NBS Unveils Special CPI Indices to Enhance Policy,
Explains new rebased inflation figures Inflation, MPR top agenda as MPC reconvenes today LCCI: drop in inflation due to CPI rebasing, not real reduction in price levels Analysts urge CBN to halt rate hike as prices moderate
Statistician-General of the Federation (SGF)/Chief Executive, National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Mr. Adeyemi Adeniran, yesterday, announced improvements to the reporting of the Consumer Price Index (CPI), publishing some new special indices to better inform policymakers.
www.thisdaylive.com
In Historic Development, Netherlands to Return 119 Benin Bronzes to Nigeria
Items represent single largest return of Benin antiquities linked to British expedition
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
The Netherlands is set to return 119 Benin Bronzes to Nigeria, following
a request from the Nigerian government, a statement from the country's embassy said yesterday. The transfer agreements were
signed Tuesday by the Dutch Minister of Education, Culture and Science and the Director General of the National Commission for Museums and
Monuments (NCMM), it was learnt. According to the statement, the objects are expected to arrive in Nigeria later this year, with the
restitution underscoring the strong partnership between the Netherlands and Nigeria. The signing ceremony took place at the Wereldmuseum
in Leiden, the Netherlands, where the Benin Bronzes were previously
Continued on page 33
Ijaw Leader and Last of Nigeria’s Old Brigade, Clark, Dies at 97
L-R: Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim; Deputy Governor of Enugu State, Ifeanyi Ossai; Vice President Kashim Shettima; Deputy Chief of Staff to the President (Office of the Vice President), Sen. Ibrahim Hassan-Hadejia; Senior Special Assistant to the President on Job Creation and MSMEs, Tola Adekunle-Johnson; Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi; Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, and others during the MEME Council meeting with Vice President at the Presidential Villa Abuja ... yesterday
Ndubuisi Francis, James Emejo in Abuja and Dike Onwuamaeze in Lagos
SENATE PRESIDING OFFICERS, COMMITTEE CHAIRMEN PREPARING FOR PLENARY...
L-R: Chairman, Senate Committee on Army, Abdulaziz Yar’adua; Chairman Senate Committee on Labour and Productivity, Diket Plang; Deputy Senate President, Jibrin Barau; President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio; Chairman, Senate Committee on FERMA, Senator Abdul Ningi; Senate Committee on Solid Minerals, Sampson Ekong, during Plenary... yesterday.
NCDMB Insists on Patronage of Local Facilities in $5bn Bonga North, $550m Ubeta Projects
Says Zabazaba deep-water, HI, HA gas projects being readied for FID Agency visits Samsung Heavy Industries, Africoat facilities
Peter Uzoho
The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) has reiterated its call for the patronage of indigenous oil and gas facilities during the award and execution of projects such as the Shell''s $5 billion Bonga North deepwater project and TotalEnergies' $550 million Ubeta gas project.
Executive Secretary of NCDMB, Mr. Felix Ogbe, made the call in Lagos, when he and his team visited the facilities of Samsung Heavy Industries Nigeria (SHIN), and Africoat Nigeria Limited, a pipe coating plant, located at Takwa Bay, Lagos.
Ogbe pointed out that patronising local oil and gas service firms and facilities was key to promoting local competences and capabilities in the country's petroleum industry as prescribed by the Local Content Act.
The visit was consistent with Ogbe’s determination to assess oil and gas facilities across the country as a prelude for their participation in ongoing and upcoming major oil industry projects.
NCDMB played key roles in accelerating approvals for the new projects, which included Ubeta gas development project, currently being developed by TotalEnergies, and Bonga North deepwater project, for which Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company Limited (SNEPCo) had announced the final investment decision (FID)
in December 2024.
Similarly, the executive secretary informed that other high-profile upstream oil and gas projects were progressing towards achieving FIDs.
According to him, Zabazaba deepwater project was being readied by ENI and Shell, just as preparations for the HI and HA gas projects are being made by (SNEPCo).
The NCDMB’s boss conveyed the agency’s determination to continue partnering with thd international oil companies (IOCs) to develop new projects, and to ensure they execute key scopes of those projects using local firms with proven capabilities, as mandated by the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development (NOGICD) Act.
He asserted that NCDMB’s mandate and activities were contributing to actualising President Bola Tinubu’s economic agenda, particularly in catalysing new oil and gas projects, job creation and economic revitalisation.
At the Samsung Heavy Industries, the Managing Director, Mr. Jin Lee, highlighted the firm’s in-country capacities, which include heavy fabrication and Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) integration quayside.
He reiterated the company's experience in executing major oil and gas projects, notably the fabrication and integration of six modules for the TotalEnergies’ Egina FPSO in 2018.
The Business Development Manager, SHIN, Mr. David Bruce
Inglis, said the company trains welders in different specialisation and had trained 560 welders during the execution of the Egina project, including women.
He said the facility employed over 1000 persons at the peak of the Egina project, but the capacity was now scaled down to 131, owing to lack of projects.
The company, he said, has a database of past employees and
would re-engage some of them if they win a new major project.
He also hinted that the company planned to manufacture oil and gas components and equipment in Nigeria for export to other parts of the world.
He confirmed that the SHIN facility had adequate installed capacity and capabilities for export, and Nigeria enjoys a vintage geographical location for such business opportunities.
At Africoat, the NCDMB boss challenged the firm’s management to resolve the protracted dispute they have with their bankers, as well as their landlord, Lagos Deep Offshore Logistics (LADOL), which stopped the plant from operating since its completion in 2017.
He suggested that a peaceful settlement would allow for the plant to be rehabilitated before it could work for the industry, and
benefit the investors, and create jobs for the economy.
The Managing Director of Africoat, Mr. Frank Twynam, confirmed that efforts were ongoing to resolve the impasse.
He noted that $42 million was invested to develop the corrosion and concrete weight coating plant, hinting that a robust plan was already in place to restore the facility once the dispute is resolved.
FG Seeks Private Investment in Nigeria's 35,000km Federal Road Infrastructure
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
The Minister of State for Works, Bello Goronyo, has said that the over 35,000 kilometres of the federal government's road network across Nigeria cannot be funded through annual budgets alone, hence the need to source for alternative funding outside the government’s coffers.
Goronyo stated this while addressing the management and staff of the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), Kogi State field office in Lokoja during a maiden visit alongside the Managing Director, Chukwumeka Agbasi.
He reaffirmed that President Bola Tinubu’s administration was determined to fix all the roads to
Alake: Conferment of NMGS Fellowship Recognition of Commitment to Advancement of Mining Sector
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has described his conferment with the honorary fellowship by the Nigeria Mining and Geosciences Society (NMGS) as a recognition of the federal government’s commitment to repositioning the mining sector, stressing that the advancement of the sector was a collective responsibility.
Delivering the keynote address at the 60th annual International Conference And Exhibition of the Nigeria Mining And Geosciences Society, with theme, “Transformation of the Mineral, Energy, Water and Construction
Sectors Through Innovations,” the minister asserted that the mining industry was undergoing a global paradigm shift with the adoption of digital technologies, harping on the imperative of embracing these innovations to attract investment, increase productivity and ensure responsible extraction of the nation's vast mineral resources.
“The Ministry of Solid Minerals Development has prioritised the deployment of geospatial data and remote sensing technologies for mineral exploration, reducing uncertainties and optimising investment decisions.
“Additionally, we are working towards establishing mineral process-
ing hubs to enhance value addition and reduce reliance on raw mineral exports,” Alake added.
The minister, ably represented by Permanent Secretary, Dr. Mary Ogbe, affirmed the federal government’s resolve to create an enabling environment for innovation-driven growth in mining and allied sectors.
He cited initiatives like strengthening regulatory frameworks to encourage responsible mining practices, promoting research and development through partnerships with universities and research institutions, supporting artisanal and small-scale miners through mechanisation and access to funding, amongst others.
ensure a drastic reduction in the level of unemployment, rate of crimes, and insecurity, a statement by the Director of Press and Public Relations, Ahmed Mohammed, said.
“I have never seen a president so committed to sustaining physical assets nationwide. The administration gives priority to various road projects scattered across the country. This shows that he is a patriotic Nigerian.
“He is undertaking these projects so that our economy can be improved, and the rate of unemployment, poverty, and crimes will be reduced. We are seeing the super highways from Ilelah to Sokoto to Badagry and another from Lagos to Calabar," he stated.
Goronyo, who commended the staff of FERMA for their resilience and hard work over the years, noted that despite insecurity, and
inadequate funding, a lot of work was still ongoing nationwide.
He urged them to bear with the ministry of works over their entitlements, disclosing that their requests for adjustment and increment in consequential salaries have been forwarded to the Salaries, Income, and Wages Commission for consideration and approval.
Speaking further on funding for the maintenance of roads, Goronyo stressed that about 35,000 kilometres of roads cannot be funded and maintained overnight.
“We have to look for alternative sources of funding so that we can continue to maintain our physical assets, which are the roads. We have to create new ways of funding and new alternatives,” he said.
He assured that the government was focused on ensuring that projects
are completed in a timely and efficient manner with robust oversight and contractors’ compliance. He added: "I am calling on all of you to support us to ensure that President Bola Tinubu succeeds in his mandate to deliver on the eightpoint Renewed Hope Agenda. We must put Nigeria first before our interests. Let us fix our roads, we must think positively."
Earlier, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of FERMA, Agbasi, commended the Ministry of Works for its determination to ensure that the presidential agenda is realised.
He informed the staff that before the end of the year, there would be an increment in their salaries and appealed to them to continue to support and partner with the Ministry to achieve their targeted goals.
NERC Announces New Sanctions for Meter Bypass, Others
Emmanuel
Addeh in Abuja
The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) yesterday announced new penalties for individuals and businesses found guilty of tampering with or bypassing electricity meters.
The revised Order on unauthorised access, meter tampering, and bypass, NERC said, replaces Order No: NERC/REG/41/2017, taking effect from January 22, 2025.
NERC said the new order aligned with the Electricity Act 2023 and the Customer Protection Regulations (CPR)
2023, meant to strengthen enforcement against electricity theft and ensure compliance with metering regulations.
“Customers who by-pass meters or gain unauthorised access must pay administrative charges (including meter replacement costs) and reconnection costs. Any customer that gains unauthorised access to electricity through tampering or meter bypass will be reconnected upon payment of the administrative charges including meter replacement cost,” NERC said.
It added that the order aims to reduce unauthorised access to electricity,
meter tampering, and bypass as well as establish transparent reconnection guidelines to ensure compliance. In the new regime, non-maximum demand, single-phase meters, who are first offenders will pay N100,000, while it will be N150,000 subsequently. In the same vein, non-maximum three-phase meters who breach the order will pay N200,000 as first offenders and N300,000 subsequently. Also, maximum demand customers will pay 450 per cent of last recorded consumption, and 600 per cent subsequently.
Folalumi Alaran in Abuja
INAUGURATION OF THE ABULE EGBA BUS TERMINAL...
L-R: Head of Service, Lagos State, Mr. Olabode Agoro; Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat; Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu; SSG, Barr. 'Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin; Managing Director, LAMATA, Engr. Abimbola Akinajo and the Chairman, Orile-Agege LCDA, Hon. Johnson Babatunde during the inauguration of the Abule Egba Bus Terminal in Lagos... yesterday
Lagos Lawmakers Commend LIRS on Historic N1trn Revenue Milestone
Legislators in Lagos State have commended the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS) for achieving an unprecedented milestone in revenue generation, surpassing N1 trillion.
According to a statement, the landmark accomplishment positions the LIRS as the first sub-national revenue agency in Nigeria to
attain such a feat, reflecting its professionalism, efficiency, and commitment to transparent tax administration.
Former Chairman of the House Committee on Economic Planning and Budgeting, Hon. Lukman Sa’ad Olumoh, alongside Hon. Femi Saheed, former Chairman of the House Committee on Finance,
lauded LIRS and its Executive Chairman, Mr. Ayodele Subair, for their exemplary leadership and dedication to enhancing the state's revenue performance.
In a recent interview, Olumoh had described the achievement as a testament to the dedication and expertise of the LIRS team. He had emphasised that Lagos State has set
a benchmark in revenue collection, serving as a model for other states to emulate.
Representing the Ajeromi-Ifelodun Constituency 01 in the Lagos State House of Assembly, he had praised Subair for fostering a culture of efficiency and innovation within the agency, which has significantly contributed to its success.
Sanwo-Olu Inaugurates New Bus Station in Abule Egba
Abule Egba suburb in Orile-Agege Local Council Development Area (LCDA) of Lagos State has been integrated into the growing network of Lagos communities connected by modernised public bus stations.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Tuesday, commissioned the newly completed Abule Egba Bus Terminal to aid and enhance seamless mass transportation from the suburb to other parts of the metropolis.
The imposing transport infrastructure, which is strategically situated close to Lagos Red Line corridor, provides a convenient transport route for passengers to board, exit buses and connect to other forms of transportation.
Sanwo-Olu said the project was another milestone recorded in his administration’s ongoing efforts to upgrade the state’s public trans-
portation system with modern and sustainable infrastructure in order to enable the facilities meet up Lagosians’ commuting aspirations.
The governor said the new bus terminal reflected his commitment to continuously enhance public transportation systems, strengthening connectivity and improving the overall experience for commuters.
He said: “Six years ago, we made a pledge to the people of Lagos that we would upgrade the state’s public transportation system with modern, sustainable infrastructure to enable them meet up their daily aspirations.
“Today, we are here in Abule Egba within Orile-Agege LCDA to handover yet another modernised bus terminal to our residents in fulfillment of our promise.
“This is a public bus terminal that will aid seamless commuting from
here to other parts of Lagos. This infrastructure reflects our commitment to continuously enhancing public transportation systems, strengthening connectivity, and improving the overall experience for commuters. We are dedicated to taking ongoing steps to advance and modernise transportation across the state.”
Sanwo-Olu said his administration’s vision was not only to enhance mobility but also to catalyse urban and economic growth through interconnected transportation networks where residents would have choices to commute by rail, water or land.
He disclosed that his government was building two additional interchange hubs in Marina and Mile 2, while another bus terminal is at the advanced stage of construction in Iyana Ipaja axis.
To further make intracity rail
transport accessible to residents, Sanwo-Olu announced a 30 per cent reduction in fares for Lagos Red Line service, bringing down the fares from N1,500 to N1,000.
The governor said the state was expecting the arrival of new Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses and electric buses by the third quarter of the year to enhance bus services.
The addition, he said, would expand the state’s current fleet, while also increasing the availability of buses and reducing waiting times at bus stops for commuters.
Urging residents in the area to take ownership of the project, Sanwo-Olu said: “This infrastructure has been made possible through your tax contributions. I urge you to take pride in it, protect it, and ensure that it remains safe from any harm or damage. By safeguarding these assets, we can all benefit from their long-term value and continue to build a better future for our community.”
Speaking during the 2024 budget signing ceremony, Olumoh had also conveyed to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu that Lagos State has reached an exceptional level in revenue generation.
He acknowledged LIRS’s historic achievement of surpassing the N1 trillion mark and expressed confidence in the agency’s ability to exceed future targets.
He further urged the state government to sustain its support for LIRS, emphasising that continued improvements in revenue collection could reduce reliance on external borrowing.
"You cannot expect remarkable results without placing the right people in key positions. LIRS is managed by a team of highly skilled professionals. While it operates as a government agency, its structure and operations reflect global best practices.
“The agency has evolved into a world-class institution, moving from Good Shepherd's House to the state-of-the-art Revenue House. A visit to its facilities will reveal an environment that fosters excellence. Under the leadership of Mr. Ayodele Subair, a visionary and dedicated professional, LIRS has achieved remarkable success.
“The agency’s work culture and improved operational environment have been instrumental in reaching this milestone," had Olumoh stated.
Looking ahead, Olumoh noted that based on LIRS’s consistent performance, the revenue target for 2025 has been set at N1.4 trillion.
He assured that as Lagos’s economy continues to expand and more employment opportunities are created, this growth in revenue collection would not impose additional burdens on residents but
rather result from enhanced tax compliance and structured reforms.
"LIRS has demonstrated steady growth over the past five years. We have set a revenue target of N1.4 trillion for 2025, and I am confident that the agency can surpass this goal. Lagos State has the capacity to generate over N4 trillion in internal revenue without negatively impacting its residents," he added.
He also highlighted the role of upcoming tax reforms at the federal level, noting that the Joint Tax Board (JTB) would ensure a well-structured tax administration system. He reassured the public that no adverse fiscal policies would be introduced, emphasising that the focus remains on improving compliance and fostering a positive tax culture.
In a formal congratulatory letter addressed to Subair, Saheed, who represents Kosofe II Constituency, commended the LIRS team for their dedication, resilience, and strategic approach to revenue collection. He reiterated the Lagos State House of Assembly’s commitment to providing the necessary legislative support to enable the agency to achieve even greater success.
"I extend my heartfelt congratulations to you and your forward-thinking management team for surpassing the N1 trillion revenue mark in 2024. My colleagues and I commend your resilience, transparency, and commitment to excellence. Your achievements bring immense pride to Lagos State, and I am confident that 2025 will be even more rewarding.
“As a key revenue agency, we remain dedicated to supporting your efforts in achieving greater milestones," the letter stated.
The Programme Director at African Population and Health Research Centre, APHRC, Dr. Alphonsus Neba, has reiterated that journals from Nigerian universities are mostly predatory, substandard and fall below the capacity of being indexed which remains the hallmark of academic additions.
He said by so doing, opportunities can be given to predatory journals that cannot meet up with the standard to naturally phase out or be shut down, while those that can up their game and improve their quality by the standards that have been set by the government will be able to move into that realm where they are seen as quality journals.
He remarked that, that way, academics and professors will not have to worry as there are laid down procedures and ground rules.
He noted with dismay that there are a lot of professors and scientists on the continent who are always under pressure to publish, based on
Speaking yesterday in Abuja during the workshop to empower editors from Nigerian and West African journals towards promoting visibility and discoverability, as well as build capacity for grants writing for Nigerian writers, Neba stated that Nigerian government can step in and assist in building a national journal policy with framework within which journals can be approved to meet minimum standards.
the mantra that you either publish or you perish.
He observed that it is after publication that they get to find out that they have actually published in predatory journals when it comes to the issue of evaluation.
He said: “Most academic journals are perceived to be of low quality and many describe them as predatory journals and therefore our intervention to work with Nigerian and other west African editors to see how we can improve editorial practices and processes in order to improve the quality of journals to the extent that they could now be indexed by global indexing services and with this, they can be accessed without the issue of quality.
Sunday Ehigiator
Representative of World Bank’s Communications and Governance Division in the U.S., Emana Shunnom, will join 14 other global speakers to grace this year’s edition of the Women’s Rights in Human Rights Conference, set to take place on March 7, 2025, THISDAY has learnt.
This was communicated by the organisers of the conference, Advocates for Health and Rights of Women and Youths Initiative (ADHERI), in a statement yesterday.
Now in its third edition, the annual conference continues to be a platform for global thought leaders, activists, and policymakers to
discuss critical issues surrounding women’s rights, gender equality, and inclusion.
This year’s event will pull together thought leaders from Nigeria, Africa, Asia, and North America, representing diverse sectors, including governance, law, media, and technology, to address challenges and chart strategic pathways towards enhancing women's rights.
Among the keynote speakers are Susmita Adhikari, Secretary of Youth Initiative, Nepal; Omondi Henrick Isaiah, Chief Legal Officer of Nyakach Social Justice Center, Kenya; Professor D. Abdul Jabbar Khan of the SAARC Human Rights Foundation, Bangladesh; and Emana Shunnom from the World Bank’s Communications and Governance division in the U.S. Others include Chibalani Katongo, Head of Protection Unit at the International Organization for Migration (IOM), and Rolake Akinkugbe Filani, Anchor of Business Week on Arise News. The Nigerian contingent will be led by prominent figures such as Dr. Fejiro Chinye-Nwoko, Managing Director of the Nigerian Solidarity Fund; Dr. Yetty Ogunnubi, CEO of YD Company; Dr. Agwu Ejem, a gender and media researcher at Landmark University; and Bolanle Adekoya, PwC’s Inclusion & Diversity Leader for Africa.
Kuni Tyessi in Abuja
IJAW LEADER AND LAST OF NIGERIA’S OLD BRIGADE, CLARK, DIES AT 97
Our Correspondents
]Nigerians of all classes – home and abroad – have continued to pay homage to a foremost and fearless Ijaw leader, Chief Edwin Clark, who passed yesterday at 97.
Clark died four days after another compatriot and ally in the struggle for a dream Nigeria, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, also passed at the age of 96.
According to a terse statement by his family, more details on the passing of the former Federal Commissioner for Information and South-South Leader, would be announced later.
“The Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo family of Kiagbodo Town, Delta State, wishes to announce the passing of Chief (Dr.) Sen. Edwin Kiagbodo Clark OFR, CON on Monday 17th February, 2025.
“The family appreciates your prayers at this time. Other details will be announced later by the family. Other details will be announced later by the family,” the statement read.
Meanwhile, Nigerians of all classes and social statuses, have continued to pay homage to the deceased for his contributions to the Nigerian project.
They include President Bola Tinubu, former presidents Olusegun Obasanjo, Muhammadu Buhari, Goodluck Jonathan; former Vice-President Atiku, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Mr. Peter Obi, Mr. Atedo Peterside, Professor Bolaji Akinyemi, governors and political parties, among others.
Tinubu: He Was Never
Afraid to Stand Alone in Face of Injustice
President Bola Tinubu, while expressing sadness over the passing of Chief Edwin Clark, said he was a passionate advocate for resource control, economic and environmental justice in the Niger Delta.
He said Clark led an illustrious life marked by dedicated service, at different times, to the nation and his community as a councillor, state and federal cabinet member.
According to a statement by his media aide, Bayo Onanuga, the president extended his condolences to the Edwin Clark family, the Ijaw nation, the people of the Niger Delta, and the government of Delta State.
Reflecting on his life, Tinubu who described his passing as a deeply sobering loss, said Clark was a towering figure whose influence was felt across Nigeria's political firmament for nearly six decades.
According to President Tinubu, Chief Clark was a courageous leader, who stood for what he believed in and was never afraid to stand alone in the face of injustice.
"Chief Clark spoke for the Niger Delta. He spoke for the nation. His views and interventions on national issues were distinct and patriotic.
''Pa Clark, a lawyer and educationist, believed in a united Nigeria, and until his last breath, he never stopped reaching out to people from different parts of the country to work together to preserve national unity based on justice and equity.
''As an astute politician, his political opponents never doubted his words' weight, confidence, and conviction when he spoke. Indeed, a patriot has transitioned to the great beyond.
''History will remember him as a man, who fought gallantly for the rights of the people of the Niger Delta, unity in diversity, and true federalism.
''I know many generations will remain proud of how his efforts contributed to national prosperity and stability," he stated, even as he prayed for divine comfort for his family, friends, and all those affected by this significant loss.
Obasanjo: Ranks of Nigeria’s Patriotic Leadership Fast Depleting Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, has bemoaned the depleting ranks of the nation's patriotic leaders, particularly at this crucial state of the country when their wise counsel and rich experience were greatly needed.
Obasanjo, in a condolence message on the passing of Clark, said the late former Federal Commissioner was a great brother and friend, a frontline lawyer, a seasoned economist, a tested administrator, an accomplished politician and a revered community leader.
In the message by his Special Assistant on Media, Kehinde Akinyemi, Obasanjo noted that over the years, Clark has been imbued with an undying love for his people and remained one of the more articulate and vocal
champions of improved conditions for the oil-bearing states of the country.
"I received yet another shocking and sad news of the passing of a great brother and friend, a frontline lawyer, a seasoned economist, a tested administrator, an accomplished politician and a revered community leader, Chief Edwin Clark.
"It was shocking because we lost Chief Ayo Adebanjo, another prominent and illustrious son of Nigeria, just about four days ago. Indeed, the ranks of the nation’s patriotic leadership is fast depleting by the loss of our dedicated and resourceful patriots, who served the nation in various capacities, particularly at this crucial state in our nation’s history when their wise counsel and rich experience are greatly needed.
"There is no gainsaying the fact that Chief Clark had an eventful service to the nation as Commissioner for Education and Finance in the former Midwestern State, at various times between 1968 to 1974, and his stint as the official spokesman of the Federal Government in 1975 cannot go unrecognised. I remember him as a close colleague in the Cabinet of General Yakubu Gowon.
"As Senator of the Federal Republic, representing Delta Senatorial zone in 1983, it is on record that he was in the vanguard of the advocacy for minority rights," he said.
Obasanjo stressed that, "Over the years, Chief Clark was imbued with an undying love for his people and remained one of the more articulate and vocal champions of improved conditions for the oil-bearing States of the country.
“As one of the foremost leaders of not only the Ijaw people, but the South-South zone as a whole, he, until his death, exhorted his people on the imperative of peace and stability in the region.”
Buhari: His Demise a National Loss
Former President Muhammadu
Buhari has described the passing of Chief Edwin Clark, as a national loss, saying his death caused him and some Nigerians deep sorrow in their heart.
The ex-president, in a release by his spokesperson, Mallam Garba Shehu, described Clark's exit as a loss for the nation.
Calling him an “iconic statesman,” the former president said Clark was a leader dedicated to reforms, whose commitment to the development of his community and the nation would always be remembered.
Buhari said the late Ijaw leader left an indelible imprint on the nation and that in his passing, Nigeria had lost an iconic statesman and a distinguished leader.
While noting that Clark’s commitment to the unity of the country would be respected by generations yet unborn, he urged the Clark family and fellow citizens in the Delta region of the country to uphold his numerous achievements.
Jonathan: He was a Father Figure, Inspired Generations of Leaders
Former President Goodluck
Jonathan has described Chief Edwin Clark as a father figure, peerless icon and a relentless crusader for justice, who devoted his life to the betterment of the society.
In a condolence message to his immediate family, the former president noted that the late Clark was a bridgebuilder, and a patriot, stressing that he inspired different generations of leaders including himself.
“It is with a heavy heart that I extend my deepest condolences to the immediate family, friends, and associates of the revered elder statesman, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, who has passed on to eternal glory.
“His was a life of selfless service, unwavering courage, and an unyielding commitment to the development of the Niger Delta region and Nigeria as a whole.
“His wisdom, foresight, and dedication to the principles of fairness and good governance inspired generations of leaders, including myself.
“He was a man of integrity, a bridge-builder, and a patriot who devoted his life to the betterment of our society. I recall with deep gratitude his invaluable counsel and support during my tenure as President of Nigeria.
“His passion for the Niger Delta
and his relentless pursuit of peace and progress, not only in the region but across the country, remain indelible marks of his legacy.
“Chief Clark's passing is not just a loss to his family but to the entire nation, as we have lost one of our most respected and influential leaders.
“Chief E.K. Clark lived a fulfilled life, leaving behind a legacy of courage, resilience, and service to humanity. May his soul rest in perfect peace, and may God grant his immediate family, the people of the Niger Delta, and all Nigerians the strength to bear this irreplaceable loss.”
Atiku: He Was True Federalist, Nationalist and Patriot Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, in statement, said, ''Our nation was still mourning the demise of exemplary statesman Pa Ayo Adebanjo, 96, when the sad news of your passing away was brought to my attention.
''Chief Edwin Clark, 97, the EbiEbekekere, Owei of Western Ijaw in Delta State, was a Trojan war horse in the battlefields for independence. Above all, he was a diehard proponent of nation-building, true federalism, equity, and good governance.
''Undoubtedly, he was a veteran freedom fighter, educationist, philanthropist, legal luminary, and astute administrator who mentored many nationalists and patriots like us.'
''Clark spoke loudly and worked assiduously in support of inclusiveness, especially for the minority ethnic groups in Nigeria. He was fiery, fearless, and forthright in his peaceful and constitutional pursuit of an egalitarian society in our country. Sadly, that lofty dream seemed to have dimmed before his eyes.
''But, we, his mentees, shall rekindle the torch and continue the drive for a better Nigeria. I sincerely share in the grieving mood of his nuclear and extended families, particularly PANDEF, the Ijaw nation, Delta State, and Nigeria in its entirety.
''Rest on Pa Clark, the loud voice of reason against foul political practices. You were an architect of rule of law, justice, and fairplay. 'May God receive your gentle soul and allow you to blissfully rest in eternity,'' Atiku stated
Akpabio:
Our Nation’s Conscience is Lost
President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has described the death of Chief Edwin Clark, as the loss of the nation’s conscience.
In a statement personally signed, he wrote: "With the passing of Pa Edwin Clark, an era draws to a solemn close.
"Today, we do not merely mourn the departure of a man; we grieve the fading of a guiding light, a towering statesman whose voice resonated with wisdom, courage, and an unshakable love for Nigeria.
"His was a life of service, a life of conviction, and above all, a life dedicated to justice,” he said, describing Clark’s demise as a monumental loss to Nigeria, the Niger Delta, and all who cherish unity, fairness, and
national progress.
He said, “I am deeply saddened by the passing of Pa Edwin Clark, a renowned statesman, nationalist, and Ijaw leader.
"His dedication to Nigeria’s unity and development will remain evergreen in the hearts of those who knew him. As a nation, we have lost a true patriot and a champion of justice.”
FG:
His Decades of Service Left Indelible Marks
The federal government has said Chief Edwin Clark’s decades of service to the nation in various capacities left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s governance, unity, and development.
A statement by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, described Clark as a distinguished patriot, a relentless advocate for justice and equity, and a pillar of Nigeria’s democratic evolution.
"His advocacy, deep reservoir of wisdom, and unwavering commitment to national progress made him an invaluable voice in Nigeria’s political landscape. His wise counsel and selfless contributions to nationbuilding will be sorely missed," the statement said.
The federal government, therefore, extended heartfelt condolences to his family, the government and people of Delta State, and all Nigerians, who benefited from his extraordinary life of service.
Anyaoku: He was Powerful Advocate of Nigerian Unity
Former Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, in a statement titled: Remembering Chief Edwin Clark, said aside from living a life of remarkable service to his country in various scenes, the death of Clark marked the end of the old brigade of Nigeria’s public serv ants.
This, he said. Clark did as a Commissioner in the Midwest region, as a Minister in the Federal government and as a Senator of the Federal Republic.
“He was a powerful advocate of Nigerian unity through collaboration among the country’s various ethnic nationalities.
“As leader of his peoples’ cultural organisation in the Niger Delta (PANDEF), he promoted close consultation and solidarity with the leaders of the other similar organisations in the country: the Ohaneze Ndigbo, the Afenifere, the AREWA and the Middle Belt Forum.
“The passing of Chief E K Clark points to the end of the old brigade of Nigeria’s public servants. He will be mourned not only by the Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo family but also by his many friends and associates throughout the country and beyond,” he said.
Fasoranti: Clark Will Be Remembered for His Fearlessness
The National Leader of Afenifere,
In a condolence message on behalf of the 19 Northern governors, Yahaya described him as an upright and relentless advocate for fairness, and whose contributions to governance, democracy, and national discourse earned him admiration and respect.
According to a Press release issued by the Director-General, Press Affairs, Ismaila Uba Misilli, the governor extended his heartfelt condolences to the Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo family, the government and people of Delta State, and the entire South-South region, as well as Nigeria as a whole.
"Chief Edwin Clark was an advocate for the rights of the downtrodden and a steadfast voice for the Niger Delta and Nigeria as a whole.
“His commitment to justice and good governance distinguished him as a statesman of great repute. His demise is a profound loss, not just to the South-South but to the entire country," Yahaya remarked.
Oborevwori: It’s End of a Great Era
Delta State Governor, Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has commiserated with the Ijaw nation on the passing of elder statesman, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, describing his death as "End of a great era".
Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, has expressed shock over the demise of Nigeria’s foremost nationalists, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, saying he would be remembered for his fearlessness.
A statement by Afenifere’s National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Jare Ajayi, said lovers of democracy and particularly advocates of restructuring will solely miss the former Commissioner for Information.
“Since the need to ensure that Nigeria serves the best interests of the vast majority became more pertinent, my brother, Chief Edwin Clark, was a very strong advocate.
“His voice was loud in the agitations for a restructured Nigeria. He always displayed the same strong passions on national issues especially those that affected the South South,” he said.
Fasoranti stated that it grieved his heart that he has to mourn another compatriot just a few days after the death of the erstwhile acting leader of Afenifere and a comrade-in-arm, Chief Ayodele Adebanjo.
“Of course, we know that death is inevitable for all mortals, but it can be heart-rending and painful to be losing one’s comrades in succession.
“On behalf of Afenifere and fellow compatriots, I condole the immediate and extended families of our late patriot, Chief Edwin Clark, the people of Delta State and the people of the South South generally on his demise.”
NGF: Our Outstanding Voices Are Depleting in Ranks
Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), yesterday, mourned the passing of two great statesmen, Pa Ayo Adebayo and Chief Edwin Clark.
The deaths of the nonagenarians, it said, were a huge depletion in the ranks of outstanding voices, who were never afraid to offer their views on issues of national importance.
A statement by the NGF Chairman and Kwara State Governor, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, stated:
"The Forum recalls that the duo played critical roles in the evolution of the country’s democracy, constitutional development, and the discourse around its federal system vis-a-vis topical issues of resource control and the rights of ethnic minorities.
"The NGF sends its heartfelt condolences to the people and governments of South-West and South-South, especially Ogun and Delta States, and to the families of the statesmen on these sad developments.
"The Forum prays for the repose of their souls, saying their legacies will endure for generations yet unborn."
Northern Governors Mourn
Chairman of the Northern States Governors' Forum and Governor of Gombe State, Alhaji Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, has expressed sorrow over the demise of elder statesman and chairman of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), Chief Clark, who passed after a brief illness.
In a condolence message to the family and the Ijaw nation yesterday, Oborevwori, in statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, described Pa Clark’s life and times as indeed well spent in the service of the nation.
He eulogised the late elder statesman for his unwavering and unprecedented dedication to the growth and unity of the nation, especially in the South-South.
"Today, I mourn the passing of an elder statesman, Nigerian patriot, and role model, Chief (Dr) Senator Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, OFR, OON, an icon whose influence traversed Nigeria's political scene for six decades.
“Teacher, educator, public servant, and politician, Chief Clark was a model of integrity, consistency, fidelity to a cause, and patriotic fervour.
"To the people of the Niger Delta region, he was their champion. Bold, outspoken, and fearless, he stood resolute in crusading for fairness, equity and justice for the region.
"His exit is also a personal loss; he was a motivator, mentor, and father to me. I will miss his wisdom, counsel, and zest for life.
"On behalf of my family, the government and people of Delta State, I commiserate with the Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo family of Kiagbodo Town, in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State, on the passing of Chief (Dr.) Senator Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, OFR, CON, on Monday 17th February, 2025," he said.
Delta Speaker: He Was An Iconic Leader
Speaker of Delta State House of Assembly, Hon. Emomotimi Dennis Guwor, said the passing of Clark left him and many others with a deep sense of loss and sorrow.
The Speaker, in a message at the resumed plenary session of the state House of Assembly, paid glowing tribute to Clark, whom he described as an iconic leader.
"Distinguished colleagues, it is with a heavy heart full of pains that I bring to your attention the demise of our renowned elder statesman and foremost National leader, Chief (Dr) Senator Edwin Kiagbodo Clark.
"Pa Clark was an enigma and iconoclast. He was a prominent advocate for the rights of the Niger Delta region. He was like a book full of many chapters for everyone of us. He was a fiery environmental sustainability advocate who spoke truth to power," Guwor stated in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Nkem Nwaeke.
Onuesoke: Last Voice Standing is Gone
A Chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and former Delta State gubernatorial aspirant, Chief Sunny Onuesoke, has mourned the demise of Chief Edwin Clark, saying, “it is unfortunate that The Last Voice Standing Has Gone”. Onuesoke was among the first mourners to visit the residence of E.K. Clark at Asokoro, Abuja, on hearing of the news.
Late Clark
IJAW LEADER AND LAST OF NIGERIA’S OLD BRIGADE, CLARK, DIES AT 97
The PDP Chieftain said the masses would miss Clark whom he described as man who fought for peace, unity and growth of the Niger Delta region in particular and Nigeria in general.
“At well over 80 years in the past, he still frequented the marshy mangrove creaks laden with dangerous reptiles, to negotiate with Niger-Delta militants, to lay down their arms.
“The amnesty truce achieved during Presidents Umaru Yar’adua and Goodluck Jonathan’s era were partly his brain child," he said.
Sanwo-Olu: He Fought Tirelessly for Emancipation of His People
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has mourned the passage of foremost nationalist and Ijaw leader, Chief Edwin Clark, describing his death as the end of an era in Nigeria.
Sanwo-Olu, in a condolence message by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, sympathised with the Governor of Delta State, Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, the government, and the people of the state, particularly the Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo family and Kiagbodo town, over the death of the elder statesman.
"He was a foremost nationalist and a leading voice in the campaign for a better Nigeria as well as Niger Delta. He fought tirelessly for the emancipation of his people during his lifetime.
"Chief Edwin Clark, served his community, the Ijaw nation, Delta State, the Niger Delta region, and Nigeria as a whole in different capacities for about seven decades.
"On behalf of my family, the government and the people of Lagos State, we mourned the passage of elder statesman and Ijaw leader, Chief Edwin Clark, who passed on at 97 years.”
Mbah: We Lost an Unpretentious Federalist
Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, has expressed sadness over the passing of Chief Edwin Clark, describing him as an unpretentious federalist, who gave his all in service to God, country, and humanity at large.
Mbah, in a post on his verified X @PNMbah, said Clark discharged his calling as a conscience of the nation, voice of reason, social crusader, and a champion of equity, justice, and true federalism.
“I received with rude shock the passing on of a revered statesman, Chief Edwin Clark. He was one man, whom you were never in doubt of where he stood on any national issue.
“He was a courageous leader and was not just bold and vocal, but also he was principled in his advocacy. He was a conscience of the nation, voice of reason, social crusader, champion of equity and justice, and an unpretentious federalist.
"He fought for democracy, good governance, and fiscal federalism until he breathed his last. This is, therefore, a grave loss, not only to his immediate family, Delta State, and the Niger Delta, but also to the nation as a whole,” he said.
Soludo: He Was Extraordinary Nigerian Patriot
Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, has expressed grief over the passing of Chief Edwin Clark, ad described him as an extraordinary Nigeria patriot.
In his condolence message by his press secretary, Christian Aburime, Soludo said Clark served Nigeria with uncommon dedication as a former Federal Commissioner for Information and leader of the Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF).
"His voice resonated not just for the Niger Delta, but for all of Nigeria. As a lawyer, educationist, and elder statesman, Chief Clark's interventions on national issues were marked by wisdom, foresight, and a dogged commitment to national unity founded on the principles of justice and equity."
He further stated that Clark was ever unapologetic in his pursuit of justice, equity, and true federalism, saying his life exemplified the possibility of building bridges across ethnic and regional lines for the greater good of our nation.
"Although Chief Clark’s passing marks the end of an era, his uncompromising pursuit of a united, just,
and truly federal Nigeria lives on."
Soludo commiserated with the families of Chief Edwin Clark and Pa Ayo Adebanjo, the people of Niger Delta and Yoruba land, PANDEF and Afenifere, praying that their souls rest in peace.
Otu: Dying A Day After Meeting With Him is Shocking
Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, while expressing sorrow over the loss of Chief Edwin Clark, said. It was even more shocking dying a day after he met with the nonagenarian.
In a press release by his Chief Press Secretary, Nsa Gill, Otu conveyed his shock at the news, which came just a day after he met with a delegation from the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF).
During the meeting, the governor had extended his well wishes to Clarke, who, due to health reasons, was unable to join the delegation’s visit to Cross River State.
This, he noted, was a testament to the strong bond the elder statesman shared with the people of Cross River.
Otu acknowledged that while Chief Clarke’s passing at the age of 97 signified a life well-lived, it remained a painful loss given his vast experience, wisdom, and dedication to public service.
Abiodun: His Exit a Glorious Conclusion of Monumental Chapter in Nigerian History
Chairman of the Southern Governors’ Forum (SGF), Dapo Abiodun, has described the death of Chief Edwin Clark, as a profound loss to Nigeria, yet a glorious conclusion of a monumental chapter in Nigerian history.
Abiodun, described him as one of the greatest leaders ever produced by the South-South geopolitical zone of the country and unarguably the most engaging voice for the redressing of decades of exploitation and marginalisation of the Niger Delta peoples.
He said the exit of the foremost nationalist, educationist, legal practitioner, freedom fighter and restructuring advocate marked an era that could never be forgotten.
In a statement, Abiodun said whatever sorrow the exit of the foremost Ijaw leader sprang has been tempered by the giant strides he left in various sectors of the Nigerian national life and the unimpeachable accomplishments he achieved in about 70 years of distinguished national service.
"The exit of Pa Edwin Kiagbodo Clark at 97 marks a watershed in Nigerian history. As a man who lived through the struggles and triumphs of the colonial, Independence, and post-independence eras with all the twists and turns, Chief Clark was simply a personification of Nigerian history.
“He served with distinction for about seven decades and was one of the most accomplished voices of courage and progressivism that Nigeria has ever witnessed.
"The outpouring of emotions following his death, coming on the heels of the transition of a kindred spirit, the inimitable Pa Ayo Adebanjo, indeed marks a moment that all Nigerians must be proud of.
"His activities during the preindependence period when he was elected as Councillor for Bomadi in 1953 and during his stint with the National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC), not forgetting his deeply intellectual posture as a member of the West African Students' Union while a student at Holborn College, London, marks him out as a patriot without compare.
Diri: He Dedicated His Life to Serving Nigeria
Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, yesterday, said the Ijaw nation has lost its father-figure and irrepressible voice, whom he affirmed dedicated his whole life to serving the nation.
A statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Dan Alabrah, described Clark as a distinguished patriot, who dedicated his whole life to the service of Nigeria, adding, "Until the very end, he was unrelenting.
"As the Ijaw nation reflects on the passage of this exceptional sage, we
take solace in his matchless contributions to national development.
"On behalf of the Ijaw nation, the government and people of Bayelsa State, I express heartfelt condolences to the Clark family of Kiagbodo in Burutu Local Government Area and the Delta State government.
"I pray the Lord grants the family and indeed the Ijaw nation the grace to bear this great loss.
"I have consequently directed that all flags in the state fly at half-mast for three days while all our government’s fifth anniversary activities remain suspended for the same period."
Obi: He’ll be Remembered as Symbol of Courage, Truth, Resilience and Patriotism
Former Anambra State Governor, Mr. Peter Obi, has described Chief Clark as a towering figure in Nigeria's socio-political landscape, who remained in the vanguard of the struggle for peace, justice, equity, and fairness in the nation.
He said Clark remained vehemently vocal in his demand for good governance in the nation, saying he was a true patriot, whose desire for a better nation manifested in his immeasurable contributions to the nation.
“I will always cherish his support for my presidential campaign. His bold endorsement of my presidential journey highlights his passionate desire for a New Nigeria that promotes peace, progress, productivity, equity, and fairness.
“Chief Clark will always be remembered as a symbol of courage, truth, resilience,, and patriotism. His death remains a profound loss to the nation.”
Peterside: An Iroko Tree Has Fallen
A Nigeria entrepreneur and investment banker, Mr. Atedo Peterside, has also mourned Chief Edwin Clark and figuratively described him as the greatest and oldest prominent figure the Niger Delta.
In a one-liner on X, he wrote: “The greatest and oldest iroko tree in the Niger Delta has fallen. Rest in peace Pa Edwin Clark.”
Akinyemi: Clark Desired to Maintain Just, United Nigeria
A former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Professor Bolaji Akinyemi, has described Chief Edwin Clark, as a man whose life and deeds were "motivated by the desire to maintain a just and united Nigeria."
Akinyemi said, it was "with a heavy heart that I heard this morning of the death of the old man, Chief Edwin C Clark."
He recalled that for six months in 2014, "I interacted at close quarters with him in the National Conference. Chief Clark was a delegate as an eminent statesman while I was the deputy chairman.
"One of the things that struck me was that Chief Clark was not late for one day or one session during the entire session of the conference."
He also recalled that while Chief Clark did not speak much publicly, behind the scene, "his intervention was much and it was motivated by the desire to maintain a just and united Nigeria.
"He used his extensive links with fellow statesmen to assuage emotions when those flew. He has earned the rest and may he rest in peace."
Omo-Agege: His Life Was a
Testimony to Courage
Former Deputy Senate President, Ovie Omo-Agege, has said the life of Chief E. K. Clark, was a testimony to courage.
He described his death as the end of an eventful era characterised by the distinguished role of leaders, who fought assiduously for the building of a Nigeria anchored on justice, fair play, equity and true federalism.
He said: "I received the news of the passing of our foremost leader and patron of Pan Niger Delta Forum, PANDEF, Chief E.K Clark, with profound pain and sorrow.
“Nigeria, nay, the Niger Delta has lost a leader whose voice for the good of all transcends boundaries, a bridge builder across political lines who struggled for the enthronement of a just and egalitarian society.
"Daddy’s principled voice, especially
for the emancipation of the Niger Delta, will be deeply missed. A nationalist par excellence, we will miss his interventions and activism which have greatly enriched our political landscape and provided a well trodden path for future generations.”
Otuaro: His Public Service Records Were Legendary
The Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, Dr Dennis Otuaro, while mourning Clark said his public service records were legendary.
Otuaro described his demise as a huge loss to Nigeria, the Ijaw nation, the Niger Delta and other minorities in the country.
He further described Clark as a great patriot, nationalist, teacher, lawyer, administrator, and a towering figure in Nigerian politics who made immense contributions to the political development and unity of the country.
Otuaro said Clark's public service records spanning pre-colonial and post-colonial Nigeria were legendary, and a manifestation of his unwavering commitment and dedication to nation building.
He Had Great Courage, Say Northern Christian Youth Professionals
Northern Christian Youth Professionals (NCYP) have described Chief Clark as a man of great courage and unwavering commitment to the unity and progress of Nigeria.
“As a former Federal Commissioner of Information, he played a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s political landscape, always championing policies and actions that upheld the principles of justice, fairness, and national cohesion.
“As the leader of the PANDEF, he was a relentless voice for the rights of the people of the oil-producing Niger Delta.
“His tireless advocacy contributed significantly to addressing the challenges of the region, particularly in the fight for resource control, environmental justice, and economic empowerment.
“His interventions also played a critical role in curbing oil militancy, ensuring a more peaceful and stable Nigeria.”
PANDEF: Towering
Figure in Nigeria
for over 75 Years of Active Public Service
Nigerians across the country are in shock over the sudden news of the demise of a national patriarch, a renowned lawyer, activist, and politician, Chief Edwin Clark.
The Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), in a statement by its spokesperson, Dr Obiuwevbi Ominimini, said, “Pa Clark was indeed a towering figure in our Nigeria for over 75 years of active public service known for his tireless advocacy for justice, equality, and human rights. His contributions to the legal profession, politics, community development, and the educational sector where he founded several universities are immeasurable.
“As he quietly departs after a very active life that just eluded his 98 birthdays, his standing as a passionate champion of the people, a brilliant mind, and a generous spirit will continue to inspire all Nigerians to work the more towards a more just, equitable, and compassionate society.”
National Chairman of the group, Dr Godknows Igali, had earlier disclosed that Clark died in Abuja, late in the evening of Monday, February 17, 2025, surrounded by family and loved ones.
Fubara: He Served as Beacon of Hope and Conscience of Leaders in Government
Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has said the news of the death of Chief Edwin Clark, was heart-wrenching, given the impact of such a loss.
He said despite his age, Clark was active serving as a beacon of hope and conscience of leaders in government.
“I am deeply saddened to hear about the loss of our beloved father and leader, Chief Edwin Clark. Despite his age, he remained active, serving as a beacon of hope and conscience to leaders in government.
"He kept in touch with national issues and did not cease from providing
elderly counsel to leaders at various levels, in pursuit of responsible and responsive leadership in Nigeria."
Fubara noted that Clark, as a courageous Ijaw leader, nationalist, and freedom fighter, demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment to the unity of Nigeria, and boldly defended the rights of the minorities, especially Niger Deltans.
"He has left indelible footprints as a nationalist for the inspiring roles he played in the Middle-Belt Leaders Forum, and as leader of PANDEF. I pray to the Almighty God to grant the repose of his soul and reward his courageous services to the Niger Delta region and Nigeria,” he said.
Peterside: Nigeria Has Lost a Voice
A former Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr Dakuku Peterside, has described the demise of Chief Clark, as shocking, saying, “Nigeria has lost a voice, patriot, statesman, defender and shining light."
Dr Peterside, stated that his demise has created a vacuum that would be too huge to fill.
“The late Clark is a true Nigerian hero who spoke truth to power and made a lot of sacrifices defending the rights and privileges of the minorities," he stressed.
While stressing that the deceased represented courage and patriotism, Peterside said he (Clark) was a champion of the Niger Delta struggle and never wavered in ensuring that the people got a fair deal from government at all levels.
Igini: He Did His Best for Our People
Former INEC Commissioner, Mike Igini, has mourned the passing of Chief Edwin Clark, saying he did his best for the people of South-South.
He said, “Papa did his best for our people of South-South and Nigeria. He implanted an enduring spirit of commitment to duty in all hearts. He will for all times remain in our hearts.
“His distinguished service at National and regional levels has few peers. Having served at a very young age as one of the strongest voices of advocacy for fostering and nurturing a truly federal Nigeria.
“He remained a tip of the national spear for the struggle against regression and revisionism from the ideals of federalist governance in Nigeria."
“His unquenchable quest for an equitable and enabling country saw his presence as a pillar of leadership in most of the milestone national conferences that were conducted to return the country to the moral compass and values upon which the founding fathers of the country agreed to a federal compact.
“And in the many years since, several national leadership sought to stray away from the fundaments of this compact, he has been a strong voice calling on all to retrace their steps.”
Sara-Igbe:
He Was Activist Par Excellence
A prominent Rivers State statesman and former spokesperson of PANDEF, Chief Anabs Sara-Igbe, has described the death of Pa Clark as a colossal loss, saying he was an activist par excellence.
“We will miss him. Nigeria lost two great men: Adebanjo died last week, and Clark died yesterday. Their deaths are a colossal loss to us.
“But we are grateful to God that spared his life for this long, and like he would always say ‘he has been in the departure line waiting for his plane to come.
“He has gotten a ticket, he has gotten a boarding pass, waiting for the plane to arrive. And by last night (Monday), he boarded and left.”
Imansuagbon: He Spoke Truth When Uncomfortable
A former governorship aspirant in Edo State, Mr Kenneth Imansuagbon, has said chief Edwin Clark spoke the truth in his life, even if uncomfortable. Expressing sorrow over his passing he described his death as a monumental loss to Nigeria.
"I remember sitting with him, listening to his deep thoughts about Nigeria. He was a man who spoke the
truth, even when it was uncomfortable. He never shield away from saying what needed to be said," he stated. In a statement in Benin, he lamented the loss of the statesman whose integrity and unwavering commitment to truth set him apart in a nation where dishonesty often prevails.
He Left Behind Legacy of Courage, Says Coalition of Opposition Political Parties
Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP), in a statement by its secretary, Peter Ameh, said, "As a renowned leader and advocate for equity and inclusion, Clark left an indelible mark on the country's history.”
The coalition added that, “His unwavering commitment to national participation, diversity, and truth inspired generations of Nigerians.
''Clark's remarkable life was a testament to his dedication to the country's development and unity. Born on May 25, 1927, in Kiagbodo, Delta State, he rose to become a formidable voice in national affairs.
“As a federal commissioner for information under General Yakubu Gowon's military government, Clark played a key role in shaping government policies.
''Throughout his life, Clark remained a fierce advocate for the Niger Delta people, championing their rights and interests. His activism led to the creation of PANDEF, a socio-political group for regional interests.
“Clark's influence extended beyond the Niger Delta, as he actively participated in constitutional reforms and democratic development and also protected the rights of every oppressed Citizen of Nigeria.
''Clark's legacy is a reminder that leadership is not about personal gain, but about serving others. He will be deeply missed, but his impact on Nigeria's political and economic landscape will continue to inspire future generations.”
Tompolo: Nigeria Lost Its Unique, Potent Voice in South South
Chairman of Tantita Security Services Limited (TSSNL) and IbeEbidouwei of Ijaw Nation, High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo alias Tompolo said Nigeria has lost its unique and potent voice in the South South geopolitical zone.
Ekpemupolo described Clark as the voice of the voiceless and father of the fatherless, stressing that he would be missed.
"Nigeria lost its unique and potent voice in the South South geopolitical zone, which was a unique gift from God.
"There is no denying that this death has put a vacuum in the country's leadership structure. He was a democratic and socio-economic crusader," he maintained.
Last Trojan of Democracy, Resource Control Gone, Niger Delta Youths Mourn
The Pan Niger Delta Youth Empowerment Youth Forum (PANDYEF), has described the late Clark as "the last Trojan of democracy and resource control in the Niger Delta region".
In a statement by its spokesman, Mazi Chika Art Adiele, the group, which is the youth wing of PANDEF, said "unfortunate transition of our dear founding father" was received with rude shock.
"We honour a man of excellence, virtue, diligence and integrity, whose life and times was profoundly exemplary with rock solid dedication to justice, equity and fairness," said PANDYEF.
Harry: He Fought for N’Delta Emancipation
The National Chairman of the South-South Chiefs and Elders, Chief Omubo Harry, has described Clark as the headmaster of the struggle for Niger Delta freedom.
He said as the father of Niger Delta people, he made the region and Ijaw ethnic nationality proud, by fighting for the emancipation of the region.
"Edwin Clark is a father to the Niger Delta. He is even a father to the group called South-South Chiefs and Elders. We talk about pioneers’ fighters in the Niger Delta freedom, he is the headmaster of all.
LABOUR HOUSE INAUGURATION...
Kyari Charges Miners, Geoscientists to Embrace Innovation for Economic Growth
Says
talks of fuel quality
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) Mr. Mele Kyari, yesterday charged members of the Nigerian Mining & Geosciences Society (NMGS) to embrace new technologies and foster a culture of continuous improvement .
He told the group during an address at the 60th Conference & Exhibition in Abuja that this will help them to maximise the nation’s natural resources and generate more revenue for the country.
The conference, which had as its theme as: “Transformation of the Mineral, Energy, Water, and Construction Sectors through Innovation,” focused on conversations around mining industry reforms, policy enhancements and broader public appreciation of geosciences’ role in national development.
Also, Kyari has flayed talks of the existence of sub-standard fuel in the country, describing it as an unfortunate drama and bad marketing practice.
Kyari said the country does not have any issues of quality in its Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) also known as petrol across the country.
“The talk around fuel quality is
just
drama, bad marketing antics Insists NNPC hasn't imported products this year
unfortunate and a very bad marketing practice. It’s all drama and entertainment and as we know, drama has a way of entertaining the people,” Kyari stated.
He said PMS has quality standards which are obtainable in every country and there are no two countries that have the same standards.
Citing an example, Kyari said in Europe, oxygenate (a fuel additive) has to be introduced into PMS, otherwise it will solidify the tank in people’s cars. But if the same fuel additive is introduced into cars in Nigeria, it turns to water once it gets into contact with air.
In essence, Kyari said, what is required by law to be introduced in one country, it is also required by law not to be introduced in another country, a statement by the NNPC spokesman, Olufemi Soneye, stated.
He added that in the case of Nigeria, the country has standard regulatory agencies such as the Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON) and the Nigerian Midstream & Downstream Regulatory Agency (NMDPRA), whose job is to ensure that every product that comes into this country meets the required products specifications and standards.
“I believe these regulatory agencies are doing their job. They have not
come back to tell anyone that we have substandard products in the country,” Kyari told the audience.
The NNPC helmsman said the company has already taken the necessary legal and security steps to ensure that people (behind such video) don’t mess up the country. He said the implications of such acts
are not only on NNPC anymore but more about messing up the whole country.
Kyari, who maintained that people can have their frustrations, cautioned that falsehood should never be extended into business.
The GCEO also debunked reports claiming that NNPC had imported
200 million litres of fuel in February this year.
“These are just lies, because we didn’t even import products within that window that the report was published. All the mischief about aligning this fictitious importation with the so-called low-quality fuel are just baseless,” he stated.
He explained that importation is a normal practice in the industry, as every country imports petroleum products, including the United States. He said Nigeria has supplied petroleum products to countries such as Saudi Arabia and the UAE, which doesn’t mean that there are no refineries in those countries.
FRC Seeks Increased Revenue Allocation to States, Fiscal Sustainability at All Levels
The Fiscal Responsibility Commission (FRC), has called for increased revenue allocation to sub-national governments, arguing that direct financial resources would have a more tangible impact on citizens.
The Executive Chairman of FRC
Victor Muruako, who made the call also advocated for fiscal sustainability from the federal government down to the local government level.
Muruako's call for fiscal sustainability aligns with ongoing efforts to improve financial accountability and governance across all tiers of
government in Nigeria.
Speaking in Abuja at the 5th National Treasury workshop, Muruako emphasised the importance of local governments in revenue generation.
He noted that if local governments function effectively, they can generate more revenue, recalling a time when essential services such as primary healthcare, education, and agriculture were efficiently managed at the grassroots level.
Muruako advocated for increased revenue allocation to sub-national governments, arguing that direct financial resources would have a more tangible impact on citizens.
AI Paris Summit: Nigeria, France, 56 Others Launch Platform to Bridge Digital Divides
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
Participants at the just concluded Artificial Intelligence (AI) Paris Summit, including Nigeria, have launched a platform to promote AI accessibility, as part of its strategy to reduce the digital divide, and ensure AI is open, inclusive, and transparent.
This was disclosed in a press release from the French Government regarding the AI Summit, with details regarding the different steps taken so far. The details were contained in the statement on “Inclusive and Sustainable Artificial Intelligence for People and the Planet,” signed by Nigeria, France, and 56 other countries, including the European Union and African Union Commission at the summit. Nigeria is among the eight founding members of the “Public Interest AI Platform and Incubator”.
According to the statement, the purpose of the platform and
incubator is to “support, amplify, decrease fragmentation between existing public and private initiatives on Public Interest AI and address digital divides.
“The Public interest AI Initiative will sustain and support digital public goods and technical assistance and capacity building projects in data, model development, openness and transparency, audit, compute, talent, financing and collaboration to support and co-create a trustworthy AI ecosystem advancing the public interest of all, for all and by all.”
The signatories of the Paris Statement agreed to encourage AI deployment that positively impacts the future of work, promotes sustainable growth, and supports both people and the planet.
The statement also seeks global reflection on issues like security, human rights, gender equality, linguistic diversity and sustainable development.
The statement noted that, “In
line with the Paris Pact for People and the Planet and the principle that countries should design their own transition strategies, we have identified priorities and launched concrete actions to serve the public interest and bridge the digital divide by accelerating the achievement of sustainable development goals.
“Enabling innovation in the field of AI by creating conditions conducive to its development and preventing market concentration, thereby supporting industrial recovery and development.
“Our actions follow three key principles: science, solutions (with an emphasis on open AI models that respect national frameworks) in accordance with international frameworks.”
The statement further stated: “We recognise the need to enhance our shared knowledge on the impacts of AI in the job market, though the creation of network of observatories, to better anticipate AI implications for
workplaces, training and education and to use AI to foster productivity, skill development, quality and working conditions and social dialogue.
“We underline the need for a global reflection integrating, inter alia, questions of safety, sustainable development, innovation, respect of international laws including humanitarian law and human rights law and the protection of human rights, gender equality, linguistic diversity, protection of consumers and of intellectual property rights.
“We take note of efforts and discussions related to international fora where AI governance is examined.
“We look forward to next AI milestones such as the Kigali Summit, the 3rd Global Forum on the Ethics of AI hosted by Thailand and UNESCO, the 2025 World AI Conference and the AI for Good Global Summit 2025 to follow up on our commitments and continue to take concrete actions aligned with a sustainable and inclusive AI.”
He also urged local governments to engage with their communities to understand their needs before drafting budgets, as this would help drive internally generated revenue (IGR).
The FRC chairman highlighted the significance of the Fiscal Responsibility Act 2007, which was designed to strengthen independent revenue sources.
He encouraged participants to leverage Section 51 of the Act to question any lack of transparency in government activities.
Muruako also praised President Bola Tinubu’s fiscal reforms, particularly in tax policy, stating that such measures would enhance revenue generation at
the state and local government levels.
The Head, Strategic Communications Directorate, Fiscal Responsibility Commission, listed notable discussants at the workshop include Chairman, Revenue Mobilisation Allocation & Fiscal Commission (RMFAC), Dr. Mohammed Shehu; Accountant General of the Federation, Dr. Oluwatoyin Madein; Chairman, State Commissioners Forum and Commissioner for Finance, Ekiti State, Hon. Akintunde Oyebode They engaged in in-depth discussions on revising the revenue allocation formula to enhance fiscal federalism and promote development at sub-national levels.
Uba Sani Reinstates Fifth Chukker’s Land Titles Revoked by El-Rufai
John
The Kaduna state government has reinstated the four land titles belonging to Fifth Chukker Resort Limited. The Director General of Kaduna Geographic Information Service (KADGIS), Dr. Bashir Garba, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday in Kaduna.
The company owns the massive land after Maraban Jos in Igabi LGA, where the popular Fifth Chucker Polo and Country Club, are located.
The land titles were revoked by the administration of ex-governor Nasir El-Rufai.
Garba said that Governor Uba Sani is committed to creating a conducive business environment that encourages investment, economic growth, job creation and boosts revenue generation in the state.
He said the state government
is determined to address ongoing land and property disputes in the state, adding that an efficient land administration system is being established to effectively serve the needs of the people.
The KADGIS DG expressed optimism that these reinstatements would facilitate the resolution of additional revocations that were executed without due process in the past.
He added that resolving the issues would significantly contribute to establishing a business-friendly atmosphere for investors and other stakeholders, thereby promoting rapid socio-economic development in Kaduna State. Garba urged residents of Kaduna to remain law abiding and exercise patience as the administration implements land reforms that are centred on the people’s welfare.
Shiklam in Kaduna
Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja
L-R: Former Rivers State Governor, Sir Celestine Omehia; Bayelsa State Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo; Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, and Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, during the inauguration of the Labour House in Yenagoa…yesterday
Acting Group Politics Editor DEJI ELUMOYE
Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com
08033025611 sms only
Edwin Clark: Consistently Speaking Truth to Power
sunday Aborisade chronicles the life and times of elder statesman, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, who passed away in his sleep on Monday.
Elderstatesman and prominent leader of the Ijaw nation, Chief Edwin Clark, who died on Monday at the ripe age of 97, would be remembered for his frankness when it comes to national issues and whatever affects his oil-rich Niger-Delta region.
The Federal Commissioner for Information in the First Republic who also served as Senator in the Second Republic, would have clocked 98 on May 25.
The Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo family of Kiagbodo Town in Delta State, announced the Ijaw leader’s demise in the early hours of Tuesday. A statement issued by Prof. C. C. Clark, on behalf of the the family and Mr. Penawei Clark for the children, explained that the burial details would be announced later.
“The Clark family wishes to announce the passing of Chief (Dr.) Sen. Edwin Kiagbodo Clark OFR, CON on Monday 17th February, 2025.
“The family appreciates your prayers at this time. Other details will be announced later by the family,” the statement added.
Promptly the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) in a press statement by its Chairman, Ambassador Godknows Igali, described Clark’s demise as the fall of a “mighty Iroko tree.”
PANDEF highlighted Clark’s towering contributions to public service, politics, and community development for over 75 years.
The statement read in part, “A distinguished lawyer, activist, and politician, Chief Edwin Clark was a prominent leader of the South-South region of Nigeria and the Ijaw ethnic nationality.
“He founded PANDEF and co-led the South and Middle Belt Leaders Forum (SMBLF), advocating tirelessly for justice, equality, and human rights.
“Throughout his career, Chief Clark was known for his outspoken defense of marginalised communities and his relentless pursuit of a fair and equitable society.
“His contributions extended beyond politics into the legal profession, education, and community development, where he founded several universities.
“Pa Clark was indeed a towering figure in Nigeria, known for his tireless advocacy for justice and human rights.
“His brilliant mind and generous spirit will continue to inspire future generations to strive for a more just and compassionate society.
“The Pan Nigerian leader died, just months before his 98th birthday after he had served the purpose of God in his own generation, he fell asleep and was allowed to rest.”
Chief Clark’s passing came shortly after the death of his longtime associate and fellow elder statesman, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, prompting further reflection on the end of an era in Nigeria’s political and social landscape.
The statement concluded by noting that details of his funeral arrangements will be announced in due course.
Also in his statement titled, “The Passing of a Pillar, The Loss of a Nation’s Conscience,” Senate President Godswill Akpabio said, an era has drawn to a solemn end with the
death of Clark.
Akpabio said, “With the passing of Pa Edwin Clark, an era draws to a solemn close.
“Today, we do not merely mourn the departure of a man; we grieve the fading of a guiding light, a towering statesman whose voice resonated with wisdom, courage, and an unshakable love for Nigeria.
“His was a life of service, a life of conviction, and above all, a life dedicated to justice.”
The statement further read, “Pa Clark’s demise as a monumental loss to Nigeria, the Niger Delta, and all who cherish unity, fairness, and national progress.
“I am deeply saddened by the passing of Pa Edwin Clark, a renowned statesman, nationalist, and Ijaw leader.
“His dedication to Nigeria’s
unity and development will remain evergreen in the hearts of those who knew him. As a nation, we have lost a true patriot and a champion of justice.
“At 97 years old, Pa Clark stood as a bridge between generations— his life a testament to resilience, integrity, and an unwavering belief in the promise of Nigeria.
“From his early days as a councillor, to his service as a federal minister, to his revered role as a political father and advisor to President Goodluck Jonathan, he was not just a leader—he was a moral compass, reminding us all of the responsibility that comes with governance.
“He was a warrior for the Niger Delta, a fearless advocate for equity and resource control, and an unrelenting defender of the oppressed. He spoke truth to power, even when it was inconvenient, because he understood that leadership is not
He was a warrior for the n iger Delta, a fearless advocate for equity and resource control, and an unrelenting defender of the oppressed. He spoke truth to power, even when it was inconvenient, because he understood that leadership is not about comfort—it is about duty. Pa Clark’s remarkable life was marked by strength and an undying commitment to the unity of this country. His voice, though now silenced, will echo in the annals of our history, urging us always toward justice, fairness, and national cohesion.
about comfort—it is about duty.
“Pa Clark’s remarkable life was marked by strength and an undying commitment to the unity of this country. His voice, though now silenced, will echo in the annals of our history, urging us always toward justice, fairness, and national cohesion.
“Beyond his national impact, I remember with deep gratitude his unwavering support for me, especially when I visited to seek his blessing and endorsement in my bid for the Senate Presidency.
“His counsel was always rooted in wisdom, his encouragement a reflection of his deep commitment to responsible leadership.
“In a moment now filled with sorrowful reflection, I recall that just a week before his passing, I sent emissaries to check on him, never imagining that it would be the last time we would reach out to him in this world. I did not know that he was preparing for a greater journey, leaving behind the toils of this earth for the eternal peace of the better world beyond.
“On behalf of my family, the people of Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District, and the entire Senate, I extend my deepest condolences to his family, PANDEF, the people and government of Delta State, and every Nigerian who knew and loved him,” Akpabio added.
Clark’s involvement in the political struggle began during the preindependence period when he was elected as Councillor for Bomadi in 1953.
He later joined National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC). While a student at Holborn College, he was active in the West African Students’ Union.
After the military coup of January, 1966, Clark was among a group of delegates from the Mid-West who opposed any ideas of confederation that were raised at an ad-hoc constitutional conference set up by Gowon in 1966.
The delegation’s mandate was Nigerian unity and when proposals of a loose federation were tabled, the region’s delegates asked for adjournment.
Clark was later appointed Midwestern Commissioner of Education and later, Finance.
As commissioner for education, he was active in the establishment of a Mid-west College of Technology that became the foundation of the University of Benin.
During the second republic, he was a member of the national executive committee of the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) and was the treasurer of the party in Bendel State (now, in part, Delta State and previously the Mid-Western Region province).
In 1983, he was elected senator for three months at the twilight of the Shehu Shagari administration.
From 1996, Clark has been a selfdescribed leader of the Ijaw nation. He supported the Ijaw ethnic group in Delta State during an ethnic crisis in Warri and had led Ijaw leadership delegations to meet political leaders.
Early callers at his Asokoro, Abuja residence on Tuesday morning said they took solace in knowing that though he had left this earthly realm, his legacy is indelible.
“His memory will forever stand as a beacon of hope and courage for generations yet unborn,” one of them remarked.
Clark
Unravelling the Lake Chad Conundrum
In this report, Sunday Ehigiator writes on the effort of a consortium of research experts, the ‘SustainabilityLakeChad Group’, to uncover the complexities of Lake Chad’s uncertain hydrology and its effects on communities in its basin
The newly created SustainabilityLakeChad hashtag represents a group of university researchers from Nigeria, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Germany investigating how sustainable rural livelihoods can be of impact in North-East Nigeria’s portion of the Lake Chad Basin, particularly in Borno and Yobe States.
The group’s overarching goals include looking for simple and environmentally sustainable solutions for the betterment of livelihoods in the region, in farming, fishing, and pastoralism, with an understanding that future sustainability must include a discussion of the regional impact of climate change.
Given the recent massive flooding in Maiduguri due to the extreme rain events of 2024, the work of these researchers could not be more timely.
The SustainabilityLakeChad group will base many of their findings on the data that they collected and will continue to collect, including an extensive survey conducted in April 2024, in which responses were collected across many dimensions of rural sustainability from around 1000 individuals across several of Borno and Yobe’s rural communities. Interestingly, the majority of respondents had heard of climate change and were aware of its potential impacts on their livelihoods.
An initial analysis of the collected data revealed that the type of work activity the rural residents engage in and the villages’ geographic location impact the recent changes and inconsistencies they have noticed in the weather conditions from year to year, affecting their activities. This underscores the sustainability question’s complexity and the care needed in its study.
Over-Utilisation of resources
The SustainabilityLakeChad group’s ongoing research into rural livelihoods in this region situated in the Sahelian zone of sub-Saharan Africa at the confines of Chad, Cameroon, Nigeria, and Niger, comes on the heels of a Symposium they convened in May 2024, held at the University of Maiduguri in Borno state.
There, additional data was collected from a group of farmers and fishermen who travelled to the event from across the region and discussed their livelihoods with the academics and public servants in attendance.
The group’s project, led by Professor Frederi Viens from Rice University's Department of Statistics, Houston, Texas, USA, and Professor Philip Ernst, Chair in Statistics and Royal Society Wolfson Fellow at Imperial College London, UK, is supported by a grant from The British Academy/Wolfson Foundation, and funds from Rice University.
In the course of the research, Viens revealed information from farmers that one of the factors affecting the Lake Chad Basin might be its increasing population.
“We heard at the May 2024 symposium from some stakeholders, including members of academia and leaders of farmers’ groups, that there may be excessive pressure on resources in the Lake Chad Basin due to the growing population.
“This element was not echoed in the responses to the survey. It would be wise to keep this question at the top of mind when we run another survey, asking directly about it,” he said.
Concerns over Water Availability
Water availability is a widespread problem reported by survey respondents to the SustainabilityLakeChad Group across all villages surveyed. Based on the data gathered, the type of rural work activity in which residents engage does not predict whether they worry about water, though residents in some locations are more affected by water scarcity than others: the Yobe River and the lake itself appear to be robust sources of water for agrarian lives. Lake Chad Basin residents who rely on rainwater and groundwater are more likely to struggle with water scarcity.
Many respondents and farmers at the recently organised Symposium said that digging more boreholes is one action that could alleviate their difficulties.
A careful preliminary analysis of the survey data suggests that many farmers know this from their past experiences: 16 per cent of all rural village residents surveyed reported that they had to dig new wells and boreholes to deal with increasing water scarcity; moreover, using wells and boreholes as the primary source of water was the strongest predictor of whether a farmer would be frequently worried about water scarcity.
This connects to some extent with a finding reported by hydrologists at the Symposium, and which begs for further investigation: most likely, Lake Chad currently frequently receives enough water to help recharge groundwater aquifers in the region.
If this finding can be confirmed in the region broadly and in specific villages, it would mean that in many cases, digging new boreholes could indeed be a good and sustainable solution for many rural households, helping them rely less on rainfall or surface water, or the Yobe River or the lake during dry periods.
According to Viens, “A private survey was conducted in 2010 to document small-scale irrigation projects along the Yobe River; a comparison with what residents say now would be good.”
The survey results and conversations at the Symposium revealed many other angles to rural sustainability. For instance,
many farmers are concerned about the quality of their soils.
Soil testing is a simple action which could help farmers find out more about what to expect from their soils and inform what measures could help increase soil quality and agricultural yield in the region.
Conflict over Resources
Farmers reported issues with conflict over resources more frequently than fishermen or herders. Residents of some villages reported no such conflicts, while in other villages, as with the farmers who travelled to the Symposium, there were widespread reports of difficulties with insecurity, an endemic problem in the region over the past two decades.
“Our analysis showed that the type of rural activity (farming, herding, fishing) was not significant in explaining insecurity, but the village of residence was a significant factor in explaining whether respondents needed help with insecurity.
“Further information might need to be gathered for us to conclude that geographical dispersion or proximity to the lake are factors in rural security, including covering more villages in the same region and returning to the same villages to check for consistency over time,” Viens said.
The Team and Their Plans
Nigerian academic colleagues who are formal members of this research group and who are playing determining scientific and organisational roles include Prof. Udo Herbert, a national leader in Animal Science, Registrar and CEO of the Nigerian Institute of Animal Science, a Professor and Former Deputy Vice-Chancellor
The group’s overarching goals include looking for simple and environmentally sustainable solutions for the betterment of livelihoods in the region, in farming, fishing, and pastoralism, with an understanding that future sustainability must include a discussion of the regional impact of climate change
(Academic) at Michael Okpara' University of Agriculture in Umudike; Dr. Okezie Chukwuemeka, a prominent Meteorologist and Principal Research Fellow at the National Root Crops Research Institute in Umudike; Prof. Adam Lawan Ngala, a prominent Soil Scientist and Professor at the University of Maiduguri, in the heart of Borno State.
In addition to Profs Ernst (UK) and Viens (USA), the team also includes Prof. Dennis Ikpe, a statistician and applied mathematician, Data Scientist in the Office of Institutional Research, State University of New York at Binghamton, and Adjunct Professor of Digital and Data Studies, at Harpur College in the same university, in the United States.
The group is also led, on the communications and organisational sides in Nigeria, by a Digital Media Specialist, Ms Gbemileke Anthony, and a Water Resource Specialist and Humanitarian Project Team Leader with Thels Impact Consulting in Abuja, Mr. Bethel Ukazu, also associated with Technical University Darmstadt, Germany.
This SustainabilityLakeChad team is moving its research forward on the strength of its evidence-based preliminary findings, which corroborate rural residents’ calls and which they plan to confirm via rigorous research in the next two or three years.
Digging wells and boreholes will very likely help many rural residents of Borno and Yobe in their struggle against water scarcity and may be implemented sustainably based on careful hydrological analysis.
Other simple and sustainable actions would include a soil sampling campaign, which the group may initiate to inform farmers of their agronomic needs. The group anticipates publishing their first results soon in peerreviewed scientific journals and further public communications.
Beyond this, they are committed to tackling the broader questions of how to adapt to the long-term effects of climate change, endemic insecurity, and population dynamics for the farming, fishing, and herding communities in Nigeria’s Lake Chad Basin. Consequently, the group of researchers looks forward to showcasing the future research findings from the SustainabilityLakeChad group on this timely topic.
Viens 2 Taking notes with Borno Farmers Focus Group
www.thisdaylive.com
Wednesday February 19, 2025 Vol 27. No 10907
opinion@thisdaylive.com
ODE-IRELE AND MISSIONARY EDUCATION
OLU AYELA argues the need to return schools owned by the Christian missionary churches to their owners for better management
See page 20
EVERYTHING IS GOING UP—EXCEPT OUR HOPES
Living conditions are increasingly getting unbearable, contends EZINWANNE ONWUKA
See page 20
EDITORIAL
ADDRESSING THE CHALLENGE OF MALNUTRITION
The ready availability of small arms will keep Nigerian security in ICU for a long time if not tackled head-on, reckons AUSTIN ISIKHUEMEN
NIGERIA SECURITY IN ICU?
I drove from Benin to Yola, alone, in my first car in 1995. I left about 5 am and arrived FUTY campus in Jimeta at 10pm. There were no mobile phones then. So, neither my friend, who worked there, now a Professor of Chemistry, nor my rib-to-be, who motivated my visit, knew I was on the way. My arrival was a shock to both. They were aghast when I told them I had left Benin the same day! My friend always spent a night in Benue State any time he came to Edo by road.
Do not ask me why I would drive, alone, from Edo to Adamawa State, starting before daybreak and driving from Numan to Yola at night? Today, that sounds like a death wish. To younger people who became adolescents and young men and women in the era from spanning 2009 to date, my story would sound like a fable. To them, they cannot relate with an era in Nigeria when a young man could drive alone from the South South to North Eastern Nigeria, or vice versa, no matter the motivation. But the truth is that Nigeria was not always this insecure.
Security was taken for granted at some periods in Nigeria’s history. It was not a perfect situation but even armed robbers (called highway robbers then) who reared their heads after the civil war were said to operate mostly in secluded highways. They were said to attack mostly vehicles with a few people and avoided big luxury buses because of the crowd. Then they got bolder and began to operate in broad daylight and townships, culminating in the Anini saga that ended in 1986 in Benin City. Before then, Oyenusi had terrorized the South West till he was captured and executed.
Kano had the Matatsine religious insurgency that lasted a few years till the military dealt the sect a fatal blow and it evaporated. The revolt in Kano in December 1980 led to the death of 4177 including Muhammadu Marwa, the sect leader himself. There was also another revolt in Bulumkutu, 15 km from Maiduguri and reports said 3,350 died. As bad as these insecurity episodes in Nigeria were, they were localized and sporadic and the rest of the country went on with their business. Even when a rogue police officer joined the fray like in the Anini case, it was still limited to Bendel State – now Edo and Delta States, and they mostly targeted banks and policemen. The gang fizzled out after CSP Uanreroro under the leadership of CP Osayande (as he then was) routed them and brought them to justice. Security “fell ill” in 2009 in Nigeria. That was when the Boko Haram sect, founded in 2002, sprang up and became a real regional menace in Kano, Bauchi, Yobe and Borno States. Skirmishes with security agencies especially the police, after four days of violence, led to the death of 700 members and their leader, Mohammed Yusuf, was said to have been extra-judicially executed. A new leader, more violent and malevolent took over and spread terror across the entire North East, parts of North West and the seat of government in Abuja. They kidnapped more than 276 Chibok school girls on the night of 14-15 April, 2014 and took them into captivity in Sambisa forest. The bombing of the UN headquarters internationalized the insurgency further in
addition to the tentacles already spread to Cameroun, Niger and Chad. That was when we began to see bollards and barriers around military installations as well as massive checkpoints on highways and township roads. Police headquarters was even bombed and police stations ransacked at will and armouries emptied of arms and munitions. With army barracks being attacked in spite of the gallant efforts of the armed forces, “bloody civilians” like us felt hopeless and defenseless. No young man could venture anymore to drive from Benin to the middle belt, let alone to the North East, like I once did, alone or with company, even in broad daylight. That was when Nigerian Security went into Intensive Care Unit.
It was said that when the situation got too threatening, with our sovereignty on the line, the government of the day engaged some mercenaries to join the Nigerian Army to face the insurgents. Some political opponents, even from the area more devastated by the war situation, opposed the presence of the hired guns and eventually got them to leave our shores after the insurgency had been successfully used for regime change. Some of the mercenaries have since told the stories of their experience and those stories are available on social media. Was it not even suspiciously baffling that the insurgents always allowed elections to take place?
While Nigeria was heaving a sigh of relief and insurgent activities were beginning to ebb, especially with a change in the top leadership of the armed forces, kidnapping and banditry began to replace it. Professor Zulum’s courageous and exemplary leadership was beginning to make a difference in Borno and some IDPs were returning home when Nigeria’s uhuru song was cut short yet again by the new insecurity scourge. Unlike Boko Haram that had a regional localization mainly in the North East, the reach of banditry and kidnapping knows no bounds today. This time, the raison d’etre is pecuniary rather than religious.
Those now classified as bandits inhabit and operate mainly in the North West though they make serious forays into parts of the middle belt like Niger, Benue, Taraba and sometimes, other parts of the north. It is said that banditry is now a multi-billion naira business and the beneficiaries are not merely those turbaned, AK47-wielding, camouflage-wearing, violent,
forest-dwelling drug addicts alone. Some fingers even get pointed to some in the high echelons of the society. In some areas, highly valued natural resources, especially solid minerals, are said to drive the territorial banditry and the siphoning of what should be the Federation’s resources now going into private pockets. Proceeds of such blood money sometimes get packed as private jets in hangars across the nation.
The level of insecurity is grossly underreported. Check Esan Youth Awareness on social media, for example, and you would find videos and discussions of frequent kidnappings that you will never read about in the orthodox media. Their remit covers a small part of Edo State alone. My gut feeling is that this may be how it is across many parts of the country. The negative impact on productivity, both in animal husbandry and arable farming has been enormous. The current high cost of foodstuffs is not driven by the inflation arising from the recent monetary policy changes alone. The effect of reduced farming acreages due to the impact of Boko Haram, banditry and kidnapping plays a huge role.
The ready availability of small arms across West Africa, most of which end up in Nigeria, will keep Nigerian Security in ICU for a long time if not tackled head-on. Did we not see guns being wielded near the Election Petition Tribunal premises in Edo State recently? What of the spectacle at Airport road even in the presence of armed security agents who the non-state actors freely intermingled with? What happens of the owners of those guns are hungry?
The most unsettling news of recent is the revelation by a US Congressman, no less, that his own country funded the Boko Haram insurgents! Yes. We heard it from the horse’s mouth! Scott Perry has alleged emphatically that USAID was used over time to funnel aid to Boko Haram. Meaning, while Michelle was modeling Bring Back Our Girls, hubby Barack was busy funding the kidnappers of the unfortunate girls. Could it be the predicted breakup of Nigeria by 2015 by America’s National Security Agency was to be actualized through the instrumentality of Boko Haram with USAID covert funding and other logistics? What of our troops who lost their lives? I wait for someone to convince me they did this behind Obama’s back. Please!
Could those sophisticated guns that made our army’s inventory look like toys have been channeled to BH by those who played a role in influencing our 2014 elections? Could the man who we celebrated in the White House as our own have been so enamoured of his national interest that he pushed us under the bus? How do you convince me now that the banditry in Northern Nigeria is not a fully funded operation where the local beneficiaries naively think they are on the driving seat! In this game, not even elected state governors, appointed ministers or some brass hats may be immune, especially in a country where wealth is gradually replacing God in some people’s reckoning. Some will do it for the money even if they know.
auxtynisi@yahoo.com
OLU AYELA argues the need to return schools owned by the Christian missionary churches to their owners for better management
ODE-IRELE AND MISSIONARY EDUCATION
Established almost 60 years ago, the United Grammar School, Ode-Irele, in the old Okitipupa Division of the Western region, became one of the best secondary schools in the country within five years of its establishment. The old Okitipupa Division, now comprising five of the local government areas namely Okitipupa, Irele, Ilaje, Ese-odo and Odigbo, had Manuwa Memorial Grammar School, Iju-Odo, Methodist High School, Okitipupa, Stella Marris College, Okitipupa and United Grammar School, Ode- Irele.
The four missionary Churches which established the United Grammar School were the Anglican, the Catholic, the Methodist and the Baptist. The Churches were passionate about the school from its earliest beginning; hence they funded the school generously. The audacious level of their funding was largely responsible for the rapid growth and popularity of the school.
By the middle of 70s, United Grammar School had become the number one school for parents to bring their children to. It ranked with some of the best schools in the land back then, like Loyola, Ibadan Grammar School and Queens School Ede. Some parents brought their wards from Lagos, Ibadan, Akure, Ondo town, Benin City, etc. The school had the best boarding house facilities, which made it the first choice of most parents. Meanwhile, the school always had more girls in its enrolment than boys for its first four years until 1969 when the school had an enrolment of 131 boys and 129 girls.
The history of our school as ably documented by the first Principal, Mr T.O. Oyebade, is an instructive study of what dedicated and focused leadership can achieve against any odds, no matter how daunting. The school started with 44 girls in February 1965. But the maiden set saw 14 boys being admitted and resumed two months later, on 1st April 1965.
The Christian Missionary proprietors of the school saw the need to accede to the pressure to make the school a co-educational school within the first two weeks of its take-off. They applied to the government for approval to become a co-educational school and removed the word “Girls” in its first registered name to change it to the name it has been now known as for the last 60 years. It is noteworthy that the applications to become co-educational and change of name of the school were processed and approved within two months. It was within the same two months, that all arrangements needed were made, to ensure good boarding house facilities for the incoming boys.
It is noteworthy that apart from the Churches providing massive funding to the school, the
EVERYTHING IS GOING UP—EXCEPT OUR HOPES Living
When the federal government removed fuel subsidy two years ago, many Nigerians braced for tough times as this singular action triggered a ripple effect on virtually every aspect of life. Fuel prices skyrocketed and left many of us struggling to fill our tanks. Prices of goods and services shot up overnight. The cost of transportation doubled, businesses battled higher expenses, and inflation soared. As a matter of fact, survival has become a daily struggle with life becoming unbearable for many.
Yet, it does not stop at this. Just as we were adjusting to higher fuel prices, another bombshell dropped— massive increases in school fees. Many federal and state universities raised their tuition fees by over 100 per cent, citing inflation and the rising cost of running institutions. Some private universities also adjusted their fees to reflect the prevailing economic realities. Even primary and secondary schools jumped on the bandwagon.
school was into agriculture. It produced many food crops and ran poultry, whose products it used to feed the students in the boarding house. At a point, the school also sold to the people in its community, the surpluses from the output of its agricultural farms. Unfortunately, when politicians came with free education in 1979, they unknowingly destroyed this school and others like it by cancelling their boarding facilities and rendering them to be more of glorified primary schools, than the complete secondary schools they are supposed to be.
Boarding house was the engine room of every secondary school in those days. It enhanced spiritual development, academic development, physical development, metal development and social development. It is my hope that Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who is expected to grace the school's Diamond Jubilee celebration next month will return all the schools owned by the Christian missionary churches back to their owners for better management and funding. It is already obvious today that our governments, which could not run these schools well yesterday, when the economy was buoyant, will only be finding it increasingly difficult to run any great number of schools in future. Indeed, if not for efforts of the old students in refurbishing and renovating the school, there will be nothing to celebrate today.
In that near future, our governments will most likely be finding it difficult to fund the running of even the public schools they have established today. It will be more difficult to combine running those public schools with our old missionary schools in a tomorrow that is not that far at all, when the increasing population will begin to make even more serious demands on the increasingly shrinking resources of the government for equally important needs of the people, like health care facilities.
Returning the schools seized by the military from the religious missions is the right thing to do. It will not only relieve the state government of some burden but will additionally create healthy rivalry and competition between our schools which will ultimately be healthy for the education of our children. Let there be competition between and among government-owned public schools, and privately-owned ones, including schools formerly owned by the religious missions in Ondo State. l encourage my governor to emulate Lagos State, by returning the old mission schools to their owners to raise the educational standard of the state. Let the government pay the salaries of the teachers and other staff engaged by these schools only.
This was a devastating blow to parents with multiple children in school. Many had no other option but to withdraw their children from private schools and enrol them in public ones. Some students in tertiary institutions have been forced to take up menial jobs or defer their studies because their families can no longer afford the outrageous tuition. With the current economic situation, education has become a privilege rather than a right.
Just when we thought things couldn't get worse, there came the increase in electricity tariffs. Despite enduring an unreliable power supply and relying on alternatives like generators and solar energy, we are now compelled to pay even more for a service that remains inefficient. This has left many households and business owners with hefty bills to pay. For businesses that depend on electricity, this means higher operating costs, which are deliberately passed down to customers through increased prices. This affects the cost of everything from bread to haircuts, sachet water to tailoring services, cold drinks to frozen foods, and phone charging to printing and photocopying.
For many small business owners, the cost of staying open has become unsustainable. Some have reduced their hours of operation, while others have shut down completely. Tertiary institutions are struggling to offset their accumulated electricity bills running into millions of naira, with some universities cutting down essential services like water supply and internet access for students. As universities buckle under the financial strain, students and staff are left to bear the consequences of these economic pressures.
Another financial burden Nigerians now face is Automated Teller Machine (ATM) withdrawal charges. On 10 February, the Central Bank of Nigeria announced a revision of these charges, set to take effect from 1 March 2025. The most significant change is the scrapping of the previous policy that allowed bank customers three free monthly withdrawals on other banks’ ATMs. This means that every withdrawal on another bank’s ATM will now attract a fee. Under the new policy, customers withdrawing from another bank’s ATM will now be charged ₦100 per transaction for amounts up to ₦20,000. For withdrawals at offsite ATMs (outside bank premises), a ₦100 fee plus a surcharge of up to ₦500 per ₦20,000 transaction will apply. Meanwhile, withdrawals from on-site ATMs (within bank premises) will attract a ₦100 charge per ₦20,000 transaction. The CBN explained that the review is a “response to rising costs and the need to enhance efficiency in ATM operations in the banking industry.”
Since cash transactions remain a major part of our economy, this new policy has placed an extra financial burden on individuals and businesses. Those who rely on daily withdrawals to meet their needs are now forced to think twice before using ATMs. For small traders, who rely heavily on cash, the extra cost of making ATM withdrawals only worsens an already challenging economic situation. Ultimately, this policy means that even accessing one’s money now comes at a cost. But that's not all. Nigerians have been hit with yet
another torturous blow – higher data costs. For years, buying data has been one of those necessary expenses we all complain about but still pay for without much of a choice. Every month, you set daily limits for your data usage and maybe even turn off auto-updates just to make your bundle last a little longer. But as of 20 January 2025, that routine got a lot more expensive as the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) approved a 50 per cent price increase for telecommunications services. The reason? If you guessed “rising operational costs”, you're right! Justifying the move, the NCC said Nigeria’s telecom industry has been running on outdated pricing models since 2013 despite inflation, currency depreciation, and increasing infrastructure costs.
MTN Nigeria became the first to act on this approval. The multinational telecommunication company quietly updated its data plans, raising the cost of its 1.8GB monthly plan to ₦1,500, replacing the previous 1.5GB plan, which was ₦1,000. The 20GB plan has jumped from ₦5,500 to ₦7,500, while the 15GB plan now costs ₦6,500 instead of ₦4,500.
MTN is not alone in this. SWIFT Networks, a major internet service provider in Nigeria, has also increased its prices by 50 per cent, making home broadband connections significantly more expensive. And this is just the beginning—more price hikes are on the way. While MTN and SWIFT have already adjusted their rates, other telecom operators are set to follow. Airtel has announced that it will implement its increases gradually to ease the impact on customers, while Globacom is also expected to adjust its rates in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, it’s not just data costs that are rising—call and SMS charges are also increasing. The cost of sending an SMS has jumped from ₦4 to ₦6 across all networks, adding yet another layer of financial strain on Nigerians who rely on mobile communication.
The impact of these increases is far-reaching and devastating, especially as everything—food, electricity, transportation—keeps getting more expensive, and salaries aren’t keeping up for many. As a salary-earner myself, I can attest to the nightmarish living conditions in this economy. Every month feels like a battle to stretch limited earnings to cover basic needs, with little to no room for savings or emergencies.
For the average Nigerian, survival now means making tough choices—skipping meals, cutting back on necessities, or taking on extra jobs just to stay afloat. Families that once enjoyed a modest standard of living are now struggling to afford the basics. Many young people are forced to rely on their parents for support, while others are leaving or considering leaving the country in search of better living conditions. The question on everyone's lips now is: what's next? Will food become even more expensive?
Ezinwanne may be reached via ezinwanne.dominion@ gmail.com.
Chief Ayela, a Veteran Journalist, writes from Lagos
Editor, Editorial Page PETER
ISHAKA
ADDRESSING THE CHALLENGE OF MALNUTRITION
Unless the government takes immediate steps to address hunger and malnutrition, especially in children and pregnant women, the poor indices on maternal and child mortality can only get worse. Last week, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) revealed that 36 per cent of pregnant women in Adamawa State suffer from anaemia. This is a condition that poses serious risks to both mothers and their babies. The picture of the child nutrition painted by Nuzhat Rafique, Chief of Field Office at UNICEF Bauchi, is even more concerning: 48.6 per cent of children are stunted, 7 per cent are wasted, and over 80 per cent experience child food poverty. But this is not a problem restricted to one state; it is a national challenge.
Indeed, most recent reports indicate that one out of every three Nigerian children under the age of five is suffering from chronic malnutrition. This implies a marked increase in susceptibility to infections and contributes to child mortality. Invariably, pregnant women who are not adequately nourished eventually give birth to babies with low weight thus putting their survival at risk. Today, Nigeria remains home to the highest number of stunted children in Africa and ranks third globally—with more than 10 million of such children. Nigeria is also one of the six countries that account for half of all child deaths worldwide, with one million children under five years dying annually. To break it down, every hour, 100 children under five years die of malnutrition in Nigeria, according to the UNICEF. We commend the Catholic Relief Services (CRS) for handing to the federal government the manual to produce supplementary food powder in a bid to tackle the challenge. The manual outlines the preparation and use of a nutritious supplementary food powder, known as Tom Brown. Rich in protein, it is made from locally available ingredients, simple to prepare at home and provides parents with an af-
Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com Letters
The authorities should do more to combat the problem of poverty
fordable and effective way to treat malnutrition in children under five. We hope health authorities in the country will make the manual available to important stakeholders.
The costs of disregarding childhood malnutrition in human and economic terms cannot be quantified. Indeed, available statistics reveal that malnutrition is a major underlying factor for child mortality in Nigeria. Unfortunately, the malaise has not received the kind of high-profile campaign and investment necessary to address it effectively—in comparison with other causes of child mortality. If concerted and deliberate action is not taken, more Nigerian children will be physically and mentally affected by malnutrition, in a country so blessed with arable land and natural resources.
Nigeria remains home to the highest number of stunted children in Africa and ranks third globally—with more than 10 million of such children
T H I S D AY
EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU
DEPUTY EDITOR WALE OLALEYE
MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO
DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU
CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI
EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE
T H I S D AY
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA
GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU
DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE
It is disturbing that relevant authorities in Nigeria cannot address the causes of malnutrition that have continued to deprive over half of our children (and mothers) of a healthy and productive life span. The situation has been compounded by recent economic policies of the current administration that have further pauperised the people. Meanwhile, hunger is both a cause and consequence of malnutrition, as people on low income tend to have worse diets, while people who lack adequate nutrition struggle harder to extricate themselves from poverty.
The government, at practically all levels, needs to sit up and confront this challenge with decisiveness to secure the future of our children. Political commitment is necessary to ensure advocacy on the adverse implications of malnutrition and how to avoid its devastating consequences. Partnership with civil society and academic institutions with a focus on food and nutrition is also an imperative. But such political commitment is best demonstrated by a tangible increase in resource allocation, with the relevant ministries and agencies committing to establish a road map and coordinated mechanisms for implementing activities for up-scaling nutrition in the public sphere.
Letters in response to specific publications in THISDAY should be brief (150-300 words) and straight to the point. Interested readers may send such letters along with their contact details to opinion@thisdaylive.com. We also welcome comments and opinions on topical local, national and international issues provided they are well-written and should also not be longer than (750- 1000 words). They should be sent to opinion@thisdaylive. com along with photograph, email address and phone numbers of the writer.
TACKLING TRANS-BORDER DRUG TRAFFICKING
As a concerned and patriotic citizen of Nigeria, I am deeply troubled by the menace of illicit drugs in our country and the grave threat they pose to the well-being of Nigerians. In my reflections on possible solutions, one crucial measure stands out—securing our borders. Strengthening Nigeria’s border security is a fundamental step toward curbing the influx of illicit drugs and disrupting the operations of drug traffickers. The recent arrest of members of a trans-border drug trafficking syndicate by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) underscores the pressing need for immediate action in this regard.
It is no secret that trans-border drug trafficking has become one of the most significant national and regional security concerns in Nigeria. Our country, due to its geographic location and proximity to neighboring nations, has unfortunately become both a transit hub and a destination for illicit drug activities. Nigeria’s borders, which stretch across more than 5,000 kilometers and share borders with Benin, Niger, Chad, and Cameroon, make it an attractive route for drug traffickers looking to move illicit substances across the region with relative ease. Furthermore, Nigeria’s vast coastline and multiple seaports offer additional points of entry for drug cartels to smuggle narcotics into the country.
A recent press release from the NDLEA detailed a series of significant drug busts on January 27, 2025, highlighting the critical role that effective border control plays in curbing drug trafficking. In an intelligence-led operation, NDLEA operatives arrested four members of a trans-border trafficking syndicate who were attempting to smuggle multi-million-naira worth of tramadol pills concealed within the bumpers and false bottoms of Sienna buses heading toward Nigeria’s border towns. This operation serves as a clear indication of the extent to which drug traffickers exploit weak points in our border security system to move illicit substances into the country.
In addition to these busts, the NDLEA successfully thwarted the efforts of two drug kingpins attempting to smuggle heroin into Nigeria through both the Port Harcourt International Airport and the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA). One of the suspects who was found to be using dual identities, including a Nigerian passport and a Sierra Leonean passport under a different name, illustrates the lengths to which these criminals go to exploit weaknesses in our border management systems. These arrests highlight not only the alarming sophistication of drug trafficking operations but also the vulnerabilities in our border control infra-
structure.
While the task of securing Nigeria’s extensive borders is undeniably challenging, especially with the diverse geographical landscape and porous nature of some border regions, it is imperative that the government takes stronger and more decisive action to close these gaps. Drug traffickers are constantly on the lookout for vulnerabilities in border security, and it is the responsibility of the Nigerian government to ensure that such weaknesses are addressed. At present, one of the most glaring issues is the lack of comprehensive infrastructure at many of our border areas. Inadequate fencing, poor surveillance systems, and insufficient manpower make it extremely difficult to monitor movements along the borders effectively. Additionally, Nigeria’s border security agencies are often hampered by outdated equipment, which limits their ability to detect contrabands. The absence of modern surveillance technology further compounds the challenge of securing our borders. Despite these challenges, we must acknowledge the commendable efforts of the NDLEA and other security agencies in tackling drug trafficking.
Damola Tosin, Lokoja, Kogi State
Oluchi Chibuzor
In an effort to to modernise transactional processes in Nigeria, while also promoting transparency and accountability in tax management, the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), has engaged large taxpayers on integration of Merchant Buyer Solution (FIRSMBS) e-Invoicing system. The e-invoicing, which leverages the Universal Business Language (UBL) framework according to FIRS would facilitate the seamless creation, validation, and exchange of electronic invoices while also adhering to international best practices. Speaking at a stakeholder engagement forum on the
implementation of the national e-Invoicing solution in Lagos yesterday, the Chief of Staff to the Executive Chairman, FIRS, Zacch Adedeji, Mr. Tayo Koleosho, said the new product would effectively replace old methods of paper transaction.
He said, “The FIRSMBS (eInvoice) is a digital representation of transactions between suppliers and buyers, effectively replacing traditional paper or electronic documents such as invoices, credit notes, and debit notes.”
Koleosho emphasised that the platform will unify data in silos, providing insights into supply chains, purchasing trends, and business transactions, which will help policymakers make
data-driven fiscal and economic decisions.
According to him, “So when we even talk about distributions, and where are goods being supplied, where are they going, what kind of things are we buying as a country? All these are data that are currently in silos, and there is no unifying place where we can see this.
“So this is going to help us to aggregate a lot of data, buying patterns, supply patterns, manufacturing patterns, what kind of invoices, what kind of businesses are buying what, are supplying what. All this data will then help our policy and legislative and executive to start making more data-driven decisions.
“So that’s how we believe it’s going to help. So the government can then know and have more data to make decisions on where the impacts are going to be, where the focus should be, as we move along as a country.”
On meeting with the large taxpayer, Koleosho, noted it was timely to meet them as the nation journey into tax administration Solution 3.0.
According to him, “The idea is to meet with the large taxpayers and understand what their own requirements are, as we continue our journey into what we call a Tax Administration Solution 3.0, where there will be more integration with the electronic reporting systems, the POS systems, and all the other cloud solutions.
“So that our businesses can be more efficient, and they can have a better integration and exchange of data with the tax administration, and also provide more data for their business, and make intelligent decisions for their businesses, and even for the country to make both fiscal and monetary policy decisions.”
Commenting on the new product, the coordinating Director, Large Taxpayers Group, FIRS, Amina Ado, said the e-invoicing aimed at providing real-time visibility into business transactions.
He said, “As you may be aware, the FIRS has embarked on the implementation of a National E-Invoicing Solution, a transformative initiative aimed
at providing real-time visibility into business transactions and financial data.”
He said the initiative is a strategic step towards fostering efficiency, transparency, and accountability in Nigeria’s tax administration system.
“Our engagement today serves as an important platform for dialogue, collaboration, and shared insights as we navigate the pilot rollout of this solution. The e-invoicing system is not just a technological innovation but a strategic enabler that aligns with international best practices, ensuring seamless tax compliance, reducing revenue leakages, and enhancing ease of doing business in Nigeria,” Ado said.
Experts Urge IT Industry to Prioritise Sustainability for Long-term
Industry stakeholders have emphasised the urgent need for the telecom and technology sector to embrace sustainability, warning that the industry’s future depends on swift adaptation to evolving global challenges.
Founding Partner of The Fund for Africa’s Future, Iyinoluwa Aboyeji, who stated this while speaking at an exclusive Telecom and Technology Sustainability Working Group (TTSWG) breakfast session, stressed the critical importance of addressing
sustainability now. He warned that failure to act with urgency could lead to the industry’s decline.
“We have seen a radical shift that will come downstream to us, and we need to start to deal with things at the level of urgency that is required, otherwise, our industry will disappear,” he said.
With the telecom and ICT sector now the second-largest contributor to Nigeria’s GDP after agriculture, he emphasised that its collapse would have devastating consequences for the country’s economy.
Aboyeji underscored that
sustainability is not just about climate action but also about ensuring long-term industry resilience.
He warned against heavy reliance on non-sustainable inputs, which could leave Nigeria vulnerable to sanctions or restriction.
“The reliance on nonsustainable elements and inputs has made the industry vulnerable to potential sanctions and restrictions. Imagine a world where, one day, someone says we are now sanctioned, and we are no longer allowed to buy software or networking tools from any other country.
What happens to our industry?
I think everyone here will be out of a job,” he warned.
Aboyeji stressed the importance of serious conversations within the industry, starting with energy, while underscoring the need for investing in local talent and institutions to ensure global competitiveness.
“We need to deeply invest in our institutions, especially Nigerian universities, so that the talent we produce can compete globally. We need to prioritize innovation. It’s not CSR; it’s a survival thing now. If we don’t have the ability
to replace these systems and are left in a lurch, we’re done.
The industry is over,” Aboyeji emphasised.
On his part, the CEO, Nigeria Climate Innovation Center (NCIC) echoed the importance of sustainability as making profits in a responsible way.
He explained that the TTSWG aims to identify market needs and develop impactful programmes, including capacity building and skills development, which will in turn stimulate local innovation.
Oloruntoba highlighted the importance of moving from
foreign dependence to local dependence, as a core principle of sustainability. According to him, “Understanding how to approach local partners and domestic investors is crucial for developing successful Nigerian business models. Government play a vital role in this privatesector-driven initiative.
“There is no private sector without government,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of a multi-stakeholder approach that includes government, academia, the tech sector, NGOs, innovators, SMEs, and even households.”
Oluchi Chibuzor
The Lagos Division of the Court of Appeal has overturned a Federal High Court ruling that mandated Bastanchury Power Solutions to hold a compulsory board meeting and Annual General Meeting (AGM).
In a unanimous ruling, the appellate court set aside the lower court’s judgment and awarded N500,000 cost against the respondents.
The case originated from a suit marked FHC/L/CS/319/2023,
filed by Fenchurch Energy Nigeria Limited, Mr. Funsho Adeyemi, and Mr. Femi Bakare, against Bastanchury Power Solutions, FBNQUEST Trustees Limited, and Stanbic-IBTC Trustees Limited, who served as trustees of Africa Infra Plus Funds.
The trial court’s decision had included orders compelling Bastanchury Power Solutions to hold a compulsory AGM and conduct an audit of the company’s accounts, as well as appoint an independent external auditor to review the financial operations of
the company’s funds manager, African Plus Partners Nigeria Limited.
The appellants, dissatisfied with the ruling, appealed through their counsel, Ayoola Ajayi, SAN and Ahmed Raji, SAN.
In his lead judgment, Justice Jimi Olukayode Dada, who presided over the case, ruled in favour of the appellants, stating that Fenchurch Energy, as a minority shareholder, was not entitled to the injunctions granted by the trial court.
The appellate court held that the lower court had effectively
“held the appellants to ransom” with its orders.
The Appeal Court dismissed the suit and set aside the judgment delivered by the Federal High Court on July 22, 2024, affirming that the appeal had merit. It awarded N500,000 in costs against the respondents.
The plaintiffs had sought various reliefs, including a compulsory AGM, the appointment of an independent auditor to review the financial activities of the first and second defendants, a perpetual injunction preventing unilateral
The National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) recently took their Insurance Literacy and Consumer Protection Campaign to Wuse Market, Abuja.
caused by fire, storms, floods, and impact by vehicles or animals. They also educated participants on the relevance of Goods in Transit Insurance policy saying it provides immediate financial compensation for losses or damages during transportation.
Heirs Energies, Africa’s foremost indigenous energy champion, will host the 2025 Heirs Energies Leadership Forum: Industry Leaders Discourse (ILD) tomorrow in Abuja.
This high-level convening unites government decisionmakers, global energy CEOs, and sector pioneers to forge actionable strategies for accelerating Nigeria’s oil production growth.
The forum, themed, “Nigeria’s Oil Production Growth Roadmap – Acceleration Imperatives,” will
feature distinguished speakers including Sen. Heineken Lokpobiri, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil); Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, Chief Commission Executive, NUPRC; Adewale AdeyemoBero, Chairman, OPEC Board of Governors and CEO of First E&P; and Roger Brown, CEO of Seplat Energy Plc. The session will be moderated by Osayande Igiehon, CEO of Heirs Energies. With Nigeria targeting oil production of 2.1 million barrels per
day (bpd) by 2025 and 2.7 million bpd by 2027, the discussion will address critical industry challenges while exploring opportunities for innovation and local industry leadership. The increasing role of Nigerian Independent Companies (NICs) in the sector will be a focal point, particularly as asset ownership transitions from International Oil Companies (IOCs) to local operators.
“Nigeria’s energy future cannot wait,” says Osayande Igiehon, CEO of Heirs Energies. “Through bold
collaboration, we can transform challenges into opportunitiesramping up production, attracting investment, and powering sustainable development.” He added.
The forum will begin with a cocktail reception at 5:30 PM, followed by the panel discussion at 6:00 PM, and conclude with an exclusive networking dinner. The event will be livestreamed by Arise News and TVC to ensure broad access to these important discussions.
NAICOM said the campaign was targeted at educating traders and the general public on the importance of insurance.
The campaign, tagged “Insurance Literacy And Consumer Protection Campaign: A UNDP (Nigeria) Project 2025,” also aimed at enhancing financial resilience and promote inclusive insurance as a vital tool for reducing poverty and building financial inclusion among Nigerians.
The UNDP representative, Mrs Bukola Ifemade welcomed participants to the event and expressed appreciation to all stakeholders.
Accident Insurance policy the campaigners said offers financial compensation for injuries or deaths resulting from accidents. Life Insurance was described as a vital tool for leaving inheritance for dependents in the event of untimely death.
The Commissioner for Insurance, Mr. Olusegun Ayo Omosehin, emphasised NAICOM’s core mandate to protect policyholders and regulate the insurance industry.
Worship For Change, a non-profit charity organisation, has donated N36.75 million to six charities dedicated to caring for orphans and children with special needs across Nigeria. The donation and presentation of cheques took place on Tuesday in Lagos, with each of the six beneficiaries receiving N6.125 million to support their work and endeavour.
N2.39 billion and Motor Insurance at N2.29 billion. General Accident claims amounted to N1.83 billion, while Marine Insurance payouts stood at N1.30 billion. The Aviation sector recorded claims of N1.70 billion, and Engineering Insurance claims reached N785
The beneficiaries of this donation are Agbedare Jesus Care Foundation, Ibadan; Flora Trust Foundation, Lagos; Gilead Initiatives, Ikorodu; Bethseda School for the Blind, Lagos; Jesus Orphanage, Port Harcourt and Gold Gate Mission, Michika Since its inception, Worship For Change has raised funds for over 40 charities which has impacted the lives of vulnerable children
million, while Agric Insurance had the lowest non-life payout at N11 million. On the Life Insurance side, Mutual Benefits Life Assurance Ltd. paid a total of N22.30 billion in claims. Group Life Claims led the segment with N7.93 billion, followed by Maturity Claims at N6.75 billion and Surrender Claims at N4.77 billion.
According to the underwriting firm, other payouts within the period included N1.42 billion for Individual Death Claims, N1 million for Partial Withdrawals, N279 million for Credit Life Claims, and N43 million for Annuity Claims.
and orphans nationwide.
Founder of Worship For Change, Wale Adenuga expressed his gratitude to all donors who contributed to this cause, both from Nigeria and around the world.
“We are deeply thankful to everyone who has supported this initiative. Your generosity is transforming lives and giving hope to children who need it the
Speaking the ,Mutual Benefits Assurance Managing Director, Mr. Femi Asenuga, emphasised the company’s relentless focus on timely claims settlement, stating: “Through these substantial payouts, we continue to uphold our promise of prompt claims settlement, reinforcing the trust our policyholders place in us.”
Also speaking, the a Managing Director, Mutual Benefit Life Assurance, Mr. Biyi AshiruMobolaji, highlighted the company’s commitment to efficiency and excellence.
He said “Our priority has always been ensuring a seamless
most,” Adenuga said.
Speaking at the event, Chika Ugochukwu of the Flora Trust Foundation in Lagos, highlighted the challenges faced by children with severe disabilities.
“These children require 24hour care, and the funds will help us expand our facilities and provide essential assistive devices like wheelchairs and feeding tubes.”
Key points in their discussions include Fire and Special Perils Insurance as a way to compensate traders for losses or damages
Other stakeholders, including the Nigerian Council of Registered Insurance Brokers (NCRIB) and the Nigerian Insurers Association (NIA) also provided guidance on purchasing genuine insurance policies and verifying their authenticity to the participants.
Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA) Nigeria, has appreciated the significant contributions of women to the creative industries in the nation, describing their contributions as invaluable.
The President of WISTA Nigeria, Dr. Odunayo Ani, made this commendation while speaking at the SynergyCon 1.0 conference in Lagos.
Her words: “To the creatives here today, much like in the maritime industry, creativity and intellectual property are the cornerstones of Nigeria’s economic progress. Your ideas are your greatest assets, indeed, they are your identity.
“By safeguarding your intellectual property, you not only protect your work but also unlock its full potential to generate value and impact. SynergyCon 1.0 is here to equip you with the tools, strategies,
and networks needed to thrive in an ever-evolving business landscape.” She also opined that the event aims to help women’s focus on securing intellectual property and empowering creatives to monetize their work securely.
Highlighting the work of her association, she said: “WISTA play a pivotal role in ensuring that your voices are heard, your rights are protected, and your talents are celebrated. Together, we can build a future where creative women across all fields are empowered to secure their intellectual property and achieve their aspirations.”
Ani, however, stressed that the journey of collaboration and discovery should be traversed with the understanding that synergy is not just about working together, but creating something greater than the sum of respective parts.
Wale Igbintade
Ebere Nwoji
L-R: Chair, Executive Council, Federal Nigeria Society for the Blind (FNSB), Mrs. Arit Tunde-Imoyo; Matron, FNSB Vocational Training Centre (VTC), Mrs. Rose Ogwumike; President, VTC Student Representatives, Omojesu Akinlajuwomi; Vice President, VTC Student Representatives, Mariam Onipede; Group Head, Corporate Affairs, First City Monument Bank (FCMB), Mr. Diran Olojo and Principal, VTC, Mr. Joseph Oladokun during FCMB’s visit to the VTC in Oshodi, Lagos… recently
dealings with Bastanchury Power Solutions’ assets and funds, and mandatory disclosure of related financial holdings.
The trial court had granted all of these reliefs, but the Appeal Court ultimately disagreed with the lower court’s ruling.
A Mutual fund (Unit Trust) is an investment vehicle managed by a SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) registered Fund Manager. Investors with similar objectives buy units of the Fund so that the Fund Manager can buy securities that willl generate their desired return.
An ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) is a type of fund which owns the assets (shares of stock, bonds, oil futures, gold bars, foreign currency, etc.) and divides ownership of those assets into shares. Investors can buy these ‘shares’ on the
floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange.
A REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) is an investment vehicle that allows both small and large investors to part-own real estate ventures (eg. Offices, Houses, Hospitals) in proportion to their investments. The assets are divided into shares that are traded on the Nigerian Stock Exchange.
GUIDE TO DATA:
Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira as at 17 February-2025, unless otherwise stated.
and ETFS
SEAP Selects Oradian’s Core Banking Platform to Advance Digitalisation Plan
Raheem
Akingbolu
Oradian, a leading provider of cloud-based core banking solutions, has announced that SEAP has selected and implemented Instafin, Oradian’s core banking platform, to take it through its next exciting phase of growth and digitalisation.
According to the company, the collaboration underscores Oradian’s established presence in Nigeria and its reputation as a global technology leader with deep expertise in local markets.
SEAP was said to have joined a growing portfolio of Nigerian financial institutions leveraging Oradian’s out-of-the-box capabilities and highly customisable, API-first platform.
Founded in 1998, SEAP is a long-standing partner of the Grameen Foundation and Oiko Credit, playing a pivotal role in supporting small and mediumsized enterprises. With over 200 branches and 400+ mobile digital
touch points, leveraging Oradian’s Edge solution and nearly 400,000 active customers, SEAP is a key player in the Nigerian financial landscape, empowering its traditionally underserved clients with innovative digital financial services, including branchless account opening, ATM cards, loan products, and internet banking.
According to CEO of Oradian, Antonio Separovic, “We are delighted that SEAP has chosen Oradian to support their growth and digital transformation journey. Our future-ready core banking platform empowers financial institutions like SEAP with the scalability, flexibility, and integration capabilities they need to drive financial inclusion and enhance service delivery. With the addition of Oradian’s Edge and Custom Code, SEAP can innovate faster and address the specific needs of the communities they serve.”
Also speaking, Head of Information Technology at SEAP, Joshua Ajadi, said: “Over the last
six months, we’ve experienced a significant boost in operations thanks to the ease of reporting enabled by Instafin, Oradian’s core banking system. Oradian truly understands the nuances of our business— such as the types of products and reports we require and how we operate across branches spread over vast distances of Nigeria. Thank you, Oradian, for making my life so much easier.”
Speaking on the importance of the relationship, Program Executive Director for the MFI and Chairman SEAP Microfinance Bank, Dr. Olatunde Oladokun, remarked: “Antonio and Onyeka have been incredible supporters over the years, first introducing me to Mambu, which made us Nigeria’s first cloud core banking platform user. Now, Oradian has elevated that experience. I deeply value this strong relationship and am thrilled by the significant impact we’ve already seen within the first quarter of migrating.”
UBA Spreads Valentine Cheer with Gifts, Discounts for Customers
United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, took the Valentine’s Day celebrations unto the streets, delighting customers and bystanders with heartfelt gestures and thoughtful gifts.
As part of its Valentine Campaign initiative, UBA staff across various branches engaged directly with customers and publics, spreading joy and reinforcing the bank’s commitment towards fostering strong relationships with customers and larger community.
From sweet treats to branded souvenirs, UBA’s thoughtful giveaways brought smiles to many, creating memorable moments and strengthening the bank’s bond with
its valued customers. In addition, as part of the Valentine’s campaign, UBA is also offering customers incredible deals to celebrate love. With the tagline “Your Progress, Our Love Language,” customers can enjoy 25% off on Jumia using their UBA Naira Mastercard and $75 off on AliExpress when they spend $150 with their UBA Dollar, Euro, or Pound Mastercard. These offers are designed to help customers treat themselves and their loved ones to something special this Valentine’s season.
On the dicounts to be enjoyed by UBA’s MasterCard’s holders, UBA’s Group Head of Retail and Digital Banking, Shamsideen
Fashola, stated that the bank understands the significance of this season hence its offering to customers exclusive discounts and perks to make their Valentine’s season special.
UBA’s Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Communications, Alero Ladipo, who also commented on the initiative, said that love is at the heart of everything the bank does.
She said, “This campaign is not just about gifts and discounts; it is about showing our customers that their progress is our love language. We are thrilled to bring smiles to their faces and make this Valentine’s season unforgettable.”
International Breweries’ Kickstart Beneficiaries Visit Deputy Governors, Community Heads
International Breweries Plc (IBPLC), in an inspiring showcase of youth empowerment and community engagement, through the International Breweries Foundation, the corporate social responsibility arm of the company, has presented successful past winners of its renowned Kickstart Initiative to the deputy Governors and community heads in Ogun and Rivers states.
At the presentation ceremony, the Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Her Excellency, Mrs Noimot Salako-Oyedele commended IBPLC for its impactful social investment in Nigerian youths. She expressed pride in the achievements of the entrepreneurs from the state, emphasising that the Kickstart
programme is a testament to the untapped potential of Nigerian youths.
“It is my pleasure to receive you here today. I have listened to the very interesting submission by two of the Kickstart beneficiaries who are here today. I want to thank International Breweries for this initiative and for coming here today to share this experience with us. I want to thank the IBPLC for being our partner in progress being a valuable taxpayer for us here in Ogun State and we appreciate you as a responsible commercial entity. To have been accompanied here by the respected monarch is a testament that you are a very responsible stakeholder and shows that
you have a good relationship with your host community,” She said.
Speaking about the impact of the Kickstart initiative, the Corporate Affairs & Regulatory Director of IBPLC, Temitope Oguntokun said, “Kickstart’s impact transcends statistics. Each winner represents a beacon of hope for their families, and communities, showing that with the right support, young Nigerians can create solutions that drive sustainable growth.”
In Rivers State, the International Breweries team led by its Country Corporate Affairs Lead, Dr Marian Reginald-Ukwuoma, was received in Government House by the Deputy Governor of Rivers State, Her Excellency, Professor Ngozi Mma Odu.
Linkage Assurance Unveils Budget-friendly Motor Insurance Policy
Ebere Nwoji
Linkage Assurance has introduced an enhanced third-party motor insurance package, ‘Third Party Plus. The policy offers additional protection beyond the traditional third-party coverage.
The innovative policy, designed to cater to budgetconscious vehicle owners, combined the legally required third-party insurance with own damage protection, ensuring
that policyholders are not left stranded in the event of an accident.
Unlike the conventional third-party motor insurance policy priced at N15,000, which only covers third-party liabilities, the Linkage Third Party Plus provides extra benefits, including an Own damage coverage starting from N500, 000 to N1,000,000 depending on the variant chosen.
Speaking on Arise TV, Dr. Imo Okorie Imo, Chief Strategy
and Product Officer at Linkage Assurance Plc, emphasised the rationale behind the launch of the Third Party Plus Insurance product.
“Many Nigerian motorists struggle to maintain comprehensive insurance due to economic constraints. We identified the need for a more affordable plan that provides the mandatory third-party cover while also offering some level of protection for their own vehicle,” he explained.
Saharan Blend (Algeria), Djeno (Congo),
(Equatorial Guinea), Rabi
(Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic
Iran), Basrah Medium (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).
CSCS Set to Revolutionise Capital Market with RegConnect Version 2
Kayode Tokede
The Central Securities Clearing System (CSCS) Plc said it planned to revolutionise the Nigerian capital market with RegConnect Version 2 by February 28, 2025.
RegConnect Version 2 is a cutting-edge upgrade to its flagship web-based application designed to enhance operational efficiency and user experience for Registrars in the Nigerian capital market.
RegConnect Version 1 was launched in 2019, and it provided an easy-to-use platform that improved the user experience of Registrars when exchanging information. By enabling immediate validation of submitted data, it ensured accuracy and reduced processing times.
Now, RegConnect Version 2 takes this innovation further, setting a new benchmark for efficiency and functionality.
RegConnect Version 2 intro-
duces several advanced features that redefine user experience and operational efficiency. The platform now includes omnichannel capability, allowing users to submit transactions through multiple channels such as file uploads, on-screen interfaces, and APIs.
The upgraded version also offers seamless API integration, enabling the retrieval of investor portfolio balances, processing of transactions, and spooling of daily advice files. A monitoring
dashboard has been added to provide an end-to-end view of data exchange processes, ensuring real-time tracking and improved operational efficiency.
MD/CEO of CSCS Plc, Haruna Jalo-Waziri, emphasized the company’s commitment to driving innovation in the capital market. “The launch of RegConnect Version 2 represents our unwavering dedication to transforming the Nigerian capital market through technology- driven solutions. This new
iteration of RegConnect aligns with global best practices and is a testament to our continuous investment in efficiency and stakeholder satisfaction.”
Designed after an extensive review of CSCS’s operations and interactions with Registrars, RegConnect Version 2 addresses critical industry challenges. Prior to RegConnect, Registrars relied on a Data Exchange application with limited processing capabilities. The new platform not only bridges that gap but
also introduces state-of-the-art features to ensure seamless and efficient data exchange.
Jalo-Waziri added “At CSCS, we understand the importance of operational excellence and innovation in fostering a vibrant capital market. RegConnect Version 2 is not just a product upgrade; it is a tool to enhance accuracy, reduce operational bottlenecks, and empower our stakeholders with better control and visibility over their processes.”
PRICES FOR SECURITIES TRADED ASOF FEBRUARY 18/25
ProPerty & environment
Zakary A. Toyin: Real Estate Isn’t Just About Buildings, It’s About Creating Legacies, Security and Value for Generations
Zakary A. Toyin is the CEO of Growthill Limited, a real estate development company. He tells Bennett Oghifo there is more to real estate than buildings. He says it’s about creating legacies—something that can provide security and value for generations. He discusses the risks in the country’s real estate market, particularly that of Lagos State and how to navigate in the terrain, using the invaluable intel provided by the government
Tell us about yourself, and why you are so interested in real estate
My passion for real estate started at a young age and is deeply rooted in my family’s values on purpose- ful and impactful living. One of the most impactful things my father left behind were a few properties. These weren’t substantial, but during challenging times, they provided stability and options. It was then I realised that real estate isn’t just about buildings; it’s about creating legacies—something that can provide security and value for generations. Early in my career, I had the privilege of working alongside my uncle, who introduced me to the immense potential of real estate as a long-term investment. However, the moment that truly changed everything for me came while helping clients secure a first property. The gratitude and prayers I received reminded me of the deeper purpose behind real estate—it’s not just a transaction; it’s a life-changing experience. That was when I committed fully to real estate, seeing it not just as a business but as a means to positively impact lives and create lasting value for communities.
Give us your background in real estate and your key portfolio
Although Growthill is a new entrant in the market, it’s built on the foundation of extensive experience and rooted in expansive knowledge about the real estate ecosystem. Personally, my journey in real estate spans several years and has included roles in finance, business development, investor relations, and property management. I have also been involved in residential and commercial developments in major cities like Lagos and Abuja. Before Growthill, I gained valuable experience working in both the private and public sectors, where I learnt to navigate the complexities of real estate investment and development. I’ve always focused on delivering sustainable and profitable solu- tions, from managing large-scale projects to negotiating public-private partnerships and joint ventures in very substantial amounts. Growthill is a reflection of these experiences. While we are a new company, the collective expertise of our exceptional team ensures we are prepared to deliver projects that meet the highest standards of quality and value. Our goal is not just to build properties but to create spaces that leave a lasting impact on people and communities.
Tell us what you think about the Lagos property market and its challenges Lagos is undeniably a major driver of Nigeria’s real estate market. However, like any vibrant market, it has its shares of challenges, such as rising construction costs, regulatory complexities, infrastructure deficit and a growing affordability gap. Despite all this, the demand for affordable and luxury housing remains strong due to urbanisation and population explosion. One of the most pressing issues is access to affordable hous- ing, especially for middle-income earners. Economic conditions have made it harder for potential homeowners to secure quality homes, leading to an increased demand in the rental market. However, this challenge also presents an opportunity for developers to innovate. At Growthill, we are addressing these issues by focusing on energy-efficient designs and exploring modern technologies like Building Information Modelling (BIM) to optimise construction costs and timelines. Although we are just emerging, we are committed to partnering with like-minded organisations to deliver projects that balance affordability with quality, ensuring more people can access homes that truly meet their needs.
What project types is Growthill focused on, commercial or residential?
Both residential and commercial projects offer unique benefits, and our focus at Growthill is driven by market demand and long-term value creation. Residential projects are critical because they address the housing deficit, offering stability and steady returns for investors. Growthill is committed to delivering energy-efficient, sustainable homes that reduce environmental impact and lower
long-term costs for homeowners. On the other hand, commercial developments drive economic activity and create op- portunities for businesses. For these, we are applying the same principles of sustainability and innovation to ensure they meet global green building standards. Ultimately, our strategy is to maintain a balanced portfolio of both residential and commercial developments. This approach ensures diversification, helps us meet the varied needs of the market, and positions Growthill for long-term success.
A good number of people have suffered setbacks in terms of investment in property in Lagos. What is your advice for prospective investors?
Like any other, the real estate market in Lagos comes with its risks. However, the key to avoiding setbacks is careful planning, due diligence, and working with trusted partners. My advice is simple: focus on the fundamentals— location, quality, and transparency. At Growthill, these principles guide everything we do. While we are new to the market, we are intentional about being transparent with our processes and maintaining open communication with all stakeholders. Our focus on well-regulated, high-value locations ensures that our developments are not only profitable but also sustainable in the long term. Choosing developers with a track record of quality and integrity is essential for investors. Growthill may be a new entrant, but we’re committed
to delivering projects that meet and exceed expectations, ensuring your value for money.
What’s the ROI like with your projects?
Being a company with a clear and precise vision, Growthill is laying the foundation for exceptional ROI through strategic planning, innovative designs, and a focus on high-value locations. While our first projects are still in development, we are confident in their potential to generate realistic returns for investors and homeowners alike. Our strategy is simple: we’re investing in locations with long-term growth potential, incorporating energy-efficient designs to reduce operational costs, and partnering with reputable industry players to ensure the sustenance of our value chain and the success of our projects. For investors, this is a unique opportunity to be part of a company that is poised to deliver sustainable value as we grow.
There is an unwholesome trend now that is frustrating most investors, who don’t get what they bargained for because of some terms and conditions that they either did not see at the beginning of negotiations or were introduced after the buyer commits. What is your advice in this regard?
Trust is the foundation of any successful business relationship, and at Growthill, we take this very seriously and without compro- mise. From the outset, we are committed to clear communication and ensuring that our clients and investors understand all terms and conditions. There are no surprises—what we promise is what we deliver. For investors, my advice is to always work with developers who prioritise open communication and
One of the most pressing issues is access to affordable housing, especially for middle-income earners. Economic conditions have made it harder for potential homeowners to secure quality homes, leading to an increased demand in the rental market. However, this challenge also presents an opportunity for developers to innovate.
have a proven reputation for integrity. We are building our brand on trust, ensuring that expectations set at the beginning are met at the end.
There are growing cases of conflict between developers of estates and homeowners with respect to control of facilities. What, in your opinion, can resolve this issue?
Conflicts often stem from unclear agree- ments or misaligned expectations. At Growthill, we believe in addressing this proactively by setting clear frameworks for facility management from the beginning. This includes transparent agreements that outline roles, responsibilities, and expectations for all parties. We also encourage the formation of homeowners’ associations to ensure residents have a voice in decision-making and can collaborate effectively with developers. By combining this with professional facility management services, we aim to minimise conflicts and build lasting partnerships with our homeowners.
Housing finance is a crucial component of homeownership. What do you think about Nigeria’s mortgage system?
Nigeria’s mortgage system has made some strides, but there’s still a lot of room for improvement in terms of accessibility and affordability. High interest rates and limited options make it difficult for many Nigerians to own homes. At Growthill, we’re exploring partnerships with financial institutions to offer flexible payment plans and innovative financing solutions. We also believe more education is needed to help people understand their options. By working with stakeholders, we aim to empower more Nigerians to achieve their dream of homeownership.
What role do you think the government should play to enable more Nigerians to have suitable accommodation?
The government plays a vital role in ad- dressing Nigeria’s housing deficit. Policies that reduce land acquisition costs, streamline building approvals, and incentivise affordable housing development are crucial. Additionally, providing infrastructure in underdeveloped areas can significantly reduce housing costs. Public-private partnerships (PPPs) are also essential. By partnering with developers like Growthill, the government can leverage private sector expertise to deliver scalable housing solutions. We are committed to collaborating with the government to ensure more Nigerians have access to affordable and suitable homes.
Is it compelling for everyone to build a house or have access to decent accommodation? What are your thoughts on this?
Access to decent accommodation is a fundamental need and should be a priority for everyone. While building a house may not be feasible for everyone due to financial or personal circumstances, having access to safe, quality housing should be non-negotiable. At Growthill, we are committed to addressing this by creating sustainable, affordable housing solutions that cater to a wide range of income levels. Whether through innovative financing options or strategic partnerships, we aim to make decent accommodation accessible to more people, empowering them to live with dignity and stability.
Some people have bought land desig- nated as government excision from people who are not authorized to sell. What do you think can prevent this, particularly with prospective buyers? The key to preventing this issue is due diligence and working with trusted professionals. Prospective buyers should always verify the status of any land through the appropriate government agencies before committing to a purchase. Consulting a real estate lawyer or a reputable developer can also help ensure that the land is free from legal complications. At Growthill, we prioritise transparency and ensure that all our land acquisitions are properly documented and verified. By partnering with credible developers who uphold integrity, buyers can avoid these pitfalls and protect their investments.
Toyin
Education
Buba-Haruna: AGILE Has Boosted Girl-child Enrolment Ratio in Target States
A director at the Federal Ministry of Education and National Coordinator of the Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) project, Mrs. Amina Buba Haruna, in this interview with Raheem Akingbolu speaks on how the project has impacted educational growth in targeted states by boosting secondary education for girls between the ages 10 and 20. Excerpts:
The Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) project, has been on for close to five years, what has been its impact so far?
Yes, AGILE has been around for over four years now. It’s a World Bank-assisted project by the Federal Ministry of Education in Nigeria, with the main goal of improving secondary education for girls between the ages of 10 and 20. We started its implementation in seven states of Borno, Ekiti, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi and Plateau in 2022. Looking back, I can say, so far, so good, we are working with education ministries and stakeholders in these states and we are getting the targeted result. We are coordinating here at the Federal Ministry of Education while the state is implementing it. The project is a multi-sectoral project, whereby it’s not only the Federal Ministry of Education that is working on it but other relevant agencies and ministries that are supporting, inspecting and evaluating our impact. The objective is simple: to see how we can address issues related to adolescent girls in the targeted states, especially regarding secondary school education.
Now in the process of implementing this project, we have to look at some provisions for them and it’s captured in the three C’s of Agile, which are; collaboration, communication, and coordination. These are essential elements that help ensure the success of Agile. We have three components and each component has sub components. Component one has a sub component and two sub components under it. Component two has about four sub components under it and so many other things that are to be done under it. Under component one we have what we call renovations, under that, we have 1:1, which include construction of new classrooms (climate-smart infrastructure) to expand existing primary and junior secondary schools.
To appreciate this, one can go on expeditions around most of Nigeria’s unity colleges and other public schools in Nigeria and discover the rot and the environment that is not conducive. That’s why the AGILE is looking at constructing a school. Part of what we are trying to do is to bring school closer to adolescent girls according to the policy of the education that no child should walk more than 5km to access a school.
So, this is already being demonstrated in the seven states? Yes, we are bringing school closer to the children, where there is a primary school, we try to build a junior secondary school close to it. Same way, where there’s a junior secondary school, we build a senior secondary school within the existing compound. We are not going to build a school in a different location but in that location where that child passes through while in primary school. So transitioning from one level to the other will be easier for the adolescent girls. Already we have done that. Now 1.2: we are looking at renovations. Again, if you go around, you see dilapidated classrooms. We did not start with building the schools, we started with renovation to make the environment conducive for these girls. And bearing in mind we are talking about adolescent girls that have started their menstrual period. They need WASH facilities, access to water, sanitation, and hygiene to manage their
menstrual hygiene. A lack of WASH facilities can prevent girls from attending school and completing their education. So, we renovated classrooms and we also built WASH facilities for them and also tried to bring teaching and learning materials. Now, having brought them to schools, we have to also think of the teachers and provide another set of facilities. We have to bring instructional resources that both the teachers and the learners can be able to use so that we will have effective and efficient teaching and learning.
Can you please shed light on the term ‘gender learning crisis’ being chorused all the time by education stakeholders?
Well, the gender learning crisis is not particular to only female students, but it applies to all the gender identities. In this regard, we are addressing all genders. Everybody is important, it’s God that created us in a different gender. So we want to have a seamless environment where it can accommodate every child, either female or male, to be in the same environment, to be in the same compound where they will be able to have effective and efficient teaching.
What are the criteria used to select the seven states currently enjoying the initiative?
We have eligibility criteria, we have domesticated criteria and we have commitment criteria. Now the eligibility. Though we are all Nigerians, if you compare the northern and southern parts, you will know that the northern part is lagging behind, especially in the area of adolescent girls education. So we look at the population of out-of-school children, not even the girls, the total number of out of school children compared to the southern part. You will notice that even in a class, a good teacher will try to bring the passive ones to join those that can interact. This is exactly what the Nigerian government is doing, trying to bring the northern part into appreciating the need for children education like the southern part. Again, there is a clarion call that most of these children that are out of school should come back or should be able to bring them to school. The domesticated part is the one that speaks to the commitment of the government of that particular state to the Child’s Right of 2004. Then, we look at another level of commitment which involves the readiness
of the government of that particular state to contribute a certain and required amount of money for the takeoff. That will show to us that this government is serious.
Are there plans in place to extend it to other states in future?
Yes, there was a plan to extend it to other states, but fortunately or unfortunately, we started with $500 million for the parent state and $700 million for the AF state -the additional financial state. The 11 ‘AF States’ (Additional Financing States) on the AGILE project are: Adamawa, Bauchi, Gombe, Jigawa, Kogi, Kwara, Nasarawa, Niger, Sokoto, Yobe and Zamfara. Now these states have joined the project under the 700 million. However, most states have written expressions of interest to join the project. Fortunately there’s another project that is coming up in the Federal Ministry of Education which is called HOPE.
Now under the HOPE project, all other states that have not joined under the AGILE project can be able to join the project on that.
What are the major challenges facing AGILE?
Well, one of the challenges we are facing is still around getting parents to allow their daughters to come to school and that’s where the ‘Madubi’ campaign comes in.
Can you explain what the campaign intends to achieve?
Madubi is AGILE’s national campaign, launched to advocate increased access, retention and completion of secondary education for adolescent girls in Nigeria. Themed ‘Madubi’, -a Hausa word for mirror, the campaign is part of the AGILE Project being implemented by the Federal Ministry of Education and the World Bank for advocacy.
If the girl-child is educated, she is the reflection of the society. She is the reflection of education, she is the reflection of the country and she is also the reflection of the community she is coming from.
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Aiyedatiwa, Bajowa to Grace MMGS’ 71st Anniversary Celebration
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State is expected to declare open this weekend’s activities marking the 71st anniversary of the renowned Manuwa Memorial Grammar School (MMGS) Iju Odo in Okitipupa Local Government Area of the state, and the re-union festival of the school’s old students’ association (MMGSOSA). The school, established with 11 others in 1954, occupies the 80th position in the hierarchy of the oldest secondary schools in Nigeria.
Also expected at the event is an ex-permanent secretary at different times at Federal Ministries of Defence, Industry and Science and Technology, Major General Olu Bajowa (retd.), a grand-patron of the association and a member of the 1954
first set of 22 students of MMGS which grew to 34 before the end of that year.
Specifically, Governor Aiyedatiwa who hails from the same sub-Ilaje ethnic nation with the late Rev. Samuel Manuwa (believed to be the first Anglican priest in the now entire Ondo South Senatorial District), who the school was named after, is expected to be the special guest of honour at the annivesary lecture titled ‘Giving Back: Sustaining Our Stewardship of Excellence’.
The lecture will hold on Saturday, February 22, the exact date the school took off in 1954.
As part of the socio-welfare content of the activities, the old students have invested massively in a medical outreach programme and a health fair which would hold on the same day with the lecture, and designed to benefit the school’s neighbouring communities as a way of giving back and in line with the theme of the anniversary.
On the same day, members of the newly elected executive council of MMGSOSA, led by Rev. Mrs Gbemisoka Onasanya would be sworn-in.
The lecture would be preceded on Friday by a set of events which include cultural display by current students of MMGS, inter-house
qiuz/debate and cocktail in the evening. The annivesary would be rounded up on Sunday with a special thanksgiving service at St. Paul Anglican Church, Iju Odo, which will be officiated by one of the old students, who is the Bishop of Diocese on The Coast, Rt. Rev. Oluseyi Pirisola. Meanwhile congratulations and good wishes have continued to flow for Rev. Onasanya and the new exco, notably from General Bajowa, the traditional ruler of Morubodo Kingdom Oba Ernest Idepefo, the Principal of MMGS, Mr. Taye Akinkoye, members of Ilutitun Youth Development Forum, Ambassador Foluso Olukoya, the immediate past Ondo State Commissioner for Agriculture, Pastor Segun Ayerin, among others
Overseer of the Living Seed Ministry, Gboko, Gbile Akanni, has urged graduating students of Caleb University, Imota, Lagos, to harness their God-given potential to make a global impact and be purposeful in their efforts to create a meaningful difference in their generation. He also advised them to become trailblazers and pioneers who set the standard and break barriers. Akanni, who stated this recently at the university’s 14th convocation ceremony, enjoined the graduates to embrace setbacks. He explained that growth without challenges is often superficial and that those who succeed in life are persistent and unshaken by adversity.
In his convocation lecture, ‘Be the Caleb of
your Generation’, Akanni, who is also the convener of the Annual Ministers’ Leadership Retreat (MLR), which attracts over 15,000 leaders worldwide, and the founder of Faith Seed, stated, “as trailblazers, you are leaders who inspire others to follow. We are raising individuals who will be the ‘Calebs’ of tomorrow.”
He also urged them to act on God’s word and prioritise seeking the Lord.
“Your potential lies within your inner mind, and only when it is ignited can you be called forth. Keep nurturing that flame, and never discard the lessons you’ve learned throughout your studies,” he said.
The 14th convocation ceremony witnessed the graduation of 54 students with first
class at the undergraduate level. A breakdown of the statistics of graduating students revealed that 527 graduated in the second class upper division and 503 in the second class lower division.
At the postgraduate level, 15 students earned PhDs, a significant increase from the nine awarded at the previous convocation. Also, 29 distinctions were awarded to postgraduate students.
Miss Joy Nmachukwu Ahiakwo, who graduated with a CGPA of 4.98 in Industrial Chemistry, was named the overall best-graduating student. She recalled that it took her 10 years to achieve her dream of obtaining a degree after transferring from a school in America to Caleb University.
At the postgraduate level, Oladele Adenubi and Yinusa Bamimore emerged as the best-graduating students, achieving a perfect CGPA of 5.0 in
Computer Science.
Dr. Akinjide Akinlabi, the University’s Deputy Bursar, was recognised as the overall best-graduating PhD student, earning his doctorate in Accounting.
In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Nosa Owens-Ibie, commended the graduating class of ‘Trailblazers’ and highlighted the remarkable achievement of the Department of Architecture, which produced eight out of the 15 PhD graduates, an unprecedented accomplishment in Nigerian universities. He added that the convocation would be his last as VC of the institution.
NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the online edition on www.thisdaylive.com
Buba-Haruna
Taking Nasarawa’s Agricultural Ambitions to Asia for Global Partnerships
Determined to transform Nasarawa State into an agricultural powerhouse, Governor Abdullahi Sule has taken bold steps to secure international partnerships that will drive mechanised farming and boost food production. His recent working visits to China and India have opened new opportunities for collaboration with global industry leaders in agricultural technology. From engaging with top manufacturers of tractors and farm equipment to exploring large-scale cassava processing and modern farming techniques, Governor Sule is laying the foundation for a future where every arable land in Nasarawa is fully cultivated and utilised for economic growth, Igbawase Ukumba writes
Bent on cultivating every piece of arable land in Nasarawa State and drive agricultural transformation, Governor Abdullahi Sule has taken the state’s agricultural ambitions beyond Africa, forging global partnerships in Asia.
In January 2025, Governor Sule embarked on a week-long working visit to Beijing, China, on the invitation of LOVOL Heavy Industries Company Ltd., a leading manufacturer of tractors and farm equipment. LOVOL is also a reputable producer of rice harvesters, similar to those recently deployed at the state-owned rice farm in Jangwa.
During his visit, the governor also engaged with another Chinese company currently constructing a factory in Gudi to process cassava into starch and other allied products. Nasarawa State has continued to attract significant interest, particularly in the areas of mining and agriculture, due to the Sule-led administration’s commitment to industrialisation and wealth creation.
However, despite his ambition to see every arable land in the state cultivated, Governor Sule expressed concerns about the vast, fertile land in Nasarawa that remains grossly underutilised.
Learning from China’s Agricultural Success
Governor Sule shared his vision with Mr. Chen Qiang during a five-hour high-speed train ride from China’s densely populated Henan province to the mineral-rich Nanchang in Jiangxi province. As the train sped at 304 kilometres per hour, the governor marvelled at the well-cultivated farmlands across the region.
“I look forward to a partnership that will see every available land cultivated as is visible in the agriculture-rich area spanning Henan province,” he said.
He further explained that his administration plans to implement the cluster farming model, leveraging crops best suited for specific regions of the state to create what he termed “core agriculture zones.”
Governor Sule noted that his government had already taken practical steps towards this vision, such as distributing tractors and seedlings to all Local Government Areas in the state.
In response, Mr. Chen Qiang expressed enthusiasm about collaborating with Nasarawa State to drive large-scale mechanised farming. He acknowledged that Nasarawa’s land is even richer than some parts of China, further strengthening the company’s interest in investing in the state’s agriculture.
Extending Partnerships to India
Building on the momentum from China, Governor Sule embarked on another threeday working visit to India on 14 July 2024. His visit was aimed at advancing mechanised farming in Nasarawa State and aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s food security initiatives.
Upon arrival in Mumbai, major Indian companies and investors expressed interest in taking their businesses to Nasarawa. According to a statement issued to journalists, Governor Sule’s engagements in India focused on acquiring more tractors for farmers, developing silos to reduce post-harvest losses, and introducing modern
harvesters.
“We are eager to quickly mechanise and deploy technology in our agricultural practices. We want to boost food production and complement the efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s initiatives,” the statement read.
During a high-profile business meeting that brought together investors, diplomats, and industry leaders, Governor Sule outlined Nasarawa’s investment opportunities and the state’s favourable business environment. Discussions spanned various sectors, including pharmaceuticals, oil and gas, textiles, education, infrastructure, health, and agriculture.
Collaborating with Mahindra for Mechanised Farming
On the second day of his visit, the governor sought a partnership with Mahindra, India’s leading tractor and farm implement manufacturer, to establish a tractor maintenance workshop in Nasarawa State.
During a visit to Mahindra’s plant in Nagpur, Governor Sule expressed confidence in the company’s capabilities, emphasising that a maintenance facility would provide immense benefits for the state’s mechanised farming efforts.
He also sought collaboration in manpower development through training and re-training of young people in technical and technology-driven agricultural fields. Touring the facility for over two hours, the governor engaged with technical staff and heads of various departments, observing every stage of production—from raw materials to the fully assembled tractors.
As part of the visit, he conducted quality testing, engaged in virtual painting, and even test-drove a 75-horsepower tractor. He later inspected departments and facilities at GH Raisoni College of Engineering to explore further educational collaborations.
Ensuring Optimal Use of Tractors in Nasarawa
Governor Sule took a decisive step to ensure that all tractors purchased by the state government are effectively utilised. He
Determined to cultivate every piece of arable land in Nasarawa State and drive agricultural transformation, Governor Abdullahi Sule has taken the state’s agricultural ambitions beyond Africa, forging global partnerships in Asia
ordered that all government-acquired tractors be tracked to monitor their locations and ensure they are in active use year-round.
Speaking during a presentation meeting with Mahindra officials, he instructed the state commissioner for agriculture, who was present at the meeting, to closely monitor the deployment and usage of the tractors.
“Farmers in Nasarawa State must take advantage of all the initiatives and gestures of government to massively improve agricultural production,” he stated.
The meeting also provided an opportunity for the governor’s team to assess advanced production techniques and quality control measures that could enhance efficiency across the crop value chain.
During the final leg of the visit, Governor Sule and his team toured Mahindra’s Automated Assembly Line, gaining further insights into modern tractor manufacturing and mechanised farming techniques.
A Bold Step Towards Agricultural Transformation
Governor Sule’s strategic visits to China and India underscore his commitment to transforming Nasarawa’s agricultural sector into a globally competitive industry. By fostering partnerships with leading agricultural technology firms, he is paving the way for mechanised farming, improved food production, and long-term economic growth in the state.
With these collaborations in motion, Nasarawa State is poised to become a model for agricultural innovation in Nigeria and beyond.
Gov Sule testrunning a tractor in India
POLITY
Matawalle: Nigeria’s Civilian General Still at Work
Segun Ibrahim
At 56, Dr Bello Matawalle, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Defence, exudes great commitment to the nation’s security that belies his age. For him, age is never a disadvantage in fighting insecurity. To him, it is not a matter of years spent, but more about the numbers of battles fought and victories secured. He has proven overtime with results that his appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was not a mere political maneuver but a calculated decision rooted in the President’s deep understanding of Matawalle’s fighting spirit. Unlike many individuals who are contented with desk-bound strategies and boardroom deliberations only, Matawalle took the fight against insecurity to the very heart of the battlefield.
However, beneath his seemingly and unassuming demeanour lies a steel-like resilience, a heart of a warrior that is wrapped in a civilian garb. His frail figure, deceptive in appearance, is immensely fortified with an unyielding resolve that has made significant strides in the war against terrorism, banditry, and insurgency.
From the onset of his appointment, Matawalle wasted no time in translating rhetoric into action, going beyond the comfort of Abuja’s bureaucratic confines, and marching into the treacherous zones where the nation’s enemies thrived.
For the record, Matawalle’s proactive leadership style shattered the norm of past administrations. Instead of merely giving orders from the comfort of his ministerial chambers, he immersed himself in the battlefield, inspiring soldiers, evaluating war plans directly, and proving that leadership is a deed rather than a title. Some doubters thought it was merely a show when he wore full military fatigues, but those who understood the psychological impact of leadership by example recognised the gravity of his actions. An unwavering loyalty is inspired by a commander who shares the battlefield with his troops, and Matawalle did just that.
At the ticking of time, his efforts have been yielding remarkable successes in Nigeria’s unrelenting war against terror. The operational successes recorded under his tenure have not only decimated the ranks of insurgents, but have also reclaimed territories once overrun by bandits and terrorists. His impact is not theoretical; it is tangible, measurable, and evident in the numbers.
Under Matawalle’s leadership, Nigeria’s defence apparatus has undergone a renewed surge of effectiveness, marked by well-coordinated military
offensives that have struck at the core of terrorist enclaves. The Nigerian Army, in synergy with the Air Force, executed precise airstrikes and ground assaults on insurgent strongholds in the North-West and North-Central regions. These efforts resulted in the neutralisation of notorious warlords, dismantling of terror cells, and significant recovery of arms and ammunition.
The precise airstrike that destroyed terrorist hideouts in Zurmi, Gusau, and Maradun Local Government Areas, severely impairing their ability to operate, was one of the noteworthy successes. In a bloody gunfight, the country also saw the defeat of the vicious rebel, Boderi Isyaku. His and his fighters’ deaths made it very evident that Nigeria will no longer serve as a haven for criminals. An array of weapons, including AK-47
rifles, hundreds of rounds of ammunition, and advanced communication devices, was successfully seized by the troops.
However, the tally of terrorist commanders neutralised within the first quarter of 2024 is staggering. The director, defence media operations, Maj. Gen. Edward Buba, disclosed that among those taken down were Abu Bilal Minuki, alias Abubakar Mainok, the head of IS-Al Furqan Province (ISGS and ISWAP), and Haruna Isiya Boderi, both eliminated on February 21. Others include Kachallah Damina, who was neutralized on March 24, along with over 50 combatants, as well as several high-profile warlords such as Kachallah Alhaji Dayi, Kachallah Idi (Namaidaro), and Kachallah Azarailu (Farin-Ruwa), among many others.
The operational result in the first quarter of year 2024 (January to March) speak volumes. It’s in record that 2,351 terrorists were neutralized, 2,308 arrests made, 1,241 kidnapped hostages rescued, 2,847 weapons and 58,492 rounds of ammunition recovered, and N20.3 billion worth of stolen crude oil were intercepted in the hands of criminal elements.
Further military operations between July and September 2024 sustained the tempo of victory. In figures, 1,937 terrorists eliminated, 2,782 arrests were effected, 1,854 hostages freed, 1,304 weapons and 43,347 rounds of ammunition seized, and N13.08 billion worth of stolen crude recovered.
The continued offensive yielded the deaths of additional terror leaders, including Munzir Arika, Sani Dilla (Dan Hausawan Jubillaram), Ameer Modu, Matawal Bitrus, and Ibn Kasir, among numerous others. These successes were not mere coincidences; they were the results of synchronised strikes and well-executed military intelligence.
Leadership in defense is not about rhetoric or empty promises, it is about the courage to act decisively in moments of national crisis. Matawalle epitomizes this brand of leadership. While some leaders would have remained ensconced in the relative safety of policy chambers, Matawalle chose the road less traveled, one marked by dust, blood, and bullets. His presence on the frontline served as a morale booster for troops, reinforcing the belief that the government was not just issuing commands, but actively involved in the war against terror.
Moreover, his bold approach was one that shattered bureaucratic inertia, ushering in an era of relentless pursuit of national security objectives. Matawalle was not content with just simply speaking about the problem; he embodied
the solution. With unwavering audacity, he took the fight to the terrorists, declaring war against them, and demonstrating that Nigeria would no longer cower in the face of insurgency.
Matawalle’s influence is reminiscent of great military leaders who realised that strategy, willpower, and a readiness to face the enemy head-on are more important factors in winning a war than diplomacy. Under his leadership, Nigeria’s military is now far more operationally prepared, and terrorists who formerly roamed with impunity now flee in terror.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s choice of Matawalle as Minister of State for Defence was an inspired decision, one that has been vindicated by the string of military successes recorded under his watch. Truly, it takes a leader of foresight to recognise and deploy capable hands, and in Matawalle, Tinubu found a warrior-statesman willing to bear the brunt of Nigeria’s most pressing security challenges.
For too long, Nigerians have yearned for leaders who do more than make pronouncements, leaders who translate words into action, who see national service not as a privilege but as a duty. Matawalle fits this mold seamlessly. His efforts have reassured a nation once teetering on the brink of despair, proving that with the right leadership, insecurity can be tackled head-on.
However, while much progress has been made, the battle is still far from over. The Matawalle-effect has undoubtedly pushed the terrorists factions to lurk in dark corners, seeking opportunities to strike. But with Matawalle at the helm, there is renewed confidence that these elements will be systematically dismantled.
Matawalle’s legacy as Nigeria’s Civilian General is already engraved in the annals of history. He has demonstrated that leadership is not about titles but about the level of impact made. His track record so far is an evidence to what is possible when leadership meets action. The war against terrorism has found a fearless champion, and Nigeria stands poised to reclaim its long-lost peace. Some 8 months later, we can celebrate a national hero, and a general who reported for duty due to the successes recorded on the home front. It is now obvious that President Tinubu’s decision to entrust Matawalle with this important responsibility was never a mistake, rather, it was a masterstroke. While the battle against insecurity rages on, one thing remains clear: Bello Matawalle is relentless, very active, and still at work, and Nigeria is all the better for it.
•Ibrahim, a Public Affairs Analyst, writes from Abuja
PSC Elevates Three CPs to AIG, 16 DCPs to Commissioners of Police
Linus Aleke in Abuja
The Police Service Commission (PSC), has approved the promotion of CP Garba Ahmed, CP Yobe
State Command; CP Nemi Edwin Osigoboka Iwo, CP Border Patrol and CP Salman Garba Dogo, CP Kwara State Command to the next rank of Assistant Inspectors General
of Police (AIGs). A statement by Head, Press and Public Relations, Ikechukwu Ani, said that Ahmed from Katsina State was former Deputy Commissioner,
Operations, Enugu State Command and Oyo State, respectively. Iwo, he said, was former CP CTU, Force Headquarters, CP Force Intelligence and CP Edo
state Command. He also said that Dogo was former CP General Intelligence, Force CID, CP Armament and CP Kano State.
Ani averred that the 16 Deputy
NAPTIP Intercepts 13 Victims of Human Trafficking at Abuja Airport
Seals up hotel in Abuja, rescues 11 underaged victims of sexual exploitation
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) with the support of partners, has intercepted 13 girls suspected to be victims of human trafficking en route to Baghdad, Iraq for sexual and labour exploitation.
A statement by the spokesman of the agency, Vincent Adekoye on Tuesday read that the girls whose ages range between 19 and 39 years old were allegedly deceived and recruited by some faceless unregistered labour recruiters who are suspected to be agents of a larger criminal labour recruiting gang operating between Nigeria and some Middle East countries.
Adekoye said the victims were incepted at the Nnamdi Azikwe International Airport, Abuja, shortly before departing for Iraq.
He said similarly, the operatives of the agency have sealed up a popular three-star hotel located at the ever-busy Kwali, in Kwali area council of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, and rescued 11 underaged girls suspected of use for sexual expedition.
Adekoye said luck ran out of on the owner of the hotel as she was arrested while other supporting staff escaped, noting that the development came barely one month after operatives of NAPTIP busted a private apartment located inside one of the highbrow estates in the heart of Abuja and rescued nine pregnant girls suspected to be victims of human trafficking.
He stated that the interception of the Iraq-bound girls followed a tip-off by some concerned partners who noticed the unusual movement of some unknown faces at the departure lounge of the Abuja Airport in the company of some timidly looking
girls all chorusing the same answer to different questions about their destination, and immediately alerted the agency.
Speaking on the incident, the Director General of NAPTIP, Binta Bello, who witnessed the interception of the first batch of five girls at the airport on her way out of Abuja for an official duty to Adamawa, expressed displeasure over the level of deceit by the traffickers and called on parents and guardian to always be careful of fake promises for their children and wards.
the Director General said: “I wish to point out that our action is in line with the provision of the Trafficking in Persons (Control of Activities of Organisations and Centres) Regulations 2019, which empowers NAPTIP to issue clearance certificates to all travel agents or tour operators and intending travelers for the purpose of
Educational excursions, Recruitment for Labour, Sporting activities, Cultural, music excursions or competitions as well as all organisations, shelters, and homes offering services for the purpose of rehabilitation of trafficked persons.
“The case at hand is pathetic because these girls were deceived and recruited for a supposed job in Baghdad by unlicensed labour recruiters who are not known to any constituted authority in Nigeria.
“This implies that should anything happen to these girls; we will not be able to hold anyone responsible because they are undocumented labourers.
“Also, they were issued 60 days visa and yet signed a labour agreement of two years with them, noting that the implication of this is that as soon as the visa expires, they are at the mercy of the master and lose
all legal rights to demand anything including their legitimate salary.
“Investigation revealed that they will be paid a sum of 250 dollars as monthly salary by their tax master out of which they will remit four months’ salary to the agent here in Nigeria and another huge sum to the agent in Iraq.
“From the testimonies of scores of victims who passed through the same condition, they were never paid regularly as expected, maybe four or five months only for the agreed contract period of two years. In fact, the major issue with their master is when they ask for their salary to be paid.
“It is painful that while unspecified numbers of victims are in those volatile and war-torn destination countries seeking help to be rescued, these are happily embarking on a journey to the unknown.
Commissioners promoted to substantive Commissioners of Police were Audu Umaru who was promoted and retired.
“Others were Cyriacus Enechukwu; Gombit Bangs, Eloho Okpoziakpo, Mamman Giwa, Rosemary Akpan, Umar Kabir and Usman Jibrin.
“Naziru Abdulmajid, Osadolor Olaye, Modi Filiya, Sani Omolori, Hassan Saleh, Hammed Sule, Ayodele Adeyemi, and Justine Oranwusi, Director of Works, Force Headquarters were also promoted to substantive Commissioners of Police,” he said.
The promotions, he said were the highpoints of an extraordinary Meeting of the Commission presided over by Commission Chairman, DIG Hashimu Argungu rtd. He stated that the candidates for promotion were subjected to written examination and oral interview.
Argungu used the occasion of the interactive session to warn the officers to stay clear of civil matters such as land, marital issues, debt collection etc and allow the courts to adjudicate on such matters. He said the Commission will deal decisively with any of them caught engaging in such matters. He said the Commission will continue to monitor them and support them to give off their best.
Matawalle
To Boost MSMEs’ Growth, FG Sets Up Committee to Enhance Financing
We'll be more deliberate in supporting growth of small businesses, says Shettima
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
Vice President Kashim Shettima has declared that the federal government, working in collaboration with other stakeholders, will be more deliberate in ensuring growth in the micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) space in the country.
To this end, the National Council on MSMEs has set up a committee to interface with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to enhance the financing of small businesses in the country.
This formed the nexus of decisions taken yesterday at the first meeting of the National Council on MSMEs for 2025 held at the State House, Abuja.
Speaking after deliberations by members, the Vice President said the federal government, through its agencies and partners, has the moral burden of supporting growth in the MSME space and facilitating job creation across different
NBS
sectors for Nigerians.
Outlining the mandate of the committee, Shettima said the efforts of the administration of President Bola Tinubu in supporting small businesses, evident in important policies and programmes, needed to be complemented by stakeholders, especially the private sector.
The committee headed by the Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, Senator John Enoh, has Ministers of Science and Technology; Women Affairs; Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security and the Senior Special Assistant to the President on MSMEs as members.
Others include the CEOs of the Bank of Industry, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), Bank of Agriculture (BOI), Nigeria Export-Import Bank (NEXIM Bank), Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN), Corporate Affairs
Commission (CAC), Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC), Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), and the representative of NACCIMA and the organised private sector.
In the same vein, Council also approved a loan scheme for MSMEs known as the syndicated de-risked loans for small businesses.
The scheme would be a partnership between state governments and financial institutions aimed at enhancing access to finance for MSMEs at single-digit rates across the country.
The Vice President advised State governments to set up vehicles devoid of political interests to drive the implementation of the syndicated de-risked loans for the MSMEs scheme.
“Some of these initiatives are laudable and will need to outlive the present administrations in the States. Regardless of political affiliations, Nigerians
UNVEILS SPECIAL CPI INDICES TO ENHANCE
meeting today, the first this year, to decide on the direction of the monetary policy as well as review the state of the economy.
Expectedly, the current inflationary concerns, high cost of borrowing, and naira’s stability would dominate the committee’s deliberations.
Relatedly, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) attributed the sharp drop in the inflation rate, from 34.8 per cent to 24.48 per cent, to the rebasing of the CPI rather than any real reduction in prices. LCCI said this in a public statement signed by its Director-General, Dr. Chinyere Almona.
The apex bank had previously raised the benchmark interest rate by a total of 850 basis points under the current leadership in efforts to subdue inflation and stabilise the naira.
Analysts urged the MPC to pause further interest rate hikes to create room for output growth following the rebasing of the CPI, which suggested that inflation was decelerating.
Adeniran, who officially announced the results of the rebasing exercise for the CPI, declared that effective immediately NBS price estimates had become more reflective of the current inflationary pressure experienced within the economy.
He said in terms of the quality of the process and soundness of the estimates, “NBS data will be among the top, and comparable to any other in Africa and, indeed, across the globe.”
Speaking at the unveiling of the rebased CPI estimates in Abuja, Adeniran listed the special indices to include the Farm Produce Index, which recorded 10.50 per cent inflation rate, as well as Energy, which had 8.9 per cent.
Others were Services 10.41 per cent; Goods 10.79 per cent; and Imported Food 11.47 per cent – all as of January 2025.
The NBS boss clarified that the special indices, including the rebased CPI, were not year-on-year rates, as the estimates were new.
He said the year-on-year rates would commence from January 2026, while the month-on-month rates will commence in February 2025.
As previously reported by THISDAY, the new estimates showed that headline inflation declined to 24.48 per cent in January, compared to 34.80 per cent in December, which used the old template.
CPI rebasing means updating the 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 year-on-year in January, representing a decline in the food index when compared with 39.84 percent year-on-year recorded in the preceding month. Similarly, the rebased core index, which excluded the prices of volatile agricultural produces and energy, stood at 22.59 per cent in January. It was 29.28 per cent in the preceding month.
The rebased urban inflation stood at 26.09 per cent year-on-year, from 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.
The SGF also clarified that the rebasing aside, figures suggested that the January inflation would have declined under the old methodology.
He explained that the rebasing process also allowed statistical offices to introduce methodological enhancements to their computation procedures and align with global best practices.
He said under the process, NBS not only brought the base year closer to the current period, from 2009 to 2024, but also introduced some critical methodology changes to improve the computation process and quality of the estimates.
He said under the CPI, important enhancements had been made to the methodology. He identified some of the improvements to include the transition to the latest version of the classification method, Classification of Individual Consumption According to Purpose (COICOP) 2018 version, from the 1999 version of COICOP.
According to him, “The new version has 13 divisions, bringing in household expenditure on Insurance and Financial Services, which now has a weight of 0.5 per cent relative to the total household expenditure.
“Another important improvement is the exclusion of own-production, imputed rents, and gifted items from the aggregates used to come up with the weights. This is because CPI is a monetary phenomenon, hence the computations should only include monetary expenditure.
“Also implemented under this rebasing is the movement of expenditures on meals away from home to the appropriate divisional class. These changes are quite significant and appropriately align expenditures to their respective classes, enabling price changes to
must be seen to be the ultimate beneficiaries of these schemes that we are trying to put in place,” Shettima stated.
Earlier, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on MSMEs, Mr. Temitola Adekunle-Johnson, presented the ‘syndicated de-risked loans,’ scheme for small businesses, seeking the cooperation of members and describing it as a game-changing programme to provide affordable and available loans for businesses.
According to him, the initiative was in acknowledgement of the President’s passion and commitment to the development of small businesses and aimed at providing more jobs for Nigerians.
In his presentation on the state of MSMEs in Nigeria, Director-General of SMEDAN, Mr. Charles Odii, said the agency was proposing an initiative which was born from a three-day MSME conference
POLICY, DECISION-MAKING
be measured properly.”
LCCI: Drop in Inflation due to CPI Rebasing, not real Reduction in Price Levels
Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) said the sharp drop in inflation rate, from 34.8 per cent to 24.48 per cent, was due to the rebasing of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) rather than a real reduction in prices.
Reacting to the January inflation figure, LCCI explained that rebasing typically updated the weight of different goods and services in the inflation basket to better reflect current consumption patterns.
A statement by Director General of LCCI, Dr. Chinyere Almona, said the drop in inflation was because of a change in measurement rather than real decline in prices.
Almona stated, “The previous method likely overemphasised food inflation, while the new approach incorporates updated economic data and adjusted weightings.
“This difference does not indicate a sharp fall in prices but a revised way of calculating inflation. Despite the lower reported rate, inflation remains high, meaning prices are still rising, just at a slower pace.”
She said a lower inflation rate seemed positive, but it did not automatically improve living standards.
According to her, “Prices are still rising, wages remain stagnant, and unemployment is high, keeping real incomes under pressure.
“The rebased inflation rate only reflects a different measurement, not an actual drop in prices.
“For most Nigerians, essential costs, like food and transportation, remain high, meaning living conditions will not improve unless there is a real reduction in the cost of necessities.”
Almona said the rebased inflation rate would provide policymakers with a clearer view of economic trends without resolving the rising cost of living.
She advised that the government must implement targeted interventions to address inflationary pressures and improve economic stability.
The LCCI director-general stated, “One key priority is tackling food inflation, which accounts for over 50 per cent of price increases. Policies should focus on boosting agricultural productivity, reducing post-harvest losses, and improving transportation and storage infrastructure to ensure food affordability.
“Stabilising the exchange rate is crucial, as Naira devaluation has been a major driver of inflation. Encouraging local production and reducing reliance on imports can help strengthen the currency and control price surges.”
held in 2024.
He said the initiative known as the GROW Nigeria strategy was to provide guidance, resources, opportunities, and the workforce to support about 40 million small businesses across eight distinct sectors.
Present at the meeting were the Deputy Governor of Enugu State, Mr. Ifeanyi Ossai; the representatives of the Governors of Benue and Katsina States; the Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, Senator John Enoh; Ministers of Science and Technology, Mr. Uche Nnaji; Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim; Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Aliyu Abdullahi; representative of the Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria.
Others in attendance were the CEOs of Bank of Industry (BOI), Bank of Agriculture (BOA), Nigeria Export-Import Bank (NEXIM Bank), Develop-
LCCI added that fiscal discipline was essential, as excessive government borrowing and deficit spending contributed to inflation. It said, “Reducing unnecessary expenditures while prioritising infrastructure and social investments can help manage inflationary pressures.
“At the same time, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) must carefully adjust monetary policies, ensuring interest rate decisions strike a balance between controlling inflation and sustaining economic growth.”
A financial expert and President of the Capital Market Academics of Nigeria (CMAN), Professor Uche Uwaleke, in reaction to the inflation rebasing said, "Now that the inflation number for January has provided evidence of weakening inflationary pressure, I expect the Monetary Policy Committee of the CBN to pause rate hikes to create room for output growth.” Against this backdrop, Uwaleke said the development was welcoming.
Uwaleke, who is Director, Institute of Capital Market Studies, Nasarawa State University, told THISDAY that the exercise was primarily meant to reflect current inflationary pressure, which explained why NBS moved the reference price period to 2024.
The former Commissioner for Finance in Imo State said, "The benefits of the rebased number are several. First, it will help the government, especially the monetary authority, to make more informed decisions.
"It makes our inflation number comparable with the rest of the world since it is based on standard and updated methodology.
"This can place both foreign and domestic investors in a stronger position to make investment decisions in favour of Nigeria.”
Managing Director/Chief Executive, SD&D Capital Management Limited, Mr. Idakolo Gbolade, said he expected CBN to make a hold decision, especially with the current rebasing of inflation, which had significantly reduced.
Gbolade added that there was no point further tightening monetary policy, given that measures previously taken by MPC were already strengthening the naira.
He said the manufacturing sector was "seriously groaning from continuous MPR rate increases and a hold decision will bring reprieve to the Centreeconomy". for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE) also clarified that a drastic reduction in inflation figures was not tantamount to a reduction in price level.
Founder/Chief Executive Officer of CPPE, Dr. Muda Yusuf, made the clarification yesterday in his comments on the January inflation
figures that showed a drop in food inflation from 39.8 per cent to 26.08 per cent, and decline in core inflation from 29.28 per cent to 22.59 per cent within the period under review.
Yusuf stated that the drastic deceleration in inflation should be cautiously celebrated.
He said, “The reality of high prices has not changed and remains a major factor in the cost of doing business, cost of living and poverty equation in the country.
“Households and firms are still concerned about high energy costs, the strength of the naira, high interest rate, cost of imports, transportation costs and insecurity.
“It is hoped that the government will recalibrate its strategies to address these major cost drivers.”
Yusuf said what businesses and households desired at this time was a reduction in the general price level, from the incredibly high levels in 2024 to a substantial moderation in 2025, defined in technical parlance as disinflation.
He added, however, that the good news was, “We are beginning to
displayed.
“The Netherlands is returning the Benin Bronzes unconditionally, recognising that the objects were looted during the British attack on Benin City in 1897, and should have never ended up in the Netherlands,” the European country stated.
Dutch Minister of Education, Culture and Science, Mr. Eppo Bruins, in his remarks, noted that the action was part of steps to redress a historical injustice that is still being felt today.
“This restitution contributes to redressing a historical injustice that is still being felt today. Cultural heritage is essential for telling and living the history of a country and a community. The Benin Bronzes are indispensable to Nigeria. It is good that they are going back,” he added.
The Netherlands and Nigeria, the statement stressed, are working closely together to realise the historic restitution, representing the single largest return of Benin antiquities linked to the 1897 British expedition.
Ambassador-designate of the Netherlands to Nigeria, Mr. Bengt van Loosdrecht, in his comments, explained that the restitution was a testament to the enduring strength of the partnership with Nigeria.
“We congratulate Nigeria for being at the forefront of efforts to reclaim colonial looted art. For over 50 years, Nigeria has advocated for the return of the Benin Bronzes. This restitution is a testament to the enduring strength of our partnership with Nigeria,” he added.
Director General of NCMM,
ment Bank of Nigeria (DBN), Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC), Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), NAFDAC, Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON); National Bureau of Statistics (NBS); the Presidents of NACCIMA and National Association of Small and Medium Enterprises (NASME).
see indications of such reductions in PMS, diesel, some food items and pharmaceutical products.
“It is hoped that this trajectory will be sustained in the course of the year.”
Yusuf pointed out that the sharp deceleration of headline inflation rate in January did not come as a surprise given the review of the computation base year from 2009 to 2024.
He stated that there was additionally a strong base effect on the inflation figures given the high inflation regime in 2024, which had a considerable effect on the year-on-year inflation outcomes.
Yusuf said, “Besides, transaction demand in December 2024 was typically much more intense because of the festivities while the spending momentum in January was predictably much slower because of lower disposable incomes following intense spending in the previous month.
“These are some of the explanatory factors for the sharp deceleration in the inflation numbers in January 2025.”
Olugbile Holloway, highlighted the significance of the return, pointing out that the return of 119 objects from the Netherlands will represent the single largest return of Benin antiquities directly linked to the 1897 British punitive expedition.
“The return of 119 objects from the Netherlands will represent the single largest return of Benin antiquities directly linked to the 1897 British punitive expedition. We thank the Netherlands for their cooperation and hope this will set a good example for other nations of the world in terms of repatriation of lost or looted antiquities,” he stressed.
The Dutch museum expressed its willingness to continue working with Nigeria, describing it as the start of further cooperation between museums in Nigeria and the Netherlands.
“We find it valuable that the objects are returning to Nigeria. We hope that this return is not the end of a process, but the start of further cooperation between museums in Nigeria and the Netherlands,” it added.
The event was attended by highlevel guests, including Holloway, Director-General of NCMM; Mr. Babatunde Adebiyi, Legal Director of NCMM; and Mrs. Nnenne Ebekaku, Chargé d’Affaires of the Nigerian Embassy in the Netherlands.
The Dutch government said its decision followed the recommendation of an independent expert committee and was in line with the Dutch policy on the restitution of objects from a colonial context.
BRONZES TO NIGERIA
Vice President Kashim Shettima
House Urges FG to Direct NAFDAC, PCN to Intensify Surveillance, Crackdowns on Fake Drug Manufacturers
As rights group accuses NAFDAC of victimising innocent traders
The House of Representatives has urged the federal government to direct the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN), and other relevant agencies to intensify surveillance, inspections, and crackdowns on fake drug manufacturers and distributors nationwide.
The resolution followed the adoption of a motion of urgent importance moved at plenary on Tuesday by Hon. Nnamdi Ezechi.
However, an Onitsha-based rights group, International Society
for Civil Liberties and Rule of Law (INTERSOCIETY), accused NAFDAC of deliberately victimising some innocent traders in Onitsha.
INTERSOCIETY called on the agency to immediately withdraw Nigerian Army soldiers from Onitsha Drug Market and five adjoining others, where they were using the soldiers in the most unprofessional manner to keep the market perpetually shutdown.
Moving the motion in the House for more action to deter fake drug dealers, Ezechi cited the recent discovery of a warehouse and fake drug production factory in a village in Osisioma Ngwa Local Government Area of Abia State, where counterfeit and expired
pharmaceutical products, including injectables, were being produced and distributed for public consumption.
He said the illegal factory was engaged in the rebranding of expired drugs by altering their expiry dates and manufacturing fake medications, which posed grave danger to public health and safety.
Ezechi said the consumption of fake and substandard drugs could lead to severe health complications, drug resistance, treatment failures, and even loss of lives, thereby undermining the healthcare system in Nigeria.
The lawmaker expressed concern that the incident was not isolated, as similar cases of counterfeit drug manufacturing and distribution had
been uncovered across the country, indicating a widespread public health crisis that required immediate intervention.
He condemned the circulation of fake and substandard drugs, which had contributed to the high mortality rate in Nigeria, with unsuspecting citizens consuming ineffective or harmful medications that worsened illnesses and caused avoidable deaths.
The lawmaker stressed that NAFDAC and other relevant agencies were responsible for regulating and ensuring the safety of pharmaceutical products in Nigeria, saying urgent measures must be taken to strengthen their enforcement mechanisms to prevent future harm to society.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State yesterday, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment towards the support of engineering reforms and advancement of infrastructural development in line with global best practices.
Sanwo-Olu who made this submission at the inauguration of the Lagos Regional Steering Committee, Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), lauded the council's ongoing efforts to restructure and expand regulatory
oversight across key engineering sectors.
Sanwo-Olu, represented by his deputy, Mr. Obafemi Hamzat, described the effort as a crucial step in positioning Nigeria as a global player in engineering innovation and infrastructure development.
According to him, "the effort will enhance professionalism, improve the quality of engineering practice, and attract investor confidence in Nigeria’s engineering sector.
“Engineering is the backbone of any nation’s progress. It is the driving force behind industrialisation,
infrastructure development, and economic growth. The unveiling of COREN’s new operational framework and expanded regulatory coverage across key engineering sectors is a significant milestone."
The governor noted that the expansion reflects the evolving nature of the engineering profession and the need to adapt to global trends and technological advancement.
He stressed: "By strengthening regulatory enforcement, intelligence surveillance, and compliance monitoring, COREN is setting a new standard for professionalism
Sokoto Government Reaffirms Commitment to Ease of Doing Business
The Governor of Sokoto State, Dr. Ahmed Aliyu, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment to encourage investors and economic growth in the state.
Aliyu made the disclosure on Tuesday while commissioning several community development projects, including solar-powered boreholes executed by BUA Cement PLC in Wamakko Local Government Area.
Represented by the Commissioner for Water Resources, Alhaji Aminu Dodo Iya, Governor Aliyu commended BUA Cement for its unwavering commitment to its corporate social responsibility (CSR).
He stated: "Your dedication to community development is not only commendable but also serves as a shining example for other corporate entities to emulate.
“The BUA Cement Community Development Project demonstrates the significant impact that collaboration between the private sector and government can have on the common good."
The governor further emphasized that community development is the foundation of any thriving society. He highlighted that initiatives addressing critical needs, such as infrastructure, education, and healthcare - are essential for the socio-economic advancement of communities.
In his remark, the Managing Director of BUA Cement PLC, Engr.
Yusuf Binji, disclosed that the company invested N343 million in the newly commissioned projects.
He reaffirmed BUA Cement’s dedication to improving the lives of residents in its host communities.
The commissioned projects include, seven solar-powered boreholes to provide clean water to several communities and also donation of 4,200 pairs of school uniforms to the pupils in five primary schools.
Others include, 50 solar streetlights installed in Asare village, 25 electric poles and wiring support for Gidan Yaro, renovation of five toilets at the Almajiri School in Kalambina and 150 tonnes of cement donations to aid infrastructure development within the communities.
and accountability in the engineering sector.
"As the Centre of Excellence, Lagos State remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote excellence and innovation in the engineering sector. We recognise that the success of our infrastructure projects and industrial goals depends heavily on the competence and integrity of our engineers.
“Therefore, we will continue to collaborate with COREN and other stakeholders to ensure that engineering practice in Nigeria meets global standards."
The House condemned the criminal act of producing and distributing fake drugs, and commended the law enforcement agencies involved in uncovering the illegal operation in Osisioma Ngwa Local Government Area.
It urged “the federal government to immediately direct NAFDAC, the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN), and other relevant agencies to intensify surveillance, inspections, and crackdowns on fake drug manufacturers and distributors nationwide”.
The House mandated its Committee on Health and the Committee on Drugs and Narcotics to investigate the proliferation of fake drugs in the country and engage with stakeholders to develop stronger policies for combating counterfeit pharmaceutical production.
It called on NAFDAC to increase public awareness campaigns on the dangers of fake drugs and introduce more advanced tracking and authentication systems to help consumers verify the authenticity of pharmaceutical products before purchase.
Additionally, the House urged the Federal Ministry of Health, in collaboration with security agencies, to implement stricter penalties against individuals and organisations involved in the production and distribution of fake drugs, and ensure that culprits faced the full weight of the law.
NAFDAC had on two different raids in Onitsha recently announced the confiscation of large consignments of fake, adulterated and counterfeit drugs in the market, leading to the sealing of the bridge head market.
But INTERSOCIETY, in a press statement by its founder and chairman, Board of Trustees, Mr. Emeka Umeagbalasi, said though it supported sanitisation of the system of fake drugs, it must be noted that NAFDAC was going about it the wrong way by sealing off other adjoining markets that had no dealing with drugs, and also punishing genuine drug dealers.
Umeagbalasi stated, "NAFDAC must refrain from further exposing the Nigerian military or officers and personnel and high commands of the Nigerian Armed Forces to unprofessionalism and corrupt practices.
"We are calling for immediate re-opening of the affected markets and refunding of not less than N20 billion being loses incurred by the innocent traders of the six affected markets since Sunday, February 9, 2025, particularly traders of the Onitsha Drug Market."
The group listed adjoining markets not related to drug sales that were also sealed off by NAFDAC to include Oduwani, part of the Carpentry Tools (Power Tools and Allied) Market, the Surgical Line Market, the Plumbing Materials Market, the Ogbogwu Fashion Line Market, the Bridgehead Provision Market, and part of the Timber Dealers Market.
According to the group, "The above-named markets were shut down and taken over by soldiers of the Nigerian Army and their NAFDAC hirers – during which the NAFDAC field officials and leaders of the hired soldiers forced leaders of the affected markets to surrender the keys of their gates and lines and took possession of them till date."
Nigeria, Caribbean Nations to Deepen Trade Ties at Upcoming Summit
As part of efforts to strengthen economic ties between Africa and the Caribbean, Aquarian Consult Limited (ACL), in partnership with the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis, is set to host the Aquarian Consult Afri-Caribbean Investment Summit (AACIS '25) from March 25–28, 2025, at the Transcorp Hilton, Abuja.
Themed: "Bridging Continents: Africa and the Caribbean - A Partnership for Prosperity," the summit aims to foster cross-regional investment, unlock new economic opportunities, and facilitate high-level discussions on trade and development.
In a statement made available to the media on Tuesday, the Summit
Coordinator, Hyelsinta Linda Ojo, emphasized the significance of the event in promoting credible investment opportunities and fostering partnerships in key sectors such as technology, agriculture, manufacturing, and finance. She noted that the summit will bring together policymakers, investors, business leaders, and entrepreneurs to explore strategies for enhancing bilateral trade and economic collaboration.
Ojo highlighted Aquarian Consult’s 16-year track record in business advisory, strategy development, and capacity building, stating that the company has played a key role in facilitating industry growth and supporting sustainable development
in an evolving global economy. According to her, the summit will provide a platform for highlevel dialogue, strategic networking, and impactful partnerships, further solidifying trade and investment relations between Africa and the Caribbean.
According to the statement, the event is expected to attract distinguished speakers and policymakers, including Dr. Terrance Drew, Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis, who will deliver the keynote address alongside an official delegation. Also scheduled to speak is Dr. Ameenah Gurib-Fakim, former President of Mauritius, who will share insights on investment and economic development strategies.
L-R: Honourable Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole; Managing Director, PRM Africa Marketing and Communications & President/Executive Producer, All Africa Music Awards, AFRIMA, Mike Dada; and Special Adviser to the Hon. Minister, Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade & Investments, Patience Okala, at the 38th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the Heads of State and Government of the African Union held on February 12-16 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
Onuminya Innocent in Sokoto
Funmi Ogundare and Esther Oluku
Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja and David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka
NEWLY INAUGURATED RMAFC COMMISSIONER...
State
the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission
Despite Unfavourable Rating, Nigeria's Antigraft War on Course, Says EFCC, TUGAR, Others
Agencies defiant on TI assessment
Nigeria's anti-corruption agencies, under the Technical Unit on Governance and Anti-corruption Reforms (TUGAR), have completed an assessment of the “Facts Behind the Corruption Perception Index” of Transparency International (TI), concluding that despite the not so favourable assessment, the country's anti-graft war remains on course.
The agencies made the remarks at the public presentation of the report of the review of six years (2019–2024) of the TI Corruption Perception Index (TI- CPI) on Nigeria. The report aimed to enhance transparency and accountability, as well as improve Nigeria’s ranking on the index.
TUGAR is a research, monitoring and evaluation unit set up to respond to the need for a rigorous approach to policy making grounded in empirical data collection and analysis in Nigeria. This year, Nigeria was ranked 140 out of 180 countries by TI.
At the public presentation of the data in Abuja yesterday, various participants, including Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), Nigeria Police, among others, agreed that there were serious ongoing efforts to raise the country's anti-corruption profile.
Speaking at the event, Chairman of EFCC, Ola Olukoyede, stated that recent recoveries, especially of an unprecedented 700-flat estate in Abuja, should draw favourable global attention to Nigeria.
Olukoyede said, “For us as Nigerians, we must be more interested in adding value to our economic and social lives than getting destroyed by any kind of narrative. If we don't appreciate that, it will be a major problem for us. Whatever we are going to do, the priority should be to improve on our processes, to add value to our lives as Nigerians.
“Now, if we do the right thing, the international community will come here and copy what we are doing and borrow it from us. I can surely say the fact that in the last one year, the various stakeholders, the anti-corruption department, including the legislature, including the executive and the judiciary, have made some tangible progress in our fight against corruption.
“Of course, you are all aware of the Supreme Court judgement on the financial autonomy of the local governments. That is a great relief. The international community does not acknowledge that. We have to acknowledge that by ourselves.
“It is a key development and advancement in the course of fighting corruption. We have been having a series of legislative interventions that have made this fight easy for us to execute.”
While acknowledging the intervention of the legislature this year in increasing the allocations of most anti-corruption agencies in Nigeria, Olukoyede stated that TI might not capture that, explaining that Nigeria must let the world know it's making progress.
He stated, “I am not sure there
is anywhere in the world where it has recorded a single real estate recovery like we did last year in the EFCC, over 700 apartments of various sizes in one single recovery.
“Not in the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), not anywhere, not even in America. That is a great relief.
“The major work that EFCC is
doing is monitoring constituency projects, as large as Nigeria. We arrested over 790 suspects, including 194 foreigners, including those of some of the countries that have higher ranking than us in the TI rating.” ICPC Chairman, Dr Musa Aliyu, represented by the secretary, Clifford Oparaodu, lauded the efforts of various anti-corruption agencies and their personnel that were articulating viable strategies to combat corruption and change citizens' orientation.
Aliyu said, “This report, in our view, is a crucial milestone in our collective efforts as an anti-corruption agency to objectively review the assessment of Nigeria through the lens of TI. What is really important is what we perceive to have done so far in the development of our country. We have to judge ourselves. We cannot allow others to judge us.” In her remarks, Head of TUGAR, Jane Onwumere, said over the years, there had been divergent views as to whether the CPI assessed the effectiveness of government activities in the fight against corruption.
NDLEA Gets First Barracks, 35 Years After Establishment
Thirty-five years after the establishment of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, the federal government on Tuesday, 18th February 2025, commissioned the first barracks that will provide office and residential accommodation for officers, men and women of the anti-narcotics body.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony of the first NDLEA barracks in Yola, Adamawa State, Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, charged the personnel that the well-deserved investment in their welfare was a call to higher responsibility and unwavering dedication to duty.
He said the facility, which includes modern administrative offices,
FRC Seeks Increased Revenue Allocation to States, Fiscal Sustainability at All Levels
The Fiscal Responsibility Commission (FRC), has called for increased revenue allocation to sub-national governments, arguing that direct financial resources would have a more tangible impact on citizens.
The Executive Chairman of FRC Victor Muruako, who made the call also advocated for fiscal sustainability from the federal government down to the local government level.
Muruako's call for fiscal sustainability aligns with ongoing efforts to improve financial accountability and governance across all tiers of government in Nigeria.
Speaking in Abuja at the 5th National Treasury workshop, Muruako emphasised the importance of local governments in revenue generation. He noted that if local governments function effectively, they can generate more revenue, recalling a time when essential services such as primary healthcare, education, and agriculture were efficiently managed at the grassroots level.
Muruako advocated for increased revenue allocation to sub-national governments, arguing that direct financial resources would have a more tangible impact on citizens.
He also urged local governments to engage with their communities to
understand their needs before drafting budgets, as this would help drive internally generated revenue (IGR).
The FRC chairman highlighted the significance of the Fiscal Responsibility Act 2007, which was designed to strengthen independent revenue sources.
He encouraged participants to leverage Section 51 of the Act to question any lack of transparency in government activities.
Muruako also praised President Bola Tinubu’s fiscal reforms, particularly in tax policy, stating that such measures would enhance revenue generation at the state and local government levels.
detention facilities, secure storage, and residential accommodations, is not just a physical structure but a critical investment in human capital and a testament to President Bola Tinubu administration’s resolve to create an environment where NDLEA officers and their families can live and thrive with dignity and security.
Fagbemi said: “The role of NDLEA in our society cannot be overstated. The fight against drug abuse is a fight for our nation’s future. It is a battle to protect our youth from the devastating effects of substance abuse and to rid our communities of the violence and destruction that often accompany the illegal drug trade.
“This barracks, therefore, is more than a place of residence; it is a fortress of resilience and a beacon of hope for our nation’s future.
“I would like to re-assure of my continued commitment to supporting the work that you do. This is based
on my personal conviction of the intersection between justice and law enforcement. This facility is a critical component of the rule of law - ensuring that those who are tasked with upholding our laws are protected, empowered, and equipped to carry out their duties.
“It reinforces the principle that justice begins with those who enforce it, and it is our collective responsibility to provide them with necessary resources to carry out their responsibilities effectively.”
He urged NDLEA officers who will inhabit the facility to remain steadfast in their service.
His words: “I urge the officers who will call this facility home to remain steadfast in their service to their motherland. The nation looks to you, not only as enforcers of the law, but as protectors of our shared hope for a safer, healthier society.
“This investment in your welfare is a call to higher responsibility, one
that requires unwavering dedication and resolute commitment. This day should serve as more than the commissioning of a physical structure.
“It should be a reaffirmation of our collective commitment to building a society where every citizen can thrive - free from the perils of drug abuse and the destruction it brings.
“Together, through concerted effort and unwavering determination, we will secure the promise of a better and brighter Nigeria for all.” Fagbemi, while commending former President Muhammadu Buhari under whose leadership the project was approved and set in motion, praised President Bola Tinubu for aiding the dream into fruition, Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State for his exemplary cooperation and support in ensuring that the project was executed in a conducive and harmonious environment.
Kuni Tyessi in Abuja
The federal government has unveiled anti-bullying hotlines in order to facilitate and encourage confidential reporting of the menace in schools, particularly government owned schools.
Revealing the hotline as 09012660044 and WhatsApp as 08052536133, the government also has opened an email address to this regard, which is antibullying@ education.gov.ng. Speaking in Abuja at the inaugura-
tion of a 7-member committee to address bullying incidents in all Nigerian schools, and to reinforce commitment to students’ welfare and safe learning environment, Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, emphasized the urgent need for effective interventions, citing the psychological impact of bullying on students.
The committee will review reported cases and ensure swift action, complementing the 21-member team working on a National Policy on Anti-Bullying.
He said: “To facilitate confidential reporting, the Ministry has introduced: Hotline: 09012660044, Email: antibullying@education.gov.ng WhatsApp: 08052536133" Alausa reiterated the ministry’s zero-tolerance stance on bullying, urging school administrators, teachers, parents, and students to support this initiative.
He further said that the move "aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, prioritizing education as a driver of national development".
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
Hon. Akeem Akintayo Amosun, the newly inaugurated Federal Commissioner representing Ogun
at
(RMAFC), presenting his letter of appointment to Governor Dapo Abiodun, at his Oke Mosan Office, Abeokuta.
L-R: Manager, Digital Factory, KPMG Africa, Mr. Olatunde Daranigo; Manager, Tax Technology and Transformation, KPMG, Oluwakemi Gbadebo;Head,
Thomas Adegbola; Manager, Tax Technology and Transformation , KPMG Africa, Akaoma Osele; and Associate Director,
The Department of State Service (DSS) has given a seven-day ultimatum to Africa Independent Television (AIT) and Channels Television, to retract alleged false and defamatory publication made it in respect of the leadership tussle in the Lagos State House of Assembly. In a letter to the chief executives of the two broadcast stations dated February 17, the secret police warned that failure to retract the said publication materials in addition to tendering public apology could result into both civil and criminal litigations.
According to the DSS' lawyer,
Chief Ayodeji Adedipe, SAN, the two television stations were said to have maligned the service when they claimed in their respective broadcast that the DSS had invaded the assembly complex in a bid to take side with one of the factions laying claim to the speakership position. Adedipe who berated the media
houses for not verifying their facts before reporting stated that contrary to the invasion allegations, the DSS was invited by the Acting Clerk of the Lagos State House of Assembly, prevent a breakdown of law and order.
In Adedipe’s words: "First, it must be stated that our client, in carrying
Group Warns against Planned Protest to Destabilise Niger Delta
Goddy Egene
out its core statutory mandate of collection of intelligence for good governance and national safety and upholding and enforcing criminal laws of Nigeria, was invited to the Lagos State House of Assembly, vide a letter dated February 14, 2025, written to it by the Acting Clerk of the said State House of Assembly. A copy of the letter is herewith attached.
While one Paul Akhagbemhe, was linked with the alleged offensive publications in AIT, the letter linked that of Channels to one Donatus Anichukwueze.
The alleged defamatory publications were also said to have been published by the two media houses on February 17.
"Your publication and/or broadcast has greatly injured the character of our client and tarnished and lowered its esteemed image in the eyes of the public.
"Having regard to the fact that your broadcast was false and coupled with the fact that, you did not ensure balancing in your report, as enjoined by the ethics of journalism, our client has instructed us to demand the following:
The Niger Delta Peace Advocates (NDPA) has warned individuals or groups planning to disrupt the peace in the Niger Delta region to desist from such plans or face the consequences. NDPA, in a statement signed by its President, Comrade Ebianga Imomotomi, yesterday said after an emergency meeting held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, issued a strong warning to the faceless individuals attempting to disrupt the hard-earned peace in the Niger Delta region.
our people. Their agenda is nothing more than an ill-conceived attempt to cause unrest and extort money from unsuspecting individuals and institutions,” NDPA said.
“These disgruntled elements, primarily based in Warri, have no legitimacy, no capacity to mobilise, and no genuine interest in the welfare of
The group explained that over the years, it has worked alongside well-meaning organisations and stakeholders to secure the peace we currently enjoy.
“Through our investigations, we have identified these fraudulent actors and their baseless claims. Let it be clear: these individuals are not recognised by any credible Niger Delta organisation, and their so-called “protest” lacks the support of true stakeholders.
immediately, as any disruption of public order will attract the full weight of the law,” it said.
NDPA therefore, advised parents and guardians to warn their wards not to be lured into becoming tools for these fraudulent actors, stressing that the Niger Delta has moved past the era of blackmail, intimidation, and fake activism.
"Our client was invited by the acting Clerk to come and support the Security Operatives attached to the Lagos State House of Assembly, from Sunday, February 16, 2025, in order to forestall an imminent break down of law and order, following the information that the former Speaker of the House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Obasa, planned to resume office on February 18, 2025, a plan which he (the acting clerk) believed poses a potential security threat to the Assembly and its members.
"An immediate retraction of your defamatory publication and/or broadcast on all your news platforms.
The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has donated six gunboats to the Rivers State Police Command, to enhance effective policing of waterways in the State.
Unveiling the gunboats at the State Marine Police Division, Abonnema Wharf, Port Harcourt, yesterday, the IGP, represented by the Deputy Inspector-General of Police (DIG), Department of Operation of Police Headquarters, Abuja, DIG Muhammed Ali, stressed the gunboats were provided to enhance effective policing of waterways for possible prevention, apprehension and prosecution of maritime offenders.
Egbetokun told the command leadership that the gunboats would be used to fight against menace of crime and criminality along the waterways, in addition to other crime fighting outfits doing their job to keep the state safe and peaceful.
The IGP who disclosed that the donation of the gunboats was inundated with complaints from Bonny people who complained of sea piracy, armed robbery along the waterways, warned that it should not be used for private guard.
He noted that the Nigerian marine domain is a major contributor to the
economy of the nation and charged the Force Maritime Officers to ensure optimal use of the vessels and imbibe the culture of proper maintenance for lasting performance of the boats.
“I call on all citizens and stakeholders to continue to support the Nigerian Police Force in our collective fight against crime. Security is a shared responsibility through unity, vigilance, and collaboration, we will ensure that Rivers State and the Niger Delta remain prosperous and free from the clutches of criminal elements”, IGP added.
Earlier, the Assistant Inspector General of Police, in-charge of Zone 16 Yenagoa, Adebola Hamzat, said: “Today is an epoch-making event. A day to felicitate with the federal government and the police. We are going ahead in fighting crime not only on land but on water.
“The IGP through FG has been able to launch the gunboat. We are assuring the nation we are up to the task in fighting crime and reducing it to the barest minimum.”
In his remarks, Governor Siminalayi Fubara applauded the IGP Egbetokun for promptly responding to improving security in the state's waterways through the provision of the six operational gunboats to the State Police Command.
Any attempt to take to the streets to foment trouble will be met with decisive action. The Niger Delta Peace Advocates stands firmly with security agencies in ensuring that peace is not compromised. We caution these elements to abandon their plans
“The recent attacks on the leadership of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), particularly the Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, are nothing but the desperate efforts of individuals who have lost relevance. Dr. Ogbuku enjoys the support of true civil society groups, ex-agitators, and community leaders who are committed to development, not chaos. Under his leadership, the NDDC has aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, bringing sustainable progress to our people.
"However, without any verification of the reason for the presence of our client's officials at the Lagos State House of Assembly on February 17, 2025, your organization maliciously and falsely broadcast, both on your news bulletin and print media, that our client had invaded/stormed the Lagos State House of Assembly with a view to preventing the members and speaker from entering the chamber for plenary.
"By this publication, our client which is a highly responsible and respected organization, was portrayed as an irresponsible and reckless organization, who in a Gestapo manner invaded/stormed the Lagos State House of Assembly, to support one of the feuding parties and to desecrate the hallowed chambers."
"The retraction shall be accompanied by an apology which must be published for at least five (5) times daily for three consecutive days on all your new channels and platforms, including all the social media handles to which your media House has its presence.
"Please note that, should you fail, to comply with the above demands within a period of seven (7) days after the delivery of this letter to you, we shall, on behalf of our client, seek redress by pursuing both civil and criminal actions against your organization as your conduct also runs contrary to the provisions of the Nigeria’s Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Act of 2015, as amended in 2024, without further reference to you", Adedipe stated.
The
Security Adviser
over no fewer than
The NSA noted that the victims were rescued through the combined effort of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN), Nigeria Police Force (NPF), the Intelligence agencies, other security agencies, with coordination from Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA). Ribadu also disclosed that the victims who were mostly women and children, were rescued along Abuja-Kaduna highway, precisely,
Rijana area of Kaduna State by the joint security forces.
Giving the statistics of the rescued victims, the NSA said the victims were made up of 28 females, 24 males, 6 children while 1 person was reportedly hospitalized.
He averred that the federal government was working round the clock to ensure that other victims of abduction who are still in captivity are released.
According to him, “we are here as a joint-operations of all the security forces under the directives of Mr. President to work extra hard to ensure we bring peace, security and restore normalcy in our country.”
He said: "Today, we have just received those who are rescued from
they will continue to work until they defeat the enemies of state and restore normalcy to troubled areas across Nigeria. The Coordinator, National Counter Terrorism Centre, Office of the National Security Adviser (NCTC-ONSA), , Major General Adamu Laka, said some of the victims were in captivity for over four months before they were rescued.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, appreciated Kaduna State Government for always cooperating with the military and other security agencies.
Bukunmi Olaniyonu, at the launch of
ETOP UKUTT
Linus Aleke in Abuja
National
(NAS), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has handed
59 victims of abduction to the Kaduna State Government in a brief but colorful ceremony in Abuja.
Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt
Alex Enumah in Abuja
HILL STATION RESORT TOUR...
FG Disburses $68.36m to 28 States in World Bank-assisted $750m SABER Programme
Despite not providing any hint on when it commenced the implementation of the $750 million World Bank-assisted States Action on Business Enabling Reforms (SABER) Programme-for-Results, the federal government announced yesterday that 33 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) had signed the Subsidiary Loan Agreement (SLA) under the programme, with 28 states so far receiving disbursements totalling $68.36 million.
The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun had in November 2023 announced SABER as the successor programme of the States Fiscal Transparency and Accountability and Sustainability (SFTAS), another World Bank-assisted $1.5 billion programme which was designed to nudge the sub-nationals into inculcating the virtues of accountability and transparency in governance.
However, since Edun's disclosure, not much information had been in the public domain on the implementation of the new programme until yesterday when the federal government announced through the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Finance, Mrs. Lydia Shehu, that 33 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) signing the Subsidiary Loan Agreement (SLA) under the SABER programme.
A statement issued last night by the Director, Press and Public Relations, Ministry of Finance, Mohammed Manga quoted Jafiya as saying that 28 states had received between $1 million and $4 million in prior results disbursements, totalling $68.36 million.
The statement read: " In its avowed determination to improve the business environment in the country, the Federal Government of Nigeria, in
collaboration with the World Bank has declared the 2025 National Sensitization Workshop on the States Action on Business Enabling Reforms (SABER) Programme-for-Results open in Abuja - a $750 million initiative aimed at incentivizing state-level reforms to improve Nigeria's business climate.
"The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Finance, Mrs Lydia Shehu Jafiya, while declaring the event open, emphasized the significance of the programme in fostering economic growth through business-friendly reforms."
The statement quoted the Permanent Secretary as saying: "We are committed to creating an enabling environment that promotes business competitiveness and attractiveness."
She added that "the SABER programme is a critical component of our efforts to enhance the business climate and drive economic growth."
"The Permanent Secretary highlighted the progress made so far, with 33 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) signing the Subsidiary Loan Agreement (SLA) under the SABER programme.
"Mrs. Jafiya informed that 28 states have received between $1 million and $4 million in prior results disbursements, totalling $68.36 million.
"She acknowledged the challenges faced by states in implementing reforms but encouraged them to persevere," the statement added.
It stressed that Jafiya assured that the government would continue to support states in their efforts to improve the business environment and attract investments.
The Permanent Secretary also emphasised the importance of transparency and accountability in the implementation of the SABER programme, saying, "we must ensure that the programme's objectives
are achieved in a transparent and accountable manner."
By streamlining processes for land acquisition and ownership, the Permanent Secretary further disclosed that the programme aims to reduce bureaucratic hurdles and make it easier for businesses to operate.
Additionally, she said the SABER programme seeks to enhance private investment in fibre optic deployment, strengthening regulatory frameworks to support this growth.
The programme also prioritizes the strengthening of investment promotion agencies and public-private partnership units, recognizing the
critical role these entities play in attracting investment and driving economic growth.
SABER slso aims to improve transparency and efficiency in government-to-business services, reducing the complexity and uncertainty that can often hinder business operations.
According to the statement, the programme builds on the successes of the States Fiscal Transparency, Accountability, and Sustainability (SFTAS) initiative, which promoted fiscal transparency and accountability at the sub-national level.
The SABER programme's disburse-
ments are contingent upon annual verification by an Independent Verification Agent (IVA), ensuring that states meet agreed reform milestones.
Programme Leader for Equitable Growth, Finance, and Institutions at the World Bank, Bertine Kamphuis, underscored the need for additional technical assistance, including inperson and smaller technical group meetings.
Also, National Programme Coordinator of the SABER Programme, Dr. Ali Mohammed elaborated on the program's financial structure, emphasizing that the $750 million
budget encompasses not only Programme-for-Results (PforR) disbursements but also capacity building for state officials and implementation partners. Under the now-ended SFTAS Programme introduced by former President Muhammadu Buhari administration,eligibility and clear-cut criteria were outlined for states to get disbursement from the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation (OAGF). The criteria were open to civil society organisations and the media, who also assessed benefiting states based on their performance.
National Assembly Amends 2025 Appropriation Bill, Increases Recurrent Expenditure
Transmits investments, securities bill to Tinubu for assent Senator Umeh frets over alleged false figures by companies
Ndubuisi Francis and Sunday Aborisade in Abuja
The National Assembly yesterday, amended the law authorising the issuance of N54.9 trillion as the 2025 budget by correcting allocation errors affecting certain Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) of the federal government.
This comes as the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Capital Market, Senator Osita Izunaso, revealed yesterday that the National Assembly has already transmitted the Investments and Securities Bill (ISB 2024 to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for assent.
The amendment to the 2025 appropriation bill led to a reallocation of funds, increasing the budgetary
Minister Canvasses Proportionate Representation of Women in Military, Security Agencies
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, has called for proportionate representation of women in senior command positions in the military and security institutions in the country, describing the present under-representation as unacceptable.
The minister made the call on Tuesday in Abuja at the 5th Annual Forum of Women, Peace and Security Sector Reference Group in Nigeria. She said that women are grossly under-represented in operational
roles and strategic decision-making positions in the security institutions, despite their demonstrable competencies and qualifications, calling for breakdown of institutional barriers and structural inhibitions in the security sector.
The minister who acknowledged that some progress have been made in the appointment of women in some strategic positions in the Nigeria Police Force and other paramilitary institutions such as Nigerian Immigration Service, however said she was not satisfied with the achievements
recorded so far.
She said: "While we have made progress, the reality is that women continue to bear the brunt of insecurity in Nigeria whether as victims of gender-based violence, internally displaced persons or those facing structural barriers within our security institutions."
Sulaiman-Ibrahim called on key stakeholders to work assiduously to close the gaps between commitment and execution, between dialogue and measurable impact in the implementation of Women, Peace and Security.
provisions for some agencies while reducing allocations for others.
The amendment motion was sponsored by the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriations, Solomon Adeola, and was considered at the Committee of Supply.
One of the adjustments was an increase in the recurrent (non-debt) expenditure, which was initially set at N13 trillion but has now been raised to N13.5 trillion, an increase of approximately N500 billion.
Another correction was the initial capital expenditure of N23.9 trillion which was reduced to N23.4 trillion. This marked a reduction of about N500 billion. Despite these adjustments, the total budget remains unchanged at N54.9 trillion.
The adjustments meant that the N500 billion reduced from the capital expenditure was added to that recurrent (non-debt) expenditure.
The 2025 budget was originally passed by both chambers of the National Assembly on February 13.
It increased President Bola Tinubu’s proposed N54.2 trillion budget to N54.9 trillion.
The increment marked an upward adjustment of approximately N750 billion.
The earlier approved budget included allocations of N3.6 trillion for Statutory Transfers, N14.3 trillion for Debt Service, N23.9 trillion for Capital Expenditure, and N13.8 trillion for Fiscal Deficit. However, Tinubu has yet to give his assent to the budget.
Adeola, while presenting the amendment motion, explained that a review of the budget revealed er-
rors in the line items passed by both chambers of the National Assembly.
He proposed maintaining the total budget figure at N54.9 trillion, with no changes to Statutory Transfers at N3.6 trillion and Debt Service at N14.3 trillion.
He recommended increasing recurrent (non-debt) expenditure from N13 trillion to N13.5 trillion and reducing capital expenditure from N23.9 trillion to N23.4 trillion.
The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, put the amendments to a vote, and they were overwhelmingly supported by the senators.
However, Akpabio later rescinded the Senate’s earlier decision on the affected line items and passed the amendment version.
He noted that the amendment was to ensure clarity and transparency.
The adjustment in the line items for the Recurrent was the Ministry of Defence, which was reduced from N2.51 trillion to N2.49 trillion.
Others were, the Ministry of Police Affairs, revised from N1.225 trillion to N1.224 trillion.
Total pensions, gratuity, and retirement benefits increased from N950 billion to N1.44 trillion.
Military pensions and gratuities was also adjusted from N252.6 billion to N383.9 billion.
In the same vein, National Pension Commission (PENCOM) allocation was increased from N529.4 billion to N804.7 billion.
On the other hand, corrections in the capital allocation included Presidency which was reduced from N144.4 billion to N142.7 billion.
Others were the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, adjusted from N1.95 trillion to N1.83 trillion and the Federal Ministry of Works revised from N2.04 trillion to N2 trillion.
Similarly, the Federal Ministry of Education was reduced from 953.9 billion to N944.6 billion.
Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Capital Market, Senator Osita Izunaso, revealed yesterday that the National Assembly has already transmitted the Investments and Securities Bill (ISB 2024 to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for assent.
Izunaso, who spoke during the budget defence session of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in Abuja, stated that the parliament was expecting the president to sign the bill into law within the next 30 days. He said: "The Senate President has signed the Investments and Securities Bill 2024 and it has now moved to the Executive for assent. We have 30 days for that to happen and we expect that the President will assent to it.” Izunaso, also told the meeting that the Committee had followed up with a written directive to the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, to include a N10 billion special fund for investor education in the capital market as part of the 2025 budget. In his remarks, Senator Anthony Yaro, commended SEC for the approach taken in 2024, adding that with positive happenings like the ISB and reduction in deductions, SEC was expected to perform better.
Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja
L-R: Director, Hillside Hospitality Limited, Hakeem Condotti; Deputy General Manager, Zenith Bank Power and Infrastructure, Mr. Usifo J. Ogbebor; Plateau State Secretary to State Government, Mr. Samuel N. Jatau and Principal Architectural Designer, Reinvent Design Studio, Mr. Okechuku Jr. Izeogu on a tour of The Hill Station Resort in Jos… yesterday
AUSTRIACARD BREAKFAST MEETING…
Executive Vice President, Middle East and Africa (MEA) and Turkiye, Austriacard Holdings, Burak Bilge; Co-founder/Director, Cardforte Tunde Aka-Bashorun and, CEO Office Director, Austriacard Holdings, Burak Uge, at the exclusive breakfast meeting organised for stakeholders in the Nigerian payment industry in Lagos… yesterday
Okpebholo Using Phantom N96bn Fraud Narrative to Divert Public Attention, Says Obaseki Aide
Adibe Emenyonu in benin City
Former Special Adviser to immediate past Governor of Edo State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, Crusoe Osagie, has thumbed down the 100 days of the state Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo in office,
describing them as empty and lacking in depth. Osagie added that Okpebholo is therefore, using the phantom N96 billion local government funds fraud to divert public attention from his lack lustre administration.
The Chief Press Secretary to
19 Killed in another Bloody Attack by Gunmen in Benue
George Okoh in Makurdi
It was another day of mayhem in Benue State as gunmen reportedly killed 19 people in a renewed attack on communities in Kwande Local Government Area of the state.
Eyewitness alleged that the attack began last Saturday with 16 farmers ambushed and killed on Kashimbila Road while returning to their community in Mbandwa ward, and their bodies were reportedly thrown into a river.
Another attack occurred last Monday afternoon in Boaguwa, Kumakua council ward of Kwande LGA, claiming three more lives, and causing many residents to
flee to Jato Aka town for safety.
A local source said the farmers were returning home when they were ambushed. Their bodies were dumped in the river.”
The President-General of Mzough U Tiv Worldwide and leader of Benue’s three major socio-cultural groups-Mzough U Tiv, Ochi’ Idoma, and Om’Ngede-a retired Comptroller of Prisons, Iorbee Ihagh, who hails from the area, confirmed the attacks to journalists in Makurdi last Monday night.
Ihagh, speaking from Jato Aka, expressed concern over the deteriorating security situation in Kwande.
Police Declare Nigerian Singer, Portable Wanted
Yinka Olatunbosun
The Nigeria Police have finally declared controversial singer, Habeeb Okikiola Olalomi , popularly known as Portable, wanted after failing to submit himself for two weeks.
This move followed the incident that happened on February 5 when the Ogun State Planning and Development Permit Authority (OGPDPA) was conducting a routine inspection, checking for illegal structures.
Reportedly, Portable was on the opposite side of the road taunting the officials declaring himself as the town planner of Sango, the community where he lives. His hangers-on joined in provoking the officials and reportedly forced the latter to flee to safety.
The next day, the said officials returned to continue their inspection. Unfortunately, Portable’s hotel was marked as an illegal structure, being an uncompleted building without a permit.
Latter-day Saints Inaugurates Educational Centre in Lagos
Sunday Ehigiator
As part of its commitment to expanding educational opportunities in Nigeria, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has inaugurated the Brigham Young University (BYU)-Pathway Worldwide Centre in Lagos.
Speaking at the dedication ceremony, the President of BYUPathway Worldwide, Brian Ashton, highlighted the institution’s mission to provide accessible and highquality education. He described the programme as an affordable initiative designed to empower
individuals and improve lives.
Ashton stated that: “Our objective is to equip people with knowledge and skills that will enable them to secure jobs and attain self-reliance. Through education, they can contribute meaningfully to their families and the wider community.”
BYU-Pathway Worldwide offers students in Nigeria the opportunity to enrol at Brigham Young University, USA, and pursue their studies online.
While enrolled, students can access remote job opportunities to support themselves financially.
Okpebholo,
said the decision to set up the Investigative Panel which indicted Obaseki, impeached local council chairmen and some Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leaders
was not arbitrary; necessitated by growing concerns over financial mismanagement across the 18 local government councils. He added that the alarming
lack of visible developmental projects, despite substantial allocations, raised critical questions that demanded answers.
Osun LGA Crisis Left Six People Dead, Many Hospitalised, Says Police
Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo Osun State Commissioner of Police Mr. Mohammed Abba yesterday affirmed that Osun State Local Government crisis left six people dead and many people hospitalised.
A statement issued and
made available to THISDAY yesterday by the police image maker, Yemisi Opalola, noted that the police authority are not happy with the ugly development in the state.
The statement hinted that various groups have been called for meeting, and the authorities
have held series of meetings by the Commissioner of Police to ensure that this does not happen.
According to the commissioner, “We expressed deepest sympathy with those affected that either lost their lives and property. The CP
assure thorough investigation and promise that perpetrators face full wrath of law. “ He urged Citizens to remain calm and patience as police are working to restore peace, saying those formenting this trouble should desist from this act. This state is known for peace.
House Calls for Special Court Divisions to Handle Homicide, Femicide Cases
Akoje in abuja
The House of Representatives has urged the National Judicial Council (NJC) to establish special divisions within existing courts at all levels to swiftly handle cases of homicide, femicide, and related crimes.
It also urged the relevant law enforcement agencies to prioritise homicide investigations and ensure thorough prosecution of offenders and to investigate the causes of recent killings of women and girls across the country. The lawmakers further tasked religious organisations, the
National Orientation Agency, and other advocacy groups to initiate public awareness campaigns focusing on instilling ethical values and respect for human life, and to promote programmes that educate young people on the dangers of ntual killings, murder, and manslaughter.
These resolutions followed the adoption of a motion titled “A National Call to Halt Homicidal and Femicidal Acts in Nigeria” moved by Hon. Awaji-Inombek D. Abiante, Hon. Faleke James Abiodun, Hon. Ogah Amobi Godwin and Hon. Manu Soro Mansur at plenary yesterday.
Ekiti 2026: Senate Leader, Other Stakeholders Endorse Oyebanji for Second Term
Gbenga Sodeinde inadoEkiti
Ahead of the 2026 governorship poll in Ekiti State the All Progressives Congress(APC) party stakeholders including the Leader of the Senate, Opeyemi Bamidele, in the Central Senatorial District of the state have unanimously
endorsed the second term bid of the incumbent Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji. The APC stakeholders are party members from the five local governments areas of Ado,Ireporun/Ifelodun,Ekiti West,Ijero and Efon.
Speaking at the forum, tagged:
Austria Card Enters Nigerian Market, Vows to Drive
Austria Card, a global provider of secure payment and identity solutions, has announced its entry into the Nigerian market with a focus on strengthening the country’s digital payment infrastructure. The company, which has a strong track record in financial services, e-government, and
biometric security, is positioning itself as a strategic partner for local banks, fintech, and government agencies.
“We appreciate continuity. Ekiti has not had it so good. As you can see, people that are here, are those that would do the party primaries.”
Leaders And Stakeholders’ meeting/Endorsement Programme, in Ado--Ekiti, Opeyemi Bamidele who is representing the District at the upper chamber of the National Assembly, said:”All we are doing here today is that we are holding our usual party meeting which which we used to do indoor. We are just repeating and re-emphasizing what we have said concerning the second term in office of Governor Oyebanji.
Speaking on Austria Card’s vision for Nigerian Lagos yesterday, the CEO Office Director, Burak Uge, said: “Nigeria is a huge market with significant potential, but also a challenging one due to its well-established financial ecosystem. However, with global trade restrictions and changes in supply chains, now is the right time for Austria Card to enter the market.”
“The company plans to introduce its advanced EMV-
compliant payment cards, biometric authentication solutions, and government ID technologies. With over 40 million cards sold annually and a 35 per cent market share in key regions, Austria Card brings extensive experience in providing secure payment solutions tailored to local needs.
Mutfwang Renews Support for Revamp of Hill Station Resort in Plateau
Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has assured the people full government support for the N8.5 billion Hill Station Resort revitalisation project embarked on by Hillside Hospitality Limited an investee company of Strom Infrastructure Investments and Management Ltd. The renewed
commitment came during a highlevel stakeholder engagement meeting aimed at accelerating the historic resort’s transformation.
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, in Jos yesterday, Samuel N. Jatau, Governor Mutfwang emphasised the project’s significance to Plateau’s development agenda.
“The people of Plateau are diligent, hardworking, and committed. We will support and patronise this development to ensure its success,” Jatau stated. The ambitious project, set to commence construction in March 2025, represents a strategic
partnership between the Plateau State Government and Hillside Hospitality Limited. Following the signing of the Heads of Terms Agreement in July 2024, the initiative aims to restore the 1938 structure while introducing modern amenities and luxury facilities.
Group Commends Senator Jide Ipinsagba for Outstanding Representation
The Transparency and Accountability Network (TAN), a leading civil society group advocating good governance, has applauded the distinguished Senator representing Ondo North Senatorial District in the
National Assembly, Senator Jide Ipinsagba, for his unwavering commitment to improving the lives of his constituents. Despite his primary role as a legislator, Senator Ipinsagba has prioritised the welfare
of the people across the six local government areas of his senatorial district, namely the four Akoko North-west, Akoko North-east, Akoko South-east, Akoko South-west, Owo, and Ose Local Governments.
His dedication to grassroots development and empowerment has not gone unnoticed, as he continues to bridge the gap between governance and the people in an unprecedented manner.
Fred Itua, had in a statement titled: Re: N96bn LG Fraud, Nazi Obaseki and Fellow Treasury Looters Have Murdered Sleep in Edo State,
Juliet
Lookman’s Efforts Not Enough for Atalanta, Brugge Progress to Knockout
Feyenoord knock out AC Milan, to play Inter or Arsenal in Last 16
Duro Ikhazuagbe
Ademola Lookman’s efforts were not enough to rescue Atalanta from crashing out of the UEFA Champions League against Belgian side Club Brugge. Brugge won the second leg 3-1 and qualified 5-2 aggregate into the Last 16 round of the foremost club competition in Europe.
After Atalanta lost the first leg through a controversial penalty goal helped the Belgians to a 2-1 slim edge, Coach Gian Piero Gasperini was expected to throw everything in his arsenal into this second leg. That was not to be as it was the visitors who raced to a 3-0 advantage in the first 45 minutes.
Chemsdine Talbi got the opener in the 3rd minute and added the second goal in the 27th minute before Feran Jutgla added the third in the added minutes of the first half.
However, on return from the first half break, Coach Gasperini took the risk of throwing recuperating Lookman into the mix. And it appears Atalanta’s talisman was going to change the story for the Italian side.
Barely one minute after, the Nigerian international pulled back one goal. Lookman diverted Davide Zappacosta’s cross home into Brugge net.
The deficit of the night appeared about to be wiped clean when the Super Eagles forward again stepped forward to play a penalty earned by Atalanta after VAR showed Brugge’s
CHAMPIONS LEAGUE PLAYOFF
Christos Tzolis was adjudged to have hauled Juan Cuadrado to the ground. Lookman’s well-taken penalty kick, was shockingly, saved by Brugge’s goalkeeper Simon Mignolet.
next month.
Meanwhile, another Italian side, AC Milan with Super Eagles Samuel Chukwueze in the mix, also crashed out of the Champions League after
Before that penalty, Lookman’s other effort was overruled as scored from an off side position. And so began the frustration of near misses as Atalanta’s wait for their consecutive home win in the Champions League goes on un-end. For Brugge, they will know on Friday who they will play in the Last 16 between Lille and Aston Villa
RESULTS
AC Milan 1-1 Feyenoord (1-2 aggregate) Atalanta 1-3 Club Brugge (2-5 aggregate)
Dortmund v Sporting PSG v Brest PSV v Juventus R’Madrid v Man City
Veteran Sports Broadcaster, Aisha Falode, has been announced as the Special Advisor on Communications to Dunamis Icon, project consultants to the Niger Delta Sports Festival (NDSF).
Lead Consultant and Co-Chairman of the Main Organising Committee of the festival, Itiako Ikpokpo, announced the appointment of Ms Falode yesterday and said his company is looking forward to adding value to the festival from her rich and extensive knowledge in working with the media departments of the Confederation of Africa Football (CAF) and Federation of International Football (FIFA).
A dynamic leader and accomplished journalist with over 25 years of industry expertise, Falode has a proven success in sports media marketing, business ownership, and strategic leadership.
According to Ikpokpo, "the Niger Delta Sports Festival is not just about sports, it's about our culture, our people and the youths essentially. Bringing Falode on board will boost our strategic communication of these values because beyond her
professional attainment, she is also from one of the Niger Delta states".
Ace Sports Journalist, Mitchell Obi is one of the earliest sports personalities to endorse the appointment and congratulate Falode.
"It is the right fit. She ticks all the boxes for the role, firstly in her professional capacity and in her extensive media reach and secondly, she understands the Niger Delta story", Obi told the NDSF Media.
Pamodzi Sports Marketing boss, Mike Itemuagbor lent his support to the appointment and commended Ikpokpo for the foresight in selecting her.
"I must commend my good friend, Ikpokpo for this step. I have worked with Aisha from her days at Africa Independent Television (AIT) in my role as the CEO of Pamodzi, the official marketing partner of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). She is a thorough bred and has come a long way from her work in Television to working with the NFF, CAF and FIFA in different media capacities at tournaments", Itemuagbor noted.
being held to a draw by Feyenoord in the second leg of their knockout play-off at San Siro Stadium.
The Italians wiped out a 1-0 deficit in last week's first leg after just 36 seconds as Santiago Gimenez netted against his former club with the fastest goal in this season's Champions
Ademola Lookman's efforts were not enough last night as Belgian side Club Brugge defeated Atalanta 3-1 (5-2 aggregate) to book their place in the Last 16 of the UEFA Champions League
League. But Milan full-back Theo Hernandez was sent off in the 51st minute for two yellow cards and Feyenoord substitute Julian Carranza headed in the decisive 73rd-minute goal to seal a 2-1 aggregate success.
The last-16 draw, to be held on Friday, will decide whether the Dutch club face Inter Milan or Arsenal next month.
Seven-time European champions Milan had the perfect start with Gimenez's effort.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and Carloha, exclusive dealer and franchise holder of Chery vehicles in Nigeria, will today, Wednesday February 19, 2025 sign a partnership agreement that will make Carloha the official automobile partner of the NFF and the National Teams.
The contract-signing ceremony will take place at the automobile company’s Lagos office, and will have in attendance, top officials of the NFF and chieftains of Carloha.
President of NFF, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau said the footballgoverning body is excited about the partnership with the car-dealers.
“This is a step in the right direc-
tion, as we continue to reach out to corporate institutions to come and support the beautiful game in Nigeria. We are delighted to have Carloha on board in our commitment to take our football to the next level.”
Managing Director of Carloha, Mr. Sola Adigun, also expressed a sense of fulfilment at the consummation of the agreement, after months of discussions by the leadership of the two establishments. “We are happy to identify with Nigeria football. The Super Eagles and Super Falcons are big brands, and ourselves at Carloha are eager to contribute our little bit to making them even bigger brands, not forgetting the age-grade teams.”
As Ogun State prepares to host the 22nd National Sports Festival, the state’s Commissioner for Sports Development, Wasiu Isiaka, has reiterated the importance of sports in youth development and nationbuilding.
The National Sports Festival, which is expected to bring together athletes from across the country, will be a showcase of Nigeria's sporting talents and a celebration of unity, friendship, and healthy competition.
The festival will feature various sports, including track and field, swimming, and basketball.
Speaking at the 60th Founders' Day Anniversary celebration of Remo Divisional School Sagamu, Hon. Isiaka emphasised the significance of hosting the festival, stating, "This festival represents much more than just track and field competitions: it signifies our determination to create a robust sports ecosystem throughout Ogun State."
He noted that the state govern-
To advance its new agenda for the next four years, the newly elected executive of the African Table Tennis Federation (ITTF Africa) has reconstituted 11 standing committees and commissions with a fresh mandate to promote the sport across the continent.
According to Andrew Mudibo,
ment's commitment to youth and sports development is evident in various initiatives aimed at engaging young people.
"We recognise that sports play a critical role in building character, fostering teamwork, and nurturing
After thrashing Newcastle 4-0 on Saturday, Pep Guardiola insisted that Manchester City have only a one per cent chance of ousting the record 15-time European Cup winners Real Madrid in the second leg of the UEFA Champions League playoff clash at the Santiago Bernabeu tonight.
City blew a late 2-1 lead in the first leg of the play-off tie last week at home to lose 3-2 to the title holders.
That collapse was part of a wider trend this season as Guardiola's ageing squad have struggled to last the pace, particularly when the intensity is turned up on Champions League nights.
As a consequence, City broke with their usual transfer policy to spend big in January, bringing in Omar Marmoush, Abdukodir Khusanov, Vitor Reis and Nico Gonzalez for fees totalling £170 million ($214 million).
However, none of them started the first leg against Madrid. Marmoush was the only one to even make an appearance for the final few minutes off the bench, as Gonzalez and Khusanov were unused substitutes and Reis was not registered in City's European squad.
But with all to play for tonight, Guardiola may now regret that decision after Marmoush, Gonzalez and Khusanov all played pivotal roles
in arguably City's best performance of the season last Saturday when Newcastle were blown away 4-0 at the Etihad.
Marmoush hogged the headlines thanks to his first-half hat-trick, finally offering City another potent scoring threat to compliment Erling Haaland. Khusanov recovered from his nightmare Premier League debut against Chelsea last month when he gave away a goal inside three minutes and could have been sent-off shortly afterwards.
This time the Uzbek showed why City paid Lens a reported 40 million euros ($42 million) for his services. The 20-year-old's pace helped sniff out the danger posed by Newcastle's Alexander Isak and could be what the visitors need to combat the threat of Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo in the Santiago Bernabeu clash this evening.
Guardiola, though, reserved special praise for the impact of Gonzalez in bringing the City midfield the stability they have lacked since Ballon d'Or winner Rodri suffered a serious knee injury in September.
The Barcelona academy graduate seems certain to start on his return to Spain with his manager already hailing the 23-year-old as a "mini Rodri."
future leaders," he explained.
The commissioner also commended the alumni of Remo Divisional School for their contributions to the institution and the community, saying, "Your commitment to giving back to your
roots not only enriches our community but also positively impacts society and our government. Your contributions are invaluable and serve as a testament to the strong foundation that this institution has established over the years."
Committee,
for
on Education and Chairperson of the 60th Anniversary of RDHS, Hon
Sports of RDHS yesterday in Sagamu.
Executive Vice President and chairman of the Reconstitution Committee, the reconstitution process began towards the end of 2024. "The Executive expects all committees and commissions to be fully functional, significantly assisting the Executive in its work and decision-making for the growth and development of table tennis in Africa,” he said. Mudibo emphasised the importance of commitment from committee members: "The leaders and members of the committees are capable of doing an excellent job, which should make Africa proud. We anticipate positive results. Each committee is expected to work based on its given terms of reference. We
L-R: Chairman, Sports
Remo Divisional High Old Student Association (RDHS), Mr Femi Solaja; President General, (RDHS), Abiodun Adesanya; Ogun State Commissioner
Sports Development, Hon. Wasiu Isiaka; Special Adviser to the Governor
Ronke Soyombo; and Chairman, Board of Trustees, (RDHS), Mofopefoluwa Joseph (MFR) at the Inter-house
MISSILE
Omokri to NGOs, USAID, Others
“If we do not do this, Nigeria will continue to be vulnerable to external forces who use money to induce unpatriotic citizens to wreck social havoc and undermine our government...and create divisions and mutual suspicions amongst the various ethnic nationalities that make up Nigeria. Many foreign intelligence services are using religious cults and NGOs to further their devices in Nigeria...we must lift the veil on them...” --Author and Public Commentator, Reno Omokri, calls for action to stop USAID, other foreign agencies from funding terror in Nigeria.
FEMI FALANA GUEST COLUMNIST
Bail Conditions, Then and Now
Section 35 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 and article 6 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights Ratification and Enforcement Act Cap A9 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004 guarantee the personal liberty of every person in Nigeria. Even though the right to personal liberty may be encroached upon by the State if there is reasonable suspicion that any person has committed a criminal offence, a criminal suspect is entitled to bail pending the conclusion of investigation or trial or appeal.
However, bail can be justifiably denied by a court if there is evidence that an accused person may tamper with investigation or jump bail or that the suspect may continue the crime. The principle behind bailù pending trial is to ensure that an accused person is not kept in custody since every person is entitled to presumption of innocence until the contrary is proved by the State.
In Obekpa v. Commissioner Of Police (1980) 1 NCR @ 113, Al-hassan Idoko J. (as he then was) had this to say:
“as it appears, the spirit behind the provision in S.32(4) (a) and (b) of the Constitution is to keep an accused person out of incarceration until found guilty through the process of court trial. It is a conditional privilege, which he is entitled to under the Constitution. The reason for such privilege is obvious. It allows those who might be wrongly accused to escape punishment, which any period of imprisonment would inflict upon them while awaiting trial, staying out of prison guarantees easy access to counsel and witness and ensures unhampered opportunity for preparation of the defence.
Of much greater importance in this regard is the fact that, unless the right to bail or to freedom before conviction is preserved, protected and allowed, the presumption of innocence constitutionally guaranteed to every individual accused of a criminal offence would lose its meaning and force.”
In the second republic, Nigerian Judges admitted accused persons to bail in liberal terms in line with the letter and spirit of section 32 of the 1979 Constitution which is in pari materia with Section 35 of 1999 Constitution. Even under the defunct military junta, politicians and activists who were charged with treason and treasonable felony were granted bail in liberal conditions. A few of such cases are briefly reviewed below:
1. In Commissioner of Police v. Dr. Beko Ransome Kuti & 4 Ors. (reported in The BAR and the BENCH in defence of the RULE OF LAW in Nigeria by Ayo Olanrewaju Esq. Nigerian Law Publications, 1992 P. 431), the accused persons were charged with treasonable felony for circulating posters with inscription :”Babangida Must Go” and thereby formed an intention to remove President Ibrahim Babangida as Head of the Federal Military Government contrary to Section 41 of the Criminal Code Act. Chief Gani Fawehinmi was the 2nd defendant while I was the 3rd defendant. As we and other defendant were held incommunicado in Kuje prison, we were unable to brief a lawyer to represent us. So Chief Gani Fawehinmi) and I appeared for our Comrades and ourselves. We applied and argued an oral application for our bail. Apart from making a strong case for our bail, we argued that the provisions of the Criminal Code Act are not meant to protect the military dictators who had sacked a democratically elected government on December 31, 1983.
The presiding Chief Magistrate, Nwada Balami Esq. (as he then was) said that he did not have the authorities cited by us in the course of our arguments. We requested the Chief Magistrate to order our law firms to send the authorities to the court through the Kuje prison management. The request was granted and the order was carried out and the authorities were supplied by our law firms in Lagos. Two weeks later, the Chief Magistrate delivered his ruling and admitted each of us to bail in the sum of N20,000.00 and one surety in like sum.
2. M.K.O. Abiola v Federal Republic of Nigeria (1995) I NWLR Part 370 P.155
The appellant declared himself President and Commanderin-Chief of the armed forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria on the ground that he won the June 12, 1993 presidential election. He was arrested and arraigned on a 3-count charge of treasonable felony contrary to Section 41 of the Criminal Code Act.
The Appellant pleaded not guilty and applied for bail orally through his counsel. The Federal High Court refused
to grant the oral evidence and directed the counsel to file a formal application. Dissatisfied with the ruling, the Appellant appealed to the Court of Appeal. In allowing the appeal the Court of Appeal held that the lower court was wrong to have rejected the oral application for bail. Consequently, the Court granted bail to the appellant in the following terms:-
(1) The appellant is granted bail in his own self recognisance.
(2) The appellant should not indulge in any activity that will jeopardize the peace of this country.
Gani Fawehinmi & 2 Ors
As a result of the nationwide protests which greeted the criminal annulment of the result of the June 12, 1993 presidential election by the Ibrahim Babangida military junta, the late Chief Gani Fawehinmi, Dr. Beko Ransome Kuti and I were arrested in Lagos and taken to Abuja where we were charged with unlawful rallies, sabotage of political transition programme. Our application for bail was rejected by the presiding Magistrate, Aisha Allasan. We were remanded in Kuje prison. To prevent the high court from granting us bail, General Babangida ordered our detention under the obnoxious State Security Detention of Persons Decree No 2 of 1984. But we were admitted to bail by Bage J.(who later rose to the Supreme Court bench, retired and became the current Emir of Lafia). We were granted bail in self recognisance, notwithstanding that we were also detained incommunicado under a preventive detention decree.
3. AHMED EBUTE & 5 ORS V THE STATE (1994) 8 NWLR (PT 360) 66
In this case, the following Senators: (1) Ameh Ebute; (2) Chief Polycap Nwite: (3) Rev. Mac. Onyernechi Nwulu; (4) Onyeka Amadi Okoroafor; (5) Abu Ibrahim and (6) Bola Ahmed Tinubu and others at large on the 30th day of May, 1994 at Lagos in the Lagos Judicial Division of the Federal D High Court formed an intention to remove during his term of office other than by Constitutional means the Head of State of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, General Sani Abacha as Head of State and manifested such intention by issuing a Press Statement declaring the Federal Government illegal and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 41 (a) E of the Criminal Code Act 77, Laws of the Federation, 1990 and punishable under the same section.
The appellants pleaded not guilty and applied for bail. The application was refused by the learned Chief Judge of the Federal High Court. Dissatisfied with the decision of the trial court the appellants took the matter to the Court of Appeal. In allowing the appeal, the Court of Appeal ordered as follows:
“(i) Bail is granted to each of the appellants in his own recognizance.
(ii) Each of the appellants shall within 24 hours hereof deposit his passport (s) with the Deputy Chief Registrar of this court pending the determination of his charge before the trial court.
(iii) Each of the appellants should show his presence to the Deputy C Inspector General in charge of C.I.D. Alagbon,
Alagbon Close, Lagos, or any other officer designated by him in an area nearest to the place of abode of the particular appellant on every Friday at 10 to 11 a.m. of the week beginning from 29th, day of July, 1994 pending the determination of his charge before the trial court.”
ONEROUS BAIL CONDITIONS UNDER DEMOCRATIC RULE
Under the current democratic dispensation, Judges of the various High Courts in the country have a penchant for imposing stringent bail conditions on suspects even though the proof of evidence may disclose the case of the prosecution is weak. The bail conditions that are imposed by judges of the Federal High Court include the sum of 100 million Naira and 2 sureties in like sum. One of the sureties must have a property in Ikoyi, Victoria Island or Banana Island in Lagos State or Apo, Asokokoro or Maitama in the Federal Capital Territory while the other surety must be a level 17 officer in the public service of the Federal Government.
It is an ironic to note that bail conditions set by judges under military rule were not as stringent as bail conditions imposed on citizens charged with criminal offences under the current democratic dispensation. The few cases will reviewed below will confirm that the majority of Nigerian judges do not agree with Justice Atkin who once said that “amidst the clash of arms, the laws are not silent. They may be changed, but they speak the same language in war as in peace.”
FRN v Omoyele Sowore & Anor (2019)
In August 2019, Omoyele Sowore and Olawale Bakare were charged with treasonable felony, money laundering and cyberstalking at the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja. The learned trial judge, Justice Ijeoma Ojukwu granted bail to Sowore in the sum of N100m with two sureties in like sum. The sureties, who must be resident in Abuja must also have landed assets worth the bail sum in Abuja, and they were to deposit the original title documents of the assets with the court. The judge also ordered him to deposit the sum of N50m in the account of the court as security.
The judge granted bail to Bakare in the sum of N50m and one surety in like sum. The sum of N50 was to be deposited as security. Both Bakare and Sowore were barred from addressing any rally pending the conclusion of their trial. As if that was not enough, the judge barred Sowore from travelling out of Abuja and restricted the movement of Bakare to Osogbo during the duration of the trial.
As the Defendants could not meet the bail conditions they remained in the custody of the State Security Service. However, the court granted the application for variation of the bail conditions by cancelling the deposit of N50 million by one of the two sureties. The Defendants approached the Court of Appeal for further variation of the bail conditions. In granting the applicant, the Court cancelled the restriction of the movements of the Defendants.
FRN v Michael Tobiloba Adaramoye (aka Lenin) & 9 Ors (2024)
The Defendants who had taken part in the #endbadgovernance in August 2024 were charged with treason and allied offences before the Federal High Court in Abuja. Each defendant was granted bail in the sum of N10 million with one surety who must have landed property worth the bail sum in Abuja. As part of the bail conditions, the judge ordered that the sureties must submit their passports to the court.
FRN v Adebayo & 118 Ors (2024)
The Defendants including 29 malnourished children were charged with treason at the Federal High Court, Abuja for aleged participation in the #endbadgovernance protests. They pleaded not guilty and were granted bail in the sum of N10 million and one surety in like sum who should be a civil servant of not less than level 15.The children were however granted bail to their parents who were ordered to stand sureties for them.
It is submitted that it is contradictory to grant bail and proceed to impose stringent conditions that cannot be met by defendants without filing an application for variation or an appeal. For instance, how did the trial judge expect poor parents to travel from Kano, Kaduna, Sokoto, Maiduguri etc to travel to Abuja to stand sureties for the 29 minor defendants?
Apart from politically exposed persons, how many defendants are in a position to mobilise Grade Level 17
officers in the public service of either the federal or state government to stand sureties for them? In a country where the national minimum wage is N70,000 per month, how many defendants can deposit N100 million as security for their bail?
Inspector-General of Police v Omoyele Sowore (2005)
Last week, the authorities of the Nigeria Police Force arrested Mr. Omoyele Sowore for alleged cyberstalking. In admitting him to bail, he was asked to produce a surety who is a Grade Level 17 officer in the Federal Public Service. Following my intervention in the case, the Police Authorities reviewed the bail condition and substituted a Grade Level 16 officer for a Grade Level 17 officer as a surety!
It is pertinent to draw the attention of Nigerian judges and law enforcement agencies to fact that the Court of Appeal had declared illegal the involvement of top level civil servants in the bail of criminal suspects in the the case of Dasuki V. Director-General, S.S.S. [2020]10 NWLR PT.1731 PG. 136-143 where Adah JCA (now JSC) held as follows:
“Let me quickly say that of concern it is to us that as a court we must be ready and sensitive enough not to allow or do anything that will run foul of the law. The issue of involving civil servants or Public Officers in the Public Service of the Federation and the State in bail of people accused of criminal offences has never been the practice in Nigeria or any part of the civilized world. It was an oversight on our part to allow it in. Our Civil and Public Service Rules do not have any room for it. Expecting a Level 16 Servant to own property worth N100,000,000, will be running counter to the Public Service Rules and by extension the war against corruption. It is in this respect that I will act ex debito justitiae to ensure that the aspect of involving serving Public Servant below the status of Level 16 Officer in either the state or Public Service of the Federation or any of its agencies be removed and I so order.”
VERIFICATION BY PROSECUTORS
In order not to be accused of detaining arrested suspects illegally, the police and other law enforcement agencies usually furnish them with bail conditions. Once that is done, it is said that the suspects have been granted administrative bail by the detaining authorities. However, as the bail conditions are always made stringent, the suspects may be detained for several days and months while efforts are made to fulfill them.
Even when the bail conditions are met they may not be verified timeously by the detaining authorities. Thus, the suspects may be further detained while awaiting the verification of their bail conditions. Since Nigeria is a class society, former governors, ministers and other politically exposed persons are able to meet onerous bail conditions which are usually tied to ownership of properties. The detaining authorities ensure that the verification of the bail conditions is carried out with dispatch in order not to subject members of the ruling class to illegal detention.
Since the granting of bail is at the discretion of a trial court, it is legally indefensible to direct2 prosecutors, who had opposed bail applications, to authenticate the title documents of sureties. Henceforth, only court officials should be authorised to verify the documents submitted by sureties.
CONCLUSION
In view of the clear and unambiguous state of the law on bail, Nigerian judges should stop adjourning bail applications since it is going to be eventually granted. Indeed, once a suspect is charged before a court the trial judge should dispense with written applications and oral arguments and proceed to fix the bail condition. After all, the Court of Appeal had ruled in the case of Abiola v Federal Republic of Nigeria (supra) that an oral application for bail can be entertained by a High Court Judge. Finally, even though bail is usually tied to properties in every capital society, Nigerian Judges should realise that the over 150 million citizens who are said to be dimensionally poor do not own developed or undeveloped properties. Therefore, ownership of properties should no longer be a conditionality for bail when indigent citizens are charged with criminal offences either in the Magistrate Court or High Court in any part of the country. Otherwise, the correctional centres will continue to be congested by thousands of defendants who are unable to meet bail conditions on grounds of impecuniosity.
Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun
