After Rebasing, NBS Puts Headline Inflation at
Food index drops to 26.08% from 39.84% Core
pressure, consumption pattern, says statistical agency
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Food index drops to 26.08% from 39.84% Core
pressure, consumption pattern, says statistical agency
www.thisdaylive.com
Edun: FG committed to removing obstacles to youth participation in key sectors MAN: commercial banks charged manufacturers 48% lending rate in Q4’24 Says only 15.4% of FX demand accessed at official window
Ndubuisi Francis, James Emejo in Abuja and Dike Onwuamaeze in Lagos
Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Olayemi Cardoso, has canvassed stronger economic ties with the Middle East and the Nigerian diaspora community in the region.
Cardoso made the call during a meeting with Assistant Governor for Monetary Affairs, Saudi Arabia Central Bank – SAMA, Talal Al-Humond, on the sidelines of the just-concluded inaugural Conference on Emerging Markets Economies, organised by the Ministry of Finance, Saudi Arabia, and International Monetary Fund (IMF) Regional Office in Riyadh.
That was as the Nigerian Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, expressed the government's commitment to removing barriers to youth participation in key sectors of the economy, including agriculture, manufacturing, and exports.
Edun gave the assurance in his office in Abuja, when the Arewa Youth Forum (AYF) paid him a courtesy visit.
Meanwhile, Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) said most commercial banks in the country charged manufacturers between 35 per
cent and 48 per cent lending rates in fourth quarter of 2024.
The revelation was contained in the Q4, 2024 publication of the Manufacturers CEO Confidence Index (MCCI), which measures changes in quarterly pulse of manufacturing activities in relation to movement in the macroeconomy and government policies.
The two-day conference, held in Al Ula, Saudi Arabia, from February 16 to 17, brought together policymakers and economic experts from across emerging markets.
Cardoso said there were lessons to be learnt from Saudi Arabia in terms of infrastructural development and tourism.
According to him, Saudi Arabia's dedication to diversifying its economy through innovative environmental projects, large-scale transformation, and tourism investment is essential for development
In a statement yesterday, Cardoso also reaffirmed his dedication to collaborating with the Nigerian Diaspora community in the Middle East to improve remittance flows and strengthen the country’s financial sector.
He stated that CBN would continue to enhance macroeconomic fundamentals to establish an environment
that will facilitate the growth of the private sector and the generation of high-quality jobs for Nigerians.
Responding, Talal Al-Humond assured Cardoso that the Saudi central bank would work with CBN to ensure the attainment of mutually beneficial objectives.
During a panel discussion moderated by Director, Middle East and Central Asia Department, IMF, Jihad Azour, at the conference, Cardoso cited reforms in the financial markets that addressed distortions in the Nigerian foreign exchange market, which had previously experienced a gap of up to
60 per cent between the official and parallel market exchange rates.
He stated that due to consistent policy direction, improved market confidence, and enhanced transparency in forex trading, the gap had significantly narrowed to approximately four to five per cent.
Cardoso also highlighted the adoption of an electronic matching system to improve transparency in the market and the introduction of a foreign exchange code of ethics, which all Nigerian banks signed, to ensure adherence to market rules.
He said due to those measures, the
country’s foreign reserves exceeded $40 billion, marking its highest level in nearly three years.
Cardoso acknowledged that Nigeria had faced significant economic challenges, including capital flow exits, multiple exchange rate regimes, currency depreciation, high inflation, and a backlog of foreign exchange transactions, which led to a loss of confidence in the country’s currency.
He said upon assumption of office, his team prioritised restoring confidence in the market by addressing the backlog of foreign exchange transactions and demonstrating a commitment to
economic stability.
Cardoso emphasised that Nigeria implemented a tight monetary policy stance to tackle inflation and restore macroeconomic discipline. Over the past year, he explained that the central bank raised interest rates by 850 basis points and shifted away from quasi-fiscal interventions that had distorted the economy. He stressed that Nigeria’s approach had remained firmly rooted in orthodox monetary policies, a stance that was consistently communicated to market
marginally revised its forecast for global oil demand growth this year, following a slight downgrade of 2024 growth to 870 kb/d.
Ohwovoriole in Abuja
The Digital Bridge Institute (DBI), in partnership with Small Business Training Solutions (SBTs) is to train Nigerian youth on Business Processing Operations (BPOs) with a view to making Nigeria a global leader in outsourcing jobs.
This was disclosed in Abuja, Monday at the official launch of stakeholders’ engagement on partnership for capacity building and job opportunities. The partnership will create 100,000 direct jobs through digital training with different durations depending on the course of training.
According to the Chief Executive
Officer (CEO) of SBTS, Evelyn Lewis, the partnership seeks to train Nigerian youth with a target budget of $200 million.
"Our goal is clear; to create 100,000 new digital jobs in Africa over the next five years.
"This partnership is not just about skills development, it is about economic empowerment, digital inclusion, and Africa’s competitiveness in the global"Witheconomy. what we have at hand and what we hope to raise, our target is to raise $200 million for the training of Nigerian youth," she said. Lewis stated that the world was rapidly evolving, adding that in today’s digital economy, the ability to adapt and equip people with relevant
skills determines not only individual success but national progress.
He said: "We recognise that Africa holds immense talent, yet access to structured and scalable training programmes remains a challenge. This is the gap we are here to fill.
"Together, we are leveraging our combined expertise to create an innovative, scalable, and sustainable model that provides globally competitive training programmes that are not only theoretical but hands-on and industry-driven.
"We bridge the skills gap by aligning learning outcomes with employer needs, ensuring graduates are job-ready, create real job opportunities by linking trained professionals with employment pipelines, including
internships, outsourcing engagements, and entrepreneurship support.
"Expands access to digital learning through modern platforms, distance learning, and micro-credentials, ensuring that education is not confined to physical classrooms but extends to every willing learner, no matter where they are."
In his remarks, the President/ CEO, DBI, Mr. David Daser, said the aim of the partnership aligned with DBI's mandate to bridge the digitalDaserdivide. said that the DBI mandate was to bridge the digital divide by equipping individuals with cuttingedge ICT and telecommunications skills essential for success in today’s fast-evolving digital landscape.
The IEA Oil Market Report (OMR) also revealed that world oil supply plunged 950 kb/d to 102.7 mbd in January, as seasonally colder weather hit North American supply, compounding output declines in Nigeria and Libya.
According to the just-released OMR, one of the world's most authoritative and timely sources of data, China will marginally remain the largest source of growth, even as the pace of its expansion is a fraction of recent trends and driven almost entirely by its petrochemical sector.
At the same time, India and other emerging Asian economies are taking up increasing shares.
According to the report, the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) demand is forecast to return to structural decline following a modest increase last year.
Although the report revealed that world oil supply plunged 950 kb/d to 102.7 mbd in January, supply was nevertheless 1.9 mbd higher than
a year ago, with gains led by the Americas.
The report further revealed that global oil supply is on track to increase by 1.6 mbd to 104.5 mbd in 2025, with non-OPEC+ producers accounting for the bulk of the increase if OPEC+ voluntary cuts remain in place. Global crude runs fell by 1 mbpd to 82.9 mb/d in January as a cold snap and planned maintenance work reduced US runs, the report added. Throughputs are forecast to average 83.3 mb/d this year, with gains of 580 kb/d year-on-year (Y-o-Y) led by non-OECD regions.
The report said: "Sour crude refining margins collapsed in Asia in mid-January, as new US sanctions on Russian boosted Dubai crude prices. Atlantic Basin margins benefited from higher middle distillate cracks.
"Global observed oil stocks fell 17.1 mb m-o-m to 7 647 mb
Director of the Peace Fund Secretariat, African Union, Dagmawit Moges Bekele and Group Chairman, United Bank for Africa(UBA), during the signing ceremony of agreement for the landmark donation of $500,000 to the African Union (AU) Peace Fund in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia at the weekend
Says non-oil potential hampered by high cost of doing business, bureaucratic bottlenecks, regulatory inefficiencies, others Fiscal operations complicated in last few years, says AGF
James Emejo in Abuja
The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, yesterday emphasised the urgent need to rethink the country's revenue generation strategies amid the volatile nature of oil revenues which had long been the
backbone of the economy.
He spoke at the opening of the 5th national treasury workshop with the theme, "Nigeria’s Revenue Challenges and the Way Forward: Exploring Non-Oil Alternatives” which was organised by the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation (OAGF) in Abuja.
The minister noted that oil revenues have however, experienced a downturn in recent times, and called for innovative measures to boost generation.
Represented by the ministry's Permanent Secretary, Lydia Jafiya Shehu, Edun pointed out that recent global shifts in energy policies,
declining oil demand and fluctuating crude prices had jointly made it abundantly clear that "we cannot afford to be overly dependent on oil revenues".
He said, "We must, therefore, embrace a diversified economic approach that taps into the immense potential of non-oil sectors
NHRC, NACA Collaborate to Enforce Rights of People Living with HIV/AIDS, Other Marginalised Nigerians
National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), in collaboration with National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), as part of its implementation of the Global Funds Grant Circle 7 (GT7), inaugurated Access to Justice Coordination Forum to enforce the rights of people living with HIV and other marginalised Nigerians.
Speaking at the inauguration in Abuja on Monday, Executive Secretary of NHRC, Dr. Tony Ojukwu, expressed displeasure at criminalisation based on sexual preference.
Ojukwu said, “Access to justice is a fundamental pillar of human rights and the rule of law. It ensures that individuals, regardless of their socio-economic status, gender, health condition, or background, can seek and obtain remedies when their rights are violated.
“This forum is a crucial step in strengthening our collective efforts to bridge the justice gap for people living with HIV/AIDS, key populations, and other marginalised groups who continue to face stigma, discrimination, and systemic barriers in accessing legal redress and social justice.”
He said, “Despite significant progress in addressing HIV-related discrimination, many affected individuals still encounter viola-
tions of their rights in healthcare, employment, and social settings.
“Stigma continues to fuel fear, misinformation, and exclusion, making it imperative for us to reinforce legal protections and ensure that justice mechanisms are accessible, responsive, and effective.”
Ojukwu stated, “The enactment of the Same Sex Marriage Prohibition Act of 2014 has equally brought to the fore challenges of discrimination, indiscriminate arrest, torture and inhuman and degrading treatment on key populations in Nigeria.
“NHRC and other organisations have been on the forefront in seeking for justice for victims of human rights violations related to sexual or gender identity across Nigeria. We will not stop.”
He said with support from Global Fund, NHRC would within the next two years embark on a series of programmes, comprising capacity building, policy and legal reforms to safeguard the rights of Nigerians against discrimination and criminalisation.
Ojukwu said institutional channels would also be explored to provide access to justice, “and working with other partners, to support class and individual legal actions in line with sections 5 and 6 of the NHRC (Amendment) Act of 2010”.
He expressed NHRC’s commitment to working with stakeholders to safeguard human rights and
promote social justice for all Nigerians.
He acknowledged, “However, no individual agency no matter how well resourced can achieve access to justice alone.
“We believe that this forum will continue to work together, generate and share best practices, contribute organisational resources and jointly advocate for stronger legal frameworks, improved access to justice, and better protection for
people living with HIV and other key populations and marginalised people in Nigeria.”
In his goodwill message, Country Director of United Nations AIDS (UNAIDS), Dr. Leopold Zekeng, said, “People living with HIV/AIDS often face significant barriers to justice. These barriers include stigma, discrimination, lack of awareness about their rights, inadequate legal support, institutional bias, economic constraints, amongst others.
such as agriculture, solid minerals, manufacturing, tourism, digital economy and creative industries.
"Nigeria is blessed with abundant natural and human resources that remain largely untapped. The question before us today is: how can we harness these resources effectively to drive sustainable economic growth and development?"
He said the workshop seeks to provide actionable answers to these question by fostering robust discussions among key stakeholders in the financial and economic landscape.
The minister noted that several non-oil sectors have demonstrated strong potentials for revenue generation, job creation, and economic transformation, adding that it was time to explore these aggressively.
He identified the critical areas to include agriculture and agro-processing, solid minerals and mining, manufacturing and industrialisation, tourism and hospitality, the digital economy and ICT, as well as rax reforms and compliance among others.
Edun noted that while the potential of non-oil revenue sources was
evident, several challenges impede their full exploitation.
He said harnessing non oil revenues are further hammered by poor infrastructure and high cost of doing business, bureaucratic bottlenecks and regulatory inefficiencies. Others include low tax compliance and widespread revenue leakages as well as insecurity and its impact on investment confidence.
He said the government is already taking bold steps to tackle these issues through reforms in public financial management, digitalisation of revenue collection, and strengthening of tax administration. Yet, the minister asserted that the role of the private sector in complementing government efforts cannot be overemphasised.
He said accountability and transparency in public financial management remained paramount in building trust and attracting investment.
He expressed confidence that the workshop will provide valuable insights and strategies for repositioning the country's revenue framework in line with global best practices.
AU Peace Fund: UBA Group Donates $500,000, Champions Peace in Africa
Africa’s Global Bank, United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc demonstrated its commitment to fostering peace and stability across Africa with a landmark donation of $500,000 to the African Union (AU) Peace Fund.
This donation by the UBA Group supports the AU’s efforts towards promoting security, conflict resolution, sustainable development and a unified Africa, as envisioned in the AU’s Africa Agenda 2063.
The AU Peace Fund plays a crucial role in financing mediation and preventive diplomacy efforts across Africa, strengthening institutional capacity, and ensuring rapid
responses to emerging conflicts.
UBA’s support underscores its dedication to the collective progress of African nations, reinforcing the UBA Group’s long-standing belief that economic growth and regional stability go hand in hand.
The Chairman of the Executive Management Committee AU Peace Fund; H.E Moussa Faki Mahamat stated: “Peace is synonymous with resources, if we want development and stability, we must achieve peace, the United Bank for Africa has demonstrated their commitment to the development of our continent by this commitment, through
sustainable resources. Together we will continue to build a continent for the future.”
UBA’s Group Chairman, Mr. Tony Elumelu, who announced the donation in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, highlighted the reasons behind the UBA Group’s support to the AU.
Elumelu explained the requirement that corporate institutions shape Africa’s future cannot be over-emphasised, and by investing in peace and security, UBA is contributing to an environment where businesses, communities, and nations can thrive, driving sustainable development and
economic prosperity for all.
“UBA is committed to advancing sustainable development, uplifting the quality of life across Africa and the vital connection between economic growth for Africans and African businesses and the stability provided by peace and security,” Elumelu said.
With presence in over 20 countries in Africa, UBA strongly believes in the continent’s potential, as he added that “Development will come with peace, and every individual, organisation and business should be committed towards achieving this,” he added.
Nigeria will likely experience improved power supply in 2025, bolstered by several factors, including the planned $1 billion support by the African Development Bank (AfDB), a new report on the electricity sector by Olaniwun Ajayi has stated.
In its 2024 power wrap-up and 2025 outlook, the company stated that 2025 will likely see increased power generation through continued investments and partnerships.
Progress aside, the report stated that a number of hurdles will also have to be crossed by the sector, including surmounting the gas supply challenge as well as distribution inefficiencies, which had hobbled the growth of the sector.
The report said, “In 2025, Nigeria's power sector will likely experience a duality of progress and hurdles. While advancements in generation, grid infrastructure, and regulatory reforms offer optimism, persistent challenges around gas supply, distribution inefficiencies, and funding limitations will need to be addressed for sustained growth.”
The report said Nigerian National Integrated Power Project (NIPP) and other initiatives, particularly in renewables were projected to yield higher capacity, with solar positioned for growth as Nigeria pursues its Renewable Energy Master Plan (REMP).
According to the report, “This shift toward renewables could be bolstered by collaborative projects like the African Development Bank's planned $1 billion support and USAID's pledged funding for clean energy, expected to drive investments in solar hybrid mini-grids and standalone systems, especially
in underserved rural areas.
“As a result of these developments, Nigeria presents a compelling investment opportunity for both domestic and international investors which will increase generation capacity, improve transmission and distribution infrastructure, and enhance overall system reliability.”
Olaniwun Ajayi said infrastructure improvements were anticipated through large-scale investment in transmission and distribution networks, notably, the construction and rehabilitation of thousands of kilometres of transmission lines, which were expected to enhance the efficiency and reach of the national grid, reducing losses and boosting reliability.
The company said, “The new Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system, unveiled in 2024, promises to bring improved grid stability and management in 2025, contributing to a more resilient energy system.
“Nigeria’s continued engagement with the West African Power Pool (WAPP) reflects a strategic effort to integrate the national grid into regional energy systems, facilitating cross-border electricity trade.
“This integration not only enables more balanced power distribution but also positions Nigeria as a key player in regional energy stability. The North Core Project under the WAPP is expected to be completed by 2025 and bring power to schools, clinics and businesses in Nigeria.”
The report said the establishment of the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO), expected to be completed by early 2025, marked a significant step towards a decentralised electricity market.
By transferring system and market operation functions from the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) to NISO, the report said Nigeria will potentially see enhanced efficiency in system operations, with a focus on generation scheduling, transmission management, and market regulation.
It said, “In 2025, decentralisation is anticipated to make energy access more inclusive, especially in rural and underserved areas. States with established markets are expected to create targeted incentives to attract private investment, expand renewable energy
“Theprojects.state-level control over electricity markets will be key in making electricity more accessible and affordable for Nigerian com-
munities, thereby boosting economic development and enhancing the overall quality of life.
“By establishing independent power markets, states can implement tailored policies, streamline regulatory processes, and incentivise the development of localised power generation and distribution solutions. This decentralised approach has the potential to accelerate rural electrification, stimulate economic growth, and empower communities.”
According to the report, the potential unbundling of the Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trader (NBET) will lead to a more mature, competitive electricity market in Nigeria, enabling direct, bilateral trading between Generation Companies (Gencos) and Distribution
Companies (Discos), thereby allowing for transparency in electricity pricing.
It said, “The market driven approach is expected to incentivise investments in power generation, as Gencos will have the ability to negotiate rates that reflect actual supply and demand dynamics.
“For the power sector, unbundling of NBET means more stable revenue streams, reduced dependency on government subsidies, and a financially healthier environment for growth.”
Meanwhile, the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) yesterday inaugurated a 550kwp interconnected mini-grid in Bakin Ciyawa and Kwande communities in Qua’an Pan Local Government Area of Plateau State.
At the event, Managing Director
of REA, Abba Aliyu, stressed that the initiative will not only provide power for the residents of the communities, but also give them access to reliable, clean energy to power their homes and businesses. Aliyu stated that the commissioning was part of the Interconnected Mini-Grid Accelerated Scheme (IMAS), which was established to accelerate the development of Nigeria’s mini-grid market and provide clean, renewable energy to underserved communities. Through the scheme, he said the agency aimed to reach 125,000 beneficiaries across Nigeria, across the six geopolitical regions, with the collaboration of development partners, including German Cooperation, European Union (EU), and GIZ.
The African Union (AU) has endorsed Nigeria as the Digital Trade Champion for the continent under the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AFCFTA) Digital Trade protocol, following the impressive record of the Federal Government in promoting digital enterprise and innovation.
The 38th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government, which ended on Sunday in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, recognised Nigeria's proactive role
in advancing the implementation of the digital trade protocol adopted in February, 2024.
According to a statement issued yesterday, by presidential spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, the protocol features an agenda to develop eight annexes covering critical areas, including rules of origin, digital identities, cross-border data transfers, legitimate and legal public interest reasons for disclosing source code, online safety and security, emerging and advanced technologies, and financial technology.
In his annual report on the progress of the AfCFTA's digital trade protocol,
former president of Niger Republic and AU AfCFTA champion, Mahamadou Issoufou, lauded Nigeria's leadership for convening the Digital Economy Roundtable in January.
He noted that the gathering was pivotal in driving the digital trade agenda forward.
According to him: ''No organisation, region, or continent has negotiated or adopted such a comprehensive legal instrument on digital trade, positioning the African continent to benefit from the digital economy for innovation and job creation."
The ex-Nigerien leader observed
As Gates Foundation supports push with $4.7m
Kuni Tyessi in Abuja
Nigerian professors have unanimously called on the federal government to establish a National Research Council that will be solely responsible for the production of quality journals to meet global index amongst other benefits.
Speaking yesterday at the commencement of the 4-day programme being organized by the African Population and Health Research Centre, and in collaboration with the Committee of Vice Chancellors of Nigerian Universities, CVCNU, immediate past secretary-general,
Prof. Yakubu Ochefu, said the government has not been doing well and the establishment of the council will be a global best practice that will serve in the solution of the country's myriad challenges.
Reiterating that certain percentage of Nigeria's GDP should be allocated to promoting research, he said NGOs, secondary schools and even individuals can do research against widely erroneous perceptions.
According to him, "The government can do better. They are definitely not doing enough, because globally, a percentage of the GDP is to be set aside for research. So,
they are not voting enough for it.
"They are also not properly focused on the research as it is only focused on tertiary institutions and that's not how it is supposed to be. NGOs, secondary schools and even individuals can do research.
"The best practice is for the nation to have a national research council so that anybody with an idea can key into it, go through the process and when qualified, can go for it. That's the global standard, and that's what we're pushing for".
In his submission, Pro-chancellor and chairman of Council of the Bingham University, Prof. Andrew
Haruna, said research is expected to be a national entity and a government agenda as practiced globally.
He noted that Nigerians are too much in a hurry and research takes time to materialize, adding that people see research as an activity that must produce immediate results.
It requires consistency, determination and resilience. You also have to build on what others have built and not to destroy, he stated.
While also calling for the certification on how research funds should be managed, Haruna said despite TETFund's intervention, the federal government needs to learn from
other countries, noting that research is very expensive and spending between 5-10 billon naira on research and popularizing it to make it look noble is not good enough.
He said: “What is the government doing as far as promoting research that solves Nigeria's, Africa's and global problems are concerned?
"Money is being pumped into the issue and it is not only the problem, even though not enough.
The nature, character, structure of the process is also not enough, and the management of funds as far as research is concerned is also a critical issue.
that young Africans are leaders in digital innovation, particularly in mobile banking and other digitally enabled services.
''The AfCFTA Protocol on Digital Trade will establish a conducive environment for these young people to fully participate in Africa's digital economy,'' he added.
Reflecting on the Digital Economy Roundtable in Abuja, Issoufou commended President Bola Tinubu and his administration for convening the event and inviting the AfCFTA Secretariat to participate.
''The Roundtable was attended by young pioneers in Fintech, mobile banking and other areas of the digital economy.
''It was evident from the discussions that young people are eager to take advantage of Africa's digital economy through the AfCFTA Protocol on Digital Trade,'' the former Niger president said in his progress report to the 38th Assembly.
Commenting on the significance of the AU endorsement of Nigeria, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, told the summit that: "Africa has demonstrated global leadership by pioneering the first-of-its-kind AfCFTA Protocol on Digital Trade—establishing a comprehensive regulatory framework. "The Assembly of Heads of State and Government has officially designated Nigeria as AfCFTA Digital Trade Champion. The AfCFTA Digital Trade Protocol is a game changer in advancing Africa's economic development.
Page IV
AMCON Funds Scam: Forfeiture of 6.3 Billion
Keystone Bank Shares to FG
Page V
‘….Incidences of oil spills and fire outbreaks in the Niger Delta region are recurrent and often result from lapses in safety protocols, sabotage or inadequate enforcement of environmental laws.’ - Senator Ipalibo Harry-Banigo, PDP
Senator representing Rivers West
Minister Hails ICIArb for Commitment to Growth, Development of Construction Industry Page V
Icannot overlook the disgraceful incident caught on video, that occurred recently, between a Policeman in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State and a pregnant lady - the video went viral. Apparently, the issue had to do with a request for Driver’s Licence, other Particulars (which the Police claim had expired) and Third Party Insurance, following the directive of the IGP, Dr Kayode Egbetokun (IGP) that all motorists get the Third Party Insurance Policy, enforcement commencing on February 1st, 2025 - see Sections 10(1), (2) & 11 of the Federal Highways Act 2004 (FHA) which makes it mandatory for all drivers on public roads to be holders of valid driver’s licences, and vehicles to have valid registration marks and particulars displayed. Also see the National Road Traffic Regulations 2012. The punishment for driving without a valid driver’s licence is N100 fine or in the case of a second or subsequent offence, a fine of N200 or 6 months imprisonment or both (Section 10(3) of the FHA), while that of driving without displaying particulars, if it is a first offence, is a fine of N200 or 12 months imprisonment or both, or 18 months imprisonment without option of fine for a second or subsequent offence (Section 17 of the FHA).
While Comprehensive Insurance is optional, in most countries including Nigeria, Third Party Insurance which covers damage to other people’s vehicles, is mandatory. See the case of Liberty Insurance Co. Ltd v John 1996 1 NWLR Part 423 Page 192 at 199 per Edozie, JCA on the definition of an insurance contract. Section 68 of the Insurance Act 2003 (IA) makes third party insurance covering a liability of at least N1 million, mandatory. Third Party Insurance, appears to cover a maximum liability of N3 million. See also Section 3(1) of the Motor Vehicles (Third Party) Insurance Act 2004 (TPI). Section 3(2) of the TPI provides for a punishment upon conviction of a fine of N400 or 1 year imprisonment or both for anyone who contravenes Section 3(1), to the extent that, apart from the fine and imprisonment, such offender shall be disqualified from driving for a minimum of 12 months.
‘Police is Your ‘Friend’: What a Crock! By now, most Nigerians expect that the Policeman who was caught on camera assaulting the pregnant woman by dragging her and throwing her on the ground, would have been named and shamed, paraded in front of the media the same way the Police love to parade suspects in public, faced orderly room trial and dismissal from the Nigeria Police Force, and would be facing criminal charges in a court of competent jurisdiction. So far, we haven’t heard much from the Police, apart from a rather brief and unclear attempt at an excuse by the Police.
Whether the pregnant lady had third party insurance and valid particulars or not, she certainly enjoys all the rights contained in Chapter IV Fundamental Rights of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended)(the Constitution), and in this unfortunate incident, she and her unborn child are particularly entitled to the right to life, dignified and humane treatment as guaranteed by Sections 33(1) & 34 (1)(a) thereof. See the case of Ransome-Kuti & Ors v AGF, Chief of Army Staff & 7 Ors (1985) LPELR-2940(SC) per Kayode Eso, JSC on fundamental rights being a guarantee against inhuman treatment.
Offences Committed by the Policeman From the video, one could observe some of the offences that appear to have been
onikepo braithwaite
onIKEPo BraIThwaITE
onikepo.braithwaite@thisdaylive. com onikepob@yahoo.com
“…. no sane person….would apply such excessive force and manhandle a pregnant woman like the Policeman in the video did, unless his/her intention is to force a miscarriage….. the Police use their position and weapons to intimidate Nigerians…..The fact that this behaviour is common among the Nigeria Police, points to a possible defect in their training and a lack of accountability for bad behaviour…..There may also be issues with the mental condition of some of these erring Officers, not to talk about alcoholism and drug use”
committed Policeman, and that he could be charged for, such as: 1) assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm contrary to Sections 252, 335 & 351 of the Criminal Code Act 1916 (CCA) (see the corresponding section in the Criminal Code Law of Akwa Ibom State 2022); also see Ebenezer v State (2024) LPELR-62652 (SC) per Helen Moronkeji Ogunwumiju, JSC using the Macmillan Dictionary’s definition of assault thus - “a physical attack on someone or the crime of physically attacking someone”; 2) attempted murder of the unborn child by manhandling the mother in such a manner as to make her fall down hitting her whole body on the ground - see Section 320 of the CCA and Owe v Queen (1961) LPELR-25001 (SC) per John Idowu Conrad Taylor, JSC on the definition of attempted murder; 3) abuse of power contrary to Paragraph 9 Part 1 Fifth Schedule to the Constitution, and Section 104 of the CCA, amongst other offences. These are serious offences, carrying weighty imprisonment terms upon conviction.
Police Reform
It is obvious that despite all our recommendations for Police Reform following the 2020 #EndSARS Protest, which include better salaries, allowances and conditions of service; better recruitment and training procedures;
psychological screening of Police Personnel during recruitment and regular on-the-job assessments for those already on duty, and training on how to interact with the public, nothing like that appears to have been implemented, because no sane person, nobody in their right mind, would apply such excessive force and manhandle a pregnant woman like the Policeman in the video did, unless his/her intention is to force a miscarriage (which is yet another offence under the Criminal Code) and/or severely injure or kill the mother and child.
Sadly, the ‘Police is Your Friend’ slogan seen at many Police stations, appears to be nothing more than a sham, at least within the rank and file (mostly, not totally, because there are still some Policemen who adhere to the slogan). The fear of the Nigeria Police and all other weapon-carrying law enforcement agencies in Nigeria, is the beginning of wisdom. Though the #EndSARS Protest was inter alia, about putting an end to Police brutality against Nigerian Youths and people generally, the “I will kill you and nothing go happen” culture that the Police is infamous for, appears to still be endemic, and so, if anything, Nigerians rightfully have a fear of the Police. Almost five years post-#EndSARS, how do we describe the actions of the Akwa
Ibom Policeman, if not Police brutality par excellence?!
By virtue of Section 4 of the Nigeria Police Act 2020 (NPA), one of the primary duties of the Police is to protect the lives and property of citizens and their fundamental rights, as enshrined in the Constitution; therefore, upholding the rule of law is paramount. See Section 14(2)(b) of the Constitution; Fawehinmi v IGP 2002 7 NWLR Part 767 Page 602 per Samson Odemwingie Uwaifo, JSC; Egheghe v State (2020) LPELR50552(SC) per Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun, JSC (now CJN) where the Supreme Court held thus: “Once again, it is necessary to remind our Police Force that the sacred duty entrusted to them, is the protection and security of the lives and property of citizens. The weapons they carry, are not for the settlement of personal scores with individual citizens. The life of every Nigerian is sacred, and must be protected within the ambit of the law”. Unfortunately, the opposite appears to be the reality. Instead, the Police use their position and weapons to intimidate Nigerians, subjecting them to all sorts of undignified, violent and inhumane treatment. The fact that this behaviour is common among the Nigeria Police, points to a possible defect in their training and a lack of accountability for bad behaviour within their ranks. There may also be issues with the mental condition of some of these erring Officers, not to talk about alcoholism and drug use. Many US Police Departments conduct adhoc drug and alcohol tests, on their officers. Such tests could be random, or based on reasonable suspicion that an officer may be using alcohol or drugs. Someone like the Policeman who assaulted the pregnant lady, would probably undergo what is called a ‘post-incident’ test after what transpired, along with mental health screening; in the US, this type of testing is done on officers who for example have been involved in a shooting incident. There are various methods for testing for drugs - urine test, taking hair samples or the breathalyser test that is used for motorists who are suspected to be driving drunk. It is important that all Police Personnel display professionalism in carrying out their duties, without the emotional reactions they have become infamous for, treating citizens with courtesy and respect. Only minimum force is expected to be applied in certain circumstances, to achieve a lawful purpose. Pray tell, what was the justification for the Policeman to apply such excessive force on a woman in such a delicate condition, particularly when the offence she may have been alleged to have committed, was nothing more than a simple offence or at best, a misdemeanour? None whatsoever.
There has to be more training of Police Officers, de-emphasising the use of force and their weapons to only when it is absolutely necessary, and re-emphasising the culture that force used must be minimum or commensurate with the circumstances, not excessive and brutal.
Conclusion
People had complained in advance, that the implementation of the mandatory Third Party Insurance Policy would be transformed into a golden opportunity for the Police to harass citizens. This objection appears to be somewhat accurate, judging from this horrible incident. It was like using a sledge hammer, to kill an ant! It is necessary for the Policeman in the video to be prosecuted to the fullest extent of law, to not only serve as a deterrent to other high-handed/violent/ unreasonable/unstable Officers, but to engender accountability.
Fact
s The case of the 16 Plaintiffs is that the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), pursuant to the NFIU Act, on 3/1/2023 issued guidelines and advisories to Mr President and 12 other key institutions and agencies of government. Among these are the Honourable Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice (AGF), the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), and the Director of the Special Control Unit Against Money Laundering, for Enforcement and Implementation. The guidelines and advisories restrained States and Local Government authorities, including the Federal Capital Territory, from withdrawing funds beyond N5m and N10m from their accounts, unless a waiver was granted by the Presidency on a case-by-case basis, or risk jail terms. The guidelines were scheduled for implementation across all States and Local Government areas of the Federation from 1/3/2023. The Plaintiffs, being aggrieved by the guidelines, invoked the original jurisdiction of the Supreme Court vide Originating Summons, seeking orders declaring the guidelines unconstitutional, on the basis that they interfere with the constitutional functions and powers of the Plaintiffs’ State Governments. In opposition, the Defendant filed a counter-affidavit and a Preliminary Objection on the grounds that (i) aspects of the Plaintiffs’ suit, as contained in questions C, D, E, and F in the Amended Originating Summons, were barred by the principles of res judicata, issue estoppel, and constitute an abuse of court process; (ii) the subject-matter of the suit fell within the exclusive jurisdiction of the Federal High Court, thereby ousting the original jurisdiction of the Supreme Court; (iii) the reliefs sought by the Plaintiffs and the facts contained in the affidavit supporting the Originating Summons did not establish a dispute between the Federation and Plaintiffs as component States in the Federation, which is required to invoke the original jurisdiction of the Supreme Court. Issues for Determination
On the merits, the Supreme Court considered the following issues:
i. WHETHER, in view of the provisions of Sections 1, 4(6) (7)(a)(b)(c), 7(1)(6)(b), 90, 100, 120(3)(4), 121, 122, 123, 128, and Parts I and II of the Second Schedule to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), the Federal Government of Nigeria, through the NFIU or any agency of the Federal Government, can issue any directive, guideline, advisory, or any instrument - howsoever called - regulating the administration and utilisation of funds belonging to the Plaintiffs or any Local Government Area of the Plaintiffs. ii. WHETHER, in view of the provisions of Sections 1, 4(6) (7)(a)(b)(c), 7(1)(5)(a), 90, 100, 120(3)(4), 121, 122, 123, 128, and Parts I and II of the Second Schedule to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), statutes such as: (i) The Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022; (ii)The Proceeds of Crime (Recovery and Management) Act, 2022; (iii) The EFCC Act, 2004; and (iv) The ICPC Act, enacted by the National Assembly (NASS), can contain provisions touching on or pertaining to the regulation and administration of funds belonging to the Plaintiffs or any Local Government Area of the Plaintiffs. iii. WHETHER, in view of the provisions of Sections 1, 4(6)(7)(a)(b)(c), 7(1)(6)(b), 90, 100, 120(3)(4), 121, 122, 123, 128, and Parts I and II of the Second Schedule to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), statutes such as: (i) The Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022; (ii) The Proceeds of Crime (Recovery and Management) Act, 2022; (iii) The EFCC Act, 2004; and (iv) The ICPC Act, enacted by NASS, can contain any provision criminalising the use of funds belonging to the Plaintiffs or any Local Government Area of the Plaintiffs.
iv. WHETHER, in view of the provisions of Sections 1, 4(6)(7)(a)(b)(c), 7(1)(6)(b), 90, 100, 120(3)(4), 121, 122, 123, 128, and Parts I and II of the Second Schedule to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), the EFCC, NFIU, or any agency of the Federal Government of Nigeria can investigate, requisition documents, invite, and/ or arrest anyone with respect to offences arising from or touching on the administration and management of funds belonging to the Plaintiffs or any Local Government Area of the Plaintiffs.
v. WHETHER, in view of the provisions of Sections 1, 4(6)(7)(a)(b)(c), 7(1)(6)(b), 90, 100, 120(3)(4), 121, 122, 123, 128, 174(1)(a), 195, and Parts I and II of the Second Schedule to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), the Attorney-General of the Federation, through any agency of the Federal Government of Nigeria—howsoever called—can prosecute any person with respect to offences arising from or touching on the administration and management of funds belonging to the Plaintiffs or any Local Government Area of the Plaintiffs. vi. WHETHER, in view of the pronouncement of this Honourable Court in the case of NWOBIKE v FRN (2022) 6 NWLR (Pt. 1826) P. 293, 1, the EFCC Act, 2004, Volume 5, Cap E1, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria—made in furtherance of Article 15 of the United Nations Convention Against Corruption—is unconstitutional, illegal, null, and void, having not been ratified in line with the provisions of Section 12 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended).
Arguments
Honourable Uwani Musa Abba Aji, JSC
In the Supreme Court of Nigeria Holden at abuja
On Friday, the 15th day of November, 2024
Before their lordships uwani Musa abba aji adamu Jauro Chioma egondu Nwosu-Iheme Moore aseimo a adumein Obande Festus Ogbuinya Habeeb adewale Olumuyiwa abiru abubakar Sadiq umar Justices, Supreme Court SC/CV/178/2023
Between
1. THe aTTORNey-GeNeRaL OF KOGI STaTe
2. THe aTTORNey-GeNeRaL OF KeBBI STaTe
3. THe aTTORNey-GeNeRaL OF KaTSINa STaTe
4. THe aTTORNey-GeNeRaL OF SOKOTO STaTe
5. THe aTTORNey-GeNeRaL OF JIGaWa STaTe
6. THe aTTORNey-GeNeRaL OF eNuGu STaTe
7. THe aTTORNey-GeNeRaL OF OyO STaTe PLaINTIFFS
8. THe aTTORNey-GeNeRaL OF BeNue STaTe
9. THe aTTORNey-GeNeRaL OF PLaTeau STaTe
10.THe aTTORNey-GeNeRaL OF CROSS RIVeR STaTe
11. THe aTTORNey-GeNeRaL OF ONdO STaTe
12. THe aTTORNey-GeNeRaL OF NIGeR STaTe
13. THe aTTORNey-GeNeRaL OF edO STaTe
14. THe aTTORNey-GeNeRaL OF BauCHI STaTe
15. THe aTTORNey-GeNeRaL OF TaRaBa STaTe
16. THe aTTORNey-GeNeRaL OF IMO STaTe And
THe aTTORNey-GeNeRaL OF THe FedeRaTION deFeNdaNT (Lead Judgement delivered by Honourable Uwani Musa Abba Aji, JSC)
Arguing the Preliminary Objection, the Defendant submitted that the Plaintiffs' suit, particularly questions C, D, E, and F, of the Originating Summons relate to issues already settled by the Court in cases such as A-G, ONDO STATE v AGF (2002) 9 NWLR (Pt. 772) 222, 2 and SHEMA v F.R.N (2018) 9 NWLR (Pt. 1024) 377 3. Further, that the power of the NFIU to issue regulations and guidelines had already been settled in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/563/2019 – AG ABIA STATE & 36 ORS v AGF & ANOR, delivered on 23rd May 2022, and upheld by the Court of Appeal in Appeal No. CA/ ABJ/822/22. These judgements, by virtue of Section 287 of the 1999 Constitution, remained binding on the
“….. the 2023 NFIU Guidelines and Advisory, which limit cash withdrawals by State and Local Governments, were made pursuant to the NFIU Act and are therefore, binding and lawful….. where a law or Guideline is made pursuant to a legislation that is competently enacted, its constitutionality or legality cannot be questioned or challenged”
and the Federal Government of Nigeria with respect to the subject-matter in dispute goes to no issue. They prayed the Court to discountenance the Defendant's Preliminary Objection.
Arguing the questions posed in the substantive suit, the Plaintiffs submitted that for any offence to be a Federal offence, it must deal with, or touch on items contained in Part I of the Second Schedule to the 1999 Constitution (as amended), in so far as it is circumscribed by the legislative authority of NASS. Hence, any offence which has nothing to do with items contained in the aforesaid Schedule cannot be regarded as a Federal offence, and such offences are outside the purview and jurisdiction of the Federal Government and its agencies. Therefore, legislations such as the EFCC Act, ICPC Act, and NFIU Act, enacted by NASS, cannot contain any provision touching on or criminalising the purported misappropriation of funds under the power and control of a State House of Assembly. Based on the foregoing, all provisions that purport to regulate the administration of funds belonging to the State and Local Governments were argued to be illegal, null, void, and ultra vires the Constitution, since the Constitution is supreme.
In response, the Defendant contended that the essence of the constitutional provisions cited in the Originating Summons, was to ensure that public fund of a State could only be withdrawn if it has been appropriated by the State House of Assembly for a particular purpose, and to prevent Governors from unilaterally withdrawing from the Consolidated Revenue Fund of the State or any public fund of the State, except with the approval and in the manner prescribed by the House of Assembly. The Defendant submitted that NASS has unlimited and unrestricted powers to enact the anti-corruption statutes, and that they do not tamper with, or interfere with the powers of the Plaintiffs in governing their States, or with the money in the public accounts of the Plaintiffs’ States, but only prohibit cash withdrawals from public accounts.
The Defendant submitted that, by virtue of the express provisions of Sections 4(1), (2), and (5), and Section 15(5) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), as well as Items 60(a), 67, and 68 of Part I of the Second Schedule to the Constitution, NASS has the power to enact laws on issues bordering on corruption and any other economic crime, irrespective of whether the property in which the crime is perpetrated belongs to the Federal Government, State Government, Local Government, corporate entities, or private individuals. Court’s Judgement and Rationale Deciding the Preliminary Objection, the Supreme Court aligned itself with the Plaintiffs’ submission that the legality of the EFCC Act, NFIU Act, and ICPC Act was not in contention and was not resolved by the Court in the cases cited by the Defendant, so as to constitute res judicata or issue estoppel in this case. Also, the decisions of the Federal High Court and Court of Appeal relied upon by the Defendant, are not binding on the Supreme Court. On the second ground of the objection, Their Lordships held that the Plaintiffs’ claims did not constitute an abuse of court process, as the claims were not identical to the previous cases. The court also confirmed that since the AGF has assumed the position of the Chief Law Officer of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, he is the proper party with locus standi to represent all the agencies of the Federal Government of Nigeria when the need arises. The Preliminary Objection was thereby, dismissed. On the merits, the Supreme Court held that the 2023 NFIU Guidelines and Advisory, which limit cash withdrawals by State and Local Governments, were made pursuant to the NFIU Act and are therefore, binding and lawful. Specifically, their Lordships held that “… where a law or Guideline is made pursuant to a legislation that is competently enacted, its constitutionality or legality cannot be questioned or challenged. The 2023 NFIU Guidelines and Advisory, made pursuant to the NFIU Act, being an Act of the National Assembly, is binding on the Plaintiffs, their Local Governments, private companies, and individuals within or resident in the Federal Republic of Nigeria”, and that what the Guidelines have done was to “place a benchmark and limit on cash withdrawals of funds in the custody, control, and administration of the Plaintiffs and not to control their expenditures, but to combat money laundering, economic and financial crimes, and terrorism financing.” Issues 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 were therefore, resolved against the Plaintiffs.
Plaintiffs. On the issue of jurisdiction, the Defendant contended that the reliefs sought by the Plaintiffs, particularly reliefs 1, 4, 6, 7, and 8, challenge directives issued by the NFIU, an agency of the Federal Government. As such, the subject-matter falls under Section 251(1)(r) of the Constitution, which confers exclusive jurisdiction on the Federal High Court. That the Plaintiffs’ grievance is against an agency of the Federal Government, and not the Federation itself. Accordingly, the Court was urged to strike out the Plaintiffs' suit for lack of jurisdiction. In response, the Plaintiffs contended on the issues of res judicata, issue estoppel, and abuse of court process, that the legality of the enabling Acts—the EFCC Act, NFIU Act, and ICPC Act—was not resolved in any of the cited cases by the Defendant. On the exclusive jurisdiction of the Federal High Court to entertain the Plaintiffs' suit, it was argued that the Plaintiffs’ suit is squarely within the original jurisdiction of the Supreme Court by virtue of Section 232 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). On whether the Supreme Court has the original jurisdiction to entertain the Plaintiffs’ suit, it was submitted that the application and enforcement of the enabling Acts had implications for the whole of the Federation of Nigeria. Therefore, an attempt by the Defendant to draw a distinction between the Federation of Nigeria
On issue six, their Lordships held that the EFCC Act was a distinct and independent enactment by NASS, meant to address corruption and economic crimes. It was further held that the Plaintiffs’ reliance on Section 12 of the Constitution was misplaced, as Section 12 applies only when a law seeks to domesticate or implement a treaty, which is not the case with the EFCC Act. Thus, where the National Assembly legislates within its constitutional competence—even if the law originates from a Convention—Section 12 cannot be invoked to challenge its validity.
On the second limb of issue six, the Apex Court noted that the Plaintiffs incorrectly asserted that the legality of the EFCC Act was in question in NWOBIKE v FRN (2022), and that the statement relied upon was merely an obiter dictum and not the ratio decidendi. Hence, this issue and all other issues for determination failed, and were resolved against the Plaintiffs.
Case Dismissed. Accordingly, Sister Suits - SC/ CV/457/2023, SC/CV/938/2024 and SC/CV/912/2024 were also Dismissed
Representation Abdulwahab Muhammed, SAN, and Chief A.A. Adeniyi, SAN, with other Counsel for the various Plaintiffs. Lateef Fagbemi, SAN (AGF) and T.A. Gazali, SAN; Sylvanus Tahir, SAN, Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN for the Defendant.
Stories by Steve Aya
A Lagos State Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja has ordered the forfeiture of 6.3 billion units of ordinary shares of Keystone Bank Limited, valued at N1.00 each, to the Federal Government of Nigeria. Justice Rahman Oshodi gave the order following Sigma Golf Nigeria Limited’s guilty plea to the fraudulent conversion of N20 billion belonging to the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON). The company was represented by its Chairman, Umaru Hamidu Modibbo.
Sigma Golf Nigeria Limited was arraigned alongside a former Managing Director of AMCON, Ahmed Kuru, who pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The EFCC filed a six-count amended charge, alleging that AMCON funds were diverted through Heritage Bank for the benefit of Sigma Golf
Nigeria Limited, to facilitate the acquisition of Keystone Bank. The EFCC also accused the Defendants, including Ifie Sekibo, the former Managing Director of the now-defunct Heritage Bank (who is currently at large) of dishonestly converting a total of N20 billion of AMCON’s property through Heritage Bank for Sigma Golf Nigeria Limited. Furthermore, they were accused of transferring another N20 billion, derived from theft, with the intent to
conceal its source, violating Section 332(1) of the Criminal Law of Lagos State 2011, which is punishable under Section 332(3) of the same law.
During the proceedings, EFCC Counsel Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN informed the Judge that the Commission and Sigma Golf Nigeria Limited had mutually agreed to resolve the matter in accordance with legal principles, justice, and public policy. Oyedepo stated that the terms of the plea bargain included Sigma Golf
Nigeria Limited pleading guilty to all six charges, and agreeing to be wound up by the court. He further noted that the court would order the forfeiture of all rights, titles, and interests in 6,250,000,000 units of Keystone Bank Limited’s ordinary shares to the Federal Government of Nigeria, represented by the EFCC. Additionally, the court would order the forfeiture of one ordinary share allocated to Alhaji Umaru Hamidu Modibbo, the company’s Chairman. Oyedepo disclosed
that “the Complainant agrees not to pursue any criminal charges now, or in the future, against Alhaji Umaru Hamidu Modibbo”.
Sigma Golf Nigeria Limited and its legal representative, David Idemu, confirmed that the plea bargain agreement was entered voluntarily and without coercion. Similarly, Kuru’s Lawyer, Olasupo Shasore, SAN did not oppose the agreement. In light of these developments, Justice Oshodi convicted Sigma Golf Nigeria
Limited and adopted the plea bargain terms. During the proceedings, the Judge granted Kuru bail in the sum of N50 million, with two sureties required to swear to an affidavit of means before the court. The sureties were also provide, evidence of tax payments for the last three years. The court ordered the EFCC to notify the Nigerian Immigration Service, regarding the seizure of Kuru’s passport by the Court Registrar.
The Nigerian Government, through the office of Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has instituted a criminal charge of alleged perverting the course of justice, against a multinational company, Mikano International Limited and it’s six Directors, before a Federal High Court, Lagos.
The Directors charged alongside Mikano are: Nidal Chazi Karameh; Firas Mamlouk; Muneer Nassar; Abou Fadi Jaoude; Omar Karameh and Kamal Karameh.
The FCCPC in the charge marked FHC/L/171c/2024, alleged that Mikano and it’s six Directors committed the alleged ignoble acts on December 14,
2022, March 1 and October 16, 2023 at the company’s Lagos headquarters, 34 – 35 Acme Road, Ogba, Ikeja.
FCCPC accused Mikano and it’s Directors of impeding and obstructing it’s officers from executing a search warrant issued by an Order of the Federal High Court, Abuja Judicial Division made in suit No. FHC/ABI/
CS/2075/2022, by failing to provide the said officers with all reasonable facilities and assistance for the effective discharge of their duties. The Commission also accused Mikano and other Defendants of failure to produce documents and/or information which they were required to produce, in compliance with a lawful Summons and Request
The Institute for Construction Industry Arbitration (ICIArb) received commendations from the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Musa Dangiwa last Tuesday, for its tremendous commitment to the growth and development of the construction industry, saying that the Institute is playing according the Renewed Hope Housing programme of the Federal Government.
The Minister gave the commendation when he received members of the Governing Council of the Institute, who paid him a courtesy visit in his office in Abuja. Introducing members of his delegation to the Ministry, President-Elect of the Institute, Chief Felix A. Okereke -Onyeri
congratulated the Minister for the successful hosting of the 12th Meeting of the National Council on Lands, Housing, and Urban Development held in Kaduna State in November 2023, and the recommendation that the Institute’s Arbitration Clause be made an integral part of contract agreements in the country.
The Minister said “Let me begin by expressing my gratitude to ICIArb for your kind words regarding the successful hosting of the 12th Meeting of the National Council on Lands, Housing, and Urban Development held in Kaduna State in November 2023”.
“The resolutions from that meeting, particularly the approval for the insertion of a Construction Arbitration
clause in all Government housing contracts, mark a significant milestone in our collective efforts to streamline dispute resolution mechanisms in the construction industry.
“The construction industry is a critical driver of economic growth and development, and it plays a pivotal role in achieving the "Renewed Hope" housing goals of this administration. However, we are all aware that the industry is often plagued by disputes that can lead to delays, cost overruns, and inefficiencies. These challenges not only hinder progress, but also undermine public confidence in our ability to deliver on our promises.
“This is why the partnership between the Government and
institutions like ICIArb, is so vital. Your expertise in alternative dispute resolution (ADR) mechanisms - such as arbitration, mediation, and conciliation - provides a robust framework for resolving disputes in a timely, cost-effective, and amicable manner. By promoting a culture of dispute-free construction, we can ensure that our housing and infrastructure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest standards of quality.
“The inclusion of a Construction Arbitration clause in Government housing contracts, is a clear demonstration of our confidence in your ability to contribute to the success of our projects. It also reflects our commitment to creating
an enabling environment for all stakeholders in the construction industry to thrive.”
In his address presented at the event, President and Chairman of Council of the Institute of Construction Industry Arbitrators, Kola Awodein, SAN said “The Institute of Construction Industry Arbitrators (ICIArb), is one of the leading arbitral institutions in the construction industry in Nigeria. ICIArb is registered as a not-for-profit organisation, as a company limited by guarantee under the relevant laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as essentially a multi-disciplinary institute with members drawn from the professions related to the construction industry.
to Produce dated February 28, 2023.
The alleged offences according to the FCCPC are contrary to Sections 110, 28(5) 33(3) and 114(3) of the Federal Competition and CoXnsumerX Protection Act, 2018. And punishable under Section 311(2) of the same Act. Mikano and it’s Directors, are to be arraigned for the alleged offence on March 20, 2025. Charges Mikano and it’s Directors read: “That you, Mikano International Limited, Nidal Chazi Karameh (m), Firas Mamiouk (m), Muneer Naser (m), Abou Fadi Jaoude (M), Omar Karameh (M), Kamal Karameh (M) and others unknown on or about the 14th day of December, 2022, at 34 – 35 Acme Road, Ogba, Ikeja, Lagos State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did impede and obstruct authorised officers of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission during the execution of a search warrant sued by an Order of the Federal High Court, Abuja Judicial Division made in Suit No: FHC/ ABI/CS/2075/2022, by failing to provide the said authorised officers with all reasonable facilities and assistance for the effective discharge of the officers’ duties under Section 28(4) and thereby committed and offence contrary to and punishable under Section 110 of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act, 2018.
If Nigerians were to pick a middle name for Chief ayo adebanjo, it would have been ‘Fearless’. a legal practitioner of note, chief Samuel Ayodele Adebanjo spoke truth to power, both military and civilian. He inspired many to join him in the battle for a free, just and egalitarian Nigeria. He commanded from the trenches in the NadeCO days; and in afenifere, he was the detribalised voice of reason. When it became necessary, he strongly disagreed with his NadeCO and afenifere compatriots, strictly on principle. Chief ayo adebanjo was born in Ogun State on april 10, 1928. Initially, a Journalist, he then studied law in the united Kingdom and was called to the english Bar in 1961. He started Politics as a ‘Zikist’, before joining action Group in 1951 where he became the Organising Secretary of the Party. He was also a Founder and Leader of the yoruba socio-cultural group, afenifere. as a result of his activism, Chief adebanjo was detained several times, and was even charged for treasonable felony along with 30 others in 1962, resulting in him going to Ghana on exile. In President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Condolence Statement, he said thus: “I received the news of the passing of one of the Afenifere leaders, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, with profound sorrow. Nigeria has lost a political leader whose decades of unwavering struggle for justice, democracy, and national unity have left an indelible mark on our nation's history…. Baba, as a Lawyer, Statesman, and Politician, stood among the last of a generation of nationalists and independence heroes who shaped the foundation of our country….. In moments of national crisis, Baba's courage shone brightest. When democracy hung in the balance after the annulment of the June 12, 1993 Presidential election, he joined the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) as one of the leading voices against military dictatorship, helping to galvanise a movement that became the bedrock of our collective struggle to reclaim democratic governance. His unwavering commitment to truth and justice, extended to my journey as a Governorship candidate in 1999. Baba Adebanjo's steadfast support was instrumental to my election as Governor of Lagos State, under the platform of the Alliance for Democracy. Though our political paths diverged in later years, my respect and admiration for him never wavered. Until his death, I shared a deep personal bond with Baba Adebanjo; he was like a father figure. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, the Afenifere family, the Governors of the South West, past and present, and all Nigerians who shared his vision….. May the soul of this great patriot find eternal rest, and may his ideals, which he so passionately envisioned, forever resonate in our country.” Chief ayo adebanjo was an uncommon Nigerian who was blind to tribal colourations, insisting that it was the turn of the South east to produce the President of Nigeria. Former President, olusegun obasanjo also had this to say on hearing the sad news of Chief adebanjo’s demise, “Until his death, he fought with courage and tenacity to see to the restructuring of the Nigerian nation, through which good governance based on democratic principles and practice and leading to unity in diversity, justice and equity, political stability, nationalism, popular participation, peace and security and socio-economic progress with strong leadership would be enshrined”. In Chief ayo adebanjo’s loving memory, THISDAY LAWYER went into the archives to reproduce the interview we had with him in 2018
Sir, first of all we wish you a happy 90th birthday. Can you share some of the secrets of your good health and agility, especially as young Lawyers seem to be dropping
dead more than occasionally these days? What are your dos and don’ts? What is your daily routine?
Well, in fairness, the bottom-line is the grace of God, whether you go on a good diet or not. I
“I was a Zikist to the core! He aroused all of us, that is, the youths at the time. I only parted ways with Zik, when Awolowo came with Federalism. When Awo gave the reasons for it, I felt it was more acceptable to me…. But, firing our political imagination for independence, Azikiwe paved the way”
have also been doing exercises, even before I turned 70. I walked one hour every day. When I moved to Lekki, I became a regular attender of the Lekki Bridge, walking down to the Alexander end of it and back. You are what you eat, and I still keep to that. On top of it all, it is the grace of God! How did you get into Politics Sir?
I have been in politics, right from school. I have been interested in politics, all my life. It may interest you to know that, I have been buying newspapers since I was in Primary 5. I used
to buy the West African Pilot. In fact, my class teacher used to read my own copy first, because I always got my copy early in the morning, and they did not supply my teacher until about 10 or 11 am. He would say “Adebanjo, where is your own paper?” He would have read mine first, before his own copy arrived. My favourite column was ‘Inside Stuff’ by Zik. Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe, was arousing the youths at the time. Another popular column was Margaret William’s ‘Between Ourselves’. Those of you in journalism, must have done your research. These fired our imagination as youths,
for independence.
I was a Zikist to the core! He aroused all of us, that is, the youths at the time. I only parted ways with Zik, when Awolowo came with Federalism. When Awo gave the reasons for it, I felt it was more acceptable to me, and I said “That’s all”. But, firing our political imagination for independence, Azikiwe paved the way. His West African Pilot’s motto showed the light, and we followed. This is what I am doing for you youths now. But the youths of today, are not ready to follow our way. It’s too rigid for them. They are more interested in money and money politics, and not our way.
‘Telling It As It Is’, your autobiography is finally out. What, in a nutshell, is book all about?
To be candid, the autobiography talks about my background. It says a lot, as well as put straight some of the misconceptions about Chief Awolowo and some of the events that took place within the Action Group, the crisis and all that.
People have had different views, about what happened. I tried to state things, as somebody who was on the spot. I often challenged people, and told them “What you read and heard, is not what happened. I was a participant. I was there”. That would add to the authenticity of the book. It’s like putting the record straight. That is why I titled it ‘Telling It As It Is’. There was no amendment or any distraction there. If you don’t agree with what I wrote, you have to go and write your own.
You are one of the few Nigerian Elder Statesmen, who has always displayed an uncommon candour in speaking truth to power. Despite your efforts at drawing the attention of the powers that be to the sad plight of Nigerians, the Buhari administration doesn’t seem that bothered. What else do you think can be done, to bring the nation out of the multifarious problems the masses are currently facing?
The attitude of many is ‘If you can’t beat them, join them’. Again, somehow a lot of Nigerians believe that if you don’t follow the norm, you can’t get anything. That has been our battle with the Northern Peoples Congress ab initio.
The North should not, and cannot, dictate the pace of development in this country. That is the difference between the Action Group, the NCNC and the NPC. The North has always been dragging us back,
in this country. Except for a few radical organisations like NEPU under Aminu Kano, who was not even friendly with the NPC. It was because of their own radicalism, that the Action Group supported NEPU against the NPC in 1959. So, when people talk about one party giving money to another party, it has been done before, when you want to have a common enemy. But, at the time, it was principled.
But, today, they are too hypocritical! When one party is giving the other party money for election, they should ask ‘where did you get the money from?’ Where did they get the money to fight their own election? Or was it Buhari, who said he couldn’t pay for his own nomination? Who said he had to go to the bank to go and borrow money?
You see, there is too much of hypocrisy and lack or candour! No vision! No focus!
As for the Federal Government, what I have been saying is that, Buhari has not surprised me. When people say you tell him, and he won’t listen. He won’t! He hasn’t got the basic background for it. I said it before his election. By birth he is a Feudalist, by training he is a Dictator. So, there is nothing in his career,
“My dear, I was a member of the 2014 National Conference. If anybody loves this country, that recommendation should be adopted with the appropriate amendments. No more no less. Anything else, would amount to postponing the evil day. Every section of the country, was represented there”
that shows that he has mellowed down. When a Feudalist goes into the Military, with one-line command, and then jumps into civilian administration and says he is a born-again Democrat, you cannot expect much from him. When he first ran for President and claimed he was a born-again Democrat, I asked ‘what evidence have you seen that shows that?’ ‘The leopard never changes its spots’!
We saw the dictatorial tendencies, between him and Idiagbon. How they convicted some people and sentenced them to death, with retrospective effect. That is against the rule of law. All that I said, before he was elected. It is not new. Go and check the Vanguard Newspaper, where I granted that interview. Everybody knows.
So, it is those who voted for him, in spite of my warnings, that are to be blamed. And, I said then, that I would not like to be vindicated. Why? Because it is the country that will suffer. That is where we are now.
I am not happy to say ‘here you are’! At what cost? Is the standard of education going down? Are our roads bad? Does the country have an airline? Sea line? Don’t let us talk about other things. It is a pity, and people like me talk with such passion, because we had no reason to get to this position. It is as if we are ‘dundies’ and ‘mumus’!
But, some are still canvassing for President Buhari’s second term
That shows how ‘mumuish’ this nation has become. It’s a pity. Those who are canvassing for his second term, let me tell you, they are not honest. I know many of them. They just want to be politically correct. What they tell you behind, is quite
different. How can he desire a second term? For somebody to have a second term, what has he done in his first term? A man who cannot even protect the lives and property of the citizens, should be asking for second term? A man who claims that he is Commander-in-Chief, says he does not know what the Army did. What is he there for? He appointed an Inspector General of Police, and he said he gave him instructions in January; it was in March that he became aware that he did not obey the instructions. And, the IGP is still in office! I don’t believe that. I believe that, they are siding the herdsmen. The Inspector General of Police, will know the body language of the Commander-in-Chief. No Service Personnel or Police, dare do anything against the instruction of the Commander-in-Chief.
I said that Danjuma was still patting the back of the President, by saying it is the Army. Who is the Army without the Commander-inChief? When he was the Chief of Army Staff, could he dare disobey the Commander-in-Chief? If he tried it, he will know he has lost his job. For me to agree that Buhari is not aware that the Army is colluding with the herdsmen, he should have dismissed those people. He was not aware of their actions and didn’t approve of it, by now they should have lost their jobs.
By now, we should be asking questions. You say you are not aware of the actions of the Chief of Army Staff and the Inspector General of Police, and now that you are aware, and these people are still in the office, what type of Commander-in-Chief are you?! If you confess such negligence and dereliction of duty, then get out of office!
Let’s go back to the times
of the struggle for Nigeria’s Independence. What kind of Nigeria did you hope for? Is the Nigeria today anything like what you envisaged?
No! Not at all!
For instance, some are saying that Nigeria has never been so divided on the basis of ethnicity and tribe, as it is today. Do you agree?
Very much! Because back then, all we were trying to say was that, we can live together on agreed terms. I want to repeat, those terms that were agreed to in 1954, after the constitutional crisis that took place in the Federal Parliament, following the motion of Chief Anthony Enahoro for self-government. It’s a long story, but, the bottom line is that, as a result of that crisis, the Colonial Masters summoned the political leaders to London, and that was what gave us that London Conference.
That was where Azikiwe himself, was converted to Federalism. Do the research, especially in the Daily Times. It was on their return, at the airport that Dr Azikiwe said ‘Federalism is imperative’. Before they left for the Conference, he was an Unitarian. It was because of that, the Sarduana said ‘Araba! We don’t want to be in Nigeria’. But, Chief Awolowo said ‘No, but, you can be in Nigeria under clear conditions, where every ethnic nationality will be in control of its own natural resources and develop at its own pace’.
You will notice that, it was after they returned from that Conference, that the post of Premier was included in the Constitution since 1954. Before then, it was Leader of Opposition, Leader of Government Business. And, that carried on until independence. Nigeria had peace. We were competitive, East, North and West. Awolowo built Liberty Stadium, Sardauna built Ahmadu Bello Stadium, and all that competition was going on.
All the developments that Chief Awolowo did, there was no occasion that we went to Tafawa Balewa for subsidy. Because, the basis for sharing the revenue, had been agreed upon. Derivation! That is what you call Resource Control now. Awolowo fought for it since 1954, and won.
So, there was no basis for anybody to say they wouldn’t develop their groundnut or coal. But, when the military came in 1966, to use the language of Chief Emeka Anyaoku, ‘they disfigured the country’. He
used the word ‘disfigured’, but I use ‘destruction.’ Because we are now talking about restructuring. That was how restructuring came in; restructuring entered our political lexicon, as a result of military intervention.
When the military now said they want to go, we said ‘ok, you are going. You introduced us to Unitary, send us back to Federalism. Restructure the country to Federalism. Restructure is not a philosophy. Because if you must change that Constitution you have now, you must restructure to Federalism where you met us’.
We remember that you were one of the first people to speak your mind about the tribal slant on Government appointments, almost from the inception of the Buhari Administration. However, others say it is imagined, rather than real. Kindly, comment on this Sir No! except you are just here to pretend. The Vice President said ‘No!’ But, he should disprove the composition of the security agencies.
That is why I am ashamed of the Vice President representing me in that cabinet, where on the face of it, they are cheating my ethnic group. And, he is still saying that there is no favouritism. How does he explain
“When I tell people this is the only house I have, and the one in my village, they are shocked. I am not regretting, and I am not complaining. I know I could have built four or five houses in Victoria Island, if I chose to, but, I would not have the name, which I have today”
the composition of the security personnel in the country? It’s a simple thing, and you don’t need rocket science to know that.
He keeps on trying to defend the indefensible! A qualified Lawyer, from a noble background. A successful advocate, a brilliant fellow! A Lawyer, now sitting down to watch the rule of law being trampled upon. I don’t think it will give him any credit. For those of us who are from where he comes from, he is not doing us any credit at all. How would you rate the fight against corruption Sir? Has it yielded positive results? What do you think about the allegations and counter- allegations of looters list between the APC and the PDP?
Are they fighting corruption at all? My dear, I am not interested in the pot calling the kettle black. I want action. I am a supporter of Buhari, when it comes to wiping out corruption. Where I disagree with him very seriously, is the partisan nature he has adopted in fighting corruption. He has not been holistic. How can you support yourself with corrupt people, and you say you are fighting corruption? Buhari should cover his face, if he is fighting corruption. Look at his appointment of the Secretary to the Federal Government, Babachir Lawal, and his indictment for fraud. But, for the pressure mounted by Nigerians, Buhari pretended that he didn’t know. And, when they found him guilty, Buhari set up another Enquiry under the Vice President. That Committee arrived at the same conclusion, and with reluctance he removed Babachir Lawal from office. But, after removing him from office, what has happened?
The man who came into office
on the mantra of zero tolerance for corruption, corruption now stares you in the face, and the Secretary to the Government proves to be corrupt.
From the promises Buhari made to us, such a person should not have come near him, at all. The moment Babachir Lawal was smeared with corruption, he should sacked him even without any enquiry. That one is there.
What about Maina? Here is somebody who was removed from office for corruption; the Attorney-General of the Federation is now telling us that, the security people told him to go and meet with him in a strange land. They surreptitiously brought that criminal back to the country, put him back in his position, and even gave him double promotion! And, you are asking me about fighting corruption.
To be candid, it is only in a country like this, that these things can happen. In other countries, the Buhari Government would not have lasted for more than two minutes, after that. It’s only in this country. It’s such a painful thing.
Then your Minister of Health said ‘here is a person who has been accused of corruption, go on suspension while I am conducting the enquiry.’ Of course, it’s part of the corruption in the country. What is Professor Adewole still doing in that cabinet, with all the insults? A Professor, a former Vice Chancellor. I would have thought that Prof Adewole should be helping Buhari, like Osinbanjo, the Vice President, with their backgrounds, their knowledge. What does Adewole want? After such an insult, on his integrity! What does he still want in that cabinet?
There is something in that Aso Rock, because when they get there, they become something otherwise. Has the Buhari Administration lived up to your expectations?
Do you have to ask me that question, after all I have said? This is the conclusion you should have since drawn as the Fourth Estate of the Realm. I have given you all the facts. Even where we are hesitant to say it, you should have said ‘no!’ A man who said he has zero tolerance for corruption, surrounds himself with corrupt people! You don’t fight corruption that way.
Do you believe that the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria is adequate? Or should it be amended or totally rewritten. Some have argued that we should revert to the 1963 Constitution, while others say that would be taking a step backward. What is your opinion?
My dear, I was a member of the 2014 National Conference. If anybody loves this country, that recommendation should be adopted with the appropriate amendments. No more no less. Anything else, would amount to postponing the evil day. Every section of the country, was represented there. The best of Lawyers, Judges, Christians, Muslims, Workers, Businessmen, Young and Old, name it!
We worked there harmoniously, for how many months. We passed 600 resolutions, unanimously. And, somebody now says he doesn’t believe in it. I challenge them, “if you believe 2014 National Conference was not agreeable, point out what you don’t agree with there, and let us remove it and move forward”.
Anybody who says otherwise, is an enemy of this country. They are the ones, who want to break this country. Anybody who wants to unite this country by force, it’s impossible. Anybody who is trying to keep this country together on this Constitution, is only going to break the country. This country cannot stay together under this Constitution, it will break.
It is those of us who are asking for a reconstruction under Federalism, that want the unity of the country. I have said it before, and I want to repeat it again. If Buhari and the APC don’t want to do the right thing by giving us a Federal Constitution before the election, they are the agents of destruction in this country.
Some have expressed the fear that,Nigeria may break up if it doesn’t restructure. What does Restructuring mean to you? Others fear that, unless the issue of insecurity is addressed by
curtailing Boko Haram and Herdsmen, war is imminent. Is there any basis for these fears? What are your worse fears for Nigeria?
All those talking like that, have not read the 2014 Constitution. All that they are asking for, are already contained in the 2014 Constitution. Even the question of Presidency, we have constitutionalised it. Where each State, Region or Zone, will know when it will be their turn to produce the President. It will make it less contentious.
What more can we do to keep the country together? We have done all that, and you close your eyes to it and say you must continue on a Constitution imposed on us by a section of the country? You think that one will last? We are not mumus!
Do you believe that the Federal Government was right in right in declaring IPOB to be a Terrorist Organisation and proscribing it?
It was a wicked decision of Buhari! Very wicked and patently partisan. You declare them as a Terrorist Organisation, and you cannot mention one single soul that they killed. You cannot mention one single village that they destroyed. They are only located, within the area they said they want self-government. That is not illegal. But, those who
“I often make a claim, I have no complaint about Tinubu personally. There is no favour I have ever asked of him, that he didn’t do for me. But, his political tactics, I detest. A lot of things he knew that we would not allow him to do, that was the beginning of his separation from us”
have been killing, maiming and assassinating people, nothing was done to them.
A person like Olu Falae was kidnapped, not once, and his farm burnt by these Fulani marauders, and not a singe word from Buhari. He wants to claim that he does not know, or does not support these people. So, what is he there for me for? If he can’t protect the lives and property of Nigerians, what is he there for? If he continues to say that, I am not a ‘mumu’.
I have said it earlier that, the 2016 killing of 800 Christians on Christmas eve is on record. No arrests, no prosecutions, nothing! Then Agatu, then Makurdi, Adamawa, all over the country and the Commander-in-Chief sits comfortably. On top of it all, the instruments with which they commit this havoc is arms, which are banned. Arms can only be carried by people who are licensed. Are these people licensed to carry arms? Or do they need AK47 to rear their cattle? Or is it because he a Patron of the cattle rearers? But, when we say this, you say we are maligning the President. These are known facts. If you are not restrained as a matter of your own vested interest, can you claim ignorance of these damages they are causing?
Remember the Governor of Benue State, showed a letter written by these Herdsmen threatening them, that they will drive Benue people away from their State. That they are the owners of the place. They signed it, and the people who signed, are well known. The Governor took the letter to Mr President, crying out, nothing was done. And, you want to tell me that it is the Army that is colluding? Let us be frank and honest with ourselves, and tell Buhari that “this is what you
are doing, we are not mumus”. The moment you are still giving it coverage, that it is the Army that is colluding; that it is the Inspector General of Police who is not obeying! I can’t imagine a situation where the Chief of Army Staff and the IGP will disobey the President, and still remain in office. What punishment have they been given?
You are often referred to, as one in the group of four known as the Ijebu Mafia within the Afenifere, along with the late Pa Abraham Adesanya, Pa Solanke Onasanya, and Pa Olaniwun Ajayi. Sadly, your group has been accused of not replicating itself. That you haven’t groomed younger political activists, to take over from you. Was this an oversight or deliberate act on your part? Because Nigeria needs such Activists now, more than at any other time.
The young ones don’t want to follow our footsteps! What we stand for they can’t. They want to follow them and join them. Their attitude is, “if you can’t beat them, join them”. That defines their mindset. All those who are following them now, were following us before. But, because we are not in power, we can’t put them on Boards and in Corporations, we can’t give them Ministerial appointments, they won’t follow us. It is where they are sure that they will give them all these things, that they will go. That is how they decide which party to go to.
I want to repeat once again, with hindsight, in my long years in the Awolowo group, a lot of the people who followed didn’t understand what we stood for, talk less of what we believed in. But, they found us to be an easy platform, to come into political prominence. The moment they have the slightest issue, they zoom away. That is why, once we were out of power, the number
has been dwindling. Only fanatics like me and a few others, have remained. We can’t remain with the few of us, whom they have branded as fanatics of Awolowo. That is why we cannot be role models to them. Because, our path is clear, and they are not prepared to follow that. When I tell people this is the only house I have, and the one in my village, they are shocked. I am not regretting, and I am not complaining. I know I could have built four or five houses in Victoria Island, if I chose to, but, I would not have the name, which I have today.
At the age of 90, having seen Nigeria evolve, governments change, what advice can you give for the best future for Nigeria?
The best advice, is for the coming generation to come together to fight the present leadership. We are where we are, because of bad leadership and bad followership. Note my words. Bad followership. Because, these bad leaders we are talking about, if they don’t get the kind of support from their followers, they would not succeed. Because the followership are beneficiaries of the bad leaders, they keep quiet. Until they are affected.
It’s like what happened recently, when some people were complaining that they imposed a Councillor on them. That is how bad it was. I often make a claim, I have no complaint about Tinubu personally. There is no favour I have ever asked of him, that he didn’t do for me. But, his political tactics, I detest. A lot of things he knew that we would not allow him to do, that was the beginning of his separation from us.
When they complain about some of us in Afenifere, I ask them, “what is our offence?” Have we asked them for any favours? Have we asked them for contracts? Have we ever asked them to give our children appointments? Have we asked them to pay us any form of salaries? No!
After getting into office, they want to take over the leadership of Afenifere and sideline us. And, that is why we are where we are today, and we are comfortable with that. Was that the way Tinubu got into office? Can you say in all honesty, that today, people can come out and say ‘this is the man we want?’ Even for a small office like Councillor, you can’t do that without approval from Bourdillon! I witnessed an
occasion, when one of the Local Government Chairmanships in Lagos, the people said they wanted a Chairman. He took his own Chairman there. The people told him “ah, we don’t know this man”. His answer was ‘did you know Fashola before I brought him as Governor?’ It’s on record.
A similar thing that really shocked me, was when Tinubu was celebrating his 60th birthday or something. I was watching it on television. Fashola was praising him, how he had done this and done that. The only thing they want now, is to give them internal democracy. He replied on the floor that, if there was internal democracy, he (Fashola) wouldn’t be Governor.
Are you laughing? Such things are repugnant to me. These are the areas I don’t agree with Tinubu, but he is very liberal, very kind, and there is nothing I have ever asked him that he didn’t give me. Although, I have never asked him for the impossible. But, I cannot close my eyes to all these type of things. One of his (Tinubu’s) supporters came to me sometime ago and said “Baba, è dariji” (Baba, forgive him). I replied that “Tinubu o sè mi o” (Tinubu did not offend me). I have nothing against him at all. I don’t like his style of
“In any society, there are bad eggs. I am not saying the Judiciary is clean. I am not saying that the Bar itself, is clean. But, there is a system for purification….Why break into the houses of Judges? You can catch them…..The rule of law, is a fundamental principle of democracy…. Do your due diligence in investigations, and take them to court”
government. As he now dictates who will be Councillor and who will be everything, if that were the position, he wouldn’t be the Governor. I insisted that the primaries conducted that chose him, that is what we are going to follow. And, he did not say that I got a kobo for that! Why doesn’t he follow that? Why should asking him to follow that, be a problem?
Just like I am telling Buhari now, the Constitution we are asking him to change to, is the Constitution agreed to by Sardauna and Azikiwe. Buhari can’t claim to be more of a Northerner, than Sardauna. When we talk about restructuring, they say they don’t understand; we tell them, ‘go back to 1963’.
My dear, we know our problems, only that we lack the courage to say it. So many things are wrong. A situation where those who staged a coup are now part of a civilian government. In other countries, these are the type of people who should face the Nuremberg Trials. People know these things, but are afraid to say it. And, when I say it, they say they will kill me. But, I am not too young to die, so I can say it.
In your constituency, as a Lawyer I mean, there has been so much ado about judicial corruption and a general rot in the legal system. What do you have to say about that?
In any society, there are bad eggs. I am not saying the Judiciary is clean. I am not saying that the Bar itself, is clean. But, there is a system for purification.That is why I vehemently disagreed with Professor Itse Sagay. We were together fighting during the NADECO days. So, I know him. We are all against corruption, but anybody who advocates
that corruption should be fought outside of the rule of law, is not my friend. Because, the moment you disregard the rule of law, nobody is safe anymore. I think Professor Sagay should know that.
Why break into the houses of Judges? You can catch them. You can do everything to get them, but, don’t do the right thing, by doing the wrong thing. Professor Sagay is someone whom I respect a lot, and I have been trying to reconcile myself as to why he should take that position, and I haven’t been comfortable with that.
The rule of law, is a fundamental principle of democracy. The moment you abandon that, you create problems. Do your due diligence in investigations, and take them to court. Look at the ‘looters list’ they published. All of them are awaiting trial. And, they have gone ahead to publish their names, maligning them. What about those in Buhari’s cabinet? The names of those favourable to them, have been removed. The in thing now is, loot as much as you can, then join the APC. And, we have numerous instances. I wonder how the APC can have the guts to accuse the PDP of ruining the country for 16 years, when 70% of their government is made up of former PDP members. That is why I asked, ‘do you think we are ‘mumus’? Some of us are educated, and we have our certificates to show for it.’
Thank you very much for granting this interview, for your time Sir. We are grateful. Once again, we wish you a happy 90th Birthday.
Epilogue
Chief Ayo Adebanjo joined the saints triumphant and went to be with Lord on February 14, 2025, at the ripe old age of 96. Fare thee well Sir. May the flights of angels sing thee to thy rest. Amen. È sun re o (sleep well).
Acting Group Politics Editor DEJI ELUMOYE
Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com
08033025611 sms only
Kemi olaitan reports that Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State is out to deliver dividends of democracy with current moves by his administration to change the narrative about the Samuel Ladoke akintola airport in Ibadan.
For Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, one major task he has set for himself since he assumed office over five years ago is moving the state from the level that it had found itself under past administrations to one that will be a source of envy to other states in terms of making it a hub for investment.
While the governor has continued to endear himself to the people of the pacesetter state due to massive infrastructural development such as good roads and housing estates, the administration under his leadership has turned its focus towards the upgrading of Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport in Ibadan, to international standard in order to bring significant benefits not only to the people of the state but also to the entire Southwest region of the country and delivering dividends of democracy to the people.
The governor determined to make this a reality started with key infrastructure improvements aimed at revitalising the airport and enhancing its services such as transformative upgrades to the road network leading to the airport, including converting the outer Old Ife Road through the airport area into a dual carriageway which greatly improved accessibility and comfort for travellers.
Others include the renovation of the airport’s fire service building, donation of a modern fire truck, facilitation of the construction of an aviation storage tank and aircraft fuelling facility, which was developed by the private oil firm BOVAS and Co. Limited to ensure that the airport can cater for aircraft that require more fuel to reach their next destination, removing a significant logistical barrier for airlines.
Makinde was however to set process in motion late last year with the ground-breaking ceremony for the upgrading of runway facility at the SLAAirport, which was awarded to Messrs
Craneburg with the project expected to be delivered in 12 months. The governor at the event, said the decision to upgrade the airport was taken based on data and logic, adding that it is a strategic investment that includes a first and second phase that will culminate into the upgrading of the airport, the runway, airfield lighting, terminal and other critical facilities.
His words, “Let me specially thank the members of the committee, who
worked on the project in the last six weeks to make it possible for the official groundbreaking ceremony to take place today. Some people do not think that upgrading this airport at this time is a good idea, but the decision to upgrade this airport to international standard is based on data and logic. In the next twelve months, this project will be delivered. I will push the envelope.
“This airport will connect Oyo State to a global market. It will improve ease of doing business, bringing investments into agribusi-
ness, manufacturing and technology sectors and positioning Ibadan as a true regional business hub.”
The governor also listed MRO and cargo facilities as some of the features the upgraded airport would parade, describing the project as a strategic investment that would be delivered on time and within budget.
“This is the first phase; the groundbreaking is the first phase. The second phase is the terminal itself. Once we do the runway and air-field lighting, we will have the terminal and they will be delivered about the same time. We don’t want to wait. After this groundbreaking, the committee will be working to kick-start the process that would ensure that complementary projects within the airport are also going to start”, he added.
Chairman of the Airport Upgrade Committee, Mr. Bimbo Adekanmbi, while outlining the key improvements to expect, said the runway, which currently measures 2,400 meters, will be extended to 3,000 meters, with its shoulders widened from 45 to 60 meters to accommodate larger aircraft, stating that it will also include the installation of advanced lighting systems to enable night-time operations while the apron will be expanded to 56,250 square meters, creating parking space for up to six Airbus A330 aircraft and ensuring a 7.5-meter clearance for Class E aircraft.
The Site Engineer, Craneburg Construction, Oliver Makhlouf, who explained the success so far recorded on the upgrade of the airport runway, disclosed that there will be introduction of a third taxiway link in accordance to international standards while new airfield lighting CAT-2 will be installed.
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Rafiu Ajakaye writes about various interventions of Governor a bdulrahman a bdulrazaq towards making Kwara State a better place for the citizenry.
There is a reason Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, Sardauna of Ilorin, enjoys his solo moves within or outside of the state capital: he, among other things, fears the genuflection and the praise-singing that may get in the way of his primary assignment if everyone is in the know.
That habit is grossly misunderstood, but he is contented with seeing things without the fillers and being able to focus on his work while attracting lesser attention to himself.
Like every human being, he welcomes being accorded his due without the praises that come with the political environment. He scoffs at sycophancy and purposeless exposure. Instead, he encourages constructive criticisms for better governance outcomes.
This attitude explains his disapproval of celebrations on his birthdays as a sitting Governor. He fears that the sudden celebration does not last and there is no basis encouraging it. This is fine, although there is a thin line between telling the story of an individual for posterity and buttering them up for whatever purpose.
Regardless, I am persuaded by Edward Said’s statement that ‘nations themselves are narrations. The power to narrate, or block other narratives from forming and emerging, is very important to culture’.
As he clocked 65 a few days ago, bookmakers have a lot to document about the seventh democratic Governor of Kwara State whose tenure is synonymous with unmatched rebuilding and modernisation of the capital city Ilorin, rural development, youth and women empowerment, gender inclusion, and countless economic initiatives that have steadily put the people
back to productive work.
Apart from his legacy projects, which are unrivalled in the history of the state, he has effected profound psychosocial reforms with his approach to governance, which many consider strange. His style and personal discipline have put government appointees on a leash.
Along with his no-siren movement and
the spartan style, his decision to discontinue the everyday gathering and merriment in Government House, a relic of the past years, is a strong message that attention must now be paid to higher productivity.
A party chieftain recently told me: ‘That style appeared painful and distant at the beginning, but it is really reshaping the mindset of our people. Except for a few people, you hardly see
any crowd hanging around the party secretariat these days except during important events. It is a good thing. It simply tells our people to do something much more meaningful, rather than loitering around politicians. It is good for everyone as it restores the dignity of the human person, and I hope his successor does the same.’
The Governor is very nostalgic about the Ilorin of his childhood. He strongly believes in restoring sanity to the GRA, especially — devoid of the health-shattering loud disco music in the evenings— and much of what ought to constitute the central business district of the capital city. A story is told of an old couple who complained that their health had deteriorated with some unhealthy practices within the GRA, a narrative that apparently aligns with his sentiment.
This is a reason he feels that the Kwara Hotel, a fit-for-purpose relaxation facility outside of residentials, must regain its status along with other well-located premium hospitality facilities in the state. This is a critical public health issue, as it is about appropriate land use and sustainable living.
His reforms are not without its critics. Yet true leaders, once convinced of the genuineness of their actions, should not fear being heckled. The sense of pride and the excitement with which Kwarans have received the new look of the capital city have drowned out the criticisms from the political opposition.
-Ajakaye, Chief Press Secretary to Kwara Governor, writes from Ilorin
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Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
Year-on-Year, Nigeria’s crude oil production rose about 5.7 per cent in January 2025, compared to the same period in 2024, as the country continues to battle oil theft, asset vandalism and revamp oil wells that have been dormant for years.
New data from the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) showed that while oil and condensate production was 1.643 million barrels in January 2024, it grew to 1.737 million bpd as of January 2025.
According to the NUPRC data, in January this year, production came mainly from Bonny (7.57 million barrels); Brass (1.050 million barrels); Qua Iboe (4.63 million barrels);
Forcados (8.86 million barrels); Excravos (4.48 million barrels); Odudu (2.33 million barrels) and Tulja-Okwuibome (2.26 million barrels).
Nigeria’s oil production has seen a gradual increase in recent months, signaling a potential recovery for the country’s struggling energy sector. As Africa’s largest oil producer, Nigeria’s economy is deeply tied to crude oil, which accounts for the majority of its export earnings and government revenue. The rise in production comes amid ongoing efforts to combat oil theft, improve security around pipelines, and attract foreign investment into the sector. However, challenges remain, including aging infrastructure and the global shift
towards renewable energy.
One of the key drivers behind the increase in oil production has been the government’s crackdown on oil theft and pipeline vandalism. For years, these illegal activities significantly reduced Nigeria’s output, with crude losses reaching hundreds of thousands of barrels per day.
Recent measures, including surveillance contracts with private security firms, have helped curb these losses, allowing more crude to reach international markets. Additionally, investments in pipeline monitoring technology have improved transparency in the sector, reducing leakages and inefficiencies.
The NUPRC said at the weekend
that oil theft had decreased from about 108,000 bpd to just 5,000 bpd at the end of 2024.
Separate data seen by THISDAY indicated that since 2020, especially after the passage of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), the active oil rig count in the sector has risen from a low of eight to 38 as of February this year.
To a large extent, the active rig count in the oil acts as a leading indicator of demand for products used in drilling, completing, producing and processing hydrocarbons and by extension portrays the level of activities taking place in the oil industry.
After the COVID 19 pandemic in 2020, the after-effect led to the shutdown of oil wells in the Niger
Delta, wherein the rig count fell to eight in 2021, before rising to an average of 10 in 2022.
But in January 2023, the number of rigs in the oil sector rose astronomically to 24 and as of December that year, peaked at 28. Nigeria started the year 2024 with 29 active oil rigs and rose to 35 at the end of last year.
According to the NUPRC data, in January 2025, Nigeria’s oil rig count increased to a record 38, a sign that drilling activities were picking up in the sector.
This is coming amid a report that Nigeria will lead other countries like Namibia, Angola and Libya as oil & gas drilling hotspots across Africa this year.
African Energy Chamber (AEC),
which serves as the voice of the energy sector in Africa, said the several oil and gas exploration programmes are poised to shape Africa’s energy future in 2025, unlocking not only economic growth but also energy security.
“The deepwater drilling activities Africa oil is progressing in Nigeria encapsulate works related to the Akpo and Egina fields in the aftermath of the infill production well at Akpo. The 2024 seismic acquisition at the Agbami field is being evaluated ahead of a drilling campaign in 2026 to bolster hydrocarbon production and resource recovery in Nigerian waters,” AEC said.
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Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
Managing Director, Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company Limited (SNEPCo) Ronald Adams, has said that Nigeria can meet oil production targets and implement ambitious development programmes from deep-water oil and gas operations if it continues with policies to encourage investments and boost output in the sector.
According to Adams, Nigeria’s deep-water fields are home to some
of the world’s most promising associated and non-associated gas reserves, with vast untapped potential that could play a vital role in powering Nigeria’s future, supporting cleaner energy and contributing to global emissions reduction.
“Deep water is a compelling consideration for Nigeria if the country must meet its oil production targets and implement ambitious development programmes,”
Adams said while speaking at the 9th Sub-Saharan Africa International Petroleum Exhibition
and Conference (SAIPEC) in Lagos.
Adams welcomed reforms by the government to attract investments, especially the signing of three executive orders in February last year on tax incentives, local content compliance requirements and reduction of petroleum sector contracting costs and timelines.
A statement from the oil company added that the tax credits were also announced for new investments in deep-water oil and gas.
“This will require a favourable
investment climate to attract capital and innovation to develop these gas resources responsibly and sustainably, ensuring long-term benefits for the country in meeting its energy and global sustainability goals,” he was quoted as saying.
The reforms, he noted, should be part of a renewed strategy to attract investments “through fiscal and regulatory policies that are fit-for-purpose, forward-looking and competitive.
He said that for Nigeria to consistently reap the benefits from
deep-water operations, it must address regulatory bottlenecks through streamlined and faster approval processes and consistent and fair policy enforcement.
Adams, who spoke on Shell’s vision for unlocking Nigeria’s deep-water potential, assured that the company would continue to leverage its expertise since it pioneered production at the Bonga field in 2005 which achieved a 1 billion barrels export milestone in 2023.
Further developments, he said,
include the Final Investment (FID) on the $5 billion Bonga North deep-water project announced last year.
He said SNEPCo’s deep-water achievements had resulted in the payment of taxes and royalties to the government, development of indigenous businesses through contract awards and implementation of social investments across the six geopolitical zones in Nigeria.
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Stories by Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
Executive Vice President, Intra African Trade and Export Development Bank, African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), Mrs. Kanayo Awani, has argued that Africa’s critical minerals are a major pathway to the continent’s industrial development and economic prosperity.
Awani spoke at the just concluded African Mining Indaba 2025 in Cape Town, South Africa on the theme, “Redefining Critical Minerals – Critical for Who?”.
A statement from the bank said Awani envisioned “a future where Africa’s mineral wealth empowers its people and drives sustainable development”.
She noted that while the continent abounded in mineral resources and accounted for about 30 per cent of all global mineral reserves, it had not benefited from those resources due to inadequate infrastructure, unclear national policy directions, environmental and social
challenges, poor investment decisions and lack of financing.
“The paradox lies in the fact that whilst our continent is a treasure trove of resources, the benefits of these resources often flow outside our borders, leaving local communities and economies deprived,” she said.
“For a continent that is endowed with such vast quantities of natural resources, the state of development across its length and breadth remains a puzzle,” she added.
Awani noted that many African countries currently extract minerals and export raw materials without substantial value addition, leaving the continent lingering at the lower rungs of global value chains and constraining economic benefits.
She argued that to fully tap into the new commercial opportunity, Africa needed to significantly increase investments in value addition and processing capacity so that countries could export finished or semi-finished goods, thereby enhancing the continent’s position in global value chains.
The Surveyor General of the Federation, Abudulganiyu Adebomehin and the Hydrographer of the Federation, in charge of the National Hydrographic Agency (NHA ), Rear Admiral Ayo Olugbode, have pledged to work together to safeguard Nigeria’s maritime interests.
This was disclosed when Adebomehin received the
NHA team in his office, where discussions premised on how to advance hydrography in the country, especially in the area of staffing, according to a statement by the Head of Information and Public Relations, Henry David.
In his remarks, Adebomehin said: “This is a new frontier for the Office of the Surveyor General of the Federation (OSGOF) in which the Navy represents the military while OSGOF will stand for the civilians at the NHA and competent hands will be sent from my office to NHA to represent our office.”
Group Business Editor
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Deputy Business Editor
Chinedu Eze
Comms/e-Business Editor
Emma Okonji
Asst. Editor, Energy
Emmanuel Addeh
Asst. Editor, Money Market
Nume Ekeghe
Correspondents
KayodeTokede(CapitalMarkets)
James Emejo (Finance)
Ebere Nwoji (Insurance)
Reporter Peter Uzoho (Energy)
Earlier in his remarks , Olugbode described the meeting as a homecoming, pledging to work closely with the office of the surveyor general.
“His responsibility is terrestrial, mine is maritime. I’m privileged to be appointed by the president to be governor of the ocean, the responsibility of 84,000 square nautical miles is what is on me.
“One-third of the land, Nigeria is 923 square kilometers. It’s a huge responsibility. It’s a responsibility that is a shared burden between us,” Olugbode said.
“Increasing investments in processing facilities and manufacturing plants can create thousands of jobs, which not only addresses unemployment but also builds a skilled workforce capable of engaging in diverse sectors,” she continued.
“By investing in value addition, we can reduce our
reliance on raw commodity exports and create a more resilient economy, better protected from the impact of fluctuating global market prices,” she stressed.
She said that Afreximbank had been a champion of many initiatives and transactions which presented opportunities to address
some of the challenges faced by the continent’s mining industry, including the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA).
Here, she said the bank was a strategic partner to the AfCFTA Secretariat in establishing the $10 billion AfCFTA Adjustment Fund to which it had committed $1 billion and a matching grant of $10 million to seed its Base Fund. The bank had also approved a $500 million concessionary finance window to supplement its critical development interventions to address the significant funding gap in Africa toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030,” she said.
The Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development has said it will create task teams in the states of the federation to ensure proper audit of the ministry’s properties and land as well as look into the collection of ground rent on those properties.
The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, Dr. Shuaib Belgore, stated this during his interactive session with the 36 states and Federal Capital Territory (FCT) federal controllers of
housing in Abuja.
Belgore explained that the task team will include the controller in every state, representatives from the state and Federal Housing Authority (FHA), with the Surveyor General of the Federation as the Chairman of the task team.
He assured them of his readiness to provide them with the resources they would need to execute their jobs so that they would not have an excuse for not doing them correctly, adding that a portion of the revenue will
be retained for fieldwork and evaluation.
“Field audits and professional oversight will ensure quality and efficiency,” he said, stressing that the importance of regular field supervision and open communication by the controllers would provide needed updates to the headquarters on state-level activities.
While charging the states’ controllers on teamwork for the ministry to be effective in the discharge of its mandate, he described teamwork,
hard work, and quality in project execution as essential elements to achieving successes.
He acknowledged the vital role of the federal controllers in coordinating the ministry’s projects in the states and ensuring their seamless execution.
Belgore highlighted the necessity of hands-on field experience, noting that effective project management cannot be learned in an office setting, but rather through active engagement on project’s sites.
Hammed Shittu in Ilorin
A former presidential candidate and businessman, Olawepo Gbenga-Hashim has emphasised the need for the federal government to reduce dependence on oil.
Rather, he said that, the government should leverage on its vast agricultural and solid mineral resources, promoting industrialization and business environment so as to enhance the growth of the economy.
The former presidential candidate’s comment came amidst the recent on online debate on Twitter and rekindling discussions about Nigeria’s economic future.
The National President of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Dele Kelvin Oye Esq., led a highlevel delegation on courtesy visits to former President Olusegun Obasanjo, as well as the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, His Royal Majesty, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo III, emphasising the need for stronger collaboration to drive national and economic development.
The visit to the traditional ruler, in Abeokuta, Ogun State is part of NACCIMA’s tradition of visiting traditional
The former presidential candidate in the video obtained by our correspondent in Ilorin, Kwara state capital over the weekend, outlined his ambitious economic vision for Nigeria, aiming to achieve a minimum Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of $4 trillion within a decade.
He said,“The key to Nigeria’s economic transformation is integrating agriculture and mineral resources with manufacturing. We must create an industrial base that contributes at least 40% to GDP, which will in turn generate millions of well-paying jobs”.
He also highlighted the need to improve Nigeria’s business environment by removing
bureaucratic bottlenecks and ensuring policies that attract foreign and domestic investments.
According to him, Nigeria’s GDP is too small for 200 million population and even if saints are ruling Nigeria, it’s still going to be a poor nation.
He proposed a $4trillion GDP in 10 years to make Nigeria a middle income country alongside Turkey, Singapore and others.
His proposals focus on reducing Nigeria’s dependence on oil, leveraging its vast agricultural and solid mineral resources, promoting industrialization, and improving the business environment.
The hashtag “Mickey Mouse
Economy” is currently trending on Twitter, with many Nigerians expressing admiration for Hashim’s foresight and strategic insight.
Critics of the government are using the hashtag to highlight the disconnect between political promises and the harsh realities faced by everyday Nigerians.
However, a twitter user, Mr. Abdullahi Ado stated that, “Gbenga Hashim’s economic plan is a blueprint for Nigeria’s economic transformation. His ideas are innovative, practical, and worthy of consideration by policymakers who are seeking real solutions to our economic challenges.”
institutions during council meetings.
Oye during the courtesy call expressed profound appreciation to the monarch for the warm reception despite his demanding schedule, highlighting NACCIMA’s role as the umbrella organization for Nigeria’s organized private sector, focusing on promoting business growth, investment, and industrial development.
Oye stressed that the visit was an opportunity to seek the monarch’s support and royal blessings, while reaffirming NACCIMA’s commitment to Ogun State and Nigeria’s overall economic progress.
He noted that the visit preceded NACCIMA’s quarterly Executive Committee and Council meetings, scheduled for February 12-13, 2025, in Abeokuta.
In response, Oba Gbadebo commended NACCIMA’s contributions to the national economy and emphasized the importance of supporting and promoting locally produced goods.
He noted that Nigeria’s indigenous products remain highly competitive across Africa and pledged to collaborate with the private sector to further drive industrialization and economic
growth.
Following the royal visit, the NACCIMA delegation proceeded to the Obasanjo Presidential Library for an interactive session with former President Olusegun Obasanjo. During the session, President Obasanjo lauded NACCIMA for its unwavering commitment to private-sector advocacy and its critical role in economic development.
Obasanjo emphasised that sustainable growth in Nigeria hinges on public-private partnerships and called on the government to pay more attention to the private sector’s concerns.
Sunday Ehigiator
Accion Microfinance Bank (MfB), in collaboration with CrediCorp, unveiled an affordable tricycle financing scheme for riders in Lagos to provide easy access to tricycles, enhancing the livelihoods of riders and promoting economic growth.
The vehicles were officially handed to the riders at an event held recently in Lagos in collaboration with Simba Group TVS.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Managing Director/CEO of Accion Microfinance Bank, Taiwo Joda, said, “This was made possible by President Bola Tinubu, who had the vision and the drive. When CrediCorp called to sell this vision to Accion Microfinance Bank and asked, ‘Are you ready to run with us?’
we said, ‘It is about impact; we are ready to go the whole hog and every mile to show that we care.
“This is not just about financial intervention but about making people have meaning in their lives. It is about financial health and making people look away from trying to corruptly enrich themselves to realising that hard work pays, and if they have the tools in their hands, there is no limit to where a Nigerian can grow.”
He added, “The critical role that Accion MFB played is to be able to link the underserved and unserved to financial possibilities and vehicles that can uplift their welfare. We partnered with CrediCorp, which serves as a wholesale banker; they don’t give piecemeal credit; we are the ones who give it piecemeal.
Each of the tricycles costs N3.6m to the end users, and we allow them to pay in instalments over 24 months.”
The Chief Executive Officer of Nigeria Consumer Credit Corporation, Uzoma Nwagba, affirmed that the provision of consumer credit has a multiplier effect on the economy.
“Consumer credit is just about the only non-negotiable tool in an economy of this size to enhance people’s quality of life and to stem corruption by reducing the pressure that people face to amass funds to be able to pay for stuff up front.
“They can get the same things and pay over time. It is to catalyse the local industry by using credit to buy made-in-Nigeria goods, provide a market for our local industries, and in doing so, create millions of jobs,” he averred.
Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja
The Abuja Markets Management Ltd (AMML) has hatched an e-commerce platform to provide online store services for traders.
The acting Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer, AMML revealed this in Abuja at the company’s 20th anniversary, awards and gala night.
Ojiji noted that the e-commerce platform, kasuwa.com, would broaden the traders’ businesses as well as AMML outlook
He further disclosed that AMML intends to deploy a facility management software
that would enable the company to know the status of every shop under its purview.
He explained that the initiative was part of efforts to adopt technology in the management of market facilities in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) for efficiency.
“Currently, we are about to inaugurate an automated toll collection system in Garki Market, which we hope to replicate in other markets where we collect toll.
“This will ensure that time spent driving in and out of the market was reduced to the barest minimum.
“Also, we have a registry where the files and biodata of all the traders we are managing are kept. We are about to upload the data online for people to access with just a click,” Ojiji said.
He also enuciated plans to introduce Abuja Multipurpose Traders Cooperative to make resources available to traders including move to provide efficient service delivery that would ensure improvement in revenue generation.
He boasted that the digital innovative initiatives will significantly improve the revenues of the company established in 2004 in the next three to five years.
The 2025 Call for Papers submission deadline for the 24th NOG Energy Week - Nigeria’s premier energy conference and exhibition - has been extended. With the theme, “Innovating Today’s Technology For Tomorrow’s Energy Needs,” key stakeholders now have until 21 February 2025 to submit their papers.
In a significant parallel development, NNPC Limited has announced the commencement of fuel production at the Port Harcourt Refinery, marking a pivotal milestone in Nigeria’s downstream sector. This achievement resonates with key themes spotlighted at the NOG Energy Week Technical
Seminar, such as Manufacturing and Industrialisation, Downstream Fuels and Infrastructure Development, underscoring the seminar’s focus on driving industry innovation and progress.
The Technical Seminar is integral to the 24th edition of NOG Energy Week, scheduled from 29 June - 3 July 2025, at the Abuja International Conference Centre (ICC). The seminar provides a unique platform for industry leaders to share cutting-edge technical insights, industry updates and progress, showcase innovative solutions, and exchange knowledge with key stakeholders. This is particularly crucial in light
of the recent divestments in Nigeria’s energy sector, underscoring the need for professionals to remain at the forefront of technological advancements.
The seminar will feature 14 distinct categories, including Geoscience, Resource and Field Development, Drilling, Midstream Infrastructure Development, Gas and LNG Technologies, Downstream Fuels and Infrastructure, Utilities and Power Generation, New Energies, Decarbonization, Operational Excellence, HSSE and Project Management, People Development, Digital Transformation, Manufacturing, Energy Markets, and Shipping and Marine.
Onuminya Innocent
As part of a designed strategy to improve its internally generated revenue, the Kebbi State government said it will soon commence the revitalisation of the tourism sector to attract investment.
According to the government, Kebbi Investment Promotion Council, KIPC, recently established by Governor Nasir Idris in collaboration with the State Ministry of Commerce and the council of traditional rulers are working out modality to achieving the desired results.
This was disclosed by the Special Adviser on Communication and Strategy to Kebbi State
Governor, Alhaji Abdullahi Idris Zuru, during a familiarisation visit to the newly established BAYAWURA FM Radio station in Yauri.
The visit was part of the government’s public awareness campaign for the support of the ongoing RIGATA Annual Festival being hosted by the Yauri Emirate Council under the leadership of Dr. Muhammad Zayyanu Abdullahi, the Emir of Yauri.
He explained that there was an urgent need to improve the state’s revenue base in order to generate more funds to assist in actualising Comrade Governor Nasir Idris’s dream of providing more viable infrastructure with
the capacity to improve the well-being of the people.
To this regard, “the Annual Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival, the Zuru Uhola International Cultural Festival, the Yauri Rigata Festival and the recently introduced Horse Racing and Cultural Festival in Gwandu Emirate will be revitalised with required modern facilities and remodeled cultural heritage in order to make them more attractive for both local and foreign investors”.
The Director of operations of the station, Mallam Buhari Abubakar Umar, conducted the visitors round the station, located at a hilltop in Yauri.
Kayode Tokede
The stock market section of the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) commenced the week on a negative note, dropping by N72.5 billion following investors profit-taking in Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (GTCO) and 41 others.
Specifically, the market capitalization closed trading yesterday at N67.346 trillion, a drop of 0.11 per cent or N72.5 billion from N67.418 trillion it opened for trading. Consequently, the NGX All-Share
Index moved from 108,053.95 basis points to 107,937.74 basis points, a decline of 0.11 per cent as the Month-to-Date performance and Year-to-Date returns settled at 3.3 per cent and +4.9per cent respectively.
THISDAY gathered that 0.71 per cent drop in the stock of GTCO to N63.00 per share and Zenith Bank Plc’s 0.29 per cent to N51.45 per share contributed primarily to the downward movement in the stock market performance yesterday.
Analysing by sectors showed that the NGX Insurance Index dropped
by 1.7per cent, NGX Oil & Gas depreciated by 1.1per cent, and NGX Banking declined by 0.4per cent, while the NGX Consumer Goods Index advanced by 1.4per cent and NGX Industrial Goods added 0.1 per cent.
As measured by market breadth, market sentiment was negative, as 20 stocks gained relative to 42 losers. Nigerian Breweries emerged the highest price gainer of 10 per cent to close at N36.30, per share.
Cadbury Nigeria followed with a gain of 9.97 per cent to close at
N32.00, while The Initiates Plc (TIP) rose by 9.88 per cent to close at N4.45, per share.
International Energy Insurance increased by 9.87 per cent to close at N2.45, while Nigerian Enamelware added 9.43 per cent to close at N23.20, per share. On the other side, Ikeja Hotel and Learn Africa led the losers’ chart with 10 per cent each to close at N12.60 and N3.87 respectively, while Cornerstone Insurance followed with a decline of 9.80 per cent to close at N3.13, per share.
UPDC depreciated by 9.79 per cent to close at N3.41, while VFD Group down by 9.66 per cent to close at N52.40, per share. The total volume traded rose by 6.8 per cent to 511.100 million units, valued at N12.807
and
Transactions
Capital market analysts anticipated that the Nigerian stock market will maintain its positive drive this week, underpinned by strategic positions ahead of full year, 2024 dividend declarations as investors reassess valuation upside in equities with sturdy earnings performances.
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
Russia said Foreign Minister, Sergei Lavrov, will hold talks with top US officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, today (Tuesday) that will focus on ending the war in Ukraine and restoring "the whole complex" of Russia-US ties.
Rubio arrived in the Saudi capital Riyadh on Monday on a previously planned trip. US National Security Advisor, Mike Waltz and Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, who were set to arrive later yesterday, will be joining him at the talks with the Russians.
The talks will be among the first high-level, in-person discussions in years between Russian and US officials and are meant to precede a meeting between the US and Russian presidents.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters that Lavrov and Yuri Ushakov, a foreign policy advisor to President Vladimir Putin, would
fly to the Saudi capital Riyadh, a Reuters report said.
"They are expected to hold a meeting with their American counterparts on Tuesday, which will focus primarily on restoring the entire complex of Russian-American relations," Peskov said.
"It will also be devoted to the preparation of possible negotiations on the Ukrainian settlement and the organisation of a meeting between the two presidents," he added.
US State Department spokesperson, Tammy Bruce, confirmed that Rubio, Waltz, and Witkoff will meet with the Russian delegation in Riyadh on Tuesday.
The talks come after President Donald Trump last week spoke to Russian President Vladimir Putin by phone and ordered top officials to begin negotiations on the war, which he repeatedly vowed to end during his presidential campaign. Riyadh, which is also involved in talks with Washington over the
future of the Gaza Strip, has played a role in early contacts between the Trump administration, which took office on January 20, and Moscow, helping to secure a prisoner swap last week.
US top diplomat, Rubio, who spoke by phone with his Russian counterpart Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Saturday, said on Sunday that the coming weeks and days would determine whether Putin is serious about making peace.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy is also in the region. Zelenskiy, who arrived in the United Arab Emirates on Sunday, said he also intended to visit Saudi Arabia and Turkey, but no dates were set. He said he had no plans to meet Russian or US officials and Ukraine is not believed to be invited to the Saudi-hosted talks.
In the same vein, Russian Foreign Minister, Lavrov on Monday ruled out territorial concessions to Ukraine, setting out a tough opening stance
on the eve of talks on Tuesday with US President Donald Trump's team in Saudi Arabia.
Trump said after a call with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday that the two sides would begin talks aimed at ending the war in Ukraine.
The Kremlin said Lavrov and Yuri Ushakov, a Kremlin foreign policy adviser who has also been ambassador to Washington, would meet U.S. officials including Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Saudi Arabia.
Lavrov said there would be no talk of territorial concessions to Ukraine, around 20 per cent of which is controlled by Russian forces.
"Territorial concessions to what is now called Ukraine were made by the Soviet leadership during the formation of the USSR," Lavrov said before heaping scorn on a Ukrainian bid to do a deal giving the United States access to minerals.
"How should we give in - with Russian people or with rare earth
metals?" Lavrov said.
Reuters reported in November that Putin was ready to negotiate a deal with Trump, but would refuse to make major territorial concessions and would insist Kyiv abandon ambitions to join NATO.
A source with knowledge of Kremlin thinking said on Monday that Putin was serious about doing a deal, but not at any price. The Kremlin said the talks would focus on restoring Russian-US relations and preparations for possible talks on ending the war.
The administration of former US president Joe Biden, most EU leaders and Ukraine cast Russia's war as a land grab aimed at restoring Russian power. Kyiv and some EU leaders say that if Putin wins, he could try to attack NATO.
Russia dismisses that interpretation and denies any such plan. Putin says his "special military operation" was needed to protect Russian speakers in Ukraine and counter what he
said was the threat from potential Ukrainian NATO membership. Meanwhile, Mexico has vowed it will take Google to court if maps shown to US-based users continue to label the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America across the entire body of water, President Claudia Sheinbaum said Monday. Trump
Chuks Okocha, Linus Aleke in Abuja and Segun James in Lagos
The presence of operatives of the Department of State Security (DSS), yesterday, at the Lagos State House of Assembly, resulted in intense uproar occasioned by doubts over their real intentions.
This happened after reports had gone viral that the DSS operatives, contrary to their original mission, had come to seal off the offices of the speaker and deputy speaker, allegedly acting on orders.
But sources in the DSS denied any such thing, saying their men were at the assembly to foil imminent breakdown of law and order in the wake of the protracted leadership crisis.
This, nonetheless, former VicePresident Atiku Abubakar, has cautioned President Bola Tinubu against interfering in the affairs of the assembly, saying he was behind the invasion of the assembly.
The leadership of the assembly, had written to DSS for protection, following intelligence that loyalists of the removed former Speaker of the Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, were planning to invade the assembly.
But the presence of the DSS operatives was said to have stemmed from a request by the lawmakers for protection.
According to the DSS, the assembly had in a letter dated 14th February, 2025, told the security agencies in Lagos that there was credible information to the effect that Obasa
had planned to forcefully reinstate himself today, February 18, 2025.
Accordingly, the Assembly management, held the view that the development posed “a potential security threat” to it and its members.
The letter with reference number LSHA/FAD/0/7554/323, signed by the Acting Clerk of the Assembly, Mr. A. T. B. Ottun, was addressed to the DSS Director in the state, and the heads of other security agencies in Lagos State.
In the letter titled, “Urgent: Enhanced Security Measures for LSHA Premises,” the Acting Clerk stated: “I wish to bring to your attention a pressing matter that requires immediate action.”
The letter highlighted that Obasa planned to resume office on the 18th
reference year used to gauge price levels in the country by essentially changing the basket of goods and services used to measure inflation, to better reflect current consumer spending patterns and ensure the inflation data accurately reflects the economy's current state.
It involves replacing outdated items with new ones that better represent what people are buying today.
According to the CPI figures for the period under review, the rebased food inflation stood at 26.08 per cent in year -on-year in January, representing a decline in the food index when compared with 39.84 per cent year-on-year recorded in the preceding month.
Similarly, the rebased core index which excludes the prices of volatile agricultural produces and energy stood at 22.59 per cent year on year in January. It was 29.28 per cent in the preceding month. The rebased urban inflation also stood at 26.09 per cent year-on-year. This was 37.29 per cent in December
In addition, under the rebased template, rural inflation stood at 22.15 per cent year-on-year in the review period. It was 32.47 per cent in December when the old methodology was applied.
According to the NBS, the rebased CPI reflected the current inflationary pressure and consumption pattern of people living in the country.
The statistical agency however, however pointed out that the decline in the rebased inflation does not mean the general price level was declining.
The NBS explained that the major factor responsible for the decline was the base year being closer to the current period.
It added, "Unlike in the past, where the base year was 2009, the base year for the rebased CPI is 2024. Meaning, we are comparing prices in 2025 with prices in 2024 instead of 2009. Also, the CPI baskets are not the same."
The NBS stressed that with the reviewed inflation basket and adaptation of enhanced methods of compilation and computation, the "CPI figures provided the needed information for the government, firms, and households to make informed decisions on matters related to price levels and changes in prices," It added.
Only recently, the StatisticianGeneral of the Federation (SGF)/ Chief Executive, National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Adeyemi Adeniran, explained that the rationale for the proposed rebasing of the country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and the CPI was to ensure that economic indicators accurately reflect the current structure of the economy.
This, he noted, would incorporate new and emerging sectors, updating consumption baskets, and refining data collection methods.
He added that the measurement of
these indicators was critical to ensuring that government, policymakers, CSOs, and all other users access accurate and most recent numbers, to enable them to track the impact of their policies and programmes, as well as their implications on the citizens.
Adeniran said contrary to speculations, the exercise was not meant to suit the "expectations of anyone or entity, but simply to measure accurately in line with the global standards and practice."
The SGF also said rebasing GDP and CPI allows the country to align with these transformations, providing a more precise and relevant picture of Nigeria’s economic landscape.
He said, "If Nigeria is to make the desired progress and development, it is imperative that NBS, as the official producer of data, plays its role adequately in providing timely, accurate, and reliable statistics to inform all users, be it users in the public sector, or in the private or third sector.
"This will enable them to design, plan, and implement policies and programme that will lead to the attainment of national objectives for the benefit of Nigerians.
"Our mindset in undertaking both critical assignments is in tandem with the United Nations fundamental principles of official statistics, particularly Principle 3 which deals with accountability and transparency."
of February, 2025, as the Speaker, thereby posing a potential security threat to the Assembly and its members.
“In light of this situation, we kindly request that you take necessary measures to fortify the security of the Assembly premises with effect from Sunday 16th February, 2025 by increasing the presence of your Men and as well observe a strict access control within and outside the Assembly premises till further notice. We look forward to your prompt attention, sir. Thank you,” the clerk stated.
However, clarifying the role of the DSS, a source in the service said, its operatives were at the assembly, to maintain law and order.
Thus, at plenary yesterday, after the storm subsided, the lawmakers passed a vote of confidence on the new Speaker, Mrs. Mojisola Meranda, following rumours of her possible resignation.
Oladipo Ajomale, the member representing Oshodi-Isolo constituency II, moved the motion, affirming the assembly’s trust in Meranda’s
leadership.
The motion was seconded by Gbolahan Ogunleye, representing Ikorodu constituency 1.
The Majority Leader, Temitope Adewale, therefore, moved a motion to adjourn plenary indefinitely, which was unanimously approved by the house.
Meanwhile, Atiku has insinuated that president Bola Tinubu is behind security operatives’ invasion of the assembly.
According to Atiku in a statement condemning the crisis in the Lagos State Assembly, he condemned the presence of security personnel in the Lagos State House of Assembly.
Atiku, who attributed the crisis to Tinubu, urged the president to focus on bringing Nigeria out of its lingering economic crisis rather than “interfering in the state matters.”
His words: “The viral video of armed security operatives invading the Lagos State House of Assembly is utterly reprehensible and stands condemned.
“It must be subjected to a full and thorough investigation. It is bewil-
dering that the invading operatives reportedly have a mandate to enforce a leadership change in the House.
“It is appalling that it is those who claimed to have fought for democracy that decided to sanction this crass desecration of the state’s foremost legislative body, and by so doing, putting our hard-earned democracy in jeopardy,” Atiku said.
The former vice-president added that, “This act is an attack on the sanctity of democracy and a landmark of indignity to the Nigerian electorate, especially the people of Lagos.
“Whatever may have caused the leadership crisis in the Lagos State House of Assembly is an undercurrent that is not abnormal in a system of democracy.
“The purported invitation of armed security operatives for a conflict resolution in a parliament is an anathema that should be frowned upon and interrogated with all sense of urgency.
“Tinubu should focus on bringing Nigeria out of the mess he plunged the country into rather than interfering in the state matters,” he stated.
participants.
Another significant reform, Cardoso stated, was the removal of fuel subsidy, which, along with multiple exchange rate inefficiencies, had cost the country approximately six per cent of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) annually.
He acknowledged that previous administrations lacked the political will to remove the subsidy, but its elimination had had a profound positive impact on Nigeria’s fiscal outlook.
On financial sector reforms, Cardoso explained that CBN had mandated banks to recapitalise to strengthen the financial system and build buffers to withstand future economic shocks. He said these measures had so far proven successful in bolstering the sector.
Addressing the broader global economic climate, he emphasised the importance of tailoring policy decisions to each economy's unique needs.
The central bank governor recounted how Nigeria continued to tighten monetary policy even when global trends suggested otherwise.
Despite the initial scepticism, he stated that a year later, many financial practitioners and international colleagues recognised that Nigeria had
made the right decisions based on its specific economic conditions.
Speaking on the actions required to enhance financial inclusion and the role of digitalisation and financial technology in mitigating potential risks, the CBN governor referenced Nigeria’s experience, where the financial inclusion rate currently stood at 74 per cent. He stressed the critical need to expand this aggressively to ensure that economic growth benefited all segments of society.
As the economy rebounds, Cardoso emphasised reducing disparities and ensuring broad-based financial access.
Highlighting digitalisation as a key driver in advancing financial inclusion, he stated that expanding mobile money services, leveraging technology and prioritising gender-focused initiatives due to the positive economic impact of empowering women across the African continent would significantly close the financial access gap, particularly for underserved populations.
He reaffirmed CBN’s commitment to maintaining macroeconomic stability, sustaining policy consistency, and ensuring long-term resilience for the Nigerian economy.
The two-day event served as a key platform for addressing structural changes in the global economy and their impact on emerging markets.
In the meantime, Edun expressed government’s commitment to removing barriers that hindered youth participation in key sectors of the economy, including agriculture, manufacturing, and exports.
He urged young Nigerians to take advantage of available economic opportunities and actively engage with government policies.
Edun restated government’s dedication to unlocking the potential of Nigeria's youth in order to drive economic growth and foster a more inclusive and sustainable economy.
In a statement made available to THISDAY, the minister disclosed that the President Bola Tinubu administration had put in place several initiatives aimed at enhancing youth participation and financial inclusion.
He expressed the federal government’s commitment to economic stability, investment, and youth empowerment in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the present administration
Nigeria is 19th highest out of 204 nations with anti-microbial resistance-related mortality
Healthcare practitioners and infectious disease experts have urged the federal government to consider the scourge of antimicrobial resistance a public health emergency that should be given necessary attention.
The experts said their worry stemmed from the fact that current health statistics placed Nigeria as 19th highest with antimicrobial resistance-related mortality out of 204 countries
Consultant Clinical Microbiologist, Senior Lecturer and Head, Depart-
ment of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, Dr. Mary Alex-Wele, voiced the concern on Monday in Lagos in a paper she presented at the UK Aidfunded Fleming Fund Country Grant Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Phase 11, Training and Capacity Building for Journalists.
Alex-Wele said AMR was responsible for 263, 400 deaths in Nigeria annually. She said 64,500 of these fatalities were directly caused by resistant infections. Quoting health statistics, Alex-Wele
said, "Globally, 4.95 million deaths are linked to AMR each year, with 1.27 million directly attributed to drug-resistant infections.
“If this trend continues unchecked, we could see up to 10 million deaths annually by 2050.
"In Nigeria, AMR is responsible for 263,400 deaths annually, with 64,500 of these fatalities directly caused by resistant infections.
"Beyond the staggering human toll, AMR is expected to trigger economic losses amounting to $100 trillion globally, with a projected 3.8 percent GDP decline and severe disruptions
in livestock production."
Describing antimicrobial resistance as a global crisis, Alex-Wele emphasised the urgent need for stronger policies, increased research funding, and widespread public awareness campaigns.
She said, “Without immediate and sustained intervention, we are heading toward a post-antibiotic era where common infections become untreatable, reversing decades of medical progress.”
The infectious disease expert highlighted the necessity of a coordinated response, advocating the “One Health”
Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja
The federal government has charged foreign countries to provide enabling environment for Nigerian businesses seeking to expand internationally.
President Bola Tinubu made the appeal in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on Sunday, at a meeting with the executive members of the Nigerian Community in Ethiopia, on the sidelines of the 38th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the African Union (AU) Heads of State and Government.
The president, represented by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, called for a more liberal visa regime for Nigerian companies seeking to establish factories and businesses in foreign countries.
He noted that it is only fair and mutually beneficial for other nations to extend support to Nigerian businesses looking to expand globally considering that Nigeria has always provided an enabling environment for foreign companies to invest and operate within its borders.
The minister recalled that last year, when he was representing Nigeria in Indonesia, he discovered that while about 50 big Indonesian companies were operating in Nigeria, yet there were not up to five Nigerian companies operating in the South East Asian country.
"If they want to come to our country to trade because of our population and ability to purchase their goods and services, then there should also be that reciprocal arrangement where Nigerians are also given the rightful place; and the visa issue is the same problem
you find in Ethiopia and Indonesia. It becomes very complex for people to give Nigerians visas,” Idris said.
He also promised that the practice of the Ethiopian government to habitually cancel e-visa and Visaon-Arrival options for Nigerian travelers will be escalated to the Minister of Foreign Affairs for appropriate diplomatic engagement.
While also acknowledging the concerns raised by Nigerians in Ethiopia, the minister emphasized that visa policies among nations are typically based on the principle of reciprocity.
He noted that governments often implement visa regulations in response to the policies extended to their citizens, highlighting the need for balanced and mutually beneficial agreements in international travel and diplomacy.
“Every relationship with other countries is reciprocal. So, if we give them Visa-on-Arrival, there is no reason why they should not give us Visa-on-Arrival,” he stated.
He urged Nigerians living abroad to consistently demonstrate good conduct and responsible citizenship in order to promote the image of the country to the outside world.
“We don’t allow bad people to represent us and that’s where you come in. You are the ones who are here and if you don’t represent us well, there is no way we will look good.
“The visit of the president to Ethiopia from time to time or the visit of any minister here cannot do it. It is those who are here and living with them that can change whatever perception they have about
our country,” he said. Idris also used the occasion to update the Nigerian community about the policy direction of the Tinubu Administration.
According to him, substantial progress has been made towards revamping the economy, provision of infrastructure, curbing insecurity, and the restoration of investor confidence in Nigeria.
He stated the nation has recently attracted approximately $1.07 billion
in Foreign Direct Investment aimed at establishing drug and pharmaceutical manufacturing sectors.
He described this substantial investment as the commencement of Nigeria's medical industrialisation, which is expected to reposition the country as a significant contributor to pharmaceutical production, improve local drug manufacturing capabilities, decrease reliance on imports, generate employment opportunities, and fortify the nation’s healthcare system.
approach, a framework integrating human health, food production, environmental sustainability, and animal health.
Director of the Veterinary Institute, Vom, in Plateau State, Dr. Sati Ngulukun, who spoke on National AMR Landscape – Policies and Surveillance in Nigeria, described AMR as a silent pandemic presently ravaging the world.
Ngulukun said if urgent action was not taken some of the antibiotics or antimicrobial drugs being used to treat diseases will become inactive and lose their efficacy.
While delivering a paper titled – Private Sector Engagement in AMR – Challenges and Opportunities, Director, Laboratory Research at Rotan Medical Diagnostics Limited, Dr. Akujuobi Igwe, said 66.6 per cent of Nigerians had used antibiotics in the last six months Igwe said there was need to factor in the role private sector facilities will play in efforts to combat AMR, since more than 70 per cent of Nigerians were said to patronise these facilities for their healthcare.
According to him, there is a great disconnect presently between what public health policy implementers are doing and what is going in private hospitals.
The workshop organised by Management Science for Health (MSH) was aimed at creating more
awareness among journalists and trying to close existing knowledge gaps in AMR scourge.
Recent health data positions AMR among the leading causes of death in Nigeria, surpassing fatalities from respiratory infections, enteric infections, maternal and neonatal disorders, and neglected tropical diseases.
While diseases like tuberculosis and malaria remain major concerns, AMR’s silent rise has alarmed healthcare professionals.
AMR occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites evolve resistance to antibiotics and other antimicrobial drugs, rendering standard treatments ineffective.
This results in prolonged illnesses, higher healthcare costs, and increased mortality rates.
WHO has repeatedly warned that without urgent intervention, AMR could become the world’s leading cause of death.
The unchecked rise of AMR poses several threats, including increased morbidity and mortality; longer hospital stays and overburdening an already strained healthcare system; costlier treatments and need for more expensive antibiotics and procedures; higher risk of resistant hospitalacquired infections; complications in surgeries and routine medical treatments; and financial losses in agriculture due to drug-resistant livestock.
Environment commissioner stresses govt’s special attention on waste conversion
The Lagos State Government on Monday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with LAFARGE Africa Plc for the collection of non-recyclable combustible waste round the state and landfill sites for conveyance to the Ewekoro plant of LAFARGE for conversion as an alternative fuel for production.
Speaking during the signing ceremony which took place at Alausa, Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, appraised the new agreement, reiterating commitment of the present administration to continually reduce the quantum of waste that gets to landfills, ultimately leading to zero waste landfill sites.
Wahab reiterated the state government is determined to continually
pay special attention to wastes conversion in the state.
He stressed the collaboration between Lagos State and LAFARGE Africa will help achieve the ultimate objective of zero waste situation and reduce the quantum of the quantity of waste that ends up at the landfill sites across the state.
"It's a symbiotic relationship. We have the waste; you have the use for it and waste is not waste until it is tagged as waste; there is always value in it globally; this will go a long way to help us reduce waste generated in Lagos State and also go to the landfills. We thank LAFARGE and we are ready to put everything in it to support the process.
The commissioner recalled that the Lagos Government in recent
past had also signed MOU to help decommission existing landfill, MOU to convert waste to energy, MOU with a Dutch company to take off electronic waste adding that these processes are embarked upon deliberately and methodically.
"We believe that climate change issues are real life issues and if this generation fails to address it frontally, we may not have this continent in the next few years and the signs are all over; We can choose to play the ostrich but it will affect us all" he said.
He mentioned that flooding is a global phenomenon in countries, cities, and nations that before now never witnessed flooding and are being challenged by the global scourge adding that for those in the west,
winter is excessively cold and their summer is extremely hot and these are global warming effects explained in the most elementary way.
The commissioner emphasized that everyone has a duty to the earth to make it better and save the earth from going under, saying that a sustainable path to address it is the only way out.
"We are addressing the issues of waste frontally at the states; Waste sorting is a culture and it is a culture that you must imbibe and build over time.
“Separation of waste is here to stay. plastics must be in this particular bin; paper must be in a different bin. All these is part of the culture that we must build and we are determined to do it," he said
Shittu in Ilorin
The Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service (CGC), Mr. Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, has expressed concern over the increasing rate of petroleum product smuggling despite the removal of oil subsidy by the federal government, describing the trend as a major threat to the nation’s economy.
The CGC boss made the remarks on Monday during an official visit to the Kwara State Customs Area Command headquarters in Ilorin.
He said: "Since the implementation of the fuel subsidy removal by the government, we have observed a very disturbing trend in sophisticated smuggling operations across our borders.
“This is despite the expectations that fuel subsidies are expected to bridge the gap.
"There are lots of disparity that we still experience when we compare the fuel prices in our neighboring countries with what we have here.
“Petroleum prices in Nigeria now are below N1,000. Despite the fact that this figure seems to be higher, it is significantly lower when compared to other prices in neighbouring countries like Benin Republic and Cameroon which goes for around N1700 and N2,000 respectively in our local currency.”
He said: “Despite our efforts to curb these activities collaboratively, the lucrative arbitrage economy has continued to incentivise more sophisticated smuggling operations in the borders.
The Comptroller General said the sophistication of smugglers demand
more than conventional approach adding that the persistent challenge of petroleum smuggling continues to pose a serious challenge to our economy.
He stated that the persistent challenge of fuel smuggling remains worrisome and must be tackled decisively.
The Customs boss warned that unless authorities engage all segments of society in the fight against smuggling, the country may suffer severe economic losses.
“This menace constitutes a great danger to our economy, and we must deploy all necessary measures to curb it. The culprits will be brought to book in accordance with the law,” he said.
He however noted that significant progress has been recorded in curbing fuel smuggling through the deployment of advanced technology.
He said with about 17 land borders in the country, the fight against petroleum smuggling, among others, would require more advanced technology and the involvement of the critical stakeholders.
He therefore urged the people of the country and other security agencies to continue to support the Customs in the bid to tackle the oil smugglers in the country.
On the success so far recorded in the Kwara State Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service, Adeniyi said, it has intercepted a total of 800 jerry cans of 25 litres of PMS including a 33,000 litres truckload worth N53 million in Kwara State.
He said the period of the seizure was from the middle of January to February 10, 2025 and complemented its ongoing crackdown on smugglers
in the country.
He described the Kwara border with Benin Republic as a very strategic axis adding that “you are going to be seeing senior officers more often than before now because of the development”.
According to him, with the launch of its “Operation Whirlwind”, NCS has also achieved significant results. These achievements, he noted, also include the “sealing of 12 retail outlets for smuggling activities, seizure of 460,000 liters of PMS destined for
neighboring countries, confiscation of 23 means of conveyance and over 8,000 kegs of PMS. He added that 7 suspects have been arrested while 3 marketers are facing ongoing prosecution for regulatory offences since the operation
was started.
Speaking during the visit, the Kwara State Comptroller of Customs, Faith Ojeifo, emphasized that tackling petroleum smuggling must be a collective effort involving all security agencies and members of the public.
Sunday Aborisade in Abuja
Director General of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), Professor Abubakar Sulaiman, has cautioned clerks of the various state Houses of Assembly against involving themselves in the leadership tussles among the lawmakers.
He said being professional technocrats, their duty was to guide the legislators on how to follow the right procedures in whatever legislative actions they want to carry out.
The DG stated this yesterday during a two-day capacity-building workshop on leadership development and innovative management skills for the Forum of Clerk to State Houses of Assembly, chaired by Rukkaiya Adamu Jalo.
Sulaiman said clerks of legislative arms of government are crucial to the success and effectiveness of legislation in Nigeria.
He stressed the critical roles being played by the clerks to the success of legislations in the country, and said achieving good governance and
constitutional mandates depends on the competence of legislative bureaucracy.
He said: “We're in a turbulent period and whether we like it or not, our lawmakers are politicians of divergent political lineage. They have national interests, no doubt about that.
“We bureaucrats, at both executive level, judiciary, and the legislature, we have a role to play. Most importantly, we clerks have a role to play. There are a lot of crises going on in so many states’ houses of assembly.
“We have a crisis in Lagos. We have a crisis in Rivers. We have crises in so many states of assembly.
“We have recorded cases of impeachments here and there. Politicians do politics. You must perform your work.
“As technocrats, as bureaucrats, we must ensure that procedures are being followed in everything we do.
That is why when there's any harm on a politician, it will not affect you.
“However, when you see it affecting a clerk, as we have it in Lagos State, then you must ask
yourself the question, why? Have you compromised? Have you been fingered in any of these feuds?
“Or is it corruption? Or abnormalities that are obtained during that period. We must stand above partisanship. We must be lawabiding.
“We must do the needful. And the best way to be law-abiding and stand above partisanship and compromises is to always emphasize the training and retraining of our staff.
“I'm not unaware of the fact that some of your staff that are coming up in the various assemblies, they are product of politicians.”
He explained that the workshop was necessary to present, “an opportunity to strengthen our collective capacity to enhance legislative efficiency, institutional resilience, and democratic governance.”
He said: “You are the engine room
of legislative activities through the coordinating role you play in your various assemblies.
“Your leadership, administrative competence, and strategic guidance are essential for the smooth functioning of legislative processes and the successful implementation of financial and administrative autonomy.
“Recognising this crucial role, NILDS being the capacity-building hub for legislatures at all levels of government, has designed this intensive two-day capacity-building workshop to equip Clerks with the knowledge, skills, and tools necessary for innovative and responsive leadership in legislative management.
“Our carefully selected resource persons, drawn from various fields of expertise, will offer valuable insights and practical strategies to address the complex challenges confronting legislative bureaucracies in Nigeria.”
Michael
Olugbode
A group, the Northern Christian Youth Professionals (NCYP), has said Nigeria is at a defining moment, facing complex security challenges that require unwavering dedication, professionalism, and courage, urging the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu to shun unjust criticisms against his efforts at restoring security back to the country.
The group in a statement on Monday by its Chairman, Isaak Abrak said: “We wish to express our unwavering support for the National Security Adviser (NSA) as he continues to discharge his
critical duty of safeguarding our nation’s security and providing strategic guidance to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“We have observed with concern the wave of attacks, criticisms, and deliberate misinformation being spread against the NSA on social media and other platforms.
“While we acknowledge that public service - especially in such a sensitive and high-stakes role - naturally attracts scrutiny, we strongly believe that his focus should remain on the bigger task of securing our nation rather than being distracted by detractors.”
The statement added: “Nigeria is at a defining moment, facing
complex security challenges that require unwavering dedication, professionalism, and courage. The NSA has demonstrated a resolute commitment to addressing these issues and working towards a safer and more stable Nigeria.
“The ongoing campaigns of calumny against him are nothing but a distraction, and we urge him to remain steadfast, knowing that true leadership often comes with criticism.
“We also call on well-meaning Nigerians to reject the spirit of division and undue attacks on leaders who are working tirelessly to strengthen our nation. Constructive criticism is
essential for growth, but malicious attacks that seek to undermine national security efforts should be discouraged.
“Furthermore, we advise those engaging in baseless attacks, especially some of our elders who should be beacons of wisdom, to remember the fear of God. Life is fleeting, and every individual will one day give an account before the Almighty.
“It is imperative to use one’s voice and influence for truth, justice, and the good of the nation rather than to spread division and falsehood. Let us all strive to leave a legacy of integrity, unity, and godly counsel for the younger generation.
The Global Association of Female Attorneys (GAFA) has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting justice, equality, and human rights, with a focus on creating a better society for all.
The President of GAFA, Chinelo Iriele, who spoke during a wedding in Abuja stressed the organization's dedication and further advocated policies and laws that promote equality, justice, and human rights.
She revealed that the organization has called on governments, international organizations, and civil society to join forces in promoting a more just and equitable society.
"As female attorneys, we recognize the critical role we play in shaping a better society. We will continue to work tirelessly to promote the rights of women, children, and marginalized communities."
Speaking on the role of mothers in the home, Rita Chris Garuba, who anchored the session, stressed that womanhood is embracing femininity nurturing and caring for others.
"Women find strength in challenges of life. Womanhood entails the ability of a mother, a sister, a problem solver, and a friend. Womanhood is not just something that you make your own wish. It means that womanhood is actually a journey that evolves and changes."
She said that women are wired to handle situations in a way that brings out the best of society that we have today.
Speaking on the effect of good and poor parenting on the children, Kenneth Okonkwo harped on the need for parents to live by example because children learn from what they see and not what you say to them.
L-R: Partner, Audit, KPMG Professional Services West Africa, Mr. Oluwafemi Awotoye; Associate Director, Technology Platforms, KPMG, Mr. Christopher Ogirri; Deputy Director, Clinical Services, Atlantis Pediatrics and MultiSpecialist Hospital Lekki, Dr. Diya Olalade; Partner, Head of Audit, KPMG, Dr. Goodluck Obi; President, Noble Shareholders Solidarity Association, Mr. Anthony Katchy; Partner, Audit, KPMG, Mr. Chineme Nwigbo; Partner, Tax Deal Asvisory, KPMG West Africa, Oludayo Adeniji; and Partner, Audit, KPMG West Africa, Mr. Ayodele Soyinka, at the KPMG Audit committee seminar for shareholders 2025 in Lagos ... recently
Chief of Staff to the President, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, weekend, hinted at the cost of working with President Bola Tinubu, and confessed it has been the most difficult job he’s undertaken because of the nature and work ethic of the president.
Speaking at a conversation, book reading and signing event at the Capital Club, Victoria Island, Gbajabiamila said his work has been made more difficult because the president was strong, knew his
onions and knew the work better.
The former speaker of the House of Representatives, also went back to the politics of the speakership election in 2023, and explained why he pitched for Hon. Tajudeen Abbas as his successor for speakership, saying he was the best in the circumstances.
On his part, Speaker Abbas, who in his address dwelt on the leadership qualities of his predecessor, told the gathering that unlike the typical tradition in political parlance, the former speaker had never attempted to throw his weight or influence
around, given the role he played in his election.
Speaking on his current posting, Gbajabiamila said, “Nothing in this world can prepare you for the role of Chief of Staff. First, you'd lose your freedom.
“As speaker, you are your own boss, although you won't be irresponsible with it. But as speaker, I could travel to cool off anytime, just to return better and get the work done.
“Now, there's a boss, one who is strong and knows his onions and
even knows more than you. But it's a welcome development. As speaker, the buck stops on my table. But here, there is a boss.
“As speaker, whereas you are dealing with 359 other colleagues of yours, even though you are dealing with the entire country. But primarily, you are dealing first with 359 others. As chief of staff, you are dealing with 200 million Nigerians with different needs at different times.”
On the election of Abbas, he said,
“When the election of speaker was coming, everyone, who came out
Kuni Tyessi in Abuja
Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) says it will close the 2023/2024 student loan application cycle on February 21, and will commence the 2024/2025 application cycle on February 22.
Managing Director of NELFUND, Akintunde Sawyerr, who revealed this yesterday in Abuja during a press conference, said the transition to the 2024/2025 cycle was a demonstration of the organisation’s commitment to efficiency, transparency and continuous improvement of the scheme.
He reassured those who had
successfully submitted their applica- tions before the deadline that their applications would be processed, in line with the fund’s established guidelines.
He said so far, N22,736,960,971.58 has been disbursed to cover institutional fees across 150 institutions, directly benefiting 215,514 students in just 220 days and with an impressive 364,042 applications with an average of 1000 per day.
His words: “NELFUND remains dedicated to providing financial support to students, ensuring that no deserving individual is denied education due to financial constraints.
“In just 220 days, we have received
an impressive 364,042 applications with an average of 1,000 applications per day.
“I am proud to announce that N22,736,960,971.58 has been disbursed to cover institutional fees across 150 institutions, directly benefiting 215,514 students.
“Furthermore, a total of N12,818,960,000 has been disbursed as upkeep support, reaching 169,114 students, each receiving N20,000 monthly to assist with their living expenses.
“Our team remains committed to ensuring a fair and timely review of all pending applications.
“This transition is a necessary
step to streamline our operations, align with the academic calendar and enhance our ability to process applications efficiently.”
to contest was close to me and the incumbent was the least closest to me.
“But I went to him and asked: how do you want to be speaker? He was in Kaduna at the time. I wanted to leave a legacy that I would be proud of, and which my family would be proud of. So, I approached him.
“Other contenders were equally qualified. But I knew him. I knew his capacity and pedigree. And when I put him forward, every member of the house fell in line. Today, they call to thank me for his leadership.”
Talking about his own speakership journey, Gbajabiamila, who was in the House for six terms, said, “The first time I ran for speakership, I believed I had worked to that point: minority, majority, and speaker.
“But the opposition endorsed Yakubu Dogara and that was it. By the time the result was announced, it was a shocker to even me. Everybody was shocked.
“There were plans to remove him, but I never attended any of such meetings, where the plans were being hatched. I told them what was done, was done. Let’s move
forward and I think that enhanced my eventual emergence as speaker in 2019.”
Discussing his political journey in general, he said his third election into the House proved the most difficult after he had openly and publicly campaigned against former President Olusegun Obasanjo's third term bid and also went on to kill the move. But the irony, he said, was that he was also itching to pitch his third term election to the House and so, his opposition played it up, saying if he could oppose Obasanjo’s third term, why should he be allowed to also enjoy a third term in the House. According to him, the opposition made it challenging to tell the people that while the constitution forbids the president and governors from seeking a third term, it allows the lawmakers as many times as possible.
Eventually, Gbajabiamila said he survived that era and went on to not only win that particular election, but also the fourth, fifth and sixth elections into the House before emerging the speaker in 2019, and now Tinubu’s chief of staff.
The Labour Party Caucus in the House of Representatives has commended ongoing efforts by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), to crack down on merchants of fake and counterfeit medicines.
The agency had raided Onitsha drug market twice recently, recovering a huge amount of fake, adulterated and counterfeit drugs.
The agency also sealed medicine markets in Idumota, Lagos State, Ariaria, in Aba, Abia State State and Onitsha, in Anambra State.
However, the caucus also urged
the agency to exercise caution and ensure that its enforcement actions target only identified culprits, sparing the operations of innocent individuals and businesses.
A press release signed by the leader of the caucus, Hon. Afam Victor Ogene, and made available to journalists in Awka, said while the caucus commends NAFDAC for its efforts at tackling the menace of fake and adulterated drugs, it must go about the assignment in adherence with global best practices, such that legitimate and innocent traders are not caught in the quagmire.
Ogene said: "For instance, it was reported that NAFDAC sealed the market and allegedly denied the
traders and their leadership entry, as it's officials proceeded to break into shops, carting away pharmaceuticals, without owners of such shops being allowed to witness the operation and take inventory.
"Already, there are reports of some traders and Point of Sale (POS) operators who left varying sums of cash in their shops - the closure having taken place at the weekend - without any means of getting same back.
"This measured approach will help balance the agency's regulatory mandate with the need to protect the interests of law-abiding entrepreneurs and traders," Hon. Ogene said.
Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City
The Edo Civil Society Coalition for Justice (ECSCFJ), on Monday, condemned those protesting the nonappointment of an indigene as the new Managing Director of Benin-Owena River Basin Development Authority. The federation government had last January appointment Femi Adekanbi as the new MD of the federal agency after the expiration of two-term of eight years of Saliu Ahmed from Auchi, Edo State.
As soon as the announcement was made some members under the aegis of Host Communities, drawn from Obayantor II, Ekosa, Agbonmwoba and Awanoba, staged a protest, demanding Adekanbi be dropped in preference to a Benin person as the agency's boss.
Addressing a press conference in Benin City, ECSCFJ, noted that the call by the Benin indigenous group for appointment of person of Benin extraction was highly misplaced as according to him, the River Basin Authority covers four states which includes, Edo, Delta, Ondo and Ekiti.
Besides, Coordinator of ECSCFJ, Comrade David King, who read the
address on behalf of members of the coalition, argued that since inception of the River Basin, Edo State has occupied the position of Managing Director on five occasions, more than other states the authority represents namely: Prince A.I. Eweka (1977-1982), Dr. E.C. Olumese (1986-1989), Dr. G.E. Oteze (1990-1999, Mr. A.A. Osula (2011-2016, and Engr. Saliu Ahmed (2016-2024).
According to him, it is also a known fact the immediate past Managing Director who completed eight-year tenure, is of Edo origin, pointing out that the actions of the protesters are not a way to clamour for equity, as their demand may also constitute a clear contravention of the Federal Character.
"As a civil society coalition in Edo State, we have become very worried about the turn of events particularly with the recent protest instigated at the Benin-Owena River Basin Development Authority, embarked upon by some elements who claimed to be representing the interests of the Benin ethnic group.
"The protesters, claiming to represent the interests of the Benin group, demanded that the position of Managing Director be ceded to a
Benin indigene as reward for hosting the agency. However, it is essential to set the record straight. BORDA represents four states: Edo, Delta, Ondo and Ekiti.
"With this, it is very important to educate the misdirected protesters and members of the public, who they wish to mislead, that Edo State has occupied the position of M.D on five occasions since the inception of the authority, more times than any other state the authority represents.
"It is also important to note that some of these MDs have been offered Benin extraction. It is also a fact that the immediate past MD who completed 8-year tenure is of Edo origin.
“Therefore, the actions of these misguided protesters are in no way a clamour for equity but one that clearly contravene the federal character system.
The ECSCFJ therefore, said the demands by the protesters are not true representative of the interest of Benin people as falsely claimed but one borne out of selfish interest. He added that the Benin is made of people with integrity and highly regarded leaders to speak on behalf of their collective interests.
L-R; Managing Director, Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin; Chief Executive Officer, LAFARGE Africa PLC, Mr. Lolu Alade-AKINYEMI, Commissioner for The Environment and Water Resources, Mr Tokunbo Wahab; Special Adviser on Environment, Engr. Olakunle Rotimi-Akodu; Permanent Secretary, Office of Enviromental Services, Gaji Omobolaji and his counterpart in the Office of Drainage Services, Engr. Mahamood Adegbite, during the signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with LAFARGE Africa PLC, on the collection of non recyclable, combustible waste, held at the Ministry of The Environment and Water ResourcesAlausa Ikeja, Lagos State ... yesterday
PDP tells sacked council chair, others they can’t return to office, insists on court judgement
attempt to hijack secretariats, chair, two others killed, six sustain gunshots
Chuks Okoch, Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja and Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo
Amid lingering local government crisis, Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSSIEC), yesterday, unveiled voting materials for Saturday’s council election across the 30 local government areas of the state.
Chairman of OSSIEC, Hassim Abioye, stated at a press conference that the commission was ready for the exercise.
Abioye said, “We are fully ready for the upcoming local government elections on February 22nd, 2025, and we are unveiling the electoral materials.”
He urged all stakeholders in the political circle to maintain peace before, during and after the election.
You Can’t Return to Office, PDP Tells Sacked Council Chairmen, Councillors
The national leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) cautioned sacked Osun State local government chairmen and councillors to perish the thought of forcing themselves back into office, as such would have dire consequences.
PDP also charged All Progressives Congress (APC) to accept the reality and end its resort to self-help, misrepresentations, vituperations, violence and killing with the aim of triggering crisis and destabilising the state, having realised that it had lost.
PDP said the fate of the ousted local government chairmen and councillors was sealed by the judgement of the
Court of Appeal, which nullified the unconstitutional attempt by then Governor Gboyega Oyetola to plant them as council officers.
National Publicity Secretary of PDP, Debo Ologunagba, said, “Having been roundly rejected by the people of Osun State in the Saturday, July 16, 2022, governorship election, the then Governor Oyetola and the APC ought to have known that attempting to side-step the laws and manipulate the process to illegally foist APC members and apologists as local government chairmen and counsellors was an exercise in futility, which was bound to fail ultimately.
“The APC is the architect of its misfortune. It should have known that disregarding and refusing to comply with the provisions of the constitution and the Osun State Local Government Election Laws with respect to the requirement on notices, processes and procedures of conducting local government election is destined to be fatal and irreparable.”
Osun Boils as One Reinstated Chairman, Two Others Killed, Six Sustain Gunshots
Tension, yesterday, enveloped Osun State, as gunmen invaded local government secretariats following an attempt by both All Progressives Congress (APC) and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to take over control in accordance with the decision of the appeal court.
The development became fatal after one of the reinstated APC local government chairmen Hon. Remi Abass, was killed in Irewole Local
Government Area.
At Boripe, the Commissioner for Local Government Affairs and Protocol, Hon. Ajeigbe Korede, informed journalists that two PDP members were also feared dead while six others, who received gunshots, were at the hospital for treatment.
THISDAY learnt that in the early hours of Monday, APC members moved to the various council secretariats in a bid to take over control, but they were resisted by some gun-wielding hoodlums.
APC also attempted to take over all the 30 local government areas, but Boluwaduro local government was
resisted by hoodlums while both APC and PDP members were prevented by police from gaining access to the council secretariat in Olorunda Local Government Area.
Executive Chairman, Ife-Central Local Government Area, Hon. Olayera Elugbaju, resumed office in accordance with the Court of Appeal judgement.
PDP N’Assembly Caucus
Condemns ‘Criminal’ Takeover of LGs' Secretariat
Osun State Caucus of Peoples Democratic party in the National Assembly, condemned the alleged
State boils as hoodlums
PDP N’Assembly caucus condemns devt
criminal take-over of the local government secretariats across Osun State.
The caucus, led by Deputy Senate Minority Leader, Lere Oyewumi, while addressing a press conference in Abuja, said having observed the breakdown of law and order in the state in the last few hours, it was necessary to address the people.
Oyewumi stated, “We use this medium to condemn the brazen effrontery of the sacked local government council officials to return to office notwithstanding the yet-to-be-set-aside decision of the Court of Appeal, Akure, against
their return to the office.
“Today (Monday), the people of Osun woke up to a criminal take-over of the local government secretariats across Osun State by these sacked officials, who forcefully broke into the premises of the councils, aided by thugs and hooligans who have been shooting sporadically, wreaking havoc on the people of the state, thereby breaking law and order.
“Sadly, this is being perpetrated with the support of some security personnel, relying on a different court judgement, despite a subsisting court judgement, which upheld the nullification of their purported election.”
The Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has again ordered another prompt and thorough investigation into the alleged killing of unarmed innocent civilians through airstrikes of air component of operation Fansan Yamma in Katsina State.
Abubakar said the investigation was to verify the claims and ensure appropriate action was taken, based on the findings.
A statement by Director, Public Relations and Information, Nigerian Air Force, Air Vice Marshal Olusola Akinboyewa, said the NAF took the concerns seriously and remained fully committed to uncovering the truth.
The NAF spokesperson, stated that
while the claims were distressing, it was important to emphasise that they remained allegations until a comprehensive investigation was concluded.
According to him, the reports alleging civilian casualties following the airstrikes were deeply troubling.
"As a professional force dedicated to the protection of Nigeria and its people, the NAF operates under strict rules of engagement and adheres to internationally accepted standards in all its operations.
"The NAF Ethos guarantees that our operations are always geared towards ensuring the well-being of our nation and citizens," he said.
The NAF also disclosed that the coordinated military airstrikes
The Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR), a global partnership that unites organisations engaged in research for a food secure future, is mourning the demise of Dr. Kanayo F. Nwanze, a giant in the world of agricultural research for development and a distinguished leader whose unwavering dedication had a profound impact on global food security.
According to a statement issued yesterday, CGIAR said . Nwanze’s illustrious career spanned over four decades, during which he held pivotal roles that shaped the future of agriculture. As Director-General
of the Africa Rice Center (formerly WARDA), he was instrumental in introducing and promoting the New Rice for Africa (NERICA), a high-yield, drought- and pest-resistant variety tailored for the African landscape. His leadership at the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) as President further underscored his commitment to placing agriculture at the forefront of international development, ensuring that the voices of smallholder farmers and rural communities were heard and addressed.
“Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Nwanze was a mentor and visionary. His academic journey
was global from the onset, going from the University of Ibadan, Nigeria, to Kansas State University, USA. He was a respected member of several scientific associations and published extensively, sharing his vast knowledge and insights with the global community. His contributions were recognized with honorary degrees from McGill University, Canada, and the University of Warwick, United Kingdom, as well as numerous honors and awards from governments and international institutions.
“Dr. Nwanze’s passion for Africa’s development was evident in his own words: “As many of you will know,
I am an African born in Nigeria. And although my professional life has taken me to three other continents, Africa has, and will always have, a special place in my heart.”
“More recently, he played a huge role in leading CGIAR’s evolution, serving on the System Management Board, chairing the AfricaRice board, co-chairing the Committee that stewarded the Unified Governance Review in 2023, and representing the General Assembly of Centers on the Nominations Committee of the System Council. He also represented CGIAR externally and was our special representative to the UN Food Systems Summit.”
ordered following credible intelligence killed scores of bandits and repelled planned bandit onslaught against Police Mobile Force (PMF) and Katsina State Community Watch Corps personnel.
"The Air Component of Operation Fansan Yamma (AC OFY), on 15 February 2025, conducted a successful airstrike at Yauni Hill, Zakka Ward of Safana Local Government Area, Katsina State.
"The airstrike resulted in the neutralisation of several bandits and helped to repel the onslaught against Police Mobile Force (PMF) and Katsina State Community Watch Corps personnel.
"The operation was launched in response to intelligence indicating a terrorist attack on a PMF location in the community, where bandits had already killed two PMF personnel and four vigilantes," Akinboyewa said.
Linus Aleke in Abuja
The Police Service Commission (PSC), has approved the appointment of former force spokesperson, Jimoh Moshood, as the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command.
A statement by Head, Press and Public Relations, Ikechukwu Ani, said before his appointment, CP Jimoh, was Commissioner of Police, Ports Authority, Eastern Ports.
He said Jimoh, who hails from Kwara State, was the Force Public Relations Officer and later Deputy Commissioner, Airport Police; Deputy Commissioner, Finance and Administration and Deputy Commissioner General Investigation.
"He has undergone several
professional trainings which include; Combat operations Course, Mobile Training College Maiduguri; African Union Mission in Darfur Sudan; Weapons of mass destruction counter measure first responder Training Institute, United States.
“Training on social construction and management Reform China Executive Leadership Academy, Pudong China; Training on Maritime Rescue and salvage for Developing Countries, China Maritime Academy Ningbo, China.
“Training on anti hijacking techniques and tactics for developing countries, Yunnan Police College Kunmung, China. He was also at the Police training Institute, Seoul South Korea," Ani said.
Social Communications, Catholic
The leadership of the Labour Party (LP), has dismissed reports that its 2027 presidential ticket has been zoned to the South-East geo-political zone.
This was as the Zenith Labour Party (ZLP), has also dismissed reports that it has offered Mr. Peter Obi a free presidential ticket for the 2027 elections.
In a statement yesterday by its National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, the party stated that it has not and would not zone any of
its positions to any geographical zone or individual.
According to the statement, “the party did not at any time say it has zoned the presidency or any of its positions in the coming election.
“The party was emphatic in its position that, although it made its platform available for the South-East to pursue its political aspirations in the 2023 election, it will not close its doors to the zone if it chooses to work with the party in future elections.
“The National Chairman, Bar-
rister Julius Abure, on Saturday, while speaking at a gathering of South-East members of the party in the FCT, only advised that Ndigbo can still achieve the presidency if they are more united and can reach out to other groups, and that the Labour Party is a veritable platform for their aspiration.
“The Labour Party is a national party and has a large followership across the country, therefore, the issue of zoning does not arise.
“In the 2023 general elections, the party won seats in the North and across the Southern states,
and we are working hard to surpass that achievement in future elections.”
On its part, ZLP, in a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Khalid Arewa, described the claim as “a big lie from the pit of hell,” clarifying that ZLP had no connection with the social media account spreading misinformation.
The party reaffirmed that its leadership decisions were guided by its constitution and values, warning against attempts to exploit ZLP’s reputation for political gain.
While vowing to take legal
A Federal High Court sitting in Port Harcourt, yesterday, adjourned till April 30th, 2025, to continue hearing the suit seeking that the seats of the embattled Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Martin Amaewhule and 26 others be declared vacant.
The suit was filed by the lawmakers loyal to Governor Siminalayi Fubara, and they were Hon. Victor Oko-Jumbo (Speaker), Hon Adolphus Orubienimigha, and Sokari Goodboy Sokarifor.
Case was adjourned for adoption of written processes on affidavits and counter affidavits.
Oko-Jumbo and the two other lawmakers had filed the matter
before Justice Emmanuel Obile of the federal high court, asking that the seats of the embattled lawmakers be declared vacant following their defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) that sponsored their election to the All Progressives Congress (APC)
When the matter was mentioned in court, lead counsel for Oko-Jumbo and two others, Prof Yusuf Ali, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, told the court that counsel for the 1-15 defendants, Ferdinand Orbih, SAN, filed another set of counter affidavits via WhatsApp on Saturday February 15, 2025.
Her added that his team responding to the affidavit, filed a further counter affidavit on Monday, February 17, 2025.
Ali, who led about 33 senior lawyers, told the court that, “Today is for adoption of processes. On Saturday, February 15, 2025, I got a message from counsel representing 1-15 defendants (Orbih), that he filed another set of further counter affidavits, but was not able to serve our team on Friday. He did forward the documents via WhatsApp.
“Today is the first working day to react to the documents. We filed a further affidavit in reaction to the further counter affidavit by the defendants, and it was filed today, February 17, 2025.”
Orbih, who did not counter submission of the applicant counsel, claimed that the reason it was filed late was because of the delay in getting the Supreme Court ruling.
Onuminya Innocent in
Sokoto
The General Officer Commanding (GOC), 8 Division of Nigerian Army Sokoto, Major General Ibikunke Ajose, has solicited for increased inter-agencies synergy in order to achieve successes in the fight against terrorists in Nigeria. Ajose made the call on Monday in his remark on the occasion of 8 Division Operations Planning Cadre and representatives of other sister agencies in Sokoto.
He said the exercise would bring enduring working relationship between military and other agencies working to combat security challenges bedeviling the country.
The GOC noted that the planning was aimed at improving skills in the officers for efficient operations, stressing that the nation was facing divers security challenges that would require collective strategy and planning among security men.
According to him, participants were drawn from the Division from
their areas of responsibilities.
“Essence of inviting sister security agencies was to bridge the gaps and promote understandings to facilitate harmonious working relationship,” he said.
He stated that good leadership was essential in the conduct of military operations, saying improving the leadership skills in Nigeria Army especially amongst the junior commanders was one of the Chief of Army Staff training objectives for the year 2025.
Reacting to arguments and request of the counsels in the matter, the trial Judge, Justice Obile, said the court could not continue to share proceedings with the apex court and adjourned till April 30, for adoption of written processes by which time the supreme court would have ruled on matter before with Rivers State.
He noted that it is important to wait for the decisions of the supreme court on the plethora of appeals as they concerned Rivers State government before it.
action against those responsible for the falsehood, ZLP urged Nigerians to disregard the fake
news and rely only on official statements from its authorised channels.
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, yesterday, said that, his country spent the sum of $47 million humanitarian aid to support 98 different projects across Nigeria last year.
The expended funds, according to the Saudi government, was through King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief).
Chief Operating Officer, Abubakr A-Sidiq Philanthropic Home, Farid Salman, who stated this in Ilorin, yesterday, on the sidelines of commissioning ceremony of the orphan support project, organised by the philanthropic home and funded by KSrelief said, the gesture was to assist displaced persons, enhancement of healthcare and empowerment of communities in the country.
Mr. Salman added that, "KSrelief
has been a cornerstone of humanitarian efforts in Nigeria, funding projects that address critical needs in food, security, health education and early recovery."
In another development, the Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, has distributed 100 tons of dates to Nigeria as part of its annual humanitarian relief efforts in the country.
According to a statement by the embassy, the initiative, facilitated by the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief), aims to support vulnerable families across the country and strengthen the deep-rooted ties between the two nations.
During the ceremony, the Ambassador of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques to Nigeria, Ambassador Faisal bin Ibrahim AlGhamdi, conveyed the Kingdom’s dedication to humanitarian causes.
A Kano State High Court, has issued a perpetual injunction, preventing the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) from withholding funds meant for the 44 local governments in the state.
The order was in response to a motion filed by the Chairman of the Nigerian Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), Ibrahim Muhd, and others, who sought to stop the CBN and other respondents from delaying or withholding essential allocations for local governments.
Delivering the judgment, yesterday, Justice Ibrahim MusaMuhammad held that the applicants had established their case beyond reasonable doubt.
“I resolve in the affirmative that all the reliefs sought by the applicants are granted. By the decision of the Supreme Court of Nigeria in suit No SC/CV/343/2024 Attorney General of Abia State and 35 others.
“The Kano State Local Government Council Electoral Laws 2022, the AGF, CBN, and RMAFC are under a duty to disburse monthly allocations to the 44 LGAs as democratically elected Local Government Councils
“A Declaration that withholding these allocations would amount to a breach of the fundamental rights of the residents, inhabitants in the 44 Local government Councils, as guaranteed under Sections 33, 42 and 43,44, 45 and 46 of the 1999
Constitution of the Federal Republic Of Nigeria (As Amended).
“Articles 13,19,22 and 24 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights for the AGF, CBN and RMAFC to exclude the 44 LG in the distribution from funds accruing from the Federation Account in line with Section 162(3) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended),” he submitted.
The court's ruling emphasised that the CBN, Accountant-General of the Federation (AGF), and Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) have a duty to disburse monthly allocations to the 44 Local Government Areas as democratically elected councils.
Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in umuahia
With the dust raised by his open admiration of Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, yet to settle, the Chairman, Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Adolphus Wabara, has again stirred the hornets’ nest.
Wabara was on February 11, 2025 suspended by the leadership of Abia State chapter of PDP for appreciating the achievements of Governor Otti and even endorsing him for second term in office.
Though the National Working Committee (NWC) of PDP promptly dismissed the suspension order, the Abia PDP
Francis Sardauna in Katsina
The Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, has unveiled a N5.7 billion hybrid goat rearing empowerment scheme for 40,000 rural women and large scale farmers across the 34 local government areas of the state.
While flagging off the distribution of the goats to the beneficiaries at Dan-Kola Farm Centre, Daura yesterday, Radda said the initiative was part of his government’s efforts to make Katsina a leading hub for livestock production in Nigeria.
The governor explained that
the beneficiaries were carefully selected from across the 361 wards of the state with each ward having 10 women and one large scale farmer.
He said each beneficiary from the women groups will be given four heads of goats (one male and three females), while the large scale farmers would receive 50 heads of goats each. He reiterated that the goat rearing programme was a broader strategy of his administration to boost livestock farming, enhance food security, and create sustainable livelihood opportunities for farmers in the state.
leadership has refused to budge.
But on Sunday, Wabara for the first time publicly reacted to the sanction imposed on him, saying that nobody can gag him
from commenting on the good things happening in his state, Abia since Otti came to power.
The former Senate President spoke in Umuahia during the
80th anniversary celebration of a former Secretary to the Abia State Government (SSG), Dr Emelike Okoro. He defiantly called the bluff of his state party leadership.
Wabara doubled down on his praises of Otti, reminding everyone that he would not because of party politics not speak on his state.
Blessing IbungeinPortHarcourt
A former ex-militant leader, Osaanya B. Osaanya, has traced the sponsors of campaigns of calumny against the Managing Director, Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, to persons promoting core Ijaw agenda in Ijaw land.
Osaanya, a prominent youth
leader in the Niger Delta, said the promoters of core Ijaw agenda, especially in Bayelsa State, were not happy that Ogbuku, who hails from Ogbia, a local government area in the state they considered as non-core Ijaw, was appointed by President Bola Tinubu to manage the commission. He said such enemies of Bayelsa State and Niger Delta became more livid with anger that Ogbuku was
delivering the president’s Renewed Hope Agenda in the commission beyond expectations.
Osaanya in a statement at the weekend said the sponsors were wondering why an individual from former President Goodluck Jonathan’s local government area would be given such juicy appointment ahead of others from core Ijaw councils. He said: “This parochial and primitive mentality has kept Bayelsa State redundant in terms of development. The core Ijaw promoters have been pushing the evil and anti-social agenda that some persons born in some local government areas are the real Ijaw while others in other local government areas in the same state are less of Ijaw.
Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja
Kogi State Adolescent Girls
Initiative For Learning and Empowerment( Kogi AGILE) has appealed for a collaborative synergy from the civil society organizations(CSOs) and the media for the successful implementation of the project in Kogi State.
The State Project Coordinator, Dr. Ameen Bello, made this appeal while speaking during the critical stakeholders’ meeting at the Government House in Lokoja yesterday.
Dr. Bello explained that the AGILE project is World Bankassisted project of the Federal Ministry Education geared at improving secondary education opportunities for adolescent girls aged between 10 and 20.
He stated that adolescent girls in Nigeria are generally faced with challenges that prevent them from accessing and completing secondary education due to socio-cultural, finances and infrastructural deficits. The State Project Coordinator pointed out that AGILE project is meant to improve secondary education opportunities in the implementing states by tackling these challenges to making education more appealing to adolescent girls ,parents ,communities and the institutions.
Funmi Ogundare
Yinka Olatunbosun
A rattling presence is what the award-winning writer, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, is stirring in the literary world with the news of the release of her first novel in ten years titled ‘Dream Count’, a book published by Fourth Estate.
The Nigerian author won the Women’s Prize for Fiction in 2007 for her war-themed novel set during the Nigerian Civil War, ‘Half of a Yellow Sun’. Her bestselling last novel, ‘Americanah’, is an excursion into racial identity as it explored a young woman’s experience immigrating to America, winning the National Book Critics Circle
Award in 2013.
Beyond her versatility with fiction writing, Adichie has written the seminal collection of essays ‘We Should All Be Feminists’, as well as ‘Notes on Grief’, a tribute to her late father.
‘Dream Count’ is preoccupied with subject matters of love, longing and desires of four women.
Through the eyes of four women, Chiamaka, Zikora, Omelogor and Kadiatou, the author navigates episodes of love and happiness. The book is set for release on March 4, 2025.
Meanwhile, Adichie also revealed the news of the birth of her twin boys 10 months ago while fielding questions at an interview recently.
The West African Examinations Council (WAEC), Nigeria, has announced the release of the results for the 2024 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) for private candidates, second series.
The acting Head, Public Affairs , Moyo Adesina in a statement, explained that this year’s exam was conducted in two modes for the first time; the traditional paper and pen mode and a computer-based hybrid option, offering candidates flexibility in their examination choice.
She stated that a total of 68,342 candidates entered for the examination, marking a 20 per cent decrease compared to the 2023 figure. Of these, 65,023 candidates participated in the exams across 5,067 centers nationwide.
Out of the total candidates that sat the examination, 34,878
candidates (53.64 per cent) earned credit in five subjects, including English Language and Mathematics, while 43,923 candidates (67.55 per cent) obtained credit or above in a minimum of five subjects (including or excluding English Language and/or Mathematics).
The Northern Christian Youth Professionals (NCYP) has expressed support for the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, saying he is discharging his critical duties very well and providing strategic guidance to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The group in a statement signed by its chairman,
Isaac Abrak, said: “We have observed with concern the wave of attacks, criticisms, and deliberate misinformation being spread against the NSA on social media and other platforms. While we acknowledge that public service—especially in such a sensitive and high-stakes role—naturally attracts scrutiny, we strongly believe that his focus
Omon-Julius Onabuinasabaand Sylvester IdowuinWarri
Mrs. Rosemary Eziafa Nwaebuni yesterday assumed office as the substantive General Manager (GM) of the state-owned Delta Printing and Publishing Corporation, publisher of The Pointer Newspaper.
Mrs Nwaebuni is the first female to be appointed GM since its the establishment of state publishing company 33 years ago.
The General Editor of National Wire, an online news publication, Mr. Friday Ekeoba, has said the art of business reporting is as serious as business itself, urging campus journalists to hone their skills in this specialised field.
Speaking at the award presentation for the maiden edition of the Campus Business Journalism Awards, Ekeoba highlighted the importance of specialisation in journalism, particularly in business reporting, to stand out in the competitive media landscape.
Drawing from his extensive
The State Commissioner of Works (Rural Roads) and Public Communication, Mr Charles Aniagwu, who announced that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori had approved the appointment of the new GM for the company, said that she was taking over from the retiring GM.
According to the statement, Mrs Nwaebuni succeeds the company’s outgoingGM, Mr Geoffrey Ubaka, who proceeded on retirement with effect from February 16, 2025.
experience reporting finance for national dailies like Tribune and Newswatch, Ekeoba explained the potential within business reporting, even in political stories.
He said: “When you report that a university official has misappropriated x amount of money, research into what facilities that amount can provide, and you are delving into business reporting. I therefore, encourage you to develop a niche in business journalism to prepare for real-world media practice after their studies.”
The awards ceremony, organized
Mrs Nwaebuni brings to the position many years experience as a dedicated journalist and was the Editor, The Weekend Pointer as well as Deputy General Manager (Editorial) of the Corporation.
She was, until her new appointment, also Chairman, The Pointer Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State.
Nwaebuni’s appointment as the first female GM of the corporation is not only a historic milestone but also an eloquent testimony to the
by National Wire, celebrated the achievements of campus journalists excelling in business reporting.
In the Best Business Feature category, Olamide Ayoade, a Mass Communication student from Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago Iwoye, Ogun State, with his entry earlier published on Campus Mirror titled “How OOU Student Entrepreneurs Leverage Tech for Career Advancement”,emerged as the winner.
Sonaike Peter Omotola, Features Editor and a student of Education and Political Science at the University
gender-friendly disposition of the Governor Sheriff Oborevwori government, Aniagwu noted.
“Mrs Rosemary Nwaebuni has passed through the crucibles of the corporation, and is expected to bring her wealth of experience to reposition and refocus the Corporation in today’s digital world”, the statement said, adding that her appointment as the first female GM of the organisation “portrays the gender-friendliness of the state government.”
of Ibadan, secured second place, while Tolulope Ayeye, Editor of Indy Press Organisation and a Law student at the University of Ibadan, took third place.
Indy Press Organisation also clinched the title of Best Campus Journal of the Year 2024, establishing itself as the top campus magazine.
Dayo Emmanuel, Chairman of the awards and News Editor of National Wire, explained the vision behind the initiative: “Our website is strong on financial reporting, and we intend to raise fresh reporters into that beat from the campuses,” he said.
The families of late
Autonomous Community, Imo State, have announced the passing on to glory of their beloved sister, mother, and grandmother, Ambassador Nne Furo Kurubo on Wednesday, 12th February 2025, in Lagos. She was aged 84.
The families, in a statement, said Ambassador Kurubo dedicated her life to public service, contributing immensely to the development of our nation.
“ She served the Rivers State Government and the Federal Republic of Nigeria in various capacities, including as a School Teacher, Principal, Administrator, Permanent Secretary, and ultimately as
Nigerian Ambassador to Trinidad and Tobago (1999-2003).”
“Through her distinguished service in the Civil and Public Sectors, Ambassador Kurubo played a pivotal role in shaping modern Nigeria. Her dedication, leadership, and integrity served as an inspiration to many, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of numerous Nigerian leaders today.”
“A devout Christian, she remained steadfast in her faith until her last breath. She is survived by Colonel Boma Kurubo, Mr. Gogo Kurubo, Mrs. Kalanne Gigi Ojukwu, Dr. Tati Okereke, Prof. Mrs. Ndi Okereke-Onyiuke, who is a former Director-General of the Nigerian Stock Exchange(NSE) and other cherished family members,” the statement said.
should remain on the bigger task of securing our nation rather than being distracted by detractors.”
The group noted that Nigeria is at a defining moment, facing complex security challenges that require unwavering dedication, professionalism, and courage.
“The NSA has demonstrated a resolute commitment to addressing these issues and working towards a safer and more stable Nigeria.
The ongoing campaigns of calumny against him are nothing
but a distraction, and we urge him to remain steadfast, knowing that true leadership often comes with criticism.”
“We also call on well-meaning Nigerians to reject the spirit of division and undue attacks on leaders who are working tirelessly to strengthen our nation. Constructive criticism is essential for growth, but malicious attacks that seek to undermine national security efforts should be discouraged,” the group added.
Duro Ikhazuagbe
African Footballer of the Year, Ademola Lookman, who returned to full training at the weekend could play a deciding role in Atalanta’s progress in today’s UEFA Champions League home clash with Club Brugge.
The Belgian side won 2-1 at home last week in the first leg of the Champions League Playoffs to now put Lookman and his Atalanta side on edge this evening in Bergamo. Gustaf Nilsson snatched the winner for Brugge via a controversial late penalty last week with Lookman still recuperating from the knee injury on the sideline.
The 27-year-old Super Eagles forward last played for Atalanta in last month’s 2-1 win at Como in the Italian Serie A.
But with Lookman’s return to full fitness, Atalanta coaches and their fans will be hoping that the Nigerian forward will conjure his magic wand to lift the Italian Serie A team above Brugge and gain a berth in the Last 16 Round of the Champions League.
They still remember with relish how it was Lookman that singlehandedly won the Europa League title for Atalanta, scoring all three goals in the final against Bayer Leverkusen.
Atalanta narrowly missed the Top 8 automatic qualifiers as they finished ninth in the new format Champions League. The Europa League cup holders depended mainly on Lookman for their good run in the early stage until losing to Barcelona. That defeat ensured they needed to go through this tortuous route of competing in the playoffs.
Lookman has been absent from Atalanta since after aggravating the injury he picked up against Napoli in January again during training ahead their Barcelona clash in the
Champions League tie. In his absence last week, his Super Eagles teammate, Raphael Onyedika, was in action for Club Brugge all through the 90 minutes duration and was well rated for his contributions
from the midfield for the first leg win. Club Brugge started brightly last week and were rewarded for their industry when teenage winger Chemsdine Talbi collecting a loose pass and crossing for Ferran Jutgla
to dispatch a right-foot shot into the top left corner in the 15th minute. Atalanta however levelled four minutes before the end of the first half, with Croatia international, Mario Pasalic, heading in Davide
Ademola Lookman...returns to action as Atalanta seek to revive their Champions League fortunes today
Duro
Ikhazuagbe
The Referee who was at the centre in Sunday’s NPFL clash between Heartland FC and Shooting Stars in Owerri, Kolawole Emmanuel, has been stepped down indefinitely from officiating games in the Nigerian topflight league.
Nigeria Football Federation’s Referees’ Committee took the tough decision of suspending the match arbiter yesterday as a way of restoring credibility to the NPFL after the centre referee took some questionable decision, including the two penalties awarded to both teams. In a letter addressed to the referee and his assistant, Joshua Amao,
through the Kwara State FA, the Chairman of the NFF Referees Committee, Mohammed Ameenu, said: “ Reference to your decisions that adversely affects not only the outcome of the match between Heartland FC and Shooting Stars on Sunday, February 16, 2025, wherein you awarded penalties that were not in line with the provisions of the Laws of the Game..... Your actions did not only negatively affect the outcome of the match but equally brings the game to disrepute. “I am therefore, directed to notify
you that you have been stepped down indefinitely and with immediate effect from the league,” concludes the letter suspending the referee from further officiating in the NPFL.
Meanwhile, Head Coach of Heartland FC, Emmanuel Amuneke, has admitted that the game against Shooting Stars was not an easy one as he had to dig deep to get the necessary result.
He remarked that his boys had to take control of the midfield to cut off possible lively ball passing by the Shooting Stars.
Three Nigerians listed asNBA All-Star Weekend 2025 holds in California
Eight of Africa’s brightest young basketball talents have been selected to participate in the Basketball Without Borders (BWB) Global Camp, taking place alongside the NBA All-Star Weekend 2025 in San Francisco, California. The BWB Global Camp, the NBA’s and FIBA's global basketball development and community outreach programme, brings together the top high-school-age prospects from around the world, providing elite coaching, skill development, and mentorship
from current and former NBA and WNBA players and coaches.
Representing Africa at the 2025 BWB Global Camp are: Heri Bukinga (Democratic Republic of the Congo), Arafan Diane, (Guinea), Ali Assran (Egypt), David Ugonna Ike (Nigeria), Ikenna Alozie (Nigeria) Theophilus Edema (Nigeria), Paul Ater Maker Bol (South Sudan), and Ahmed Bedoui (Tunisia).
Among the standout participants is David Ugonna Ike (Nigeria), who had a stellar 2024 season, making his
Basketball Africa League (BAL) debut through the BAL Elevate programme. Averaging 14 minutes per game, he recorded 4.5 points and 4.2 rebounds per game. He was also named Defensive Most Valuable Player and BWB Africa 2024 All-Star at the BWB Africa Camp in Johannesburg last August.
Another notable participant is Ali Assran (Egypt), who features in Season 2 of Born and Bred, a documentary series highlighting top African basketball prospects.
Zappacosta's
from the
But in the added minutes of the
Umut Meler, awarded a penalty to the hosts which was confirmed by the video assistant referee (VAR). Atalanta Coach Gian Piero
was visibly angered by the decision, but
kept
to send keeper of the
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from the spot. The winners of the tie after today’s second leg will play either Lille or Aston Villa in the Last 16 of the competition.
Victor Osimhen grabbed a brace last night for Galatasaray to record a confidence-boosting 2-1 win at Rizespor ahead of Thursday’s Europa League return leg tie against AZ Alkmaar.
Galatasaray have a mountain to climb after they lost the first leg in Holland 4-1.
are now six points clear of closest rivals Fenerbache and both teams will clash in the Intercontinental Derby next Monday.
Nigeria’s Exploits at African Badminton Championship in Cameroon Excites NSC Chiefs
The impressive outing of Team Nigeria at the 2025 All Africa Senior Badminton Championships has been attributed to consistency in the organisation of domestic tournaments.
The Nigerian team led by serial men’s singles champion, Anuoluwapo Opeyori, won one gold and two bronze medals to finish third overall in the 2025 championship concluded on Sunday in Douala, Cameroon. Opeyori retained his Men’s Singles title for the fifth year running.
Speaking on the heels of Nigeria’s performance in Cameroon, the National Sports Commission (NSC) Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, explained that with more domestic tournaments the sky will only be the team’s starting point.
In his opinion, this will help to keep the athletes regularly in tune and competitive, while discovering fresh talents to replace ageing ones.
Mallam Dikko’s words: “I must commend the badminton team for this feat. This is why we have been harping on the need for the Federations to hold constant tournaments across the country.
“There is no doubting the abun-
dance of talents in the country. They only need to be harnessed. As these A-list players are doing exploits in Cameroon, there is need to ensure that fresher talents are being discovered as well to take over from them. That is the real sports development. In fact constant domestic tournaments will keep the athletes competitive and ready for these international tournaments.
While congratulating all stakeholders involved in the victory in Cameroon, the NSC Chairman stressed that now is to make Nigeria’s future secured
“That is the mandate given to us by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR. He has mandated us to develop sports down to the grassroots and me and my DG Hon. Bukola Olopade along with the President’s SSA on Grassroots Sports Development Adeyinka Adeboye ‘Zulu’ have properly keyed into that mandate and driving the process with all we got.”
The NSC helmsman assured the Badminton Federation of the Commission’s support to aid their strive for continental and international excellence.
Reputed for its competition, pomp and pageantry, the second week of the ongoing 2025 Lagos International Polo Tournament climax in a cliff-hanging finale with visiting Abuja Rubicon sweeping home three major prizes, while home crowd favourites Lagos STL clinched Heritage Cup.
The Abuja-based team defeated top contenders, Lagos STL 13-12 in an engrossing final over the weekend to win the event’s biggest prize, the Majekodunmi Cup and added the Independence Cup as well as the Italian Ambassador’s Cup to emerge the biggest winner of the prestigious polo fiesta.
on throughout our campaigns for honours,” Rubicon Patron, Senator Hadi Sirika declared at the weekend.
“I want to dedicate this Majekodunmi Cup to my mother who has been there for the team, calling every day to express confidence that we would triumph. Even before the final day, she called and asked the team to ensure we bring the Majekodunmi Cup to her.”
“This is amazing. We are thrilled with this hard-earned victory which is obviously a reward for our hard work, team chemistry, commitment, courage sportsmanship and support from our teeming supporters who are always there to urge us
The former Tanzania national team coach praised his lads for remaining focused on the match plans and subjecting the Oluyole Warriors to intense pressure. Shooting Stars had to resort to long balls to locate their strikers up front as the midfield was condoned off. Heartland won the game 2-1. world. Lagos STL team who were the biggest winners of the opening week, clinching the Chapel hill Denham Open Cup and the Oba of Lagos Cup respectively, had led from the opening chukka of the intense finale on Sunday till the finale chukka when they lost grip, allowing Rubicon to draw level and score the winner with just a minute left on the clock. The third and grand finale week of the prestigious polo festival that galloped off in grand style on February 4, 2025 at the foremost Ribadu Road Polo Ground in Ikoyi, Lagos will see intermediate and low-goals teams jostling for the Low Cup, Silver Cup, major subsidiary trophies and individuals awards on offer.
The Senator who has led his team to win all the major high-goal polo titles in Nigeria, lauded the Lagos Polo Club and the Tournament Committee for giving his team the opportunity to compete in the reputable polo extravaganza, revered as one of the biggest and the most competitive events in Africa and indeed the
CPPE to Federal Govt
“There is a need for the government to commit more to the policy of self-reliance and less import dependence in critical areas of the economy, especially energy, food, pharmaceuticals and security. Excessive import dependence poses major risks to economic and social security of a country...no country should be too dependent on others for its strategic needs”--CEO, Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE), Dr. Muda Yussuf, advises the government.
abati1990@gmail.com
There are some people who should not die, because of their goodness, their humanism, the great impact that they make within the community, family and sometimes, the nation at large. The death of good men or women diminishes us, a part of us leaves with them, but what endures ultimately is the lesson of their example. Two of such good men departed one after the other, within the last two weeks in the South West of Nigeria: Oba Adeleke Adelekan Idowu Basibo, the Alaperu of Iperu, on February 5, 2025, and Pa Ayo Adebanjo, journalist, lawyer, nationalist, politician, activist, Afenifere leader, Awoist and patriot on February 14. The respective families have formally announced their transition to the Great Beyond. Both illustrious sons and titans of Ogun State extraction were well known to me. I feel a deep sense of personal loss, and hereby join others in commiserating with their families, the people of Remoland and Ijebuland, the people of Ogun State, the Afenifere, Obidents and everyone in the larger Nigerian community who was privileged to have encountered their person, influence, and benefitted from the grace of uncommon measure which the Almighty bestowed upon both leaders and which they used, at various levels for the benefit of mankind and for the elevation of the human spirit.
There can be no one involved in Nigerian public affairs, politics and society and particularly activism that would not know Chief Ayo Adebanjo. For more than 70 years, he was an active and colossal presence in Nigerian politics, first at the regional level as a disciple of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, as a chieftain of the Action Group and its successor political parties and at the national level, Adebanjo was one of the strongest advocates for a just, equitable and fair society anchored on the principles of federalism and progressive politics. He shunned elective offices and political appointments, he was however, a loyal party man. He remained loyal to Awoism till the end, and to Awo in life and in death, and the principles that the sage espoused. Such level of loyalty is uncommon in these parts; such single-minded devotion is rare. Pa Adebanjo has told his own story in great detail in an autobiography titled “Telling It As It Is” (Ibadan: Bookcraft, 2018, 257 pp.) which was presented publicly on the occasion of his 90th birthday on April 10, 2018 in his home-town of Isanya-Ogbo in the Ijebu Division of Ogun State. I was the official book reviewer at the occasion. I wrote then, as follows, inter alia:
“Born on April 10, 1928, barely six years after the Clifford Constitution and the first legislative elections in Nigeria, Adebanjo has lived through the finest and ugliest moments of Nigerian history: the constitutional processes, the struggle for independence, party politics leading to independence and after, the civil war, military rule, return to democracy, the struggle for the protection of democracy and civilian rule, and the bigger struggle of ensuring the survival and development of Nigeria. He joined the struggle early in 1943, as a Zikist, as a follower of Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe but in 1951, he became a member of the youth wing of the Action Group, and a mentee and political disciple of late Chief Obafemi Awolowo. This became the defining moment of his life and 67 years later, he has remained faithful to the ideals of that political party and the ideology/ political philosophy of his mentor - that is Awoism.
“As Adebanjo turns 90, what is to be celebrated is not necessarily his longevity, even if there may be lessons to be learnt from his life habits – he maintains a rigorous exercise regimen, a daily routine we are told which includes aerobic sessions, he neither smokes nor drinks, and for more than 60 years he has remained married to the same woman- but there are no hard and fast rules about longevity perhaps – some alcoholics live up to hundred, and some chronic womanisers outlive their own hubris- longevity, if I may essay a religious tone, is a matter of grace. Adebanjo has lived a true life of blessing and amazing grace.
“In 1962, during the travails of the Action Group and Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s trial for treasonable felony, Adebanjo was charged for felony, along with 30 others. He had to flee to Ghana. He has been detained more than once for his political beliefs, but this has not altered his resolve. Following the annulment of the
June 12, 1993 election, which was won by Chief MKO Abiola of the then Social Democratic Party, Adebanjo was one of the chieftains of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO). He joined protests, stood at the barricades and made his voice heard. Members of the democratic coalition and other groups in civil society were shot at, harassed, humiliated and their family members were intimidated. Used to the dangers of a political life in a dangerous society, Adebanjo’s resolve remains unshaken, even in the winter season of his life.
“When he fled into exile in 1962, his father was arrested, detained and rough-handled by the state. Many of Adebanjo’s colleagues have died in the course of the struggle. Some moved to the other side of the fence. Others adjusted in later life. The very essence of Chief Adebanjo’s politics lies in his consistency, his unwavering commitment to ideas rather than opportunism, his courage in the face of fire and intimidation, the life of sacrifice that he has lived, and his loyalty to Awo and Awoism. On this last score, he may in fact be described as the last of the original Awoists.
“This emphasis on ideology, party politics, and Awoism is important, as an entry point into the interrogation of Chief Ayo Adebanjo’s politics. The kind of postpolitics reality that has developed in Nigeria since the early 2000s has been a politics that is not driven by any ideology or principles or core beliefs, but by the desperate search for power by any vehicle possible. For this reason, there are many politicians in Nigeria today who cannot effectively articulate what exactly they believe in or stand for, and there are many of them who in less than a decade have used up to about five political platforms of disconcertingly contradictory impressions. This is probably the reason Chief Ayo Adebanjo has stayed away in the last few years from direct party politics. In 1951, he joined the Action Group, in the Second Republic, he was a member of the Unity Party of Nigeria, in the 90s, he was a member of the progressive democratic coalition; with the return to party politics in 1998, he was a member of the Alliance for Democracy which was more or less an Awoist party. When the AD seemed to have transmuted, or well, to have been compromised and something called the ACN emerged, Adebanjo kept his distance and functioned more as a leader of the Afenifere, the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural group, which till date seems more committed to the Awoist ideology…”
This principled stand, this consistency, was ever more evident during the 2023 general elections in Nigeria, and also in the politics of the Afenifere, the pan-Yoruba socio-political group. Disagreements within the Afenifere led to Chief Ayo Adebanjo leading his own core group within the body, while Pa Reuben Fasoranti led the other group. Chieftains of Afenifere often insist that the body was never factionalised, but
it was obvious that Awo’s group had broken up into two different tendencies. Adebanjo never played packpolitics. He was never afraid to stand alone. He was a man of courage and he found many admirers and followers for his convictions. In the lead up to the 2023 elections, for example, he supported the candidacy of Peter Obi, Presidential candidate of the Labour Party. He could not be persuaded to support his own kinsman, Bola Ahmed Tinubu (APC) because he was convinced that it was the turn of Igbos to produce a Nigerian President in the spirit of equity and justice. Tinubu won and emerged as President but that did not stop Adebanjo from remaining an Obidient, as Obi’s supporters are known, till the very end of his life. He could not be intimidated by parochial, ethnic sentiments. Pa Adebanjo was a friend of the media. He was an interviewer’s delight and he was one of our regular go-to resource persons at Arise News. He had many friends among the younger generations. He was everyone’s Papa, always battle-ready to hold robust discussions on national issues, either through phone calls, media appearances or press statements. One of his younger colleagues in politics whom he had criticized frontally in his 2018 autobiography once advised him to go and take a rest from activism. It is to his eternal credit that he remained active on the public stage until his walking stick failed him. It is sad, however, that the Nigeria of his dream did not materialize in his lifetime. His death on February 14, a day devoted to love and loving, is an important message that he has left behind.
Alaperu Idowu Basibo, Apekun-Joye, Odoru V spent nearly 23 years on the throne of his ancestors. By March 30, 2025, he would have spent 23 years as the 21st Alaperu of Iperu Remo in Ogun State. I was his biographer – a book titled “Alaperu: The Crown and The Glory” (Lagos: The Sales Brothers, 2022, 203 pp.). What makes his death even more shocking was that a few days earlier, Kabiyesi and I had spoken on the phone. He wanted me to speak with someone on a particular matter and he had said I was too far away; I should try to keep in touch more often. When I received news of his passing a few days later, I kept asking Prince Bola Basibo, his son, whether this was meant to be a joke, because I had spoken with the monarch recently and he was in very high spirits. It wasn’t a joke. It was true. He was 67. Death is the most treacherous fact of life. Its finality reminds us of the finiteness of our mortality. The late Alaperu was a cosmopolitan man, well-cultured, committed to his people, and progressive. He was a modern monarch who had a Facebook page, and an Instagram page and who most actively supported the younger generation through a group called Iperu Millennials, a network of young men and women of
Iperu-Akesan extraction who were encouraged by the town’s royal father to identify with their roots. They include the Sales Brothers, Oyinkan Fawehinmi, Tobi Fletcher (Ofada Boy), Olumide Soyombo, Christina Soname and a host of others. He was also a friend of the elderly members of the community whom he actively encouraged to invest in the town and promote it, notably the Odole Oodua, Sir Kessington A. Adebutu. Prince Dapo Abiodun, Modele Sarafa-Yusuf, and all the friends that the traditional ruler attracted to the community, too many to be counted. Many Yoruba communities over the years have since added to Ifa consultations, and other considerations, a basic requirement that royal houses can only recommend for the throne, princes that are educated. Oba Basibo was a good example of having a man who can function in a modern setting as a traditional ruler. He was a graduate of The Polytechnic Ibadan, and the University College, London where he studied Marine Economics. He also obtained a Diploma in Shipping and Export Management from the Yaba College of Technology. He had risen through the ranks at the Customs and Excise Department and was an established socialite in Lagos, looking forward to further advancement in his chosen career as a Customs Officer before his family came to drag him to become a traditional ruler. It was an assignment that he eventually accepted with a determination to serve his people. In more than 22 years, Alaperu Basibo transformed the community from a rural settlement into a thriving investment destination, located within 50 miles from Lagos, an intersection between Abeokuta, Shagamu, and other towns such as Ogere, and Ode Remo. Kabiyesi Alaperu leaves behind a legacy of exponential growth and a standard that would be a source of inspiration and a challenge to whoever succeeds him from any of the other ruling houses – Amororo or Agbonmagbe in accordance with the Alaperu of Iperu Chieftaincy Declaration Law of 1958, and Section 20(1) of the Chiefs Law Cap 20 Law of Ogun State of Nigeria, 1978.
The late Alaperu believed that traditional rulers should be given a role to play in the governance process and given their closeness to the people, they can help maintain peace and stability within communities by resolving land disputes or other matters of potential conflict. “The Government may hand over instruments of office to traditional rulers but it is the people who choose their kings”, he said. He did not believe in the idea of traditional rulers getting involved in partisan politics. But he was an apostle of federalism and the restructuring of Nigeria, better still a regional government system as in the 1963 Constitution and a leadership recruitment process that throws up capable and trustworthy persons who can move the country forward. In a society where disco-dancing, oshomo moneybags have found their ways onto traditional stools, and their conduct has become a subject of derision, Alaperu Basibo will be remembered for carrying himself with much dignity and grace. Always well turned out, he had a kind word for every one that came across him. He brought respect to the Alaperu throne. He was a compulsive bridge-builder. He will be greatly missed. It now remains for the kingmakers in council – the Osugbo, Lopere and the Odi - to ensure that succession to the throne is rancour-free, and that the peace and stability that the late Alaperu restored to their “once warring community” and has left behind as part of his legacy is sustained.
Death is a debt that all living things owe, and which they must pay when called to the Celestial Lodge above. We are told in Psalm 89: 48 - “No one can live forever, all will die. No one can escape the power of the grave.” Ecclesiastes 8:8: says “None of us can hold back our spirit from departing. None of us has the power to prevent the day of death. There is no escaping that obligation, that dark battle.” Knowing this to be true about death, the public’s number one enemy, we must as a people of faith accept the fact of our own mortality, “momento mori”, and take solace in the worthy life of impact and illumination that Pa Adebanjo and Alaperu Basibo lived. Both men deserve to be celebrated and remembered. Their example should inspire the living. Thank you, sirs, for your friendship. Goodbye and goodnight…