WEDNESDAY 23TH APRIL 2025

African Can Be Pope, Says Kaigama, Francis for Burial Saturday

Trump, Macron, Starmer, others to attend final funeral rites Europe, Asia have highest number of electors

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Cardoso, Edun Pledge to Scale Up Social Spending, Improve Food Security in Nigeria

Monetary Fund reiterates support for Nigeria’s economic reforms

Downgrades country’s 2025 growth outlook to 3%, 2.7% for 2026 Says Nigeria’s Eurobond return reflects renewed investor confidence

Urges vigilance as global risks pressure spreads

INCLUSIVE ECONOMIC GROWTH ON

MINDS...

Minna and Ayodeji Ake in Lagos National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, has assured

Nigerians that the country would defeat evil forces killing citizens and sacking communities all over the country.

Ribadu made the comments yesterday in Makurdi, where he conveyed President Bola Tinubu’s sympathy to Benue people over

the series of killings in the state by suspected herdsmen. The NSA’s remarks came was as the Nigeria Governors’ Forum

(NGF) scheduled a meeting today over the killings and clashes between

Chuks Okocha, Linus Aleke in Abuja, Segun Awofadeji in Gombe, Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City, George Okoh in Makurdi, Laleye Dipo in

Obina Chima, Eromosele Abiodun and Nume Ekeghe in Washington DC

The Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Kristalina Georgieva, the Governor; Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr.

ONGOING WORLD BANK/IMF SPRING MEETINGS IN WASHINGTON...

L-R: International Monetary Fund (IMF) Communications Officer, Mr. Pavis Devahasadin; Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Olawale Edun; Argentine Finance Secretary, Mr. Pablo Quirno; and Governor, State Bank of Pakistan, Mr. Jameel Ahmed, during the G-24 press briefing at the ongoing World Bank/IMF Spring Meetings in Washington DC, United States, yesterday

Adeniyi: Customs

Generates N1.75tn in First Quarter,

Exemptions on Food Imports Have Led to Price Reduction

Says Duty

Declares unstable exchange rate creating uncertainty for traders, affecting customs valuation, others Says US tariff created uncertainty for Service

James Emejo in Abuja

The Comptroller General, Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Mr. Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, yesterday disclosed that the service collected N1.75 trillion in revenue in the first quarter of the year (Q1 2025).

Compared to its N6.58 trillion target for 2025, the proportional benchmark in Q1 stood at N1.65 trillion.

Adeniyi said the service exceeded its quarterly target by N106.5 billion, achieving 106.47 per cent projection.

He added that the outstanding performance represented a substantial 29.96 per cent increase compared to N1.35 trillion Q1 2024.

Month on month, January’s collection of N647.88 billion not only surpassed its monthly target of N548.33 billion by 18.12 per cent, but also showed a remarkable 65.77 per cent year-on-year growth.

Also, February’s N540.11 billion exceeded its target by 1.3 per cent while achieving 19.97 per cent growth over 2024 figures.

In March, the service maintained the positive trend with N563.52 billion, delivering 2.7 per cent above target and 11.22 per cent improvement over the corresponding period of 2024.

The CGC said, “The numbers we’re releasing today show concrete results from the reforms initiated under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration and the supervision of the Minister of Finance and coordinating minister of the Economy, Mr. Olawale Edun’s leadership.

“These results substantiate our effective measures to curb revenue losses while streamlining compliant trade. The 29.96 per cent annual increase and

steady monthly collections confirm our strategy is working.

“We’ll maintain this momentum through rigorous enforcement and strengthened partnerships.”

Nonetheless, Adeniyi lamented that despite the current achievements, the service encountered several challenges during the quarter which impacted its operations and performance.

He said exchange rate volatility continued to affect trade patterns and customs valuation, adding that the service recorded 62 changes in the exchange rate ranging from a minimum of N1,477.72 to a maximum of N1,569.53 per US dollar, with an average rate of N1,521.59 during the review period.

He said, “This volatility, though slightly moderated compared to the previous quarter (Q4 2024) which saw rates as high as N1,688.28, continues to create uncertainty for traders and affects the predictability of import costs.

“We have been working closely with the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Federal Ministry of Finance to implement measures aimed at stabilising the exchange rate for import declarations.”

He also said the service faced uncertainty regarding the 14 per cent Reciprocal tariff imposed on Nigerian exports by the United States of America.

Adeniyi said the development had potential implications for the country’s export trade and required strategic diplomatic and policy responses.

To this end, he stated that stakeholders will meet this week devise an appropriate and coordinated response to the tariff, adding that diplomacy remained the best option in addressing

the issues.

He also said the non-compliance, particularly in the form of smuggling, remained a persistent challenge despite enhanced enforcement efforts by customs.

He said, “We continue to adapt our strategies to combat increasingly sophisticated smuggling networks, leveraging technology and intelligenceled operations to tackle this threat to our economy and security.”

He said implementation and subsequent suspension of the Financial Customs Service Operation (FCSO), also known as the four per cent FOB further presented significant challenge to revenue collection.

The CGC said the development created temporary operational

adjustments for both the service and its stakeholders.

Adeniyi further disclosed that the NCS maintained robust antismuggling operations during Q1, recording 298 seizures with a total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N7.70 billion. representing a significant 78.41 per cent increase compared to N4.32 billion recorded in Q4 2024, demonstrating heightened operational effectiveness.

However, when compared to N9.59 billion recorded Q1 2024s, the service observed a 19.70 per cent reduction in DPV, Adeniyi stated.

He attributed the development to improved compliance through sustained stakeholder engagement and the deterrent effect of our

enforcement activities.

He said rice remained the most prevalent seized commodity, with 159 cases involving 135,474 bags valued at N939.31 million.

Petroleum products followed with 61 seizures totaling 65,819 liters valued at N43.34 million in DPV.

He said of particular note were 22 narcotics interceptions valued at N730.75 million, reflecting the service’s intensified focus on combating drug trafficking.

The service also recorded three high-value wildlife product seizures with a remarkable N5.65 million DPV, underscoring both the lucrative nature of the illegal trade and customs commitment to environmental protection under international conventions.

According to him, other notable seizures included textile fabrics (13 cases valued at N134.22 million, retreaded tires (five cases valued at N104.60 million, and pharmaceuticals (one case, worth N17.19 million. He said,” These comprehensive results demonstrate the service’s vigilance across all categories of prohibited and restricted goods.” He also disclosed that NCS’s duty exemptions on food imports have contributed to recent food price reductions, with effects seen both immediately and over time. He said in Q1, waivers on maize stood at (N45.3 billion FOB value), rice (N751.6 million), and sorghum (N2.3 billion) also contributed to lowering prices by 12-18 per cent this year.

Bagudu: Population Committee to Ensure Adequate Funding, Planning for Census

James Emejo in Abuja

Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu, yesterday clarified that the Presidential Committee on Population and Housing Census was an ad hoc technical body established to identify funding sources for the upcoming enumeration of Nigerians.

Speaking at the committee’s inaugural meeting, Bagudu explained that the body was distinct from the National Population Commission (NPC), the body legally mandated to plan, coordinate, and conduct

population and housing censuses in the country.

He explained that the committee was an ad hoc advisory body created to provide targeted guidance on specific areas of census planning and resourcing, emphasising that members were appointed based on their offices’ strategic responsibilities.

Bagudu stressed that the committee’s role was to advise strictly within its five-point terms of reference, which included conducting a thorough review of the existing census budget to ensure alignment with current fiscal realities and national priorities.

He listed other terms as recommendations for feasible funding sources for the census, distinguishing between domestic resources and external partnerships, while developing a

comprehensive resource mobilisation strategy that considered engagement with potential development partners, international agencies, and domestic private sector entities.

The minister stated that the ad hoc body would also evaluate NPC’s existing preparations, logistics, and technical capacities, and recommend immediate strengthening of any areas that required improvement.

It would also recommend an optimal and realistic date for the next population and housing census, funding availability, and other relevant national considerations.

Highlighting the committee’s task, Bagudu said, “A national census is not a routine administrative exercise; it is a sovereign investment in evidence-based governance.

“As we confront new challenges in

urbanisation, security, food systems, public health, and social protection, the need for up-to-date population and housing data is not simply desirable but foundational.

“The assignment before this committee is therefore, urgent and consequential.”

President Bola Tinubu inaugurated the committee last week, to provide informed guidance on financing strategies, institutional coordination, and practical timelines for the enumeration. The minister informed members that Tinubu had instructed the committee to submit preliminary recommendations within three weeks. He said, “This timeline reflects both the gravity of the task and the confidence reposed in this team to provide practical, well-considered advice.”

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The Deputy Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Environment, Hon. Terseer Ugbor, and the Director of Policy, Planning, and Strategy (PPS) of the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI), Dr. Dieter Ahmed Bassi, are among the key stakeholders to speak at the second edition of the Rembinar dialogue series.

The dialogue will explore the interconnectedness between the extractive industries, emerging issues related to the energy transition, and fiscal and monetary policies, aiming to drive accountability and best practices in overall public finance management, a statement from Programmes Manager, OrderPaper Nigeria, Uko Etuk, said yesterday.

Convened in response to the ongoing tax reforms being undertaken by the President Bola Tinubu administration, this session will feature insights from both distinguished speakers, who will be joined on a panel by Mr. Olumide Idowu, a leading climate advocate and co-founder of ICCDI Africa. The dialogue will be moderated by Oke Epia, Founder and Chief Executive of OrderPaper, Nigeria’s foremost parliamentary monitoring organisation and policy think tank, which designed and is implementing the Rembinar dialogue series in collaboration with NEITI.

Following the success of the inaugural edition, the second episode of the Rembinar Dialogue Series is set to explore how ongoing tax reforms intersect with Nigeria’s

energy transition agenda.

Themed: “Tax Bills and Implications for the Energy Transition,” the second edition of the Rembinar series will be held virtually at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, April 28, 2025 and will bring together policymakers, industry experts, and civil society stakeholders to examine how proposed tax policies can either accelerate or hinder Nigeria’s shift toward clean energy and a sustainable future.

Speaking on the dialogue, Epia emphasised the timeliness of this discussion, saying: “This second edition of the Rembinar is important because energy transition is not just about the switch to better sources. It is also about the policy engineering that drives this switch and the citizens who bear the consequences of every legislative output.

Lagos Govt Trains

The Lagos State Government, through the Office of Sustainable Development Goals, has empowered another set of 100 women with financial literacy in the underserved area of Oko-Agbon, a riverine community in the Agboiyi-Ketu Local Council Development Area (LCDA). The training of the 100 women is an addition to the 1,100 women earlier trained on financial literacy and inclusion in 11 different hardto-reach communities in the five divisions of Lagos State. Speaking on Tuesday at the Grand Finale of Human Capital

Development in Lagos State through the Women’s Financial Inclusion Initiative, held at Oko-Agbon in Agboyi-Ketu, the Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Sustainable Development Goals, Dr Oreoluwa Finnih, said the initiative in partnership with Africa Human Capacity Development Plus was to equip women with the knowledge needed to unlock financial freedom and secure their livelihoods so that they can build a future of dignity and independence for themselves and their families.

Dr. Finnih, who was represented

by the Permanent Secretary, Office of SDGs, Mrs. Olayemi Sarunmi, was optimistic that when women are financially independent, the community flourishes, the economy grows and development becomes truly sustainable. She commended all the partners and financial institutions, which included Opay, Cowrywise, LASHMA, LASSRA and NIMC, among others, for partnering with the Lagos State Government for the success of the programme, which has empowered 1,200 women in 12 hard-to-reach communities in Lagos State.

GREEN EARTH SEMINAR SERIES EVENT...

L-R: Director, Waste Management Research, Statistics and Policy Development, Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), Dr. Essien Nsuabia; Industrial Director, Lafarge Africa Plc, Yadagani Srinivasa Rao; Consul General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Lagos, Nigeria, Mr. Michel Deelen; Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Services), University of Lagos (UNILAG), Prof. Lucian Obinna Chukwu, and Head of Geocycle, Lafarge Africa Plc, Mr. Daniel Adedokun, at the Green Earth Seminar Series event held at the University of Lagos, yesterday

Lagos State Subsidised Public Transportation by N14.9bn in 6 Years

60m passengers moved by transport system since inauguration Marina-Mile-2 Blue Rail Line moved 2 million passengers Construction of Green Rail

Segun James

Lagos State Government said the state-owned transport system moved over 60 million passengers in six years, and revealed that the state had subsidised public transport fare by N14.9 billion within the same period.

The government said the MarinaMile-2 Blue Rail line had, since inception, transported more than two million passengers.

The Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, made the disclosures at the 2025 press briefing on the scorecard of the Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration in the last one year, held in Alausa, Ikeja. Lagos Bus Service Limited (LBSL) was established by the state government to save commuters’ time and money and enhance socioeconomic development of the state.

Osiyemi said, “LBSL has moved a total of 60,882,000 passengers

from May 2019 till February 2025. LBSL currently moves over 42,266 passengers daily with an average of 1,000 bus trips per day.

“LBSL average fare for February was N542.66 while informal public transport fare was N1,097.73.

“Since inception, the LBSL average fare has been N261.67 cheaper than the average fares in Lagos. LBSL has implicitly subsidised fares for the Lagosians transported to an estimated sum of N14.9 billion.”

The commissioner further explained, “LBSL Driving School produced an additional 144 drivers to make a total of 3,537 certified high-capacity bus drivers as of 18th March 2025.”

He added, “Public transport is safer than private cars in terms of accident rates and severity. Public transport enhances the overall safety and security of passengers. Public transport moves more people with fewer vehicles.”

Alleged ‘Workplace Slavery’: WRPC Support Staff Threaten Protest, Shut Down of Operations

The operations of Warri Refining and Petrochemical Company (WRPC), Ekpan, in Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State, is being threatened as over 200 support staff have threatened to shut down the facility on May 5, in protest against alleged “workplace slavery”.

The angry workers issued the threat yesterday, when they downed tools and milled around the entrance of WRPC, signalling their seriousness to shut down the refinery on the said date.

The workers had been agitating for improved pay and better conditions of service since 2015. But they withdrew their services yesterday following another breached promise by the WRPC management,

The more than 200 support staff had over the years embarked on series of protests, demanding, among others, conversion to permanent staff, having worked for more than 10 years as casual workers.

The protesters, in a letter addressed to stakeholders of WRPC, said the interventions by the traditional rulers of Uvwie and Warri kingdoms, as

well as the House of Representatives in 2019/2020 had changed nothing.

They stated, “Rather, support staff in their large numbers were dropped and paid-off prior to the Covid-19 saga. The remaining support staff that were not laid-off were made to continue to receive peanuts called ‘salary’.

The protest letter was signed by Lead Support Staff Representative, Ighomitedo Dafe; Eserada Emmanuel; Richard O. Okorodudu; and Mrs. Alero Agoreyo behalf of their colleagues.

The letter stated, “The support staff then felt since conversion to permanent staff seems difficult for management to handle, improved salary structure/condition of service should be reasonably done by WRPC management.

“The support staff then embarked on a protest on Thursday 28th April, 2022, for which the then GED R & P came on Thursday, 19th May, 2022 to address the aggrieved support staff.

“However, due to the upcoming transition of NNPC to limited, the GED R & P could not resolve the issue. Thus, the protest continued until the host communities’ leaders waded in and finally brought it to an end on

Tuesday, 31st May, 2022.

“It was on the understanding that our prayers will be attended to if we allow Daewoo Engineering and Construction Nigeria Limited (DECN) come in for the Plant’s Quick-Fix.”

They explained that the workers’ hope that their salaries would be increased at the end of the QuickFix project was shattered, stating that third party workers engaged for the Quick-Fix project are paid higher than the support staff of WRPC.

The workers further said in the letter, “However, we did not relent in engaging the management periodically on our one and all-inclusive demand, which is ‘Improved Salary Structure/ Condition of Service’.

“On responding to one of our letters to management dated 13th January, 2023, the then Managing Director of WRPC, Engr. Jimoh Olasunkanmi, reaffirmed that our demand –Improved Salary Structure/Condition of Service, will be treated as requirement for plant start-up.

“Suddenly, there was a shakeup in NNPCL, where Engr. Jimoh Olasunkanmi was made to go on compulsory retirement. Due to the

Interior Minister Orders Investigation into Alleged Extortion by NSCDC Officers

The Minister of Interior, Hon.

The

Ondo State.

The minister, in a statement by his spokesman, Babatunde Alao, noted that any officer found guilty will face the full weight of the law. He said: “We will not tolerate any form of

misconduct from our security agencies.

“We are building a paramilitary that is disciplined, professional and serves Nigeria and Nigerians with all sense of dignity and patriotism.

“On this case, we will see that justice is upheld and ensure that security personnel serve with forthrightness.”

harsh economic realities and the extension of the Quick-Fix project, the support staff of WRPC staged a two-day protest in November 2023 that resulted in the intervention of the then EVP Downstream, Adedapo A. Segun, to increase the salaries from (N60,000 - N110,000) to (N90,000N165,000) in December, 2023.

“When we realiSed that the increment cut across the three refineries (Kaduna, Port-Harcourt, and Warri), a letter of appreciation was sent to him (then EVP) on 3rd February, 2024, with a request for him to endorse the full Improved Salary Structure/Condition of Service sent to him by the local managements.

Line to kick-off 2025

Osiyemi also said public transportation “reduces congestion – public transport reduces traffic congestion and travel time”.

He stated that public transport saved energy, as one bus could replace up to 40 cars, and had less fuel consumption, and reduced emission up to 95 per cent.

LBSL was established to provide a modern, safe, secure, convenient and reliable bus transportation system that integrates with other modes of public transport within the state to deliver a socially inclusive service that is affordable and accessible to all.

The appointed State Bus Operator responsible for upholding standards set by the regulator, Lagos Area Metropolitan Transport Authority (LAMATA), serves as the benchmark to other operators.

According to Osiyemi, “Ridership of LBSL has moved a total of 60,882,000 passengers from May 2019 till February 2025.

“LBSL currently moves over 42,266 passengers daily with an average of 1,000 bus trips per day.

“On affordability, LBSL average fare for February was N542.66, while informal public transport fare was N1,097.73.

“Since inception, the LBSL average fare has been N261.67 cheaper than the average fares in Lagos.

“LBSL has implicitly subsidised fares for the Lagosians transported to an estimated sum of N14.9 billion.

“LBSL driving school has produced

an additional 144 drivers to make a total of 3,537 certified high-capacity bus drivers as of 18th March 2025.”

On the electric light rail mass transit with regard to blue line ridership, the commissioner explained that the first phase had five stations and 13 kilometres of track: Marina to Mile 2.

Osiyemi explained, “The five stations already operational are Marina, National Theatre, Iganmu, Alaba, Mile 2

“The first phase has already commenced full commercial passenger operation and has transported more than two million passengers to date.

“The full line is set to be 27 kilometres: Marina to Okokomaiko. Construction of phase 2 from Mile 2 to Okokomaiko started in December 2023.

“Expected to carry 500,000 passengers a day, the Lagos State Government has acquired additional three brand new rolling stock.” The red line project is a 37-kilometre rail route from Marina, via Iddo, to Agbado along the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) Right of Way (RoW), run via Oyingbo, Yaba, Mushin, Oshodi, Ikeja, Agege, Iju and Agbado, with overpass at Yaba, Oyingbo, Mushin, Ikeja.

Speaking on the project, Osiyemi said, “Phase1 (Oyingbo to Agbado): construction and operation of railway systems from Oyingbo to Agbado, sharing the track of NRC standard gauge from Ebute Metta to Agbado (27Km).

FG Paid N73 Billion to States, Basic Healthcare Fund in 2024

Abuja

The Executive Director of the Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA), Dr. Muyi Aina, has revealed that a total of N22 billion was disbursed to states in 2024 through NPHCDA gateway while N51 billion was disbursed across all four Basic Healthcare Provision Fund gateways last year.

In terms of health services, Aina said that over six million children have been fully vaccinated against vaccine preventable diseases.

Speaking at the first quarterly media briefing by the agency in Abuja on Tuesday, the Executive Director said that federal government was substantially increasing the amount of money going to the health facilities.

He said: “In 2024, a total of N22 billion was disbursed to states in 2024 through NPHCDA gateway while N51 billion was disbursed across all four Basic Healthcare Provision Fund gateways.

“This year, we are substantially increasing the amount of money going to the facilities.

“Based on this, we are increasing the number of BHCPF supported PHC facilities from 8,406 to ~17,600 over 4 years”.

Following the assessment conducted by the agency, Aina said that NPHCDA identified and delisted non-functional PHCs to be replaced.

“It is also important to state that we are not expanding to two PHCs per ward. What we are doing is working with the states and

sub-national units to allocate the additional facilities to wards on a needs-based depending on the gaps, disease burden, high population and other equity considerations. Some will have 1, 2 or 3 facilities per ward depending on needs.

“For the NPHCDA gateway, we have embarked on some reforms for BHCPF 2.0 including increasing the quarterly allocation to facilities, from N300,000.

“The high-volume facilities will now get N800,000 per quarter while the low volume facilities will get N600,000 per quarter to support service utilization, in addition to other incomes that facilities will get from capitation from the National Health Insurance Authority and other insurance programme,” he said.

PHOTO: SUNDAY ADIGUN

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has ordered an immediate investigation into allegations of extortion involving officers of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).

officers, according to a viral post, allegedly extorted N5.2 million from a group of young men traveling from Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State to Akure,

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in

Sylvester Idowu in Warri

PARTICIPANTS OF THE 11TH GREENSPRINGS FOOTBALL CAMP SPONSORED By UNION BANk...

L-R: Bukola

Awoyaya Campus, last Thursday

FG Pledges to Integrate Biosafety Innovations into Nigeria’s Healthcare System

The federal government has said it will ensure proper integration of advancements in biotechnology into the country’s healthcare services.

It said it would prioritise adoption of robust biosafety frameworks that will build public trust and pave the way for the ethical and impactful deployment of biotechnological innovations.

Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako, who spoke at the Sensitisation Workshop on Biotechnology and Biosafety, held yesterday in Abuja, said biotechnology was a cornerstone of innovation, offering ground-breaking solutions in healthcare, agriculture, and environmental sustainability.

Salako said, “From developing life-saving therapies to enhancing crop resilience, its potential to address pressing global challenges is unparalleled.

“In healthcare, biotechnology opens doors to innovative diagnostics, new therapeutics, precision medicine, regenerative medicine, immunotherapy and preventive measures especially

production of vaccines using DNA recombinant technology.

“By integrating these advancements into our healthcare system, we can tackle endemic diseases, improve maternal and child health, and enhance the quality of life for all Nigerians.

“Biotechnology is also important in addressing the challenges of nutritional deficiencies, especially among our children. As the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, I am committed to fostering an ecosystem where biotechnological innovation thrives under stringent safety and ethical standards.”

The minister also addressed the misconceptions surrounding Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs), especially the claim that it caused cancer or other health issues, saying there are no peer reviewed scientific evidence to back the claim.

He stated that over the past three decades, more than 2,000 rigorous studies had confirmed that GMO foods were as safe as conventional foods.

He also said the consensus among leading scientific bodies – including

Niger: Police Arrest 30 Illegal Miners in Minna

The police in Minna Niger State have said that no fewer than 30 miners were at the weekend arrested from an illegal mining site in the state capital with several of the illegal miners escaping on seeing the law enforcement agency.

The arrests come almost a week after a mining pit in the state collapsed trapping several people.

The State Police Command Public Relations Officer, Superintendent of Police Wasiu Abiodun said in a statement that several items including 69 shovels, 182 head pans, 33 diggers, 38 plastic containers, and one hoe were recovered from the illegal mining site.

Wasiu Abiodun said after the screening of the suspects the minors among them were released while the adults would be charged to court.

Last week and almost one year after the mining pit in Galkogo town of Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State collapsed trapping over 50 miners with 8 of them eventually

confirmed killed, a similar incident took place at Farindoki in the same local government area claiming the lives of four miners.

While locals claimed four people died, police however confirmed that only two miners, Buhari Kano and Mallam Tasiu both from Kano State were killed in the incident.

It was learnt the collapsed mining pit was operated by the same company where 8 people died last April. According to eyewitnesses the miners were involved in their illegal business when suddenly it caved in trapping the workers.

The police spokesman has also announced the arrest of two suspects, 20-year-old Abdullahi Sani of Rafin-Daji, Abaji area of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, at Gidan-Gwona, and Danlami Bala with a fabricated AK-49 rifle and magazine containing three live 7.62mm caliber of ammunition.

Wasiu Abiodun said the suspects would be charged to court on the completion of investigation.

the US National Academy of Sciences, the Union of German Academies of Science and Humanities, and 275 independent global science organisations – was clear that it was safe.

“The overwhelming evidence currently at our disposal is to the effect that GMOs pose no unique health risks. In fact, some GM foods offer superior health benefits,” he said.

Salako assured that the ministry will work closely with stakeholders to craft policies that would balance innovation with public safety and environmental stewardship.

He stated, “Today, we must foster open, transparent dialogue among researchers, industry leaders, policymakers, and communities.

“This collaboration ensures that biotechnology aligns with societal

values and addresses Nigeria’s unique needs, particularly in achieving food security and public health excellence.

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda emphasises the role of science in national development.

“In line with this vision, we are embracing modern technologies, including genetic modification, to transform agriculture and position Nigeria as Africa’s ‘Blue Zone’ – a beacon of longevity, productivity, and prosperity.”

Salako said the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare will continue to collaborate with NBRDA and similar agencies to use biotechnology to improve the arsenal of diagnostic and therapeutic products available to Nigerians.

Tinubu Rejoices with Emir of Ilorin, Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari at 85

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu has rejoiced with the Emir of Ilorin, His Royal Highness, Alhaji Ibrahim SuluGambari, on his 85th birthday on April 22.

Alhaji Sulu-Gambari is a former justice of the Court of Appeal and pioneer Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Justice in old Gongola State.

After his call to the Bar in 1968,

he became a judge of the High Court of Borno State in 1977, from where he moved to the Court of Appeal in 1983.

The President, in a statement issued on Tuesday by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, commended His Royal Highness, the Chairman of the Kwara State Council of Traditional Rulers, for his unwavering commitment to nation-building, demonstrated by his consistent

advocacy for unity, peace and progress.

He thanked the Emir for his services to Nigeria as the Chancellor of the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, and the Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi, Benue State, at different times.

President Tinubu joined the Emir’s family, the Ilorin Emirate, and the people of Kwara State to celebrate the royal father on this milestone.

NAHCON: Airlift of Over 40,000 Pilgrims to Saudi Arabia Begins on May 9

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has concluded plans to commence the 2025 Hajj operations with the airlift of pilgrims to Saudi Arabia starting from May 9, 2025. The update was made public on Tuesday after the NAHCON board briefed Vice President Kashim Shettima at the State House in Abuja on preparations for the 2025 Hajj operations.

Speaking to newsmen after meeting with the Vice President, the Commissioner in charge of Operations, Inspectorate & Licensing, Prince Anofi Elegushi said arrangements have been made

in Mecca, Medina and other cities for a hitch-free 2025 exercise.

According to him, “We have all of our accommodation intact in Mecca, Medina and other locations. They are ready to take our pilgrims, we have secured enough bed spaces and paid for adequate feeding for our pilgrims. We have picked May 9 for our first flight to Saudi Arabia through Medina. We intend to finish the airlift to Saudi Arabia by May 24 and start the return by 13th of June to end 2nd of July.

“All hands are on deck, and I can assure all Nigerian pilgrims that they are in safe hands. Adequate arrangements have been made for airlift in and out of Saudi Arabia. We have made arrangements for over

40,000 pilgrims, including officials from the states and 13,000 others from the tour operators”.

On his part, the Chairman of NAHCON, Professor Saleh Abdullahi Usman, said they briefed the Vice President on the Hajj preparations for year 2025, and that the Vice President is very happy with the preparations.

Speaking earlier, the Vice President charged the commission to ensure that all hands are on deck to ensure the success of the hajj exercise.

“All necessary measures must be taken to guarantee the success of the 2025 Hajj. We owe it to all Nigerians and our pilgrims to ensure a smooth and spiritually fulfilling experience,” Shettima said.

He prayed that God Almighty will grant the Emir renewed strength and good health to enjoy many more peaceful and impactful years on the throne.

Also on Tuesday, President Tinubu congratulated Barrister Adeniji Kazeem, on his unanimous selection as the President of the Ansar-Ud-Deen Society Worldwide at the society’s triennial delegates conference in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital.

Kazeem, a senior advocate of Nigeria, was a former AttorneyGeneral and Commissioner for Justice in Lagos State between 2015 and 2019.

The President described Kazeem’s emergence as the leader of the Ansar-ud-Deen Muslim group as a testament to his unwavering commitment to the Islamic faith and values.

It also indicated the readiness of the over 100-year-old Islamic group to hand the baton to its younger elite, who are prepared to advance its mission to greater heights.

“Your well-deserved emergence at the helm of this esteemed Islamic organisation is a testament to the leadership qualities exhibited in your life and career.

“I do not doubt that you will use your experience to advance the spiritual and educational development of Muslims worldwide, particularly in Nigeria,” President Tinubu stated.

The president wished Barrister Kazeem and other executives selected at the conference a successful tenure.

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

Ayeni, Lead External Communications, Union Bank of Nigeria; West Bromwich Albion Football Club coaches; Mrs. Lai Koiki, Founder and CEO, Greensprings School; and participants of the 11th Greensprings Football Camp sponsored by Union Bank of Nigeria under its Edu360 initiative at the school’s

Laleye Dipo in Minna

PETROAN: With 83 Licenses, Nigeria Will Be Net Exporter of Refined Products in Two Years

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) yesterday projected that with 83 licenses issued by the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Nigeria will become a net exporter of petroleum products in two years.

Describing it as a milestone, the petroleum retailers explained that the 83 refineries will have a combined total refining capacity of 1,124, 500 barrels when fully operational.

The breakdown of the licenses, National President of PETROAN, Dr Billy Gillis-Harry, said, shows that

and promote inclusive growth in Nigeria.

Georgieva, also reiterated her support for Nigeria’s economic reforms.

The IMF boss said these at a closed-door meeting yesterday, with Cardoso, Edun, Deputy Governors of the CBN and some top officials of the Ministry of Finance, on the sidelines of the ongoing IMF/World Bank meetings in Washington DC.

“Great meeting with Nigeria @ FinMinNigeria Minister Edun and @cenbank Governor Cardoso. I applauded the Nigerian government’s economic reform efforts. We strongly agreed on the need to scale up social spending, continue efforts to improve food security and promote inclusive growth,” Georgieva wrote on her official X handle.

Meanwhile, the IMF has revised Nigeria’s economic growth projections for 2025 and 2026 downwards, reflecting growing global uncertainties and sustained weaknesses in oil prices that continue to weigh heavily on Africa’s largest economy.

According to the April 2025 edition of the World Economic Outlook (WEO) released at the ongoing IMF/World Bank Spring Meetings in Washington DC, Nigeria’s growth was now expected to grow by three percent in 2025 and 2.7 percent in 2026, down from its WEO forecasts of 3.2 percent and 3 percent, respectively, issued in January.

The Fund attributed the downgrade to a mix of domestic challenges and worsening global conditions, including trade tensions, slowing demand from advanced economies,

and his wife, Melania; UK Prime Minister, Keir Starmer; Emmanuel Macron of France and Javier Milei, among many others will attend the funeral which will take place at St Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican, Rome.

Prince William, the Prince of Wales will attend the funeral on behalf of the King, Kensington Palace, said, while the Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelenskiy, who met the Pope three times, also plans to attend.

In an interview with BBC monitored by THISDAY, the Archbishop of the Abuja Diocese in Nigeria, Kaigama, stated that although qualified Africans for the position stood no less chance, the kind of Pope needed at the moment, is one that will be a bit of everything.

“Historically, we were told there were Popes and they were black, but that was maybe in the early centuries of the church, but in modern times there hasn’t been any black Pope. Who says the black person cannot be a Pope?

“An African can be a Pope. We have Cardinals who are Africans, they have the same chance as anybody from America, anybody from Europe, so it is possible that an African will be Pope. But what we are praying for is not for an African Pope, a black Pope, an American Pope, an Asian Pope.

“No, we are praying for a good and holy Pope who can be black, Asian, or American, European, it is possible,” the cleric maintained.

Africans are hoping one of their own could become the first Black pope in modern history and build on Francis’s legacy of championing

there are eight facilities with Licenses to Operate (LTO); 30 refineries with Licenses to Construct (LTC) and 45 refineries with Licenses to Establish (LTE).

Speaking at his 65th birthday celebration in Abuja, Gillis-Harry emphasised the importance of making crude oil available to local refineries for them to thrive, a statement by the National Public Relations Officer, PETROAN, Dr Joseph Obele. He stated that if these refineries must remain in business, adequate provision must be made for sufficient volume of crude oil to be set aside for them by producers.

Highlighting two key benefits of making crude oil available for local

and a sharp decline in crude oil prices.

United States President Donald Trump had slammed reciprocal tariffs on all trading partners, claiming that the U.S. had suffered from unfair trading relations with most of its partners.

Specifically, the Trump administration had slammed 14 percent tariff on Nigerian goods. The measure had prompted varied responses and sparked retaliatory actions from other countries.

It had also generated shock waves across the globe, leading to turmoil in financial markets across the world.

Owing to this, the IMF in its latest WEO, noted that the downgrade of Nigeria’s growth projection marked a reversal from the estimated 3.4 percent growth Nigeria achieved in 2024, suggesting that the initial post-pandemic recovery momentum may be losing steam. The IMF however warned that without robust policy responses, Nigeria may struggle to maintain macroeconomic stability in the face of external headwinds.

Furthermore, it noted that growth across Sub-Saharan Africa was projected to ease slightly, dipping from four percent in 2024, to 3.8 percent in 2025, before staging a modest rebound to 4.2 percent in 2026.

Speaking at press briefing on WEO, Economic Counsellor and Director Research Department, IMF, Pierre-Olivier Gourinchas, said: “Regional growth in Sub Saharan Africa improved significantly last year to 4 per cent and it will ease in 2025 and this is in line with a softer global outlook.

the developing world, though the chances of that happening appear slim, a Reuters report said.

A continent where religion permeates most aspects of private and public life, Africa is where the Roman Catholic Church is growing fastest, according to Vatican figures published last month.

“To have a Black pope would revive the Christian faith in Africa and change people’s views of Africa, by showing that an African can hold this office,” said Charles Yapi, a Catholic priest in Ivory Coast’s commercial capital Abidjan.

Among African clerics tipped as potential popes are Ghanaian Cardinal Peter Kodwo Appiah Turkson, 76, Democratic Republic of Congo’s Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu, 65, the archbishop of Kinshasa, and Ivory Coast’s Cardinal Ignace Bessi Dogbo, 63.

Africa boasted about 20 per cent of the world’s Catholics in 2023 and added 9 million worshippers the previous year, a Reuters report said.

However, an African pope would not necessarily embrace Francis’s more ‘socially progressive’ positions, such as approving the blessing of same-sex couples on a case-by-case basis, which has irked Africa’s overwhelmingly conservative faithful.

An African pope would be clear that same-sex relationships are “not part of our culture” and “would not allow himself to be influenced to accept it”, said Yapi, the Ivorian priest.

The issue could cut both ways as many of the cardinals who will elect the next pope in a conclave may be wary of picking someone whose views deviate sharply from

refineries, he stated that this will lead to increased domestic production of petroleum products, thereby reducing reliance on imported products and conserving foreign exchange.

In addition, Gillis-Harry emphasised that it will raise the creation of jobs and stimulate economic growth, as local refineries would be able to operate at optimal capacity and contribute significantly to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

“This achievement is a clear indication that the oil sector in Nigeria is becoming increasingly attractive to investors. We commend the Chief Executive Officer of NMDPRA, Farouk Ahmed, for the innovation and transparency his office is bringing,

“And so, we are seeing the same forces at play in the region as we are seeing more globally, and a downturn in the downward revision and no projection that is of the similar magnitude at about 0.4 percentage points.”

Also, in a separate report - the Global Financial Stability Report (GFSR) - also released yesterday, the IMF noted that Nigeria’s return to the international debt market in late 2024, its first eurobond issuance since 2022, marked a notable shift in investor sentiment towards frontier economies, buoyed by macroeconomic reforms and improved credit profiles.

It stated: “For sub-Saharan Africa, growth is expected to decline slightly from 4 percent in 2024 to 3.8 per cent in 2025 and recover modestly in 2026, lifting to 4.2 percent. Among the larger economies, the growth forecast in Nigeria is revised downward by 0.2 percentage point for 2025 and 0.3 percentage point for 2026, owing to lower oil prices.”

It pointed out that inflation remains a significant hurdle for Nigeria.

Consumer prices surged by 33.2 per cent in 2024, while it projected 26.5 for 2025 and 37 per cent for 2026.

“Projections suggest a decline to 13.3 per cent in 2025 and a further slight decrease to 12.9 percent in 2026 for Sub-Saharan Africa overall,” it added.

On a more positive note, it noted that Nigeria’s current account balance was projected to show a surplus, although declining from 9.1 percent of GDP in 2024, to 6.9 per cent in 2025 and 5.2 per cent in 2026. This

those of Francis. Francis, 88, died on Monday after suffering a stroke and cardiac arrest, ending an often turbulent reign in which he repeatedly clashed with traditionalists and championed the poor and marginalised.

The pontiff spent five weeks in hospital earlier this year suffering from double pneumonia and had appeared to be slowly recovering, but the Vatican on Tuesday recounted his last moments, saying death came quickly and he had not suffered.

He started to feel unwell at around 5:30 a.m. (0330 GMT) on Monday and was promptly attended to by his team. More than an hour later he made a gesture of farewell to his ever-present nurse, Massimiliano Strappetti, and slipped into a coma, the Vatican’s official media channel said. His time of death was given as 7:35 a.m.

As part of the funeral rites, his body will be taken into the adjacent St. Peter’s Basilica on Wednesday morning at 9:00 a.m in a procession that will be led by cardinals. He will lie in state there until Friday evening at 7:00 p.m.

His funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. the following day in St. Peter’s Square, in front of the 16th century basilica. It will be presided over by Cardinal Giovanni Battista, the 91-year-old Dean of the College of Cardinals.

While Europe still has the largest share of cardinal electors, with about 39 per cent, it is down from 52 per cent in 2013, when Francis became pope. The second largest group of electors is from Asia and Oceania, with about 20 per cent.

which has attracted investors and boosted confidence in the sector.

“We also commend President Bola Tinubu for his leadership and vision in transforming the petroleum industry. His commitment to creating a conducive environment for growth and development has yielded positive results, and we look forward to continued collaboration and progress,” Gillis-Harry stated.

Furthermore, PETROAN lauded the efforts of the Minister of Petroleum Resources, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, for his ‘security initiatives’ that have improved the daily crude oil production volume. It stated that efforts by the Nigerian authorities in promoting local refin-

surplus offers some protection against external economic shocks for Nigeria.

Looking at the broader SubSaharan Africa region, growth was expected to decline slightly from 4.0 percent in 2024 to 3.8 percent in 2025 before a modest recovery to 4.2 percent in 2026.

The GFSR added: “Sovereign eurobond spreads for frontier economies narrowed in 2024 and at the start of 2025, with macrofinancial reforms, progress on debt restructuring, and credit rating upgrades in several countries all having contributed to this narrowing.

“Examples include progress on debt restructuring in Ethiopia and Ghana, and foreign exchange market reforms in Nigeria.

“Frontier economies were able to issue foreign currency debt at relatively modest yields, with total issuance during the first quarter of this year amounting to roughly half

ing and reducing dependence on imported petroleum products will continue to yield the needed results with consistency.

According to PETROAN, the significant decline in petrol imports from 44.6 million litres per day in August 2024 to 14.7 million litres per day by April 13, 2025, is a testament to the success of this initiative.

“As we move forward, PETROAN will continue to collaborate with the NMDPRA and other industry players to address challenges and capitalise on emerging opportunities. We are confident that Nigeria’s petroleum industry will experience significant growth and transformation in the coming years,” Gillis-Harry added.

of total issuance in 2024.

“Nigeria returned to the Eurobond market in late 2024 for the first time since 2022 and Egypt returned in January 2025 for the first time since early 2023.”

The fund also commended Nigeria’s recent macroeconomic reforms, particularly its foreign exchange liberalisation, as contributing to improved investor sentiment.

However, the Fund cautioned that growing volatility in global financial markets may pose renewed challenges for the West African economy.

Assistant Director, Monetary and Capital Markets Department, IMF,

Jason Wu in response to a THISDAY question said: “ In the case of Nigeria, macroeconomics has held up, GDP growth has been fairly consistent, and inflation has been coming down, and earlier this year, we have seen Nigerian sovereign credit spreads lowering. I think the reforms that

authorities have done, including the liberalisation of exchange rates, has helped in that regard.

“During a time when global financial markets is volatile and risk appetite in particular is wavering, this is when we might see increases in sovereign spreads that will challenge the external picture for Nigeria as well as other frontier economies.

“So, for example, Nigeria’s sovereign spread has increased in recent weeks as stock markets globally has declined. The other challenge, of course, is for large commodity exporters like Nigeria. You know, if trade tensions are going to lead to lower global demand for commodities, this will obviously weigh on revenue that it will receive.

“So, I think both of those developments would advise that authorities remain quite vigilant to these developments and take appropriate policies to counter.”

rIBAD u: We’ll Defe AT nI ger IA’ S Secur ITY m en A ce herdsmen and farmers in Plateau and Benue states.

But in a move that had generated criticisms, Niger State Governor, Mohammed Bago, opted to lead operations against the activities of miscreants, commonly called “Area Boys”, with a view to dislodging them from their hideouts in the state.

The decision followed an escalation in the activities of miscreants in Minna, the state capital, which often resulted in death and maiming of innocent people.

In a bid to address security challenges in Edo State, Governor Monday Okpebholo, on Monday, summoned a security meeting in Iyamho, Etsako West Local Government Area, of the state.

Gombe State Governor, Alhaji Muhammadu Yahaya, aso yesterday, convened an emergency security council meeting over an incident that occurred during an Easter procession in Billiri, resulting in loss of lives and injuries to many.

Still on security, the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yoruba land, Iba Gani Adams, advised the federal government on the need to recalibrate Nigeria’s security architecture and infrastructure in a bid to stop the mindless killings, kidnappings, and other vices across the country.

Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) equally cautioned the federal government against a continuous cycle of insecurity and bloodshed across the federation.

Ribadu said whenever evil struck, the people should come together to defeat it. He declared his resolve to bring an end to insecurity in the country, saying, “The president has directed me to reaffirm his determination to eliminate insecurity.”

Ribadu, who acknowledged efforts of the Benue State governor, Hyacinth Alia, in addressing insecurity, warned against individuals exploiting the situation for personal gain.

The NSA stated, “We are fully committed to supporting the governor in tackling insecurity and will continue to stand with him to defeat this menace.”

He sought cooperation from all stakeholders to ensure lasting stability.

He stated, “We acknowledge the governor’s efforts to combat insecurity. However, those exploiting this situation for personal gain should cease their actions.

“The president has instructed me to convey his determination to bring

an end to insecurity.”

Alia, in his remarks, said the situation in Benue State was pathetic, adding that the killers have a pattern of attack and retrieve.

He appreciated the president for taking interest in protecting the people.

The traditional ruler of Gwer Local Government Area, Chief Danial Abomste, and that of Agatu, Chef Onah, lamented the killings in the state. They disclosed that over 2,576 people had so far been killed due to the attacks, adding that farms and houses have been destroyed, while the people now lived in displaced camps.

A few days after the killing of over 72 persons in Ukum and Logo local government areas of Benue State, suspected armed herders, in the early hours of yesterday, attacked Afia community in Ukum, killing 11 residents.

The Ter Ukum, His Royal Highness, Iyorkyaa Kaave, condemned the unprovoked attacks, and alleged that the attackers’ plan was to displace the farmers to subsequently return afterwards to occupy their land.

He stated, “As I speak with you, these attacks started on Thursday in Logo and spread to communities in Ukum on Good Friday. We are still counting losses and more corpses are being recovered and some people are still missing.

“Today, which is Tuesday, 22nd day of April, the herders invaded Afia in the early hours of today, shooting sporadically at anyone in sight, killing 11 people on the spot, while several others sustained varying degrees of injuries, with scores still missing.

“We want the president to know that these Fulani people are different from the ones we settled with in the 70s and 80s. Those ones do come in the dry season with their wives children, and cattle to stay with us.

“But in recent times, these Fulanis are coming with cattle and AK-47 only to attack our people in their sleep and flee, after a while come back and occupy their homes.

“The president should get this clear. We don’t want to settle with murderers. These people are coming with a hidden agenda to kill and occupy, which they are no longer hiding.”

Governors Meet Today Amidst Killings Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF)

is scheduled to meet today over the killings, particularly, in Plateau and Benue states.

A notice posted by NGF stated that the meeting was scheduled to hold at 8pm today, Wednesday, at the forum’s secretariat in Maitama, Abuja. THISDAY gathered that part of agenda of the meeting would be the incessant murderous attacks by armed Fulani herders in Plateau and Benue states.

The governors urged stakeholders in Plateau to resolve their differences through dialogue rather than hostility. They made the call on Thursday during a condolence visit to Governor Caleb Mutfwang, and the people of Plateau State, following the recent killing of over 100 persons in Bokkos and Bassa local government areas. The governors’ delegation, led by their chairman and Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, met with the host governor at Government House, Jos. AbdulRazaq expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and commended security agencies for preventing escalation. He said, “On behalf of the NGF and the people of our states, we express deep condolences over the tragic events that claimed the lives of many of our compatriots.

“We urge leaders and influencers across all communities and sectors in Plateau to rally behind Governor Mutfwang in uniting the people and fostering lasting peace.

“Youth leaders and other stakeholders must denounce violence in all its forms. Differences should be resolved through dialogue, fair negotiations, mutual respect, and empathy.

“Sustainable development cannot thrive in a climate of unrest. Plateau State holds immense potential in agriculture and tourism, but this can only be realised in a peaceful environment.

“We commend Governor Mutfwang for his leadership during this difficult time. Our visit demonstrates our solidarity with him, the government, and the good people of Plateau. May God grant peace to the souls of the departed and restore harmony to our communities.”

Mutfwang, in his response, appreciated NGF’s solidarity, saying the visit would uplift the spirits of Plateau residents and reassure them

AfrIcAn cAn Be PoPe, SAYS KAIgAmA, frAncIS for BurIAl SATurDAY

I

National President of PETROAN, Dr. Billy Gillis-Harry

MEDIA BRIEFING ON TEACHERS CONFERENCE...

WHO: Vaccines Save Over 154m Lives in 50 Years

40% reduction in under-5 mortality rate 6.7 million African children missed vaccination

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja World Health Organisation (WHO) revealed that the world had recorded immense progress in the deployment of vaccines, saving an estimated 154 million lives over the past 50 years, and reducing infant mortality by 40 per WHOcent.said the use of vaccines had succeeded in protecting people from more than 30 deadly diseases, including 93 per cent decline in circulating variant poliovirus type

1 (cVDPV1) cases, and a 65 per cent reduction in cVDPV2.

However, it said that one in every five children in Africa was under-vaccinated, and added that in 2023 alone, 6.7 million children received no vaccines at all resulting in the so-called “zero-dose” children.

The vaccination milestones were contained in an address delivered to mark the African Vaccination Week 2025, by Acting WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu.

Ihekweazu said, “Immunisation is not only one of the most effective public health tools; it is a fundamental right, a shared responsibility and a vital investment in our future.

“Vaccines have saved an estimated 154 million lives over the past 50 years, reducing infant mortality by 40 per cent and protecting people from more than 30 deadly diseases.

“In 2024, the global community celebrated 50 years of the Expanded Programme on Immunisation. This milestone was a reminder of the

extraordinary progress made – and the work that remains”.

The director said notable progress had also been made in the fight against vaccine-derived polio.

He said between 2023 and 2024, the African region recorded a 93 per cent decline in circulating variant poliovirus type 1 (cVDPV1) cases, and a 65 per cent reduction in cVDPV2.

“This shows that eradication is within reach – if we maintain momentum, especially in high-risk areas, like the Lake Chad Basin and

Court Orders Nigerian Army to Reinstate Colonel Nwankwo, Pay Full Entitlements

Wale Igbintade

The National Industrial Court of Nigeria (NICN) sitting in Abuja has declared the compulsory retirement of Colonel Ositadinma Uche Nwankwo from the Nigerian Army as wrongful, unconstitutional, illegal, null, and void.

In a judgment delivered on April 2, 2025, Justice OY Anuwe ordered the Nigerian Army to reinstate Nwankwo as a serving officer with full restoration of his rights, powers, privileges, entitlements, seniority, and career prospects.

The court directed that the reinstatement and all monetary compensation be implemented within 30 days of the judgment.

According to the judgment, the failure to comply will result in the monetary aspects accruing interest at 10 per cent per annum until fully paid.

Justice Anuwe also ordered the

defendants - including the Nigerian Army, Chief of Army Staff, Nigerian Army Council, Chief of Defence Staff, Minister of Defence, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Secretary to the Armed Forces, and the Attorney-General of the Federation - to pay all accrued salaries and entitlements to the claimant from the date of his compulsory retirement to his reinstatement.

These payments are to be calculated based on the ranks and progression that would have applied to him had he not been retired.

Additionally, the court awarded N1million in costs in favour of the claimant.

Nwankwo, in Suit No. NICN/ ABJ/317/2016, challenged his compulsory retirement from the Nigerian Army, arguing that it was arbitrary and violated his constitutional rights.

He sought several declaratory and consequential reliefs, including

a reversal of the retirement and compensation for lost entitlements.

He contended that the provision under Paragraph 09.02c (4) of the Armed Forces of Nigeria Harmonized Terms and Conditions of Service (HTACOS) 2012, which allows for compulsory retirement on disciplinary grounds, must be interpreted in line with the Armed Forces Act, which outlines specific offences and procedures.

Nwankwo emphasised that he was never accused of, tried for, or convicted of any disciplinary offence before his retirement letter dated June 9, 2016, was issued.

He noted that his compulsory retirement, approved by the Nigerian Army Council, was unjustified as there was no formal disciplinary process or fair hearing preceding the action.

Nwankwo, through his counsel, Dr. John Omughele, provided evidence

Lumii Cosmetics Unveils Black Skincare Products

Oghenevwede

The Co-Director of Lumi Cosmetics, Adaku Uju has assured Nigerians of cosmetics products that are friendly and specifically made for the black skin, devoid of any side effect..

She gave the assurance at the official launch of Lumi Cosmetics products in Abuja on Tuesday.

Uju said the products are unique since they were specifically formu- lated for the black skin.

“Our product is unique because they’re number one, they’re hypoallergenic.

“It’s very good for sensitive skins and we put a lot of love into it. So before we do formulations, we look at different black skin tones to ensure it covers a wide range

of black because there are different types of black. Our products have a red undertone, which is very suitable for black skin.

“You don’t break out, you don’t get rashes. I’ve had people with very sensitive skin conditions actually use the product and test it out for us. We’ve gone through different variations of testing and it was good,” she said. According to her, Lumi Cosmetics has a range of products such as eyebrow pencil, mascara, as well as eyeshadow, adding that eyeshadow comes in three different palettes.

“We have a nude palette, we have a pinky palette, and we have a blue green palette. So depending on what your colour scheme is, we have eyelashes, we have foundation, we have pressed powder, we have

loose powder, we have lip liner, lipstick, lip oil, lip glosses.

“We have a lip balm and a lip scrub. We have a brush set, it’s a 14-piece brush set,” she said.

Uju disclosed that there are also products for men, adding: “Our clear lip gloss; the men use it. We also have lip balms that come in strawberry, lime, lemon. It doesn’t show any colour. So it’s just transparent. The men use that as well.

She assured the men of more products despite focusing more on the women for now.

In terms of affordability she said, the products are affordable luxury, stressing that “we want it to be affordable for every class of persons, whether you’re low income, you’re mid income, you’re high income. “

of his service history, including his entry into the Nigerian Army on September 25, 1993, and subsequent promotions up to the rank of Colonel on September 10, 2011.

He also highlighted his successful completion of the National Defence College course, which qualifies officers for promotion to Brigadier General after five years.

Despite appealing the decision to the President and Commander-inChief through the Chief of Defence Staff in June 2016, and receiving acknowledgement that his appeal was under review, he received no further communication.

the Horn of Africa,” he said.

Ihekweazu, however, said, “Despite the advances, far too many people in African region still lack access to essential vaccines.”

According to him, one in every five children in Africa remain undervaccinated, and in 2023 alone, 6.7 million children received no vaccines at all, resulting in the “zero-dose” children.

He lamented that measles outbreaks had continued to persist, while vaccine-derived poliovirus continued to pose a threat to the population.

The African regional director of WHO said 2025 marked the midway point of Immunisation Agenda 2030 (IA2030), a global commitment to achieving equitable vaccine access byHe2030.said now was the time to accelerate progress, expand coverage, and close immunity gaps.

Ihekweazu stated, “WHO and partners are working closely with countries to identify and reach zerodose children, integrate immunisation into primary health care, and build stronger, more resilient health systems.

“Initiatives, like the Big CatchUp, are helping to restore essential services, while the introduction of new vaccines, such as those for malaria and human papillomavirus (HPV), is expanding our disease prevention arsenal.

“We renew our collective commitment to achieving equitable access to lifesaving vaccines for every child, every community and every country in the WHO African Region.”

Ihekweazu said the theme for the 2025 edition of the vaccination week, “Immunisation for All is Humanly Possible,” was a powerful call to action.

“It affirms that, together, we can reach every last child, strengthen health systems, and restore and expand routine immunisation services disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic,” Ihekweazu added. He recalled that in February 2025, a high-level side event co-hosted by WHO, the African Union Commission, the Government of Sierra Leone, Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance and UNICEF, reviewed progress since the 2017 Addis Declaration on Immunisation. Apart from celebrating growing political commitment and system improvements, the meeting also acknowledged challenges, such as financing gaps, inequities and weak data systems.

In addition, there was a resolution to make immunisation a top priority across Africa’s health and development agendas.

Ihekweazu said governments should increase domestic investment and secure sustainable immunisation financing, make health systems to integrate vaccines into essential services, and expand access.

He also urged global partners to continue supporting equitable vaccine access across Africa, while advising communities to stand against misinformation and vaccine hesitancy.

Oborevwori Mourns Shimite Bello, Trade & Export Aide’s Sudden Death

Omon-Julius Onabu in Asaba

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has expressed deep shock and sadness following “the sudden and tragic” death of his Special Adviser on Trade and Export, Chief Shimite ‘Bello’ Winifred Love. Reports claimed she died in the early hours of Monday under unclear circumstances as she was previously not reported ill or hospitalized until news of her demise yesterday.

However, the police in Delta on Tuesday debunked reports on social media that spouse of the deceased popular female politician was arrested by the police for allegedly causing the death of his wife.

Contrary to the report of his arrest, the man, who is said to be a Christian minister or prophet, is being kept in “protective custody” by the Delta State Police Command, apparently

due to the tension triggered by the suddenness of the death.

Nevertheless, Governor Oborevwori who spoke yesterday in Asaba through his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, said he extended his “heart-felt condolences to the people of Oshimili North Local Government Area, particularly the Ebu Community” who have been thrown into mourning by the huge loss.

The governor described the deceased as “an accomplished, intelligent, and charismatic political figure”, acknowledging the trade and export aide’s uncommon display of commitment and excellence in every public role she was assigned.

Oborevwori said: “On behalf of the government and people of Delta State, I mourn the loss of an exceptional professional and elegant politician who passed away in Asaba

on Easter Monday. “She served Delta State with distinction, and until her death, and was diligently leading our export initiatives as Special Adviser on Trade and Export.”

While praying for Chief Shmiite Love, the governor said that it was regrettable that she departed “at a time her expertise was most needed”, adding that she would be sorely missed by the government and people of Delta State. Meanwhile, the state police spokesman, Edafe, noted that husband of the deceased, who reported her death was worried because of reported threats from Chief Shimite Love’s family. Moreover, SP Edafe also confirmed that relatives of the dead aide to the governor have since made a formal report to the police expressing suspicion of foul play in the death of their daughter and relative.

L-R: Deputy Director, Lagos State Education District IV, Mr. Oyeshola Adiodun; Director, Lagos State Education District I, Mrs. Oloke Toyin; Director, Education District III, Mrs. Folashade Adewuyi; Director of Strategic Partnership, 1 Million Teachers (IMT), Mr. Oluwaseyi Anifowose; and Head of Growth, Edusko, Mrs. Sola Adeola, at the media briefing on the Let There Be Teachers Conference 2025 held in Ikeja, Lagos, yesterday

Ohwovoriole in Abuja

Acting Group Politics Editor DEJI ELUMOYE

Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com

08033025611 sms only

Kambai: Undemocratic Elements Forced Us Out of PDP

a member of the Kaduna state House of assembly representing Zangon Kataf, Hon Samuel Kambai, was among prominent members of the Peoples Democratic Party who recently defected to the ruling all Progressives Congress in Kaduna state. He spoke to John shiklam on the circumstances that led to their defection and why the aPC was the preferred party to embrace.

You are among many members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) members who recently defected to the ruling All Pro- gressives Congress (APC). What is the problem with the PDP?

The PDP was becoming undemocratic and we were frustrated out of the party. Congresses in our Local Government Area - Zangon- Kataf - were characterised by manipulation and other undemocratic tendencies. We were the ones funding the party because it is not in power. We tried to make the party grow in our various wards, but some undemocratic elements were undermining our efforts. They were doing everything to push us out of the party.

In our Kaduna South senatorial zone, the congresses were conducted in a very ridiculous and fraudulent manner to favour the political interests of some politicians.

All stakeholders came together to ensure that everything was done in accordance with democratic norms, only for the process to be scuttled by the former state chairman of the party, Mr. Felix Hyet, Senator Sunday Katung and Francis Sani, former Chair- man of Zangon Kataf. They destroyed the rotational arrangement we had for selfish political interests.

Before the election, all the wards in Zangon Kataf met and brought the list of party delegates, only for five of the wards to say they did not agree with the list.

We wrote a petition to the state secretariat of the party, and the petition committee looked into the matter and gave its advice.

Along the line, the chairman of the com- mittee resigned because of lack of fairness.

We took our cry to the National Secretariat of the party. They asked Senator Ahmed Makarfi, former governor of Kaduna, whether he was aware of the problem in Zangon Kataf LGA and he confirmed that he was aware of the problem. The National Secretariat advised that since there was a problem, the swearing in of elected party excos in Zangon Kataf should be put on hold until the issues are addressed.

Shortly after this, the National Secretariat of the party informed us that it had been confirmed that congress elections were held in Zangon Kataf. The National Secretariat was misinformed. In my ward, thugs were used to disrupt the congresses.

Another reconciliation committee was set up to resolve the issues. Unfortunately, the secretary of the committee was a loyalist of Senator Katung.

Let me tell you, one of the reasons why we rejected the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Southern Kaduna was because of the former governor, Nasir El-Rufai.

He had no relationship with our people.

Under his administration, our people suf- fered so much. There were persistent attacks and killings by bandits who displaced many communities, but El-Rufai never showed compassion or identified with us.

He never spoke good about our people. When Governor Uba Sani came into office, we saw that his approach was quite different, a far departure from the El-Rufai’s sectional administration.

Sani embraced our people and he initiated development projects in Southern Kaduna. President Bola Tinubu also carried our people along, giving them appointments. Because of this, our people embraced the APC.

When I came into office, I told the governor that there was no any physical project in our area during the El-Rufai administration and he assured us that he will initiate projects in Southern Kaduna. Less than three weeks after my discussion with him, he came to flag off some projects in my area. He flagged off the construction of one of the biggest skills acquisition centres in the state. There are so many projects he has initiated in my area.

Governor Sani loves our people, that’s why we are going along with him because of the crisis in the PDP.

There are allegations that in your constituencies, there is an arrangement that your positions would be moved to another ward, meaning you cannot run for a second term. Is that why you defected to the APC to be able to run for a second term?

There’s no such arrangement for lawmak-

ers. We have three ethnic groups in my area. We have Ikulu, Atyap, and Hausa/Fulani. I was among the people who insisted that the vice chairmanship position should go to Hausa/Fulani because they have never held any office in PDP.

I also insisted that our Ikulu brothers must produce the Chairman of Zangon Kataf LGA, only for Senator Sunday Katung group to insist that the incumbent chairman should go for a second term.

When the APC gave Ikulu the chairmannship ticket, we went out of our way to support them. All our big shots, including Dr. John Ayuba, the former GMD of NNPC, Mr. Andrew Yakubu and former minister of environment and member of PDP board of trustees, Mrs Laurencia Mallam, among others, all agreed that the Ikulu people should produce the council chairman.

Senator Karung, however, insisted

that the former chairman should be allowed for a second term. We refused because they have over nine positions in their six wards. In the other five wards, I am the only one who is holding a position. I am one of those who advocated that zoning should remain. That is why I went out of my way to support Ikulu even in APC because that is where the chairman of Zangon Kataf was supposed to come from.

Former Sokoto State governor, Aminu Tambuwal while condemning those of you who defected from the PDP to APC, said you are looking for “stomach infrastructure”and that no sane person can join a party that has destroyed the country and made Nigerians poor. What is your take on this?

As far as I am concerned, Tambuwal was a member of the APC before he defected to the PDP. So it means he is one of the destroyers of the country if he is talking like this. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar supported Buhari to be president, including Nasir El-

The PDP was becoming undemocratic and we were frustrated out of the party. Congresses in our local Government Area - Zangon- Kataf - were characterised by manipulation and other undemocratic tendencies. We were the ones funding the party because it is not in power. We tried to make the party grow in our various wards, but some undemocratic elements were undermining our efforts. They were doing everything to push us out of the party.

Rufai, who is now following Abubakar. We know El-Rufai did not govern Kaduna well.

In the assembly here, there are other things about El-Rufai that if we bring out to the public, many Nigerians will be shocked. Time shall come when we shall bring these things to the public domain for the world to know who El-Rufai is.

You mean the house of assembly has some more issues against the former governor ? There are more things against him that the House didn’t make public and he is just making noise everywhere and we are just listening to him.

Southern Kaduna had been the strong- hold of the PDP since 1999. Some people are saying that those of you who defected are mere paper weight - that you don’t command any influence. How do you view this?

A - We shall see. Time shall tell. I just told you that Southern Kaduna rejected the APC because of how El-Rufai treated our people. He brought the ideology of Muslim-Muslim ticket because of his hatred for our people. This kind of person who has no sense of fairness, justice, and inclusiveness and does not believe that God also created us is not supposed to be in power.

Anyone who believes that God is the maker of heaven and earth should know that God created all of us. There should be no religious and tribal sentiments when you are leading people.

Do you think that the APC will defeat the PDP in Southern Kaduna in 2027?

A - I am assuring that with Governor Sani’s style of leadership in Kaduna state, particularly with his policy of inclusive- ness, the APC will win Southern Kaduna overwhelmingly in 2027. Uba Sani means well for our people. Those who said we are paper weights, time shall tell.

Kambai

www.thisdaylive.com

ARE WE MAKING PROGRESS?

Some progress has been made but more needs to be done to combat genderbased violence, argue BUKKY SHONIBARE AND DABESAKI MACIKEMENJIMA

INSTAGRAM, WHATSAPP AND ANTITRUST LAWS

Meta Group is worried over antitrust concerns, writes SONNY ARAGBAAKPORE

opinion@thisdaylive.com

AYISHA OSORI paints the picture of insecurity in the land and the agony of tackling the problem

NIGERIA AND PERVASIVE INSECURITY

April 14 was the anniversary of the abduction of the Chibok girls from a Government Girls Secondary School; 90 are still missing. April 20 2021 was like any other day for students of Greenfield University, Kaduna. Muslim students observing Ramadan prepared for iftar in the company of friends and classmates, while other students perambulated between hostels and the cafeteria.

At about 8.15 pm, gunshots rang out; for some, the sound was not perturbing. The school was close to a major highway where motorists were frequently attacked by armed robbers. This time was different - armed men, some in camouflage, that students mistook for Nigerian military personnel, rounded up 23 people - 18 students and five administrative staff - took their phones and herded them into the bushes. Some female students were half undressed; many had no shoes on. They trekked for hours, then were driven in twos and threes on waiting motorbikes to a camp where other kidnapped Nigerians were held.

Three days later, on Friday, April 23, the kidnappers told parents that they had a message for them: the remains of Dorathy Yohanna, Precious Nwakacha and Sadiq Yusuf Sanga left on the side of a road. Yohanna, a third-year student of Political Science, turned 23 days before she was kidnapped. The night before her death, she cried and prayed, fretting over her mother’s reluctance to let her go back to school because of security concerns. 20-year-old Nwakacha, in her third year of Accounting, was outspoken and articulate. This was why her classmates thought she was a good choice when she was selected by the kidnappers purportedly to take a message to the parents - they knew she would be a good ambassador for their cause. Sanga, who was in his third year of a cyber-security course, woke the morning he was killed to share his dream: three people were going home, and he was one of them.

In Nigeria, we often say: when you wake up, is your morning and you cannot wake a person pretending to be asleep. I did not know these details when I woke up to the news that three of the students kidnapped from Greenfield had been killed, but it was a morning of sorts for me. The Greenfield story was only one more reality of schools as soft targets for terrorists and mercenaries, and not more horrific than the murder of 59 students in Federal Government College Buni Yadi in 2014. Part of what shook me was that, unlike the attack on Buni Yadi, which was ideological terror, killing Yohanna, Nwachaka, and Sanga was part of a negotiation for money; calculated to put pressure on families to pay the N800 million ransom.

Channelling the desperation that I imagined families were feeling, I reached out to Olubukunola Williams and Chioma Agwuegbo, feminist activists in civil society, to find out what could be done. It was unfathomable that Nigerians or women would not be mobilizing around this. Williams, Agwuegbo and I, conceived of responding

to the Greenfield kidnapping by centering women as influencers in their homes and communities to organize Nigerians to demand that the federal government deliver on its responsibility to secure our lives in accordance with Section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution as amended: “the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government”. The campaign had a name, slogan and demand: #Secure our lives. Our goal was acknowledgement by the government of the toll kidnapping was taking on Nigerians and a response to bring an effective end to what had become an industry.

Maybe we were unconsciously tapping into the culture of women for hire for claps and cries; the exploitative narrative of women as nurturers of the nation who cannot be relied on for formal power in government, but are useful for tugging on emotions. We thought only of inspiring histories of women championing social justice reforms such as the often-mentioned Aba Women’s War and Abeokuta Women’s revolt against excessive taxation during Britain’s colonial rule, the Women of Liberia Mass Action for Peace that brought an end to Liberia’s brutal civil war and other inspiring examples of women mobilizing effectively across the world.

Six weeks after we started the process, the campaign received donor funding. By then, two more students had been murdered: Feso Osunlalu, a third-year student of International Relations, tall, witty and irreverent and Shaheed Abdulrahaman, a first-year student who arrived in school the day he was kidnapped. On May 29 2021, all the survivors of the Greenfield kidnapping were released, reportedly after a ransom of N150 million and eight new, fuelled motorbikes had been paid.

We built a coalition of feminist, civil society, media and faith-based organizations involved in security, gender equity, human rights protection, and access to education to plan how best to capture the attention of the public and government. We agreed on a day of mass action with millions of Nigerians making noise, at a particular time of the day reminiscent of banging pots during the pandemic. We would also use artistic expressions to engage i.e., a poem (‘how much blood will this land drink before we say enough’) by Dike Chukwumerijie, a renowned spoken word and performance poet and installations of rows of shoes or cups in public

places to speak visually to passersby who were outside our circle of communication about the human costs of kidnapping.

Finally, we decided to create and publish a red list of Nigerians who were killed and unaccounted for from kidnapping and disappearances, because, as we planned, kidnappers continued to attack schools.

The day of action - July 28 2021 - came and went with various activities across the country, but the impact came not even close to what we had initially imagined and eventually settled for. We continued advocating through online activities on X Spaces, anchoring our engagement to global recognition days such as International Day of the Girl Child and 16 Days of Activism and by end of 2021, the campaign petered out. There was still a balance from the first tranche of funds, which, with funders’ approval, we contributed to the 2022 campaigns for the passage of five gender bills in the National Assembly, which were aimed at closing gender inequality gaps.

Years later, my reflections about this campaign and the escalating insecurity in Nigeria have been partly shaped by continued observation of attempts to organise around insecurity (and other issues) and reading the works of Anthea Lawson (Entangled Activist), Prof. Issa Shivji (Silences in NGO Discourse) and others. Lawson theorises that, “activists are part of and injured by and survivors of the very problems that we are trying to change in the world and our tactics and organisations often mirror the same frameworks for operating that we say we want to change. Some of those entail “how we centre ourselves as subjects and see those we are trying to help (with our superior knowledge) as objects”. Shivji identifies NGOs as handmaidens of a neo-liberal purpose, i.e., replacing a degraded state no longer charged with social goods and welfare and pretending to be ‘pro-poor’ while maintaining the capitalist globalisation hegemony.

The first challenge is tied to Shivji’s accusation that activists try to change the world without understanding it. ‘How can you make poverty history without understanding the history of poverty?’, he asks. In our case, how could we successfully demand that the government secure our lives without understanding the nature of our state and the sources of insecurity? Assessing the roots of insecurity in Nigeria would have intersected with another observation of Shivji’s that NGOs ignore geopolitical realities. In our case this would be the breakdown of governance in Nigeria; deep state capture for plundering public resources; the politics of West Africa and the Sahel in the context of the Cold War and foreign military bases; decades long conflict with jihadists in north-east Nigeria indoctrinated in Saudi Arabia; and the impact of global warming on traditional economic activity.

Osori, Director, Executive Vice President’s Office, Open Society Foundations, is the author of Love Does Not Win Elections

Meta Group is worried over antitrust concerns, writes SONNY

ARAGBA-AKPORE

INSTAGRAM, WHATSAPP AND ANTITRUST LAWS

While we are yet to grapple with the fate of TikTok which President Donald Trump had asked its parent company Byte Dance of China to divest from its American operations or be banned, Meta Group, owners of Instagram and WhatsApp, is troubled over antitrust concerns.

The U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has taken the group to court over anti competition issues.

Specifically, the FTC wants Meta to divest from its two biggest companies in an antitrust trial that could redefine the future of social media.

And so Meta’s world is troubled as Mark Zuckerberg’s company could be forced to sell Instagram and WhatsApp if it loses the lawsuit that has just begun in the U.S.

The FTC has accused Zuckerberg’s company of having bought both platforms to eliminate competition and maintain a monopoly on social media. If the court rules against them, it would be a historic blow to the tech giant.

Zuckerberg acquired Instagram in 2012, and then, two years later,(2014) completed his trio by buying WhatsApp. Facebook is the third leg of the trio and this easily makes the group the largest tech owner in the world.

Although these acquisitions were approved by the FTC itself at that time, but now this lawsuit seeks to reverse that approval, arguing that the purchase was not for innovation but to “neutralize” emerging rivals like Instagram which was acquired in 2012 and thus take control of the entire market.

The FTC claims that Meta has used its financial muscle to block competition, buying up emerging apps instead of competing with them, and it has been doing this since 2008! Everything is based on 2012 emails where Zuckerberg had expressed concern about Instagram’s rapid growth compared to Facebook’s performance (which was his only app at the time). In those emails, Zuckerberg admitted it was better to buy than to compete. And so he did, acquiring the app years later.

“On the other hand, he also bought WhatsApp, and of course that reinforces the FTC’s accusation. Meta strengthened its control over the digital system, keeping these apps as separate platforms but under the same power structure,” analysts reason.

Meta has not denied the purchases, even though it rejects having acted in an anti-competitive way, calling the case a “weak lawsuit that ignores reality,” since they believe they face strong competition from platforms like TikTok, YouTube or X among many other apps.

During the trial, Zuckerberg claimed he bought Instagram for its camera technology, not because the social network was on the rise, but the 2012 messages don’t seem to support that statement very well.

In the likelihood that FTC wins this case, Meta could be forced to sell Instagram, WhatsApp, or both. This wouldn’t necessarily mean an immediate change for users, but it would shift the balance in the digital market, according to experts .

Digital sociologists think that Meta would make it easier to regulate social networks individually by the FTC.

One of the major implications will be on things like content moderation, privacy, or the use of personal data.

“If it gets split, it would be easier for lawmakers, ensuring proper service to users” digital sociologists admit.

There are however fears of who buys if it gets to that .

For instance If a controversial figure like Elon Musk or an investment fund takes control of Instagram, like what happened with Twitter (now X), it’s possible that many users would leave in large numbers for new alternatives that may emerge, like BlueSky.

“But if it falls into the hands of a discreet company, without major visible changes, it’s likely that most people will keep using it as they always have.”

Although Meta does not reveal exactly how much it earns from each app, it is estimated that Instagram generates around $37 million a year, surpassing Facebook’s revenue according to analysts.

“So of course, Zuckerberg’s eagerness to get out of this case is clear: they can’t afford to lose that income because it would be a catastrophe for Meta,” another analyst submits.

The expectations are dicey because the court’s decision will not only affect Meta, but could also open the door to more lawsuits against other big platforms for similar monopoly practices. And at a time when the control of social networks is more questioned than ever, this case could define the future of the digital system in terms of free choice and regulations.

Instagram and WhatsApp which were acquired over a decade ago have become social powerhouses and easily the biggest platforms in that genre.

This looming antitrust trial will be the first big test of President Trump’s Federal Trade Commission’s ability to challenge Big Tech.

The lawsuit was first filed against Meta — then called Facebook — in 2020, during Trump's first term. It claims the company bought Instagram and WhatsApp to squash competition and establish an illegal monopoly in the social media market.

FTC contends that Meta has maintained a monopoly by pursuing CEO Zuckerberg's strategy, "expressed in 2008: ‘It is better to buy than compete.’ True to that maxim, Facebook has systematically tracked potential rivals and acquired companies that it viewed as serious competitive threats."

U.S. antitrust laws are enforced by both the FTC's Bureau of Competition and the Antitrust Division of the Department of Justice. The agencies consult before opening any investigation. The Antitrust Division handles all criminal antitrust enforcement.

The FTC’s Bureau of Competition enforces the nation's antitrust laws, which form the foundation of a free market economy.

The antitrust laws promote the interests of consumers; they support unfettered markets and result in lower prices and more choices.

The Federal Trade Commission Act and the Clayton Act, both passed by Congress in 1914, give the Commission authority to enforce the antitrust laws. These laws prohibit anticompetitive mergers and business practices that seek to prevent hard-driving competition, such as monopolistic conduct, attempts to monopolize, and conspiracies in restraint of trade.

Aragba-Akpore is a member of THISDAY Editorial Board

Some progress has been made but more needs to be done to combat gender-based violence, argue BUKKY SHONIBARE AND DABESAKI MAC-IKEMENJIMA

ARE WE MAKING PROGRESS?

This year’s celebration of International Women’s Day in March was special as it marked 30 years since the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action. While this milestone under the UN theme “For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment” calls for celebrating the strides that have been made in advancing women’s rights, it also presents an opportunity for sober reflection on what remains to be done to attain gender parity on many levels.

In Nigeria, the scourge of gender-based violence (GBV) remains one of the most pressing social challenges, casting a long shadow over millions of women’s lives. Across the country, individuals, particularly women and girls, grapple with the harrowing realities of different forms of GBV alongside systemic inequities that perpetuate cycles of violence. Yet, the available data to measure the scale of genderbased violence, and, consequently, the adequacy of measures to combat it, especially at subnational levels, remains insufficient.

Data is essential for addressing GBV, as it sheds light on the extent of the problem, highlights gaps in response mechanisms, and encourages accountability across government, civil society, law enforcement, and other relevant actors. Without reliable and comprehensive data, interventions may be poorly targeted, resources inadequately allocated, and progress challenging to measure.

While national surveys provide a broad picture, they often fail to adequately capture regional and state-level variations in GBV prevalence, response effectiveness, and survivor support systems. This lack of granular data makes designing and implementing context-specific solutions challenging. Yet, collecting and recording data at the subnational level is fraught with challenges, including inadequate funding, cultural stigmas that prevent reporting, inconsistent record-keeping by law enforcement and healthcare providers, and a lack of standardized methodologies for tracking GBV cases.

Invictus Africa’s annual Womanity Index funded by the Ford Foundation, addresses the data gap by collecting, analyzing, and using data to assess governments’ efforts on effective GBV prevention and response through 18 indicators across five indices: laws and policies, access to justice, support services, information and awareness, and budget allocation and spending. The data for this annual study is collected by a network of local researchers (individuals and community-based organizations) based across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). This localized approach is effective because it captures nuanced, context-specific data, providing a more accurate representation of the situation on the ground.

The National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) found in 2018 that 31% of women aged 15–49 had experienced physical violence since age 15. The 2024 Womanity Index, which aims to offer a nuanced portrait of Nigeria’s fight against GBV, revealing both progress and persistent gaps, presents a more alarming picture, with 63% of respondents reporting experiences of GBV in the past five years. The most prevalent form is domestic and intimate partner violence (IPV) at 46%, followed by physical violence (41%), mental and emotional violence (35%), sexual violence (33%), economic violence (25%), and harmful traditional and religious practices (11%).

The 2024 Womanity Index revealed both progress and persistent gaps in GBV responses at state level. However, before analyzing the progress and gaps, it is imperative to first understand how states are graded under the Womanity Index. Each state is assigned two colour-coded grades: an overall grade, reflecting the state’s average performance across all indexes, and index grades, indicating performance in each of the five indexes. The grading system is designed to capture the extent of performance toward GBV prevention and response in the state, while fostering data-driven progress tracking and trend analysis. Blue signifies that a state is "Advancing," making strong progress toward the aspirational target. Green means the state is "Performing," demonstrating reasonable progress

while still facing gaps that hinder full achievement. Amber denotes that the state is "Evolving," taking gradual steps toward improvement. Red indicates that the state is "Struggling," facing significant challenges that impede progress.

The impact of data-driven advocacy can be seen in the results from several states. Overall, we see performance across states that show remarkable progress. A total of three out of the 36 states are rated blue, 11 green, 20 amber, and three red. For instance, Katsina adopted the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act and established a Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC); Abia’s Ministry of Women Affairs adopted Invictus Africa’s GBV-responsive budget template; Taraba established a family court; Akwa Ibom and Yobe simplified their VAPP Law, translating it into local languages to enhance public understanding and implementation at the grassroots level; Kano introduced GBV mobile courts with six GBVdesignated judges, and added a budget line for GBV in its 2025 state budget; and Niger expanded its GBV response by adding two SARCs and introducing a dedicated GBV budget line. These highlight how focused data collection and analysis can inform policy decisions and support advocacy efforts, leading to tangible improvements in GBV prevention and response at the state level.

Regionally, none of the six geopolitical zones in Nigeria achieved the blue or red grade; while only two (south-south and south-west) are graded green, the remaining four (north central, northeast, north-west, and south-east) are rated amber. However, despite notable progress, based on comparative analysis of data from the 2023 and 2024 editions of the Womanity Index, the latter edition reveals lingering concerns: for instance, many states remain in the “red” category, with some regressing from amber to red and from green to amber, highlighting the fragility of progress in the absence of sustained efforts, political will, and accountability.

Several steps must be taken to further improve data collection and tracking. Governments at local, state and national levels must invest in standardized and digitized data collection systems that ensure consistency across states. Increased collaboration between law enforcement, healthcare providers, and civil society organizations can help streamline reporting mechanisms. Public awareness campaigns must also be intensified to encourage survivors to report cases, thereby reducing underreporting due to stigma and fear of retaliation. Additionally, state and local governments must allocate dedicated resources to sustain GBV data collection and analysis, as well as evidence-driven prevention and response initiatives. By leveraging data and evidence, advocacy efforts become more impactful and effective, driving meaningful social change and policy reform.

Shonibare is Founder, Invictus Africa while MacIkemenjima is Senior Program Officer, Ford Foundation

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA

Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com

THE ESSENCE OF COPYRIGHT DAY

There is need to strengthen the enabling laws on piracy

As Nigeria joins other countries to mark the 2025 World Book and Copyright Day with the theme, "Read Your Way", we must begin to recreate the environment that produced the late Professor Chinua Achebe (the author of the globally acclaimed 'Things Fall Apart'), Professor Wole Soyinka, (the first African to win a Nobel prize in Literature as far back as 1986), and award-winning writers like Ben Okri and Chimamanda Adichie, among several others. Sadly, in Nigeria today, the publishing industry is not only suffering under the weight of piracy and other copyright abuses, but the return on investment is barely sufficient to guarantee its sustainability.

We need to fight the scourge of piracy that has become a serious epidemic in the country. Authors, publishers, producers and artistes spend a lot of time, money and effort to produce such intellectual works. Yet within a few hours, and with relatively cheap electronic equipment, the pirate, working from the comfort of their house, can reproduce thousands of copies of such painstaking works. These unscrupulous characters thereafter sell the pirated works for a fraction of the price pegged by the authentic producer or author. Apart from the huge financial losses incurred by the owners of these intellectual properties, nothing kills creativity as fast as piracy.

need more enlightenment on what damage they do to creativity when they patronise pirated works. Understandably, the threats posed by the digital environment would easily overwhelm a copyright system that was designed for an analogue world. Hence the need for a total overhaul of the regulatory and administrative framework of our copyright system in line with global best practices and the country’s international obligations under the relevant treaties. Who knows how many Achebes and Soyinkas have been forced to quit writing on account of the activities of pirates? Today, it is not uncommon to find several celebrated writers and artistes living in penury as pirates ride piggy-back on their intellectual works to fortune.

It is a time to celebrate the importance of reading, foster children’s growth as readers, and promote a lifelong love of literature and integration into the world of work

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

More disturbing is that huge intellectual theft goes on daily in full public glare. Most of the people behind the crime are also known to the authorities. But they continue because there is no serious commitment to fighting piracy. Armed with ever-changing cutting-edge technology, the pirates appear to be one step ahead. To fight this scourge, we need to strengthen the enabling laws and seek more efficient ways to track and punish offenders. Also, the Nigeria Copyright Commission (NCC) should be better funded. Above all, the people also

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA

GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU

DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE

DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI

SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH

ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI

CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI

DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com

Letters to the Editor

Meanwhile, the enforcement of rights must not be left to government agencies alone. Industry practice and internal mechanisms must be recalibrated while co-operations across all the subsectors should be encouraged. Working with other stakeholders, the NCC should intensify its public awareness and education programmes and assist in building a more functional and responsive copyright ecosystem. As Nigeria joins the rest of the world today, UNESCO has underscored the essence of the World Book and Copyright Day as one meant to promote reading, publishing, and copyright. “It is a time to celebrate the importance of reading, foster children’s growth as readers, and promote a lifelong love of literature and integration into the world of work” UNESCO charges. “We can open ourselves to others despite the distance, and we can travel thanks to the imagination.”

To honour the day William Shakespeare, Miguel de Cervantes, Inca Garcilaso de la Vega, and several prominent authors died, April 23 is recognised every year as the World Book and Copyright Day. On such a day as this, therefore, it is important to advance the protection of intellectual property in a country where the creative and knowledge industries are increasingly undervalued.

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.

HEEDING TIMELY WARNING AGAINST FLOODING

Nigeria has faced a series of flood disasters in the past few years. And after each occurrence, many lives are lost even as properties worth several millions of Naira are destroyed.

Last year, flood disasters affected 217 Local Government Areas across 34 states of the federation, according to data from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).

The data further revealed that the flooding impacted a total of 1,373,699 people, with 740,734 people displaced and 321 fatalities recorded. It further revealed that 2,854 individuals sustained varying degrees of injuries even as thousands of hectares of cultivated farmlands were either submerged or completely destroyed.

In 2023, NEMA announced that about 33,983 people were affected by flooding in different parts of the country. It said that as of August 9 that year, the data it collated showed that 10 states were affected by the floodwaters.

The agency said that 7,353 persons were displaced, 75 injured, even as five people lost their lives to the natural disaster.

The data, which further showed that 1,679 houses were damaged, added that 866 hectares of farmlands were destroyed.

Nigeria’s 2022 flooding killed 662 people and injured 3,174

others. It displaced a total of 2,430,445 individuals. For that of 2012, a total of 363 people were killed, about 2.3 million people displaced and 597,476 houses damaged, according to NEMA.

The agency said that Nigeria lost over N2.6 trillion to the huge flood that swept through 30 of the 36 states in the country in 2012, adding that over seven million people were affected.

This country cannot continue like this. While the federal government cannot or may not be able to stop flooding, it can at least determine the extent to which it can affect its citizens whenever it occurs. It can even, with the aid of modern technologies, put the floodwaters to the right use by harvesting them for agricultural purposes, power generation and some others.

The people themselves can help the government by supporting its good policies and actions targeted at addressing or ending the continually recurring flood disasters.

Many people had expected that after the 2012 flooding that wreaked serious havoc across the country, the federal government, working closely with the sub-national governments, would have taken decisive actions to put the now recurring weather events in check.

Recently, the federal government warned that 1,249 commu-

nities across 176 local government areas in 33 states and the FCT are at high risk of flooding this year. The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, gave the warning in Abuja during the official presentation of the 2025 Annual Flood Outlook (AFO) by the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA). The agency’s forecast shows that an additional 2,187 communities in 293 LGAs across 31 states and the FCT are expected to experience moderate flood risk.

It is not enough for the government to issue warnings about impending flood disasters every year without taking concrete actions to forestall future occurrence.

The dredging of major waterways across the country, experts say, has become very important at this time in order to create more room for the accommodation of more volumes of water in the rivers, lakes and others during rainy seasons.

The government can deploy water harvesting technologies to channel excess waters to recharge shrinking rivers and lakes nationwide. It should see to it that nobody builds on, or blocks waterways across the country for whatever reason.

Obinna Odogwu, obinnaodogwu77@gmail.com

Peter Uzoho

The cost of cooking jollof rice in Nigeria has spiked significantly in the last 6 months as the cost of preparing the country’s staple food rose to an average of N25,436 in March 2025 from N21,300 in September 2024, representing a 19 per cent surge.

Several factors have contributed to the cost fluctuations, as increases have been observed in the prices of key ingredients such as pepper, onions, turkey, beef, and rice, while other items have remained at persistently high prices.

SBM Intelligence, an Africafocused geopolitical research and strategic communications consulting firm, revealed this in its latest SBM Jollof Index titled, “Staple Under Stress,” which tracked the cost movement from Q4 2024-Q1 2025.

The SBM Jollof Index tracks the cost of preparing jollof rice, a staple

Dike

In response to unreliable grid power and increases in prices of diesel and PMS, manufacturers’ total expenditure on alternative energy sources surged to N1.11 trillion in 2024, which represented a 42.3 per cent increase from N781.68 billion in 2023.

This was revealed by the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) in its, “MAN Economic Review Second Half 2024,” which also showed that real manufacturing investment fell by 35.3 percent year-on-year to N658.81 billion in 2024.

The economic review also showed that the Nigerian

dish, and uses it as an indicator of food price fluctuations in Nigeria.

In the report seen by THISDAY, protein, in particular, remained a major contributor to the overall cost, with turkey now costing between N8,000 and N10,500 per kilo, a substantial increase from the N1,500 to N1,700 it cost in 2016.

The SBM analysts pointed out that the ongoing conflict in the country’s food-producing regions has disrupted supply chains, while high transportation and energy costs have further driven up prices.

“For instance, petrol prices have remained elevated, and electricity tariffs for Band A users have increased, adding to household financial strain. Insecurity continues to be a pressing concern, with incidents such as the killing of farmers in Benue, Borno and Plateau States disrupting agricultural activities and limiting the local food

manufacturing sector recorded 57 per cent capacity utilisation, 1.7 per cent increase in real manufacturing output, 57.1 per cent local raw material sourcing and a surge in unsold finished goods by 87.5 per cent in 2024.

The review, which was issued by the Director General of MAN, Mr. Segun Ajayi-Kadir, showed that electricity supply situation for industries improved in 2024, with average daily supply increasing to 13.3 hours per day, up from 10.6 hours in 2023.

However, electricity tariffs surged by over 200 percent for Band “A” consumers, significantly increasing manufacturing costs as “manufacturers spent N404.80

supply,” the report said.

The report compared the cost of preparing a pot of jollof rice for a family of five across 13 markets in Nigeria from September 2024 to March 2025.

Despite temporary stability in some areas during late 2024, the SBM report said food prices surged in most markets by early 2025.

It added, “the national average rose by 19.7 per cent, increasing from N21,300 in September to N25,486 in March, highlighting worsening food inflation and its deepening impact on household nutrition and spending.”

The report posited that most markets recorded significant increases over the past six months.

It said Port Harcourt led with a staggering 55.1 per cent rise, from N20,400 to N31,650, indicating acute supply challenges and inflation shocks in the South-South.

This, it explained, might be due

billion in H1 2024, which increased by 75.0 percent to N708.07 billion in H2 2024.

He said, “The Food, Beverage & Tobacco sector recorded N229.41 billion in alternative energy spending, up from N182.76 billion in 2023, while Chemical & Pharmaceutical energy costs doubled to N208.68 billion.

“The Non-Metallic Mineral Products sector’s energy costs increased by 33.7 percent to N118.49 billion, and the Textile, Apparel & Footwear industry saw a fourfold increase, reaching N26.45 billion in 2024, compared to N6.97 billion in 2023.”

The review also said that the “capacity utilisation in Nigeria’s

to the region’s state of emergency and political disruptions.

Kano, the report said, experienced a similar spike of 53.8 per cent, increasing from N19,020 to N29,250, likely driven by ongoing insecurity and rising transportation costs.

According to the report, Bauchi experienced a sharp increase of 34.9 per cent, rising from N23,470 to N31,650, which reflects continued pressure on northern supply chains.

“The Trade Fair Market in Lagos also saw a 21.2 per cent rise (N18,550 to N22,491), signalling persistent inflation in urban centres. In Calabar Municipal, prices climbed by 12.0 per cent, while Balogun Market increased by 9.2 per cent, and Awka rose by 11.4 per cent, all pointing to region-specific supply disruptions and transportation challenges,” it noted.

However, the report stated that Abuja’s markets experienced

manufacturing sector improved marginally to 57.0 percent in 2024, up from 55.1 percent in 2023.

He said, “A half-on-half analysis showed a 1.2 percentage point increase in H2 2024 compared to H1 2024. However, persistent challenges such as rising energy costs, forex volatility, and high interest rates constrained further growth.”

The report said sectoral analysis revealed that Non-Metallic Mineral Products, Motor Vehicle & Miscellaneous Assembly, and Chemical & Pharmaceuticals sectors recorded the highest improvements.

It stated that manufacturing output increased modestly by 1.7

moderate yet concerning increases, saying the price in Wuse II climbed by 7.8 per cent, from N28,300 to N30,500, while in Nyanya, it rose by 7.6 per cent, from N25,920 to N27,900.

“Although these increases are not as steep, they underline the ongoing decline in food affordability in Nigeria’s capital,” the report pointed out.

Meanwhile, the report noted that a few markets experienced slight price declines, citing Bodija Market that saw a drop of 1.1 per cent, from N21,170 to N20,930, while Dugbe Market remained relatively stable, with a decrease of 0.5 per cent from N21,670 to N21,560. It said these marginal corrections reflect improved local harvests.

The report further read, “Between September 2024 and March 2025, food inflation persisted across Nigeria, with notable spikes in the North and South-South regions.

per cent year-on-year to N7.78 trillion, and was “buoyed by increased activity in Motor Vehicle & Miscellaneous Assembly, NonMetallic Mineral Products, and Electrical & Electronics.

“However, a half-on-half decline of 3.1 percent in real production reflected rising costs and weak consumer demand.

Nominal manufacturing output rose sharply by 34.9 percent to N33.43 trillion, primarily due to inflationary pressures and rising domestic prices.”

According to the report, the manufacturing sector’s local sourcing of raw material increased to 57.1 per cent in 2024, up from 52.0 per cent in 2023.

The surge in jollof rice preparation costs highlights broader systemic challenges such as fuel price increases, insecurity, transport disruptions, and climate-related supply shocks. For many families, especially in cities like Port Harcourt, Kano, and Bauchi, affording a basic meal is becoming increasingly difficult, signalling a critical need for targeted interventions in food supply stabilisation and market monitoring.”

Still in northern Nigeria, the reoort observed continued volatility in the costs of preparing a pot of jollof rice in Abuja’s Nyanya and Wuse II markets during the period. In Nyanya, for instance, it said prices increased from N25,920 in September 2024 to N27,900 in March 2025, representing a rise of 7.6 per cent.

This shift was largely driven by foreign exchange scarcity, high import costs, and government incentives promoting local content. Notable improvements were observed in Wood & Wood Products, Textile, Apparel & Footwear, and Chemical & Pharmaceuticals, while Electrical & Electronics continued to lag due to dependency on imported components.

But the inventory of unsold finished goods surged by 87.5 per cent to N2.14 trillion in 2024, driven by weakened consumer demand, escalating production costs, and declining purchasing power.

Onwuamaeze

Food Security: FACCO W’Africa Partners Afrimash on Poultry, Livestock Production

FACCO West Africa, a leading provider of innovative solutions for the agriculture sector, has partnered Afrimash, an agri-digital marketplace, to support Nigeria’s poultry and livestock industry and tackle food insecurity.

Managing Director of FACCO West Africa, Mr. Femi Adelayo, said in Lagos that the partnership reinforced their commitment to growing Nigeria’s agricultural sector.

Adelayo asserted that the partnership would connect over 30,000 farmers to reliable input suppliers for products such as

day-old chicks, seedlings, agricultural equipment and fertilisers.

According to him, the collaboration is coming on the heels of bridging the gap of access to quality and reliable equipment that will sustain the food production mission of farmers.

This, he noted, would have a ripple effect impact on the country’s food sufficiency agenda.

He said: “With over four decades of experience, FACCO West Africa is dedicated to providing customised solutions to farmers, helping them achieve optimal production, efficiency, and profitability.

“We are passionate about

Leadway Group Hosts Media Training on Financial Inclusion

Prominent Nigeria’s non-banking financial services organisation, the Leadway group, recently organised its annual media training aimed at enhancing understanding of financial inclusion and wellness for insurance, pension and brand journalists.

The training was designed to improve the quality, depth, and accuracy of media reportage on non-banking financial services coverage, ultimately strengthening the connection between the financial industry and the media.

The company said through its in-house experts from its associate companies, including Leadway Assurance, Pensure, Health, Asset Management,

and Trustees, it put together the capacity-building sessions as part of its broader strategy of equipping media professionals with the right tools to shape narratives and communicate insurance, pension, asset management, trustees, and healthcare management stories with clarity, responsibility, and confidence.

Speaking at the training, Processing Specialist at Leadway Pensure, Mr. Babatunde Lamina, delivered an insightful session on the pensions subsector, specifically on Additional Voluntary Contributions (AVCs). He explained, “AVC, an added contribution into an individual’s Retirement Savings Account (RSA), benefits professionals optimally, towards a more secured financial future.”

JMG Affirms Commitment to Continually Innovate, Marks World Creativity Day

The Group General Manager of JMG Limited, Mr. Rabi Jammal, has stated that the company recognised the importance of creativity and innovation in its giant stride in the delivery of products and services of high standard.

Jammal made this statement as the JMG marked this year’s World Creativity and Innovation Day (WCID), with the them “Step Out and Innovate.”

The WCID is a globally recognised event that creates awareness about the importance of creativity and innovation in all aspects of human development, and in achieving

the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

He affirmed that the company constantly innovates in its offerings in power generation, electrical infrastructures, vertical transportation, cooling systems, solar energy (including Lithion and Livfast inverters) and air compressors, from power to plug, considering its leading position in the electro-mechanical solutions sector.

He said that JMG takes into consideration that creativity and innovation add value to the provision of solutions that leads to increased productivity, the reason the company is considered the market leader in its spheres of operation.

contributing to the growth and development of Nigeria’s agricultural sector. Our cage farming system is the result of our team’s expertise and dedication to providing high-quality solutions that meet the needs of farmers. We believe

that our innovative approach will play a significant role in combating food insecurity in Nigeria.”

Adelayo stated that with FACCO West Africa’s comprehensive range of solutions such as cage farming, pig penning, intelligent feeding systems,

small and large grain storage silos, dryers and other innovative farming techniques, famers would be more empowered to make informed decisions and their operations.

“We provide expert advice, innovative solutions, and sustainable

practices that contribute to efficient farm management and profitable production. FACCO West Africa’s commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction has earned it a reputation as a trusted partner in the agriculture sector,” he added.

Ondo Moves to Use Pension Funds for Infrastructural Devt

Ebere Nwoji

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa has said that Ondo State was exploring opportunities to leverage pension funds for infrastructural development in the state.

The governor disclosed this when he received a delegation from the National Pension Commission (PenCom) led by the Director General, Ms. Omolola Oloworaran in Akure.

The PenCom delegation visited the Governor to discuss critical pension reforms aimed at improving

Legend Internet Plc, Nigeria’s leading last-mile fiber company with a distinct focus on fiber-tothe-home (FTTH) solutions and a pioneer in tech-driven digital services, will be listed on the Main Board Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) tomorrow by Introduction.

Listing by introduction means that Legend Internet has complied with all the listing requirements of NGX.

According to a statement issued by the company’s Chief Marketing Officer, Shakirah Alaga, the forthcoming Listing and Bell-Ringing Ceremony, mark a significant milestone in Legend’s mission to drive digital inclusion and redefine home connectivity

Ebere Nwoji

Lasaco Assurance Plc has announced that it has successfully obtained the ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certification, a globally recognised benchmark for Information Security Management Systems (ISMS).

Lasaco said it clinched the certification after a thorough and detailed re-certification audit, validating its commitment to upholding the highest standards in information security and

welfare for retirees and ensuring compliance with the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS).

Speaking during the visit, Aiyedatiwa extolled the critical role of pension funds in economic development and commended PenCom for its proactive engagement. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the full implementation of the CPS in Ondo State. The Ondo State Pension Commission (OSPEC) scored 72.44 percent in state pension compliance during the last Routine Inspection carried out by PenCom.

across the country.

“Legend’s listing on the NGX is more than a corporate milestone—it’s a national moment, We are building Africa’s most customer-focused internet company, powered by world-class infrastructure and made-in-Nigeria innovation. Going public allows more people to be part of this story and share in the value we’re creating,” said Aisha Abdulaziz, Chief Executive Officer, Legend Internet.

“Built on a bold vision to deliver seamless, secure, and accessible internet for Nigerians, Legend has grown rapidly by combining nationwide fiber infrastructure with a suite of innovative digital

cybersecurity.

The Managing Director, Lasaco Assurance Plc, Mr. Razzaq Abiodun, said ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certification highlights Lasaco’s ongoing efforts to protect confidential information, manage risks, and enhance its approach to information security, aligning with global best practices.

“We are incredibly proud of this achievement, which demonstrates our dedication to maintaining the highest standards of operational

He expressed his aspiration to improve the state’s pension compliance rating from its current composite score of 72.44 to 95, by the next Inspection as challenged by the PenCom DG.

Also speaking, the PenCom DG proposed key amendments to the Ondo State Pension Law, including the introduction of a Minimum Pension Guarantee (MPG) to support indigent contributors and an Irrevocable Standing Payment Order (ISPO) to ensure consistent remittances by successive administrations.

Oloworaran also advocated

products, designed to transform how people live, work, and connect, ”he said.

He added, “With an expanding fiber footprint and a commitment to service excellence, Legend has positioned itself as a dominant force in Nigeria’s connectivity space. But beyond broadband, the company is building a tech ecosystem of services that puts power in the hands of users:

“LegendMail – Nigeria’s first email ecosystem with built-in payments, secure storage, and a unified user ID. Bundling digital services on fiber infrastructure –Creating an integrated digital experience that connects communication, finance, and

excellence and continuous improvement. In today’s digital age, ensuring the safety and security of sensitive information is of paramount importance, and this certification reaffirms our commitment to being a trusted and responsible organisation,” he said.

According to him, ISO/IEC 27001:2022 offers a structured framework for managing and securing critical business information, ensuring that all

for the integration of a Pension Compliance Certificate (PCC) as a mandatory requirement for business licensing, registration renewals, and contract awards within the State. This measure aims to enhance compliance and accountability in pension remittances by employers. Additionally, the PenCom DG raised concerns identified during OSPEC’s last Routine Inspection, urging prompt resolution to improve the state’s pension compliance rating. Governor Aiyedatiwa promised that the state would address most of the concerns before the next inspection.

storage in one ecosystem. These tools are designed to help Nigerians manage their digital lives more efficiently, while remaining locally built, locally relevant, and globally inspired.”

“Legend’s listing on NGX will enable the company to accelerate its nationwide expansion, invest in local talent, enhance technology stack, and deepen customer engagement across both consumer and enterprise markets.

“We’ve proven that innovation can be born here, scaled here, and listed here, As we go public, we are unlocking new growth opportunities—not just for Legend, but for Nigeria’s digital economy at large.” added Abdulaziz.

aspects of the organisation’s information security are addressed through proactive risk management.

Also speaking, Head of IT, Lasaco Assurance, Mr. Dimeji Ogundele said, “This certification affirms Lasaco Assurance’s robust commitment to safeguarding sensitive data against emerging cyber threats. Moving forward, we remain dedicated to ensuring the highest level of information security, compliance, and excellence in all our operations.”

Dike Onwuamaeze

Dike Onwuamaeze

Ebere Nwoji

L–R: Head, SME Segments, Union Bank of Nigeria Ayokunnumi Abraham; 3rd place winner, Ruth Ogbodu; 1st place winner, Yemisi Otokiti; 2nd place winner, Olanrewaju Amodu; Alpher Experience Manager, Union Bank of Nigeria, Chinenye Ekwulugo; Brand Sponsorship and Partnership, Union Bank, Ebunoluwa Amusan and Convener, Youth Leadership Conference,Olusegun Odufuwa during the RISE Business Challenge sponsored by Union Bank held at the University of Lagos, Akoka… recently

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 April-2025, unless otherwise stated.

DAILY PRICE LIST FOR MUTUAL FUNDS, REITS and ETFS

CBEX: SEC Warns Bloggers, Influencers against PromotingUnregistered Schemes

Kayode Tokede

Following the crash of CBEX, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has issued a warning to social media influencers and bloggers, cautioning them against promoting unregistered investment schemes.

The SEC emphasised that it is working closely with law enforcement agencies, including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Nigerian Police Force (NPF), and other relevant government bodies, to investigate and prosecute violators.

Director General of the SEC, Dr. Emomotimi Agama, stated that the Investments and Securities Act (ISA) 2025 specifically targets promoters of unregistered schemes, urging celebrities, social media influencers, and bloggers

to steer clear of endorsing such ventures to avoid legal consequences.

“The law also targets influencers and bloggers who promote fraudulent schemes, with clear penalties including imprisonment. We are therefore using this medium to warn such persons to desist from promoting unregistered entities”.

He said the SEC is intensifying efforts to combat Ponzi schemes following the enactment of the Investments and Securities Act (ISA) 2025, a landmark law signed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The new legislation explicitly defines Ponzi schemes and introduces stringent sanctions, including a minimum fine of N20 million and a 10-year jail term for promoters of such fraudulent schemes. He emphasised the Commission’s capacity and readiness to tackle

Ponzi schemes, stating, “SEC is capable, has the capacity, has the knowhow and of course will be able to deal with anyone caught in this mess”.

He highlighted that the SEC has dealt with similar schemes before and will continue to do so, leveraging the new powers granted by ISA 2025 to protect investors and develop the market.

“The recent collapse of CBEX, a digital investment platform accused of defrauding Nigerians of over N1.3 trillion, has underscored the urgency of this crackdown. CBEX promised unrealistic returns, doubling investments within a month, and deceived many with false claims of global affiliations” He noted, “We will shut down their operations and the promoters will be made to face the full weight of the law.”

CBN Acting Director Named Outstanding Spokesperson in Banking Sector

James Emejo in Abuja

The acting Director, Corporate Communications Department of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Hakama Sidi-Ali, has won the Outstanding Spokesperson (Banking Sector) award at the 2025 National Spokespersons Awards, which is the second recognition in a row.

The ceremony held in Abuja was part of the 2025 National Spokespersons’ Summit grand finale.

Organised by the Nigeria Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) in collaboration with Image Merchants Promotion Limited (IMPR), the publisher of PRNigeria and Spokespersons Digest. The awards celebrate innovation and professionalism in public communication across public and private sectors.

NIPR President Dr. Ike Neliaku and Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Hon. Rotimi Akintunde Jr., commended SidiAli and other recipients for their exemplary standards in the field and encouraged them to maintain the qualities that garnered national recognition.

Sidi-Ali was lauded for her proactive communication strategies in connecting the central bank and Nigerians since assuming office. Her significant role in countering misinformation regarding the introduction of N5,000 and N10,000 banknotes calmed public concern and maintained financial stability, the organisers noted.

Experts also acknowledged her adept dissemination during Nigeria’s recent negotiations with the United States over the new tariffs, saying it underscores her proficiency in international

economic diplomacy.

The 2025 ceremony showcased a variety of individuals and institutions excelling in strategic communication and public affairs. It also underlined the critical role of credible voices in shaping public perception, fostering institutional trust, and enhancing democratic accountability.

Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL)’s Olufemi Soneye, was named Distinguished Spokesperson (Oil and Gas).

With over 20 categories covered, including health, marine, hospitality, power, insurance, and crisis management, the awards emphasised the growing importance of public relations and strategic communication as essential components of governance and corporate reputation.

Stanbic IBTC Trustees Wins Award for Customer Focus

Nume Ekeghe

Stanbic IBTC Trustees, a subsidiary of Stanbic IBTC Holdings, has been recognised as the Most Customer-Focused Trust and Investment Company of the Year at the 2025 West Africa Innovation Awards (WAIA).

The Trustee was honoured with the prestigious Diamond Award for Customer Service Excellence, affirming its leadership in delivering customer-centric fiduciary and investment solutions across the region. The recognition received at the award ceremony which was held in Lagos recently. In a statement commenting on the recognition, the Chief Executive Designate, Stanbic IBTC Trustees, Emi AgabaOloja, expressed gratitude for the award: “Being recognised as the most customer-focused trust and investment company of the year is both humbling and inspiring. This award reflects the strong relationships we have built with our clients and our commitment to not only meet expectations but to consistently exceed them

through innovative and ethical service delivery.”

Emi further added, “What sets Stanbic IBTC Trustees apart is our willingness to embrace innovation in a traditionally conservative industry. As we work on digital onboarding to bespoke trust solutions, we strive to simplify complex processes and deliver insights that empower our clients. Our goal is to make trusteeship more responsive, inclusive, and accessible to Nigerians. A sincere thank you to our clients, partners and the incredible team that continue to drive our success.”

Union Bank Empowers Young Nigerian Entrepreneurs

Nume Ekeghe

Union Bank of Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing local enterprise through its Made in Naija initiative, with a recent sponsorship of the RISE Business Challenge at the University of Lagos, Akoka. The competition was held as part of the 6th Annual Youth Leadership Conference, a platform designed to inspire and empower young Nigerians.

Dubbed Turning Point 6.0, the Resilience, Innovation, Social Responsibility, and Entre-

preneurship (RISE) Challenge is a collaboration between Union Bank and the conference convener, Mr Olusegun Odufuwa, to empower youth-led businesses with financial and mentorship support through a pitch competition.

The bank noted that the event targets at uplifting young men and women with requisite entrepreneurial skills, the event aligns with one of the Bank’s primary objectives of encouraging Made in Naija and the next generation of Nigerian innovators and business leaders, culminating in positive social impact and sustainable

economic growth. The competition also aims to identify and reward outstanding business ideas demonstrating viability, sustainability, and social impact. This year’s RISE Challenge winners were chosen after a rigorous selection process involving participants sending their proposals for a team of judges and business experts to assess.

The final four selected competitors then pitched their ideas individually to a panel of judges, who chose the winners based on innovation, social impact, sustainability, and financial viability.

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

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

Nigerian Breweries Migrates from N65.58bn Loss to N69.99bn PBT

Kayode Tokede

The management of Nigerian Breweries Plc has turnaround its recent poor results to positive outcome with its first quarter ended March 31, 2025 showing a migration from a loss of N65.58billion in Q1 2024 to N69.99 billion profit before tax in Q1 2025.

The Q1 2025 unaudited result and accounts released on the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) showed that the multinational

company declared a profit of N44.55 billion in the period under review as against N52.09billion loss declared in the corresponding period of 2024.

From the profit & loss figures, Nigerian Breweries recorded a significant increase in revenue and reduction in net loss on foreign exchange transactions that played a critical role in profit generation in Q1 2025.

As revenue closed Q1 2025 at N383.64 billion, up by 68.6 per cent from N227.12 billion in Q1

2024, net loss on foreign exchange transactions moved from N72.85 billion in Q1 2024 to N178 million in Q1 2025.

The Company Secretary, Nigerian Breweries, Uaboi Agbebaku in a signed statement stated that the company is building on the strong momentum from the last quarter of 2024, as the Group recorded a 69 per cent year-on-year revenue growth in the Q1 2025.

“This performance was driven by deeper market penetration, sustained innovation, strong com-

mercial execution, and improved customer engagement. Strategic pricing initiatives and enhanced supply chain efficiencies further contributed to the topline expansion,” the statement explained.

He explained further that, “Despite Nigeria’s volatile macroeconomic environment marked by high inflation and constrained disposable income, the Company delivered a strong performance in the quarter, driven by a continued focus on agility, innovation, and disciplined

execution.

“Notably, the group operating profit rose by 238 per cent, underscoring the Company’s relentless focus on cost discipline and productivity enhancement. The significant improvement in the operating profit reflects both volume and value growth, as well as the benefits from the business recovery and process optimisation initiatives undertaken in 2024.

“The Group also recorded a 186 per cent increase in net

profit, sustaining the return to profitability that started in the last quarter of 2024, and reflecting the full impact of financial restructuring and cost-saving initiatives implemented as part of its business recovery plan.

“Importantly, net finance expenses dropped by 83 per cent, a direct result of the prudent utilisation of proceeds from the 2024 Rights Issue, which were used to reduce foreign currency liabilities and optimise the company’s capital structure. “

PRICES FOR SECURITIES TRADED ASOF APRIL/22/25

Ooni of Ife Hosts Books Presentation to Honour Oyeweso’s Scholarly Excellence,

Cultural Preservation

Funmi Ogundare

The ancient town of Ife, weekend, witnessed a grand convergence of royalty, academia and cultural enthusiasts, as Siyan Oyeweso, a Professor of History, Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Obafemi Awolowo University, was celebrated with the public presentation of four books authored and edited by him.

The event, held at the Oodua Heritage House, Ooni’s Palace, Osun State was graced by the Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi and other dignitaries.

The books, ‘Perspectives on Higher Education and Good Governance in Nigeria’, ‘Expanding the Pantheon of Yoruba Gurus’, ‘Ede Mapo Arogun’, and the reissued ‘Eminent Yoruba Muslims of the 19th and Early 20th Centuries’, reflect decades of Oyeweso’s scholarly commitment to national development, cultural identity, and historical preservation.

The books reviewer, Dr. Saheed Amusa of Obafemi Awolowo University, com-

mended the author for “offering deep, multifaceted insights into Nigeria’s governance, educational system, religious heritage, and Yoruba nationalism.”

While commending Oyeweso’s scholarly reach and influence across institutions like OAU, Lagos State University, and Osun State University, Amusa noted the professor’s unique ability to bridge academic excellence with cultural advocacy.

He said that the books exemplify the synergy between historical hindsight and developmental foresight.

“The first book, Perspectives on Higher Education and Good Governance in Nigeria’, edited with Prof. Sola Akinrinade, brings together scholars from Nigeria, the US, and the UK, dissecting themes from education funding to anti-corruption efforts.

“The second, ‘Expanding the Pantheon of Yoruba Gurus’, is a powerful biographical compendium of iconic Yoruba figures, monarchs, intellectuals, military heroes, and business pioneers; emphasising the Yoruba contributions to nation-building.

RECTEM Matriculates 214, Restates Commitment to Developing Well-Rounded Individuals

Mary Nnah

Redeemer’s College of Technology and Management (RECTEM), a faith-based institution in Mowe, Ogun State, has matriculated 214 students for its National Diploma and Higher National Diploma programmes across four schools: School of Engineering Technology, School of Environmental Studies, School of Management Studies, and School of Science and Technology.

This marks the institution’s seventh matriculation ceremony, a testament to its commitment to providing quality education.

The Rector, Dr. Stella Mofunanya, emphasised the institution’s commitment to providing students with a holistic education that combines academic excellence with spiritual growth and development.

She assured students and parents of uncompromising qualitative training and skills that will prepare them for the future, enabling them to contribute to national development.

She also harped on the institution’s zero-tolerance policy for cultism, hooliganism, corruption, and other social menaces, emphasising the importance of maintaining a safe and conducive learning environment.

The rector encouraged students to take advantage of the numerous opportunities available to them, engage in academic and extracurricular

NTIC Rewards Exceptional Students with N200m Scholarship

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

The Nigerian Tulip International Colleges (NTIC) has awarded scholarships worth over N200 million to outstanding students across the country.

The initiative, which recognises academic excellence and promotes access to quality education, marks one of the institution’s most significant educational support efforts.

The scholarships were presented during the 22nd Annual National Mathematics Competition (ANMC), organised by NTIC, in collaboration with the National Mathematical Centre (NMC).

It honoured top-performing students from primary and junior secondary school categories while

winners, along with their schools and teachers received tuition discounts, cash rewards and educational gadgets.

Fifty two students from primary 5 and 6, as well as junior secondary categories, were recognised for their exceptional performance in mathematics. Over 50 pupils received scholarships and cash prizes.

In the primary category, Shedrack Udeh Jnr. of Diamond Special School, Imo State, won the gold medal; Olasehinde Darasimi of Genius Tonic Heights School, Ondo State, got silver; while Ifeanyi Einstein from Pleroma International School, Rivers State, secured the bronze medal.

In the junior secondary cat-

egory, Kaetochukwu Uzoewulu of Hillrange Secondary School, Enugu, won silver, while Eghosa James of Beacon of Success School, Edo State, earned the bronze medal.

Winners received cash prizes ranging from N100,000 to N500,000, along with partial or full tuition scholarships.

Teachers and schools of top-performing students also received cash rewards between N100,000 and N400,000, as well as educational tools such as tablets, printers, and desktop computers.

NTIC Managing Director, Fevzullah Bilgin, reaffirmed the school’s commitment to promoting excellence in mathematics and other critical disciplines.

“Our objective is to ignite stu-

dents’ passion for mathematics from an early age. ANMC is one of Nigeria’s largest mathematics competitions, and mathematics is key in solving real-life challenges,” he said. Bilgin noted that about 90 students are currently benefitting from the NTIC-ANMC scholarship programme, which is fully sponsored by the institution. He emphasised NTIC’s dedication to nurturing talents in mathematics, describing the subject as fundamental to intellectual growth and national development.

At the award ceremony in Abuja, Bilgin explained that the competition aims to identify and support students with exceptional mathematical ability.

activities, participate in community service, and build relationships with their peers and mentors.

The Registrar, Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, represented by Abdulhakeem Abdulhakeem, Ogun State Coordinator of JAMB, commended RECTEM for successfully hosting last year’s training for admission officers of tertiary institutions in the state. Oloyede stated that all admissions are conducted through the Central Admission Process System (CAPS), emphasizing that any admission not processed through CAPS is invalid.

“We will expose you when you are not doing the right thing. I have the authority of the registrar to tell you that your admissions are well processed, analyzed and approved.”

He advised RECTEM management to sustain the standards, ensuring that the institution continues to provide quality education for its students.

The Executive Secretary of the National Board for Technical Education, Prof. Idris Bugaje, represented by Ayo Aroge, commended RECTEM for running an unbroken seventh matriculation ceremony without any break in the academic calendar. Bugaje encouraged students to acquire skills that would make them self-sustaining after graduation, stressing that the curriculum is designed to equip them with hands-on skills.

ScholarGPS Honours Nigerian AI Expert Among 0.05% of 30m Scholars Worldwide

Oluchi Chibuzor

In recognition of his exceptional productivity, noteworthy impact and quality of scholarly work, ScholarGPS has recognised Nigerian artificial intelligence expert Prof. Celestine Iwendi among the top 0.05 per cent of over 30 million scholars worldwide.

The award was based on their scholarly productivity, impact, and the quality of research output over the past five years.

In a statement, the President and CEO of ScholarGPS, Amir

Faghri, said that the award was in recognition of his Scholarly prowess in 2024.

“Celestine Iwendi is honoured as a 2024 Highly Ranked Scholar, prior five years in all fields of scholarly endeavour as conferred by ScholarGPS in recognition of exceptional productivity, noteworthy impact and quality of scholarly work in the top 0.05 per cent of 30 million scholars worldwide,” said Faghri.

Reacting to the honour, Iwendi said that the recognition is a personal milestone and a powerful testament to the impact of collaboration, consistency, and

purpose-driven research.

Iwendi said, “To be counted among the world’s most productive and influential researchers across all disciplines is both humbling and deeply motivating. Over the past five years, my work has spanned across AI, cybersecurity, wireless sensor networks, data science, and the Internet of Things—with a strong commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

“Being honoured in all fields of scholarly endeavour places recipients among an elite group of academics who have made

exceptional contributions across multiple disciplines.”

He added that whether in mentoring students, collaborating with international scholars, or developing applied research that addresses real-world challenges, “my aim has always been to ensure that knowledge doesn’t sit on a shelf - it moves people, powers change, and solves problems.

Iwendi advised young scholars to be dedicated to their work. He described the award as a renewed call to action, as there is still much more to explore, innovate and share.

Dan Okehi @70, to Launch Four Books for Birthday

As part of activities lined up to celebrate his 70th birthday on May 6, 2025, an insurance icon and role model, Dr. Daniel Okehi will make a public presentation of four books: ‘Heirs of Righteousness’, ‘Realities of God’s Grace’, ‘Jesus, the Game Changer’, and the ‘Transformal and Compelling Leadership’. The public presentation will hold on Saturday, May 10, 2025 at the Muson Centre, Onikan Lagos, under the chairmanship of Major General Ike

Nwachukwu. On Sunday, May 11, 2025, there will be a special thanksgiving service at The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM), International headquarters, Anthony Oke, Gbagada, Lagos.

Okehi is a distinguished figure in the Nigerian insurance and financial sector, with over four decades of professional experience.

He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Insurance and a Master’s degree in Management, both from University of

Lagos. Dr. Okehi is a seasoned leader and life-long learner and also an alumnus of the Lagos Business School’s Chief Executive Programme (CEP5) and a fellow of several prestigious institutions, including the Chartered Insurance Institute (London and Nigeria), Council of Registered Insurance Brokers of Nigeria and the Enterprise Risk Management Association of Nigeria.

As a scholar, Okehi earned his PhD in Management from Walden University, Min-

neapolis, MN, USA, where his ground breaking research focused on ‘Modelling Risk Management in Banks: Examining Why Banks Fail’.

As a prolific writer, Okehi, is the author of multiple influential works including ‘Modeling Risk Management in Banks; Examining why Banks Fail’ and the ‘Creator of the Brickred Banking Risk Softwares (BBRS), an innovative tool revolutionizing risk management in banking operations.

Beneficiaries of the scholarship awarded by the Nigerian Tulip International Colleges, during the 22nd Annual National Mathematics Competition, organised by NTIC, in collaboration with the National Mathematical Centre, in Abuja... recently

ProPerty & environment

Laudato si’: Pope Francis’ Critical Call for Protection of the Environment

Bennett Oghifo

In 2015, Pope Francis, in an encyclical on care for the environment, Laudato si’, called on humanity to be mindful of a crucial need to protect the environment in pursuit of development.

The encyclical, a letter from the Pope to Roman Catholic bishops, often about the Church’s official opinion on a subject, was the first ever written by a Pope on the subject of the environment, and it quickly gained traction both inside and outside the Church, according to the Vatican News.

The Pope said, “The universe unfolds in God, who fills it completely. Hence, there is a mystical meaning to be found in a leaf, in a mountain trail, in a dewdrop, in a poor person’s face. Standing awestruck before a mountain, we cannot separate this experience from God.”

The Pope condemned “politics concerned with immediate results, supported by consumerist sectors of the population driven to produce short-term growth.”

He said humanity needs “a new way of thinking about human beings, life, society and our relationship with nature.”

The Pope’s letter was received positively all over the

world. The Vatican News said, “UN Secretary-General Ban Kimoon praised the document for its “moral voice,” while the Indian novelist Pankaj Mishra called it “arguably the most important piece of intellectual criticism in our time.”

Vatican News said, “Laudato si’ also had an impact on policy. The encyclical is often credited with helping to build consensus in the run-up to the 2015 UN Climate Change Conference in Paris, at which 196 countries signed a treaty pledging to keep global warming to below 2°C.

“From contemplation to action Laudato si’ combines, on the one hand, striking, and at times poetic, theological reflections on the importance of care for the natural world with, on the other, calls for radical political action.”

Titled ‘Encyclical Letter Laudato Si’ Of The Holy Father Francis On Care For Our Common Home’, Pope Francis, in the section “My appeal” stated “The urgent challenge to protect our common home includes a concern to bring the whole human family together to seek a sustainable and integral development, for we know that things can change. The Creator does not abandon us; he never forsakes his loving plan or repents of having

created us. Humanity still has the ability to work together in building our common home. Here I want to recognise, encourage and thank all those striving in countless ways to guarantee the protection of the home which we share.

Particular appreciation is owed to those who tirelessly seek to resolve the tragic effects of environmental degradation on the lives of the world’s poorest.

“Young people demand change. They wonder how anyone can claim to be building a better future without thinking of the environmental crisis and the sufferings of the excluded.

“I urgently appeal, then, for a new dialogue about how we are shaping the future of our planet. We need a conversation which includes everyone, since the environmental challenge we are undergoing, and its human roots, concern and affect us all. The worldwide ecological movement has already made considerable progress and led to the establishment of numerous organizations committed to raising awareness of these challenges. “Regrettably, many efforts to seek concrete solutions to the environmental crisis have proved ineffective, not only because of powerful opposition but also because of a more general lack of

interest. “Obstructionist attitudes, even on the part of believers, can range from denial of the problem to indifference, nonchalant resignation or blind confidence in technical solutions. We require a new and universal solidarity. As the bishops of Southern Africa have stated: “Everyone’s talents and involvement are needed to redress the damage caused by human abuse of God’s creation”. All of us can cooperate as instruments of God for the care of creation, each according to his or her own culture, experience, involvements and

talents.

“It is my hope that this Encyclical Letter, which is now added to the body of the Church’s social teaching, can help us to acknowledge the appeal, immensity and urgency of the challenge we face.”

Vatican News said, “One of the major consequences of Laudato si’ was a significant increase in Catholic environmental activism.

Several new Catholic environmental organisations were founded in direct response to the encyclical, from the global

Laudato Si’ Movement to the Laudato Si’ Research Institute at Campion Hall, Oxford.

“Other, pre-existing organisations—including Caritas Internationalis, the Catholic Church’s charitable arm—expanded their work on environmental questions.

“There is even some evidence, published in a 2019 article in the journal Biological Conservation, that Laudato si’ led to a worldwide increase in interest in environmental issues – an increase especially prominent in, but not restricted to, Catholic countries.”

Nigerians Urged to Play Role in Climate Action, Earth’s Conservation

Bennett Oghifo

Nigerians have been urged to play individual roles in the environmental conservation as a way of mitigating the harmful consequences of climate change.

The advice came up at THE HERDS in Lagos on Easter Sunday.

THE HERDS, a particularly unique and intriguing initiative in this category, blends art with climate advocacy and will visit major cities worldwide in 2025, including Lagos, Nigeria.

Produced globally by The Walk Productions, THE HERDS is a public art and climate project featuring lifesize puppet animals fleeing their ecosystems in response

to a rapidly changing climate that’s adversely affecting their well-being and way of life. For years, scientists, leading world organisations, and various NGOs have called for meaningful collective climate action. THE HERDS is doing the same, but with a focus on creating experiences and evoking emotions that will make people care enough to take responsibility.

The Director General of the Nigerian Conservation Foundation, Dr. Joseph Onoja said, “We are here because of THE HERDS. And this particular programme is to showcase the migration of THE HERDS. If you heard about the great Serengeti migration,

that is migration of animals from one point to the other, especially when the place they are is dry. They normally move to a greener place to go and get more fodder or more forage. So that’s why they move from one point to the other. But it also shows the importance of the cycle of life, because sometimes when an area is not conducive, animals normally move from one point to other, apart from terrestrial animals, even aquatic animals move as well.

But this particular event is organised to showcase how interconnected humans are to nature and also what role that we need to play to create that awareness, so that humans will know that we are not alone in

this. Animals are part of our survival here on Earth.”

He explained that “Usually there’s a migratory pattern for animals, and because of the change in the climatic condition, those migratory patterns are being interrupted. And once you interrupt it, it affects us as humans. “Whatever I’m saying, I want to tie it back to us as humans, because at the end of the day, that is what matters, what happens to us as humans? “These animals don’t just exist on their own. They exist to provide what we call ecosystem service. And once this ecosystem service is no longer there, the ecosystem collapses, and this is the ecosystem that is supposed to protect and

support us as humans. So if it collapses, then we’ll be in big trouble. That is why it’s very important for us to continue to create awareness on this.

“Everybody is involved in the conservation of the earth. So ask yourself, what role are you playing to conserve the planet? Because as long as we conserve the planet, then the planet will be able to conserve us. But if we don’t protect the planet, then the planet will not be able to protect us. And as I come to say about the ecosystem service they provide for us, the fresh air we have, the fresh water that we have, the animals that we have, the plants that we have, the food that we have, are all very important.

Pumpkin Property CEO, Receives Trailblazer Award

Bennett Oghifo

The Chairman of Pumpkin Holdings, Engr. Oladeji Bamidele, was honoured

on Saturday April 12, 2025 with the Trailblazer Award for Impact and Creativity in Business, at the Business Growth

Conference, held at the prestigious Abuja Continental Hotel (Ladi Kwali Hall), Abuja. Presented by the Stephen Akintayo Foundation, the award recognises Deji’s exceptional creativity in business and his far-reaching impact on the Real Estate sector in Nigeria, according to a statement by the Head, Marketing Communications, Pumpkin Holdings, Helen Mashat.

At the core of this recognition is the groundbreaking work being led by Pumpkin Property, one of Nigeria’s fastest-growing real estate development and invest -

ment companies.

Under his innovative leadership, Pumpkin Property has emerged as a dominant force in Nigeria’s real estate industry, delivering innovative property solutions that address the housing needs of a growing urban population.

The company is known for its commitment to quality, sustainability, and long-term value creation. From luxury residential estates to smart commercial hubs, Pumpkin Property consistently raises the bar in real estate development, customer engagement, and investment performance.

Deji’s impactful leadership style has been pivotal in positioning Pumpkin Property not just as a property development company, but as a driver of socio-economic growth. Through strategic partnerships, investorfocused projects, and community-driven initiatives, the company is redefining the real estate narrative across Nigeria.

His forward-thinking approach and emphasis on structural integrity, transparency, and innovation have earned Pumpkin Property, the trust of investors, homeowners, and industry stakeholders alike.

“As Nigerians, we are certainly not doing enough, and that’s why we continue to create avenues to create awareness so that we will know what role that we need to play.”

Onoja said the government’s policies on environment and conservation were not being implemented properly. “The government has policies, but those policies are not being implemented as they should. “But even apart from the government, as Nigerians, we have a big role to play. It’s not the government that goes around and clear forests, it is humans, it is individuals that are involved in it, so we need to know that our role is very important in all of this.

The Trailblazer Award stands as a testament to his relentless pursuit of excellence and his unwavering belief in the transformative power of real estate. It also underscores Pumpkin/s Property ongoing mission to build thriving communities and create wealth through affordable homeownership and investment. As the company scales new heights, it remains focused on delivering world-class real estate experiences while contributing meaningfully to the national housing agenda and the broader economic landscape.

Pope Francis planting trees

L-R: Chairman, Gtext Holdings, Dr Stephen Akintayo; and Chairman, Pumpkin Holdings, Engr Oladeji Bamidele

POLITY

CARICOM’s Illusory Citizenshipby-Investment Passports

Femi Tex Ogunkolati

Historically, many CARICOM countries (like St. Kitts & Nevis, Antigua & Barbuda, Dominica, and others) were monoculture economies, heavily reliant on sugar production as their main export crop. As global sugar prices fell and preferential trade terms were dismantled in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, these countries faced serious economic and fiscal crises. Faced with these challenges, several CARICOM nations turned to Citizenship-by-Investment (CBI) programmes starting in the 1980s (notably St. Kitts & Nevis in 1984) and expanded them in the 2000s as an alternative revenue stream.

Over the past two decades, CBI programmes colloquially known as “golden passports” have been promoted across several CARICOM states as innovative pathways to development finance. For small, open economies with narrow production bases, the prospect of attracting foreign capital through the sale of citizenship seemed like a geopolitical lifeline. But beneath the glossy rhetoric lies a murkier reality: these schemes have delivered far fewer socio-economic benefits than originally promised while introducing substantial governance risks and undermining national sovereignty. Yet, ultimately, the reliance on these schemes has made them analogous to the mono-crop reliance on sugar, which they were meant to ameliorate.

From hope to hollow promise

The original justification for CBI programs was simple: by offering citizenship in exchange for investment, small states could attract muchneeded capital inflows that would diversify their economies, fund critical infrastructure, and stimulate job creation. In practice, this has proven to be a fiction, or at least a heavily embellished aspiration.

Across CARICOM countries like Dominica, St. Kitts and Nevis, Antigua and Barbuda, Grenada, and St. Lucia, CBI revenues have often been used to plug fiscal deficits or finance recurrent expenditure, not long-term development or transformative capital projects. There is a distinct lack of transparency around where the money goes. Little to no empirical data has been presented to show that these funds have catalysed structural economic change.

Portugal’s wake-up call

For perspective, consider Portugal, often cited as a success story in golden visa discourse. Since launching its golden visa programme in 2012, Portugal attracted over €6 billion in foreign capital. Yet, by 2022, the Portuguese government itself admitted that the programme had largely failed to produce productive investment or meaningful economic externalities beyond real estate speculation. Rising property prices driven by foreign buyers contributed to a housing affordability crisis in Lisbon and Porto, fuelling public resentment. In 2023, Portugal officially ended its golden visa programme, recognising that the societal costs outweighed the modest economic gains.

If a diversified EU country like Portugal, replete with regulatory capacity, independent oversight, and a robust property market, could not channel golden visa funds into long-term productive investment, how much more vulnerable are CARICOM states with weaker governance and thinner institutional buffers?

The phantom of investment

At the heart of the CBI promise lies a semantic deception that the funds exchanged for citizenship constitute “investment.” In conventional economic terms, investment implies a commitment of capital that yields future income or productive capacity: think factories, tech startups, infrastructure, or human capital development. However, in most Caribbean CBI programmes, this is simply not what occurs. The vast majority of applicants opt for the donation route, a one-time, non-refundable contribution to a government-controlled fund often called a “National Development Fund” or equivalent. These funds are generally absorbed into consolidated revenue and used for recurrent expenditures such as public salaries, social programmes, or debt service. This is, in effect, fiscal patchwork, not structural transformation. It temporarily relieves fiscal pressure but leaves no lasting capital base.

Where there is a mandated “investment”, usually in real estate, it tends to be highly speculative, restricted to pre-approved projects linked to a small number of politically connected developers (PEPs). These developments are typically in the tourism sector: luxury resorts, condominiums, or villas with limited local linkages. The result? A proliferation of under-occupied or incomplete real estate developments that are used more as

passport-qualifying assets than revenue-generating enterprises. In Grenada and Antigua, for example, several so-called CBI resorts have become “zombie projects” built just enough to qualify for citizenship but left to languish afterwards with little benefit to local workers or suppliers. In Nevis, Tamarind Cove is a cold and stark reminder of such projects. Moreover, the Caribbean model has encouraged “investment stacking”, a practice where one property is sold multiple times to different citizenship applicants, raising serious concerns about valuation fraud, regulatory oversight, and financial crime. In contrast to traditional foreign direct investment (FDI), which typically brings technical expertise, employment, and long-term capital commitment, CBI inflows are passive, non-anchored, and highly mobile. Once the passport is issued, the investor is not obligated to remain engaged with the country in any way. In short, these are not investments. They are transactions. The economic benefit is shallow, short-term, and increasingly unreliable.

Governance gaps and reputational risk

CARICOM’s CBI programmes not only generate questionable economic returns they also introduce dangerous vulnerabilities in governance, institutional integrity, and international relations. One of the primary concerns is weak due diligence. Though governments claim to vet applicants thoroughly, the speed and commercial pressures involved in these programmes often undermine that process. In practice, due diligence is often outsourced to third-party firms, and the checks vary widely in quality and rigour. Investigative reporting and leaks (including the 2021 Pandora Papers) have revealed how politically exposed persons (PEPs), fugitives, and individuals with questionable backgrounds have used Caribbean CBI programmes to obtain second passports and obscure their financial dealings. In one notable case, Dominica was found to have issued passports to individuals allegedly involved in organised crime and sanctioned regimes. Similarly, reports emerged that St. Kitts and Nevis had granted citizenship to Iranian nationals during sanctions periods, resulting in Canada revoking visa-free access for St. Kitts passport holders in 2014. The reputational fallout is significant. International partners, particularly the United States and the European Union, view lax CBI regimes as soft spots

in the global security architecture. U.S. senators, including Marco Rubio, the new Secretary of State, have raised red flags about these programmes becoming “vectors for transnational crime, sanctions evasion, and espionage.” There have been discussions in Washington about suspending visa waivers or introducing targeted restrictions on Caribbean nationals from countries that persist in selling passports.

More than symbolic

Many CARICOM states depend on their passports enjoying visa-free access to Schengen and U.S. zones for business, tourism, and diaspora connectivity. A tarnished passport directly reduces the value proposition of citizenship for both genuine citizens and CBI applicants alike.

To that extent, these programmes are inherently flawed in their overreliance on the goodwill and immigration policies of external jurisdictions. Their appeal lies largely in the visa-free access they grant to powerful blocs like the EU Schengen Zone and the United Kingdom and implies preferred access to Canada and the United States. However, these benefits are not guaranteed and are entirely dependent on external diplomatic relationships and perceived programme integrity. For example, African nationals, particularly high-net-worth individuals, have increasingly acquired Caribbean CBI passports as a gateway to global mobility and access to international banking and education systems. Yet, any inevitable unilateral policy change by the EU or U.S.—such as imposing visa restrictions due to perceived lax due diligence will instantly erode the value of these passports, making the investment far less attractive and meaning Africans would have simply wasted their money.

Internally, CBI programmes often distort domestic politics. Given the large sums of money at stake, these schemes invite corruption, political patronage, and opacity from the parties in power. Many lack any oversight or independent audits, and where key contracts (such as those with marketing agents) are shrouded in secrecy. This undermines public trust in government and breeds resentment among citizens who feel their nationality is being auctioned off to the highest bidder. Furthermore, sovereignty itself becomes compromised. When decisions about who gets

to be a citizen are effectively outsourced to global intermediaries and commercial interests, the state loses control over one of its most fundamental attributes: its people.

More recently, U.S. officials have raised the alarm about the use of Caribbean passports by nationals from countries such as China and Russia, prompting discussions of potential visa restrictions on CARICOM states. The writing appears to be on the wall with the new President Donald Trump administration, which views Caribbean passports as potentially compromised, and the diplomatic fallout will far outweigh any short-term revenue gain and make it difficult for citizens of those Caribbean nations and hapless CBI investors who had drunk the ‘cool aide’.

A race to the bottom?

One of the most perverse aspects of the Caribbean CBI market is its competitive structure. With multiple countries offering similar products, the only real levers of competition are price and laxity of standards. This has created a race to the bottom where countries cut fees, reduce vetting times, and offer bulk passport deals to agents and intermediaries to stay competitive. This commodification of sovereignty erodes the integrity of citizenship itself.

The latest trend among CBI agents has been the bundling of Caribbean passports with cryptocurrencies, offshore accounts, and global mobility packages, a dystopian mix of financial arbitrage, digital nomadism, and state-enabled statelessness.

Alternatives exist

It is clear that the development promise of CBI programmes has been overstated and poorly evidenced. The idea that selling passports would translate into broad-based prosperity has not materialised in either the Caribbean or Europe. Instead of relying on the morally and economically fraught sale of citizenship, CARICOM states should invest in regional economic cooperation, climate finance, renewable energy partnerships, and the digital services economy. These offer more durable paths to development and do not compromise the sanctity of national identity or geopolitical trust.

Conclusion: Time to rethink the model

The CARICOM CBI model is broken and is now at a point of inflection. As the United States rethinks its visa policy and as international scrutiny intensifies, the window for these schemes to operate in their current form is closing fast, and some have suggested that 2025 spells the beginning of the inevitable end for these schemes. It is hoped that this was at the forefront of the Prime Minister of St Kitts’ recent visit to Nigeria, where it was said that he engaged with President Bola Tinubu to pursue strengthened bilateral ties with Nigeria, particularly in agriculture, food security, energy, logistics, and trade and the visit was not, as some have suggested, cover to sell hapless Nigerians CBI passports.

Rather than clinging to a flawed CBI development tool, Caricom regional leaders must engage in honest appraisal and consider whether the sale of sovereignty and passports is a price worth paying for ephemeral gains. Because when citizenship becomes a commodity, the nation itself becomes collateral.

- Femi Tex Ogunkolati is a British Nigerian investor and consultant specialising in project and global finance. He is renowned for the nuanced perspective his incisive commentaries bring to complex economic issues shaping the Global South and beyond.

Port Zante & Basseterre in St Kitts

Pinney’sBeachinNevis

How Moneda’s Strategic Partnership in Namibia will Bridge SME Financial Gaps, Drive Continental Growth

Moneda Capital Management, Ino Harith Capital, and First National Bank (FNB) of Namibia have joined forces in a pioneering partnership to accelerate the growth of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) within Namibia’s energy, oil, and gas sectors. This initiative, through an innovative Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), aims not only to bridge financing gaps for SMEs in Namibia but also to create a ripple effect of economic benefits across Africa. Chiemelie Ezeobi writes that by empowering local businesses, fostering job creation, and encouraging economic diversification in the sector, this collaboration stands as a model for boosting Africa’s development— attracting investment, building local capacity, and unlocking the continent’s full potential in the global economy

In the heart of southern Africa, a strategic partnership recently took root—one that could serve as a blueprint for SME growth across the continent. Moneda Capital Management Limited, in collaboration with Ino Harith Capital, recently signed a groundbreaking Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with First National Bank (FNB) of Namibia to channel over NAD 1 billion into the growth and empowerment of Namibia’s critical Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) within the energy, oil, and gas sectors.

More than a financial agreement, THISDAY gathered that this initiative signals a broader movement toward economic transformation as it aims to unlock the potential of SMEs—those agile, often overlooked engines of productivity and innovation—that form the backbone of developing economies. And for Africa, where natural resources abound but local capacity often lags behind, the significance of this deal is immense.

Essentially, Moneda and Ino’s strategic partnership is designed to support SMEs in Namibia’s most strategic sectors—oil & gas, energy, and mining as it merges Moneda’s robust platform of alternative credit solutions with Ino Harith Capital’s local expertise to provide capital access to SMEs that would otherwise be excluded from conventional finance. Together, they aim to build the next generation of African industrial businesses by making flexible, collateral-free financing a reality.

Bridging the Financing Gap

For too long, SMEs in Namibia and across Africa have struggled to access meaningful financing—particularly in high-capital sectors like oil, gas, and energy. Traditional banks, risk-averse by nature, often require physical collateral and track records many smaller enterprises cannot provide.

Moneda Capital, leveraging its experience across resource-rich African economies such as Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo, is stepping into that void. Through alternative credit models and innovative financing solutions, Moneda will provide SMEs with risk capital and operational support designed to bypass traditional bottlenecks. Their aim being to make collateral-free financing the norm, not the exception.

“Having worked across several African countries, we understand the nuances and

limitations of traditional finance in resource-driven markets,” said Ejike Egbuagu, CEO of Moneda Capital. “Our model is designed to empower critical SMEs with the capital and tools they need to grow, scale, and compete.”

A Strategic Alliance with Purpose

The collaboration between Moneda, Ino Harith Capital, and FNB Namibia is underpinned by a shared vision to accelerate the emergence of local enterprises as major players in Namibia’s industrial transformation. At its core is a local content accelerator programme, designed to ensure that homegrown businesses do not remain spectators in their country’s natural resource boom.

FNB Namibia, one of the country’s most influential financial institutions, has committed more than NAD 1 billion through this partnership to bolster the SME ecosystem. The initiative directly supports local enterprises in the oil and gas, energy, and extractive sectors—industries that are expected to anchor Namibia’s future economic growth.

Moneda’s collaboration with Ino Capital, a Namibia-based financial advisory firm with deep roots in the local economy, proved pivotal in formalising the partnership with FNB.

“We’re excited about the potential for growth here in Namibia. Having already worked in Nigeria, DRC, and other parts of Africa, we understand the dynamics and needs of SMEs in resource-driven economies,” said Egbuagu. “The partnership with FNB Namibia will provide the operational backbone for growing SME financing in Namibia, particularly in oil and gas, and we believe this will significantly transform the local economy.”

Unlocking Potential, Inclusion

The emphasis on local content is not accidental. In recent years, Namibia has taken deliberate steps to ensure that its burgeoning oil discoveries and ambitions in renewable energy translate into tangible benefits for its citizens. But without strong local businesses to absorb and deliver on the opportunities, much of that value risks flowing abroad.

That’s why the structure of this deal matters. By funnelling patient, flexible capital into Namibia’s industrial SMEs, the initiative lowers the barriers for participation in lucrative supply chains and contract opportunities within the oil and energy sectors.

“Our goal is to accelerate the development of SMEs within this critical space by introducing alternative credit models that bypass traditional barriers to entry, such as the need for physical collateral,” added Egbuagu. “We’re committed to leveraging our expertise to enable SMEs to reach new heights, creating a ripple effect of growth that can be felt across the broader Namibian economy.”

FNB Namibia: A Bank with a Vision

As one of Namibia’s most established banks and a subsidiary of the FirstRand Group, FNB Namibia has long demonstrated its commitment to inclusive financial services. Its role in this MOU signals not just a willingness to fund SME growth but a strategic intent to shape the country’s economic future.

“At FNB, we believe in nurturing deep-rooted relationships with our clients, especially those who are crucial to our economy’s growth—SMEs,” said Chuka Okafor, FNB Namibia’s Specialised Finance and Strategic Advisor. “This partnership represents a new chapter for Namibia’s local content sector, particularly in energy and oil & gas, and we are proud to be part of the collaborative effort to drive this transformation. Through this partnership, we’re positioning Namibian SMEs to thrive, contributing meaningfully to our economy.”

This long-term view—investing now to build the capabilities of Namibian firms to support billion-dollar industries— could prove to be one of the most forward-looking strategic plays by a Namibian financial institution in recent memory.

Which is a plus given that FNB Namibia is one of the country’s leading financial institutions, offering a comprehensive range of banking services to individuals, businesses, and

government. With a footprint that reaches deep into the Namibian economy, FNB has played a critical role in fostering financial inclusion and supporting SME development across sectors including agriculture, mining, and now energy. As a member of the FirstRand Group, FNB continues to prioritise sustainable growth and innovation.

From Namibia to the Continent

Most importantly, the broader implication of this partnership extends well beyond Namibia’s borders. Africa is home to vast oil, gas, and mineral reserves, but the continent continues to export raw commodities while importing refined goods and technical services. The gap between resource ownership and value retention is often widened by the absence of strong, capable local SMEs that can build and sustain value chains.

In this light, the Moneda-Ino-FNB initiative is not just about Namibia—it’s a proof-ofconcept for what’s possible across Africa. With the right financing tools, strategic collaborations, and local insight, SMEs in other African nations can be similarly empowered to lead in industries traditionally dominated by multinationals.

The Moneda-Ino partnership, specifically, is built to address this opportunity. Moneda Invest Africa brings deep knowledge of alternative credit financing, while Ino Capital’s embeddedness in the Namibian economy ensures that solutions are tailored to local realities.

The Road Ahead

If successful, which they have no doubt it would be, this partnership could mark a turning point for SME development in Africa’s resource economies as the ripple effects are potentially profound: job creation, technology transfer, skills development, increased tax revenues, and—most importantly—a shift in ownership and control of African wealth from foreign interests to local hands.

While the real victory will be measured in years, but for now, one thing is clear: Namibia has taken a bold step by bringing in Moneda and its wealth of expertise and in doing so, it has reignited a conversation across Africa—one where SMEs are no longer seen as small players, but as critical engines powering the continent’s next industrial revolution.

L-R: Connie Theyse, Head of Enterprise Banking at FNB Namibia; Ferdinand Nghiyolwa, Business Development Director at Ino Harith Capital; Ejike Egbuagu, Group CEO of Moneda Capital Management Limited; Chuka Okafor, Specialized Finance and Strategic Advisor at FNB Commercial; and Naftal Akweenda, Relationship Manager at FNB Commercial Enterprise Banking, during the official signing ceremony between Moneda, Ino Harith Capital and First National Bank of Namibia, to support SMEs in Namibia’s energy, oil, and gas sectors

L-R: Ferdinand Nghiyolwa, Business Development Director at Ino Harith Capital; Ejike Egbuagu, Group CEO of Moneda Capital Management Limited; and Chuka Okafor, Specialised Finance and Strategic Advisor at FNB Commercial, signing the MoU between Moneda, Ino Harith Capital and First National Bank of Namibia, to support SMEs in Namibia’s energy, oil, and gas sectors

To Equip Senior Military Officers with Post-service Entrepreneurial, Management Skills, NAFRC Launches Course

Chiemelie Ezeobi

In a significant step towards preparing Nigerian military officers for life beyond service, the Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre (NAFRC) has inaugurated Course 14/2025 of its Middle and Senior-Level Officers’ Entrepreneurship and Management Programme.

The initiative, held in partnership with EMPRETEC Nigeria Foundation, marks the second of four courses scheduled for the year and aims to instill vital entrepreneurial and managerial skills among officers still in service.

Speaking at the official opening ceremony on Monday, the Commandant of NAFRC, Air Vice Marshal Bashir Mamman, underscored the life-changing potential of the programme.

While clarifying that the training is not a pre-retirement initiative, he emphasised its importance in preparing officers for the realities of post-service life.

“This Course will equip you with the skills, mindset, and resilience needed to navigate the dynamic world of business and leadership,” said AVM Mamman. “It aligns with our mandate to

provide quality training that adequately prepares personnel for reintegration into civilian life.”

AVM Mamman revealed that over 47,000 personnel—drawn from the Senior NonCommissioned and Non-Commissioned Officers’ cadre—have undergone training at NAFRC to date.

Many of these ex-servicemen and women now run successful small and medium-scale enterprises across the country.

He added that more than 200 senior officers have benefitted from the entrepreneurship course since its inception, with expectations that the number will rise significantly in 2025 due to its quarterly implementation.

The training covers a wide range of subject areas, including entrepreneurship, agriculture, business law, human resource management, and marketing.

AVM Mamman stressed the importance of commitment and adaptability in succeeding as an entrepreneur.

“Success in entrepreneurship is not just about a great idea, but about strategic

planning, adaptability, and unwavering commitment to hard work,” he said.

Delivering the keynote address, Mrs Onari Duke, Country Director of EMPRETEC Nigeria Foundation, praised the Defence Headquarters and NAFRC leadership for their dedication to capacity building.

She highlighted the programme’s relevance in the current economic climate, where shifting focus from traditional employment to entrepreneurship is increasingly necessary.

“NAFRC’s commitment to capacity building is critical in today’s entrepreneurial landscape,” Mrs Duke stated. “This course will empower senior and mid-level officers with the skills required to succeed as entrepreneurs and managers in their post-service journeys.”

She further elaborated on the programme’s curriculum, which includes a blend of practical sessions, workshops, and study visits to successful enterprises such as Spectra Industries, Calaway Farms, Commint Buka, and Songhai Farm in Port Novo.

According to her, the training represents more than just skill acquisition; it is a rare opportunity for officers to reflect, recalibrate, and chart a new path of personal growth and

societal impact.

The course modules for senior officers include 21st Century Leadership Challenge, Strategic Thinking for Profitability, Financial Modelling and Budget Forecasting, Project Management, Conflict Resolution, and Corporate Governance.

Meanwhile, mid-level officers are being trained in Emotional Mastery, Inventory Management, Health and Wellness, Business Expansion, and Product Specification.

The Commandant formally declared the course open and charged participants to seize the opportunity to plan strategically and begin laying the foundation for their entrepreneurial future while still in active service.

The ceremony concluded with tributes to the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, for his visionary support, and to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his steadfast leadership and commitment to the welfare of military personnel.

Essentially, this initiative reflects NAFRC’s unwavering vision of empowering service members for seamless reintegration into civilian life through entrepreneurship, innovation, and enterprise development.

VIZO: Empowering Nigerians to Maximise their Financial Journey in the Digital Age

As Nigeria's economy continues to evolve, the demand for smarter, faster, and more inclusive financial solutions is at an all-time high. Nigerians today are more tech-savvy, ambitious, and investment-conscious than ever.

However, many are still held back by outdated systems, long queues at financial institutions, and limited access to trustworthy investment platforms. The good news? Technology is changing the narrative—and one such innovation leading the charge is the VIZO mobile app.

VIZO is not just another digital wallet; it is a transformative platform designed to meet a wide range of financial needs—from asset management to seamless payments, gold investments, and digital currency trading.

For individuals, organisations, and communities looking to gain better control of their finances, VIZO offers a secure, ethical, and user-friendly solution that empowers users at every step of their financial journey.

Bridging the Gap Between Traditional and Digital Finance

In a world where time is money, the traditional method of handling bills— standing in long queues, filling out endless forms, and dealing with erratic service—no longer fits into the modern lifestyle.

VIZO effectively bridges the gap between traditional banking hassles and modern

convenience. With just a few taps on your phone, you can pay energy bills, buy data bundles, and top up airtime, all while enjoying discounted rates and fast service.

The mobile wallet feature simplifies everyday transactions and streamlines bill payments, subscriptions, and recharges—all from the palm of your hand. Gone are the days of last-minute rushes to meet payment deadlines or the fear of service disruption due to missed payments.

VIZO ensures you're always on top of your financial obligations, efficiently and securely. Unlocking the Power of Gold Investment for Everyone Gold has long been considered a safe haven asset, offering stability in times of economic uncertainty.

But traditionally, the process of investing in gold has been reserved for a select few with insider knowledge or access to international markets. VIZO democratizes gold investment, allowing anyone— regardless of financial background—to participate in the gold trade, either physically or virtually.

This feature empowers users to buy, store, and trade gold conveniently and securely, making gold ownership as easy as using your mobile phone. It’s a step forward in making investment opportunities more accessible and inclusive for Nigerians looking to grow their wealth through reliable, long-term assets.

A One-Stop Shop for Digital Currency Enthusiasts

The rise of cryptocurrencies has ushered in a new era of financial independence and opportunity. But navigating the digital currency market can be daunting without the right tools or guidance. VIZO makes this process easier by providing a secure platform for trading digital assets.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned investor, you can buy and sell cryptocurrencies directly from your mobile device with ease and confidence. This seamless integration of crypto trading within a broader financial ecosystem gives users the freedom to explore the future of money—without leaving behind the convenience and security of their existing banking infrastructure.

Discounts That Actually Matter

In a country where mobile connectivity and communication are lifelines for both business and personal life, staying connected shouldn’t be a luxury. VIZO understands this, offering discounted airtime and data bundles that help users save money while staying online. Whether you're working remotely, attending virtual meetings, or simply staying in touch with loved ones, VIZO ensures that you remain connected—at a fraction of the cost.

In addition, the app offers gift card functionality, giving users more

flexibility in how they manage and spend their digital resources. It’s this blend of practicality and innovation that sets VIZO apart from the competition.

A Unified Financial Experience

Perhaps one of VIZO’s most compelling features is its ability to integrate your bank accounts and credit cards into a single, unified platform. This consolidation provides users with a full picture of their finances, allowing for smarter decision-making and better money management. No more juggling multiple apps or platforms—VIZO simplifies your financial life while keeping it secure.

VIZO is more than just a digital wallet or investment tool—it’s a movement toward financial freedom and empowerment for Nigerians. As the country continues to embrace digital transformation, platforms like VIZO will play a crucial role in bridging the financial inclusion gap, fostering economic growth, and helping individuals take charge of their financial destinies.

With features ranging from gold investment and crypto trading to seamless bill payments and discounted services, VIZO offers a comprehensive solution for modern financial needs. It’s time to break free from the limitations of traditional banking and embrace the limitless possibilities of digital finance. VIZO isn’t just an app—it’s your partner in financial success.

• Joseph is a Communication Executive with VIZO

Cross section of the course participants with the Commandant of NAFRC, Air Vice Marshal BR Mamman

Kofo Joseph

ongoing Spring MEEtingS of thE intErnational MonEtary funD...

L-R: President, World Bank Group, Mr Ajay Banga and the Chairman, Senate Committee on Finance, Senator Sani Musa, at the ongoing Spring Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank Group, holding in Washington DC

Presidency Defends FEC’s Approval of N10bn Solar Power Project for State House

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

The Presidency yesterday evening rose in strong defence of the Federal Executive Council’s approval of a N10 billion solar energy project for the State House, amid public outcry over the cost and timing of the initiative.

Presidential spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, made the clarification on his verified X handle, following media reports questioning the necessity of the project, especially in view of Nigeria’s current economic realities.

Onanuga stressed that transitioning the State House to solar power aligns with global best practices, noting that the White House in Washington, D.C., also uses solar energy as part of its power supply.

“The White House in Washington D.C. uses solar power,” Onanuga wrote, implying that the adoption

of renewable energy for high-level government facilities is not unprecedented and reflects a commitment to sustainability.

The Special Adviser illustrated his

point with video of a similar project executed for the American number one residence, which explains the reasons the US Presidency opted for the solar alternative.

The proposed solar system, sources said, would provide stable electricity for the President’s residence, administrative offices, and other essential buildings within the

State House complex, enhancing energy efficiency and long-term cost savings.

While some Nigerians have hailed the environmental benefits of the

initiative, others have raised concerns about its price tag and whether such expenditure is prudent at a time when many citizens are grappling with economic hardship.

Lawal’s Allegations against Matawalle False, Ex-Zamfara Commissioner Declares

ohn Shiklam in Kaduna

A former Commissioner for Information in Zamfara State, Ibrahim Dosara, has dismissed claims by Governor Dauda Lawal that he met only N4 million in government coffers, when he assumed office.

Lawal, who succeeded Bello Matawalle, the current Minister of

State for Defence, had in a recent interview with Arise TV, said he took over a “dysfunctional system” where nothing existed, adding that he met only N4 million in the state’s treasury with N16.5 billion pension arrears that remained unpaid since 2011.

However, reacting at a press conference in Kaduna, Dosara said Lawal’s claims were “blatant lies”.

‘One Million Teachers Tackle Nigeria’s Education Crisis, Honour 60,000 Educators

As Nigeria continues to grapple with a growing education crisis, Director of Strategic Partnerships of ‘One Million Teachers’, an organisation committed to empowering teachers globally, Oluwaseyi Anifowoshe, yesterday, called for urgent collaborative action to tackle the systemic challenges plaguing the teaching profession, particularly teacher retention, motivation and infrastructure decay.

Anifowoshe made this call at a press conference in Lagos, to announce the ‘ Let There be Teachers’ Conference, an Initiative which aims to celebrate about 60,000 teachers in the country and spotlight key education issues.

The event which is scheduled to hold at Tafawa Balewa Square on September 20, 2025, also has the objective of breaking the Guinness World Record for the largest gathering of teachers in one location.

Anifowoshe emphasised on the critical issues plaguing the teaching profession saying that they cannot be solved in a day.

According to him, “we must begin

with intentional engagement, this conference is that platform. We’re not here to just highlight problems, but to search for lasting, practical solutions.”

He stated that the forum is not just for educators but is designed to bring key players to the table, including government agencies, policymakers, and education advocates.

“We’ve seen that many of these problems like poor teacher welfare and lack of infrastructure, are deeply tied to policy and its implementation,” he explained.

“So, this platform is meant for engagement. How do we get government and stakeholders to truly act?”

Anifowoshe who is also the convener of the initiative noted that beyond convening the dialogue, One Million Teachers is taking concrete steps to address gaps in teacher training and support.

“One Million Teachers has provided free scholarships and training programs for teachers to help them build capacity and improve their impact in the classroom.

“We’re not just talking,” he said.

“We’re acting. We have offered free training for educators across Nigeria. But that’s just one part, we need longterm solutions driven by policy and support systems.”

Rooted in the belief that “no educational system may rise above the quality of its teachers,” the event, the director stated, underscores the urgent need to empower and celebrate educators, not just in Nigeria, but across the African continent.

“This is not just about breaking records,” Anifowose emphasised. “It’s about breaking barriers. Challenging the status quo. And sending a powerful message to the world: Let there be teachers!”

Earlier in his remarks, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of One Million Teachers, Prof. Akin Subair noted that beyond the gathering, the conference will be an opportunity for teachers to stand tall.

In her remarks, the Head of Growth Edusko Incorporation, Sola Adeola, described the event as a celebration of the transformative power of teachers; of those who lead, inspire, and innovate beyond the four walls of a classroom.

He said, “We are compelled by the circumstances of the above subject matter, in which our government, under the leadership of His Excellency, former governor of Zamfara state Hon Bello Mohammed Matawalle was erroneously but intentionally accused of wrong doings while in office by the current governor Dr. Dauda Lawal, when he granted an interview to Arise TV news during its Monday 14th April 2025 morning show.

“We would have ignored the interview for its inconsistencies, lack of focus and credibility, but for the members of the public, who are either not indigenes or Zamfara or are unaware of the happenings in the state for the past two years of Dauda

Lawal as the governor of the state.

“The governor claimed that the Matawalle government left only N4 million in the government coffers. This is a blatant lie.

“For the avoidance of doubt, the former governor left the following in the government treasury on the day he handed over power to the current Gov. Dr. Dauda Lawal: N14 billion bond proceeds; N2.6 billion accresals world, bank funds; N6.3 billion UBE grants and N2.7 billion NG Cares World Bank funds investment, which yielded N42 billion for the government of Lawal.”

Dosara also dismissed claims by the governor that the Matawalle administration left a backlog of four and a half months salaries.

“I don’t know if we have half month salary in the civil service scheme. For the record, the government left a backlog of three months salaries because even before taking over power as the governor of the state, Dauda Lawal threatened all banks having arrangements financial dealings with the outgoing government.”

Dosara said, the average cash allocation to the state at that time, was N3.2 billion monthly, “which was grossly inadequate to pay workers salaries and allowances totalling N2.1 billion, as well run other essential services, including health, power supply and logistics services for the state huge numbers of visitors coming for various official government businesses.”

German Academic Exchange Service Opens in Accra for West Africa

Michael olugbode in Abuja

Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst, the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) is expanding its international network in West Africa by opening a regional office in Accra, the capital of Ghana.

According to a statement, the DAAD regional office in Accra, has recently started work. It was initially responsible for Ghana, Cameroon and Nigeria, as it is strengthening its network in an important region for Germany and Europe.

It stated: “By 2050, the share of African countries in the global population will rise to an estimated 25 per cent. The number of students and doctoral candidates in West Africa

will also increase in the medium term.

“The universities and scientific institutions in Ghana, Cameroon and Nigeria are already important partners for German universities and their importance will continue to grow.

“With the new regional office, we are strengthening these links in a region that is important for Germany and Europe.” explained DAAD President Prof. Joybrato Mukherjee on site in Accra.”

He added that: “As the DAAD, we are also deliberately expanding the network of German foreign science policy in West Africa, also with a view to the neighbouring Sahel zone and the associated challenging geo-political situation.

“Science diplomacy and the science

cooperation area are making resilient and important contributions to German security in these crisis-ridden times. Science is a ‘hard currency’ in foreign and security policy, and we are delighted to be able to expand our presence in West Africa with the support of the Federal Foreign Office.”

Since establishing its presence in Ghana in 2000, the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) has actively supported the remarkable growth of academic exchange and collaboration with Germany. Germany is now the third most popular study destination for Ghanaian students and the number of DAAD’s scholarships for Ghanaians have increased more than tenfold in the last 25 years.

funmi ogundare

INAUGURATION OF SERAPHIC ORPHANAGE/ELDERLY PEOPLES HOME...

Refrain from Unsubstantiated Allegations, Criticise With Facts, Senate Replies Bakare

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

The Senate, yesterday, faulted the criticism of the National Assembly by Pastor Tunde Bakare, claiming that it was laced with contempt and unsubstantiated claims.

Senate Spokesperson, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, in a statement in Abuja, insisted that Bakare’s criticism of the federal parliament was a biased and political ecumenical homily.

He noted that the nation’s apex legislative institution welcomed constructive criticisms but frown at those whose commentary crossed the line into unwarranted invectives and misleading assertions that risked eroding public trust in democratic institutions.

He, therefore, enjoined the cleric and others who constantly picked

At

holes in the activities of the National Assembly to confront its leadership for necessary explanations instead of misinforming the public.

Bakare, a former vice-presidential candidate of the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), had recently chided President Bola Tinubu over what he called a seeming state capture and motor park brand of politics.

He also described the situation in Rivers State, where the president declared a state of emergency as a theater of the absurd, further endorsed by the National Assembly which he described as the most “spineless” in Nigeria’s recent history.

But Adaramodu said Bakare’s position as a political leader influenced the context of his statements, which were not only reflections of personal views but also carried significant

political implications.

“The attention of the Senate of the 10th National Assembly of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has been drawn to recent public remarks made by Pastor Tunde Bakare, which included sweeping generalisations and disparaging commentary aimed at the institution of the National Assembly.

“While the Senate respects the right of every citizen – regardless of station – to express views on the state of the nation, we are constrained to respond when such commentary crosses the line into unwarranted invectives and misleading assertions that risk eroding public trust in democratic institutions.

“Pastor Bakare, a cleric and political voice in his own right, has previously contributed to national discourse in ways that have spurred

reflection and debate.

“However, his most recent statements veered away from constructive criticism into rhetoric, unfortunately laced with contempt and unsubstantiated claims.

“It is also important to acknowledge that Pastor Bakare was a presidential aspirant in the last general election and a vice-presidential candidate in a previous electoral cycle.

“We view his corrosive criticisms of the National Assembly as a biased and political ecumenical homily.

“While he remains a respected cleric, his role as a prominent political figure cannot be discounted when assessing the lens through which his comments are made.

“His position as a political leader influences the context of his statements, which are not only reflections

Golden Jubilee Celebration, Tinubu

Lauds ECOWAS for Fostering Regional Integration

Says regional body faces security threats, political instability

Deji Elumoye and Michael Olugbode in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu yesterday lauded the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) for fostering regional integration, but said the subregional body still faces security threats, political instability and infrastructural deficit.

The president, represented by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Ojukwu, spoke in Accra, Ghana, at the launch of a series of events to mark the regional body’s golden jubilee. Tinubu, also the Chairman of the ECOWAS Authorities of Heads of State and Government, said ECOWAS has remained true to the bold vision created by its founding fathers and is a beacon of hope for the region’s over 400 million citizens.

He said: “Today, we celebrate numerous remarkable achievements that distinguish ECOWAS as the most successful regional economic community on the African continent. In five decades, we have established one of Africa’s most vibrant free trade areas, fostering intra-regional commerce and lifting millions from poverty”.

He, however, noted that the journey over the past five decades has not been without challenges.

He added: “We have faced political instability, economic hardship, infrastructural deficits and security threats. But we remain undaunted. Despite our shared vision, too many of our citizens still live in poverty, too many of our children lack access to quality education, and too many of our youth remain unemployed, disillusioned, or forced to seek opportunities abroad”.

Tinubu urged ECOWAS members to reimagine the organisation as a community of people and not

merely as a community of states, where the region must invest in education, innovation and skills development to unleash the full potential of Africa’s future.

He also called for deepening economic cooperation, support for intra-regional trade, noting that all hands must be on deck to ensure that the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) becomes a vehicle for genuine transformation.

On his part, President John Mahama of Ghana said that community citizens must feel

that ECOWAS is not just some bureaucracy but a living organisation that understands their hopes and aspirations.

He also announced that Ghana will offer 1,000 scholarships to university students across the ECOWAS subregion to enhance educational opportunities for young people in West Africa.

During the launch, ECOWAS unveiled its official Golden Jubilee logo and theme, setting the tone for a year-long series of commemorative events.

of personal views but also carry significant political implications.

“We also wish to note that Pastor Bakare is not only a cleric and political figure but also one with a legal background. He is, therefore, well aware of the constitutional boundaries that guide public commentary – particularly on matters that are sub judice.

“The National Assembly cannot and will not be drawn into responding to issues that are already before a court of competent jurisdiction, out of respect for the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary.

“While some may attempt to portray an unnecessary adversarial dynamic between the National Assembly and the Executive arm of government as a marker of virility in checks and balances, we must clarify that such tension, though it may entertain some, does not necessarily equate to effective legislative oversight.

“The true test of institutional maturity lies not in performative hostility but in principled engagements and results-driven processes.

“Indeed, there are welldocumented instances where the National Assembly has constructively disagreed with the Executiveincluding on specific provisions of the presidential declaration on the Rivers State state of emergency, which Pastor Bakare referenced.

“These examples reflect our commitment to constitutionalism and fidelity to the Nigerian people - not posturing for effect.

“It’s noteworthy that the executive has never brought any unconstitutional agenda before the 10th National Assembly, like the unspeakable but infamous Third Term agenda, the rejection of which the Pastor used as a benchmark for performance.

“To cast aspersions on the entire institution based on personal frustrations, ideological differences, or as positioning ahead of possible future political alignments is not only unfair but also counterproductive to our collective democratic journey.

“The challenges facing our country require dialogue anchored on truth, mutual respect, and a commitment to nation-building – not polarising rhetoric that undermines confidence in our democratic institutions.

“It is important to note that Pastor Bakare may have, in times past similarly directed harsh criticisms at previous sessions of the National Assembly – some of which he now praises in glowing terms.

“We are confident that, in time, with a nuanced review of the performance of the 10th National Assembly – within the context of the exigencies of this time and season – Pastor Bakare may, at some point in the future, commend us for acting in the best interest of the people of Nigeria, in line with our constitutional mandate.

“The Senate remains open to engaging with all Nigerians – including Pastor Bakare – in the spirit of constructive engagement. It is through such dialogue, not diatribe, that we can advance the cause of good governance and national development.

“We urge all public figures –especially those with influence in the civic and spiritual spheres – to temper their criticisms with facts and a sense of national responsibility.

“Our democracy, though imperfect, is best nurtured through thoughtful contributions that inspire reform, not resentment. We view his corrosive criticisms of the National Assembly as a biased and political ecumenical homily.”

House Presents N18m Cheque to Victims of Enugu Tanker Explosion

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

The House of Representatives on Tuesday, presented a cheque of M18 million to the Enugu State Government as support for victims of the January 25 petrol tanker explosion at Ugwu Onyeama along the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway, which claimed several lives.

The Speaker, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, described the incident as a huge loss not only to the government and people of Enugu State but to the nation as a whole. Abass, in a statement issued by

the spokesperson of the House, Hon. Akin Rotimi, said the gesture was in line with the tradition of the House to ensure that governments and citizens across Nigeria are not left alone in times of tragedy.

The Speaker was represented by Hon. Nnolim Nnaji-led Enugu State Caucus in the House, which included Hon. Martins Oke, Hon. Dennis Agbo, Hon. Mark Obetta, Hon. Anayo Onwuegbu, and Hon. Chimaobi Atu. Abbas commended Governor Peter Mbah for his sterling leadership and his prompt efforts to

comfort the bereaved and support the injured.

He noted: “On behalf of the Speaker of the House of Representatives, we commiserate with the Government and people of Enugu State over the tanker incident at Ugwu Onyeama. We acknowledge that you have done a lot to support both the injured and those who lost their loved ones.

“So, this is a cheque for N18 million to assist the state to further ameliorate their losses and challenges occasioned by the incident. The Speaker sends his

heartfelt condolences, once again. And you can continue to count on the support of the Speaker and the House.”

In his response, Mbah expressed appreciation to Abbas and the Enugu Caucus for their compassion and support, assuring that the donation would be used for its intended purpose.

“On behalf of the Government and people of Enugu State, I express profound gratitude and deep appreciation for this wonderful gesture. I recall that when the Ugwu Onyeama incident occurred, taking

the lives of several of our loved ones, the Speaker called and assured that he was with us in prayers.

“Today, he has also shown us that he is not only with us in prayers, but also materially. He has equally come to mourn with us. This cheque for N18 million will go a long way in cushioning the effect of the incident on those affected and their families.

“Rest assured that as a government, we will ensure that this gets to them in a transparent, accountable, and just manner,” Mbah added.

R-L: Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma; Evang. Chukwuebuka Anozie-Obi of Zion Ministry; Senator Osita Izunaso, HRM Eze Emma Asor and others, during the inauguration of Seraphic Orphanage/Elderly Peoples Home built by Zion Ministry at Mgbirichi, Ohaji Egbema LGA in Imo State, on Tuesday

CHOSEN CHURCH’S 2025 EASTER RETREAT AND EMPOWERMENT PROGRAMME...

L-R: Director, Foreign Mission, The Lord’s Chosen Charismatic Revival Ministries (TCCRM), Pastor, Austin Chigioke; General Overseer, TCCRM, Pastor Lazarus Muoka; and one of the beneficiaries of a tricycle, Bro. Uche Ubaka, during the Church’s 2025 Easter Retreat and Empowerment programme held in Ijesha, Lagos ... recently

George Berates Defecting PDP Governors, Declares Their Intention as Disappointing

Former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Bode George, has expressed

disappointment following a THISDAY report that some PDP governors were planning to defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

He described the act as a betrayal

of the platform that gave them political relevance.

George’s comments came in the wake of reports that three to four PDP governors were preparing to defect to the APC to support President Bola Tinubu’s second-term bid.

their options without officially defecting yet.

Crisis in PDP Deepens as Party’s Zonal Committee Sacks

Bayelsa, Edo

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

The crisis within the South-south wing of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) might have deepened as the Zonal Working Committee of the party, yesterday, approved the appointment of Caretaker Committees to oversee the affairs of the Party in Bayelsa and Edo States for a period of three months.

The decision, effective yesterday, was made known at the end of a Zonal Working Committee meeting presided over by Chief Dan Orbih, national vice-chairman of the party.

The decision to set up Caretaker Committees for both states followed the dissolution of the State Working Committee of Bayelsa State and the Caretaker Committee in Edo State on account of what the PDP zonal working committee described as various acts of gross misconduct by the dissolved executives.

It said the various acts of gross misconduct were in clear breach of the Party’s Constitution, citing

Executives

for instance, the poor handling of internal crises rocking the party in both states.

For Edo, the ZWC said it took into cognizance the poor performance and woeful outing by the party in the state at the last governorship election.

A statement by the Zonal Publicity Secretary, Etim Isong, said the Zonal Working Committee took the decisions in the best interest of the party after a careful review of the activities of the party in both states.

He said the review of the party’s activities was in line with the Constitution of the party as amended in 2017, particularly Articles 10(1),(f),(g),(k), and (4) as well as Articles 26(2),(a), 27(2)(a&b), 58(1),(a),(c),(i),(j), and 59(1)(f)

“The Zonal Working Committee hopes that this bold move will strengthen the party’s (PDP) foundation and ensure effective leadership in both Bayelsa and Edo States, respectively,” the statement stated.

Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom had publicly declared support for President Bola Tinubu, while others, including Delta’s Sheriff Oborevwori, Enugu’s Peter Mbah, and Rivers’ suspended Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, were reportedly weighing

Speaking during an interview with ARISE NEWS on Tuesday, George condemned what he called the “rudderless” actions of the governors, who were abandoning the very party that backed their rise to office.

“We are running a system here that is very despicable, very disheartening. A platform that gave you all the necessary tools, the opportunity to represent your constituency. Now, halfway into your

tenure, you’re jumping ship? I’m very disappointed with these governors. Very disappointed,” he said. George also recalled his experience under former President Yar’Adua, where he led a delegation to South Africa to mediate a political crisis and learned first-hand how differently political systems could function.

He pointed out that in South Africa, parties—not individuals—contest elections, giving true meaning to party supremacy.

According to him, “That is why,

there, when you say the party is supreme, the party is supreme.” George questioned the integrity of governors who campaigned under the PDP vision and programmes, only to consider switching allegiance mid-term.

His words: “The electorate in their states supported them because of the programmes of the party. Now you want to go back? What is it that they (the APC) has presented?” he queried, highlighting the lack of structure within the ruling party.’’

Ibas Seeks CAN’s Support in Rivers

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Ibok-Ete Ibas, has appealed to the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), to play a pivotal role in fostering peace, reconciliation, and stability in the state amid ongoing political crisis.

Ibas made the call during a meeting with CAN leaders at the Government House in Port Harcourt.

The sole administrator emphasised the importance of the Church’s moral guidance in restoring harmony, and described the Easter season as a reminder of hope, sacrifice, and unity.

Ibas acknowledged the recent declaration of a State of Emergency in Rivers State by President Bola

NEMA, NCC Strengthen Partnership to Enhance Communication During Emergency

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) are strengthening their partnership to leverage communication services for more effective and timely disaster management across the country.

As part of efforts to deepen collaboration between the two organisations, the Director General of NEMA, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, yesterday paid a visit to the Executive Vice Chairman of the

NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja. This information was made available in a statement by the Head of NEMA Press Unit. Manzo Ezekiel.

During the visit, Umar emphasised the importance of expanding the scope of cooperation between NEMA and NCC, particularly in enhancing emergency communication systems, promoting disaster risk reduction initiatives, and supporting the development and dissemination of early warning systems.

The Director General NEMA,

commended the NCC for activating the national emergency number and called for seamless interoperability between it and NEMA’s emergency contact number. This, she said, would ensure Nigerians in distress can access timely and coordinated emergency response services.

Responding, Maida assured the commission’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with NEMA. He stressed the need to increase public awareness about the availability and proper use of emergency call numbers to better serve citizens.

Tinubu, which he said led to his appointment as Administrator.

He explained that since assuming office on March 20, 2025, he had engaged in broad consultations with civil society, traditional rulers, and local government officials to rebuild trust and foster cooperation.

“The unity of the Church is the seedbed for the unity of the State. Where the Church leads in love, the people will follow in peace,” he said.

He assured them that his administration remained peoplecentered, accessible, and committed to justice and equity.

Govt

He called for collective action, emphasising that sustainable peace required dialogue, collaboration, and understanding.

The administrator urged religious leaders to remain steadfast in prayer and bold in truth, drawing inspiration from the Easter message.

He expressed confidence that, with CAN’s support and divine guidance, Rivers State would emerge stronger and more united.

In their response, the leadership and executive members of the Rivers State chapter of CAN led by the Most Reverend D.E Kala-Dukubo,

at All

appealed to the Administrator to involve the group in the peace building process. They further urged him to ensure that critical aspects of governance were not ignored during the period of emergency rule, especially as it affected the sanitation of the environment. CAN decried the volume of misinformation in the publication space and urged the administration to tackle it headlong, adding that the development portrayed the state as a place at war, adding that this was a disincentive for visitor and potential investors.

Levels Have Failed the Nigerian Child, Says Sunoma

Deputy Speaker of the Nigerian National Children’s Parliament, Hon. Ibrahim Zanna Sunoma, has stated that government at all levels had failed the Nigerian children, particularly those in the north.

Speaking in the face of the rising number of Almajiri and out-of school children, Sunoma however advocated the inclusion of adolescents and young people when government at all levels were taking action in fulfilling their commitments.

Sunoma spoke yesterday in Abuja during the 2025 adolescents and youth inter-ministerial dialogue on adolescent wellbeing, health and development, organised by Plan International in collaboration with UNESCO and other partners.

He said this had become imperative as the rights of children and adolescents had been denied them, with the issues becoming increasingly embarrassing to mention.

He said it was important for northern governors to write their names in gold and the sands of time, not to be remembered as part of those that failed their children.

“The government has failed its children, especially in the north.

We see the Almajiri children been vulnerable on the streets- running helter-skelter and looking for food.

“Their rights have been denied them, and it is some of the issues in northern Nigeria that are so embarrassingly mundane to the extent that one will feel shy of mentioning.

“We are calling in the government not to fail, and may history not

remember them as part of those that failed their their children in the northern part of the country. They need to prioritize children on the streets by implementing what is available as far as Almajiri education is concerned.

“This includes integrating western education and providing shelter, food and making sure their livelihood is sustainable. They should invest strongly in our of school children education, especially for children in the north.

“Government needs to move from commitment to practice. There are a lot of policies and documents on ground, and the government just needs to implement them. I believe that words are just emotions, but actions are the cornerstone to our collective effort,” Sunoma said.

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

Kuni Tyessi in Abuja

CALL FOR ENTRIES FOR 17TH INDOMIE HEROES AWARDS...

L-R: General Manager Corporate Communications & Events, Dufil Prima Foods Ltd, Temitope Ashiwaju; National Coordinator, Indomie Fan Club, Karishma Rustagi; and Managing Director/Chief Strategist, Chain Reactions Africa, Israel Opayemi, at the press conference announcing the call for entries for the 17th edition of the Indomie Heroes Awards, an initiative by

Concerned Rivers Citizens Urge

Tinubu to End Emergency Rule

Demand respect for rule of law

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

Some concerned citizens of Rivers state have written to President Bola Tinubu, urging him to rescind his declaration of a State of Emergency in the state and urging him to recall suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara and other elected officers.

In the letter copied to the National

they are not alone.

He said his administration had focused on building bridges of unity across religious and ethnic lines, and described the recent violence as a major setback.

The governor reiterated his openness to constructive suggestions on addressing insecurity, and stated that the violence witnessed in just one week was entirely avoidable. He also lamented the growing occupation of forests by criminal elements.

Accompanying AbdulRazaq were Borno State governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum; Benue State governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia; Bauchi State governor and PDP Governors’ Forum Chairman, Senator Bala Mohammed; Oyo State governor, Seyi Makinde; and Nasarawa State Deputy Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Akabe, who represented Governor Abdullahi Sule.

Meanwhile, hundreds of Christian faithful, under the banner of the Church Denominational Leaders Forum in Plateau, staged a protest in Jos on Monday to condemn the persistent and deadly attacks across the state.

Marching through the streets with placards bearing messages, such as, “The Ground Cries Blood,” “Every Human Life Matters,” “We Deserve to Live,” and “No More Silence, Peace Now,” the demonstrators voiced their outrage and sorrow at recent violence that had claimed more than 100 lives in Bokkos and Bassa local government areas.

Bago to Lead Assault against ‘Area Boys’

Niger State Governor, Mohammed Bago, said he would lead operations against the activities of miscreants in the state to dislodging them from their sanctuaries. This followed the escalation in the activities of “Area Boys” in Minna.

“I will lead the operation. I will follow each street of Minna. I will make sure we flush them out. We will defeat them,” Bago declared at a stakeholders’ meeting in Minna yesterday.

Bago stated that he would not stay back and watch criminals continue

Assembly and the International Community, the group demanded a thorough investigation into the ‘nonexistent conditions’ that misled the president into declaring a state of emergency.

Signatories included: Donu Kogbara, Aleruchi Cookey-Gam, Ibim Semenitari, Lloyd Ukwu (NADECO USA/Project Coordinator), Julie

to perpetrate evil in his state, adding, “It is the responsibility of every government to ensure the security of lives and property of its citizenry are protected.”

The governor placed a ban on the operations of commercial motorcycles and tricycles in the state capital from 6pm to 6am. But he exempted those on essential duties or conveying patients to the hospitals.

Bago warned district, village and ward heads to ensure proper documentation of people they harboured in their domains, explaining that any house found to be harbouring criminals would be demolished, and buildings where hard drugs are sold would also be destroyed.

He charged security operatives in the state to clamp down on criminals, their hideouts and their cartels before.

The governor also warned parents to take care of their children, as anyone caught in any violence-related activity would be arrested and prosecuted.

“The state government will continue to have zero tolerance to thuggery and rascality,” he added.

Okpebholo, Yahaya Hold Security Meeting

In a bid to address security challenges in their states, Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, and his Gombe State counterpart, Alhaji Muhammadu Yahaya, summoned security meetings in their respective states.

In Edo State, the meeting, which held in Iyamho, Etsako West Local Government Area, involved heads of security agencies in the state, prominent political, religious, and traditional rulers, as well as other key stakeholders.

They converged to brainstorm on how to address the peculiar security challenges in North senatorial district.

Okpebholo, after the meeting held behind closed-doors, said under his watch, criminal elements will not succeed in destabilising Edo State. He vowed to deal with them decisively and make the state uninhabitable for their activities.

Speaker, Edo State House of Assembly (EDHA), Hon. Blessing

Dyer (Coordinator/ Admin), Ibiba Omotoso, Kariba Braide, Aselle Abigo-Tshiunza Karibo Lawson, George Ibifubara Jumbo and Dr Pax Harry.

Others were: Ogu Emejuru, Nimi Amachree, Soala Iyalla, Daba Ibiama, Arnold Amacree, Ibiba DonPedro, Derego Somiari, Michael Aloega, Abosi Israel, Sam Warmate, Osmond

Agbebaku; former governor of the state and senator for Edo North Senatorial District, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole; Minister of Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh; former deputy governors of Edo State, Peter Obadan and Philip Shaibu, were at the meeting.

Others were former Chief of Staff to the President, Chief Mike Ogiadomeh, and former Minister of State for Budget, Clem Agba.

Okepbholo said the security stakeholders’ meeting had become necessary to ensure that peace and security across the state, particularly in Edo North.

He stated that political, religious, and traditional leaders attended the meeting, where they all discussed the security challenges facing the people and came up with possible solutions.

Okpebholo said Edo people should expect a better security situation in the state, as all the deliberations would be properly utilised.

He stated, “We came here for a peaceful discussion regarding security, and all our leaders are here, both traditional and religious leaders.

“The closed-door meeting was successful, as we had a good deliberation, and discussions were fruitful. We had a perfect discussion. Let us watch it from here. Things will be perfect in our land.”

Oshiomhole commended Okpebholo for his approach to the security issues and assured Edo people that the Okpebholo administration would make the state safer for all to live and do business.

He said, “Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has come to Edo North to discuss with the people what he has been doing and what he will do in terms of security of lives and property in Edo State.

“The meeting lasted for three hours, and it enabled the governor to listen to comments from stakeholders and all those present. The governor gave us the assurance that he will continue to ensure Edo is safe for us all.”

Bishop of Catholic Diocese of Auchi, Bishop Gabriel Dunia, appreciated all who came for the stakeholders’ meeting and urged them to collaborate to ensure peace in Edo State.

Barango, Aji Amachree Ihetu and Onu Uba.

The group stated that the action of the president reflected a blatant disregard for the constitutional rights of the people of Rivers State as well as a gross abuse of executive power.

“We the People of Rivers State agree with fellow Nigerians including legal and political experts that your

He stated, “We are very much appreciative of our governor and all the traditional rulers who have come for us all to deliberate on the security of our people and our land. People have spoken their minds on the way forward, and we will work with it to ensure our land knows peace.”

A traditional ruler from Edo North, His Royal Highness (HRH), Mallam Ali Suleiman, said the security meeting had given stakeholders confidence, and traditional rulers had resolved to collaborate with security agencies and stakeholders to ensure peace in Edo State.

Yahaya Holds Emergency Security Meeting

Gombe State Governor, Alhaji Muhammadu Yahaya, yesterday, convened an emergency security meeting over a recent tragic incident during an Easter procession in Billiri, Gombe State, resulting in the loss of lives and injuries to many.

The state government promised to support the deceased’s families as well as cover medical bills of injured persons.

Addressing pressmen shortly after the meeting, the Gombe State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Zubair Umar, disclosed that the meeting was necessary for the government to take decisive action on the incidents and implement measures to prevent future occurrences.

He stated that the council noted with deep concern the unfortunate incident, and extended its sympathies to the affected families.

Umar said he had resolved to support the families of the deceased and cover the medical bills of those currently receiving treatment in hospital.

He added that the governor had directed a thorough investigation and the immediate arraignment of the suspects, so that the court could pronounce a punishment befitting of the offence committed.

To prevent similar incidents in the future, the council directed that all organisations in the state, including religious bodies, planning to hold any form of procession, should give prior

decision is not only dangerously unconstitutional, but also undermines the democratic principles that our nation was founded upon,” the concerned citizens added.

The group said that the suspension of Fubara and the imposition of a state of emergency were clear attempts to subvert the will of the people, and consolidate power in

notice to security agencies in their respective areas, to enable authorities to ensure adequate protection.

The commissioner further announced that the council resolved to convene meetings ahead of every festivity in the state, with the aim of strategising on measures to protect citizens, ensure effective crowd management, and traffic control.

Adams Harps on Fixing Current Security Architecture

Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yoruba land, Iba Gani Adams, called on the federal government to recalibrate Nigeria’s security architecture and infrastructure in a bid to stop the mindless killings, kidnappings and other vices in the country.

Adams made the call yesterday while delivering a keynote address at the grand finale of the 2025 Eledumare Festival in Lagos.

Speaking with specific reference to insecurity and humanitarian crises confronting the country, particularly Ondo, Plateau and Benue states, Adams said the barbaric killings negated outright the virtues of peace and love, which ought to hold the Nigerian society together.

He stated that no nation developed as a result of one section rising up against another in mindless attacks.

Adams condemned the unending activities of armed herders suspected to be behind the killings and kidnappings in the three states referenced, the North Central region, and other parts of the country.

He stressed that the resurgence of the violent killings also brought to the front burner the pressing issue of restructuring of the Nigerian polity that would give birth to state and local government police.

Adams stated, “We cannot because of the political benefits of the federal government, continue to ignore what would be of immense benefit to the rest of the country.

“These insecurity issues go a long way in affecting food security, given the important role Benue, Plateau and Ondo states play in the food production cycle of the nation. The crisis also gives a sense of instability

the hands of the federal government.

“It represents a blatant disregard for the rule of law and the fundamental democratic principles that many hold you as a strong advocate of. Due to the failure to meet constitutional requirements, any attempts by certain individuals to fabricate or create these conditions constitute a criminal act and a severe obstruction of justice.

and discourages foreign investors.

“The government at the centre cannot continue to turn a blind eye to these necessary demands. The time to act is now. We must act decisively in the interest of our people.”

CISLAC Warns against Endless Bloodshed

Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) cautioned the federal government against a continuous cycle of insecurity and bloodshed across the federation.

The association also stressed that recent attacks on Logo and Gbagir communities in Benue State and the massacres in Plateau State were just the latest reminders of a country steadily descending into chaos.

Executive Director of CISLAC, Auwal Rafsanjani, lamented the absence of empathy and decisive leadership from the Tinubu administration, noting that the president’s silence and physical absence were both unacceptable and morally troubling.

He said the statistics were stark, and the stories heart-breaking.

Rafsanjani stated, “Innocent Nigerians are being killed, families are being shattered, and communities are being destroyed. The government’s response has been woefully inadequate, with a lack of prioritisation in defeating violent criminals, despite considerable resources allocated to security.

“The more financial resources are pumped into the system, the more insecurity seems to escalate, raising serious concerns about the strategic will to confront and end these atrocities.

“As the nation marks Easter, a season of sacrifice, hope, and renewal, CISLAC demands an end to the nation’s growing trauma and calls for collective action against the killings of innocent Nigerians.

“CISLAC urges all arms and levels of government, political leaders, and stakeholders to step back from the politics of ambition and return to the pressing business of rebuilding the nation.”

The executive director said Nigerians were not statistics or stepping stones to power, but citizens with dignity, rights, and lives that matter.

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R I b AD u: We’ll Defe AT N I ge RIA’ S Secu RITY Me NA ce

SECURITY, DEVELOPMENT OF NSUKKA NATION ON THEIR MINDS...

L-R: Vice President, Igbo- South Local Government of Nkpokote Nsukka Development Forum, Mr. Emmanuel Jonathan; Secretary-General of the group, Emeka Agbo; Senator representing Enugu North, Senator Okey Ezea; President of the association, Barth Ifeanyi Ugwoke, and Vice President of Nsukka Urban LGA, Collins Steve Ugwu, after the inauguration of their 28 Executive Committee Members for peace, security and development of Nsukka nation held in Nsukka, Enugu State…recently

Be Circumspect with National Issues, Clergy Tells Politicians, Religious Leaders

Lauds Fubara for remodeling Okrika Grammar School

Blessing Ibunge in port Harcourt

The Bishop of Anglican Diocese of Okrika, Enoch Atuboyedia, has called on leaders, both religious and the political class to be circumspect and walk carefully, noting that “the days are evil.”

Atuboyedia, who was reacting to recent developments in the country, and Rivers State in particular, gave the charge while speaking with journalists

at a Pre-Synod briefing in Port Harcourt.

He disclosed that the first Session of the 8th Synod of the Diocese would hold from May 1 to 5, this year, at the Okrika West Archdeaconry.

Speaking on the theme of the synod titled: “Walking Circumspective,” the clergyman noted that people need to be cautious about the things happening around them especially in Nigeria so as not to fall deep into difficult times.

New Army Spokesperson, Anele, Assumes Duty

Linus Aleke in abuja

The newly appointed spokesperson of the Nigerian Army, Lieutenant Colonel Onyinyechi Anele, has officially assumed duty after a handover ceremony at the Army headquarters in Abuja.

Speaking during the handover ceremony, the first female spokesperson of the service applauded the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, for finding her worthy of the appointment, while assuring him and the entire leadership of the Nigerian Army of her resolve and determination to justify the confidence reposed in her by remaining absolutely loyal, committed, focused, and result-oriented.

According to her, “I stand before

you today with a deep sense of honour, humility, and gratitude to Almighty God as I assume office as the acting Director of Army Public Relations, Nigerian Army. It is a moment I do not take lightly, not only because of the enormous responsibilities that come with this office but also because of the expectations and, most importantly, the historic significance of my appointment.

“Firstly, to be entrusted with this strategic role as the Nigerian Army spokesperson, being the first female officer in the history of the Nigerian Army and indeed the Armed Forces of Nigeria, is a great honour. Therefore, I owe this opportunity to the visionary leadership of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede.”

Spice 360 Appoints Biodun Adefila as New MD

Spice 360, one of Nigeria’s foremost integrated marketing communications agencies, has appointed Biodun Adefila as managing director (MD) and Rotimi Ade-Onojobi as creative director. The appointments, which take immediate effect, were conveyed through a letter signed by the Board of Directors of the agency. According to the leadership of the board, the appointments signal a bold new chapter in Spice 360’s journey toward strategic growth, creative excellence and industry leadership. It further stated that the appointments underscore the agency’s commitment to delivering impactful brand solutions and fostering a culture of innovation in an increasingly dynamic marketing landscape.

Until her appointment, Adefila previously served as Chief Operating Officer at SO&U Limited, where she oversaw transformative campaigns for leading brands such as Guinness Nigeria, GTBank, Unilever, P&G and Access Bank among others.

Adefila holds an MBA from the University of Liverpool and an Advanced Management Programme certification from Lagos Business School. She is also a former board member of the Association of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria (AAAN) and a recipient of numerous industry accolades, including Outstanding Advertising Personality of the Year (Marketing Edge, 2020) and one of the Top 50 Most Influential Women in Marketing Communications (Brand Communicator, 2023).

He also highlighted some of the achievements of the church in the outgoing synod year especially in the areas of evangelism and welfarism.

He said: “We have looked at the society and we have looked at the times we find ourselves. You find out that many of us are careless about what is going

on. It is our burden to call all of us back to Christ and to make sure that we know what we are doing and we know where we are going because

the days are evil. Politically, economically and otherwise and even religiously, the days are evil and there is need for us to become circumspect.”

NCYP Harps on Religious Unity, Policy Implementation to Combat Terrorism

Sunday Ehigiator

The Northern Christian Youth Professionals (NCYP) has emphasized the need for unity across religious, ethnic, and political lines in the country, and the implementation of peoplecentered policies that empower communities to protect themselves and deny terrorism as a key to combating terrorism in the region.

This is just as the group pledged its full support for local government (LG) financial autonomy as ordered by the Supreme Court of Justice.

In a statement signed by NCYP Chairman, Isaac Abrak, the group noted that terrorism thrives in environment where there is disunity and poverty, and that terrorist groups have exploited longstanding divisions within communities to carry out attacks.

According to the statement, “Terrorism thrives where there is disunity and poverty. In Nigeria, sectarian and political fault lines, especially religious divisions between Christians and Muslims, have allowed these criminals to operate with impunity. Rather than uniting to confront a common enemy, communities often fall into the trap of mutual suspicion and blame. This division has enabled terrorists to continue their violence across religious and political boundaries.

Six Killed, Five Injured in Multiple Auto Crashes in Kogi

Ibrahim Oyewale in lokoja

The accident, which occurred at Okengwe community at about 8.30 pm on Monday evening left sympathisers to rush to the scene to rescue the victims .

The Kogi State acting Sector Commander, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Mr

At least six persons have been confirmed killed while five others received degree of injuries in a multiple auto crashes in Okene Local Government Area of Kogi State, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) official has confirmed.

Samuel Ogundayo, disclosed this while speaking in a chat with the journalists in Lokoja yesterday.

The acting sector commander, who described the accident as “tragic and very unfortunate,” said that the accident involved seven vehicles.

Ogundayo explained the incident occurred following the I nobility of the articulated truck to climb the Okengwe hill, stressing that the truck lost control as result of brake failure and rolled backward crushing two Tricycles, three cars and ramped into another truck.

Anambra 2025: Supreme Court Ruling against Abure-led LP Nullified Moghalu’s

David-Chyddy Elekeinawka

An aspirant of Labour Party (LP) for the 2025 governorship election in Anambra, Mr John Nwosu, has said that the sacking of the Julius

Candidacy, John Nwosu Insists

Abure-led executive of the party has nullified the candidacy of Dr. George Moghalu.

On April 4, the Supreme Court sacked the Abure-led executive. Despite this the party under the

leadership of Abure held a primary election a day after, electing former Director-General of National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Moghalu as candidate.

But on April 10, the same party

under the leadership of Senator Esther Nenadi-Usman conducted another primary election where a member of the Anambra State House of Assembly, Hon Jude Umennajiego was elected candidate.

Otu Supports Faith-based Initiatives, Lays Foundation for Duke Town Cathedral Annex

Bassey Inyang in Calabar

The Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Otu, has commenced the construction of a new annex for the Duke Town Cathedral in Calabar, a move seen as part of his support for faith-based and community development projects.

The governor was represented at the foundationlaying ceremony by his Chief of

Staff, Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar, who attended the event with his wife, Elder (Dr) Mrs. Virginia Ironbar, along with government officials, state lawmakers, and other dignitaries.

Hon. Ironbar said the new annex shows the governor’s dedication to both spiritual and community development in the state. “His Excellency Apostle Sen. Prince Otu is a man of deep faith, a lover of God, and

a dedicated supporter of the gospel mission in Cross River State and beyond,” he said.

He thanked the church and the congregation for their continuous support and prayers, assuring them that the government would continue to back initiatives that promote peace and unity.

Ironbar also spoke about the historical importance of Duke Town Cathedral, describing the

new annex as a way to expand its role in the community.

“This project will create more room for worship, outreach, and spiritual growth,” he said.

The Prelate of the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria also thanked Governor Otu for the initiative. He praised the governor’s focus on spiritual development, calling it a foundation for peace and progress in the state.

Osun Communal Crisis: Peace Committee Meets with Monarchs

Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo

As the Osun State Government Peace Committee stepped up effort to resolve the incessant communal clashes between the three neighbouring communities of Ifon, Ilobu and Erin-Osun over land dispute, the monarchs from the towns have met with the panel in a bid to get lasting solution to the violent clashes.

The three communities located in Orolu and Irepodun Local Government Areas of the state have been at loggerhead over boundary dispute resulting in incessant crisis usually accompanied with loss of lives and property. The state Governor, Ademola Adeleke, had in the last two years declared curfew in the towns eight times with a view to stopping the escalation of violent crisis but did not yield positive results.

However, the expanded peace committee which was set up by the Adeleke-led administration chaired by the Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Olanipekun and Co-chaired by a renowned Human Rights Activist, Waheed Lawal, along with four other traditional rulers in the state met the affected monarchs in the state capital on Thursday.

The Olufon of Ifon, Oba Peter Akinyooye, the Olobu of Ilobu, Oba

Ashiru Olaniyan, the Elerin, Oba Yusuf Omoloye, were physically present at the meeting for the first time since the inception of the committee and resolve to cooperate with the government.

THISDAY yesterday gathered that the three traditional rulers, who were under warning from the state government, pledged their commitment to peaceful resolution of the boundary crisis.

Saha Joins Ferdinand, Cole in Asking Man Utd to Seal Osimhen Deal

Duro Ikhazuagbe with agency report

Victor Osimhen may be heading to Old Trafford when the summer transfer window opens, according to reports from Italy.

The Napoli forward who is on season-long loan at Turkish giants, Galatasaray. Osimhen is believed to have reached an agreement with Manchester United.

Italian medium, Tuttosport, reported yesterday that the basic agreement reached between

TRANSFER NEWS

Osimhen and United is hinged on Rasmus Hojlund and Alejandro Garnacho moving to Napoli as part of the transactions.

Another medium Il Mattino, also confirmed that the Red Devils have agreed to part with the two players in addition to the paying the release club to Napoli.

The reports suggested there is an agreement in place for a five-year contract for Osimhen with a bigger

salary of about 15 Million Euros.

Osimhen had earlier rejected Manchester United in January because he promised Galatasaray he will honour his season-long loan.

Meanwhile, former France international, Louis Saha has joined ex Red Devils in calling on Manchester United to fortify the team with Osimhen.

Saha who played for four years at Old Trafford, scored 42 goals and

provided 15 assists in 124 games across all competitions, insisted that given the poor form of United front line this season, the team needs an Osimhen.

“I really like Victor Osimhen. He’s definitely got the character, he’s got the quality. He’s also got good European pedigree.

“He was a success in France, he was a champion in Italy with Napoli and he’s gone to Turkey with Galatasaray and been brilliant, a move that he probably didn’t want, let’s be honest.

“He’s scored goals at every level. He’s got Champions League experience, and further more, he’s got the type of personality and charisma that this United squad could really benefit from,” the two-time English Premier League winner said in quotes revealed by Mega Dice.

“I think he would be a transformational signing for Manchester United. If you think about the pressure that he was under at Napoli, firing the club to its first title in 33 years, then he’s the

perfect man to lead the line for Manchester United.

“I think he would have a huge impact at United. I would love to see the club hierarchy move for him, I think he is exactly what we need,” the 46-year-old Saha concluded.

Saha joins Rio Ferdinand and Andy Cole on the list of ex-United stars who want the Galatasaray forward to answer the Old Trafford call, but they face stiff competition from several interested parties, in the Premier League and beyond.

Flying Eagles Cage Young Pharaohs 2-1 in Cairo

Nigeria’s U20 boys, Flying Eagles, yesterday evening defeated their Egyptian counterparts, Young Pharaohs 2-1 in a pre-Africa U20 Cup of Nations friendly at the Cairo International Stadium.

Kparobo Arierhi, who scored three goals as Nigeria successfully defended her WAFU B U20 Championship title in Lome in October (including a brace in the final that dashed Ghana’s hopes), scored Nigeria’s first in the 10th minute of the encounter after a good pass from Bidemi Amole.

The Young Pharaohs pulled one back in the 65th minute through Ahmed Kaabaka, but a dominant Nigeria side shot into the lead again with seven minutes left on the clock after Precious Benjamin made no mistake from the spot, following a foul on Divine Oliseh in the hosts’ eighteen-yard box.

Seven-time African champions Nigeria achieved the morale-boosting victory less than 48 hours after arriving in the Egyptian capital for the 17th Africa U20 Cup of Nations, which gets underway on Sunday.

The Flying Eagles’ first match is against Tunisia on Thursday next week, before further games against Morocco and Kenya in Group B.

On their part, hosts Egypt, who head Group A, will take on South Africa on Sunday, before further games against Sierra Leone on 30th April, Zambia on 3rd May and Tanzania on 9th.

NPFL Slams N3.5m Fine on El-Kanemi, Bans Fans from Stadium

El-Kanemi Warriors have been sanctioned by the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) for security breaches, including failure to ensure sporting conduct of their supporters during the Match-day 34 fixture against Ikorodu City.

The sanctions range from monetary fines to an order of the stadium closure to fans for the rest of the season.

In a Summary Jurisdiction notice issued to the club following rowdy incidents before and at the end of the match in Maiduguri, the club was charged for breaches of Rules B13.52, C9 and B13:18 of the Frameworks and Rules of the NPFL. For failure to provide adequate and effective security which resulted in unauthorized persons gaining access to restricted areas and harass the match officials, the club was fined N1million.

El-Kanemi Warriors also got slammed with a N1million fine for their supporters act of throwing objects on to the field of play while another fine of N1million was also imposed on the club for failure to ensure the proper conduct of your supporters, which resulted in damages on the away team

vehicle.

The club is to pay a half a million Naira compensation to Ikorodu City for damages to their vehicle.

The last of the rulings on the incident is an order for the club to implement more effective match day security framework and crowd control measures, details of which must be submitted to the NPFL within seven (7) working days of the date of this notice.

In accordance with Rule C26, the club is required to through a written response, indicate acceptance of the ruling or elect to appear before a disciplinary panel.

Edo Sports Commission Begins Preparations for National Sports Festival 2025

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

The management of the Edo State Sports Commission has shelved its plans to organise the 4th Edo Sports Festival following the significant impact of the state at the recently concluded maiden Niger Delta Sports Festival in Uyo.

Now, the state wants to shift focus to improved performance at the National Sports Festival scheduled to hold in Ogun State next month.

The decision was taken during the Commission’s Management meeting presided over by the Executive Chairman, Amadin

Desmond Enabulele at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City. Rising from the management meeting attended by the four Executive Directors, the Permanent Secretary and directors, the Executive Chairman, Edo State Sports Commission, Amadin Desmond Enabulele disclosed that the postponement of this year’s state sports festival became necessary having considered the impacts of the Niger Delta Games on the athletes’ preparation for the National Sports Festival.

The management he said also considered the time interval between scheduled period of the Edo sports event and the

commencement date of the Ogun Games, in view of the fact that Edo athletes for the National Sports Festival are expected to be in camp between now and weekend.

According to the Edo State Sports Commission boss, the attention of the commission at this time is on the final preparation of the state contingent for the Ogun Games. He said that the Edo State Sports Festival is designed to serve as a platform for rehearsal for young athletes and discovery of new talents that would represent the State at National Sports Festivals.

The 2025 Edo state Sports Festival, earlier scheduled to hold from April 21st to May 1st, 2025 was aimed at helping to prepare Edo athletes for the forthcoming National Sports Festival, slated for May 16th to 30th, 2025, in Abeokuta, Ogun State. Enabulele who was enthusiastic that many promising talents would be discovered and nurtured through the Edo State Sports Festival to reinforce the state sports contingent for the Ogun games however assured that his management team will ensure that the 2026 Edo state Sports Festival is planned on time to avoid clashes in events schedules.

Nigeria’s Lawrence Iquaibom Elected into Africa’s Weightlifting Body

Nigeria’s Lawrence Iquaibom has been elected as a member of the Technical Committee of the Weightlifting Federation of Africa. Coach Iquaibom, a retired Director of Sports in the Akwa Ibom State

Service was elected yesterday in Mahebourg, Mauritius at the ongoing African Weightlifting Congress.

Iquaibom an Olympian and current International Technical Official of the International Weightlifting Federation, confirmed the good news yesterday. In a telephone interview, the widely travelled official said “this forms part of my happy moments in weightlifting, I feel fulfilled that I

am elevated in a sport I have committed myself, and this will help me contribute to the development of weightlifting in Nigeria, Africa and globally.”

At the Electoral Congress, Mr. Khaled Mhalhel from Libya was re-elected as President of the Weightlifting Federation of Africa while

South African Dr. Kevin Duploy was elected as the Ist Vice President. Other elected members of the Technical Committee include; Mr John Ogolla (Kenya), Mr Horst Sayler (Eswatini) and Mr Faried (Morocco).

The congress which was observed by the 1st Vice President of the International Weightlifting Federation –IWF, Ursula Papandrea will be followed by the 2025 African Weightlifting Championship, scheduled from April 20 to 28, an exciting competition that will see some of Africa’s finest weightlifters showcase their strength and skill on the platform.

Nigeria’s Under-20 team, the Flying Eagles, defeated their Egyptian counterparts 2-1 yesterday in a tuneup match in Cairo ahead the African U20 Nations Cup starting next week in Egypt

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WhEn nEmA mAnAGEmEnT TEAm ViSiTED nCC...

Kayode Komo LAF e

Farewell to the People’s Pope

The progressive signature of Pope Francis on the Vatican was unmistakable from the beginning of his papacy. Since the Catholic pontiff died on Easter Monday the remarkable positions taken by the Bishop of Rome on many socio-economic and political issues have been amply acknowledged in tributes from diverse quarters. The Pope stood for world peace. He preached compassion. He opposed the widening inequality and social injustice which define the world. He cautioned against irresponsibility in matters of climate change. He appointed women to positions of responsibility in the Vatican. He condemned the suffering of women and children as Israel bombed the occupied territory of Gaza just as he rejected anti-Semitism. With his immense moral authority, the Pope took many other steps in solidarity with the poor and the weak. Expectedly, the difference that Pope Francis was making attracted the attention of observers globally.

It could be a fitting farewell to Pope Francis to reproduce a tribute that this reporter paid to the pontiff on this page on Christmas Day 2013. It was entitled “Pope Francis, Truly of the People.”

Below is the piece:

“As Pope Francis celebrates his first Christmas today in the Vatican as the leader of Catholics all over the world, it may be apposite to draw attention to the emerging character of his papacy.

“At least one discernible trait in the doctrinal development taking place in the Vatican is quite relevant to the message of Christmas: Pope Francis has reinvigorated the message of compassion which is at the heart of Christianity and other great religions.

“In other words, it is important to spare a thought about the social relevance of evangelism. It is on this point that Pope Francis is a leader to watch.

“Take a sample.

“On his twitter page last Thursday, the Pope said: ‘Let us pray that God grant us the grace of knowing a world where no one dies of hunger’.

“Now that is a great departure from the sort of evangelism that blames the victims of hunger; some other leaders of faith would say the hungry man is suffering from the consequence of his sins. Doubtless, the pontiff is carrying out a reform of the message issuing from the church. Some would even call what

is taking place a revolution of sorts. There is no way you could be honestly critical of the world in which millions of human beings live in abject poverty without being critical of the dominant ideology of the age. It is such a case that mass poverty is what global capitalism has got to show for its so-called ideological triumph in the cold war. “Hence, Pope Francis has been unequivocal in his criticism of the recklessness of neo-liberal capitalism, which has wreaked havoc in the economies of even the developed capitalist societies. He has condemned the growing inequality in the global economic system. He has never assumed the posture of a technical expert; he has only demonstrated a social conscience in his faith. This is the lesson other religious leaders should learn from the Pope.

The Pope has been reported as posing this sobering question: ‘How can it be that it is not a news item when an elderly homeless person dies of exposure, but it is news when the stock market loses two points?’ It is a question that those who glibly proclaim the end of ideology should sometimes ponder.

“On another occasion, he said: ‘People continue to defend trickle-down theories which assume that economic growth … will bring about greater justice in the world. This opinion expresses a naive trust in the goodness of those wielding economic power.’ The matter is put more explicitly when the Pope argues as follows: ‘As long as the problems of the poor are not resolved by rejecting the absolute autonomy of markets … no solution will be

found for the world’s problems or, for that matter, to any problems.

“By the way, these random quotations from the statements that the Pope has made in the last few months are merely to illustrate the clarity of purpose in his message. More significantly, the fact that these statements are made by the Pope makes them to be weighty in global terms. After all, there was a Pope who was reputed to be a member of the ideological tripod that facilitated the ‘collapse of communism’. This is a frequent reference to the ideological roles of former American President Ronald Reagan, former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and Pope John Paul in the days of the cold war. Similarly, the message of Pope Francis is resonating today in liberal and conservative quarters. However, unlike Pope John Paul, Pope Francis does not appear destined to be a hero of the Right. Members of the Tea Party in the United States already see something red about the Pope, which the rest of the world is, perhaps, not seeing yet.

“Little surprise that those who are cocooned in the extreme right corner of the ideological spectrum are quick to dub the Pope a ‘Marxist’ for his message of compassion for the poor in a Christ-like manner. Interestingly, the Pope has defended himself unambiguously against the charges of ‘Marxism’. He said: ‘Marxist ideology is wrong. But in my life I have met a lot of Marxists who are good people, so I do not feel offended… That does not mean being a Marxist.’ It is also instructive that as an Argentine, the Pope has lived under the regime of neo-liberal orthodoxy in economic management with its socially destructive consequences.

“He is no stranger to the effects of global capitalism on the quality of life of the poor. Yet he is no liberation theologian. If anything, he is on record to have been critical of the leftist liberation theologians in Latin America in those days.

“Pope Francis is only reminding the Church of the primary question of compassion in its origins; this is a question that market forces do not yet have an answer. You don’t have to be a communist to appreciate this fact about humanity. All that is needed is to be socially sensitive to the widening inequality in the world today. This is the point that the conservative segment of the Pope’s audience should always bear in mind, as they are wont to assail him with ideological criticisms. It is cheery news that not a few observers across the ideological spectrum are watching the

doctrinal direction in the Vatican with keen interest.

“The TIME Magazine seems to capture the essence of the new direction of the Pope when it declared him ‘Person of the Year’ last week for ‘pulling the papacy out of the palace and into the streets, for committing the world’s largest church to confronting its deepest needs and for balancing judgment with mercy…’ Besides, he has made a forceful case for a ‘greater presence’ of women in the church. There is a lot of truth in the observation which the magazine puts like this: ‘These days it is bracing to hear a leader say anything that annoys anyone. Now liberals and conservatives alike face a choice as they listen to a new voice of conscience: Which matters more, that this charismatic leader is saying things they think need to be said or that he is also saying things they’d rather not hear?’

“It is refreshing to know that the message from the Vatican is not only about abortion and homosexuals. While he maintains the fundamental views of the church on these largely social and biological issues, he is nudging the church away from getting fixated on the issues. On homosexuality, he once asked: ‘who am I to judge?’ Now, this is far from being rhetorical. It is a possible call for a rethink.

“What is, however, not in dispute is that poverty and inequality are doing a greater havoc to humanity. In words and action, the Pope is reminding the world of this material reality.

“The Pope exudes humility and prefers a simple life. Some other men of God do not see the contradiction between their lives of opulence (sometimes bordering on obscenity) and the poverty of the majority in the congregation. By rejecting the burgeoning inequality in the world today and making compassion a focus of evangelism, Pope Francis truly belongs to the people.”

Yes, the foregoing was just a humble observation of Pope Francis nine months after his papacy began. From the tributes now being paid across the globe to his memory since he died two days ago, the beautiful story of Pope Francis has been that of “morning shows the day.” Some of the great things being said today about Pope Francis were already manifest 12 years ago when he became the head of the Catholic Church.

He held on to his faith to the last minute. May the compassion, justice and peace about which Pope Francis consistently preached to the world come to pass.

The late Pope Francis

L-R: executive Commissioner, Technical Services, Nigerian Communication Commission (NCC), engr. Abraham oshadami, Director General National emergency management Agency (NemA), mrs Zubaida Umar, executive Vice Chairman, NCC, Dr Aminu maida and Director, Information Communication Technology NemA, Dr James Ajujobi during the visit of NemA management team to the NCC Headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday