THEWILL NEWSPAPER July 09, 2023

Method acting is a technique not too many actors practice because of the intensity of the performance. It entails going into a dimension so deep in acting that it takes months to detox from the character the actor chose that technique for.

Angelina Jolie used it to prepare for her character in the movie Salt, and it took her six months to detox from it. It is the same skill our cover personality, Shawn Faqua, uses for his characters, such that he has been dubbed the ‘Method Actor.’ Because of how intense he gets with the characters he portrays, he can only take so many in a year, plus Faqua also believes there is a spiritual element to acting. “There’s a spiritual element in what we do because these are creations that someone has created, and you have to live out these people’s lives, so it’s deeper than we think. What we do is one of the most spiritual works on earth because of the different dimensions we have to engage to bring the character to life.”

While not many would agree that acting has a spiritual element, it may be true for him because of his faith. Faqua is the convener of White Harvest Organisation, a community of believers with the goal to spread love and the gospel in the marketplace. For him, to strike a balance as a believer in the secular world of acting, you must first know who you are. This is what has kept him firmly grounded in Nollywood.

Read more about how he thinks believers can thrive in the entertainment industry and his new projects on pages 8 through 10.

This week’s issue has some exciting articles. We talk about rediscovering intimacy after parenthood in Downtown Confidential. Our beauty page discusses simplifying your skincare routine, and we share tips on achieving a high-end look in your home for less.

Until next week, enjoy your read.

Photo: Kola Oshalusi @insignamedia Makeup: Zaron

COVER

STATE OF THE ECONOMY:

Real Sector in Trouble!

BY SAM DIALA

Like the proverbial advice not to let the left hand know what the right hand is giving, the President Bola Tinubu-led Federal Government last week suspended some taxes that the real sector had complained was bleeding businesses to bankruptcy, but he sustained the ongoing tax reform in the informal sector.

In the face of the removal of fuel subsidy and the unification of foreign exchange channels – all of which have serious implications on the citizens, households and businesses because they induce high inflation rates –which has been applauded as “bold steps” by the current administration to reposition the economy and place the country on the path of sustainable growth, what is going on at the informal sector paints a truer picture of what to expect in the days ahead.

KILLING THE BABY SOFTLY

In the twilight of his administration, ex-President Muhammadu Buhari signed the Finance Bill 2023 into law, which increased the tax burden of businesses in the micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), as well as big corporate bodies. While last week’s suspension of the regime of taxes by the President showed the government’s commitment to addressing complaints about multiple taxation and other related challenges facing business, according to presidential spokesman, Dele Alake, the speculations that the government planned to impose the Value Added Tax (VAT) on the informal sector has been confirmed.

Last week, the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) announced its plan to collect and remit Value Added Tax (VAT) from traders, especially those in the informal sector.

According to FIRS, this will be achieved in partnership with the Market Traders Association of Nigeria (MATAN) using a unified systems technology, the FIRS said in a statement on Monday, July 3. 2023.

According to Muhammad Nami, the FIRS chairman, a combined monitoring and evaluation team, comprising FIRS officers and MATAN members will be formed immediately. This, he said, would enable an adequate cover of all the essential areas of project operations, and ensure transparency and accountability.

“This team will also be saddled with the responsibility of ensuring that VAT remittance is promptly done under the agreed platform,” he said. MATAN is the umbrella body for all trading associations in Nigeria and was founded in 1995. According to the statement, MATAN is the largest player in Nigeria’s market space with a membership of well over 40 million traders across the country.

The FIRS said its collaboration with MATAN will be known as the VAT Direct Initiative.

The initiative allows MATAN to promote awareness of VAT collection and remittance in the marketplace and informal sector, while also simplifying VAT payment and remittance using a purpose-built digital platform.

According to FIRS, MATAN has a digital platform that enumerates its members, gives them a digital ID, and tracks their turnover so that VAT accrued is collected and remitted to the FIRS.

The VAT Direct Initiative (VDI) is the first of its kind programme that will utilise technology to foster collaboration between FIRS and the marketplace for the collection and remittance of VAT, the agency said. Through this initiative, the FIRS will help to tackle multiple taxations in the marketplace through a partnership with security agencies to curb the activities of touts, miscreants and self-imposed tax collectors involved in illegal tax collection in Nigeria’s market spaces.

The VAT Direct Initiative (VDI) will boost VAT revenue generation for the three tiers of government, which in

turn means more money to fund infrastructure, provide social amenities and cater for the welfare of citizens.

Explaining the mode of operation, FIRS said MATAN members would each receive an Identity Card upon enumeration and this card contains their Tax Identification Number (TIN) and other personal details for tax purposes.

The VAT Direct Initiative (VDI) will have a monitoring and evaluation team comprising FIRS officers and MATAN members to ensure transparency, accountability, prompt VAT remittance, sustained commitment, and reporting which are vital to build public confidence in the initiative. The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) is the agency of the Federal Government of Nigeria responsible for assessing, collecting and accounting for tax and other revenues accruable to the Federal Government and the Federation.

However, experts have criticised the move to charge VAT on the informal sector without fashioning out how they can also benefit from ‘VAT-In,’ which means netting off the VAT that is credited to them when they buy VAT-able goods or consume VAT-able services.

“Government workers were paid, refinery workers were paid as and when due from monies borrowed to build infrastructure. Refinery workers are still paid their emoluments when the facilities are refining nothing. People are now being taxed to replenish the empty treasury,” said Gregory Akpobeleimi, an oil and gas and financial expert.

''To boost the treasury and reinforce our dwindling reserves, the government is imposing taxes on the citizens and businesses in a manner that could cripple their growth and disable productivity, Akpobelemi added. “These small businesses will be saddled with more taxes, making the cost of their goods and services higher and

...Real Sector in Trouble!

eating into their profit, which inhibits growth and jobcreation.”

CHALLENGES AHEAD

The questions being asked include: How will the private sector, which accounts for majority of the nation’s employment and contribute hugely to tax revenue, survive the onslaught of high operating cost occasioned by the recent devaluation of the Naira, removal of fuel subsidy, introduction of VAT on diesel consumption and on the informal sector?

Is the country prepared for the mass job losses, worsening insecurity, high cost of living and business closures that are certain to result from these reforms being introduced by the Federal Government?

Can the government plug all loopholes and take steps to reduce wastage and high cost of governance?

Is the government ready to recover the trillions of Naira lost to oil theft, fraudulent subsidy implementation and opaque operation of the refineries?

Where is the infrastructure to help the businesses cushion the effects of the painful reforms?

The government is urging the citizens to endure the pains of the structural adjustment programme in order to enjoy a sustained, future benefit. However, the cost of the “endurance” appears overlooked, which has provoked concern among business operators.

AfDB’s SUGGESTION

The President of the African Development Bank, Akinwunmi Adesina, aptly provided answers to the questions above recently when he urged the Federal Government to improve governance and reform its tax system, saying Nigerians pay one of the highest implicit tax rates in the world.

Speaking at a Federal Inland Revenue Service Tax Dialogue, attended by our correspondent virtually, Adesina lamented that Nigerians pay the highest ‘implicit tax’ in the world.

He acknowledged that conventional tax rates are low in the country, but distinguished those from “implicit tax”, which are “borne but are not seen nor recorded.”

Adesina said: “Truth be told, Nigerians pay one of the highest implicit tax rates in the world — way higher than developed countries.

“Think of it: they provide electricity for themselves via generators; they repair roads to their neighbourhoods, if they can afford to; there are no social security systems; they provide security for their own safety; and they provide boreholes for drinking water with their own monies. That is incredulous in itself. Boreholes are not the way to provide water in the 21st century. Every household should have pipe borne water!”

Speaking further, Adesina said that small and mediumsized enterprises should be further encouraged and supported, as they are the lifelines of earnings and the creators of jobs. Tax exemptions or tax deferments can be used to support their growth.

Nigeria’s bubbling youth are creative, he observed, adding that while their businesses may be small, they should be incentivized to grow.

“Over time, they will become bigger businesses that can provide much higher taxes. There is an urgent need for a fiscal policy regime that strongly supports businesses of young people in Nigeria.

“Given Nigeria’s high level of poverty and huge income inequality, taxes should not be regressive, where taxes paid on goods or services are the same regardless of income,'' he said.

He said that one thing that must always be remembered in this mix is good governance.

He said that good governance is the “speed dial” for greater tax payments.

“The role of the government is not just to collect taxes; its

role is to ensure that the taxes are collected transparently, used transparently and responsibly; that citizens see what their taxes are being used for.

“While there should be tax obligations for citizens, there must also be tax accountability to citizens from governments. Participatory tax-based financing systems demand participatory governance.

“While tax rates are low in Nigeria compared to a number of African and non-African countries, that is not a justification to keep increasing taxes,” he added.

WORLD BANK STUDY

Corroborating Adesina’s suggestion for inclusive governance as long term solution to challenges to impactful development in the country, a recent World Bank Group study found that since a large percentage of workers and firms operate outside the line of sight of governments in emerging markets and developing economies, EMDEs, governments should adopt a comprehensive set of policies to address the drawbacks of the informal sector.

According to the report, Nigeria employs 80.4 per cent in the informal sector, compared to 10 per cent in the formal sector and 9.6 per cent in households.

A total of 78.8 percent of men were in the informal sector; 12.9 percent of men were in the formal sector and 8.3 per cent in households.

Workers in the informal sector include casual day labourers, domestic workers, industrial outworkers, undeclared workers, and part-time or temporary workers without secure contracts, worker benefits or social protection.

COST OF GOVERNANCE

Another aspect that is calling for attention is the clamour on government to drastically reduce the cost of governance. As at April 2023, Nigeria has spent 96.3 percent of its revenue on debt servicing. That is up from

83.2 percent in 2021. Again, the World Bank has raised a timely warning on how the fiscal deficit has worsened the nation’s public debt stock. But that is just part of the scary figures of Nigeria’s worsening economic shift. In the same vein, the percentage of GDP that political leaders spend on running governments rose from 12.8 per cent in 2018 to 12.5 per cent in 2019; slowed down to 12.08 per cent in 2020 but rose to 13.34 per cent in 2021. It went to 14.27 per cent in 2022 and is currently estimated at 14.24 per cent in 2023, according to Statista.com. According to the UNDP Human Development Index (HDI) ranking Nigeria has over 70 percent of the hapless citizens living below the poverty line, with infant/child and maternal mortality still one of the highest in the world. Apart from unemployment rate put at over 40 percent, life expectancy has reduced such that it stands at 52 years!

What this means is that the government spends over 70 percent of the budget on recurrent expenditure and less than 30 per cent on capital expenditure that is supposed to drive economic growth.

PAIN RELIEF

The Tinubu-led administration has taken steps to lessen the tax burden on businesses as a way of boosting the economy. It has done this by revisiting some of the ‘weehours’ bills that his predecessor, Buhari, signed into law a couple of hours to his exit from office, through Executive Orders suspending the taxes.

The organised private sector (OPS) which has welcomed the move observed that the Executive Orders only suspended the taxes but did not cancel them. This implies that the taxes are still in place.

The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, were among the OPS operators that commended the Executive Order.

The Special Adviser to the President on Special Duties, Communications and Strategy, Dele Alake, who disclosed this at a media briefing, explained that the orders were meant to reduce the negative impacts of the tax adjustments on businesses and households across the affected sectors.

However, he reiterated the President’s commitment to addressing complaints about multiple taxation and other related challenges facing business.

He noted that the Tinubu administration would continue to give requisite stimulus through friendly policies to allow businesses to flourish nationwide.

According to Alake, the President has assured Nigerians that there would not be further tax raise without robust and broad consultations within a coherent fiscal policy framework.

He said, “The President wishes to reiterate his commitment to reviewing complaints about multiple taxation, local and anti-business inhibitions.

“The Federal Government sees business owners, local and foreign investors as critical engines in its focus on achieving higher GDP growth and an appreciable reduction in the unemployment rate through job creation.

“The government will, therefore, continue to give requisite stimulus by way of friendly policies to allow businesses to flourish in the country.”

LONG TUNNEL

Experts believe that the benefits of these “palliative” cannot manifest in the next three years because the challenges are deep and wide. During the period, the people will grapple with high inflation while businesses manage to cope with high finance costs, multiple taxes, insecurity and spike in operation costs.

“Businesses must find a way to cope with the severe macroeconomic headwinds. This could lead to job losses, business closures and pay cuts, leading to a drop in standard of living,” said Dr Ken Ugwuoke, an economist and consultant.

Government workers were paid, refinery workers were paid as and when due from monies borrowed to build infrastructure. Refinery workers are still paid their emoluments when the facilities are refining nothing. People are now being taxed to replenish the empty treasury... the government is imposing taxes on the citizens and businesses in a manner that could cripple their growth and disable productivity

Oborevwori Wins at Supreme Court

The Supreme Court has dismissed an appeal seeking to sack Sheriff Oborevwori as Governor of Delta State.

Chief Ikie Aghwarianovwe, a governorship aspirant of the PDP, had in October 2022, dragged Sheriff Oborevwori and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to court.

He alleged that Oborevwori submitted false documents to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to aid his qualification for the 2019 House of Assembly election in Delta State.

Chief Ikie argued that Oborevwori was not qualified to contest the 2023 governorship election. Oborevwori and the PDP had objected that the suit was statute-barred, pointing out that documents submitted to INEC in 2018 towards the 2019 general election could not be a ground for disqualification of a candidate in 2023.

Both the trial Court and the Court of Appeal in Abuja upheld the Defendants’ objection.

Dissatisfied, Chief Ikie approached the apex court to quash the ruling of the trial and Appellate courts.

However, the Supreme Court, in a unanimous judgement delivered by Justice Emmanuel Agim on Friday, held that the appellant, Chief Ikie, failed to prove his case beyond reasonable doubt.

He said, “The mere fact that there were differentials in names does not amount to falsity.

“An error in the date of birth in a certificate not shown evidentially to emanate from the respondent cannot amount to falsity.”

The court ordered Chief Ikie to pay N3 million each as cost to the PDP and Oborevwori.

Nigerian Navy Warns Against Sabotage of National Assets

The Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Naval Command, ENC, of the Nigerian Navy, Rear Admiral O. K. Oluwagbire, has warned against sabotage of national assets within the command.

He said the command would descend on any saboteurs or criminals attacking national maritime infrastructures.

The assets, he said, include crude oil terminals, sea ports, gas plants and refineries.

He said the ENC is capable of containing any maritime crimes in the three states, Akwa Ibom, Cross River and Rivers States that make up the ENC.

He made this known while paying a courtesy visit on the Cross River State Governor Senator Bassey Otu emphasised that the ENC also came to to restate military resolve to provide support to civil powers.

Bayelsa Hands Over Stranded Fishermen to Saõ Tomé And Principe

FROM DAVID OWEI, YENAGOA

Bayelsa State Government has formally handed over three fishermen, who lost their way on the Gulf of Guinea to the Saõ Tomé and Principe Head of Mission in Nigeria.

Speaking at the Government House, Yenagoa, during the formal handover on Thursday night, Governor Diri lauded the local fishermen in Okpoama community, Brass Local Government, who rescued their fellow fishermen on the Atlantic Ocean. He said they demonstrated the true spirit of Ijaw, which cares for brothers and humanity in general.

FG Tackles Export Reject as an Emergency – NQC Chairman

The establishment of the National Quality Council (NQC) to promote enhanced development, harmonisation and rationalisation of Nigeria’s Quality Infrastructure is part of measures put in place by the Federal Government to tackle and mitigate the constant rejection of Nigeria’s export products in the international market which has become an emergency.

A statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Daniel Alabrah, quoted the governor as saying the action of the Bayelsa fishermen underscored the cordial relationship between Nigeria and the neighbouring country.

Governor Diri disclosed that once they were rescued, his administration, through the Commissioner for Health, Dr Pabara Igwele, made sure that they were provided the necessary health care.

He hailed the effort of the government of Saõ Tomé and Principe in showing concern for its citizens, even though they were fishermen, saying it showed that they truly valued their citizens.

"Those that tamper with national economic assets which inundate the three states had better stay away.

"These three maritime states under the ENC host lots of economic assets of national importance.

"These are 15 crude oil terminals, three major seaports, six national gas plants and two refineries, as well as various oil fields. There are also very rich fishing environments.

"We cannot tolerate any acts of criminality towards these assets. Our duty is not only to defend the country against external aggression or suppressing insurrection but protect critical economic infrastructure against sabotage", he stressed.

He commended the governor for his support, assuring that the Navy will continue to provide the needed security in the state.

The Chairman and Chief Executive of the NQC, Osita Aboloma who stated this in Abuja, posited that the various legs of the quality infrastructure, namely standards development, metrology, conformity assessment and accreditation require urgent harmonization and rationalization. These, he said, would ensure cost effectiveness and efficiency in support of the acceptance of Nigeria’s export products around the world. Responding to questions on the recent assertion by the Director-General of NAFDAC, Professor Mojisola Adeyeye, that 70 percent of Nigeria’s food exports are rejected in Europe and America, Aboloma said that sanitary and phyto-sanitary requirements are some of the key issues to be surmounted to avoid the constant rejects.

The SPS requirements, according to him, are quarantine and biosecurity measures applied to protect human, animal and plant life or health risks arising from the introduction, establishment and spread of pests, diseases as well as from the use of additives, toxins and contaminants in food and feed.

Aboloma alluded to a recent Vanguard Newspaper report of Nigerians shipping goods to Ghana for certification to enhance export value as being unacceptable, stressing that the solution lies in accelerated development, rationalization and harmonization of the Nation’s quality infrastructure for optimum value addition.

He stressed the need for greater synergy amongst organizations and institutions in the public and private sectors, hosting the National Quality Infrastructure as well as greater awareness creation for operators along the export value chain.

The Bayelsa governor also commended the role of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), in the rescue of the fishermen and again called for the agency’s presence in Bayelsa and other coastal states, to take care of such situations. His words: "I got the news of the rescue of these fishermen informally. I then tried to use a formal government system and the security agencies to confirm that we had two citizens of Saõ Tomé and Principe that were rescued by some Bayelsa fishermen at Okpoama in Brass Local Government Area of the state while the third one was rescued by NIMASA personnel.

"So, I directed that the three of them be brought to Yenagoa so that they can undergo health checks and probably contact the Sao Tome and Principe Government.

"Fortunately, the Saõ Tomé and Principe Government's Head of Missions at the embassy in Nigeria made contacts with our government and informed us that he was coming to Yenagoa to receive them.

"I am really very proud of our fishermen who exhibited their Ijawness because the Ijaw man is very hospitable and loves humanity.

"Let me also appreciate the Government of Saõ Tomé and Principe for going after their citizens who went missing on the Atlantic Ocean for over one week while trying to navigate their way on the sea and the Gulf of Guinea drifted them to the Nigerian boundary.”

Responding, Saõ Tomé and Principe’s Head of Mission to Nigeria, Pires Dos Santos Aguiar, expressed appreciation to the Bayelsa State Government and Nigeria for their effort to rescue his countrymen. He said the action of Bayelsa and Nigeria has strengthened the relationship between both countries.

L-R: Chief Financial Officer, MTN Nigeria, Modupe Kadri; Chairman, MTN Nigeria, Dr. Ernest Ndukwe OFR.; Chairman, MTN Group, Jonas Mcebisi; President Bola Ahmed Tinubu; President and Chief Executive Officer, MTN Group, Ralph Mupita and Chief Executive Officer, MTN Nigeria, Karl Toriola, during a courtesy visit to the President by the leadership of MTN Group and MTN Nigeria, at the State House in Abuja on July 7, 2023.

FROM BASSEY ANIEKAN, CALABAR

Institute Offers University Scholarships to Wards of Workers

The Chartered Institute of Educational Practitioners, United Kingdom (CIEPUK) on Friday said it will offer university scholarships to the children of public and private sector workers across the country.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that CIEPUK had earlier said it was partnering several institutions to award scholarships to outstanding students in the just concluded 2023 JAMB/UTME examinations.

Prof. Marcel Ezenwoye, National President of CIEPUK, told NAN that the institute decided to extend its scholarship programme to students, whose parents were either working for the government or in the private sector.

He said the gesture was a way of helping workers cushion the effect of the fuel subsidy regime, introduced by President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

The president said that the institute is in partnership with several universities within and outside the country, to offer 50 percent scholarship to these children.

Ezenwoye said that the 50 per cent scholarship would cover part of the students` tuition, hostel and other fees throughout their four-year period in the University of their Choice.

He said 50 per cent scholarship to any university of their choice, would cover JAMB/UTME students who did very well and other students with lower scores, provided they apply between now and Aug. 30.

“This is in line with the Federal Government’s policies on inclusive, affordable and accessible education under the able watch of Tinubu and

Take Advantage of African Cassava Value Chain, NQC Chairman Tells Stakeholders

Stakeholders in the Cassava value chain in Nigeria have been admonished to take optimum advantage of the various initiatives being promoted under the auspices of the African Union Commission (AUC), the Pan African Quality Infrastructure (PAQI) and the African Organisation for Standardisation (ARSO) given the vantage position of the country in the production of Cassava within the Continent.

Market Leaders Task

his Vice, Kashim Shettima.

“Our goal is to lighten the burden of this government/private sector workers and the strain on their finances occasioned by the fuel subsidy regime. “So that for a semester, they pay N60, 000 as tuition fees, N30, 000 for hostel and N5, 000 as medical fees for their wards.

“CIEPUK has decided to allocate 20 scholarship slots each to staff of the various ministries, government institutions, parastatals, agencies as well as private organisations across the country.

“Interested staff with eligible wards is advised to apply through their various ministries and private organisations, as CIEPUK would deal directly and officially with the management of the organisations.

“Beneficiaries would access categorised scholarships to enable them study the course of their choice in any of our collaborating public and private Universities and polytechnics in Nigeria and overseas, for2023/2024 academic session.

“The tertiary institutions include; Hipdet University, Cameroon, Gideon Robert University, Lusaka, Zambia, St. Monica University, Cameroon, Paul University, Awka, Tansian University, Umunya Anambra State and Maduka University, Enugu State.

“Others are Covenant Polytechnic, Owerri, Temple Gate Polytechnic, Aba and Dorben Polytechnic, Abuja.

“Admission forms are already on sale and the first scholarship/admission screening interview will be held on Aug. 30 at the Old Registrar’s office, Paul University, Awka or CIEPUK Head Office, Abuja at noon,“ he said.

LASG, Others on Peaceful Coexistence

Market Leaders and Traders Associaton of Nigeria (MALETAN) Lagos State chapter, has called on the Lagos State Government, concerned persons and groups to address the challenges affecting peaceful coexistence in the state.

The President of the association, Mr Christopher Okpala, made the call at a news conference on developments in the state and as it affect its members in the trading community, on Thursday in Lagos.

The News of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Okpala was in company of his Vice, Benjamin Nweke and Secretary, Okey Enwuru.

He said that addressing the anomalies would help to boost the progress recorded in the state and Nigeria at large.

He said the association, trader’s rights protection initiative, had been following recent developments in the state in the last eight months; prior to the general elections to date.

According to him, after careful observation, studies and evaluations, the association came out with the position that will help to heal all wounds and uproot ill feelings.

He noted that it equally removes all manners of divisive seeds of bigotry, redirects the patriotic zeal and passion of all stakeholders.

Okpala said that achieving this would help contribute to the drive of the mantra of excellence in the state and development of Nigeria in general.

Okpala, advised those being used by desperate politicians to have a rethink, be remorseful, retrace their steps, and desist from divisive politicking in the future.

As an organisation, he called the government not to allow the ugly incidents of the pre-election and election periods to be swept under the carpet.

The MALETAN boss urged the government to prosecute anyone identified to have caused mayhem on innocent residents of the state during the period under reference.

Chairman of the National Quality Council (NQC), Osita Aboloma gave the admonition while inaugurating the Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the hosting of the African Cassava Conference scheduled for Abuja, Nigeria between October 15 and 17, 2023 with the theme “Stimulating Africa’s Industrialization Through Development of and Assuring Quality Along The Cassava Value Chain”.

Aboloma posited that the African Continent stands to benefit immensely from initiatives such as the Cassava Value Chain project to promote intra-African Trade, enhance economic emancipation, welfare of Africans and position the Continent better in its trading relationship with the rest of the world.

Conversely, according to him, Nigeria is in an advantageous position to enhance its export potentials in cassava products to e Area Agreement (AfCFTA).

He commended the efforts of the African Union Leadership, through the AUC and particularly the PAQI in promoting quality infrastructure in the continent, stressing that Nigeria through the NQC is following suite.

The NQC Chairman charged the LOC members to ensure the full cooperation of their various organizations and institutions as well as the effective mobilization of Nigeria’s public and private sector stakeholders to proviearn valuable foreign exchange, in view of the implementation of the African Continental Free Tradde all necessary support for the success of the Conference.

Aboloma assured the Committee members that the National Quality Council will do all within its means to ensure the successful hosting of the Africa Cassava Conference as well as continue to collaborate with the Africa Union Commission through the PAQI and other Stakeholders and Development Partners in Nigeria and the entire African Continent on all initiatives relating to the promotion of Quality within and beyond Africa.

He charged them to work collectively and seamlessly to ensure a successful hosting by Nigeria in furtherance of the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Agreement to the greater benefit of the Continent and its people.

The NQC Chairman enjoined them individually and collectively to bring their wealth of knowledge and experiences as well as patriotism to bear in the discharge of the assignments relating to the successful hosting of the African Cassava Conference.

L-R: Wife of Ex-Head of State, Mrs Victoria Gowon; her husband, Retired General Yakubu Gowon; wife of former Governor of Ogun State, Yeye Olufunke Daniel; her husband, Otunba Gbenga Daniel; Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu and others, during the commendation service for the late Otunba Olasubomi Balogun at the Cathedral Church of Christ, Marina, Lagos on July 6, 2023.

Junior Achievement Africa’s CEO, Simi Nwogugu, Wins Africa Education Medal 2023

first introduced to JA while working at Goldman Sachs in New York City. Impressed by the organisation, she quit her lucrative job at age 24 to bring JA to Nigeria, where it now reaches more than 100,000 young people annually, before going on to head JA’s operations across the continent.

NGO Trains

Newsmen on Auditing Skills

ANon-Governmental Organisation (NGO), the FrontFoot Media Initiative, has trained journalists on how to identify and expose manipulations and corrupt practices in public accounts.

Tinubu Vows to Reposition Nigeria's Economy

President Bola Tinubu has assured the manufacturing and service sectors that more reforms will be unfolded to enable efficiency and attract investments.

The President said the ongoing economic ‘‘revolution’’ will be deliberately steered to capture and favour teeming youths in the country.

A statement issued by his Special Adviser on Special Duties, Communication and Strategy, Dele Alake, said President Tinubu gave the assurances when he received a delegation from MTN led by Group Chairman, Mcebisi Jonas, at the State House.

“We have a responsibility to revolutionise the economy so that our youths can share in the prosperity of the nation, otherwise we are only waiting for the dreams to be charted.

“If you have any problems or impediments do let us know. We are ready to remove bottlenecks to investments in the economy,’’ President Tinubu told the delegation while acknowledging the sweeping changes across the world, largely driven by technology.

Nigeria’s Simi Nwogugu, Chief Executive Officer of Junior Achievement (JA) Africa, was last Friday named winner of this year's Africa Education Medal, Africa’s most prestigious education award founded in 2022 by T4 Education and HP in collaboration with Microsoft.

The Africa Education Medal was founded to recognise the tireless work of those change makers who are transforming African education. UNESCO data show that sub-Saharan Africa has the highest rate of education exclusion in the world. Over one-fifth of children between the ages of six and 11 are out of school, with girls particularly disadvantaged.

However, tireless international efforts have seen Africa make great strides in boosting enrollment in the decades leading up to the pandemic. By celebrating the stories of those working every day to expand upon these vital gains, the Africa Education Medal aims to inspire others to follow in their footsteps and bring lasting change in African education.

Simi Nwogugu is the CEO of JA Africa, part of the Nobel Peace Prize-nominated JA Worldwide, one of the world’s largest youth-serving NGOs that prepares young people for the future of work. She was

The vital importance of Nwogugu’s work is highlighted by the fact that 60 per cent of the population of sub-Saharan Africa and about 37 percent of its workforce are under the age of 25. By 2025, Africa will be home to 25 per cent of the world’s youth population. Through the delivery of hands-on, blended learning in financial literacy, work readiness, and entrepreneurship, her organisation empowers young people to grow their entrepreneurial ideas, hone their work readiness skills, manage their earnings and secure better lives for themselves, their families, and their communities. For 25 years, Nwogugu has been leading JA’s efforts in various capacities as it embarked on a mission to help young people to generate and effectively manage wealth, create jobs for their communities, as well as apply entrepreneurial thinking to the workplace and skills that will secure their financial future. Her passion for strategy and innovation led to the development of many impactful programs that ensure young Africans have the skillset and mindset to succeed. She is a passionate advocate for girls’ education and one of her unique initiatives includes the Leadership, Empowerment Achievement and Development (LEAD) Camp for Girls, which has inspired and empowered over 1,200 young girls to become highachieving women leaders in society.

Another initiative she has championed is the Venture in Management Programme (ViMP), which is designed to empower young people in the different facets of managing a business, making crucial business decisions and developing skills for General Management and social responsibility. Graduates of the programme have gone on to become founders of Nigeria’s leading businesses as well as leaders of the most impactful non-profit organisations on the continent.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the theme of the two-day training programme, which began on Wednesday in Abuja, is “X-raying Government Audit Reports”.

NAN also reports that the training which is the third in the series, was organised as part of Collaborative Media Engagement for Development Project, under the Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism, and funded by MacArthur Foundation. During a technical session on Thursday, Mr Sully Abu, FrontFoot Media Executive, stressed the need for journalists to acquaint themselves with the tenets of auditing in order to report appropriately.

Abu, who was one of the facilitators, emphasised the pivotal role of newsmen in holding public officers accountable.

“The self-inflicted tragedies of our nation have derived substantially from the failure to hold not just people, but also leaders, to account for their actions.

“This has been quite evident at the state level, where governance touches people’s lives mostly.

“In many places, state governors have turned into local potentates because of their unfettered access to and control of public treasury.

“They can suborn individuals and other branches of government to do their will with results not always meant or guaranteed for the public good,” he said.

Also speaking, Mr Sonala Olumhense, another official of the organisation, urged newsmen to take their constitutional obligation as contained in Chapter 2 of the 1999 Constitution(As Amended), seriously. Olumhense, who is also a Columnist, said in view of the constitutional right of the press, it was necessary for newsmen to hold governments to account for their actions.

President Tinubu said the growing ruralurban migration can only be controlled with more investments in digital technology that will directly improve healthcare systems and education for the poor.

“I am happy you are moving from Corporate Social Responsibility to be more incisive and inquisitive with technology so that we can see how we can partner structurally,’’ the President stated.

“You can do a lot for the economy by partnering with us. We believe no one can succeed alone. The structural adjustments we are making are to ensure we face the right direction and arrive at a destination that caters for our people.

“You and I will make sure that the people have a share of that prosperity. We will, together, build a well-informed society. We have to re-assess the journey. I am glad that the stock market is responding positively to the structural adjustments,” he added.

The MTN Group Chairman said the company had a plan of investing $3.5 billion in the economy over the next five years, with a broader vision of becoming a panAfrican company by moving investments from the Middle East and focusing more on Africa, especially Nigeria, where it gets the highest return on investment.

Jonas congratulated the President for the upswing of interest in the country within a short period since he assumed office on May 29, 2023, promising to support the mobilisation of other investors with about $1.5 trillion to look towards Nigeria, where reforms had been styled to favour business and encourage inclusive development.

“The message you have given us is that Nigeria is investible, and with your election, we are seeing decisive, prompt and keen interest in structural reforms,’’ the MTN Group Chairman noted.

The Group President/CEO of MTN, Ralph Mupita; Chairman of MTN Nigeria, Ernest Ndukwe, and Chief Executive Officer, Olutokun Karl Toriola, were part of the meeting.

President Bola Tinubu (right) receiving a souvenir from visiting President Patrice Talon of Benin Republic at the State House, Abuja on July 7, 2023

POLITICS

EU Election Observation Mission Report And INEC’s Credibility

BY AYO ESAN

The European Election Observation Mission (EU/ EOM) to Nigeria on Tuesday, June 27 published its final report on the February/ March 2023 General Election.

The report has attracted reactions not only from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) whose credibility was thoroughly dented with the way and manner it conducted the elections but also many concerned Nigerians, including the winner of the Presidential election, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu and the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, who came second in the election.

Atiku and the presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), M. Peter Obi, are already in court to challenge Tinubu’s victory in the election. Both candidates found the EU/EOM report useful in the pursuit of their cases and it was said to have been accepted by the Election Petition Tribunal, as evident in the case.

Following a three-month-long observation across Nigeria and in accordance with its usual practice, the EU/ EOM presented its findings and recommendations, disclosing that shortcomings in law and electoral administration had hindered the conduct of a well-run and inclusive election, as well as damaged public trust in INEC.

While presenting the report, the EU/EOM through its Chief Observer, Barry Andrews, also a member of the European Parliament, stated: “In the lead up to the 2023 general election Nigerian citizens demonstrated a clear commitment to the democratic process. That said, the election exposed enduring systemic weaknesses and therefore signaled a need for further legal and operational

reforms to enhance transparency, inclusiveness, and accountability.”

As part of its plan to contribute to the successful future elections in the country, the EU/ EOM offered 23 recommendations for consideration by the Nigerian authorities.

Andrews said the Mission was particularly concerned about the need for reform in six areas which were identified as priority recommendations.

He said the EU EOM believed that if implemented, these key areas could contribute to improvements in the conduct of elections. According to him, the six priority recommendations will remove ambiguities in the law; establish a publicly accountable selection process for INEC members; ensure real-time publication of and access to election results; provide greater protection for media practitioners; address discrimination against women in political life, and remove impunity regarding electoral offenses.

“Importantly, there is a need for political will to achieve improved democratic practices in Nigeria. Inclusive dialogue between all stakeholders on electoral reform remains crucial. The European Union stands ready to support Nigerian stakeholders in the implementation of these recommendations,” Andrews added.

The EU/ EOM said that at the invitation of INEC it carried out its work between January11 and April11, 2023 and it was joined by a delegation from the European parliament to observe the Presidential and National Assembly elections.

The mission said it accredited a total of 110 observers from 25 EU member states, as well as Norway, Switzerland and Canada.

INEC’s Reaction

In its reaction, INEC, through its National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, Barrister Festus Okoye, said that international observers had reported significant improvements on the 2023 elections.

The EU/ EOM presented its findings and recommendations, disclosing that shortcomings in law and electoral administration had hindered the conduct of a well-run and inclusive election

...Report And INEC’s Credibility

He said: “From the report presented, the EU made mention of the fact that there have been significant improvements in our electoral process and there have been so many positives to this particular election.

“One of the positives is that we registered over 93 million Nigerians during this election. Not only that, if you look at the reports submitted by international observers, in terms of voter accreditation, the BVAS performed optimally.”

Okoye, however, admitted that there were challenges, promising that recommendations from international observers would be worked on and implemented.

He said: “But there were also a few challenges and looking at those challenges, one must look at the context and the environment of the election.

Okoye said there was a glitch that stopped the uploading of the presidential election result on IREV Portal.

During an interview on Channels Television, he also asked why opposition political parties were relying on results posted on IREV instead of their agents.

Okoye said that it is wrong to suggest that the electoral body wasted taxpayers' money during the election as the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) was successfully used for voter accreditation and result upload for the polls.

He said: “It is not fair to judge the entire performance of the commission on the basis of a glitch in the result uploaded for the presidential election.

“Almost all the political parties nominated and got accredited at least over 170,000 polling agents. What that means is that they had primary evidence of the results from the polling units.

“It is those results from the polling units, together with the BVAS as a machine itself that goes to the collation centre. So, it is not true for a political party to rely only on result upload in order to get the evidence with which it wants to prosecute its case in court.”

He however failed to explain what caused the glitch, saying that he did not know much about technology and could not delve into the subject.

Reacting to the report, the Presidency noted that the process and factors that resulted in the EU/ EOM’s report on the election were faulty.

It added that the parameters used by the body exposed its inadequacies and its ability to conduct credible monitoring.

In a release issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Special Duties, Communication and Strategy, Mr. Dele Alake, the Presidency also noted that the said report was predetermined, recalling that the EU group had manifested signs of bias earlier in the run up to the elections, adding, however, that the report was merely collated to justify its already manifested bias against the system.

It, however, rejected the EU EOM’s report for its inability to adequately reflect the largest and true picture of the elections, especially the presidential election, citing the inadequate coverage by the body, which was only able to deploy 40 election observers to the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and based its judgement on incidences from less than 1,000 polling units out of 176,000 locations.

Reactions from Tinubu, Atiku others

The Presidency in its reaction rejected the European Union’s final report, which highlighted fault lines in the February 25 presidential elections.

“We strongly reject, in its entirety, any notion and idea from any organisation, group and individual remotely suggesting that the 2023 presidential election was fraudulent,” a statement signed by the President’s Special Adviser on Special Duties, Communication and Strategy, Dele Alake read.

In the statement titled ‘We reject European Union’s conclusions on 2023 general elections the presidency alleged bias and an intention to “impeach the integrity of the 2023 elections” which it described as the “best organised general elections in Nigeria since 1999.

The Presidency faulted the data-gathering technique employed in the report, saying, “With the level of personnel deployed, which was barely an average of one person per state, we wonder how EU-EOM independently monitored elections in over 176,000 polling units across Nigeria,” Alake queried.

It insisted that the 2023 general election, “most especially the presidential election, won by President Bola Tinubu/ All Progressives Congress, was credible, peaceful, free, fair and the best organised in Nigeria since 1999.”

“There is no substantial evidence provided by the European Union or any foreign and local organisation that is viable enough to impeach the integrity of the 2023 election outcomes.”

Describing the findings as “unfounded,” the Presidency said, “We can now categorically let Nigerians and the entire world know that we were not unaware of the machinations of the EU.”

“We are convinced that what EU-EOM called the final report on our recent elections is a product of a poorly done desk job that relied heavily on a few instances of skirmishes in less than 1000 polling units out of over 176,000 where Nigerians voted on Election Day,” it concluded.

In his own reaction, former Labour and Employment Minister, Festus Keyamo, said the European EUEOM report on the 2023 polls was a “reflection of a one-sided narrative.”

Keyamo described the report as very disappointing and unfortunate on the part of the observers as their first assignment was to observe and report, not to investigate claims made by candidates against one another.

The Youth Initiative for Advocacy, Growth, and Advancement (YIAGA) Africa said the report by the

European Union (EU) Election Observation Mission of the 2023 general election in Nigeria was a welcome development.

YIAGA also noted that the issues highlighted in the EU’s report were not new to the international community, adding that Nigeria has some lessons to learn from the just concluded general election in Sierra Leone.

The Executive Director of YIAGA Africa, Mr. Samson Itodo, also noted that the EU’s observations were not intended to judge the credibility of the election process.

Itodo, however, quickly added that Nigeria has an existing bilateral relationship with the international communities thus, does not and cannot exist in isolation in its dealings.

Commenting on the reports coinciding with the ongoing post-election judicial process, Itodo explained that the reports were in no way whatsoever intended to influence the cases in court.

online at www. thewillnews.com

The Presidency in its reaction rejected the European Union’s final report, which highlighted fault lines in the February 25 presidential elections

POLITICS

The governing All Progressives Congress, APC, is treading on a familiar path again. The principal officers and leaders of the party have a way of disagreeing openly over issues that show whose interests are being served.

The recent open disagreement between the National Chairman of the party, Senator Abdullahi Adamu and the leadership of the National Assembly over the appointment of principal officers among federal lawmakers is coming at a time when new guards are coming onboard the new administration.

Just like President Muhammadu Buhari surrounded himself with key appointees from the Congress of Progressive Change, CPC, wing of the APC headed by former Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, the current President Bola Tinubu is giving key appointments to the Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN, faction of the APC. For example, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume; the Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila and National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu and many of the Special Advisers, so far, are originally ACN people.

In addition, the recruitment of loyalists within the party, still divided along factions of the party, has become imperative for the President and his men who had to literally fight his way through planned intra-party roadblocks to the presidency.

For a party that has got used to walking that path, these appointments may not seem odd. But when President Tinubu went ahead to openly voice his choice for the leadership of the National Assembly, the party quickly stepped in and managed to reached a consensus with him and a zoning formula was devised to ratify the choice, thus avoiding another round of conflict, which had burnt slowly over the heap of previous disagreements over the composition of the membership of the Presidential Campaign Council, PCC.

A source told THEWILL that some members of the National Working Committee, NWC, of the party learnt with disbelief that Tinubu had sanctioned the choice of principal officers of the National Assembly without their input. “They felt relegated and the party looked empty,” said a source. And Adamu, who sources say felt the need to assert the party’s supremacy, decided to openly challenge the decision, judging from his past interaction with Tinubu.

The existing tradition, with regard to the election of principal officers of the National Assembly after the emergence of the President of the Senate and Speaker of the House, is that the caucus of the party at the NASS selects the officers and seeks the approval of the NWC, composed of elected administrative executives of the party and the National Executive Committee comprising the President, Vice President, all elected state governors on the platform of the party and the leadership of both the National Assembly and State Houses of Assembly.

Adamu was said to have been peeved by the development when he got wind of it during the preceding weekend, courtesy visit of the Senate President, Senator Godswill Apkabio and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abass and their deputies.

“I had a courtesy call on Saturday from the President of the Senate and his deputy. The following day, which was Sunday, I received a visit from the Speaker and his deputy coming to me for Sallah’s homage,” a visibly angry Adamu told members of the hurriedly called meeting of the NEC, including state governors.

“But I am just hearing rumours now from the online media that there have been some announcements in the Senate and House of Representatives. The national headquarters of the party or the NWC has not given any such information or communicated about the choice of the remaining offices and until we formally resolve and communicate to them in writing which is the normal practice as had been done before we came here, it is not our intention to break away from tradition.

“So, whatever announcement is done either by the President of the Senate, Deputy Senate President, Speaker or Deputy Speaker, is not from this secretariat.”

Although some of the governors present at the meeting

A House Divided by Choice

BY AMOS ESELE

were said to have called for understanding and better management of such matters henceforth and others reportedly confronted Adamu for being too direct in his approach, there is a feeling in the party that the National Chairman has declared ‘war’ with the President.

But that war may be short-lived. For one, President Tinubu is said to be ready to reconcile those he considered ‘party loyalist’ and relegate those considered opposed to his intention to maintain a tight grip on the

party. Once again, there are unsettled pre-election issues that are still lingering in the background.

As a member of the routed cabal that stood against him and his ambition before the presidential convention of the party, Tinubu is said to be favourably disposed to seeing Adamu’s back as the National Chairman. As reported by THEWILL last week, former Governor of Plateau State and Director-General of the PCC, Simon Lalong, looks good to be the preferred National Chairman in the event of a convention.

Aware of the stakes at play, Lalong who had been leading a faction of the party in Plateau, last Thursday held a meeting with the faction led by ex-Governor Joshua Dariye and other party stakeholders. The need to present a united front in the face of many appointments yet to be made by the President had become necessary for Tinubu’s campaign DG.

What is happening should not surprise anyone. If his own party leaders were prepared to sabotage his emergence as president, Tinubu should not be blamed for wanting to have his men and trusted aides and loyal party men and women to work with, said a dependable source.

National Publicity Secretary of the party, Felix Morka, refused to pick his call when contacted.

But I am just hearing rumours now from the online media that there have been some announcements in the Senate and House of Representatives

Osun Assembly to Start Screening of Commissioner - Nominees Wednesday

STORIES BY AYO ESAN

The Osun State House of Assembly has said that it will commence the screening of 25 commissionernominees that has been forwarded to it for screening and confirmation by Governor Ademola Adeleke on Wednesday.

Speaking while announcing the names during the plenary session on Friday, the Speaker Osun State House of Assembly, Hon. Adewale Egbedun, said he received a letter from the governor for the confirmation of the nominees in line with sections 192 (2) and 196(1) of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution (amended).

Egbedun said 25 names for the position of commissioners and another request for the appointment of 25 Special Advisers were received from the governor.

He said the 25 commissioner-nominees include Oladosu Babatunde, Bayo Ogunbamgbe, Sesan Oyedele, Kolapo Alimi, Soji Adeigbe, Moshood Olagunju,

Sanwo-Olu’s Wife Calls on Christians to Unite For Country’s Development

George Alabi and Sunday Oroniyi.

Others are Abiodun Ojo, Bashir Salami, Moruf Ayofe, Sola Ogungbile, Bunmi Jenyo, Ayo Awolowo, Wole Bada, Dipo Eluwole, Rasheed Aderibigbe, Moruf Adeleke, Adeyemo Ademola, Olabiyi Odunlade, Jola Akintola, Mayowa Adejorin, Adenike Adeleke, Tola Fasheru and Gani OlaOluwa.

He thereafter constituted a seven-member ad-hoc committee, to be headed by the Deputy Speaker, Akinyode Oyewusi, to screen the nominees on Wednesday, July 12, 2023, and said the committee should report back to the House after.

He said all the nominees must declare their assets before the Code of Conduct Bureau as required by the Nigerian Constitution.

Hon. Egbedun said the nominees are to provide 35 copies of their Curriculum Vitae (CV) to the Clerk of the House between Friday, 7 July and Tuesday, 11 July.

Abia State Will Experience Developments Under Otti - Primate

The Leader of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Primate Elijah Ayodele has said that Abia State will improve in so many ways and will experience lots of developments and transformation under the new governor, Mr. Alex Otti.

Ayodele who made this known while launching the 2023/2024 edition of his annual prophecy book ‘Warnings To The Nations' , in Lagos said the governor will do a lot to transform the state.

Speaking during the launch of the book which contains several warnings to presidents, governors, important personalities, prime ministers, and monarchs, to mention a few, Ayodele said “The Spirit of God says Abia state will improve in so many ways and will experience lots of developments.

“Abia state will experience lots of transformation. The state will be supported. The state will seek for help even as it

Obaseki Flags Off Edo Digital Policy Project

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, on Friday, launched the Edo Digital Policy Project in furtherance of the government’s efforts to expand the state’s digital economy and drive sustainable growth and development across the State via technology.

The governor flagged off the project when he received a team of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation who were on a courtesy visit at the Government House in Benin City, the Edo State capital.

Obaseki, who said the programme will bolster the government’s efforts at leveraging technology to deliver efficient and quality services to the people of the State, noted that the project is facilitated by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation through the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG). Noting that the State remains committed to expanding its digital economy, the governor said the government will set up a new agency to sustain the success recorded in digital and data-driven governance across the State.

The First Lady of Lagos, Dr. (Mrs.) Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu has called on Christians from all denominations to embrace peace and unity for the progress and development of Nigeria.

The governor's wife gave the charge at the 2023 Lagos Praise 3.0, an annual event organized by the Office of the First Lady, Lagos to create a viable platform for the state's first family, graceful ladies, and members of the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO) to come together in collaboration with the five blocs of the Christian Association of Nigeria (C.A.N), Lagos State Chapter.

In her address, Mrs. Sanwo-Olu said this year’s theme: “Casting Crowns,” taken from Rev 4: 10-11. was chosen specifically to signify the act of laying down one’s crown and submitting to worship which is the essence of the gathering.

Ayodele

will do a lot to create more employment opportunities.

The governor will do a lot to transform the state. I foresee a new transformation agenda drawn to develop the state.

“The governor will make several efforts to develop the state but will run into debts. The government will struggle to pay the debts of the past government. I foresee that the state will change so many things for the betterment of the people.

“I foresee the government will borrow money to run its capital projects on infrastructure and the state will improve in electrification and rural development. There will be a new security outfit in the state.

“The state will improve on medical services as there will be new facilities.

There will be new road development.

The state will introduce new traffic laws. I foresee that the poor will enjoy so much under the new government.

Dr. Sanwo-Olu urged all Christians, particularly in the five blocs of CAN to use the platform to worship God in holiness, saying the body of Christ is one. She said,"I therefore, heartily welcome you all to this intense praise session and urge you to enjoy the presence of God and be alive in the spirit to get the best from this worship service”

“Beyond this service, I admonish us in the light of Hebrews 12: 14 that we should follow peace with all men and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord. Let’s embrace peace and be pure in our relationship with people”

She further explained that," The initiative started as a platform for the First Family, Graceful Ladies, and members of the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO), which is also chaired by me to come together in collaboration with the five blocs of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Lagos State Chapter.

“This is with the view to worshipping and appreciating God on a consistent basis for His faithfulness and loving-kindness and also to serve as an avenue to pray for good governance, peace, and development of Lagos State."

According to him, “Over the last six years, we have been emphasizing institutional reforms to ensure that the government provides efficient and effective services to Edo people. We have prioritized digital technology in Edo State. Working with the Head of Service and his team as well as the civil/public servants in the State, we have been able to create a digital platform to move the government ahead. The EdoBEST programme and our initiatives in the healthcare system are testimonies of our embrace of digital systems to provide effective and efficient service to our people. “We have made a critical and important investment in building the infrastructure to support our digital revolution and thank our various partners for supporting the system to grow.”

On the set-up of the agency, the governor noted, “The Edo State Government is introducing a new Agency which will be a digital and data governance agency in the State as the name will be fine-tuned. All the data being gathered have to be consolidated in an Agency. I will be signing an Executive Order to this effect before legislation will support the creation of that Agency.”

He added, “We are gathering data in the State. Data from EdoBEST, the health insurance system and different other places. These data need to be managed. These data must be owned, kept and secured by us with the support of Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. We would be strengthening that Agency. We have hired an interim Managing Director who is Osarieme Bazuaye but it is subject to my Executive Order and that order will be signed next week.”

The governor continued: “The world now is concerned with Artificial Intelligence. In our quest to make Edo State great again, we must be in the forefront of digital technology in the nation. We are creating opportunities for our young people to explore the digital space in the State. We are also creating a digital world in Edo and opening the system for them.

“This project is a priority for us and you will get the support of all the Ministries and MDAs, as we will do a weekly review and want the draft of this policy this year at Alaghodaro to show the world that we are thinking ahead. We want the State to be a digital power.”

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji (right); with Commissioner for Finance and Economic Development, Mr Akintunde Oyebode (left); Members of the State Economic Management Team, Mr Tope Adebayo (2nd right) and Arc Eyitope Ajayi (2nd left), during the inauguration of members of the Economic Management Team, at the EXCO Chamber, Governor’s Office, Ado-Ekiti on July 6, 2023.

Kefas' Midas Touch in Taraba

Last Friday's announcement of free primary and secondary education in Taraba State from the next session by Governor Agbu Kefas is a landmark decision by a leader who has a clear vision and good plans for his people.

The announcement was made during a visit to Ebenezer Primary School in Wukari Local Government Area of the state. It is the fulfilment of Kefa’s promise to provide free and compulsory primary and secondary education to his people, if elected as governor.

The governor has been vigorously pursuing the education reforms he promised since his assumption of office on May 29, 2023 as he maintains that it is the responsibility of the Taraba State Government to bear the expenses in providing education and that students should not be made to pay any fees.

Kefas, whose impact is already being felt across the state within just two months in office, had earlier slashed the school fees payable by all students at the state university and the School of Nursing and Midwifery by 50 percent during an unscheduled visit to the institutions, as a way of relieving the financial burden on parents in the face of the current economic realities in the country.

Given his background as a retired

Taraba people are now witnessing a new dawn in the state with the Agbu Kefas Administration

NIGERIA

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief

Austyn Ogannah

Editor – Olaolu Olusina

military officer, he wasted no time in walking his talk, immediately swinging into action right from his first week in office by effecting noticeable changes with his declaration of a state of emergency in the education sector, among others.

Apparently determined to change the game with his resolve to develop the full potential of the youth of the state, Kefas, upon assumption of office, had also promised to form what he described as an all-inclusive government with the youth and women constituting 80 percent of his cabinet .

“If I am to single out commissioners across the 16 local government areas to work with me, I can simply do that now and present (them) to the State House of Assembly for screening. But that is what I can’t do alone. I must carry the stakeholders and my party, the PDP, along.

“I want to run an all-inclusive (government). I will not want to be accused of running a one-man government, but my assurance to the people is that we are going to form the state executive cabinet within my one month in office so that we can hit the ground running,’’ the governor was quoted as saying.

Already noted for making unannounced visits to schools in the state to see things for himself at intervals, Governor Kefas has so far visited Comprehensive Secondary School, Nyamusalah Primary School,

Government Science Secondary School and Jalingo Science Secondary School, all in Jalingo, capital of the state, among others, with instructions for the immediate renovation and rehabilitation of structures in some of the schools, including the female hostels of the Taraba State University.

We have no doubt that the governor is out to make a difference as his style is a clear departure from the docile and lack-lustre style of his predecessor, Darius Ishiaku, who was noted for spending most of the time in Abuja rather than in the state during his tenure. The people of Taraba are now witnessing a new dawn in the state with the Agbu Kefas Administration.

We really commend Governor Kefas for wasting no time in walking his talk and doing so with military precision. This is the kind of leadership needed not only in the North but also across the country. The realisation that he has no time to waste is a major factor driving his speed. The fact that he is running against time to leave a mark in the sands of time in the growth and development of his state is worthy of emulation.

We call on the people of the state to rally round the governor as he proceeds in his mission to rebuild the state and effect the much-needed reforms in the various sectors of the economy and ensure that the security challenges that the state has been facing over the years are properly and effectively addressed.

EDITOR:

LETTERS/OPINIONS: opinion.letters@thewillnews.com

Deputy Editor – Amos Esele

Politics Editor – Ayo Esan

Business Editor – Sam Diala

Copy Editor – Chux Ohai

Cartoon Editor – Victor Asowata

Entertainment/Society Editor – Ivory Ukonu

Photo Editor – Peace Udugba

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Circulation Manager – Victor Nwokoh

Guest Art Director – Sunny Hughes

We have no doubt that Governor Kefas is out to make a difference as his style is a clear departure from the docile and lack-lustre style of his predecessor, Darius Ishiaku, who is noted for spending most of the time in Abuja rather than in the state during his tenure.

Peeping Into BAT's Agenda

BY SAM KARGBO

In celebration of the 57th anniversary of Nigeria's Independence, I wrote an article titled "Post-Independence Nigeria – A Panoramic View", published in the October 4, 2017 issue of Daily Independent newspaper. I noted in that article how the bureaucratic entities of the state constituted a hindrance to nation-building and national growth and development. Besides their poor service delivery, these civil and public service entities have been the engines of corruption with which public bureaucrats, public office holders and their collaborators in the civil population have been siphoning resources off the country.

The good news is that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's zestful will to succeed will sooner or later force him to focus on service delivery and bureaucratic performance. His track record points to the fact that he is aware that the articles of faith that are capable of creating a symbiotic bond between his administration and the citizenry are not in the verbalized policies and intentions of the Government but in the interactions between the citizens and the government bureaucracies. He knows that he can only build public trust and enhance the legitimacy of his administration through high-end service delivery and effective peopleoriented and ethical bureaucracy. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (BAT) cannot actualize his ideals without his works and deeds engendering positive mass social and political behaviour.

WITH HIS CORPORATE BACKGROUND AND NEARLY THREE DECADES IN STATE CRAFTSMANSHIP, BAT DOES NOT NEED A MAX WEBER OR BLOCKS OF ADVICE ON THE ESSENTIALITY OF ESTEEM, ETHICS, PROFESSIONALISM, IMPERSONALISATION AND LESS POLITICISATION OF BUREAUCRATIC AUTHORITY

Sadly, it is over-obvious that the feudal patronage system upon which public bureaucracies are structured and composed has robbed them of the capacity to deliver or support growth and development. It is less disputable to say that the bane of this country's governance system is its bureaucracies, which personify everything evil and condemnable about Government. Instead of being handmaids of progress, they are the antagonists of sustained and meaningful development. Indeed, there is hardly any public sector today that does not harbour an end-SARS revulsion against public bureaucracies. The dissolution of Boards across the board has provided BAT with a window of opportunity

to tackle the rot in public bureaucracies. The chance is here for him to recompose and reconstitute them with competent and professional hands. If he gets it right in the composition of the boards, he is more likely to convert them into engines of growth and development. Besides setting targets and assigning timelines to those targets, he must make them operate with coherence and not allow them to function in silos. It is necessary to link public bureaucracies to the ideals of governance and nation-building. No part of the reigns of governance requires merit and competence like the public bureaucracies. Public service should not be a place for dolts.

With his corporate background and nearly three decades in state craftsmanship, BAT does not need a Max Weber or blocks of advice on the essentiality of esteem, ethics, professionalism, impersonalisation and less politicisation of bureaucratic authority. Public bureaucracies should be better staffed, better run, better managed and better operated than private commercial entities. Thankfully, BAT came into office with an impressive record of trailblazing spurs and enduring values of positive intentions. He is a go-getter well-known for his goal-setting and success-driven mentality. With his habitual courage and never-fading faith in his ability to succeed in the worst of climates, BAT will not suppress the political will to professionalize and change the mindset of the nation's public bureaucracies. He knows that he cannot entice or persuade the private sector to partner with him in the development and enhancement of critical sectors like energy and power, education, agriculture, health, transportation and infrastructure in general without competent and effective bureaucracies that can facilitate such public-private intercourse.

I can guess that BAT is still recovering from the disappointment and frustration of the treacheries he experienced from some ambitious political protégés and associates and the cabal within his political party that never wanted him to succeed Muhammadu Buhari. He fought as many battles from within the APC as those against his rivals in the opposition parties. Not many human beings could survive the lethal, injurious and destructive pushbacks that he surmounted to win the ticket of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Be that as it may, what I consider the most brutal attack on his will to victory was the rejection of many of the graduate and undergraduate youths who were weaponized against him by propagandists who painted him as the Satan of Nigeria's politics. The propagandists succeeded in unleashing a well-coordinated psychological warfare against him. There was hardly anything that was not exploited by the propagandists to dent his moral standing, personality and character, all to lessen his capacity to connect with the youth. He was, in a word, effectively deprived of the support of a sizeable number of school-going and graduate youths. As a father and a person with a known developmental mind, the failure to get a good outing with the youths must have hurt him deeply.

•Kargbo, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) wrote in from Abuja.

•Continues JULY 9, 2023 WWW.THEWILLNEWS.COM 15 OPINION

Sustaining The Stimulus of Hope

BY FREDRICK NWABUFO

It has been 30 days of the Bola Tinubu administration, and it has been a bustling and eventful one. President Tinubu has rightfully earned the ticket "Baba-go-fast" for the decisiveness, punctiliousness, diligence, and swiftness of his leadership. The past 30 days have been motion, movement, and acceleration. Good things happen when governance runs on the stimulus of hope.

"Hitting the ground running" has a walking and talking example in the President. Upon assumption of office, he did the derring-do -- axing petrol subsidy; averting a national strike and giving the naira the muscle to find its fortune in the agora of trade.

According to JP Morgan, a US financial services firm, the naira is expected to appreciate, and trade at N600 to the dollar over the coming months.

The firm said: "While it will take a few days for USD/NGN spot to settle, we fully expect an initial overshoot towards the parallel market rate of -750 or higher, after which, we expect USD/NGN to settle in the high 600s over [the] coming months."

Bloomberg, an international news agency, reported that investors were excited about Nigeria owing to the president's swift reforms. It also reported that Nigeria's equity market witnessed a boom -- a corollary of the incipient policies, signalling a return of confidence in the market. Reuters reported that investors were stunned by the quick reforms of the President. Reuters reports: "Nigeria's new president, in office, for less than a month, is pushing to put Africa's largest economy on a reform track that investors have eyed for decades, fuelling excitement that money could flow to the nation that many had deemed uninvestible."

Governance is not rocket-science after all. It takes courage. Audacity. Diligence. Purpose. And forthrightness. Bold decisions take bold leadership.

The President signed four seminal bills into law. The bill harmonising retirement age for judges and stipulating uniformity in pension rights for judicial officers; The Electricity Act which effectively decentralises power, empowering states, companies, and individuals to generate, transmit and distribute electricity; The Student Loan Act which allows students in tertiary institutions access to interest-free loans from the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, and The Data Protection Law which protects the privacy and liberties of citizens.

The President made some critical appointments as well. He appointed service chiefs cognising Nigeria's diversity and geopolitical balance. He appointed Mallam Nuhu Ribadu as National Security Adviser; Maj. Gen. C.G Musa as Chief of Defence Staff; Maj. T. A Lagbaja as Chief of Army Staff; Rear Admiral E. A Ogalla as Chief of Naval Staff'; AVM H.B Abubakar as Chief of Air Staff'; DIG Kayode Egbetokun as Acting Inspector-General of Police; Maj. Gen. EPA Undiandeye as Chief of Defence Intelligence.

The President warned that ignoring Nigeria, with its vibrant population and economy, would be perilous for the world. He also reaffirmed Africa as the centrepiece of Nigeria's foreign policy. He said at a meeting with President Patrice Talon of Benin Republic: ''We are ready to improve relations. Africa has been the centrepiece of Nigeria's foreign policy. I believe in Africa. We have the necessity to grow the continent. The world's economy is wobbling and Africa has been left behind. On risk factors, Africa is always placed high, with higher interest rates on borrowing. We are always classified as high risk. We must work together for systematic recovery and growth."

THE LEADERSHIP SHOULD KEEP THE ARTERIES OF COMMUNICATION ALIVE, INFORMING AND EDUCATING CITIZENS PERSISTENTLY ON THE ESSENCE OF THE REFORMS, AND SHOULD KEEP DISPELLING MISINFORMATION AND DISINFORMATION

INTELLIGENTLY AND AGGRESSIVELY WHEN AND WHERE NECESSARY

Sustaining the current trajectory is, however, important. It is a fantastic start. ‘Wailers’ are becoming ‘hailers’ and some ‘Obidients’ are becoming disobedient to their creed of vicious propaganda and malice, jumping ship and supporting the present government's reforms. Citizens are buoyed by the clear direction of the government and the speed at which it is beginning to deliver on its promises.

The leadership has earned public trust and goodwill, which is not easy to come by for any government. Goodwill and public trust are sacrosanct and basic for driving plans and programmes; hence the leadership must work to keep it.

The sense of urgency to national matters, the mindfulness, the decisiveness, and the alacrity should be sustained.

The leadership should keep the arteries of communication alive, informing and educating citizens persistently on the essence of the reforms, and should keep dispelling misinformation and disinformation intelligently and aggressively when and where necessary. It should guard against any form of complacency and should be pre-emptive about the possible exploitation of citizens' concerns by some misanthropes for inordinate political tolls. The leadership should remain thirsty and hungry for governance.

It is essential that the current steam of hope is sustained.

•Nwabufo is a media executive.

INVESTMENT BOOST FOR GDP, FINANCIAL INCLUSION

The rising investment in the telecommunications (telecoms) sector will expand financial inclusion, boost to Nigeria’s ailing economy and give a fillip to the low gross domestic product (GDP). The is exemplified in the recent statement by the nation’s telecoms regulator, the National Communications Commission (NCC)

The Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) of NCC, Prof. Umar Garba Danbatta, recently, officially announced that the investment profile in the nation’s telecommunications sector, comprising foreign direct investment (FDI) and local investment, has reached $75.6 billion as of 2021.

Danbatta disclosed this at an interactive session with stakeholders in the communications media ecosystem, in Lagos on Wednesday where he provided his scorecards and landmark developments that have shaped the trajectory of growth in the telecoms sector since he became the chief telecom regulator in August 2015.

According to Danbatta, in 2018, investment profile in the sector stood at $68 billion. This increased to $70.5 billion in 2019 and $72 billion in 2020. At the end of 2021, the figure rose to $75,560,563,417.79 ($75.6 billion). The latest figure is the current official investment profile computed in the industry up from the initial $70 billion investment in the last few years.

Investment in the telecommunications sector in Nigeria is computed from two sources: the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), and the financial data obtained from service providers by the Commission.

While the CBN collects and calculates an element of the telecoms sector to include FDI, portfolio and others, the Commission collects investment figures from telecom licensees described as domestic investment arising from capital expenditure (CAPEX) which form part of the total investment in the industry.

The NCC CEO said through the effective regulatory environment put in place by the Commission, the telecom sector has recorded

EDITOR Sam Diala

10,128

Over Half of Nigeria’s Domestic Flights Delayed Between January And March – NCAA

0.9%

Equities Market Touches

Peak as Naira Sinks Deepest to N776.90/$

Devaluation: Nigeria to Import $100m Palm Oil From Malaysia, Others

BY SAM DIALA

To meet expanding local demand, Nigeria will spend up to $100 million on the importation of palm oil in 2023, going by available data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). The figure is based on the value of the imported commodity in the past two years at the average cost of N25 billion in six months, or N50 billion per year.

In its quarterly ‘Foreign Trade in Statistics’ reports, the NBS showed that imported (crude) palm oil, which falls under agricultural products, originated from the Asian countries of Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, China, India and West Africa Cote d’Ivoire. Nigeria imported palm oil to the tune of N28.16 billion in the first six months of 2022, as the value of agricultural commodities shipped into the country maintained an upward trend.

Palm oil falls under the nation’s foreign exchange restrictions; it is among the 43 import items banned by the Central bank of Nigeria (CBN) for Forex Exchange. This implies that importers sourced their foreign exchange from alternative channels such as the parallel market where the Naira exchanged N750/$ against N467/$ in the then official window.

The CBN on June 14, 2023 announced the unification of both windows in a major forex reform that saw the naira depreciate up to N770/$. This has spiked inflation to an all-time high of 22.42 percent as at May 2023, according to NBS as indications of imminent depreciation of Naira was rife following pronouncements by the new government.

The apex bank in June announced that the 43 items restricted from accessing Foreign Exchange from the official window remain banned from the Investors and Exporters (I and E) window. This means the restriction of foreign exchange allocation for the importation of the 43 items, which include palm oil, still stands.

“With the new forex regime, palm oil importion will now increase because liquidity has increased and access to forex will be easier unlike before. Again, there will be increased activities as manufacturing picks up, following the forex reform, which implies that importation of palm oil could hit $100 million this year,” said James Obiahun, an industrialist. At N750/$, N50 billion would exchange for $67 million; given the

unification of the forex windows which has increased the daily turnover from about $75 million (before the reform) to as much as $300 million, the improved liquidity will avail importers easier access to forex for importations.

Data from the NBS in its ‘Foreign Trade in Goods Statistics Report’ for the second quarter of 2022 showed that the figure represents a 5.2 percent increase over the corresponding period of 2021 which recorded a value of N26.77 billion.

The report published on the official Website of the nation’s statistical bureau further showed that palm oil importation in Q2 2022 was N14.64 billion against N13.52 billion in the previous quarter, representing an increase of 8.3 percent. But increased demand has since spiked the value of importation of the commodity according to industry sources. The commodity which was classified as ‘Crude Palm Oil’ imported mainly from West Africa and Asia will be on the increase.

The country imported palm oil valued at N14.64 billion from Cote d’Ivoire in Q2 2022, while Malaysia and China supplied N13.50 billion and N0.02 billion of the commodity respectively in Q1 2022. In Q2 2021, Africa’s biggest economy imported N15.09 billion of palm oil from Singapore and N11.68 billion from India totaling N26.77 billion.

Palm oil is a highly sought commodity among manufacturing and processing firms which use it as raw material for the production of various consumer and industrial goods.

The CEO, Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE), Dr Muda Yusuf, said that the palm oil produced in Nigeria is grossly inadequate, adding that the users would pay any amount to bring in the commodity if it would boost their margins.

“When products are expensive, it has a way of benefiting the producers because they will adjust their prices to maximize their profit”, Yusuf, immediate past director-general, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) told THEWILL in a telephone chat.

PRODUCTION OF PALM OIL IN NIGERIA (2009-2022)

BUSINESS WEEKLY

...Nigeria to Import $100m Palm Oil From Malaysia, Others

An operator of a medium-enterprise palm oil processing firm, Emmanuel Ebong said the NBS figures do not reflect the actual value of the commodity that is shipped into the country. “A large quantity of palm oil is smuggled across the borders, particularly from Cameroun and Benin Republic. It is a huge business among the inland waterway transporters plying between Nigeria and the neighbouring countries. They are the real suppliers to the large manufacturing firms using the commodity”.

The deputy director, department of agriculture in the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Benard Okata, said Nigeria is spending about $500 million annually on oil palm importation in order to complement existing gaps in the sector.

Okata, who made this remark at the national workshop on oil palm organised by Solidaridad, an international nongovernmental organisation in Abuja in November 2020, said that Nigeria’s current local requirement for palm oil generally is about three million metric tonnes, but that it is producing only about 1.02 metric tonnes of oil palm.

“So, there is a gap,” he said. “We import to make up for this gap, and Nigeria is spending about $500m annually for this importation up till now,”

He recalled that the former governor, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele, had expressed sadness that Nigeria was still importing palm oil in spite of the sufficient arable land in the South-South and South-East regions of the country to produce it.

The agriculture coordinator, Okomu Oil Palm Company, Billy Ghansah, had said at the occasion that for Nigeria to fill the existing gaps in its palm oil production, there is a need to plant about 100,000 hectares of oil palm.

Debunking the claim that the Asian countries came to pick the palm seeds from Nigeria, the agricultural specialist said the basic cultivation strategy of oil palm was developed in Africa, but Nigeria didn’t take advantage of it/. He said the Asians took over, such that many think that they came to pick the seeds from here. “They didn’t,” he said, “rather they (Asians) made use of what they had and improved it.”

Also, a Senior Climate Specialist for Africa at Solidaridad, who doubles as Country Technical Lead, Nigeria, Sam Ogala, affirmed that Nigeria was not meeting its domestic demand for oil palm.

“This country is spending around $500m annually to import oil palm. That shows you the huge gap, and it’s because we are not meeting local demand. In the early 1960s before the oil boom, Nigeria was exporting oil palm, but after that oil boom, we started importing, and all forms of oil palm are finding their way to the Nigerian market,” he added

Top producers of palm oil in Nigeria Nigerian States that are considered to be the largest producers of palm oil are Akwa-Ibom, Abia, Rivers, Edo, Imo, Ondo, Bayelsa, Cross River and Delta. But the state governments have not made significant efforts towards maximizing the potential of palm oil production in their areas.

Palm oil has numerous usage globally which include: Edible Oil, Bio-Diesel, Lubricants, Cosmetics, and other applications – household cooking, food and beverages, oleo Chemicals, personal care, animal feed and bio-fuel. Global production of palm oil has increased rapidly since the 1990s, with plantations in Indonesia and Malaysia supplying around 85 percent of the global trade.

... Investment Boost For GDP, Financial Inclusion

tremendous growth from an initial investment profile of $500 million as at 2001, when the sector was fully liberalised.

Similarly, Danbatta said the telecom sector has continued to be a major contributor to the Nigeria’s economy through an impressive the sectoral contribution to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) quarterly, up from about 8.5 per cent in third quarter of 2015, contributing N10.126 trillion to the nation’s GDP in 2022 alone.

Citing data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Danbatta said the telecoms sector contributed N10.126 trillion as an aggregate quarterly contribution to GDP in 2022.

“In the first quarter, the sector contributed 12.94 per cent equivalent to N2.246 trillion while the second quarter witnessed an all-time high GDP contribution by the telecom sector to the nation's economy, standing at 15 per cent and valued at N2.593 trillion. The sector’s contribution to GDP in the third was 12.85 per cent and in the fourth quarter, it grew to 13.55 per cent, which are valued at N2.436 trillion and N2.851 trillion respectively.

“The growth trajectory continued this year as the telecommunications and Information Services sector in Nigeria delivered a handsome N2. 508 trillion in terms of financial value contribution to the nation's gross domestic product, GDP, representing 14.13% in the first quarter 2023,”he said.

Telecoms contribution to national GDP has grown significantly since assumption of Prof. Danbatta as the EVC of NCC in August, 2015, according to available data from NBS.

From 8.50 per cent in 2015, it grew to 9.13 per cent in 2016 and to 8.66 per cent in 2017. In the last quarter of 2018, telecoms contributed 9.85 per cent to national GDP while it added 10.60 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2019. Also in the second quarter of 2010, it added 14.30 per cent to GDP; 14.42 per cent in the second quarter of 2021. The highest quarterly contribution to GDP by the sector to the economy was 15 per cent in the second quarter of 2022.

Overall, Danbatta said the sector has become a major enabler of economic development in Nigeria, as it continues to positively impact all the facets of the Nigerian economy. “As the regulatory authority for the telecom sector in Nigeria, we are happy that the sector has recorded phenomenal growth statistics in the past two decades of the liberalization of the telecoms sector. However, we will not rest on our oars. We will continue to push upward to greater heights by encouraging expansion of frontiers to put Nigeria’s imprint on the global map of the digital economy,” he said.

In addition to the growth in investment and GDP contribution, Danbatta said, “As of May, 2023, active voice subscriptions reached 221.3 million, equivalent to 115.91 per cent teledensity, while Internet subscriptions rose to 159.6 million. According to the CEO of NCC, broadband subscriptions on Third Generation (3G) and Fourth Generation (4G) networks increased to 92.2 million, representing a 48.28 per cent broadband penetration in the country.

Also, following the issuance of 3.5GHz spectrum licences for the deployment of Fifth Generation (5G) networks in Nigeria, marked by ultra-high speed internet, low latency and high capacity, and the subsequent commercial launch by two of the three licence holders, 5G subscriptions have grown to over 60,000 in many cities in at least 12 states of the Federation.

Danbatta assured of the Commission’s commitment to always give concrete expression to the Federal Government Executive Order 001 focused on Ease of Doing Business and other digital economy-oriented policies, by embarking on various regulatory initiatives that support a friendly investment climate for investors in Nigeria and enhance value for money for telecom consumers. The EVC particularly commended the media as a strategic partner and enabler of growth in the telecom sector “through accurate, adequate and timely reporting of all regulatory activities of the Commission.”

Zenith Bank’s Global Spotlight Signposts Robust H1 Results

Zenith Bank Plc was recently announced Nigeria’s Best Bank for Three Consecutive Years in the Global Finance Best Banks Awards 2022, signposting another robust half-year result being eagerly expected by investors.

The bank retains the award for a third consecutive year.

Zenith Bank was among other banks from 36 countries in Africa recognised as the prestigious Global Finance announced its 29th Annual Best Bank Awards Winners.

The editors of Global Finance made the selections after extensive consultations with corporate financial executives, bankers and banking consultants, and analysts worldwide. Global Finance considered factors that ranged from the quantitative objective to the informed subjective in selecting the top banks.

Objective criteria considered included: growth in assets, profitability, geographic reach, strategic relationships, new business development and

innovation in products. Subjective criteria included the opinions of equity analysts, credit rating analysts, banking consultants and others involved in the industry.

Commenting on the award, the Group Managing Director/Chief Executive of Zenith Bank, Mr Ebenezer Onyeagwu said: “This award is a testament to our tenacity despite a very challenging macroeconomic environment. Indeed, being recognised, for the third consecutive year, is an acknowledgement of the resilience of the Zenith brand as the leading financial institution in Nigeria.”

He lauded the contributions and efforts of the Bank's key stakeholders – the Founder and Chairman, Jim Ovia, CON, for his pioneering role in building the structures and laying the foundation for an enduring and successful institution, the Board for the outstanding leadership they provide, the staff for their commitment and dedication as well as the Bank’s customers for their unwavering loyalty and support.

Global Finance’s “Best Banks Awards” are recognised amongst the world’s most influential banking/finance and corporate professionals as the most coveted and credible awards in the banking industry, with winners chosen in 150 countries and territories across Africa, AsiaPacific, the Caribbean, Central America, Central & Eastern Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, North America and Western Europe.

Joseph D. Giarraputo, publisher and editorial director of Global Finance, said: "With the financial world in a state of turmoil from Russia's invasion of Ukraine, corporate leaders face a new set of challenges concerning the choice of their banking relationships."

According to him, "following on the enormous difficulties wrought by the pandemic, these changes demand increased attention to global commercial relationships. Our awards support decision-makers in selecting the best financial partners.”

Nigeria imported palm oil to the tune of N28.16 billion in the first six months of 2022, as the value of agricultural commodities shipped into the country maintained an upward trend

L-R: First Secretary and Head of Prosperity, Deputy British High Commission, Kris Camponi; Winner of Top in the World, November 2022 examination series (English as a Second Language), Ngozichukwu Victoria Okoro; Winner of Top in the World, November 2022 examination series (Law), Oluwabukolami Oluwadarasimi Adeyemi; Winner of Top in the World, June 2022 examination series (English as a Second Language), Mmesomachukuw Okonkwo; Winner of Top in the World, November 2022 examination series (English as a Second Language), Maryam Remawa Bello and Regional Director, Cambridge International, Sub-Saharan Africa, Juan Visser at the British Council Recognition and Outstanding Cambridge Learner Awards (BROCLA) 2023 in Lagos on July 6, 2023.

Oyedele to Chair FG’s Tax Reforms Committee

The Fiscal Policy Partner and Africa Tax Leader at PriceWaterhouseCoopers (PwC), Taiwo Oyedele, has been appointed to chair the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms announced on Friday.

The committee is in consonance with the new administration’s promise to remove all barriers impeding business growth in Nigeria,

The committee will comprise experts from both the private and public sectors and have responsibility for the various aspects of tax law reform, fiscal policy design and coordination, harmonization of taxes, and revenue administration.

Special Adviser to the President on Revenue, Adelabu Zacch Adedeji, explained that President Tinubu recognizes the importance of a sound fiscal policy environment and an effective taxation system for the functioning of the government and the economy.

”Nigeria ranks very low on the global ease of paying taxes while the country’s Tax to GDP ratio is one of the lowest in the world and well below the African average.

”This has led to an overreliance on borrowing to finance public spending which in turn limits the fiscal space as debt service costs consume a greater portion of government revenue, annually resulting in a vicious cycle of inadequate funding for socio-economic development.

”While some incremental progress has been recorded over the years, the outcomes have not been transformative enough to change the narrative,” he said.

Mr Adedeji outlined the key challenges in Nigeria’s tax system to include multiple taxes and revenue collection agencies, fragmented and complex tax system, low tax morale, high prevalence of tax evasion, high cost of revenue administration, lack of coordination between fiscal and economic policies, and poor accountability in the utilization of tax revenue.

The establishment of this committee reflects President Tinubu’s commitment to addressing these challenges and bringing about transformative reforms in fiscal policy and taxation.

The committee’s primary objective is to enhance revenue collection efficiency, ensure transparent reporting, and promote the effective utilization of tax and other revenues to boost citizens’ tax morale, foster a healthy tax culture, and drive voluntary compliance.

These efforts will not only improve Nigeria’s revenue profile but also create a more conducive and internationally-competitive business environment.

”Our aim is to transform the tax system to support sustainable development and achieve a minimum of 18% Tax to GDP ratio within the next 3 years without stifling investment or economic growth.

”It should be noted that this committee will not only advise the government on necessary reforms, but will also drive the implementation of such recommendations in support of the comprehensive fiscal policy and tax reform agenda of the current administration,” the SA on Revenue added.

Otudeko Become Largest First Bank Shareholder With 14% Stake as he Buys N87.8bn Shares

Oba Otudeko’s Honeywell Group last Thursday bought 4,770,269,843 shares of First Bank of Nigeria Holdings (FBNH) Plc in a cross deal worth N87.8 billion, thus making the multibillionaire businessman the largest shareholder of Nigeria’s oldest fincincial services institution. Reports to the regulatory authorities reveal that the shares which Otudeko bought at N19 per unit are the largest volume of First Bank shares traded in a single day since 2012, when the stock exchange started publishing data. The acquisitions take his shareholding to 14 percent of the bank’s outstanding market value.

A “disclosure of shareholding” sent to the Company Secretary, FBN Holdings Plc and dated July 7, 2023, by Honeywell Group Limited stated: “We write on behalf of Barbican Capital Limited, an affiliate of Honeywell Group Limited and refer to the provisions of Sections 119 and 120 of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 2020 (as amended).

“In addition to the previously disclosed interests by Honeywell Group Limited’s affiliates, kindly take this as notification that, as at 7th July 2023, Barbican Capital Limited has acquired an aggregate of 4,770,269,843 shares in FBN Holdings Plc. Kindly accept the assurances of our highest regards. Yours faithfully, Yewande Giwa Head, Governance & Sustainability.”

Reports confirmed that FBN Holdings Plc acknowledged Honeywell Group Limited’s acquisitions on the same day in a letter signed by Adewale Arogundade, Acting Company Secretary of the group.

“This is to inform the public and our stakeholders that the Company received a notification dated July 7, 2023 from Honeywell Group Limited that its affiliate, Barbican Capital Limited has acquired an aggregate of 4,770,269,843 units of shares from the Company’s issued share capital of 35,895,292,791, as at the above referenced date. Based on the foregoing, the equity stake of Barbican Capital Limited in the Company is 13.3%”, the document stated.

Analysts say Otudeko, who was chairman of First Bank until 2019, is making a swift comeback to become the single largest shareholder of the bank.

It could be recalled that billionaire Femi Otedola became the bank’s single largest shareholder in 2021 after a tussle with Hassan Odukale who was also vying for control of the bank after a leadership gap emerged from Otudeko’s exit With Otudeko now leading the battle for the control of First Bank of Nigeria Holdings Plc with 14 percent shareholding, Otedola drops to second with nine percent shareholding. Hassan Odukale and Mike Adenuga are joint third, each with seven percent shareholding. Saheed Arisekole is fourth with five percent shareholding.

Oba Otudeko in May 2022 sold Honewell’s shares worth N22bn to Repay Age Long Debt to FBNH

*Continues online at www. thewillnews.com

Equities Market Touches Peak as Naira Sinks Deepest to N776.90/$

The Equity market touched the highest peak since 2008 on Friday, hitting N34,3 trillion from N33.7 trillion in the previous trading. The All-Share index advanced by 3.4% w/w to close at 63,040.41 points, pushing the YTD return to +23.0%..

The local stock market extended its move into the green territory last week, following bargain hunting in DANGCEM (+5.3% against N290 per share), STANBIC (+17.9% from N57.65 per share), and FBNH (+19.1% against N19 per share) stocks.

Likewise, activity levels mirrored the market's broad gauge as trading volume and value surged by 324.7% w/w and 250.0% w/w, respectively, with FBNH accounting for about 48.6% and 61.5% of the total trading volume and value.

From a sectoral standpoint, the Banking (+9.8%), Oil and Gas (+7.2%), Industrial Goods (+2.2%), and Insurance (+0.7%) indices closed in the green while the Consumer Goods (-0.2%) index declined.

Analysts at Cordros Securities expect investors to follow the half-year trajectory in their fortune hunting during the coming week.

“With the half-year earnings season on the horizon, we believe investors will look for clues on the sustainability of the decent corporate earnings released for Q1-23.

“However, we expect mixed market performance in the week ahead as bargain hunting in dividend-paying stocks will be matched by intermittent profit-taking activities,” Cordros said in a note to its clients.

On the other hand, Naira dipped to the worst depth on Friday, hitting N776.90/$ (against N762.63/$) – the highest rate of depreciation since the unification of the forex windows on June 14, 2023.when the Naira exchanged N664.04/$ against N471.67/$ at the I&E window on the previous day.

Daily turnover maintained its low streak, recording a slight increase to $98.60 million from Thursday’s $89.32 million.

Mobile Phones Sale Surges in Nigeria’s Rural Regions in 2022 – Jumia

Aleading e-commerce company, Jumia has reported that mobile phones demand significantly increased in Nigeria’s rural areas in 2023, representing the most ordered items by rural dwellers.

The company, in its just published yearly insight report tagged “E-commerce in Rural Areas” disclosed that phones constituted 18% of all products ordered by rural communities in the country, adding that this is closely followed by beauty products and perfumes which made up 15% while men’s clothing, home appliances and men’s shoes made up 9%, 8% and 7% respectively.

On the surging growth of e-commerce in rural areas of Nigeria, Jumia noted that over 30% of its deliveries were made to rural areas in places where choices for products were limited for consumers.

It linked the performance of rural communities to Nigeria’s young population, who majorly reside in rural areas, noting that the average age of its consumers in Nigeria is 33 years.

Over Half of Nigeria’s Domestic Flights Delayed Between January, March – NCAA

Over half of the domestic flights in Nigeria between January and March were delayed, an official report states, confirming the complaints of travellers about incessant flight delays in the country’s airports.

Of the total 18,288 domestic flights within the period, 10,128 were delayed 9about 55 per cent), the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) stated in a report tagged “Executive Summary on International and Domestic Flight Operations.”

Many Nigerians have lamented the incessant delay in domestic flights by operators across the country’s airports. Many have taken to social media to narrate their experiences with some flights delayed for over 24 hours.

In its report, the NCAA said the 11 domestic airlines operating in the country also had 284 flight cancellations within the period.

The report also stated that 2,791,591 passengers passed through the nation’s domestic airports in the first quarter of 2023, the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports.

It indicates that, of the 2,791,591 passengers, 1,391,560 were inbound and 1,400,031 outbound.

Also, the summary indicates passenger traffic of 870,776 on international airlines operations in the first quarter of the year.

The breakdown shows that while inbound passenger traffic of 375,700 was recorded, outbound traffic was 495,076 on the international routes.

In the first quarter, 25 foreign airlines operated 3,073 flights on international routes, while 11 domestic airlines operated 18,288 flights on domestic routes. Also, 1,193 complaints were received from passengers by the NCAA, on delayed flights on international routes, with 24 complaints of cancellations and six of air returns.

On domestic flights, 10,128 flights were delayed within the first three months, with 284 cancelled and 28 cases of air returns.

The report indicates that 499 flights were delayed on foreign flights in January, with Air Peace topping the list with 53, followed by Asky with 45, Qatar Airways with 41 and British Airways with 33, amongst others.

In February, delayed flights were 325, with AWA recording 30, Ethiopian Airlines 33, Kenya Airways 11; while in March, 369 flights were delayed, with Qatar Airways recording 32, United Airlines had 1 and Air Peace recorded 64. There were seven cancelled flights in January, 13 in February and four in March. A total number of 25 Air/ramp return flights were recorded in the first quarter of the year.

Missing baggage was 9,087, and the number of those found was 7,942 on international flights, while 31 were found on domestic flights.

During the period under review, NCAA received 27 complaints from international operations and 45 on domestic flights

L-R: Immediate Past President, Institute of Directors, Nigeria (IoD Nigeria), Dr. Ije Jidenma; 1st Vice President, IoD Nigeria, Mr. Adetunji Oyebanji; President, IoD Nigeria, Alhaji Tijjani Borodo; 2nd Vice President, IoD Nigeria, Mrs. Amina Oyagbola and Past President, IoD Nigeria, Chief Chris Okunowo, at the Institute's 39th AGM, in Lagos  on July 6, 2023.

Nigeria’s Ease of Doing Business: Any Hope?

BY MARCEL OKEKE

Despite the hype and propaganda that hallmarked the work of the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) under former President Muhammadu Buhari administration, there has hardly been any significant improvement in Nigeria’s business environment in recent years.

The PEBEC was set up in July 2016, with the specific mandate to make Nigeria a progressively better place for businesses to thrive by collaborating with state governments, the National Assembly, the judiciary and other regulatory partners.

The output of this partnership is expected to reflect in generally lowering cost of doing business, simplified regulatory provisions as well as shortened time for obtaining statutory approvals from the appropriate agencies.

However, during his inaugural address on May 29, 2023, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu said, “I have a message for our investors, local and foreign: our government shall review all their complaints about multiple taxation and various anti-investment inhibitions.”

This renewed promise by the President undoubtedly shows that not much really was achieved in the efforts at improving the ease of doing business in the country by the previous administration.

In fact, to reinforce the persistence of the inclement business environment, President Tinubu also had to assure Nigerians that “electricity will become more accessible to businesses…, power generation should nearly double and transmission and distribution networks improved.”

All these obviously portray the persisting lack or shortage of the basic needs of business (in Nigeria) for sustainable operations.

Apparently via propaganda and some stakeholder engagements, PEBEC presented purported reforms in Nigeria that earned her some ‘upgrade’ in the World Bank’s ‘Ease of Doing Business’ ranking in 2020. But the big questions still remain.

For instance, what is now on ground for prospective and existing businesses? Has the work of PEBEC led to the “removing of the bureaucratic constraints being experienced by a large number of stakeholders” as directed by President Buhari while inaugurating the Council?

The immediate past Vice President, Prof Yemi Osinbajo, a month before exiting office, also raised a number of germane questions at ‘PEBEC Awards’ ceremony in Abuja. Osinbajo, who spoke as the chairman of PEBEC, said the initial concerns were: “…how were we going to remove the bottlenecks and obstacles, while delivering the reorientation of regulatory authorities and civil servants who deal with businesses on a daily basis?

How were we to address the significant trust deficit from the private sector towards the government, and correct the pervading negative perceptions, by ensuring that our policies and regulations are enablers to micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs)?”

Pertinent as these Osinbajo questions are, the truth is that the PEBEC efforts being celebrated at the ‘Abuja Awards Nite’ and similar outings haven’t yielded the desired results. With what ease can business thrive in an environment where multiplicity of taxes and levies remain the order of the day?

Which is why for upwards of seven years since the Presidential Council was set up, President Tinubu still had to flag duplicity of taxes as part of his core issues to deal with. Also, within those seven odd years, has electricity supply improved, whether for households or businesses?

The answer is No. Instead, the national economy has

remained a “generator economy” in which all economic agents use power generating sets of various types and sizes for their daily operations. This obviously shoots the cost of doing business through the roof, especially in the current milieu of liberalized Petroleum Motor Spirit (PMS) importation where prices of fuel have gone up multiple folds.

Beyond self-adulation, what is there to celebrate in a business environment where hyper-inflation, very high interest rate and high exchange rate persist. At the latest count, Nigeria’s inflation rate stood at 22.41 per cent (endMay 2023).

The Monetary Policy Rate (MPC) of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) is pegged at 18.5 per cent, while the Naira exchange rate against the dollar (officially) moved from N465/$1 early in June to now about N750/$1. All these in no way make things easy for businesses. If anything, the lingering trends present businesses with uncertainty, rising operating costs and render them generally uncompetitive vis-à-vis their competitors located elsewhere.

What impact has PEBEC made on the worsening insecurity in Nigeria? Has the efforts of the Presidential Council in the past seven years impacted on insecurity in the land to the advantage of businesses?

In point of fact, the security situation rather than improving has deteriorated, becoming an existential threat to life and property. And which businesses thrive in an insecure environment? Coincidentally, in the past three years or so, socio-political tension as concomitant to the build-up to the 2023 general elections also added to the scare for businesses.

In many cases, rather than thrive, a number of businesses had to relocate to other climes—especially to Nigeria’s neighbouring West African countries. This trend persists till date.

Nigeria’s legal/judicial environment has hardly ever been clement for businesses. Many potential/existing investors over the years have had raw deals in the hands of bureaucrats or been victims of stifling judicial processes.

A number of reputable multinational companies (Virgin Airlines, for example) have had their hands burnt in their attempts to set up in Nigeria. Terms of agreements and/ or Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) are hardly kept by the agencies and officers that represent Nigeria in the making of such business deals.

What all the foreign airlines have been going through with respect to the repatriation of their revenues in Nigeria in the past couple of years amply illustrates how tough and stifling the Nigerian business milieu has remained. Close to one billion dollars legally earned by these airlines are still ‘trapped’ in Nigeria, even under the Tinubu administration. Even as PEBEC claims to be improving the ease of doing business in Nigeria, the Federal government has continued

tinkering with the Companies Income Tax (CIT) and other levies, to extort more money from businesses. In this regard, part of the highlights of the Finance Act 2023 (signed into law on May 28, 2023 by President Buhari) is a new compliance obligation for shipping and air transport operators in Nigeria.

These companies are now required to file income tax returns accompanied by certified copies of their detailed gross revenue statement, covering their Nigerian operations, clearly stating the sum earned during the relevant period, in lieu of audited financial statements. This is under the new rubric: ‘Income Tax Returns by NonResident Shipping and Air Transport Companies.’

There is also an increase in Tertiary Education Tax rate from 2.5 per cent to three per cent of assessable profits (of every taxable business).

Unfortunately, the creation of the Finance Act has become an annual affair, meaning that every New Year will have a brand new Finance Act—with all the uncertainty it heaps on businesses. These, and many others, really stifle and/ or scare away businesses rather than attract them. Nigeria therefore has a long way to go in creating an attractive environment for businesses to thrive!

•Okeke is an economist, sustainability expert and consultant on business strategy

What all the foreign airlines have been going through with respect to the repatriation of their revenues in Nigeria in the past couple of years amply illustrates how tough and stifling the Nigerian business milieu has remained

SHOTS OF THE WEEK

Photo Editor: Peace Udugba [08033050729]

L-R: Group Chairman, Heirs Holdings, Tony Elumelu; Fitness competition prize winner, Nkemdilim Ezekobe; Chairperson, Avon HMO Board, Dr. Awele Elumelu and MD/CEO of Avon HMO and Healthcare Sector Head of Heirs Holdings, Adesimbo Ukiri, at the 'MyCity MyWalk' event, in celebration of Avon HMO's 10th Anniversary, in Lagos on July 6, 20236.

L-R: Group Head, Issuing & Acquiring (Africa),Verve, Paul Ohakim; Founder/Group Managing Director, Interswitch Group, Mitchell Elegbe; Managing Director, Verve, Vincent Ogbunude and Group Head, Scheme Management, Verve, Grace Adeniyi, at Verve's 50 million cards issuance milestone announcement in Lagos on July 6, 2023.

L-R: Chief of Mission, Nigeria, International Organizations for Migration (IOM), Mr. Laurent de Boeck; Chairman/CEO, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Hon. Dr. Abike Dabiri-Erewa; Founder, Networking Institute, Mr. Kingsley Aikins and Irish Ambassador to Nigeria, Amb. Peter Riyan, at a meeting to foster and strengthen diaspora collaboration, at International Organisation for Migration (IOM) Headquarters, in Abuja on July 4, 2023.

L-R: Programme Officer, Digi-Link, Kema Ufelle; Chief Executive Officer, Herconomy, Ife Durosinmi-Ehi; State Focal Person, Edo State Social Investment Programme, Osayuwamen Aladeselu; Assistant Dean, Faculty of Physical Sciences, University of Benin, Prof. (Mrs.) Veronica Osubor and Programme Director, DigiLink, Ekenem Isichel, during a one-day intensive digital skills training for over 500 youths, held at the UNIBEN main campus in Benin City, Edo State on July 5, 2023.

L-R: Corporate Citizenship Specialist, Union Bank,  Nkiru Ozili; Host & Founder Chrystallis Conversations,  Kemi Ogunleye; Lead, External Communication, Union Bank, Jennifer Ugboh and Head, Strategic Brand Management, Union Bank, Alvin Agorom, during the inaugural Chrystallis Live Event, held in Lagos on July 6, 2023.

L-R: Past President and Chairman, Board of Trustees, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Chief John Odeyemi; Past President, LCCI, Dr. (Mrs.) Nike Akande; President, LCCI, Asiwaju Dr. Michael Olawale-Cole and Past President, LCCI, Goodie Ibru, during LCCI 135th year anniversary at The Cathedral, Marina, Lagos on July 4, 2023.

DOZY MMOBUOSI

EMBARKS ON IMAGE LAUNDERING DRIVE

ENTERTAINMENT &SOCIETY WEEKLY

EDITOR Ivory Ukonu

Nigerian born 'billionaire' Dozy Mmobuosi has embarked on a massive image laundering drive, in an attempt to win back the hearts of many of his admirers, Nigerians in particular. The embattled techpreneur, who was recently in the news for fabricating business, educational claims, has found a way to penetrate Nigeria's health care sector with the opening of a diagnostic centre called Equity Specialist Clinics and Diagnostic Centre.

Located in the Lekki area of Lagos, the medical facility reportedly offers purely medical and diagnostic services. As with most of his widely touted questionable investments, the diagnostic centre has no

Continues on page 41

Where is Rauf Aregbesola?

Since his former boss and friend, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, assumed office, former Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, has been conspicuously ‘missing in action’. From Tinubu's swearing-in on May 29, to playing host to various people across different ethnic and political strata, right down to the reception organised for him by the Lagos State governor, Babajide-Sanwo-

Continues on page 40

ENTERTAINMENT &SOCIETY WEEKLY

I’m Making Efforts to Become a Better Person – Beauty Tukara

Reality show star and former beauty queen, Beauty Tukara, speaks with SHADE WESLEY-METIBOGUN about her reality TV show, Big Brother Naija and sundry issues.

Excerpts:

You won the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Award 2023 in the Best Dressed category. How does it feel like?

It feels absolutely amazing. It was my first time at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Award event and I walked out with an award. Thanks to my fans and BeeNavy for voting me in that category. I didn’t even know the details of the voting process, but my fans went to that great extent for me.

Did you see it coming?

I did not see it coming, to be hones,t but it was expected because I had entered the competition. It was a 50/50 chance for me because it required voting by fans and I’m happy 'my BeeNavy' came through.

Can you tell us more about the dress that got you the winning title? Who made it and how much did you spend on getting it?

The dress was a mermaid inspired one and the idea was to be completely different from everyone else. It was made by Xtrabride Lagos. I’d like to withhold the amount please.

You were also named one of the most influential people of African descent a few weeks ago. How does it feel too?

I feel really honoured and blessed because the award means a lot to me. It shows that I’m seen and appreciated. It is every content creator’s dream to create content that people can relate with and appreciate. Getting the award means that my contents and works are seen and appreciated. That matters a lot to me. I’m really happy and grateful to the Mipad Organisation for the recognition.

What do you think gave you an edge over other competitors?

I don’t know what the selection process was, but it is more of a recognition. It’s not a competition so I think it was centered majorly on influence even on the social media space and my project with MultiChoice, ‘My Beautyful Life’. You recently started a reality TV show, ‘The Beautyful Life’. What inspired it?

When I was growing up, I always enjoyed watching reality TV shows and seeing how these TV stars can influence their own crowd through their lifestyles and I’ve always wanted that. I realised we didn’t have enough reality TV stars in Nigeria capitalising on that. When Multi Choice reached out, I took the opportunity because it was a platform to show the world what being a reality TV star in Nigeria is all about. The struggles and the glamorous side of being a celebrity in Nigeria.

How has the response been?

The response has been absolutely amazing, especially from my fans. It has given them more access to my life, more understanding of my work and how I navigate through the industry.

It’s generally a great show and I’m excited about it. Mondays are for Beauty Tukura because Mondays are for ‘My Beautyful Life’. The reality TV show is one of the top 10 shows currently on Showmax, it is quite encouraging to achieve that. I feel blessed.

Did you encounter any peculiar challenge that was discouraging along the way?

Reality TV is generally challenging because it is me putting out my life, my business, my struggles, family and everything out there subject to other people’s opinions. You can imagine the risk. I don’t think there is anything more challenging than that. It’s a 50/50 situation. Some will love you for who you are and others won’t but that is why it is a challenge I guess.

Which of the episodes is the most interesting?

I can’t say I do but then, I love every episode because they are all interesting and at times, I am tempted to say I prefer one episode over the next. So, I don’t have a favorite episode. Each episode tells a story and shows a different side of me. They are all entertaining.

‘My Beautyful life’ will run for 13 weeks. What next after the 13 episodes?

Life and work continues. ‘My Beautyful Life’ isn’t scripted. I’m sharing what is already happening with all of my fans and after 13 episodes, work will continue. More brand endorsements, community works and brand collaborations. So, my fans should stay updated through my social media platforms.

Do you think people misunderstood you based on the BBN experience?

I won’t say I was misunderstood because I know my actions in the reality show weren't the best and I take full responsibility and accountability for my actions.

What negative notions about your personality will you like to correct?

I’m just a human being making her mistakes and learning from life experiences. We all learn from certain experiences. We unlearn to relearn, grow perfectly imperfect, that's human nature for you. The most important thing to me is making conscious efforts to be a better person every day. I am working towards that daily.

Do you plan on using your law degree?

My mother would love you for this question.

I’m preparing to go back to school, so, let’s keep our fingers crossed.

You recently described Big Brother Naija as toxic. Can you explain what you mean by that?

I didn’t say that Big Brother Naija is toxic. What I meant is that the environment can be toxic because that is what has been promoted by some fans of the reality show and the housemates over time. I think fans usually forget that housemates are human beings with normal human emotion and sometimes, they over stretch their grievances even

to their family.

But then again, it can be argued that it’s not restricted to the Big Brother Naija community alone but even extends to politics and other areas.

It is a common occurrence for ex- housemates to pitch their tents with the entertainment industry. Are you looking in that direction too?

By default, I’m already a part of the entertainment industry but I have interest in other areas as well.

Looking back at your experience as a beauty queen, what lessons did you learn?

Life happens fast and you always have to be prepared. I was queen during COVID-19 so this was a very important lesson for me. I didn’t expect that my reign would be that long but the situation made it so.

I also learnt that it is important to always show kindness because there’s a lot of healing going on in the world. The beauty pageant was a huge responsibility for me and I am grateful I was able to fulfil my responsibilities. I have been able to make good use of the experience and the things I learnt from it.

What was your parent’s reaction when you told them you were going in for Miss Nigeria pageant?

They were skeptical because pageantry is not really prevalent in the north. They had their reservations but ultimately they trusted me and my decisions. They were supportive and encouraged me all through, I am grateful to them

for that.

What about BBN?

I didn’t tell my parents that I was attempting to go for Big Brother Naija. Even after I was picked as one of the housemates, I didn’t tell them until a day before the lockdown stage and I can say that was one of my biggest mistakes.

I went in by myself and they still supported me, regardless of the outcome.

What advice do you have for ladies looking at going into the reality show?

I would encourage anyone looking to participate in either of these competitions to stay true to their authentic self. Believe in yourself ultimately and be prepared for the competition.

How do you start your day?

Generally, I pray, check through my emails and call my manager.

Share some of your beauty routine

I use amazing skincare products from Lavyanna Skincare. You should check them out. I have created a skincare routine with their products that I consistently use twice a day; morning and night.

You must have enjoyed special privileges as the last born of the family. What was growing up like?

No I didn’t. I grew up in a Christian nuclear home and my parents were disciplinarians so there were no special privileges accorded to me. However, growing up was interesting and comfortable for me, all thanks to my parents. I attended some of the best schools and was well taken care of while growing up. I’m grateful to my parents for all that.

Tukara

Tukara

ENTERTAINMENT &SOCIETY WEEKLY

STORIES BY IVORY UKONU

TOP POLITICIANS, BUSINESSMEN CELEBRATE BINTU TINUBU AT 80

celebrate the matriarch of the Tinubu family at the Eko Hotel and Suites, Lagos. The high-octane party lived up to its billings as the biggest names in the events industry took charge of things to ensure it was a memorable party, from Gbenga Adeyinka who was the compere to the King of world beats, King Sunny Ade was on the bandstand dishing out songs from his repertoire to the delight of guests. Dignitaries who attended the party include, Lagos State governor, Babajide Sanwo-olu and his wife, Ibijoke; Ogun State governor, Dapo Abiodun and his wife, Bamidele; Aliko Dangote; Femi Otedola; Senator Gbenga Daniel and wife, Yeye Olufunke; Senator Bukola Saraki and wife, Toyin; Razak Akanni Okoya and wife, Dr. Folashade; Senator Ibikunle Amosun and wife, Funso; Chief Ayiri Emami; Abdul Samad-Rabiu; Sam Iwuajoku, Babagana Kingibe etc.

Mixed Reaction Greets

Mbah's Appointment of Akeredolu-Ale as ESBS Boss

Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State appears hell bent on adhering to his style of universal labour practice. Just like he head hunted Adenike Okebu, a technocrat from the Southwest, as his Senior Special Assistant on Revenue, he again surprised many with his appointment of Ladi Akeredolu-Ale, another south-westerner and a former Controller, Current Affairs, Channels Television to head the Enugu State Broadcasting Service, ESBS.

FINANCIAL ORGANISATIONS

The leading lights in Nigeria's political, business and corporate scene turned up last weekend for the carnival-like 80th birthday celebration of Chief Mrs Bintu-Fatima Omosefe Tinubu. The array of dignitaries joined her children, one of whom is Wale Tinubu, the group Chief Executive Officer of Oando PLC, her grandchildren as well as extended family members to

The celebrant, who is the Iyalode of Lagos and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s step mum, is an influential, successful businesswoman and notable philanthropist who, along with her biological children and grandchildren, has nurtured a legion of adopted children and siblings. Still looking agile, full of life and nothing close to 80, she is an embodiment of grace and fortune. Continued from page

Where is Rauf Aregbesola?

Olu, which had a lot of political bigwigs in attendance, Aregbesola has not been seen anywhere near him. The cold war between the two began after the immediate past Governor of Osun State, Gboyega Oyetola, reversed some policies implemented by Aregbesola when he was governor of the state.

Aregbesola had felt betrayed that his former Chief of Staff made some moves that would turn the people of the state against him. Therefore, he vowed not to support Oyetola’s second term bid. He anointed Moshood Adeoti, the former Secretary to the state government as his own candidate, a move that his political godfather, Tinubu was not

pleased with.

Tinubu felt betrayed that Aregbesola could turn his back against Oyetola, who was his own anointed governorship candidate. The rift however turned to an open friction during the All Progressives Congress primaries when Aregbesola openly accused Tinubu of placing himself in the position of God in the party. He accused Tinubu of planning evil for Osun State and swore to ridicule him for allegedly comparing himself to God. Luckily for Aregbesola and unfortunately for Oyetola and Tinubu, the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, took advantage of their quarrel, exploited it for its own gain and eventually emerged victorious in the governorship election in the state. While the war raged on, many eminent personalities attempted to wade in to reconcile the two but it all ended in futility.

At the twilight of former President Muhammadu

HONOUR LATE SUBOMI BALOGUN AS HE IS LAID TO REST

Buhari's administration, Aregbesola had a moment of reckoning and tried to find his way back into Tinubu's heart by being actively involved in the campaign for the return of Sanwo-Olu as governor for a second term. Also with his recent apology to Oyetola, coupled with his acknowledgment of Tinubu as his political benefactor, one would have thought that all parties would have sheathed their warring swords by now. But this seems to be far from the case.

With one of Tinubu's successors, former Governor Akinwunmi Ambode and Femi Pedro, his former deputy when he ruled the affairs of Lagos State as governor, back in his fold, having received his forgiveness for how 'unruly' they acted in the past, perhaps, Tinubu should look past Aregbesola's shortcomings and extend the olive branch to him as well.

During the week, a number of financial organisations thought it wise to honour late Subomi Balogun, the founder of First City Monument Bank Group, FCMB who died on May 18 in a London hospital following a brief illness. The philanthropist, who is widely regarded as the doyen of the banking industry, was 89 when he died. Following his death, the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX), Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers (CIS) and other market participants on Monday held a mock-trading session and Closing Gong Ceremony in his honour. Speakers at the event paid glowing tribute to him while emphasising that he was a blessing to the capital market, one who played a significant role in the development of investment banking in Nigeria and had laid the foundation for many of the nation’s first equity offerings while working at ICON Securities.

Earlier that same day, a commendation service took place at Cathedral Church of Christ, Marina, Lagos. On Tuesday, July 5th, there was a night of tribute in his honour, This took place at Eko Hotel and Suites and it had quite a number of dignitaries in attendance.

Those who made it to the night of tribute include, Razak Okoya, Olu Okeowo and his wife, Folashade, former Ogun State governor, Ibikunle Amosun, Bola Shagaya, Pastor Ituah Ighodalo etc. On Wednesday July 6, there was a lying-instate in his hometown in Ijebu Ode at his Otunba Tunwase Court. This continued till the next day, Friday, July 7, 2023. By the afternoon of Friday, the Ijebu Ode chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria held a service of songs at his Otunba Tunwase Court as the Asiwaju of Ijebu Ode Christians. A wake was also held at the same venue later that day. On Saturday July 8, was his funeral service at Cathedral Church of Our Saviour in Ijebu Ode. After he was interred, a lavish reception where guests were feted was held later that same day, thus, marking the final exit of a corporate icon.

Mbah charged Akeredolu-Ale to overhaul and turn ESBS into one of the best revenuegenerating organisations in the state. While many have applauded him for choosing competence over tribalism, not a few think that headhunting who heads ESBS should have been done with a lot of circumspection, especially because of the ethnic-conscious polity of Nigeria. This set of people believe that Enugu has a pool of local talents who could have been better drafted for the job as the state allegedly has the best hands

Akeredolu-Ale

in broadcast journalism in Nigeria. These critics believe ESBS' problem is really lack of funding by the state governments over time but most definitely, not managerial talent. They are also uncomfortable with the fact that they believe the governor just may have a scant regard for his own people who he thinks may not be willing to effectively implement his vision for a better Enugu.

Herbert Wigwe Consolidates Position as Majority Shareholder of Access Holdings Plc

The fear of being caught unawares in Nigeria's bullish corporate world, seems to be the beginning of wisdom for Herbert Wigwe, the Group Managing Director and CEO of Access Holdings Plc. Having watched with keen interest, how billionaire investor, Femi Otedola caught banker and economist, Tony Elumelu napping in an unsuccessful attempt to take over the Transnational Corporation of Nigeria, TRANSCORP, where the latter is chairman, Wigwe has decided not to leave anything to chance and has followed in Elumelu's steps to tighten his grip on Access Holdings.

The banker, who recently

unveiled his private university in Rivers State, has begun the acquisition of more shares in Access Bank. He began a few months ago using his private company, Tengen Holdings (Mauritius) Limited. His stake is spread across several entities that hold direct shares in Access Holdings. First, he purchased about 1.13 billion units in April. Then in May, he acquired additional 150 million shares worth N1.49 billion, which represents 0.43 per cent of the company's total outstanding shares.

Again he has consolidated his position as Access Holdings Plc majority shareholder with an additional acquisition of 50 million shares acquired at N15.25 per share, valued at N762.5m. The 50 million shares represent 0.14 per cent of the company’s total outstanding shares and it takes the total shareholdings for Tengen Holdings to 1.8 billion and Wigwe’s direct and indirect stake to 3.1 billion shares. Thus, Wigwe and his affiliates, one of who is a former MD/CEO and co-founder of Access Bank, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, with whom he acquired the bank in 2002, now own 8.8 per cent of the bank’s shares.

Wigwe

Tinubu

STORIES BY IVORY UKONU

IBE KACHIKWU, BEN AKABUEZE UNITE AS THEIR CHILDREN WALK DOWN THE AISLE

Exactly a year after throwing a lavish wedding party for his first son, former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources and Group Managing Director, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, Ibe Kachikwu, re-enacted it again for his second son, Uchechukwu, who tied the knot with Solumtochukwu, one of the daughters of Ben Akabueze, a former Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget in Lagos State and currently Director-General of the Budget office for the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The colourful wedding, which was a mix of class and affluence, was solemnised at the Redeemed Christian Church of God, King's Court, Victoria Island, Lagos, followed by a reception at Landmark Event Centre. The guests, including the Executive Governors of Lagos, Ogun and Abia States, Babajide Sanwoolu, Dapo Abiodun and Alex Otti, respectively, who coordinated the cutting of the cake, as well as Senators Victor Umeh, Tony Nwoye, Aishatu Dahiru and several other eminent personalities, were serenaded by Shugaband.

For many keen watchers, the wedding is not only a

ENTERTAINMENT &SOCIETY WEEKLY

Joel Ogebe Launches Own Cryptocurrency

The Christendom seems to be experiencing a revolution with regards to the tech industry and digital currency. Barely three years after Bishop Sam Zuga, the General Overseer and founder of House of Joy Ministry, floated his own cryptocurrency, Zuga Coin, another clergyman has taken the initiative to float his own cryptocurrency. Kingdom Coin, the brainchild of Apostle Joel Ogebe, the General Overseer of House of Salem International Ministries was launched last month.

According to Ogebe, Kingdom Coin is a kingdom-oriented agenda providing a Goshen system for the body of Christ ahead of the anticipated global economic meltdown, a trial by economic collapse that will see banks fold up and businesses crumble. He added that it is one of the warfare strategies of God at this end time to aid the church in spreading the gospel mandate and bringing the nations into obedience to the gospel adding that the wisdom of God, enabled him to build on the blockchain, a kingdom-oriented cryptocurrency ecosystem that will help the church navigate through the coming storm.

DOZY MMOBUOSI EMBARKS ON IMAGE LAUNDERING DRIVE

union of love between the couple or a union of both families but also a union for political strategising. Recall that THEWILL had earlier reported that Kachikwu had floated an intense lobbying machinery for a place in Tinubu's government. With Akabueze, a strong ally of Tinubu now his inlaw, it will be interesting to see how this political alignment will play out.

Peter Obafemi Remarries For The Third Time

website or anything on the internet to better explain what it is all about.

A search on the Internet throws up job recruitment websites seeking to recruit just one staff for the diagnostic centre. Other searches throw up another website of a well established diagnostic centre bearing partially the same name with his own diagnostic centre but based in Nairobi with several franchise locations within the Eastern African country.

million in revenue last quarter alone, representing 68 per cent of total reported revenue, exceeding those of every major comparable food company. Yet, Tingo has no food processing facility of its own. Earlier in the year, Tingo Food held a groundbreaking ceremony for a planned $1.6 billion food processing facility, attended by the then agriculture minister Mohammad Mahmood Abubakar and other politicians.

Peter Obafemi, a failed Ekiti State governorship aspirant and promoter of defunct Ritetime Aviation and Travel Services, operators of World Airways that provided direct flights from Nigeria to Atlanta in early 2000, has given marriage another chance.

He got married for the third time to Wuraola Chidiebere Balogun at a traditional marriage ceremony that took place at Jogor Event Centre, Ibadan, Oyo State.

Some of the guests at the wedding are Osun State governor, Ademola Adeleke, his bosom friend, Dele Momodu , Reverend Esther Ajayi etc. While Gbenga Adeyinka steered proceedings at the wedding, Sir

Shina Peters got the couple and guests gyrating to his songs. The union is happening almost 10 years after his second marriage to a certain lady named Lolade Iruka hit the rocks. The marriage which was consummated in 2013 with the promise of a better future for the new bride crashed like a pack of badly arranged cards less than two years after it was celebrated with Lolade taking refuge at her father's house in Ikeja, GRA, Lagos and refusing to return to her husband's house despite family intervention. The marriage however produced a son, David Olamiposi. Peter's first marriage was to his America-based lover, Maureen, but things went

bad between them and they got divorced which paved the way for his marriage with Lolade. Although the marriage produced two children, in addition to the son Lolade bore for him, Peter is also a father to three other kids born out of wedlock. In his hey days, Peter was the true definition of a Lagos socialite. At the time he floated his aviation company, he was the toast of many top businessmen and women, politicians and socialites. This was on account of the services his aviation company rendered, which was most sought after among members of the upper crust of the society. Besides being the toast of parties hosted by the aforementioned, Peter on his own equally threw some of the greatest private parties ever. With his connections and wealth came the ladies who all wanted a piece of him. At some point, all that debauchery and wantonness came to an end when he fell on bad times. He even attempted to be governor of Ekiti State with the little funds he managed to scrounge, Unfortunately that attempt boomeranged in his face and he was back to square one with many of his well-heeled friends abandoning him to his fate. He has since bounced back from obscurity but has taken things slow and steady, leaving fast life in the past where it belongs.

Dozy, who claims to be an advocate of technological advancement in Africa, is the founder and CEO of Tingo Inc., a publicly traded company on the OTC Markets Group which is headquartered in New Jersey, United States of America and claims to have several business segments focused on providing mobile phones, food processing and an online food marketplace for farmers primarily located in Nigeria. He first came to public knowledge in February when it was reported that he was close to completing a £90 million takeover of English football club Sheffield United. But in June, an investigation by Hindenburg Research revealed that his entity called Tingo Group, is nothing but an exceptionally obvious scam with completely fabricated financials.

Hindenburg Research in its comprehensive report noted that it identified major red flags with Dozy’s background. He appeared to have fabricated his biographical claim to have developed the first mobile payment app in Nigeria. He claimed in his biography to have received a PhD in rural advancement from a Malaysian university, UPM, in 2007 but that claim was also found to be false because when Hindenburg Research contacted UPM to verify the degree, the school wrote back and said no one by his name was found in its verification system.

In 2017, Dozy was arrested and faced an eight-count indictment over the issuance of bad cheques, according to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission. He later settled the case in arbitration.

In 2019, Dozy who is reportedly worth £7 billion, claimed to have launched Tingo Airlines and posted social media messages encouraging customers to fly with Tingo Airlines. It was later discovered that Tingo photoshopped its logo onto pictures of aeroplanes. The report also revealed that Tingo's food division claimed to generate $577.2

It turned out that the rendering of the planned facility, featured in Tingo’s investor materials and on a billboard at the ceremony, was actually a rendering of an oil refinery from a stock photo website. Up till today, there is no sign of progress for the proposed food processor. Tingo Group claimed that its mobile handset leasing, call and data segments generated $128 million in revenue last quarter. It also claims members of two unnamed farming co-ops supply the majority of its 9 million user base, consisting of local Nigerian farmers who supposedly form the core of the company’s phone customers and provide ag products used in Tingo's food and trading businesses. But no one seems to have heard of anything called Tingo Mobile just as checks with the Nigerian Communications Commission showed it has no record of Tingo being a mobile licensee at all, despite licensing requirements and the company's claim to have 12+ million mobile customers. The report also said that despite claiming to have millions of farmers using its phones, Tingo Mobile’s corporate presentation and webpage use stock photos of farmers using phones and Tingo Mobile’s office in Nigeria, has only a handful of employees and a sign posted on its door by federal tax authorities stating that the company is delinquent on its tax obligations. There are several other instances of insincerity with his business dealings, but Dozy however begs to differ. He denied the fraud allegations describing it as malicious, misleading and baseless accusations while also emphasizing on the accuracy of its accounting records. He denounced the report suggesting that it was a deliberate attempt to undermine the positive work being done by Tingo Group in various global markets. According to him, there is evidence to support its authenticity, including business licenses from the relevant authorities.

The Kachikwus

Ogebe

The Obafemis

Continued from page 38

ENTERTAINMENT &SOCIETY WEEKLY

STORIES BY SHADE WESLEY-METIBOGUN

GRACE EGBAGBE HOLDS THANKSGIVING AFTER CLOSE SHAVE WITH DEATH

Aformer Executive Director Marketing of the Nigerian Television Authority, NTA, Barrister Grace Egbagbe, has held a thanksgiving service after God gave her another lease of life. The media personality turned lawyer had a close shave with death recently. She had to call her friends and family to rejoice with her after the unfortunate experience. The thanksgiving service took place at Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church, Norbeck Blvd in Silver Spring, MD, United States last week. The mother of two had collapsed in her home and was rushed to the hospital. She had to be placed on oxygen as she had no pulse again. Some nurses even wanted to pronounce her dead, but they had to wait for the doctor on duty to give his report before moving her to the morgue. But she suddenly came back to life after the oxygen mask had been removed. She was examined and had to spend some days receiving treatment. Her daughter, Zemaye, was always by her side and took good care of her until she was back on her feet.

Sharing the testimony at her thanksgiving service, Egbagbe, who used to be one of the party pillars in Nigeria before relocating abroad didn't disclose the diagnosis but was incredibly grateful to God for the lease of life. Shortly after the service ended, a luncheon followed at the church hall, where her guests were treated to a sumptuous and delicious meal while listening to good music.

Idongesit Nkanga's Wives, Children Clash Over Property

The wives and children of late Air Commodore Otuekong Idongesit Nkanga, a former Military Governor of Akwa Ibom State, are at loggerheads over one of his properties.

The late governor who died in December 2020 left behind his wife, Mosun Nkanga and her two daughters. He married Mosun in 2007 after his first marriage to Joanna Achibong, which produced four male children, was dissolved by a court. Nkanga, has a property with two wings in Asokoro, Abuja. He gave the first wing, 3A to his wife, Mosun, while the second wing, 3B where he lived before his death, was given to his children to serve as family house on the condition that it should be reverted to his wife, Mosun, when his last son, Ini Idara, turns 30 years.

The battle for the property started in 2021 after Mosun sued Joanna and her four children over their refusal to grant her access to her late husband’s house in Abuja.

On 17 March 2022, the court declared that disallowing her access to possession of her matrimonial home violated her fundamental human rights to own and have an interest in her late husband’s property.

The court barred Joanna and her children from restraining or interfering with Mosun’s right to live in or enjoy her matrimonial home, pending the issuance of

Aigboje Aig-

Imoukhuede

Joins World Trade Organisation

Former Group

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Access Bank, Aigboje

Aig-Imoukhuede, has become a member of the Business Advisory Group to the Director-General of the World Trade Organisation, WTO.

Johnson

HOW OMOBOLA JOHNSON CELEBRATED 60TH BIRTHDAY

Aformer Minister of Communication Technology, Dr Mrs Omobola Johnson, has joined the diamond jubilee club.

Aig-Imoukhuede was chosen for his extensive expertise and exemplary leadership within the global business landscape, which has made him an exceptional addition to the advisory group.

As a Member of the Business Advisory Group, the former banker will play a pivotal role in providing valuable insights and guidance to the Director General of the WTO on crucial matters pertaining to international trade and economic policies. His intelligent perspectives will also help shape policies that will foster inclusive and sustainable trade practices worldwide.

Aig-Imoukhuede, has always had a remarkable contribution and

unwavering commitment towards driving economic growth and development on the African continent and on a global scale in general. His contribution is reflected in all the laudable feats he has ever embarked on in his decades of experience in the banking sector. The founder and chairman of Coronation Capital Limited and its affiliates, Coronation Asset Management Ltd, also sits atop several companies as a board member.

asked the court to reinstate them into the house.

The applicants, through their lawyer, Inibehe Effiong, asked a High Court in the FCT to set aside the warrant of possession of premises issued in favour of their stepmother. Effiong described the eviction of his clients as unlawful and the refusal to allow them access to their home as a violation of their fundamental human rights.

He said by virtue of Sections 20 and 21 of the Recovery of Premises Act, Cap 544, a warrant of possession can only be issued to enforce the judgment in an action by a landlord against a tenant and argued that the applicants were not tenants.

Johnson rolled out the drums in celebration as encomium poured in for the woman who has recorded so many successes in her 60 years of existence. Although born at a time when there was an outbreak of Salmonella infection, providence had smiled on her and kept her alive.

Salmonella infection is a disease caused by the salmonella bacteria through contaminated food or water. There was a Salmonella epidemic in 1963 when Johnson was born. It led to the death of a lot of babies, but Johnson survived which is why she is always grateful to celebrate every landmark achievement and age.

Friends, relatives of the celebrant, the crème de la crème of the corporate world and notable politicians gathered last week at Harbour Point, an event venue her elder sister, Yewande Zaccheaus is manning to mark her diamond jubilee.

a letter of administration or grant of probate over the estate.

However, Mosun ran to court to get a warrant for an immediate possession of the two apartments and evicted her step-children and their mother from the family house despite the fact that the late governor's son, Ini Idara, is not yet 30 years.

Achibong and her sons also had to run to court because Mosun was not following the Will of the late patriarch who instructed that Ini Idara must be 30 years before the property can be transferred to Mosun.

The four children, Utibeabasi Nkanga, Etietop Nkanga, Lance Nkanga and Ini Idara Nkanga who are applicants

He also added that the warrant was issued last year and it had expired before execution and thus rendered the execution illegal and liable to be set aside. He also revealed that the warrant has three months lifespan but was executed after one year. According to him, the court did not give Mosun the exclusive right to possess, live and enjoy the property but only restrained his clients from interfering with the respondent’s right to access the premises pending the issuance of a letter of administration or grant of probate over the estate. He described Mosun's action as an abuse of court order and therefore prayed the court to set aside the warrant of possession.

It started with a brief Christian worship which was followed by musical performances, a special rendition of Psalm 23 by the celebrant and other attractions. Her friends paid glowing tributes for her impactful life and impeccable pedigree. Foremost saxophonist, Bolaji Banjoko, professionally known as Beejay Sax thrilled guests with melodious Christian songs at the birthday celebration. The boardroom guru rose through the ranks to become the first Chief Executive Officer of Accenture before becoming the Minister of Communication Technology under the Goodluck Ebele Jonathan led administration. She has also served on the board of several reputable companies and organizations including World Bank, Bloomberg, Guinness Nigeria, MTN, Diamond Bank, amongst others. She is currently the honorary chairperson of the Global Alliance for Affordable Intern.

Ruth

Idahosa

Bags US Antitrafficking Campaign Award

against human trafficking. Miss Idahosa’s organisation, Pathfinders, focused on empowering survivors of sex traffickers through transformative programmes that addressed the root cause of exploitation. Her advocacy efforts have also been instrumental in improving anti-trafficking policies and legislation in Nigeria.

Ruth Idahosa, daughter of Late Archbishop Benson Idahosa, founder of the Church of God Mission, has bagged a special award for an antihuman trafficking campaign in the United States of America.

The activist was among those who were honoured at the 2023 Tip Report Heroes event organised in recognition of the exceptional contributions of some people to the fight

During the event, she shared the tragic story of Faith, a Nigerian woman trafficked and subjected to the horrors of the European sex industry until her untimely death, noting that Faith’s ordeal represents the harsh reality facing thousands of victims while highlighting the urgent need for action.

Expressing gratitude for the recognition, Idahosa acknowledged the collective efforts of countless individuals who tirelessly work for justice and reconciliation. She urged governments to address systemic failures and prioritize the well-being of people over profit.

Aig- Imoukhuede

Idahosa

Nkanga

Egbagbe

STORIES BY SHADE WESLEY-METIBOGUN

SALAWA ABENI CELEBRATES

POSTHUMOUS 40TH BIRTHDAY OF LATE SON

Veteran female singer, Salawa Abeni, professionally known as Waka Queen, has marked the posthumous birthday of her late son, Idris Olanrewaju Adepoju.

Adepoju was the only child the singer had for Lati Adepoju, the late Chief Executive Officer of Leader Records, the first record label she was signed to at the beginning of her musical career.

Although they weren't officially married, the romantic dalliance between Salawa and Adepoju had produced Idris.

Idris died in a car accident on Lagos-Ibadan Expressway on his way from Ilorin in company with his mother's driver, Mr. Deji Ajibola. The singer did not recover from the shock of that tragic event for a very long time. Salawa did not only lose her son to the incident but

ENTERTAINMENT &SOCIETY WEEKLY

Gbenga Adebija Joins USAccelerator

Gbenga Adebija, a former Director General of the Nigerian- American Chamber of Commerce, has joined United States Accelerator. Accelerator, is a United States based professional service company that advises and supports international businesses on their entry and acceleration of market growth in the United States.

also some of her works produced while she was a signee of Leader Records.

Taking to her Instagram page to mark Idris’ posthumous 40th birthday, she penned an emotional note where she revealed that the wound she sustained as a result of her son’s death has not healed. She prayed for him and asked God to keep her remaining children.

Meet Medical Doctor Aspiring to be Alaafin of Oyo

The ancient town of Oyo has been without an Alaafin for more than one year now. The throne became vacant after the death of Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, who died after a brief illness in April, 2023. Efforts have been made by the Oyemesi to fill the vacancy as the names of intending candidates have been submitted.

Among those who are keenly contesting for the crown is United State based doctor, Prince Ajibade Adeladan.

Prince Adeladan is an accomplished surgeon, a technocrat from the Agunloye Ruling House in Oyo. He spent his early years in Lagos and had his education in Nigeria before relocating abroad to further pursue a career in medicine.

He started his elementary school in Ibonwon, Epe, Lagos State and his secondary education at the Olivet Baptist High School in Oyo town in 1973 before gaining admission to the University of Ibadan where she studied Medicine.

Having worked at different hospitals across Lagos State, he went for training as a specialist in General Surgery at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) and became a Fellow of the West African College of Surgeons. After a few years of practice in Nigeria, he relocated abroad and worked in different countries including Jamaica, Turks and Caicos Islands, British Virgin Islands, and the United States Virgin Islands. He started another training in the United States where he was trained as a specialist

in Psychiatry at Columbia University, Manhattan, New York. He was later named a Chief Resident at Columbia University. Prince Adeladan is a certified psychiatrist and neurologist. He also has a certification in Addiction Medicine. He is a member of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, and also a member of the American Board of Addiction Medicine. One of the reasons he picked interest in the stool is to transform Oyo state and end medical tourism in the state. He is also looking at revamping the Agricultural sector while utilising his wealth of experience in the medical sector to save lives.

Adebija is joining USAccelerator as part of the branding and consultancy team. He was chosen because of his wealth of experience in leadership and multicultural communication, which aptly fits into the mission of the USAccelerator team. The technocrat and business leader will work with a team of experts to source strategic guidance and local support for international companies to successfully enter and scale in U.S. markets. He will also reinforce the current initiatives by USAccelerator to help business people and entrepreneurs navigate the complexities in the American business ecosystem. Aside from his new role at the USAccelerator, Adebija is also the President and Chief Executive Officer of Ashton and Layton and Founder, CEO of Business in Nigeria.

YINKA OGUNDIMU, WIFE BAG DOCTORATE DEGREES

awarded doctorate degrees in Marketing at the Faculty of Management Science of the Lagos State University, LASU, Ojo. The duo made history in April, 2023, when they both defended their theses separately but on the same day, their convocation took place a few weeks after.

Honourable Ogundimu, had earlier bagged a Masters degree from the same university. He had a Master of Business Administration, MBA in 2008, but decided to proceed to further his studies in the same institution.

Honourable Yinka Ogundimu, the former lawmaker who represented Agege Constituency II between 2011 and 2023 at the Lagos State House of Assembly, and his wife, Abosede, have been

Abosede, wife of the politician, is a banker of repute with over two decades of banking experience. She became a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Bankers in Nigeria in 2022. She is also the Group Head, Public Sector of Providus Bank. She holds an MBA from Bangor University, formerly known as University of Scotland, UK.

Bisi Onasanya Donates Block of Classrooms, Library to Lagos School

Aformer Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of First Bank, Dr Bisi Onasanya, has donated a block of classrooms and library to llara Model Primary School, Ilara, Epe, Lagos State.

The six blocks of classrooms, with a fully wellequipped library, were donated by the former banking executive in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Lagos, Bowen College and Bank of Industry. It was commissioned by His Royal Highness, Oba Olufolarin Olukayode Ogunsanwo, the Alara of IlaraEpe Kingdom last week.

Onasanya's gesture in supporting the underprivileged and to contribute his quota in bridging the infrastructural deficit in Nigeria’s education sector was born out of an ugly incident he

Onasanya

had when he was a child.

When he was six years-old, his mother followed him when he was to start primary school at St. Paul Primary School, Idi Oro, Mushin, Lagos.

On his first day in school, there was a very rowdy session because people were struggling to get enlisted. Because of the rowdiness and the first come, first serve arrangement, the head teacher slapped his mother while she was trying to ensure that he got a space in class. While growing up and reflecting on the bitter experience, he made up his mind to help as many parents and children as possible to have easy access to education so that they will not have to pass through the same ordeal.

Stationaries,

Adebija

Abeni

Adeladan

other writing materials, desks, chairs and other modern facilities accompanied the blocks of classrooms and library donated by Onasanya to Epe School.

The Ogundimus

Obong of Calabar Tussle: Royal Rumble in Nation’s Paradise

Following the refusal of dethroned Obong of Calabar, Etubom Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu V, to step down after a Supreme Court ruling nullifying his kingship last January, a royal rumble with Etubom Anthony Ani is a-brewing in a state with the enviable motto nation’s paradise. The face-off has not only split the kingmakers (Etubom Traditional Council) down the middle, it is threatening the peaceful coexistence of indigenes of Cross River state, as THEWILL found out. Michael Jimoh reports…

Depending on any of the kingmakers you ask who the Obong of Calabar is at the moment, you’re more than likely to receive two different answers. One was crowned soon after the death of Obong Nta Elijah Henshaw in 2008. Dethroned by a Supreme Court ruling last January, he was re-elected almost immediately after by some members of the Etubom Traditional Council in Calabar.

His rival who’d challenged his authority right from enthronement 15 years ago was also recently crowned Obong of Calabar owing to the ruling of the SC. Both of them insist they’re the rightful Obongs of one of the oldest ruling houses in the Niger Delta. And yet, nature forbids two monarchs sitting on the same throne at the same time because there can only be one king at any one time in any one kingdom.

Thus, there is but one Oba of Benin. So is the Sultan of Sokoto and Ooni of ife, all of them acknowledged first-class traditional rulers in Nigeria and oftentimes addressed as Royal Majesties. To this high-ranking traditional rulers belong the Obong of Calabar, a revered title and institution dating back several centuries in the port city once favored by British and French traders for everything from slaves to agricultural produce and much else.

From the first titular head of the Efiks in South-south Nigeria to the last but current monarch, there has never been two people competing for recognition as Obong of Calabar. Not at any time in the history of kingship in the coastal city. Once, during colonial rule in the 1930s, the British tried and failed to stampede an Obong off the throne on account of an unfair tax on market women.

The Obong at the time resisted the external British forces and opted to pay the taxes imposed on the women by the Brits. This time, there are no external forces involved in undermining the authority of the Obong of Calabar. It is from within, from one of the royal houses/ families whose turn it was to present a candidate as Obong of Calabar after the demise of Etubom Nta Elijah Henshaw in 2008. Both have drawn the battle line and there appears to be no end in sight to the royal rumble unfolding in the ancient city and onetime capital of Nigeria.

Chief Augustine Nsa Ani is the son of Etubom Anthony Ani who was recently proclaimed Obong of Calabar. In an interview with THEWILL early last Friday, he traced the genesis of the current crisis to 2008 just after the passing of Etubom Nta Elijah Henshaw.

“The Obongship in Calabar,” Ani told THEWILL, “rotates between Western and Central Calabar. That order was broken in 2002 when Edidem Henshaw was crowned. In the ensuing controversy, then Governor Donald Duke stepped in and persuaded everyone to let that be bygone and all agreed the next Obong will come from Western Calabar, specifically Ikoneto.”

In that regard, Nsa Ani wrote that his clan was asked “to produce a candidate and we did.” The candidate, Etubom Ani “was presented from the Western council and was going through the process before it was hijacked and interfered with from certain quarters.” The very man who hijacked the process is the current Obong Etubom Abasi Otu entrusted by Etubom Ani to help his cause in becoming the next Obong according to the rotational principle adopted by Etubom Traditional Council.

But because of his extremely busy schedule attending to national issues, Etubom Ani appointed a regent in his stead “to hold court in Mbiabo Ikoneto.” But the same Ekpo Abasi Otu, Ani went on, “held brief for Etubom Ani in that same process before surreptitiously hijacking the process using Ani’s resources.”

To the Anis whose turn it was to produce the Obong in 2008, nothing could be more galling. It was some sort of betrayal. Rather than make a case for the Anis from Ikoneto clan, Etubom Edidem Abasi presented himself as a qualified candidate. He was promptly made Obong of Calabar succeeding the departed Etubom Nta Elijah, to the chagrin of the Anis.

Speaking for the Ikoneto family, Nsa Ani said the throne of the Obong of Calabar “has been vacant for 15 years. All actions carried out in that interim period are illegal.”

To shore up his claim, High Court Calabar in a suit brought by Etubom Anthony Ani ruled against the process that made Etubom Abasi Otu Obong of Calabar and called for re-election of a new monarch.

According to one source in the know of the matter, “the lead judgment delivered by Justice Mohammed Garba and confirmed by Justice Uzo Ndukwe-Anyawu

In Nsa Ani’s reckoning, Etubom Abasi Otu has not met some of the conditions required for making him Obong of Calabar. For one, he is not from Ikoneto clan whose turn it was to present a candidate for the 2008 replacement after Nta Elijah’s death. Second, he is an Ibibio and not an agnate blood descendant of the founding ancestor of the Efik tribe

and Onyekachi Otisi “upheld the earlier judgment of the lower court that due process was not followed and the selection of the incumbent was null and void.”

“The Calabar High Court presided over by Justice Obojor Ogar had in a judgment suit number HC/102/2008 on January 2012 brought by one of the contestants of the Obong stool, Etubom Ani, declared the process that brought the Obong to the throne as

Ani

...Royal Rumble in Nation’s Paradise

null and void and restrained the appointed king from participating in any selection for that purpose.

“Justice Ogar restrained the Obong from parading himself as the Obong of Calabar until proper election has been done and also restrained the Etubom traditional council, from excluding Etubom Ani and Mbiabo Ikoneto from any election or selection of an obong, a judgment that for the most part was flagrantly disobeyed as the practice seems to be with court judgments on the stool in contention.

“In his judgment that lasted for about an hour, Justice Garba said, “for the breach of principles and natural justice and the first respondent’s, Anthony Ani’s, right to fair hearing, the selection process conducted by the appellant which terminated in the selection and proclamation of the respondent, Otu, by the Etuboms Council is null and void.”

“This decision was reached by the apex court, consequent upon its finding, that Etubom Abasi Otu was selected and proclaimed in an illegal manner, not in consonance with the principles of equity, fairness and natural justice. Consequently, to all intents and purposes the throne of the Obong of Calabar has been declared vacant.”

Up till the time of delivering judgment and afterward, Etubom Abasi Otu was yet to collect the staff of office from the Eyamba house,” Nsa Ani stated. “Nor has he properly been ‘capped’ by Efik principalities. Therefore he remains, at best, an Obong-in-waiting.”

In Nsa Ani’s reckoning, Etubom Abasi Otu has not met some of the conditions required for making him Obong of Calabar. For one, he is not from Ikoneto clan whose turn it was to present a candidate for the 2008 replacement after Nta Elijah’s death. Second, he is an Ibibio and not an agnate blood descendant of the founding ancestor of the Efik tribe.

But some other observers of the royal rivalry in the state did not forget that the deposed monarch and his council of chiefs were present at the inaugural ceremony of Governor Otu on May 29, sort of giving an official endorsement to Etubom Abasi Otu.

Even so, the source continued, “the courts at every level from state to Supreme have set aside the Obongship of Etubom Abasi Otu and as such reversed actions to proper selection of a king, which requires that candidates be put forward from the houses of Western Calabar but specifically from Ikoneto in accordance with laws of natural justice and equity.

“Normally, the Etubom traditional constitution spell out the criteria for selection of an Obong of Calabar in Section 24 and 29 stating that: A person duly and properly nominated/selected to succeed to the Efik throne, shall be accepted by the council of kingmakers if; a. Agnate blood descendant of a founding ancestor of the Efik tribe, b. An Etubom of a Royal House recognised as such by the Obong and Council 1.A holder of an Ekpe title of any of the recognised Ekpe Iboku lodges (Efe Ekpe Iboku) or be in a position to hold one

“Apparently, Etubom Abasi Otu fell short of fulfilling these requirements. Additionally no one is expected to ascend the throne of the Obong of Calabar without

obtaining the staff of office from the prime pontiff of the revered Ekpe Efik Society or without being properly crowned by Efik principalities – having not done all these, we can then conclude that the claim to the throne by Etubom Abasi Otu is illegal.”

According to the order of the Supreme Court early this year, “the selection of a new Obong of Calabar must be based on the 2002 constitution of the Etuboms Traditional Rulers Council, again and by implication of the said judgments, the surviving members of the Etuboms Traditional Rulers Council as constituted in 2008 are seven in number, these are the only persons who have the authority to convene a meeting of the Etuboms Traditional Rulers Council for this purpose. Therefore, pursuant to article 5a (i) of the 2002 Constitution of the Etuboms Council, the only Etuboms who can participate in the Etuboms Conclave are the following Etuboms: Etubom Essien Ekpenyong Efiok, Etubom Micah Archibong VI, Etubom Bassey O. B Duke, Etubom Nyong Effiom Okon JP, Etubom Cobham M. Boco, Etubom Okon E. O Asuquo and Etubom Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu. This is so because all other persons who subsequently became Etuboms thereafter were all not members of the Etuboms Traditional Rulers Council as of March31, 2008.”

Given this tussle for kingship of Calabar, the Efik Unity Forum has appealed to the deposed Obong to respect the Supreme Court judgment and to also

cease parading himself as Obong of Calabar.

In a publication of Ibom Standard, EUF secretary Chief Essien Effiom urged the dethroned monarch to “stop embarrassing the revered institution by still parading himself as king despite a Supreme Court judgment.”

Chief Effiom maintained that “the deposed Obong knew that what he was doing was wrong which was why he never went for the traditional ceremonies of sitting on the Obong Stool or even using the official staff of office,” insisting that “people should ask him why he has not gone to Atakpa to wear the original crown or seat on the stool. Why did he have to make a throne for himself? Why did he not enter Eyamba House and take the original staff of office?

“He knows the spiritual and physical implications of taking that action, and the fact that he has not done these things is the evidence we need to state with confidence that he is not the rightful person to be Obong and he himself in his heart of hearts knows this.”

Speaking further of the rotational kingship, the EUF averred that “the rotation was to be between Western Calabar comprising Creek Town, Mbiabo and Adiabo and Central Calabar consisting of Duke Town, Henshaw Town, Cobham Town and Old Town (Obutong). “Since the rotation started, the stool has been occupied as follows: David James Henshaw (Henshaw Town, Central), Essien Ekpe Oku (Creek Town, Western), Eyo Ephraim Adam (Duke Town, Central), Otu Ekpenyong Efa (Adiabo-Western), Boco Ene Mkpang Cobham), Cobham, Central), Nta Elijah Henshaw (Henshaw Town, Central).”

From that it naturally follows that a candidate from Central should not succeed Nta Elijah Henshaw. Etubom Abasi Otu “is allegedly from Okobo and not Efik and his claim to the stool even if true is not from the male stock. His family name is reportedly Isukise, which he has tried to hide over the years.”

How this royal tussle will pan out in the coming weeks is hard to say, considering that both have dug their heels in their respective positions. On May 22, four of the seven members of Etubom Traditional Council chose Etubom Ani as Obong of Calabar, making two monarchs contesting for a single throne. But one of them will be in the end. And if the judgment of the Supreme Court is followed to the letter, then the people of Cross River already know who may likely wear the crown.

“The justices of this case demands that the Western Calabar Traditional Council which was mandated to select an Etubom from amongst themselves who shall be the new Obong should go back to the drawing board and start the process on a clean slate,” the January judgment read. “This is because the way and manner in which the first respondent selected and proclaimed as the Obong of Calabar polluted selections process or should I say muddied the waters so that there is no clear view of when and where to say this far and no more in the process of selecting the next Obong. In the circumstance, the best way to go is for the Western Council to conduct another process to select an Etubom who shall be the new Obong of Calabar.”

One of them will be in the end. And if the judgment of the Supreme Court is followed to the letter, then the people of Cross River already know who may likely wear the crown

SportsLive

Financial Issues Behind NFF, Waldrum, Super Falcons Fracas

BY JUDE OBAFEMI

The Nigerian female national football team, the Super Falcons, is facing significant challenges as they prepare for the 2023 FIFA World Cup scheduled to kick off on July 20. Financial controversies and inadequate preparations have put the team at a disadvantage, compared to their group opponents: Olympic champions Canada, joint-hosts Australia and newcomers Ireland. The issues began when Randy Waldrum, head coach of the Super Falcons, opened up about the deep frustrations he had with the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) and their lack of support for the team's preparations.

During a candid interview ahead of the squad's camping in Australia, Waldrum revealed several issues that have hindered the team's preparations. He particularly highlighted the cancellation of a planned three-week training camp in Nigeria as a significant setback. This decision by the NFF left the team without an opportunity to assess players further or consider potential new additions. Waldrum did not hide his disappointment with the decision, stressing the fact that the team did not receive the backing they needed at various levels to reach their optimum levels of readiness for the challenges of the World Cup. The American went as far as to claim that College Preseason preparations went far better than the Super Falcons had for the biggest stage of women's football competitions with the jointly-hosts and Olympic champions waiting.

In addition to the cancellation of the training camp, Waldrum criticised the NFF's interference in the selection process of his squad building. He accused

the Federation of pressuring him to exclude his trusted assistant coach, Lauren Gregg, from the World Cup entourage. The NFF's interference stemmed from their desire for Waldrum to select a goalkeeper from Nigeria whom he had never personally observed. This imposition of a player unfamiliar to the coaching staff led to a backlash, with Waldrum refusing to comply. The NFF retaliated by denying Waldrum the inclusion of his trusted assistant coach.

Furthermore, Waldrum shed light on a prior incident where the players boycotted training before a crucial match against Zambia. The boycott arose from the players' grievances over unpaid wages following their loss in the WAFCON 2022 tournament held in Morocco,

which THEWILL covered at the time, in what was an international embarrassment for Nigeria and the NFF. The unfortunate response of the Federation included the dismissal of Tochukwu Oluehi, the backup goalkeeper, who had been the spokesperson for the players, regarding the issue of non-payment of the team’s bonuses at last year's WAFCON.

Oluehi was later readmitted to the team only after writing an apology letter.

These actions left the American coach frustrated enough to speak publicly about the situation heading into the World Cup. Waldrum referred to the information he received from a contact in the United States, claiming that FIFA had disbursed $960,000 to each participating country in October, specifically for World Cup preparations.

This is not the first time the Super Falcons have taken a stand against the NFF over unpaid bonuses

Waldrum

SportsLive

...NFF, Waldrum, Super Falcons Fracas

The coach questioned the NFF's utilisation of this funding, saying: "Up until about three weeks ago, I had been owed 14 months’ salaries and then they paid seven months’ salaries. Before that, a year and a half to two years, I had been owed for months before I was paid a little bit of it. Starting July, I’ll be eight months behind in salary. We still have players that haven’t been paid since two years ago when we played the summer series in the USA. It’s a travesty.”

Waldrum revealed that at several times, he had been on the verge of packing it all up and leaving the job but for the drive and determination of his players, who have given a lot to be ready for the global showpiece. Their hard work has kept him resolved to finish the work they have started.

However, in response to Waldrum's comments, the NFF rebuffed the allegations, dismissing him as an "incompetent loudmouth" who has only recently found his voice. The NFF pointed out that the cancellation of the training camp was a result of logistical challenges and financial constraints. They emphasised that despite the cancellation, the team had already embarked on trips to Japan, Mexico, and Turkey for matches, highlighting their efforts to prepare the team. Regarding the selection process, the NFF countered Waldrum's accusation of interference. They asserted that the coach had been given the autonomy to choose his squad, but they had made suggestions regarding the inclusion of a home-based goalkeeper. The NFF argued that the coach had previously shown little consideration for home-based players in his provisional list and questioned the need for another training camp exclusively for them.

The NFF also pointed to the team's participation in various international matches as evidence of their preparation efforts. They emphasised that the team had been provided with financial support from FIFA for World Cup preparations. They stated that Waldrum's recent remarks seemed like an afterthought, coming only three days before the team's departure for the World Cup.

The NFF advised the coach to focus solely on the upcoming tournament and refrain from making further comments. While the NFF's response aimed to counter Waldrum's criticisms and defend their actions, it did little to address the concerns raised about the team's inadequate preparations. The ongoing dispute between the coach and the Federation adds further uncertainty to Nigeria's World Cup campaign, leaving fans and observers apprehensive about the team's ability to perform at their best in the tournament.

On the part of the team, Nigeria's Super Falcons have a history of disputes and protests over unpaid bonuses during international tournaments and the upcoming 2023 Women's World Cup is no exception. The players have been vocal about their demands for fair treatment and the payment of their match bonuses, sparking concerns about the team's unity and focus leading up to the tournament. On Friday, news broke of fresh

Continued from Back Page

The protests stem from the cancellation of the Super Falcons' match bonuses by the NFF. Following FIFA's decision to allocate $30,000 to each participant for the group stage, the federation decided to withhold the match bonuses and the 30% share of the $1.56 million FIFA grant allocated to players of member associations. This decision did not sit well with the players, who believe they are entitled to receive their rightful bonuses for representing their country.

In response to the NFF's decision, senior players, including captain Onome Ebi and star striker Asisat Oshoala, held a meeting to discuss their grievances. They resolved to press for their demands and even considered boycotting their opening game against Canada on July 21 as a form of protest. This strong stance reflects the players' determination to fight for fair treatment and to ensure that they are not shortchanged once again.

Still on 2023 Elections: EU Report And Urgent Reforms

have been instances where security personnel were implicated in electoral malpractices, intimidation, and violence.

It is therefore recommended that the security apparatus take responsibility for any failures or lapses in their conduct during elections and actively engage in reform efforts. This includes enhancing training programmes to ensure professionalism and adherence to ethical standards, investigating and holding accountable those involved in misconduct, and working closely with other stakeholders to maintain a secure and peaceful electoral environment. The active involvement of the security apparatus in the reform process is vital to fostering a safe and conducive

atmosphere for free and fair elections.

In conclusion, the final report of the European Election Observation Mission, like other reports by other election monitoring groups, highlights the commendable commitment of Nigerian citizens to the democratic process while emphasising the urgent need for legal and operational reforms to address enduring systemic weaknesses. To address these issues, it is essential to embark on comprehensive electoral reforms.

By implementing the recommended reforms, Nigeria can strengthen its electoral system, promote transparency, inclusiveness, and accountability, and restore public trust in the democratic process.

This is not the first time the Super Falcons have taken a stand against the NFF over unpaid bonuses. In 2004, after winning the WAFCON (Women's Africa Cup of Nations), the team refused to return home until their bonuses were paid. Similarly, in 2016, following their triumph in the WAFCON held in Cameroon, the players staged a sit-in protest in Abuja, demanding payment of $16,500 to each player. These instances highlight a recurring issue of delayed or unpaid bonuses that has plagued Nigerian women's football.

The players argue that they have been subjected to mistreatment and injustice for a long time and are determined to put an end to it. They believe that their treatment is discriminatory compared to their male counterparts and that they deserve equal recognition and compensation for their achievements.

The protests aim to draw attention to their grievances and the mistreatment they claim to have endured throughout their careers. The Super Falcons' demands for fair treatment and payment of bonuses are not without merit. The team has consistently represented Nigeria with distinction, achieving notable successes in African women's football. Their victories and contributions to the sport deserve recognition and adequate financial compensation. The players' determination to fight for their cause and to seek fairness and equality reflects their commitment to making a positive change in Nigerian women's football. The ongoing dispute adds further uncertainty and tension within the team as they prepare for the World Cup, potentially affecting team morale and cohesion. Adequate financial support and timely payment of bonuses are not only crucial for the well-being and motivation of the players but also for the overall development and growth of women's football in Nigeria.

The poor preparation of the Nigerian female national football team due to financial controversies undoubtedly places them at a disadvantage compared to their group opponents. Canada, Australia, and Ireland have made significant investments in their teams, providing them with solid foundations for success. Nigeria's limited resources and disrupted preparations raise concerns about their ability to compete at their best.

The Australian women's national team, the Matildas, enters the World Cup as co-hosts and with their strongest squad ever. Led by coach Tony Gustavsson, they have gained momentum by winning eight of their last nine matches. Forward Caitlin Foord highlights the squad's exceptional talent and depth, emphasising their versatility and exciting potential. Australia's recent 2-0 victory over European champions England has earned them newfound respect, making them a team to be wary of. With their first match against Ireland anticipated to draw a record crowd of over 80,000 spectators, the Matildas' strength, unity, and experience make them formidable contenders in the tournament.

Ebi

Gusau Oshoala

Still on 2023 Elections: EU Report And Urgent Reforms

The European Election Observation Mission (EU EOM) conducted an extensive three-month-long observation of federal and state elections in Nigeria, held on 25 February and 18 March, 2023. According to their findings, Nigerians demonstrated a commendable commitment to the democratic process at all stages of the election season. However, the EU EOM's analysis revealed enduring systemic weaknesses that call for urgent legal and operational reforms to enhance transparency, inclusiveness, and accountability in Nigeria's electoral system.

Among the problems identified were issues that I have previously addressed in my previous articles. High on the list were ambiguities in the Electoral Law. The EU EOM identified significant ambiguities in the Electoral Law, which largely resulted in confusion and misinterpretation, leaving room for manipulations and grounds for technical misreadings. These ambiguities undermine the consistency and transparency of the electoral process, eroding public trust and confidence in the system.

Another issue raised was the lack of a publicly accountable selection process for INEC commissioners and officials. The absence of such a transparent and accountable selection process for INEC officials raises concerns about the credibility and integrity of the commission, as well as the elections it conducts upon which the destiny of the country depends.

One of the most telling problems, which the EOM did not fail to note, was the lack of real-time publication and access to election results. The Mission noted that the absence of real-time publication and easy public access to election results subtracted from the scale of credibility that could have accrued to the process if it had gone exactly as INEC promised.

This lack of transparency and accessibility hampers trust in the electoral process and inhibits the ability of citizens and stakeholders to verify and validate the accuracy and integrity of the results. The result is the cloud of illegitimacy that seems to hang over the current class of elected officials at different levels.

Of particular concern to me was the issue of insufficient protection for media practitioners during the general polls. It is a truism that media practitioners face challenges and risks while performing their crucial role of ensuring the free flow of information during elections. Insufficient protection measures therefore leave them vulnerable to harassment, intimidation, violence and fatalities, hindering their ability to operate effectively and jeopardising the transparency and accountability of the electoral process.

Without equivocation, the harm meted out to media practitioners physically and mentally, combined with the intimidation from regulatory agencies, who ought to better understand and appreciate the importance of the role of the media, left a lot to be desired.

The EOM noted what it determined as discrimination against women in political life as another issue arising from the elections. Their report held that women in Nigeria faced persistent barriers and discrimination when participating in political life. This hindered their full and equal participation in the democratic process, resulting in a lack of representation and inclusiveness. Addressing these challenges was therefore crucial to promote gender equality and ensure a more diverse and representative political landscape.

The report also pointed out the widespread impunity, regarding electoral offences, which often seemed as though anyone with enough political capital could more or less get away with as many electoral crimes as possible. The EU EOM observed a lack of effective measures to address reported impunities regarding electoral offences. This was antithetical for functional

which have occupied some of the appeal process at the Presidential Elections Petitions Tribunal will be a thing of the past as one example of what a definitive clarification of the electoral law will resolve. There is a grave need to ensure impartiality on the side of the umpire as well and a transparent selection process for INEC officers can address this issue. Therefore, Nigeria must consider the establishment of a publicly accountable and transparent mechanism for the selection and appointment of INEC officers. This will enhance the credibility and integrity of the Commission and imbue it with some of the trust necessary for truly free and fair elections that voters can count on as accurate representations of their choices at the polls.

What was begun as INEC Results Viewing Portal, but which failed drastically when it was most needed for the real-time publication and access to election results must be revived and standardised to the point where it becomes our norm. We have the capacity and manpower to make it work but for the complicity of those bent on compromising the process.

The drive for modernisation of our electoral system must focus on ensuring the real-time publication of election results and provide easy public access to the same. This will promote transparency, enable verification, and bolster public confidence in the accuracy and integrity of the electoral process. It will reduce occasions of electoral petition tribunals, save cost involved in a multitude of court cases and processes, while ensuring that the intimidation, violence and thuggery around elections are drastically cut across the country.

Furthermore, there is a need to strengthen the law in terms of dealing out even harsher legal consequences for electoral offences. We must enforce stronger legal measures to ensure that electoral offences are met with appropriate consequences that will serve to discourage impunity and uphold the rule of law.

democracies because ensuring that those responsible for electoral offences face appropriate legal consequences is vital to uphold the rule of law as it deters such offences, and enhances the integrity of the electoral process.

While none of these is novel, as I have had cause to call out a good portion of these observations in my articles previously, the fact-based nature of the EOM findings have opened these problems to a global audience and made it even more crucial to immediately find lasting solutions to them.

In continuation of the electoral reform process that birthed the use of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System, which gave us the most accurate voter figures we have ever had in Nigeria to the point where some observers inaccurately concluded there was voter apathy due to a perceived "low turnout", we must continue to effect changes in the system to bring our electoral process to the modern age. To begin, there needs to be a definitive clarification of the electoral law that will forthrightly address the ambiguities in the law through comprehensive reforms. This process should be aimed at ensuring clarity and coherence to prevent misinterpretation and inconsistency in the legal framework of elections. Arguments about 25 per cent of the states in Nigeria AND Abuja,

In addition to the problems identified and recommendations, it is imperative to emphasise the crucial role of the judiciary, both the bar and the bench, in the process of improving Nigeria's electoral system and reforms.

The judiciary plays a vital role in upholding the rule of law and ensuring the integrity of the electoral process. Therefore, it is recommended that the judiciary actively engages in the electoral reform process and takes proactive measures to address any legal challenges or loopholes that undermine the credibility of elections. This includes expediting the resolution of electoral disputes, ensuring fair and impartial judgments, and holding accountable those found guilty of electoral offences. By actively participating in the reform process, the judiciary can contribute significantly to strengthening the electoral system and restoring public confidence in the judiciary's role in the electoral process.

Additionally, the security apparatus in Nigeria must be recognised as an essential stakeholder in the electoral reform process. The security forces play a crucial role in maintaining peace and providing a secure environment for elections to take place. However, there

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There needs to be a definitive clarification of the electoral law that will forthrightly address the ambiguities in the law through comprehensive reforms. This process should be aimed at ensuring clarity and coherence to prevent misinterpretation and inconsistency in the legal framework of elections