FG Targets 10m New Jobs as Nigeria Leads Africa's Digital Trade Revolution
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
Following Nigeria’s designation as Africa's Digital Trade Champion, a role that could help create over 10
million new jobs across the continent by the end of 2025, Vice President Kashim Shettima yesterday reaffirmed the country's commitment to leading Africa’s digital trade agenda under
the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Shettima, who was represented by Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole,
disclosed spoke during the AfCFTA Digital Trade Workshop and Global Market at State House Conference Centre in Abuja. The workshop brought together
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Exports Potential.”
According to Shettima, Nigeria’s progress in digital commerce, services,
officials from the federal and state governments, including Commissioners of Trade and Industry, and private sector experts. It had the theme, “Unlocking State Continued on page 9
Citing 40 Ongoing Federal Projects Worth over N600bn, Kebbi APC Declares Support for Tinubu
Bagudu says president has been fair to all Party adopts Gov Nasir Idris for second term Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja President Bola Tinubu strengthened his political base in the North yesterday, with the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kebbi state
declaring its support for him, amid divergence of opinions in the region as to whether to back the Nigerian leader in the 2027 presidential polls. The president got some reassurance of massive support from the region at a mammoth rally at the Haliru Abdu Multi-Purpose Stadium in Birni Kebbi, the state capital, where the
Continued on page 9
Illegal Removal of Elected Council Officials is Treasonable, Fagbemi Warns Governors
Declares there are consequences Adeleke at meeting with British diplomats, accuses IGP of executing chaos in state LGAs
He’s planning to destabilise, assassinate governor, PDP alleges House seeks true position of law on situation, as APC takes over councils, freezes accounts Speaker calls for arrest, prosecution of illegal council occupants, lawyer warns FG, APC
Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo, Adedayo Akinwale and Alex Enumah in Abuja Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, has warned governors and their Houses of Assembly against unlawful removal of democratically elected local government council officials, saying such acts are not only treasonable but also have consequences. Fagbemi, who sounded the warning at the Nigerian Bar Association’s State of the Nation Discourse, pointed out that the consequences would be in spite of the immunity clause shielding the governors.
But Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, at a meeting with top British diplomats, accused the Inspector of Police (IGP), Mr Kayode Egbetokun, of executing and imposing illegality on local councils in the state. This followed a forceful takeover of local government secretariats in the state by former APC council chairmen and councillors claiming to be acting based party
DANGOTE PAYS COURTESY VISIT TO JIM OVIA...
L-R: President, Dangote Group of Companies, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, GCON; President, Corporate Council on Africa (CCA), Ms. Florie Liser; and Founder and Chairman, Zenith Bank Plc, Jim Ovia, CFR, during a courtesy call to the Zenith Bank Chairman in Lagos…recently Continued on page 9
also adopted Governor Nasir
NBCC 2025 ECONOMIC OUTLOOK...
Tinubu Flags Off Dualisation of Benin-EkpomaAuchi-Okpella-Okene-Ajaokuta Road Project
Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City
President Bola Tinubu yesterday officially flagged-off the dualisation of sections two to four of the EkpomaAuchi-Okpella-Okene-Ajaokuta Expressway, saying the road project is strategic to the transformation of socio-economic activities in Edo and Kogi States.
Represented by Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, at the event held in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area of Edo State, Tinubu reiterated his administration’s commitment to making federal roads across the country motorable, thereby enhancing national development.
He said the Ekpoma-AuchiOkpella-Okene-Ajaokuta corridor was of critical economic importance, linking Edo and Kogi states and serving as a major route for the movement of goods and people.
Umahi stated, “This road is part of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu. It is a signature project that will open up this axis for economic and social develop- ment. Roads constructed under this administration will stand the test of time, lasting over 50 years.”
The president praised Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo for his development strides, including the ongoing flyover project at Ramat Park in Benin City. He also commended the governor’s proactive approach to infrastructure development.
Tinubu added, “As long as you keep working for Edo people, continue the good work. Those heading to court are simply wasting their time. The partnership between Governor Okpebholo and Senator Adams Oshiomhole has paid off. Together, they presented a compelling
case to the president, and today, Edo people’s long-standing dream is a reality.”
Speaking at the ceremony, former Edo State Governor and Senator representing Edo North Senatorial District, Adams Oshiomhole, praised Tinubu for prioritising durable infrastructure.
Oshiomhole said, “Previous administrations made us believe that Nigerian roads could not last beyond 10 years. Today, under President Tinubu’s leadership, we are witnessing roads designed to last between 50 and 100 years. This is how sustainable growth is achieved.”
He stated that the dualisation of the road would significantly enhance socio-economic activities between Edo and Kogi states, boosting commerce, transportation, and regional integration.
Okpebholo described the flag-off as a turning point for Edo State. He recounted his participation in protests over the poor state of the road and thanked Tinubu for coming to their rescue.
Okpebholo stated, “As someone who resides along this corridor, I understand the pains of the people. Today, that story has changed. Edo people are now experiencing meaningful development.”
He also paid tribute to Oshiomhole for his relentless advocacy.
“Oshiomhole stood by me and insisted that this road must be fixed. Today, that determination has paid off,” the governor added.
Ahead of future elections, Okpebholo called on Edo people to show appreciation through their votes.
He declared, “2027 will be the time to thank President Tinubu and the APC for the transformation we
are witnessing today.”
The governor revealed that the dualised road would feature three lanes, easing traffic and boosting economic activities in the region.
Equally speaking at the event, Governor Usman Ododo of Kogi State, represented by his deputy, Joel Salifu, commended Tinubu for
embarking on a project that would spur regional development.
Ododo said, “This long-awaited road project brings light and hope to communities along this corridor. Once completed, it will ease movement, enhance trade, and foster development in both Kogi and Edo states.”
He described the road as a symbol
of renewed connectivity between the two states and a testament to the federal government’s commitment to national development.
The dualisation of the EkpomaAuchi-Okpella-Okene-Ajaokuta Expressway marks a significant milestone in Tinubu’s infrastructure agenda.
The project is expected to ease the transportation of agricultural produce, boost inter-state commerce, and reduce travel time.
Stakeholders believe that when completed, the road will not only serve as a key transport link but also stimulate investment, tourism, and industrial growth.
Shettima: Quality Education for Nigerian Child Top Priority of Tinubu Government
Seeks private sector partnership as MTN distributes digital devices to students
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
Vice President Kashim Shettima has reiterated the commitment of the President Bola Tinubu government to investment in quality education for all Nigerian children, saying it remains top priority for the administration.
Shettima gave the assurance yesterday at the presentation of digital learning devices to students of Government Science Secondary School, Pyakasa, Abuja, by MTN Nigeria Communications Plc.
He called for more private sector partnership in the country's education system and intellectual capital, saying this is crucial to the provision of quality education for the Nigerian child.
The vice president said, "I want you all to remain assured that investing in quality education for every single Nigerian child remains a top priority for the President Bola Tinubu administration. We recognise that the partnership of the private
sector is crucial to the success of this important mission.
"This is why we deeply appreciate MTN for rising to the occasion through this donation to our students. We trust that MTN, as well as other members of the Nigerian private sector, will continue to support this administration in building a future where every Nigerian child has access to quality education and the tools to thrive in a digital world."
He stated that while education had often been said to be the key to unlocking the future, digital literacy was the master key in today’s world.
Shettima stated, "The classroom is no longer just a physical space; it is now an infinite world of knowledge, only a click away. The most transformative lessons of our time are not confined to four walls but are happening in the boundless universe of the internet.
"This event, therefore, is more than a ceremony; it is yet another opportunity to offer our children a window into the world—a classroom beyond their classroom."
Shettima disclosed that the tablets distributed to the students were part
of the 4,600 devices donated by MTN Nigeria Communications to secondary school students across the country's six geopolitical zones.
He said the "remarkable gesture is not just an act of corporate social responsibility," but also an investment "in the intellectual capital of our nation and a testament to MTN’s unwavering commitment to the progress of Nigeria".
He expressed Tinubu's gratitude to the leadership of MTN Nigeria, particularly Chairman of its Board of Directors, Dr. Ernest Ndukwe, for an "incredible act of generosity”.
The vice president said, "We thank you for supporting the efforts of this administration by investing in the digital literacy of our students. These devices will ensure that our children are as equipped as their counterparts across the world to function effectively in a technology-driven 21st century."
While commending the leadership, principal and teachers of Government Science Secondary School, Pyakasa, for the task of shaping the minds of the country's future leaders, Shettima described them as the custodians of knowledge. He said
their role in preparing the students "for a competitive world cannot be overstated”.
"With the partnership of organisations, such as MTN, we will continue to do our best to ensure that you are better equipped to carry out this noble duty," he stated. To the students, the vice president described what they were given as a powerful tool to aid their studies and expand their horizon.
He urged them to use the tablets to broaden their knowledge, "sharpen your skills, and prepare yourselves for the limitless possibilities ahead".
Earlier, Chairman of MTN Nigeria, Ndukwe, said the event marked a significant milestone in the telecom giant's unwavering commitment to advancing digital learning and literacy across Nigeria and making digital inclusion a reality for every Nigerian student.
He said the tablets – each preinstalled with U-Lesson software – represented MTN Nigeria's commitment to empowering the next generation with the essential tools they need to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
To expand its global presence, the National Examinations Council (NECO) has accredited more schools to write the Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) and the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) in Equatorial Guinea.
The newly accredited schools, in addition to the existing ones, are in Bata, the largest city in Equatorial Guinea, thereby bringing the number to six countries including Benin Republic, Niger Republic, Cote’d Ivoire, Togo, and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The spokesperson for NECO, Azeez
Sani in a statement yesterday, said accreditation team visited the schools to assess their readiness to write the SSCE and BECE.
He said the team inspected classrooms, laboratories, libraries, computer laboratories, workshops, examination halls, sport facilities and continuous assessment, as well as adequacy of teachers and school security to determine their suitability and readiness for the examinations
His words: "The National Examinations Council (NECO) has accredited more schools to write the Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) and the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) in Equatorial Guinea.
"After a thorough evaluation and comprehensive assessment, the schools were granted full SSCE and full BECE accreditation status.
"The accreditation of additional foreign schools is a testament to NECO’s commitment to providing quality education and assessment beyond the shores of Nigeria.”
The statement read: "With its expanding global presence, NECO is poised to become a leading examination body in Africa, offering opportunities for Nigeria students and other foreign nationals worldwide to benefit from its expertise, thus contributing to the advancement of education in Africa and beyond."
President Bola Tinubu has rejoiced with Senior Vice chairman /Editor-inChief of LEADERSHIP Newspapers, Mr. Azubuike Ishiekwene, on his 60th birthday. A Fellow of the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), Azu, as he is fondly known, has had a distinguished career in journalism spanning over three decades.
He has worked with several repu-
table media organisations, including The Punch, where he was an editor, columnist and editorial board member; and now Leadership, where he currently serves as the Editor-in-Chief.
President Tinubu, in a statement issued on Wednesday by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, appreciated Ishiekwene's brilliant and incisive commentary and analysis on Nigeria's politics, the economy, and society.
He noted that his insightful
contributions and recent writings on digital media have earned him wide recognition and admiration, even from those who may not readily agree with his views. Commending his contributions to developing the Nigerian media landscape, the President trusted that the dawn of a new age will bring more fantastic inspiration and wisdom. He prayed that God almighty grants the journalist good health and fulfilment in all his endeavours.
Kuni Tyessi in Abuja
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
L-R: Chairman Programmes Committee, Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce (NBCC), Tajudeen Ahmed; Vice Chairman Programmes Committee, Adenike Ibirogba; President/Chairman of Council, Ray Atelly; Deputy President, Akin Osuntoki; Member, Programmes Committee, Jumoke Koleoso, and Guest Speaker, at NBCC 2025 Economic Outlook event, Biodun Adedipe, at the event held in Lagos... recently
PANDEF IN SENATE OVER EDWIN CLARK'S DEATH...
L-R: National Treasurer of PANDEF, Mrs Ifeoma Agboma; National Publicity Secretary, Sir Obiuwevbi Ominimini; Deputy National Chairman, Hon Bassey Ekefre; National Chairman, Ambassador Godknows Igali; President Of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio; Deputy Senate President, Jibrin Barau; Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele; and Deputy Senate Whip, Onyekachi Nweboyin, during a visit to the Senate President by PANDEF leadership to formally inform him of the demise of Chief Edwin Clark, yesterday
To
Minimise
Incessant Road Crashes, FG
Bans 60,000-litre Fuel Tankers Nationwide
NMDPRA says imported, locally refined products meet regulatory standards Explains why Nigeria's still imports over 50% of required fuels Says no local refiner has brought in petrol this year
To curb the incessant cases of accidents which occur during the transportation of petroleum products across the country, the federal government yesterday placed a ban on 60,000-litre fuel tankers from operating on Nigerian roads from March 1, 2025.
Announcing the ban in Abuja, the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), said the decision was made in response to the increasing number of accidents involving heavyduty petroleum tankers nationwide.
Recently, truck-in-transit incidents have increased on Nigerian roads, leading to heavy death tolls and several injuries as well as damage to property and environmental hazards.
From the Otedola Bridge incident in 2018 to the Onitsha fuel tanker fire in 2019, to the Kogi tanker explosion in 2020 and the Lokoja explosion that killed several people, the story has been the same.
In 2021, there was the Benue tanker
explosion as well as the Ogun state tanker accident in 2023 and in recent time, the deadly incidents in Niger state and Enugu states. In all the indents, among others, overloading has been fingered.
Executive Director, Distribution Systems, Storage, and Retailing Infrastructure at the NMDPRA, Ogbugo Ukoha, while making the announcement in Abuja, said the ban was one of the 10 resolutions reached by the stakeholder’s technical committee on how to drive down the significant increase in crashes that had been observed in relation to trucks and transit incidents and fatalities.
Some of the government agencies which brainstormed on the resolutions included: The Department of State Service (DSS), Federal Fire Service (FFS) Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), National Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) and the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG).
Others were: The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON),
the Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN) and the NMDPRA, Federal Road Maintenance Agency (FERMA), Major Energies Marketers of Nigeria (MEMAN), the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), among others.
At the meeting, it was agreed that from March 1, 2025, any truck with an axle load of more than 60,000 litres of hydrocarbon will not be allowed to load at any depot.
“It was decided that beginning March 1, any truck with an axle load that is carrying more than 60,000 litres of hydrocarbon will not be allowed to load at any loading depot. By Q4 of 2025, we will also preclude the loading or transportation of petroleum products on any truck in excess of 45,000 litres.
“So that is the breaking news for today. This is just one out of 10 measures that stakeholders have agreed that need to be addressed if we want to mitigate the high level of trucks in transit accidents.The
important thing about this is that for the first time consensus was built amongst all stakeholders and we are continuing to encourage that we work together cohesively to deliver a safe transportation of petroleum products across the country,” Ukoha stated.
Besides, Ukoha dismissed recent claims questioning the quality of fuel in circulation across the country, describing them as bogus, misleading, and unscientific. He assured Nigerians that all imported and locally refined petroleum products meet strict regulatory standards before being released into the market.
The NMDPRA vowed to ensure compliance with petroleum industry standards and specifications, stressing that recent social media claims about the quality of fuel products in circulation are baseless and should be disregarded.
''The standard organisation's specification includes parameters such as the research octane number, the sulfur content, the density, the colour, the oxygenate level, and many other
Moghalu: Africa's Governance Crisis Rooted in Lack of Structured Leadership Education
Former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Prof. Kingsley Moghalu, yesterday reaffirmed African School of Governance (ASG), commitment towards addressing a leadership gap through training focused on corporate governance, gender equity, and public-private collaboration.
Moghalu who made this submission at an information session in Lagos, explained that the biggest challenge facing governance in Africa is not just leadership but also followership.
He stated that educating both leaders and the governed is essential for creating accountable and effective systems.
According to him, "education is the key to transforming governance in Africa. ASG seeks to nurture a new generation of leaders by offering programmes that emphasise policy innovation, ethical governance, and economic development.”
He stressed the importance of training future African leaders to think differently, acquire new skills, and lead in a transformative way.
Moghalu, who serves as the inaugural president of the African School of Governance (ASG), Kigali, Rwanda, underscored the critical role of education in shaping both
leadership and followership across the continent. He noted that poor governance in Africa “stems from a lack of structured leadership education."
He stressed the need to embrace and promote African culture, noting that development must be rooted in indigenous identity rather than external influences.
"We have to learn governance in the context of Africa. We are Africans, and we must now think in that way, not copy and paste from other civilisations or other cultures. We have our own cultures,” he stated.
He further stressed the importance of acknowledging traditional institutions in governance, adding that the exclusion of traditional systems from governance has created tension, which could be resolved by formally integrating them in advisory roles.
“Traditional institutions and traditional leaders must be part of governance in our societies. They are a reality, but we continue to ignore them,” he noted
Speaking on ASG’s short and longterm goals, the president outlined the immediate priority as successfully recruiting for the Master of Public Administration (MPA) and Executive Master of Public Administration (EMPA) programmes, both set to launch in June.
In the medium term, he noted
that ASG aims to have its first cohort graduate within two years and assess its impact within five years. "Over the long term, the institution plans to evaluate the influence of its alumni on governance in Africa and globally over a 10-year period.
He acknowledged the challenges of establishing a unique institution like ASG, identifying skepticism about governance education as one of such huddles to cross at the early stage of the initiative.
He emphasised the need for inspirational teachers and a strong philosophical foundation rooted in Africa’s history and cultural evolution.
In her remarks, Ngozichukwu Njemanze, Director and Senior Policy Adviser, as well as Chief of Staff to the President of ASG, said ASG aims to equip professionals in both the public and private sectors with interdisciplinary skills tailored to African challenges.
parameters that you find within that.
''Before any product is distributed in Nigeria, the regulator ensures that from the load port of the product, whether from a domestic refinery or imported from outside the country, and as well as at the discharge port, accredited laboratories must test every product and duly issue certificates of quality to say that the product that is in the in the vessel meets those specifications.
Emma Okonji
Microsoft yesterday announced an initiative to invest $1 million in the training of one million Nigerians on Artificial Intelligence (AI) skills in the next two years.
Managing Director, Microsoft Nigeria and Ghana, Ola Williams, who made the announcement during the Microsoft AI Tour, which held in Lagos, said the training skills on AI would be opened to all interested Nigerians that are willing to enhance their skills in AI, and also ready to work smarter and faster, adding that the training will be carried out across Nigeria, through Microsoft partners.
The Microsoft AI Tour is a global event series that unites business leaders, technical practitioners, and AI enthusiasts to explore the transformative potential of artificial intelligence.
Projecting that Nigeria’s AI market will grow by 27.08 per cent annually from 2025 to 2030, contributing significantly to the national economy,
''It's only on that basis that products are then discharged and distributed across the country,’’ Ukoha explained. He clarified that colour differentiation, while not impacting quality, is a regulatory requirement under SON specifications to prevent misidentification.
Williams said with the right skills and access to digital technologies, AI would add an estimated $15 billion to Nigeria's GDP by 2030.
According to her, in support of Nigeria’s draft National AI Strategy, which aims to equip 70 per cent of its young workforce with AI-related skills, Microsoft has announced a $1 million skilling investment through the Microsoft AI Skilling Initiative, in collaboration with the Nigerian government, which will provide in-demand AI skills training for one million Nigerians.
“At Microsoft, we believe that AI has the potential to transform economies and societies. Our commitment to enhancing AI skills in Nigeria is a testament to our dedication to empowering individuals and organisations to achieve more.
“By investing in digital skills training and collaborating with the Nigerian government, we aim to create a future-ready workforce that can drive innovation and economic growth in the country,” Williams said.
FG Inaugurates 50 Commissioners for Tax Appeal Tribunal
Ndubuisi
The federal government has inaugurated the newly appointed 50 commissioners for the Tax Appeal Tribunal (TAT), designed to ensure fair and efficient adjudication of tax disputes.
The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, while inaugurating them Wednesday in Abuja, highlighted the crucial role of the tax appeal commissioners in supporting Nigeria’s economic reforms and enhancing revenue generation.
In a statement issued by the
Director, Press and Public Relations, Mohammed Manga, the minister emphasised the importance of the Tax Appeal Tribunal (TAT) in ensuring fair and efficient adjudication of tax disputes, which is essential for attracting investment and fostering a business-friendly environment
Edun pointed out that reducing tax evasion was vital for maintaining trust in Nigeria’s tax system and funding national development.
"While tax avoidance remains legal, tax evasion must be curtailed to ensure the integrity of Nigeria’s tax system," he noted.
Commenting on Nigeria’s improving economic indicators, Edun
highlighted stabilising inflation, declining food prices, and rising oil production, adding that these improvements underscored the progress of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which aims to place Nigeria on a sustainable path of growth, job creation, and poverty reduction.
Speaking earlier, the Minister of State Finance, Dr. Doris UzokaAnite stated that "the Tribunal is a key mechanism in the tax system, balancing the interest of government in revenue generation and ensuring that taxpayers’ rights are protected."
She called on the members of the Tax Appeal Tribunal to bring
their wealth of experience to bear in order to ensure the realisation of the policy objectives of government
Responding, the Tax Appeal Tribunal Commissioner/Chairman, Mr Aderibigbe Adedeji assured the minister that members would bring their wealth of experience to bear in discharging their duties, while also thanking Tinubu for the opportunity given to them to serve the nation in that capacity "The inauguration comes as part of the Federal Government’s broader tax reforms designed to increase revenue for critical sectors, including infrastructure, healthcare, and education.
Francis in Abuja
Funmi Ogundare
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
INSTITUTE OF MANAGEMENT VISITS MR GOVERNOR...
President and Chairman
Investors, Airlines from 150 Countries Meet in Kenya to Deliberate on Cargo Freighting in Africa
Chinedu Eze in Nairobi
Over 400 participants from 150 countries met yesterday in Nairobi, Kenya, to deliberate on air freighting and management of cargo.
The event had the theme, “Air Cargo Africa and Transport Logistics.”
It was aimed at collectively resolving industry-related issues in Africa, like limited infrastructure, preservation of perishables, and easy evacuation to dovetail the standard with global expectations to boost the fortunes of the cargo business in Africa and across the world.
On the first day of the conference, Divisional Vice President of Emirates Skycargo, Badr Abbas, frowned on the global disruptions of cargo freighting, saying despite such challenges, the airline defies the odds to deliver cargo to their destinations and this remains its priority.
Abbas added that even in the midst of hiccups occasioned by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Emirates Skycargo was still meeting the expectations of its customers.
Identifying the increased cargo demand globally and paucity of equipment, the airline announced its intention to add 21 more aircraft to its already existing 255 fleet dedicated to cargo globally, by the end of 2026.
Abbas said, “There is increased cargo demand globally and it will remain relatively so in the near future. We are increasing our fleet to meet the demand of customers and also serve the upcoming ones.
“We have wide-body cargo planes on long-haul flights taking cargo to the deserved customers globally. We are very strategic with our e-commerce division and it is one of our biggest strengths, because e-commerce is reshaping the global economy.
“E-commerce has increased the demand for a growing fleet and we have B777, B747 and A350 on order.
“We do not fear disruptions, as it happened during COVID-19 in 2020. Disruption is part of our DNA. We have been resilient against global disruptions, keeping our supplies moving to all destinations in order to meet the demand of our customers.”
Abbas stated that Dubai was expanding facilities to become the biggest cargo hub in the world.
“We have ordered additional aircraft; which delivery will start in 2026. In Africa, we freight 382, 000 tons of cargo weekly,” he added.
At the opening session of the event, Director-General of the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority, Emile Arao, expressed appreciation to professionals in the industry for their efforts to continually advance the aviation sector.
While commending the contribution of cargo freighting to the industry, Arao identified challenges faced by the cargo freighting sub-sector of the aviation business. He listed them as high taxes and charges (compared to other forms of transportation), capacity constraint, fuel price volatility, regulatory compliance, and supply chain disruption, among others.
Arao also stated that cargo demand was expected to increase by four to six per cent against earlier projected capacity growth.
He said, “The International Air Transport Association (IATA) anticipates cargo revenues reaching $157 billion in 2025, accounting for 15.6 per cent of total airline revenues.
“Recognising the ongoing geopolitical tensions, such as conflicts affecting the Red Sea, have led to rerouted sea freight, increasing reliance on air cargo.”
Arao said, “These disruptions have
contributed to elevated air freight rates and capacity constraints. Additionally, manufacturers, like Airbus, are experiencing delays in freighter aircraft production due to supply chain issues, potentially limiting capacity expansion in the near term.
“Regulatory and economic factors, which involve potential changes in trade policies, including adjustments to tariffs and de minimis thresholds in key markets, like the U.S. and EU, could impact air cargo volumes, especially for e-commerce goods.”
He added, “While jet fuel prices are projected to decrease to an average
of $87 per barrel in 2025, economic uncertainties and inflationary pressures remain concerns for operational costs and pricing strategies.
“Innovations in this ecosystem bring on-board a positive outlook for air cargo. For instance, some companies are developing unscrewed.”
In a speech, Chairman of the board of Kenya Airport Authority, Caleb Kositany, said the gathering was an avenue, not just to solve global issues in the cargo and transport market, but also a vital platform for uniting key stakeholders from across the globe.
Kositany reiterated the potential of
the conference to deliver new business opportunities, global perspectives, strong networking platforms, and strengthen networking corridors, especially within the African continent.
He said, “This seventh edition of Air Cargo Africa, now held in conjunction with the inaugural Transport Logistics Africa, provides an unparalleled opportunity to explore innovative solutions that will shape the future of air cargo, transport, and logistics.
“It underscores the critical role our sector plays in driving economic growth, fostering regional integration, and unlocking Africa's immense
potential as a global logistics hub.”
The conference, which started in 2011, has been held outside Kenya for over 10 years and returned to Nairobi, known as headquarters of air cargo in Africa, this year. The meeting comes at a time when cargo transport by air is facing challenges due to paucity of aircraft. Africa is a burgeoning market on a rapid growth, and home to perishable agricultural produce and minerals. The continent has caught the world's attention, as experts seek efficient and timely evacuation of cargo from many destinations in the region.
Again, Aviation Minister Receives Algerian Ambassador Over BASA Route on Algeria, Abuja, Douala Route
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, in less than a year is receiving the Algerian Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency Mezoued Hosine, on a courtesy visit to discuss the commencement of Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA) arrangements between Nigeria and Algeria and Cameroun
During the meeting, Ambassador Hosine expressed his country’s keen interest in launching air services connecting Algeria, Abuja, and Douala.
He specifically requested Keyamo's intervention in ensuring that the necessary paperwork is expedited by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to facilitate the commencement of this route, slated to begin operations
on April 6, 2025.
In response, the Minister welcomed the initiative and commended Algeria’s efforts in strengthening aviation ties with Nigeria.
He pledged to expedite all necessary processes to ensure a smooth implementation of the agreement, reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment to fostering bilateral cooperation in the aviation sector.
A statement issued in Abuja Wednesday by Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the Minster, Tunde Moshood, Keyamo said: "This development aligns with our broader vision to enhance Nigeria’s aviation connectivity with key international destinations.
“We will work closely with relevant agencies, particularly the NCAA, to ensure all required formalities are completed as swiftly
NESREA to Collaborate with NOA to Avert Environmental Disaster
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
The National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) is scaling up its engagement with National Orientation Agency (NOA) to drive home its environmental message, prompting delivery of early warnings to avert disaster in the country. Addressing a press conference on the achievements of the agency in the last one year, the Director General of NESREA, Dr. Innocent Barikor, said: “Our regular aware-
ness creation in all States of the Federation and the FCT is on course.
“In addition to the sensitization activities by our Zonal and State Field Officers, we are scaling up our engagement with the National Orientation Agency (NOA) in the area of information dissemination, leveraging on its offices spread out in 774 Local Government Areas of the country and the Community Mobilization Officers to reach out to every single Nigerian on environmental issues and early warnings.”
Barikor lamented that, “A
large number of our National Environmental Regulations have become somewhat obsolete and do not address emerging environmental issues, and some thematic areas need to be better regulated.”
He said: “To address this, we have thought it wise to review and amend some key extant regulations while some new ones are being developed to bridge the gaps.” According to him, “These include the National Environmental (Permitting and Licensing Systems) Regulations 2009 and the National Environmental (International Trade
in Endangered Species of Fauna and Flora) Regulations 2011 which have been reviewed and have undergone all processes ready for gazzetting.”
He added that the National Environmental (Battery Sector Control) Regulations 2024 has been gazzetted while the National Environmental (Plastic Waste Control) Regulations is underway.
He noted that: “These Regulations all aim to achieve specific targeted outcomes such as improved air quality, environmental conservation, and reduced exposure to waste and hazardous substances.
as possible, this is an opportunity we've been waiting for, if we have to go to Cameroon, a neighbouring country that's less than an hour flight, we have to fly to Togo first, possibly sleep over before coming to our neighbouring Cameroon, this is a welcome development.
"The meeting signifies a positive
step toward bolstering diplomatic and economic relations between Nigeria and Algeria through enhanced air transport connectivity.
“The proposed Algeria-AbujaDouala route is expected to facilitate trade, tourism, and economic cooperation between the two nations and beyond.”
Insecurity: CSOs Advocate Women's Inclusion in Peace Building
Francis Sardauna in Katsina
Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) have advocated the need for women’s inclusion in peace-building and security for sustainable peace to thrive in communities affected by insecurity in the North-west region of the country.
At a high-level town-hall meeting in Katsina Wednesday, the civil society organisations said the inclusion of women in peace-building process and security would significantly tackle the region’s security challenges. With the theme: ‘Building Collaborative Pathways for Women’s Inclusion in Peace and Security’, the meeting was organised by Global Rights in partnership with the Kukah Centre, Community Dialogue Committee, Isa Wali Empowerment Initiative and WRAPA, with support from the ISF Nigeria Stability Programme of the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).
In his opening remarks at the meeting, the Executive Director of the Global Rights, Abiodun Baiyewu, said sustainable peace-building efforts must embrace the strength, wisdom
and resilience of everyone, including women.
He explained that women were not just victims of insecurity, but resilient leaders, mediators and agents of peace that must be involved in peace-building process and decisionmaking.
Represented by the Global Rights Programme Manager, Edosa Oviawe, Baiyewu said the role of women in proffering solutions to the conflict bedeviling communities in the North-west cannot be overemphasised. He said: “Women are not just victims of insecurity; they are resilient leaders, mediators, and agents of peace. Yet, their voices remain underrepresented in decisionmaking spaces where policies and interventions that shape their lives are designed.
“It is time to change this narrative, not through isolated efforts, but through deliberate and collective action. When governments, civil society organisations, security agencies, and local communities work together, we unlock opportunities for women to lead, influence policies and drive sustainable peace initiatives.
Kasim Sumaina in Abuja
L-R:
of the Council, Nigerian Institute of Management, NIM (Chartered), Commodore Abimbola Ayuba (rtd) receiving the Lagos State government plaque from the Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu during a courtesy visit to the governor by the governing council of NIM at Lagos House, Marina, ... yesterday
Okonjo-Iweala Urges WTO Members to Deescalate Current Global Trade Tensions
China kicks against unilateral imposition of tariffs by US
Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja
The Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has urged members of the global trade body to use the platform for dialogue and to engage on the issues contributing to the current global trade tensions.
The Director-General was speaking at the first 2025 meeting of the WTO’s General Council in Geneva, Switzerland.
Her admonition came as China's Ambassador to the WTO, Li Chenggang voiced strong concern over the US' unilateral imposition of tariffs and their harmful effects, calling on her to remove these measures and urged all parties to take meaningful action to uphold the rules-based multilateral trading system, which resonated deeply with the audience.
Addressing the Council, Okonjo-
Iweala said: “It is imperative that we continue to strengthen the multilateral trading system, ensuring that it remains a source of stability and opportunity for all members.
“The WTO was created precisely to manage times like these — to provide a space for dialogue, prevent conflicts from spiralling, and support an open, predictable trading environment.
“Let us make full use of this platform to engage with one another in good faith, address concerns constructively and calmly, and explore cooperative solutions that uphold and enhance the balance of global trade relations.”
A total of 32 members took the floor following her remarks.
Overall, members emphasised the importance of the WTO in fostering global economic growth and development, particularly for developing and least-developed countries.
for all Africans.
Many who took the floor called for restraint in actions that could undermine the system and stressed the importance of upholding the WTO's principles and rules.
Okonjo-Iweala said she has been meeting with WTO members to discuss the broader geopolitical landscape and explore how the organisation could approach the situation.
“The key message I have shared is that amid the current uncertainties, we must maintain cool heads and remain open to dialogue,” she said.
She informed members that Secretariat staff was upgrading the WTO's Tariff Analysis Online database based on member feedback.
The new database, to be called WTO Tariff and Trade Data, would be launched in the WTO's Committee On Market Access on March 4.
“This will be a much more user-
friendly system that will facilitate tariff and trade analysis,” she said. As you consider today's emerging tariff issues, the Secretariat is there to assist any member requiring assistance in analysing the tariff situation.”
In her intervention, Okonjo-Iweala underlined the importance of using the current situation to push ahead with reform of the WTO.
“I encourage all of you to view this moment as an inflection point — an opportunity to think more strategically and purposefully about what we want from this organisation and how we can make it more results-driven,” she added.
According to her, leaders, ministers and stakeholders she had met with in recent weeks, “expect the WTO to address longstanding issues and respond to today's global trade landscape … it's time to return to the negotiating
FG TARGETS 10M NEW JOBS AS NIGERIA LEADS AFRICA'S DIGITAL TRADE REVOLUTION and innovation, has positioned the country as the continent’s digital trade hub.
"Our innovations in mobile payments have transformed crossborder payments, financial inclusion, and digital transactions across the continent," he stressed.
Nigeria’s appointment as Africa's Digital Trade Champion followed President Bola Tinubu's December 2024 pledge in Cape Town to champion the digital trade agenda
The leadership role was formally recognised at the 38th African Union Heads of State Summit, where Tinubu received a commendation from former Niger President Mahamadou Issoufou, the AfCFTA Champion.
Speaking at the two-day workshop, the vice president announced that Nigeria's Ambassador to the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Dr. Adamu Abdulhamid, had been appointed chairperson of the
Committee of Trade and Services Special Session, effective this month.
Shettima stated, “The AfCFTA Digital Trade Protocol aims to increase intra-African trade from 18 per cent in 2022 to 50 per cent by 2030. With over 109 million internet users and a thriving mobile economy, Nigeria has the foundation to lead Africa's digital commerce evolution.”
The internet economy was projected to contribute 5.2 per cent of Africa's GDP this year, with the
ILLEGAL REMOVAL OF ELECTED COUNCIL OFFICIALS IS TREASONABLE, FAGBEMI WARNS GOVERNORS
on a court order.
Earlier, the House of Representatives called on Fagbemi to properly advise all parties to the dispute over the control of local governments in Osun State on the true position of the law.
Nonetheless, no fewer than 20 local government secretariats were taken over by the purportedly reinstated chairmen and councillors in Osun State from the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Immediately they resumed at their desks, the council chairmen and councillors ordered the freezing of the various council accounts.
But Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Hon. Olumide Egbedun, called on Egbetokun to act swiftly and decisively to ensure the arrest and prosecution of all illegal occupants of the local government secretariats.
An Abuja-based lawyer and rights activist, Mr Pelumi Olajengbesi, warned the federal government and the ruling APC against the forceful take-over of the Osun State government, stressing that such attempts would only lead to unimaginable chaos and anarchy.
Speaking at the NBA State of the Nation Discourse, Fagbemi said the administration of President Bola Tinubu, taking into consideration the crucial role of local government councils in the development of any nation, had last year approached the apex court to ensure the autonomy of the local governments as the third tier of the government in the country.
He lamented, "Despite the judgement of the Supreme Court, outlawing the illegal removal of democratically elected local government councils by governors, it is quite unfortunate that a few states have continued to flagrantly carry on with this illegality.
"Let me state in unequivocal terms that this act is tantamount to treason and must be treated as such."
Fagbemi, who was represented by Director, Civil Appeals in the FMOJ, Gazali (SAN), stated that while "Section 308 of the constitution grants the governor immunity from prosecution… flagrant disobedience to the Supreme Court judgement will have unpleasant consequences for the state as a whole, should it persist."
He also took a swipe at lawyers and state attorneys-general for failing to advise their respective clients and governors properly.
According to Fagbemi, "There is a worrisome trend in the legal profession these days where lawyers, including the state Attorneys-General, allow their clients and political leaders to dictate the law to them when it should be the other way around.
"This is quite unbecoming of gentlemen of the bar and it must be addressed and reversed immediately. We must all remember that we owe a duty to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria before our political allegiances.
"Every state in Nigeria has an attorney-general, therefore, the failure of states to the local government structures in their states, in my opinion, can be attributed to the complete dereliction of duty by the attorneys-general to the rule of law they swore to uphold."
He added that lawyers must be courageous enough to always give the correct legal advice to politicians, who believed they had the right to breach the sacred provisions of the constitution, regardless of the repercussion.
While acknowledging that as servants of the law the primary duty of lawyers was to defend the constitution always, Fagbemi called on everyone present at the occasion to lend their support to the complete actualisation of the autonomy of local governments in Nigeria, in line with the mandate of Tinubu.
He stated, "Most importantly, local governments must also wake up to their constitutional duties by being accountable to the citizens, constantly improving themselves in areas of administration and capacity building of their staff and constant community engagement to improve trust and transparency.
"There is no room for babysitting the third tier of the government any more. There must be concerted efforts by ALGON to continue to improve the technical capacities of local government workers across Nigeria to be able to rise up to the humongous task ahead of them.
"Local government councils must be seen to be alive, with a reformed civil service structure and executing more impactful projects that will bring respite to the people in the grassroots, for whose sake this fight was won."
Adeleke at Meeting with British Diplomats, Accuses IGP of Executing Chaos in Councils
Adeleke during the meeting with top British diplomats accused Egbetokun of imposng illegality on local councils in the state.
Chairman, Osun State chapter of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Hon Sunday Bisi, alleged at a press conference that Egbetokun had mapped out plans to assassinate Adeleke.
Bisi said the governor’s instruction to restore peace and order, as chief
security officer of Osun State, was flagrantly violated.
Adeleke told the British diplomats, led by the Deputy High Commissioner, Mr Jonny Baxter, “It is unfortunate and a disservice to democracy that the Inspector General of Police is colluding with the APC to enforce a non-existing court order.
“This is a serious threat to democracy in Nigeria.”
Adeleke, who reaffirmed his readiness for peace, free and fair elections on Saturday, said Osun faced a combined assault of the security forces, who, rather than protect rule of law, were busy
continent's digital economy expected to reach $180 billion, up from $115 billion in 2020.
The vice president said, “Initiatives, such as the Federal Ministry of Investment's National Talent Export Programme, launched by the president in September 2023, the Outsource to Nigeria Initiative backed by the Office of the Vice President, and the three Million Technology Talents Programme of the Ministry of Innovation and Digital Economy, are leading this growth and opening up opportunities for access to high-quality Nigerian talent at a global scale.”
He stated that Nigeria had modernised its passport application system and invested in port infrastructure to streamline trade procedures, reducing customs processing times and enhancing the country's ability to handle a major share of West Africa's cargo.
"Let us move rapidly from the text of the protocol to the actuality of a digitally enabled trade as a catalyst for prosperity for all,” Shettima added.
Minister of Youth Development, Mr. Ayodele Olawande, described the workshop as a welcome development, recalling that last year, Tinubu had approved the Nigerian Youth Investment Fund to empower Nigeria's young entrepreneurs and Small and
table in earnest.”
This means making substantial progress in the agriculture negotiations a top priority. It also means members should use early 2025 to ensure the entry into force of the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies; make a concerted effort to wrap up the second wave of the fisheries subsidies negotiations; reach a mutually agreeable solution regarding the incorporation of the plurilateral Investment Facilitation for Development Agreement (IFDA) and the Agreement on Electronic Commerce into the WTO legal framework; continue progress on dispute settlement reform; and move ahead on development issues, she said.
Noting that “the world has changed,” Okonjo-Iweala added: “We cannot come here to continue doing the same things we've been doing.”
Meanwhile, the Chinese Ambassador to the WTO Li Chenggang pointed out
Medium Enterprises (SMEs).
Olawande stated that a significant portion of the Youth Investment Fund would be dedicated to supporting young Nigerians.
He said the Tinubu administration "is producing capital businesses for the young entrepreneurs engaging in agriculture, manufacturing, textile, creative industry, digital services and other export items so that they can meet the international trade standard.
"I also believe that this platform and strategic partnerships will help the youths to own their businesses to connect with the international digital trade and make Nigeria productive and globally competitive."
Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, said a nation that failed to embrace digital trade would certainly be left behind.
Sani applauded the Tinubu administration for making significant strides in the ICT sector.
The governor, who was represented by the deputy governor, Dr. Hadiza Balarabe, said, "Digital trade platforms have eliminated traditional trade barriers, allowing businesses, both big and small, to participate in regional and global markets like never before.
“Today, we are reminded of the immense potential that lies within the African Continental Free Trade
that the US' unilateral and arbitrary tariffs was affecting China and other trading partners, and have caused global "tariff shocks." He highlighted that such actions blatantly violate WTO rules, heighten economic uncertainty, disrupt global trade, and could even undermine the multilateral trading system built on rules.
Area in a world increasingly defined by interconnectivity.
"We must seize this moment, not merely as a challenge, but as a powerful catalyst for growth and development. Digital transformation stands today as the cornerstone of innovation and sustainable growth.
“With 65 per cent of our population under the age of 25, Nigeria possesses the demographic advantage to become a global digital powerhouse.”
On her part, Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Barrister Hannatu Musawa, commended the vice president for championing digital trade innovations. Musawa said while Nigeria had the tools to unlock its potential in the sector, AfCFTA provided an opportunity to leverage the country's strength, especially in the creative industry.
She stated, "As the Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, I believe that the creative and culture industries are not just mere expressions but are real powerful drivers of the economy.
“Our ministry is committed to positioning Nigeria's creative sector as a cornerstone of export through growth under the free trade area.
Continued on page 29
CITING 40 ONGOING FEDERAL PROJECTS WORTH OVER N600BN, KEBBI APC DECLARES SUPPORT FOR TINUBU
Idris to fly its flag for a second term in 2027.
A number of prominent northern figures have in recent times voiced opposition to the president's yetto-be-announced re-election bid about two years from now, with former Kaduna Governor, Nasir el-Rufai publicly saying the region will give Tinubu the Goodluck Jonathan treatment. Jonathan, an incumbent southerner, lost the presidential poll to Muhammadu Buhari in 2015.
Also, a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir Lawal, has been vocal in his criticism of Tinubu's policies, particularly concerning alleged economic challenges in the North. Lawal has expressed intentions to collaborate with other northern leaders to prevent Tinubu's re-election in 2027.
Outside his party, the APC, the Governor of Bauchi state, Bala Mohammed, has emerged as a critic of the president and is reportedly mobilising support for an alternative leadership for the nation in the coming elections.
Unsurprisingly, a former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, and a prominent political figure from the North, has also been involved in political maneuvers, which many see as part of plans to displace Tinubu in 2027.
But led by the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu, and the governor of Kebbi, leaders of the party yesterday said Tinubu deserved their support because of the huge number of federal projects he had cited in the state in less than two years of his first term of office.
Citing 40 ongoing projects worth over N600 billion spread across agriculture, health and education sectors in the state, the party said the federal attention was unprecedented in the state.
“President Bola Tinubu has shown that he is a visionary leader with enormous capacity to carry everyone along. He promised to be president for all, and he has practicalised that in all his dealings in the last one and a half years that he has been in office,” Bagudu said during the event.
The minister listed some of the the big-ticket federal projects in the state as the 1,000 km Sokoto (Ilela-Badagry (Agbara) Superhighway (Section 1, Phase 1A) Kebbi section worth N428.3 billion; Rehabilitation and construction of 30 km within the 127 km alignment of Biu-KangiwaKamba-Gaya-Niger Republic Road (N39.6 billion); the construction of Malando Garin Baka Ngaski Wara Road CH.0+000 CH.79+586 (N86.3 billion); and Koko-Besse-Zaria-Kala Road (N13.7 billion).
“For us in Kebbi State, we are grateful for his impactful leadership that is consolidating inclusive economic growth and development across our land and the nation,” Bagudu said.
The Birni Kebbi rally, attended by scores of political heavyweights, including National Assembly members, former governors, and some members of the party’s National Working Committee (NWC), increased the gathering of politicians expressing support for Tinubu amid rising speculations that the North might not support his 2027 second term aspiration.
On Sunday, Minister of State for Defence, Mr Bello Matawalle, said
contrary to the claim by a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mr Babachir Lawal, the North remained solidly behind Tinubu.
The Arewa Think Tank also said the much mouthed opposition from the north was a facade, stressing that the North has no reason not to return Tinubu as president in 2027.
Also in attendance at the Kebbi meeting were the Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Finance, Hon. James Faleke, who stood in for Tinubu; APC National Organising Secretary, Mr Suleiman Argungu; Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Durosimi Meseko; Executive Secretary, National Lottery Commission, Mr Tosin Adeyanju; Senator Bala ibn Na’alla; Senator Mohammed Magoro and former governor of the state, Sai’du Dakingari.
Bagudu said both Tinubu and Idris deserved a second term based on their performances in less than two years of their elections as president and governor.
The minister said the Tinubu government had done so much to make Nigeria better, explaining that the president had fulfilled his campaign promises to Kebbi State and he was so proud to be associated with him.
He added that in less than two years the federal government had recorded many people-oriented projects in the state.
He added: "The federal government awarded Natisini-KangiwaKamba Road for N35 billion, it did the Malamdo-Ngaski Warah Road, has started work on the SokotoKebbi-Badagry superhighway and Koko-Mahuta-Dabai road respectively
all for the benefit of people of Kebbi State."
While announcing the sum of N450 million for the 225 wards in the state to procure food items for the month of Ramadan, he urged everyone to support the APC government led by Idris in the state and Tinubu at the federal level because of the good work that they were doing to better the lives of the people.
Addressing the rally, Idris said the people of Kebbi state were solidly behind Tinubu because he had brought progress and development to the state. He commended him for the developmental projects the president had brought to the state.
"We can count many things that the president has done for our state. For this, I'm with Tinubu come 2027. When the time comes, we shall see if they think they have more people than Tinubu in Kebbi state. Only the person who brought progress to us is our candidate," the governor said.
Speaker of the House of Assembly, Hon. Muhammadu Ankwe also praised Tinubu for what he described as his unprecedented contributions to the infrastructure development of the state, saying the people needed to reciprocate his good deeds with their support.
“Hon Faleke, please tell the President that we are solidly behind him,” he assured.
In his remarks, Faleke thanked the gathering for their support for Tinubu and pledged that the president would continue to serve them diligently.
“I thank you for this show of support. I urge you to continue to stand firmly, and I assure you that Tinubu will not disappoint you,” he stressed.
Okonjo-Iweala
IBB’s Lo ng-awaited Finall y,
Autobiography!
The Board of Trustees of the IBB Presidential Library Foundation,
on behalf of the former President and Statesman, GCFR IBRAHIM BADAMASI BABANGIDA, announces the
A J OUR NEY IN
Historic Public Book Presentation of IBB’s long-awaited Autobiography and the fund-raising ceremony
IBB PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY
under the Distinguished Chairmanship of CH I EF OLUSEGUN AREMU OBASANJO, GCFR
Special Guest of Honour PRESI DENT BOL A AHMED TI NUBU, GCFR Keynote Address
NANA ADDO DANKWA AKUFO -ADDO Former President of Ghana Book Reviewer
PROFESSOR YEMI OSINBAJO, GCON Chief Launchers
GENERAL THEOPHILUS Y. DANJUMA, GCON
Founder & Chairman Emeritus, TY Danjuma Foundation for the establishment of a befitting &
ABDUL SAMAD RABIU, CFR , CON Founder & Chairman, BUA Group
Date Thursday, 20th February, 2025
Time 11am Prompt. (All guests to be seated by 10am)
Venue
Congress Hall, Transcorp Hilton, Abuja
I FIRST MET MKO Abiola in 1974 when, as a young commander of the reconnaissance regiment, I was sent by the Minister of Communications, Brigadier Murtala Muhammed, to evaluate the British Recal radio systems that Abiola wanted to sell to the military....But by 1993, when he entered the race for the office of the President, he had become not only a closer personal friend but also an immensely wealthy man of considerable national influence.
Time: 8:30am(Lying in state) 10:00am(Farewell Service)
Survived by
Wife Safiya
Interment:
Venue: National Military Cemetery, Airport Road, Abuja Time: Immediately after the church farewell service.
Children
Aged mother: Mrs Theresa M. Jemitola
Bridget Dele Mairo Sobers
Gregory Shegun Jemitola
Christiana Biodun Omofuma
Patrick Ayo Jemitola
Francesca Yinka Ademowo
Siblings
Aanena Elizabeth Toyin Jemitola
Emmanuel Debo Jemitola
Maryann Remi Jemitola
Taitai Angela Jemitola
Komkom Gloria Jemitola
www.thisdaylive.com
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A
CASE
FOR PROFESSIONAL EDUCATORS
A 12-year unbroken duration of basic education is undesirable, contends FIFELOMO DAWODU
A HALLMARK OF SLAVERY WOLE OSINUPEBI argues that many Nigerians are oppressed by the wealthy and influential
JUSTICE
There are weightier matters in the nation’s pretertiary schooling than its current system, writes MONDAY PHILIPS EKPE
THAT BASIC EDUCATION MODEL RIPPLE
The other day, the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, took the stage at the 2025 Extraordinary National Council of Education conference, the nation’s highest policy-making body, in Abuja, and sounded like a declaration to adopt a straight 12-4 system of education for the country. It was promptly reported by a chunk of the mass media as a decision already made by the government. One online newspaper was categorical in its headline and opening sentence: “FG Abolishes Junior and Senior Secondary Schools, Introduces 12-year Basic Education… The federal government has announced the scrapping of the Junior Secondary School (JSS) and Senior Secondary School (SSS) systems in Nigeria, introducing a compulsory 12-year uninterrupted basic education model.” This turned out to represent the bandwagon news reporting of that event.
In less than 24 hours after, what had been reported as an official announcement was recast by the ministry as only a proposal meant to elicit some informed responses from the minister’s audience populated mainly by high-profile education professionals and technocrats. Whatever the effects of the teaser, the ripples are not likely to fade into oblivion anytime soon.
But first, a necessary digression. For some time now, the Federal Ministry of Education has been a theatre of some sort, a source of poorly-prepared policy pronouncements that get to the knowledge of Nigerian citizens who are left to figure out their authenticity and workability all by themselves. To mention just two instances. At the twilight of the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari, it was announced to the praises from many quarters that the subject of history would be returned to the secondary schools’ curriculum. Sincere concerns and questions were raised about some aspects of that move. Government grandstanding was recorded here and there. Today, it’s difficult to speak confidently on its implementation.
Two, the immediate past Minister of Education, Professor Tahir Mamman, woke up one morning and declared that only prospective candidates who were 18 years and above would be admitted into higher institutions of learning. All hell broke loose. People with either credible or phoney arguments jumped into the fray. The man received blows he never anticipated. The most bizarre opinion I read that period came from a certain commentator whose name I had no reason to wish to remember. He held up Mamman’s pronouncement as a ready evidence for his conviction that a particular region of the country simply can’t produce a quality head of this all-important segment of our national life. Yes, the atmosphere produced by that ill-thought decision became that obscene.
The former minister did reverse himself eventually and the episode was believed to be his major undoing when President Bola Tinubu reshuffled his cabinet last year. But as soon as the current education
helmsman took office, it was also reported that he rescinded the age limit resolution of his predecessor to the chagrin of those who thought that the matter had already been laid to rest. Like some others before it within the same ministry, that debacle raised issues of impropriety, inconsistency and communicative summersault.
The more recent subject of which structure to adopt for the nation’s pre-tertiary education schooling should be promptly and expertly handled before it’s added to the burdens that are conspiring to further jeopardise a sector which was once vibrant and globally competitive. That day, Dr Alausa expressed his views pointedly: “It is important to acknowledge that while the 9-34 system of education has its merits, it also has drawbacks, such as the need for students to work to further their education… It is therefore prudent to transition from the 9-34 to the 12-4 system of education. By doing so, Nigeria will align with global standards in preparing students for better tertiary education.
“A 12-year basic education model will ensure a continuous, uninterrupted curriculum, promoting better standardisation and fostering quality assurance in the education system…. I am sure many of you have heard about the challenges we face as a nation with talented, bright students being disenfranchised from pursuing tertiary education. In any society, it is crucial to standardise the education of highly functional and exceptionally gifted students. We are now preventing these students, after finishing secondary education at the age of 16, from attending university until they are 18. This delays their development and harms their futures. These students are capable and brave. If we leave them idle, we risk exacerbating mental health issues.” Wellcrafted argument, maybe. But so also was the rhetoric that preceded the previous shifts in our educational models.
Meaning, the real problems may not be with any particular model but with factors like conceptualisation, human, financial and material resources, mobilisation and execution. I recall that when the 6-3-3-4 was inaugurated in the 1980s, the loudest selling point was the need to promote vocational learning early enough. The assumption then, rightly or wrongly, was that adolescents
and teenagers were naturally positioned to embrace and run with jobs that were outside the white-collar bracket but were beneficial and profitable. All they needed was early exposure, it was vehemently argued. That thinking surely wasn’t off-track. But where did all that lead us? The proverbial baby was thrown away with the bath water, of course. Now, the education ministry is saddling itself with what might not even be an issue in the first place. And it isn’t peculiar to it. At different layers of government in Nigeria, there are numerous cases of ill-conceived or abandoned mental, social, economic, political and physical projects, the last type being the most noticeable. In a bid to achieve so-called legacy programmes, all sorts of ideas are rushed through the mills at the expense of huge monies, energy and time.
It’s interesting that the minister has put forward as one of his premises the age-limit question. Has he critically thought of the factors responsible for parents pushing their kids into creche, kindergarten and nursery earlier than what obtained in previous generations? Six years of age used to be the benchmark for primary school entry in those day. That was when parents led quieter and more organised - not necessarily richerlives, when socio-economic realities had not become this vicious, and certainly when it was a well-received norm within Nigerian communities to send children to elementary schools not earlier than the stipulated age. And rat race hadn’t become common.
There is every indication that we need to spend less time arguing about which formula suits the country better than the weightier matters that have undermined our educational planning for too long. This is particularly painful because the nation has been swinging between giant strides and underachievement since 1955 when the Universal Primary Education (UPE) made its debut in the western region. Lagos, the then federal capital, and eastern Nigeria followed two years later. The launching of the Universal Free Primary Education scheme in 1976 and the ratification of the National Policy on Education in 1977 both signified the desire of government to prioritise basic learning. Yet, setbacks, many of which ought to have since been tackled frontally, have continued to beg to be taken a bit more seriously. Teacher and child welfare. Quantity and quality of educational personnel, facilities and materials. Teacher training and retraining. Seamless, realistic, adequate funding. Overall optimal sectoral administration. None of these variables is rocket science. It’s okay if the honourable minister wishes to make a mark. And he actually has the very tasks that can help him accomplish that already cut out for him. Concentrating on one or two or three of these areas would win him the hearts of Nigerians instead of tinkering with a policy that may appear exceptional but could end up being only symbolic and peripheral.
Dr Ekpe is a member of THISDAY Editorial Board
A 12-year unbroken duration of basic education is undesirable, contends FIFELOMO
DAWODU
A CASE FOR PROFESSIONAL EDUCATORS
The Education Ministry has been trending lately with stories in the popular media of pronouncements, directives, counter-narratives on issues about Education and the educational system. Topics that have been rancorous include, minimum entry age for universities, compulsory vocational subjects from Basic 1, re-introduction of History as a stand alone subject, and extension of basic education to 12 years. The debate has been loudest in the mass market because the opinions of professionals in the field are not being sought.
The National Policy on Education 2013, (revised) stipulates age six as the minimum entry age into elementary school in Nigeria for a six-year duration. The first rung of the formal education ladder runs from age 6-12. Evidence based research and scholarly works in Educational Psychology, and related fields on child development, learning in the classroom have settled matters about what a child can do and cannot do, what age, why, etc. Contemporary Theories of Education also enlighten on current strategies of teaching and learning, even as research is continuous. Junior Secondary School (JSS) is the next step on the ladder for three years. This stage starts at age 12 years to age 15. Basic education up to this stage is compulsory and free.
With the compulsory and free nine years of Basic Education every child between the ages of 5-15 should have learnt how to read and write and have a basic understanding of how to manipulate numbers, understand some science and social studies. After this stage children who desire to trade, learn a skill or enter their traditional or family occupation like Herding, Farming, Fishing may proceed. They may also continue in the formal school system through the Technical and Vocation Education (TVET) pathway. To proceed to Higher Education Learners would need to complete a further three-year course of Senior Secondary School (SSS) i.e. 15-18 years.
Globally the discipline Education, is the study of public education systems as such it should not have been controversial that the head administrator of the public university admissions system reiterated age 18 as the minimum entry age into universities. In January this year, 15 new vocational subjects, Plumbing, Interior Design, Hairstyling, POP Installation, etc., were added to the basic education syllabus to be tested and graded like Mathematics, Literature, General Science, etc. It is doubtful if there was a comprehensive review of the performance, and an analysis of the success or otherwise of previous efforts of teaching vocational subjects in schools. Curriculum Development, Educational Management and Supervision are areas of expertise in Education, and it would be helpful to know if the proposal for the additional vocational subjects was based on an Expert Report and a comparative analysis with previous efforts. Pondering on the initiative certain issues are niggling and an alternative strategy would be suggested.
Can a six-year-old Basic One pupil have the capacity to make an informed choice of what vocation to learn and stick it through to Basic Nine or they would rather be assigned the vocation to learn? Would every school offer all 15 vocations?
Is there sufficient manpower to ‘teach’ these vocational subjects? Or infrastructure and other required resources including a standardised syllabus, testing and evaluation matrix, and the required teaching competencies to impart knowledge that would be evaluated like other subjects?
Rather than start from scratch with 15 new vocations better to leverage and improve on the capacity that had been built for the previous format. Another idea is to borrow the format in Rwanda where vocational schools rank Pari-passu with the regular schools, and pupils can elect to attend which ever pathway best suits their aspirations and capacity. There is no stigma or looking down at pupils who choose the vocational studies pathway. The Federal Government can also start the new vocational studies with a pilot scheme of ‘Model Vocational Schools.’ The scheme can start with two vocational schools in each geo-political zone. One school can be Co-Ed and the other Girl’s only using the model of Federal Government Schools. Lagos State Government already runs a model of vocational schools that ranks the same as its regular school.
In what appeared to be a concerted campaign, there was a prevalent narrative that History was no longer taught in Nigerian schools’ curriculum but that is not the correct position. History was incorporated into an integrated subject as Social Studies for Learners in Basic 1-9. History was taught in a decolonised context and situated within our national ethos and the philosophy of our educational system in the NPE. SSS students still study History, Government, Geography, etc., as stand-alone subjects.
What is the implication of reverting History to a stand alone subject? Have we developed resources for teaching a decolonised history in our schools or we revert to teaching the same colonised pre-independence history where Mungo Park discovered the River Niger and the ideology that there are no kings in the colonised territories because the only sovereign is the one in England? Is Social Studies not a surer way to teach students about the unlettered Alimot Pelewura that faced off with the colonial forces and led the market women of Lagos in resistance to the imposition of taxes by forming a human barricade at the entrance of Ereko Market? Are we still to teach the stand-alone History that amplified our cleavages, or do we make Social Studies more robust and include the efforts at inclusion, national unity and the struggle to achieve Democracy?
With a bit of informed insight, the proposition of 12 years Basic education should never have come up. The 6-3-3-4 classification stands for the different rungs on the educational ladder, and it signifies myriad issues. Implicated in the classification includes issues around infrastructure, funding, teacher-training, parental involvement as well as social problems like out-of-school children, child trafficking, etc. With just nine years of pre-requisite free and compulsory Basic Education we have the highest incidence of Out -of School children, and our ranking on the illiteracy chart is unenviable. An extension of Basic Education to 12 years would complicate matters aggravating funding issues, Out-of -School children, shortage of qualified personnel, etc. Dawodu
is a Solicitor and can be reached at A_plusteam@ yahoo.com
WOLE OSINUPEBI argues that many Nigerians are oppressed by the wealthy and influential
A HALLMARK OF SLAVERY
The most poignant manifestation of power in our country is to inflict pain on people perceived to be less powerful. Or why do we have convoys of cars with armed police harassing other road users with the noise of sirens and dangerous driving?
The person who instigated and paid for the bedlam usually sits in this confusion pretending to be engaged in some important conversation or in a hurry to get somewhere. All is a sham. If the concern is for security, movement should be anonymous. Secondly, while the key instigator may be ensconced in some category of bulletproof vehicles, the noisy escorts are not. In some cases, they are exposed, and hanging on with the hands they should use to operate their weapons. Clearly, the objective is not security but a desire to flex and punish our people.
Meanwhile citizens on the road are forced into a traffic jam created by these dubious beings under the threat of being shot or beaten by the armed men, or their car damaged. When law enforcement officers - police, are part of the assault it is difficult to protest. Most people wait out the mess, and continue with their lives after these vandals have left. In situations when it’s standstill traffic we’re stuck in an atmosphere with howling sirens causing anxiety and giving a feeling of imminent disaster, simply because our leaders are children. Or how does it make sense howling sirens when you’re not even moving? Except there is a challenge with thought processes? I wonder how parents with children on the autism spectrum cope with this.
The latest in this consistent barrage against the people of Nigeria is using the police to arrest and lock up people who annoy you. The cost of court proceedings and the opportunity lost for needed judicial work should also be considered. In summary, influential individuals with low selfesteem are deploying government resources to fight private emotional battles. And that one is injured through the deprecating statements of others is a false assertion in this part of the world where many individuals are wealthy without any evidence of significant inheritance or thriving industry. Persons with a dark cloud of unproven criminal activity hanging over their heads are well received in society, while known honest men and women are disrespected because they have no cash to throw around. In summary, so long as you have plenty of money, no statement by anyone can sully your image.
Persons who ran government and private sector organisations to ruin, but emerged from them wealthy usually enter politics and are honoured with traditional titles. The mirage of loss through defamation or inciting a breach of peace becomes obvious with the enthusiasm of the police to pursue and arrest. If this level of energy was deployed to unresolved murder, kidnapping, rape or fraud cases Nigeria would be crime free. Clearly some kinetic energy inducing source is inspiring law enforcement to quickly round up those who annoy big men, but is not available to counter those causing the systematic ruination of the nation.
Of note also is when social media is weaponised and used to propagate lies. Initially those who broadcast false information about others thought they operated under an impenetrable veil until they were exposed.
This utter disrespect for other peoples’ humanity was the basis of the slave trade where millions of people were kidnapped and traded like chattels for over three hundred years. A trade that stripped West Africa of its youth and stagnated development. Enslaving people for centuries resulted in a loss of self-esteem for the whole continent and then instigated the emergence of big men with larger than life egos. Despite wealth and even physical size
they remain toddlers at heart ready to throw tantrums at any real or perceived slight. This is the reason why people pay for titles from their homeplace, religion and profession. A cover cloth for that feeling of nakedness that comes with an empty mind.
In boxing and all fighting sports, a contest between two people of the same weight division under rules agreed by both contestants takes place. Umpires and administrators of the rules of the sport are engaged to ensure fairness and adherence to the rules. In Nigeria, the military, police and other agencies are however allowed to beat people up, and this barbaric behaviour is taken as normal. Corporal punishment is inflicted on house servants and children perceived to be at the bottom of the power scale. In some cases, it gets so bad that victims are very badly injured or killed. All are manifestations of toxic asymmetric power relationships, where one person has power over the other and expresses this physically. It has all the hallmarks of slavery. Enslaved people are a good example of asymmetric power balance, and it appears the memory of slavery and ill-treating others has not left us. Or how else do we explain this?
A man gains political power (or gets elevated to a high government or private sector role) and he begins to convert resources held in trust for others to personal use. He becomes arrogant, and must be addressed in flowery language. The services provided by the organisation he purports to lead diminishes in quality or disappears completely and those it’s meant to serve suffer loss and pain. But their cries for help doesn’t change anything. Meanwhile this leader lives in luxury and his children study abroad. Isn’t this how slavery worked? A large number go through deprivation and pain while a few enjoy a non-stop stream of increasing income. It gets worse because the people so badly treated do not protest, and those who do are silenced by their co-venturers. In some cases, there is a backlash from the oppressors community where the ethnicity of the crooked leader is used to justify his (or her) criminal behaviour. After all, they say, others have done the same, why is he being prosecuted so vigorously? That large amounts of money meant for education, roads or healthcare have been diverted to private projects, and that the future of a whole generation is frustrated is somehow not part of the discussion.
All siren oppressors should note this. When this untenable abuse goes full circle, sirens, bullet-proof cars and police with two bullets each will not stop the anger of the oppressed. Check the history books again.
Osinupebi writes from Lagos
Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA
Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com
EMPOWERING INCLUSION AND SOCIAL JUSTICE
Government at all levels should create an environment that is all inclusive
If the first duty of any government is the provision of the basic needs of security, welfare and a sense of purpose, can those at the helms of affairs in our country claim to have lived up to these high expectations? This question is important as Nigeria joins other countries to mark the World Social Justice Day 2025 with the theme, ‘Empowering Inclusion: Bridging Gaps for Social Justice’, emphasizing the significance of inclusive policies and social protection in managing systematic inequality. In the 5th Wave of National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) General Household Survey 2023/2024 which tracked the resilience of Nigerians over time, approximately two out of three households indicated being unable to eat healthy, nutritious or preferred foods because of lack of money. That level of social exclusion is dangerous for any country.
Indeed, the reality of the Nigerian condition was recently brought home by the 2024 report by Oxfam, an international confederation of NGOs working with partners in over 90 countries to end the injustices that cause poverty. “Nigeria’s wealth gap is a moral and social crisis. While a few individuals amass immense wealth, over 133 million Nigerians face hunger daily. This extreme inequality is largely unearned, built on inheritance, monopolies, and unfair advantages,” said the Oxfam Country Director, John Makina. “We must act now to create a fairer system—by taxing the richest, addressing injustices, and investing in services that lift millions out of poverty.”
current suffering by Nigerians. After publicly announcing an import duty waiver programme on food items expected to run till 31 December 2024 last July, the federal government refused to implement its own policy.
Today, millions of citizens can hardly eat a good meal a day. Millions are jobless while many of the employed people are not paid living wages. Others get their daily living from the streets. But the main problem has been in the growing gap between the rich and the poor. Going by the Commitment to Reducing Inequality (CRI) Index, which ranks governments based on what they are doing to tackle this gap, Nigeria fares badly because its social spending (on health, education and social protection) is abysmally low. The solution to the problem can therefore not be in some tokenist programmes that are neither well thought-out nor enduring.
The World Social Justice Day provides another opportunity for stakeholders to understand that the plight of the underprivileged is steadily worsening with many going to bed with less than a survival diet
T H I S D AY
EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU
DEPUTY EDITOR WALE OLALEYE
MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO
DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU
CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI
EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN
THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA
It is concerning that domestic food price inflation in Nigeria remains among the highest globally. This price surge has strained household incomes, making it increasingly difficult for low-income families to afford basic food items. To compound the challenge, the federal government is not serious about bringing down the prices of essential food commodities in a bid to alleviate the
GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU
DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE
DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com
Letters to the Editor
While inequalities and social injustice may not be peculiar to Nigeria, the latest Oxfam report reveals that economic rewards are “increasingly concentrated” at the top. Yet, the situation is becoming very desperate for most Nigerians despite the denial by some delusional politicians. In our country today, many basic services such as education, health and infrastructure are decrepit or in short supply, while a huge demographic crisis is looming. The consequences of this situation are not only for the victims but also those who feed fat at the expense of the poor in both the public and private sectors.
The World Social Justice Day 2025 therefore provides another opportunity for stakeholders in the country to understand that the plight of the under-privileged is steadily worsening with many going to bed with less than a survival diet. The federal government and authorities in the 36 states must work to provide food, clothing, shelter and safe drinking water, all of which determine how inclusive a society is and whether there is social justice in the country.
Letters in response to specific publications in THISDAY should be brief (150-300 words) and straight to the point. Interested readers may send such letters along with their contact details to opinion@thisdaylive.com. We also welcome comments and opinions on topical local, national and international issues provided they are well-written and should also not be longer than (750- 1000 words). They should be sent to opinion@thisdaylive. com along with photograph, email address and phone numbers of the writer.
NATIVE DOCTORS' BOGUS CLAIMS IN ANAMBRA
Gov.Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State should be commended for his clampdown on the self-styled native doctors whose utterances and misdeeds pervert our African traditional religion and mislead young and undiscerning people into committing heinous crimes. Sadly, in Anambra State, our African traditional religion is being put to bad use by worshippers of African traditional religion, among whom are native doctors or medicine men.
But what is religion? In simple parlance, religion is defined as the way by which we try to reach our God or gods. And each religion has its own doctrinal teachings and form of worship. In today's world, we have these types of religion, namely Shintoism, Hinduism, Taoism, Confucianism, Islam, Christianity, and others. And in Nigeria, Islam, Christianity, and the African traditional religion are the predominant religions.
However, the African traditional religion has been in existence in Nigeria before Islam and Christianity - Abrahamic faiths, brought to us. Our people's embrace of Christianity did not lead to the obliteration of the African traditional religion, however. But people are still converting to Christianity from our African traditional religion.
Now, in Igboland, of which Anambra State is a part, people who practice the African traditional religion are believed to be practi-
tioners of idolatory as carved wooden objects serve as intermediaries between them and their gods. Worship of ancestors is part of the religious practice embedded in the African traditional religion, too. The worshippers do pour libation to their gods and invoke the names of their departed ancestors for protection and blessings. The form of religious worship which is peculiar to the African traditional religion is incantatory chants.
More so, most native doctors or medicine men are known to be the custodians of our traditional religion. They are well-schooled in Igbo cosmology. And they are believed to be clairvoyant,and with mystical powers which make people visit them for divination. People whose health conditions defy orthodox therapies visit them for alternative treatments, too.
But now, in Anambra State, the native doctors are perverting the practice of African traditional religion to realize their selfish and pecuniary goals. For example, they brazenly claim that they have charms and amulets, which can make streetwalkers thrive in their despicable and abominable trade of prostitution. Armed robbers visit them for spiritual fortifications, which will ward off bullets from them, too. And the native doctors are covertly boasting that they can prepare charms for people to become stupendously rich.
But what gave rise to people's embrace of money-making rituals is the erosion of family values among us. Poor but honest people are butts of joke in our society while rich people are lionized and praised to high heavens. So it can be seen that a nexus exists between the upsurge in money-making rituals in our society and our societal values. Our possession of wealth is the index of our success, which informed people's desperation to acquire money at any cost.
Visiting native doctors for money-making rituals is the fad among young people, now. Accompanied by medicine men, young people are frequenting rivers to take a dip in them and make sacrifices so as to become rich.
Consequently, the reprehensible practice of money-making ritual has gained a foothold in Anambra State. And the claims and postulations of the medicine men that their fetish practices can make people become rich are being sewn onto the tapestry of the African traditional religion. So the onus is on the native doctors to prove that their practice is benign, and not a smokescreen or ruse for fleecing desperate people of their hard-earned money.
Chiedu Uche Okoye, Uruowulu-Obosi, Anambra State
How Shortfall in Autonomous System Number is Limiting Growth of Internet Exchange Points
Stories by Emma Okonji
Statistics have shown that Nigeria has a total of 257 Autonomous System Numbers (ASNs), which is a fraction of what most counties of the world currently have.
For instance, South Africa with a population that is far less than that of Nigeria, has over 800 ASNs, while developed countries like UK, US, and Italy, each has over 3,000 ASNs, through which they were able to expand their internet exchange points to boost internet connectivity across their countries.
Autonomous System Number is a globally unique identifier that defines a group or more IP prefixes run by one or more network operators that maintain a single clearly-defined routing policy.
In Nigeria, Internet Service Providers (ISPs), including content distributors, research institutions, educational institutions and financial institutions that use the internet for connectivity, are supposed to register with the African Network Information Centre (AFRINIC), the Regional Internet Registry (RIR) for Africa that assigns Internet Protocol (IP) resources known as Autonomous System Numbers, that will enable them interconnect with available internet exchange points to boost internet access and connectivity, but they are restrained by the limited number of ASNs that they currently have, which is put at just 257 for the whole of Nigeria.
Worried about the limited number of ASNs that Nigeria currently has, the Chief Executive Officer of Internet
eXchange Point of Nigeria (IXPN), the body that manages Nigeria’s Internet Exchange Points and promotes seamless connectivity and innovation with peering community, Mr. Muhammed Rudman, said the shortfall in Autonomous System Numbers is adversely affecting the growth and expansion of internet exchange points in Nigeria.
Rudman, who expressed this view during the annual members’ engagement forum, organised for its members in Lagos, called on the federal government to urgently intervene and come up with measures that will help populate ASNs in Nigeria.
“What Nigeria is facing today is that some states that have up to four ASNs, may have only two active Internet Service Providers,
and IXPN needs a minimum of three ISPs in a state, to set up an exchange point in that state. Nigeria is big in terms of population, but in reality, the networks providing internet access are very small.
Over 99 per cent of Nigerians that browse the internet, do so from their mobile phones, using the Mobile Network Operators’ (MNOs) platform, which is good, but when you want to really have volume of internet traffic, you need to have the fixed wired, the fixed wireless lines that generate internet traffic volume from the homes and offices,” Rudman said.
Analysing ASN distribution by sectors in Nigeria, Rudman said Nigeria has a total of 257 ASNs, with Internet Service Providers (ISPs) having 140, Content
Delivery Network (CDN) 1, Higher Educational Institutions (HEI) 24, Financial Institutions (FI) 22, Others 70, bringing the total to 257. He however said out of the 257 ASNs, only 37 per cent is connected to ISPs, while 63 per cent is not connected.
Giving further details of the connected and non-connected sectors, he said among the ISPs that have ASNs, 85 are connected to IXPN while 55 are not connected. According to him, only one Content Delivery Network (CDN) is connected, and out of the 24 Higher Educational Institutions that have acquired ASN, only one is connected to IXPN, while 23 are not connected. For the 22 Financial Institutions that have ASNs, only one is connected to
IXPN, which is the Central Bank of Nigeria, while the remaining 21 are not connected. For Others, which include churches, mosques, malls, electricity distribution companies, among others, eight are connected to IXPN, while 62 are not connected, bringing the total number of connected to 95 and non-connected to 162. Giving the categories of states that are connected to IXPN, Rudman said only six states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja, are connected to IXPN, with Lagos leading with 161 ASNs, followed by FCT (44), Ogun (7), Oyo (6), Kano (6), Rivers (5) and Osun (4).
Boston Consulting Group (BCG), a management consulting solution team, has revealed that Nigeria has the highest funding provided to AI companies among countries in sub-Saharan Africa, indicating strong investor confidence and potential for scaling Artificial Intelligence (AI) initiatives.
BCG, in a report, explained that with substantial funding and robust talent pool, Nigeria is poised for AI-driven economic transformation, adding that Nigeria has the second-highest number of AI specialists in sub-Saharan Africa, after South Africa, showcasing a robust and growing talent base.
According to the report, AI is already transforming industries and starting to reshape economies and is poised to shape the future of economic development over the next few years.
“The expansive scale of this growth makes AI an economic priority in every region around the globe,” the report said. However, the BCG research has established that most economies are underprepared for AI-driven disruption, as the study shows that over 70 per cent of the economies studied, scored below average in critical areas such as ecosystem participation, skills, and research
and development.
BCG’s AI Maturity Matrix, a first of its kind study, offers a comprehensive overview of the AI landscape across 73 economies by focusing on two pivotal aspects. First, it assesses each economy’s vulnerability to AI-driven shifts, such as job displacement and industry wide productivity gains. Second, it evaluates the preparedness of each economy to navigate the risks associated with AI, while leveraging its potential to stimulate economic growth.
The report offered recommendations tailored to the diverse groups to guide
policymakers and provided an interactive dashboard for a more detailed exploration of the analysis.
The first-of-its-kind study offers a broad view of global adoption, revealing that while most economies are gradually embracing AI, a small influential group of pioneers is emerging as global leaders. The handful of leading markets, according to the report, will stand to gain significant economic advantages and are uniquely positioned to shape how humanity will engage with this transformative technology.
The report listed six sectors that were most exposed to AI-driven
changes to include: information and communication, high-tech goods, retail, financial services, public services, and motor vehicle manufacturing.
“Economies with a high share of sectors that are most exposed to AI are among the world’s most exposed to disruption.
These include Luxembourg (with financial services making up almost 30 per cent of GDP), Hong Kong (22 per cent financial services and 22 per cent business services), and Singapore (18 per cent business services, 16 per cent retail, and 14 per cent financial services),” the report said.
Giving detailed report on its findings about the Nigerian market, the report said: “Nigeria’s GDP is composed of sectors with both high and limited exposure to AI. Those with high exposure - retail and wholesale and information and communication constitute a large share of the country’s GDP, which comprise of 18 per cent and 17 per cent respectively. Whilst the country’s largest sector, agriculture, forestry and fishery, which makes up 23 per cent of the economy, has limited AI exposure.
CBN’s Call for Telecoms Backward Integration to Lift Naira, Economy
The Central Bank of Nigeria’s call for backward integration in the telecom industry comes at a time the real sector is in dire need of sustainable growth, writes oluchi Chibuzor
Last week, the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Olayemi Cardoso advised telecom companies to reduce their dependence on foreign imports by producing key components of their inputs locally. He spoke in Abuja during a visit by Airtel Africa’s management team, led by Group CEO Sunil Taldar. Cardoso stressed that local production would help reduce pressure on the dollar, create jobs, and boost Nigeria’s economy.
The backward integration proposal for the telecom industry comes at a time the real sector is in dire need of sustainable growth. For many analysts, despite challenges facing local manufacturing, it continues to hold long-term benefits for stable and strong naira as well as economic growth. Telecoms sector remains central in achieving these milestones.
Nigeria stands at a crucial juncture where the need to promote local manufacturing has never been more urgent. As the businesses and economy gear towards growth and development, promoting local manufacturing will not only create jobs, earn more forex from exports and support local currency, it can serve as a catalyst for economic and social progress.
This however, requires a delicate balance: ensuring that key players in the economy, including the telecoms embrace backward integration, a strategy where companies source and produce essential materials locally instead of relying on imports. They need to rely less on imported raw materials for their operations.
CBN Governor, Olayemi Cardoso gave insights on what the economy stands to gain from backward integration in the telecoms sector.
He said that massive production of key inputs, that are currently being imported, like SIM cards, cables, and towers is essential.
He noted that over the past 16 months, the CBN has worked to stabilise the foreign exchange (forex) market, strengthen the Naira, and attract investors. With these improvements, he urged telecom firms to embrace backward integration.
Beyond industry reforms, Cardoso noted the CBN’s broader goal of making financial services more accessible to Nigerians, especially in rural areas. He announced plans for a highlevel summit where the CBN and industry leaders will discuss ways to improve digital payments and financial inclusion.
“The CBN is committed to ensuring that financial services reach more Nigerians, especially in rural and underserved communities. We aim to build a more inclusive and digitally-driven financial system,” he said.
He also assured Airtel and other stakeholders that the CBN would continue to create a business-friendly environment that encourages competition, innovation, and wider access to financial services.
In response, Airtel Africa’s CEO, Sunil Taldar, praised the CBN’s reforms and expressed support for local production, saying it would benefit telecom companies in the long run. He also reaffirmed Airtel’s commitment to expanding financial inclusion through technology.
Taldar was accompanied by Airtel Nigeria CEO, Dinesh Balsingh; Group CFO, Jaideep Paul; and Director of Corporate Communications and CSR, Femi Adeniran.
NaIra upBEaT agaINsT aLL odds
Meanwhile, the naira closed last week at N1,509/$1 at the official market, following key policy changes at the CBN.
The naira has sustained rally at both official and parallel markets since the launch of the FX Code, with the local currency, reaching its strongest level in nearly eight months, closing at N1,555 to dollar at the parallel market.
Analysts from Cordros Securities, said the sharp increase is attributed to the policies implemented by the CBN, especially the FX code, which have influenced market dynamics and contributed to the currency’s strengthening. This latest movement marks a return to that range, reflecting the impact of recent monetary and foreign exchange measures introduced by the CBN to stabilise the currency and improve market confidence.
Managing Director, Afrinvest West Africa Limited, Ike Chioke, projected a sustained positive naira performance this month, supported by CBN’s efforts at entrenching transparency in market operations. “In the new month, we expect the naira to remain on a positive trajectory bolstered by CBN’s effort at currency stability,” he said in emailed
note to investors.
The naira rally was also driven by inflows from Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs), substantial contributions from International Oil Companies (IOCs), and the CBN’s $18.40 million intervention to authorised dealers.
Other analysts also mentioned the renewed interest of Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs) in the FX market—driven by improved market confidence, a more efficient FX framework, and strengthening macroeconomic conditions—alongside the CBN’s sustained market interventions, is expected to continually support naira stability.
BEyoNd BaCkward
INTEgraTIoN
The CBN under Cardoso has carried out several efforts to improve the functioning of the FX market.
This has led to good results with average daily turnover in the Nigerian Autonomous Foreign Exchange Market increased by 226 per cent in the first half of last year when compared to the same period in 2023.
Foreign portfolio inflows have increased by over 72 per cent during this period, while foreign exchange reserves have risen from $32 billion in May 2023 to over $40 billion.
This represents the equivalent of eight months’ import cover and marks the highest reserve level in nearly three years.
The market has also supported over $9bn in capital outflows over the past year as investors were able to freely repatriate capital and dividends without the need to wait for several months as experienced in the past.
These results, Cardoso said, reflect improved confidence in the reforms he embarked on.
“In addition, we witnessed a $6 billion current account surplus in the first half of 2024 as a result of the impact of these reforms. Reduction in petroleum product imports supported by improved domestic refining capacity, a growing focus on non-oil exports and higher remittance inflows helped to support the positive current account balance,” he said.
Also, an enabling policy environment has led to a doubling of monthly remittances from an average of $300 million in 2023 to nearly $600 million in August 2024.
“We are committed to further integrating the Nigerian diaspora into our financial system, exemplified by the introduction of the non-resident Bank Verification Number registration. We expect our financial institutions to develop products that not only enable the diaspora to support their families but also provide opportunities for savings and investment in Nigeria,” he said.
VIEws from
sTakEhoLdErs Executive Secretary of the
Association of Licensed Telecommunication Operators
of Nigeria (ALTON), Gbolahan Awonuga, said that aside telecom operators, other key business owners and entrepreneurs can also invest in the local manufacturing of key components in telecoms operations. He said: “We have to look inwards and get Nigerian companies to produce these key components in telecom operations locally. Government also has a role to play, by ensuring that key infrastructure especially power is available. We do not want a situation where locally produced inputs, will become more expensive than imported versions.”
Awonuga said that telecom sector plays key roles in banking services, including enabling digital payments and ensuring security of transactions.
He said banking and telecom sectors have more to gain if backward integration thrives in the country adding that government has significant role to play to make the move a success.
Research Head, Cowry Asset Management Limited, Charles Abuede, said the CBN governor’s call was to discourage the importation of foreign services into Nigeria, especially when efforts can be made to develop such services locally.
“The high demand for foreign exchange by telecom operators has further pressured the naira due to increased demand for the dollar. However, with adequate infrastructure development and a conducive operating environment facilitated by regulators, these challenges can be mitigated,” he said.
According to Abuede, “given Nigeria’s FX policies, illiquidity in the foreign exchange market, and infrastructure deficits, I think increased investment in the telecom sector would enable operators to embrace backward integration. This would allow them to manufacture key components, such as SIM cards, locally. As a result, production costs could decline—provided the operating environment remains stable. This will improve profit margins and enhance both top-line and bottom-line growth in the long run.”
uNdErsTaNdINg
TELEComs sECTor
According to the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), the total active telephony subscribers increased by 3.2 per cent month/ month to 164.93 million in December 2024. The increase reflects the gradual recovery in the subscriber base following the conclusion of the NIN-SIM linkage program by mobile service providers in September.
Analysing the market share by operators, MTN Nigeria led by 51.4 per cent with 84.61 million subscribers, Airtel Nigeria followed with 34.4 per cent (56.62 million subscribers), Globacom with 12.2 per cent (20.14 million subscribers) and 9mobile with 2.0 per cent (3.28 million subscribers).
At the same time, the total number of internet subscribers rose by two per cent month/month to 139.28 million in December.
Looking ahead, analysts at Cordros Securities, said they expect subscriber base recovery through SIM reactivation initiatives, especially from market leaders – MTN Nigeria and Airtel Nigeria.
According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) third quarter 2024 Gross Domestic Product (GDP) report, the Information and Communication sector, is made up of Telecommunications (telecoms) and Information Services; Publishing; Motion Picture, Sound Recording and Music Production; and Broadcasting.
The sector recorded 14.51 per cent (yearon-year) growth, which was 2.65 per cent points higher than the rate recorded in the preceding quarter.
The sector contributed 16.35 per cent to the total real GDP, higher than in the same quarter of the previous year in which it represented 15.97 per cent and lower than the preceding quarter in which it represented 19.78 per cent.
The reforms embarked on the telecoms sector by the NCC -led were meant to align the sectoral guidelines with international best practices and accommodate the rapidly changing technological landscape.
According to capital importation data from the NBS, the telecom sector attracted $191.5 million in Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs), indicating renewed confidence among foreign investors.
The data indicated that the Q1 2024 figure surpasses the total FDI of $134.75 million recorded in 2023. Compared to Q1 2023, the sector saw a 769 per cent year-on-year increase in capital importation, rising from
“Nigeria stands at a crucial juncture where the need to promote local manufacturing has never been more urgent. as the businesses and economy gear towards growth and development, promoting local manufacturing will not only create jobs, earn more forex from exports and support local currency, it can serve as a catalyst for economic and social progress. This however, requires a delicate balance: ensuring that key players in the economy, including the telecoms embrace backward integration, a strategy where companies source and produce essential materials locally instead of relying on imports. They need to rely less on imported raw materials for their operations.”
Cardoso
Between ARCON and Business Owners
Olusegun Adeniyi
Following my recent column, ‘Creating a Ganu-Si Economy’, which dwelt on how most government agencies serve as impediments to entrepreneurship, some supporters of the Advertising Regulatory Commission of Nigeria (ARCON) have written several articles in ‘response’. Although none has been sent to me, perhaps because ARCON is relying on third parties, I read them. And they all miss the point. By arguing that my friend who owns a restaurant attracted the hefty fine of N1 milion on two occasions because she circumvented the law that required payment of N15,000 fee and submission of the ‘promo’ for ARCON vetting, they make their case even worse.
In the ‘2024 Budget of Professional Bodies/Councils of Agencies Removed from the FGN Funding’, released by the Budget Office of the Federation, ARCON is number one on the list. While it projected a gross revenue of N1,096,166,050, the agency proposed a total expenditure of N3,716,582,290. With that humongous deficit of N2,620,416,240 between revenue and expenditure, one can only sympathise with ARCON for its increasing desperation. The agency has the second highest expenditure and the highest deficit of the 26 professional bodies on the list. While other professional bodies generate their revenues mainly through membership dues and align expenditure with their revenues, ARCON has had to resort to levying a tax, which it calls vetting fees, on whatever it defines as advertisement or exposure on any platform, including on the social media pages of individuals and small businesses, just to rake in money.
The fact that each message/post deemed as an advert by ARCON will attract a vetting fee says it all: this is more about revenue than about vetting. It is equally insightful that the punishment for not submitting even social media posts for clearance is 50 times the vetting fee. Equally interesting is that ARCON can threaten to arraign ‘defaulters’ before its own tribunal, which can impose fines and even jail terms. ARCON and its defenders are clearly not perturbed by the implication of such threats and taxes for big and small businesses operating in our tough environment.
The Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Taiwo Oyedele, summed up my position last Thursday at the inaugural Economic Roundtable/2025 macroeconomic
outlook event of rating firm Agusto & Co., held in Lagos. For the benefit of ARCON and its defenders, here is what Oyedele said: “Nigeria’s tax system is unconducive for growth. We are trying to grow, but we’re struggling, and the tax system is holding us down. It has plenty of taxes and taxing agencies everywhere you turn. It doesn’t matter whether you’re small or big, whether you are formal or informal; we tax anything and everything that moves. If it keeps moving, we tax it even again. We tax it even more. We’re speaking to small business owners, and one woman said something to me that I will not forget. She said that it feels like the Nigerian system and the government are feasting on businesses. And I challenge anyone who wants to do a social experiment. Just do a banner; anything that comes to mind will be tailoring. Just write it and place it by the road. Find a plastic chair, sit back about two meters away, and watch what will happen within two days. I promise you, at least five agencies will show up, from business premises to advert levy to permit. You have not even found one customer. One of my hopes and dreams for this country is that in my lifetime, you put up that banner and you receive calls from different government agencies, one asking you whether you know about credit facilities for your sector. ‘We have this capacity development for people doing your business. Would you be interested? Do you need any access to this and that?’ Let’s support ourselves to prosper...”
Those are not my words; they are the words of Oyedele who is one of the leading authorities on such matters today. And it could not have been an accident that he cited ‘advert
“To demonstrate that ARCON has mutated into a revenue-generating agency, below are the vetting rates advertised by the agency effective 1 January 2024. It was segmented into seven categories. Under ‘Career Matters’, Exam Registration Fee will attract N10,000; Examination Late Registration Fee, N20,000; Examination Subject Fee, N15,000; Exemption Fee, N15,000; EMR, N350,000; EMR (Non-Nigerian), N1,000,000; Accreditation Fee (Higher Institution), N1,000,000. For ‘Annual Practice Fee’, Associate Member will pay, N20,000; Full Member, N30,000; Fellowship Member, N50,000 and Membership Certificate ReIssuance, N50,000. For ‘Corporate License’, Application will attract N100,000; Fee for three years, N450,000; Consultancy, N225,000; Inspection Fee (Lagos), N200,000; Accelerated Inspection Fee (Lagos), N300,000; Inspection Fee (Outside Lagos), N300,000; Accelerated Inspection Fee (Outside Lagos), N500,000; Corporate License Re-Issuance, N100,000.”
levy’ as one of the examples of the ways government agencies make life difficult for owners of small businesses in Nigeria.
To demonstrate that ARCON has mutated into a revenue-generating agency, below are the vetting rates advertised by the agency effective 1 January 2024. It was segmented into seven categories. Under ‘Career Matters’, Exam Registration Fee will attract N10,000; Examination Late Registration Fee, N20,000; Examination Subject Fee, N15,000; Exemption Fee, N15,000; EMR, N350,000; EMR (NonNigerian), N1,000,000; Accreditation Fee (Higher Institution), N1,000,000. For ‘Annual Practice Fee’, Associate Member will pay, N20,000; Full Member, N30,000; Fellowship Member, N50,000 and Membership Certificate Re-Issuance, N50,000. For ‘Corporate License’, Application will attract N100,000; Fee for three years, N450,000; Consultancy, N225,000; Inspection Fee
“In the ‘2024 Budget of Professional Bodies/Councils of Agencies Removed from the FGN Funding’, released by the Budget Office of the Federation, ARCON is number one on the list. While it projected a gross revenue of N1,096,166,050, the agency proposed a total expenditure of N3,716,582,290. With that humongous deficit of N2, 620, 416, 240 between revenue and expenditure, one can only sympathise with ARCON for its increasing desperation. ARCON has the second highest expenditure and the highest deficit of the 26 professional bodies on the list. While other professional bodies generate their revenues mainly through membership dues and align their expenditure with their revenues, ARCON has had to resort to levying a tax, which it calls vetting fees, on whatever it defines as advertisment or exposure on any platform, including on the social media pages of individuals and small businesses, just to rake in money.”
(Lagos), N200,000; Accelerated Inspection Fee (Lagos), N300,000; Inspection Fee (Outside Lagos), N300,000; Accelerated Inspection Fee (Outside Lagos), N500,000; Corporate License Re-Issuance, N100,000. But it is clear that ARCON targets businesses to fund the bulk of its hefty budget, since advertising professionals are not that many and since it secured legislative backing to vet and tax anything featured anywhere that it describes as advertisement. For ‘Advertisement Vetting (Traditional Media)’, Regular—Brands, Political, Cause, Ideation will attract payment of N35,000. Meanwhile for Accelerated, 4 Hours, N600,000; 8 hours, N400,000 and 16 hours, N250,000. For ‘Advertisement Vetting (Online Platform)’, Regular—Brands, Political, Cause, Ideation goes for N20,000 while for Accelerated, 4 hours attracts N250,000, 8 hours, N150,000 and 16 hours, N100,000. For the ‘Vetting (SME Category)’, Regular (Brands, Political, Cause, Ideation) goes for N20,000; 8 Working Hours, N150,000; and 16 Working Hours Acceleration, N100,000. Membership of NASME certification by SMEDAN is also required. For ‘Special Category’, the rate is N1,000,000 each for Lottery, Lotto, Game; Betting, Gambling, Wager and Promotion, Raffles, Draws, with the last two subject to a 16 hours vetting window. Meanwhile, Variation (Foreign Talent) will attract N2,500,000 while Variation (Foreign Production) goes for N3,000,000.
With these steep rates, which are per advert, it is very clear that revenue generation has now become the main objective of ARCON. Regulation is just a convenient cover. By the way, I have no problem with the need for regulation in certain critical and sensitive areas of national life. But I have problems with the sweeping powers granted to an organisation like ARCON, and the danger their operations pose to entrepreneurship, economic growth and even constitutionallyguaranteed free speech in Nigeria.
Dantsoho Pays Unscheduled Visit to Ports Access Road, HoldTalks withTerminal Operators
Oluchi Chibuzor
Resolved to promptly respond to Stakeholders’ feedback on the truck traffic situation along Apapa and TinCan Island Port Complexes, Managing Director / CEO Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho paid an unscheduled visit to the Lagos Ports access road on Monday 17th February, 2025.
Speaking during the spot check of critical operational arteries, Dantsoho said, “such unscheduled visits, which will be frequent , are motivated by our continuous improvement paradigm.
“Although I have tasked the Port Managers to urgently resolve the areas of concerns raised by the trucking and freight forwarding community, I will continuously follow up directly to ensure compliance and measurable results.
“Traffic Management efficiency is a deliverable that
we take very seriously, which is why beyond optimizing the electronic call-up (eto), we are working assiduously towards multimodal means of evacuation through barges and the rail lines. Specifically, we will work with Nigeria Customs to relocate the scanner sited on the rail line link in Apapa to facilitate seamless evacuation.”
He added, “The Port access road is an international corridor, so we have zero tolerance for traffic clogs that cause congestion. So we are poised to increasingly hold ourselves and everyone to account. First the automated access gates must work, we must shorten the SOPs to align with the necessity for quick transaction turnaround to remain competitive first with our peers in the region and internationally”.
On the sidelines of the visit, the NPA Chief Executive was received by Chairman Flour Mills Group, Mr. John Coumantaros
and discussions focused on process improvement, increased investment in infrastructure and equipment necessary for Nigerian Ports to garner greater share of the market.
Coumantaros commended the investor-friendliness of His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Responding, Dantsoho said, “let me seize this opportunity to commend the Honourable Minister for Marine and Blue Economy Adegboyega Oyetola for securing FEC approval for the commencement of actual works for reconstruction of TinCan Island and rehabilitation of challenged aspects of Apapa Port Complexes”.
Dantsoho further opined that “these positive developments coinciding with the Federal Government’s approval of the National Single Window (NSW) project signposts Nigeria’s readiness to berth large cargo carriers commensurate with the size of Nigeria’s population”.
Rotary Calls for Tax Waivers to Boost Humanitarian Services
Rotary District 9112 has called on the federal government to implement tax waivers for its funding partners in its bid to boost humanitarian services in the country.
While applauding the economic reforms of President Bola Tinubu, Rotary stated the urgent need to provide tax waivers for donor agencies to complement the federal government’s efforts in providing critical infrastructure for its citizens.
“The next project we are going to do, we intend to spend about 200 to 300 million to erect a vocational centre and we’ll continue to do more. So far, we’ve spent about 200 to 300 million in impacting our community.
“Usually, we run our half-year report after six months and that is still in the process for them to give us a figure as to what we have spent as of now, but in all, we do hope to spend over N500m towards impacting our communities in district 9112.
“This is aside from what individual clubs have budgeted for their Rotary year, which is 2024-2025. Each club will have to
The Rotary International District 9112 Governor, Rotarian Femi Adenekan, stated this on the sidelines of a press conference to a week-long activity to celebrate its 120th anniversary in Lagos, said so far, it has spent over N200m in humanitarian projects to impact communities.
provide those things that they will do to change and transform their community for the better and in our effort to support the government’s initiative in whatever it is doing at the moment,” he said.
Also speaking, the past president and chair of the 120thanniversary committee, Rotary District 9112, Gboyega Bade, highlighted one of the activities lined up for the anniversary to include a world webinar to discuss the main theme ‘Rotary in world peace and security.
He added that the purpose of the event is to celebrate a milestone of Rotary reaching 120 years of existence which would be marked with a week-long series of events.
Group Seek Govt Intervention to Boost Local Drug Manufacturing
With Inflation and exchange rate affecting crippling businesses, a women’s network group has called for the government to quickly intervene with funding to boost healthcare drug manufacturing in the country.
Speaking in Lagos during their 5th anniversary celebration, the CEO Healthgarde International, Mrs. Nneka Nwarueze, said despite the inflation headwinds and FX volatility they have weathered the storm to remain in business.
She said the prevailing economic condition on the network marketing space has significantly impacted purchasing power of consumers and is invariably affecting sales.
“Purchasing power has gone low. So they buy fewer, which also makes the sales lower and it does not help us who are bringing these products. Bringing products becomes virtually impossible by the exchange rate. And also, it has shrunk how much you can bring in. It has devastated the whole business. Well, you can see that most of the networks have closed. So many of them have closed,” she stated.
As such, according to her, there is a need to help indigenous firms seeking to produce locally rather than importing healthcare products into the country as many other groups have collapsed.
“They need assistance, either from the government or banks. So, if they intervene, intervene for real intervention, it makes
things easier and the cost of some health care products will reduce. If it comes, it will help us to acquire the necessary machines because we need a lot of machines for us to start manufacturing locally,” she stated.
On her side, the COO, Healthgarde International, Lovelyn Bassey, said they would continue to grow their products footprint globally even though they have presence in seven countries.
According to her, “We literally launched and then there was a lockdown. And we’re still here, even with everything, global recession, inflation, everything. For the next stage of the company we just want to grow our product footprints around the world by manufacturing locally and partnership.”
Conoil Engages Fleurir Concept to Develop Mowe Estate
Conoil Staff Cooperative and Multipurpose Society Limited have engaged the services of renowned developers, Fleurir Concept International Limited, to construct a housing estate called Energy Estate in Abaren Village, Mowe, Ogun State.
In a statement, Conoil staff cooperative said it is blazing the trail as an impact-driven
cooperative society with a goal to reduce housing deficit while decongesting crowded Lagos by facilitating the development of a modern estate on 53 acres of land with Ogun State C of O.
“It will feature facilities required for today’s modest estate, such as good roads, drainage, water, a functioning sewage system, street
lights, a solid perimeter fence with a gate, CCTV cameras, security personnel, unlimited and efficient internet access, among others.
The estate meant for the cooperative members and interested members of the public will be affordable to all low- and medium-income earners with a mortgage facility,” the statement reads in part.
Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria),
Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).
L-R: MD /CEO, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr Abubakar Dantsoho with the Chairman of Flour Mills Ltd
Mr John Coumantaros during the on the spot check of the port access roads in Apapa…recently
Oluchi Chibuzor
Stock Market Recovers, Gains N505bn on Demand for BUA Foods, Others
Kayode Tokede
The local stock market yesterday recovered from loss as investors’ demand for BUA Foods Plc and 24 others pushed the market capitalisation up by N505 billion.
The Nigerian Exchange Limited All-Share Index (NGX ASI) gained 938.53 basis points, or 0.87 per cent to close at 108,609.51 basis points. Also, market
capitalisation rose by N505 billion to close at N67.684 trillion.
The upturn was driven by price appreciation in large and medium capitalised stocks amongst which are; BUA Foods, Eterna, Africa Prudential, Honeywell Flour and NASCON Allied Industries.
As measured by market breadth, market sentiment closed negative, as 25 stocks gained relative
PRICES FOR
to 28 losers. BUA Foods emerged the highest price gainer of 9.91 per cent to close at N410.50, per share. R.T. Briscoe Nigeria followed with a gain of 6.91 per cent to close at N2.63, while Eterna advanced by 6.25 per cent to close at N42.50, per share.
SUNU Assurance increased by 6.13 per cent to close at N6.92, while Veritas Kapital
Assurance added 6.03 per cent to close at N1.23, per share. On the other side, International Energy Insurance and University Press led others on the losers’ chart with 9.80 per cent each to close at N2.21 and N4.60 respectively, while Union Dicon Salt followed with a decline of 9.52 per cent to close at N6.65, per share.
McNichols Consolidated lost 8.57 per cent
to close at N1.60, while DAAR Communications depreciated by 7.25 per cent to close at 64 kobo, per share.
The total volume of trades decreased by 15.90 per cent to 343.719 million units, valued at N8.632 billion, and exchanged in 12,970 deals. Transactions in the shares of Access Holdings led the activity with 65.096 million shares worth N1.801 billion.
Sterling Financial Holdings Company traded 13.169 million shares worth N78.062 million, while Wapic Insurance traded 13.076 million shares worth N37.935 million.
TRADED ASOF FEBRUARY 19/25
A Mutual fund (Unit Trust) is an investment vehicle managed by a SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) registered Fund Manager. Investors with similar objectives buy units of the Fund so that the Fund Manager can buy securities that willl generate their desired return.
An ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) is a type of fund which owns the assets (shares of stock, bonds, oil futures, gold bars, foreign currency, etc.) and divides ownership of those assets into shares. Investors can buy these ‘shares’ on the
floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange.
A REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) is an investment vehicle that allows both small and large investors to part-own real estate ventures (eg. Offices, Houses, Hospitals) in proportion to their investments. The assets are divided into shares that are traded on the Nigerian Stock Exchange.
GUIDE TO DATA:
Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira as at 18 February-2025, unless otherwise stated.
FEaturEs
Dr. Chigbo Agogbuo: Providing Quality Wellness at Affordable Cost
Dr. Agogbuo Chigbo Joshua, P.hD, a Pharmacist, serial entrepreneur, and the CEO/founder of WholeShield Pharmaceuticals, through his brand, is committed to revolutionising healthcare in Nigeria and Africa by offering cutting-edge solutions in the health space. Beyond pharmaceuticals, Dr. Chigbo, who also plays in the skincare and beverages spaces, Evol Skin, and WholeEarn, respectively, is deeply involved in formulations, brand development, marketing, and sales. However, his passion lies in creating products that addresses and cure critical health challenges, while empowering individuals with quality health and businesses to thrive. In this interview, amongst other things, he highlights his career trajectory and how that has helped in providing quality wellness at an affordable cost to Nigerians. Precious Ugwuzor brings excerpts
Can you walk us through your work career?
My career has been a journey of passion, innovation, and commitment to excellence.
After earning my Doctorate degree in Pharmacy from the University of Benin, I served as Brand Manager at Naturefield Pharmaceuticals, where I gained valuable experience in brand positioning and market penetration. I later became Country Head of Mason Vitamins Nigeria, overseeing operations and strategic growth, while simultaneously serving as the General Manager of TopHills Pharmaceuticals, responsible for marketing Mason Natural products and Hills Natural products in Nigeria. Beyond my pharmaceutical pursuits, I have always had an entrepreneurial spirit. While studying pharmacy at the University of Benin, I hosted one of Nigeria’s biggest fashion shows, the Evol Fashion Show, which attracted major brands and influencers in the industry. This experience sharpened my skills in event management, branding, and marketing, which I now apply to the healthcare industry.
What are the activities of WholeShield Pharmaceuticals?
WholeShield Pharmaceuticals is dedicated to providing premium nutraceutical and pharmaceutical solutions designed to enhance health and well-being of the users. We have a strong Product Development unit that formulates and manufacture high-quality supplements and medications targeting key health concerns such as fertility, joint health, immunity, and general wellness. We partner with our manufacturers in Europe to produce the best quality available in the industry. We also have a robust distribution network across Nigeria and are expanding internationally. At Wholeshield we try to outserve our customers expectations by creating a robust Medical Engagement by working closely with healthcare professionals to ensure our products are well integrated into healthcare practices. Our community health education is topnotch through various outreach programs, we educate and do a lot engagements with different publics on preventive healthcare even in the remotest areas.
What sets WholeShield Pharmaceuticals apart in the health space and what categories of people are your primary audience?
WholeShield stands in the industry because of our unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and customer-centricity. Our products are formulated using clinically backed ingredients and strict adherence to international standards. We focus on holistic wellness, ensuring our supplements provide comprehensive health benefits rather than just treating symptoms. Additionally, our strategic partnerships with global pharmaceutical companies give us access to cutting-edge technology and formulations. Our uniqueness also lies in our scientific approach, affordability without compromising quality, and commitment to customer empowerment. We cater to a diverse audience, from healthcare professionals (pharmacists, doctors, and wellness practitioners),men and women seeking specialised health solutions (fertility, joint health, immune support) ,athletes and fitness enthusiasts, aging population seeking anti-aging and cellular renewal solutions, every segment of the African population, addressing unique wellness needs and health concerns across different demographics. And, also Individuals managing specific health conditions, offering holistic solutions tailored to their unique requirements. Knowing that each case is peculiar to individuals because of our gene variations.
What’s your take and solutions on the high rise of public health challenges in the country; ranging from stress, cancer, prostate cancer, kidney diseases, and hypertension?
The rising health challenges among men and women are largely due to lifestyle factors, poor nutrition, and lack of awareness. At WholeShield, we advocate for a proactive approach to health, emphasising preventive care, regular screenings, and lifestyle modifications. Our supplements are tailored to provide targeted support in areas such as prostate health, cardiovascular health,
and stress management. We also run educational campaigns to enlighten men on adopting healthier lifestyles.Secondly, people are not responsible with their regular medical checks,general treatment for specicilised ailments ,is another serious factor, for instance some hospitals give general antibiotics for some ENT cases, instead of going to an Ent specialist, these practices create a short solution and a long term problems that degenerates into must ailments that should have been managed better at the early stage by the right specialist.
Do you have specific drugs for these health issues?
Yes, WholeShield offers a range of targeted solutions like our,Refire®️: A supplement for male vitality and sexual performance. Reproshield®️ Man and Woman: A comprehensive fertility supplement. Optishield: For eye health and protection from screen exposure. Arthroshield: For joint health and arthritis support. WholeCell: A high-end anti-aging supplement with cellular renewal properties. Evening Primrose plus Vitex + Fish Oil: Supports hormonal balance, skin health, and overall well-being for women.Vitamin C 1000mg with Quercetin, Zinc, and Selenium: Provides immune support and antioxidant protection, enhancing overall health. Vitamin E with CoQ10 and Fish Oil: Promotes cardiovascular health, skin repair, and cellular energy production. Probiotics with Prebiotics + Cranberry + Digestive Enzymes: Supports gut health, urinary tract health, and digestion. Ellashield: A reliable emergency contraceptive option offering effective and safe protection. We have the best combination in the market at the moment, managing wellness without requiring multiple products—one product delivers the benefits of three ordinary supplements.
As the CEO, what are your plans to take WholeShield Pharmaceuticals to the enviable and desired height you want it to be in the next 5 years?
In the next five years, our strategic roadmap includes expansion into new markets, across Africa ,introduction of new product lines based on emerging health trends. Setting up our WholeShield pharmaceutical plant in Nigeria to produce the same high-quality products from Europe and serve the entire African market with the best
wellness products. Strengthening our digital presence, including our affiliate program WholeEarn, to empower thousands of individuals to recommend and earn from our products. Building partnerships with key stakeholders in the healthcare sector to drive mass adoption of our products. Enhancing research and development to stay ahead in innovation.
From your WholeShield Pharmaceuticals profile, you have exclusive strategic technical partnerships with PlexusPharmaco, Germany and Tocura, Turkey, which are major players in the EU economy. Can you tell us the benefits to WholeShield Pharmaceuticals? Our strategic technical partnerships with PlexusPharmaco in Germany and Tocura in Turkey provide WholeShield Pharmaceuticals with several significant advantages that reinforce our commitment to delivering world-class healthcare solutions to the Nigerian and African markets. Firstly, access to cutting-edge research and innovation—PlexusPharmaco’s expertise in pharmaceutical research and development ensures that we stay ahead in formulating products that meet global standards. These partnerships grant us access to the latest advancements in nutraceuticals, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology, allowing us to incorporate superior formulations backed by robust scientific evidence. Secondly, quality assurance and compliance—our collaboration with these established EUbased partners ensures that our products adhere to the highest international Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) and regulatory compliance standards, such as those set by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and Nigeria’s NAFDAC. This enhances consumer confidence and regulatory approval processes. Additionally, technology transfer and training—our teams benefit from continuous technical training and support, equipping our workforce with the skills and knowledge to maintain product efficacy and safety, while also enhancing operational efficiency. Furthermore, these
Policies should focus on improving working conditions, remuneration, and career development opportunities to retain talent within the country. In summary, while the government is making efforts, I believe there is a need for a more comprehensive, multi-stakeholder approach that prioritises healthcare accessibility, local capacity building, and sustainability
partnerships position WholeShield for market expansion and global credibility, giving us an edge in penetrating new markets beyond Nigeria and Africa, fostering international collaborations, and attracting foreign investment. Lastly, cost efficiency and supply chain optimisation—leveraging their robust supply chains and economies of scale, we are able to offer high-quality products at competitive prices, making premium healthcare accessible to more people across Africa. Overall, our partnerships with PlexusPharmaco and Tocura Pharm reinforce WholeShield’s mission to disrupt the pharmaceutical industry with innovative, high-quality, and affordable healthcare solutions tailored to the needs of Africans.
You are traversing most universities in Nigeria with a Meet and Greet project for exiting Pharmacy Students. Can you walk us through the whole idea and what inspired this in you? Is it CSR or just a payback to the profession?
The Meet and Greet project for final-year pharmacy students is a strategic initiative aimed at bridging the gap between academia and the dynamic world of pharmaceutical entrepreneurship. This initiative is inspired by a deep-seated desire to give back to the profession while simultaneously creating an ecosystem that empowers the next generation of pharmacists. The inspiration behind this project stems from my own journey in the pharmaceutical industry—navigating challenges, identifying opportunities, and understanding the crucial roles pharmacists play in healthcare delivery. I believe that beyond the traditional career pathways of retail and hospital pharmacy, there exists a world of possibilities in entrepreneurship, brand creation, and innovation that pharmacy students are often not exposed to. This initiative serves as both corporate social responsibility (CSR) and a mentorship-driven platform. On the CSR front, it is about investing in the future of pharmacy by providing students with insights into real-world industry practices, career guidance, and opportunities for skill development. On the mentorship and business development front, it is a strategic investment in fostering future partnerships and collaborations by helping these students see beyond conventional career paths and positioning them to contribute meaningfully to the healthcare industry through entrepreneurship, leadership, and innovation. Ultimately, my goal is to ignite their passion, equip them with practical knowledge, and inspire them to leverage their skills in ways that align with the evolving global pharmaceutical landscape.
As a key player in the health space, what’s your take on the current health policy of the government? Do you think there should be a policy redirection, or are they doing well? The current health policies of the government show a commendable effort in addressing critical healthcare challenges such as universal health coverage, access to essential medicines, and local manufacturing initiatives. However, while some progress has been made, there is a strong need for policy redirection and deeper stakeholder engagement to achieve sustainable healthcare solutions. One of the key challenges is healthcare financing. Despite efforts like the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund (BHCPF), there is still a significant gap in funding that affects the quality and accessibility of healthcare services, particularly in rural areas. I believe policies should focus more on encouraging public-private partnerships (PPPs) that can bring in more investment and expertise into the sector. Another crucial area is the local pharmaceutical manufacturing ecosystem. While policies encouraging local production are a steps in the right direction, there is a need for stronger incentives, such as tax breaks and capacity-building initiatives, to ensure Nigerian pharmaceutical companies can compete with imported products in terms of quality and affordability.
The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com
Dr. Chigbo Agogbuo
STAKEHOLDERS MEETING ON SMALLHOLDER FARMERS...
L-R: Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Imo State, Chief Nnabueze Maduba; Commissioner of Agriculture, Abia State, Dr. Cliff Agbaeze; National Coordinator/Chief Executive Officer, AUDA-NEPAD, Nigeria, Jabaru Salisu Abdulahi; Commissioner of Agriculture, Bauchi State, Il-yasu Aliyu; and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, Nasarawa State,
roundtable meeting of State Commissioners for Agriculture with NEPAD National Coordinator on Smallholder Farmers Program in Abuja... yesterday
during
Alleged USAID Boko Haram Funding: Senate Summons Intelligence, Security Chiefs
Recommitting to counterterrorism, US to monitor, evaluate aid systems
The Nigerian Senate has summoned top security chiefs for a closed-door session over allegations that the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has been funding Boko Haram activities in the country.
National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, along with Directors-General of Department of State Services (DSS), National Intelligence Agency (NIA), and Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), will appear before the Senate to provide explanations regarding the claims.
Though the US Congress was already investigating Perry’s claims, the Nigerian Senate resolved to conduct its own inquiry.
General Christopher Musa, had also warned that Boko Haram terrorists were being trained and funded by international organisations.
in August 2011 and the attack on the police headquarters in the same capital city.
The move followed allegations made by U.S. Congressman Scott Perry, representing Pennsylvania. Perry recently claimed at the inaugural hearing of the Subcommittee on Delivering Government Efficiency, that USAID had been funding terrorist organisations globally, including Boko Haram.
The decision was taken during plenary on Wednesday after a motion moved by Senator Ali Ndume, and co-sponsored by five other senators.
During the debate on the motion, Ndume, representing Borno South, highlighted the gravity of the allegations. He stated that the allegations came at a time when the Chief of Defence Staff,
“The monumental devastation caused by Boko Haram in this country should be a matter of concern, as it has dented the image of the country among the comity of nations,” Ndume stated.
He recalled some of the major attacks carried out by the terrorist group, including the bombing of the United Nations building in Abuja
Conflict Resolution: Gambari Seeks African Union Peace, Security Council Reformation
Advocates mediation instead of hard force
and
on the African continent.
The Chief of Staff to former President Muhammadu Buhari and former Joint Special Representative of UN, African
Edo Assembly Sacks all Political Appointees Attached to Members
Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City
Edo State House of Assembly on Wednesday relieved all political appointees attached to members of the House of their duties.
The Speaker, Blessing Agbebaku, while making announcement of their sack during plenary noted the decision was taken collectively by the 24 members of the House, adding that the political appointees sacked would be paid their February salaries.
He listed the appointees to include special advisers (SAs), Senior Special Advisers (SSAs), among others.
The Speaker who noted the appointees were appointed by the members upon assumption of the Eight Assembly in June 2023, said: “I think it is close to two years now, and, I think the House has graciously agreed that those sets of appointees SAs and SSAs should be relieved of their appointments today, February 19". According to him, “We will meet consequently to know the next line of action to take on that. They will receive this month’s February salaries."
During plenary, the assembly
also passed a resolution urging that security personnel who have spent over five years in a locality across Edo be transferred forthwith.
The resolution followed a security motion raised by the member representing Esan South-East Constituency, Osezua Ojezele, who drew that attention of lawmakers to the alarming activities of criminal herdsmen in Ubiaja, which also made it mandatory for traditional rulers to reside in their communities henceforth.
In another development the House passed a bill for a law to Establish the State Roads Funds (SRF) and the Edo State Roads Funds Board and Administration (EDSRFBA) for the purpose of funding the Management, planning, development, rehabilitation, construction and maintenance of trunk C and trunk D Roads, as well as their rehabilitation of those classes of roads in the state.
Also passed was a Bill for a Law to Establish the Edo Rural Access Road Agency (RARA) for the purpose of the overall management, development, rehabilitation, reconstruction and maintenance of truck C and trunk D roads in the state.
Union and Chief Mediator in Dafur, stated this at an event organised by Chatham House and the UNDP, at the 38th Ordinary Session, Assembly of African Union in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on Friday, February 14.
Gambari, according to the text of his speech made available to journalists in Abuja, also stressed that making all UN peace operations in Africa hybrid missions jointly mandated and conducted by the world body and the AU will equally elevate peace processes in the region.
He spoke on the theme: “African Peace Progress: Prospects for durable Agreement to End Conflicts."
H said the recent UN Security Council Resolution 2719 (2023) and the implementation of the plan of Action of the African Standby Force for achieving full operational capacity
without further delay would be hugely helpful.
Gambari argued that a reexamination of the African peace and security architecture was overdue, adding that a bottom-up approach which recognises and involves local authorities, sub national groups as well as the private sector and professional groups were essential.
He said: “In order to address and end violent conflicts in Africa, and indeed across the world, and deepen prospects for durable peace agreements, effective collaboration and astute coordination are required.
“These would not be possible without urgent assessment and enhancement of national, regional and global mechanisms for conflict prevention, peace management and conflict resolution.”
Ndume lamented that despite the Nigerian government’s substantial investments in counterterrorism efforts, Boko Haram’s activities had persisted.
He added, “At this point, with revelations that some international organisations are behind this unwholesome act, there is urgent need for steps to be taken by the federal government to unravel the mystery behind this whole episode.”
Ndume proposed the creation of an inter-ministerial committee, including the ministries of defence, interior, foreign affairs, and the heads of the armed forces and security agencies, to investigate the allegations.
He also suggested the setting up of an ad hoc senate committee to liaise with relevant authorities and ascertain the veracity of the claims.
Senator Abdul Ningi, representing Bauchi Central, supported the motion, insisting that the senate must summon the heads of intelligence agencies for a thorough briefing.
Ningi said, “We need to carry just one prayer, which is that we invite the National Security Adviser (NIA) and the Director-General of the DSS, for a closed-door session with the senate on this particular matter.”
Senate President Godswill Akpabio concurred, stating that the allegations are serious and require the input of security chiefs before any conclusions can be drawn.
Akpabio said, “The U.S. Senate or the U.S. Congress will not delve into allegations on social media. If they have to, they will invite their security chiefs to get details.
“So, we will hear from the
National Security Adviser, the NIA, the DSS, DIA, in closed session. They will brief us because they have the data, they know the record, and they will know the veracity of the situation.”
He stated that despite the ongoing threats of terrorism, the administration of President Bola Tinubu had made significant progress in weakening Boko Haram. Akpabio stated, “In the meantime, we note the allegation and we also note the devastation that Boko Haram has caused the nation. We commend President Bola Tinubu for being able to tackle the situation to a point where there is no territory in the country today that is hoisting the flag of Boko Haram.
“Whether we like it or not, he has done a very difficult job well and so we must commend him across party lines.”
Senators at the plenary overwhelmingly voted in support of summoning the security chiefs for further clarification on the matter.
Meanwhile, the United States reacted to the allegations, strongly condemning the activities of Boko Haram and other terrorist groups operating in Nigeria.
The US Mission in Nigeria, in a statement on its official X (formerly Twitter) page, reiterated America’s commitment to counterterrorism efforts in Nigeria and the broader region.
The statement read, “Comprehensive monitoring and evaluation systems are in place to help verify that U.S. assistance reaches intended recipients. The United States con- demns the violence and blatant disregard for human life perpetrated by Boko Haram and other terrorist groups in Nigeria and the region.”
Outrage as Two Suspected Killers of Anambra Lawmaker Escape from Police Custody
State assembly rejects police report HURIWA: Devt reveals extent of systemic rot
Alex Enumah in Abuja and DavidChyddy Eleke in Awka
Reactions have continued to trail confirmation by police authorities in Anambra State that two persons involved in the kidnap and eventual killing of the member representing Onitsha North 1 constituency in the Anambra State House of Assembly, Hon Justice Azuka, escaped from police custody. Azuka was kidnapped on Christmas eve while traveling home for the yuletide, but his body was later
found at the foot of the Second Niger Bridge in Onitsha on February 6. The state police command had announced the escape on Tuesday night through a press release by the state police command's spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, saying the two escaped while being led to the home of another suspect, who keeps the stolen vehicles used by the syndicate. Ikenga said when the operatives sighted the accused and went after them to arrest them, the two suspects who led them there took to their heels and disappeared into thin air.
The announcement has however sparked off outrage against the police, with many questioning the integrity of the police, asking how suspects in such high profile case were able to escape.
To that extent, the Anambra State House of Assembly, has rejected the report, asking police to do all within their power to produce the suspects.
A media personality, Mr Uche Nworah, who questioned the escape said, "The suspects already escaped before the current Police Commissioner, CP Ikioye Orutugu, took over.
Why wasn't the incident made public?
“The current Police Commissioner was not aware of the incident until Monday. This informed his directive to launch a manhunt for the escaped suspects and disciplinary action against the officers involved.
"Why didn't the former CP, Itam brief CP Orutugu, during handing and taking over about this? Is this a calculated attempt to sabotage the efforts of the Governor of Anambra State and the government over their ongoing onslaught to dislodge criminal elements in the state?"
Umar Abdulahi,
the
PHOTO: ENOCK REUBEN
Sunday Aborisade in Abuja
Former Special Representative of the Secretary-General
Head of United Nations Mission in Dafur, Professor Ibrahim Gambari, has advocated reformation of the African Union
Peace and Security Council as one of the ways to tackle insecurity and achieve sustainable peace
Chiemelie Ezeobi in Lagos and Sunday Aborisade in Abuja
DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER'S VISIT TO DONCASTER IN UNITED KINGDOM...
L-R: Councillors of Wheatley Hills and Intake, Jane Kidd and Yetunde Elebuibon; Deputy Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Angela Rayner; Mayor of the City of Doncaster, Ross Jones; and another Councillor of Wheatley Hills and Intake, Emma Muddiman-Rawlins, during the Deputy Prime Minister's visit to Doncaster in United Kingdom ... recently
United Airlines Chairman Joins Anambra 2025 Governorship Race
Asserts coalition to rescue Anambra from Soludo must transcend party lines
The founder and Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, Professor Obiora Okonkwo, has declared his readiness to rescue Anambra State from Governor Chukwuma Soludo in the 2025 governorship election. Okonkwo made this known on Wednesday in Abuja when the Anambra Coalition for Progressive Change presented him the governorship form they purchased for him.
He said the journey to rescue the state from Soludo should transcend party lines.
Okonkwo stated, “I would ordinarily say I do not expect this, but knowing that I am not in this race alone, knowing that I still have a whole lot of Anambrarian friends, all that still believe in me, there are still other people who already made up their mind that whatever is going on in Anambra State today is not the way to go.
“The issue of security, the issue of almost zero economic activities that these people will never let me go on this journey by myself.”
He explained, “In all my interviews, I had mentioned that this journey of coalition is not a journey of one political party. We will not do justice to this struggle to rescue Anambra State from an incumbent governor. I am calling on all those who are not happy with what is going on in Anambra State to emulate this direction. For those who have not joined this coalition, this is a wake-up call.”
Okonkwo stressed that he was prepared to battle many people for the ticket and to rescue the state form Soludo.
Alleged
The Supreme Court has voided a garnishee order issued against the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), over a judgement debt involving the Nigeria Police Force. The apex court in the unanimous decision subsequently set aside the concurrent judgements of the Federal High Court and the Court of Appeal, which affirmed a N50 million damages against the police, for the violation of the rights of one Inalegwu Frankline Ochife.
The judgement has however brought to an end a seven years legal battle which started in 2018.
He added that if he won the governorship ticket of his party, All Progressives Congress (APC), “we will give a landslide victory to APC.”
Okonkwo said he was aware of the subterranean moves of the governor in Abuja to try to prevent him from getting the ticket of the party.
According to him, “We are aware of all the moves being made in Abuja here. Huge amounts of money are being thrown around just to ensure that my humble self does not get the ticket of the party because he's very much afraid, not only to meet me on campaign, talk-less of squaring up with me on the election day.”
Earlier, Anambra Coalition for Progressive Change said Soludo established the Agunechemba Security Corps as a strategy to win the 2025 governorship election. The leader of the coalition, Chief Cyril Ezeani, disclosed this on Wednesday in Abuja after purchasing expression and nomination forms for Okonkwo.
Ezeani wondered why Soludo had to wait at the twilight of his tenure to establish a security outfit despite the high level of insecurity in the state.
He said, “Pick up the newspapers, you listen to the news, you go to social media, what you see about Anambra is kidnapping, killing and all sorts of insecurity.
“And you know, the average Anambra man is a hard-working person. We built our roads, we provided our water, we built our schools. So, what do we need? We simply need security, security for our businesses to flourish, for people to come from far and near to buy in
Onitsha and wherever. That is the primary thing that every Anambra State person needs, and that is not being provided.
“In fact, it was just a few days ago that he woke up from his slumber and started Agunechemba and all that. And I know it was
just because he realised that the election is coming up.” Ezeani added, “He's just trying to confuse the people of the state. As soon as he gets his ticket back, or wins the election by any means, he will go back to where he is and leave us stranded.
“So that is the principal thing that made us believe that he's not going to do anything. He's not the kind of person we want; he is not providing the kind of services that we want in Anambra State.”
Ezeani said the coalition had to persuade Okonkwo because he had
the track record and pedigree to rescue the state from Soludo. “He's a self-made man. He has made his money more than 30 years ago. He is an employer of labour. That is why we had to persuade him that he needs to rescue our state,” he added.
Governor Mbah Commended for Prioritising Security, Waging War against Crime in Enugu
Goddy Egene
A seasoned broadcast journalist, Chief Chidi Okolo, has commended Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State, for prioritising issues, values and norms of security in his political stewardship and governance in the state.
Chief Okolo gave the commendation in a statement in his capacity as the convener and national coordinator of Pan-African and social cultural organisation, Ofo Na Ogu Ndigbo, whose vision and mission, summarily centre on upholding justice, equity and fairness for all Igbos in Diaspora.
According to Chief Okolo," I am impressed with the security quickinterventionist architecture commissioned by Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State. To this extent, I have high and positive commendations for him, particularly, in the successful goal-actualization drive recorded by scheme from its groundbreaking stages to take-off. "
The new security infrastructure, currently being put together by the Governor Mbah-led administration
in Enugu State, came alive through a development administration work plan, christened Enugu Security Trust Fund, which aims to raise not less than N20 billion, as a preliminary step towards securing lives and property of the entire citizenry, in addition to safeguarding potential business investors, tourists and visitors alike.
Chief Okolo, who coincidentally, is a native of Enugu East Senatorial District, said that by reason of this laudable project initiative, Governor Mbah, has demonstrated to the Enugu state voting electorate that he is making positive returns on their individual and collective electoral investments, which they decisively ploughed in towards ushering him into political governance as the 6th Executive Governor of Enugu State, where he had once served as an Honourable Commissioner.
“Apart from coming up with such a bold concept towards securing the lives and property of the people of Enugu State, the governor must be given credit for the line-up of human-oriented transformational
Supreme Court
projects, which are developmental in their different phases and strides in the last 22 months,” Okolo said.
Meanwhile, Okolo, has thanked a leading philanthropist,global oil and gas player with no fewer than 28 oil wells, Prince Arthur Eze, for his think-home philosophy of supporting Governor Mbah's bold initiative on internal security.
He said that Prince Eze's mechanical solidarity, encouraging Governor Mbah's policy options on internal security measures in the state , would ensure that a ferocious war against insecurity in Enugu State as well as the South-east in particular is waged.
He stated that by putting in place modern strategies that would allow commercial activities and allied businesses to strive, without any threats to their means of daily existence, is what Gov Mbah had demonstrated so far, thus, earning the trust and support of illustrious Igbo citizens like Prince Engr Arthur Eze.
According to Okolo, Prince Eze, who wears the title of Royalty of Ozoigbondu 1 of Igboland, offering financial support towards the Enugu
State Security Trust Fund, is a sign of a father's love for any of his sons, who is eliciting positive behaviour in terms of delivering the dividends of democracy and upholding the tenets of good governance culture.
Chief Okolo, broadcast journalism guru, turned politician, explained that the Fund Raising Enugu State Security Trust Fund Dinner , apart from being a good political example that should be modeled by other state governors across Nigeria, provides a veritable pathway towards laudable achievement tackling all issues, values and norms that characterise the insecurity challenges, not just in Enugu State but every state of the Nigerian Federation.
Scoring Governor Mbah in his ability to manage the gains of his 2023 governorship electoral successes, in terms of being faithful to his campaign promises as evidenced by his development administrative / good governance scorecard, Chief Okolo, appealed to the executive governor to continue to usher in value-addition in the growth and progress of Enugu State.
Recall that the Federal High Court had on October 10, 2018, awarded Ochife N50 million in damages against the Inspector General of Police, the Commissioner of Police (FCT), and the Officer in Charge of the Intelligence Response Team, Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS). As part of efforts at enforcing the judgement, Ochife, initiated garnishee proceedings to attach funds from the judgement debtors' accounts under the Treasury Single Account (TSA) held by the CBN. On December 10, 2018, the Federal High Court issued a Garnishee Order Nisi directing the CBN to deduct N50 million from the alleged accounts
of the judgement debtors.
The CBN, however, filed an affidavit to show cause, asserting that it did not hold any accounts in the names of the judgement debtors and was therefore unable to comply with the order.
Despite this, the Federal High Court made the Garnishee Order Absolute on January 21, 2019, prompting the CBN to appeal the decision.
The Court of Appeal, in its ruling on December 4, 2020, dismissed the CBN’s appeal, reasoning that since the judgement debtors were government agencies, their funds must be held under the TSA policy.
Relying on Section 124 of the Evidence Act, the appellate court took judicial notice of the TSA framework and upheld the garnishee proceedings. Dissatisfied, the CBN took the matter to the Supreme Court, arguing that the proceedings were invalid due to the judgement creditors' failure to obtain the consent of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), as required by Section 84 of the Sheriffs and Civil Process Act (SCPA).
Delivering the lead judgement in the appeal marked: SC/CV/268/2021, Justice Habeeb Adewale Abiru held that the lower courts had erred in their assessment of the case.
Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has mourned the passing of elder-statesman and leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural group, Afenifere, Pa Ayo Adebanjo.
The National Publicity Secretary of the party, Felix Morka in a statement issued Wednesday said Adebanjo was an accomplished journalist, lawyer, nationalist and politician.
He said: “As a major player in the Nigerian political space, his influence and relevance were cherished both at regional and national levels for over seven decades.
“A core Awoist, he was famed
for his relentless advocacy for true federalism and progressivism. His role, alongside other patriots, in sustaining the struggle to enthrone democracy in the country remains legendary.
“Sadly, our dear nation has lost an irreplaceable patriot whose invaluable contributions to shaping our country's socio-political landscape will remain indelible.”
Morka noted that the ruling party condoled with the family of the late Adebanjo, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Yoruba nation and the government and people of Ogun State over the painful exit of such an iconic personality.
Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja
Alex Enumah in Abuja
2025 NATIONAL WOMEN ENTREPRENEURSHIP FESTIVAL...
L-R: Member, Association of Kebbi Women Entrepreneurs, Hajiya Saratu Kaoje; Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Hajiya Halima Bande; Chief Executive Officer,
Hajiya Bilkisu Muhammad Nasir; Founder, Nasara Foundation/First Lady of Kebbi
Hajiya
and Hajiya
Hajiya
President, Association of
Russia-Ukraine War: Trump Abandons
Zelenskiy, Calls Him Comedian, Dictator
Urges him to act fast despite leaving Ukraine out of negotiations
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
President Donald Trump yesterday issued his most direct threat yet to Volodymyr Zelenskiy, saying the Ukrainian president had “better move fast” to reach a deal with Russia “or he is not going to have a country left.”
Trump’s social media post denouncing Zelenskiy as “an ex- comedian” and “a dictator” marks an all-but-final rejection of Ukraine as a full partner in negotiations that Trump has initiated with Russia to end the war that began with President Vladimir Putin’s full-scale invasion of his neighbor three years ago.
The US president has abandoned years of American support for Ukraine, as he prepares to meet with Putin as soon as this month to negotiate a deal to end the war, cutting out Kyiv and its European allies.
Zelenskiy accused Trump of falling victim to Russian “disinformation” and has vowed not to be bound by any peace deal made without Ukraine. That had been the US position under former President Joe Biden. But the open breach with the leader of what had been Zelenskiy’s most important ally raises deep questions about Ukraine’s ability to fight on, Bloomberg reported.
Senior officials from the US and Russia met for a first round of talks on ending the war in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday. Ukraine wasn’t invited, compounding fears that a deal to end the war will be reached without Kyiv’s involvement. Putin said Wednesday that he regarded the outcome of the meeting in Riyadh positively.
“We haven’t seen each other for a long time,” Putin told reporters. He reiterated that he was ready to meet with “Donald,” but that further preparation was needed before a summit could take place.
In the same appearance, Trump blamed Ukraine for Russia’s invasion and asserted that Zelenskiy’s public
support was at 4 per cent — a level belied by all available polling — and mentioned that wartime Ukraine hasn’t held an election, a demand that’s been made by the Kremlin.
In response, Zelenskiy lashed out, accusing the US president of living in a Russian “disinformation space.”
Zelenskiy is supported by 57 per cent of Ukrainians, up from 52 per cent from a similar survey conducted in December, according to a February 4-9 poll of 1,000 people by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology, the report added.
European allies struggled to keep up with the shift in the US position. The European Union’s foreign policy
chief, Kaja Kallas, said “the Russian narrative is really gaining ground.”
“The only ones who are saying it was Ukraine who is to blame are the Russians,” she told Bloomberg in an interview in Cape Town, South Africa.
As talks proceed, hostilities continue. Russia hit Ukraine’s southern port city of Odesa with a massive drone strike overnight, just hours after US and Russian officials ended their meeting. US special envoy Keith Kellogg arrived in Kyiv early Wednesday to continue consultations on ending the war. Yet the calls to hold elections are increasingly putting Zelenskiy in a
ILLEGAL REMOVAL OF ELECTED COUNCIL OFFICIALS IS TREASONABLE, FAGBEMI WARNS GOVERNORS
aiding and abetting violations of the democratic process.
The governor stated, “You are in my state at a critical juncture in our political life. We face existential threat to our democratic life from those who should protect democracy.
“We have made the best of efforts to guarantee peace on the unfolding local government question. I directed members of the political class to stay away.
“But the opposition, supported by the police, went ahead to break into the local government secretariats. Security men openly supported them to enforce illegality.
“Nonetheless, our local government election is holding on Saturday. Our people are ready for elections. We will not allow democracy to be destroyed.”
Adeleke said, “We call on the diplomatic community to take judicious note of the rape of democracy ongoing in Osun State. We particularly call attention to the negative role of security agents in the crisis. All stakeholders must abide by rule of law in a democracy. There is no room for self help.”
British Deputy High Commissioner Jonny Baxter, in his remarks, stressed the importance of democratic processes and the rule of law. Baxter urged all political actors to prioritise peace and dialogue over conflict.
Baxter stated, "Nigeria is a key partner to the UK, and we encourage all stakeholders to uphold democratic values, ensure peaceful governance, and respect legal institutions.
“It is vital that law enforcement remains neutral and that political disputes are resolved through lawful channels."
Baxter was accompanied by Katherine Fernandes, Second Secretary (Political) and Wale Adebajo, Senior Political Adviser.
The PDP state chairman said, "Osun State has been thrown into the cloudy side of the news in recent days, no thanks to the surreptitious activities of the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun to destabilise the state with orchestrated violence obviously hatched in active connivance of his office and the opposition All Progressives Congress, banking on a non-existent court order as being brandished by the defeated APC in the state.
"Mr Egbetokun's deliberate deployment of Special Forces under him to escort some miscreants into the local government councils in the state was nothing but a blatant coup and obviously one out of the many mapped out plans to assassinate the governor of our dear State, Senator Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke, whose instruction to restore peace and order, as the chief security officer of Osun State, was flagrantly violated by Mr Egbetokun.
"We understand that Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has been interfacing with Egbetokun, with the sole aim of ensuring peace after the fatal fracas on Monday, occasioned by forceful attempts by the sacked chairmen and councillors purportedly elected on the platform of opposition APC before the advent of PDP administration in the state.
"The whole world must warn and prevail on Mr Kayode Egbetokun to desist from being an enabler of orchestrated attempts on the life of our governor. This plans, we want to emphasise, have being on the cards of the APC in Osun State, since the good people of Osun State voted them out of office in 2022."
The party chairman was referring to Oyetola.
House Seeks Law’s Position on Situation, APC Takes over Councils, Freezes Accounts
The House of Representatives called on the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, to properly advise all parties to the dispute over control of local governments on the true position of the law.
The House also encouraged aggrieved parties to seek judicial enforcement of rights rather than use of force
It condemned any resort to self-help, violence, killings and harassment by individuals and political interests in the state.
The resolutions of the House followed a motion sponsored by Hon. Bamidele Salam, and six others at the plenary yesterday.
Moving the motion, Salam expressed worry that the sacked officials were breaking the gates of their respective local government secretariats to forcefully take over the local government without any court order.
The House, in the resolution, “Condemns any resort to self-help, violence, killings and harassment by individuals and political interests in Osun State,
“Calls on the Inspector General of Police, DG DSS and other security heads to ensure normalcy and order is restored to all local governments in Osun State
“Urges the Attorney General of the Federation to properly advise all parties to the dispute in the control of local governments in Osun State as to the true position of the law and encourage aggrieved parties to seek judicial enforcement of rights rather than use of force.”
Meanwhile, no fewer than 20 local government secretariats had been taken over by the purportedly reinstated chairmen and councillors from APC in Osun State.
Adeleke had directed residents, including politicians across political divides, to stay away from the local
government secretariats.
Similarly, the leadership of APC had directed its members, particularly council chairmen and councillors, to stay off their respective council secretariats until further notice.
But the local governments taken over were Atakunmosa West, Ilesa West, Obokun, Ilesa East, Ife East, Ifelodun, Orolu, Ejigbo, Oriade, Iwo, Ayedire, Boripe, Ife Central, Ife North, Ila, Ede South, Odo-Otin, Ola-Oluwa, and Atakumosa East
A top leader of APC, Senator Mudashiru Hussein, was alleged by Osun State chapter of PDP to have disclosed that security agencies had been directed by the presidency to accompany his party to take over local government secretariats.
But Hussein denied the allegation, saying he has no power to do so.
PDP alleged that in a leaked audio message to members of the party, Hussein had said APC members were to assemble at the police station in each local government where security agents would lead them to take over the councils.
The PDP state chairman, Bisi, reiterated Adeleke's directive to PDP members to stay away from the council secretariats.
He also raised alarm about clandestine attempts to arrest PDP members ahead of the Saturday local government elections.
But following their resumption, the council chairmen and councillors immediately ordered the freezing of the various council accounts.
They warned Adeleke and others in charge of the council resources to steer clear of public funds, saying, "Any form of illegal transaction will have consequences."
They also cautioned the state government and chairman of Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSSIEC) to shelve the planned local government election
as there was no vacancy in any of the 30 councils for them to fix.
Addressing a press conference at Ilerioluwa Campaign Office, Osogbo, Chairman of Ifedayo Local Government Area, Hon. Abiodun Idowu, applauded President Bola Tinubu for his exemplary leadership and strict adherence to the rule of law. Idowu hailed the high sense of professionalism and commitment exhibited by the security agencies in the state.
Idowu, who is the Association of Local Government of Nigeria, ALGON Chairman, assured of their readiness to ensure good governance at the grassroots.
"Having returned to office, we want to reaffirm our commitment to serving our people more and our social contract to create job and wealth for the teeming youth of the state will be implemented without compromise."
Osun Speaker Seeks Arrest, Prosecution of Illegal Occupants of Osun LG Secretariats
Speaker of Osun State House of Assembly, Hon. Olumide Egbedun, called on Egbetokun to act decisively to ensure the arrest and prosecution of all illegal occupants of the local government secretariats in the state.
Egbedun also made it cleared that local government elections scheduled for Saturday remained sacrosanct, and called on all eligible voters in the state to come out en masse to freely exercise their democratic right to vote for their preferred candidates.
The speaker stated that the arrest and prosecution of all individuals involved in the unlawful invasion were important. He said the IGP should hold accountable any police officers, who facilitated or failed to prevent the
bind and risk eroding his position as the country’s leader. Ukraine has rejected calls to hold the vote for fear of Russian interference and the sheer challenge of organising the vote in wartime. Martial law, which remains in place in the country, prohibits holding an election.
“If someone wants to replace me right now — right now won’t work,” Zelenskiy said. “Unfortunately, President Trump — I treat him with great respect as a leader of a people that we truly respect, the American people, who support us constantly — unfortunately lives in this disinformation space.”
illegal acts.
He stressed that Egbetokun should help restore public confidence in the neutrality of the Nigeria Police and prevent further escalation of violence and political intimidation. He said failure to act would only embolden those who sought to undermine democratic institutions.
Egbedun said, "The responsibility of the Nigeria Police Force is to serve and protect all Nigerians, not to take sides in political disputes. The people of Osun State demand and deserve fairness, impartiality, and professionalism from the security agencies."
An Abuja-based legal practitioner and rights activist, Mr Pelumi Olajengbesi, warned the federal government and APC against forceful take-over of local government secretariats, stressing that such attempt would lead to unimaginable chaos.
Olajengbesi's warning was predicated on move by APC to take over affairs at the Local Government Area Councils in the state; which resulted to the death of some persons.
Speaking with journalists in Abuja, Olajengbesi faulted the forceful takeover of the local governments in Osun by some groups linked to APC in the state. The activist, who described the move as a coup, argued that even if the actors had judgement in their favour, it was completely wrong for them to take the laws into their hands under the guise of enforcing Court of Appeal judgement. He insisted that there were procedures for judgement execution in the country, adding that the way the actors in the Osun local government crisis acted was in breach of laws and a usurpation of functions of those empowered to enforce court judgement.
Nasara Foundation;
State,
Zainab Nasare Nasir Idris;
Kebbi Women Entrepreneurs, Maryam Bello Bala;
Nafisa Zaki Yari
Nafisa Abdullahi at the 2025 National Women Entrepreneurship Festival in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State…recently
DURING ACCESS BANK LAGOS CITY MARATHON’S 10TH EDITION, IN LAGOS...
L-R:
Shettima, Ibori, More Govs, Senate, Others Pay Glowing Tributes to Late Edwin Clark
Tributes have continued to pour in for the late leader of the Ijaw Nation and the South-south, Chief Edwin Clark, who died on Monday in Abuja at the age of 97.
Shettima: He Had Significant Influence on Nigeria
Vice-President Kashim Shettima has described the passing of elder statesman Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, as a profound loss to Nigeria, likening his death to the giant Iroko tree falling in the forest.
In a condolence message, the vice-president said the renowned nationalist and Ijaw national leader had a significant influence on Nigeria’s national discourse spanning over six decades, particularly on issues of resource control and environmental justice in the Niger Delta region.
He extended his heartfelt condolences to the Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo family, describing the late Chief Clark as a distinguished patriot and a fearless advocate for justice and equity.
"When the giant Iroko tree falls, the landscape itself is forever altered. Today, our national horizon looks markedly different without Chief Clark's commanding presence that has defined our political discourse for over six decades," he said.
Shettima recalled his advocacy for restructuring, which he said often put him at odds with various administrations but earned him respect across political divides.
"Chief Clark embodied the resilient spirit of the Niger Delta - unbowed and unwavering in his pursuit of justice. He consistently demonstrated that true leadership flows from unwavering principle rather than political expediency.
"Through the Creative Economy Development Fund that was recently approved, we are pioneering a new frontier, enabling creators to transform their intellectual property into bankable assets, and I think this is a very important and formidable initiative."
Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Adewale Adeniyi, outlined the agency's commitment to digital trade facilitation at the workshop.
Adeniyi emphasised the central role of export promotion in Nigeria's current economic strategy.
He said, "Customs has established a dedicated export command in Lagos, and they actively participated in AfCFTA's guided trade initiatives.
“We have deployed advanced digital solutions, including a new platform christened B'Odogwu, intended to improve transparency and efficiency by connecting all stakeholders on a unified system."
"The Niger Delta has lost one of its most eloquent defenders, the Ijaw nation its most prominent son, and Nigeria a truth-teller whose interventions consistently redirected our national conversation toward justice and inclusivity," he further stated.
Mutfwang: He Was Pillar of Wisdom, Courage
Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Clark, describing him as a pillar of wisdom and courage.
In a condolence message, Mutfwang further described Clark as a selfless leader, a father figure, and a beacon of hope, whose immeasurable contributions to Nigeria’s democratic growth and national discourse would continue to inspire generations.
He noted that the late statesman lived a fulfilled life marked by patriotism, integrity, and resilience, particularly in championing equity, justice, and inclusive governance.
In a statement signed by his Director of Press, Gyang Bere, the governor said, “With a heavy heart, I extend my deepest condolences to the Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo family of Kiagbodo Town, Delta State, the South-South geopolitical zone, and all Nigerians mourning the departure of this distinguished elder statesman.
“The passing of Chief Edwin Clark is an irreplaceable loss, not only to his family and Delta State but also to the entire South-South region and Nigeria as a whole. He was a pillar of wisdom, courage, and steadfast commitment to national unity.”
Makinde: Clark Was a Nationalist of Repute
Oyo State Governor, 'Seyi Makinde, has described Chief Edwin Clark, as a nationalist of great repute, who loved
Director-General of National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), Abisoye Coker-Odusote, presented data on how digital identity systems will transform Nigeria's trade landscape.
Coker-Odusote told the workshop, "This shift to digital trade presents an enormous opportunity for Nigeria to diversify its economy and leverage non-oil assets."
The NIMC director-general stated that the shift projected substantial growth in business registrations through digital channels in the coming years.
Earlier in his welcome remarks, Special Assistant to the President on ICT Policy, Dr. Salihu Nakande, said, "AU's endorsement of Nigeria as the AfCFTA Digital Trade Champion is a testament to our country's strategic role in shaping the future of digital commerce across the continent.
"With this endorsement, Nigeria is not just a participant—we are
Nigeria with all his heart and worked for a better Nigeria till his last moment.
Makinde, who stated this yesterday in statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Sulaimon Olanrewaju, condoled with the immediate family of the late Chief Clark, the government and people of Delta State and, indeed, all patriotic Nigerians with whom Clark walked shoulder to shoulder to agitate for reforms that would bring about true federalism in the last few decades.
The governor prayed to God to grant the Clark family the fortitude to bear the loss.
Ibori: He Was a Fearless Fighter, Federalist
A former governor of Delta State, Chief James Ibori, has paid glowing tribute to the late elder statesman, describing him as a fearless fighter and true federalist.
According to Ibori, “Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark (E. K. Clark) was a fearless fighter, a staunch federalist, and an exceptional leader of our time.
“He never hesitated to speak the truth when it mattered most, serving as a moral compass for the Ijaw Nation, Delta State, and Nigeria at large.
“In him burned the true spirit of the Niger Delta—courage, determination, and an unyielding commitment to justice.
“His leadership was a beacon of hope and resilience, and his passing leaves a profound void. We will sorely miss his wisdom, guidance, and unwavering voice. May his soul rest in perfect peace.”
Gbemre: Clark Was An Institution
A prominent Niger Delta activist, Olorogun Zik Gbemre, described Chief Clark as an institution and leader of
leading the charge in designing the frameworks, policies, and innovations that will drive Africa's digital economy forward."
Special Assistant to the President on Export Promotion, Aliyu Sheriff, said, "In 2024, Nigeria's non-oil exports exceeded $5.4 billion, yet this is only a fraction of our true potential. To sustain economic growth, stabilise the naira, and create jobs, we must transition from a predominantly consumption-driven economy to one centred on production and value addition.
"The European Union imports over $120 billion worth of fruits and vegetables annually. If Plateau State, which is rich in fruits and vegetables, captures just two to five per cent of this, that translates to $2.4 billion to $6 billion in exports."
Principal Research Fellow at Overseas Development Institute (ODI), Max Mendez-Parra, said, "The AfCFTA Protocol on Digital Trade
the South-South, who would be sorely missed for his fearless advocacy.
Gbemre, in a statement, said Clark was a pride of Ijaw and Urhobo Nations, where he paternally hailed from Kiagbodo and maternally from Erhuwharen in Ughievwen Kingdom both in Burutu and and Ughelli South LGAs of Delta State.
“Pa E.K Clark who has passed, Monday night 17th February 2025, was a household name, an institution himself and foremost leader of South-South.
“Paternally from Kiagbodo an Ijaw town of Burutu LGA and maternally from Erhuwaren town of Ughievwen in Ughelli South LGA. Pa Clark was a great man and will be missed by people of the South South, especially for his fearless advocacy in Nigeria.
“He was known for being outspoken. Whenever any administration was taking any decision being it at the national or state level on the South-South, they were always mindful of Clark’s reaction, like what would E.K Clark say if the decision was unfavourable to the South-South people?”
Mulade: He Was Fearless Advocate for N’Delta Devt
Renowned Niger Delta leader and advocate, Comrade Mulade, has described Chief E. K. Clark as a voice for truth, the oppressed, and a fearless advocate for development in the Niger Delta region.
Mulade acknowledged that Clark's passing was a "big blow," painful loss, and leaves a huge void, one that would be difficult to fill, emphasizing that his wealth of experience was still greatly needed.
An environmentalist and the Ibe-Serimowei of ancient Gbaramatu Kingdom in Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State,
certainly has the potential to advance digitally-driven industrialisation in Africa by fostering a conducive environment for digital commerce and innovation.
"To fully harness the benefits of the AfCFTA DTP and realise the opportunities it offers, Nigeria's public and private sectors need a robust implementation strategy that would also improve domestic regulations and unlock growth in GDP, employment and digital trade.”
Country Director for the British High Commission's Department for Business and Trade in Nigeria, Mark Smithson, said, "AfCFTA is the African Union's most ambitious regional economic channel.
“The AfCFTA holds the potential to be a game changer for Nigeria's inclusive economic change, driving industrial growth, generating jobs and delivering inclusive prosperity across the continent as well as in Nigeria."
Mulade reflected on Clark's remarkable contributions to the nation, particularly in the Niger Delta Region, stating that his legacy cannot be forgotten soon.
He praised late Pa Clark as a "fountain of knowledge" and a dynamic leader whose absence will be deeply felt.
Senate Urges FG to Immortalise Clark
The Senate, yesterday, urged the federal government to immortalise the late Chief Edwin Clark.
The red chamber also resolved to send a delegation to commiserate with his family and attend his burial and funeral rites, in recognition of his service as a former senator.
The Senate, during plenary observed a minute silence in his honour and eulogises the late leader of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), who passed away on Monday, at the age of 97.
The resolutions followed a motion titled: “The Demise of Senator (Chief) Edwin K. Clark, OFR, CON (May 25, 1927 – February 17, 2025).”
It was sponsored by Senator JoelOnowakpo Thomas (APC-Delta South) and co-sponsored by 16 other Senators from the South-South geopolitical zone.
Thomas enumerated Clark’s remarkable contributions to Nigeria’s political evolution and his unwavering commitment to the rights of the Niger Delta people.
Reeling out his long profile, he said, “Pa Edwin Clark was a nationalist, a renowned lawyer, a seasoned administrator, a philanthropist, and an astute advocate for the Niger Delta region.”Senators in their various contributions commended Clark’s courage and lifelong advocacy for equity and justice:
Senator Ede Dafinone (APC-Delta Central) described Clark as a man who was never afraid to speak truth to power.
Senator Seriake Dickson (PDPBayelsa West) called Clark an iconic leader who served meticulously, while Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe (APGA-Abia South) commended Clark’s unwavering support for the marginalised.
Senator Adamu Aliero (PDP-Kebbi Central) described Clark as a nationalist and bridge-builder who promoted unity and brotherhood.
Senate Minority Leader, Abba Moro (PDP-Benue South) said, “We lost him at a time when his wise counsel was most needed. He was one of the formidable founding fathers of modern Nigeria.”
Senator Abdul Ningi (PDP-Bauchi Central) added that Clark was an inspirational figure across ethnic divides.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio acknowledged Clark’s relentless advocacy for the rights of minorities and his efforts to unite different regions of the country He said, “His voice resonated
above the age of 90. Whenever he spoke, you could hear the passion in his words about Nigeria.”
PDP Govs Commiserates Clark’s Family
The Peoples Democratic Party Governors’ Forum (PDP-GF) has sympathised with the Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo Family of Kiagbodo Town in Delta State over the death of their father, Edwin Clark. In a statement by the Director General of the forum, Emmanuel Agbo, they described the late Edwin Clark as an icon, an exceptional sage, a real patriot and elder statesman.
"His unwavering dedication to the unity and progress of Nigeria through true federalism, and his tireless advocacy for the rights of the Niger Delta region plagued of environmental pollution and degradation from mineral exploitation, have left an indelible mark on our nation.
''The Ijaw nation has lost its father-figure, an irrepressible voice and their Izon-Ibe Kikilowe – “the Ijaw man who was taking care of the Ijaw ''Deltatribe. State has lost a treasure of inestimable value, a nationalist par excellence, a distinguished patriot, who unrelentingly dedicated his whole life to the service of Deltans.
''The people of the South South will miss matchless contributions to the development of the region by a courageous leader who stood for what he believed in and was never afraid to stand alone in the face of injustice.
''Niger Deltans will remember him as a man who fought gallantly for the rights of the people of the region. And as an unpretentious federalist, he left indelible footprints as a nationalist for the inspiring roles he played in the Middle-Belt Leaders Forum and as leader of Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF),'' they said.
IYC Condoles Ijaw Nation over Clark
The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), has condoled the Ijaw nation over the death of Pa Edwin Clark.
IYC President, Dr. Theophilus Alaye, in a statement, said the death of Clark at this time of national reawakening and political realignment towards 2027 where his voice would have resonated to give the Ijaws direction and opinion moulding was highly regrettable. He described Clark as an honest, fearless, courageous leader, who has spearheaded the Ijaw liberation struggle from pre-colonial to independence and post-independence era speaking against injustice, marginalisation of the minorities in the country particularly people of the Niger Delta. Alaye urged leaders and the led in the Ijaw nation to emulate the sterling qualities of the departed icon and keep the liberation fire of the Ijaw struggle burning to achieve set goals.
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
Shehu Dikko, Chairman, National Sports Commission; Chizoma Okoli, Deputy Managing Director, Access Bank Plc; Sang Benard Cheruiyot, 3rd position, 42KM male category; Koech Edwin Kibet, winner; Kipygon Hehemiah, 2nd position, all from Kenya; Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Governor, Lagos State; and his Deputy, Obafemi Hamzat, at the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon’s 10th edition, in Lagos… recently
PHiLaNTHROPy...
L-R: The beneficiary, Madam Modupe Ajayi Alufoge; Wife of Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, and Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Olapeju Babafemi, at the official inauguration of a building donated by Abiyamo Esther Oyebanji Foundation to the widow, whose house was recently destroyed by rainstorm in Igbara Odo-Ekiti...yesterday
Benue Assembly Suspends 13 Members for Dishonourable Actions
George Okoh in Makurdi
Thirteen members of the Benue State House of Assembly were yesterday slammed three months suspension by the House for their indulgence in what the Speaker termed as “ Dishonourable actions capable of casting aspersions and causing acrimony in the House.”
The thirteen suspended members are to refund the funds paid to them for foreign trip to government coffers, since they will no longer be embarking on the journey any longer.
The House also condemned, in the strongest terms, the dishonorable actions of the member representing Makurdi South Constituency, Mr.
Oyebanji Urges Residents to Patronise Govt Hospitals
Gbenga sodeinde in ado ekiti
Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has urged Ekiti residents to make proper use of government hospitals in their communities for their healthcare needs and justify government’s huge spending on the renovation and equipment of the state hospitals.
The governor stated this when he received a delegation of leaders from Ifaki Ekiti led by a former Governor of the state, Chief Segun Oni. He said
his government is currently renovating nine general hospitals with state- of- the- art equipment and manpower to allow as many people as possible have access to quality and affordable healthcare on offer at the government hospitals.
The governor in response to the request for an upgrade of the Ifaki General Hospital to a specialist Hospital, said the upgrade of the hospital or any of the general hospitals is predicated on the level of patronage.
FG Inaugurates Market with 2,500 Stalls in Abuja
Folalumi alaran inabuja
The federal government has inaugurated a new market with 2,500 stalls in Karmo District of Abuja. Speaking during the inauguration yesterday, the Minister of Federal Capital Territory(FCT), Nyesom Wike, said the project, in collaboration with the Rural Homes Limited, was constructed to enhance commercial infrastructure and economic development within the Federal Capital Territory.
Douglas Akya, and 12 others, some of whom after voting for the removal of the State Chief Judge, Justice Maurice Ikpambase, went out to address
a press conference denying voting in favour of the motion to remove the Judge.
The Speaker of the House, Chief Hyacinth Aondona
Dajoh listed those suspended to include: Mr. Douglas Akya (Makurdi South), Mr. Jonathan Agbidye (Katsina-Ala East), Mrs. Beckie Orpin (Gboko East),
Delta Unveils Whistle-blowing Policy to Enhance Quality Project Delivery
Omon-Julius Onabu in asaba
Delta State Government yesterday in Asaba, launched a whistle-blowing policy that will enable citizens report poor quality and substandard projects delivery in the state to appropriate government authorities.
Establishment of the Whistle-blowing Policy was made public by the State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, during a news conference.
He described the new policy as a new form of partnership in real-time governance between citizens of Delta and the Oborevwori administration.
The policy will certainly put governmernt contractors on their toes and made delivery of projects even more competitive, the commissioner warned.
Flanked by Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Sir Festus Ahon and Executive Assistant to the Governor on Public Enlightenment (Projects and Policies), Mr. Olisa Ifeajika, the Commissioner said citizens can send text messages, WhatsApp messages with pictures and videos where possible to 09169978305.
Oyo Talks Tough on Crimes, Assures Residents on Security, Safety
Oyo State Government has vowed to go hard on crimes and criminalities in the state, reassuring residents of the state of adequate security and safety of life and property, especially around parts of the state that are experiencing security challenges.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, Commissioner of
Police(CP) Fatai Owoseni (rtd), gave the assurance yesterday while briefing newsmen after a security stakeholders’ meeting in Ibadan.
Owoseni explained that the meeting was convened for the committee to review and rejig strategies on security matters and also restrategise towards strengthening the security measures
put in place to stem the tide of banditry and criminality in some parts of Oyo township, Ogbomoso, Oke-Ogun, Ibarapa, parts of Ibadan and Oyo State as a whole.
He added that part of the resolutions of the meeting was to integrate the community leaders and actively involve members of the grassroots in the security architecture of the state with a view to renewing the commitment to collaborate with the government. Owoseni equally stated that with the robust synergy among the service commanders and the collaborative efforts of the neighbouring states, bandits and other criminal elements would face a tough time in the state.
NDDC Project-HOPE: Fubara Unveils Plan to Commence Employment for N’Delta Youths
Blessing ibunge in Port harcourt
The Managing Director of D’Consiglories Nigeria Limited, Mr. Blessing Fubara, has announced the plan to engage youths of the Niger Delta region in skills and other empowerment programmes.
Fubara, who is a resource
“Additionally, it is designed to create more job opportunities and tap into the untapped value chain of real estate, driving further economic expansion and investments within the sector, eradicate the use of informal markets, and maintain the urban culture, driving further economic expansion and investment within the sector.”
He said the Karmo District Market has been strategically developed to provide a wellstructured and modern business hub for traders, entrepreneurs, and investors and aligns with the current administration’s plan to foster economic growth, creating employment opportunities, and ensuring a more organized trading environment.
Anambra Guber: PDP Pegs Nomination Fee at N35m, Expression of Interest Fee at N5m
Chuks Okocha in abuja
The Peoples Democratic Party has set the price of its Nomination and Expressions of Interest forms for the Anambra Governorship election at N35 million and N5 million, respectively. According to the Independent National Electoral Commission, the Anambra State governorship election will hold on Saturday, November 8, 2025.
In a letter sent to the Anambra
State Chapter Chairman, Chidi Chidebe and other members of the National Working Committee, the PDP outlined its timetable.
The documents, dated February 13 and signed by PDP National Organising Secretary Umar Bature, also stated that the final date for form submissions is March 7.
According to the letter and document, the sales of Nomination and Expressions of Interest forms will begin on February 24 and end in March.
consultant to the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) on Project-Hope, said the incentive is part of the company’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) for the region.
He explained that the indigenous company is committed to driving excellence across various sectors through innovative solutions and strategic partnership.
Speaking with journalists in Port Harcourt, Fubara announced plans to open a portal for the resubmission of art contents for the commencement of the Niger Delta Music and Arts project.
Fubara stated that despite every effort by detractors trying to stop the Project-HOPE, an initiative that aimed at empowering the youths and attracting development to the region from succeeding, the NDDC management led by Dr Samuel Ogbuku meant well for the youths of the region.
Govt Urged to Embrace Legislative Theatre for Enhanced Governance, Youth Engagement
Founder of the Street Project Foundation, Mrs. Rita EzenwaOkoro, has called for the adoption of Legislative Theatre to enhance governance and increase youths engagement.
According to Rita EzenwaOkoro, “after identifying a gap in our ARTvocacy Movement model, which encourages youth to use their creative talents to speak out against injustice, the Street Project team was selected for a capacity-building programme called Demo Reset, designed by Extituto, a Colombian organisation, that used Legislative Theatre, a unique method for empowering communities to engage in policymaking through storytelling and performance.
“We discovered it during our training program, it was created by a Brazilian theatre maker called BOAL who developed what is called Theatre of the oppressed.
Legislative Theatre is a component of this art form,” she stated.
Ezenwa-Okoro further explained that Legislative Theatre harnesses the power of participatory theatre to develop innovative policy solutions.
As part of the Demo Reset programme, the Street Project team organised a Youth Legislative Theatre Laboratory between February 3 and 5, 2025 in Kosofe Local Government Area of Lagos State.
Gov Mbah, David Mark Mourn as Anichukwu Family Announces Mother’s Burial
Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah and former President of the Senate, Senator David Mark, have expressed grief over the death of the late Senior Mother-in-Israel
Josephine Anichukwu, mother of media aide to the governor, Mazi Uche Anichukwu, describing her as a consummate teacher and an
extraordinary woman.
This came as the Anichukwu family, yesterday announced the funeral ceremonies of their matriarch, who died in Enugu on November 2, 2024, aged 81. According to the obituary issued by Mazi Anichukwu and Hon. Cajetan Anichukwu, on behalf
of the Rabbi Gabriel Anichukwu and Anyianuka Orji families, both of Amigbo Nomeh, the funeral ceremonies would commence with a commendation service at her country home, Obinagu, Amigbo Nomeh in Nkanu East LGA, Enugu State, on Friday, February 21, followed by an all-night wake at the same venue.
The Christian funeral service and interment by the Eternal Sacred Order of Cherubim and Seraphim would hold at the same venue on Saturday, February 22, while a thanksgiving and outing service would hold on Sunday at the Provincial Headquarters of the Church situated at 14 Ilukwe Street, Asata, Enugu.
CeBIH Partners Stakeholders to Push AI Adoption in Nigeria’s Banking Sector
Kayode Tokede
In an era where digital transformation is redefining financial services, the Committee of e-Business Industry Heads (CeBIH) disclosed that it is
collaborating with Global InfoSwift Consulting (GIC) and HPS to bridge the Artificial Intelligence (AI) gap in Nigeria’s banking sector.
CeBIH realised that digital transformation is redefining
financial services globally and it is planning to host an industry workshop in Lagos with a theme “ Bridging the Digital, Security, and Artificial Intelligence divide in Nigeria” scheduled for February 21, 2025.
Speaking at a press conference in Lagos, the Chairman, CeBIH, Mr. Ajibade Laolu-Adewale, stated that the world is advancing in the fourth industrial revolution, most specifically AI and blockchain technology.
Mr. Simon Gabo (UshongoMata), Mr. Williams Ortyom (Agasha), Mr. Onah Blessed (Oju 1) and Mr. Elias Audu (Gwer East).
Lookman Reacts to Gasperini’s Comments as ‘Deeply Disrespectful’
Duro Ikhazuagbe
African
CHAMPIONS LEAGUE FALLOUT
aggregate win and reach the last 16.
The Nigerian international who came from the bench in the second half to score barely one minute after his introduction into the clash with Club Brugge, described Gasperini’s comments as “deeply disrespectful” and "hurtful.”
But for a VAR review, Lookman who scored a second goal that was disallowed before missing the penalty,
v FC Porto
Bodo/Glimt v Twente
FCSB v PAOK
Galatasaray v Alkmaar Ajax v Royale USG
Anderlecht v Fenerbahce
Pizen v Ferencvaros
Sociedad v Midtjylland
insisted that singling him out for blame for the ouster was the most unfair thing to do by the coach.
“Being singled out in the manner I have been not only hurts but feels deeply disrespectful, not least because of the immense hard work and commitment I have always put in each and every day to help bring success to this club and to the incredible fans of Bergamo,” Lookman wrote
on Instagram on Wednesday.
“In truth, I have dealt with many difficult moments during my time here – the majority of which I have never spoken about because in my opinion the team must always be protected and must come first.
“This makes what happened last (Tuesday) night even more hurtful. Along with our incredible fans, we as a team are hurting too with Tuesday night’s result.
Gasperini said Lookman has a “terrible record (in penalty taking)
HAT TRICK HERO...
Kylian Mbappe scored three goals as Real Madrid defeated Manchester City 3-1 (aggregate 6-3) to knock out the Premier League side from the UEFA Champions League in Madrid...last night
Abia Warriors Beat Rangers to Climb to NPFL Top Four
All the contending clubs aiming for podium finish at the ongoing Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) dropped vital points in midweek fixtures yesterday, leaving only leaders, Remo Stars with the chance to extend the lead at the top when they host Kwara United in Ikenne today. Defending champions, Enugu Rangers, failed to maintain the momentum of last Sunday’s massive win at home against Remo Stars as they fell by a lone to home side Abia Warriors in Umuahia.
It was Ijeoma DeSouza’s long-range strike in the 43rd minute for the home side that separated the two clubs. The result pushed Rangers down the ladder to sixth position on 38 points while the Abia side climbed to fourth with 39 points. In Uyo, former champions, Rivers United failed to hold on to an early goal scored against struggling Akwa United with the game ending 1-1 final result. Paschal Onunze scored for the visitors in the 9th minute but the home side equalised in the 57th minute via Mare Abson to share points.
and 87, relied more on her short-game and intuition of her caddy to coast victory.
Golf
Oyome, the President Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria,
her nerves in scorching conditions, to eclipse 18-year-old Grace Agbo and Diana Osmond by four strokes.
A field of 450 golfers from across Nigeria and five African countries competed at the 26th edition of the tournament over 54 holes at IBB International Golf and Country Club, Abuja. Oyome, who grossed 248; 82, 79
She also described Agbo (84, 85,83) and Osmond (84,84,84), a former member of the Nigerian contingent to the 2013 MTN World Golfers Championship in Durban, South Africa as the future of golf.
"My caddie was one of the best I had today. He gave me the urge to go ahead and anytime I missed my putt he encouraged me and that gave me the courage to forge on.
"Playing with the youngsters was actually very interesting and I can tell you that those are the players I am going to hand over the baton to in the nearest future," Oyome said.
Rachael Danjuma got $1,300 as the winner of the ladies professional
The result leaves the Port Harcourt side in the third position with 39 points and a massive nine points further
category, beating Eva Magala of Uganda, who settled for $900 in second position. Nigeria’s Uloma Ogbuokiri finished third and got $700.
IBB Lady Captain, Dame Julie Donli, said she was overwhelmed by the large turn out of guests at the dinner and award ceremony.
She described the event as memorable and indisputably the biggest Ladies Open ever in the history of the club.
"This is the biggest ever Ladies Open recorded anywhere in the world, not just in Nigeria and I am very happy about it.
"I believe that the participants were happy with the course as the IBB International Golf course meets international standards," Donli said.
away from Remo Stars who still have a game in hand at home.
Also in Ibadan, second-placed Shooting Stars failed to push further at the top as they were held to a pulsating 2-2 draw by struggling Lobi Stars at the Lekan Salami Stadium.
The home side opened the score through Joshua Akpan in the 18th minute but a brace from Ossy Martins in the 35th and 45th minute gave the visitors from Makurdi a 2-1 lead at half time.
The home side, who are aiming for continental ticket, were able to level up in the 56th minute via Sodiq Ibrahim and efforts to get the winning goal failed as they missed several scoring chances toward the end of the match.
The result leaves the Oluyole Warriors in second position on 41 points.
In Maiduguri, El Kanemi failed to break visiting Bendel Insurance as both sides recorded a goalless scoreline.
While Bayelsa United and Nasarawa United played a 2-2 draw with Idris Ajiya with a brace for the visitors in the 2nd and 45th minute but Ogba Ifeanyi recused the home side in the added minutes of the second half. Rabiu Abdulahi scored Bayelsa’s earlier goal in the first half.
In Minna, Niger Tornadoes secured a 2-1 win against Heartland of Owerri while Ikorodu City had to struggle with two second-half goals to overcome visiting Plateau United at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena.
Sunshine Stars and Kano Pillars ended their match 1-1 at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne.
even in training”, adding that Mateo Retegui and Charles De Ketelaere were better options to take the spot kick and did not know why the Nigerian did.
The Super Eagles forward revealed that he did not put himself forward to take the kick as stressed by the coach.
“During the match the designated penalty taker instructed me to take the penalty; and to support the team I took responsibility in the moment to do so. Life’s about challenges and turning pain into power which I’ll continue to do.”
Carloha, the exclusive dealer and franchise holder of Chery vehicles in Nigeria, on Wednesday signed a strategic partnership with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to support the development of football in the country.
This collaboration underscores Carloha’s commitment to fostering sports excellence and empowering talents in Nigeria’s football ecosystem.
The official signing ceremony, which took place yesterday at Carloha’s head office in Alapere, Lagos, was attended by Mallam Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC); Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF); CEO of Carloha, Mr. Liang Long; Mr. Sola Adigun, Carloha’s Managing Director; Alhaji Sharif Rabiu Inuwa, Chairman of the NFF Technical and Development Committee and; Ms Aisha Falode, Member of the NFF Executive Committee.
Speaking at the event, Mallam Dikko praised the NFF and Carloha
Lookman was Atalanta’s hero last season when they won the Europa League, netting a hat-trick in the final when they beat Bayer Leverkusen who had been undefeated all season. This season, he has scored 15 times for the Bergamo side.
for coming into a relationship that is certain to work wonders for the Nigeria game: “The NSC is happy for the NFF and Carloha coming into this relationship, and we believe it will open more doors for corporate bodies to seek partnership with sports federations in the country.”
CEO of Carloha, Mr. Long described the partnership as auspicious, saying the company is determined to drive the Super Eagles to overtake their opponents and qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals, as a priority project. “Football is the most popular sport in the world. The Super Eagles is the best team in Africa and we are happy to have the opportunity to support Nigeria football, as the best car company in Nigeria.” Managing Director of Carloha Nigeria, Mr. Sola Adigun, expressed enthusiasm about the initiative, stating that the partnership aims to have a long-lasting impact on football's growth by providing essential support to grassroots and professional football projects and programmes.
Seven-Up Bottling Company (SBC)
over the weekend marked 10 years of refreshing and hydrating the Lagos City Marathon with three of its iconic brands- Aquafina Premium Table Water, 7Up and Supa Komando leading its partnership on the platform.
The Marathon which began in 2016, has consistently partnered SBC as its Official Beverage Partner, leveraging its global brands such as 7Up, Aquafina, Pepsi, Mirinda and Supa Komando energy drink to energize, hydrate and refresh all participants at the race.
Last Saturday at the 10th edition of the marathon, SBC’s presence was very visible from start to finish at both the 42 km race for professional athletes and the 10km race designed for leisure and fun runners. Supa Komando energy drink owned the 10km start while Mirinda added some fun and colour at the 10km finishing point in Eko Atlantic. The marathon provided a platform for consumers to sample
the new tasty Mirinda Orange in a specially designed 60cl PET bottle. Senior Brand Manager at SBC, Sam Okolie, explained that the partnership aligns with the mission of the company to continue to inspire and refresh a youthful lifestyle for Nigerians.
He noted that SBC is proud to have been part of the Lagos City Marathon journey in the last 10 years refreshing the runners from its inception. “Seven-Up Bottling Company through our refreshing premium brands continues to ensure that the runners stay inspired, hydrated and refreshed on their journey and we are proud to have been a part of the success story of this platform”, said Mr. Okolie.
According to him, the organization remains committed to the ideals of the Lagos City Marathon as a platform to promote a healthier society, engender peace and friendship among peoples of different races and cultures”.
L-R: CEO of Carloha, Mr. Liang Long; Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Mal. Shehu Dikko; Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President, Ibrahim Gusau; and Carloha’s Managing Director, Mr Sola Adigun at the partnership signing ceremony in Lagos…yesterday
Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja
Evelyn Oyome Sunday was crowned the winner of the 2025 IBB Ladies Amateur
Open held in Abuja. The victory for the former Lady Captain Ibadan Golf Club, marked the third consecutive time she would be winning the event.
steadied
Femi Solaja
Thursday, February 20, 2025 Price:
Goodluck Jonathan to Politicians
“We, Nigerians, celebrate the wrong thing. And I believe one day, the country will get to the level where people will reject bad behaviour... “Maybe one day, we will have two big buildings in Abuja where we will put pictures of people—whether dead or alive—who have messed up this country so that their grandchildren will know their forefathers were part of Nigeria’s problems”—Former President on the desperation for power that fuels all kinds of misbheaviour by Nigerian politicians
OLUSEGUN ADENIYI
olusegun.adeniyi@thisdaylive.com
As Babangida Re-echoes the Past...
Today in Abuja, ‘A Journey of Service: An Autobiography’, by General Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida, will be publicly presented. With the book coming 32 years after Babangida ‘stepped aside’ in August 1993, it means that more than 70 percent of Nigerians were not witnesses to the events in the narratives, given our young demographics. Like everything Babangida, as I wrote last August, after the publishers sent me a digital copy (planned pages) of the book while requesting for a blurb, “opinions are bound to be divided about his (Babangida’s) interpretations of some epochal events which discerning readers could argue leave more questions than answers.”
Divided into five parts and 13 chapters, the foreword by General Yakubu Gowon highlights why Babangida’s book is important. “Given the monumental and historical changes that General Babangida presided over, it is only natural that many Nigerians of different generations would be eager to learn first-hand the motivations... and the reasons behind these far-reaching decisions, and events, some of which shook the nation to its very foundation,” Gowon wrote. But the question remains: Will readers be satisfied with the explanations provided by Babangida for some of these ‘far-reaching decisions’? Perhaps the more pertinent question is: Why is Babangida publishing his memoirs now after admittedly rebuffing earlier entreaties from friends, associates and family members to ‘tell his story’? He provides an answer in the prologue. “We live in a country where primarily uninformed commentators are often the final judges of events (that) they know nothing about,” Babangida wrote. “But because I had the honour to lead a chapter in our national journey, my brief encounter with authority and responsibility may interest those with fair minds.”
The account of Babangida’s early years is quite fascinating as he weaves post-colonial political developments with historical and cultural events that shaped his growing up in what is now Niger State. He also explained why he had to change his surname from Badamosi to Babangida in January 1964 because almost everyone he encountered assumed him to be a Yoruba man! But none more revealing is the account of his life at Bida Provincial Secondary School where his classmates included Abdulsalami Abubakar, Sani Bello, Mohammed Mamman Magoro, Garba Duba, Sani Sami, Mohammed Gado Nasko and Mamman Jiya Vatsa—men who, like him, later joined the military and, at different times, held critical positions in Nigeria. Interestingly, last Tuesday marked the 49th anniversary of the assassination of General Murtala Muhammed in the coup led by Lt Colonel Sukar Bukar Dimka. Drafted by General T.Y. Danjuma to foil Dimka’s coup, Babangida provides revealing insights on the conversation with Dimka, a friend and one of the groomsmen at his wedding (to the late Maryam) in 1969. Not only was Babangida listed among those to be killed that day but was in fact one of the reasons for the coup. Dimka reportedly told Babangida that he was a most hated military officer for being too favoured by their superiors, especially Danjuma. “How could you be a member of the Supreme Military Council?”, Babangida recounted Dimka asking him in those tense moments inside Radio Nigeria premises in Ikoyi, Lagos. But beyond the narrative of the coup, how it was foiled and the subsequent trial of culprits, Babangida also shared insights on
how Danjuma (whom most officers preferred) insisted that Obasanjo, rather than him (Danjuma), should be Head of State in the meeting held to replace the assassinated Muhammed.
As an officer during the coup that toppled the First Republic, the countercoup that brought in General Gowon, the civil war that followed and the subsequent coups in which he was a direct participant, Babangida’s accounts of that era are quite profound. For instance, it was Danjuma who proposed the elevation of the late Shehu Musa Yar’Adua from the rank of Lt Colonel to Brigadier General (later, Major General) to become the Chief of Staff, Supreme Headquarters, apparently for ethno-religious balancing in the country. This speaks to the character of Danjuma who chose to be the number three man in Nigeria when he could easily have been number one. Meanwhile, six months earlier, following the overthrow of Gowon, when senior officers canvassed that Muhammed should head a collegiate leadership of himself, Obasanjo and Danjuma, he (Muhammed) rejected the idea at a meeting Babangida said lasted several hours, insisting that as Head of State, he (Muhammed) would not share power with anyone.
Expectedly, Babangida’s book details his rise to power in 1985 as a military president and the reform programmes initiated while in office. But the most consequential chapters are ‘The Challenges of Leadership’ and ‘Transition to Civil Rule and the June 12 Saga’. The issues addressed in the first (chapter ten) include the death of Dele Giwa, a personal friend with whom he spoke often on phone and met a few times; the Gideon Orkar coup that tried to divide the country; the OIC Palaver; the 1989 SAP (Structural Adjustment Programme) riots, the Nigeria Airforce C-130 plane crash involving 151 mid-career military officers and what he described as “a deep personal sense of betrayal”—the coup involving his friend, Mamman Vatsa whose execution he sanctioned.
Readers should find out his take on Dele Giwa’s assassination and other issues but on Vatsa, Babangida painted a picture of close friendship that started from childhood and how at some point in their lives they both shared a
room. “We would reach out for whatever shirt was available, irrespective of whose it was, and just wear it and head out! We were that close,” Babangida wrote while explaining how he found out later that Vatsa was always jealous of his achievements. He also explained the encounters he had with Vatsa when there were rumours about the plot and the mediatory roles played by others before the coup unravelled. “Being intermediate and senior officers, they were fully aware of the consequences of planning a coup and failing,” Babangida wrote to explain why Vatsa had to die by firing squad. “That is one of the most elementary lessons every military officer knows by heart.”
Perhaps the account most Nigerians have been waiting for is that on June 12 and Babangida renders it in chapter 12. The central character in the narrative is General Sani Abacha. In fact, according to Babangida, Abacha annulled the June 12 (1993) presidential election! I leave readers to find out the details and reach their own conclusions.
From cover to cover, each page of Babangida’s memoir promised more and more insight into the military and the Nigerian state. He also highlights some of his foreign interventions, including initiating ECOMOG which helped to end the war in Liberia and Sierra Leone. And he sheds light on several domestic issues regarding his administration—convincingly in some, not so in others. He also lays the boot into a number of key players of that era, in a few cases, with innuendoes. But in a way, Babangida also knows that in the eyes of most Nigerians of a certain generation, his stewardship will forever be defined by ‘June 12’ on which he
expressed regrets. “If I have to do it all over again,” he wrote, “I’d do it differently.” Sadly, in statecraft, rarely do leaders get a second chance to make a first impression. Meanwhile, I wrote four books on that elastic transition to civil rule programme which ended with the death of Abacha. The first, ‘Fortress on Quicksand’ was on the futile efforts by 23 presidential aspirants in the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and National Republican Convention (NRC) before they were all disqualified and banned from contesting elections. The second, ‘POLITRICKS: National Assembly under Military Dictatorship’, detailed the intrigues of having a civilian legislature with Babangida as a military president. The third, ‘Abiola’s Travails’ was published to mark his (Abiola’s) 60th birthday at a period he was in detention. ‘The Last 100 Days of Abacha’ completed the series. I have combined (and edited) them into one book that will be released in June 12 this year. Writing a memoir—especially by those who have held leadership positions at the highest political levels—involves walking back through countless challenges and tough decisions. With his memoir, Babangida has shown proof of a retirement spent reflecting on a nation that gave him everything; and to which he gave his best, notwithstanding the ironies of history. Regardless of how some readers may perceive Babangida, his ‘Journey of Service’ provides historical context to some of the issues that dogged the administration he led. His recollections may not provide all the answers, and there are aspects many will dispute, but at least he has reopened the conversation about a troubled and troublesome era in Nigerian history.
Adebanjo’s Glorious Exit
Ihavehad the privilege of close interactions with Afenifere leader, Chief Ayo Adebanjo for more than three decades and as I wrote in my tribute to him when he marked his 90th birthday in April 2018, he is a man of unbending conviction who neither sits on the fence nor tiptoes around issues. On Nigeria, he is a passionate advocate for restructuring the country along the federal arrangement we had in the First Republic before the military interruption. Last Saturday, we had our usual conversationinwhichIargued,asIalwaysdid, that as defective as the current structure may be,withgoodgovernanceandaleadershipthat appreciatesandproperlymanagesourdiversity, we can still attain peace and prosperity. But for thefirsttime,andAdebanjomusthavenoticed, my argument lacked conviction so when he sounded off with his usual refrain, “Qwó yín ló dè kù sí. Àwa ti se ti wá” (It’s now in the hands of your generation. Mine has done its best.) I had a troubling time processing our conversation thereafter… ===================================
The foregoing is excerpted from my presentation at the annual conference of the Nigeria Union of Journalist (NUJ) Lagos Chapter where I was guest speaker on 20th October 2021. But in the weeks following that presentation, the late Adebanjo kept calling that he needed to see me. So, on 8th March 2022, I heeded that invitation by going to Lagos and returning to Abuja immediately
after our session that lasted about three hours. Quite naturally, our discussion centred on the past, present and future of Nigeria. Although we kept exchanging calls until a few months ago, that happened to be the last time I saw the old man until I heard about his death last Friday. Adebanjo deserves a proper tribute from me and I will do that at the appropriate time. But for now, I join in extending my commiseration to his family. As I told his son, Segun Adebanjo, (a friend from our campus days at Ife in the late eighties) last Friday on phone, “Èyìn bàbá ti dára.”
NOTE: Please see ‘Between ARCON and Business Owners’ on page 21
