THURSDAY 27TH FEBRUARY 2025

Crude Oil Production Rose 70%

Komolafe puts Nigeria's technical potential output at 2.24m bpd

were first to halt routine gas flaring in Nigeria, says TotalEnergies

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2027: 'No Vacancy in Aso Rock' as APC Leaders Pass Vote of Confidence in Tinubu

President says nation on path of economic recovery with crash in prices of foodstuff Pledges to work harder for Nigeria’s prosperity, directs NWC to set up reconciliatory committees nationwide to liaise with aggrieved members Buhari, Osinbajo, Amaechi, Fayemi, Lawan, others absent at NEC Ganduje alleges he inherited N8.9bn debt

Deji

President Bola Tinubu, yesterday, received a major nod to seek re-election in 2027 as members of the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC) passed a confidence vote in him amid shouts

of “no vacancy in Aso Rock”. This endorsement followed after the standard “on your mandate we shall stand” song, which rented the air immediately Tinubu arrived at the meeting venue. Tinubu, who smiled for the whole

SIGNING OF MOU AIMED AT DRIVING THE PROMOTION OF

ARTS...

L-R: Barr. Hannatu Musa Musawa, Honourable Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy (FMACTCE) with Donna McGowan, British Council Country Director, Nigeria and West Africa Cluster Lead at the signing of an MOU aimed at driving the promotion of creative arts, skills and connections amongst young people in Nigeria in Lagos... recently

Emmanuel Addeh and Peter Uzoho in Abuja

R-L: National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje; President Bola Ahmed Tinubu; Vice President, Kashim Shettima; President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio; Speaker, House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abass; Deputy Senate President, Jibrin Barau; and Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, at the APC NEC meeting in Abuja...

Elumoye, Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja and Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano

SOUTH EAST PDP ZONAL CONGRESS...

L-R: Speaker, Enugu State House of Assembly, Hon. Uchenna Ugwu; Deputy Governor of Enugu State, Barr. Ifeanyi Ossai; Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah; Newly re-elected South East Zonal Chairman of PDP, Chief Ali Odefa; National Secretary of the PDP, Hon. Sunday Udeh-Okoye; and the BOT Chairman, Senator Adolphus Wabara, during the SE PDP Zonal Congress in Enugu... yesterday

Tax Reform: NACCIMA, OPSN Submit Memorandum to National Assembly against Taxation of FTZs

Kano govt opposes FG's extensive control over state tax authorities Questions VAT increase, reduction in funding of TETfund, NASENI, NITDA Seeks reduction to 5% or 7.5%

Dike Onwuamaeze in Lagos and Juliet Akoje in Abuja

Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA) and the Organised Private Sector of Nigeria (OPSN) have submitted a memorandum to the National Assembly that opposed the proposed taxation of Free Trade Zones (FTZs).

The opposition came as the Kano State government questioned the constitutionality of certain provisions of the tax reform bills, particularly, those granting the federal government extensive powers over state and local government tax authorities.

The memorandum, which was submitted by NACCIMA and OPSN, called on the National Assembly to remove all sections of the Nigeria Tax Bill 2024 that intended to impose new tax obligations on operators of FTZs.

The groups argued that the proposed changes in the tax bill, which introduced mandatory minimum tax rates and eliminated tax exemptions previously granted under NEPZA and OGFZA, could lead to capital flight, job losses, and legal disputes that would disrupt Nigeria’s stability.

National President of NACCIMA, Hon. Dele Kelvin Oye, had raised concerns that the bill’s provisions would subject FTZs to state and local government taxes, a departure from the original legal framework that protected the zones from multiple taxations.

Oye also emphasised that 98 per cent of FTZs in Nigeria were privately owned and developed.

“This demonstrates the inherent capacity of the private sector to drive economic development,” he stated.

“The involvement of private entities raises the importance of maintaining a competitive regulatory environment that fosters investment,” he added.

The NACCIMA president explained, “The Nigeria Tax Bill 2024 proposes amendments that threaten the operational framework of FTZs by introducing mandatory minimum tax rates and removing existing tax exemptions under NEPZA and OGFZA.

“These changes are poised to diminish investor confidence and negatively impact long-term investment strategies.”

He said, “The proposed changes to the tax regime would lead to loss of investors’ confidence, as the removal of foundational tax exemptions can trigger capital flight, as investors may seek jurisdictions with more favourable conditions for business.”

Oye said the amendments could cause loss of employment opportunities, hinder the growth of domestic industries reliant on FTZs, and incite extensive legal challenges, ultimately, destabilising the existing economic landscape.

He said, “The proposed amendments within the Nigeria Tax Bill 2024 threaten the existing framework that has successfully drawn significant foreign investments and fostered economic growth. Prompt and decisive action from the Senate is crucial to ensuring stability in this vital sector.

“We urge the committee (National Assembly) to evaluate these concerns

and take immediate action to preserve the integrity and attractiveness of Nigeria’s FTZs for both current and prospective investors.

“By consolidating NACCIMA’s research, insights, and recommendations, this presentation seeks to encourage measured discussion and legislative action to secure the economic future of Nigeria through its Free Trade Zones."

Oye, who is also the chairman of OPSN, recommended the removal of the proposed tax provisions that

would affect FTZs.

He also called for amendment of the Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA) and Oil and Gas Free Zone Authority (OGFZA) laws to maintain tax incentives, and suspend the new tax laws for 10 to 15 years to allow businesses to adjust their financial models.

He said, “Today, Nigeria boasts several successful Free Trade Zones, including the Lekki Free Zone, Onne Oil and Gas Free Zone, and others.

“These zones have collectively attracted over $200 billion in foreign investments and created more than 600,000 jobs.

“They play a pivotal role in Nigeria's economic growth by enhancing export activities and providing a regulatory framework that facilitates business operations.”

Oye said, “The significance of FTZs in Nigeria’s economic landscape cannot be overstated.”

Kano State government questioned

the constitutionality of certain provisions of the tax reform bills that granted the federal government extensive powers over state and local tax authorities.

Permanent Secretary, Office of the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Umar Jalo, disclosed the position of the state government yesterday at the public hearing on the tax reform bills organised by the House of Representatives Committee on Finance.

The Trade Union Congress (TUC) has asked the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) not to implement the new increase in Automated Teller Machine (ATM) transaction fees slated for March 1, 2025.

It said the apex financial institution should desist from deploying harsh financial policies against the masses while ignoring the devastating economic realities on the ground.

The union warned the central bank to stop taking the patience of Nigerians for granted or it should be ready to bear full responsibility for the consequences of its actions.

In a statement signed by the TUC

president Festus Osifo and Secretary General, Comrade Nuhu Toro, the union urged all well-meaning Nigerians to reject what it described as exploitative policy and demand its immediate reversal.

"Our attention has been drawn to a circular from the CBN announcing an increase in ATM transaction fees, effective March 1, 2025.”

TUC faulted the claim by the CBN that the policy aligns with its 2020 guide on charges for banks and financial institutions, describing it as an assault on the already struggling Nigerian people

"We say unequivocally: enough is enough. The Nigerian workers and the general public have endured

Recovers N14bn in bad loans Provides N100bn off-takers’ guarantee for Tinubu's ‘Renewed Hope’ housing projects

Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN) yesterday enunciated a number of milestones recorded in the last one year, including an operational surplus of N11.58 billion as well as provision of N100 billion off-takers’ guarantee for the President Bola Tinubu administration’s “Renewed Hope” housing projects nationwide.

Speaking during a press briefing in Abuja to mark his one year in office, Managing Director and Chief Executive of the bank, Shehu

Charges

relentless economic hardship under this administration.

“Every day brings a new burden— higher taxes, rising electricity tariffs, exorbitant call and data charges, and now, increased ATM fees.

"This government has failed to cushion the effects of its harsh economic policies, and the patience of Nigerians is wearing thin.

"We demand to know: Why is the CBN prioritising revenue collection over the welfare of citizens? What has been done with the billions generated from multiple taxes and levies imposed on Nigerians? Fiscal policies must be people-centered, not a constant drain on the pockets of hardworking citizens.

Osidi, explained that in the last 12 months, the company had made significant progress in its financial and operational performance.

In the past one year, through the bank's strategic focus on revenue growth, prudent financial management, and cost-efficiency measures, Osidi disclosed that FMBN had reduced operational expenses while maintaining service excellence.

“These efforts have resulted in an operational surplus of N11.58 billion from our management accounts for 2024. This is the first such experience since FMBN came into existence over 30 years ago,” he added.

However, Osidi stated that the figure was expected to come down significantly when impairment was applied, stating that the bank has

set out to tackle frontally all aspects of its operations that lead to high impairment on its results, especially in tackling the high non-performing loans inherited by the current management.

He added that the FMBN was pursuing with great efforts the recapitalisation of the bank, stating that a grossly inadequate capital of N2.5 billion is hindering its capacity to perform optimally.

Osidi said, “In order to enhance service delivery and mortgage accessibility, the current executive management has focused on improving operational efficiency and this has resulted in significant improvements in our performance parameters.

“Under the National Housing

Fund (NHF) operations, our collections grew by N3 billion in 2024 resulting in total collection of N103 billion, compared to the N100 billion the bank recorded in 2023. This increase in NHF contributions demonstrates renewed trust and participation in the NHF scheme by Nigerian workers.”

To further illustrate the improvements, he said a total of 658 employer organisations and 178,619 employees were registered in 2024 compared to 556 and 113,577, respectively, in 2023. According to the FMBN chief executive, another significant achievement during the period under consideration is the resumption of Kano State civil servants back into the NHF scheme after 24 years of being out of the scheme.

Senate Local Content Committee Partners NCDMB to Actualise Mandate

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

The Senate Committee on Local Content yesterday said it would partner the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) to actualise the implementation of its functions.

The Chairman of the Committee, Senator Thomas Joel-Onowakpo (Delta South), stated this at the inaugural meeting of the committee.

The panel was formerly chaired by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (Kogi Central) before she was moved

to the Committee on the Diaspora and Non-governmental organisations.

Joel-Onowakpo said NCDMB would serve a veritable platform for the Committee to achieve its aims which are stated in order 96 of the Senate Standing rules.

He said, "The mandate of this committee as stipulated in order 96 of the Senate standing orders 2023 as amended is clear and unambiguous.

“It is to ensure that Nigerians benefit maximally from the country's natural resources. Order 96: Specifically, the jurisdiction of the

Committee shall include: Nigerian Content Development; Monitoring Board (NCDMB); Matters relating to local capacity development, and Transfer of technology in oil and gas industries.

“It shall also include Matters of local content and transfer of technology in other mature industries such as construction, power, railway, ICT etc; Issues relating to the patronage of local manpower; Receiving annual performance report of the Nigerian Local Content; and Annual budget estimates.

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

CELEBRATION OF FOURTH FOUNDER'S DAY...

Shettima: We Must Make Capital Market Engine of Economic Stability

Government must leverage market potential to mobilise, allocate resources, unlock hidden wealth, others, says Uwaleke

James

Vice President Kashim Shettima, yesterday said the country must strive to ensure that the capital market remained the engine of economic stability, symbol of opportunity, and

a foundation of hope.

The vice president spoke at the 50th Inaugural Lecture of Nasarawa State University, Keffi (NSUK), where Nigeria’s Professor of Capital Market, Prof. Uche Uwaleke, delivered the inaugural lecture titled, “Unlocking

Wealth And Leveraging Entrepreneurial Knowledge Ecosystem: Understanding Capital Harnessing Essentials ”.

Shettima said under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership, “we are not merely envisioning a

brighter future - we are building it, one policy, one investment, and one reform at a time”.

Represented by the Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, the VP noted that the capital market was not merely a

Court Grants Emefiele Permission to Appeal Jurisdictional Ruling

Dismisses allegations of bias, continues trial

Wale Igbintade

Justice Rahman Oshodi of the Special Offences Court in Lagos, yesterday, granted former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Mr. Godwin Emefiele's application to appeal the court's decision on its jurisdiction over charges related to alleged misuse of his office. Judge Dismisses Allegations of Bias, Continues However, Justice Oshodi declined to recuse himself from the ongoing trial of Emefiele.

On January 8, 2025, Justice Oshodi struck out four out of the 26 charges against Emefiele, citing that the alleged offenses were outside the court’s jurisdiction.

Emefiele, through his lawyer Olalekan Ojo, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), challenged the court’s authority to hear some of the charges, asserting that he could not be tried in a state high court for alleged offenses filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Emefiele is facing 26 charges related to alleged abuse of office, leading to significant financial losses. His co-defendant, Henry Omoile, is also on trial for related offenses, including the unlawful acceptance of gifts.

In his application, Emefiele argued that Counts 1-4 were unconstitutional and lacked legal foundation.

FCCPC Probes Rising Costs, Price Discrepancies of Essential Drugs

James Emejo in Abuja

The Executive Vice Chairman, Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), Mr. Tunji Bello, yesterday disclosed that the commission has initiated an investigation into the escalating costs and price disparities of blood pressure (BP) and diabetic drugs across various markets in the country.

The move seeks to promote the accessibility and affordability of essential medications for Nigerian consumers.

Speaking at a stakeholder engagement session held in Abuja, Bello, emphasised that the inquiry aims at enhancing healthcare delivery and ensuring affordable medication for all Nigerians.

Represented by the Director of Surveillance and Investigations at the Commission, Mrs. Boladale Adeyinka, he said the initiative also seeks to safeguard consumers from exploitation and uphold their rights and well-being.

Bello said, “The cost of essential

medications has risen dramatically over the past year, making it increasingly challenging for Nigerians to access the treatments they require. This surge in drug prices not only undermines patient health outcomes but also places a significant burden on the nation’s healthcare system.”

According to him, the FCCPC had received multiple consumer complaints regarding the inconsistent and high prices of medications across Nigerian markets, adding that the ongoing inquiry was designed to uncover the underlying causes of these disparities, with a view to improving healthcare accessibility and affordability.

The FCCPC boss said, “This investigation is pivotal in ensuring that Nigerians have access to quality and affordable healthcare services. By addressing these pricing issues, we hope to contribute meaningfully to the overall well-being of consumers. He added that the commission would continue collaborating with key stakeholders to combat the distribution of counterfeit and substandard products in the country.

He requested the court to strike them out, asserting that the alleged offenses occurred outside its jurisdiction.

Ruling on the application, Justice Oshodi upheld the striking out of Counts one to four, ruling that the allocation of foreign exchange without bidding, as described in those charges, was not punishable under Nigerian law.

However, the court maintained its jurisdiction over Counts 8-26, dismissing Emefiele's objection, affirming the EFCC had established sufficient territorial nexus for these charges to proceed.

Emefiele, dissatisfied with the court's decision, filed an application seeking leave to appeal, in accordance with Section 242(1) of the Nigerian Constitution.

The application requests permission to appeal on substantial legal grounds, including matters of both law and fact.

Justice Oshodi granted the application, emphasising that it would serve the interest of justice and allow the Court of Appeal to resolve the

case on its merits.

Meanwhile, Justice Oshodi declined to recuse himself from the ongoing trial.

The judge stated that the allegations of bias made against him were unfounded.

Emefiele, through his lead counsel, Ojo, had requested that Justice Oshodi step down, citing alleged bias in the trial.

Ojo had also accused the judge of allowing a leading question, which the defence had previously objected to.

In his ruling, Justice Oshodi rejected the allegation of bias, noting that the claims had not been substantiated by either of the defendants.

The judge explained that judicial bias alone was not sufficient grounds for recusal, stressing that it must be personal or based on extrajudicial factors.

The court addressed the oral applications made by senior counsel Ojo (representing the first defendant), and Kazeem Gbadamosi, SAN (representing the second defendant), on 24 February 2025.

platform for transactions but a driver of national development.

He said the implementation of the revised Capital Market Master Plan was restoring investor confidence and attracting new listings, including major entities namely NNPC, Dangote Refinery, and LNG.

He said, "For too long, we have paid lip service to finding lasting solutions to our development challenges, leaving the consequences for successive governments and generations to bear.

“This is why we must pay close attention to the performance of our capital market—it is the ultimate measure of our economic prosperity.”

Shettima pointed out that the inaugural lecture holds particular significance, not because of its prestigious legacy but also because of the distinguished scholar at its centre.

He noted that Uwaleke’s dedication to capital market studies and policy development over the decades had shaped critical conversations on the Nigeria’s economic growth, adding “We are fortunate to have thought leaders like him, whose contributions continue to illuminate our path forward.”

He said, “Professor Uwaleke’s contributions exemplify the intellectual rigour required to enhance our capital market. His research, policies, and advocacy are instrumental in shaping its trajectory.

“We must join him in reflecting on our shared responsibility to sustain and deepen the market and to strengthen collaboration between the government, private sector players, and academia.”

Shettima said, “Nigeria’s capital market is our ticket to economic stability. Its performance, despite global and domestic uncertainties, speaks volumes.

“In January 2025 alone, the market

capitalisation of the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) appreciated by N1.95 trillion, reflecting growing confidence in our economic trajectory.

"Compared to January 2024, we recorded an impressive N14.44 trillion increase. These figures are not just statistics; they are indicators of the steady hand guiding our economy under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“Our vision of a $1 trillion economy is not a distant dream; it is a deliberate destination. Through bold and strategic reforms, we have embarked on a journey to deepen our financial markets, strengthen investor confidence, and unlock opportunities for sustainable growth.

“The ongoing banking sector recapitalisation has already yielded results, with the NGX Banking Index increasing by 9.76 per cent year-to-date.”

However, Uwaleke, in his lecture, said unlocking the country’s hidden wealth through the capital market will involve leveraging the market's potential to mobilise, allocate resources and grow the entrepreneurial knowledge ecosystem.

To achieve this, he said governments at all levels should deploy the right approach to incentives for capital formation, privatisation of public enterprises via the capital market as well as optimisation of resources in ways that guarantee value for money.

He said, “Only then will Nigeria be seen to be on the sure path to unlocking her massive hidden wealth.” Among other things, he said the government should also encourage investments in Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) to unlock capital for housing development as well as develop a robust secondary mortgage market to improve access to affordable housing finance.

Nume Ekeghe

Transcorp Hotels Plc, the hospitality arm of Transcorp Group, has posted a stellar financial performance for the 2024 fiscal year, achieving a recordbreaking N70.13 billion in revenue and a 144 per cent jump in profit after tax.

The company’s latest audited results, filed with the Nigerian Exchange (NGX), reflect its strong operational strategy and expansion efforts. The financial report shows significant growth across key areas. Revenue surged by 69 per cent compared to the previous year, reaching N70.13

138 per

cent to N22.61 billion from N9.48 billion, while profit after tax soared to N14.90 billion, up from N6.09 billion in the prior year. The company also strengthened its financial standing, reducing its gearing ratio from 17.48 per cent to 9.30 per cent, thanks to consistent loan repayments. Return on assets improved from 4.83 per cent to 10.59 per cent, while return on equity nearly doubled from 9.12 per cent to 18.50 per cent, highlighting strong profitability. In line with its commitment to enhancing shareholder value through dividend payment, the Board of Directors has proposed a final dividend of 64kobo for FY 2024, which if approved

by the Shareholders at the Company’s Annual General meeting, will bring the full dividend to 74kobo, having paid an interim dividend of 10k paid at half-year 2024. This action reaffirms the Company’s dedication to creating sustainable value for shareholders. Chairman of Transcorp Hotels, Emmanuel Nnorom, in his comments highlighted the Company’s commitment towards maximising shareholder value. “We remain deeply committed to enhancing shareholder value and delivering strong returns to our investors, ensuring that Transcorp Hotels continues to set the standard for hospitality excellence. The hospitality sector continues to be a vital contributor

to Nigeria’s economy, and we are proud of Transcorp Hotels’ role in shaping the industry’s future.” Commenting on the performance, the Managing Director/CEO of Transcorp Hotels, Uzo Oshogwe, emphasised the Company’s commitment to innovation, exceptional service and continuous growth. "Thanks to the dedication and passion of our teams, 2024 was a year of strong growth and significant milestones. Despite the inflation and other macro-economic challenges, we remain focused on delivering outstanding hospitality experiences, expanding our offerings, and implementing a strategy that unlocks the full potential of our business for all stakeholders."

L-R: Deputy Vice Chancellor, University of Delta, Agbor, Prof. Patricia Mbah; Immediate past Governor of Delta State, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa; State Deputy Governor and representative of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Sir Monday Onyeme; and the Vice Chancellor of the university, Prof. Stella Chiemeke, during the fourth Founder's Day celebration of the institution at Agbor...yesterday

Emejo in Abuja

AT NIES GALA DINNER AND INDUSTRY AWARDS...

L-R: Chief Executive Officer, Seplat Energy Plc, Roger Brown; Managing Director, Oando Energy Resources Nigeria Limited (OERNL), Dr. Ainojie 'Alex Irune; Regional General Counsel- Africa Upstream and Vice Chairman, ExxonMobil Companies in Nigeria, Adesua Dozie; General Manager of Corporate Communications/ Zonal Coordination, Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Esueme Dan-Kikile; and Minister for state Petroleum Resources (Oil), Honourable Minister

NAFDAC DG: My Life and That of Some Staff Being Threatened

Wants death penalty for fake, counterfeit drugs peddlers Values agency's seized drugs at Onitsha, Aba and Lagos markets at N1trn Charges N'Assembly to speed up action on amendments to agency's act Says USAID, UNFPA donated expired condoms, antiretroviral drugs found in sealed markets

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

Director General of the National Agency for Foods, Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Prof Mojisola Adeyeye has raised the alarm about threats to her life and that of some staff of the agency.

She has, therefore, sent a Save our Soul (SOS) message to the authorities to protect her and the operatives who daily go through a great deal of hazards while carrying out their assigned responsibilities.

The NAFDAC boss also prescribed death penalty for counterfeit and illicit drugs peddlers in the country.

Adeyeye, who spoke Wednesday at a news conference at the State House, Abuja, on the agency's recent large-scale enforcement operation across three major open drug markets of Onitsha, Aba and Lagos, describing it as the biggest in NAFDAC’s history.

Commenting on the agency's challenges, the NAFDAC DG said, "I told you about the attempted murder about six months ago. One of our staff in Kano, his child was kidnapped because the father was doing what he was supposed to do. Fortunately the child escaped.

"For me, I have two policemen living in my house 24/7 in Abuja and Lagos. I don't have a life. I cannot go anywhere without police and to me that is not my way of living. But I don't have a choice because we've got to save our country. Nonetheless, I also use common sense".

Adeyeye explained that the seized consignments of banned, expired, unregistered substandard and falsified medical products will

be destroyed publicly in each of the locations where they were seized, after the exercise.

She called for speedy work by the National Assembly to expedite the amendment of NAFDAC ACT NI LFN and Counterfeit and Fake Drugs and Unwholesome Processed Foods C34 ACT to include LIFE SENTENCE & DEATH PENALTY in the penalties for crimes committed under these ACTS.

"With the signing into law, the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) for forfeiture of assets, the assets recovered from suspects will be treated as proceeds of crime after their conviction by the courts.

“We use this opportunity to call on the National Assembly to expedite the amendment of NAFDAC ACT NI LFN and Counterfeit and Fake Drugs and Unwholesome Processed Foods C34 ACT to include LIFE SENTENCE & DEATH PENALTY in the penalties for crimes committed under these ACTS," she stated.

Adeyeye described the exercise as “purely an enforcement operation to protect public health and rid our country of Falsified and Substandard Medical Products.

”Many people are dying, many have died, as a result of the activities of the fake drugs peddlers.”

Speaking further, Adeyeye said the ongoing crackdown on illicit drug trade by operatives of the agency has resulted in the seizure of 87 truckloads of banned, expired, and substandard medical products, including USAID and UNFPA-donated antiretroviral drugs, male and female condoms.

She said the value of the seizures is about N1 trillion and could be much

higher after assessment.

The operation was executed in Ariaria and Eziukwu Markets (Aba), Bridge Head Market (Onitsha), and Idumota Drug Market (Lagos).

According to her, the operation was part of NAFDAC’s National Action Plan (NAP 2.0) 2023-2027, aimed at eliminating counterfeit medicines, improving regulatory compliance,

and safeguarding public health.

Adeyeye disclosed that the exercise, which commenced on February 9, 2025, involved 1,100 security operatives, including military personnel, police, and Department of State Services (DSS) agents.

The security forces, she explained, cordoned off the markets to prevent traders from concealing or smuggling out illegal products. She affirmed that the operation uncovered shocking violations of drug storage and distribution regulations, including: diverted donated medical supplies, large quantities of USAID and UNFPA-donated antiretroviral drugs and condoms meant to support Nigeria’s HIV/AIDS response, were found expired and repackaged for sale.

Adeyeye said these life-saving medications were either improperly stored or deliberately resold for profit, undermining global efforts to combat HIV/AIDS in Nigeria. Significant volumes of Tramadol, Flunitrazepam (Rohypnol), Nitrazepam, and Diazepam, drugs linked to rising drug abuse, crime, and insecurity, were seized.

The Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, has stated that the $200 million African ExportImport Bank (Afreximbank) fund to support the tourism and creative Economy in Nigeria will commence operationalisation on June 1, 2025.

The minister also reiterated that efforts are in advanced stages through international finance partnerships to attract significant international investments, further accelerating growth in the tourism and creative economy.

"As part of the funding effort, the Minister has secured a commitment of $200 million from AfreximBank, which will accelerate the building of the cultural and creative industries.

“This funding will go directly into the sector, and it will be operationalised by June 1, 2025, ensuring that Nigeria's tourism and creative economy continue to flourish,”

the minister noted in a statement yesterday.

She disclosed further that upbeat investors had already been in talks with the ministry since the unveiling of its policies to create a $100 billion economy in 2030.

The statement by the Special Assistant on Compliance and Coordination, Jummai Ali, highlighted the minister's transformative efforts to establish Nigeria as a global tourism hub through the ministry's innovative policies.

It quoted the minister as saying: "The ministry is focused on four strategic pillars to drive its economic

diversification project."

She listed the pillars to include: Data-driven insights through D-30 projects, stakeholders' collaboration, and policy reforms alongside Infrastructure modernization via Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs).

“The other key pillar she highlighted was global tourism and cultural promotion through the ‘Nigeria Everywhere Brand,’ the statement added, noting that each initiative in the pillar is designed to impact Nigeria's economy substantially.

The targets being pursued through the execution of these poli-

cies, she stressed, include doubling the tourism sector's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) contribution, creating over 2 million jobs by 2030 and positioning Nigeria among the top 20 creative economies in the world. The minister further reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment in making Nigeria a global tourism brand through its programmes and policies. Additionally, the minister stated that $2 billion is being mobilised in global and local investments to support job creation and expand the creative economy to $100 billion by 2030.

ITU Seeks Global Collaboration on Resilience of Submarine Cables

Oghenevwede

Kuni Tyessi in Abuja

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has disclosed that over 1.5 million candidates have successfully registered to participate in the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

JAMB spokesman, Dr. Fabian Benjamin, in a statement yesterday, noted that the figure aligns closely with the board’s projections for the 2025 examination cycle.

He further restated that JAMB was not considering extension of deadline

for the registration beyond the March 8, 2025, as being championed in some quarters.

“It is essential to note that the board’s calendar is fixed with numerous subsequent programmes scheduled after registration, including examinations, results management, and admissions exercise.

“The timelines are coordinated with other agencies whose operations rely on the completion of our processes. Therefore, extending the registration period would disrupt not only the board’s plans but also

those of our partner

“This deadline has been clearly communicated in all advertisements and the official calendar for the 2025 UTME exercise. We wish to inform all prospective candidates that there will be no extension of the registration period.

“This notice is particularly important given the recent decline in the number of candidates registering for the examination. We urge candidates who wish to participate in the 2025 UTME to register promptly and avoid waiting till the last minute.”

The International Telecommunications Union (ITU), has appealed to the global community for collective action and collaboration against submarine cables disruptions and cuts that could slow down the growth and development of digital economy in the world.

The Secretary General of ITU, Doreen

Bogdan-Martin, who made the call, Wednesday at the opening ceremony of the ongoing summit on Submarine Cables Resilience holding in Abuja, noted that at the moment, the digital economy accounted for the greater part of the world's gross domestic product (GDP), adding that it is expected to peak at $16.5 trillion by 2028.

She explained that global attention should be focused on measures

that would sustain the spate of rapid developments in the digital economy sector with submarine cables connectivity accounting for 95 per cent of its backbone.

" The past two decades have seen a vast digital shift, with new socio-economic opportunities as well as challenges. Since the 2005 World Summit on the increasing society, the number of internet users back then in 2005 stood at one billion.

"At the end of last year, we had 5.5 billion internet users. And today, the global digital economy is growing faster than global GDP and is expected to reach 16.5 trillion U.S. dollars by 2028.

" Over the next decade, some estimate that more than two-thirds of the new value creation could come from digitally-enabled companies,

"As our economies and digital innovations grow, and as we seek to bring meaningful connectivity to

all, so does our reliance on digital infrastructure like submarine cables. This global undersea network is emblematic of the innovation and the investment required to connect the world meaningfully.", BogdanMartin said.

The ITU Secretary General lamented that despite the resilience of undersea cables, about 200 disruptions are witnessed yearly, while fixing them across continents and countries are difficult and slow. She noted that the global economy always feels the impact of submarine cables cuts and disruptions, stressing that "submarine cables are put in place by an interplay of technology, business, and policy that have to be considered holistically.

" That's why this summit includes a diversity of stakeholders that are essential to this conversation," she added.

Ohwovoriole in Abuja

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Heineken Lokpobiri, at the Nigeria International Energy Summit (NIES) Gala Dinner and Industry Awards on Tuesday

For Second Time in February, Dangote Reduces Petrol Price, Pegs Ex-depot Rate at N825/litre

Oil retailers intervene in N100bn bridging claims by marketers

Emmanuel Addeh, Peter Uzoho in Abuja and Sunday Ehigiator in Lagos

For the second time this February, Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals, yesterday reduced the ex-depot price of petrol, cutting N65 off the previous price of N890 and bringing it down to N825 per litre at the gantry.

With an earlier N60 reduction on February 1, it means that the ex-depot price has thus decreased from N950 per litre in January to the current price of N825 per litre, representing a reduction of N125 per litre within 26 days.

The price reduction will also ensure that Nigerians pay between N860 and N865 per litre for petrol at the pump in Lagos, a statement by the management of the refinery stated.

The first privately owned petroleum refinery in Africa announced that the

price adjustment will take effect from Thursday (today) February 27, and is intended to provide essential relief to Nigerians.

"This strategic price adjustment is designed to provide essential relief to Nigerians in celebration of the Ramadan season, while also supporting President Bola Tinubu’s economic recovery policy by alleviating the financial burden on the Nigerian populace.

"It is important to note that Dangote Petroleum Refinery has consistently lowered the prices of petrol and other refined petroleum products to the benefit of Nigerians. This marks the second reduction of PMS prices in February 2025, following a previous decrease of N60 earlier in the month.

“Additionally, in December 2024, during the yuletide period, the refinery reduced the price of PMS by N70.50, from N970 to N899.50 per litre, as

part of its commitment to easing the cost of living and providing relief to Nigerians during the holiday season," the statement added.

The refinery highlighted that previous reductions had positively impacted the overall cost of living, benefiting various sectors of the economy. It said that they also helped ensure that Nigerians did not experience the typical fuel scarcity and price hikes associated with the yuletide season.

Dangote reiterated that its ‘highquality’ products, which have become a favourite in both domestic and international markets, will remain available nationwide, particularly through its key partners—MRS Holdings, AP (Ardova Petroleum), and Heyden—at market-friendly rates.

"Nigerians will be able to purchase high-quality Dangote petrol at the following prices across our partners’ retail

outlets: For MRS Holdings stations, it will be sold for N860 per litre in Lagos, N870 per litre in the South-West, N880 per litre in the North, and N890 per litre in the South-South and South-East regions, respectively.

"The same product will also be available at the following prices in AP (Ardova Petroleum) and Heyden stations: N865 per litre in Lagos, N875 per litre in the South-West, N885 per litre in the North, and N895 per litre in the South-South and South-East," it added.

Dangote Petroleum Refinery assured the public of a consistent supply of petroleum products, with sufficient reserves to meet domestic demand and a surplus for export, thereby boosting the country’s foreign exchange earnings. The refinery called on marketers to support the initiative, ensuring that Nigerians remain the primary

beneficiaries of this effort.

"This collective action will contribute to the broader economic recovery plan led by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who is committed to making Nigeria self-sufficient in refined petroleum products and positioning the country as a leading oil export hub," it concluded.

Dangote Petroleum Refinery, which has exported its products to Europe, America, Asia, and other regions, recently supplied jet fuel to Saudi Arabia. The refinery has confirmed it holds over 500 million litres of petrol in storage, enough to meet Nigeria's petrol demand for several days.

Additionally, the refining capacity of the 650,000 barrel per day refinery has surpassed Nigeria's average daily requirement of 385,000 barrels, the statement added.

Meanwhile, the Petroleum Products

2027: 'NO VACANCY IN ASO ROCK' AS APC LEADERS PASS VOTE OF CONFIDENCE IN TINUBU

time the meeting lasted, while the mandate song from party members also subsisted, later took over proceedings, but did not stop the song or make any attempt to.

The Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, moved the motion for a vote of confidence to be passed in Tinubu, and it was seconded by

Senator Adams Oshiomhole, a former governor of Edo State.

The vote of confidence in Tinubu, however, marked the highlight of the meeting by party members for his administration's good performance.

Speaking after the frenzy of ‘no vacancy in Aso Rock’, Tinubu declared that the country was already

on the path of economic recovery, citing crash in prices of foodstuff as a critical indicator.

The president, who spoke in Abuja at the NEC meeting of the ruling APC, the first in two years, expressed his determination to work harder for the greater good of Nigeria.

Equally, at the NEC meeting,

Tinubu directed the APC National Working Committee (NWC) to set up committees to reconcile aggrieved members of the party.

National Chairman of APC, Abdullahi Ganduje, who spoke on the state of the party, revealed that the NWC under his leadership inherited a debt of N8,987,874,663 when he assumed office.

NAF: AL-QAEDA GROUPS EXPLOITING WEAK GOVERNANCE STRUCTURES IN NIGERIA

influence in Nigeria, West Africa and the Sahel region.

NAF, which position aligned with the federal government's, also stated that porous borders in the Lake Chad Basin had allowed the extremist elements to sustain their activities, posing a persistent threat to national security and regional stability.

The federal government, which also identified porous borders, added that ungoverned spaces also constituted major factors exacerbating terrorism and other emerging security threats in West Africa and the Sahel region.

Speaking at the first quarter meeting with Branch Chiefs, Air Officers Commanding (AOCs), and Commandants, at NAF headquarters in Abuja, Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, called for the implementation of a comprehensive and integrated counter-Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) system to safeguard troops and air assets.

Abubakar said the key lesson from asymmetric warfare across the globe, particularly in Europe, the Middle East, and West Africa, was the rise in the use of the electromagnetic spectrum, artificial intelligence, drone warfare, and the manipulation of social media in shaping war narratives.

He stated, "We must critically examine these trends and quickly develop specific strategies, including refining doctrines and utilising advanced technological capabilities, to enhance our overall effectiveness in tackling contemporary and future security challenges, particularly those posed by conventional and unconventional forces in asymmetric warfare.

"Talking about asymmetric warfare, it is clear that West Africa's security landscape in 2024 remained highly complex. The Sahel region continued to be a hotspot for terrorism and insurgency, with Al-Qaeda-affiliated extremist groups exploiting weak governance structures to expand their influence.

"Similarly, the Gulf of Guinea remains vulnerable to maritime crimes, including piracy and illegal oil bunkering, necessitating sustained aerial surveillance and stronger regional cooperation to bolster maritime security."

The CAS stated that addressing the challenges required a unified approach, emphasising coordinated air operations, intelligence sharing, and strategic partnerships.

Stressing that a significant incident in 2024 was the employment of drones carrying locally fabricated grenades in a kamikaze role by Boko Haram terrorists to attack troops in Wajiroko, Damboa Local Government Area, Abubakar said this incident

underscored the growing efforts of terrorists to proliferate drone attack technology.

He said, "Therefore, while leveraging advancements in technology and modern warfare to enhance the NAF's operational effectiveness, it is equally critical to implement a comprehensive and integrated counter-Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) system to safeguard our troops and air assets."

FG: Porous Borders, Ungoverned

Spaces, Exacerbate Terrorism in W/Africa, Others

The federal government identified porous borders and ungoverned spaces as major factors exacerbating terrorism and other emerging security threats in West Africa and the Sahel region.

The government also said the successes recorded by terrorists had emboldened their operational capabilities, with their attempted expansion towards coastal West African countries, such as the Benin Republic. National Coordinator, National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), Major General Adamu Laka, made the assertions at the opening of a two-day regional dialogue on strengthening capacities for promoting efficiency in implementing the Accra Initiative and engaging critical actors, organised by NCTC, in collaboration with the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Centre (KAIPTC), in Abuja.

Laka stressed that as Accra Initiative member countries faced increased threats and attacks from extremists across their northern borders, the need for a stronger security mechanism had become even more imperative.

He said, "Considering the nature of terrorism and transnational organised crimes, which are exacerbated by ungoverned and porous border areas, promoting synergy among coastal West African countries is crucial to effectively counter the threats."

Stating that no nation could solely combat the menace, as it transcended national borders, Laka said, "This is witnessed in the tri-border region of Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger."

He stressed the need for synergy among concerned nations in order to prevent the southward expansion of terrorism and, ultimately, curb the menace in the sub-region.

Laka said it was in that regard that the regional dialogue on strengthening capacities for promoting efficiency in the implementation of the Accra Initiative and critical actors was organised.

He stated that the platform would be used for deliberation on common regional security challenges and gaps in the efficient implementation of the Accra Initiative.

Commandant of KAIPTC, Major General Richard Gyane, stated that the security situation in the Sahel was increasingly deteriorating, hence, the need for dialogue on how to curb this trend.

Gyane said the Sahel and West Africa faced unprecedented security challenges that transcended borders, affecting lives, livelihoods, and the stability of nations, which called for immediate attention and concerted efforts.

He stressed that the 2023 Global Terrorism Index had cast a stark spotlight on the Sahel as the epicentre of global terrorism, a reality that demanded urgent, collaborative, and innovative responses.

Gyane stated, "In just over a decade, from 2007 to 2023, we have witnessed an alarming surge in terrorist activities, particularly in the Sahel. In 2007, the region accounted for only one per cent of the global death toll due to terrorism.

"However, by 2023, this figure skyrocketed to a staggering 43 per cent. Violent extremist groups have

progressively moved from Mali to Burkina Faso, now accounting for 58 per cent of all violent extremist attacks in the Sahel.

“Such activities are gradually spreading to littoral countries, such as Côte d'Ivoire, Benin, and Togo, with increasing concerns about their potential expansion towards Ghana as well."

Director, Faculty of Academic Affairs and Research at KAIPTC, Dr. Emma Birikorang, stated that the threats of terrorism, violent extremism, and other transnational organised crimes, as well as youth bulge and demographic factors in West Africa, and unconstitutional regime changes over the last decade, continued to pose a significant problem to the region.

National Publicity Secretary of APC, Felix Morka, while addressing the recent attacks on the party and the Tinubu administration by former governor of Kaduna State, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, urged the ex-governor to respect his status.

Similarly, the Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Yusuf Ata, has commended Tinubu for extending Ganduje’s tenure as APC national chairman.

Pledging to continue to work diligently, with other arms of government, to ensure the greater good of Nigerians, Tinubu commended APC governors and party executives for their continued commitment.

He stated, "I'm grateful to all Nigerians for the electoral successes recorded from one state to the other.

“Governors, you have embraced these changes, and I thank the leadership of our party. I also thank members of the National Assembly for expeditiously considering the budget.

"We can only build the party on a progressive platform to deliver good service to Nigerians.”

The president said the vote of confidence in him from the party's highest decision-making organ was a call for more work, and promised not to fail the party and Nigerians.

"I am happy with food prices coming down, especially as Ramadan approaches. The sun is high, and the sky is bright outside. While the rest of the world unravels, we see growth in Nigeria. We are seeing a gradual return to stability. We are seeing improvements. I thank you, governors.

“Everywhere in the world, especially in Europe, we have economic shocks and we are doing everything possible.”

Tinubu thanked Nigerians for their continued belief and trust in APC. He called for measures to end some of the crises in APC states.

He stressed, "The National Working Committee is doing a very good job. I am pleased with them. However, there are a few conflicts in the various states.

“Let's set up committees to look into the lingering problems in the states and appeal to these party leaders in various states to, please, be calm and be collaborative.

“In all the various states let us set up reconciliatory committees to liaise with these aggrieved leaders. I am appealing to them, please, be calm.

“I am grateful to all Nigerians for the electoral successes that we have from one state to another and I am also happy for the various people joining us in the National Assembly.”

In her goodwill message, Peace and Governance Analyst at the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Ghana Office, Ms. Melody Azinim, emphasised, "As a region, we need to look inward and refrain from relying on external funding to maintain peace and develop our region." Continued

He said, "I am happy with your vote of confidence, and I accept it. The vote is a challenge to do more work. We will vigorously pursue our sovereignty in food security, investment and development.

The president challenged the NEC to find a way to celebrate the progressive ideals of his administration, while assuring the governors and Nigerians that he would sustain the progressive change.

NUPRC: CRUDE OIL PRODUCTION ROSE 70% SINCE 2021, TARGETS 40BN BARRELS RESERVES

explained that Nigeria's technical potential output is put at 2.24 million bpd.

Aside his address, Komolafe also spoke on a panel, with the topic: "Energy Signature and Transaction Deal Winners of the Year", which also featured Chief Executive of the NNPC Exploration & Production Limited (NEPL), Mr. Nicolas Foucart; CEO of Oando Energy Resources, Dr Ainojie Irune; CEO of Seplat Energy Plc, Mr. Roger Brown and CEO of Chappal Energies, Mr. Ufoma Emmanual.

On a separate panel tagged: “Turning Resources into Revenue”, Chief Executive of TotalEnergies Companies in Nigeria, Matthieu Bouyer, stated that in the company's quest for cleaner energy, since 2023 , it had stopped routine gas flaring in the country.

Komolafe said: “ In the short-term, we have set new benchmarks for oil and gas production and significantly strengthened the nation’s energy security. Our achievements speak for themselves.

“Between 2023 and 2024, oil reserves increased by 1.43 per cent, reaching 37.5 billion barrels, while gas reserves grew by 0.21 per cent, reaching 209.26 trillion cubic feet. Rig count increased from eight in 2021 to 40 in 2025 and is projected to reach 50 before year end while (oil) production increased by 70 per cent from 1 million bopd in 2021 to the current production of circa 1.75 million bopd.

“Nigeria’s vast oil reserves present

a remarkable opportunity for growth and economic transformation. While our current production averages circa 1.75 million barrels per day, our technical potential is 2.24 million barrels per day.

“The commission is working assiduously to bridge the gap between the actual production and the potential through actions aimed at improving transparency, driving collaboration with E&P companies, ensuring financial viability, fast-tracking field developments, adopting cutting-edge improved oil recovery technologies, reducing costs, eliminating entry barriers and optimising production.”

He said divestments in the Nigerian oil and gas industry will be managed in a way that the country will not experience the decline suffered by Venezuela when divestment happened in its petroleum sector and oil production dropped from a high of 3.5 million barrels per day to 1 million barrels in the 20s.

He announced that through the Nigeria Gas Flare Commercialisation Programme (NGFCP), approximately $2.5 billion in investment will potentially be unlocked, which he said will result in generating huge revenue, and creating a significant number of jobs in the country.

Also speaking, Managing Director of TotalEnergies, Bouyer, said the world is currently investing more in low-carbon energies, but said that the world still consumes as much as 80 per cent in fossil fuels

for its energy.

“So it's still the vast majority of the energy we consume every day. So actually, while there is a transition, we still need oil and gas, and more oil and gas year after year. And it will be like that for a long time. If you look at the last 150 years, there has been more addition from oil, nuclear, gas, renewable, than removing energies along the way. So it is fueled by the growing energy demand, and we believe it will be like that for quite long.

“What we need, though, is to make sure that we produce energy that is clean, in the cleanest possible way, in order to valorise every molecule of gas in particular that we have on our asset. We've stopped routine flaring in 2023, end of 2023. We are the first operator in Nigeria to do it. And we are abating methane emissions on every of our assets, and supporting NNPC in its own assets in order to identify methane leaks and to reduce them eventually,” Bouyer stressed. He called for more investment in gas, since it is clean and more abundant in Nigeria, pointing that it is already part of the present roadmap to significantly grow its production in the country.

“So we believe that gas in Nigeria is well positioned with all these resources. It is also close to Europe, so if you want to export gas through LNG, it's a big competitive advantage. And you know that Europe today is diversifying its gas supply mix,

so that's a formidable opportunity for a gas-rich country like Nigeria in terms of business,” he argued.

Explaining that this requires collaboration, Bouyer said there was also a need also for stability in fiscal rules and policies as well as physical security in the country.

“We need security in LNG, onshore in particular. As you know that to attract investments, security is of paramount importance, in particular on the onshore landscape where we still face a lot of disturbances. Nigeria has successfully started to pivot towards a competitive landscape,” he added.

In his remarks, the CEO of Seplat Energy, Brown said Nigeria's oil and gas industry is currently experiencing a renaissance with the completion of the divestment deals and other enabling policies by the current administration.

" I was going to say it's a renaissance, but that name's already been taken and I call it a new dawn. I think it's a new dawn for Nigeria and the people of Nigeria, I think now we have much more alignment than we've ever had, certainly since I've been here.

"And the IOCs, the indigenous, the government, the presidency, the drive to get this up and we're going to transform Nigeria. Nigeria is extremely exciting. The desire to get the production up to 2.75 million to 4 million barrels is very achievable, and we're all going to do it,” he stated.

Retail Outlet Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) yesterday said it had stepped in to facilitate the pending payment of bridging claims, urging its members to refrain from shutting down operations and instead advocate for dialogue to resolve the issue with the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).

Dangote

National Secretariat: Plot 1160, Cadastral Zone B07, Katampe District, Opposite Ministers’ Hill Maitama, Abuja FCT.

PUBLIC NOTICE

PROVISIONAL TIMETABLE/SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES FOR ANAMBRA STATE GOVERNORSHIP PRIMARY ELECTION 2025

Pursuant to its powers under Articles 12 (2) & (3)(b) and 24 of the APGA Constitution 2019, and in compliance with INEC Timetable and Schedule of Activities for 2025 Anambra State Governorship Election, the National Executive Committee (NEC) of All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), through the National Working Committee (NWC) of APGA; has approved the following provisional Timetable/Schedule of Activities for the Anambra State Governorship Primary Election 2025:

1. Sale & Return of Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms

2 Ward Congresses for the election of Ad-Hoc Delegates

3 Screening of prospective Governorship Aspirants

4 Resolution of Appeals arising from the Screening

APGA National Secretariat Abuja February 28 –March 20, 2025

Within the 326 Electoral Wards of Anambra State March 8, 2025

APGA National Secretariat Abuja March 28, 2025

APGA National Secretariat Abuja March 30, 2025

5. Special State Congress/Primary Election Dr. Alex Ekwueme Square Awka, Anambra State April 5, 2025

6. Resolution of Appeals/Disputes arising from the Primary Election

A COST OF FORMS:

A. COST OF FORMS:

 Expression of Interest Form – N5 million.

 Nomination Form – N25 million.

APGA National Secretariat Abuja

 Expression of Interest Form – N5 million.

Total: N30 million only.

 Nomination Form – N25 million.

B. PLEASE NOTE:

Total: N30 million only.

April 8, 2025

a Female Aspirants and Aspirants living with Disability shall pay only 50% of the amounts stipulated above for both the Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms.

B. PLEASE NOTE:

b Both Forms are obtainable with ONLY Bank Draft/Managers Cheque (non-refundable) made payable to ALL PROGRESSIVES GRAND ALLIANCE, ABUJA.

c Upon completion, the Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms shall be returned to the National Secretariat, accompanied with proof of payment and all relevant documents stipulated therein.

a. Female Aspirants and Aspirants living with Disability shall pay only 50% of the amounts stipulated above for both the Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms.

d The Party reserves the right and discretion to issue Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms to credible and eligible Aspirants, any time, before the scheduled primary election.

e All intending Aspirants are strongly urged to ensure strict compliance with the stipulated directives above and the Party’s Electoral Guidelines for Anambra State Governorship Primary Election 2025.

b. Both Forms are obtainable with ONLY Bank Draft/Managers Cheque (nonrefundable) made payable to ALL PROGRESSIVES GRAND ALLIANCE, ABUJA

f The dates specified above are subject to change. Consequently, given the vagaries of primary election process, the Party reserves the right to make adjustments/changes to the dates specified above, albeit in strict adherence to the INEC Timetable and Schedule of Activities for 2025 Anambra State Governorship Election.

c. Upon completion, the Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms shall be returned to the National Secretariat, accompanied with proof of payment and all relevant documents stipulated therein.

Signed IFEANYI MBAERI, ESQ. National Organizing Secretary, APGA

Your partners in property

A Stalwart Business Leader at 80. Celebrating

Sir Egbert Ulogo Imomoh

KSM, CON, KSG, FAEng

All the Partners, Management and Staff of Knight Frank Nigeria heartily celebrate Sir Egbert Ulogo Imomoh (KSM, CON, KSG, FAEng) on the joyous occasion of his 80th birthday.

Your life’s journey has been an inspiring testament to leadership, excellence, and unwavering commitment to progress.

Your decades of contributions to the growth and development of the energy, oil & gas, and financial services industries, as well as the impact you have made on countless lives are indelible.

As you mark this incredible milestone, we wish you continued good health, happiness, and many more years of success.

Happy 80th Birthday Sir!

Signed,

Frank Okosun, FRICS, FNIVS, RSV Senior Partner/CEO

Knight Frank Nigeria info@ng.knightfrank.com | +234 701 496 2507, +234 803 303 0380 24, Campbell Street, Lagos Island, Lagos.

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The Explainer

NOA, CBN PARTNER TO BOOST FINANCIAL INCLUSION IN KOGI STATE

The National Orientation Agency (NOA) Kogi State Directorate recently met with representatives from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Lokoja branch to discuss ways to improve financial inclusion in under-served communities.

The CBN team, comprising Mohammed Musa and Ahunanya Victoria from the Development Finance Office, outlined their goals for the collaboration which include raising public awareness about available CBN credit schemes, particularly for local farmers and traders, and promoting access through online banking channels.

The CBN representatives also expressed concern about the lack of community banks in ten Local Government Areas (LGAs), which limits access to credit for grassroots communities. They requested NOA’s assistance in sensitising the public about programmes like the CBN Agricultural Credit Scheme Fund (ACGSF) and the National Collateral Registry.

Mr. Patrick Edogbanya, Acting State Director of NOA, welcomed the CBN’s initiative and assured them of NOA’s ability to effectively conduct public awareness campaigns. He emphasizes the importance of capacity building for NOA’s 21 LGA Community

Mobilization Officers (COMOS) to ensure high-quality sensitisation efforts.

Mr. Edogbanya also highlighted NOA’s capacity to translate CBN messages into local languages, ensuring better understanding and comprehension among grassroots communities.

Both organizations are committed to working together to improve policy implementation and expand the CBN’s financial inclusion efforts throughout Kogi State.

Plateau NOA warns on heatwave, urges public to take precautions

The National Orientation Agency (NOA), has issued a warning to Nigerians on the dangers of the ongoing heatwave in the country, with a plea for the general public to take precautions to stay safe.

Plateau State Director of NOA, Kaneng Tabitha Pam-Hworo, said the heat index is expected to reach high levels in the coming days, warning residents to take necessary measures to protect themselves and their loved ones.

“As temperatures soar to recordbreaking levels, the National Orientation Agency Plateau State is issuing an urgent warning to residents about the dangers of the ongoing heatwave,” the statement said.

“With the heat index expected to reach high levels in the coming days, officials are urging the public to take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their loved ones.

“Excessive heat can pose serious health risks, including heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and dehydration. Vulnerable

populations such as the elderly, young children, individuals with chronic medical conditions, and outdoor workers are particularly at risk.”

The State Director went ahead to outline key safety tips that should be employed to beat the heat.

The safety tips includes;

1. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you do not feel thirsty. Limit alcohol and caffeinated beverage consumption as they can lead to dehydration.

2. Limit Outdoor Activities: Minimize time spent outdoors during peak heat hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). If you must be outside, take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas.

3. Dress Appropriately: Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, and light-colored clothing to help stay cool.

4. Check on Vulnerable Individuals: Ensure that elderly neighbors, family members, and those with health conditions are staying cool and hydrated.

5. Never Leave Children in Vehicles: Temperatures inside a car can rise to deadly levels within minutes, even with windows slightly open.

6. Use Cooling Centers: Take advantage of local cooling centers like air-conditioned spaces and stay under trees if you do not have access to air conditioning at home.

7. Prevent Fire hazards: Avoid Bush burning, properly dispose cigarette butts and other flammable materials.

She also highlighted the possible ailments that could be expected during the heatwave and steps to deal with them.

Heat Exhaustion: Symptoms include heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, and headache. Move to a cooler place, drink water, and apply cool, wet cloths to the skin.

Heat Stroke: Symptoms include high body temperature (103°F or higher), confusion, rapid pulse, and loss of consciousness. This is a medical emergency, call medical services or rush to the nearest health facility.

“This heat wave is not just uncomfortable, it is dangerous”. “We urge everyone to take these warnings seriously and take steps to stay cool and safe,” she added.

The Lagos State Directorate of the National Orientation Agency (NOA) and Anti-Human Trafficking Lagos Legal Hub in collaboration with the United Nations International Organisation for Migration (UN-IOM) have reached a consensus to jointly combat human trafficking in the Lagos area.

Following this consensus, the three organisations recently organised a capacity-building seminar to address the menace of human trafficking in Lagos and beyond. The event served as the forum to educate participants on facts and misconceptions on human trafficking as well as detailed clarifications on modern trends in the crime.

According to the Lagos Directorate’s public Relations Officer, Judith Ofuani, The training session dwelt extensively on human trafficking, including cyber-enabled trafficking, online sextortion, Q-net/Q-link schemes, child prostitution, baby factories, organ harvesting, and child labour.

She said the zonal commander disclosed that under the law, a child is incapable of giving legal consent, insisting that anti-trafficking efforts primarily concentrate on the exploitation aspect of prostitution rather than the act of prostitution itself.

She also disclosed that the representatives of UN-IOM applauded participants for their incisive engagement, imploring them to spread the awareness within their host communities.

The Abia State Directorate of the National Orientation Agency (NOA) has commenced a media engagement programme to create awareness about the outbreak of seasonal diseases in some parts of the country.

The State Acting Director of NOA, Comrade Victor Orji, said unpleasant weather conditions contribute to the rise of infectious diseases in various parts of the country.

According to him, awareness campaign is a notable instrument for curbing the spread of Lassa Fever, Cholera and Meningitis, imploring the media to be part of the sensitisation campaign against the spread of the diseases especially Lassa Fever.

Orji explained that Lassa Fever is usually caused by Lassa virus, which he said could be contacted through food or household items infected with rat urine or faeces.

He called for environmental cleanliness, clearing of neighbourhood bushes and drainage, access to clean water and toilet facilities as measures to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.

DG NOA Mallam Lanre Issa-onilu welcomes the Speaker of House of Representatives, RT Hon. Tajudeen Abbas to the venue of the North West zonal flag off of the campaign against drug abuse and domestic violence, in Kaduna.

OYO NOA INTENSIFIES SENSITISATION CAMPAIGNS AGAINST INFECTIOUS DISEASES

The National Orientation Agency (NOA) last week intensified its ongoing public enlightenment and preventive campaigns against infectious diseases such as Lassa Fever, Cholera and Cerebrospinal Meningitis in Oyo State.

The sensitisation campaign was aimed at creating awareness about these contagious diseases as well as the urgent need to address emerging health challenges, particularly during this dry season when extreme heat increases health risks.

Delivering a speech by NOA’s DirectorGeneral, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, during the awareness campaign, the National Director of Health and Social Care, Dr. Olufemi Ayoola, emphasised the importance of public awareness in preventing disease outbreaks during the dry season.

He listed Lassa Fever, Cerebrospinal Meningitis and Cholera as major concerns, noting that a recent case of Lassa Fever was recorded in Saki, Oyo

State.

He said preventing the three major diseases requires similar measures, including personal hygiene, environmental sanitation, balanced diet, regular exercise and adequate rest.

Also speaking, the State Health Educator, Dr. Olaoye Olarinde, commended the efforts of community stakeholders, including the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), the League of Imams and other groups which he said would help to disseminate the message within their communities and wards.

The Oyo State Epidemiologist, Dr. Iyabo Kareem, highlighted the importance of disease surveillance and timely report of outbreaks, explaining that each ward across the 33 local government sreas of Oyo

State has 10 community informants dedicated to monitoring and reporting disease cases.

“We have 10 community informants called the Disease Surveillance and Notification Officers (DSNOs) in the ward level across the 33 local government of Oyo State and we meet annually to share knowledge on symptoms of these different disease outbreaks and mode of reporting,” she stated.

Oyo State Director of NOA, Dr Kemi Afolayan, said the national sensitisation campaign against infectious diseases had been officially flagged off in the state and would be implemented nationwide across.

Akwa-Ibom NOA Campaigns for Environmental Health, SDGS

In a move aimed at promoting environmental health and United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Akwa Ibom State Directorate of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), recently in Uyo, commenced awareness campaign on sustainable water management and sanitation.

At a press briefing attended by community members and Community Orientation and Mobilisation Officers (COMOs) from the 31 local government areas of the state, the State Director, Mr Mkpoutom Mkpoutom, said environmental sanitation was key to securing environmental health, describing it as a holistic approach to waste management and advocated the necessity for access to clean water and sanitary living conditions.

He called for communitydriven sanitation initiative in the effort to promote hygiene, prevent diseases and protect the living environment, noting that effective environmental sanitation involves the application of various strategies aimed at managing environmental factors that enhance healthy living.

Furthermore, Mkpoutom canvassed the need to establish proper systems for the disposal and management of solid and liquid waste, which according to him, can prevent pollution, maintain hygiene and ensure that

communities have access to safe drinking water.

He implored members of the community to maintain cleanliness in homes, public areas and communal facilities, warning that poor environmental sanitation can lead to serious environmental hazards, including the spread of disease causing pathogens.

The state director charged the COMOs to organise educational workshops and seminars to educate residents of the state about the importance of sanitation, effective waste disposal methods and other health hazards associated with poor hygiene.

South East NOA Zonal Director named into Abia Drug Control Committee

In recognition of the commitment of the National Orientation Agency (NOA) to awareness campaigns on various issues affecting the society, the South East Director of the agency, Mrs Regina Iroha, has been named by Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti, as a member of the Abia State Drug Control Committee.

Speaking at the inauguration of the committee in Umuahia, the First Lady, Mrs Priscilla Otti, said Abia State Government had been assembling visionary individuals to assist in its societal restoration agenda to curtail the menace of drug abuse and other societal vices in the state.

The meeting provided the platform for critical stakeholders in the state to share experiences and discuss strategies for curtailing drug abuse. The discussion followed a detailed presentation by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) on issues bordering on drug abuse in the state, enforcement strategies, National Drug Control Framework as well as the committee’s roles.

At the meeting, the roadmap and introduction of Anti-Drug Club initiative was presented. This involved the signing of a pledge by committee members in expression of their commitment to the group’s mandate.

In a concerted effort to protect the health and wellbeing of Nigerians, the Kwara State Directorate of the National Orientation Agency (NOA) has entered into partnership with key stakeholders, including the Centre for Well-being and Integrated Nutrition Solutions (C-WINS), the Spouses of the Nigerian Governors Forum (NGSF), the Health Sector Reform Coalition (HSRC) and National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) in the effort to combat Measles-Rubella in Nigeria.

Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting in Ilorin recently, NOA’s Kwara State Director, Alhaji Dare Abdulganiyu, described the Measles-Rubella(MR) advocacy project as an opportunity to champion the fight against the disease, attend training sessions to learn about the importance of vaccination, and become a vocal advocate of MR vaccination.

While calling for a door-to-door campaign to educate mothers and caregivers about the dangers of measles and rubella, Abdulganiyu applauded the Women Wing of the Christian Association of Nigeria (WOWICAN) for organising the stakeholders’ meeting, working with local leaders, and using social media to spread awareness.

SIGNING OF MOU AIMED AT DRIVING THE PROMOTION OF CREATIVE ARTS...

L-R: Barr. Hannatu Musa Musawa, Honourable Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy (FMACTCE) with Donna McGowan, British Council Country Director, Nigeria and West Africa Cluster Lead at the signing of an MOU aimed at driving the promotion of creative arts, skills and connections amongst young people in Nigeria in Lagos... recently

First Lady Canvasses Across-board Effort for Successful Battle Against HIV/AIDS, Syphilis, Hepatitis

As UNAIDS advocates for financing of communities to tackle HIV/AIDS

Deji Elumoye and Michael Olugbode

Wife of the president, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has described the increasing rate of HIV infections in the country as worrisome and called for concerted efforts to tackle the menace, especially on the part of key players in the society.

She spoke in Kaduna while flagging-off the Free-To-Shine campaign in the North-west geo-political zone.

The campaign is an advocacy initiative of the African Union, Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD), and other global partners.

In another related development, UNAIDS has called for the financing of communities to tackle the scourge of HIV/AIDS.

The body in a statement on

Wednesday stated that communities are essential to the sustainability of the HIV response and to broader global health efforts. They must be financed and supported in their steadfast commitment to ensuring that all people living with and affected by HIV have access to the services they need and are treated with dignity and respect.

Meanwhile, The First Lady, Senator Tinubu, according to a statement issued on Tuesday by her media assistant, Busola Kukoyi, called for intensified efforts to ensure the Global Triple Elimination target of HIV/AIDS, Syphilis and Hepatitis was achieved by 2030. She pointed out that the growing complacency in the response to the spread of these diseases in Africa was

worrisome.

According to her, Nigeria has the highest burden of HIV/AIDS in Sub-Saharan Africa because of its population.

“The burden is particularly high among children, youth, women and marginalised groups,” the first lady said.

She explained: “The Free-To-Shine campaign aims to significantly reduce the number of new HIV infections among women of reproductive age, prevent mother to child transmission of HIV, (Vertical Transmission), and to guarantee that every child born with HIV receives the necessary treatment and support to thrive.”

Mrs. Tinubu said there was an urgent need to raise awareness, renew commitment and take collective

action against the diseases, steps she said aligned with the shared vision of a healthier Nigeria, where every individual particularly women, youth and children can thrive and live healthier lives.

She stated: "It is also heart-breaking to learn that just two years ago, 15,000 children between the ages of 0-14 lost their lives to AIDS-related illnesses.

“Each of these children represented not just a statistic, but a future full of potential, that was sadly cut short. The ongoing challenges faced by these children highlight the urgent need for sustained action to improve prevention strategies, diagnosis, and access to treatment.

“In Nigeria, Hepatitis and Syphilis are public health diseases of concern. As noted by experts, Hepatitis, par-

GBV: Royal Fathers, Religious Leaders, Others Converge on Ilorin

Traditional rulers, security agencies, religious leaders, heads of institutions, civil society organisations and youth development associations yesterday converged in Ilorin, Kwara State capital, to deliberate on how to stop further Gender Based Violence (GBV) across the 16 local government councils of Kwara State in order to have a peaceful atmosphere for all.

The development, according to THISDAY checks, might not be unconnected with the recent murder of a final year student of Kwara State College of Education, late Yetunde Hafsoh Lawal, by one acclaimed Islamic cleric, Mallam AbdulRahman Mohammed Bello, for ritual purposes in Ilorin.

The event was organised by a non-governmental organisation, Brain Builders Youth Development Initiative (BBYDI), in partnership with the Ford Foundation, so as to educate and enlighten the affected stakeholders on the need to rise against such act in their various communities in the state.

The theme of the event is tagged "Mobilizing Stakeholders for Action Against Gender-Based Violence in Kwara State".

Speaking at the event, the Execu-

tive director of BBYDI, Mrs. Nurah Sanni- Jimoh, said: "Today is more than just another gathering; it is a bold step in our collective fight against one of the most pressing human rights violations of our time".

She said: "Gender-Based Violence (GBV) remains a deep-rooted societal challenge that threatens the dignity, safety, and well-being of individuals, especially women and girls.

"For too long, gender-based violence has persisted under different guises, like domestic abuse, sexual violence, harmful traditional practices, and even structural discrimination.

"Yet, let it be known that no society can truly prosper while half of its population lives in fear, and suffers in silence".

She said: "Our resolve today is further strengthened by the fact that both the law and religion stand firmly against gender-based violence.

"Our faiths, be it Islam, Christianity or traditional practices, uphold the sanctity of human dignity, condemn oppression and injustice.

"There is no justification, culturally, religiously, or otherwise, for any act that diminishes the worth of another human being. Similarly, laws like the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act criminalize various forms of GBV.

The executive director added:

"Over the years, we at Brain Builders Youth Development Initiative (BBYDI) have remained resolute in our commitment to combating GBV, ensuring that no survivor suffers in silence, and that communities take a stand against all forms of violence.

"Our efforts, particularly in Kwara State, have focused on advocacy, prevention, and strategic engagement with key stakeholders, many of whom are present in this hall today.

"As part of our commitment to protecting the rights of women and girls, we have actively advocated for the domestication of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act in Kwara, Osun, and Niger States.

"To support this advocacy, we developed a compendium of Discriminatory laws and practices Against Women in Nigeria which provides information on the gaps in the existing laws regarding the rights of women".

"We also produced a fact-sheet on the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act, and a policy brief highlighting the gaps and the way forward in the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act, 2015.

"Additionally, we trained 25 #SaferNet Ambassadors on online safety, these ambassadors were subsequently deployed to second-

ary schools across Kwara State to educate students and teachers on digital rights and internet safety".

In her remarks, the state Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs. Afolashade Opeyemi urged encouragement for womenfolk and general condemnation of the violators of women's rights.

ticularly Hepatitis B and C, continues to pose a significant threat, as it can lead to chronic liver diseases, and even cancer of the liver.

“Syphilis, if left untreated, leads to miscarriages, still births, congenital anomalies, neonatal and infantile deaths amongst others.”

She commended health workers and various agencies involved in combating the three diseases, especially HIV/AIDS.

Mrs. Tinubu called on faith-based institutions, traditional institutions, institutions of learning and family units to deepen advocacy on the prevention of HIV behaviours, especially those engaging in birthing services, by expanding access to HIV testing services with comprehensive counselling, treatment and care for all individuals who test positive.

In his remarks at the event, Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State thanked the first lady for leading the campaign from the front.

Sani stated that Nigeria could achieve the goal of the Triple Elimination by 2030 since the country did so with Polio and also ramped up testing and treatment of Tuberculosis, which led to a drastic reduction in the spread and mortality rate.

Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Adekunle Salako, stated that the ministry will not relent in ensuring that Nigeria exited the list of countries with high statistics of HIV/AIDS and other diseases.

WHO Country Representative, Dr.

Walter Mulombo, who was represented at the event, said WHO was ready to work with OAFLAD, Mrs. Tinubu, and Nigeria, and remained committed, despite the odds the organisation faced. Other development partners present, including UNICEF, NACA and NASCP, reiterated their commitment to the Therecampaign. were testimonials from people with HIV, which also served as a call to end stigmatisation and also encourage others that the disease was not a death sentence. The Free-To-Shine Campaign, Triple Elimination of HIV/AIDS, Syphilis and Hepatitis are expected to be championed in all states of the federation by the governors' wives.

On its part, UNAIDS Deputy Executive Director, Christine Stegling said: “The only way to end AIDS is by working together with communities. They build trust and reach people which many traditional health facilities find hard to reach - the most marginalized, and people who face stigma and discrimination. To end AIDS by 2030, sustained investment and support for community-led responses is crucial.” The statement said community healthcare and support providers are too often faced with challenges - stigma, discrimination, criminalization, funding cuts, and political backlash - despite their primary role in ensuring that health services reach everyone in need, including the most vulnerable.

Host Communities Decry Petitions Against Management of MAN Oron

Okon Bassey in Uyo

Host communities of the Maritime Academy of Nigeria (MAN), Oron, Akwa Ibom state have expressed worry over series of petitions against the management of the academy. Coming under the aegis of Akpakip EyoAbasi Group of Villages, they alleged that faceless stakeholders and some social groups such as the Oron Youths Movement (OYOM) were hampering the progress of the academy.

In a meeting yesterday in Oron, representatives of the communities expressed dissatisfaction over petitions against the institution,

stressing that the petitions negate the necessary impact the academy supposed to create.

A communique issued at the end of the meeting was signed by the Chairman, Eyo Abasi Council of Chiefs, Asukwo John Esanga-bianga, National President, Akpakip Eyo Abasi Elders Forum, Asukwo John Iduo, and other critical stakeholders, including youths and women.

The communique was also endorsed by the National President, Akpakip Eyo Abasi Youths Association, Ulap Bright Asukwo Afahakan and National President, Akpakip Eyo Abasi Women Association, Arit Effiong Edohonsi.

They declared unflinching support to federal government's policies and programs concerning the Maritime Academy and the Acting Rector, Dr. Kevin Okonna-led administration. The communique stated: "We warn the detractors both internal and external to desist from writing malicious pieces that could jeopardize the federal government's good intentions towards the development of the Maritime Academy, Oron. "The academy has continued to maintain its undeniable impacts over the years in the training of specialists in the marine sector of the Nigerian economy."

Hammed Shittu in Ilorin

in Abuja

It is with profound sadness that we received the news of the passing of your beloved wife;

Painful Exit Aniema NancyGreg-Uanseru

To our dear Brother and f riend, Greg Uanseru, we commiserate with you and your entire family at this difficult time.

In all things, we give thanks and pray for you to find solace in the memories created by Ema's beautiful life of meaning, selfless acts of kindness, and generosity.

We pray that God Almighty will grant you and the family the desired fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss.

May her soul rest in peace

Details of the burial and order of proceedings are as announced by the family Aged 56

Signed by:

www.thisdaylive.com

opinion@thisdaylive.com

Musa’s crusade for military technology could facilitate the development of science and technology in Nigeria, writes CHUKWUEMEKA UWANAKA

THE CBN BOLD STEPS TOWARDS MONETARY POLICY RATE

CBN’s commitment to preserving economic stability through the application of monetary policy is laudable, reckons ISAH ALIYU CHIROMA

LAGOS

AND THE ‘BOND’ SYSTEM

It’s time to abolish the bond system, argues COSMAS ODOEMENA

MUSA'S QUEST FOR MILITARY TECHNOLOGY

“All we need is to get the equipment that we are fighting with”

The quote above by General Christopher Gwabin Musa, Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) during an interview in December 2024, exemplifies his position on the need for advanced foreign military technology - not foreign military bases, that will enable Nigeria comprehensively address its pressing security challenges. He also emphasized that while military kinetic force can address about 30 percent of the country’s security challenges, good governance and socioeconomic development provides 70 percent of sustainable peace and security. But with Nigeria facing its worst cost-of-living crisis due largely to structural economic reasons, the chances of Gen. Musa delivering on his peace and security responsibility, while sourcing for foreign military technology, necessitate a defence policy framework that strategically aligns the drive for acquiring military technology with economic development goals. This strategic alignment will in essence, facilitate the restructuring of Nigeria’s economy away from its heavy reliance on petroleum resources for the bulk of non-debt government revenue and foreign exchange earnings, to an economy with higher science, technology and manufacturing based earnings- essentially, the ‘whole of society’ 70 percent for peace and security.

An analysis of the U.S. defence sector as one of the major drivers of the country’s position as largest economy and most developed in the world since the end of Second World War in 1945, and also the source for a significant part of Nigeria’s most advanced military equipment and needs, highlights 3 factors that the overtly very intellectual Gen. Musa can adopt in developing a new policy, or updating Nigeria’s National Defence Policy, to enable not just the acquisition and production of advanced military technology, but also practically supporting the restructuring of Nigeria’s economy. They are, reforming the Nigerian military as a Science, Technology & Innovation (STI) organization; promoting a new migration policy that attracts talent; and increased collaboration with research and development (R&D) ecosystem for sustainable STI financing.

For the military as STI organisation, the U.S. military is by some assessment and extrapolation, responsible for making the U.S. the world's largest economy through funded R&D, given that U.S. tech firms such as Google, Microsoft, Meta, Nvidia, Amazon and IBM are among the biggest global firms, with cumulative market capitalization value of over $15 trillion. Two examples can explain this. First the Internet. It has origins in the ARPANET as developed by the U.S. Department of Defense through the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) during the Cold War. DARPA works with industry, government, and academia to research and develop new technologies. Many aspects of networking, hardware and software companies, especially in Silicon Valley, leveraged from outcomes of this technology, and Meta is leading the development of Metaverse or 'new Internet'.

Second is semiconductors. Semiconductors, which are essentially the building blocks of all

modern technologies such as mobile phones, consumer electronics, artificial intelligence (AI), automobiles and spacecraft, have most of its documented origins in research funded by the U.S. Defense, including a research grant in March 1942 from the Office of Scientific Research and Development, a unit of the National Defense Research Council. Therefore, the semiconductors that powers Microsoft, Google, Meta, AI, automobiles, mobile phones, oil rigs, agricultural tractors, spacecraft, military weapons, warships, airplane, engines, and any relevant technology have a significant part of its technology base from the U.S. defense sector.

For Nigeria's military under Gen. Musa, it therefore requires a reconceptualization of the role of military technology and partnerships beyond military technology, for addressing not just Nigeria's pressing security challenges, but also for the larger economy. Purchasing military technology requires economic resources, so sustainable defense spending requires a thriving economy. Such reconceptualization by General Musa could see a new doctrine approach for the Engineering Corps of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) that includes the Army, Air Force and Navy, beyond military recruitment and foreign procurement. Some elements of this exist in the recent past when Nigerian Air Force (NAF) procured spares from Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing (IVM) in 2016 under Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar as Chief of Air Staff. The partnership saw IVM produce spares for NAF fighter jets, especially Alpha Jets, which enabled Nigeria to sustain its fight against counter-insurgency operations, at a time NAF was unable to procure spares from foreign companies.

There is also the ‘Ezugwu MRAP’, Nigeria’s first indigenous Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) tanks, named after Maj. Gen. Victor Ezeugwu, who designed and initiated the armored personnel carrier, and built by Defence Industries Corporation (DICON) in collaboration with the Nigerian Army Command Engineering Depot in 2019. While it is impressive to see that General Musa has expanded this domestic MRAP manufacturing with local companies such as ProForce, the recent observation by the Chief of Air Staff at the CDS Joint Task Force Commanders Conference 2025 about the inability of the Air Force to internationally procure spares for its Mi attack helicopters due to geopolitics, highlights the need for the sustenance and expansion of partnerships between NAF and IVM Nigeria, for sustainable peace and security. With Nigeria spending 65 percent of revenue

on debt servicing and rising due to a devalued currency, additional comments by the Air Force chief that $11 million is required for retrofitting a single attack helicopter, demands a mediumto-long term R&D contract and partnership arrangement with domestic companies such as IVM, whereby within 4 years, most of these helicopters can be substantially retrofitted in Nigeria, to support sustainable NAF operations. With semiconductors being the building blocks of military technology and industrial manufacturing, there is need for the defence sector under General Musa to consider the formal establishment of a semiconductor industry in Nigeria, especially as geopolitical tensions between the US and China over the technology has provided some countries in the global south such as Vietnam and Malaysia, the opportunity to establish semiconductor industry in their country. In Africa, the US government through the US Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) had in May 2024, signed an agreement with STL Kenya, that strategically supports the expansion of semiconductor ecosystem in Kenya. Therefore, engaging Nigerian talents such as Prof. Ndubisi Ekekwe, a patented practitioner in the industry and founder of FASMICRO semiconductor company, an Intel certified FGPA partner for Africa, who has some experience in supporting countries such as Russia in semiconductor development- before Western sanctions against Russia, is worthwhile. Ekekwe is also the founder of Tekedia Capital, a successful technology-anchored venture firm. As Nigeria does not have excess funds for ‘mistakes’ that consume funds in R&D, incorporating talents such as Ekekwe who have both technology and business experience that can guarantee some level of return on investment into the reconceptualized AFN Engineering Corps, or broader Nigeria Defense Industry, makes economic sense. There is also the very outstanding material scientist Prof Oluwole Soboyejo, the current President of SUNY POLY University. Prof. Soboyejo as engineering talent, and SUNY Poly that has semiconductor technology partnership platforms that Nigeria can harness in its drive towards a feasible semiconductor industry, are additional feasible options for the defence sector to participate in a sector with sales of $627.6 billion in 2024, which is an increase of 19.1 percent compared to the 2023 total of $526.8 billion, and estimated to be over $1 trillion in 2030.

Arguably, Nigeria’s largest technology burst was occasioned by the GSM and ICT reforms of 2001, plus the approval of the Nigeria Space Policy and establishment of NIGCOMSAT in 2006 by President Obasanjo, who is from the Nigerian Army Engineering (NAE) Corp. NAE has also produced former Senate President David Mark, Maj. Gen. Sam Momah a former Science & Technology Minister, Lt. Gen. Azubuike Ihejirika ex Chief of Army Staff, among others, and therefore can hold its own when reconceptualized as part of the elite corps of the military, with staffing and collaboration that go beyond the military.

Dr. Uwanaka writes from African University of Science and Technology, Abuja. chukweks@yahoo.com

CBN’s

commitment to preserving economic stability through the application of monetary policy is laudable, reckons ISAH ALIYU CHIROMA

THE CBN BOLD STEPS TOWARDS MONETARY POLICY RATE

In a strategic move reflecting confidence and stability, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has chosen to maintain the monetary policy rate at 27.50%. This decision underscores the bank's commitment to navigating the complex economic landscape while fostering growth and stability. As we delve into the implications of this steadfast approach, it becomes clear that the CBN is prioritizing a balanced monetary environment amidst prevailing challenges the country is facing.

As the economic landscape keeps changing, uncertainties seem to lurk at almost every corner, the CBN decision to maintain the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) at 27.50% during its recent Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting in February 2025 merits both praise and scrutiny. This outcome was not merely a matter of maintaining the status quo; it was a calculated response to a host of dynamic economic factors. The CBN's unwavering commitment to economic stability is commendable.

With the in-depth analysis of various economic indicators, the MPC decided that retaining the MPR was essential for several reasons. Alongside the MPR, the committee also maintained significant parameters such as the Asymmetric Corridor (set at +500/-100 basis points), the Cash Reserve Ratio (50% for Deposit Money Banks and 16% for Merchant Banks), and the Liquidity Ratio at 30%. While maintaining these parameters reflect a desire for consistency, it also illustrates the inherent challenges the CBN faces in a landscape fraught with uncertainty.

The decision not to adjust the MPR was a testament, which suggests a strong consensus on the need for a cautious approach. One can argue that in times of economic volatility, a unified stance can provide reassurance to the market and investors alike. However, the pressing questions remain: Is this approach sufficiently proactive? And what repercussions might it have in the long term?

The MPC's deliberations highlighted several pertinent macroeconomic trends, including a stabilizing foreign exchange market and a decline in fuel prices. These improvements are indeed positive signs, yet one cannot overlook mounting inflationary pressures, particularly linked to food prices. The recent rebasing of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) has shed light on shifting consumption patterns, something that should not be taken lightly.

One may take solace in the committee's belief that ongoing security improvements in food-producing regions will contribute to moderating food inflation. However, this optimism feels somewhat naive, given the historical volatility of Nigeria's food supply chains. The CBN must consider whether its confidence in government interventions is justified or if such optimism may lead to complacency at a time when vigilance is needed most.

Perhaps one of the most critical facets of the MPC's discussion was its reflection on the foreign

It’s time to abolish the bond system, argues COSMAS ODOEMENA

LAGOS AND THE ‘BOND’ SYSTEM

I implore His Excellency Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Governor of Lagos State, to abolish the “bond” system in Lagos State, especially with doctors, nurses, and other categories of workers. The “bond” system in Lagos State as it is today is unfair and draconian and may have outlived its usefulness.

The way bonds are meant to work is for an employer (Lagos State Health Service Commission) to send its employees for further studies with another employer, where the first employer foots the bill regarding their training. The employee, after their training, is supposed to render service back to their employer for a period or pay back the money used in their training.

exchange market. The convergence of rates between the Nigeria Foreign Exchange Market (NFEM) and Bureau de Change (BDC) is a commendable achievement that highlights the CBN’s efforts towards greater transparency and stability. Initiatives like the Electronic Foreign Exchange Matching System (B-Match) are important steps that aim to enhance credibility in the market. However, stakeholders must remain wary; while these measures might stimulate immediate improvements, the long-term plan must be sustainable.

An increase in foreign direct investment (FDI), portfolio investments, and diaspora remittances could create a welcomed boost to liquidity and investor confidence. Yet, these gains must not be taken for granted. Economic stability is an ongoing engagement and cannot be viewed through a short-term lens. The focus should extend beyond immediate numbers and must encompass the broader implications for economic growth and development.

Nigeria’s oil production, which has seen a rise to 1.54 million barrels per day (mbpd), certainly nourishes positive sentiments regarding the balance of payments and external reserves. As it stands, foreign reserves amount to $39.4 billion, affording the country an import cover of approximately 9.6 months. This situation can be heralded as a testament to a robust oil sector that has shown resilience.

However, one must caution against overreliance on oil revenues in a world increasingly leaning toward sustainability and alternative energy sources. The oil market itself is subject to the whims of global politics, evidenced by the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and tensions in the Middle East. This volatility poses inherent risks to Nigeria's economic stability, suggesting the need for economic diversification rather than continued dependence on a sector that could become less relevant in the coming years.

The broader global economic context cannot be ignored. Turbulence in international relations, like the recent tensions involving the U.S. and other nations, along with tariff increases, presents additional challenges. Despite the International Monetary Fund (IMF) maintaining its global growth projections at 3.3% for both 2025 and 2026, skepticism remains about these figures. History has shown that unforeseen circumstances can drastically alter growth trajectories, exposing the fragility of economic assumptions.

The CBN's steadfast commitment to preserving economic stability through the consistent application of monetary policy is both prudent and necessary. The decision to retain the MPR represents a careful assessment of the present economic landscape and an acknowledgment of potential risks. However, while vigilance is undoubtedly essential, one also must question whether such a conservative approach might stifle the aggressive economic reforms that Nigeria desperately needs.

Chiroma writes from Kaduna

However, for Lagos State, this is not the case. In the state, staff have a contract of employment that requires that they be paid salaries. Lagos State now trains its staffers in its hospital facilities. Some remain in the same hospital and the same department. In other words, the training is with their employer and not another employer. So, the staff are doing what is called in-service training and writing professional examinations. If an employee decides to leave before completing the required “bond” years, they should only be responsible for repaying the costs associated with their training, such as course fees or examination expenses.

It is important to note that this policy does not exist in the Federal Civil Service. In the Federal, it is only when the employee goes overseas that this obtains and even then, they are only required to pay back the money involved in their training and not their salary. But Lagos State wants employees to pay back all the salary they earned while they were rendering service! Some staff have been handed hefty bills of about N50m to pay back with no way to verify its accuracy. The maximum time allowed for completing the programme is six years. If an employee finishes the programme in five years and contributes a few years back to the government, a certain overzealous official mistakenly calculates the amount “owed” to be paid back for the entire six years, including the period the employee returned to the Lagos State government. While Lagos State officials pursue these dedicated employees, those who have embezzled billions of naira in Nigeria remain undisturbed.

Now, in the health sector, service delivery to patients comes before anything. Staff continue to render service to patients, and the time for studying is often after work. Training at this level is usually self-driven as the person is at work. So, what is the compensation for their work rendered? Invariably nothing! These are people with family to take care of.

The question to ask is why doctors, after going through the hassles of medical school and the stress of residency training and when they should work as consultants, decide to abandon it to go abroad to start from the beginning? But this is actually what happens. The fellowship programme done in Nigeria is often of no value in many countries abroad. Consultants in Nigeria move abroad to become junior doctors. The postgraduate training they have done in Nigeria is not only a waste but has also become an albatross if they must pay back their salaries for a qualification not recognised or being used. Some of the staff were arms twisted to “sign” these bonds. Now, these employees probably got into these “bonds”, say 10 years ago. The Nigeria then is not the same Nigeria of today. It is not the same in terms of economy, security, and what have you.

There are many factors that are not considered in the “bond” system in Lagos State. Some have been bonded for five years; others have bonded for seven

years. This is too long and has discouraged many from joining the in-service training programme, causing doctor shortages as the few doctors who stayed back are overworked with patients ultimately the ones to bear the brunt. If it were even a “bond” for a year, it would probably encourage more doctors to come in and ensure a steady supply of doctors.

In addition, any doctor who has practised in Nigeria for up to 10 years, when he is allowed to retire voluntarily, should not be tied down. But there are doctors who have given 15 years of their lives and more to the country who are also being tied down. This is unfair. A man or woman who is married may also decide to move closer to their family by going outside Lagos to maintain family unity and keep their marriage. These things need to be factored in. There was a particular doctor who left everything and fled Nigeria because his life was in danger. Would it be fair to force that person to stay back? Can any state government guarantee the safety of such a person? Of course not. But these “bonds” do not factor in things like that.

To keep doctors, nurses, and other healthcare workers in Nigeria goes beyond bonds. It requires welfare packages that take care of individuals and their families, especially their children. Some of the countries these doctors go to abroad have a welcoming approach. They pay for their relocation, their postgraduate “re-training” and support them and their dependants without bonding them.

The “bond” system in Lagos State, which sets the pace for other states, should be abolished considering the realities of Nigeria today and a welfare package with a human face be put in place. As a stakeholder and a senior citizen of Lagos State, I am deeply concerned about this issue and trust that His Excellency, who provides Lagos State with sterling leadership, would look into it.

Dr Odoemena writes from Lagos

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA

Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com

THE COMMITTEE ON MSMES

The Council should work hard to clear obstacles in the way of small business enterprises

In 2005, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) came up with a regulatory and supervisory framework for the establishment of microfinance banks (MFBs) as a means of providing access to financial services to the unbanked population. The MFBs are allowed to solicit deposits, which are guaranteed by the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC). That the idea failed is one area the recently constituted National Council on Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) should be looking at in its efforts to interface with the CBN to enhance the financing of small businesses in the country.

Vice-President Kashim Shettima said last week that the federal government, working in collaboration with other stakeholders, will be more deliberate in ensuring growth in the MSMEs space in the country.

“Some of these initiatives are laudable and will need to outlive the present administrations in the States. Regardless of political affiliations, Nigerians must be seen to be the ultimate beneficiaries of these schemes that we are trying to put in place,” Shettima said while pledging a partnership between state governments and financial institutions aimed at enhancing access to finance MSMEs at single-digit rates across the country.

lateral,” the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms chairman, Taiwo Oyedele, once said. “But the MFIs were asking them all manner of things they could not provide. You cannot treat MSMEs like multinationals, asking them to provide financials, cash flow and projects, they will go away.” Only last week, Oyedele said he has encountered many small business owners who argue that the Nigerian system and the government are holding them down. This issue must also be addressed by the Shettima council.

Besides the fact that they account for a significant percentage of businesses in Nigeria, they can help to address the challenge of insecurity if properly harnessed

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

We hope the council will walk its talk. Across the world, micro-lending carries the image of social investment, classified as a development issue in the mould of education, health, and related policies. The scheme provides financial services to MSMEs across numerous industries such as trade, commerce, education, tailoring, carpentry, fishing, and transportation. Besides the fact that they account for a significant percentage of businesses in Nigeria, they can help to address the challenge of insecurity if properly harnessed.

The Shettima council should learn from the past. “The major reason MSMEs cannot access loans of commercial banks was that they cannot provide col-

EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA

GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU

DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE

DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI

SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH

ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI

CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI

DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO

TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com

Letters to the Editor

Meanwhile, there are no adequate data on the total credit of the industry, but stakeholders believe its performance is a far cry of the need of MSMEs. All these are not helped by the impact of technology. The microfinance banks are competing with online banks which do not have to set up elaborate structures such as offices and more. Perhaps, all this prompted the CBN, in 2013, to issue the revised regulatory and supervisory guidelines for microfinance banks, to address challenges observed in the implementation of the microfinance policy of 2005 and emerging developments in the industry. But for now, the impact is hardly noticeable.

Out of desperation, many of these MFBs have resorted to using criminal and unorthodox methods to compel their borrowers to pay. They not only name and shame but also deploy the services of thugs. Going forward, the Shettima council should prescribe standards to address the issue of poor management of funds meant for credit disbursement. Besides, the capital base of micro finance institutions should be strengthened in order to mobilise domestic savings and promote banking culture among low-income groups.

Perhaps the most important area the Shettima council will have to examine if the MSMEs are to be helped is the number of government agencies that imposes undue levies on them. It is becoming increasingly difficult to do business in Nigeria due to this multiplicity of agencies.

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.

IS SEYI TINUBU TOO YOUNG TO RUN?

Should Seyi Tinubu harbour a governorship ambition? It's within his constitutional and inalienable right to harbour such ambition. That his father is the president of Nigeria doesn't preclude or foreclose him from having any political ambition in life.

Seyi Tinubu's father, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, had since 1999 made many political leaders across the country, particularly in the South west region. This writer may not be enamoured with the economic policies of the current government at all levels. However, one good attribute that rational minds cannot argue about the president is that he's not greedy for political offices unlike many politicians.

Tinubu left office as Lagos State governor in 2007. Since then, he has been out of political offices until 2023 when he became the president of Nigeria. Many of his contemporaries, especially the class of 1999 governors have become this and that after 2007 when their tenures expired. But for Tinubu, he gave others the opportunities to thrive. Since 2007, Tinubu had the opportunity of hijacking any of the senatorial districts in Lagos. He could have nego-

tiated his way to return to the Senate and be elected the Senate president. He could have insisted on becoming vice president under Buhari's regime. But he allowed others to thrive.

On the particular position of a governor of a state, Tinubu had made so many people governors - from the North to the South, East and West. Why can't he make his own son a governor if his son is qualified?

Seyi Tinubu is reportedly 39 years old. By the next round of election, he should be over 40 years old. Is he too young to be a governor? In this Fourth Republic democratic dispensation, we have had governors who were as young as 37. For example, Saminu Turaki of Jigawa and Donald Duke of Cross River States were said to be within that age bracket when they were elected as governors in 1999. Jim Nwobodo, Orji Uzor Kalu, Chimaroke Nnamani among many others claimed that they were 39 years old when they were elected as governors of their various states.

On the issue of education, Seyi's academic qualification is not in doubt. At least, he's a young man and all the

schools he attended can be easily verified. It bears repeating, that Tinubu is the president of Nigeria and doesn't foreclose the ambitions of his children. That shouldn't be the case. In America, the Bush family had produced two presidents of America and governors.

Even in Nigeria here, Obasanjo was the president when his daughter was a commissioner in Ogun State. She later became a senator. Late Senator Olusola Saraki was Senate leader in the second republic. After he made a few people governor of Kwara State, in 2003 he installed his own son as the governor while his daughter was a senator at the same time. His son Bukola Saraki later became president of the Senate in 2015.

Considering how Tinubu had given opportunities to many people in the South west particularly Lagos State, his own son will not be committing any crime if he harbours the ambition of governing Lagos State come 2027.

Ifeanyi Maduako, Owerri

Emma Okonji

The recent statistics released by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), showed an improvement in the growth of telecoms subscriptions, which reached 169, 318,076, with a teledensity of 78.1 per cent as at January this year.

Although telecoms subscriptions had surpassed the 200 million mark to reach 224,713,710 with a teledensity of 103.66 per cent in December 2023, which was its peak period ever in the history of telecommunications in Nigeria, the figure however started dropping until it reached as low as 154,904,827 in September 2024.

The sharp drop has been attributed to several factors,

Raheem Akingbolu

Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, has reassured Nigerians that government will not leave any stone unturned in its determination to use agricultural sector to stimulate the Nigerian economy.

Speaking during an inspection of Agbeyewa farms at Itapaji Ekiti, in Ekiti State, Kyari reaffirmed commitment to transforming Nigeria’s agribusiness sector into a thriving agribusiness hub, with the aim of driving economic growth and positioning the country as a key player in both regional and global food markets.

Kyari underscored government’s vision to move beyond subsistence farming,

prominent among them, were the deactivation of over 42 million SIM cards in five days in February 2024, and the rebasing of the telecoms sector in September 2024.

NCC had in February, March and April 2024, carried out phased disconnections of SIM cards that were not properly registered and not linked to the National Identification Number (NIN) of the SIM card holders.

In September 2024, during the rebasing of the telecoms sector, NCC also disconnected 40 million subscribers from a single network operator that erroneously increased its subscriber base.

These factors, among others, no doubt, contributed to the sharp decline of telecoms subscriptions in 2024, but the recent statistics

focusing on developing a robust agribusiness ecosystem that would empower farmers and foster private sector-led growth.

He explained that under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, agriculture has been elevated to a vital economic sector, with the declaration of a state of emergency on agriculture seen as a call to action.

While stressing the importance of a structured agribusiness sector to ensure national stability and social prosperity, the minister highlighted the abundant agricultural potential in Nigeria, citing the country’s vast arable land, favourable climate, and youthful, entrepreneurial population.

He noted that with a domestic market of over 200 million

from NCC, showed a remarkable improvement and growth in telecoms subscriptions number that has risen to 169 million as at January this year.

According to the statistics, as at December 2023, telecoms subscriptions reached 224,713,710, with a teledensity of 103.66 per cent. The subscriptions however dropped to 218,400,965 with a teledensity of 100.75 per cent in January 2024, with a slight increase in February 2024 to 219,970,313 with a teledensity of 101.47 per cent.

The subscriptions however dropped again to 219,301,281 with a teledensity of 101.16 per cent in March 2024, with a further drop to 216,974,742 with a teledensity of 100.09 per cent and 172,141,538

consumers and access to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), Nigeria stands as an attractive destination for agribusiness investment.

The minister further discussed Nigeria’s strategic partnerships with international development institutions such as the African Development Bank, the World Bank, and the Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

These collaborations, he stated, are aimed at financing large-scale agricultural projects and enhancing food systems resilience amid global economic and climate challenges.

Upon arrival at the Ekiti Agroallied International Airport, the minister was warmly received by the Ekiti State Commissioner

with a teledensity of 79.41 per cent in April and May 2024 respectively. In June 2024, there was a further drop in telecoms subscription to 170,904,257 with a teledensity of 78.84 per cent. The drop record continued in July and August 2024, to reach 166,656,227 with a teledensity of 76.88 per cent and 159,503,865 with a teledensity of 73.58 per cent respectively.

Telecoms subscriptions dropped to its lowest ebb in September 2024, to as low as 154,904,827 with a teledensity of 71.46 per cent.

Telecoms subscriptions, however, started showing some remarkable improvements, and increased from 154,904,827 in September 2024, to 157,600,321 with increased teledensity of 72.7 per cent in October 2024. In

for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Ebenezer Boluwade, who represented Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji of Ekiti State.

The visit forms part of the President Bola Tinubu administration’s drive to engage the private sector in the agricultural revolution and foster economic prosperity. Agbeyewa Farms, recognised for its cuttingedge farming techniques, has been identified as a key partner in the mission.

Agbeyewa Farms’ 1,500 hectares of cassava fields, cultivated over the past two years, have positioned the farm as the largest cassava producer in Nigeria. During the visit, the minister toured the farm’s extensive fields, which highlight the integration of technology and sustainable farming practices aimed

November 2024, the figure further increased to 159,852,945 with a teledensity of 73.74 per cent, with a further increase in December 2024 to reach 164,926,599 with a teledensity of 76.08 per cent, before reaching 169,318,076 with a teledensity of 78.1 per cent in January 2025, according to NCC statistics.

Teledensity is the total number of subscribers in a given location, calculated in percentage. From September 2023, teledensity is calculated based on National Population Commission’s projected population figure of 216 million.

“The removal of Subscriber Identification Modules (SIMs) that are not linked to verifiable National Identification Numbers

at increasing productivity and ensuring long-term food security.

The farm’s efforts have not only contributed to the country’s food supply but have also created numerous jobs, empowering local communities.

Minister Kyari engaged with Agbeyewa Farms’ team, lauding their initiatives and stressing the importance of collaboration between government and private enterprises to unlock Nigeria’s agricultural potential.

“The role of the private sector is critical in advancing agriculture, particularly in areas like food security, economic growth, and job creation,” he said.

Kyari’s visit underscores the federal government’s commitment to fostering public-private partnerships to advance agricultural

(NINs) and the rectification of a major discrepancy by a Mobile Network Operator explain the significant drop in Nigeria’s telecoms subscriber base,” NCC said.

Chairman, Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), Gbenga Adebayo, said with the conclusion of NIN-SIM linkage exercise of old SIM cards, there would be continuous increase in telecoms subscriptions, going forward. The NCC statistics also showed the current market share of telecoms operators, where MTN has the largest market share of 51.79 per cent, followed by Airtel with 34.11 per cent, Globacom with 12.15 per cent and 9mobile with 1.94 per cent market share.

practices, address food security challenges, and enhance the livelihoods of Nigerians. In his address, Boluwade noted that the minister’s visit marked a significant step forward for the public-private partnership between the state and Agbeyewa Farms. “This aligns with governor Oyebanji’s agenda to create jobs and ensure food security through innovative agricultural practices,” Boluwade said.

Managing Director of Agbeyewa Farms, Oska Ayeleso, expressed gratitude to the minister for his visit, reaffirming the farm’s commitment to advancing agricultural practices in Nigeria. “We are excited about the potential of this collaboration and look forward to strengthening our efforts in transforming the cassava industry,” Ayeleso said.

AWARD OF EXCELLENCE…

L-R: Chief Executive Officer, New Horizons Technology Company, Tim Akano; former Lagos State First Lady, Mrs. Dame Raji Fashola; and President, Inner Wheel International Club, Nigeria, Mrs. Chris Uwaje, when Akano bagged the Award of Excellence on Youth Empowerment and National Development during the 37th International Inner Wheel Conference in Lagos… recently

New Horizons Partners Four More Varsities on ICT Empowerment

Stories by Emma Okonji

New Horizons, a technology training institute has partnered with additional four universities to train their students in 21st-centuryoriented, lucrative international certification-based ICT and project skills.

The universities include Lagos University Teaching Hospital Schools, Hillside University of Science and Technology, Aletheia University, and Ahman Pategi University. The initiative was a response to the increasing demand for highly qualified graduates who possess both academic excellence

and internationally recognized professional IT, e-business, and project management certifications, aimed at addressing the pervasive graduate unemployment syndrome.

The management team of New Horizons, led by the MD/CEO, Mr. Tim Akano, was present at the events. Akano asserted that the four universities had taken a bold step toward making their institutions relevant in the 21st century by embracing the rapid advancements in emerging technologies such as AI, robotics, and machine learning. He further stated that New Horizons would leverage its 43 years of international experience

as a U.S-based organization with 370 centers in 71 countries and 20 years of operations in Nigeria. With existing partnerships with 25 Nigerian universities, New Horizons aims to ensure that undergraduates are equipped with internationally recognized IT, e-business, and project development skills.

The stakeholders emphasised that the initiative was designed to enhance post-graduation employability and entrepreneurial opportunities for graduates, positioning them to compete on an international level with their counterparts from the U.S., Europe, Asia, and other parts of the world.

Vice-Chancellor of Hillside University of Science and Technology, Oke-Imesi, Ekiti State, Professor Iheayinchukwu Okoro, led other principal officers of the institution to sign the commencement of the training programme with New Horizons on September 23, 2024. Similarly, at an event hosted by the Chief Medical Director (CMD) of LUTH, Professor Wasiu Lanre Adeyemo, on December 17, 2024, a strategic partnership was established with the school.

The principal officers led by the CMD, expressed excitement over this landmark achievement, stating that the collaboration would enhance

Smartcash PSB Wins Payment Service Bank Award

Smartcash Payment Service Bank (PSB), a subsidiary of Airtel Nigeria, has been recognised as the Outstanding Payment Service Bank of the Year 2024 in the Fintech category at the New Telegraph Awards, reaffirming its continued growth and reach of the PSB within the last year.

The award ceremony, which held in Lagos, celebrated Smartcash PSB’s commitment to providing seamless, secure, and inclusive financial solutions aimed at driving financial inclusion across Nigeria.

During his welcome address,

The Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief of New Telegraph Newspapers, Ayodele Aminu, emphasised the need to recognise individuals and organisations that have made significant contributions across various sectors of the Nigerian economhy.

“The New Telegraph Awards was in place to identify and assess individuals or organisations who have played a significant impact in politics, governance, industry, and other sectors of life. We believe that acknowledging them will galvanize

the awardees towards greater productivity and excellence in their various fields and we look forward to seeing the incredible impact they will continue to make,” Aminu said.

Commenting on the award, Chief Executive Officer, SmartCash PSB, Ayotunde

Kuponiyi, said: “Receiving the Outstanding PSB of the Year 2024 (Fintech Award) from New Telegraph is a testament to our unwavering commitment to advancing financial inclusion and empowering MSMEs across Nigeria. At SmartCash PSB. We

remain dedicated to bridging the financial gap for underserved communities through innovative and accessible solutions. The recognition strengthens our resolve to drive economic empowerment and sustainable growth for millions of Nigerians.”

CEO of Airtel Nigeria, Dinesh Balsingh, remarked that the award was a reminder to the company of its commitment to excellent customer services. “The recognition by New Telegraph again reminds us as a business to remain dedicated to keeping the customer at the heart of our operations,” Balsingh said.

TD Africa Synergy Summit Ignites Tech Transformation in Ghana

The people of Accra in Ghana, last week, witnessed a remarkable gathering of tech industry leaders, visionaries, and policy-makers, as TD Africa hosted the Accra Synergy Summit on February 20th.

The event, held at the Kempinski Hotel Accra, brought together some of the most influential minds in the technology ecosystem, further cementing TD Africa’s role as a transformative force in sub-Saharan Africa’s tech landscape.

Spearheaded by the CEO of

The United Nations Secretary-General has announced the appointment of Dr. Jimson Olufuye and Hossam Elgamal to the Multi-Stakeholder Advisory Group (MAG) for 2025. The group, which is tasked with organising the upcoming 20th Global Internet Governance Forum (IGF), which is a landmark edition scheduled to take place in Norway from June 23-27, 2025, in Lillestrøm, Norway would be Chaired by Ms. Roach Carol, Bahamas - Under Secretary, Ministry of Economic

TD Africa, Mrs. Chioma Ekeh, the summit provided a strategic platform for top industry players, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), and key stakeholders to network, exchange ideas, and foster collaborations that will shape the future of technology in Ghana and beyond.

In her opening remarks, Chief Marketing Director of TD Africa, Chioma Chimere, described the attendees as the “men and women redefining the technological landscape

in Ghana.

The event saw the active participation of top delegates from global tech giants such as Dell, Cisco, Microsoft, Huawei, HP, Starlink, Philips, IBM, APC, Ecoflow, and Vertiv, among others.

A major highlight of the summit was Emmanuel Morka’s thoughtprovoking discussion on Financial Inclusion, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Blockchain Technology. Addressing the audience, he emphasised that the core idea behind

Financial Services Innovation (FSI) was to create inclusive financial systems that leave no one behind.

According to him, “AI and Blockchain are not just buzzwords, they are game-changers that have the potential to revolutionise financial inclusion in Africa. The challenge before us is to develop systems that can reach every individual, no matter their socio-economic status, and empower them with financial tools that drive economic growth.”

Others Appointed to UN Advisory Group 2025

Affairs.

The MAG, a key body under the United Nations’ Internet Governance Forum initiative, is composed of experts from various sectors, including government, academia, civil society, technical community and the private sector. Its primary role is to guide discussions and collaborations to foster inclusive and sustainable digital governance.

Olufuye, a Nigerian, and prominent advocate for digital transformation in Africa and

founder of the Africa ICT Alliance (AfICTA), brings years of expertise in ICT policy and strategy. His extensive contributions to bridging the digital divide and promoting multi-stakeholder engagement in Internet governance make him a valuable addition to the MAG.

Elgamal, an Egyptian technology leader and former chairman of the Africa ICT Alliance, is known for his innovative approaches to digital policy development. With his vast experience in

cybersecurity, data governance, and digital transformation, Elgamal’s appointment underscores the United Nations’ commitment to inclusive representation and diverse expertise in shaping the global internet future.

MAG 2025 was appointed through an exceptional approach, following the public nomination process from the MAG and WGIG alumni network rather than the traditional broad community nomination process.

the institution’s training programmes with ICT, aligning them with global medical developments.

Also, the partnership was launched at Aletheia University, Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State, on October 20, 2024. The principal officers, led

by Professor Amos Adeyinka, stated that the collaboration would increase the value of students both before and after graduation by providing entrepreneurial empowerment and preparing the institution for global competition.

ST Team Launches Tech Academy Programme to Empower Youths

Smart Treasure Investment (ST Team), an AI-powered investment platform dedicated to creating financial freedom for individuals, has launched its Tech Academy Programme designed to empower next generation youths also know as Gen Z.

The initiative offers free training in tech-related fields to the youths and children of all its members.

Regional Head of Smart Treasures in Lagos, Mr. Trust Otorudo, announced the training initiative during a press conference in Lagos recently. He emphasised the academy’s mission to provide accessible and quality tech-related training for members and their children.

“We believe that members and their kids deserve access to quality technology training, regardless of their financial background. That’s why we’re offering this training for free, exclusively to our members,” Otorudo stated.

The academy will provide training in full-stack development, web design, coding, and other tech-

related areas.

The programme will be headed by a VIP member of the Smart Treasures Team, Mr. Ejiro Awenayeri. Otorudo expressed excitement about the impact the academy will have on the community and encouraged members to take advantage of the opportunities provided.

Speaking during the press conference, Awenayeri praised the initiative, adding that it will offer an added advantage to ST Team members and expose their children to comprehensive IT development, including front-end and back-end learning.

“The ST Team is doing a great job and the tech program is a very laudable one. The team is in the right direction because tech development is revolutionary,” Awenayeri said.

The ST Tech Academy aims to develop skills in software engineering, data, visual assistance, and full-stack development for ST Team members’ children aged 13 and above.

Interswitch, one of Africa’s leading integrated payments and digital commerce companies, has been recognised as one of the ‘Happiest Workplaces Around the Globe 2024’.

The recognition, awarded by Happy Workplaces, a company dedicated to making employee well-being a benchmark for business success, places Interswitch among just nine companies in Nigeria to receive this honour, highlighting the company’s unwavering commitment to fostering an exceptional workplace culture.

The ‘Happiest Workplaces Around the Globe 2024’ certification is based on a comprehensive methodology that includes metaanalysis, employee surveys, and HR-checks. Happy Workplaces evaluated workplaces across 23

countries, leveraging insights from over one million employees and 236 workplace rankings. In Nigeria, 42 companies were assessed, with Interswitch earning recognition for its outstanding dedication to employee well-being, engagement, and satisfaction.

Group Chief Human Resources Officer, Interswitch, Franklin Ali, said: “We are honoured to be recognised as one of the ‘Happiest Workplaces Around the Globe 2024’. This achievement reflects our unwavering commitment to fostering a workplace where employees feel valued, empowered, and inspired to excel. At Interswitch, we believe our people are our greatest strength, and this recognition celebrates the inclusive, innovative, and supportive culture we’ve built together.”

Raising the Bar in Marketing Communications

The increased digital adoption in campaigns and a rising appreciation for storytelling in brand building, have redefined the marketing communication landscape in Nigeria, writes Raheem Akingbolu

With a strong foundation in crafting and executing impactful communication strategies, the CEO of The YellowLeaf Agency, a 360-degree marketing company, Randolph Ogbekhilu, has driven narratives for industries spanning finance, technology, artificial intelligence, and hospitality.

Randolph was featured in the prestigious UK Institute of Internal Communications magazine, where he shared transformative strategies for change communications. His expertise extends to leading internal and external communication for global brands, including managing communications for a SaaS company in the EMEA region, spearheading transformative campaigns that enhanced employee engagement and brand alignment.

His innovative approach to marketing and communications is powered by a results-driven mindset, making him a sought-after expert in the evolving landscape of brand storytelling and organizational transformation.

Giving his view about the growth of Nigerian Marcom industry, he admitted that the industry has seen impressive growth over the years, driven by a combination of factors including a shift in consumer expectations, increased digital adoption, and a rising appreciation for storytelling in brand building.

He said, “Brands are becoming a lot more intentional about their identity and the stories they tell, which is essential in today’s competitive marketplace,”

He however agreed that while there are still challenges, such as budget constraints, skill gaps, and rapidly evolving technology, he was quick to add that the positives far outweigh the negatives.

“The industry is now brimming with tools that can enhance productivity and amplify creativity, making it easier for professionals to deliver impactful campaigns. More importantly, there’s a growing interest in the field, especially among younger professionals, which can only strengthen the talent pipeline and fuel innovation. The future of Marcom in Nigeria is undoubtedly bright, as we see more brands embrace global best practices while staying true to local nuances.”

On the industry debate on whether AI is complementary or a burden to the players in the industry, he referenced his experience in managing communications for a global enterprise ‘AI Leader’, he stated that he had seen firsthand the transformative power of AI.

“It’s hard to ignore how AI tools are revolutionizing the way we approach marketing and communications. When used properly, AI doesn’t just complement the industry—it elevates it. For instance, tools like HubSpot’s content strategy feature or Hootsuite’s analytics can provide valuable insights into customer behavior, helping professionals make data-driven decisions that improve campaign outcomes.”

That said, he agreed with the school of thought that approaches debate around AI with apprehension, arguing that like any new technology, AI comes with its challenges. To this end, he said, “It’s still evolving, and we must remain cautious, especially regarding data security and over-reliance. For example, marketing professionals should avoid inputting sensitive company information into generative AI tools that may lack robust privacy protections. The good news is that many companies are now creating secure, internal AI platforms to mitigate such risks.

“Overall, AI is here to stay, and it’s essential for Marcom professionals to embrace it as a productivity booster while remaining adaptable and vigilant. Those who harness its potential thoughtfully will find themselves ahead of the curve, creating more impactful and efficient campaigns.” he stated.

Ask him what will come to his mind if he’s tapped to mention a memorable campaign or brief he has handled over the years and Randolph will reel out a number of such campaigns that impacted the brand and resonated with the consumers.

“I’ve had the privilege of working on several impactful campaigns throughout my career, but one that truly stands out is the launch of Nigeria’s first fully digital bank. In 2016, I was invited to be part of a project team tasked with delivering

a banking platform that would redefine the Nigerian banking experience.

“From brand creation and tone of voice to deployment materials and the overall marketing strategy, every detail of this campaign required meticulous planning and execution. The effort paid off as the bank went on to win multiple awards, including the “Best Digital Bank App” and “Best Banking App in Nigeria” at the prestigious World Finance Awards.”

According to him, it was a career-defining experience for him, as it showcased the power of a cohesive, well-thought-out communication strategy in driving innovation and market disruption. Beyond the accolades, being part of a project that reimagined banking for millions of Nigerians remains a professional highlight of his career.

Speaking on what informed his decision to come into the Marketing Communications industry, Randolph took this reporter to memory lane about his growing up days and how he always had a creative streak. “I loved watching commercials and could recite several iconic ads by heart—like Peak Milk’s “Papilo” campaign, which remains a classic. My interest in media and design naturally drew me toward creative pursuits.

“In secondary school, I was an active member of press teams, and during university, I led magazine clubs. These experiences laid a strong foundation for what would eventually become my career,”

With this background, fate was fair to him and he got admitted into banking training school, where he had one clear goal: to be part of the corporate communications team. “I imagined it as a space where I could connect with like-minded individuals who would help shape my interests—and that’s exactly what happened. Being deployed to the corporate communications team was a pivotal moment. It was there that my passion for marketing and communications truly crystallized. I began to see the field not just as a job, but as a way to channel my creativity and make a tangible impact.”

Looking back, he said he might not have explicitly set out to become a Marcom professional, but his interests and experiences naturally prepared him for the job. “It feels like an evolution I was meant to follow, and I couldn’t imagine doing anything else now.” he added.

In the last few years, Randolph has been involved in many campaigns, such as OMRON Nigeria, which was responsible for the deployment and launch of social media presence in Nigeria. He was then working with the Nigerian distributors -New Heights Pharmaceutical.) Besidesm, he also worked on the UBA Mastercard 75th anniversary partnership campaign execution and in fact all the UBA social media campaigns. Perhaps another milestone was the Hackaholics, Nigeria’s biggest tech hackathon event, where he worked on brand creation and project management of the inaugural event.

UNIVERSITY OF PORT HARCOURT

CHOBA, NIGERIA

INSTITUTE OF PETROLEUM AND ENERGY STUDIES

CENTER FOR OIL & GAS TECHNOLOGY

Admission into the M.Sc. (Petroleum Project Development and Energy Transition Program) for the 2025/2026 Session

An International MSc program.

The Institute of Petroleum Studies (IPS) now Institute of Petroleum and Energy Studies (IPES), was established in 2003, as a bold effort to bridge the skills gap between theory of the classroom and the practical and changing needs of the oil and gas industry

The M.Sc. Petroleum gram is an International Project Development and Energy Transition pro Collaborative Graduate program between the University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria, and IFP School, France and delivered by the IPES, which isfunded by the NNPC Limited /TotalEnergies E&P Nigeria Limited Joint Venture.

The aim of the program is to provide the students with broad-based training required for onshore and offshore oil and gas field development. On completion of the Masters' Program, the graduates will among other skills, be able to:

· Understand the context of Energy Transition.

· Evaluate and manage oil and gas fields, with the necessary approaches to minimize carbon emission.

· Design and supervise the drilling of exploration and development wells and carry out drilling optimization programs.

· Design, supervise, and evaluate well completion, workover and well stimulation programs.

· Design and operate onshore and offshore oil and gas production facilities.

· Carry out production optimization and well performance enhancement programs.

· Participate effectively in multidisciplinary oil and gas field review and field development teams.

Come and experience the IPES.

This MSc program will prepare you for the next steps in your career and you will learn from experts and industry leaders.

The Institute's faculty is made up of lecturers and resource persons from the University of Port Harcourt (Uniport) and other universities in Nigeria, IFP School, France, and experts from the Energy industry in Nigeria and the diaspora. Learning is supported by modern-day, state-of-theart, and industry software. Students will participate in field and laboratory visits and reviews of field-case studies.

The Institute offers a conducive learning environment, equipped with internet access, physical and virtual library, with access provided to student to relevant information technology tools.

IPES graduates have the opportunity to undertake a 1-year internship programme with TotalEnergies. The Institute has produced graduates who have consistently attaineda 91% employability rate in the oil and gas industry on graduation.

Program Duration:

The program is an intensive full-time study program that runs for twelve (12) calendar months, non-stop. The program cannot be truncated, and it is residential. Fees are non-refundable.

Award of Degree:

Successful students shall be awarded a joint Masters' degree from the University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria and IFP School, France.

Admission Requirements:

Admission is open to qualified candidates who meet the admission requirements below

· Bachelor's degree from an NUC accredited Engineering Program, with a minimum of second-class upper division.

· Post HND (bachelor's degree) from an NUC accredited Engineering program with a minimum of second-class upper division is also accepted.

· Bachelor's degree from an NUC accredited Engineering or physical sciences (Physics, Chemistry, Math

Technology (SLT) program, with second-class lower division, having a post and graduate diploma from IPES PGD program or any other PGD program in Petroleum Engineering.

· Bachelor's degree from an NUC accredited Engineering program with second-class lower division, having three (3) years of relevant work experience in the Oil and Gas industry

· Candidates with background in Applied Mathematics, Geophysics, Applied Chemistry (Industrial Chemistry), and Applied Physics, with a minimum of second-class upper division and relevant work experience (minimum of 4 years) in the Oil and Gas industry will be considered.

Application: Application is via ipes.uniport.edu.ng

A non-refundable application fee of Fifty Thousand Naira (N50,000) only will be required to be paid online to start the application process.

Only names of short-listed candidates will be published on the IP S website E ipes.uniport.edu.ng The program is tuition-paying and successfully admitted students shall be responsible for their tuition or seek for sponsorship.

IMPORTANT DATES TO REMEMBER:

Submit your online application before th May 30 , 2025.

th · July 7 , 2025

Aptitude Test: th th · July 10 to 15 , 2025

Oral Interview: th · November 10 , 2025

Commencement of academic activities for the session F

admissions@ipes.uniport.edu.ng

Signed:

Dr. Gloria. O. Chindah REGISTRAR www.uniport.edu.ng

IPES, UNIPORT

Acting Group Politics Editor DEJI ELUMOYE

Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com

08033025611 sms only

Setting Second Term Agenda for Ondo Gov Aiyedatiwa

Fidelis David reports that history was made on Monday with the swearing-in of Mr. Lucky aiyedatiwa as the Seventh Executive Governor of Ondo State amid high expectations from the people of the Sunshine State.

Following his victory in the November 16, 2024 governorship poll in Ondo state, Lucky Aiyedatiwa was on Monday, February 24, 2025 sworn-in as the seventh executive governor of the state.

Precisely, since the creation of Ondo State on 3rd of February 1976, by the military administration of General Murtala Muhammed, 19 people have served as governor; 12 military governors and seven civilian governors, including Governor Aiyedatiwa, who was sworn in on the 27th of December 2023 to complete the tenure of late Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu who died in 2023 after a prolonged illness.

Aiyedatiwa was selected as the running mate of late Governor Akeredolu in the 2020 Ondo State gubernatorial election. On 11 October 2020, Akeredolu and Aiyedatiwa were elected governor and deputy governor of the State to complete the second term tenure of Akeredolu.

However, two years on, things turned sour between Aiyedatiwa and Akeredolu during the latter’s medical vacation to Germany and transmitted power to Aiyedatiwa, but some aides of the late governor, who spotted Aiyedatiwa’s ambition, pushed for his impeachment and tried to ease him out of government but Aiyedatiwa survived the onslaught.

As history will have it, on December 27, 2023, Aiyedatiwa was sworn-in as governor of Ondo state following the death of his principal, Akeredolu who died after a protracted illness, thus, allowing Aiyedatiwa to complete their joint tenure by February, 2025.

Overview of 2024 politics

Particularly, that Aiyedatiwa braved all odds to emerge victorious in the governorship election, winning in all the 18 local government areas of the state signposted that he’s destined to reign.

Aiyedatiwa polled 366,781 votes to defeat his closest rival and a former deputy governor of the state, Ajayi Agboola who flew the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) flag. He scored 117,845 votes, more than twice lower than that of the APC candidate.

His victory did not, however, come easy as he faced so many hurdles in his attempt to seek the mandate of the people of Ondo State for the exalted office of the governor.

The hurdles ranged from attempted impeachment to undermining his office as the acting governor, among several attempts to smear his name, prior to the governorship polls due to the health challenges faced by his principal, Akeredolu who died on December 26, 2023 after a brief illness.

Besides, for Aiyedatiwa, who was appointed deputy governor after the removal of Agboola Ajayi, the erstwhile occupant of the office, his road to the Alagbaka Government House did not just come on a platter of gold. He battled 15 other aspirants to secure the ticket of his party, All Progressives Congress (APC).

He clinched the ticket with a resounding victory, amassing a total of 48,569 votes in the governorship primaries, with his closest contender, Mayowa Akinfolarin, trailing behind him with 15,343 votes, while Chief Olusola Oke placed third with 14,865 votes.

Aiyedatiwa’s Swearing-in

Aiyedatiwa’s swearing-in took place at the Ondo State Sports Complex in Akure, the state capital, two months after he won the November 16 governorship election on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Aiyedatiwa took his oath of office just after that of his running mate, Olayide Adelami around 1 pm and later rode in an open van around the complex, waving to cheers from supporters.

The ceremony was attended by several dignitaries including the Chairman of the APC, Dr Abdullahi Ganduje, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti, former governor, Bisi Akande (Osun), Dr Olusegun Mimiko (Ondo), Olusegun Osoba (Ogun), Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Minister of Youth, Ayodele Olawande, Deputy Governor of Edo State, Felix Idahosa, among others.

Speaking after his inauguration, Aiyedatiwa vowed that he will continue to prioritize the welfare of the people of the coastal state, foster economic growth and ensure that the state remains a beacon of hope and prosperity for generations to come.

“We are in a hurry to justify

this fresh mandate entrusted to us. In the next four years, we will work with interested investors and our development partners in ensuring that our Port Ondo becomes a reality. We will also facilitate investors to explore our large deposits of bitumen for local use and export purposes, thereby generating huge revenue to the State. This has been the vision and goals of our founding fathers. There is no doubt that this would not be an easy task but we are prepared to frontally confront these challenges and succeed.”

Moving beyond rhetoric

Now that he has been sworn-in, focus must shift to the legacy he wishes to leave behind. Particularly, the trust and confidence reposed in the party by the electorate should not be taken for granted.

A Yoruba adage says “if one of your relatives is eating harmful insects and you do not warn him, when he contacts a cough, the noise in his chest will not let you sleep”. (Bi ara ile eni ban je kokoro buburu, bi a ko tete so fun, kerekuru re ko ni je ki a sun l’oru). Before Aiyedatiwa

The people of the coastal state want patriotic people who will avoid the usual characteristics malady of saying “oga sope” (the boss said) and outright display of intellectual barrenness and sluggishness. Aiyedatiwa must be prepared to build a state that is strong, dynamic, progressive, truly independent, self-sufficient, scientifically and technologically great and ever ready to carve a niche for itself in the history of nigeria and the world as a whole.

embark on eating harmful insects, it will be wiser to warm him.

Particularly, Ondo’s problems appear to be mounting by the day and it would be a herculean task for anyone to address them all.

On several occasions, Aiyedatiwa had promised to continue to build on the worthy legacies of the founding fathers and former governors, noting the commitment of his administration to maximising the potential of the State for the benefit of the generality of the people.

His agenda has a framework for the economic, social, political and industrial emancipation of the state thereby freeing the citizenry from the evils of wants, poverty and economic exploitation.

His agenda rooted in a commitment to transforming Ondo State into a beacon of progress, equity, and sustainable development. With a focus on economic growth, social inclusion, and infrastructural advancement, the agenda outlines a clear roadmap to elevate the quality of life for all citizens.

Aiyedatiwa’s seven points aganda Aiyedatiwa’s administration New Development Agenda, ‘O’ Datiwa, O’ Dirorun’ (OUR EASE), focuses on seven key pillars: Order, Security, and Rule of Law; Urban/Rural Development via Agriculture and Blue Economy; Revolutionary Tech Advancement and Industrialization.

Others include, Efficient Healthcare and Socio-Economic Welfare; Adequate Power and Affordable Energy; Sustainable Infrastructure Development and Tourism, as well as Education, Human Capital Development, and Entrepreneurship.

It is a dog in whose speed one has faith that one sends to hunt hare, perhaps, that made Aiyedatiwa the preferred choice for the people of the sunshine state. Therefore, he must move beyond rhetoric and put smiles on the faces of the people of the state through it’s constitutional responsibilities.

Economic burdens

Ondo State is still facing a number of economic burdens, ranging from high unemployment, over dependence on federal allocation, poor macro-economic management, poor standard of living occasioned by a number of factors, among others.

Appointment of barren brains

If Aiyedatiwa wants success, he must appoint qualified, agile, reputable and competent people as cabinet members rather than using such position to compensate bigwigs, cabals and godfathers thereby leading to the appointment of naive, incompetent, and barren brains into sensitive positions.

In other words, the people of the coastal state want patriotic people who will avoid the usual characteristics malady of saying “Oga sope” (the boss said) and outright display of intellectual barrenness and sluggishness.

Aiyedatiwa must be prepared to build a state that is strong, dynamic, progressive, truly independent, self-sufficient, scientifically and technologically great and ever ready to carve a niche for itself in the history of Nigeria and the world as a whole.

If he must succeed, there must be a synergy between the Executive and Legislative arms of government in advancing Aiyedatiwa’s development agenda.

NOTE:

Aiyedatiwa

Turning Waste into Energy: GTCO’s ‘Waste for Gas’ Initiative Transforms Ogun Communities

Access to clean cooking energy remains a pressing challenge in many underserved communities across Nigeria, where millions still rely on firewood and charcoal for daily cooking. This reliance not only contributes to deforestation but also exposes households— particularly women and children—to harmful indoor air pollution. In response, Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (GTCO) has launched the Waste for Gas initiative, a groundbreaking project that tackles both environmental sustainability and energy poverty. Chiemelie Ezeobi writes that by exchanging plastic waste for gas cylinders and burners, the initiative empowers lowincome households, promotes responsible waste management, and enhances the quality of life for families in Ogun State

In many rural and underserved communities across Nigeria, the struggle for clean and efficient cooking energy persists. Firewood and charcoal remain the dominant fuel sources, leading to deforestation, indoor air pollution, and health hazards, particularly for women and children.

But a new initiative by Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (GTCO) is changing this narrative—one gas cylinder at a time.

The Waste for Gas initiative, launched in Obafemi Owode Local Government Area of Ogun State, is a bold attempt to tackle both energy poverty and environmental degradation. By exchanging plastic waste for gas cylinders and burners, GTCO is addressing multiple issues: improving household cooking conditions, reducing reliance on firewood, and promoting responsible waste disposal.

More Than Just a Giveaway

At the heart of the project is sustainability. Unlike traditional corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts that often provide short-term relief, Waste for Gas is designed as a structured exchange programme. Beneficiaries do not just receive free gas cookers; they actively participate by collecting and returning plastic waste, fostering a culture of environmental responsibility.

“This initiative not only provides access to

clean energy but also incorporates a structured waste-for-gas exchange programme that encourages responsible waste disposal and promotes sustainability,” explained Oyinade Adegbite, Chief Communication Officer of GTCO Plc.

Over 3,000 three-kilogram gas cylinders and burners were distributed to low-income households, with special attention given to women who bear the brunt of traditional cooking methods. The response has been overwhelmingly positive, as families begin to embrace cleaner, safer, and more efficient cooking alternatives.

Taiwo Suraju, one of the beneficiaries, expressed his gratitude: “We are excited. This gesture will make us stop using firewood for cooking.”

A Multi-Stakeholder Effort

The project’s success is rooted in collaboration. GTCO worked closely with local government officials, traditional rulers, and community leaders to ensure smooth implementation. The initiative unfolded in two phases: first, a door-todoor campaign to identify beneficiaries, and second, a monitoring phase to ensure proper adoption and use of the gas cookers.

Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun

Vice President Shettima Visits

Precious Ugwuzor

In a landmark visit to SecureID’s state-ofthe-art manufacturing plant, His Excellency, the Vice President of Nigeria, Kashim Shettima celebrated the company’s remarkable contributions to the nation’s manufacturing and digital solutions sectors.

The visit underscored the government’s commitment to supporting local businesses and driving economic growth through innovation and industrialization.

SecureID, a leading manufacturer of smart cards and digital solutions, has been at the forefront of Nigeria’s push for self-reliance in the technology and manufacturing space. As SecureID celebrates 20 years of operation, the company continues to demonstrate exceptional growth with a capacity to produce over 200 million cards and personaliseover 160 million smart cards annually and serving clients in 21 countries across Africa.

During the visit, the Vice President toured the facility, witnessing firsthand SecureID’s

State, represented by Odeyinka Temitayo, Director of Administration and Supply at the Ogun State Environmental Protection Agency (OGEPA), praised GTCO for the initiative.

“If other banks can replicate this initiative, Ogun State will become a haven of beauty,” he remarked. “I want GTCO to extend this project to other local government areas across the state.”

The Chairman of Obafemi Owode Local Government, Ogunsola Adesina ‘Lanre, also commended the bank’s efforts, noting that it was the first time a financial institution had directly engaged with the local government in such a meaningful way. He urged GTCO to establish a branch in the area to further support development.

Meanwhile, the Olu of Owode-Egba, Oba Kolawole Aremu Sowemimo, assured beneficiaries that the local government would create gas stations to provide affordable refills, ensuring the long-term viability of the project.

“We are going to create gas stations where you can refill at discounted prices,” he stated. “We are meeting with the Chairman of the Local Government to facilitate this.”

innovation. In his remarks, he commended SecureID for

Beyond CSR: A Sustainable Future

The Waste for Gas initiative is part of GTCO’s broader vision of driving sustainable development in Nigeria. For Group Chief Executive Officer, Segun Agbaje, the initiative is not just about handing out gas cylinders but about empowering communities and improving livelihoods.

“At GTCO, we are committed to driving progress not just through innovative financial solutions but by creating real impact in the communities where we operate,” Agbaje stated. “Waste for Gas is about making life easier for families, giving them more time for what truly matters—whether it’s education, meaningful work, or personal development.”

With climate change and environmental sustainability becoming pressing global concerns, initiatives like Waste for Gas provide a model for other private sector players to follow. By integrating waste management with energy solutions, GTCO is demonstrating that corporate social responsibility can be both impactful and sustainable. For residents of Obafemi Owode Local Government, the project is more than just a CSR initiative—it is a step towards a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future.

its resilience and success, noting that the company exemplifies the kind of homegrown businesses that can transform Nigeria’s economy.

“Government is committed to foster an enabling environment for businesses like SecureID to thrive," said the Vice President. "Through targeted policies and interventions, we are repositioning Nigeria’s economy to support local innovation, boost foreign exchange earnings, and create employment opportunities.”

The founder of SecureID, Mrs. Kofo Akinkugbe expressed gratitude for the Vice President’s visit and reaffirmed the company’s commitment to expanding its operations, creating jobs and putting Africa on the global stage. "We are proud of what we have achieved so far, but this is just the beginning. With the support of the government, we are ready to scale our operations, increase our export potential and contribute even more to Nigeria’s economic growth.”

The visit highlighted the significance of public-private partnerships in driving economic development and showcased SecureID’s readiness to lead Nigeria’s charge in the global digital and manufacturing sectors.

L-R; Dr. Olasupo Olusi, MD/CEO, Bank of Industry; Kofo Akinkugbe, OON Founder/GMD, SecureID; Sen Kashim Shettima, GCON, Vice President Federal Republic of Nigeria; Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, Deputy Governor, Lagos State; and Dotun Sulaiman, Chairman, SecureID cutting-edge production processes and its commitment to quality and

Some of the beneficiaries with the leaders of the community

Some of the donated cylinders for the GTCO’s ‘Waste for Gas’ Initiative

UK to Drive Nigeria’s Agric Sector Growth With £204m Investment

Arthur

Eriye

The United Kingdom (UK) Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has announced its readiness to inject £204 million in private sector finance and investment to boost growth is Nigeria’s agricultural sector.

The Country Representative for Propcom+, a programme funded by the UK FCDO, Mrs. Ode Adiya, disclosed this in Katsina during a stakeholders’ meeting.

According to her, Propcom+ is UK Aid’s eight-year climate-resilient agricultural market development programme.

It aims to support economic growth for smallholders and SMEs in conflict- and climate-affected regions.

“We’re improving the resilience of smallholders and small-scale entrepreneurs to climate change while increasing productivity and incomes, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and maintaining natural ecosystems.

“The programme, which

runs from 2023 to 2030, supports climate-resilient and sustainable agriculture and forestry that benefits people, the climate and nature. It also aims to transform Nigeria’s rural economy by addressing environmental, social and economic challenges in the country’s food and land-use system,” Adiya said.

She explained that the programme will achieve this by increasing productivity, improving nutrition and food security, enhancing climate resilience, reducing emissions, and protecting nature.

“It will also help tackle some of Nigeria’s underlying drivers of conflict and insecurity, supporting sustainable, pro-poor, climate-resilient growth in selected rural markets. We work as a ‘market facilitator’, identifying constraints in market systems and enabling changes that help rural markets benefit poor and climate-vulnerable smallholders and entrepreneurs.

“Propcom+ aims to increase the incomes and climate resilience of 3.79

million poor and vulnerable Nigerians, 50 per cent of whom will be women. The programme aims to support over four million people in adopting sustainable agricultural practices while about £95 million was earmarked for the programme,” she added.

She revealed that the programme is already active in Kano, Kaduna, Jigawa, Bauchi, Plateau, Gombe and Adamawa. Katsina has just been approved as a beneficiary.

Adiya said this development followed a meeting between Governor Dikko Radda and the FCDO, where they discussed the programme’s implementation in Katsina.

“Today, we had a very good meeting with farmers, businessmen, processors, academics, women’s groups and cooperatives. They support the decision to implement the programme in Katsina. In the coming days, we’ll meet government officials to better understand the challenges and how we can address them,” Adiya stated.

WACT-APM Terminals Nigeria Wins Special Economic Zones Industry Pacesetter Award

West Africa Container Terminal (WACT)-APM Terminals Nigeria, one of the country’s leading container terminal, has been honoured with the Special Economic Zones Industry Pacesetter Award by the Nigerian Economic Zone Association (NEZA).

The award was presented to WACT-APM Terminals by the Managing Director of the Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA), Dr. Olufemi Ogunyemi, at the 3rd Special Economic Zones Annual Meeting held recently in Lagos.

The award was received on behalf of WACT-APM Terminals by Courage Obadagbonyi, Chief Finance Officer of APM Terminals Nigeria, and Innocent Ogbuji, Head of Government and Public Relations, WACT-

APM Terminals Nigeria.

Speaking on the achievement, the Chief Finance Officer of APM Terminals Nigeria, Courage Obadagbonyi, reiterated the company’s dedication to investing in Nigeria’s economy and supporting government efforts to diversify the nation’s revenue base through the promotion of non-oil exports.

“Our commitment to Nigeria remains steadfast. We will continue investing in infrastructure, technology, and capacity-building to strengthen the country’s trade ecosystem. By supporting non-oil exports, we aim to contribute significantly to economic diversification and increased foreign exchange earnings for the nation,” he

stated.

The event, themed, “Fostering Strategic Synergies for Enhanced Special Economic Zones Operations and Sustainable Economic Growth,” brought together industry leaders and experts to explore strategies for optimizing special economic zones and fostering sustainable economic development.

As Nigeria’s first greenfield container terminal developed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, WACT-APM Terminals operates within the Oil and Gas Free Zone at Onne Port, Rivers State. Over the years, it has evolved into the most efficient gateway for markets outside Lagos, serving as a critical trade hub for Eastern Nigeria and beyond.

New Peppe Terra Cooking Paste: Make Your Meals Effortlessly

Cooking is more than just a routine, it’s an experience, a way to create moments, share love, and bring people together. The right ingredients don’t just add flavour, they transform an ordinary meal into something memorable. But getting that perfect balance of taste isn’t always easy. Anyone who spends time in the kitchen knows that cooking from scratch especially making a great base for dishes like stews, jollof rice, yam pottage, or spaghetti can be time-consuming and sometimes frustrating.

The foundation of any delicious meal lies in its base, and getting it right takes effort. The right blend of tomatoes, spices, and seasoning can elevate a dish, while the wrong combination can leave it tasting flat. For years, many home cooks have had to juggle multiple ingredients to achieve that deep, rich flavor. But now, there’s a taste-changer, Peppe Terra Cooking Paste. Recently introduced to the market, Peppe Terra is a perfectly balanced blend of spices, and seasoning, designed to take the stress out of cooking while delivering a rich, authentic taste.

Gone are the days of worrying about whether the tomatoes are too tangy, whether the seasoning is just right, or whether the flavors will come together in time. Cooking has now been made easy with Peppe Terra, just scoop, stir, simmer and let the aroma impress. At first, I was skeptical. As someone who values homemade, well-seasoned meals, I’ve always believed that the best flavors come from scratch. I’ve tried different shortcuts before using plain tomato paste and adding my own spices, but they always required extra effort to get the taste right. So, when I came across Peppe Terra, I wondered if it could truly deliver a lasting impression without compromising on flavor.

The first time I used it, I was making a simple stew and decided to incorporate Peppe Terra as my base instead of a mix of ingredients. The moment it hit the pot; the rich aroma instantly filled my kitchen. Within minutes, the taste was impressively bold, perfectly balanced, and profoundly flavorful. I didn’t need to adjust the seasoning

or add extra spices; everything was already spot-on.

What makes Peppe Terra different from other ready-to-cook products is its well-thought-out composition. It’s a blend of carefully selected spices, that gives every meal the right balance of taste & flavor. This means you don’t have to second-guess whether you’ve added enough salt or whether your pepper-totomato ratio is correct. The flavors are already expertly combined, making cooking faster and easier without sacrificing taste.

Chief Marketing Officer, TGI Group, Probal Bhattacharya, remarked, “We believe that cooking should be a delightful and effortless experience. That’s why we developed Peppe Terra Cooking Paste—a remarkable blend of premium flavors that helps make lasting impression with every meal. This exceptional product transforms your culinary creations, making every meal an extraordinary feast for the senses. With Peppe Terra, you can savor the joy of cooking while impressing your family and friends with dishes that burst with flavor and creativity.”

Saharan Blend (Algeria), Djeno (Congo), Zafiro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic

Iran), Basrah Medium (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).

L-R: Chief Finance Officer, APM Terminals Nigeria, Courage Obadagbonyi; Managing Director, Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA), Dr. Olufemi Ogunyemi; and General Manager, Government and Public Relations, WACT-APM Terminals Nigeria, at the Special Economic Zones Industry Pacesetter Award presentation during the 3rd Special Economic Zones Annual Meeting held recently in Lagos....recently

Stock Market Gains N11bn on Buy Interest in Okomu Oil, 32 Others

Kayode Tokede

The stock market section of the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) yesterday saw a midweek reversal, as investors buy interest in Okomu Oil Plc and 32 others pushed the overall capitalisation up by N11 billion.

The NGX All-Share Index (ASI) gained by 17.20 basis points or 0.02 per cent to close at

107,798.99 basis points. Accordingly, market capitalisation rose by N11 billion to close at N67.179 trillion. Investor sentiment, as measured by market breadth closed positive as 34 stocks advanced, while 16 declined. Africa Prudential recorded the highest price gain of 9.90 per cent to close at N33.10, per share.

Caverton Offshore Sup -

port Group followed with a gain of 9.87 per cent to close at N2.45, while Omatek Ventures rose by 8.22 per cent to close at 79 kobo, per share.

Lasaco Assurance went up by 6.92 per cent to close at N3.09, while Eterna appreciated by 6.60 per cent to close at N42.00, per share.

On the other hand, Guinea Insurance led the losers’ chart by 10

per cent, to close at 72 kobo, per share. Eunisell Interlinked followed with a decline of 9.68 per cent to close at N9.80, while The Initiates Plc declined by 8.02 per cent to close at N3.67, per share.

Oando depreciated by 7.69 per cent to close at N48.00 and Union Dicon Salt declined by 7.50 per cent to close at N5.55, per share.

However, the total vol -

ume traded dipped by 32.4 per cent to 245.517 million units, valued at N8.415 billion, and exchanged in 10,098 deals. Transactions in the shares of Access Holdings led the activity with 36.551 million shares worth N937.926 million.

Zenith Bank followed with account of 26.786 million shares valued at N1.286 billion, while Sterling Financial Holdings Company traded 11.249

million shares valued at N62.301 million. Jaiz Bank traded 10.875 million shares worth N36.110 million, while AIICO Insurance traded 10.786 million shares worth N17.942 million. On market outlook, Afrinvest Limited stated that “in the next trading session, we expect the positive performance to be sustained due to improved investor sentiment.”

PRICES FOR SECURITIES TRADED ASOF FEBRUARY 26/26

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 25 February-2025, unless otherwise stated.

and ETFS

NOTICE OF ADVERTISEMENT OF APPOINTMENT OF LIQUIDATOR AND WINDING UP ORDER OVER IMPERIAL JV LIMITED (RC: 1232694) (PURSUANT TO S.571 OF COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 2020)

HealtH & lifestyle

Strengthening Awareness, Action on Sexual and Reproductive Health in Nigeria

Reproduction is an integral aspect of ensuring the continuity of human societies. As such, while human societies evolve, creating opportunities for open discussion and education on sexual and reproductive health and rights remains a crucial aspect of building resilient societies. To this end, Global Citizens Africa, through its project Move Afrika, organised the ‘Stride for Her Rights’ advocacy walk, bringing together partners like HACEY and Worthy to strengthen awareness of sexual and reproductive health and rights in Nigeria. Esther Oluku reports

Asea of like-minded young individuals converged at AP filling station, Lekki, poised for the “Stride for Her Rights” walk to Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge to raise public awareness and inspire policy action on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR).

This event, organised by Global Citizens Africa in collaboration with HACEY Health Initiative and Worthy was a call to action on curating SRHR-friendly policies, raising awareness on increased funding for SRHR, and inspiring social change aimed at bettering SRHR of young Nigerians.

According to the World Health Organisation, sexual and reproductive health refers to a broad range of services which “cover access to contraception, fertility and infertility care, maternal and perinatal health, prevention and treatment of sexually transmitted infections,z protection from sexual and gender-based violence, and education on safe and healthy relationships.”

Access to SRHR is an important aspect of human rights, making for emotional, social and mental well-being. Sexual and reproductive health is part of a broader dream subsumed within universal health coverage.

A 2023 report by the Nigeria Demographic Health Survey (NDHS) shows that 15 per cent of adolescent girls aged 15-19 have experienced pregnancy. Globally, studies have shown that comprehensive sex education (CSE) significantly reduces risky sexual behaviour among young people.

The implementation of CSE in Nigerian schools remains fragmented, often facing resistance from conservative groups who view it as a threat to cultural and religious values.

Raising Awareness on SRHR

The Director of Global Citizens Africa, Ifeoma Chuks-Adizue, noted that to close existing information gaps and increase funding support for sexual and reproductive health services, more private sector players need to understand the importance of sexual and reproductive health to overall well-being.

“The objective of the walk is to drive awareness around sexual and reproductive health care and maternal care for women, and the need to have increased financing in these areas as well as in the areas of community health workers because we have key challenges in these areas.

“This, she said, would require the support of partners and government in funding and policies to drive positive change.

“We still have a lot of preventable deaths. We have community health workers who are not fully equipped and could do more with more government support. We trust that as we do this with our partners and the Lagos state government, we’ll come out with more positive results that we can celebrate as a nation over time.”

Adolescents and Youth-targeted Programmes

On her part, the Executive Director of HACEY Health Initiative, Ms Rhoda Robinson, emphasised the importance of equipping young people with the knowledge and agency to make informed choices. This, she believes, can be achieved through curating of adolescents and youth-targeted programmes.

According to Robinson, programmes which speak to the specific SRHR needs of young people will arm them with accurate, relevant and timely

information to lead more successful lives.

“We cannot keep ignoring the fact that young people need this information. Nigeria has one of the highest youth populations with new HIV infections. We need to provide them with comprehensive sexuality education (CSE) in a way that is age-appropriate, culturally relevant, and medically accurate.

“This is the only way to reduce teenage pregnancies, unsafe abortions, and the spread of sexually transmitted infections. More youth-friendly and youth-targeted health services and products are designed to fit the unique needs of both women and young girls as well.

“We are looking at how we can ensure that young people continue having the platforms to demand these rights and healthcare needs as well,” she said.

Addressing Concerns in Rural Communities

Founder of Women at Risk International Foundation (WARIF), Dr Kemi da Silva Ibru, stressed the need for grassroots investment in SRHR services, seeing that over half of the country’s total population live in rural communities.

Ibru stated that situations such as shortages of health professionals and facilities still force many mothers to seek maternal care from traditional birth attendants, which could exacerbate survival risks if the birth attendants are not well-trained.

Thus, broadening interventions to include the provision of training for traditional birth attendants can save the lives of women in rural communities while giving rural women access to care.

“Rural communities where 54 per cent of Nigerians live face the greatest challenges. Many women still rely on traditional birth attendants due to the absence of functional primary healthcare centres.

“Empowering community health workers and traditional birth attendants with modern medical knowledge and equipment can save lives. In Nigeria, it’s 512 deaths per 100,000 live births. This is unacceptable.”

Raising

Awareness of Contraceptives

A 2020 WHO report found that globally, countries with liberal abortion laws tend to have lower abortion rates due to better access to contraception and reproductive health education. Nigeria, however, remains divided, with strong religious and cultural opposition to law reform.

Robinson opined that increasing education

on contraceptives and risks, as well as complications from unsafe abortions, would contribute significantly to improving women’s health and reducing maternal mortality.

She stressed that access to contraceptive care will, in no small, prevent unwanted pregnancies.

“If we equip young people with the right information, we wouldn’t be having these conversations about unsafe abortion. More pregnancies would be planned and wanted. But in cases where abortion is necessary for medical reasons, it should be done safely, within the legal framework.”

Funding and Policy Implementation

While advocacy is crucial, translating words into action requires government commitment both in policy and funding.

Robinson insists that a holistic approach to SRHR would include developing policies backed by adequate funding to ensure implementation and improved health outcomes.

These would involve the multi-pronged partnership of private partners, nongovernmental organisations and the government catering to funding needs and policy enforcement.

“We need to develop these policies and ensure that these policies speak to the problem. We are looking at it in terms of our partners. Private sector partners, media partners and development partners would be crucial on the one hand in rendering funding to support these initiatives and conducting research and development towards SRHR.

“The government has an active role not just in providing policies or ensuring that they have the right budgetary and human personnel allocation, but also in ensuring that they create a conducive platform and environment for partners to come together, and also for young people to seek the services out.”

Government’s Action on Maternal Health

The Special Adviser to the Lagos State

Government on Health, Kemi Ogunyemi, acknowledged the existing gaps in SRHR while highlighting ongoing efforts to improve sexual and reproductive health in the state.

Speaking on the state government’s action plan to curb incidences of maternal mortality, she said: “One of the biggest causes of maternal mortality is postpartum haemorrhage, and we are continuously training midwives, community health workers, and doctors on how to manage these emergencies.

“We have also increased funding for maternal health and expanded access to free healthcare through the Ilera Eko health insurance program for pregnant women in Lagos State.”

Societal and Media Role

Cultural resistance remains a significant challenge in addressing SRHR issues as many young people lack the confidence to seek reproductive healthcare due to fear of stigmatisation.

Actress and social media influencer Ms Ada Afoluwake Ogunkeye, popularly known as Folu Storms, highlighted the role of people in society and social media channels in shaping narratives and bringing social change.

“Everyone is an influencer in their own right, whether in our homes, schools, churches, or mosques. This is a reminder that, in very small ways, we can support each other. “If we don’t look after our healthcare systems, one day, you, me, or somebody that you love is going to be in a critical position, and we will then be wailing about a failed country. You and I are responsible for this country.

“So when we have problems, you and I, nine times out of 10, are part of the problem. So you and I have to be part of the solution.”

Prospects for the Future

Despite the challenges, sexual and reproductive health and rights challenges are garnering growing involvement of private organisations committed to ensuring improved reproductive and sexual health for the Nigerian public.

The ‘Stride for Her Rights’ walk represents one of many collaborations in the steps towards raising a healthier and empowered generation.

Lagos Deploys AI and Digital Tools to Strengthen Fight Against Domestic, Sexual Violence

Chiemelie Ezeobi

The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) has introduced two major technology-driven initiatives to improve access to justice and support for survivors of domestic and sexual violence.

These tools—a WhatsAppbased AI chatbot and a

Self-Reporting Tool—align with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to using technology to address gender-based violence.

The Ask INU (I Need You) chatbot provides instant information and referrals via WhatsApp. By sending a message to 0812 893 7058, survivors and mandated reporters can access confidential, real-time support and guidance

on available services.

The Self-Reporting Tool, integrated into the Domestic and Sexual Violence Case Management System (DSVCMS), allows survivors to securely submit case details and upload key evidence such as photos, videos, audio recordings, and medical reports.

The platform, accessible at lagosdsvcms.org, is designed to strengthen evidence collection

and preservation, a critical factor in prosecuting domestic violence cases.

“About 60% of survivors who originally had pictorial, documentary, or audio evidence of abuse either misplace it, accidentally or voluntarily delete it, or have their devices destroyed by their abusive partners,” said Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, Executive Secretary of DSVA.

“This tool ensures they can securely store and retrieve their evidence when investigations commence or whenever they are ready to seek justice.”

Vivour-Adeniyi added that improved evidence management would significantly enhance the prosecution of domestic violence cases, addressing one of the major obstacles to securing justice.

“The improved collection and preservation of evidence

will play a key role in building survivors’ cases and strengthening the prosecution of domestic violence cases in Lagos State—an area that has previously faced significant challenges,” she said. With these innovations, Lagos State continues to set the pace in combating domestic and sexual violence, ensuring survivors have the tools and support they need while reinforcing accountability for perpetrators.

Attendees at the ‘Stride for Her Rights’ walk, held recently at the Lekki-Ikoyi link bridge, to raise public awareness and inspire policy action on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR)

Gamin G Week

Edited by nseobonG okon-ekonG |

gamingweek1117@gmail.com | Tel: 08114495324

Artificial Intelligence Takes Centrestage at Second Africa Gaming Expo

Following its debut edition in Lagos last year, the Africa Gaming Expo (AGE), a gathering of industry stakeholders from across the continent and beyond to discuss trends, address challenges, and propose solutions, returned for a second year. Iyke Bede reports

Last year, the platform focused on driving growth at the intersections of gaming, entertainment, and tourism, contributing to increased revenue in Africa’s gaming market. In 2024, the sector experienced 12.4 per cent growth, translating to $1.8 billion in video game revenue. Mirroring the continent-wide growth in sports betting, South Africa—Africa’s largest sports betting market—recorded a staggering 51 per cent revenue increase, jumping from ZAR 23.75 billion to ZAR 35.91 billion between 2023 and 2024. The entire market remains on track to reach $6.78 billion by 2030, with a CAGR of 7.54 per cent from 2022 to 2030.

This year, the expo recognises the increasing impact of artificial intelligence (AI) across various sectors through optimisation and predictive modelling and adopts the theme ‘Transforming Africa’s Gaming and Fintech Sector with Artificial Intelligence’, once again leading the conversation on initiatives poised to reshape the continent’s gaming landscape. With representatives from Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, Cameroon, Angola, Rwanda, Botswana, and Namibia, alongside global participants from North and South America, Europe, Asia, and Canada, discussions on the first day explored emerging market trends, women in gaming, taxation, illegal gambling, and payment service providers.

Through various panel sessions chaired by industry professionals, critical issues were identified, solutions proposed, and calls to action made.

Delivering the keynote address, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu highlighted the potential impact of AI on the gaming and fintech sectors, describing it as an enabler of “unprecedented economic opportunities” for Africa’s economies.

“It’s no longer news that most of the unicorns that have come out of Africa—four out of the seven—have all been birthed out of Lagos,” Sanwo-Olu said. “We see how even our Federal Government is taking the conversation around AI as a strong enabler to

Sanwo-Olu: Gaming Industry Has Evolved Beyond Traditional Entertainment

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State gave a stimulating keynote address to open the second edition of Africa Gaming Expo (AGE) in which he enjoined all participants to collaborate with his government to birth the next frontier of gaming, fintech and the creative economy. Excerpts:

Lagos is not just a commercial hub but a thriving epicentre of Africa’s creative economy, where gaming, Fintech, entertainment and AI converge to create unprecedented economic opportunities.

This year’s theme, ‘Transforming Africa’s Gaming and Fintech Sector with Artificial Intelligence’, is not just timely—it is essential.

The gaming industry has evolved beyond traditional entertainment. Today, it is a key driver of the creative economy, generating employment, fostering digital innovation, and creating new revenue streams. Similarly, fintech has revolutionised financial transactions, expanding access to digital payments and financial inclusion across the continent.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the catalyst that will accelerate the growth of both industries, enhancing user experiences, security, and operational efficiency.

Over the last decade, Africa’s gaming and fintech sectors have witnessed explosive growth, driven by increasing smartphone penetration, digital transactions, and a young, tech-savvy population. This evolution is not only transforming how we play and pay but also how we create and consume entertainment.

AI is at the forefront of this revolution, powering fraud detection, personalised gaming experiences, responsible gaming initiatives, and financial security. AI-driven tools are also enabling game developers, fintech innovators, and digital content creators to build more immersive and inclusive platforms that drive engagement and profitability.

Here in Lagos State, we recognise the immense potential of the synergy between gaming, fintech, entertainment, and AI. As a government, we are committed to fostering an ecosystem where innovation thrives,

responsible gaming is prioritised, and digital entrepreneurship flourishes. We are actively working on policies and initiatives that will position Lagos as the leading hub for digital gaming, fintech solutions, and AI-driven creative enterprises in Africa.

Through progressive regulations, strategic investments, and digital infrastructure, we aim to create an environment where game developers, fintech startups, content creators, and AI pioneers can collaborate and scale their innovations globally.

The Africa Gaming Expo 2025 provides a vital

platform for stakeholders, regulators, investors, and technology pioneers to engage in meaningful discussions on how AI can drive efficiency, security, and inclusivity across gaming, fintech, and entertainment. This is more than just an expo—it is a launch pad for ideas, partnerships, and innovations that will define the next phase of Africa’s digital transformation.

The future of Africa’s digital industries is intelligent, dynamic, and borderless, and together, we can harness the power of AI to build a more inclusive, transparent, and globally competitive ecosystem.

fast-track development, and Lagos is leading in all of that.”

He highlighted gaming as a key driver of the creative economy, fostering digital innovation, creating new revenue streams, and generating employment. Similarly, fintech has revolutionised financial transactions, expanding access to digital payments and financial inclusion across the continent.

“Over the past decade, Africa’s gaming and fintech sectors have witnessed explosive growth, driven by increasing smartphone penetration, digital transactions, and a very young, tech-savvy population,” he noted. “The number of digital transactions in Nigeria alone—across platforms like MTN and Airtel—likely surpasses that of many European countries combined.”

Beyond AI’s growth potential, Sanwo-Olu highlighted its role in fraud detection across gaming and fintech, reinforcing investor confidence and consumer trust.

“We see AI not just at the forefront of that revolution; it’s powering fraud detection, enhancing personalised gaming experiences, and strengthening responsible gaming initiatives and financial security,” said the Lagos governor. “AI-driven tools are essential for game developers, fintech innovators, and digital content creators to build more immersive and inclusive platforms that drive engagement and profitability.”

AI is already shaping Africa’s gaming and fintech industries, redefining security, user experience, and profitability. As stakeholders align their strategies to harness its potential, the Africa Gaming Expo cements itself as a platform where the future of Africa’s digital economy is being shaped.

Accompanied by some members of the Lagos State Executive Council, including the Secretary to the Lagos State Government, Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, Sanwo-Olu presented the Gaming Influencer Award to famed Togolese footballer Emmanuel Adebayor. Sharing the stage at that auspicious moment were Bashir Are, Managing Director, Lagos State Lottery and Gaming Authority and renowned footballer Austin JayJay Okocha.

Charles Ekundayo (right), MD, Africa Gaming Expo Limited, organisers of the event with foreign delegates

Participants at the Bet9Ja booth

L-R: Bashir Are, Emmanuel Adebayor, Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Austin JayJay Okocha

STRENGTHENING STATES UNIVERSAL BASIC EDUCATION...

Reuters, AP, Others Kick as Trump Bars Access to Key Presidential Events

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The White House yesterday denied reporters from Reuters and other news organisations access to President Donald Trump’s first cabinet meeting in keeping with the administration’s new policy regarding media coverage.

The White House stopped an Associated Press photographer and three reporters from Reuters, HuffPost and Der Tagesspiegel, a German newspaper from covering the event, Reuters reported.

On Tuesday, the Trump administration announced the White House would determine which media outlets would cover the president in smaller spaces such as the Oval Office.

The White House Correspondents’ Association (WHCA) has traditionally coordinated the rotation of the presidential press pool. Reuters, an international wire service, has participated in the pool for decades.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said that while traditional media organisations would still be permitted to cover Trump on a day-to-day basis, the administration plans to change who participates in smaller spaces. The pool system, administered by the WHCA, allowed select television, radio, wire, print and photojournalists to cover events and share their reporting with the broader media.

The three wire services that have traditionally served as permanent members of the White House pool, the AP, Bloomberg and Reuters, yesterday released a statement, in response to the new policy. On Tuesday, the WHCA also issued a statement protesting the new White House policy.

The move follows the Trump administration's decision to bar

the Associated Press from being in the pool because it has declined to refer to the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America, the name Trump has assigned the body of water, or update its widely followed stylebook to reflect such a change. Leavitt said the five major cable and broadcast television networks would continue to hold their rotating seats in the pool while the White House would add streaming services. Rotating print reporters and radio reporters would continue to be included, while new outlets and radio hosts would be added.

In a joint response, Reuters, The Associated Press and Bloomberg News today issued the following statement: The three permanent wires in the White House pool, The Associated Press, Bloomberg News and Reuters, have long worked to ensure that accurate, fair and timely information about the presidency is communicated to a broad audience of all political persuasions, both in the United States and globally. “Much of the White House coverage people see in their local news outlets, wherever they are in the world, comes from the wires. It is essential in a democracy for the public to have access to news about their government from an independent, free press. We believe that any steps by the government to limit the number of wire services with access to the President threatens that principle.

“ It also harms the spread of reliable information to people, communities, businesses and global financial markets that heavily depend on our reporting,” the statement said. The statement was signed by Julie Pace, Executive Editor, The Associated Press; John Micklethwait, Editor-inChief, Bloomberg and Alessandra Galloni, Editor-in-Chief, Reuters.

Nigeria Police Set Security Reform Agenda, to Prioritise Mental Health for Personnel

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has reiterated its commitment to prioritising mental health support for its personnel as part of a broader security reform agenda aimed at enhancing internal security and economic prosperity.

The police also pledged to strengthen cybercrime monitoring and improve inter-agency cooperation to combat financial crimes, as well as ensure the exit of Nigeria from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Grey List.

These decisions were some of the key resolutions reached at the just concluded fifth annual Conference and Retreat for Senior Police Officers, held in Abeokuta, Ogun State, with over 170 senior police officers from the ranks of commissioners of police to deputy inspector generals of police, across Nigeria in attendance.

Organised by Mr. Shina Philips

Aiyedatiwa

of Lenders Consult, the conference, themed “Improving Nigeria’s Internal Security and Economic Prosperity through Inclusive Policing,” brought together senior police officers, government officials, and security experts to discuss critical policing challenges and solutions.

One of the major highlights of the conference was the decision to prioritise the mental health and psychological well-being of police personnel given that they are frequently exposed to high-stress situations, which often lead to mental strain, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and burnout.

To address this, the police, at the conference, resolved on the need for psychological assessments, stress management interventions, and counselling services for officers.

As the three-day conference wound up yesterday, it was resolved that the NPF will conduct a nationwide study on the impact of mental health

challenges on police officers, revamp its Counselling Unit with trained psychologists and implement a structured mental health policy.

In line with this, NPF also pledged to reintroduce the eight-hour duty shift to reduce officer fatigue, while committing to expanding pre-retirement counselling services for police personnel.

While the Inspector-General of Police, Olukayode Adeolu Egbetokun emphasised the importance of transitioning from reactive to proactive policing, the conference also addressed the need to modernise policing through intelligence-led operations and advanced crime prevention strategies.

He also outlined plans to expand digital forensic capabilities, deploy surveillance drones, establish an integrated criminal database management system, and introduce a COMPSTAT performance management system to improve efficiency in policing

Approves Conversion

of Ondo Poly to University of Agriculture

Fidelis David in Akure

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has approved the upgrade and conversion of the state-owned Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo, to a University of Agriculture and Agribusiness.

A statement issued by the chief press secretary to the governor, Ebenezer Adeniyan, on Wednesday, said the conversion came after a review of the initial proposal for the upgrade of the polytechnic to a university of

management science and technology by the state government under the last administration.

Governor Aiyedatiwa said the school will be the model for the agriculture and food security revolution initiative of the state government.

The governor added that a committee will be set up by the government to work out the modalities for the implementation of the conversion while assuring that this will not have any negative effects on the current students and staff

of the institution.

Also, the governor approved a Memorandum of Understanding between the state government and a private investor on the injection of N15billion into a youth-oriented agriculture initiative in the state.

The MoU was on an agreement for the establishment and operation of the Young Ranchers Agricultural Cluster Development Programme between the government and AgroMall Discovery and Extension Limited.

The company will make use of

5 hectares of land in each of the three clusters in the state, using three higher institutions, including the newly upgraded RUGIPO, as host pilot beneficiaries.

The initiative will focus on practical farming for young people and practical training for students in agriculture and agric-related operations.

Aside training of the students, each of the three institutions to be used as hosts also stands to benefit a percentage from the proceeds of the operations.

operations.

While reaffirming the NPF’s commitment to implementing these resolutions, the IGP yesterday said they would develop annual policing strategies, increase investment in community policing, and enhance officer welfare programmes as well.

He called for a renewed commitment to leveraging technology and intelligence to strengthen security and rebuild public trust in law enforcement.

Underscoring the importance of regional and international cooperation in tackling transnational crimes such as terrorism, human trafficking, and arms smuggling, the discussion also covered Nigeria’s efforts to exit the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Grey List, with the NPF pledging to strengthen cybercrime monitoring and improve inter-agency cooperation to combat

financial crimes.

Also, Rwanda Inspector-General of Police, Felix Namuhoranye’s call for greater intelligence-sharing and collaboration between African police forces, led to the resolve by the NPF to expand its partnership with the Rwanda National Police and other African law enforcement agencies, strengthen intelligence-sharing platforms within AFRIPOL and ECOWAS, and increase joint training programmes for Nigerian police officers with their counterparts from East and Southern Africa.

Earlier at the opening ceremony, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to supporting the police through infrastructure upgrades, inter-agency collaboration, and improved community engagement.

TETFUND, British Council Partner to Boost Nigeria's Education Sector

Kuni Tyessi in Abuja

The Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) is collaborating with British institutions to enhance transnational education in Nigeria. This partnership aims to foster knowledge exchange, research collaboration, and faculty development while reducing Nigeria’s dependence on foreign education.

Speaking during a meeting with a British Council delegation led by Charlie Walker, TETFund Executive Secretary Sonny Echono emphasized the importance of this collaboration. Echono said: “We are committed to strengthening our local institutions to offer high-quality programmes. By working with British institutions,

we can expose Nigerian academics to global best practices and leapfrog in key educational areas.” He further revealed that TETFund has suspended its overseas scholarship programme, opting instead to channel resources into in-house training and institutional capacity building.

“For the next few years, we will prioritize training within Nigeria,” Echono stated, adding: “We recognize that some specialized knowledge may not yet be available locally, and this partnership will help bridge that gap.” Walker echoed the significance of transnational education, stating that it will promote research collaboration, cultural exchange, and skill development.

Chiemelie Ezeobi

L-R: Deputy Executive Secretary (Technical), Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), Prof. Bala Zakari; Senior Special Adviser to the Minister of Education, Dr. Ismaila Adiatu; Executive Secretary, UBEC, Hayiya Aisha Garba; and the Dean Chairman, Forum of States Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Prof. Adaramaja Shehu, at the opening of the UBEC management with the Executive Chairmen of SUBEB, Theme: "Strengthening Collaborations for Quality Basic Education in Nigeria", in Abuja ... yesterday

PHOTO: ENOCK REUBEN

COAS to Troops: Invigorate Operations in Nation’s Defence

Pledges

better welfare for soldiers, increased allowances, access to housing Calls for discipline, inter-agency cooperation as against conflicts with other security forces

Chiemelie Ezeobi

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has charged the troops of 35 Artillery Brigade, Abeokuta, Ogun State to invigorate their operations in defence of Nigeria.

He averred that without a safe and secure environment, there could never be any meaningful national development.

Oluyede gave this charge during his maiden visit to the Headquarters 35 Artillery Brigade, Alamala Barracks, Abeokuta, Ogun State, in continuation of his working tour of Nigerian Army (NA) formations and units.

A statement by the Director of Army Public Relations, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, said upon arrival, the COAS was immediately

briefed on the security situation in Ogun and contiguous states, as well as the operational activities of the Brigade by Commander Brigadier General Godwin Nwamba.

Addressing the troops, the Army Chief stated that he visited the Brigade to evaluate the troops' well-being and the Brigade's operational activities.

James Sowole in Abeokuta

Ogun State Government has announced the commencement of tolling operations on the EpeMojoda-Ijebu-Ode Expressway, starting from Monday, 24th March 2025, for the purpose of sustainable road maintenance, efficient operations, as well as enhanced road safety.

The 14.7km road had been in a poor state of repair for many years, making it a dangerous and unsatisfactory route for commuters.

The administration of Governor Dapo Abiodun re-built the road into a modern expressway with up to date facilities, including toll booths.

According to a statement on Wednesday by the Director-General,

Office of the Public-Private Partnerships, Hon. Dapo Oduwole, the reason for not tolling the road immediately upon its opening for use, despite its PPP arrangement, was predicated on the magnanimity of Abiodun and his resolve to make life comfortable for the people of the state.

The statement explained that the Governor considered the expressway as a strategic corridor for economic activities between Nigeria's commercial capital of Lagos and Ogun State; hence, the urgency for its completion.

The Director-General further stated that road users can comfortably ply the road without hindrance of any form, as necessary amenities were provided to make it one of the best

Aleke

The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered the immediate deployment of the Force Intelligence Department (FID) - Intelligence Response Team (IRT) tactical team to prioritize the safe rescue of Prince Eniola Ojajuni, the Afenifere Youth Leader, who was kidnapped on February 17, 2025, while travelling to Abuja. Egbetokun stated that the police are fully committed to the safe return of Prince Ojajuni and are deploying all necessary resources and expertise to achieve this objective.

A statement by the Force Spokesperson, Olumuyiwa Adejobi,

an Assistant Commissioner of Police, urged the public to exercise caution and refrain from engaging in social media speculation or sharing unverified information regarding the ongoing rescue efforts.

"Such activities can inadvertently jeopardise the operation and potentially endanger the victim's safety. Moreover, operatives of the Nigeria Police Force across the country have stepped up efforts to combat various forms of organized crime, including banditry, kidnapping, armed robbery, and similar offenses," he said.

The Force Spokesperson stated that in Taraba State, Police Operatives, acting on credible intelligence, successfully raided a criminal hideout

in the country.

"Prince Dapo Abiodun, upon assumption of office and in the course of designing an effective and efficient transport system that will boost the microeconomy of the state, discovered the economic importance of the Epe-Mojoda-IjebuOde Expressway.

"The government had opted for a public private partnership arrangement in the management of the asset including the collection of tolls. The government magnanimously delayed the rolling operations on that road since 2021 to provide some relief to residents and other road users.

"Meanwhile, while considering the interests of the people, we must also take into cognizance the economic

Oluyede said he visited Abeokuta to inform the troops of his expectations as professional soldiers of the Nigerian Army.

He reiterated his "soldier-first" mantra, emphasising that under his leadership, soldiers would be prioritised, and their welfare would

He clarified that he had received a thorough briefing on the challenges confronting the Brigade and assured that they would receive due attention in order of priority.

be a top priority.

He urged them to take advantage of the NA soft loan scheme, which offered a competitive interest rate of 3% to economically empower their families and improve their living standards, and also appreciated the troops for their sacrifices and efforts in securing the country.

The COAS visited the Momas-Epail Military Industrial Complex, where he was taken on an inspection tour of military hardware produced in the complex.

In Lagos, the COAS pledged to improve the welfare of Nigerian soldiers by increasing allowances, expanding access to affordable housing, and enhancing service conditions.

interests of the investors for us to strike a balance, hence the need to commence tolling operations on the road after about four years of using it free of any charge.

"It is pertinent to note that some road users have been exempted from this tolling obligation. These include emergency response vehicles, such as ambulances, fire service, and patrol vehicles.

"Others are government-owned security vehicles, Ogun State Government official vehicles, and any others as determined by the Ogun State Government.

"We, therefore, urge all road users to comply with these tolling regulations as enforcement measures will be implemented to the fullest without fear or favor," the statement read.

Speaking during his official visit to the 81 Division Area of Responsibility in Lagos, where he was received by the General Officer Commanding (GOC), Major General Farouk Mijinyawa, the COAS announced a 100 per cent increase in field allowances, raising daily payments from N1,500 to N3,000.

“The current daily allowance is no longer sufficient. We discussed this with the government, and they have responded positively. From next month, your daily field allowance will be N3,000. However, as much as the government is doing for us, we must reciprocate with dedication and discipline,” he said.

The Army Chief also revealed that housing projects for soldiers were expanding nationwide, with new developments in Ibadan, Jos, Port Harcourt, Owerri, and Akwa Ibom, following the completion of the first

set of units in Abuja last December.

“We are ensuring the spread of these houses so you can subscribe. Nowhere in Nigeria can you buy a two- or three-bedroom house for as low as N80 million. This is a huge investment by the Army to ensure you have a comfortable service life,” he said.

To provide additional financial relief, General Oluyede said they have instituted a low-interest loan scheme for personnel, offering credit at just three per cent interest, significantly lower than commercial bank rates. He also assured soldiers of improvements in uniform distribution, with a monthly production target of 100,000 uniforms to address shortages across divisions.

Beyond welfare, General Oluyede emphasised the need for discipline and inter-agency cooperation, warning against conflicts with other security forces.

“One major concern is clashes with the police, DSS, and civil defence. This is unacceptable and will not be tolerated. Most of these issues arise when soldiers are not where they should be. If you remain within the barracks and report for duty as scheduled, such problems will not occur,” he warned.

Reaffirming his leadership’s commitment to soldiers’ well-being, he said, “My team and I will do everything possible to ensure your welfare and that of your families, so you can focus on your duties. But I need your commitment in return—to serve with dedication and professionalism.”

Renovate, Upgrade Pilgrims’ Transit Camps, CSO Appeals to State Govs

in the Wamunchi dry season rice farms on February 26, 2025, and recovered one AK-47 rifle and seven rounds of live ammunition.

He noted that the operatives also arrested at least 20 male suspects and recovered one motorcycle, three Dane guns, and a bow and arrow.

He said the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further investigation, and the suspects are currently being profiled.

The IGP assured that the police under his command will continue to actively pursue and dismantle all criminal elements operating within communities to establish peace and safety.

The Independent Hajj Reporters (IHR) have called on governors across the country, including the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, to renovate the various Hajj transit camps in their states ahead of the airlift of intending pilgrims for the forthcoming Hajj 2025 operations.

IHR stated the call became necessary due to the decaying nature of some of the camps.

The group, in a statement Wednesday signed by its national coordinator, Ibrahim Mohammed, said: “It is common knowledge that intending pilgrims spend several days at the various Hajj camps ahead of their airlift to Saudi Arabia,

and information at our disposal indicates that some of the camps need urgent renovation to make them more comfortable.”

The CSO, however, singled out some governors, including those of Bauchi, Adamawa, Kaduna, Sokoto states and FCT, for undertaking extensive modernization and renovation of the Hajj transit camps in their states.

IHR further said: “We also acknowledge the government of Osun State for the promise to build a world-class permanent Hajj transit camp and urge the state government to complete the project before the 2025 Hajj exercise.

“In other Hajj countries, pilgrims’ education and enlightenment sessions are usually held in Hajj camps to allow pilgrims to experience familiarity and to also get acquainted with their first point of stay whenever Hajj airlift begins.

“We plead with the state executives to renovate and upgrade the facilities in their various Hajj camps before the Hajj airlift scheduled to begin within the last week of April this year. “In addition, we know that the camps can be used for commercial purposes by erecting hotels and event centers that can generate revenue for the pilgrims’ welfare boards and the states in general.”

L-R: Manager, Fidelity Bank Plc, Mr. Nnamdi Chukwu-Njoku; Managing Partner at Conwall Solicitors, Yinka Balogun; MD, Esscom Petroleum and Gas Limited, Dr, Abiola Adeworan; MD, Afrinvest Trustees Rita Abengowe; and MD, Omai Capital Limited, Mr. Efe Anaide, at the Esscom Petroleum Investment Forum for a N10 billion capital raise, held at the Radisson Blu Hotels, Victoria Island, Lagos... yesterday

Linus

in Abuja

ZULUM PRESENTING FOOD PALLIATIVES TO A BENEFICIARY...

Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum (right), presenting food palliatives to a beneficiary in Maiduguri... yesterday

PDP Holds South-east Zonal Congress, Re-elects Odefa as National Vice Chairman

Benjamin Nworie in Abakaliki

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has reelected Chief Ali Odefa as the Southeast National Vice Chairman of the party.

Odefa's reelection followed the nul-

lification of his purported expulsion by an Ebonyi State High Court sitting in Obiozara and presided by Justice Gladson Ugbala, which ordered that Odefa was qualified and eligible to contest for a second term.

Odefa was declared winner during

Adeleke: I Use Walking Stick as High Chief, Not Because of Ill Health

Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo

Osun State Governor, Ademola

Adeleke has clarified his use of walking stick at recent outings and official assignments, saying as Asiwaju of Edeland, the walking stick was part of the paraphernalia of his office.

Fielding questions, the governor who said he was fit as fiddle, affirmed that aside from being part of his outings as a high chief of Ede land, walking stick was a normal accessory in many parts of the country.

According to him, a walking stick is a signal of dignity associated with highly placed people in the society,

adding, “I am hale and hearty. I am not sick in whatever way.”

He narrated that his first walking stick was gifted to him by the Governor of Bayelsa State, Douye Diri during one of his state visits to Bayelsa, adding that, “At the recent Governors’ Forum meeting in Asaba, our host again gave all governors shining walking stick and we all used it.

“In the South East and South South, walking sticks are part of daily wares and outings. So, there is nothing extraordinary in my use of the same.

“My people should rest assured that their governor is well and has no health challenge,” he explained.

the zonal Congress held at Okpara Square in Enugu State yesterday.

Declaring the results, chairman of the Electoral panel, Hon. Funkeke Mye Solomon, said all the zonal officers emerged unopposed, adding that the congress was free, fair and credible.

Other Zonal officers, who won were Ugwu James Okechukwu, Secretary; Uchebo Regina, Treasurer; Ugwu Cornelius, Organising Secretary; Igwe Augustine, Publicity Secretary; Kenneth Okoro, Financial Secretary, Dominic Nwankwo, Legal

Adviser; Ezeanya Augustine, Auditor; Arodiogbu Ifeanyinwa, Women Leader and Nwanoruo Godswill, Youth Leader.

In his acceptance speech, Odefa appreciated all the delegates and promised that he would use the fresh mandate to right all the wrongs in the past.

"We want to appreciate our leader in the zone, Governor Peter Mbah despite the enormity of the work you are doing in Enugu State, you still find ways of giving us the much you have given to us.

"We want to also appreciate on the delegates that voted for us today and repose their confidence in us. It is our promise and pledge that we will not let you down and we will make you proud.

"We have a fresh mandate of four years and within these periods, we will right all the wrongs we have made in the past. I also equally want to use this medium to appeal to our brothers and sisters who may feel aggrieved with this process or the outcome to shield their swords.

"Let us come together to build

a party all of us can be proud of. It is better we are fighting inside the government house or inside the villa than to be fighting outside of power. “When we fight outside of power, there is nothing to share. But when we come together and put the government in place then there are patronage that can happen," h said.

He further appealed to other stakeholders from the zone to support the efforts and sacrifices of the leader of the party.

Police Beef Up Security at Bayero's Palace over Attempted Breach

Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano

Combined efforts by security men in Kano State, yesterday, dispersed a large group of thugs who allegedly attempted to storm the palace of the 15th Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero, to forcefully evict the monarch.

Suspected thugs in hundreds stormed the entrance of Aminu Ado Bayero's palace in Nasarawa

Quarters, a few meters away from the Government House around 11:30 am yesterday.

The thugs, who were opposed to Bayero's presence, blocked the entrance to the palace chanting hostile slogans and demanding that Bayero must leave the state.

The situation created a tense atmosphere around the Government House, which compelled security force to block state road,

Tarauni road, Audu Bako road and Commissioner road.

This incident was the latest development in the ongoing controversy surrounding Bayero's status as the former Emir of Kano

In a statement, the Kano State Police Command's Spokesman Abdullahi Kiyawa, said seventeen suspects were arrested in connection with the issue.

Arewa Group Lambasts El-Rufai, Accuses Him of Heating Up Polity

A Northern group, Arewa Think Tank (ATT) has noted that a former governor of Kaduna State, Nasir el-Rufai was unnecessarily heating up the polity, ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The position of ATT followed el-Rufai's interview last Monday with Arise Television, where he spoke on some issues, including the political situation of Kaduna State.

The ex-governor also said that Nigerians should not believe the narrative that the National Assembly rejected him as a ministerial nominee, but that it was President Bola Tinubu that did not want him.

But in a statement yesterday

by the Chief Convener of ATT, Muhammad Yakubu, the group asked el-Rufai not to play God as long as 2027 election is concerned, saying that, "only God knows tomorrow".

It added: "We noted that in that interview, eI-Rufai also said there is anger in the North, but we want to tell him that if there is such anger it was being created by him. For el-Rufai to say that Nuhu Ribadu is interested in 2031 presidency, to us is an absolute non-issue because 2031 belongs to God.

“Nobody knows how many of us will be alive by 2031. So, he is trying to get into the Almighty God's jurisdiction. Since E-Rufai himself has said that Nigerians

should wait till 2027, and see who is more popular between him and Uba Sani in Kaduna, why then is he in a hurry to talk about 2027.

“Let him then wait till 2027 and let's see what happens. Instead of him heating the politics unnecessarily, let him wait till 2027 if God spares our lives. Nasir El-Rufai, should stop acting like a thirsty crying baby, and allow peace to reign within the political community of our dear country.”

It advised el-Rufai to put the disappointment of not securing a ministerial appointment behind him as every disappointment is a blessing, recalling that el-Rufai's disappointment dates back to July 2023, when Tinubu submitted

his list of ministerial nominees to the Senate for screening and confirmation.

“El-Rufai was among the prominent names on the list. However, his nomination hit a roadblock as the Senate withheld his confirmation, citing security-related petitions filed against him by some Nigerians.

"We are happy that Nuhu Ribadu did not join issues with el-Rufai as he brushed off el-Rufai's allegations, saying he was too busy for media wars. We pity the former governor of Kaduna State, Nasir el-Rufai because ministers were appointed in August 2023, and we believe it's time for him to move on.

“ He cannot continue to behave like a child, as if someone forcefully

collected his biscuits and ran away from him, leaving him to cry endlessly. It is natural for him to feel hurt and bad about being excluded.

“ However, as the president acknowledged in his recent tribute to him, Nasir actually played a significant role in helping to install President Tinubu. Still, if he is not part of the government, that does not mean he must bring down the roof.

“The president has nothing against him as a person and his political ambition. He has been in public service since 1999, and we believe he was hurt when he was not appointed a minister. That explains why he has been making these statements of incitement all over the place.

"We whish to inform the public that adequate security measures have been put in place to prevent any potential breakdown of law and order in the State.

"Following credible intelligence reports of a planned violent protest by some individuals, the Command, in collaboration with other security agencies, have deployed personnel and access strategic locations within Kano Metropolis to prevent the protest and ensure public safety.

"As a result of these proactive measures, 17 suspected thugs have been arrested, and investigation is ongoing. The Command is committed to ensuring that the perpetrators of this planned violence are brought to justice," thee police stated. They warned all individuals and groups against engaging in any form of unlawful gathering, procession, or violence, saying such actions would be met with swift and decisive response from the security agencies.

“We urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the security agencies. The Command appreciates the cooperation and support of the good people of Kano State in our efforts to maintain peace and order,” he stated.

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

CAPACITY BUILDING ON BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP REGISTER...

L-R: Assistant Director, Compliance/Litigation, Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), Salisu Abubakar; Manager, Professional Practice, Institute of Chartered Accountant of Nigeria (ICAN), Chioma Udemba; Executive Director, Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), Mr. Auwal Ibrahim Musa; Keynote Speaker/Assistant Director, CAC, Muhammad Abdullahi; Coordinator, Tax Justice and Governance Platform, Lagos State, Mike Alade, and Senior Programme Officer, CISLAC, Ayo Omowu, during a two-day sensitisation and capacity building on Nigeria's Beneficial Ownership Register in Lagos…yesterday

Olukoyede: Organised Foreign Fraud

Syndicates Establishing Cells in Nigeria

The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ola Olukoyede has alerted Nigerians that organized foreign fraud syndicates are establishing cells in Nigerian cities and recruiting young Nigerians into serious organized cybercrimes, including cryptocurrency fraud.

Olukoyede made the disclosure on Wednesday, in Abuja on Wednesday, when he received participants of the Executive Intelligence Management Course (EIMC 18) of the National Institute for Security Studies (NISS),

Earlier, in his address, Ganduje thanked members for their steadfastness in the face of challenges and assured them that the party would continue to deliver on its electoral promises.

"Though the journey has been very challenging for us as a ruling party, given the big task we have at hand and the expectations from Nigerians, we can sufficiently submit that we have collectively risen to the occasion and challenges," he said.

Ganduje said the ruling party had embarked on massive reconciliation of aggrieved party members. He said the move was gradually yielding desired positive results for the party.

According to him, “Through dialogue, we have initiated high level discussions among party leaders and other stakeholders with a view to resolving lingering differences between our members.

“The conflict reconciliation committee, which you are about to approve, will build on this.”

Ganduje stressed that another promise NWC was fulfilling was the improvement of the membership base of the party.

He said, “Today, we have in our fold the former Senate President, Anyim Pius Anyim, who led prominent politicians from other political parties to join us. Notable among them are former Labour Party governorship candidate in Ebonyi State, Edwin Nkwegu, Senator Obinna Ogba, Senator Uche Ekwunife from Anambra State, and thousands of their supporters.”

Ganduje, however, disclosed that NWC, which he led, inherited a debt of N8,987,874,663 when he came into office.

He added that the inherited debts were expenses incurred during preelection legal battles, election cases, and appeals for legislative, governorship, and presidential elections.

“The current NWC inherited debts and legal liabilities to the total tune of N8,987,874,663, arising from various legal engagements,” he said.

He stated that the National Legal Adviser, Professor Abdul Kana (SAN),

led by the Director of Studies, Hyginus Ngele to the Commission.

In a statement, the EFCC's boss expressed surprise on how bandits and insurgents are able to sustain their activities over the years, stressing that the flow of small arms and light weapons across Nigeria's borders and the involvement of non-state actors in the illegal exploitation of minerals in parts of the country all compound the threats in the security landscape.

The statement signed by the Head, Media and Publicity, Mr Dele Oyewale, observed that a lot of these foreign fraudster are responsible for the importation of illegal arms into

had been working to reduce the debt burden through dialogue and alternative dispute resolution mechanisms.

Ganduje appealed for the intervention of NEC. “We still passionately appeal to the National Executive Committee to intervene accordingly,” he said.

President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, reiterated the National Assembly's commitment to supporting Tinubu in lifting the country from its economic and development woes.

"The senate will expeditiously pass bills that would enhance our national development, improve the economy and redirect our national pathway," he said.

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, commended the president for his vision and courage in making unpopular but essential decisions, saying the decisions are pivotal for Nigeria's development efforts.

The motion for indefinite adjournment was moved by a member of the House of Representatives, Patrick Ndubeze, at 2:26pm. It was seconded by Governor of Jigawa State, Umar Namadi.

Some of the NEC members in attendance were the governors of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo; Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa; Benue State, Hyacinth Alia; Ekiti State, Biodun Oyebanji; Kaduna State, Musa Sani; Nasarawa State, Abdulahi Sule; Yobe State, Mai Mala Buni; Kogi State, Usman Ododo; Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun; Niger State, Mohammed Bago; and Jigawa State, Umar Namadi.

Former governors in attendance included Senator Abdulaziz Yari; Minister of Budget and National Planning, Atiku Bagudu; Yahaya Bello; and Bello Matawalle.

At the meeting, too, were Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume; Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu; former Deputy Senate President, Ovie Omo-Agege; and other principal officers of the National Assembly, ministers, and others.

But former President Muhammadu

the country using cryptocurrency as means of payment.

“In the special operations we carried out in Lagos recently, we arrested 194 foreigners in the heart of Victoria Island. One hundred and ninety-four of them, Chinese, Filipinos, Eastern Europeans, Tunisians and the like in one building at a time. You can imagine what these guys are doing, 194 of them. Some of them don't even have valid visas and most of the financial activities they carried out they did through cryptocurrency.

“Another thing that we discovered is that some of the foreigners we arrested were already ex-convicts in

Buhari, his deputy, Yemi Osinbajo, Chibuike Amaechi, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, former Governor of Ekiti State, Kayode Fayemi, former Senate President, Ahmed Lawan, and others, were absent.As statutory members of the party’s NEC, they were expected to attend the meeting. Their absence might not be unconnected with the cracks within the ruling party.

El-Rufai had been up in arms against the leadership of the party, especially criticising their refusal to hold NEC meeting for 18 months.

The former governor had also launched attacks on the policies of the Tinubu administration.

Addressing journalists at the end of the NEC meeting, Morka, said NEC had ratified the zoning of the party’s chairmanship position to the North-west

He added that a seven-member committee to be chaired by Buni was assigned the task of bringing more members into the party’s NEC.

Morka urged El-Rufai to respect his status as a former minister and former governor.

He said contrary to El-Rufai's claims, all organs of the party were functional.

Morka stated, "All organs of the party are working. What the former governor of Kaduna State said, there is a difference between party men and people who speak because they have a grievance.

“Grievance-driven commentaries are not to be taken seriously. It was clear from all the comments that the former governor has a an axe to grind.

"But for today's meeting, I was prepared to respond to the former governor and to suggest to him that some of his recent engagements are unnecessary for someone, who occupies the position that he has occupied in this country.

“Men who are respected must also continue to justify the respect they get. It is not a good idea that once you are dissatisfied, especially when it comes to personal experiences, then you want to visit your personal grievances on the system of a political party.

"El-Rufai is just one person. Yes,

their countries. Some of them have been convicted and escaped from their countries and found safe haven in Africa, not only Nigeria. We discovered that they are also developing cells in some other African countries by virtue of the investigation we are carrying out,” Olukoyede said.

The chairman pointed out that at the level of the EFCC, they have always been suspicious of the activities of non-state actors in the areas where the country is challenged security-wise.

"In the Northeast for instance, the activities of local and international NGOs have been under focus. This was a major impetus for the decision

he is a former minister and former governor, he has been up there but at the end of the day he is just one person in the party scheme.

“He is a highly respected citizen but my advice and counsel to him is that he needs to speak in a manner that is befitting of his status. Otherwise, if he continues to engage, people have a right to reply."

On the absence of some leaders, he said, "As far as I know, I have never known a caucus meeting of our party or NEC meeting of our party attended a hundred per cent by all members of NEC or caucus, and I am not sure that there is really any political party where you have 100 per cent attendance for such meetings."

Morka said the party held its NEC at the convenience of the president whose itinerary was crowded.

He stated, "Rest assured that every member of Caucus and NEC was invited. The list of members today was comprehensive. As a matter of fact, we enlarged the list for the meeting today. We had more members invited than we did previously."

Meanwhile, Ata has commended Tinubu for extending Ganduje’s tenure as the APC national chairman.

In a statement in Kano by the minister's aide, Seyi Olorunsola, Ata said the extension of Ganduje's leadership reflected the party's unwavering confidence in the national chairman of the ruling party.

The minister stated, "This decision, ratified during the National Working Committee (NWC) meeting held on February 25, 2025, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja and presided over by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, reflects the party's unwavering confidence in Dr. Ganduje's leadership.

"Since assuming the role of National Chairman on August 3, 2023, Ganduje had demonstrated exceptional leadership, steering the APC to remarkable successes in various elections."

Ata maintained that under Ganduje's guidance, the party achieved significant victories in off-cycle governorship elections, notably in Edo, Ondo, Kogi, and Imo States.

to mandate their registration with SCUML, Special Control Unit against Money Laundering, a department in EFCC, and a clear directive to notify the Commission on cash movements within the region,” he said.

Earlier in his speech, NISS Commandant, Joseph Obule Odama who spoke through Ngele praised Olukoyede’s leadership of the EFCC for the Commission’s “remarkable achievements in combating corruption, money laundering, and other financial crimes,” noting that the achievements “have not only strengthened Nigeria's integrity but have also served as a model for other nations in Africa and beyond.”

He further noted that the EFCC, under Olukoyede, has been at the forefront of investigating and prosecuting financial crimes, including those involving non-state actors.

“Your Commission's exploratory activities have uncovered the intricate networks through which some NGOs and other entities channel funds to support hostile non-state actors, thereby fueling instability in various parts of the country and the African Continent.

“We recognize the critical role the EFCC plays in disrupting these networks and ensuring accountability. In light of this, we are particularly interested in hearing your insights on how your Commission navigates the complexities of investigating and prosecuting cases involving non-state actors.

“ We also seek your contributions on how Nigeria and other African nations can strengthen legal and institutional frameworks to address the challenges posed by these actors while promoting transparency and accountability in their operations”.

FG Unveils Digital Platform to Boost Delivery in Agriculture Extension Services

James Emejo in Abuja

The Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Aliyu Abdullahi, yesterday launched the National Electronic Extension Platform (NEEP), a digital initiative to enhance agricultural service delivery, and improve productivity.

Speaking at the opening of the National Agricultural Extension Research Summit in Abuja, the minister said the platform would also strengthen the linkage between research institutions and farmers.

NEEP is designed to work with the National Agricultural Research and Extension System (NARES) and other relevant institutions to address the low extension agent-to-farmer ratio.

The minister said the digital platform will provide real-time access to vital agricultural information, offering an interactive and cost-effective alternative to traditional extension services while also mitigating security risks faced by field agents.

He highlighted the role of technology in improving labour productivity, particularly through the distribution of tractors for land preparation, planting, and harvesting.

Abdullahi said the summit was part of the ministry’s ongoing efforts to leverage technology for agricultural extension services.

He said the Federal Department of Agricultural Extension, the soft launch of NEEP will strengthen agricultural service delivery in the country.

He noted that the ministry had deployed technologies to improve

labour productivity through distribution of tractors for land preparation, planting and harvesting.

In his remarks, the ministry's Permanent Secretary, Mr. Ogunbiyi Marcus, acknowledged the historical challenges faced by Nigeria’s extension services due to inconsistent policies, inadequate funding, and limited technological adoption. He said despite past shortcomings, the use of digital technology, as outlined in the National Agricultural Technology and Innovation Policy (NATIP) 2022-2027, presented a significant opportunity for improvement.

He noted that adequate funding and effective deployment of digital tools will ensure greater results.

Also, Director of the Federal Department of Agricultural Extension Service, Dr. Deola Tayo Lordbanjou, emphasised the critical role of agricultural extension services in translating research findings, innovative practices, and new technologies into practical solutions for farmers.

He noted that an effective extension system boosts agricultural productivity, increases income, enhances food security, and improves rural livelihoods.

He, however, acknowledged the challenges faced by the sector, including inadequate funding, weak research-extension-farmer linkages, and poor coordination among stakeholders.

He said, "Research is crucial to the agricultural development of any nation. The beauty of the efforts made by Agricultural Research Institutes is fully realized through a well-structured extension service.

Alex Enumah in Abuja

2027: 'NO VACANCY IN ASO ROCK' AS APC LEADERS PASS VOTE OF CONFIDENCE IN TINUBU

WORKsHOP ON CassaVa VaLUE CHaiN...

L-R: Head of Partnership & Investment Relations, National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF), Nasir Ingawa; Member, Board of Director, Cavista Holdings, Hakeem Shagaya; Senior Lecturer, Lagos Business School, Dr. Adedoyin Salami; Project Lead, BCG, Elizabeth Eze; Chief of Staff to Ekiti State Governor, Niyi Adebayo; Managing Director, Agbeyewa Farms, Seyi Ayeleso; Director of Strategy, Cavista Holdings, Kabir Shagaya, and Partner BCG, Olayinka Majekodunmi, at a workshop on cassava value chain at Ikogosi, Ekiti State…recently

Two Officers Killed as Police Foil Kidnapping Attempt in Plateau

Gunmen abduct four female university students in Benue

seriki adinoyi inJos

Two police officers, Fatoyo Femi and Insp. Dafur Dashit, attached to Force Investigation Department, Abuja (IRT) on special duty in Jos, Plateau State, were last Tuesday killed as they battled to foil kidnapping attempt at Rayfield in Jos.

Disclosing this in a statement, Plateau State Police Command added that it has arrested four suspects in connection with the incident, lamenting that the officers lost their lives during the exchange of gunfire with the suspected kidnappers.

State, were yesterday abducted outside the university campus by suspected gunmen.

A statement signed by the spokesman of the state Command,

However, four female students of the Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University in Makurdi, Benue

Group Pushes for Draft Bill to Reform INEC

As part of its programmes to mark the second anniversary of Nigeria’s 2023 Presidential and National Assembly elections, which it said “exposed deep flaws in the country’s electoral system”, a reform advocacy organisation, Mandate4. org, is launching the #FixINEC #FixNigeria issue-based advocacy resource hub to commemorate this critical event and support demands for urgent reforms to Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

A statement issued by the reformcentred outfit said: “The #FixINEC

#FixNigeria is an issue-based advocacy resource hub set up by Mandate4.org that provides citizens, movements, activists, legislators and stakeholders in the democratic space with the information and advocacy resources needed to reform Nigeria’s electoral system.

“At the heart of Nigeria’s challenges lies poor leadership, enabled by a flawed electoral process that fails to reflect the people’s will. Nigeria’s broken electoral system has had devastating consequences on governance and quality of life.”

Wigwe Varsity Appoints Pro- Chancellor, Substantive VC

The Board of Trustees(BoT) of Wigwe University has appointed Honourable Justice Amina Adamu Augie (rtd)as the Pro-Chancellor/ Chairman, Governing Council and Prof. Marwan Al-Akaidi as Vice-Chancellor of the institution.

The appointments were made known in a statement signed by the Chairman, BoT, Prof. Fabian Ajogwu.

According to Prof. Ajogwu, these significant developments underscore the institution’s commitment to academic excellence, leadership, and innovation.

Alfred Alabo, read: “Plateau State Police Command wishes to inform the public of the arrest of four suspected kidnappers in the recent foiled kidnapping incident

that took place on Little Rayfield Road, Jos.

“However, two of our officers namely: Fatoyo Femi and Insp. Dafur Dashit attached to Force

Investigation Department, Abuja (IRT), who were on a special duty in Jos lost their lives during the exchange of gunfire with the suspected kidnappers.

Sharia Council, FCT Imams, Yadudu Reject Inheritance Law, VAT Increase

The Supreme Council for Shariah in Nigeria, Committee of FCT Imams Initiative, Kano State Government, and former Presidential Adviser Professor Auwalu Yadudu among others have raised concerns about the proposed law on inheritance, saying it will infringe on the religious rights of Christians and Muslims.

The stakeholders disclosed this yesterday during their various presentations at the House of Representatives Public Hearing on Tax Reform Bills convened by the House Committee on Finance in Abuja.

The four bills are: The Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, the Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Bill, the Joint Revenue Board Bill, and the Nigeria Tax Bill, which have been passed for a second reading by both the Senate and the House of Representatives.

For instance, in its presentation, the Sharia council represented by Professor Ahmed Bello Dogarawa, acknowledged the importance of tax reforms but strongly opposed the proposed inheritance tax, stating that it conflicts with Islamic law and religious practices.

He said: “While we appreciate efforts to streamline tax laws, we cannot support a provision that contradicts deeply held religious principles. Taxing inheritance in this manner would create unnecessary tension and legal challenges.”

FG, MTN Set May 2026 Deadline for Enugu-Onitsha Expressway Completion

sunday Ehigiator

The Federal Ministry of Works and MTN Nigeria have agreed on a May 10, 2026, deadline for the completion of the Enugu-Onitsha dual-carriageway project, funded by MTN under the Tax Credit Scheme. This is just as the Minister of Works,

David Umahi, called on cement manufacturers to reduce the price of cement to N7,000.

In a statement, the Special Adviser on Media to the Honourable Minister of Works, Orji Uchenna Orji, quoted Umahi as emphasising the need for quality and speedy delivery of the project.

Umahi noted that the Ministry has the responsibility to ensure that contractors comply with project specifications, and warned that MTN would be held responsible if the road fails after construction due to poor workmanship.

According to him, “We have to put the records straight that this

ministry has the responsibility to ensure quality delivery of work by contractors. The contractor in this case is MTN.

“We went through what MTN was doing. We discovered that they were using peeled sand to do the job. I’m an engineer. I’m not a history graduate.”

Lagos Crisis: Court Grants N3m Bail to Three Assembly Staff, Sets June 24 for Trial

Wale igbintade

Justice Daniel Osiagor of the Federal High Court in Lagos has granted bail to three staff members of the Lagos State House of Assembly, who are accused of assaulting operatives of the State Security Services (SSS) during the leadership crisis on February 17.

The defendants, Ibrahim Olanrewaju, Adetu Adekunle, and Fatimoh Adetola, were granted bail after their lawyer, Mr. Frank Eke, filed a motion following their arraignment. They pleaded not guilty to the charges brought against them.

Each defendant was granted bail in the sum of N3 million,

Honourable Justice Augie is a distinguished jurist and former Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria.

He said: “As the ProChancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Honourable Justice Augie, will succeed Professor Julius Okojie, the former Pro-Chancellor of the University. Meanwhile, Professor Al-Akaidi has been confirmed as the substantive Vice-Chancellor after serving in an acting role as well as Dean of the College of Science and Computing and Deputy Vice-Chancellor responsible for research and innovation.”

Seasoned Journalist Loses Wife to Diabetes

Deaconess Adenike Rafat Ajao a staff member of Bells University of Technology, Otta, Ogun State has passed on in Abeokuta aged 59. According to a statement yesterday, which was signed by her husband, a seasoned journalist , Mr Wale Ajao, Deaconess Adenike Rafat Ajao had been battling with multiple ailments such as diabetes, chronic kidney disease, hypertension ,hemorrage and heart palpitations for the past three years.

with one surety each. The sureties must be employed by either the Lagos State government or the federal government, and should be at least Grade Level 12.

The court registrar will verify the documents presented.

The DSS had brought the three assembly staff members before the court on charges marked FHC/L/273C/2025. The defendants, along with others still at large, are accused of conspiring to assault SSS officers while they were carrying out their official duties on February 17, 2025. They are also accused of obstructing the officers without reasonable cause.

Gombe Gov Reaffirms Commitmen to Harness Regional Assets for Growth

segun awofadeji in bauchi

Gombe State Governor, Alhaji Muhammadu Inuwa Yahay,a has reiterated the commitment of Northern governors to address the challenges facing the region and leverage its vast resources for accelerated development. This was as the Chairman of the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation, Dr Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu urged the present crops of leaders in the North never to allow the legacies of Late Ahmadu Bello, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa and others to die while they pilot the affairs of their respective states in the region.

The Gombe state governor was speaking yesterday when he chaired the 11th Annual Memorial Lecture of Sir Ahmadu Bello (Sardauna of Sokoto) in Bauchi.

He acknowledged the challenges bedeviling the Northern region such as inadequate infrastructure, high unemployment and persistent poverty among others, urging collective efforts to address them.

“The issues affecting our region are profound, but I want to assure you that as individual state governo rs and collectively as the Northern Governors Forum, we are committed to addressing these challenges head-on.”

Bodija Explosion: Makinde Receives Relief Fund Committee’s Report

Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has received the report of the Committee on Management/ Disbursement of Bodija Explosion Relief Fund, noting that the state government would look into the recommendations and implement them as appropriate.

Mr. Wale Ajao a former Vanguard Staff member disclosed that funeral service for his late wife is scheduled for Friday March 14, at the Living Faith Church aka Winners Chapel Canaan land Idi Iroko road, Otta Ogun State and internment at the church cemetery.

“Her health challenge degenerated towards the middle of last year and by December Monday December 9 she had to be rushed to the Federal Medical Centre, Abeokuta where she was attended to at the Renal ward because her two kidneys had been ruptured. By December 27 she was discharged because her condition improved. But by January 14 her health condition deteriorated again compelling her family to rush her back to the emergency ward of the Federal Medical Centre Abeokuta where she eventually passed on yesterday night,” the statement said.

Governor Makinde, who was represented by the Deputy Governor who also doubles as the chairman of the committee, Barr. Abdulraheem Bayo Lawal, said the event that led to the setting up of the committee was sad and avoidable.

He noted that the state government responded to the explosion by putting in place several measures, including emergency services and post-explosion support services.

He added that the state had to dig deep into the root cause

of the explosion, admonishing residents of the state to continue to be security-conscious and alert.

The governor assured the people that the committee’s report would be implemented so as to support victims of the explosion and bring some sort of relief to them.

APGA to Conduct Anambra Guber Primary on April 5, Nomination Form Costs N30m

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in abuja

Ahead of the November 8, 2025 Governorship election in Anambra state, the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) has fixed its primary election for April 5. It said that Expression of Interest

Form, and Nomination form will be sold at N5 million and N25 million respectively. The party also approved the sale of the nomination form to female aspirants and those that are physically challenged at concessionary rate of five percent.

A statement signed by the National Organising Secretary of APGA, Mr. Ifeanyi Mbaeri said that the process will kick off on Friday, February 28 with the sale of Expression of Interest Form and climax on April 5 with a special state Congress and governorship

primary to held at Alex Ekwueme Square Awka, Anambra State. In the statement, Mbaeri said the party has approved a provisional timetable/schedule of activities for Anambra state Governorship Primary Election 2025.

Godswill Akpabio to Nigerians

“I don’t think that at the moment, up to 30 percent of Nigerians pay tax. Yet, 100 percent of Nigerians want good roads, and other infrastructure. They want effective train services...Most Nigerians do not want to pay tax but at the end of the tax bills’ passage it would be easier for everybody to pay tax whether you like it or not.”

Senate President on why the tax reform bills are important

OLUSEGUN ADENIYI

olusegun.adeniyi@thisdaylive.com

Abacha, IBB and the Burden of History

One of the grandchildren of the late General Sani Abacha attacked General Ibrahim Babangida last weekend in an angry post on X. Titled, ‘My grandfather saved the life of a coward’, it features a photo of Babangida and Abacha holding hands. But the first line carries the punch: “If the lifespans of these two consequential figures were reversed, this treachery would never be discharged by General Abacha.” While I am not interested in the family feud between the Babangidas and the Abachas, there is an important lesson we should not miss: Those who hold the levers of power must always be mindful of the consequences of their actions - not only on themselves but on their families.

That lesson may be lost on the dead, but it is important for the living. On that score, I sympathise with the Abacha family. People may react differently to the dark or heroic parts of their ancestry, but I understand that it can be upsetting to hear unpleasant tales about those we love. “It’s generally not in human character to be all good or all bad--maybe there are positive features of a disgraced ancestor that go some way to compensate or counterbalance whatever evil they did...” Daniel Maurice wrote in ‘How to deal with unwelcome family history discoveries.’ But where such people held positions of public trust, there is practically nothing anybody can do to change perceptions shared by many.

One may argue that Abacha is the only villain today because he is dead. That is the cross his family may have to carry. But the ultimate lesson is for those who are still alive. Speaking on the desperation for power that fuels all kinds of misbehaviour by politicians and public officials in the country, former President Goodluck Jonathan made a profound statement last week, “We, Nigerians, celebrate the wrong thing. And I believe one day, the country will get to the level where people will reject bad behaviour...” said Jonathan who then added: “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.”

Last Thursday, a friend forwarded to me a crisp message: “Today in Abuja, all the oppressors of Nigeria gathered in one room. To celebrate one of their own.” If we examine the message from the prism of political leadership, assembled were General Yakubu Gowon who spent nine years in power; Chief Olusegun Obasanjo who spent 11 years in power (in both military and civilian capacity); Babangida who spent eight years; General Abdulsalami Abubakar who spent a year (less just a few days); Dr Goodluck Jonathan who spent five years and President Bola Tinubu who is nudging towards his second-year anniversary. So, cumulatively, these men have led the country for 36 of the last 60 years. When you combine that with all the richest men and women in the country as well as numerous former vice presidents, serving and former ministers, serving and former governors, against the background of the reality of Nigerian condition, it is difficult to fault the message.

What is remarkable is that anyone who has followed the overwhelming reactions to Babangida’s book would think that the only thing he wrote about was the June 12 election. There is so much more to read and learn about the complexities of policy, governance, issues of nation building, what it meant to be a military leader, and of course snippets of our history. But June 12, the Babangida albatross, overrides

everything else. Without the annulment of that election, Babangida’s era could easily have gone down as transformative. And evidence abounds: Third Mainland Bridge, relocation of the Federal Capital to Abuja, Federal Road Safety Corps

In June 2013, then National Population Commission (NPC) chairman, Eze Festus Odimegwu, inadvertently spoke to the architecture of electoral malpractices in Nigeria. Responding to the request for assistance on constituency delimitation exercise by then Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Chairman, Professor Attahiru Jega, Odimegwu said “The enumeration centers we have, some of them do not exist in reality. Some politicians bought them the way you will want to register voters, and some people will buy voter cards in order to have an advantage.” It goes without saying that once the number of enumeration areas is compromised, the integrity of the outcome of such exercise (whether census or election) becomes doubtful.

But the real issue here is not about how our politicians try to ‘rig elections at source’. Rather it is the difficulty in ascertaining the real population of Nigeria without which there can be no proper planning. The United Nations (UN) recommends a national census enumeration for every country at least once every ten years. The last census in Nigeria was conducted 19 years ago in 2006! “I don’t know how long we will keep running away from census, and we keep deceiving and lying to ourselves, by running away from the truth,” former President Olusegun Obasanjo whose administration conducted the last census told the current NPC Chairman, Mr Isa Kwarra, during a courtesy call on him in Abeokuta three years ago.

At a meeting with a delegation from the NPC on Monday, President Bola Tinubu proposed to set up a committee that will solve the logistical problems that hamper the conduct of a new national census.

(FRSC), liberalization of the banking sector and electronic media, private participation in the oil and gas sector. etc. Despite these historic achievements, the only thing that comes to mind at the mention of Babangida is the annulment

“We must ascertain who we are, how many we are, and how to manage our data,” the president reportedly told his audience, including the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning Atiku Bagudu. “Without an accurate census, we can’t successfully plan for employment, agriculture and food security.”

As much as I agree with the president, he—perhaps more than anyone else—knows quite well that Nigeria has had a chequered history of attempting to count its population. Virtually every effort to conduct a credible national census has ended in controversy, acrimony and rejection by one section of the country or the other. Two (1973 and 1991) were in fact annulled. Perhaps more ironic is that one of the people described as “Confusionists” by Obasanjo for disputing the 2006 Population Census report is Tinubu. Lagos State, according to then Governor Tinubu, had 17,553,924 residents as against the 9,013,534 he claimed was ‘allocated’ by the NPC. “The figure is totally rejected ... The database is faulty. It has to be discarded,” Tinubu said at the time.

I once took time to study population figures in several countries. Over the last 100 years, the annual growth rate is mostly between 1 and 3. I then juxtaposed this with that of pre-independence and post-independence Nigeria. In 1911 for instance, our population was 15.9 million but ten years later in 1921, it had become 18.7 million—an increase of 2.8 million. In 1931, the figure had increased by 1.3 million to give us a population of 20 million. Instructively, all these were consistent with the global pattern. The next census took place 21 years later in 1952 by which time our population was 30.3 million people. But from that period, things changed.

of June 12. And as we have seen, it will take more than one book to change that. In life, some conditions are permanent. Meanwhile, contrary to what some readers think, I am not writing a new book on the June 12 crisis. As a reporter during the era, I wrote four self-published books that are no longer readily available. The first, ‘Fortress on Quicksand’ was on the futile efforts by 23 presidential aspirants in the defunct Social Democratic Party (SDP) and National Republican Convention (NRC) before they were all disqualified and banned from contesting elections. It took me several months to get an old copy. The second, ‘POLITRICKS: National Assembly under Military Dictatorship’, detailed the intrigues of Babangida’s civilian legislature as a military president. Although originally printed at a shop in Mushin in August 1994, I republished it in 2010 with a foreword by then Senate President David Mark, a retired Brigadier General who happened to be one of the central characters in the June 12 story. The third, ‘Abiola’s Travails’ was published in August 1997 to mark his (Abiola’s) 60th birthday at a period he was in detention. ‘The Last 100 Days of Abacha’ was written in 2005 to warn against ‘Third Term’. So, what I have just done is to combine (and edit) them into one book for release, hopefully in June this year. Since Abacha is no more, it is unfortunate for his family that they will have to carry the burden of what is in the public domain about their late patriarch. But for Babangida, the lesson of the moment is also clear: One single chapter can define a book. And a single action can define a life!

With independence and its politics, the 1962 census gave us an extra population of 14.9 million people, thus pushing the threshold to 45.6 million. A year later (when another census was conducted) an extra 10.5 million Nigerians had been added to give us a contentious figure of 55.7 million that was eventually discarded. Ten years later in 1973, another set of 24.1 million Nigerians had come on board to make 79.76 million, although that census figure was also jettisoned. There was no census until 1991 when our population was put at 88.5 million. The census that would follow came in 2006 by which time (within a period of 15 years), another 51.5 million Nigerians had been added to the population data to make 140 million people.

The implication of the foregoing is that between 1911 and 1952, our population grew from 18.7 million to 30.3 million, an increase of 62 percent in 41 years. But between 1952 and 2006, a period of 44 years, the same population grew from 30.3 million to 140 million, an increase of about 360 percent! How can we sustain a system based on such transparent fraud?

Why is a simple ‘headcount’ such a difficult thing to do in Nigeria? I suggest it is because population determines how much each of the 36 states and 774 local government areas collect from the Consolidated Revenue Fund (CRF) disbursed monthly by the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC). Yet, at no other time has a real census been more critical than now to allow for proper national planning. We must wean our nation of the distributive politics of oil rent that is at the root of corruption in our country, including in our politics and data collection.