
The ChUMMIeS
Nord Wins CNG-powered Mini-bus, SUV Awards
Fast growing indigenous auto company, Nord Automobiles, received two remarkable awards at the recently held 13th edition of the Nigeria Auto Journalists Association (NAJA) Award.
The award held at the Oriental hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, was graced by top auto industry players as well as other stakeholders.
Nord Automobiles, founded by a young enterprising Nigerian, Mr. Tobi Ajayi, went home with two of the famous awards, namely: CNG-powered mini-bus brand of the year and a special recogniition for the Nord A9, launched by the company into the local market earlier in the year.
Tobi Ajayi, who is the Executive Chairman of the company, said the recognition was a testimony to the acceptance of the brand in Nigeria.
He said the company’s investment in the CNG technology was its own way of supporting the CNG initiative of the President Bola Tinubu administration.
According to him, the Nord brand is fast becoming a household name, even as its patronage is growing both within the public and private sectors.
The Nord A9 is a three row Sports Utility vehicle (SUV) that can easily go for a family car, boosting ample leg room in the interior and generous ground clearance with its 2,820 mm wheel base.
With a fantastic fuel efficient capacity of 8.2 litre/100km, the SUV comes with modern sound system and latest auto electronics and info mechanisms for the comfort of occupants. It also comes with a self-park option.
Nord Automobiles is a leading Nigerian automobile manufacturer dedicated to producing high-quality vehicles tailored towards the needs of the customers. With a commitment to innovation, reliability, and
sustainability, Nord says it aims to drive Nigeria’s automotive industry forward while making a positive impact on society.
The company says its focus is on “delivering quality expertise in the value chain – which includes designing, sourcing, development, assembling, distribution, marketing, provision of sales and after-sales service of our unique Nigerian branded automobiles.
“Our fleet of Nigerian branded vehicles include the Nord Tank, Nord Max, Nord
Aside from the assembly and distribution of quality automobiles, the company says it also provides services such as Scheduled Maintenance Services, Warranty Coverage, 24/7 Roadside Assistance, Genuine Parts and Accessories, Technical Support, Customer Feedback and Improvement, Exclusive Offers and Promotions.
FG Deploys LSM-branded CNG Buses for Airport Shuttle
The Federal Government has began the deployment of LSM-branded 100 percent Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses in the nation’s airports for passengers’ shuttle.
The first batch of the CNGpowered buses has been received at the Murtala Muhammed Airport, Lagos by officials of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), led by its Managing Director, Mrs Olubunmi Oluwaseun Kuku.
Speaking during the unveiling of the buses at the Lagos airport, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Management, Festus Keyamo, said the deployment was in line with the directive of President Bola Tinubu.
He said it was part of Nigeria’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and meeting global climate targets.
“What you see here today is a fleet of CNG buses for FAAN to commence passenger movement at all our airports immediately,” the minister said.
He said the newly acquired CNG-powered LSM buses unveiled at the Lagos airport are
eco-friendly with zero emission and designed with accessibility features for persons with disabilities.
The deployment, he added, was in compliance with the President’s goal of reducing reliance on traditional fossil fuels of petrol and diesel and promoting sustainable use of CNG to power vehicles in the country.
The introduction of the CNG to power automobiles is one of the Federal Government’s initiatives to ease the impact of fuel subsidy removal on the masses.
The CNG buses, according to the Managing Director of Lanre Shittu Motors, Taiwo Shittu, come in two specifications: a 31-seater for airport shuttle services and a 54-seater for mass transit city buses.
He said they had been equipped with modern amenities, including air conditioning, viewing screens, and charging stations.
With the introduction of the CNG buses, he said LSM aimed to provide a more sustainable and efficient transportation solution not only for Lagos but other parts of the country.
Coscharis Motors Showcases Locally Manufactured Abro Products at Abuja International Motor Fair
Coscharis Motors Plc received resounding accolades at the recently concluded Abuja International Motor Fair, where it showcased its locally produced range of Abro automotive products. The event highlighted Coscharis Motors’ commitment to quality, innovation, and the development of local content in Nigeria’s automotive industry.
Speaking during the presentation, Dr. Uzor Obuzor, Head of Auto Care/Consumer Products Division, Coscharis Motors Plc, emphasized the significance of the Abro brand in the Nigerian market. “Abro has grown to become a household name in the Nigerian automotive lubricants market due to its superior quality products,” Obuzor remarked.
He also announced that the strong partnership between Coscharis Motors and Abro Industries, coupled with the increasing acceptance of the Abro brand among Nigerians, has facilitated local production. “Based on the confidence reposed in Coscharis and the ever-growing Abro products consumer base in Nigeria, Abro has consented to producing some of its products locally, leading to the produc-
some Abro automobile lubricants are now produced locally.
The NADDC is committed to supporting initiatives like this to enhance local capacity and increase local content in the automotive industry,” Osanipin said.
At the Motor Fair, Coscharis Motors showcased an extensive range of Abro products, including motor oil, oil treatment, automatic transmission fluid (ATF), body fillers, masking tapes, air fresheners, spray paints, and dashboard polish.
Abro products are manufactured by ABRO Industries Incorporated, USA, a globally recognized company producing household cleaning items, automotive maintenance lubricants, vehicle service parts, PVC tapes, spray paints, and more. In Nigeria, Abro is exclusively represented by Coscharis Motors Plc.
The Director General of the Nigerian Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), Mr. Joseph Osanipin, lauded the local production initiative, calling it a pivotal step for the industry. “I am delighted that
l-r: Director General, National Automotive Design & Development Council, NADDC, Mr. Joseph osanipin; Head, Auto Care/Consumer products Division, Coscharis Motors plc, Dr. uzor obuzor; Managing Director, BKG exhibitions ltd, Mr. Ifeanyi Agwu, during the exhibition of ABro products, by Coscharis Motors plc, at the Abuja International Motor Fair, in Abuja… recently tion of some products, including the Motor Oil, in Nigeria. We are excited to assure our customers that the quality of these locally made products matches Abro products anywhere in the world,” Obuzor stated.
Coscharis Motors Plc is a leading player in the Nigerian automotive sector, renowned for its commitment to providing innovative mobility solutions, and the exclusive representative of Abro Industries Incorporated in the country. Known for its partnerships with global brands, the Coscharis continues to drive innovation and customer satisfaction.
Nord A9
lSM-branded CNG buse
Tusk, Nord Flit, Nord A3 Sedan, Nord A5 SUV, Nord A7 SUV, Nord A9, Nord Yarn, Nord Tripper, Nord Demir and more.”
“OIL, gas service providers exiting Nigeria in droves, IPPG raise (raises) the alarm” For elucidation: IPPG represents the Independent Petroleum Producers Group. “…will complete critical infrastructure (infrastructural) projects that will stimulate economic growth and improve the living standard of Nigerians.” Please note: ‘infrastructure’, by all ramifications, is a noun and cannot function—in any circumstance—as an adjective! The adjectival form is ‘infrastructural’. This is basic and should not be a challenge even to a kindergartner, let alone an Editorial Board of a frontline newspaper!
“May her gentle soul rest in the bossom of the Lord Amen.” A rewrite: May her gentle soul rest in the Lord’s bosom (note the spelling and the next full-stop). Amen.
THE NATION ON SUNDAY of October 1 circulated numerous poisoned slips starting from its front page: “KSB: I will marry again if…” Truth in defence of freedom: I will remarry if…
“Otti, who congratulated the new commissioner for (on/upon) the elevation….”
“The accident, which occurred around (about) 6.30am (6.30 a.m.), was the worst in the locality in a decade.” ‘Around’ in timing is sheer Americanism!
“Fifteen of the youth died while several of them have (had) fractures and are (were) being attended to at government (the government) hospital in the….”
“Sources said the deceased might be given mass burial since they are (were) from the same village.”
“May God continue to bless you, give you wisdom and good health beyond measures (measure).”
Finally, THE NATION ON SUNDAY of November 5: “The era of harassments from NYDC, a federal agency, has finally been put paid to by that landmark judgment.” ‘Harassment’, unlike ‘embarrassment’, is uncountable.
THISDAYfrontandinsidepagesofAugust10indulged in grammatical crudity trebly:Window headline: “Nigerian crude oil exports to hit 1.94m bpd in September” The intro: “Nigeria’s crude Oil (sic—abuse of capital letter)
export, excluding condensates (another comma) will hit 1.94 million barrels per day by September….” The Saturday Newspaper: ‘by September’ implies, possibly, August, September or October, while the headline says ‘in September’! So, which is the correct version: by or in…?
“THISDAYgathered (just tell readers what the medium ‘gathered’!)thatthevictims—sixofthem—wereabducted by the gunmen at about 7.00am (7.00 a.m.) on their way to work….” Can publications ever be specific on time? Either: at or about a particular time. ‘At’ and ‘about’ cannot function in the same environment—except in informal entries: at or about 7 a.m.
“Bayelsa govt invests N1.17bn on (in) aquaculture farms”
“…he explained that attacks by Boko Haram on churches is (why?) not a vendetta against Christians, but a political tool.”
Lastly from THISDAY COVER under review: “We should be very careful because many of the people who are now jumping into the APC bandwagon are ex-PDP members.” Between APC and PDP: climb/jump/ get on (not into) the bandwagon. Or, worse still: ‘join the bandwagon’!
“We have a lot of youths, millions of them, that are yet be (yet to be) attended to in the Niger Delta.”
“Governor Fubara of Rivers State must brace up for more trouble from the opposition in the days and months ahead….” (Contributed by Charles Okogene) The embattled governor must brace for—not ‘brace up for’!
“They died when the vehicle they were travelling in somersaulted after the front tyre bursted (burst).”
Past tense and past participle: burst
“The governor noted that their deaths (death) has again brought to the front burner….”
Finally fromTHE NATION ON SUNDAY under review: “That message need (needs) to be avoided….”
Next is THISDAY of August 3, also beginning from its front page: “…suspected to be member (a member) of the terrorist organization (organization, preferably), al-Qaeda.”
“To download (a comma) visit your favourite app
Finally, we have come to the end of the year 2024, and the final chapter in our celebration of genuine change agents in the Nigerian entertainment world. For the past three weeks, we have concentrated attention on the remarkable life and impact of a journalist cut short by the cold hands of death at mere 30 years of age. We conclude our citations of the second set of awardees at the just concluded Wale Olomu Memorial Awards (WOMA 2024)... with a hint that the New Year would not only be prosperous and positively eventful, but that more hidden gems whose pioneering or painstaking investment in the growth of Nigerian entertainment could not be overlooked, would be identified, recognized and celebrated. Here are our final roll call of honorees:
oLuFEMI aDErIbIGbE (kWaME) - Media Executive, broadcaster & Pioneer of nigerian Entertainment
Femi Aderibigbe, widely celebrated as Kwame, is a visionary media executive, broadcaster, and entertainment industry pioneer whose impact reverberates across Nigeria’s music, television, and radio sectors. With over two decades of transformative contributions, Kwame has emerged as one of the architects of contemporary Nigerian entertainment, using his platform to amplify African music, culture, and storytelling on a global scale.
Kwame’s journey began in radio broadcasting, where his distinctive voice, magnetic personality, and unwavering passion for music garnered a dedicated audience. His transition into television marked a new era in African media, as he founded Nigezie, Nigeria’s first urban music and lifestyle channel. Nigezie has been instrumental in spotlighting African talent, showcasing Nigerian music videos, and serving as a launchpad for some of today’s most prominent African artists.
As a tastemaker and trailblazer, Kwame has played a pivotal role in the global rise of Afrobeats, redefining artist promotion and innovating content creation. His entrepreneurial acumen and visionary leadership have solidified
store” and “for more information (a comma, again!) log on to….”
“Many African countries like Sierra Leone are looking up to Nigeria for a bale out (sic)….” Commentary: bailout
“Abia and armed-chair critics” Insight: arm-chair critics
“For Mrs. Obioma Imoke, it’s another feather to her cap” A rewrite: For Obioma Imoke, it’s a feather in her cap
“…they are coming with much more (many more) new aircrafts (aircraft) and state of the art (state-of-the-art) private aircraft….”
“Born same (the same) day to same (the same) parents….”
“The strike action definitely will compound the security situation in the country.” Remove ‘action’ in the interest of scholarship.
“Nigerian universities have continued to go down in rating with its (there) antiquated and obsolete scientific equipments….” ‘Equipment’, like ‘stationery’ and ‘cutlery’, is non-count.
“…held recently at (on) the institution’s main campus served many purposes.”
“…you always want those type of players in your team.” Sport journalism: this type of players or those types of players—depending on context.
“AMC has set up series (a series) of activities….”
“…a major setback for (to) marketing practice in (on) the continent.”
“Astymin brilliance reward: Sustaining long term equity” Brands & Marketing: long-term equity
“Navy arrests oil bunkering syndicate” Community Mirror: oil-bunkering syndicate
“Forum calls for co existence (co-existence) in Ondo”
“…whereas European leagues are getting set to kick-off for 2023/2024 season.” Phrasal verbs do not admit hyphenation. Insight: kick off.
Finally from the Back Page of DailyTrust of November 25 comes the last set of gaffes: “Majority (A majority) of the reported 5,000 Nigerians who….”
“The WHO said that approximately 15 million people worldwide have (had) active tuberculosis.”
“…people drink from streams due to the absence of portable (potable) water.”
Honours To Quiet Change Agents - 2 Remarry, Not ‘Marry Again’
his status as a cornerstone of the Nigerian entertainment industry. Passionate about youth empowerment, he has mentored the next generation of African talent, inspiring excellence and originality.
For his groundbreaking achievements, unwavering vision, and enduring commitment to African media and entertainment, the WOMA Steering Committee proudly bestows the SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARD upon Femi Aderibigbe (Kwame) for his outstanding contributions to the growth of the entertainment industry.
EDI LaWanI - Pioneer, Visionary, Mentor
Edi Lawani, fondly referred to as the “godfather of showbiz,” is one of Nigeria’s most respected figures in the entertainment industry. With over four decades of dedication, Lawani has set the gold standard for live event production and management in Africa. His career, marked by professionalism, innovation, and excellence, has solidified his position as a key architect of Nigeria’s thriving entertainment ecosystem.
He is the Head Consultant at Kukuruku Inc., a total entertainment production and management company, as well as Showbiz Network Services Ltd. and Paragonis MultiMedia Productions. Lawani is also the founder of Órúpèzá Festivals, a unique, needs-based hybrid initiative fostering community-driven entertainment. His multifaceted career has seen him serve as a university undergraduate events promoter, journalist, teacher, artist manager, and music administrator with the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN). These experiences laid the foundation for his current role as a “special event consultant.”
Lawani has worked with or contributed to projects featuring renowned artists and events, including Onyeka Onwenu, Angélique Kidjo, Awilo Logomba, 2Baba and Plantashun Boyz, Trybesmen, and Ras Kimono. He has also been instrumental in organizing landmark events such as Lekki Sunsplash, Star Mega Jam concerts (featuring R. Kelly, Shaggy, Busta
“…deep thought and practical wisdom which more matured (mature) people are more amendable (amenable) to.”
“As this year’s World Population Day was being commemorated at (in) Abuja, the Minister of Health alerted the nation about (to) the spate of teenage pregnancies.”
“…Nigeria is considerably significant to enter into direct contact with makers of vaccines with a view to negotiate (negotiating) favourable (a favourable) cost and a more efficient delivery mechanism.”
“With gratitude to God for a life well spent, the entire management and members of staff of…sends (send) her (their) condolence (condolences) to the family of our chairman….”
“We are leaking in various holes towards various leanings and we still are lacking in leadership that has any model to solve our miriad (myriad) of problems.”
“…development media practitioner (professional)….”
“In the eyes and reckoning of every Imo citizens, there has only been two administrations in the state.” Every Imo citizen or all Imo citizens…and this: there have (not has) only been two administrations in the state.
“NPA commends FG over (for) port reforms”
“Nigeria’s aviation industry witnessed some changes during the administration of late Musa Umar Yar’dua….” This way: the administration of the late….
“After four years of solid performance on the saddle…” Let God’s will be done: in the saddle.
“Some states have seized the opportunity to make waves….” It is only in America and Nigeria that opportunities are seized. In New (Formal/Standard) English environments, you either use or take opportunities. ‘Seize’ inseparably involves the use of some measure of force or deployment of violence.
“Gowon, others pay last respect to…” No news: last respects.
“It is perhaps in this light that the series of consultative meeting....” Folk (popular) etymology: the series of consultative meetings.
Rhymes, and Nas), Rothmans Mega Groove Concert Tour (with Caron Wheeler, Via B, and Stacy Phipps), and AfroChella (Ghana) with Burna Boy, Asake, and Shatta Wale. His expertise has been sought after for productions like Lagos New Year Countdown, Kilimanjaro concerts (with Boyz II Men, Joe, and Sean Paul), Star Quest Talent Hunt, Coke Studio (Kenya), West African Idols, MTV Nigeria’s launch, Miss Nigeria, Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria, Google Africa Day, and the Airtel rollout in Nigeria, among others.
Renowned for his expertise in event production and stage management, Lawani has played pivotal roles as Show Producer, Consultant, Adviser, or Director for prestigious events like AMVCA, The Headies, Sound City MVP Awards, Fame Music Awards, St. Moritz Style Awards, AMAA, CAF Awards (Ghana), Gulder Ultimate Search, Big Brother Naija, and many more. His meticulous approach and innovative ideas have elevated live music and performance culture, setting benchmarks that continue to inspire and influence generations.
Beyond his technical prowess, Edi Lawani is a committed mentor, consultant, and visionary leader, guiding countless emerging talents and professionals in the entertainment and event production industry. His collaborations with leading brands, artists, and organizers reflect his unwavering commitment to excellence and his deep understanding of media, public relations, and the evolving landscape of show business.
For his immense contributions to African entertainment, live event innovation, and youth mentorship, the WOMA Steering Committee proudly honours Edi Lawani with the SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARD for his outstanding achievements in the industry.
GLorIa rhoDES - Educator, Musician, advocate Gloria Rhodes is a remarkable figure whose life has seamlessly blended a passion for education, music, and child advocacy. Born on April 7, 1954, in Hamburg, Germany, to the legendary musician Elder Steve Rhodes, and Gilda Spath, Gloria grew up immersed in the vibrant worlds of creativity and culture, splitting her early
years between Lagos and Ibadan. Her father’s groundbreaking role as Africa’s first Director of Programmes for television laid the foundation for Gloria’s lifelong commitment to excellence and innovation.
A certified educator and accomplished musician, Gloria studied Education at the prestigious Froebel Institute (now Roehampton University) in London, specializing in music. Her musical journey began at an early age, earning certifications in music theory from the Royal College of Music and voice training from a member of the worldrenowned Bach Choir. As a foundation member of the Steve Rhodes Voices, she represented Nigeria on international stages, notably winning accolades at the Eisteddfod Music Festival in Wales. Over the years, Gloria has collaborated with icons like Ebenezer Obey, Ayo Bankole, and Miatta Fahnbulleh, among others, enriching Nigeria’s music legacy.
In the classroom and beyond, Gloria’s dedication to children has been unwavering. From her early years as a teacher’s aide at St. Saviour’s School, Ikoyi, to her leadership roles at Ikoyi Nursery School, Corporate Kids Academy, and Temple Schools, she has nurtured generations of learners. Her advocacy extends to initiatives supporting underprivileged children through organizations like The Purple Girl Foundation, United for Kid, and Equipped 2Excel, while also serving as Executive Director of the Steve Rhodes Foundation, preserving Nigeria’s rich musical heritage.
For her outstanding contributions to education, music, and child advocacy, the WOMA Steering Committee is proud to present Gloria Rhodes with the LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD, celebrating her lifelong commitment to empowering young minds and preserving Africa’s cultural legacy.
(the End)
GLOBAL SOCCER
Lifting Hopes of Kids at Xmas
GLOBAL SOCCER
w ilfred Ndidi Lifting Hopes of Kids at Xmas
If I had this same opportunity in my days, my football breakthrough would probably have happened earlier
He flew into Nigeria from the United Kingdom onThursday morning (Boxing Day) just to fulfill one obligationput smiles on the faces of over 2,000 school children fromAjeromi-Ifelodun LGA during this festive season by showering them with gifts and identifying with them.The Super Eagles defensive midfielder tells Kunle Adewale that if he was given the same opportunity- to identify with star players and be exposed to good pitches like the Maracana Stadium,Ajegunle,his football career would have blossomed long before it did and he probably would be a better player,‘who knows’.He also expresses his belief in Nigeria’s ability to book the 2026World Cup ticket in spite of the team’s precarious position in the six-team table and many more
For Super Eagles and Leicester City defensive midfielder, Wilfred Ndidi, spending Christmas season with over 2,000 children in Ajegunle does not only give him joy but fulfilment.
“This is a project where we try to put smiles on the faces of the children and letting them have wonderful memories of the season. We did one in July, in which I played football with them, but now we’re trying to create good memories of the Christmas period. Seeing them smiling is a thing of joy and it lives long in their memories.
“Christmas is such a magical time, and I believe that these kids deserve to experience that joy. The happiness you see across their faces is something truly special. When you do something kind for adults, they appreciate it internally. But for kids, their joy radiates and influences the adults around them, encouraging a cycle of kindness,” Ndidi expressed.
Asked if it was not too much of a sacrifice for him to fly into the country on Thursday and return to the United Kingdom the next day just to associate with these kids during this festive season, he said, “There is no sacrifice too much to put smiles to these little ones. This day would linger in their memories for a long time to come if not forever. I’m a product of the academy, J-League, but for some time now the focus on the kids had been lost, rather the focus is on the end product. But if we focus on the kids more and develop them under a good atmosphere, it will prepare them better for the future and this is what we’re trying to achieve,” the Leicester City midfielder noted.
On whether he had this kind of opportunity while growing up, Ndidi, who admitted growing up in the Barracks, where such opportunities are rare said, “if I had something close to this where I can meet with star players and the opportu-
nity to play on a pitch like the Maracana Stadium, Ajegunle, probably my football career would have blossomed earlier than it did and who knows, ‘maybe I might even be a better player (smiles).”
“The aim is to create lasting memories for them, especially since many of us didn’t have such experiences when we were young. It’s crucial to foster these moments for the younger generation.
“For me, Christmas was rather uneventful while growing up; it felt like any other day. We’d share food with our neighbours, if we could, with the highpoint being the new Christmas clothes, which connotes the festive period.”
Host and Chairman Nathaniel Idowu Foundation Chief Yemi Idowu, on his part hailed Ndidi for the gesture, saying, “This is part of something we do every year to try and celebrate with the kids, especially because we are here in Ajegunle and they are our friends. I am very happy to have the king of the community, the Chairman of Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government, Fatai Ayoola and Wilfred to support us in doing this. It has a bigger impact when we all work together.”
Ayoola, on his part, noted that the role of the authority was mainly crowd control.
“What we have done is to first accredit them from the LGA secretariat and we drove the kids into this venue. We also made arrangements for those who would come unannounced to the Maracana Park, as they would equally be taken care of as much as those inside so we can have a perfect party.
“It’s a back-to-back celebration for the kids of Ajegunle and we are elated to host Ndidi,” Ayoola noted.
The former NAT Boys of Lagos player said he could have as well done such project in the UK, but decided to do it in Nigeria where it’s much more needed, appreciated and beneficial.
“I’m a Nigerian, I grew up here. This is my fatherland. And why would I want to do it over there (UK) where there are many opportunities for the kids, unlike here where such opportunities are limited. So, I believe that the kids in Nigeria need it more.
“Ajegunle has been home to many great players like Odion Ighalo and many others. By giving back in this area instils hope and inspiration in them,” Ndidi said.
Considering the precarious position of the Super Eagles on the World Cup qualifying table where they are placed fifth on the six-team table after managing just three points from four matches, many soccer loving Nigerians have rightly lost hope in the country hoisting its flag at the 2026 World Cup to be jointly hosted by the United States of America, Canada and Mexico. But the 28-year-old said all hope is not lost.
“Our performance in the AFCON qualifiers has fueled our confidence as we approach the World Cup qualifiers. Although we had a rocky start, it’s time to move on. Cohesion is essential, and we need to treat every match as a must-win. We can’t afford to let any opportunity slip by; our future is determined by how we perform from here on.”
The midfield lynchpin is however unperturbed by the possibility of a new manager for the Super Eagles when the team regroups for the next phase of the World Cup qualifying rounds.
“We’re not worried. Our primary focus is on winning. This is more than just tactics; it’s about a collective and individual desire. We’ve been building on our experiences from the last two AFCON qualifiers. The World Cup is just once in four years event, and we must seize this chance,” Ndidi said optimistically.
With three managers in less than one year at Leicester City and the club threaten by relegation, for Ndidi, the arrival of new manager, Rud van Nistelrooy has brought a renewed hope at the club. “It’s been a great atmosphere since his arrival. He’s an exceptional manager with an inspiring personality, working hard to bring the team together. We’re in a building phase, and it’s only a matter of time before we fully embrace his ideas and start winning games. There are still many matches to be played this season and we’re ready to rise to the challenge.”
Ndidi is indeed confident about Leicester avoiding relegation. “We possess the talent to stay in the league. Things may not be going smoothly right now, but I believe that, with time, we can turn it around.”
Leicester ironically lost to Liverpool on Boxing Day while Ndidi was in Nigeria. He however hopes to be back in the Foxes ranks in the New Year after injury has kept him out of the team.
Super eagles star, wilfred Ndidi, (r) showering children in Ajegunle with gifts on Boxing Day
L-r: Chairman Nathaniel Idowu Foundation, Chief Yemi Idowu, Chairman Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government, Fatai Ayoola and Super eagles star, wilfred Ndidi during the Christmas party organized for children in Ajegunle on Thursday
Marquis: African Military Games Show Nigeria’s Capacity to Host the World
AirVice Marshal Abidemi Marquis is a distinguished officer of the Nigerian Air Force with decades of service marked by exceptional leadership, strategic planning, and dedication to national and continental development. As the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee of the just concluded African Military Games Abuja 2024, he introduced unparalleled experience and a visionary approach to overseeing the historic event. Under his leadership, the African Military Games Abuja 2024 embodied excellence. Beyond his professional achievements, AVM Marquis is a passionate advocate for youth empowerment and community development. He believes in the transformative power of sports to inspire, unite, and uplift societies. His visionary leadership ensured that the African Military Games 2024 was an event to remember, he reflects on the spirit and potential of Africa
As the LOC Chairman, this event was applauded by lots of people, what specifically was your role and that of your team in making sure the event was this successful?
Yea, last year November, the Chief of Defence Staff convened this committee and we were given terms of reference which was clearly spelt out and in summary, the committee was saddled with the responsibility to organise this game and efficiently and effectively execute our plan for a successful African Military Games, so we were also to interact with relevant stakeholders in the sporting ecosystem to ensure, the success of the game. We were also to bring up the financial requirement and every other thing that were required to ensure that Nigeria played host to a very successful African Military Games. So, in a nutshell and as the chairman, we were to chart the strategy that is required to get to the end stage and also to look for the ways and means to get these things achieved. It took lots of coordination, planning, organisation, and controlling etc. It took lots of perseverance and even modelling to ensure that people working with me for this common goal understood the vision and the speed at which every one of them were required to work. I will submit that all members of the LOC did their beats to the best of their ability and that was why every one saw how the games panned out. Everything was like working on
Teenage boxing sensation, Raheem “Badoo” Animashaun, emerged as the star of GOtv Boxing Night 32 on Boxing Day, clinching the N1 million cash prize and the prestigious Mojisola Ogunsanya Memorial Trophy for the Best Boxer of the Night.
The 17-year-old delivered an outstanding performance, securing a technical knockout victory over Hammed “Ese” Ganiyu in their light welterweight bout held at Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos. Badoo set the tone early by knocking down his opponent in the first round before sealing the win decisively in the sixth round.
auto-pilot, everybody knew what to do because even before the African Military Games, a week before that, we tested our plans to see if there were going to be hiccups and doubts and once, we identified lapses, we put measures in place to ensure that those gaps were filled immediately. Even as the game was going on, we were always on alert to fill in the gap wherever necessary. You know that once you plan and have started executing your plan, there are blind spots and unforeseen situations and for those unforeseen situations not to overwhelm us, we quickly put measures in place, I mean counter measures to ensure that we fall in line with the end state of the games.
Besides your team that worked tirelessly for the success of this game, can you specifically mention other institutions that played significant roles to ensure the success of AMGA 2024?
You know this was a multisectoral effort, it was a whole of society approach because you can’t do this massive logistics operations, massive accommodation, transportation, you can’t do it alone. It requires funds and goodwill of people, so for instance, the Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), His Excellency, Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike supported us massively to ensure that the game was successfully conducted, we got full support from the about 18 sports
This victory marks Badoo’s second consecutive Best Boxer award, having previously won the title at the 31st edition in May.
The night, filled with thrilling action, music, and comedy, featured four other exciting bouts. In the only title fight, Rasheed “Fally Boy” Adeyemo was crowned the new national super welterweight champion after a unanimous decision victory over Lateef “Enuoshe” Azeez.
The biggest upsets of the evening came when Jafaru “Tanka” Suleiman knocked out Taiwo “Gentle Boy” Olowu in the second round of their national super welterweight fight.
2024 Balloff Competition Ends in Grand Style
It was football at its best last Saturday, as the 2024 edition of the six-a-side men and women Balloff tournament ended with thrilling excitement at the Syrian Club, Ikoyi, Lagos.
Eight teams comprising of four men and four women participated in the tournament.
These were, ABD FC, Immaculate FC, 2Odds FC and Amsterdam FC, while the female teams include, Asamokee FC, Dream Stars FC, Immaculate FC and Future FC.
federations, swimmers were supported by their federation, all the technical directors of all the federations, they supported us with their technical knowhow and that is why you saw that game was fairly conducted and there was no complaint by any participating nation. What about sponsors, Zenith Bank, Wema Bank, JAC, Borno State, Rivers State, Delta state, among other institutions and governmental agencies too numerous to mention who supported us financially. This game had massive financial overlay, it was by the support of the sponsors and also the will of the Chief of Defence Staff General Musa Christopher to ensure that this games held, it was the will of the Chief of Defence Staff because the financial support that we got from all our sponsors was just about 1/3 of the cost of this games, so the remaining cost was borne by the defence headquarters, so if not for the CDS drive and determination to see that this becomes a legacy, auspicious and historical, the game wouldn’t have held.
The national super flyweight challenge between Akintunde Abolade and Emmanuel Abimbola ended in a draw, while Sikiru “Omo Iya Eleja” Shogbesan delivered a thrilling performance to secure a unanimous decision victory over Imole “System” Oloyede in their national super featherweight fight. Organised by Flykite Productions and proudly sponsored by GOtv, GOtv Boxing Night continues to showcase the best of Nigerian boxing talent while entertain-
In the women’s final it was
the Immaculate side that got the better of Future FC 2-1, while in the men’s final, Amsterdam ensured Immaculate did not achieve the double as the Amsterdammers were lone goal winners.
The two winning teams went home with N400,000 prize money, gold medals and a giant trophy.
Cash prizes were also given to the top scorers of the tournament.
In a chat with THISDAY after the tournament, one
of the co-founders of Balloff, Folajimi Ayodeji said the idea of the Balloff tournament was to create a platform for Nigerian youths both male and female to exhibit their football talents.
“Our mantra is everyone can ball. We believe there are not enough opportunities for Nigerians who have the passion for the game to express their talents. That was why we set this up 13 years ago so that people can play in a conducive, enjoyable environment and also have fun,” Ayodeji said.
Renewed Hope Initiative for Nigeria’s Sports Economy, an Ultimate Game Changer
The re-establishment of the Nigeria Sports Commission (NSC) has been welcomed by various stakeholders in the nations sport, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is upbeat about the new prospects for the growth of the sector, even as he has expressed implicit confidence in the competence and capacity of the NSC leadership, Shehu Dikko, the Chairman, and the DG, Bukola Olapade, to deliver.
In the past few weeks, the duo have been rejigging the direction and framework of our sports to Reset, Refocus and Relaunch the sector as a veritable asset for national development, and with more professional administration and management.
As has been revealed by Shehu Dikko, “The strategic approach of the Renewed Hope Agenda and Shared
The Premier League festive fixture continues with a key match on Monday as Manchester United face Newcastle United at St James’ Park which can be stream live on Showmax. Despite contrasting form and fortunes, both teams have plenty to fight for as they prepare to face off in one of the most anticipated matches of the weekend.
This Premier League festive fixture promises high drama and exciting matches with significant
Prosperity aims to establish sports as a vital pillar of Nigeria’s economy and a unifying factor for national development.”
The repositioning covers the entire sports eco-system with the target of improving on sports infrastructure across the country, eliciting mass participation, greater and more gainful youth engagement, generation of about three million direct, indirect and induced jobs, attainment of about 5% share in global sports export, attraction of foreign direct investments and foreign exchange earnings, and provision of an enabling environment for private sector participation and investments to compliment Government efforts. The target is to steer the sports sector to contribute about 3% to the National Gross Domestic Product and for our
implications for the title race, European qualification, and relegation battles. Football fans can access all Premier League action on Showmax for N3,200 per month Elsewhere, league leaders Liverpool will travel to London to face West Ham UnitedArne Slot’s Reds, which are in good form, having won their last two games convincingly against fairly decent opposition, Tottenham and Leicester City. With a game in hand and a comfortable lead at the top, Liverpool will aim to
national teams to achieve more respectable podium finish in international competitions.
The strategies include institutional repositioning through the restructuring of the sports sector framework, already began with the establishment of the NSC and the ongoing upscaling of the establishing Act to meet global best practices as an enabler for sustainable growth, the restructuring of the sports federations for greater efficiency and effectiveness, and the deepening of Grassroots and Schools Sport to strengthen the foundation of the sector through wider access to sports for the discovery, nurturing and grooming of elite athletes. The goal is ambitious, bold and daring. It is taking the road less travelled, but the strategies already outlined by the NSC gives assurance of its attainment as it is deliberate and focused.
extend their dominance over second-placed Chelsea. The Blues themselves face Ipswich Town in a crucial away fixture on Monday night. The Blues are looking to recover from a disappointing week, which saw them held to a goalless draw by Everton and beaten 2-1 at home by Fulham. Enzo Maresca’s side must rediscover their attacking flair to avoid slipping further behind Liverpool in the title race.
Iyare Emerges Garth Dooley @ 70 Pro/Am Invitational Tourney Champions
Osazee Iyare with a net score of 134 over two days emerged overall champion at the Garth Dooley @ 70 Pro/ Am Invitational Tournament concluded over the weekend at Benin Club Golf Club (BCGS), Edo State.
The five days tournament was sponsored by Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL) to celebrate Garth Dooley, an icon, and a quintessential foreign investor that contributed immensely to the
Nigerian economy and called Benin his home town.
Placing second and third, respectively, in the men’s hcp 0 -18 were Engr Esosa Ojomo and Felix Aganmwonyi, while Jude Igbinadolor won the best gross award with a gross score of 170 over two days as well.
In his address, Chairman, Organising Committee, Mr. Kingsley Okunbor, a former Captain of BCGS described Garth Dooley as a brother whose contributions to the
development of golf in BCGS and other clubs across Nigeria are immeasurable.
“We are very happy to be celebrating one of our own, Garth Dooley, a jolly good fellow with this mega golf tournament. We are grateful to the tournament sponsors, Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited; Captain of BCGS, Joseph Idahosa, aka Zaza, and members for their show of love and support to this great man.
L-r, Director, Balloff, Okechukwu Ofili; co - founder, Balloff, Bidemi Bamgboye; Captain of Immaculate FC of Bariga winners of the female category, Captain of ABD FC of Lekki, winners of the men category, Abdulramad Haruna and co - founder, Balloff, Folajimi Ayodeji during the 14th edition of Balloff annual men and women Football Tournament held at Syrian Club Ikoyi, in Lagos, recently
From L-r: Vice Chairman MultiChoice Nigeria; Fuad Ogunsanya, winner of the Mojisola Ogunsanya Memorial Trophy and N1m cash prize, raheem “Badoo” Animashaun; Chief Operating Officer MultiChoice west Africa, Ayo Ajala in company of Badoo’s siblings during the best boxer prize presentation at GOtv Boxing Night 32 on Thursday
‘Badoo’ Wins N1m Best Boxer Prize at GOtv Boxing Night 32
Man Utd, Newcastle Clash in Crucial Festive Test Live on Showmax
AVp Marquis
Chief of Defence Staff to Sokoto Villagers
“I want to call on everyone not to harbour any suspected criminals in their midst, be it Lakurawa or Bandits, they should expose them and leave their vicinity. We have individuals that still harbour them and once you do that you are making yourself a legitimate target. We will appeal, do not harbour them, do not live with them to avoid being a legitimate target.” – Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, hinted that the villagers were to blame for allegedly harbouring terrorists, insisting that the military would not take any responsibility for attacks on any community hobnobbing with the militants.
TUNDE OLUSUNLE
GUEST COLUMNIST
Enthroning Verbal Civility in Statecraft
The minutes preceding the arrival of former President Olusegun Obasanjo and his deputy, Atiku Abubakar in the council chambers and convening rooms of the State House, Abuja for meetings, were very useful in our time. Those windows of opportunity were pointedly and positively deployed by presidential aides who were not authorised to attend some scheduled meetings. Those who had issues were able to thrash them out with ministers and senior government officials who participated in the meetings. Obasanjo abhorred being hemmed in, in the name of officialdom, unlike some of his successors. He had tremendous stamina, he was open and accessible in the line of duty. He refused to be garrisoned by the structures and trappings of office. He picked his phone calls, minuted on documents from his aides old and young, and even fixed appointments himself. He told a very senior official in his government at a meeting in the early months of his stewardship, that he, Obasanjo, had information to the effect that the top shot’s office was “over militarised.” It was Obasanjo’s way of describing the elaborate security cordon around the office of that senior man, which he as President considered an overkill in a democracy. By the way, the official in question was but a long-serving bureaucrat.
I caught up with Nasir El Rufai, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Administration, (FCTA), at the time, during one of those pre-meeting windows. I complained to him that a property I had somewhere in Wuse Zone 4, Abuja, had been marked for demolition. He studied the document I presented to him and told me that my property was not the only one so scheduled. He reminded me that the Inspector-General of Police, (IGP), at the time, Tafa Balogun, (of blessed memory), was also affected. Yet we had valid approvals from the FCT Department of Development Control, one of the departments under El Rufai’s watch. He admonished me softly, very calmly to arrange to take down the property myself. He said that would save me from being “surcharged by his ministry for the cost of removing an obstruction on a water course!” You should have seen the way I looked at him as though to gobble his head for such cheeky, unfeeling retort to my predicament.
Nasir El Rufai established a reputation as a no-nonsense restorer of the FCT, reinstating it as close as possible to the original masterplan. He was the prototype bulldozer, whose cold-blooded earthmoving equipment humbled the aesthetics and arrogance of castles and mansions in split seconds without a care. I attended a meeting in the State House chaired by Obasanjo where El Rufai told participants that the Aso Villa complex was at an illegal location. The area was originally a “green area” he said, speaking from documents before him.
Trust Obasanjo. The old man cut in and made a joke out of El Rufai’s narrative. Said Obasanjo: “Before I appointed you, I said I was looking for a madman to clean up the FCT. I’m glad l found a good one in you. I will relocate to my farm in Otta while you demolish this place, while you provide another facility where I can do my work!” El Rufai’s style was characterised by “soundproof” practicality, eschewing insults and invectives, beyond threats, abuse and noise making. It is necessary to lay this background as a parallel to the hoopla which tinges the official rhetoric routinely deployed by some officials in the present administration. True they are in a hurry to translate the “renewed hope” mantra of the incumbent government into tangibles. True they crave back slaps and thumbs-up from their employer. The content, colour and context of their communicative register, however, is oftentimes, more suited for wartime or civil unrest, than for clement times. We sure can do with more verbal finesse, more vocalised temperance, more expressive humanness, than presently emit from the throats of some of our public officers. Nyesom Ezenwo Wike’s appointment as Minister of the FCTA, was hailed by many. President Bola Tinubu intentionally unhinged the longstanding stereotype of helmsmen of the ministry always being sourced from the same part of the country. This was in addition to being adherents of the same faith in every instance. I confess in this wise, that Tinubu demonstrated more resolve than his respected kinsman and predecessor, Obasanjo. For context, the three gentlemen who served as FCT ministers under Obasanjo, namely Ibrahim Bunu, (an architect), Mohammed Abba Gana, (an electrical engineer) and Nasir El Rufai, (a quantity surveyor), were all from the north and are all from the same religious inclination.
But here was the same Tinubu who
previously ignored public outcry when he settled for a deputy of the same faith, Kashim Shettima, against popular condemnation, opting for a Christian as FCT points-man. I should hasten to express my grief at the probable present dysfunction under this administration, of the beautiful Aso Villa Chapel, built by Obasanjo in the present power equation. Indeed, the last and only same-faith presidential pairing in Nigeria’s contemporary history was the military duo of Muhammadu Buhari and Tunde Idiagbon which was in office between January 1, 1984 and August 27, 1985. The administration was summarily torpedoed by Ibrahim Babangida and company. Nigeria’s secularism has been consistently adhered to ever since, including under the regime of Sani Abacha, the famous enfant terrible.
Wike came into office with a track record of commitment to the massive infrastructural makeover of Rivers State, his immediate past official address. Abuja had gone sleepy since after the activist superintendence of El Rufai. His four successors before Wike barely impacted on the capital territory, their names and regimes mostly consigned to the “spam” compartment of our collective memories. With their salaries yet unpaid right in the middle of yuletide, employees of the FCTA are nostalgic. They remember the established promptness of the payment of their emoluments by Wike’s immediate predecessor who was in office for eight years, Mohammed Musa Bello. He ensured prompt payments of salaries if that was all he did. Abuja under Wike has re-assumed its erstwhile toga as a sprawling construction site. Projects which were uncompleted by his predecessors are being revisited. Some have been completed and indeed put to use, while work is progressing in other locations. Select rural communities abutting the city centre are also receiving attention.
My interest in this piece is not about Wike’s demolitions in the FCT which has culminated in loud uproars from home owners and residents alike. Wike looks to have come to Abuja with the same jarring verbal preferences which typified his years in Brick House, Port Harcourt, the pseudonym of the Government House in that oil city. Wike grabs a microphone during a church service in the “Garden City” and rails at his opponents with expressions like thunder fire you. Such recklessness. The elegant, cultured Senator representing the FCT, Ireti Kingibe, notes at a media event that Wike had refused her requests to have a meeting with him to discuss the challenges, feelings and expectations of her constituents. This is very much in order. She got into office at the polls at their behest.
Wike retorts with “she’s jealous that she has been seeing me with Philip Aduda her predecessor in office. Is it by force for me to be her friend? I won’t see her and I cannot see her.” This is plain uncharitable and unnecessary. Ireti Kingibe should be able, seamlessly, to request for a meeting
with the minister overseeing the senatorial territory she was elected to represent, by just a telephone call. While addressing communities and residential estates impacted by the ongoing demolition exercise, Wike on national television tells those who try to engage him to shut up their mouths. Reaffirming his obstinacy about proceeding with the “clean up” of Abuja, Wike rails, let the heavens fall. Haba.
I’ve heard Dave Umahi, Wike’s colleague in the Works ministry on television, address contractors, telling them that successive governments had taken a lot of shit from them. He boasted that he was aware he was on camera and was cognisant of his choices of lexicon. At another engagement, he ordered contractors at a particular project site, to disembark from the location forthwith. If they delayed or attempted to restart the road project, he assured that he would invite the landowners to beat them up, inflict them with bruises and chase them away. These are hallmarks of a loose canon. Instructively, very much like Wike and within the same time frame, 2015 to 2023, Umahi was governor in Ebonyi State. That should represent sufficient grooming period, preparatory to mainstream national service.
I have, in a previous essay titled ‘Fela, Basket mouth and Godswill Akpabio’ published back in March 2024, drawn attention to some avoidable slips and slurs by the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio. Let’s hope he has rejigged the indiscretions characteristic of his public engagements, the most recent being his admonition that the poor should eat wherever they find food! He was practically recommending dumpsters and dunghills for our kinsmen and country folk. We are referring to our comrades who are the butt of state-orchestrated weaponisation of poverty. We are alluding to our fellow citizens pauperised and condemned to the vagaries of life in the face of diminished socio-economic opportunities. We are talking about hordes of despairing literate and skilled, some of them possessors of well-earned first class degrees, vegetating across the land. As we round up the tumultuous year 2024 and look forward with subdued optimism to better days ahead, our leaders and representatives must adopt new, more temperate registers of public expression. The “renewed hope agenda” which is serially sloganeered and referenced at every opportunity must be concretised as real evidence of irrepressible commitment to this credo. It must move beyond being just a vacuous rant, and must tangibly reassure and pacify of our people. Evidence of this must begin from the lips of those who lead us. This is the basic minimum, this is the littlest expectation as we step into year 2025.
•Tunde Olusunle, PhD, Fellow of the Association of Nigerian Authors, (FANA), is an Adjunct Professor of Creative Writing at the University of Abuja
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