In Major Advance for AfCFTA, Nigeria Signs ECOWAS Tariff Offers for Trade in Goods
James Emejo in Abuja and Oluchi Chibuzor in Lagos Nigeria yesterday officially gazetted
Oduwole declares country now ready for business and transmitted the ECOWAS Schedule of Tariff Offers for Trade in Goods under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to the
AfCFTA Secretariat. The move came ahead of the 16th meeting of the AfCFTA Council of Ministers (COM), which is being
held today in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The development marked a crucial milestone in regional trade
www.thisdaylive.com
and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, said the gazetting
integration amid the current global trade war initiated by the United States President Donald Trump. The Minister of Industry, Trade, Continued on page 9
Lawal: I Took Over Dysfunctional Zamfara State and Met Only N4m in State’s
Says Matawalle left behind serious mess Reiterates
Tinubu: Mutfwang Must Summon the Will to Deal with Plateau’s Continued Killings
Instructs security to thoroughly investigate recurring crisis, declares enough is enough Killings suggest sinister motive, says gov Gunmen kill 54 in fresh attack, several injured, over 30 houses razed Atiku condemns devt, says Tinubu’s security policy, infrastructure have failed Killings sad, unacceptable, Obi discloses AI says killings show inexcusable security failures, HURIWA states presidency paying lip service
MAKINDE HOSTS PDP GOVERNORS’ MEETING...
L-R: PDP Governors and Deputies – Delta Deputy, Monday Onyeme; Osun, Senator Ademola Adeleke; Enugu, Dr. Peter Mbah; Zamfara, Dauda Lawal; Oyo, Seyi Makinde; Bauchi, Bala Muhammed; PDP National acting Chairman, Umar Damagum; Adamawa, Umaru Fintiri; Bayelsa, Senator Douye Diri; Akwa Ibom Deputy, Senator Akon Eyakenyi; and Taraba, Agbu Kefas – during the PDP Governors’ Forum meeting held at the Oyo State Governor’s Office, Secretariat, Ibadan
Chuks Okocha in Abuja and Dike Onwuamaeze in Lagos Zamfara State Governor, Mr. Dauda Lawal, has
THE UNIBEN 80s REUNION...
Despite Headwinds, Nigeria Leads as Africa Raises $3.6bn in Venture Capital
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
Despite a 22 per cent year-on-year decline in deals value and 28 per cent drop in volume, Nigeria led the African continent with 16 per cent of the total $3.6 billion Venture Capital (VC) deals in 2024, a new report by the African Private Capital Association (AVCA), revealed yesterday.
Essentially, venture capital is a form of private equity financing provided to startup companies and small businesses with the potential for long-term growth. It’s money invested in exchange for partial ownership of a company.
The 2024 Venture Capital in Africa report is a comprehensive analysis which provides in-depth insights on market trends, fundraising, exits and investor dynamics, backed by AVCA’s decade-long data sets.
The geographic distribution revealed that West Africa maintained its lead as the most active region for the fourth consecutive year, accounting for 23 per cent of total deal volume, with Nigeria leading the pack at 16 per cent.
“Africa’s entrepreneurial ecosystem collectively secured 487 deals in 2024. This was distributed as 427 venture capital deals with a value of $2.6 billion and 60 venture debt deals worth $1 billion,” the document stated.
According to the report, the ‘Big Four’ markets on the continent: Nigeria, Egypt, Kenya, South Africa, represented 55 per cent of volume and 64 per cent of value during the 12 months under consideration.
FinTech remained dominant with 116 deals raising $1.4 billion (34 per cent of all tech-enabled rounds), while Clean & ClimateTech rose to 13 per cent of tech-enabled deal volume, up
from a 7 per cent five-year average.
In addition, Artificial Intelligence (AI) made its first appearance among the top four most funded verticals with 42 deals raising $108 million.
In a significant milestone, African investors emerged as the single largest group of active participants in VC, representing 31 per cent of the total investor pool compared to 19 per cent a decade ago.
“This underscores the momentum in domestic capital formation despite overall investor participation declining 21 per cent from 2023 to 614 active investors.
“The fundraising environment showed remarkable resilience, with eight funds closing at $736 million in 2024 alone, a 41 per cent YoY increase that underscores the positive, longterm growth of Africa’s VC ecosystem despite global headwinds. Since 2015, 35 fund managers across 41 funds have raised $2.7 billion in final closes, reflecting a 25 per cent Compounded Annual Growth (CAGR),” it added.
The exit landscape, the report said, is gaining momentum, with 138 exits recorded between 2019 and 2024—reflecting a clear upward trend over time, despite remaining flat in 2024 with 26 exits recorded.
Trade sales continued to dominate that year, accounting for 84 per cent of all exits with an average holding period of three years, eight months.
Chief Executive of AVCA, Abi Mustapha-Maduakor, CEO said:
“The data demonstrates how Africa’s venture ecosystem is responding to global challenges with notable resilience. While overall funding has contracted, we’re seeing strategic adaptations—higher quality deals, sector diversification beyond fintech, increased venture debt utilisation, and the strengthening role of African
investors.
“These responses reflect a maturing market that continues to present compelling opportunities. We remain optimistic about the venture landscape in Africa, particularly as it offers investors unique exposure to fast-growing markets with demographic advantages and innovation potential compared to more traditional investment destinations.”
AVCA is the nexus of private capital in Africa, championing and
enabling private capital investment in Africa. As the pan-African industry body, AVCA said it plays a significant role as an effective change agent for the industry and acts as the trusted independent source of information, insight, and intelligence, inspiring investor confidence and making the case for both commercial returns and the impact of private capital in Africa.
The sixth edition of AVCA’s annual report revealed that Africa
experienced a market correction a year after global markets, with the continent reaching its funding low in H1 2024—highlighting the delayed but pronounced impact on dealmaking during a period of inflation, supply chain disruptions and geopolitical shocks.
The report found that 2024 was a challenging year for African startups, noting a 22 per cent year-over-year (YoY) decline in deal value and 28 per cent drop in deal volume. While
global venture capital value rose 6 per cent and volume fell 24 per cent, Africa’s sharper contractions reflect the continent’s delayed downturn cycle. According to the document, venture debt lenders comprised only 12 per cent of deal volume yet generated 37 per cent of VC deal value in 2024. The 3 per cent YoY increase in deal value and volume signals continued investor appetite for the asset class.
Genesis Energy, Katsina Sign $500m Deal to
Fund Infrastructure Development
Genesis Energy Holding, a UKbased pan-African clean energy infrastructure development and asset management company, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Katsina State government for a $500 million investment in energy infrastructure.
The investment, according to a statement issued yesterday in London, would enable the development, financing, and execution of a series of major energy infrastructure projects across the state.
The agreement specifically outlines a strategic partnership for the development, financing, construction, operation, and maintenance of key energy projects, which are aimed at accelerating the industrialisation and socio-economic advancement of Katsina State and provide clean, reliable, and sustainable energy solutions for the region.
CBN Urges Local Producers to Take Advantage of Govt Funding Agencies to Strengthen Export Base
Nume Ekeghe and Oluchi
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has called on local manufacturers and exporters to explore financing opportunities available through various government agencies as part of broader efforts to ease pressure on the naira and strengthen the country’s export base. Speaking at a town hall meeting in Lagos yesterday, with the theme, ‘Enhancing the Effectiveness of Nigerian Products,’ which was hosted by the Bankers’ Committee, the Director of Consumer Protection
and Financial Inclusion at the CBN, Dr. Aisha Olatiwon, underscored the importance of coordinated support for Nigerian-made goods and services in global markets.
She urged producers to move beyond conventional reliance on the central bank and take full advantage of interventions from other government-backed institutions established to support export-led growth.
She explained: “We have the Bank of Industry (BoI) and we also have the development financial institutions. Those people give interest rates below what the
commercial banks are giving.
“So I encourage companies to go to those development institutions like the BoI, or even development financial institutions. That can give them rates very far below what the banks can give. So you don’t have to go to the commercial banks to get your funding for your business.”
Olatiwon, however, said the town hall meeting was a timely opportunity to examine how the country could collectively address these issues, build capacity across value chains, and support Nigerian businesses to compete more effectively at home and abroad.
Commenting on successfully executing the MoU with Genesis Energy, Katsina State Governor, Dikko Radda, said the partnership was a significant step toward providing reliable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly power solutions, fostering economic growth, and attracting investments to Katsina State.
“This MoU represents a major milestone in our ongoing efforts to build resilient infrastructure that will not only address Katsina’s immediate energy needs but also lay the foundation for a prosperous and greener future for generations to come.
“The first of the series of projects being constructed under this partnership will shortly be commissioned before the end of this April 2025,” the governor said.
He explained that the MoU outlines the framework for the collaborative development of a diverse portfolio of energy projects, focusing on solar, wind, hydro, mini-grids,
and natural gas solutions.
“This partnership will establish Katsina State as a leading clean energy hub, not only in Nigeria but across the West African region,” Radda added.
The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Genesis Energy, Mr. Akin Omoboriowo,
stated: “Lighting Up Africa is more than just a vision for Genesis; it is the very heartbeat that drives us. We are committed to enduring the rigorous process of developing and financing projects to bring sustainable energy solutions to the continent.
“For Genesis Energy, this marks a significant milestone as we continue to actively partner with Katsina State in achieving energy independence, creating a pivotal opportunity to industrialise the State and position it as a major player in clean and renewable energy generation.”
The partners further noted that the primary objective of the collaboration was to address the state’s
growing energy needs and support the Nigerian government’s broader energy security and sustainability goals.
The MoU, they maintained, lays the foundation for creating a multi-phased energy platform that will provide power to critical sectors, including healthcare, industry, and agriculture, while contributing to the regional transition to a green economy.
According to the statement, the key initiative of the MoU involves powering critical sectors and providing critical energy infrastructure across key sites across the state, and deploying suitable energy technologies.
It added that Phase One of the projects was expected to be executed concurrently across multiple initiatives, aimed at promoting energy independence, facilitating industrialisation, creating jobs, and displacing significant amounts of CO2 emissions.
FG Inaugurates N10bn Onion Storage Facility in Kano
Ahmad sorondinki in Kano
The Minister of State for Industry and Investment, Sen. John Owan Enoh, has launched a state-of-the-art onion storage facility with a 10,000-tonne capacity to tackle post-harvest losses and support onion farmers in the country.
The minister who launched the modern facility on Monday at Gadar Tamburawa in Dawakin Kudu Local Government Area of the state, said the facility would address post-harvest losses incurred by onion farmers.
He said the federal government would provide all the needed support for initiating modern innovation to address post-harvest losses among farmers across the country especially in the northern part.
“By providing a reliable storage solution for onions and other perishable commodities, the facility will play a vital role in effective service delivery, supporting the nation’s agricultural development.
“This initiative aligns with President Tinubu’s agenda to curb post-harvest losses, potentially increasing farmers’
income and creating more job opportunities for youths,” the minister said. He commended Prism Foods Limited for investing heavily in a solution to post-harvest losses, saying it would enhance food security and encourage entrepreneurship, ultimately boosting the nation’s economy. The Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, represented by the State Commissioner for Commerce, Alhaji Shehu Wada Sagagi, commended Prism Foods Limited for establishing such a huge investment in Kano.
Peter Uzoho
L-R: Senator Darlington Nwolocha; Former Minister of Transportation, Hon. Rotimi Amaechi; Former President Olusegun Obasanjo; and the Governor of Abia State, Alex Otti, when the governor hosted Obasanjo to a State Banquet at the UNIBEN 80s Party over the weekend
Chibuzor
CELEBRATING WOMEN...
L-R: Chairperson, UN Sanitation and Hygiene Fund, Cecilia Akintomide; MD/CEO, Financial Institutions Training Centre (FITC), Chizor Malize; Director-General, Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce (NBCC), Ebere Njoku; Chairman, Programmes Committee NBCC, Tajudeen Ahmed; and Group COO, MRS Holdings/Vice Chairman III, NESG, Amina Maina, at the NBCC’s 2025 International Women’s Day event held in Lagos… recently
Blackout Looms as Gencos Threaten Shutdown of Power Plants over N4 Trillion Electricity Debt
Demand repayment plan, security guarantees backed by World Bank or AfDB Seek special FX window for procurement of spare parts, others Say less than 30% of total invoice received monthly constrained systemically.
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja and Peter Uzoho in Lagos
Electricity Generation Companies (Gencos) operating in Nigeria yesterday demanded the settlement of debts owed by the federal government, noting that otherwise the prevailing situation could lead to a complete shutdown of the power sector in the country.
The power generators also urged the federal government to institute a repayment plan backed by security
guarantees from the World Bank or the African Development Bank (AfDB).
In a statement in Abuja signed by the Chairman, Board of Trustees (BoT) of Power Generation Companies, Col. Sani Bello (rtd.), the generation companies said that the backlog owed them are in two folds: N2 trillion owed in 2024 and N1.9 trillion in legacy debts.
But THISDAY recalls that out of the huge debt, the federal government in August 2024 said it had paid about N205 billion, citing the need to raise
the level of liquidity in the power sector at the time.
However, the Gencos said yesterday that they were constrained to draw the attention of the government and key stakeholders to the need to urgently address the issue of inadequate payment for electricity generated by them and consumed on the national grid, explaining that they have continued to bear the brunt of the liquidity crisis in the Nigerian Electric Supply Industry (NESI).
According to the Gencos, they have
continued to demonstrate absolute commitment by ramping capacities in line with their contract over the last 10 years, amid system constraints as well as policies & regulations that are not investor-friendly, increasing debts owed by the government, without a clear financing plan. Notwithstanding this and other severe difficulties since their takeover in 2013, the Gencos explained that they had kept to the terms of their contractual agreements by ramping up capacity which has been largely
Delta Community Disrupt Operations, Threaten Shutdown of Oando’s OML 60 Flow Station
Sylvester Idowu in Warri
Indigenes of Irri community in Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State yesterday disrupted operations at the Oil Mining Lease (OML) 60 flow station operated by Oando Plc.
The flow station, formerly operated by Agip Nigeria Limited, supplies 60 to 70 percent of gas to Kwale/Okpai Gas Plant.
The protesters, mostly men, women, and youths, stormed the flow station and prevented workers access and exit to their offices on the premise that the oil firm failed in associating with the development of the community.
The protesters claimed they took the action over the alleged insensitivity of the company to the plight of Irri community where oil was discovered shortly after
that of Oloibiri in Bayelsa State.
The angry women carried placards some of which read thus: “We Need Our PIA Deductions”; “Our Skill Acquisition Centre/ Hospital Dormant”; “No Single Project By Oando Since 2017”; “Irri Needs Gas Turbine. We Need Employment”; “We Need Upgrade of Our Indigenes In Oando”; “We Need EIA Report,” among others.
The protesters vowed not to vacate the premises of the oil company until their demands were met.
To demonstrate their seriousness, the protesters placed a coffin at the entrance of the facility, performed some rituals before setting up canopies where food were prepared for them for as along as they occupy the firm.
Odio Silas Efajemue, Odio- inCouncil, who spoke on behalf of
the traditional ruler of Irri, His Royal Majesty, Simon Wajutome Odhomo, Igbogidi 1, the Odio Ologbo of Irri kingdom lamented the pathetic power situation affecting the community.
He said: “The flow station formerly operated by Agip and now taken over by Oando, has been operating in our community for many years and there is nothing to show for it. Irri is in darkness for years now.
“We need light (power), and if we do not get it and our other demands are not met, we will shut down the flow station.”
The President, Irri Development Union (IDU), Mr. John Ozaveva Eweh, said the company has been operating in the community for many years, noting that “in all these years, the community has been left behind.”
Aviation Minister Signs Nigeria, Trinidad & Tobago’s BASA Agreement
Kasim Sumaina in Abuja
In a landmark move signaling a new era of air connectivity between West Africa and the Caribbean, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, and his counterpart, the Honourable Minister of Works and Transport, Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, Rohan Sinanan, Monday signed a Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) between Nigeria and Trinidad and Tobago.
The historic signing ceremony
took place at the VIP Lounge of Piarco International Airport, Trinidad and Tobago, marking the official commencement of direct air links between both nations.
This milestone agreement is the culmination of diplomatic and technical conversations that began during the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo. Years of strategic dialogue and mutual interest have finally been brought to fruition through the proactive efforts of Minister Keyamo and his team.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, the Aviation of Minister, Keyamo, stated: “Today’s signing not only fulfills a long-standing bilateral vision initiated during President Obasanjo’s time but also represents our commitment to expanding Nigeria’s global aviation footprint. Keyamo, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Communication, Tunde Moshood, said: “This agreement will enhance trade, tourism, cultural exchange, and connectivity between Nigeria and the Caribbean region.
He disclosed that the leadership of Irri had written several letters, made a series of requests but to no avail.
“The firm never even deemed it fit to respond to a series of our letters making demands but to no avail. They are in our land working and exploiting our God-given resources without giving regards to our community in which they operate,” he added.
The Secretary to the palace of Odio-Ologbo of Irri kingdom, Hon. Efewoma Okiroro Otuaga, also lamented the ignominy with which Oando has been treating the community.
“In the light of the severity of the issues highlighted above, the Gencos are requesting that immediate and expedited action is taken to prevent national security challenges that may result from the failure of the Gencos to sustain steady generation of electricity for“TheNigerians. 2024 collection rate has dropped below 30 per cent, and 2025 is not any better, severely affecting Gencos’ ability to meet financial obligations. High corporate income tax, concession fees, royalty charges, and new Financial Reporting Council (FRC) compliance obligations are further straining Gencos’ revenue.
“Gencos are currently owed about N4 trillion (N2 trillion for 2024 and N1.9 trillion in legacy debts). No possible solutions, including cash payments, financial instruments, and debt swaps are in sight.
“The 2025 government budget allocates only N900 billion, raising concerns about its adequacy to cover arrears and future payments. The power generated by Gencos has continued to be consumed in full without corresponding full payment.
“This is notwithstanding the commencement of the Partial Activation of Contracts in the NESI which took effect from July 1, 2022, the minimum remittance order, bilateral market declaration, waterfall arrangement, the risks of inflation, forex volatility with no dedicated window to cushion the effect of the forex impact, the supplementary MYTO order which
leaves about 90 per cent of Gencos monthly invoices unmet without a bankable securitisation, or financing plan.
“This situation has dire consequences for the Gencos and by extension the entire power value chain,” the Association of Power Generation Companies (APGC) stated.
According to the group, the Gencos’ liquidity challenges are further worsened by the various policies introduced such as the payment waterfall in the NESI, which de-prioritises payment to Gencos as service providers, while others usually receive 100 per cent payment of their market invoices starting from May 2019.
The Gencos stressed that as a result of this, no one is under pressure to ensure their invoices are fully settled, as they only get paid a portion of their invoices (9 per cent, 11 per cent) from whatever amount is left.
“This is an aberration as it is a clear departure from existing terms of the Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) guiding the contractual relationship between Gencos and the Nigeria Bulk Electricity Trading Plc (NBET), by which NBET as buyer has contracted to purchase the available capacity as agreed under the PPA.
“Gencos should be accorded the utmost priority when it comes to payment to enable them to have the capacity to continue to produce the electricity which is the product around which the entire power value chain is built,” the power generators stated.
Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja
World’s on-demand working capital platform, C2FO has announced the completion of a $30 million funding round with the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, and existing shareholders.
This infusion of capital will help accelerate the technical development and expansion of C2FO’s global platform to focus on emerging markets.
This investment follows the announcement of IFC’s strategic partnership with C2FO to develop a Nationwide Working Capital Platform across Africa, starting in Nigeria. That initiative, which is expected to launch later in 2025, has the potential to unlock tens of billions of dollars in annual financing
for African MSMEs. IFC’s investment in C2FO underscores a shared commitment to boosting jobs and strengthening economic opportunities in emerging markets for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) worldwide.
C2FO’s innovative platform leverages advanced technology to deliver dynamic funding, enabling suppliers — predominantly smaller businesses in regions like Africa — to access working capital faster and more efficiently than through traditional financing.
“IFC provides more than capital — our expertise in supply chain finance and fintech is instrumental in scaling C2FO’s operations.
“This initiative will unlock the economic potential of smaller suppliers who cannot easily access
needed working capital, driving growth and jobs,” said IFC’s Global Director for Disruptive Technologies, Services and Funds, Farid Fezoua On his part, C2FO CEO and Founder Alexander “Sandy” Kemper said: “Having IFC as an investor is a great honor for us and a catalyst that will accelerate our shared mission to fully scale a global, durable, inclusive and sustainable platform for the world’s businesses.”
C2FO’s innovative
LAUNCH OF NEW ULTRA-MODERN FACILITY OF AVON MEDICAL...
L-R: Special Adviser to the Governor of Lagos State on Health, Mrs. Oluwakemi Ogunyemi; Chairman, Heirs Holdings,
His wife/Chairperson, Avon
Representative of the Minister of Health, Prof. Wasiu Adeyemo, Chief Medical Director of Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH); CEO, Avon Medical, Dr. Akinbiyi Oke; and Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, during the launch of the new ultra-modern Avon Medical facility in Surulere… yesterday
CBN Insists Banks Must Recapitalise to Fund, Power $1 Trillion Economy
Says banking industry remains sound, building resilience amid global emergencies Oliver Alawuba urges apex bank to release CRR to fund infrastructure, create other incentives for long-term financing
Abiodun Eromosele, Ndubuisi Francis, James Emejo and Nume Ekeghe in Abuja
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), yesterday said it was inevitable to order the recapitalisation banks to fund, finance, and power the proposed $1 trillion economy by 2030.
CBN Deputy Governor, Corporate Services, Ms. Emem Usoro, also said improving banks’ capital base will help them to favourably compete globally with their peers in other climes.
Delivering a keynote address at the opening of the 36th CBN seminar for finance correspondents and business editors, with the theme, “Playing the Global Game: Banking Recapitalisation Towards a $1trilion Economy” in Abuja, Usoro, stressed the need to pay significant attention to bank recapitalisation to ensure that financial institutions remained strong, resilient and stable enough to carry out financial intermediation, and the much-needed financing of development projects and programmes.
While acknowledging that building a $1 trillion economy was a herculean task, she said it would require careful planning, robust and clear policy direction, dutiful implementation, and averred commitment from stakeholders that would galvanise
the various sectors of the economy. Represented by the acting CBN Director, Corporate Communications Department, Mrs. Sidi Ali- Hakama, Usoro noted that the global financial system and architecture had assumed a new dimension even before the new administration of United States President Donald Trump.
This came as Group Managing Director/Chief Executive, United Bank for Africa (UBA)/ Chairman, Body of Banks’ CEOs in Nigeria, Mr. Oliver Alawuba, called on the apex bank and fiscal authority to create incentives for long-term lending through policy support.
He said the central bank should consider releasing part of the Cash Reserve Requirement (CRR) for Deposit Money Banks (DMBs) which is currently at 50 per cent, to allow banks finance long-term investment required to achieve double-digit boost growth to attain the $1 trillion economy.
Usoro however, noted that globalisation had broken the limits of financial flows, and investors have inadvertently taken full advantage of the opportunities.
The CBN deputy governor, however, pointed out that countries and their financial systems must be prepared to utilise opportunities created by financial globalisation through
appropriate policy support and actions.
She noted that the Nigerian banking system had also undergone reforms, including bank recapitalisation and consolidation exercises.
She said, “The 2004 banking sector consolidation and recapitalisation
exercise, which set a limit of N25 billion minimum capital base for banks, brought the Nigerian banks from 89 to 25, was a noble idea that the Central Bank of Nigeria implemented in line with emerging developments at that time.
“Today, our economy is valued at approximately $250 billion. As we aspire to build a $1 trillion-economy, all hands must be on deck…This gathering is essential to bring to the fore the bank’s efforts and policy direction.
“The push for a recapitalisation of banks would no doubt improve the strength and health of the financial system, deepen financial intermediation and promote healthier competition that would strengthen our payment system.”
SMEs, Vendors Commend State Govt Over Lagos Tourism Trade Fair Success
As the three-day Lagos Tourism NBC Trade Fair ended on Sunday, the Lagos State Government has been commended for supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and entrepreneurs to showcase their brand visibility to the global market.
The commendation was made by the Convener of the Naija Brand Chick (NBC), Mrs. Nelly Agbogu, who praised financial and corporate institutions, entrepreneurs, vendors and other participants at the trade fair held at the Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos.
According to a statement at the end of the three-day trade fair, which commenced on Friday, April 11, and
Ogun Govt Acquires 39 Tractors to Boost Mechanised Farming
Ogun State Government said it has taken delivery of 39 brand new tractors to enhance mechanized farming and ensure massive food production in the state
The State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Hon. Bolu Owotomo, disclosed this yesterday, at a news briefing in his office at Oke-Mosan Abeokuta.
According to the commissioner, Governor Dapo Abiodun would soon flag-off the deployment of the tractors in addition to other farm inputs being expected to enable farmers have access to necessary tools for farming through the Agro-Service office of the ministry
The commissioner expressed readiness of government to partner
private sector to refurbish some of the grounded heavy-duty equipment in the ministry, particularly 20 bulldozers in care of Agriculture Services office of the ministry in Asero area of Abeokuta, saying the five of them would soon be refurbished and put to use to ease the process of clearing land for farming and agricultural purposes.
Owotomo added that over 160,000 farmers had been registered by his ministry in the past three months while over 40,000 farmers had been registered into various clusters where they were trained in modern farming techniques and given the needed support through various intervention initiatives under World Bank supported Ogun State Economic Transformation Project - OG-STEP
He identified some of the clusters to include Ifonyintedo with 80 Casava farmers, Oke-Odan for production of palm-oil, Ikenne designated as enclave for poultry and other livestock and Magboro where large number of rice farmers were concentrated in the state.
Also, over 2,000 fish farmers especially in Eruwe and Ipokia according to him, were being given needed support including provision of N50million revolving loan at zero percent interest rate, to assist them to expand fish production in the state.
He explained that farmers in each of the clusters were linked with off-takers which serve as ready-made market for them to maximize profit and guide against unnecessary waste
ended on Sunday, April 13, Agbogu said her partnership with the Lagos State Government through the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture increased the success stories of the commercial activities.
Agbogu, who was visibly elated, boasted that this year’s Lagos Tourism NBC Trade Fair edition has surpassed the last fair, which generated over N1.3 billion in income, noting that many entrepreneurs in this year’s edition came from other states to participate.
She said: “This year’s Lagos Tourism NBC Trade Fair has been an amazing experience; business owners are happy, and I am also happy we have broken the last edition’s record of revenue generation.
“I can say categorically I have been to many states in the country, but none
comes close to the support we got from the Lagos State government. It is really huge, and I am grateful. “I appreciate Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and his Special Adviser on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mr Idris Aregbe, for throwing their weight behind the Naija Brand Chick Trade Fair. I do not take the support for granted.
“We are hopeful of a more successful outing in the next edition, which will take place on Lagos Mainland.”
Speaking on the success of the trade fair, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mr. Idris Aregbe, expressed satisfaction with the turnout of over 100,000 participants for the three days, as vendors made massive sales.
Aregbe, thanked Sanwo-Olu for the initiative of infusing entertainment into
commerce, as the creative economy also boosted sales generation for participating brands.
He said: “This is what Lagos is all about – putting smiles on the faces of small and medium-scale entrepreneurs by supporting them – and I want to specifically thank our Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for believing in this initiative. The Lagos State Government was actively involved in ensuring the trade fair where people from different parts of the world shop right, shop smart, and save costs.
“The entertainment aspect is not all about dancing alone but using entertainment to drive commerce. Lagos has the huge market, and it took the advantage to show SMEs to the global map. I am indeed happy about the success of the trade fair.”
Microfinance, AMMBAN Partner on AfriGo Debit Cards
Fidelis David in Akure
In a move to improve financial accessibility of more Nigerians, Kolomoni Microfinance Bank and the Association of Mobile Money & Bank Agents in Nigeria (AMMBAN) have entered into a strategic partnership to provide AfriGO debit cards to millions of Nigerians.
The collaboration leverages Kolomoni’s expertise as a leading digital banking platform and AMMBAN’s extensive network of mobile money and bank agents to drive financial inclusion across the country. AfriGO card, Nigeria’s first National Domestic Card Scheme, is designed to enhance financial inclusion by providing the 35.9 percent financially excluded individuals with
access to essential financial services and government interventions.
With the recently introduced value proposition of instant settlement for POS transactions, AfriGO offers a seamless and efficient payment experience, reducing transaction delays for merchants and consumers alike.
The debit card also empowers local businesses, strengthens the domestic financial ecosystem, and creates new opportunities within Nigeria’s expanding card payment in banking subsector.
Enhancing Financial Innovation and Access (EFInA) recent report revealed that 35.9 percent of Nigerians remain financially excluded, with the northern region disproportionately affected.
Therefore, in response to the discovery, Kolomoni and AMMBAN
have joined forces to bridge this gap, ensuring that more unbanked and underserved individuals gain access to essential financial products, including AfriGO debit cards. Leveraging on both companies’ networks of agents, the partnership is targeting millions of Nigerians with a view to ultimately reducing the number of financially excluded Nigerians.
The Managing Director of Kolomoni Microfinance Bank, Yusuf Adeojo, emphasized the importance of the partnership. He said: “Through this collaboration, Kolomoni users and AMMBAN members will benefit from AfriGO’s advanced debit card technology. What this means, by extension, is faster transactions, enhanced security features, exclusive rewards, and unparalleled convenience.
Mr. Tony Elumelu;
Medical, Dr. Awele Elumelu; Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu;
Crude rises on tariff exemptions, rebound in Chinese imports Goldman Sachs cuts oil price outlook again
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
The Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) yesterday cut its 2025 global oil demand growth forecast for the first time since December, citing the impact of data received for the first quarter and trade tariffs announced by the United States.
In its monthly report, OPEC said world oil demand would rise by 1.30 million barrels per day in 2025 and by 1.28 million bpd in 2026. Both forecasts are down 150,000 bpd from last month’s figures, a Reuters report said.
Deji Elumoye, Chuks Okocha, Sunday Aborisade, Kasim Sumaina in Abuja and Seriki Adinoyi in Jos
President Bola Tinubu, yesterday, tasked Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, to summon the necessary political will to resolve the crisis in his state and establish enduring peace, saying the country can no longer ignore the underlying causes of the crisis.
Tinubu spoke in reaction to the killing of about 54 persons by gunmen during an attack on Zike-kimakpa community, Kwall District of Bassa Local Government Area, Sunday night, in a fresh assault on Plateau State.
The killings came barely one week after earlier attacks that claimed 61 lives in Bokkos Local Government Area of the state.
Tinubu expressed sorrow over the latest bloodshed in the state, and instructed security agencies to thoroughly investigate the. recurring crisis.
Mutfwang said the spate of killings in the state suggested a more sinister motive by the perpetrators.
Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar condemned the renewed attacks on Plateau, saying it is an indication that Tinubu’s security policy and infrastructure have failed.
L AwAL : I Took o ver DYS
arrears that remained unpaid since 2011.
The governor said, “I took over a dysfunctional system where nothing exists. No process, no planning, no budgeting and financial indiscipline was rife.
“Everywhere was disconnected, including the Government House, because of non-payment of electricity bill. I had to pay N1.6 billion to restore electricity supply, especially in government offices.
“The problem was multidimensional and we had to prioritise and our first priority is security and the next is education.
“When I took over as governor, Zamfara State was in a mess in every aspect of life. Insecurity, we were at the top; education, we were at the bottom; human development and capacity were almost non-existent.
“They were the reasons why I had to declare a state of emergency in education and health.”
Lawal stated, “Remember that when I took over there was nothing in our treasury. There were so many debts.
“I only inherited N4 million and the records are there, with all sorts of liabilities ranging from backlog of salaries. N1.6 billion was owed to the judiciary. The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and National Education Council (NECO) were owed N1.4 billion and so many other challenges that I had to face head on.”
He explained that his first move was to clear the backlog of salaries, and he had agreements with WAEC and NECO so that students in Zamfara State could sit for their WASC and NECO examinations and those that had taken these exams in the past years could collect their results.
He stated, “The liabilities were unbelievable and I had to find a way to settle them. When I took over, the salary of a civil servant in
The oil cartel also confirmed a reduction in Nigeria’s March crude oil production by 64,000 barrels per day, as communicated directly by the Nigerian authorities, to slump to 1.4 million bpd as against 1.46 million bpd in February, a five-month low.
US President Donald Trump’s trade tariffs as well as a plan for higher output by OPEC+, which includes OPEC and allies such as Russia, have put downward pressure on oil prices this month and raised concern about economic growth. In the report, OPEC lowered its world economic growth forecast this
The presidential candidate of Labour Party (LP) in 2023, Peter Obi, described the recent spate of killings as sad and unacceptable.
Amnesty International (AI) Nigeria, while condemning the killings, said they showed inexcusable security failures.
Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) also lamented the killing spree in Plateau, stressing that the presidency is paying lip service to the security situation in the state.
In a related development, the senator for Abia North Senatorial District, Orji Uzor Kalu, raised the alarm that if nothing was done urgently, the entire South-east region might soon be lost to terrorists Tinubu, in a statement by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, condemned the killing spree in Plateau State and extended his sympathies to Mutfwang, the state government, and the people of Plateau.
He urged the governor to summon the necessary political will to resolve the crisis and establish enduring peace. Tinubu called for harmony among the people of Plateau, and emphasised the importance of love and unity beyond religious and ethnic lines. He encouraged community, spiritual, and political leaders within
Zamfara State was N7,000. I had to quickly raise to the level of then minimum wage of N30,000.
“Since 2011, pensioners were not paid to the tune of N16.5 billion. This has been cleared. And we are currently paying the N70,000 minimum new wage.”
The governor explained that the condition of schools in the state was unbelievable when he declared state of emergency in education.
He said over 400 schools across the 14 local governments in the state had been renovated and furnished and the state government had been able to settle its indebtedness to WAEC and NECO as well as liabilities on our students in Sudan and India, and it was now in the process of sorting out Cyrus.
According to the governor, education is prioritised because nothing can be accomplished without a strong educational sector.
“We are employing 500 teachers in specialised fields, like science, mathematics and Information Technology,” he said.
He explained that it was the desire to attract meaningful investors that would build a solid economy in the state that compelled him to take on the airport project in the state.
He argued that no serious investor would drive seven hours on road from Abuja to Zamfara in the midst of prevailing insecurity challenges, and assured the people that the airport would be ready within four months.
Lawal said he had been able to accomplish these achievements without borrowing, even though the internally generated revenue of the state was N90 million when he took over.
Today, according to him, Zamfara State was generating N2 billion revenue by blocking leakages in the state’s public finance and shedding the weight of the state’s civil service from 82 to 20 permanent secretaries.
year to 3.0 per cent from 3.1 per cent and reduced next year’s to 3.1 per cent from 3.2 per cent.
Also yesterday, Goldman Sachs, for the umpteenth time, reduced its outlook for oil prices for the third time since the start of April, now expecting Brent crude to average $63 this year and $58 in 2026.
The bank also said it sees WTI at an average of $59 per barrel this year, falling to $55 in 2026. The update follows one from April 4, when Goldman slashed its 2025 outlook for Brent and WTI by 5.5 per cent and 4.3 per cent, respectively, to $69
and beyond the state to unite and end the cycle of attacks that had made life unbearable for affected communities.
The president stated, “The ongoing violence between communities in Plateau State, rooted in misunderstandings between different ethnic and religious groups, must cease.
“I have instructed security agencies to thoroughly investigate this crisis and identify those responsible for orchestrating these violent acts. We cannot allow this devastation and the tit-for-tat attacks to continue. Enough is enough.”
Tinubu added, “Beyond dealing with the criminal elements of these incessant killings, the political leadership in Plateau State, led by Governor Caleb Mutfwang, must address the root cause of this age-long problem. These problems have been with us for more than two decades.
“We can no longer ignore the underlying issues. It is time to tackle them fairly and find a lasting solution. I have discussed these problems with the governor over time and offered suggestions for lasting peace.
“The federal government remains committed to supporting Governor Mutfwang and the Plateau State government in promoting dialogue, fostering social cohesion, and ensuring accountability—crucial steps towards
The governor said most of his trips outside the state were to engage development institutions that would provide financial resources to the state.
He said there was no local government where the state government was not implementing a N5 billion project.
According to him, “What people are saying is that we are building roads in Gusau, which we have to because it is the capital of Zamfara State.
“There are local governments in the state with good road networks but it is only animals that are plying those roads. So, they do not need roads.
“They need hospitals, schools, water and these are what we are providing. There is water in all the local governments. There are hostels.
and transmission of tariffs to the Secretariat signified the country’s readiness for trade under the agreement.
In a statement issued by the Director, Press and Public Relations in the ministry, Dr. Adebayo Thomas, the minister noted that the milestone would enable Nigerian exporters leverage preferential tariff access across African markets, positioning the country as a key player in regional and global trade.
Oduwole further noted that the development underscored Nigeria’s dedication to leveraging Africa’s single market for economic transformation.
The AfCFTA agreement establishes zero duties on 90 per cent of tariff lines for trade in goods, enhancing Nigeria’s market competitiveness and expanding trade opportunities across Africa.
Essentially, Nigerian goods are now competitively positioned in the African market, ensuring greater business access and profitability.
President Bola Tinubu signed the
for a barrel of Brent crude and $66 for a barrel of WTI. Then, on April 6, the bank cut its 2026 outlook for the oil benchmarks. “Oil prices would likely exceed our forecast if the administration were to reverse tariffs sharply and deliver a reassuring message to markets, consumers, and businesses,” Goldman analysts said in their note.
In its latest price update, Goldman predicted weaker-than-expected oil demand growth this year, at a modest 300,000 barrels daily this year. Goldman also revised down its demand forecast for the end of
permanently resolving the conflict in Plateau.”
The latest murderous incident, which occurred late Sunday night, caused grief and devastation in the affected community and the state, as several persons were injured, with over 30 houses razed.
Secretary General of Irigwe Development Association (IDA), Mr. Danjuma Auta, who confirmed the attack in a telephone interview initially put the death figure at 47 before additional bodies were recovered from the bushes, making the total figure 54.
Auta stated that several injured people were in dire need of blood, saying the scale of the violence suggested a well-planned and coordinated assault on the people.
The state government, while condemning the attack as sad and unprovoked, warned that it was another attempt to puncture the peace that had gradually returned to the state.
Mutfwang decried the killings, and said they suggested a more sinister motive.
He stated, “I can tell you in all honesty that I cannot find any explanation other than genocide sponsored by terrorists. The question is, who are the persons behind the organisers of this terrorism?
“We are doing specialist and general hospital in Gasau that will be commissioned in May. We have so far renovated over 70 Primary Health Centres in the state.
“So it is political statement to say that we are not doing anything in the rural areas.”
He also declared his opposition to the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, adding that he is one of the governors that are in court to challenge it.
When asked if emergency rule would be declared in Zamfara State to resolve the faceoff between him and his predecessor, the current Minister of State for Defence, the governor stated that he was not the president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
ECOWAS Schedule of Tariff Offers, which reinforces the country’s commitment to regional trade expansion, strengthening its role in shaping the future of intra-African trade and boosting export competitiveness under the AfCFTA framework.
Furthermore, it enables the seamless shipment of goods to and from Nigeria, unlocking new opportunities for businesses, manufacturers, and exporters.
Moreover, the gazetting of the Schedule of Tariff Concessions was expected to yield significant benefits, including boosting economic growth and job creation by reducing trade barriers, strengthening regional integration and trade relations through enhanced economic ties, and supporting Nigerian SMEs by lowering costs and encouraging market expansion.
Nigeria’s commitment to AfCFTA implementation makes it an attractive destination for foreign and intraAfrican investment, reinforcing its role as a trade hub in West Africa.
However, stronger engagement is
2026, slashing the figure by 900,000 bpd for the final quarter.
Meanwhile, oil prices rose more than 1 per cent on Monday after US exclusions on some tariffs and Chinese data showing a sharp rebound in crude imports in March, but gains were capped by concerns that the trade war between the United States and China could weaken global economic growth and dent fuel demand. Brent crude futures rose by 83 cents, or 1.3 per cent, to $65.59 a barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate crude was up 81 cents, or 1.3 per cent, at $62.31.
“This is what the security agencies must help us to unravel.”
Mutfwang spoke during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today.
The Commissioner for information and Communication, Mrs. Joyce Ramnap, said the attack was one too many, and they posed a serious threat to the lives and livelihoods of the peace-loving people of Plateau State.
Ramnap said, “It is sad that in less than two weeks, after our people were killed in Bokkos Local Government Area, this sad incident is reoccurring in another community in Bassa local government.
“The attacks are seriously provocative, but we call on Plateau people, particularly the attacked communities, to remain calm and more vigilant.”
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) described the killings as “barbaric” and “a grave affront to human dignity.”
In a statement, CAN President, Daniel Okoh, expressed sorrow over the attacks in Bokkos and Mangu local government areas, warning that such “senseless bloodshed threatens Nigeria’s unity”.
Okoh said, “This level of violence is a serious threat to our national cohesion. We call on the government to act swiftly to protect lives and restore peace to Plateau and other affected regions.”
Similarly, the Berom Youths Moulder-Association decried the renewed attacks at a time the people were enjoying relative peace.
In a statement by president of the association, Dalyop Mwantiri, the group said it was saddened by the systemic, premeditated killings of unsuspecting residents of Bokkos and Bassa.
Mwantiri said information available to them showed that the attackers were armed Fulani militants.
He called on the federal government to, in conjunction with the Plateau State government and other states, set in motion the necessary measures towards not only the declaration of Fulani militants as terrorist groups, but also come up with a legislation that would allow
required from African Trade Ministers to address other types of barriers, including non-tariff barriers that could hinder market access.
In addition, improving productive capacity and ensuring compliance with international standards remain imperative to maximise the benefits of the agreement.
In July 2024, Nigeria solidified its leadership in regional trade and integration with the formal gazetting of the Schedule of Tariffs for Trade in Goods to ensure Nigerian goods can access other markets competitively and profitably.
This reciprocal trade arrangement aligns with the directive of the 35th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union in February 2022.
As a result, other AfCFTA State Parties can now accept consignments from Nigeria under the agreement.
Under its preferred classification, Nigeria’s tariff reductions for trade in goods follow a phased approach over 10 years beginning in 2021.
By 2025, the fifth year of AfCFTA
Nigerians acquire arms for exercise of self-defence under the supervision of the Nigeria Police. Meanwhile, troops of 3 Division Nigerian Army and Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH) said they had rescued 16 passengers kidnapped along Jos-Mangu road.
According to Media Information Officer of OPSH, Major Samson Zhakom, “The rescue operation began when troops conducting Operation LAFIYAN JAMA’A discovered an empty vehicle abandoned by the roadside at Mararaban Kantoma in Mangu Local Government Area of the state at about 9pm local time on 13 April 2025.
“The troops immediately searched the nearby bushes to trace the occupants of the vehicle suspected to have been kidnapped. The kidnappers, on sighting the troops opened fire, but own troops overwhelmed the criminals with superior firepower forcing them to abandon the victims and fled. Troops exploited the general area and rescued all 16 abducted passengers, which included six children.
“Troops administered first aid to some of the rescued victims, who sustained minor injuries during the incident. Thereafter, troops escorted the victims to safety to continue their journey to Jos Metropolis.
“Meanwhile, troops are on the lookout for the fleeing kidnappers suspected to have sustained gunshot wounds during the encounter with troops.”
Tinubu’s Security Policy, Infrastructure Have Failed Woefully, Declares Ex-VP Atiku Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar condemned the renewed attacks in Plateau State that claimed many innocent lives on Sunday. Atiku also flayed the upsurge in terrorist attacks in Borno State, which had led to the loss of lives and territories to Boko Haram insurgents, according to alarm raised by Governor Babagana Zulum and Shehu of Borno, Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai El-Kanemi.
implementation, a 50 per cent tariff reduction on NGN, implemented at a rate of 10 per cent per year, should immediately affect goods in trade with least developed countries in Africa.
For trade with developing countries on the continent, Nigeria retains the flexibility of complete tariff elimination (zero per cent) effectively immediately under AfCFTA, applying a 20 per cent reduction annually.
The gazetting announcement follows the AfCFTA digital trade mandate announced in February in Addis Ababa, where Tinubu received a personal commendation for his work on digital trade, further reinforcing the country’s commitment to regional and continental trade integration.
The statement added that as a digital trade co-champion, the country was advancing seamless trade facilitation and cross-border commerce, ensuring businesses, especially SMEs, can fully benefit from the AfCFTA framework.
Senator Heineken Lokpobiri
INFRACREDIT SECURES INVESTMENT FROM MOBILIST FOLLOWING LISTING ON NASD...
L-R: MD/CEO, NASD, Eguarekhide Longe; Deputy Director and Head of Financial Advisory at AFC, Fola Fagbule; MD/CEO, AIICO Insurance PLC, Babatunde Fajemirokun; Deputy High Commissioner, British High Commission Lagos, Jonny Baxter; MD/CEO CardinalStone Partners, Michael Nzewi; Non-Executive Director, InfraCredit, Mike Chilton; Independent Non-Executive Director, InfraCredit, Hamda Ambah; Non-Executive Director, InfraCredit, Ijeoma Taylaur; CEO Access-ARM Pensions, Dave Uduanu; MD/CEO, InfraCredit, Chinua Azubike; Investment Advisor, MOBILIST, Louis Lapaz; Chairman, Board of Directors, InfraCredit, Sanjeev Gupta; Independent NonExecutive Director, InfraCredit, Vivien Shobo; Non-Executive Director, InfraCredit, Banji Fehintola; Non-Executive Director, InfraCredit, Kola Owodunni; COO and Executive Director, Daniel Mueller, at the announcement of Mobilist’s strategic investment in InfraCredit, and listing on NASD, last Friday
UK-backed InfraCredit Lists on NASD, to Raise
$17.7m for
The United Kingdom is using catalytic investment to support Nigeria in mobilising more domestic capital toward sustainable infrastructure development and the country’s energy transition.
The UK government’s MOBILIST programme is investing N9.5 billion ($6 million) in InfraCredit, Nigeria’s first and only domestic creditor guarantor, in support of the company’s listing on Nigeria’s
Infrastructure Development in Nigeria
NASD OTC Exchange Plc (NASD).
The total listing is valued at N64 billion ($41 million), with InfraCredit raising N27 billion ($17.7 million) in new equity.
The federal government had estimated that over $2.3 trillion in investment would be needed between 2021 and 2043 to close the country’s enormous infrastructure gap, but the long-term capital needed is not available in the local banking market.
InfraCredit helps to overcome
this challenge by issuing Nairadenominated guarantees that help to mitigate risk for investors and improve the creditworthiness of Nigerian infrastructure debt instruments.
These guarantees attract Nigerian institutional investors – like pension funds and insurance firms – and enable them to invest in instruments used to finance infrastructure projects.
InfraCredit had used guarantees to secure an infrastructure project
pipeline of over N750 billion ($500 million).
However, through listing on the NASD with MOBILIST’s backing, it has now attracted direct equity investment from two pension funds, which would enable it to expand its capacity to extend even more guarantees for new projects.
MOBILIST’s investment would also support InfraCredit’s green growth strategy to transition its portfolio toward greater investment in renewable energy sources.
Gideon Arinze in Enugu ANAMMCO, one of Nigeria’s key vehicle manufacturing companies, has unveiled its latest product, the Matador pickup truck.
Unveiling the truck at the ongoing 36th Enugu International Trade Fair yesterday, the Company’s General
Manager (Sales), Mr. Olalekan Sanyaolu said that the Matador pickup is designed to effortlessly navigate Nigeria’s on-road and off-road terrains.
Speaking on the key features, Sanyaolu said the vehicle has both manual and automatic transmission versions and boasts a perfect balance
of high performance and safety.
“Other Key features of the Matador include its advanced technology, optimum performance, spacious double cabin, multimedia display screen, reverse camera and a customised booth cover,” he said.
Sanyaolu said that he was optimistic about the future of the
Nigeria, UNDP Deepen Commitment to Strengthening Democracy in West Africa
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Nigeria have reaffirmed their joint commitment to advancing democratic governance across West Africa through the Regional Partnership for Democracy (RPD) - a strategic initiative aimed at promoting inclusive, accountable, and resilient political systems across the sub-region.
During a high-level engagement held at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, hosted the UNDP Resident Representative, Ms. Elsie Attafuah, for a progress review and strategic dialogue on the RPD initiative.
The engagement reaffirmed a strong, collective commitment to deepening democratic governance and institutional resilience across West Africa.
It underscored the importance of strengthening the rule of law, safeguarding the independence and effectiveness of core democratic
institutions, including the executive, legislature, judiciary, and electoral bodies, and expanding civic space to foster inclusive and participatory governance.
This creates an opportunity for regional cooperation for consolidating democratic progress, promoting peace and stability, and fulfilling citizens’ aspirations for a transparent, accountable, and responsive leadership.
Tuggar emphasized Nigeria’s unique leadership role within the African Union (AU) in driving regional approaches to governance reform.
He highlighted the ministry’s resolve to work closely with UNDP and other key actors to align national strategies with regional frameworks to foster more transparent, inclusive, and sustainable democratic outcomes.
The Regional Partnership for Democracy (RPD) seeks to provide a platform for African-led and contextspecific solutions to democratic challenges.
It brings together governments, civil society, academia, media, and
development partners to design and implement innovative reforms rooted in African values and democratic principles.
UNDP reiterated its support for the RPD through the provision of technical assistance, institutional capacity strengthening, researchinformed policy development, and monitoring and evaluation.
Ms. Attafuah reaffirmed UNDP’s dedication to working in partnership with the Nigerian government to scale the impact of the initiative across West Africa.
The programme will be piloted across West Africa, with Nigeria not only providing political leadership but also playing a central operational role in shaping the design, implementation, and knowledge-sharing processes.
This renewed partnership represents a significant step forward in the implementation phase of the RPD and reflects Nigeria’s sustained commitment to promoting democratic resilience, rule of law, and inclusive governance across the West African sub-region.
production and assembly of commercial vehicles business in Nigeria, citing the country’s major reliance on road transport for the movement of passengers, goods and services.
Also speaking, the Director, Corporate Services, Mr. Uche Okeke, commended Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State for his commitment to grow the state’s economy which serves as a boost to manufacturing companies like ANAMMCO.
He said: “ANAMMCO is one the major beneficiaries of Mbah’s patronage. His steadfast stance on if it can be done in Enugu, why take it elsewhere, is uncommon in Nigeria.”
As part of its growth ambitions, InfraCredit would explore a listing on the Nigerian Exchange (NGX). MOBILIST previously announced a partnership with NGX to enable greater investment toward achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through listed products. This partnership forms part of the UK’s continued commitment to supporting Nigeria in developing its capital market.
In his comments, the British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, Mr. Jonny Baxter, said:
“InfraCredit’s success highlights the power and impact of longterm partnerships, and the UK via the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) is proud to have played a key role in not just the creation of InfraCredit through the Private Infrastructure Development Group (PIDG), but its continued growth.
“This transaction illustrates the potential of public markets to mobilise domestic capital at scale. By listing with the backing of MOBILIST, InfraCredit will enable local institutional investors to benefit from the growth opportunities presented by sustainable infrastructure development in their own market while ensuring that the local firms driving these projects can access the capital they need.”
On his part, InfraCredit CEO, Mr. Chinua Azubike, commented that: “This moment marks the beginning of a new chapter for
InfraCredit. We are pleased with the confidence reposed in us by our new domestic institutional investor shareholders alongside the UK Government through MOBILIST, and our transition to a listed public company with access to equity capital markets.
“This reflects our ambition to build a deeper, more inclusive capital market for domestic resources that accelerates infrastructure delivery in Nigeria in line with our mission to unlock long-term local currency infrastructure finance. “By broadening our ownership and adhering to public market standards, InfraCredit aims to create long-term impact by strengthening investor confidence as a trusted catalyst for sustainable infrastructure finance as we navigate the pathway to growth and scale.” InfraCredit was established in 2017 by GuarantCo, a Private Infrastructure Development Group (PIDG) company, and the Nigerian Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) to deepen domestic debt capital markets for infrastructure finance and unlock long-term infrastructure financing in Nigeria. It was the first of several such entities in other countries, including InfraZamin in Pakistan and Dhamana in Kenya. InfraCo Africa, another PIDG company, became an investor in 2020. InfraCredit has since put in place financing partnerships with UK entities British International Investment (BII) and Financial Sector Deepening Africa (FSDA).
FG Reaffirms Commitment to Traditional Institutions, Cultural Heritage
Hammed Shittu in Ilorin
Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, has reaffirmed the federal government’s steadfast support for traditional institutions as vital custodians of Nigeria’s cultural identity and national pride.
The Special Assistant on Sub-national Development and Engagement, to the Minister, Hon. Abiola Abdulkareem, stated this in a statement issued on Monday in Ilorin, Kwara State capital on the sidelines of the visit of the minister to the newly crowned Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade.
The statement said that during the minister’s visit to the ancient city of Oyo, she congratulated His
Imperial Majesty on his ascent to the revered throne.
She highlighted the historical significance of the Alaafin’s stool as one of the most enduring symbols of Yoruba civilisation and leadership.
The minister noted the federal government, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, recognised the critical role of traditional rulers in fostering peace, preserving heritage, and advancing community development.
“The Alaafin’s Palace is more than a royal seat - it is a beacon of cultural continuity and resilience.
“Oyo, as a cultural capital, and the legacy of Sango as both deity and king, hold immense potential for strengthening our tourism sector both domestic and
international,” the minister stated. She emphasised that the ministry remains committed to leveraging Nigeria’s rich traditional institutions and cultural assets to drive economic diversification through tourism, in alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda.
The minister reiterated that partnerships with revered thrones like the Alaafin’s are essential to building a vibrant creative economy that reflects the soul of the nation and creates sustainable opportunities for Nigerians.
The statement maintained that the minister’s homage to the Alaafin reaffirms the ministry’s dedication to preserving, promoting, and investing in the culture and heritage space as a key pillar of Nigeria’s national development strategy.
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
IKOYI
www.thisdaylive.com
SEYI TINUBU AS PRESIDENTIAL ASSET
Seyi Tinubu is working hard to help his father build a better Nigeria, argues JACK OKUDE
See page 21
TRUMP, TARIFFS AND TRADE WARS
A trade - war approach to governance demeans the United States, argues VICTOR C. ARIOLE
See page 21
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The Senate should look no further than Nigerian universities for cover-up on issues of sexual harassment, contends CHIDI ANSELM ODINKALU
AN ANATOMY OF PARLIAMENTARY SEXPLOITS
This year, 2025, has not been easy on Nigerians. The economy has looked far from bright; the weather has been suffocating; and cost of living has been stubbornly oppressive. With rising massacres in the Middle Belt, and Borno State in the northeast apparently losing ground to the nihilism of Boko Haram terror, violence remains unremitting. In the Niger Delta, a judicially manufactured crisis of political godfathering threatens serious repercussions for the national purse and endangers rent and royalties from the wells of oilrich Rivers State. All this unfolds under the watch of a president who appears to have grown into a habit of sending episodic missives to Nigerians from his preferred base in Paris.
Each of these developments is eminently newsworthy. Together, they should grip attentions about the goings-on in the sixth most populous country in the world. Instead, the biggest news out of Nigeria this year is the failure of Nigeria’s men of power to manage libidinal sexploits in the workplace, and the accompanying tendency to default to abuse of power to inter any resulting embarrassments.
Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is the Senator for Kogi Central and, by herself, 25% of the female contingent in the Nigeria’s Senate. Her detailed allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, would probably have long ago run their course if the chamber and its leadership had approached the matter with due regard to any rule book. Instead, they chose to orchestrate the longest-running political soap opera in Africa’s most populous country.
As with these things, most people no longer remember the complaint because the coverup procured by abuse of power has been more impressive. It has guaranteed that this story has “dominated conversations and highlighted longstanding women’s rights issues in the socially conservative country, where no woman has ever been elected governor, vice-president or president.”
For many, any suggestion that it is abnormal for a man not to get excited in the presence of a woman in the workplace is perplexing to the point of vexing. In a case in 2016, a lawyer representing a powerful international organisation in a case of sexual harassment before the National Industrial Court of Nigeria (NICN), told the judge that “it is expected among adults that a man would naturally chase a woman, make romantic overtures.”
Few have paused to ask what exactly “sexual harassment” means, why it matters and why it is such a lingering issue in both work spaces and public institutions.
In 2011, the Lagos State Criminal Law made sexual harassment a felony. The law describes the crime to include “unwelcome sexual advances, request for sexual favours, and other visual, verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature which when submitted to or rejected” could affect or unreasonably interfere with the employment or educational opportunities of a person; become a factor in their academic or employment decision, or create an intimidating, hostile or offensive learning or working environment. Other states like Ekiti and Kaduna States have followed the example of Lagos in making sexual harassment a crime. Sexual harassment can also create civil liability.
Stella Odey was a widow with four children when the development organization, CUSO, hired her for your years in January 2015 as project manager. At work, she found herself under a male boss who repeatedly told her that “her voice arrests him, slapping her buttocks and embracing her against her will and consent.” He was reluctant to hear her protestation that she desired to remarry.
In July 2015, 14 days after Ms. Odey gave her boss a card inviting him to her wedding, he summarily sacked her. In upholding her claim of unlawful termination, the National Industrial Court pointed out that “the main point in allegations of sexual harassment is that unwelcome sexual conduct has invaded the workplace.”
Four years earlier, the same court awarded quite substantial damages against Microsoft in Nigeria in favour of a female staff whose employment the country manager, a man, terminated after she refused his sexual advances.
While parliamentary sexploits in the Senate have brought much-needed attention to the subject generally, it remains the case that Nigeria’s educational and academic institutions are the places most persistently associated with sexual harassment. Nearly 45 years ago, in 1981, a mere two years after Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was born, the report of the Presidential Commission on Salary and Conditions of University Staff chaired by Professor Samuel Cookey acknowledged an incipient problem of sexual harassment in the universities. Since then, the issue has grown in both scope and significance.
In 2024, a pioneering Baseline Survey conducted under the auspices of the Committee of Gender Directors in Nigerian Universities in partnership with the non-governmental organization, Alliances for Africa, found that at least 63% of female students in universities in the country had experienced sexual harassment. The perpetrators included lecturers, staff, and students. The report acknowledged an absence of progress on this issue, citing “stigmatisation, absence of adequate institutional support, power imbalances between victims and perpetrators, lack of clear policies and procedures for reporting incidents.”
An ongoing scandal at the Federal University, Oye Ekiti (FUOYE), involving allegations of sexual harassment against the Vice-Chancellor, Abayomi Fasina, a professor, illustrates how bad the situation is. At the end of last year, it emerged that a female
senior director at the university, Folasade Adebayo, had accused the Vice-Chancellor of work place reprisals after she allegedly rejected his persistent sexual advances.
The Ekiti State Gender-Based Violence (Prohibition) Law creates a felony crime of sexual harassment which occurs when there is “unwanted conduct of a sexual nature or other conduct based on sex or gender which is persistent or serious and demeans, humiliates, or creates a hostile or intimidating environment.” To prove her allegations, Mrs. Adebayo produced a sound clip of a telephone conversation with the Vice-Chancellor in 2023 in which he could be heard pleading that he would make her happy as long as she made him happy, and confessing: “Let me tell you, I’m dying inside for you.”
After what was supposed to be an internal investigation, the Governing Council issued a statement this past week claiming that it had cleared the Vice-Chancellor of the allegations. Instead it ordered various disciplinary measures against Mrs. Adebayo and the leadership of the Staff Union of the University (which made her allegations public), “for bringing the name of the university into disrepute.”
Without challenging the provenance of the sound clip or the veracity of its contents, the Governing Council instead “condemned the recording of the Vice-Chancellor without his knowledge and consent.” Yet, it resolved to advise the Vice-Chancellor “in writing to be more careful and circumspect in dealing with subordinates.” Not done with this piece of tortured administrative theatre, the Governing Council then announced that it would constitute a “peace and reconciliation committee to look into all the issues in the university.”
The performance of the Senate in the institutional calisthenics of inspired cover-up easily pales into insignificance beside the mastery displayed by the Governing Council of FUOYE. Under cover of high statutory authority, the Governing Council procured the burial of serious allegations that could be criminal in Ekiti while implicitly validating their veracity. Why would the Vice-Chancellor need gratuitous advice of the kind the Council will be offering if the recording lacked credibility? Unsurprisingly, the university staff union promptly denounced the decision.
The bigger problem is that the Council by this decision destroys any hope of remedies for students, staff or anyone with credible claims of sexual harassment in the university. Instead, they guarantee exactly the opposite of what the university seeks to avoid: resort to public advocacy by victims. Anticipating that, the Governing Council of FUOYE says it will expedite the production of policies on cyber-bullying and use of social media. The intention is not to help victims or to bring perpetrators to account. Rather, it seeks to perpetuate a culture of cover-up. Anyone looking for where the men in Senate learnt their art when they were boys should look no further than a Nigerian University.
A lawyer and a teacher, Odinkalu can be reached at chidi.odinkalu@tufts.edu
Seyi
Tinubu is working hard to help his father build a better Nigeria, argues JACK OKUDE
SEYI TINUBU AS PRESIDENTIAL ASSET
Seyi Tinubu, the son of President Bola Tinubu, is up and about; touring Nigeria from north to south, east and west. The First Son of Nigeria has been full of doings. He has done welfare and other humanitarian services. If he wasn’t paying school fees, he’s offsetting hospital bills of indigent Nigerians across tribes and tongues.
In this 4th Republic and probably beyond, he stands out as the most visible First Son. However good intentioned his actions have been, some Nigerians have deprecated him for being excessive and too visible on the nation’s public circuit even when he was not the one elected as President. They argue that he is usurping state powers and undermining the duties of official appointees of his father, including those of Vice President Kashim Shettima who ran and won election on a joint ticket with the president.
Yet, there are some Nigerians who support Seyi Tinubu’s socio-political adventure. They argue that as an adult, Seyi has a right of association, liberty to frolic with Nigerians of his choice and as a member of the First Family, is entitled to privileges that accrue to his father. He cannot be denied the love, care and support of his father just because he’s the President.
Whichever way, the argument swings, it’s expedient to interrogate historical antecedents from other lands with stronger and longer democratic cultures. The United States runs one of the world’s oldest democracies and its democracy has been fraught with quirks and oddities that strip it of imperfection. American democracy has also presented strong attributes that make democracy rank as the best form of government especially with its safety valves of checks and balances.
How has First Children of US Presidential families fared over the years? Were there cases where First Children became real assets for their fathers while they were presidents? Or cases that mirror Seyi Tinubu’s disposition and behaviour during his father’s presidency?
Joshua Kendall, editor, writer, political watcher and authority on US politics, in his book, First Dads: Parenting And Politics From George Washington to Barack Obama, provides deep insights into roles played by some First children who helped their fathers in office while they minded the business of America from the Oval Office. Kendall’s no-holds-barred 391-page book painted the picture of some children as assets and others as liabilities to their fathers.
Kendall wrote in his 2016 article in the PolitiCo magazine: “In every presidential contest since 1789, the American people have been elevating to power not just one person but an entire family, usually including several adult children. These children aren’t forced to debate each other; they don’t release their financial or health records, or face endless scrutiny on their policy positions—and yet a tour through history shows that they sometimes turn out to have a significant impact on the presidency. Some have provided valuable assistance to their fathers and the nation, serving as trusted advisers or surrogates.”
On this list of First Children is John Quincy Adams, eldest son of John Adams (second US President), who became US president in 1797 at 61, succeeding George Washington. President Adams appointed his eldest son minister to Prussia (German territory which later aided America in the Revolutionary War). This infuriated the Republican opposition. The President was setting a dangerous precedent by giving a job to a family member, they raged. As soon as the dust settled, the young Adams went to work and under his father, he renewed a treaty with Prussia and went on, under later presidents, to play a key role in ending the War of 1812. The young Adams was so smart that even George Washington never hid his admiration for him. He would later become the sixth president of the United States, making him the first President’s son to later become the President.
President Rutherford B. Hayes (19th US President) appointed his second son, Webb, at just 20 years old at the time, as his private secretary after President Hayes took office in 1877. Webb later became an incredible asset to his father including playing the role of official greeter at White House social functions—a duty typically served by the Marshal of the District of Columbia. That position was then occupied by Frederick Douglass, a black slave, who was resented by southerners. To avoid further resentment, Webb took on the role of greeter. Webb’s political career grew and he later served in three wars—the Spanish-American War, Philippine-American War and First World War—and won the Congressional Medal of Honour.
And then there was Anna Roosevelt, Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s (FDR) daughter, who was said to have saved the president’s (her father) life. In 1944, the 37-year-old mother of three, working as a journalist in Seattle, moved to Washington to settle into the Lincoln Suite and become her father’s unpaid personal assistant. From being close to her father, Anna noticed that Dr. Ross McIntire, the president’s personal physician, had not been monitoring FDR’s blood pressure regularly. At her request, the sickly president was moved to Bethesda Naval Hospital for a full medical check. FDR was diagnosed with congestive heart failure and proper medication was then administered.
Anna became her father’s constant companion, confidante and gatekeeper, and as such “wielded enormous influence.” It was said that Anna convinced her father to choose Harry Truman rather than Supreme Court Justice William O. Douglas as his next vice-president, prompting Life magazine to assert: “Daddy’s girl is running Daddy.” Anna became part of FDR’s international trips and diplomatic shuttles and was reported to have helped the terminally ill FDR function at a high-level even in his dying days.
President Bill Clinton’s only child, Chelsea Clinton, according to those close to the Clintons, “shapes almost every significant decision her parents make.”
Donald Trump in his first term in office has four adult children, all trusted members of his inner circle. Ivanka Trump served as a surrogate and adviser on the campaign trail.
In Nigeria, Seyi has stepped up the dais. He is building bridges, making friends for his father and connecting with Nigerians especially the youths. What he is doing is historical. Nigerians did not have to vote for him before he could make friends and connect with Nigerians. Besides, it is within his remit, a successful businessman, an adult and a freeborn citizen of Nigeria to move round the country to meet with old friends and make new ones. His actions are nationalistic. He did not pander to any particular ethnic or religious group. He is a friend of one and all. His hand of friendship stretches across social strata, across religion and across ethnic nationalities. This is who he is. A nationalist who loves his country and its people.
Okude, public policy analyst, writes from Jalingo
A trade - war approach to governance demeans the United States, argues VICTOR C. ARIOLE
TRUMP, TARIFFS AND TRADE WARS
The philosophy behind the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) is a call to action for a more equitable, sustainable and prosperous future for all, encompassing economic, social and environment dimensions… leaving no one behind E. Cerin and UNO Elon Musk seems to embark on creating a future that is homo-satient oriented so as to eclipse homosapiens. That means further exploitation and mismanagement of planetary resources to have more robots and less humans on earth. He is interested in keeping and spending money for space exploration suitable for homo-satients. Quite good but not essential.United Nations enunciated SDG seems to be uncomfortable with the Musk’s approach hence one of its 17 goals states: Reduced Inequalities, and better life on land that is sustainable by the respect of biodiversity and not the respect of robots or degrading humans to robots or degrading humans to homo- satient level so as to adapt to space life beyond life on land. Unless the vision is: planning for space life as alternative to life on land, in the event of human extinction on land.
Listening to Jeffrey Sachs as Palki Sharma put him on a hot seat to define where President Trump is taking USA to with his tariff war, and as Sachs acknowledges that it is a great moment to tell 600 million Hindus cling to Palkishow what they should never agree to, if India really wants to take the sixth seat in the United Nations’ Security Council: “never be a friend of USA against China”.
For Jeffrey Sachs, USA is just alone in countering what 192 countries stood for in the United Nations’ Assembly . The 17 SDGS, and India as the most populous, and awaited second economic power, come 2030, must not embark in any trade-off that could slow its progress. Fighting China so as to be friend of USA could make it impossible. Aligning with the UN SDG is the right way and it is better for the most leading human groupings like India as it relates well with bio-diversity, aka respect for Transhumanism. In effect transhumanism tailored to using efficiently bio-diversity resources and responsible technological approach to enhance human capability and potentially overcome aging and possibly death; not necessarily as people like Musk or Yuval see it, claiming gods themselves.
Power to monopolise trade and impose tariff on tradable items makes inclusivity and responsible usage of human and natural resources impossible, and World Trade Organisation (WTO) or USA congress as emphasised by Sachs who are bestowed with such powers must wake up to their responsibilities and save the world from being trumped into anarchy or object of deal making between USA and the rest of the world. According to Sachs it amounts to allowing one person to decide the fate of over eight billion people on earth.
USA has made great sacrifice to keep the world at peace since the World War II, and it is not to be wished away with a deal making process that has marginal goal of whipping away USA trade deficit recorded for over 20 years, that is about $2 trillion.Quite insignificant. Nobel Prize economist Joseph Stiglitz sees it as weak thinking to believe that trade deficit recorded by USA is an unfair treatment by other countries. USA is like a Giant Spider with widely stretched cobwebs and has created a world of quantum entanglement that it cannot just allow to slip off its hands; and as proposed by intelligent people in USA, trade and tariffs are not superior to service industry for a USA that is the guardian land and dashboard center of the wealth of the planet – human and biodiversity wise. Relating to quantum entanglement in metaphorical terms, USA as a dashboard corner could know what humans are feeling as regards bio-diversity usage and how inclusive it projects by “keeping demand for products in every corner of the planet very high” while respecting SDGs as well as shifting its industrial productions to poor countries to enhance infrastructural factories in poor countries of Africa, Asia and Latin America for “Decent work and Economic Growth”, another SDG, which is what the poor countries aspire to for now, and in turn as it is done now with almost all the different human groups present in USA, investing and holding
USA bonds as well as paying highly for what is known as finance services, insurance services and real estate acquisition (fire). This is the integration expectations of a great USA as proposed in Techno Feudalism of Yanis Varoufakis. And it agrees with Chris Hughes proposal of seeking out how to help poor countries to feel the impact of Great USA by reaching out to them with outsourced industrial activities as he did in Kenya. For Chris, it can only be in USA where being leveraged by technological infrastructure, sourced from different part of the world and coupled in USA as cloud Technology center, make people like him overnight billionaires. Imposing tariffs on trades to assuage USA fiscal position is like they say in Africa “carrying elephant on your head and still using your toes to pick ants.”
Some countries in Africa, Asia and Latin America are still having their citizens feeling the heat of poverty like bending very low to “pick ants” for survival that trade agreements like AGOA –African Growth and Opportunity Act – must not be trumped with high tariff.
It is trumpeted that Africa is a marginal continent and needed to wake up relying on its known abundant resources; and it cannot happen if tariff is imposed on it. Africa failed in reaching the goal of MDG – Millennium Development Goals. And it is obviously going to fail in reaching the SDG by what the most powerful like USA, Russia and China are doing to its environment and resources in continuation of what its colonial masters – United Kingdom, France, Spain and Portuguese had done to it for over 500 years.
Leaving no one behind as the SDG proposes must see the USA as leading in the front with its assets and military bases spread in all the continents, and could intervene if need be by using force to initiate wiping off its fiscal deficit if it so wishes. After all, the gold reserve of the Germans are with the USA and it is retained with force, and they are demanding to have them back which is not going to be possible with over trillion dollars of USA assets in Germany just like it is in South Korea as USA stands as shield against North Korea’shanging invasion.
Governance efficiency in USA is beyond USA. It is governance efficiency of the world run by USA. USAID, CIA, Education Department which are helping to keep the world under the scrutiny of USA. The DOGE – Department of Government Efficiency – of Elon Musk must read wide on what USA has attracted for itself in the chessboard of the planetary game and know that thinking humanistic is better than thinking robotic. And as Jeffrey Sachs mentioned in the Palki Sherma show, there is no way a heavily populated India like the rest of the world could lead their lives by what 325 million people in USA intend to impose on them. Somehow it happens. So, tariff and trade war, Tea Party governance approach demean USA; a better strategy should be adopted
Ariole is a Professor of French and Francophone Studies, University of Lagos
Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA
Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com
THE SCOURGE OF HUMAN TRAFFICKING
All critical stakeholders should do more to stem the menace
By their modus operandi, human traffickers move their victims from country to country until they reach their destination. In the process, many die even as the survivors are subjected to all forms of indignity, in the bid to repay the heavy debts owed to their “benefactors” by way of travel expenses. But the trade is thriving because most of the people involved wield powerful influence with which they circumvent the law. It is therefore shameful that Nigeria is regarded not only as a transit route for this illegal trade but also a source as well as a destination with children and young adults, especially of the womenfolk, now becoming merchandise.
The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), said last week that human traffickers are increasingly using digital platforms to lure and exploit victims. “Trafficking has gone digital. We must act fast, or risk being outpaced by criminals who now use sophisticated online tools to recruit, control, and exploit victims,” he said at a stakeholders’ consultative forum in Abuja. “Human trafficking remains one of the world’s most profitable crimes. We must adapt, especially as traffickers now exploit digital tools to operate.”
Enforcement and Administration Act. It was amended in 2005 to prescribe more severe penalties for trafficking offenders as well as prohibits all forms of human trafficking. Despite that, human trafficking remains a major challenge in the country today. We are of the strong belief that a demonstration of political will to prosecute offenders would serve as deterrent to those engaged in the nefarious trade, irrespective of their social status.
A demonstration of political will to prosecute offenders would serve as deterrent to those engaged in the nefarious trade, irrespective of their social status
T H I S D AY
EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU
DEPUTY EDITOR WALE OLALEYE
MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO
DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU
CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI
EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN
It is quite unfortunate that human trafficking is thriving among some desperate Nigerians who have come to regard it as a business. Indeed, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has long confirmed the prevalence of modern-day slavery known as trafficking in persons (TIP) in our country. “Its high occurrence has made Nigeria to be classified as a source, transit and destination country in TIP,” UNODC once stated while estimating that 750,000 to one million persons are trafficked annually in the country. But the increasing number of our citizens being trafficked abroad for nefarious activities places a heavy burden on the authorities.
To combat this challenge, the federal government had in 2003 enacted the Trafficking in Persons Law
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
The sheer magnitude and sophistication of this human merchandising indicate that for any meaningful breakthrough to be achieved in combating it, collaborative attempts must be made by governments, non-governmental organisations, corporate bodies and even influential individuals. But critical stakeholders can no longer continue to watch from the sidelines while unscrupulous people classify fellow human beings as commodities and benefit from their ignorance, desperation and, sometimes, greed. For instance, the National Universities Commission (NUC) recently alerted the public about a foreign-based human trafficking network that operates under the pretence of offering scholarships to Nigerian students.
Last December, the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) rearrested convicted human trafficker and leader of a notorious international trafficking syndicate, Uadiale Christiana Jacob, popularly known as ‘Christy Gold’. But beyond bringing one notorious culprit to justice, there is an urgent need for families, voluntary organisations, and other stakeholders to join NAPTIP in the efforts to fight human trafficking. A demonstration of political will to diligently prosecute offenders would also serve as deterrence. We must cast away the complacency that has emboldened the perpetrators of this criminal enterprise who exploit the most vulnerable of our society for illicit gains. Ignoring the subtle signals of violence inflicted on our women and girls can only lead to disruption in our families and society. While we commend NAPTIP for its efforts, curbing these tragic incidents is a collective responsibility.
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NIGERIA AND PROBLEM OF MANAGING DIVERSITY
In the face of renewed uproar over the appointments made by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu since he resumed office as President of Nigeria, the spotlight is again clearly and harshly on Nigeria’s federal arrangement and the difficulties of managing diversity in a country riven by ethnic and religious politics. It was always going to be a difficult arrangement and so it has proven to be. Nigeria’s colonial masters ignored numerous warning signs and red flags to amalgamate the Northern and Southern protectorates to form Nigeria in 1914. More than a hundred and ten years down the line, the fissure which first⁶ flexed its enormous muscles in 1966 and 1967–1970, continue to power many of Nigeria’s fault lines . Nigeria has made it a point of campaign to emphasize the unity in its diversity and just how much it can harness that diversity for development. While talk has been easy, harnessing it has proven far more difficult.
Getting Nigeria’s disparate zones and regions to click together in the chorus of Nigeria’s development has proven a forbidden task, however. In a country where everything is viewed through the lens of religion and provincialism, integration has
been very difficult.
Nigerians have not been able to properly gel together for their development because of nepotism. Many Nigerians think only along ethnic, religious and regional lines. When they bring this mentality to the national table, dialogue and development is necessarily impeded.
To counter criticisms of the president’s lopsided appointments and seeming nod to the pitfalls of nepotism, some of the president’s more confrontational supporters have pointed out that his predecessor also packed his government with people from a certain section of the country giving particularly short shrift to fairness and federal character.
There is certainly some truth on the tongues of those who argue like this. There were certainly loud howls of hypocrisy and nepotism when former president, Muhammadu Buhari was in power. He was severally accused of giving undue and unjustifiable preference to the North, especially his Fulani stock.
The conversation around political appointment and political appointees has always been one to drive divisions in Nigeria. It has always been dogged by controversy and accusations of
unfairness.
Who are those advising the president? What is behind this clear but disturbing predilection to concede many key government positions to people of one ethnic stock? Should government positions ever be used to settle political merchants and cronies, who would then most likely put sycophancy above performance while in office? Even if that has always been the tradition in Nigeria, shouldn’t a forward-thinking president like Mr. President be at the forefront of discarding that odious tradition?
Nigeria has colossal potential as a country. But as experience and economics have shown, potentials are never nearly enough. The country must take decisive steps to integrate all its different parts into one cohesive unit. To achieve this, nepotism, cronyism and all the vices that poison politics while driving people apart and derailing development must be eschewed. Appointments into sensitive political positions should never be used to reward one’s kinsmen or for whatever reason save merit.
Ike Willie-Nwobu, Ikewilly9@gmail.com
Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com
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Mutfwang: Plateau Killings Are Pure Genocide Orchestrated By Terrorists
Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State in this interview addresses persistent security challenges in Bokkos Local Government area of the state describing the recent attacks resulting in the loss of lives and property as a deliberate act of genocide aimed at land grabbing. He also salutes President Bola Tinubu for his political will in responding to the crisis and ensuring restoration of law and order in the state. seriki Adinoyi brings excerpts:
What more do we need to know? As of now, there are reports that the death toll may have risen to over 60. What are the actual figures?
Thank you, Nigerians, for the outpouring of sympathy and concern over these dastardly attacks. The statistics you’ve mentioned are not far from what we have. However, we are being cautious not to speculate. Some corpses have been discovered in the bushes, as many fled for safety during the attacks. We’re taking proper stock and will release verified figures soon—on casualties, deaths, and houses burnt.
That said, we have intensified surveillance, increased security personnel, and deployed more assets to the affected areas. I want to acknowledge the concern shown by President Bola Tinubu—even while abroad, he has consistently reached out. The Chief of Defence Staff, the Chief of Army Staff, the National Security Adviser, and the Inspector General of Police have all been involved. Today, we received additional security personnel and resources. The Police DIG Operations is on the ground, coordinating efforts to repel these forces of terror.
Can you give us a clearer picture of what exactly is happening on the Plateau? We witnessed similar events in December 2023. Who are these attackers, and what is their intent?
Let me put this in proper context. This latest attack began in Ruwi, a community near the local government headquarters. The people were observing a wake—mourning the death of a loved one—when they were suddenly attacked. It wasn’t even in the dead of night; it happened late in the afternoon. There were no provocations or prior incidents to justify such violence. These attacks weren’t reprisal in nature. Given this pattern, I have no choice but to conclude that these are terrorist organizations deliberately targeting our people. The land in question is very fertile—rich in food produce and mineral deposits. We’ve observed a pattern over the years: at the beginning of the farming season, communities are attacked and destabilized so that they can’t plant. If they manage to farm, another wave of attacks occurs during harvest.
We’ve been intervening to help communities resist such intimidation. We’ve deployed Agro-Rangers from the Civil Defence Corps, equipped them with motorcycles, and armed them to protect farmers. This strategy contributed to a stretch of relative peace since December 2023. Unfortunately, this current attack has shattered that peace.
Some of these attackers disguise as herdsmen, moving cattle as cover, while carrying sophisticated arms. This raises serious questions about their real motives. However, the national outrage this time may be a turning point. A few arrests have been made, and we hope these will lead to valuable intelligence.
We’ve worked hard to promote communal harmony, and to a large extent, we’ve succeeded. But this attack blindsided us.
It’s devastating, and we’re doing all we can to uncover the causes and secure lasting peace. Bokkos was similarly affected in December 2023, along with Barkin-Ladi, and now again.
Are these attacks targeted efforts to wipe out entire communities? If so, why?
It appears so. These attacks have persisted for over 30 years but rarely made national
mutfwang
headlines. Bokkos is blessed with a beautiful landscape and rich mineral resources, but it’s also a rugged, challenging terrain. The communities attacked now were also hit in 2023. For example, Ruwi lost about 17 people in 2023 but recovered and rebuilt—showing remarkable resilience.
If such communities have faced sustained attacks for over a decade, then there’s no other logical conclusion than that these are deliberate, coordinated efforts to displace the people and reoccupy their land.
As I speak, no fewer than 64 communities in Bokkos, Barkin-Ladi, and Riyom LGAs have been taken over by bandits. These lands have been renamed and are now occupied by strangers—while the original inhabitants remain displaced.
Dialogue is ongoing to ensure the return of these communities. But the proliferation of sophisticated weapons in the hands of non-state actors has made peaceful coexistence more difficult.
This is more than a communal clash—this is genocide, orchestrated by terrorists. The critical question
is: who is sponsoring this terrorism? The security agencies must help us find out. It’s time for a united and coordinated intelligence effort to expose the masterminds and bring this to an end.
From your comments, this seems like a clear case of genocide with land grabbing as the motive. Can you speak more about those occupying the land—what are they doing there? Mining? Farming? What economic interests are driving this?
A - Available intelligence suggests a lot of covert activities are ongoing in the occupied areas. Unfortunately, even security operatives often hesitate to enter these places due to potential compromise. There have been instances where security operations were leaked, giving perpetrators time to cover their tracks. We’ve lost not just communities, but also schools, healthcare centers, and other public infrastructure. Our culture of hospitality on the Plateau makes it difficult to quantify the scale of displacement—many internally displaced persons are hosted by relatives, making the crisis appear less severe than it truly is.
Now, who are these people?
A - We’re still piecing together a full picture. What we do know is that illegal
This is more than a communal clash—this is genocide, orchestrated by terrorists. The critical question is: who is sponsoring this terrorism? The security agencies must help us find out. It’s time for a united and coordinated intelligence effort to expose the masterminds and bring this to an end.
mining is rampant in these occupied areas—mining that is not captured in federal government data. There’s also widespread illegal arms trafficking. These areas have become safe havens for criminal elements. The criminal justice system has also failed us in the past—suspects are arrested and then mysteriously released due to high-level interference. However, with the recent arrests, we are determined to ensure justice is served and those responsible are held accountable.
I can imagine what is going on in your mind right now. You have the title—the Chief Security Officer—but it appears there are encumbrances, some things that are stopping you from being able to act in full capacity. If you had the powers, what would you have done differently?
A - Thank you. This brings to the fore the national debate around the need for state police. I remain an unrepentant advocate for it—not because the current security forces aren’t doing their best. In fact, I want to sincerely thank the Inspector General of Police, the Chief of Army Staff, and all the security agencies working tirelessly. But the reality is this: their terms of engagement are largely reactive. Proactive measures are rare, even when intelligence suggests something might happen. That’s why many communities are now taking the initiative to defend themselves. And this is something we want to avoid. We have always believed in working through conventional security forces. Operation Rainbow, which some bandits have tried to discredit, is a reinforcement outfit. They don’t operate independently; they support and work with conventional forces. We’re now investing more in training them, so that once the regular forces finish their assignments, Operation Rainbow can hold the ground. Communities that were attacked in 2023 and again recently could have avoided being taken by surprise if we had a properly armed and trained local presence. However, we cannot continue leaving arms in the hands of non-state actors. That’s why the establishment of state police has become not just important, but urgent.
Your state sandwiched in the northcentral region, bordered by Kaduna, Bauchi, Taraba, Benue, Kogi, parts of Kwara and Niger. Given this vulnerable location, are there signs of land grabbing and even possible genocide? And who exactly are these people?
Plateau is landlocked and surrounded by multiple states—Kaduna, Nasarawa, Bauchi, Taraba, Gombe. What we’re witnessing is cross-border banditry. Sadly, in Nigeria, banditry has become synonymous with certain nomadic groups. While I haven’t personally encountered them, survivors tell us that many of these attackers speak no Nigerian language—they’re likely foreign. Some do migrate from the northwest into Plateau, and it appears that across the North Central—except maybe Kwara—nowhere is truly safe. These criminal elements have taken over forests and waterways.
We must confront the root of this issue. The era of mobile, open grazing is over. It benefits neither the herders nor our economy. If we transition to modern ranching, it becomes easier to identify those in our forests. If you’re not herding cattle, then what are you doing there? That’s the question.
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From 300 Million Users to Obsolete: Skype’s Legacy and Successors
Nosa Alekhuogie writes that Skype, once the gold standard for online communication, will officially shut down in May, marking the end of a platform that redefined how the world connected. Skype’s two-decade journey leaves behind a legacy that revolutionised global connectivity, from pioneering free video and voice calls and instant messaging to becoming a household name in remote communication.
The platform, founded in 2003, broke communication barriers by offering free voice and video calls worldwide. It changed how people interacted, from long-distance relationships to business meetings. At its peak, Skype was the go-to solution for virtual communication, with over 300 million active users by 2011. In 2011, Microsoft moved, acquiring Skype for $8.5 billion. The tech giant recognised the potential of Skype’s global reach and integrated it into its growing software suite. However, as the years passed, the platform’s relevance began to fade. As mobile-first communication tools took centre stage, Skype struggled to keep pace.
SKYPE’S
RISE: A LEGACY OF CONNECTION
Skype was born out of necessity. International calls were expensive, and the internet was becoming an ever-more powerful tool for communication. The idea of free voice and video calls seemed almost too good to be true. With Skype, users could now connect across continents without worrying about the cost. By 2004, just a year after its launch, Skype had 11 million users. By 2008, that number had grown to 405 million. These figures showed Skype’s impact, allowing people to stay connected with friends and family, regardless of location. It was also revolutionary for businesses, offering a free and effective way to conduct meetings and collaborate on projects, a concept still foreign to most companies at the time.
THE FALL OF SKYPE AND THE RISE OF NEW GIANTS
However, as the mobile-first era gained traction, Skype’s platform struggled to evolve. Mobile optimisation was a major gap for the service, and new competitors emerged that offered more functionality and modern user interfaces. As Skype’s prominence began to wane in the face of new competition, it opened the door for more agile platforms to take over the virtual communication industry. Skype, which had once been the leader in online video and voice calls, failed to keep up with the evolving needs of businesses and consumers, especially with the rise of mobile-first communication tools. Its struggle to adapt to smartphone-centric communication and the growing demand for more comprehensive collaboration solutions led to its decline.
In contrast, new platforms like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet surged forward, leveraging Skype’s initial breakthrough in voice and video calling and evolving them into integrated, all-in-one communication and collaboration hubs. These platforms offered more robust features, such as enhanced security, better mobile compatibility, and seamless integrations with other productivity tools, quickly becoming the go-to solutions for remote work and personal communication.
The rise of these competitors began to chip away at Skype’s user base, especially as businesses embraced collaboration platforms that integrated voice, video, and messaging into a seamless experience. While Skype’s decline opened the door for new players, other platforms took virtual meetings to the next level. Each platform has contributed to shaping the next generation of virtual meetings, from enterprise solutions to seamless integration with existing workflows.
MICROSOFT TEAMS:
THE ENTERPRISE
POWERHOUSE
BUILT ON SKYPE’S LEGACY
Microsoft Teams, a direct evolution of Skype, was launched in 2017. With over 320 million daily active users, Microsoft Teams holds a 32.29 per cent global video conferencing market share. The platform has gained massive traction within enterprises, with 93 per cent
USER ENGAGEMENT TRENDS ACROSS VIRTUAL MEETING PLATFORMS (DEC 2024-FEB 2025)
of Fortune 100 companies using Teams for collaboration.
Microsoft’s strategic focus on integrating Teams with other Microsoft 365 services, such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, has made it a comprehensive solution for businesses. Teams generated $8 billion in revenue in 2023, reflecting its robust growth and deep penetration into the business sector. The platform’s user base has expanded rapidly, with 50 million new users joining between 2022 and 2024 alone. Teams is particularly popular in the U.S., where eight million companies rely on it for communication and collaboration.
ZOOM: A PANDEMIC PHENOMENON TURNED ESSENTIAL BUSINESS TOOL
Founded in 2011 by Eric Yuan, a former Cisco executive, Zoom’s rapid rise was catalysed by the global shift to remote work during the COVID-19 pandemic. Before 2020, the platform had already established itself as a reliable video conferencing tool, but its usage soared as the world embraced virtual communication. By 2020, Zoom was facilitating over 300 million daily meeting participants, a stark contrast to its pre-pandemic numbers. The pandemic accelerated its growth, with businesses, schools, and families worldwide flocking to the platform for meetings, classes, and social interactions.
The platform reported annual revenue of $4.527 billion, marking a 3.06 per cent increase from the previous year. As of Q3 FY2024, Zoom had 7 million paid phone seats, up from 4 million in 2022, highlighting its continued growth. The platform’s reach extends globally, with around 200 million meeting participants worldwide.
The U.S. leads with 37.65 percent of traffic, followed by Japan at 6.22 per cent and India at 5.13 per cent. The platform is particularly popular among users aged 25-34, who make up 29.9 per cent of its user base. Despite a post-pandemic shift in demand, Zoom remains a dominant force in virtual meetings, with 18.3 million
downloads in the Asia-Pacific region in Q4 2023 alone. The mobile app also surpassed 5.5 million seats by FY23, continuing to see robust usage across professional and personal settings.
GOOGLE MEET: SIMPLE, RELIABLE, AND SEAMLESSLY INTEGRATED
Google Meet, part of the Google Workspace ecosystem, has emerged as a trusted solution for millions of businesses, schools, and individuals. Known for its simplicity and ease of integration with Gmail and Google Calendar, Meet has become a favorite for those who value reliability and straightforward functionality. According to Electro IQ, as of 2024, Google Meet has over 300 million monthly users and a 29.39 per cent market share globally. Its integration with Google Workspace, which provides access to over three billion Google account holders, enhances its popularity.
The platform is particularly strong in regions like Malaysia, where it holds a 74 per cent market share and leads in 28 countries, including Italy and Brazil. Despite its global reach, it ranks lower in business use in the U.S. at number 27. In July 2024, Google Meet was downloaded 6.23 million times.
SLACK: REVOLUTIONISING WORKPLACE COMMUNICATION WITH HUDDLES
Slack, primarily known as a messaging tool, has redefined team collaboration with its flexible platform. Introducing Huddles, a feature for quick audio or video chats within channels, has made it an even more essential tool for real-time communication. Research published on Analyzify reported that as of 2024, Slack has 42 million daily active users and serves over 1 million organisations globally.
CISCO WEBEX: LEADING WITH SECURITY AND ENTERPRISEGRADE FEATURES
Cisco’s Webex platform caters to corporate clients, offering a robust suite
of video conferencing tools with a strong emphasis on security and enterprise-level scalability. With over 39 million monthly active users, Webex is particularly favoured by large organisations prioritising data security and privacy in their communications. According to a report by Electroiq.com, Webex has become a leading platform in video conferencing and collaboration tools, particularly with the rise of hybrid working models.
Webex Calling stands out with a 92 per cent repurchase rate, leading customer experience satisfaction, followed by Microsoft Teams (90 per cent) and RingEX (84 per cent). It has the highest perceived value rating at 98 per cent, surpassing its competitors like Microsoft Teams (95 per cent) and Zoom (91 per cent).
Webex Calling also leads the cloud calling market, handling 8 billion calls monthly and serving 39 million customers globally, with coverage in over 65 countries. Despite its strong position, Webex faces competition, especially from G Suite, which dominates with an 86.63 per cent market share, followed by Microsoft Office 365 (7.70 per cent).
In addition to active user numbers, total visits are another key metric to gauge the reach and popularity of virtual meeting platforms. According to recent data from Similar Web, the total visits in a three-month window, from December 2024 to February 2025, Zoom led with 1.695 billion visits. Google Meet followed closely by 2.053 billion visits. Microsoft Teams and Slack garnered 704.8 million and 348.9 million visits respectively. Skype and Webex, once leaders in the market, saw much lower engagement during this period, with 78.7 million and 80.19 million visits, respectively.
SKYPE WALKED SO OTHERS COULD RUN
Skype’s legacy in the virtual meeting space is undeniable. While its time at the top is coming to an end, it paved the way for platforms like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet to thrive. These platforms have built upon and expanded upon Skype’s early innovations, providing users with more powerful and accessible communication tools.
LAWYER
TUeSday, a PRIL 15, 2025
Nigeria: In the Throes of Insecurity
MInISTeR of defence, MoHaMMed BadaRU aBUBaKaR
PReSIdenT BoLa aHMed TInUBU, GcfR InSPecToR- GeneRaL of PoLIce, dR Kayode eGBeToKUn
LAWYER
Nigeria: In the Throes of Insecurity
Quotable
‘There was teleguiding of the militants by the Governor….Don’t forget that before now…. Nigeria was producing 900,000 barrels of oil per day. With all the efforts and ingenuity that the President had, he ensured that production rose to about 1.5 million barrels per day…. Then someone became inactive, when they should act. There was not a word, dissuading the militants who issued this threat.’ - Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, Attorney-General of the Federation & Minister of Justice, Nigeria
columnist
PROF MIKE OZEKHOME, CON, SAN, FCIArb, PH.D. LLD Constitutional Democracy, means a system of government, in which political and governmental power, is defined, limited and shared by a grundnorm called the Constitution, which provides inbuilt checks and balances.
This column seeks to fiercely discuss constitutional, legal and political issues, with a view to strengthening, deepening and widening the plenitude and amplitude of democracy and good governance, without fear or favour.
The writer of this column, Prof Mike Ozekhome, SAN, is a Constitutional Lawyer, Human Rights Activist, Pro-Democracy Campaigner, Notary Public and Motivational Speaker. He co-founded the Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO), Nigeria’s pioneer human rights league, on October 15, 1987, the Universal defenders of Democracy (UDD), in 1992, and with Chief Gani Fawehinmi and others in 1998, the Joint Action Committee of Nigeria (JACON), to push out the military. In his early days, he lectured at the University of Ife. Prof Ozekhome is an author of many books. He is also a Special Counsel at the International Criminal Court (ICC), at The Hague.
Establishing NonCompliance With Sections 73(2) and 51(2) of the Electoral Act
Page IV
Nigeria as a Centre of Unending Genocide?
Page VI
Nigeria’s Insecurity, Government’s Inability and Condonation
Page VII
Nigeria's Insecurity Crisis: Between Guns, Greed, and Geopolitics
Page VIII
Armed Herdsmen’s Escalating Attacks Across Nigeria’s Landscape: Causes, Implications and Possible Solutions
Page IX
Rivers LGs: Between Law and Circumstance
Controversies and questions continue to trail the proclamation of a state of emergency in Rivers State last month by President Bola Tinubu, GCFR. And, the more the state of emergency persists, the more lapses we see in the Nigerian procedure in that regard.
Controversies
Last week, some women of Rivers State led a peaceful protest, calling for the restoration of the suspended Governor, Sim Fubara. I also heard some complaints about the Rivers State Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibas (Rtd) (RSA), going beyond his ‘powers’ by appointing 23 Administrators for the Local Government Councils (LGCs) in Rivers State. In APC & Ors v Enugu State Independent Electoral Commission & Ors (2021) LPELR-55337 (SC) per Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo KekereEkun, JSC (now CJN), the Supreme Court held thus: “A Governor who occupies his office as a result of a democratic exercise has a bounden duty to preserve, in all its ramifications, the existence of democratically elected Local Government Councils”. However, the the RSA isn’t a democratically elected Governor, nor does it appear that the ousted LGC Chairmen themselves were democratically or rather, properly elected, according to the definition of Section 7 of the 1999 Constitution of Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) (the Constitution), and in accordance to the relevant provisions of the Electoral Act 2022 (EA).
Of course, we all know that the RSA was appointed by the President. following his proclamation of a state of emergency in Rivers State. As to the legitimacy of the appointment of a Sole Administrator in such circumstances, or the extent of his/ her ‘powers’, we really do not know. The Constitution is largely silent on the procedure to adopt following the proclamation of a state of emergency, let alone who specifically has what powers, and the law doesn’t clearly set out what process to follow either. See Section 305 of the Constitution. All we know is that, procedures to be followed in the event of a proclamation of a state of emergency differs from country to country, depending on their laws in that regard, and that, in such circumstances, the Executive arrogates more powers onto itself, ostensibly to restore normalcy to the area. The Legislature is there to perform oversight functions, while the Judiciary should remain as a check and balance on the other two arms of government, particularly to ensure that the process is not abused by the Executive.
Global best practices however, usually do not allow a Constitution to be suspended (as that would be tantamount to something akin to a coup d’état, where martial law/ autocracy/dictatorship takes over); just some fundamental rights may be limited. See Section 45(2) & (3) of the Constitution, such as freedom of movement (curfews and the like).
Kenya vs Nigeria
The laws relating to state of emergency in Kenya, appear to be more clearly stated than Nigeria’s. For instance, Article 58 & 132(4) (d) of the Kenya Constitution 2010 (KC) empower the Kenyan President to declare a state of emergency, while Article 58(6) (a) thereof only permits the limitation of fundamental rights included in the Bill of Rights contained in Chapter 4 of the KC, to the extent that the limitation is required by the emergency. This is instructive. Rights are only limited to the extent that they are required to be restricted depending on the particular situation, and all actions taken during a state of emergency must comply with the KC.
In our case, Section 305 of the Constitution makes the Nigerian President’s proclamation of a state of emergency more or less sacrosanct, without question, particularly when the Legislature appears to have a ‘consensus ad idem’ (meeting of the minds) with the Executive! The Constitution doesn’t expressly provide for the appointment of a Sole Administrator, but, can we juxtapose the fact that, in the Rivers situation, the two arms of government, the Executive and the Rivers State House of Assembly (RSHA) had been at loggerheads almost since their inception (thereby disallowing them to function properly), into the Kenyan situation that requires a particular limitation of rights depending on the type of emergency, and define the Rivers Executive/ RSHA saga as such a situation that required some special measure in order to get the State Government running properly again?
onikepo.braithwaite@thisdaylive. com onikepob@yahoo.com onIkepo
“The plethora of authorities refer to the removal of democratically elected LGCs by Governors, and replacing them with Caretaker Committees, and not when the elections that ushered in the LGCs were declared to be invalid, like the Rivers situation where the Apex Court so declared the 2024 Rivers LGC elections…. in this current situation of an emergency, the answer as to whether the RSA can appoint LGC Administrators until fresh elections are conducted is still No, at least, not without the prior approval of NASS….”
And determine that the appointment of a third party temporarily to work subject to the National Assembly (NASS), was therefore, an extraordinary measure required in the context of Section 305 of the Constitution, and use that as a justification for the appointment of a Sole Administrator?
Article 58(5)(a) & (c) of the KC allows the Supreme Court of Kenya to decide on the validity of the state of emergency, and enquire into any legislation or action taken in consequence of such declaration. So, in Kenya, apart from Legislative oversight in the case of a state of emergency, the Judiciary, acts as a check and balance on the other arms of government. Constitutionally, their Supreme Court is empowered to invalidate a state of emergency. In Kenya, Citizens, Residents, Legislators and NGOs can also challenge the validity of a state of emergency. So, if we were in Kenya, the issue of the validity of the state of emergency, if the circumstances in Rivers State met the threshold for the declaration; the appointment of the RSA, and even allegations against the RSA, that he has exceeded his remit and is doubling as a Governor and Legislature all rolled into one, taking unilateral actions that he isn't empowered to, would have been before the Supreme Court by now. There is no clear provision for this type of challenge in Section 305, unless Section 6(6)(b) of the Constitution can cover it.
Article 192(1)(a) of the KC allows the President to suspend a County Government inter alia, in an emergency arising out of internal conflict (possibly like that of Rivers State) for a period not exceeding 90 days, on the expiration
of which, elections to the County Government shall be held. However, the Senate is empowered to terminate such suspension any time (see Article 192(4) of the KC). Nigerian law doesn’t have such provisions. However, the KC doesn’t appear to provide for the appointment of a Sole Administrator. If there’s no conflict necessitating the suspension of the County Government, the Governor with an emergency response team, National Government Officials and the County Commissioner, put all their hands on deck to restore normalcy, ensuring that the KC and rule of law are upheld. In short, in Kenya, any measures that are undertaken during a state of emergency cannot be extra-constitutional. If we look at Kenya and other countries, instruments of democracy remain in place during an emergency.
Appointment of LGC Administrators by RSA Now, as to whether the RSA can appoint interim Administrators to replace elected LGC Officials and man the LGCs; normally, the answer is No. In Ajuwon & Ors v Governor of Oyo State & Ors (2021) LPELR55339(SC) per Ejembi Eko, JSC, His Lordship stated the true position of the law rather succinctly, holding thus: “…. that an elected person is not an employee of anybody, except the electorate that voted him in. It is only the electorate, that can fire him. Democratic elections should always be sacrosanct in this country, like in any other country, for democracy to thrive. Local
Government Chairman and Councillors, being persons duly elected by the people, cannot just be removed, and their Councils dissolved whimsically and arbitrarily by any other elected persons in clear abuse of their office and powers. It is not right in law and under the Constitution, to do that". This position was restated in the recent landmark case of AGF v AG Abia & Ors (2024) LPELR-62576 (SC) per Habeeb Adewale Olumuyiwa Abiru, JSC thus: "Now, the fact of the existence of a democratically elected system of governance at the Local Government level being sacrosanct and non-negotiable, and not to be tampered with by State Governments and that it cannot be replaced with Caretaker Committees, is not new”.
But, would this be the position, whether it is a Governor or Sole Administrator, if the LGC elections that ushered in the LGCs were invalidated, as in the case of that of the Rivers State LGCs? Could such LGCs be described as democratically elected, in the context of Section 7(1) of the Constitution, to be preserved? The Apex Court decided that they were not democratically elected. In SC/CV/1105/2024 & SC/CV/11056/2024
APC v Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RISIEC) & 4 Ors Judgement delivered on 28/2/2025 per Jamilu Yammama Tukur, JSC, the Apex Court declared the LGC elections conducted in Rivers State on 5/10/2024 ushering in the new LGC Officials as null, void and invalid on the grounds that they were conducted in violation of the EA, including Sections 150, 9(1),(3), (6), 28-30 & 103 thereof. Improper notice of the holding of the election; continuous update of the voters register less than 90 to the election, were some of the grounds cited in support of the nullification of the election.
The 0ctober 2024 LGC election having been nullified, left the leadership of the LGCs vacant. The plethora of authorities refer to the removal of democratically elected LGCs by Governors, and replacing them with Caretaker Committees, and not when the elections that ushered in the LGCs were declared to be invalid, like the Rivers situation where the Apex Court so declared the 2024 Rivers LGC elections. The case of AGF v AG Abia & Ors (Supra) per Emmanuel Akomaye Agim, JSC emphasises the fact that, the local governments shall be by democratically elected LGCs.
However, in this current situation of an emergency, the answer as to whether the RSA can appoint LGC Administrators until fresh elections are conducted is still No, at least, not without the prior approval of NASS that is presently acting in place of the RSHA, by virtue of their amendment of the President’s proclamation, and also Section 11(4) of the Constitution, which provides for NASS taking up the functions of a State House of Assembly when the latter is unable to perform its functions, except for being unable to remove the Governor or Deputy. It goes without saying that, subsequent upon the nullification of the Rivers LGC October 2024 elections, fresh elections would have to be conducted in accordance with the provisions of the EA. Even if we may be able to justify the President’s appointment of the RSA as an extraordinary measure under Section 305 of the Constitution, the RSA draws his powers to make decisions from that amended Proclamation of the state of emergency via NASS, via Section 11(4) of the Constitution. The RSA isn’t empowered to make decisions, without the approval of NASS.
Conclusion
Finally, I would say that even if the RSA sought and obtained the approval of NASS to appoint the 23 Administrators to man the Rivers LGCs, using the precedent in Section 191(2) of t he Constitution where the Speaker of the House of Assembly holds office until fresh elections are conducted, in the event that the office of Governor and Deputy are vacant, the highest ranking officials within the LGCs should have been the ones appointed to man their respective LGCs in the interim. Also see Section 146(2) of the Constitution, which provides for the Senate President to hold office temporarily when the office of the President and Vice is vacant, until fresh elections are conducted within three months. The Constitution doesn’t appear to contemplate a situation where ‘strangers’ are brought in to take up elective positions, no matter how temporary the arrangement may be.
Rivers State Sole administrator, vice admiral
Ibok-ete Ibas (Rtd)
Establishing Non-Compliance With Sections 73(2)
and 51(2)
of the Electoral Act
s
Fact
The 1st Petitioner was sponsored by the 2nd Petitioner as its candidate for the Governorship election of Edo State conducted by the 1st Respondent (INEC) on 21st September 2024. The 2nd Respondent was the candidate of the 3rd Respondent at the election. Upon conclusion of the election, INEC declared the 2nd Respondent - Senator Okpebholo Monday - as winner of the election with a total score of 291,667 votes, against the 1st Petitioner’s 247,774 votes.
It was against this declaration that the Petitioners filed the petition on two grounds to wit: (i) the election was invalid by reason of non-compliance with the provision of the Electoral Act 2022 (“Electoral Act”); (ii) the 2nd Respondent was not duly elected by majority of lawful votes cast at the election. The ground for non-compliance with the Electoral Act was predicated on two heads, namely: the alleged contravention of Section 73(2) of the Electoral Act in 395 polling units resulting from the failure to pre-record the serial numbers and other particulars of result sheets, ballot papers, BVAS machines and other sensitive materials in form EC25B; and the alleged contravention of Section 51(2) of the Electoral Act, in that the total votes cast as recorded in form EC8A in 133 polling units exceed the total number of accredited voters based on the BVAS record of accreditation. This contravention allegedly comprises of 75 polling units where there was both overvoting and non-prior recording, and 58 polling units where there was overvoting only.
Regarding the ground that the 2nd Respondent was not duly elected by majority of lawful votes cast at the election, the Petitioner complained that there were discrepancies in the results for 125 polling units uploaded by the presiding officers to the IREV; that in 10 polling units, scores entered were not found on agent’s copies, IREV copies or the certified true copies of the hard copies of the form EC8A; at 21 ward collation centres, the results of 101 polling units were incorrectly collated; the result of 76 polling units of Ikpoba/Okha Local Government Area were excluded from the collated result of the election.
There were various objections filed by parties challenging the petition, and reply to the petition. There were also objections to the admissibility of documents. The tribunal deferred ruling on the various motions, to delivery of judgement.
In proof of the petition, the Petitioners tendered several exhibits and called 19 witnesses through whom they sought to establish their claim. The 1st, 2nd and 3rd Respondent denied all the Petitioners’ allegations, in their replies to the petition. The 1st Respondent did not call any witness, but relied on the evidence elicited under cross-examination of PW1 - PW19 and tendered three exhibits. The 2nd Respondent relied on evidence extracted from the PW1 - PW19 while under cross-examination, and also called a single witness who was a polling unit agent. The 3rd Respondent called four witnesses who were Local Government collation agents. Issues for Determination
The Tribunal considered the following issues for determination of the petition:
i.Whether from the totality of the pleadings and evidence, the Petitioners proved that the election of the 2nd Respondent as the Governor of Edo State was invalid by reasons of non-compliance with the provisions of the Electoral Act 2022?
ii.Whether from the totality of pleadings and evidence, the Petitioners proved that the 2nd Respondent was not duly elected by a majority of lawful votes cast at the election into the office of the Governor of Edo State?
Arguments
Issue one
In a bid to prove non-compliance under its first ground i.e. contravention of Section 73(2) of the Electoral Act, the Petitioners tendered several exhibits in respect of 395 polling units to show the lack of prior recording in the forms before the commencement of voting. The Petitioners submitted that by virtue of Section 52 of the Evidence Act, these exhibits were admissible in evidence without the need for oral evidence as an exception to the hearsay rule in Section 37 and 38 of the Evidence Act. They also relied on Section 137 of the Electoral Act. The Petitioners argued that through these exhibits and the testimonies of their witnesses, they had established their allegation of non-compliance with Section 73(2) of the Electoral Act. On the contravention of Section 51(2) of the Electoral Act, the Petitioner submitted that the number of votes cast at an election in any polling unit is reflected in the form EC8A, while the record of the number of accredited voters in the polling unit is in the BVAS record of accreditation as
W.I. Kpochi, J.
In the Governorship election Petition Tribunal In the edo State Governorship election Holden at Benin City
On Wednesday the 2nd day of april, 2025
Before their lordships
Hon. Justice W.I. Kpochi - Chairman Hon. Justice K.B. yusuf - Member Hon. Justice a a adewole - Member Judges, Governorship Election Petition Tribunal ePT/ed/GOV/02/2024
Between
1. Ighodalo asuerinme
2. Peoples democratic Party Petitioners
And
1. Independent National electoral Commission (INeC)
2. Okpebholo Monday Respondents
3. all Progressive Congress (aPC) (Judgement delivered by the Honourable W.I. Kpochi, J.)
contained in the BVAS extracts/screenshots tendered and admitted as exhibits. The Petitioners then argued that there was overvoting in the 133 polling units pleaded in the petition as the total number of votes cast exceeded the number of accredited voters, and so the result ought to be cancelled in line with Section 51(2) of the Electoral Act. In response, the Respondents were in agreement that the election was conducted in substantial compliance with the provisions of the Electoral Act. The 1st Respondent argued that it is the form EC25D that is relevant to establish whether the quantity and serial numbers of sensitive electoral materials were completed, and that the said form was neither pleaded nor tendered in evidence by the Petitioners, and this was fatal to the Petitioners’ case. On the allegation of overvoting, the 1st Respondent contended that the Petitioners were expected to tender, amongst others, the voters register used in the election, forms EC8A, the BVAS device and call eye-witnesses to relate each
“….failure by the Petitioners to call polling unit agents, presiding officers or even registered voters that witnessed the election at the polling units was fatal to the Petitioners’ case, aimed at proving non-compliance with Section 73(2) of the Electoral Act 2022…the documents required to prove overvoting are the voters register, the BVAS machines and the form EC8As…the Petitioner must call eye witnesses to relate each document/device to specific areas of his case in respect of which the documents were tendered, and show that the figure representing the overvoting inured in favour of the Respondent, and if deducted, would have resulted in victory for the Petitioner”
two of the petition was based on the hypothesis that the Petitioners will prove the allegation of non-compliance set out under ground one of the petition. On the part of the 3rd Respondent, it contended that the law imposed a duty on a Petitioner to call evidence from the officers who witnessed the exercise at the election ground where votes were cast, counted and/or collated. Finally, the 3rd Respondent submitted that the witnesses called by the Petitioners were incapable of sustaining the claim because they were either Local Government collation agents or ward collation agents of the Petitioners whose testimonies related only to what transpired at the collation centres, and not what transpired in the polling units as expected by law.
The Respondents urged the Tribunal to resolve the issues in favour of the Respondents.
Court’s Judgement and Rationale
Prior to deciding the first issue, the Tribunal dismissed objections as to sufficiency of pleadings, improper identification of witnesses, allegations of corrupt practices in the petition, admissibility of documents, amendments of witness statements on oaths and want of jurisdiction. The Tribunal, however, upheld the objection as to the introduction of new facts in the Petitioner’s Reply.
Deciding the merits of the petition, the Tribunal considered the first ground of issue one and found, inter alia, that the Petitioners’ form EC8As and polling unit booklets were not tendered through proper witnesses that could speak to them. That the witnesses were not polling unit agents who witnessed the election process at the poling units, and were not competent to speak to the documents to link them to the allegation by the Petitioners, and in the circumstances, the documents were dumped on the Tribunal. Consequently, failure by the Petitioners to call polling unit agents, presiding officers or even registered voters that witnessed the election at the polling units was fatal to the Petitioners’ case, aimed at proving non-compliance with Section 73(2) of the Electoral Act, 2022.
On overvoting, the Tribunal held that a petitioner who alleges overvoting must satisfy the threshold in EMMANUEL DAVID OMBUGADU & ANOR v SULE AUDU ALHAJI & ORS (2024) 7 NWLR (PT. 1936) 7 AT 113 which is that “the documents required to prove overvoting are the voters register, the BVAS machines and the form EC8As.” Additionally, that the Petitioner must call eye witnesses to relate each document/device to specific areas of his case in respect of which the documents were tendered, and show that the figure representing the overvoting inured in favour of the Respondent, and if deducted, would have resulted in victory for the Petitioner.
document/device to specific areas of their case, which the Petitioners failed to do.
The 2nd Respondent argued that from the analysis before the Tribunal, when the scores pleaded by the Petitioners were taken into account, even if the Petitioners proved the residue of their allegations in the petition in relation to non-compliance with mathematical accuracy and all the votes which the Petitioners claim were liable to be deducted, they were still incapable of affecting the outcome of the election, let alone substantially. On overvoting, the 2nd Respondent argued that the documents and exhibits tendered by the Petitioners to support their case was simply dumped on the Tribunal with no witness testimony to support the Petitioners’ claim.
The 3rd Respondent argued that the testimonies of the Petitioners’ witnesses were grossly inadequate, as the witnesses were not polling unit agents and could not give direct eye witness evidence as to what transpired at the polling units, and failure to call the polling unit agents was fatal to the case of the Petitioners. On the issue of overvoting, the 3rd Respondent argued that the Petitioners had a duty to prove that the overvoting inured to the benefit of the winner of the election.
Issue two
The Petitioners’ argument was that the invalidation of the results of the election in the alleged polling units on grounds of non-compliance, as well as the collation of the lawful scores of the parties in the 312 polling units where allegations of incorrect collations or exclusion of polling unit results (as the Tribunal may find proved) will substantially affect the result made at the election, and the Petitioners will become winners of the election with 240,234 lawful votes and the 2nd and 3rd Respondent as runner-up with 201,032 votes.
The 1st Respondent contended that, none of the Petitioners’ witnesses related the exhibits to the specific complaints in their depositions and evidence in open court. The 2nd Respondent’s position was that, ground
In this case, the Tribunal found that the Petitioners did not tender the hard copies of the form EC8As, but downloaded the IREV copy from the 1st Respondent’s database and the other documents tendered by the Petitioners were inter alia BVAS machines, BVAS screenshots, and voters registers tendered from the Bar. The Tribunal noted that the BVAS machines were not activated or put on by any witness, to demonstrate or establish their assertion; that these machines remained dormant and were dumped on the Tribunal. As such, it was held that the BVAS machines were of no avail to prove overvoting since the contents were not disclosed or displayed, to determine the number of accredited voters from each polling unit that the BVAS machines were deployed to. Consequently, issue one was resolved against the Petitioners.
On issue two, the Tribunal held that when a Petitioner alleges that the Respondent was not elected by a majority of lawful votes cast, he ought to plead and prove the votes cast at the various polling units, the votes illegally credited to the “winner,” the votes which ought to have been deducted from that of the supposed winner in order to see if it will affect the result of the election. The Tribunal held further that where grounds such as lack of majority of lawful votes cast or corrupt practices are raised, the thresholds are not contemplated under Section 137 of the Electoral Act 2022 and do not apply. In the instant case, the Tribunal found that results in 23 polling units were not tendered by the Petitioners; a number of exhibits tendered were not legible and were not authenticated by the 1st Respondent via its stamp and, as such, it was difficult to ascribe probative value to the documents. Consequently, the Tribunal held that the Petitioners failed to provide the materials required by law, for a dispassionate consideration of the issue of majority of lawful votes cast at the election. Ultimately, the Tribunal found that even if the prayers for the Petitioners’ ground 2 were granted, the scores the Petitioners displayed in their petition would still be incapable of guaranteeing the Petitioners the majority of lawful votes cast at the election.
Petition Dismissed.
Representation:
Adetunji Oyeyipo, SAN with others for the Petitioners. Abdullahi Aliyu, SAN with others for the 1st Respondent. Dr Onyechi Ikpeazu, SAN with others for the 2nd Respondent. Emmanuel Ukala, SAN with others for the 3rd Respondent. Reported by
Honourable
ast Thursday, the public presentation of the Book, ‘TRIBULATIONS & TROPHIES, BOLA AJIBOLA ….IN HIS OWN WORDS!' held at the Oriental Hotel, Lekki, Lagos. Here are some of the notable personalities, who attended the auspicious event
Dr (Mrs) Ngozi Onyia (left) and Hon. Justice Bode Rhodes-Vivour, JSC (Rtd)
L-R: Former Governor of Ogun State, Senator Gbenga Daniel; Mrs Rahamontallai Ajibola; HE Noimot Salako-Oyedele; Prince Adesegun Ajibola, SAN; Senator Ibikunle Amosun; Mrs Modupe Afikuyomi; Dr Sulaiman Faruq Onikijipa and Akinmade Ajibola
Deputy Governor of Ogun State, HE Noimot Salako-Oyedele
Former Governor of Ogun State, Senator Ibikunle Amosun (left) and Mrs Rahamontallai Bola Ajibola
Akin Osinbajo, SAN (left) and former Deputy Governor of Lagos, Alhaja Lateefat Okunnu
Attorney-General of the Federation & Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN
L-R: Prof Ibraheem Gbajabiamila; Mrs Modupe Afikuyomi and Ademola Ajibola
L-R: Justice Jide Candide-Johnson (Rtd); Prof Konyin Ajayi, SAN; Dr Wale Olawoyin, SAN. Behind: Yemi Candide-Johnson, SAN
L-R: Prince Adesegun Ajibola, SAN; Prof Ibrahim Gambari; former President of Nigeria, General Olusegun Obasanjo, GCFR and the Olowu of Owu, HH, Oba Saka Malemilola
Dr Sulaiman Faruq Onikijipa (left) and Reviewer of the Book, Prof Auwalu Yadudu
L-R: AG Lagos, Lawal Pedro, SAN; Hon. Justice Rhodes-Vivour, JSC (Rtd); Debo Oladinni; HE Noimot Salako-Oyedele; Secretary to Lagos State Government, Mrs Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin; Prince Adesegun Ajibola, SAN; Babatunde Fashola, SAN; Ademola Ajibola and Prof Ibraheem Gbajabiamila
Former Governor of Lagos State, Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN
Former NBA President, Paul Usoro, SAN
Nigeria: In the Throes of Insecurity
despite the unrelenting battle against banditry and terrorism by Nigeria’s security agencies, armed bandits have continued to visit mayhem, sorrow, tears and blood on hapless citizens in many parts of Nigeria, leaving a trail of deaths. Has the Nigerian security architecture failed? are Nigerian security agencies overwhelmed or incapacitated? Have successive Nigerian governments been complicit by not treating the escalating insecurity with the seriousness it demands, because they are playing politics or trying to be politically correct? Presently, the Middle-Belt region of the country is mostly in a state of anomy, as citizens of the region whose livelihood depends solely on agricultural activities have been driven out by these dangerous criminals, and are regularly being rendered homeless and deprived of their means of livelihood, consequent upon the merciless attacks on them. Professor Sebastine Hon, SAN; Ebun-olu Adegboruwa, SAN; Adesegun Talabi and Major Ben Aburime (Rtd) discuss the complexities of Nigeria’s war against terrorism, and why the battle requires a more ingenious approach, proffering various solutions to solving the problem of insecurity
Nigeria as a Centre of Unending Genocide?
Professor Sebastine T. Hon, SAN
Introduction
Nigeria is on the precipice. It is not the first time we have been on this imaginary cliff: this has been our unfortunate trajectory since Independence. The events of today, however, portend the gravest danger to our co-existence. The Federal Governmezzznt and all State Governments must act now, to prevent a total breakdown of law and order, which is the will and wish of many religious, clannish and political actors. All Nigerians of good will, must also back this up.
What started a few decades ago, has assumed frightening dimensions and proportions. The most topical news now is the murder, ostensibly
in cold blood, of 16 Hunters of Northern Nigerian extraction in Edo State. Open boasts of reprisals are thundered from both ‘conventional’ and ‘unconventional’ camps. Sahara Reporters on April 2, 2025 reported even a serving Police Officer, Hadaina Hussaini Dan-Taki ‘swearing’ such a reprisal within one week! Serving Police Officer? Yes! This is one of the ‘unconventional’ camps, vomiting such deadly threats! Who
knows the number of many such unreported ‘unconventional’ camps?
“The above definitions fit, whole and square, into what the Fulani herdsmen and other armed groups are doing to sedentary and agrarian tribes in Nigeria…..The Federal Government and ….various State Governments, have a duty to prevent genocide in the country or any part thereof. Anything short of this, as has been seen for decades now, amounts to complicity in this high crime”
Unjustified, genocidal and heinously criminal as those murders of the unfortunate 16 are, most commentators have forgotten the ceaseless murder of sedentary Farmers and other Nigerians by herdsmen over a period of more than two decades. Both mindless actions and activities (the latter fitting into what the herdsmen have been doing, almost unrestrained) are most reprehensible, to say the least. The unfortunate incident in Edo, is just a signal or foreboding, I daresay, of the venting of anger and frustration of ‘the other Nigerians’ over the longstanding activities of Fulani herdsmen. Both, unjustifiable as they are, amount to genocide.
Genocide
The word “genocide” stems from both Greek and Latin lexicons. “Geno” is a Greek prefix, which means “race” or “tribe,” while “cide” is the Latin suffix, which means “killing.” These two words were first conjoined by Polish Lawyer, Raphael Lemkin, in his book, Axis Rule. Lemkin was using his pen to attack the Nazi extermination of the Jewish race. The word “genocide,” consequently, has now been commonly used to describe the systemic and systematic wiping out, by whatever means, of races or tribes by governments or non-State actors.
Resolution 96(1) of the UN General Assembly, adopted on December 11, 1946, stated amongst other things thus:
“Genocide is a denial of the right of existence of entire human groups, as homicide is the denial of the right of individual human beings; such denial of the right of
existence shocks the conscience of mankind, results in great losses to humanity in the form of cultural and other contributions represented by these human groups, and is contrary to moral law and to the spirits and aims of the United Nations. Many instances of such crimes of genocide have occurred when racial, religious, political and other groups have been destroyed, entirely or in part.”
Two years after, the UN General Assembly adopted the Genocide Convention by a unanimous vote of the 56 participants at its 179th plenary meeting. This was on December 9, 1948; and it was done via UNGA Resolution No. 260 A (III) of 1948. Article II of this Convention provides, inter alia, the following description of genocide:
“In the present Convention, genocide means any of the following acts committed with intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial or religious group, as such:
(a) Killing members of the group;
(b) Causing serious bodily or mental harm to members of the group;
(c) Deliberately inflicting on the group conditions of life calculated to bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part….”.
The above definitions fit, whole and square, into what the Fulani herdsmen and other armed groups are doing to sedentary and agrarian tribes in Nigeria. Let it, therefore, be said loud and clear that, what these groups are doing amounts to genocide under public international law.
The Nigerian Federal Government and the various State Governments, have a duty to prevent genocide in the country or any part thereof. Anything short of this, as has been seen for decades now, amounts to complicity in this high crime. Article I of the Genocide
Nigeria: In the Throes of Insecurity
Convention specifically contemplates this governmental duty; and jurisprudential interpretations of this preventive (call it preemptive) statutory mandate is known in international legal circles as the “erga omnes partes" obligation of Member States to the Convention. In summary, Member States to the Convention are held bound to prevent genocide within or outside their territorial boundaries, as the case may be. Nigeria became a signatory to this Convention on December 9, 2009; hence, is strictly bound by its provisions.
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has always used this principle to make “provisional measures” orders – as can be seen in the following cases:
(a) The Gambia v Myanmar, cited as “Application of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide (The Gambia v Myanmar) Provisional Measures, Order of 23 January 2020, I.C.J. Reports 2020, p.3”.
(b) Canada and Netherlands v Syrian Arab Republic, cited as “Application of the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman and Degrading Treatment and Punishment (Canada and Netherlands v Syrian Arab Republic), Provisional Measures, Order 16 of 16 November 2023, I.C.J. Reports 2023 p. 587”.
(c) Ukraine v Russian Federation, cited as “Allegations of Genocide under the Convention on the Prevention of the Crime of Genocide (Ukraine v Russian Federation), Provisional Measures, Order of 16 March 2022, I.C.J. Reports 2022, page 211”.
(d) South Africa v Israel, cited as “Application of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide in the Gaza Strip (South Africa v Israel), Provisional Measures, Order of 26 January, 2024, I.C.J. Reports 2024, p. 3”.
The above analysis is made just to establish that, national governments (in this case, Nigeria, which is a signatory to the Genocide Convention), are under strict obligations to stop or prevent genocide. Failure in this regard, amounts to a breach of the Convention.
The next to be examined, is the question whether the right to life is guaranteed under the Constitution of any given country – since genocide mainly affects this right. In Nigeria, Section 33 of the Constitution has guaranteed right to life for “every person,” save:
(a) In the execution of a sentence of a court in respect of a criminal offence of which the deceased has been found guilty in Nigeria;
(b) If death occurs upon use of reasonable force deployed in defence of any person from unlawful violence, or for the defence of property;
(c) If death occurs as a result of efforts to effect a lawful arrest or to prevent the escape of a person lawfully detained; or
(d) If death occurs whilst suppression of a riot, an insurrection or a mutinous activity.
In the light of an acute dearth of court decisions on the obligation of the Nigerian State to prevent genocide or the unlawful taking of human life, resort would be made to the rich European jurisprudence. Article 2 of the European Convention on Human Rights, 1998, is similarly worded to Section 33 of the 1999 Constitution. In the case of Kilic v Turkey (2000) ECHR 22492/93, para. 62, the European Court of Human Rights held emphatically, while interpreting the provisions of Article 2, thus:
“This involves a primary duty on the State to secure the right to life by putting in place effective criminal law provisions to deter the commission of offences against the person, backed up by law enforcement machinery for the prevention, suppression and punishment of breaches of such provisions. It also extends in appropriate circumstances, to a positive obligation on the authorities to take preventive operational measures to protect an individual whose life is at risk from the criminal acts of another individual”.
See also, the equally forceful opinion in the case of Osman v United Kingdom (1998) 29 EHRR 245, para. 115.
The obligation of Government to prevent genocide and the unlawful taking by a person of another person’s life as guaranteed under
Section 33 of the Constitution, is further ably backed by Section 14(2)(b) of the same Constitution. This paragraph provides that “the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government”. Primary purpose? Yes, it is! The Court of Appeal affirmed this position, on the duties imposed by the Constitution on State Governments, in the case of Bariga-Amange v Adumen (2016) 13 NWLR (Pt. 1530) 349 at 385 CA, thus:
“Typically, as argued by the Respondent’s learned Counsel in the light of Section 14… states that the security and welfare of the peoples shall be the primary purpose of Government….”.
The word “primary” was defined by the Supreme Court in Uzoukwu v Idika (2022) 3 NWLR (Pt. 1818) 403 at 455 SC as “first,” “main” or “most important.” Why then, have our governments, both at the Federal and the State levels, been lethargic in performing this “most important” duty? Political correctness or survival tactics are the most likely reasons, in my humble opinion.
The Federal Government (past and present), and some concerned State Governments have failed Nigerians, with respect to the fast-growing insecurity in the country. Both have ditched their “primary” constitutional obligation to protect and preserve life and property. This is not acceptable. Strikingly unacceptable, is the double-faced posturing of some State Governors, who, on the one hand, claim to be the Chief Security Officers of their States, but shrink to mere onlookers when foreign aggressors commit genocide against their subjects. This amounts to criminal complicity in the ensuing high malfeasances and reprehensible abdication of duty, to say the least.
Nigerians should not resort to murdering innocent travellers or other Nigerians, in supposed reprisal or revenge attacks. Rather, they should utilise the constitutional and statutory authorisations that permit selfdefence, when the aggressors come with murderous intentions and actions. Section 33(1)(a) of the Constitution is an exception to the right to life (of an aggressor), if the person attacked kills the aggressor for the defence of his person, and/or in defence of property. This means that such a right of defence can be lawfully exercised, when there is threat to his life or property.
“…. the buck stops on the table of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to save Nigeria from armed groups who are killing innocent Nigerians without provocation and without human feelings. On the other hand, the buck stops on the table of respective State Governors who appropriate and pocket huge sums of money as security votes, if they willingly or passively allow genocidal attacks on their people”
Superior courts of record in Nigeria have, in a countless number of cases, consecrated and upheld this right of self defence when the force used by the defender is proportionate to the force used by the attacker. In other words, when the attacker launches an attack with a gun, it is lawful for the defender to also repel him with a gun; and when death of the attacker occurs, the defender will not be guilty of any offence. The decisions on this right are too many to be cited here; but see: Abimbola v State (2021) 17 NWLR (Pt. 1806) 399 at 447 SC; Muhammad v State (2017) 13 NWLR (Pt. 1583) 386 at 439 SC; Oko v State (2018) 1 NWLR (Pt. 1600) 216 at 238-239 SC; Ochani v State (2017) 18 NWLR (Pt. 1596) 1 at 35-36 SC, etc. The defence is available to a person who is defending either himself or any other person, vide: Fulani v State (2019) 1 NWLR (Pt. 1653) 237 at 259 SC.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the buck stops on the table of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to save Nigeria from armed groups who are killing innocent Nigerians without provocation and without human feelings. On the other hand, the buck stops on the table of respective State Governors who appropriate and pocket huge sums of money as security votes, if they willingly or passively allow genocidal attacks on their people. In the face of seeming governmental failure to perform its primary responsibility, Nigerians, I must say, have the right to defend their lives and property. This, however, does not include cold-blooded murder and reprisals. Nigeria cannot, and should not, be a centre for unrestrained genocide! That is the law, to the best of my knowledge as a Law Professor and a Senior Advocate of Nigeria!
Professor Sebastine T. Hon, SAN, FCIArb, DSSRS, Abuja
Nigeria’s Insecurity, Government’s Inability and Condonation
Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa, SAN
Section 33(1) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as Amended) provides that ‘every person has a right to life, and no one shall be deprived
intentionally of his life, save in execution of the sentence of a court in respect of a criminal offence of which he has been found guilty in Nigeria’. Exodus 20:13 prohibits unlawful killing in the commandments of God that ‘thou shall not kill’. Deliberately therefore, God and man have made the right to life the most basic of all human rights; it is made so fundamental amongst all other rights, because you need it to enforce and enjoy them. It is the principal right and all other rights are ancillary thereto. On March 28 and April 2, 2025 respectively, gunmen, in targeted attacks, invaded Ruwi, Mangor, Daffo, Manguna, Hurti and Tadai communities in Plateau State, leaving behind a trail of death and destruction. Although security agencies are yet to release official casualty figures, residents claimed that at least 52 people were killed, with many others injured or still missing. Here is the account of one of the survivors, as monitored in the media.
“We were living in peace, with no provocation. Then gunmen on motorcycles arrived, shooting indiscriminately. We ran for our lives, children alongside us. We had no nowhere to hide. Many were killed. Our homes were burnt. We call on the Government to help us.”
As has been the usual pattern of the Government’s responses, the Presidency has issued a lame statement condemning the gruesome attacks, with a supposed pledge to bring the perpetrators to justice. On Friday March 28, 2025, hunters returning from their hunting expedition were ambushed by vigilantes in Uromi, Edo State and they were brutally murdered by a mob in a reckless display of intolerance. In these and other reprehensible attacks, humanity is desecrated. No decent society should condone mob justice or jungle justice, by whatever name it is called. It is commendable that security agencies have been able to track down the Uromi demons, but, it should not stop there. The inability or unwillingness of the Government to tackle headlong the festering conflicts between herders and farmers, is the root cause of the increasing sense of desperation and frustration across the land.
From Benue to Ondo, Kaduna, Delta, Plateau, Niger, Nasarawa, Borno, Zamfara and Edo State, Nigeria has become an open field of mass murder. A uniform response from the Government and security agencies to these barbaric tendencies, will give the people some sense of relief. The Federal and State Governments should ensure that Nigerians are treated equally, irrespective of their ethnic, tribal, and religious inclinations. In a fragile country, the overt deployment of double standards is destructive, and leads to unintended outcomes. The tragedy in Uromi unfolded, when a mob set upon 16 Fulani hunters travelling through the community. Accused of being complicit in the serial security breaches that have rendered local farmers vulnerable, the hunters were dragged from their vehicles, lynched, and their bodies mutilated. It is horrific, despicable, offensive and remains intolerable now and for all times. But, it goes beyond condemnations and isolated
Nigeria: In the Throes of Insecurity
responses, because these ignominious attacks cut across the length and breadth of Nigeria, and the Government must not be perceived as employing double standards in its responses and actions.
Earlier on in February, 2025, Edo State witnessed the death of 27 farmers, and no action was taken by the Government. On March 19, 2025 in Ondo State, 5 farmers were shot dead by suspected herdsmen in Aba Oyinbo in Akure North Local Government Area of the State. Before then, about 14 persons were murdered by gunmen in Ademekun, Aba Sunday, Aba Pastor and Alajido in the same local government area. No specific action has been taken by the Government, to hunt down the attackers to bring them to justice. Several communities in Zamfara and Borno States are reportedly paying tribute to bandits and criminals, in order to live in their own homelands. Fulani herdsmen, with a sense of gross entitlement, encroach on farmlands and kill farmers for resisting the violation of their livelihoods. Human life is sacrosanct, and it is with the same outrage that the Government has responded to the Uromi killings that it should attend to the Plateau, Zamfara, Benue and Ondo attacks, as an expression of its commitment to end violence and mass murders in the country. In 2014, the Global Terrorism Index listed Fulani herdsmen among the four most dangerous terrorist groups in the world, because of their killing sprees in Nigeria. It is time for the Government to take decisive action in addressing this menace, as it is hypocritical to have selective responses to the same criminal conduct.
The Government should leverage on relevant provisions of the Constitution, to avert the looming disaster staring the nation in the face. Section 41(1) grants to every person the right ‘to move freely throughout Nigeria and to reside in any part thereof, and no citizen of Nigeria shall be expelled from Nigeria’. For the herdsmen, the freedom of movement should necessarily be extended to controlled grazing and thus, it cannot be tenable to propose that any citizen of Nigeria should be expelled or prevented from taking residency in any part of the country on account of ethnicity, religion or vocation.
However, Section 41(2) allows the Government to make any law that is reasonably justifiable in a democratic society to derogate from the freedom of movement granted by the same Constitution in certain cases. In essence, a law against open and uncoordinated grazing will fall within the category of laws that are reasonably justifiable to secure peace, law and order. Additionally, Section 41 (2) permits the imposition of ‘restrictions on the residence or movement of any person who has committed or is reasonably suspected to have committed a criminal offence’. In order to avoid negative profiling of any group of persons, the law against open grazing should only impose reasonable restrictions upon anyone found to have violated it, after due and proper trial. Now, Section 43 grants to every citizen the right to acquire and own immovable property anywhere in Nigeria. Even though the Constitution places emphasis on ‘immovable property’, which in this case is land, this can, and should be extended to moveable property, in this case cattle. In law, ownership of immovable property can be through customary inheritance in the case of farmers, while acquisition of immovable property can be through valid assignment, in the case of herders. In essence, where a herdsman desires to graze upon the immovable property of another, he should go through Section 43 to acquire land from the owners to advance his vocation. This cannot be done through open grazing, because Section 44 (1) prohibits compulsory acquisition or forceful possession of land in stating that ‘no interest in an immovable property shall be taken possession of compulsorily, and no right over or interest in any such property shall be acquired compulsorily in any part of
Nigeria, except in the manner and for the purposes prescribed by law’. Open grazing amounts to a flagrant violation of Section 44(1), for a citizen to invade the customary inheritance of another citizen to destroy the farmlands, harvest crops thereat unlawfully and forcefully chase away the owners, rape them at will or kill them, if they venture any form of resistance.
Suggestions
It is gratifying that the Government has set up a separate Ministry of Livestock, in order to take care of the constant clashes between herdsmen and farmers. The solution to this matter is for herdsmen to embrace ranching, and for land owners to display brotherhood to lease or assign land, and allow mutual co-existence as was the case in times past. Well over a year after this laudable initiative however, nothing tangible has been accomplished in this regard, as it would seem to be another political gimmick of the Government to curry favour and secure unmerited patronage. There is thus, a roadmap provided by the Constitution for the resolution of this hydra-headed monster. The unwillingness or seeming incapacity of the Government to confront the real issue, is the underlying fuel that is propelling the killings, especially the ones by the herdsmen. The issue of selective justice also raises troubling questions about the value placed on the life of the citizens, as if one life matters more than the other.
The criminals who killed the Fulani men in Uromi must be brought to justice, just as those responsible for previous attacks on farmers and civilians must also face the law. Until Nigeria embraces the rule of law and discards partiality in the dispensation of justice, the cycle of violence will persist. And, although one is outraged with the killings in Uromi, we get more diminished when killings take place in other locations, and the Government is pretending to be helpless or condoning them.
Government should encourage and work with herders to adopt the ranching option, instead of trampling roughshod on farming communities. This is the practice in other jurisdictions like Brazil, Egypt and Netherlands, where the livestock business exceeds that of Nigeria. Government should not lose sight of the unfortunate impression already created in the minds of citizens that they cannot be protected by the system, hence, the resort to self-help and vigilante options. We should however, not descend to the state of violence for violence, as that
“In a fragile country, the overt deployment of double standards is destructive, and leads to unintended outcomes… Human life is sacrosanct, and it is with the same outrage that the Government has responded to the Uromi killings, that it should attend to the Plateau, Zamfara, Benue and Ondo attacks, as an expression of its commitment to end violence and mass murders in the country. In 2014, the Global Terrorism Index listed Fulani herdsmen among the four most dangerous terrorist groups in the world, because of their killing sprees in Nigeria”
will lead us nowhere.
A further solution lies in a comprehensive security overhaul, as the Nigeria Police Force is understaffed and ill-equipped to handle the country’s security challenges. The Federal Government should rise above ethnic biases, and ensure that every Nigerian life is valued equally and granted adequate protection. Any government that claims to be incapable of, or shows itself to be unwilling to tackle insecurity headlong, has no business retaining power.
Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa, SAN, Human Rights Lawyer, Lagos
Nigeria's Insecurity Crisis: Between Guns, Greed, and Geopolitics
Adesegun Talabi
Introduction
Nigeria has been stuck in a seemingly endless war against insecurity for more than a decade, caught in a cycle of violence that has cost lives, displaced millions, and stretched the country's social and economic foundations to the limit. The headlines have become so common, that we have lost sensation: bomb explosions in Borno, kidnappings in Kaduna, clashes in Benue, and massacres in Zamfara. If it is not Boko Haram, it is ISWAP. If not them, then bandits or unknown gunmen. Throw in armed herdsmen into the mix, and you have a warped concoction that makes even the most hardened optimist nervous. But, what is behind this deep-seated insecurity? And, more importantly, how do we get ourselves out of this hole?
Unravelling Nigeria’s Insecurity
To unravel Nigeria's insecurity is to peel off layers of historic grievances, economic disenfranchisement, ethnic tensions, porous borders, and geopolitical neglect. The issue is not one-off. It is hydra-headed, complicated, and frustratingly immune to simplistic explanations.
Let us begin with Boko Haram. Boko Haram was born in economic misery and religious extremism in the Northeast, and managed to find a fertile recruitment ground among unemployed youth and disenfranchised communities. It was ideologically fed by a mix of local grievances and international jihadist propaganda. The group fractured, mutated, and aligned with international terror franchises such as ISIS over the years, and evolved into what we now have as ISWAP (Islamic State's West Africa Province).
Running parallel are the so-called "bandits" - a euphemism for highly armed
criminal gangs who carry out mass kidnappings, cattle rustling, and extortion – in the Northwest. The gangs operate with impunity, better armed than the local security forces and well-funded by ransoms. In the South and the Middle Belt, the herdsmen-farmer clashes have graduated from localised confrontations, to what some have referred to as an outright war. Disputes over grazing rights, have degenerated into horrific attacks that are perceived by many as ethnically and religiously motivated.
Beneath this insecurity lies a deadly mix of poverty, poor governance, corruption, and an under-equipped, under-trained, and compromised security apparatus. Nigeria's youth unemployment rate has climbed beyond crisis point, and millions of young people, especially in the North, are disillusioned and despairing. The State has failed to deliver education, jobs, or a simple sense of belonging. Into this void steps the warlord, the terrorist, the recruiter, and the bandit.
Ethnic and religious politics, also take a front seat. Fractured Federalism in Nigeria has turned identity into a currency. Politicians frequently stir the embers of division, to secure votes. In this kind of environment, violence is both a symptom and a tool.
But, there is also this uncomfortable reality: insecurity is big business. With bloated security budgets, covert military purchases, and a security contractors' complex, there are more than enough people who gain from the status quo. Peace, for these people, is bad business.
International Reactions Now, let us focus the searchlight on international forces. The international community's response to Nigeria's insecurity has been mixed. On one hand, nations such as the United States, United Kingdom, and France have offered technical assistance, military training, and exchange of intelligence. Drone deployments, strategic cooperation, and arms sales have taken place. Multinational Joint Task Forces, have also been a regional initiative at fighting cross-border terrorism.
But, we all know global politics is never altruistic. Arms deals have strings attached. Intelligence is shared selectively. And, where geopolitics are concerned, silence is golden. The same global community that denounces terrorism, is not always keen to discuss how Africa is awash with western manufactured arms. The same powers that train local armies, can also support governments that stifle dissent in the name of combating terror.
And, there is the hardly spoken problem of foreign mercenaries. In Boko Haram's heyday, Nigeria toyed with the use of South African and East European military contractors. Those shadowy, highly paid, and unaccountable soldiers might have won some battles, but at what price in terms of sovereignty and the rule of law?
Moreover, the wider global system - from the IMF to the World Bank - has enabled the emptying out of public services through decades of structural adjustment programmes and austerity dictates. When healthcare, education, and infrastructure were immolated at the altar of macroeconomic stability, social cohesion was bound to unravel.
Solutions
So, what to do? Here's where most articles toss
Nigeria: In the Throes of Insecurity
around a laundry list of solutions. But, let's avoid the temptation of cliches and get real.
First, the Nigerian State needs to regain legitimacy. That begins with governance that works. Fix the roads. Pay the teachers. Equip the Police. Make justice available. And, for heaven’s sake, hold free and fair elections. If citizens see the State working for them, they won't turn to warlords.
Second, economic inclusion is the most important. Job creation isn't GDP numbers, or white elephant projects. It's focused investment in vocational training, SME lending, and rural development. You can't bomb people into loyalty. But, you can give them a stake in peace. Third, we must re-engineer our security architecture. Throwing more troops at the problem, will not do. Community policing, local intelligence networks, and de-radicalisation programmes must be in the mix. And, yes, we must pay and train our security forces like professionals, not beggars in uniform.
Fourth, international partners need to do more. Stop selling arms to governments that promote instability. Address illicit financial flows that enable corrupt leaders to hide loot overseas. Invest in civil society, not just security forces. And, when the Nigerian government gets it wrong, speak out. Clearly.
Insecurity in Nigeria, is not just a problem. It's a trial of the nation's soul. Will we step up to create a nation where life precedes land, dialogue precedes division, and justice precedes jungle justice? Or will we stay on this course where death is normalised, and outrage is limited to hashtags?
The decision is in our hands. And, although we cannot dictate all the variables - climate change, the arms trade across the globe, regional instability - we can dictate how we are governed, whom we elect, and what we represent.
Nigeria has never been a country of contrasts: staggering wealth and blistering poverty; beauty so breathtaking and violence so unimaginable. But, perhaps, in our darkest hour we will find the strength to become what we have always intended to be.
For if we do not do this, someone else will. And, history indicates that when others solve your problems, they do so with plans in which you do not figure.
It's time to take our future - and our safety - personally
Adesegun Talabi, Legal Practitioner, Lagos
Armed Herdsmen’s Escalating Attacks Across Nigeria’s Landscape: Causes, Implications and Possible Solutions
Major Ben Aburime (Rtd)
origin and ways, though over the years, the Fulanis have tended to employ that misnomer to their advantage, in concealing their marginalisation of a major indigenous ethnic group, the Hausas.
The three major ethnic groups occupy visible geographical spaces otherwise called regions in the pre-military intervention era, with the Hausas located in the area known interchangeably as Northern Region or Northern Nigeria alongside other not-so-large ethnic groups like the Fulanis, the Jukuns, the Tivs, the Idomas, the Ebirras, the Bokkos, the Ewe, the Gwaris, the Nupes, the Kanuris, the Bachamas, and a host of others. The Igbos dominate in Eastern Nigeria, where they also have other ethnic groups like the Ijaws, the Ogonis, the Kalabaris, the Ibibios, the Annangs, the Efiks, the Ogojas, the Obudus, the Ugeps or Yankoyos, the Obubras, the Nembes, the Ikwerres, the Etches, and a host of others. Western Nigeria was inhabited by the Yorubas, the Eguns, the Aworis, the Binis (Benins), the Ilajes, the Itsekiris, the Esans, the Kukurukus now Auchi, Agenebodes, Okpelas, the Oras, the Agbedes, the Urhobos, the Isokos, and a host of others. Even among the Yorubas, you still have the Ijebus, the Egbas, the Ondos groups.
most potent and devastating militancy and terrorist activities worldwide.
The nature of conflicts or armed attacks as orchestrated by the Fulani Herders, is what this piece speaks to.
Origin and Nature of the Herdsmen
Attacks
of this lies in the Benue, Plateau and Kaduna State, where the central government dubiously describe the ethnic cleansing as Farmers-Herders clashes, even as a dysfunctional United Nations and the International Press downplay this crime against humanity,
-The Trump Administration recently uncovered the scandal that the USAID funds meant for developing Third World Countries, were actually employed to fund terrorism in countries like Nigeria.
- The attempts even by the Government, to seize people’s ancestral homes through doubtful policies like Ruga Settlements. Redefining concepts of Federal Routes to the detriment of the Land Use Act, funding militia groups to acquire land nationwide, etc.
- The inglorious role of the Press in sensationalising crimes like kidnapping, whereby they over-hype senseless criminals like ‘Evans the Billionaire Kidnapper’, etc, thereby inadvertently educating youths and even some of our law enforcement agents of the immense gains of such violent crimes. All these factors and much more, like leadership failure, have contributed to the sore thumb called this menace.
Effects of the Onslaught
Introduction Nigeria is a nation blessed with over 250,000 distinct ethnic groups and about 500 languages, with each ethnic group having its peculiar cultural identities and ways. Notwithstanding this vast diversity, only the three groups of Hausas, Yorubas and the Igbos are arguably recognised as the major ethnic groups. Two distinct facts should be evident in this introduction so far. The first is the deliberate attempt to avoid using the term ‘Tribes”, because this writer finds it derogatory in the form the European communities used the term to describe those unrelated to them, just as the average American will find it insulting to be called a ‘Honky’. The second observation lies in not lumping the Hausa with the Fulanis, because they are two separate groups with unrelated
Whether they occupied Northern Nigeria, Eastern Nigeria or Western Nigeria, a common thread ran amongst all the groups: they were predominantly farmers and hunters, they had their indigenous religions, traditions and cultures, and they loved music, singing and dancing. They were essentially peaceful people, relating fine with their neighbouring communities, even often times migrating and inter-marrying. It was upon this peaceful co-existence that the Television series such as the ‘Village Headmaster’ with its setting in the traditional Oja Trading Community, and the ‘New Masquerade’, were premised. While there were few intercommunity skirmishes, they were mainly triggered by claims over boundary lands and fishing outposts, and these were easily resolved largely through mediation and/ or boundary adjustments.
Just as Nigeria is rich in ethnic diversity and culture, so also is it about the country most endowed by nature, in human resources, petroleum or oil resources, solid mineral resources, and one other often ignored resource, being the resilience and entrepreneurship nature of the Igbos (the political jobbers excluded). All these great attributes are being systematically eroded by the Fulani onslaught, being one of the
“The second observation lies in not lumping the Hausa with the Fulanis, because they are two separate groups with unrelated origins and ways, though over the years, the Fulanis have tended to employ that misnomer to their advantage, in concealing their marginalisation of a major indigenous ethnic group, the Hausas”
One cannot meaningfully discuss the place and circumstances of the Fulani Herdsmen attacks, without first knowing and understanding their nature and history. Some authorities and works believe that the Fulanis are cousins to the Berbers of North Africa, and that they were driven away from some Arab countries on account of their perceived nature, they first settled around the Futa Region in the Sene-Gambia area, from where some migrated to the Gobir area now called Sokoto, where they leveraged on religion to overthrow and massacre their host kings, and declared a holy war that was to use their Hausa hosts to enslave the region. Rather than being a religious affair, it seemed to have been a clever design to conquer territories for political reasons and gains. Stopped by the British in their march southwards, many still wrongly believe that they can continue in their violent quest to conquer the rest of the country. It is against this background that arrogant and misguided statements by some of their leaders, pose a cause for concern.
• While there have been a few violent classes between the Herdsmen and Farmers on their farms in their ancestral lands along the grazing routes, there has never been anything near the gory level, proportion and dimension these attacks have assumed of late. All over the six geo-political zones from Nasarawa to Katsina, Taraba through Adamawa, Borno, Zamfara, Plateau, Benue, Enugu, to far away places as Ondo, Edo, Delta, Oyo State, to even the Federal Capital Territory, sad stories of massacres, group raping, kidnapping for ransom, pure armed robberies, burning down of whole villages and/or communities, deliberate destruction of farmlands and creating an army of internally displaced persons, has become the norm, with the central government issuing their usual empty threats of bringing the perpetrators to justice. The factors creating this malaise is what this space seeks to speak to. While a great deal of literature has been written by different analysts on this topic, these factors can be summarised into:
- Environmental and climatic conditions whereby desertification and receding vegetation has driven the Herders from the once grazing sites to more agriculturally conducive fertile lands where the Farmers have their crops.
- Closely allied to the above, is the fact of the land and soil being degraded, and not producing as much crops as usual.
- Deliberate Government policies of opening Nigeria’s border routes for all Fulanis all over the world to not only migrate to, but set their eyes and sight on Nigeria’s vast territorial landscape as their eventual home, whereby the indigenous people are being systematically desecrated, driven from their homes, and the sacked communities renamed as Fulani communities. The greatest evidence
For constraints of space and given the general or widespread knowledge of this onslaught, little will be done to elaborate on the effects, which include:
a. Reduced farming activities with imminent food shortage, thereby posing food insecurity which is a national calamity;
b. De-populating the various indigenous communities;
c. Creating an army of internally displaced persons;
d. Reduction in the available work-force and employable youths;
e. Creating resistant counter-militia groups to combat a common aggression; and,
f. Potential instability and uprising nationwide, where the Government fails to act transparently, thereby creating local warlords to replace the central and/or organised government.
Solutions
Most of the highlighted problems or factors have their solutions embedded in them, which is to reverse the adverse situation. However, there is a fundamental fact that cannot be allowed to be subsumed or left to individual interpretation, and that is the Guns or Firearms Policy of Government. To make violent crimes unprofitable and unsafe for the harbingers of violence, the FGN must reverse its firearms policy, and allow for massive, but properly registered individual firearms. When victims’ capacity to resist attacks is enhanced, then violent crimes will abate, when the practitioners realise that violence is no longer a monopoly of any one person, people, group or community. It is doable; bold leadership and the political will to serve and lead, is a prerequisite. The alternative is to be a bully-government, presiding over a failed State. It is a choice foisted by nature and circumstances.
Major Ben Aburime (Rtd), Legal Practitioner, FICMC, FCMC, MCMC; Security Analyst; Mediator; Programmer anwd AI & Robotics Software Designer; Member of Amnesty International
Talking ConsTiTuTional demoCraCy
Much Ado About Money Laundering and the Proceeds of Crime
Introduction
International consensus about the evil of money laundering, has rightly focused on its twin corollary - the proceeds of crime.
The two are obviously complementary, and are two sides of the same coin.
After all, the whole essence of money laundering is to conceal or disguise the illicit origins of funds, while its goal – if successful – is to portray the end product (proceeds of such ill-gotten wealth) as ‘clean’ or legitimate. It involves a complex web of placement of "dirty" money into a financial system; layering it (moving the money through multiple transactions and accounts to conceal it origin); and integration (making the laundered money available for use as if it originated from a legitimate source. It is thus, the "washing" of this "dirty” money that is called "laundering".
In Nigeria, the law has often struggled to keep pace with these challenges. The relevant codes in this regard – the Money Laundering Act, 2022 and the Proceeds of Crime (Recovery and Management) Act, 2022 – are far from perfect in themselves, and a close look at their fine print will bear this out. It appears to me that certain provisions of both laws might be unconstitutional. I shall, anon, demonstrate my reasons for holding this view.
The Money Laundering Act
Section 18(1) of this law declares, peremptorily, that “money laundering is prohibited in Nigeria”, whilst subsection (2) thereof outlines the specific circumstances which constitute the offence. These include the following: concealing or disguising the origin of, or converting or transferring, removing from the jurisdiction, acquiring, using, retaining or taking possession or control of any fund or property (which a person) intentionally, knowingly or reasonably ought to have known, is or forms part of the act. Subsection 6 of Section 18 of the Act goes ahead to outline the various “unlawful acts” referred to in subsection 2, as follows:-
a. Participation in an organised criminal group;
b. Racketeering, terrorism, terrorist financing;
c. Trafficking in persons, smuggling of migrants, sexual exploitation, sexual exploitation of children;
d. Illicit trafficking in narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances;
e. Illicit arms trafficking, illicit trafficking in stolen goods;
f. Corruption, bribery, fraud, currency counterfeiting;
g. Counterfeiting and piracy of products, environmental crimes;
h. Murder, grievous bodily injury;
i. Kidnapping, hostage taking, robbery or theft;
j. Smuggling (including in relation to customs and excise duties and taxes), tax crimes (related to direct taxes and indirect taxes);
k. Extortion, forgery, piracy;
l. Insider trading and market manipulation; and
m. Any other criminal act specified in this Act or any other law in Nigeria - including any act, wherever committed in so far as such act would be an unlawful act if committed in Nigeria.
Retention of the proceeds of any unlawful act as defined in the Act or such property (including acquiring, using or merely taking possession thereof) constitutes an offence under the Act punishable with fine and imprison-
ment: Section 20 of the Act. This provision appears to be at odds with those of Section 8 of the Proceeds of Crime (Recovery And Management) Act, 2022, which stipulates that the standard of proof of the commission of an offence in that Part of the Act (Sections 7- 25) is the one applicable in Civil Proceedings, i.e., on a balance of probabilities. This is contrary to the one which normally obtains in criminal proceedings, i.e., beyond reasonable doubt (see Section 135 of the Evidence Act, 2011)
I believe, however, that the anomalies in this law transcend the above highlighted inconsistency with the Proceeds of Crime Act. This is because, in my view, the attempt by the Money Laundering Act to regulate “business relationship” (which is defined in Section 30(c) thereof as “an arrangement between a person and a financial or designated non-financial institution for the purpose of concluding a transaction”) might - depending on the context - violate the trade and commerce remit of the National Assembly under Item 62 of the Exclusive Legislative List of the 1999 Constitution.
That constitutional provision restricts the Assembly to regulating only “trade and commerce between Nigeria and other countries (including import of commodities from Nigeria) and trade and commerce between (the 36) States (of the Country)”. In other words, only international trade is permitted. This simply means that the National Assembly is incompetent to regulate domestic, local or intra-State trade and commerce. It follows that, notwithstanding its provisions to the
“….the provision which imposes on a Defendant the burden of proving his/her innocence of the offence of possession of assets suspected to be proceeds of crime, or were derived from unlawful activity, or that their source is legitimate and not proceeds of unlawful activity….It is….curious, that the Proceeds of Crime Act, should attempt to take away this constitutional presumption of innocence”
and management of the proceeds of crime, benefits derived therein, instrumentality of unlawful activities, and unclaimed properties reasonably suspected to be proceeds of crime”.
Notwithstanding those lofty goals, however, I submit that a few of its core provisions are a cause for grave concern, not least of which are those which allocate the burden of proof and define “unlawful activity” under Sections 74 and 82 thereof, respectively. The former provides, inter alia, that “the Defendant in any proceedings under this Act bears the burden of proving that he is the legitimate owner of the assets suspected to be proceeds of crime, or derived from unlawful activity, or that the assets are of legitimate origin and not proceeds of unlawful activity”.
contrary, the Money Laundering Act is inapplicable to such transactions.
Accordingly, its attempt in Section 30 thereof to regulate so-called “designated non-financial businesses and professions (including dealers in jewellery, real estate, estate developers, hotels, legal practitioners, pools betting, mortgage brokers, accountants, etc) – except to the extent that such businesses are engaged in international trade or commerce – is ultra vires the National Assembly, invalid, null and void. It must be pointed out that this is not a novel point, because in ATTORNEY-GENERAL OF OGUN STATE v ABERUAGBA (1985) 1 NWLR Pt. 3 Pg. 395, the Supreme Court construed identical provisions in item 61 of the 1979 Constitution as words of limitation, not of emphasis. Suffice it to say, therefore, that - apart from Abuja, the FCT (which the National Assembly legislates for without limitations by virtue of Section 299 of the Constitution), the transactional or trade and commerce provisions of the Money Laundering Act are only applicable to trade across Nigeria’s borders; they don’t apply to local, domestic or intra-State trade and commerce.
Accordingly, only international business men and women are affected by (and need worry about) the registration requirements of its Special Control Unit on Money Laundering, (otherwise called SCUML) provisions. Startling as this might sound, I do believe that this is the unintended consequence of a dispassionate analysis of the Money Laundering Act: only State Houses of Assembly can legislate on intra-State or domestic business relations or trade and commerce, including those conducted by the entities or enterprises described as “designated non-financial businesses and professions” under Section 30 of the Act. Over to them.
The Proceeds of Crime Act
It is my humble view that this statute dovetails into the Money Laundering Act because, as previously noted, their provisions are mutually-reinforcing and, are therefore, complementary. This is clearly evident from Section 1(1) thereof which provides that its objective is, inter alia, to “provide for an effective legal and institutional framework for the recovery
Quite apart from its somewhat inelegant drafting (“the Act” is undefined, as it is presumably, different from “this Act” used therein), it is clear that the intention behind the provision which imposes on a Defendant the burden of proving his/her innocence of the offence of possession of assets suspected to be proceeds of crime, or were derived from unlawful activity, or that their source is legitimate and not proceeds of unlawful activity is an excessive (and, I would argue, illegitimate) extension of the proviso to the constitutional burden on an accused person to prove particular facts, by virtue of the proviso to Section 36(5) of the 1999 Constitution. That provision guarantees that “every person who is charged with a criminal offence shall be presumed to be innocent until he is proven guilty”. This is commonly known as, the presumption of innocence. This presumption is at the heart of our adversarial criminal jurisprudence, and is contained in both the African Charter and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Our criminal justice system is accusatorial (Anglo-Saxon based) and not inquisitorial (French based). The innocence of an accused is presumed, until the contrary is proved. See the cases of ADETOUN OLADEJI v NBL (2012) NGSC 1. It is therefore, curious, that the Proceeds of Crime Act should attempt to take away this constitutional presumption of innocence (Section 36 of the 1999 Constitution), even casually and surreptitiously. It is even more curious that few, if any, commentators have observed this great travesty. Because, in my humble view, travesty is what it is – pure and simple. The Act does not merely impose the burden of proving a particular fact on a Defendant (as contemplated by the Constitution); rather, it goes further to impose on the Defendant the entire burden of proving his innocence of the offence of wrongful possession and illicit origin of the proceeds of crime with which he/she is charged. I submit that this goes too far, and is extreme beyond measure. I respectively submit that it is outrightly unconstitutional, and should accordingly, be struck down for that singular reason. Such a flagrant violation of the constitutional presumption of innocence is virtually unprecedented in our criminal jurisprudence, and should not be tolerated or allowed to stand.
Beyond that, however, yet another problematic clause in the Proceeds of Crime Act is its definition of “unlawful activity” in Section 82 thereof as, inter alia, “an act or conduct, committed directly or indirectly which constitutes an offence or which contravenes a law in force in Nigeria whether the act, omission or conduct occurred before or after the commencement of this Act.” The defect in this clause is, to me, quite glaring: it is partly retroactive, and contravenes the provisions of Section 4(9) of the 1999 Constitution, which provides, inter alia, that “the National Assembly or a House of Assembly shall not, in relation to any criminal offence whatsoever, have power to make any law which shall have retrospective effect.” Need I say more?. Yes, as affirmed in a plethora of decisions by appellate courts, which prohibit the retrospectivity or retroactivity of legislation. See the cases of SELE v THE STATE (1993) 1 NWLR Pt. 269 Pg. 276 and IKPASA v THE STATE (1982) 3 NCLR 152.
THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK
“I believe that the root cause of every financial crisis, the root cause, is flawed government policies”. (Henry Paulson)
PROF mike O zekh O me, san
U n f o r g e t t a b l e ! U n f o r g e t t a b l e !
25
Y E A R S
R E M E M B R A N C E
o f o u r D e a r l y B e l o v e d M o t h e r, G r a n d m o t h e r a n d G r e a t g r a n d m o t h e r,
Madam Eneanwan
Ene Cobham
O u r l o v i n g m o t h e r w a s a f o r e m o s t m i d w i f e a n d m a t r o n . 2 9 J u l y 1 9 2 7 - 1 5 A p r i l 2 0 0 0
C h i l d r e n :
D r O s a s u y i F E d o - O s a g i e
M r I w i n o s a F. E d o - O s a g i e
G r a n d C h i l d r e n :
M r O s a r o s e E d o - O s a g i e
B a r r i s t e r O s a r u m e E d o - O s a g i e
M r I k p o n m w o s a E d o - O s a g i e
M i s s E s o s a E d o - O s a g i e
F o n d l y r e m e m b e r e d b y :
M i s s A l e x i s E d o - O s a g i e
M i s s N a t a l i e E d o - O s a g i e
G r e a t G r a n d c h i l d :
M i s s B r i e l l e E d o - O s a g i e
D a u g h t e r s i n - L a w:
M r s J u s t i n a E d o - O s a g i e
M r s A d e s o m o E d o - O s a g i e
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 11 April-2025, unless otherwise stated.
DAILY PRICE LIST FOR MUTUAL FUNDS, REITS and ETFS
L-R: Chairman, Rotary District 9111 Education/Welfare Endowment Fund(DEWEF) Committee, Rotarian Alaba Olalekan; Chairman, D9111 DEWEF Board of Trustees, PDG Somo Omoniyi; and District Governor, Rotary International, District 9111, Dr. Oluwole Kukoyi, during the presentation of scholarships cheques to 20 indigent undergraduates by the Rotary International District 9111 in Ikeja, Lagos…recently
L-R: Managing Director, NG Clearing Limited, Farouq Oreogba; Founder, Pemnia Wellness and Winner AXA-Herconomy Pitch Competition, Opeyemi Adebisi; Founder of Herconomy, Ife Durosimi-Etti; Director-General, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), Charles Odi; and Chief Marketing Officer, AXA Mansard Insurance Plc, Adebola Surakat, at the Herconomy Summit 2025 held in Lagos…recently
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori (left), presented a birthday card to the Chairman of Cubana Group, Chief Obinna Iyiegbu (right), to mark his (Iyiegbu) 50th birthday anniversary at an event held in Abuja…recently
L-R: Wife of the Anambra State All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Ugochi Ukachukwu; APC governorship candidate, Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu; and APC National Chairman, Dr. Abdullah Ganduje, during the presentation of the certificate of returns to the candidate at APC national secretariat in Abuja… recently
PHOTO: ENOCK REUBEN
L-R: Group Head, Human Capital Management and Development, First Bank Nigeria, Olumuyiwa D. Olulaja; Head of Strategy, Transformation, Marketing, Corporate Communications and Operations, FBNQuest Merchant Bank, Funke Shobanjo; Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Professor Akin Abayomi; and, Publisher, Business Day Newspaper, Frank Aigbogun, at the 2025 Business Day Talent Conference held in Lagos… recently
L-R: Treasurer, Ladies Golf Section, Ikoyi Golf Club, Yetunde Ojo; Assistant Matchplay Coordinator, Pat Ozoemene; Chairman Matchplay Committee, Linda Obieze; member of Ikoyi Ladies Golf Club, Joyce Ighologba; and Head of Media and Publicity, Ladies Golf Section, Ikoyi Golf Club, Yemi Afariogun, at the unveiling of Mercedes Benz and Kimberly Ryan as respective sponsors for the Mixed Doubles Matchplay and Ladies Single Matchplay of the annual Lady’s Matchplay competition of the Ikoyi Ladies Golf Club, a Subset of the Ikoyi Golf Club, held in Lagos… recently
Nigeria’s crude oil production grew by 8.13 per cent in the first quarter of 2025, despite the sharp fall in output in March this year, a THISDAY analysis of data from the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has shown.
Compared with the crude production in the first quarter of 2024, the combination of oil and condensate volume drilled in January, February and March, this year was 5,013, 209 barrels, as against 4,621,409 in the same period last year, the data indicated.
This was in spite of a five-month slump in oil and condensate production in March this year, apparently caused by the political problems in Rivers state, a major hub of Nigeria’s oil and gas production. The issue which spilled to Bayelsa, led to the temporary shutdown of a
number of pipelines in both states after they were attacked.
Nigeria produced 391,800 more barrels of crude oil in Q1, 2025, compared to the same period in 2024, the NUPRC data indicated, a sign of an improvement in the overall security situation in the Niger Delta, better evacuation arrangements and yields from the reopening of oil wells hitherto shut down, before the latest episode of attacks.
Although the authorities did not state clearly the reason for the fall in Nigeria’s crude oil production in March 2025, those attacks on pipelines in Rivers and Bayelsa states may have disrupted flow and caused operational shutdowns.
For example, Oando Plc reported multiple incidents affecting major crude and gas pipelines. There was also an explosion on the Trans-Niger Pipeline in Rivers State, which threatened hundreds of thousands
of barrels per day. While operations were rerouted, the disruption still impacted overall output.
There was also maintenance on pipelines and a fire at an oil evacuation point in February, which had lingering effects that carried into March. These are aside from the general problems such as oil theft and underinvestment, which continue to weigh heavily on the sector, discouraging new investment and hindering consistent production.
But the federal government responded to the escalating vandalism and insecurity by declaring a state of emergency in Rivers State. The political instability added to the challenges facing oil production during the month.
However, a breakdown of oil and condensate production for the first three months of 2024 showed that while output was: 1,643,671; 1,539, 609 and 1,438,129, totalling
4,621,409, in the same period of 2025, it was 1,737, 480; 1,671, 953 and 1,603, 776 respectively, to hit 5,013,209 in Q1 this year and an 8 per cent growth compared to the same period last year.
There are already concerns, even in government circles, that if the trend of a significant fall in oil production, coupled with the slumping international crude prices, continues, it could pose a significant challenge to the nation’s economy.
Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, a player in the financial sector before his appointment as minister, last week emphasised that “the evolving economic landscape” posed a major challenge to the country.
“Just let’s look at the recent disruptions of the reciprocal tariffs from the US and a lot of other things that are coming. And look at the impact on the crude oil international price from $80 down to $64, and still going
down further.
“That’s a lot of risk on our revenues in Africa, especially in Nigeria, where we rely so much on crude oil for foreign exchange. Over 90 per cent of our foreign revenue is from crude oil. Non-oil exports are still very low here. So you can see the disruptions are causing even to our 2025 annual budgets.
“We used $75 to one barrel as the benchmark price for the budget. We used 2 million barrels production per day. And we are still at 1.7 million. You can see that gap, that hole is going to lead to a deficit. The major impact is that a lot of our quite laudable infrastructure transformation projects will be affected,” he told a European Union delegation last week.
Last Wednesday, the situation got worse, when Brent crude oil price dropped to $59.62 per barrel for the first time since February 2021, while US West
Texas Intermediate fell by 5.54 per cent to $56.28 per barrel.
But the Minister of the Finance, Wale Edun, has said that although the oil price plunge will have an adverse effect on Nigeria, to curtail any price effect, “we are intensifying efforts to ramp up crude oil production” as well as other sources of non-oil revenue.
Meanwhile, the NUPRC data showed that when condensate, which is outside the computation of the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), is removed, Nigeria produced as low as 1.4 million barrels per day during the period under consideration.
In November last year, when oil output began to pick up, Nigeria produced 1.48 million bpd; 1.48 million bpd in December; 1.53 million bpd in January; 1.46 million bpd in February, before the latest figure of 1.4 million bpd recorded last month, reaching a five-month low.
Experts Seek Enforcement of Standards in Downstream Oil Sector
Peter Uzoho
Energy experts have stressed the need for the regulatory agencies in the downstream oil sector to up their game in the enforcement of standard market practices to encourage fair competition.
They stated this during an interactive session in Lagos, which centred on the future of the Nigerian oil and gas industry
Speaking at the event, Chief Executive Officer of AHA Consultancies, Mr. Ademola Adigun, said the promotion of competition or a market-driven petroleum industry in Nigeria was essential to attracting
the needed investments across the oil and gas value chain. By law, he argued that the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) and the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) are supposed to be active in monitoring the market to avoid any anti-competitive behaviour.
Adigun acknowledged the impact of Dangote Refinery on not only Nigerian but across the African and world petroleum refining and supply landscape, saying the 650,000 barrels per day refinery has launched Nigeria to the world as
a refining powerhouse.
Adigun mentioned that Dangote Refinery now competes strongly with major refineries across the world owing to its size, technological innovation, and its product quality, which is now within the approved 50 Pass Per Million (PPM).
The expert noted that Dangote’s products are even cheaper in price than its competitors across the world, attributing the feat to several factors including the falling oil prices, the naira-for-crude initiative, and the company’s efficiency driven by innovation.
He argued that at the moment, Dangote does not have a major
competitor in Nigeria as the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC)’s refineries have far lower output capacity and quality compared to the $20 billion Lagosbased refinery.
This, he explained, makes it more difficult for the Nigerian government to attempt to ban importation of fuels into the country, as that may lead to a monopoly and several anti-market practices which are not good for any market.
“Dangote is instead competing with big refineries across the world. So, it’s only when Nigeria has more refineries of Dangote size that it will make more sense to stop importation
of fuels”, Adigun stated.
Consultant at the Institute for Energy and Extractive Industry Law, Dr Taiwo Ogunleye, who spoke on ‘Understanding Anti-competitive Practices in the Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Industry,’ argued that lack of competitive market leads to a single player determining the price of products.
He said such practice must be checked by the regulators in order to boost investments in the sector and protect all players and consumers in the business.
Ogunleye explained: “Anticompetitive market practices and behaviour in the midstream and
downstream petroleum industry are activities performed by companies to undermine fair competition, negatively impacting market efficiency, prices, and consumer choices.
“Such practices may include price fixing, collusion, predatory pricing, market allocation, monopolization or abuse of dominance, exclusive contracts, unfair restrictions in distribution and retail operations, refusal to supply or deal, discrimination in pricing, or limiting infrastructure access to competitors.
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
Report: Clean Energy’s Share of World’s Electricity Supply Reaches 40%
Stories Emmanuel Addeh in abuja
More than 40 per cent of the world’s electricity was generated without burning fossil fuels in 2024, according to new research by the think-tank, Ember.
But carbon dioxide emissions, which warm the planet, have risen to an all time high, the report said, with hot weather pushing up the overall demand for power, a BBC news report said. That meant an increase in the use of fossil fuel burning power stations.
Solar power continues to be the fastest-growing energy source, with the amount of electricity it generates doubling in the last three years.
“Solar power has become the engine of the global energy transition. Amid the noise, it’s essential to focus on the real signal. Hotter weather drove the fossil generation increase in 2024, but we’re very unlikely to see a similar jump in 2025,” said the Managing Director of
Ember, Phil Macdonald.
In a separate report, the European Copernicus climate service said March 2025 was the second hottest on record, extending a spell of record or near record breaking temperatures.
Ember is a global energy think tank which has been predicting for several years that emissions of the climate warming gas carbon dioxide were about to start falling. But this hasn’t happened yet due to increasing global demand for electricity.
Cheap and relatively easy to install, for the twentieth year in a row solar is the fastest growing electricity source. According to Ember, the amount generated by solar panels has doubled every three years since 2012.
China continues to dominate the growth of solar with more than half of the increase taking place there. India’s solar capacity doubled between 2023 and 2024.
Petroleum Ministry’s Perm Sec, Ella Retires
The Ministry of Petroleum Resources was a beehive of activities at the weekend as the Permanent Secretary, Nicholas Ella, officially retired from the federal civil service upon reaching the statutory retirement age of 60 years.
A ceremony held in his honour which also coincided with his birthday brought together colleagues, friends, and well-wishers to celebrate a distinguished career, a statement in Abuja by the Head, Press & Public Relations, Chris Ugwuegbulam, said.
In her remarks, the Director of Human Resources Management, Mrs. Asma’u Adaji, lauded the significant impact of Ella, a lawyer and seasoned career diplomat on the ministry and the oil and gas industry at large.
“Within the period of your stewardship as permanent secretary, the ministry witnessed an unprecedented level of industrial harmony due to an established conducive working environment. Both management staff and other levels felt your fatherly role as the ministry has become even more attractive for all,” she said.
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Adaji also commended the outgoing permanent secretary’s dedication to staff welfare, describing his leadership style as exemplary and worthy of emulation.
In his valedictory speech, Ella expressed his heartfelt appreciation to President Bola Tinubu, for the opportunity to serve at the highest level of the civil service. He also thanked the staff and unions within the ministry for their cooperation and support throughout his tenure.
The ceremony also featured numerous goodwill messages from within and outside the ministry, as well as the presentation of gifts in recognition of his service. The event was graced by ministry staff, Ella’s wife, friends, associates and well wishers.
Though it is growing fast, solar remains a relatively small part of the global energy mix contributing just under 7 per cent of global supply – that’s the same as powering the entire
country of India. Wind contributes just over 8 per cent, with hydropower contributing 14 per cent making it the largest source of clean energy. Both hydro-electric and
nuclear power (9 per cent) are growing much more slowly than wind and solar.
The report said that clean energy sources contributed more than 40 per cent of
global electricity generation for the first time since the 1940s. Back then demand was much lower, and hydroelectric power stations contributed a significant share.
NDPHC CEO Bags Energy Times Award
The Chief Executive Officer of the Niger Delta Power Holding Company of Nigeria (NDPHC), Jennifer Adighije, at the weekend emerged the ‘Young Achiever of the Year’ at the 2025 Energy Times Awards.
The organisers said Adighije was selected for the award for having shown an “unwavering commitment to the sector-wide goal of 6,000 megawatts power generation to ensure widespread access to quality
electricity.”
Shortly after her appointment in August 2024, Adighije, the organisers said, ensured the restoration of two turbine units that had been offline due to bearing defects, adding 230MW to the national power generation output.
In her remarks, Adighije described the award as a humbling experience, especially as the head of a new management team in office in less than a year.
“It’s a very humbling experience for us at the NDPHC. As you are aware, we’re a new management. We’ve been in office for less than a year. This is a call to work harder,” she said.
Adighije stressed that the new management under her leadership has a clear mandate to scale power generation.
According to her, the NDPHC is the only agency with the express mandate to carry out interventions across
the value chain, stressing that her team is not losing focus on the mandate.
“The mandate is very clear to us, which is to scale generation, transmission, and distribution capacity across the power sector. We are the only agency or institution or entity in the power sector with the express mandate to carry out interventions across the entire gas-to-electricity ecosystem. And we’re not losing sight of this,” she stated.
Aradel Holdings Attains ISO 9001: 2015 Certification for Quality Management
Peter Uzoho
Aradel Holdings Plc, one of Nigeria’s major integrated indigenous energy companies, has successfully attained the ISO 9001: 2015 Certification for Quality Management.
The ISO 9001: 2015 is an internationally-recognised standard for quality management, which helps organisations improve efficiency, meet stakeholder expectations and demonstrate their commitment to quality. Its requirements define how to establish, maintain and continually improve a company’s quality management system to ensure consistent high-level processes
NNPC
and outcomes.
Aradel disclosed this milestone in a statement made available to THISDAY.
Additionally, the company quoted on the Nigerian stock exchange recently obtained its re-certification of the ISO 14001: 2015 standards.
According to the statement, this recertification demonstrates Aradel’s commitment to the continuous improvement of environmental practices and ongoing environmental responsibility, ensuring compliance with the standard’s requirements through regular audits and assessments.
As part of the independent audit for ISO 9001:2015, the statement pointed out that
departments within Aradel demonstrated their adherence to and conformity with the Company’s principles, including a process-oriented approach with well-established standard operating procedures, a strong customer and stakeholder focus, and a commitment to continuous improvement all of which benefit from the active involvement and buy-in of top management and staff.
Commenting on the Certification, Managing Director of Aradel Holdings, Adegbite Falade, said: “Aradel’s continued strong performance over the years is a testament to our commitment to excellence and
innovation, principles that are deeply embedded within our corporate culture. Our success is built on the solid processes and controls that drive our quality management systems and underpin our business operations.
“Achieving the prestigious ISO 9001:2015 certification for Quality Management and renewing our ISO 14001:2015 certification demonstrates our dedication to maintaining both profitability and sustainability and positions us for even greater achievements in the future. I would also like to extend special recognition to the team, whose dedication and hard work made this achievement possible.’’
Foundation Conducts 1,000 Free Eye Surgeries in Bayelsa
Olusegun Samuel in yenagoa
The Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Foundation, Mrs Emmanuella Arukwe has revealed that cataract remains one of the leading causes of blindness globally and accounts for nearly 50 per cent of blindness cases in Nigeria, quoting to the World Health Organisation (WHO). These challenges, she said, are not just a health issue, but a social and economic crisis, as vision loss impacts productivity, independence, and overall quality of life.
Speaking at the South-south free cataract screening and extraction surgeries at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital, she told the 1000
beneficiaries to take advantage of the exercise and regain their eyesight.
Represented by the Manager, Health Services, Mr. Jude Ayalogu, she stated that the foundation, a non-profit making business of the NNPC, had earlier commenced screening for beneficiaries of the free cataract extraction since April 1, 2025.
She said the foundation was embarking on the cataract screening and extraction programme across the six (6) geopolitical zones of Nigeria, to arrest prevalent vision impairment and blindness across the country caused by Cataract, and overall to improve and strengthen the health of the communities.
She said: “In rural and underserved areas, limited access to quality eye care
exacerbates this challenge and many individuals live with avoidable blindness because they cannot afford or access the care they need.
“At NNPC Foundation, we recognise that sight is more than just a sense; it is a fundamental pillar of human dignity and opportunity. This understanding forms the foundation of our outreach programme.
“Through this initiative, we aim to provide free cataract screenings, surgeries, and public education about eye health. It is our expectation that this effort will help to restore sight to up to 6,000 individuals in the country, 1,000 in each of the 6 geopolitical zones.”
She emphasised that the NNPC Foundation will continue to provide support
for accessible, affordable and sustainable healthcare for Nigerians across the geopolitical zones.
Earlier, while flagging off the programme, the Bayelsa First Lady, Mrs. Gloria Diri, commended NNPC for its commitment to improve health care in Nigeria, adding that cataract is a significant public health challenge in Nigeria. She urged the people of Bayelsa to take advantage of the programme and help to spread the news to communities beyond the state capital
The Medical Director, FMC, Dr. James Omietimi, also appreciated the NNPC Foundation for taking up the challenge to tackle the menace and to restore vision and hope for many in this part of the world.
NGA to Showcase Nigeria’s Gas Reserve, Investment Opportunities in China
Peter Uzoho
The Nigerian Gas Association (NGA) has confirmed its strategic participation at the 29th World Gas Conference (WGC2025) holding next month in Beijing, China and plans to showcase several attractive investment opportunities in Nigeria including the 210.54 cubit feet of gas reserve (tcf), the Decade of Gas initiative, and enabling policies, among others.
At the conference scheduled for May 19–23, 2025, President of NGA, Mr. Akachukwu Nwokedi revealed that the association will host a Nigeria Pavilion at the prestigious triennial event, organized by the International Gas Union (IGU).
Nwokedi said the Pavilion will spotlight Nigeria’s gas sector progress, highlight investmentready opportunities, and promote strategic interests under the Decade of Gas initiative.
“This platform is not just symbolic. It is strategic. It signals Nigeria’s readiness to take its rightful place in the
global gas ecosystem, not just as a resource-rich nation, but as a serious investment destination,” he said.
According to him, the Nigeria Pavilion will bring together government leaders, industry stakeholders, and international partners to showcase major projects across the gas value chain.
He added that the pavilion will feature Nigerian Content Champions, facilitate top-tier networking, and foster global dialogue on energy transition and sustainability.
“The Pavilion aims to attract global investment into Nigeria’s gas infrastructure, processing, and distribution projects, while supporting international partnerships in financing, technology, and off-take agreements. It will also reaffirm Nigeria’s commitment to leveraging gas for sustainable, low-carbon development.
“This is not just about gas. It is about jobs, industry, cleaner energy, and national transformation,” Nwokedi emphasized. “Nigeria is ready. NGA is ready. WGC2025
is our global stage. Let’s take it—together”, Nwokedi stated.
Highlighting progress in the sector, Nwokedi cited over $5 billion in new gas investments over the past year, covering infrastructure, floating liquefied natural gas (FLNG), gas processing, and domestic utilization.
He also referenced key reforms by President Bola Tinubu’s administration, including new Executive Orders on Oil & Gas.
The NGA boss equally mentioned some key projects including the Ajaokuta–Kaduna–Kano (AKK) gas pipeline, and a Decentralized Gas Distribution Framework aimed at boosting energy access and inclusion.
The association, however, praised regulators such as the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) and Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) for championing commercialization and introducing a revised domestic gas pricing framework.
FG Seek Stakeholders Partnership on Livestock Production
The federal government has called for stakeholders partnership in Nigeria to ensure an increase livestock production in the country
The Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Muhktar made the disclosure at the Northern Nigeria Livestock Summit with the theme, “Livestock Management Practices in the 21st Century.”
Muktar, noted that livestock accounted for about 6 per cent of Nigeria Gross Domestic Product (GDP), adding that the industry provides employment to millions
of people mostly in rural areas
Represented by a director in the Ministry Abdulkareem Durosilorun, Muktar, applauded president Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the creation of the Ministry of Livestock which according to him, aimed at tapping into the hidden but vast economic benefits
According to him, The Livestock industry is a significant contribution to the Nigrian economy. The industry also provides employment opportunities for millions of people particularly in rural areas, where livestock production is a primary source of income.
He maintained that the industry play crucial role in food security, providing a significant portion of the country protein requirements.
Muktar, while highlighting challenges bedeviling the industry which includes, low productivity, disease outbreak, limited access to finance and climate change, however said these challenges can be address through an improved breeding practices, sustainable feeding practices, interpreted disease management and digital technologies
NASME Awards Spotlight Women’s Contributions to MSME Sector
The Nigerian Association of Small and Medium Enterprises (NASME) has called for sustained excellence and support for women across sectors, reiterating their role in Nigeria’s Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) ecosystem.
NASME made this call recently in Abuja, during its International Women’s Day Awards, an initiative designed to celebrate exceptional and productive women enterpreneurs in the MSME sub-sector of the economy.
At the event, the association shone a spotlight on Chief Executive Officer of Cutix Plc and Deputy President (South)
of NASME, Mrs. Ijeoma Odunoye for her supportive roles in the development of local entrepreneurship and exemplary leadership in Cutix Plc.
Adjudging Odunoye as the “Most Successful Female Entrepreneur/Excellent Woman CEO”, NASME National President, Dr. Abdulrashid Yerima remarked that her feat was a testament to the rising influence of women in business leadership.
He stated that awards were not merely ceremonial, but a deliberate recognition of the exceptional contributions by women entrepreneurs to the growth of the sub-sector.
“We recognise the supportive roles of Odunoye
in the development of the MSME sector of the economy and wishes that this tempo is sustained for the benefit players in the country,” he said.
In her remark, Odunoye appreciated the organisers for the recognition, attributing her exploits to team efforts and commitment to excellence and quality.
“Quality is what has kept us going. We don’t cut corners. Before starting any business, understand its core principles, standards and operate accordingly. Let your quality speak for itself. Cutix may be considered premium, but what we offer is peace of mind. Even electricians agree, if you want to avoid costly repairs, our brand is what to embrace”,she stated.
TCN Reconnects 132kV Owerri/Ahoada Line to National Grid
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) yesterday announced the reconnection of the 132kV Owerri-Ahoada transmission line, restoring power supply to Bayelsa and part of Rivers state. Earlier, the line was attacked by vandals, which led to the destruction of four transmission towers, a statement by the General Manager, Public Affairs, Ndidi
Mbah, stated.
“The TCN has successfully restored bulk power supply through its 132kV OwerriAhoada Transmission Line as of April 11, 2025, around 6:00 pm. This comes after completing reconstruction efforts due to vandalism that caused the collapse of four transmission towers.
“With this restoration, the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company (PHEDC) is now able to supply elec-
tricity to Bayelsa State and parts of Rivers State. These areas had been experiencing outages since towers 71 to 74 on the transmission line route were vandalised on March 11, 2025,” the statement added.
The TCN said it remains dedicated to providing reliable power across the nation and encouraged communities to join in the fight against vandalism of critical transmission installations and protect the assets.
(Gabon), Iran Heavy
Basrah Medium (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).
L-R: Business Consultant,Mrs.Yvonne Ojerinde; Founder, Ex-Xerox Staff Association (EXSA), Dr.Caje Oleforo; Awardee,Mrs..Josehine Boardman; Member,EXSA, Mrs.Judith Okorejior; and Chairman, EXSA, Dr. .Uchenna Ezeagwu, at the Association’s Awards presentation in Lagos recently
Kasim Sumaina in Abuja
Omolabake Fasogbon
Stock Market Close Lower on Profit-taking in Nestle Nigeria, 23 Others
Kayode Tokede
The stock market yesterday commenced the trading week on a negative note as investors profit-taking in Nestle Nigeria Plc and 23 others dragged the Nigerian Exchange Limited All-Share Index (NGX ASI) lower by 0.03 per cent. Specifically, as NGX ASI lost 33.72 points or 0.03 per cent to close at 104,529.62 basis points. Also, market capitalisation shed N22 billion to close at
N65.685 trillion. However, investor sentiment, as measured by market breadth closed positive as 28 stocks advanced, while 24 declined. Abbey Mortgage Bank emerged the highest price gainer of 9.95 per cent to close at N6.74, per share. UPDC followed with a gain of 9.82 per cent to close at N3.13, while Guinea Insurance rose by 9.52 per cent to close at 69 kobo, per share. VFD Group declined by 9.46
per cent to close at N96.00, while Soverign Trust Insurance advanced by 9.41 per cent to close at 93 kobo, per share.
On the other side, International Energy Insurance led others on the losers’ chart with 9.76 per cent to close at N1.48, per share. Consolidated Hallmark Holdings followed with a decline of 8.33 per cent to close at N2.75, while Japaul Gold & Ventures shed 7.46 per cent to close at N1.86, per share.
Chams Holding Company lost 6.98 per cent to close at N2.00, while NEIMETH International Pharmaceuticals depreciated by 6.94 per cent to close at N2.68, per share. Also, the total volume traded rose by 12.69 per cent to 428.163 million units, valued at N10.518 billion, and exchanged in 14,583 deals. Transactions in the shares of Access Holdings led the activity with 55.988 million shares worth N1.145 million.
Zenith Bank followed with account of 55.428 million shares valued at N2.760 billion, while Fidelity Bank traded 39.000 million shares valued at N725.873 million.
UBA traded 33.192 million shares worth N1.041 billion, while Guaranty Trust Holding Company (GTCO) traded 31.024 million shares worth N2.116 billion.
Looking forward, analysts at United Capital Plc said, “the equities market might
remain dovish due to elevated interest rate environment in the fixed-income market, we still expect bearish sentiments to linger in the background. “The upcoming Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) decision in May has led some investors to adopt a wait-and-see attitude towards the equities market. Concurrently, retail investors are engaging in profitbooking, resulting in selloffs that impede the consistent upward movement of stock prices.”
PRICES FOR SECURITIES TRADED ASOF APRIL/14/25
DIGITAL ASSET MARKETS STRATEGY MASTERCLASS SERIES...
L-R: Regulatory Keynote Speaker/Director-General, Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership, Joseph Tegbe; Digital Assets Keynote Speaker/Financial Consultant and Global Investment Advisor, Dr. Nicholas Okoye; Legislative Keynote Speaker/Chairman, Senate Capital Market Committee, Senator Osita Bonaventure Izunaso; Ag MD/CEO, Nova Bank, Chinwe Iloghalu; Executive Commissioner, Operations, Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Bola Ajomole; and Lagos State Commissioner for Finance, Abayomi Oriyomi, at the Digital Asset Markets Strategy event held in Lagos, last Friday
11 Years On, 82 Chibok
Girls Still Unaccounted for as Families, BBOG Renew Demand for Action
Charge FG to release the investigative report on the abduction, roles of key actors
Following the commemoration of the 11th anniversary since 276 schoolgirls were abducted from Government Girls Secondary School in Chibok, Borno State, by Boko Haram insurgents with 82 still unaccounted for, the Bring Back Our Girls (BBOG) campaign and the affected families, yesterday renewed their demand for action.
On the night of April 14, 2014, Boko Haram militants attacked the school and forcibly took the students, prompting global outrage and the launch of the #BringBackOurGirls campaign.
While some of the girls have since been rescued or escaped, 82 remain unaccounted for and the group lamented that despite repeated assurances by successive Nigerian governments, efforts to locate and rescue the remaining girls have made little progress.
To commemorate the anniversary, members of the #BringBackOurGirls advocacy group held a quiet event in Abuja, where they renewed calls for accountability and action from the federal government with hashtags like #NeverForgotten.”
In a statement issued on Twitter by the BBOG spokesperson, Jeff Okoroafor, he outlined several demands, including a comprehensive update to families, the release of an official investigation report, and greater transparency on national security spending.
The group also urged the government to reach out to the families of the 82 missing girls with a status update on rescue ef-
forts and plans for closure, as well as release the Brigadier-General Ibrahim Sabo investigative report on the abduction and disclose the roles of key actors involved. They further demanded that the government Institute a monthly national security briefing, coordinated by the National Security Adviser and broadcast live for public accountability.
The BBOG also charged the government to publish a financial
report detailing national security spending from 2014 to date, including measurable results and impact.
The statement reads in part, “Today marks 11 years since 276 schoolgirls were abducted from Government Girls Secondary School, Chibok, Borno State, by Boko Haram insurgents. While some of the girls have escaped or been rescued, 82 remain missing.
The statement reads in part,
“On the night of April 14, 2014, Boko Haram terrorists stormed the school, forcibly taking the girls and sparking one of the most infamous mass kidnappings in modern history.
“Over the past 11 years, the Nigerian government has repeatedly vowed to secure the girls’ freedom. Yet, progress has been agonizingly slow, leaving families in perpetual anguish.
“The Chibok tragedy has
since been followed by other mass abductions, including the recent kidnappings in Kaduna and Sokoto, underscoring Nigeria’s worsening security crisis.
“The Chibok tragedy is not just a security failure it is a moral crisis and if after 11 years, Nigeria can not rescue schoolgirls stolen under its watch, what does that say about our nation’s commitment to its citizens?
“This anniversary is a painful
reminder of Nigeria’s unresolved wounds. We demand urgent, intensified efforts to rescue all remaining captives, provide comprehensive support for survivors, and hold perpetrators accountable.
“Education must never be a death sentence. To the families: Your courage fuels global solidarity. To the missing girls: You are not forgotten. We will not rest until justice is served.”
Digital Asset MarketsTakes Off in Nigeria
Sunday Ehigiator
The Founder and Chairman of the Global Investment Advisory Community, Dr. Nicholas Okoye, recently hosted a landmark Digital Asset Markets Strategy Masterclass, providing industry stakeholders with a comprehensive outlook of ‘The Investments and Securities Act (ISA) 2025’ recently signed into law, the Nigeria’s digital asset market prospects and future direction, effectively marking the launch of Digital Asset Markets in Nigeria.
The masterclass was hosted by the capital market’s apex regulator, the Securities and Exchange Commission, in association with the Global Investment Advisory community, a community of institutional financial investors, investment banks, asset management firms, and high-networth sophisticated accredited investors.
In his keynote address, Dr Okoye placed key emphasis on the fact that the President of the Federal
Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, had recently signed the new Investment and Securities Act 2025, which provided for the final authorisation and defined the regulatory framework within which the digital asset markets will operate in Nigeria.
According to him, “The ISA Act 2025 authorises cryptocurrencies in Nigeria, as well as provides a strong legal basis for the issuance of tokens, which are the key digital assets that will be traded and exchanged between investors within our own digital asset markets ecosystem in Nigeria.”
The strategy session held at the Nigerian Security Exchange Commission (SEC), Lagos auditorium, was attended by an overflowing audience of financial, banking and capital market institutions, technology and finance professionals, as well as many investors and members of the general public.
Also speaking, the Director General of the Nigeria-China Strategic
Partnership, Joseph Tegbe, guided the audience on the monumental investments being made by China across the World, and gave strategic insights into how Nigeria’s new digital asset markets can access institutional investment from China.
Similarly, the Director General of SEC, Dr Timi Agama, who was represented by Executive Commissioner operations, Bola Ajomale, provided the audience with assurances that SEC was ready for the digital asset markets and that the regulatory body has already put in place structures for accommodating a vibrant and transparent digital asset markets in Nigeria, that would stimulate local and international investor confidence.
A major highlight of the event included a commitment from the Chairman of the Nigerian Senate’s Committee on Capital Markets, Senator Osita Izunaso, who pledged that his Senate capital markets committee would continue to work with the Global Investment Advisory community and Dr Nick Okoye,
Customs Service Hands Over N112m Worth of Cannabis Sativa to NDLEA in Ondo
Fidelis David in Akure
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ondo/ Ekiti Command has handed over 140 sacks of substances suspected to be Cannabis sativa weighing 1,400 Kilo Grammes to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). The substance estimated to have a market value of N112 million was handed over to the NDLEA on Monday in Akure the Ondo State capital.
The NCS Comptroller in charge of the command, Mrs. Morenikeji Bewaji, said that the substance was intercepted while being conveyed
by two suspects in Ado Ekiti before being clamped down by NSC patrol team on Dec. 7, 2024.
Bewaji explained that the suspects absconded after being granted bail by the command on health ground.
According to her, the surety for the two suspects, Mr. Ale Victor Ayodeji has been arrested and handed over to the NDLEA for prosecution.
She berated rapid increase in trade of illicit drugs; particularly cannabis sativa which she said posed grave threat to the society. She added that drug abuse had fueled criminal activities, insecurity, and undermined the socio-economic
stability of the nation.
According to her, these vices not only erode the values of our communities but also jeopardise the future of our youth and affect national progress.
“In our fight against this threat of illicit drugs in our country, inter-agency collaboration remains a cornerstone for success. The partnership between the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the NDLEA is a shining example of effective synergy.
“Together, the two agencies, have achieved significant milestones, and we are committed to further strengthening this collaboration
to reduce, if not totally eliminate illicit drugs. We will continue to intensify our operations by leveraging on intelligence, collaborating with other security agencies, and engaging critical stakeholders.”
She promised that the two security agencies had resolved to be steadfast, and determined to ensure the safety and security of the nation while promoting legitimate trade.
Bewaji urged members of the public to join hands with the NSC by providing timely and credible information, saying that the battle against drug trafficking and other forms of criminality required a collective effort.
to identify new areas of legislative adjustment or amendments that will further deepen the digital asset markets and the capital markets as a whole in Nigeria.
On his part, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by the Hon. Commissioner of Finance for Lagos State, Mr. Yomi Oluyomi, reiterated that Lagos State was ready for the digital asset markets.
He reminded the institutional investment and financial community present that Lagos was the first state to issue State Government-backed bonds, back when the Nigerian capital markets had just introduced structured bonds as a route for longterm State Government funding.
Speaking on the introduction of digital assets to the Nigeria Security Market, Dr. Okoye noted that “the Digital Asset Markets in Nigeria and
our ability to position for its full adoption across Africa, will redefine Nigeria and subsequently Africa’s wealth and economic future.
“We expect that these digital asset markets will provide, for the first time in Nigeria and Africa’s history, a rare and unique opportunity for a true measure and a true reflection of Nigeria’s and subsequently Africa’s entire wealth position.
“We are committed to ensuring that our African people will be the owners and operators of this new digital asset markets ecosystem, as our digital assets will be listed as well as traded on the blockchain and they will be tied to underlying physical assets, which will reduce the volatility that is witnessed and prevalent in most other digital markets across the World, this is very powerful and nothing short of revolutionary.”
Ganduje Warns Katsina LG Chairmen against Siphoning Public Funds for Own Use
The National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has warned the newly elected 34 local governments chairmen in Katsina State against siphoning public funds for personal and family gains.
Ganduje, who gave the warning yesterday during the swearing-in ceremony of the chairmen at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium, Katsina, said the local government financial autonomy was not an avenue for squandering public funds.
He also warned the elected local governments chairmen against absconding from their duty posts, adding that they should not be in office
only when there were allocations and grants from the federal government.
He said Governor Dikko Umaru Radda would give the local governments chairmen 100 per cent of their allocations, but would monitor and audit their expenditure and sanction anyone found wanting for transparency and accountability to thrive.
“My dear colleagues, local governments chairman, I am congratulating you for the independence of the local government, especially in terms of finances
“I also congratulate you because you have a governor, who believes in the independence of the local government, who believes in the effective management of our local governments.
Francis Sardauna in Katsina
Chiemelie Ezeobi
PHOTO: SUNDAY ADIGUN
SIGNING OF MOU BETWEEN 21ST CENTURY TECHNOLOGIES AND SWEDEN EPICENTRE...
L-R: Business to Government Practice Lead, EMEA, Business Sweden, Anthonia Adenaya-Huard; Regional Trade Officer, MEA and Americas, Marie Claire Maxwel; President/CEO, Business Sweden, Mr. Jan Larsson; CEO, 21st Century Technologies Ltd., Mr. Wale Ajisebutu; Chairman/Partner, Head of Advisory, Epicentre, Mr. Edgar Luczak; Crown Princess of Sweden, Victoria Désiré; Minister for Infrastructure and Housing, Sweden, Mr. Andreas Carlsson; and Ambassador of Sweden to Nigeria, Annika Hahn-England, during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between 21st Century Technologies Limited and Sweden Epicentre in Lagos… recently
PDP Govs Rule Out Merger with Other Parties, Reveal National Convention Dates
Makinde: 2027 is between APC and Nigerians
The Peoples Democratic Party Governors’ Forum (PDPGF), yesterday, firmly ruled out any involvement in the ongoing nationwide merger speculations, stating that the party wouldnot participate in any coalition or merger talks.
This was disclosed in a communiqué issued after the Forum’s meeting held in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.
The meeting, chaired by Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, brought together PDP governors from across the country to deliberate
on critical issues affecting the party and the nation.
Present at the meeting apart from Mohammed were Peter Mbah (Enugu), Agbu Kefas (Taraba), Dauda Lawal(Zamfara), the host, Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau), Umaru Fintiri (Adamawa), Ademola Adeleke (Osun), and Douye Diri (Bayelsa).
Governors Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta) and Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom) were represented by their deputies while the suspended governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, was absent at the meeting.
The communique read: “Noting the nationwide speculations about
possible merger of political parties, groups and/or associations, the Forum resolved that the PDP will not join any coalition or merger.
“However, the PDP as a major opposition party welcomes any party, persons or groups that are willing to join it with a view to wrestling power and enthroning good leadership in 2027.
“The Forum reiterates its position taken in Asaba on the issue of the National Secretary of the party, but in the wake of the Supreme Court judgment, Forum resolved to recommend that the Deputy National Secretary acts as National Secretary, pending the nomination and ratification of a
Relocation of NBA Conference: Ibas Demands Refund of N300m
The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd), has demanded a refund of N300 million from the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), following the association’s decision to relocate its 2025 Annual General Conference (AGC) from Port Harcourt to Enugu.
The controversy followed the NBA’s decision to relocate the conference in protest against what it described as “a series of undemocratic developments” in Rivers State, including the imposition of a sole administrator and the declaration of a state of emergency.
In a statement issued by his Senior Special Adviser, Hector Igbikiowubo, Ibas insisted that the funds were paid by the Rivers State Government as hosting rights for the conference, and that the NBA’s withdrawal from the state obliges it to return the money.
“While we respect the NBA’s right to choose its conference venues, we find it curious that the association, despite its ‘principled position’, didn’t address the refund of the N300 million already paid by the Rivers State Government for the hosting rights of the 2025 conference,” Ibas said.
“If the NBA truly stands on principle, it should demonstrate the same integrity by promptly returning these funds rather than benefiting from a state it now publicly discredits.”
The NBA, however, has refuted
Ibas’ claim, stating that the money was not paid as a condition for hosting rights, but rather given as a goodwill donation by the nowsuspended Governor, Siminalayi Fubara.
Chairman of the NBA AGC Planning Committee, Mr Emeka Obegolu, explained: “The money from Rivers State was a gift and was not tied to any purported hosting right for the NBA AGC. We are committed to delivering a world-class conference to members of the Bar and will not be drawn into any unnecessary controversy over this issue.”
Obegolu clarified that the decision to host the 2025 AGC in Port Harcourt was made in August 2024 and was not the result of any bidding or formal agreement.
He further noted that the NBA traditionally receives financial support from state governments, corporate organisations, and public agencies as part of their corporate social responsibility.
“The host city has no hosting rights, and there is no representation by the NBA that the conference must be held in a chosen city,” he said. “Support requested is unconditional and not tied to hosting rights or any rights whatsoever.”
In its earlier statement, the NBA had said: “Retaining Rivers State as the host of its conference would amount to a tacit endorsement of constitutional violations and subversion of the rule of law.”
Ibas, who strongly rejected the NBA’s reasoning, asserted that the administrative actions taken in the state were constitutional and necessary to restore order.
“The declaration of a state of emergency was a necessary response to a breakdown of public order and democratic processes. President Bola Tinubu, in exercising his constitutional authority, acted in the best interest of the state to restore stability,” he stated.
He cited a Supreme Court ruling— Suit No. SC/CV/1176/2024 (Rivers State House of Assembly & Others vs. Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission & Nine Others)—to reinforce his argument that actions taken by the interim government had legal backing.
“To suggest that this intervention ‘flouts the rule of law’ is not only incorrect but ignores the Supreme Court’s rulings that have validated key decisions made during this period,” he argued.
He further accused the NBA of politicising a constitutional issue: “NBA, as a body of legal minds, should know better than to reduce a complex constitutional matter to political sensationalism.”
Ibas called on the association to focus on constructive engagement.
“Rather than contributing to unnecessary tension, we expect the NBA, as a critical stakeholder in Nigeria’s democracy, to engage constructively, offering solutions instead of amplifying divisive narratives.”
Substantive Secretary from the South East Zone and NEC respectively at its next meeting.
“The Forum reasserts our collective determination to avert a rape of our constitutional democracy hence the decision of approaching the Supreme Court to give a clear cut verdict on the interpretation of the provisions of the law on the declaration of State of Emergency in any state.
“The Forum restates its solidarity with His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, on the ordeal into which his state and people are being plunged by the declaration of a state of emergency. And we reiterate our commitment to stand with him till the end.
“The Forum finds alarming the worsening security situation in the country, as evidenced in parts of the country especially Borno, Plateau, Katsina and Edo States.
“The Forum calls for review and reordering of priorities and strategies including adopting a bottom up template that guarantees the sub-nationals to constitute an effective line of defence against security breaches.
“While raising the concerns above, we condemn the recent attacks in Plateau State, and commiserate with the government and people of the state especially those who lost their lives and properties during this
unfortunate mishap.
“The Forum resolves that working in conjunction with the National Working Committee (NWC) and other relevant organs of the party, to hold a NEC Meeting on the 27th of May, 2025; constitute a Zoning Committee that will address all issues relating to zoning of party offices and hold an early convention in August 2025, precisely on the 28th, 29th and 30th in the ancient city of Kano.
“The Forum equally recommends the constitution of the Zoning and National Convention Committees for ratification by the NWC and NEC as follows;
“Zoning Committee: Gov. Douye Diri -Chairman; Gov. Dauda Lawal – Vice Chairman and Gov. Caleb Mutfwang – Secretary, while the National Convention Committee has Gov. Ahmadu Fintiri as Chairman; Gov. Ademola Adeleke as Vice Chairman and Gov. Peter Mbah as Secretary.
“The Forum expressed its gratitude to the host Governor, His Excellency, Engr. Seyi Makinde, the government and good people of Oyo state for their hospitality.”
In the meantime, the Forum at a dinner hosted for the governors, on Sunday night, vowed to unseat the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led government at the federal level,
stating that Nigerians have seen the capacity of the party to deliver good governance.
Makinde, while delivering his welcome address, expressed confidence that the PDP had the ability to resolve its internal issues, assuring them that the party would form the next government at the federal level in 2027.
He commended the commitment of the PDP governors, noting that their presence showcased their dedication and love for the party.
Makinde emphasised that the 2027 contest would be between the APC and the people of Nigeria.
“The PDP is going to be where we want it to be. This is the party that will form the next government in the country. I have said it before -2027 is between the APC and the people of Nigeria,” Makinde said. In his remarks, Mohammed stated that with good governance the PDP governors were providing across the states, the party was set to form the next government at the federal level.
Lauding Makinde and fellow PDP governors for their notable achievements in their respective states, Mohammed expressed confidence that PDP was dedicated to providing a platform that would propel Nigeria to an unparalleled success.
Olawepo-Hashim Urges Politicians to End Ethnic Blackmail, Face Real Issues
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
A former presidential candidate, Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, has delivered a sharp rebuke to opposition politicians employing ethnic rhetoric to gain political advantage, describing such tactics as obsolete and harmful to Nigeria’s unity and development.
In a statement released yesterday, Olawepo-Hashim warned that the continued deployment of ethnic sentiments in political discourse is a distraction from the pressing issues confronting the nation.
He, therefore, called for a shift toward solution-driven engagement that addresses Nigeria’s economic collapse, rampant insecurity, and foreign policy failures.
“Those still stuck in the old game of ethnic blackmail should understand that Nigerians have outgrown that playbook,” he declared. “The people are looking for competent leadership, not ethnic champions,” he added.
Olawepo-Hashim expressed
particular concern over recent attempts to brand the administration of President Bola Tinubu as a “Yoruba government,” dismissing such claims as both baseless and ironic.
“President Tinubu struggled to win support even among his own ethnic group,” he said. “He lost Lagos—arguably the heart of the Yoruba political base—in the 2023 presidential election. So, on what grounds is anyone now calling this a tribal government?,” he queried.
The former presidential hopeful also accused some of Tinubu’s former allies—who were instrumental in his rise to power—of now resorting to ethnic incitement because their personal ambitions were unmet.
“It is pure hypocrisy,” he asserted.
“You cannot install a government and then disown it on ethnic grounds when your expectations aren’t fulfilled,” he pointed out.
To reinforce his argument, Olawepo-Hashim cited historic instances where Nigerian voters defied ethnic lines in favour of leadership they believed in.
“In 1993, Kano voters chose Moshood Abiola, a Yoruba man, over their kinsman Bashir Tofa. In 2023, Lagosians voted for Peter Obi, an Igbo candidate, over Tinubu. Yet, they returned Governor Sanwo-Olu of the APC. Nigerians are far more politically mature than many politicians assume,” he said.
He stressed that the real crisis confronting the country is not ethnicity but the absence of purposeful, visionary leadership.
“The nation is groaning under inflation, rising poverty, food insecurity, and a worsening security situation. These are the matters that deserve attention, not tired ethnic narratives,” the politician and businessman added.
Olawepo-Hashim concluded by urging political leaders to rise above parochialism and build a genuine alternative rooted in policy substance, performance, and national unity.
“If Nigeria is to move forward, we must reject ethnic division and embrace issue-based leadership. That is the only path to sustainable progress,” he argued.
By Alex Enumah in Abuja and Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt
Chuks Okocha and Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan
INAUGURATION OF 20TH NATIONAL PRESIDENT OF THE NIGERIA-AMERICA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE...
L-R: Group Chairman, Odu’a Investment Company Limited, Otunba Bimbo Ashiru; and National President/Chairman, Board of Directors, Nigerian-American Chamber of Commerce (NACC), Alhaji Sheriff Balogun, during the presentation of the Award of Distinguished Leadership and Economic Development to Otunba Bimbo Ashiru at the inauguration of the 20th National President of the Nigeria-America Chamber of Commerce in Lagos…recently
Obi Advocates Depoliticisation of National
Issues, Speaks Out on Disrupted Benue Visit
Chuks Okocha in Abuja and Sunday Ehigiator in Lagos
Presidential candidate of the Labour Party in 2023, Mr. Peter Obi, has appealed to Nigerians to learn to depoliticise approaches to national issues.
He spoke against the backdrop of the Benue State Government stopping his proposed visit to the Internally Displaced Persons camp in the state.
In a statement, Obi expressed concern over what he described as an unsettling incident, stating that ordinarily, he would have refrained from commenting, having endured far more challenging situations in his political journey.
However, he noted that recent events compelled him to speak out.
According to Obi, he had scheduled visits to Plateau and Benue States as part of his ongoing outreach efforts, aimed at supporting internally displaced persons (IDPs) and promoting health and education initiatives.
‘’The visits, planned for Sunday, 13th April, in Plateau and Monday, 14th April, in Benue, were to include courtesy calls on the state governors, visits to IDP camps, and interactions with institutions such as schools of nursing,’’ he explained.
He recounted that, as was his customary practice, he reached out to the Plateau State Government to notify them of his intended visit.
Obi disclosed that the Plateau State Governor had graciously welcomed him and provided all necessary support, allowing him to spend meaningful time with the victims at the Bokkos IDP camp.
However, he painted a different picture regarding his efforts to reach the Benue State Governor.
He said despite several attempts, he was unable to establish direct contact.
He eventually succeeded in speaking with the governor’s aide-de-camp (ADC), who informed him that the governor was engaged in an important meeting but promised to return his call before midnight.
Obi stated that this promised call never came, and days later, the ADC messaged him, claiming he had been unable to reach the governor – a situation Mr. Obi described as deeply troubling.
Undeterred, Obi said he decided to proceed with his trip to Makurdi, viewing his visit to the governor as a matter of courtesy rather than necessity.
‘’Departing Jos at 7am on the day of the planned visit, he received an unexpected development while en
route. Upon reaching Akwanga at about 10am, his security team intercepted a press statement, reportedly issued by the Benue State Government, effectively halting his visit.
“Curiously, while he was still discussing the matter with his team, the Governor’s ADC forwarded the same statement to him directly.
“The statement outlined precisely the itinerary I had earlier shared with both the ADC and security operatives in Benue through my own security team,” Mr Obi disclosed. He reiterated that his visit was driven purely by humanitarian motives, aimed at supporting critical areas of development, including health care, education, and the
welfare of displaced Nigerians.
He further reminded the public of his long-standing commitment to such causes, noting that even before his political career, and consistently throughout it, he had remained devoted to initiatives for the common good.
“People may recall how, during the Haiti earthquake, I had to seek
permission from then President Goodluck Jonathan to travel and offer support,” he said. Obi said his intended engagements in Benue included a visit to a school under construction by the bishop in Gboko, a nursing school, and an IDP camp – reflecting his enduring commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable Nigerians.
Your Father Worked against Atiku, PDP in 2023, Ex-VP’s Son Replies Bauchi Gov’s Son
Says they’re aware his father, Mohammed, hobnobbing with Tinubu’s government
Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja
Mohammed, son of former VicePresident Atiku Abubakar, has told the son of Bauchi State governor, Shamsu Bala-Mohammed that his father worked against his father as the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 presidential election.
Mohammed Atiku-Abubakar, stated this in a statement, yesterday, while reacting to a recent comment made by Shamsu, where
EU Boosts Humanitarian Aid with €258 Million
Persons affected by humanitarian crises in the Greater Horn of Africa and in West and Central Africa will receive €258 million from the European Union (EU) humanitarian aid to address their urgent needs.
In the Greater Horn of Africa, €107.5 million will be used to support the most vulnerable people in the region, impacted by conflict and natural hazards, facing forced displacement, food and nutrition insecurity, and poor access to basic services.
Commissioner for Preparedness, Crisis Management and Equality, Hadja Lahbib, said: “Across Africa, complex challenges, including security threats, political instability, and socio-economic disparities are fuelling humanitarian crises.
“These crises displace entire communities and cause widespread food insecurity. The escalating effects of
climate change are also intensifying vulnerabilities.”
About 70 million people in the Greater Horn of Africa are reported to be in urgent need of humanitarian aid, constituting over a fifth of people in need worldwide.
The primary causes of humanitarian needs remain conflicts and natural hazards. The conflict in Sudan constitutes a major driver of humanitarian needs both within the country and in the region.
In West and Central Africa, €150.6 million, the organisation said, will support the humanitarian response in the countries directly affected by ongoing insecurity and conflict, including West Africa’s coastal countries already impacted by the spill-over from the crisis in Central Sahel.
West and Central Africa remains a region plagued by major complex and mostly protracted humanitarian crises, where Central Sahel and the Lake
Chad area constitute the epicentre of conflicts.
Funding will be used for food and livelihoods assistance, nutrition, healthcare, water, sanitation and hygiene and education amongst others. This will bring the total EU humanitarian response in Africa to €750 million in 2025.
“The EU remains a reliable partner providing emergency assistance to Africa’s most vulnerable populations,” the EU said.
In addition to funding for the Greater Horn of Africa, the Commission already announced an initial €40 million allocation for humanitarian assistance in Ethiopia and €269 million for the regional response to the Sudan crisis.
The allocation for West and Central Africa comes on top of the already announced €78.5 million of humanitarian aid to address the needs of the people affected by humanitarian crises in Mauritania and Chad.
he threatened that his father, Bala Mohammed would not support Atiku in 2027.
He added that the Bauchi governor has never supported the ambition of Atiku, both in the 2019 and the 2023 presidential elections.
Atiku’s son stressed that Mohammed’s presidential ambition was the reason for his poor management of the PDP Governors’ Forum, where he couldn’t command the respect and control of his colleagues, adding also that they were not unaware of his secret hobnobbing with President Tinubu’s“Shamsugovernment. Bala’s comments reek of arrogance and an exaggerated sense of relevance. The only difference now is that Shamsu has removed the mask and now we
do not have to worry about the feigned impression of any support from his father,” he said.
He told Shamsu that Atiku has never dissipated an ounce of energy towards his fathers political travails, meaning his father transcended such shenanigans, and had consistently remained above the bar.
“Moreover, whatever conflict Bala Muhammed may have had with politicians in Bauchi, in the lead up to the 2023 elections, had nothing to do with Atiku Abubakar. It was purely a local affair.
“Let me re-emphasise that at no point has Shamsu’s father ever supported Atiku Abubakar in his political career.
“On the contrary, the ignoble role his father played in 2023,where he
clandestinely worked against the presidential candidate of his party is still fresh in Nigerians’ memory. “In case Shamsu has been off the news reel, we wish to refer him to a recent remark by his father’s political mentor, the Minister of FCT, Nyesom Wike, who revealed how the Bauchi State governor orchestrated plans to ensure that Atiku did not win in 2023 election.
“It is noteworthy to mention that Governor Bala Mohammed’s presidential ambition is the reason for his poor management of PDP Governors Forum, where he couldn’t command the respect and control of his colleagues. We are not also unaware of his secret hobnobbing with Tinubu’s government,” he stated.
FG Flags Off Construction of Section 3A of Lagos-Calabar Highway
Bassey Inyang in Calabar
President Bola Tinubu yesterday in Akamkpa, Cross River State, flagged off the construction of the Section 3A of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal highway, covering about 23 kilometres, expected to link the 3B section of the road in Akwa Ibom State.
The Minister of Works, David Umahi, while speaking at the event said that the road is strategic, and at completion would enhance the national road infrastructure, reduce congestion, and play a significant role towards improving the conservation of the environment.
He said the section 3A and
Section 3B covering a length of 65 kilometres will stretch from Cross River State, and Akwa Ibom State, respectively. Umahi called on full cooperation of the people of Cross River state so that the road would be constructed and completed on schedule, promising that people of the local communities would be carried along in the construction of the road.
The State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, who represented Tinubu at the ceremony described the road project as a job creation booster that will better the lives of the people of the state when it is fully completed.
“The road project is going to create jobs for Nigerians. I call on Cross Riverians to reawaken their entrepreneurial skills by maximally taking advantage of the road project when completed”, the governor said. He stated that with the recent ground breaking ceremony of the Special Agro Industrial processing Zone (SAPZ) in the State, the road will serve as an evacuation corridor for products from the zone. Otu promised that as the state governor, he would do everything within his administration’s powers to ensure that the project succeeds from the Calabar end.
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
FIRST LADY PRESENTS TROPHY TO WINNERS OF 2025 AFRICA WOMEN’S VOLLEYBALL CHAMPIONSHIP...
the
Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Adewale Adeniyi;
First
PDP: Presidency Disowning Okpebholo’s Billboard for Tinubu in 2027 Vindicates Us
Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City
Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has said the presidency Disowning Governor Monday Okpebholo’s billboard campaigns for Tinubu ahead of 2027 election was a vindication of the party’s earlier position that the move amounted to a violation of the electoral law.
The presidency through the Special Adviser to President Bola
The former vice president, in a statement by his media aide, Paul Ibeh, said these manifestations were indicative of the woeful failure of both the security policy and infrastructure of the Tinubu administration.
He called on the federal government to take tougher proactive measures to deal with “these disgraceful incidents that challenge our national security”.
Atiku stated, “Every sincere Nigerian should be worried about the frequency and impunity with which terrorists and bandits attack innocent people in the country, especially in northern Nigeria, which has become the epicentre of terrorist violence in the country.”
According to Atiku, the delay in the prosecution of captured terrorists and bandits in custody since 2016 has emboldened the mass murderers to kill with impunity.
He said, “If the government had applied the same energy in the prosecution of terrorists and bandits as it did in the trial of political critics, it would have gone a long way to send a powerful message to the outlaws that there are consequences for mass murder.”
He siad the prosecution of terrorists and bandits should be accorded the highest priority by the Attorney General of the Federation, explaining that there should be special courts to fast-track the trial and conviction of terrorists in the country.
The former vice president stated, “Hundreds of terrorists and bandits have been in custody since 2016 without trial, and the delay in bringing them to justice is demoralising to our security forces.
“If terrorists and bandits are captured and then are left in custody longer than necessary without trial, it will undermine the efforts and sacrifices of our security forces.
“Our criminal justice system is notoriously slow and as a result, terrorists and bandits are thus encouraged to feel that crime pays.”
Atiku expressed “embarrassment at how armed criminal groups cross through our borders to carry out terrorist activities in Nigeria.”
Atiku added that condemnation of terrorist attacks by the government
Tinubu on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, yesterday, chided those mounting billboards with the image of the president and vicepresident ahead of 2027 to desist because such action was a violation of the nation’s electoral laws.
In the statement, Onanuga stressed that in as much as the president and his deputy appreciated the teeming party loyalists, it should also register in their consciousness that doing so would not only confer
was not enough, saying what was needed were prompt and proactive measures to forestall further attacks and loss of innocent lives.
He stated that as long as the terrorists and bandits were operating successfully without consequences, they would continue to attack innocent people again and again.
Atiku called on the National Assembly to urgently introduce a legislation to allow state governments to adequately arm their security outfits with modern weapons to complement the efforts of the security forces, who appeared to be overstretched in terms of men and resources.
While blaming community members who served as informants to armed groups, he stated that communities had a role to play in their own security by providing intelligence to security forces about the presence and activities of bandits and terrorists in their midst.
Obi: Killings Sad and Unacceptable
The presidential candidate of Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 general election, Peter Obi, who visited victims and families of those affected by the recent Plateau killings, described the development as sad and unacceptable. In a statement shared via his official X handle, the former Anambra State governor expressed sorrow over the “senseless killings,” describing the violence as unacceptable in a country not officially at war.
He stated, “Yesterday, I travelled from Abuja to Jos, Plateau State, to condole with and show solidarity with Governor Caleb Mutfwang and the people of Plateau State over the recent senseless killings in the Bokkos area of the state.”
Obi, whose visit included a trip to Bokkos, where he met with displaced persons, children, and survivors of the attacks, lamented the scale of the destruction and called for urgent action to protect innocent lives.
He said, “What has happened in these communities is very saddening and utterly unacceptable. Nigerians should not be killed or forced to flee their homes when we are not at war. Every life is precious, and no
undue advantage on the two most senior public servants, but that the Electoral Acts forbade premature campaigns ahead of elections, warning further that such actions could erode the credibility of the democratic process.
In a statement in Benin City, titled: “Presidency Disclaims 2027 Campaign Billboards Nationwide,” and signed by the party Publicity Secretary, Chris Nehikhare, and made available to journalists,
Nigerian, regardless of where they live, should have to live in fear or uncertainty.
“My deepest condolences go to the families and communities who have suffered tragic losses. No words can truly capture the pain and devastation that such senseless violence brings.”
During the visit, he announced a donation of N7.5 million to support the displaced children, education continuity, and other pressing needs within the communities.
Obi said the contribution built upon previous efforts by his supporters.
He stated, “Earlier, the Obidient Movement had built a borehole to provide clean water for the IDP camp and the community, and we continued the support yesterday with the sum of N7.5 million to help in providing facilities for the displaced children, continuous education, and ongoing needs of those affected.”
He added, “My heart is with the people of Bokkos, the displaced children, women, and entire communities during this difficult time.”
The former presidential candidate said, “Now, more than ever, leadership and compassion are essential. I stand in solidarity with Plateau State and remain committed to supporting all efforts toward peace, justice, and healing.
“May the souls of the departed rest in perfect peace, and may the people find strength, comfort, and unity as they rebuild their lives.”
AI Nigeria Condemns
Killing of 54 People
Amnesty International (AI) Nigeria condemned the killing of at least 54 people in Plateau State.
AI stated that along the way, the gunmen also razed villages and looted homes, destroying everything on their path. While those killed were being prepared for mass burial more dead bodies were being discovered in the bushes, it stated.
Director, Amnesty international Nigeria, Isa Sanusi, in a statement, disclosed that many of the victims of the lastest attack that could not run, including children and the elderly, were slaughtered and left in pools
declared that presidency’s position marked a major blow to Okpebholo’s attempts to curry favour with President Bola Tinubu through “reckless and unlawful political grandstanding.”
The statement further read: “The Edo State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) had earlier raised the alarm in a statement titled: ‘Okpebholo’s Launch of 2027 Presidential Campaigns for Tinubu in Edo: An Insult, an Affront to the
of blood.
Sanusi said, “The inexcusable security lapses that enabled this horrific attacks, two weeks after the killing of 52 people, must be investigated.
“Issuing bland statements condemning these horrific attacks is not enough and genuine commitment to protecting the people must be demonstrated by ensuring adequate security of lives and property, as well as ensuring justice for the victims.
“Consistent failure of the authorities to bring the actual suspected perpetrators to justice is emboldening impunity.
“While President Bola Tinubu claims his government is implementing new security measures to address the rising insecurity in the country, the recent attacks in Plateau state show that whatever security measures implemented are not working.”
Sanusi added, “In Plateau State, from December 2023 to February 2024, at least 1,336 people were killed. Of those killed 533 were women, 263 children were killed and 540 men killed. Over 29,554 people were displaced, out of which 13,093 were children and while 16,461 women were displaced.
“The patterns of recent deadly attacks on the rural areas of Plateau State, clearly show, the Nigerian authorities have left these communities at the mercy of rampaging gunmen.
“Nigerian authorities’ failure to tame the tide of this horrific violence is costing people’s lives and livelihoods, and without immediate action, many more lives may.”
HURIWA: Presidency Paying Lip Service to Security
Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) lamented that the federal government was paying lip service to the persistent killing of Plateau State natives because the victims were neither Hausa nor Fulani.
HURIWA said over 300 natives of the state had been killed since December 24th 2023 till date by mostly armed Fulani terrorists allegedly paid by herders seeking to take over the rich agricultural landed assets of
Constitution’.
“The Presidency’s intervention clearly validates our concerns and exposes the deceitful tactics of the Edo APC, which has shown a complete disregard for the nation’s electoral laws. Their antics have not only embarrassed Edo people but have now drawn a firm rebuke from the very leadership they were trying to impress.
“We now await the response of the Edo State Government to
Plateau State natives.
The rights group, in a statement by its National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, also condemned the conspiracy of silence by the northern governors and the political elite in that region, who stoutly protested the lynching of 16 persons from Kano, mobbed in Uromi, Edo State, by a crowd that allegedly mistook “travelling Hausa/Fulani hunters” for kidnappers unleashing violence on an industrial scale in Edo State.
HURIWA stated, “The hypocrisy of northern Muslim political and military elites to the constant killings of mostly Christian natives of Plateau State is deeply troubling just as the normalisation of these intermittent killings by the security forces and the political authority in Abuja is highly hypocritical and paints a picture of a government that is on the same page with the armed killers unleashing devastating violence on Plateau State citizens.
“The fact is that even after the Plateau State governor made a categorical statement confirming the serial killings as genocide, every one of the important military and civilian officials and officers in the current administration pretended like the governor was speaking in tongues.
“If it was the Kano State governor that made assertion that Hausa/ Fulanis of Kano State are victims of genocide, the entirety of the service chiefs and the National Assembly leadership including officials in the presidency would have adopted immediate and far-reaching mechanisms to get to the roots of the allegation.
“But because it is the Christian governor of the Christian state in the North that made the assertion, everyone is pretending to be deaf and dumb. This is injustice at a highly sophisticated and industrial scale.”
HURIWA condemned government for paying lip service to the bloodletting in Plateau State only because the victims were evidently not from the politically connected ethnicity.
Kalu: South-east May Soon Be Taken over By Terrorists
The senator for Abia North Senatorial District, Orji Uzor Kalu,
this direct disapproval from the Presidency. As we previously noted, Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022 clearly states: ‘The period of campaigning in public by every political party shall commence 150 days before polling day and end 24 hours prior to that day.”
“The Edo PDP remains committed to defending constitutional order and protecting the integrity of our democracy against desperate and unlawful manipulation by the APC.”
raised the alarm that if nothing was done urgently, the entire South-east region might soon be lost to terrorists Kalu lamented the escalating insecurity in the country and called for urgent steps by the federal government to end the ugly scourge.
The senator, who is Chairman, Senate Committee on South-East Development Commission, warned the political class against introducing politics to the unfortunate situation.
Advocating the investment of additional resources in the security agencies, Kalu stressed that for the country to successfully tackle its security challenges, the issue must be addressed without politics.
The former Senate Chief Whip made the comments in China via a video posted on his verified social media platforms. He called for decisive measures to end the scourge.
He stated with surprise the recent alarm raised by the Borno State governor, Babangana Zulum, over the deteriorating security situation in his state, leading to the taking over of some parts of the state by insurgents.
The former Abia State governor frowned on the politicising of insecurity in the country, which he blamed on political leaders in the country.
Insisting that security was a very serious issue that should not be politicised, Kalu urged Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, not to downplay the issues raised by Zulum but rather intimate the president with the true situation of things in the country. Kalu stated, “The minister of information is doing his job but Professor Zulum is right. I am almost from Borno State. If the federal government doesn’t take the right step in Borno State and South-east those areas might collapse.
“I want to believe Professor Zulum that the security situation is deteriorating every day so we need to step up, especially in the South-east. Our South-east governors are doing their best to fight insurgency.
“I would like the federal government to step up security in the South-east because it’s a gateway for people transporting goods from the ports and refineries.”
L-R:
President, Confederation of African Women’s Volleyball, Hajaj Bucharest; Captain of Zamalek Club of Egypt and winner of
tournament;
Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu; Wife of the Vice President, Hajia Nana Shettima; and President, National Olympic Committee, Mustapha Berraf, watch as the First Lady presents the trophy to the winner of the 2025 Africa Women’s Volleyball Club Championship held in Abuja on Sunday
PROMOTING CARBON FARMING…
L-R: Director, Agric Services, Kaduna State Agriculture Department Agency, Adamu Usman Mohammed; Senior Agronomist , Tourba Carbon Farming Nigeria, Mr. Kinsley Akuwa; Country Manager, Tourba, Opeoluwa Filani; District Head, Ikara, Alhaji Sani Umar; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, Linda Yakubu, and Lead Agronomist, Tourba, Yusuf Ali Bello, during the Tourba stakeholders’ meeting to discuss carbon farming initiatives in Kaduna…recently
Pro-Wike, Fubara’s Female Supporters Protest in Rives over Emergency Rule
Magistrate voluntarily retires over state of emergency
Blessing Ibunge in port Harcourt
Some Rivers women yesterday protested in different locations of the state over the ongoing state of emergency in the state.
This is as a Chief Magistrate in the state judiciary, Ejike George, tendered his resignation from service, citing the unlawful appointment of a Sole
Administrator to oversee the democratic affairs of the state.
THISDAY observed that some women staged a protest in Port Harcourt, the state capital, declaring that the emergency rule is constitutional, while another group of women, including widows, blocked the Mbiama section of the East West Road in Ahoada, demanding the reinstatement of Governor
‘I’ll Be Investing Over £5 millionin Osun’
Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo
A practicing lawyer in the United Kingdom (UK) and a businessman in Nigeria, Ladi Adebayo, yesterday said that his consortium is planning to inject over £5 million (approximately $7 million ) into Osun state by the end of this year.
He stressed that it would be a significant investment that aims to stimulate local businesses and create new job opportunities for the people of the state.
The business guru, who recently had the privilege of attending an impactful meeting that brought together the Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke and key representatives from the UK Prime Minister’s Envoy to Nigeria, with a focused agenda on enhancing trade relations, said he was encouraged by the positive momentum from these
conversations.
According to him, “I am excited to share that our consortium is poised to ramp up our financial commitments in Osun State. We are planning to inject over £5 million (approximately $7 million) into the region by the end of this year, a significant investment that aims to stimulate local businesses and create new job opportunities.”
Said: “The candid discussions we had illuminated the tremendous opportunities for economic growth and development in Osun, leaving a lasting impression on me. I was particularly impressed by the Osun State Government’s proactive strategies aimed at fostering a business-friendly atmosphere, which are essential for attracting both local and international investments.”
Rotary Club of Omole Golden Donates ICT Lab to Lagos School
Raheem Akingbolu
The Rotary Club of Omole Golden has donated a solar powered Information and Communication Technology (ICT) laboratory to Ajuwon Junior Secondary School, Ogun State, to expose the students to the limitless knowledge of being computer literate.
Omole Golden under the District 9111 of the Rotary, which had in the past donated similar facility to the senior secondary section of the same school, noted that it is essential that the junior students are equally made computer compliant at the tender age so that they would grow with the culture of using internet to improve their educational advancement.
Siminalayi Fubara and an end to emergency rule in the state.
The women adorned in black attire and coming from the Orashi region staged a protest, calling for the reinstatement of the suspended Governor Fubara.
These widows came out in their numbers with placards saying: ‘Bring back our Sim’;
“Widows are dying’; ‘Supreme Court says no to caretaker’; and others. They barricaded the Mbiama axis of the East West Road where some of them sitting on the ground half naked were seen crying.
Speaking in their dialect, they called on President Bola Tinubu to bring back Fubara as they
lamented that some policies which involved provision for widows have been halted since the suspension. They decried that if it continues, the widows who are helpless, may die of hunger, starvation and frustration.
Similarly, another women group who adorned on white
apparel, chanting songs mostly gospel relics, in their various placards stated: ‘Emergency rule is Constitutional;’ ‘Rivers women voted for you but you made us your slaves’; ‘Investigate Fubara’s bloated contracts award;’ ‘Say no to dictatorship’; ‘Rivers women need peace in our state’, among others.
Delta Community Disrupts Oando’s Operations, Threatens to Shutdown Flow Station
Sylvester Idowu in Warri
Indigenes of Irri community in Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State yesterday disrupted operations at Oil Mining Lease (OML) 60 Flow Station operated by Oando Plc.
The flow station, formerly operated by Agip Nigeria Limited, supplies 60 to 70 percent of gas to Kwale/Okpai Gas Plant.
The protesters, mostly men, women and youths, stormed
the flow station and prevented workers access and exit to their offices on the premise that the oil firm failed in associating with the development of the community.
They claimed they took the action over alleged insensitivity of the company to the plight of Irri community where oil was discovered shortly after that of Oloibiri in Bayelsa State.
The angry women carried placards reading thus: ‘We Need Our PIA Deductions’;
‘Our Skill Acquisition Centre/ Hospital Dormant’; ‘No Single Project By Oando Since 2017’; ‘Irri Needs Gas Turbine. We Need Employment’; ‘We Need Upgrade Of Our Indigenes in Oando’; ‘We Need EIA Report’, among others.
The protesters vowed not to vacate the premises of the oil company until their demands are met.
To demonstrate their seriousness, the protesters placed
a coffin at the entrance of the facility, performed some rituals before setting up canopies where food were prepared for them for as a long as they occupy the firm.
Odio Silas Efajemue, the Odio- in-Council, who spoke on behalf of the traditional ruler of Irri, His Royal Majesty, Simon Wajutome Odhomo, Igbogidi 1, the Odio Ologbo of Irri kingdom, lamented the pathetic power situation affecting the community.
Coastal Road Dispute: Winhomes Boss Accuses Minister of Flouting Court Order
Sunday Okobi
The Chief Executive Officer of Winhomes Global Services Limited, Stella Ifeoma Okengwu, has criticised the Minister of Works, David Umahi, for allegedly disobeying a valid court order and violating due process in the ongoing LagosCalabar Coastal Road project.
In a statement, Okengwu accused the minister of triggering the current controversy by
abandoning the approved 2006 Coastal Road Alignment and unlawfully diverting the highway route into Winhomes’ residential development in the Okun Ajah area of Lagos.
The legal dispute in a Federal High Court in Lagos, which centres on allegations of trespass, lists several key defendants, including the Attorney General of the Federation, the Minister of Works, the Controller of Works, Lagos, Hitech Construction
Company, and the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Lagos State.
She described the minister’s actions as a blatant show of disregard for the rule of law and an abuse of official power.
According to her, “It is unacceptable for a public office holder to trample on the rights of law-abiding citizens who are contributing to the Nigeria’s economy. The minister’s continued defiance of court
orders not only undermines our justice system but also paints Nigeria as a country where impunity goes unchecked.”
The engineer further revealed that despite a pending court order mandating the preservation of the status quo, construction activities have continued on the disputed site allegedly on the orders of the minister, adding: “This is nothing short of contempt for the judiciary.”
Humanitarian Affairs Commissioner Hails Bauchi Gov over Leadership Award
Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi
Ogunleye said: “I learnt that the facility donated to the school some years back was for the senior secondary school, leaving the junior students without access to ICT.”
“Right there I made them a promise that when I become the president I will ensure they have their own ICT laboratory. That is what has brought us here today.
“This project is not just about computers, it is about opening doors to the future. It aligns perfectly with Rotary’s focus on basic education and literacy that will leave an impact for generations to come.”
Speaking at the handing over ceremony, the President, Omole Golden, Jide Ogunleye, noted that he got the idea of initiating the project when he visited the premises with his children and discovered that young students in junior secondary one and two had not used the computer.
Bauchi State Commissioner of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Hajiya Hajara Yakubu Wanka, has commended the State Governor, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed on the award of excellence bestowed him by the Leadership Newspaper as the Best Governor of the Year 2024 for infrastructural development in State.
A press statement from the ministry, issued by the Information Officer, Hajiya Adama Ibrahim, yesterday quoted the commissioner as stating that the choice of Governor Bala Mohammed did not come as surprise given the level of his policy drive on developing key infrastructures that serve as catalysts for sustainable development and economic prosperity in Bauchi State.
The commissioner described the award as a testimony of the governor’s resilience to building Bauchi State for economic prosperity and assured him of her ministry’s continued support in actualising the governor’s blueprint of “My Bauchi Project”.
She stated: “Your Excellency Sir, this award is a testament of your resilience, doggedness and belief in creating an enabling
environment for human capital development and economic prosperity in our dear Bauchi State.”
Hajara Wanka stressed that “I made bold to say that more of such awards will be coming your way before the exit of your administration resulting from your leadership style and people oriented policies and programmes that can best be described as “all encompassing.”
Soludo Emphasises Hardwork as Means to Honest Wealth Creation
Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra State has called on Ndi Anambra and the entire Igbo to return to the tribe’s cherished culture of hardwork as a means to honest wealth creation.
Soludo, who spoke in Lagos during the presentation of his three years’ scorecard as governor, said Anambra people “must go back to the first principles of hardwork,
enterprise and integrity by which our people are known” to regain what they have lost.
The governor noted that Ndi Anambra and the entire Igbo are known for painstaking and enduring business life, which yields wealth over time, rather than sudden wealth without good work.
Against this background, he insisted that “Ndi Anambra cannot
continue to dominate the areas of commerce with the new philosophy and ideology that is fast enveloping our homeland.
Citing the Igbo entrepreneurship scheme, which incubates business skills and capital, Soludo explained that “it is a unique business model in which someone happily trains his future competitors and afterwards empowers them on graduation by
setting up the same business for them.”
However, he regretted that Anambra youth have now abandoned that culture for sudden wealth through cybercrime, known in local parlance as yahoo yahoo, ritual wealth and kidnap-for-ransom, while people from other states are taking over the apprenticeship scheme.
NFF Denies Owing Former Super Eagles Coach, Late Christian Chukwu
Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja
The Nigeria Football Federation has decried statements in a section of the social media that the
football-ruling body was indebted to former Nigeria captain and coach, ‘Chairman’ Christian Chukwu, who died on Saturday.
Reacting to one statement on social media that claimed NFF was owing the 1980 Africa Cup of Nations-winning team captain the sum of $128,000, NFF General
Nasarawa United have been hit with an exile from their Lafia Township Stadium home ground and imposed a fine of N6million for repeated offences of inadequate security and fans restiveness.
The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) imposed the sanctions in a swift reaction to the confirmed reports of assault on a Plateau United player, Vincent Temitope, and attempt to harass match officials at the end of the Matchday 33 fixture against Plateau United on Sunday.
In a four count charge, Nasarawa United were cited for breaches of Rules B13.52, B13.22, C9 and C11.
For failure to provide adequate security, the NPFL fined the club N1million, another N1million for failure to ensure proper conduct of their supporters in violation of Rule C9 and N1million for medical expenses for Vincent Temitope who was assaulted in breach of Rule C11.
The club is to pay N3m for repeated breaches of the NPFL Frameworks and Rules with the additional punishment of having their home fixtures away from Lafia at the Pantami Stadium in Gombe. The Chief Operating Officer of the NPFL, Davidson Owumi, who signed the letter to the club, reiterated that the sanctions were imposed to lay emphasis on the league’s zero tolerance for misconduct.
Secretary, Dr Mohammed Sanusi, said: “There is no record in the NFF of any outstanding indebtedness to ‘Chairman’ Christian Chukwu. During the first term of the Board headed by Mr. Amaju Pinnick, a committee was set up to diligently peruse the papers of coaches who were being owed, even from
previous NFF administrations.
“That committee was given the clear mandate to verify all debts and ensure that the coaches being owed were paid immediately. I am aware that ‘Chairman’ was in the employ of the NFF between 2002 and 2005, before he was relieved of the post following
Bendel Insurance, Enugu Rangers Rekindle Federation Cup Rivalry
Former champions Bendel Insurance and Enugu Rangers will light up the Lagos Waterfront, Onikan, on Wednesday in what is unarguably the star match of the Round of 16 of the men’s competition of this year’s President Federation Cup.
The two teams were involved in two of the most memorable final matches of Nigeria’s Cup competition in its 80-year history, with honours shared in 1978 and 1981. The competition was then called The Challenge Cup.
The Benin Arsenaltore apart the form books to shock the nation’s
football fraternity by spanking Rangers 3-0 in the final in Lagos in 1978, but the Flying Antelopessomewhat repaid the compliment with a 2-0 win at the same venue in 1981.
The setting for this Round of 16 clash is also in Lagos, though a different venue. But fireworks are expected by the waterfront from two teams aspiring for continental football.
Two-time CAF Champions League winners Enyimba FC, who eliminated Cup holders El-Kanemi Warriors in the Round of 32, will take on Abakaliki FC at the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba.
Nasarawa United and Bayelsa United will square up to each other in the university town of Anyigba, in Kogi State while Warri Wolves and Wikki Tourists battle things out in the Federal Capital, Abuja.
Two great entertainers, Ikorodu City and Beyond Limits will be at each other’s jugular at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, where Solution FC will tango with Kwara United in an earlier game. Plateau United will confront Osun United in Anyigba.
Akwa United and Inter Lagos are at loggerheads in Abuja.
Warri Wolves v Wikki Tourists @Abuja
Ikorodu City v Beyond Limits @Benin City
Akwa Utd v Inter Lagos @Abuja
Solution FC. v. Kwara Utd @Benin City
Plateau Utd v. Osun Utd Anyigba
B’Insurance v. Rangers Int’l @ MJA Lagos
Spires 5-Aside Season 2: 40 Teams to Battle for Ultimate Prize
All is set for the much-anticipated Spires 5-Aside Naija Street Soccer Tournament Season 2. Forty accredited teams across the five divisions in Lagos will lock-horns in the preliminary stages of the tournament.
The draws for the divisional stages was held in Lagos on Monday with representatives of the respective participating teams on hand to witness the process.
Members of the media led by some members of the Guild of Sports Editors were also in attendance at the ceremony held at the CIBN building in Victoria Island.
Hostilities will get on the way on Saturday April 19th at the Ikeja division. Wasola FC will file out against African Future Stars. Useful Youth FC will lock-horns with Soccer Gems.
On Sunday April 20th, it will be Ballers FA vs Amsterdam FA, while Divinely Blessed FC will square up
against Blood and Sand FC.
In his remarks, convener of the Spires 5-Aside Tourney, Dr. Bankole Allibay, said each of the participating teams will receive the sum of N100,000 in the divisional stages an upgrade from the N50,000 paid in the maiden season. Bankole also emphasized on the need for discipline among the coaches, players, team coordinators and fans during and after each matchdays.
In his words: “On our part as organisers we have done everything necessary to ensure we have near perfect campaign, we have made a few changes from what was obtainable in Season 1 like the age limit at 21 for the players, increase prize money across board and other welfare arrangements for the teams”.
The Tournament’s Director, Mr. Akin Eshilokun, said all set for the Saturday April 19th Kick-off date in the Ikeja division.
“We have everything in place as we speak, we are working closely with the Lagos State Football Association, the state’s referees association, and the respective divisional football associations. I am confident we are going to have another great season across board,” Akin stated.
the 1-1 draw with Angola in a FIFA World Cup qualifying match in Kano in August 2005. There is certainly no record of indebtedness to him in the NFF.”
Sanusi challenged anyone with genuine and verifiable documents of NFF indebtedness to any coach, who has worked with any of the National Teams over the past two decades, to come forward and tender those documents. “As a credible organization that is very much alive to its responsibilities, if we are confronted with any genuine document of indebtedness to any coach, we will offset the debt immediately.”
CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
Arsenal midfielder Jorginho has been ruled out of their Champions League quarter-final second-leg match with Real Madrid on Wednesday with an injury.
The Italy midfielder, 33, was withdrawn in the final few minutes of Saturday’s 1-1 Premier League draw with Brentfordwith a suspected rib injury, meaning the Gunners finished the game with 10 men.
Arsenal are also assessing a knock picked up by Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey. Arsenal are 3-0 up against European Champions Real as they head to the Bernabeu for the second leg (kick-off 20:00 BST).
Partey, 31, started the Brentford game at right-back but was taken off in the second half after he “felt something”, according to manager Mike Arteta.
Arteta will hold a news conference today before his side’s biggest match of the season, with the Champions League representing Arsenal’s only realistic chance of a trophy in 2024-25.
Meanwhile, Aston Villa boss, Unai Emery, has said that his players should view the second leg of their Champions League showdown tonight with Paris St-Germain as a chance to write
themselves into the club’s history books.
Villa, who won the European Cup in 1982, suffered a 3-1 defeat away to the Ligue 1 championslast week in the first leg of their quarter-final tie. Emery acknowledge his side will have to “manage” the match at Villa Park on Tuesday “emotionally and tactically”. But the Spaniard also said his players have to “believe” they can overturn a two-goal deficit and progress to the semi-finals.
“I have experiences coming back, results positively and negatively, in two ways. But now is something different,” Emery said.
“We want to write here the history with Aston Villa. Last year, in Conference League [when they lost in the last four],and this year in Champions League, and hopefully for a long time in Europe.”
First Lady Closes 2025
Competition In Abuja
Zamalek of Egypt emerges winner for third year running
Wife of the President and grand patron of the 2025 African Women’s Volleyball Club championship, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on Monday led other dignitaries to see the grand finale of the African Women’s Volleyball Club tournament at a colourful closing ceremony in Abuja.
After 14 days of far-reaching spikes, unbelievable volleys, highly contested rallies, well calculated blocks and touchline saves, the curtains were finally drawn on the tournament in Abuja with three times champions, Zamalek Club of Egypt once again clinching the cup.
The First Lady who witnessed the tension-soaked final match between Zamalek and Al-Ahly commended all competing teams for the excellent skills displayed.
She said: “To our champions, Zamalek Club, on behalf of Nigeria and the entire Continent of Africa, I say congratulations. Your victory today was earned through countless hours of practice, teamwork and perseverance. We all can attest to it that your journey to this podium began long before this tournament, in
community courts, in early morning training sessions, and in moments when you chose to push forward despite exhaustion and doubt. Today, you have reaped the rewards of that investment and commitment”.
An evidently impressed Mrs Tinubu commended Nigeria Customs Service for delivering a world-class competition saying the success of the tournament is indicative of how Nigeria and Africa by extension can be a force in international volleyball. Zamalek Club took the first set 29-27 after a heated contest, Al-Ahly returned strongly to take the second set 22-25. Zamalek then claimed the third 25-20 before fighting off a serious challenge from their opponents to win the fourth set which confirmed their third consecutive African title.
KPC of Kenya finished third after overcoming Carthage of Tunisia in straight sets in the third-place play-off. A total of 16 Clubs from various African Countries contested in the 14 days 2025 African Women’s Volleyball Club Tournament hosted in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory.
Jorginho (centre) has been ruled out of action in Wednesday night UEFA Champions League clash between hosts Real Madrid and Arsenal
Dr Bankole Allibay, convener of the Spires 5-Aside Tournament, speaking at the Draw Ceremony in Lagos... yesterday
Round of 16 fixtures (Men)
Enyimba FC v. Abakaliki FC @Asaba Nasarawa v Bayelsa Utd @Anyigba
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
hiSToRic ALL-fEmALE LAUnch To SpAcE...
E RI c Te NIOLA
Nothing To Be Gained From Declaration of State of Emergency
The first head of government that declared a state of emergency in Nigeria was the then Prime Minister, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa (December 1912 – 15 January 1966) and that was in May 1962. I was a student then at Olofin Anglican Grammar School in Idanre in Ondo state, along with Folu Olamiti, Prince Wale Olateru-Olagbegi, Olu Adegboro, Feyi Famutimi(75) and others.
He declared the state of emergency on Wester Region which now comprises of South-West and parts of South-South.
The crisis was an internal affairs in the then region which later consumed the whole country.
The crisis of the Action Group reared its ugly head at the party’s annual convention held in Jos, Plateau in January 1962 like a joke. It was at the convention that the General Secretary of the party, Chief Ayotunde Rosiji (1917-2000) resigned and Mr. Samuel Goomsu Ikoku (1912-1997) took over as the Chief Scribe of the party. Chief Anthony Eromosele Enahoro (1923-2010) became the deputy leader of the party. Mr. Ikoku had earlier defeated his father, Dr. Alvan Ikoku by 59 votes in the Eastern Nigeria House of Assembly election.
The 8th convention of the party was held in African Sports Club in Jos with Chief Ajibola Idowu Ige,SAN(1930-2001) elected publicity Secretary of the party and with Professor Samuel Adepoju Aluko(1929-2012), Prof. Hezekiah Adedunmola Oluwafemi Oluwasanmi (1919-1983), Prof. Victor Adenuga Oyenuga(1917-2010),Chief Arthur Edward Prest(1906-1976), Prof. H.E. Ajose, Dr. Sanya Dojo Onabamiro (1913-1985) and Prof. Akinlawon Ladipo Mabogunje (18 October 1931 – 4 August 2022),in attendance.
At the convention, the then leader of the party, Chief Obafemi Awolowo (1909-1987) was on one side, while the Premier of the Western Region at the time, Chief Samuel Ladoke Akintola (1912-1966) was on another side. The crisis snowballed into a major national crisis, the consequences of which we still face today.
Before the declaration of State of emergency, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa had issued a press statement on May 22, 1962. In the statement, he declared “the two factions in the Action Group have contacted the Prime Minister regarding the holding of another meeting of the Western Nigeria house of assembly today. The Prime Minister cannot stop the meeting from taking place, but because of the fight which has broken out in the house this morning, if the parties decide to hold a meeting of the house of assembly they may do so. It may be on the strict understanding that there will be no police protection within the chamber. If, however, any party insists on being afforded police protection within the chamber the police may be so present, but the federal government will not accept ant decision reached as a result of such proceedings in the chamber. If in spite of all efforts of the police there should be an outbreak of violence or any disorder, the police have authority to clear the chamber and lock up”.
Despite this clarification, no solution was found to the Western region crisis, in fact the situation became more tensed. However, the logistical problems of the army, which was transferring most of its battalion between the Congo and home depots, a token number of troops and armoured vehicles went to Ibadan to back up the police if necessary. The GOC of the army (General Welby-Everard) caused an administrative sensation by moving his tactical headquarters to Ibadan and setting up a joint ‘pol-mil’ HQ with the Inspector General of
Police Sir Kerr Bovell(1913-1973). It was unprecedented. Some AG members asked Chief Anthony Enahoro to go abroad to tell the world of a threat to democracy.
On May 29, 1962, then Prime Minister, the Right Honourable Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa (1912-1966) summoned an emergency meeting of the Federal House of Representatives which was then the Federal Parliament in Lagos during which he moved a motion on the Action Group crisis. The full motion is hereby reproduced and the reply of the then opposition leader, Chief Obafemi Awolowo. The motion reads thus:” I rise to move the Resolution standing in my name which reads as follows:”That in pursuance of section sixty-five of the constitution of the Federation, It is hereby declared that a state of public emergency exists in Western Region and that this resolution shall remain in force until the end of the month of December, nineteen hundred and sixty-two.”
“Members know the reasons why Parliament has reassembled to-day. For the past week or so there has been no properly constituted Government in Western Nigeria. I would like to recapitulate briefly the events which have led to this impasse and in doing so I would like to emphasise that the Federal Government had been motivated solely by the desire to ensure that peace, order and tranquility are maintained throughout parts of the Federation.
“ A political crisis developed within the Action Group which was the party in control of the Government of Western Nigeria. Following the crisis the National Executive of the party deposed Chief Akintola as Deputy Leader and asked him to resign his appointment as Premier of Western Nigeria. On the 20th of May, the Premier advised the Governor of Western Nigeria that in view of the political crisis which had been developed in the Region and of the rival claims of the two factions to a majority support of the electorate in the Region His Excellency should exercise his powers under section 31 of Part III of the Constitution of Western Nigeria to dissolve the Legislative House of the Region. The Governor refused.
“On the same day the Premier asked the Speaker, for the same reasons, to convene the Western House of Assembly for Wednesday, May 23rd to consider and pass
a Motion for a vote of confidence in the Government of Western Nigeria but the Speaker also refused. The following day the Governor purported to exercise the powers vested in him by section 33(10) of the constitution of Western Nigeria set out in the Fourth Schedule to the Nigeria Constitution Order-in-Council 1960 and purported to remove Chief Akintola from his office as Premier of Western Nigeria with effect from the 21st of May. Chief Akintola thereupon filed a Motion in the High Court challenging the power of the Governor to remove him from office in the manner he did. The matter is still before the court for determination.
“The Governor, nevertheless, proceeded to exercise the powers in normal circumstances vested in him by section 33(1) of the Constitution of Western Nigeria by purporting to appoint Chief D.S. Adegbenro to be Premier of Western Nigeria with effect from the 21st of May. A meeting of the Western House of Assembly was summoned for the 25th of May.
“As Members know, two unsuccessful attempts were made on that day to hold meetings of the Western House of Assembly; the first one ended in a violent uproar and disorder. The police had no alternative but to use tear gas to disperse all Members, but before then the House had become a shambles. I was then approached by one side to the dispute to allow the Nigeria Police to guard the Chamber of the Western House of Assembly so that another meeting could be held, this time, in the House of Chiefs which was to be used as the House of Assembly. The other side almost immediately warned that it would be unwise and risky to allow such further meeting to be held. Before the attempt to hold a second meeting I felt impelled to issue the following release: “The two factions in the Action Group have contacted the Prime Minister regarding the holding of another meeting of the Western Nigeria House of Assembly today. The Prime Minister cannot stop the meeting from taking place but because of the fight which has broken out in the House this morning if the parties decided to hold a meeting of the House of Assembly they may do so. It must be on the strict understanding that there will be no police protection within the Chamber. If, however, any party insists on being afforded police protection within the Chamber the police may be so present, but the Federal Government will not accept any decision reached as a result of such proceedings in the Chamber. If in spite of all the efforts of the Police there should be an outbreak of violence or any disorder, the Police have authority to clear the Chamber and lock it up.”
“Shortly after the release had been issued, I received a further report from the Inspector-General of Police that an attempt had been made to hold a meeting under Nigeria Police protection but that it has resulted in a far greater uproar and commotion than the earlier one. The Police therefore cleared the Chamber and locked it up.
“ In the afternoon of the same day, May 25th, the Council of Ministers met to discuss the situation. The same evening I made a nation-wide broadcast explaining the position of the Federal Government in the matter, and in the course of any broadcast, I made the following observation:
“No responsible Government of the Federation could allow an explosive situation such as that which now exists in Western Nigeria to continue without taking adequate measures to ensure that there is an early return to the Region of peace, order and good Government.”
“I said a few moments ago that the past week or so there does not appear to have been any validly constituted
Government in Western Nigeria. In the light of the violent incidents on May 25th which badly shattered both Houses of Assembly, it is difficult to see how the public affairs of the Western Region could possibly be carried on in an atmosphere of warring factions of a party in power so sadly rent asunder in the old world struggle that will ultimately do nobody any good inside and outside Western Nigeria. This is the background against which I ask honourable members to assess the situation and to authorize the Government of the Federation to take appropriate measures in accordance with the provisions of our constitution.
“Allegation of conspiracy have been made against the Federal Government, that it had planned the whole crisis in order to take over the Western Nigeria Government. It has also been said in certain quarters that this parliament would be abusing its powers were it to declare a state of emergency because the sad and unfortunate occurrences had not extended.
“Nothing could be rather from the truth. We are surely not responsible for the chain of events that led to the party and personal wrangles and the attempted by-passing of the Western Legislature and to the mutual dismissal and counter dismissal between the Governor and Premier. The question at issue is whether in the absence of a duly constituted Government in Western Nigeria, the Federal Government have no responsibility for ensuring peace, order and good government in that region. The main purpose of this Resolution is to seek Parliament’s approval for measures which the Federal Government proposes to adopt in order to ensure an early return to Western Nigeria of peace, order and good government.
“I ask all Nigerians to co-operate and support the Federal Government at this momentous turning point in our national history. It is not yet two years since we began the adventurous but arduous talk nation building. The eyes of the whole world are upon us, particularly now when we, a responsible and friendly people are seeking to exercise our development plans and to increase the happiness and prosperity of our people.
“I solemnly assure you that the power we shall soon be forced to assume will be exercised in as humane and democratic a manner as the circumstances will permit and that as soon as reasonably may be, the Federal Government will actively promote and encourage a situation in which an early return to the normal process of Parliamentary Government could be guaranteed for all classes of people of Western Nigeria. I beg to move.” The Prime Minister’s motion was seconded by the Federal Minister of Finance, Chief Festus Okotie-Eboh representing Warri constituency.
In reply, the Leader of Opposition in the Federal Parliament, and Leader of the Action Group, Chief Obafemi Awolowo said: I beg to move the following Amendment to the Motion already proposed by the Prime Minister: “To delete all the words of the Motion after-That – and substitute- “This honourable House declares after having regard to the provisions of section 65 of the Constitution of the Federation of Nigeria a state of public emergency does not exist.”
“May I draw the attention of honourable Members to the provisions of section 65 of our Constitution. It is not usual for Members to read the Constitution unless occasion such as this arises or some other incidents which affect us occur.
President Bola Tinubu
The all-female crew of Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin’s NS-31 launch. They are (clockwise from bottom left): Lauren Sánchez, Amanda Nguyen, Katy Perry, Gayle King, Aisha Bowe and Kerianne Flynn. It was the first human spaceflight in more than 60 years that didn’t feature a male crewmember (Image credit: Blue Origin)
