Motherhood is challenging but becomes a fantastic achievement when paired with the responsibility of leading a sector. In Nigeria and the world, some women have been able to juggle handling their jobs and running their families. Their ability to balance their career with parentteacher meetings is inspiring. This week, we spotlight women doing an incredible job running different sectors and being nurturers to their children, proving that motherhood and a demanding career can work hand in hand. These women navigate their demanding careers, yet with their hectic schedules, they remain present with their families. They are rewriting the narrative, proving that being a mother is not a limitation but proof that they are good multitaskers.
See the incredible women listed on pages 8 through 12.
Finding time for self-care can seem daunting when you are a mother. Skincare often takes a back seat while caring for the kids, balancing work, and managing the home. However, caring for your skin doesn’t have to be complicated. We show mums a quick and easy routine to help their skin thrive despite a busy schedule.
See page 13.
It may be challenging for busy mums to focus on their style when juggling a job, kids, and errands, but you have nothing to worry about. Our fashion pages offer mums some tips for a stylish appearance. Scroll to pages 4 and 5.
What happens when you go into a relationship as friends with benefits, but one party soon wants more? That’s our Downtown Confidential story this week. Find out what happens on page 15.
Until next week, enjoy your read.
Photo: Kola Oshalusi
@insignamedia Makeup: Zaron
SUNDAY, MARCH 30, 2025
SUNDAY, MARCH 30, 2025
THEWILLNIGERIA
COVER
More Pain, Hardship as NNPCL Resumes Costly Importation of Petrol
BY SAM DIALA
Many Nigerians face daunting social and economic challenges against the backdrop of renewed importation of petroleum products in the country, about six months after the practice was officially suspended.
Lately, there were concerns about the far-reaching impact on the nation’s foreign reserves which would ultimately push the naira into deeper depreciation and stoke inflation.
There are also fears that the development may worsen the socioeconomic situation in the country, which has exposed the majority of Nigerians to severe hardship due to the sudden removal of fuel subsidy and devaluation of the naira in June 2023.
RISE IN VOLUME OF IMPORTED FUEL
However, the recent increase in the importation of refined petroleum products is set to alter the trend and also push the economy into the twin quagmire of high exchange rate and hike in petroleum products.
THEWILL’s analyses of available data by the Nigerian Ports Authority on Thursday, March 20, shows that seven vessels carrying imported petrol, were billed to berth at seaports along the nation’s borders between Monday, March 17, and Sunday, March 23.
These vessels carrying 115,000 metric tonnes of petrol, representing 154.22 million litres of petrol would bring in products through three seaports to improve fuel supply nationwide: Tincan Port in Lagos, the Lekki Deep Seaport, also in Lagos and the Calabar Port in Cross River State. This comes amidst the suspension of the naira-based crude supply deal between NNPC and local refiners, including Dangote Petroleum Refinery.
Domestic crude oil refiners have accused the authorities of halting the naira-based crude supply deal to frustrate the Dangote
Refinery and bring back the full importation of refined petroleum products which put the Nigerian economy in a great peril.
The National Publicity Secretary of the Crude Oil Refinery-owners Association of Nigeria, Eche Idoko, disclosed that suspending the deal defeats the efforts of all stakeholders to achieve energy security in the country. He accused those behind the unending bid for importation of petroleum products of attacking Dangote by alluding to him as a tough-minded and monopolistic entrepreneur in order to trigger an easy return to importation of the commodity.
Some stakeholders have pointed out that importation of refined petroleum products has continued scrumptiously with resumed pressure on the naira amid claim of the domestic refineries resuming production.
THEWILL recalls that the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority recently stated that the country’s three operational refineries contribute less than 50 per cent of the nation’s daily petrol consumption, with the shortfall being filled with imported products. But current trends indicate otherwise.
This newspaper’s further analysis of the NPA data revealed that the Dangote Refinery imported 654,766 metric tonnes of crude oil recently. The first shipment carrying 20,000 metric tonnes of PMS allocated to the West African Port Services berthed at the Dangote terminal on Monday, March 17, 2025.
On the same day, two vessels conveying 20,000 metric tonnes, respectively berthed at the Tincan and Calabar seaports. This was followed by the arrival of a 20,000 metric-tonne Watson vessel on Thursday, March 20. It berthed at the Ecomarine terminal and was handled by a Kach maritime agent.
Similarly, a Binta Saleh ship was scheduled to berth at the Tincan port in Lagos carrying 5,000 metric tonnes of imported petrol on Friday, March 21 at midnight. On Saturday, March 22, another vessel carrying 15,000 metric tonnes of fuel was billed to berth at
port.
At the same port, a vessel carrying 15,000 metric tonnes of fuel will arrive at the Eco marine terminal today (Sunday) at 5:10 pm. This means that the seven vessels should bring in 115,000 metric tonnes. These constitute about 154.22 million litres of petrol.
“We are back to square one, Nigerians should be prepared for a hike in petroleum products, especially petrol, and a rapid depreciation of the naira,” said Mike Alilionu, a petroleum product transporter.
Alilionu told THEWILL that the temporary relief seen in the lower pump price of petrol and the stable naira in the forex market is over. He noted that there will soon be a mad rush for dollars as marketers’ resort to imported petroleum products to meet domestic consumption requirements.
INFLATION CONFIRMS LOOMING CHALLENGES
The Nigeria Bureau of Statistic, NBS stated in its February 2025 report that headline inflation has declined for two consecutive months, namely January and February, from 24.48% to 23.18%, respectively. This decline, it explained, was partly owing to a change in the base year used for inflation measurement, even as it stated that there was a remarkable decline in price increases, compared to the same period in 2024.
Nevertheless, the picture painted by the NBS gets clearer when its latest Consumer Price Index, CPI, is considered. It shows the high cost of basic commodities across the country despite a drop in inflation. Using three states in the country for its CPI analysis, the NBS noted that Edo, Enugu, and Sokoto, recorded high inflation rates.
“Edo recorded 33.59 per cent, then Enugu at 30.72 per cent and Sokoto at 30.19 per cent. This indicates that despite the general moderation in inflation nationwide, price pressures remain
Calabar
More Pain, Hardship as NNPCL Resumes...
intense in these states.
“On a month-on-month basis, Sokoto recorded the highest inflation increase at 11.98 per cent, followed by Kogi at 11.38 per cent and Edo at 8.87 per cent, suggesting that prices in these states are still rising at a rapid pace. “The rise in inflation in these regions has been attributed to high food prices, increased transportation costs and supply chain disruptions.”
According to the NBS, food expenses now account for a staggering 54.9 percent of personal incomes. It has been reported that the twin reform derivatives further dealt a huge blow on Nigerians, many of whom are falling into the category of the 133 million people or 63 percent of persons classified as multi-dimensionally poor in 2022, according to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).
POSITIVE TWIST
After decades of total reliance on imported petroleum products, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) in November 2024, announced that it had finally ended the age-long practice. The NNPC’s group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO), Mele Kyari, had said at the 42nd Nigerian Association of Petroleum Explorationists (NAPE) Annual International Conference and Exhibition in Lagos, that the national oil company is now offtaking fuel from the Dangote Petroleum Refinery and other local refineries.
Although NNPC thereafter denied the claim, the same Mele Kyari later told the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, that going by the improvement in local production at the Dangote Petroleum Refinery and the revival of the nation’s four refineries, the country would end the importation of refined petroleum products in December 2024.
Kyari’s optimism, which was also shared among other stakeholders, followed the NNPC’s naira-for-crude agreement with Dangote Petroleum Refinery in 2024. Under the arrangement, the NNPC was expected to supply crude oil to Dangote Refinery in exchange for refined products, which would then be distributed across the country to stabilise the fuel market.
According to NNPC, the development is expected to save Nigeria as much as $10 billion in hard currency in-country annually, as the national oil company said it now buys from the 650,000 barrels per day Dangote Petroleum Refinery located in Lagos.
WIDE COMMENDATION
The naira-based crude supply arrangement was greeted with a huge sigh of relief among Nigerians who had borne the burden of high price of petroleum products amid the volatility in exchange rate. The devaluation of the naira in June 2023 worsened the situation and put the citizens under immense pressure with inflation shooting for the sky.
Although the naira-for-crude initiative generated mixed reactions, many industry experts had predicted a bright future for Nigeria’s energy sector as Dangote Petroleum Refinery was considered capable of meeting the country’s huge domestic supply.
Among prominent Nigerians who applauded the deal was the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) which backed President Bola Tinubu’s crude oil-for-naira initiative, expressing deep frustration over Nigeria’s continuous reliance on imported petrol rather than bolstering local refining capacity to cut back on humongous funds spent on importation.
According to the Forum, it is highly disturbing for an Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) member to rely heavily on products shipped into the country, describing it as an “aberration.”
The governors’ position was inspired by Aliko Dangote’s earlier announcement that his refinery could supply over 500 million litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), also known as petrol, but that the NNPC and other retailers were allegedly boycotting the available products.
Dangote claimed that the refusal to off take his petrol was responsible for the petrol queues snaking around many petrol filling stations across the country and resulting in huge financial losses for his company. It was therefore a cause for concern when Dangote Refinery announced the halt of the naira-based crude supply.
SOUR END OF THE DEAL
When Dangote announced the halt in naira-based crude supply recently, it became obvious that the nation would inevitably return to the days of total importation of petroleum products
which would also disrupt the relative stability recorded in the forex market in recent times.
The Federal Government had said that the lull in importation of petroleum products contributed to the stability of the naira in the past three months, resulting in the convergence of the official and parallel markets at N1,500/$1 reported on February 20, 2025.
BLEEDING NAIRA
seen triggering a rush for dollars among petroleum marketers and other stakeholders, who now face the prospect of purchasing products in U.S. dollars.
With the deal now coming to an end, there are fears that if local refineries, including Dangote, are forced to source crude in dollars, production costs could rise significantly. This shift could put additional pressure on the naira and ultimately lead to an increase in petrol pump prices.
The Naira has shown relative stability since February, 2025. Last Friday’s session saw the naira close at N1,550/$1 in the parallel market, against N1,580/$1 on the previous Friday, following improved liquidity.
The local currency closed flat at NAFEM, recording N1,536.82/$1, compared to N1,536.89 on the previous Friday, according to data from Coronation Bank.
THEWILL investigation shows that concerns are being raised about the impact of the naira-based crude supply halt amid increase in dollar demand. Bureau De Change (BDC) operators are said to be struggling with a shortage of foreign exchange amid dwindling foreign exchange inflow.
The Federal Government stated its goal to increase that significantly by about 1 million barrels per day in the next two years, but oil theft and pipeline vandalism make such an optimistic objective almost impossible to achieve and casting a bleak outlook on the naira.
However, the naira’s relative stability in the first quarter helped the recent decline of the inflation rate. NBS data revealed that the inflation rate moderated to 23.18 per cent in February from 24.48 per cent in January, marking the first slowdown in 2025.
Lower energy prices, a stable naira, and the rebasing of Nigeria’s inflation index all contributed to the decline impacting on the stability of the naira which some economic experts see as a temporary trend. Bismarck Rewane, the managing director and chief executive officer of Financial Derivatives Company (FDC) has warned policymakers not to throw caution to the wind as a result of the recent stability of the naira that has become more predictable.
The economist stated that the quick appreciation of the naira is “temporary” and should be treated with caution, advising Nigerian policymakers not to be “carried away”.
“We’re seeing that the naira is strengthening but with caution. Let’s not be too hasty because it’s going to correct itself,” Rewane said at a national television presentation recently.
“There are many things that are happening: reserves of over $40 billion are coming down. We’ve also borrowed $4 billion in bond issues. “When you look at all of that, we’ve almost spent $8 billion to support the naira at the current levels,” he revealed IMMINENT DOLLAR RUSH
However, the apparent end to the naira-based crude supply is
“
THEWILL investigation shows that concerns are being raised about the impact of the naira-based crude supply halt amid increase in dollar demand. Bureau De Change (BDC) operators are said to be struggling with a shortage of foreign exchange amid dwindling foreign exchange inflow
Already, depot owners have continued to effect an increase in the loading cost of petrol and other refined petroleum products at their depots. As at Thursday, March 20, Rainoil Depot increased its price from N835 to N860 per litre, and MEN depot effected an increase to N860 per litre despite not making sales the previous day.
Pinnacle Depot made a similar price change from N835 to N860 per litre, while Aiteo and Nipco changed their prices to N856 and N860 per litre, respectively, from N835.
The trend points to imminent renewed pressure on the naira as the country grapples with the failure of NNPC in meeting the demands of local refineries following the national oil company’s claims that it has already committed its crude to forward supplies up to 2030.
With another election season in the corner and governance shut down in the third quarter of the year when parties would be organising National Convention in preparation for full blown political activities in 2026, finance and economy experts predict that the naira could hit N2,000/$1 by next year amid demand surge, financing Nigeria’s N13 trillion budget deficits, servicing the nation’s N142 trillion debt stock and, now, importation of petroleum products.
The twin effects of petrol price hike and further depreciation of the naira would impact seriously on the standard of living of the average Nigerian as it will trigger inflation. Analysts at Afrnvest had urged Nigerians to brace for impacts of the government’s reform policies and their fallouts. Nigeria is in for a fresh foreign exchange crisis as the country gradually returns to increased importation of petroleum products which it had assured the world was over.
ELUSIVE
CRUDE
At the commissioning of Dangote Petroleum Refinery by former President Muhammadu Buhari in May 2023, Kyari had announced that NNPC would supply Dangote with 300,000 barrels of crude daily to ensure the smooth operations of the facility. Industry experts at the time questioned how NNPC would source the crude given the epileptic supply that had characterized its production culture.
The naira-for-crude deal appeared a move to strengthen the pledge in what looked like an exercise in exceptional patriotism. But Dangote announced the end of the deal on the ground that NNPC had not fulfilled its part of the bargain by supplying it with the required feedstock. According to NNPC, its default stemmed from shortage of crude as it had many forward commitments.
NNPC has been unable to meet its crude oil supply obligations to local refineries due to its focus on servicing oil-backed loans. These loans which are tied to future crude oil productions have taken precedence over domestic commitments, leaving Dangote and other local refiners scrambling for supply.
There is simply not enough crude to go round for the interest of local refineries, and this is not likely to change any time soon as some of the crude-backed obligations last till 2030.
THEWILL recalls that in August 2023, NNPC secured an emergency crude repayment loan of $3.3 billion from the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), aimed at supporting the naira and stabilizing the foreign exchange (FX) market. The fiveyear tenor facility had an interest rate of 11.85 percent.
In the statement entitled, ‘Temporary Suspension of Sales of Petroleum Products in Naira,’ the management of Dangote Petroleum Refinery explained that the decision was necessary to align its sales currency with the crude procurement currency.
“To date, our sales of petroleum products in naira have exceeded the value of naira-denominated crude we have received. As a result, we must temporarily adjust our sales currency to align with our crude procurement currency,” the statement read.
The firm, however, assured that sales would resume in naira as soon as it receives crude supply in naira from the NNPC Limited. This is not likely to happen in the near future.
Tinubu Orders Manhunt for Killers of Travelling Hunters in Edo State
BY FELIX IFIJEH
President Bola Tinubu has ordered a full-scale manhunt for those responsible for the brutal killing of travelling hunters in Uromi, Esan North-East Local Government Area of Edo State, insisting that jungle justice has no place in Nigeria.
THEWILL had reported that the victims, mainly Hausa hunters, were travelling from Port Harcourt to Kano for the Sallah festivities when they were intercepted around 1:30 p.m. by local vigilantes.
Chief Security Officer (CSO) of Edo Government House, SP Solomon Osaghale, confirmed that the hunters, who were mistaken for kidnappers after firearms were discovered in their vehicle, were lynched by an irate mob, while their truck was set ablaze.
Outraged by the incident, President Tinubu directed the police and other security agencies to carry out a swift and thorough investigation to bring the perpetrators to justice.
He extended his condolences to the families of the victims and assured them that the government would not allow criminals to take innocent lives with impunity.
“The rule of law must prevail, and every Nigerian has the right to move freely across the country without fear. We will ensure that those behind this heinous act are apprehended and face the full weight of the law,” the President stated.
Tinubu also commended Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, and traditional leaders in Uromi for their proactive steps in preventing further escalation of the crisis.
Following the presidential directive, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, has directed the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID), DIG Sadiq Abubakar, to take over the case and ensure a thorough, impartial, and expedited investigation . Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa
Adejobi confirmed the development at the weekend.
Meanwhile, the Police Command in Edo State has deployed operatives to the affected community, restoring law and order. So far, fourteen (14) suspects have been arrested in connection with the incident, while a manhunt has been launched for other perpetrators involved in the mob action.
Adejobi said the IGP assured the public that the Nigeria Police Force remains committed to upholding the rule of law and will not tolerate any form of unlawful killings or extrajudicial actions under any guise.”
Egbetokun further “appeals for calm and urges members of the public to cooperate fully with the investigation. He emphasised that anyone found culpable will be made to face the full weight of the law.
Abill seeking amendment to the Electoral Act 2022, to mandate the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct all general elections (presidential, governorship, National Assembly, and state assembly) on the same day has passed its second reading in the Senate.
The bill, sponsored by Senator Saliu Mustapha, aims to cut election costs, reduce campaign periods, and allow elected officials to serve as ad hoc delegates in party congresses.
and ineffective. By aligning with global best practices, such as in the United States, India, and Brazil. Nigeria can minimise financial losses, reduce political tensions, and improve electoral efficiency”, Mustapha said.
Gov Diri Inaugurates Six
New Schools in Yenagoa
BY AMOS OKIOMA
Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, on Friday, inaugurated infrastructure projects in six newly established secondary schools in Yenagoa, the state capital. The schools, located in Biogbolo, Yenezue-Epie, Ovom, Ekeki, Akenfa, and Igbogene communities, cater to a combined student population of 4,628. Speaking during the joint inauguration at Government Secondary School, Biogbolo, Governor Diri stated that his administration was focused on leaving behind enduring legacies that would speak for him beyond his tenure.
He noted that upon assuming office, he identified a critical gap in school infrastructure and subsequently approved the establishment of new schools to address the shortage.
“This decision was not misplaced, as these schools have now provided access to education for many children who might have otherwise been left out due to the lack of facilities,” he said.
Diri emphasised that human capital development remains a priority for his administration, stressing that investing in young people at their formative years would help instill the right values and skills for their future. He urged students to maximise the opportunities provided, noting that many of his peers grew up in less conducive learning environments but still went on to excel in their careers.
“For us, this is an opportunity to serve, and we believe that at the end of the day, our work will speak for us—the schools we have built, the youths and women we have empowered, and the infrastructure we have provided,” he said.
He also listed other projects initiated by his administration, including the construction of roads, a stadium, a new secretariat complex, and the installation of gas turbines to enhance electricity generation in the state.
Diri revealed that the decision to establish the schools was driven by alarming statistics from Bishop Dimeari Grammar School, Ovom, and St. Jude’s Girls Secondary School, Amarata, which highlighted an unfavorable student-teacher ratio, far below United Nations standards.
First introduced on February 12, 2025, Mustapha said Nigeria’s election expenses have risen sharply since 1999, climbing from N1.5 billion in 1999 to N350 billion in 2023. He argued that conducting all elections on the same day would significantly cut costs, reduce campaign expenses, and ease the logistical burden on INEC.
The inefficiencies of staggered elections have proven to be costly
While the bill received support from several lawmakers, concerns were raised about INEC’s capacity to handle such an extensive exercise in a single day. Senator Adams Oshiomhole urged caution, questioning whether INEC had the resources to manage nationwide elections simultaneously.
“The bill has good intentions, but we must ask: Is INEC equipped to conduct all elections in one day? We must also consider the confusion that multiple ballot papers could create, especially for illiterate voters”, he noted.
Following its passage, the bill was referred to the Senate Committee on Electoral Matters for further legislative action.
“Today, we are inaugurating six of such schools. We had earlier built one at Ogbogoro and another at Swali, making it a total of eight new schools in Yenagoa,” he added.
Providing a breakdown of the student population, he noted that Government Secondary School, Biogbolo, accommodates 1,000 students; Community Secondary School, Igbogene, 361; College of Education Demonstration Secondary School, Ekeki, 450; Government Secondary School, Ovom, 883; Community Secondary School, Akenfa, 1,237; and Government Secondary School, YenezueEpie, 679.
President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Speaker, Tajudeen Abbas, National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu during the special Juma’ah Prayer for the country and in commemoration of the President’ s 73rd birthday on Saturday, at the National Mosque in Abuja, at the weekend
Controversy Trails Rivers Ex-HoS Allegations Against Fubara As Wife Alleges Duress
BY FELIX IFIJEH
The political crisis in Rivers State took a dramatic turn on Friday, as Florence Nwaeke, wife of the former Head of Service, George Nwaeke, raised alarm that her husband’s allegations against Governor Siminalayi Fubara were made under duress.
Nwaeke had alleged in an interview on Friday that Governor Fubara masterminded the bombing of the complex of the State House of Assembly, in Port Harcourt.
The immediate-past HoS, who recently resigned his appointment, alleged, “Sir Siminalayi Fubara directed his Chief of Staff to burn down the Assembly in a way to avert his suspected impeachment. That evening, Edison was in Government House with many of his boys, including the former chairman of Obio/Akpor, one Mr Chijioke Ihunwo. I was there with them when a bag of money was handed over to Edison for that operation.”
He further accused the governor of secretly backing Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, for the 2027 presidential election and claimed Fubara had been engaging with militants to attack oil installations and other strategic assets in Rivers State.
But speaking to journalists late Friday, a distressed Mrs Nwaeke expressed fears for her husband’s life, claiming she had lost all communication with him since he travelled to Abuja.
“When he got to Abuja, he called that he had landed. I said, ‘Thank God.The next thing I saw this night: people were calling me and said he got an interview. I said, ‘What interview? Interview for what?’ Not until I saw things flying on the internet that he granted an interview. What happened? I said, ‘That is not my husband. That is not my husband”, she recounted, battling tears.
She further stated that after watching the interview circulating online, she became more alarmed.
“I sent him a message, asking, ‘Are you under duress? Have they kidnapped you? Talk to me now. Why are you not talking to me?”, she said, adding that his numbers had since been unreachable.
In another video, Mrs Nwaeke made a direct appeal to Governor Fubara, pleading for her husband’s safety.
“Governor, help me. My husband is in trouble”, she cried. According to her, Mr Nwaeke resigned under duress and was
being forced to make confessions against his will.
Reacting to the allegations, Governor Fubara has dismissed Nwaeke’s claims as baseless..
“The truth is that Dr Nwaeke has been compromised, and whatever, he is saying is only aimed at fulfilling his promise to those who may have paid or pressured him to lie against me”, Fubara stated in a late-night release.
To support his claim, the governor published alleged chat records between Mr Nwaeke and his Chief of Staff, Ederson Ehie. The chats purportedly revealed that Nwaeke had been
seeking financial assistance in exchange for his loyalty, complaining that his N500,000 salary was insufficient. Meanwhile, Nwaeke, has denied claims by his wife that he was kidnapped, stating that he is safe in Abuja and voluntarily reported to security agencies. In a video released early Saturday, Nwaeke dismissed his wife’s claim as false, suggesting she had been misled.
“I am in TRANSCORP Abuja. I arrived this morning from Port Harcourt to meet security agencies and report myself, as well as the troubling events happening in Rivers State. I resigned as Head of Service on Monday because of these developments. “I just saw a video of my wife trending. She was told I had been kidnapped and given a script to read. I want to make it clear—I am not kidnapped. I am in Abuja, working.
“When I was Head of Service, my wife was not involved in my official duties. That script she read is null and void. I am safe and sound. I will report myself to the appropriate security agencies because Abuja houses their headquarters and I feel safer making my report here”, he stated
Ohanaeze Calls on Tinubu, South-East Govs to Immortalise Humphrey Nwosu
BY SUNDAY OGBU
The apex Igbo socio-political organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and SouthEast governors to immortalise Professor Humphrey Nwosu, for conducting the most credible, free, and transparent election in Nigeria’s history. Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, Deputy President General, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, who made the call through a statement issued in Abakaliki on Thursday, faulted the Nigeria Senate for declining to honour Professor Humphrey Nwosu with a posthumous recognition.
According to him, by recognising MKO Abiola, who was a product of the widely celebrated electoral process, and dismissing the profound impact of Professor Nwosu’s stewardship is nothing less than hypocritical.
The statement reads: “The Apex Igbo Sociocultural Organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, stands resolute in its condemnation of the recent actions taken by the 10th Senate of Nigeria. In a shocking display of unpatriotism and lack of regard for historical truth, the Senate has declined to honor the memory of Professor Humphrey Nwosu with the posthumous recognition he so richly deserves.
“This decision reflects not only a failure to acknowledge the significant contributions he made to our nation but also perpetuates the systematic oppression and marginalisation of the Igbo people.
“Professor Nwosu’s leadership as the Chief Electoral Umpire
during the remarkable June 12, 1993 elections resulted in what remains the most credible, free, and transparent electoral process in Nigeria’s history. This election was a pivotal moment for our democracy, which has since been tarnished by subsequent mismanagement and disregard for the will of the Nigerian people. “To recognise the late Chief MKO Abiola— acclaimed as the rightful winner of those elections—while simultaneously dismissing the profound impact of Professor Nwosu’s stewardship is nothing less than hypocritical. It is a continuation of the political injustices that have plagued our country since the turbulence of 1966.
“By failing to immortalise Professor Humphrey Nwosu, the Senate does not merely disregard historical accuracy; it further entrenches the narrative of ongoing animosity towards the Igbo nation. This act illuminates a troubling truth: the civil war against the Igbo, although not defined by conventional guns and silences, persists in more insidious forms. Such negligence risks setting a perilous precedent that threatens the unity and coherence of our nation.
“We salute the Southeast senators and their colleagues who demonstrated honor and integrity during the Senate’s deliberations on this issue. The walkout on March 27, 2027, in protest against the thwarting of the bill to rename INEC’s headquarters in Abuja after Professor Nwosu was a testament to the spirit of accountability and justice.
Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, (m), Governor Ademola Adekeke, (6th r), MD/CEO of Segilola Resources Limited, Segun Lawson, (5th l), and other officials during a mediation parley at the Minister’s office in Abuja on Thursday, March 26, 2925.
L-R: Senior Special Assistant on Science and Technology to Lagos State Governor, Mr. Omotayo Fasuyi; Commissioner for Science, Innovation and Technology, Lagos State, Mr. Tunbosun Alake; Chief Executive Officer, Rack Centre, Mr. Lars Johannisson; Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Permanent Secretary, Lagos Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, Mrs. Ibilola Kasunmu; Deputy Chief of Staff to Lagos State Governor, Mr. Sam Egube and Special Adviser, Technology, Broadband and Innovation to Lagos State Governor, Engr. Oseni Olatunji, during a courtesy visit to the Governor by the team of Rack Centre held at Marina, Lagos at the weekend.
Na Your Mama’ Video: Students Should Feel Safe to Express Themselves, First Lady Tinubu Cautions Delta Nursing School
BY FELIX IFIJEH
Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has called on educational institutions to create an environment where students feel safe to express themselves while upholding discipline.
Her remarks follow the controversy surrounding a disciplinary query issued by the Delta State College of Nursing Sciences to a student, Osato Edobor, over a viral video capturing students altering the lyrics of a welcome chant during her visit to the school.
THEWILL recalls that Mrs. Tinubu was at the institution on March 25, 2025, for the Renewed Hope Initiative Health Programme, where she oversaw the distribution of 10,000 professional kits (Crocs and scrubs) to midwives in the South-South zone.
During the event, the Master of Ceremony (MC) led a chant, saying, “Na our mama be this oo, we no get another one,” to which students responded, “Na your mama be this oo eeh.” However, a section of the students disagreed with the MC’s lyrics, and the moment was captured on video.
The school management subsequently issued a query to Nurse Osato Edobor for recording and sharing the video online. The action sparked outrage, prompting Delta State Commissioner for Health, Joseph Onojaeme, to intervene and direct the school to rescind the disciplinary action.
Reacting to the incident, the First Lady cautioned the school’s management against punitive measures that infringe on students’ right to free expression.
In a statement issued on Friday by her media aide, Busola Kukoyi, the First Lady emphasised the need for balance between discipline and freedom of expression in academic institutions.
The statement read, “The attention of the Office of the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has been drawn to a video circulating on social media, showing chants welcoming both the First Lady of Delta State and the First Lady of Nigeria during the Renewed Hope Initiative’s donation of 10,000 Professional Kits to Midwives in the
South-South zone, held at the Dome Event Centre, Asaba, Delta State, on Tuesday, March 25, 2025.
“The event was primarily to motivate midwives across the nation, with the aim of reducing infant and maternal mortality and morbidity in Nigeria. Her Excellency deeply appreciates the warm reception by the Delta State Government, the people of Delta State, as well as the enthusiasm shown by nurses, midwives, women groups, and student nurses present at the event.
“However, a section of the video, allegedly recorded by some students at the event, showed a spontaneous and playful twist to the welcome song. Sequel to that, it has come to our attention that some of the students of the Delta State College of Nursing Sciences have been issued a query regarding their participation in the chants.
“While the Office of the First Lady of Nigeria respects the
right of institutions to uphold discipline, it is important to recognize that students, in moments of excitement, often express themselves in a light-hearted and jovial manner.
“The Office of the First Lady believes that educational institutions should foster an environment where students feel safe to express themselves while maintaining decorum.
“The First Lady’s visit was intended to inspire and uplift healthcare professionals, and it is our hope that this event remains a positive and motivating experience for all involved.
“We trust that the Delta State College of Nursing Sciences will handle this matter with understanding and fairness, ensuring that students continue to thrive in an environment that balances discipline with free expression.”
Achimugu’s Investigations Have no Bearing with Atiku or Sanwo-Olu’s Issues
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, wishes to react to media reports linking its investigations of Ms. Aisha Achimugu with political undercurrents involving former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Lagos State Governor, Babajide SanwoOlu.
We wish to state unequivocally that the investigations of Achimugu have no correlation of any kind with the two political actors. She is being investigated for alleged criminal conspiracy and money laundering and has since been declared Wanted by the Commission.
The EFCC commenced investigation of Achimugu in 2022 and though she approached the court to obtain an injunction restraining the Commission from arresting, investigating, inviting or detaining her for any alleged criminal act, the injunction was challenged and vacated on Wednesday, February 19, 2025 by a Federal High Court sitting in Abuja.
The court ruled that “…no court has the power to stop the investigative powers of the Police or EFCC or any agency established under our laws to investigate crimes when there is reasonable suspicion of commission of a crime or ample evidence of commission of an offence by a suspect”.
The court further upheld the interim order of forfeiture of assets of Achimugu suspected to be proceeds of crime, dismissing her suit against it as lacking merit .
The foregoing clearly establishes that the EFCC’s case against her has no immediate or remote nexus with any politician or any veiled or open reference to any political engagement or transaction.
The EFCC is non-partisan and non-sectarian. We enjoin the public to continue to keep faith with the professionalism of the Commission without imputing any extraneous consideration to its works.
APC Group Accuses Zamfara Rep of Undermining Party, Aligning With PDP
BY TUNDE OMOLEHIN, SOKOTO
Apolitical pressure group, Peace Initiative, under the aegis of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Zamfara State, has warned a member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Aminu Jaji, against destabilizing the party ahead of his alleged plans to defect to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) before the 2027 elections.
The group accused Jaji of secretly working with the PDP to advance his political ambitions, alleging that his recent actions were creating division and intolerance within the APC.
In a statement on Friday, the group’s Secretary-General, Alhaji Ahmed Bako, condemned Jaji’s activities, insisting that his ties with the PDP-led government in Zamfara were aimed at sowing discord among APC leaders in the state.
The statement further alleged that Jaji had sponsored youths to spread falsehoods against the Minister of State for Defence, Mohammed Bello Matawalle, and the APC leadership in Zamfara in a desperate bid for political relevance.
“We condemn the attempted blackmail and mischief against Minister of State for Defence, Mohammed Bello Matawalle, and other APC leaders in Zamfara by individuals hiding under the Member representing Kaura Namoda-Birnin Magaji federal constituency,” the statement read.
The group accused Jaji’s camp of working against APC candidates in the 2023 elections due to personal grievances, emphasizing that
their actions prioritized selfish interests over party unity.
“Hon. Aminu Jaji’s support group has been promoting political intolerance and factionalism within the party to gain undue influence. His past actions and collaboration with the PDP government in Zamfara demonstrate his intent to sabotage the peaceful coexistence among party leaders,” the statement continued.
The group further claimed that Jaji had been instrumental in attempts to incite rebellion within the APC after reconciliation efforts among party leaders, adding that his inability to assert control over the party had left him frustrated.
“Jaji and his supporters boast about his political influence, yet they forget that electoral victories are ultimately determined by divine will. Leadership in our great party is not a commodity to be sold in portions,” the group stated.
They also challenged Jaji’s camp to prove its commitment to APC’s growth in Zamfara, warning that hiding behind President Bola Tinubu’s 2023 campaign structure would not legitimize his ambitions.
Eid-El-Fitr: Police Ban Sallah Durbar Activities in Kano
BY FELIX IFIJEH
The Kano State Police Command has imposed a ban on all Durbar activities across the state during the 2025 Eid-el-Fitr celebrations, citing security concerns and the need to maintain public order.
Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Adamu Bakori announced the ban while addressing journalists at the Bompai Police Headquarters, stating that intelligence reports indicated plans by certain groups to exploit the festivities and incite unrest. Following consultations with the Kano State Government and other key stakeholders, the police command resolved to prohibit the event.
The Kano State Police Command congratulates Muslim faithful and all law-abiding residents of the state ahead of the 2025 Eid-elFitr Sallah festivities, Bakori stated.
To ensure a safe and secure celebration, and to sustain the relative peace in the state, the command, in liaison with other security agencies, has assessed the security situation. Given the rising tensions and uncertainties surrounding the Durbar activities, particularly the potential to plunge the state into chaos, we held consultations with the Kano State Government, key parties, and other stakeholders.
Commending the Zamfara APC leadership under Alhaji Tukur Danfulani, the group lauded its patience and political maturity in handling Jaji’s attacks. “Their exemplary leadership in absorbing Jaji’s sponsored mischief is praiseworthy,” the statement concluded.
Sultan Urges Muslims on Moon Sighting Ahead of Eid Celebration
BY TUNDE OMOLEHIN, SOKOTO
The Sultan of Sokoto and President General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has called on Muslims across the country to look out for the new moon of Shawwal 1446AH on Saturday, March 29, 2025.
In a statement signed and made available to Journalists on Friday, by Prof. Sambo Wali Junaidu, the Waziri of Sokoto, who also serves as the Chairman of the Sultanate Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, he said the sighting of the new moon will determine the end of Ramadan and the celebration of Eid al-Fitr.
According to the statement, “March 29 marks the 29th day of Ramadan 1446AH, making it the first possible day for moon
sighting. “The Sultan has urged anyone who sights the moon to report their observations through the designated phone numbers provided in the release.
The numbers listed for reporting moon sightings are: 08037157100, 08066303077, 08035965322, 08035945903 and 07067146900.
The statement, however, urged Muslims to participate in the moon sighting exercise as it plays a crucial role in determining the official date for Eid celebrations, adding that if the new moon is confirmed, it will signal the beginning of Shawwal and mark the end of the month-long Ramadan fast.
The statement said the Sultanate Council will announce the final decision on Eid based on verified moon sightings.
Based on credible intelligence indicating a coordinated plan by certain miscreants and their sponsors to exploit the Durbar for nefarious activities, a ban has been placed on all Durbar activities throughout the state during the 2025 Eid-el-Fitr celebrations.
The police urged worshippers to conduct their Eid prayers at designated praying grounds, as has been customary in the past, assuring them of adequate security deployment. CP Bakori also advised residents to avoid carrying unnecessary objects that may cause suspicion, refrain from horse riding, car racing, or reckless driving, and cautioned parents and guardians to prevent their children from being used by subversive elements. He further warned the public against any act that could lead to a breach of peace.
As we celebrate this joyous occasion, let us remember that peace is paramount. We must set aside our differences and come together as law-abiding citizens for the progress of Kano State and the nation at large.
The police command called for continued collaboration with stakeholders to ensure a secure environment. Residents were encouraged to report suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through emergency contact numbers: 08032419754, 08123821575, and 09029292926.
Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa (m); National Librarian, Prof. Chinwe Anunobi (r); and the Lead Consultant, Mr. Obioma Opoko (l), during an inspection by the Minister of Education to the National Library in Abuja on March 26, 2025.
The prolonged move for Constitutional Amendment has entered a significant phase that may alter the current 1999 Constitution with over 42 bills gazetted for Second Reading on the floor of the House of Representatives last Wednesday. Even so, many of the bills are already receiving scathing public reception.
Critical areas that have attracted the attention of lawmakers and stirred public interest are nine in number: Devolution of powers; State creation; Local Government administration; Fundamental rights; Advisory role of traditional rulers; Citizenship and Removal of Immunity for Vice President and Governors; 60- years age limit for candidates for the Office of President and Governor.
Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, the Majority Leader who read the long titles of the bills, asked members of the House of Reps for the passage of the proposed bills after which the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Benjamin Kalu ruled that the bills should be passed for second reading.
Eight other bills seeking to strengthen institutions; four bills focused on state creation; one bill seeks to establish and provide roles for traditional rulers in Nigeria and provide for the recognition of the advisory role of traditional rulers; three bills focused on citizenship; four bills centred on fundamental rights and objectives; while 14 bills focused on local government councils.
A day after, some of the bills generated so much controversy that the lawmakers had to backtrack. So, on Thursday the House of Representatives backtracked on a proposed constitutional amendment bill seeking to strip the Vice President, state governors and their deputies of immunity from prosecution. The reversal followed the adoption of a motion moved by Ihonvbere during Thursday’s plenary, which was presided over by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu.
The bill is titled “A Bill for an Act to Alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, to Qualify the Immunity Conferred on the President, Remove the Immunity Conferred on the Vice President, Governors and Their Deputies, in Order to Curb Corruption, Eradicate Impunity and Enhance Accountability in Public Office and for Related Matters.”
However, the Green Chamber reversed its decision, citing the need for further debate on key provisions of the bill. The immunity clause, as enshrined in Section 308 of the 1999 Constitution, shields the President, Vice President, governors and their deputies from criminal and civil prosecution while in office.
The provision, originally designed to prevent distractions and allow elected officials to focus on governance, has been widely debated, with critics arguing that it enables corruption and abuse of power. The bill is now expected to undergo further legislative scrutiny before any final decision is made. Yet another one is still generating controversy as it seeks to revert the system of administration from the presidential to parliamentary that was adopted in the post- independence first republic
The bill, titled “A Bill for an Act to Alter the Provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, to Provide for the Office of the Prime Minister as Head of Government and the Office of President as Head of State and to Provide for a Framework for the Mode of Election to the said Offices and for Related Matters (HB.1115),” was debated on Thursday during plenary presided over by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Okezie Kalu.
If passed into law, the bill will replace the current presidential system with a parliamentary model, where a Prime Minister— elected by the legislature—will wield executive powers, while the President will assume a ceremonial role as Head of
State. Speaking on behalf of the sponsors, Abdussamad Dasuki said the amendments would significantly reshape Nigeria’s political system, arguing that the presidential system has failed to effectively tackle the nation’s developmental challenges.
He pointed out that the high cost of governance under the presidential system has drained resources needed for critical sectors, such as infrastructure, education and healthcare. He also decried the concentration of power in the executive, saying it had stifled accountability and hindered national progress.
Equally receiving hostile reception is the 60- years age limit for presidential and governorship candidates. If the amendment passes, President Bola Tinubu, who celebrated his 73 birthday at the weekend, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, 78, who was presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP and his Labour Party candidate, Peter Obi, 63, may not qualify.
Expectedly, the PDP, Coalition of United Political Parties and the Social Democratic Party, SDP, have risen in condemnation of the proposed age- limit bill. According to the PDP, the country’stmain governance challenges lie in corruption, incompetence, and a lack of patriotism rather than age. For the SDP age does play a role in governance to some extent.For the PDP Deputy National Youth Leader, Timothy Osadolor, “I am more convinced with this action of theirs, that this set of Senators and House of Representatives are the most unserious assembly we have ever had in the history of this country. The problem we have today is not age or date of birth.”
The National Publicity Secretary of CUPP, Mark Adebayo, said that corruption, incompetence, and lack of patriotism are Nigeria’s main governance problems. The National Publicity Secretary of the SDP, Rufus Aiyenigba argued that though age can be added to help, leadership is still a function of experience, values, and competence.
“Governance is a function of age in some sense. We have had very young people in leadership positions, from the military era to today. Some performed well, others did not. Age alone does not determine leadership success,” Aiyenigba said, adding that, “What is important is the quality a person is bringing. How do we assess capacity and competence? Why don’t we make live debates compulsory for presidential candidates?
That way, the public can judge their intelligence, vision, and fitness for leadership,” he suggested. The bill now moves to the committee stage for further legislative scrutiny.
In the meantime, eminent Nigerians, notably The Patriots led by ex-Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, have said they would soon engage the lawmakers and their leadership and discuss critical areas requiring amendment of the Constitution to aid democratic governance.
The proposed meeting would be in April. Earlier, The Patriots had met with President Bola Tinubu at the presidential villa and expressed their desire to see the executive and lawmakers join hands to make what the group refer to as a peoples constitution, emphasising the need to give Nigerian citizens the chance to participate in a Constituent Assembly and participate in the fashioning of a democratic Constitution that reflects their sovereignty. They made known their intention to meet with the leadership of the National Assembly in April at last week’s 20th memorial anniversary of their founding Chairman, Chief Rotimi Williams at the FRA Chambers in Lagos.
Membership of The Patriots include Ike Nwachukwu, Tanko Yakasai, Olusegun Osoba, Alani Akinrinade, Anya O. Anya, Idika Kalu, Obiageli Ezekwesili. Others are Philip Asiodu, Pat Utomi, Solomon Asemota (SAN), Olisa Agbakoba (SAN), Obong Attah, Anthony Kila and Labaran Maku, Prof Anthony Kila, Dr Tokunbo Awolowo Dosumu, Fafa Dan-Princewill, Mrs Ifeyinwa Ezenwa and son of the late FRA Williams, Kayode.
According to the General Secretary of the organisation, Mr Olawale Okunniyi, the group’s mission to the National Assembly is to ask the lawmakers to amend Section 8 and 9 of the 1999 Constitution to include a Referendum/Plebiscite clause whereby the people can demand a change of the Constitution at any time.”
He said that the “current Constitution is warped, fashioned after corruption and supports corruption. The foundation, which is the Constitution, is faulty. Only two percent of Nigerians are benefiting from the Constitution and we need to correct this anomaly. We need a Constitution of the people that works for the poorest of the poor.
“Our next plan is to meet with the leadership of the National Assembly. We have made contact with the leadership of the National Assembly and the meeting will happen in April. We may meet the Senate and House of Representatives jointly or separately, however, it will happen on the same day. “After meeting the National Assembly, we will, in the same April, begin zonal outreaches, advocacy to traditional rulers, influential leaders of geopolitical zones, labour leaders,” Okunniyi said.
The National Publicity Secretary of the SDP, Rufus Aiyenigba argued that though age can be added to help, leadership is still a function of experience, values, and competence. “Governance is a function of age in some sense “
COLOUR BLACK AND WHITE SPECIAL SPOTS
Center Spread Half Page N1, 300, 000
Double Spread N1, 550, 000
Double Spread Half Page N1, 200, 000
10X6 N700, 000
10X5 N650, 000
10X4 N600, 000
10X3 N500, 000
9X6 N440, 000
9X5 N395, 000
9X4 N335, 000
9X3 N310, 000
8X6 N410, 000
8X5 N380, 000
7X5 N320, 000
7X4 N315, 000
6X5 N280, 000
6X3 N145, 000
6X2 N85, 000
5X2 N70, 000
4X4 N160, 000
4X3 N95, 000
4X2 N65, 000
3X3 N60, 000
3X2 N50, 000
2X2 N30, 000
2X1 N15, 000
1X1 N7, 000
Still on Police Respect for Citizenry’s Rights
The recent report by CLEEN Foundation, an NGO promoting public safety, security and accessible justice, which claimed that 23 persons were killed in Northern Nigeria during last year’s August hunger protest, adds another dimension to general concerns about respect for the rights and safety of the citizenry.
north. The protest was largely peaceful in the southern parts of the country.
reported violence in different states such as Kano, Niger, Gombe, Jigawa, Katsina Bauchi and Borno,” She said,
The protests were categorised into two: Peaceful protest and violent protest. The CLEEN Foundation situation room data indicates that the nationwide protest was largely peaceful in the southern part of Nigeria, but it recorded serious violence in the northern states, which led to loss of lives and destruction of public property. Some observers reported violence in different states such as Kano, Niger, Gombe, Jigawa, Katsina Bauchi and Borno
Recently, the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, wrote to the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to direct the police to stop the pervading but emotional damaging practice of parading suspects publicly before prosecution and trial. In the same vein, the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, also urged the police high command to implement relevant sessions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015, ACLA, as it affects suspects in areas of “strict compliance with constitutional safeguards, including the rights to legal representation, to be informed of charges, and to be promptly brought before a court as well as protection of vulnerable groups, including women, children, and persons with disabilities.
Unveiling its report last week, CLEEN Foundation stated that six persons were killed in Niger State during the August 2024 #EndBadGovenance protest.
It said that all the 23 persons were killed in the protest were all drawn from the
Titled “Report on the conduct of Law Enforcement Personnel during the August 2024 Nationwide Protest in Nigeria,” the report faulted the position held by the then Niger State Commissioner of Police Shawulu Danmaman, recently promoted an Assistant Inspector-General of Police, that nobody was killed in the state during the protest.
However, Chigozirim Okoro, who presented the report on behalf of the foundation also said similar presentations had been made in Abuja and Kaduna where killings also happened, adding that there were figures to justify their findings.
Reeling out the figures, Okoro stated, “In Niger state, six persons were killed in Suleja and Tafa local government areas. Four persons were killed in Kano, three persons were killed in Kaduna and Borno respectively, two persons each in Katsina and Jigawa and one person each in Bauchi, Gombe and Kebbi states, respectively.
“The protests were categorised into two: Peaceful protest and violent protest. The CLEEN Foundation situation room data indicates that the nationwide protest was largely peaceful in the southern part of Nigeria, but it recorded serious violence in the northern states, which led to loss of lives and destruction of public property. Some observers
The bottom line of all this eye-opening report, foundation’s Executive Director, Mr. Peter Maduoma, said, was that there was an urgent need for comprehensive reforms in Nigeria’s law enforcement agencies.
Like the AGF and Chief Justice of Nigeria, he recommended “strengthening accountability, monitoring and reporting mechanisms; regular Human Rights training; community engagement; Misinformation management; continuous demilitarisation of crowd management and Rights protection.”
“Improving the policing of civil protest in Nigeria is crucial for protecting human rights, promoting peaceful expression and fostering a healthy relationship between citizens and law enforcement agencies.” The report concluded.
We call on the police authorities to see these concerns being expressed by official and public institutions for the respect of rights of the citizenry as a wake-up call to duty. The police, after all, is the civil force of any state and should therefore interact with the citizenry with more civility and dignity. It bears repetition that if the public fails to see the police as its friend, as that slogan goes, then policing would not only be difficult but impossible and crime will continue to fester into untameable proportions.
OPINION
Sacred Journeys, Earthly Burdens: The Cost of Nigeria’s Pilgrimage Economy
BY PRINCE CHARLES DICKSON
The desert does not care for your prayers. It swallows them whole, along with your sweat, doubts and wallet weight. Yet here we were—Nigerians in Jordan, then Israel, tracing paths carved by prophets and kings, stepping on stones smoothed by millennia of footsteps. From the Dead Sea’s buoyant bitterness to Bethlehem’s star-marked grottoes, the land thrums with sacred electricity. But as she walked, she couldn’t shake the question: What does this cost us? Not just in naira, but in soul.
You remember the chaos—Abuja’s airport buzzing with first-time pilgrims clutching rosaries and Qurans, tour guides shouting over the din, warnings about “japa temptations” mingling with sermons. For many, this was a once-ina-lifetime escape: from potholed streets, blackouts, and the gnawing uncertainty of survival back home. Yet even here, in the shadow of Herod’s stones and Galilee’s shores, Nigeria followed us.
The tour operators in Jordan haggled like Lagos market women; Israeli border guards scrutinized our green passports with weary suspicion. And beneath it all, the Gaza war hummed like a discordant hymn, a reminder that holiness and human conflict are ancient bedfellows.
Let’s talk numbers. If a single pilgrimage package costs roughly N3.5–N5 million per person. Multiply that by thousands of pilgrims annually, and Nigeria bleeds billions into foreign economies. In Jordan, our guides grinned as they narrated Petra’s history, their pockets fattened by dollars.
In Israel, the pilgrimage industry is a well-oiled machine: hotels near Nazareth charge premium rates, Dead Sea mud is packaged and sold as divine therapy, and even the Via Dolorosa has a gift shop. Meanwhile, back home, nurses strike over unpaid wages, and students scratch equations into dust-choked chalkboards.
The Catholic Bishops’ recent call cuts like a knife: “Stop funding pilgrimages. Let faith pay its way.” Their logic is mercilessly practical: why should a nation drowning in debt—where 63 percent of citizens survive on less than $2 a day— subsidise spiritual tourism for a privileged few?
stand as monuments to mismanagement. Remember the 2017 scandal where officials embezzled N90 million meant for pilgrims’ visas? Or the 2022 Hajj airlift fiasco that stranded thousands? These boards, the bishops argue, “serve neither their adherents nor the nation.”
Yet the allure persists. For many pilgrims, government sponsorship isn’t just a subsidy—it’s a lifeline. “I saved for ten years,” a retired teacher from Enugu told me, her eyes glistening at the Jordan River. “Without the board’s help, I’d never see Jerusalem.” Herein lies the paradox: pilgrimage is both a spiritual awakening and a symptom of systemic failure.
THE CATHOLIC BISHOPS’ RECENT CALL CUTS LIKE A KNIFE: “STOP FUNDING PILGRIMAGES. LET FAITH PAY ITS WAY.” THEIR LOGIC IS MERCILESSLY PRACTICAL: WHY SHOULD A NATION DROWNING IN DEBT— WHERE 63 PERCENT OF CITIZENS SURVIVE ON LESS THAN $2 A DAY—SUBSIDISE SPIRITUAL TOURISM FOR A PRIVILEGED FEW?
The National Hajj Commission (NAHCON) and Christian Pilgrims’ Board, riddled with corruption scandals,
TWhen the state funds faith, it commodifies it—and when it withdraws, it risks severing the vulnerable from their solace. Ah, the pilgrims themselves! Nigerians are nothing if not theatrical. There were the “Captains”—selfappointed prayer warriors who bossed others around like generals in God’s army. The Comedians, crack jokes at Caiaphas’ dungeon to ease the tension. The Holier-Than-Thous, who tsk-tsked at women’s uncovered hair while surreptitiously snapping selfies at Golgotha. And the Quiet Ones, like the widow from Sokoto who touched the Western Wall and wept without sound.
But spirituality here is tangled with spectacle. At the Dead Sea, I watched a pastor bottle the salty water, declaring it “a weapon against household witches.” In Bethlehem, traders hawked olive-wood crosses next to “I Error! Filename not specified. Jesus” t-shirts. Is this an awakening? Or is it the monetisation of
The bishops’ critique is not just fiscal—it’s theological. “True faith,” their statement insists, “is not measured in miles traveled but in mercy shown.” They urge a reckoning: if Nigeria redirected pilgrimage funds to healthcare, education, or infrastructure, could that be a sacred act? Imagine N30 billion— the approximate annual cost of state-sponsored pilgrimages—channeled into neonatal clinics or rural electrification. Would that not honour the “least of these” whom Christ called us to serve?
But the counterargument simmers: pilgrimages foster unity, they say. On that flight to Tel Aviv, I saw Muslims and Christians swap snacks and stories.
Dictatorship of the Progressives
BY UZOR MAXIM UZOATU
here was a time in in this country when todays turncoat activists of Nigeria were mouthing pat phraseologies of Marxism and hollering: Dictatorship of the Proletariat!
These ill-assorted characters later morphed into what they termed The Progressives of Nigerian politics. These mortals shall remain nameless in this piece, as mentioning their wonky and crooked names shall rob my verbs and nouns of their elegance.
Of what benefit, for instance, is mentioning the name of the former recharge card seller who magically turned into a billionaire during the regime of the highly-ballyhooed anti-corruption president who happens to be his uncle?
It also goes against the grain of the sublime to note that the disgraced anti-corruption ex-leader prophesied that Nigeria would only start missing him after he had left office, a pathetic prophecy that is already being borne out before our very eyes and inside our empty stomachs.
A tear for Nigeria!
It struck me as quite ironical that in 2015 the self-advertised progressives backed this most feudalistic and incompetent so-called anti-corruption bloke to take power. After the catastrophic eight-year, two-term tenure of the insufferable sheikh of prebendalism, the occidental septal helmsman of the progressives asserted that it was his turn to grab power. He minced no word in stressing that all there is about power is to grab, snatch and run with it by hook or crook and all. His retinue of sycophants and court jesters groveled no end at his feet and hailed him as a master strategist. The power-grabbers first call upon taking the seat of superintendence was to gleefully rant that “fuel subsidy is gone.”
Not a few Nigerians were surprised to recall that this fellow had led protests against the former president despised as the clueless one who had removed the fuel subsidy on January 1, 2012.
There were enough governmental plans to contain the pitfalls of the subsidy matter back then, but the progressive man of today had no plans on ground whatsoever before making the tragic announcement.
The ace-turned-menace in power was acting like Rip Van Winkle in Washington Irvings short story who woke up after 20 years of sleep to behold a changed world.
The Dictator of the Progressives has been making bold claims that he is a revolutionary who discovered the magic of the removal of fuel subsidy as the saviour of Nigeria. The devaluation of Nigeria was put into full throttle and the country’s currency started a neck-and-neck race in value, or lack thereof, with toilet tissue paper. Armed with an overdose of the useless currency in his custody, the worse-than-the-clueless-one boasted that he is now giving more money to the governors such that they should be blamed for the woes of the woebegone country.
In Lagos State where he used to reign supreme as more than a sovereign, outraged members of the House of Assembly deigned to remove their loathsome Speaker only for the Progressive Lord at the Centre to come storming to make them swallow their vomit by restoring the impeached windbag to the speakership position. Every word of the dictator of progressivism is law. Everything has conduced to a totalitarian state where the legislature is in the progressive baron’s back-pocket while the judiciary is in his breast-pocket.
Journalists are now known as Jeunalists, serving as the sedulous lapdogs of politicians bearing the armour of progressives of dictatorship. The terms of the game these days are ethnic cleansing and baiting, gaslighting, jingoism and servile prostration. It’s all to the good of the dictatorship of the progressives that a Supreme Court judgement can be written authoritatively on an executive presidential letterhead.
The ill-fated Governor of Rivers State received such supreme judgement, and before anybody could spell Democracy with all the vowels and consonants, a state of emergency was clamped on the state and the hapless governor was suspended from power.
IN THE GARLANDED ANNALS OF THE DICTATORSHIP OF THE PROGRESSIVES, ANYTHING GOES AND EVEN THE PRESIDENT CAN SERVE AS THE ERRAND BOY OF HIS APPOINTEE IN RIVERS MATTERS
Many attorneys have cried blue murder that it is constitutionally beyond presidential powers to suspend an elected governor, but these lawyers appear not to understand the superior constitution of the dictatorship of the progressives. Even the two-third majority of votes needed for the Senate and the House of Representatives to ramp home the state of emergency fix had to come via voice votes after $5,000 Salah gift, just like market thugs outshouting themselves in Jankara market.
There was the injunction that the money of Rivers State should not be given to the elected governor because he does not boast of a constituted assembly, but the money has since been released to the appointed military sole administrator.
Military rule can be very fast.
Many commentators have raised voices as per the fact that the much maligned military dictator, General Sani Abacha, could not have acted this brazenly.
SEC Announces Presidential Assent to Investments and Securities Act 2024
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has announced that His Excellency, President Ahmed Bola Tinubu GCFR, has assented to the Investments and Securities Act (ISA) 2024, which repeals the Investments and Securities Act No. 29 of 2007.
This landmark legislation strengthens the legal framework of the Nigerian capital market, enhances investor protection, and introduces critical reforms to promote market integrity, transparency, and sustainable growth.
The enactment of the ISA 2024 reaffirms the authority of the SEC as the apex regulatory authority of the Nigerian Capital Market. The new Act also introduces transformative provisions to further align Nigeria’s market operations with international best practice.
Key highlights of the ISA 2024:
The Act enhances the regulatory powers of the SEC in a manner comparable with benchmark global securities regulators. These enhanced powers and functions ensure full conformity with the requirements of IOSCO’s Enhanced Multilateral Memorandum of Understanding (EMMoU), enabling the SEC retain its “Signatory A” status and enhancing the overall attractiveness of the Nigerian capital market.
Other notable provisions of the ISA 2024 include:
• Classification of Exchanges and inclusion of provisions on Financial Market
EDITOR Sam Diala
UBA Plc: e-Banking Revenue Soars
Africa’s Global Bank, United Bank for Africa Plc, recorded N236.30 billion in e-banking revenue on a strong financial inclusion drive, according to its audited financial statement for the period ended December 31, 2024.
This constitutes an 88.1 percent growth, compared to the N125.5 billion posted in FY 2023,
The e-banking income includes revenue from electronic platforms, such as mobile applications, USSD channels, Internet banking, ATM, PoS, as well as other debit and credit card transactions.
The revenue haul in technology-related operations of the bank reflected in the Fees and Commission Income which showed an exponential growth of 91.6 percent during the review period from N307.31 billion in FY 2023 to N589.0 billion in FY 2024.
Further analysis of the result showed that e-banking revenue was the largest component accounting for 40.1 percent of the total Fees and Commission Income segment during the period.
remarkably by 46.8 percent, from N20.6 trillion in 2023, to close at N30.4 trillion in December 2024; signifying a milestone leap for the bank with the largest spread across the continent.
Despite the highly challenging global economic and business environment, UBA recorded a profit before tax of N803.72 billion representing a 6.1 percent increase from N757.68 billion recorded at the end of the 2023 financial year.
Another look into the financial statements of the group showed that e-banking expense increased by 75.7 percent to N178.9 billion from N101.8 billion in the corresponding period.
This reflects the group’s strong commitment to drive financial inclusion as it embarked on strategic expansion of its digital infrastructure during the period.
It also constituted 97.8 percent of the total N233.9 billion Fees and Commission Expense posted in the review period against N118.2 billion in the corresponding period.
The group recorded a stellar performance in its 2024 operations, showing impressive growth with all its major indicators witnessing significant improvement.
The 2024 financials, filed with the Nigerian Exchange showed an impressive rise in the bank’s profit after tax which went up by 26.14 percent to close the year at N766.6 billion, up from N607.7 billion recorded at the end of the 2023 fiscal year.
Consequently, UBA Group Shareholders’ Funds rose from N2.0 trillion as at December 2023 to close the 2024 financial year at N3.4 trillion, achieving an impressive growth of 68.3 percent.
As a result of the impressive performance and in fulfilment of the promise made by the UBA Group Chairman, Tony Elumelu, to shareholders at the last Annual General Meeting, the Bank proposed a final dividend of N3.00 kobo for every ordinary share of 50 kobo, for the financial year ended December 31, 2024.
This brings the total dividend in the year to N5.00. The final dividend is subject to the ratification of the shareholders during its upcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM).
UBA’s Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Oliver Alawuba, who was excited at the results, stated that the 2024 financial performance demonstrated the bank’s continued focus on driving earnings growth, preserving asset quality, expanding business operations and deepening market share.
• Infrastructures- The Act classifies Securities Exchanges into Composite and Non-composite Exchanges. A Composite Exchange is one in which all categories of securities and products can be listed and traded, while a Non-composite Exchange focuses on a singular type of security or product. There are also new provisions on Financial Market Infrastructures such as Central CounterParties, Clearing Houses and Trade Depositories.
• Expansion of the definition and Understanding of Securities – The Act explicitly recognises virtual/digital assets and investment contracts as securities and brings Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs), Digital Asset Operators (DAOPs) and Digital Asset Exchanges under Continues on page 35
The Bank’s gross earnings also grew significantly from N2.08tn recorded at the end of the 2023 financial year to N3.19tn in the period under consideration, representing a 53.6 percent growth.
Like in the previous years, the banks’ total assets also rose
“Our continued investment in our highly diversified global network allows UBA to deliver high quality and consistent earnings. Our businesses have been able to grow product and service income and expand our deposit base, allowing the Group to increase earnings, while maintaining strong spreads and margins,” Alawuba highlighted.
According to him, “With total deposit increasing by 42.03 percent from N17.4 trillion in 2023 to N24.7 trillion and total assets hitting N30.4 trillion from N20.7 trillion, the just released results reflect broad-based growth across all core businesses and
BUSINESS WEEKLY
UBA Plc: e-Banking Revenue Soars 88%
Continues from page 34 were achieved despite prevailing macroeconomic challenges, geopolitical uncertainties, and exchange rate volatilities.”
The GMD expressed excitement at the marked improvement recorded in the bank’s core earnings profile, as he explained that the profit is derived from high-quality income streams from funding intermediation, fees and commissions, thus reflecting strong long-term, sustainable revenues generation capacity.
“Our ex-Nigeria (Rest of Africa and International) operations have expanded significantly over the past five years, now contributing 51.7 percent of Group revenue, up from 31 per cent in 2019, delivering diversification benefits and further boosting long-term shareholder value.
This will continue to grow, as we further explore strategic markets that align with our overall vision. We are currently upgrading our business scope and authorisation in France and considering other viable markets in the short to medium term,” Alawuba noted.
He pointed out the bank’s resolve to invest continuously in technology, data analytics, product innovation, staff training and development, which, according to him, will collectively enhance our customers’ experience.
On his part, UBA’s Executive Director, Finance and Risk Management, Ugo Nwaghodoh, said the bank recorded triple digit growth in net interest income, resulting in remarkable improvement in net interest margin from 6.8 percent in 2023 to 9.0 percent, while also recording strong double-digit growth in fee and commission income lines of 91.6 percent
“UBA Group continues to demonstrate strong capital levels, with shareholders’ funds growth of 68.4 percent to N3.42 trillion and a solid capital adequacy ratio of 31.0 percent, and as we defensibly position the portfolio to navigate prevailing global and regional macroeconomic upheavals, asset quality improved, with NPL ratio moderating to 5.5percent, with strong provision coverage at 81 per cent”, Nwaghodoh noted.
Continues from page 34
the SEC’s regulatory purview.
Experts Harp on Security of Telecom Investments SEC Announces...
• Comprehensive Insolvency Provisions for Financial Market Infrastructures – The Act introduces provisions that exempt transactions facilitated through or otherwise involving Financial Market Infrastructures from the application of general insolvency laws.
• Management of Systemic Risk – The Act introduces provisions for the monitoring, management and mitigation of systemic risk in the Nigerian capital market.
Industry leaders have identified important measures to secure telecommunications infrastructures in the country and ensure that investments in the telecoms space are protected.
They argued that as much as the effective implementation of the Executive Order on the Designation and Protection of Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII) is important, the Order cannot solely guarantee infrastructure safety except certain internal and standardisation issues are first resolved by operators.
Speaking at the 7th Policy Implementation Assisted Forum (PIAFo) Summit on CNII implementation held Thursday in Lagos, the industry leaders highlighted pressing issues such as infrastructure vandalism, unauthorized installations, and cable theft, while proposing actionable solutions to safeguard the country’s critical national infrastructure.
Gbenga Adebayo, Chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), stressed the importance of proper infrastructure maintenance and installation to prevent vandalism and theft.
He highlighted the widespread issue of stolen manhole covers and poles, attributing the problem to poor maintenance practices. “When properly installed, these components are difficult to remove. However, due to negligence, they are often left unsecured, making them easy targets for theft,” he said.
Adebayo also pointed out that community resistance to infrastructure projects has significantly hindered progress. He recounted
He explained that as the bank navigates evolving risks, its management remains focused on responsible growth, delivering customer-focused value propositions, whilst ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements in all jurisdictions.
As it pursues the recapitalization project, the Tier1 financial services institution aims to deepen financial inclusion through implementing cutting edge technology in its operations.
The group last February announced that it had successfully completed its much-anticipated system upgrade, restoring all banking services to normalcy.
In a message to customers, UBA reassured customers that they could now log in to the mobile app and enjoy a smoother, more efficient banking experience.
The bank acknowledged any inconvenience caused by the process and reaffirmed its commitment to providing top-tier financial services.
“We are pleased to inform you that our mobile app upgrade has been completed, and all services have been fully restored. You can now log in and enjoy a smoother banking experience and improved services,” UBA announced.
instances where local communities prevented trucks from accessing sites due to previous unaddressed damages caused by contractors.
“A diesel supplier was blocked from entering an estate because a previous contractor had damaged their property and failed to make repairs. This lack of accountability breeds distrust and delays crucial projects,” he explained.
He urged stakeholders to foster better relationships with communities to prevent such conflicts.
Another critical issue Adebayo identified was the unauthorized installation of infrastructure without government approval, leading to inadvertent damage during road construction projects.
“Government agencies often damage unregistered infrastructure simply because they were not documented in official records. Proper approvals and collaboration with authorities will ensure accountability and protection of critical infrastructure,” he noted.
He called for improved industry coordination to resolve these challenges internally before seeking external solutions that are promised by the CNII provisions.
Echoing these concerns, Tony Emoekpere, President of the Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON), emphasised the need for standardisation and better coordination among stakeholders.
He pointed out that Nigeria’s infrastructure
• Expansion of the Category of Issuers to the Public- The Act expands the categories of issuers, as a key step towards the introduction of a wide range of innovative products and offerings as well as the facilitation of “commercial and investment business activities”, subject to the approval of the Commission and other controls stipulated in the Act.
• Legal Framework for Commodities Exchanges – The Act contains a new Part which provides for the regulation of Commodities Exchanges and Warehouse Receipts. These provisions are essential to allow for the development of the entire gamut of the Commodities ecosystem.
• Issuance of Securities by Sub-Nationals and their Agencies- Salient provisions of the Act address existing restrictions in respect of raising of funds from the capital market by Sub-Nationals to allow for greater flexibility in this regard.
• Transparency in Securities Transactions – The Act introduces the mandatory use of Legal Entity Identifiers (LEIs) by participants in capital market transactions. This stipulation is designed to improve transparency in the conduct of securities transactions.
• Enforcement Against Illegal Investment Schemes – The Act expressly prohibits Ponzi Schemes and other unlawful investment schemes, while prescribing stringent jail terms and other sanctions for the promoters of such schemes.
• Strengthening the Investments and Securities Tribunal- The Act amends some key provisions in the repealed ISA 2007 pertaining to the Composition of the Tribunal, constitution of the Tribunal, qualification and appointment of the Chief Registrar as well as the jurisdiction of the Tribunal to enhance the ability of the Tribunal to optimally discharge its mandate.
challenges go beyond technical issues, extending into environmental and moral concerns.
“We are dealing with a moral challenge. An engineer who switched from diesel to gas generators encountered a new problem— workers began stealing engine oil instead, as they could no longer siphon diesel. These issues require both technical and ethical solutions,” he explained.
Emoekpere argued that standardisation is the key to long-term sustainability. “If infrastructure is deployed in a suboptimal manner, failure is
inevitable. We need to establish proper standards that all stakeholders—government, private sector, and the public—can align with,” he stated.
He also emphasized that Nigeria has strong policies, such as local content policies, but implementation remains a major challenge.
“We must move beyond discussions and focus on actionable steps, follow-ups, and policy enforcement,” he added.
The importance of addressing cable theft and vandalism was further stressed by Wale Owoeye, CEO of Cedarview Communications Limited.
He described the alarming frequency of cable cuts, which disrupt network operations and driveup maintenance costs.
“Cable theft is a serious issue. Airtel representatives told me they experience a cable cut every six minutes. The assumption that all black cables contain valuable copper leads to reckless vandalism,” he explained.
To combat this growing problem, Owoeye proposed three key approaches, including reorientation, enforcement, and proactive measures.
“We need to engage local communities in their native languages, educating them on the consequences of vandalism. Strict legal penalties, including long-term imprisonment, should be enforced to deter offenders,” he said.
He also emphasized the need for preventive strategies rather than reactive responses.
“Prevention is always more effective and costefficient than restoration,” he noted.
INSURANCE TECHONOLOGY
Emerging Risks in Business-technology Integrations
BY RASHIDAT ADEBISI
There is hardly any business today that is not in the process of integrating one form of technology or another into its operations and digitising its business models. It is being proven increasingly that a tech-enabled business model is the quickest route to efficiency and scale, especially as infrastructure and integration costs continue to drop and internet and mobile penetration increase.
On the flip side of these tech innovations is a parallel growth and exposure to cyber risks.
According to the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Nigeria recorded 13 million cyberattacks in the first six months of 2023. The Nigerian Cybercrime Report showed that the country lost an estimated N128 billion to cybercrime in 2020 alone.
Furthermore, according to reports, “a recent survey by the NCC revealed that over 90 percent of Nigerian businesses have been victims of cybercrime, with the average cost of a cyberattack exceeding N10 million”.
Further reports stated that the NCC claimed that Nigeria “is losing $500 million annually to all forms of cybercrime, including hacking, identity theft, cyber terrorism, harassment, and internet fraud.”
The rate, scale, and spate of cyber risks to businesses and government operations are even more concerning when viewed holistically from a global, local, or continental lens.
As a tech enthusiast and a business leader, I must admit that the thrills of the possibilities of technology in business model innovation can be so exciting that we can easily ignore its risks. This is why business leaders must drive retooling their risk management framework to test for emerging threats within the evolving cyberspace. My vantage position as an insurance expert and business leader has got me thinking about the vulnerabilities of new, emerging, and existing business models to cyber risk. While I am excited by the socio-economic impact these innovations mean for Nigeria, I have remained curious about how to protect these businesses from the impact of cyber risks.
For example, Nigeria’s increasing adoption of digital payment systems, cloud storage, and customer relationship management platforms is transforming business operations. However, as more data is collected and stored digitally, the risk of breaches also rises exponentially.
On the other hand, as companies expand digital access across the organisation, they inadvertently increase the likelihood of access to sensitive information.
Internal or external, a data breach can take customers’ distrust from zero to a hundred in the twinkle of an eye, resulting in huge regulatory penalties or litigation – or both.
None of this is good for business operations or reputation.
At another level, business models also face the emerging risk of digital integration. Today, business models are described as ecosystems. The successes of this interconnectedness are prevalent in transportation, logistics, fintech, and insurtech, where third-party integrations and data-driven algorithms are driving scale that we have never seen before.
Unfortunately, these dependencies introduce unique vulnerabilities that businesses must address. For example, APIs connecting different systems can be attacked by cybercriminals to disrupt operations or manipulate transactions. Thirdly, securing essential services such as cloud hosting and cybersecurity solutions from third parties is now commonplace locally as the economy becomes globalised. This reliance also creates exposure to supply chain attacks, where cybercriminals infiltrate a vendor’s systems to access the client’s network.
RETHINKING INSURANCE MODELS
As businesses and institutions confront these emerging risks, the insurance industry must provide innovative, relevant solutions that address today’s challenges while anticipating tomorrow’s threats.
New realities are proving that our traditional policies need to match the complexities of modern cyber risks. Cyber insurance products must go beyond compensating for damages after an attack. Instead, our solutions must include pre-emptive risk assessment services, incident response support, and continuous cyber threat monitoring.
Internal or external, a data breach can take customers’ distrust from zero to a hundred in the twinkle of an eye, resulting in huge regulatory penalties or litigation – or both
As we embark on our tech journey, our sector must forge strategic partnerships with businesses and tech innovators to better understand emerging risks and design solutions that can support tech-driven business models. While insurance seeks new ways to protect businesses and institutions, our industry must embrace tech opportunities to defend itself and improve its services. Blockchain, for instance, has immense potential to revolutionise our claims processing. It will enhance transparency and reduce fraud, which will, in turn, reduce the time to claim payment, consequently boosting customers’ trust in our industry.
Finally, the Nigerian insurance sector has a critical role in educating businesses about the importance of cyber risk management. Many businesses are still in the euphoria of the tech wave and remain unaware of the risks technology and digitisation pose to their operations.
We must conduct awareness campaigns and workshops on risk identification programmes for employees, encourage multi-factor authentications across all entry points, and conduct joint risk assessment sessions to bridge this knowledge gap.
We must help our clients realise that the duty of care of their cyber environments also lies with them. It’s impossible to transfer all risks; the residual risk could be the Achilles heel that brings down a promising firm.
As we navigate the intersection of technological innovation and the threats of cyber risk, business leaders must appreciate the stakes and ensure that our pursuit of digital transformation is balanced with a vigilant approach to cybersecurity.
•Adebisi is Chief Client Officer, AXA Mansard Insurance Plc.
Integral Role of Small Businesses in Nigerian Economy
BY TIMI OLUBIYI
The Nigerian economy continues to witness a growth in the number of small businesses within the formal and informal sectors. The role they play as the live-wire of any economy cannot be ignored as they equally form the backbone of major developed economies.
Although Nigeria relies mostly on oil and revenues derived from it, from context observation, the economy is largely supported by small businesses covering almost all spheres of activities. These include skilled and unskilled segments, ranging from nano, kiosk, and micro-businesses.
A visible reference usually includes the vulcanisers, corner shop owners, single retail marketers, repairers, painters, business centre operators, restaurants, market women, and men in various open markets, among others. And the formal operations such as the law firms, accounting firms, consulting, fintech, real estate companies, and so on in the country.
The small business economic activities in Nigeria play an unrecognised but important role all across the country and can equally contribute largely to the growth of the non-oil sector, employment generation, and in the creation of more sustainable entrepreneurship if well harnessed.
For instance, the popular computer village in Ikeja, Aba Ariaria Market in Abia State, Kano Kurmi Market in Kano State, and Onitsha Market in Anambra State all consist of clusters of mostly nano, micro, and small businesses with huge economic engagements, however, without much involvement by the government.
Arguably small business represents a large chunk of private businesses in the country and contribute to more than 50 per cent of employment in Nigeria. Small businesses in Nigeria account for 48 per cent of the national GDP in the last five years. They account for about 50 per cent of industrial jobs, 96 per cent of businesses and 84 per cent of employment in the country, and nearly 90 per cent of the manufacturing sector, in terms of the number of enterprises according to the Nigeria Bureau of Statistics (NBS).
As it stands, relying on the NBS report shows that the total number of enterprises in Nigeria was estimated at 41.5 million, spread out across the 36 states in the country. The breakdown further shows that micro enterprises constitute a high 99.8 per cent (41.4 million) of total SMEs.
The country enjoys a high presence of small businesses and this form of business predominates any other form of businesses in the country. Why is that? The simple reason that comes to mind is largely due to the many advantages small businesses present. From a survey conducted amongst small business owners, independence is the key driver and this gives the advantage for entrepreneurs to be their own bosses and be self-reliant.
This singular attribute makes the total financial gain (100 per cent) be that of the entrepreneur or the business owner. Small businesses give the operator the total business control without any form
of dilution from external investors, which is a form of prestige for the operators, according to the views gathered from the survey conducted.
Without doubts, this form of business is easy to set up and enjoys low or no serious regulatory requirements, unlike large enterprises. In fact, it is usually made up of 1-3 people, with even less than N100,000 initial capital outlay to operate. This form of business structure in most cases provides direct services, what do I mean?
Hairdressers, fashion designers, dry-cleaners, artisans, kiosk, point of sales operators, (POS) and event planners to mention a few, provide services directly to customers, and with that, they enjoy quick patronage and easy payments.
The administration of small business services is not cumbersome. The problem of coordination and communication which is a major setback to the operations of large firms is therefore easily solved in small businesses.
They conveniently give keen interest and personal attention to the particular requirements of their customers who in some cases are willing to pay something extra for the special and urgent services rendered.
Some customers are tied to these small businesses because of the existing long relationship and personal attention they enjoy in the business. Further to this is the decision-making and taking process, because most owners of the small businesses are the operators or managers, there is hardly any problem in the decision process. Unlike the large enterprise approval processes, decision processes and dealing with customers can take a lot of time but with small businesses, the structure is simple with less bureaucracy. The vivid truth is that small businesses enjoy agility and flexibility because of the ease with which the
From a survey conducted amongst small business owners, independence is the key driver and this gives the advantage for entrepreneurs to be their own bosses and be selfreliant
businesses can transmute and transfer capital to other sectors or industries, just in case the business operators need to react quickly to opportunities. In short, small businesses can dramatically change their business model to align with new opportunities, which is the prime driver of innovation and creativity.
The survey also led to the conviction that focus is another important advantage of running a small business. The focus of the operators is relatively narrow, and this appears to be a good trait. While large enterprises have to search far and wide for opportunities, small businesses tend to know exactly where they have the most competitive advantage.
Therefore, with all these attributes, a wellfunctioning small business sector would add more value to the economic fortunes of the country, sustain livelihoods, reduce poverty by creating more job opportunities in the economy than any other sector. Furthermore, these attributes can also give small businesses a competitive edge over large corporate entities and can help shape their success.
In conclusion, the government should get more involved in the growth, and sustainability of small businesses within the country. The Nigerian government needs to realise and recognise that small businesses are crucial to job creation, economic diversification, innovation, poverty reduction, wealth creation, and income redistribution in their policy-making activities.
If this sector is well harnessed in Nigeria it can be a huge catalyst in transforming the country economically. On a final note, governments and financial institutions can support small businesses through funding, training programmes, and business-friendly policies, including access to tax incentives, and reduced regulatory barriers because small businesses can be a great tool to reduce the increasing unemployment rate in the country.
Investing in small business growth is a strategic approach that President Tinubu-led government can use to achieve sustainable employment levels. Good luck!
•Olubiyi is an entrepreneurship and business management expert.
SHOTS OF THE WEEK
Photo Editor: Peace Udugba [08033050729]
Airtel Africa Foundation, Dr. Segun Ogunsanya (l) with the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital
L-R: Justice Mary Itsueli, High Court of Justice, Edo State; representative of the Solicitor-General of the Federation and Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Justice (FMoJ), Mrs. Gladys Odegbaro; Director, Administration of Criminal Justice and Reforms Department, FMoJ, Mrs. Leticia Ayoola-Daniels; Programme Officer of UNODC, Melissa Omene and Justice Maryann Anenih, during the validation session for harmonized Restorative Justice Training Manuals in Abuja on March 26, 2025.
L-R: Territory Manager, Enugu State, Unilever Nigeria Plc, Stanley Okorafor; Consumer Engagement Center Specialist for Unilever Nigeria and Ghana, Gloria Olatunbosun; Chairperson, Nigerian
Association, Enugu State, Dr. Linda Onyejaka; Dean, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Prof. Linda Okoye and Future -X Unilever Campus Ambassador, Macdaniel Obediah, during the Pepsodent school outreach as part of activities to commemorate the World Oral Health Day
Chairman,
Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, during the presentation of Airtel’s N1billion support fund to the 3 Million Technical Talents (3MTT) programme of the Federal Government in Abuja on March 26, 2025.
L-R: Senior Special Assistant to the President, on SDGs, Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire; United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohammed Malik and Programme Advisor, representing the UNFPA Deputy Country Representative in Nigeria, Dr Edith Boni, during the inauguration of Season 3 of the SDGs Short Film Challenge and Awards in Abuja on March 26, 2025.
Dental
held in Enugu recently.
L-R: Tax specialist, Ofune Uwafili-Adibite; P&C Business Support Manager, Olatoun Oladele; Legal Director, Yemisi Agweye; Business Adviser, Olusola Owoseni; Factory Controller, Ibifuro Adewusi and Corporate Affairs Manager, Chioma Nwachuku, during the International Women’s Day Luncheon held by Japan Tobacco International Nigeria (JTI) in Lagos, recently.
L-R: Director, Strategic Business Initiatives, ipNX, Olusola Teniola; Regional Sales Head, East, ipNX Business Division, Joy Eholor; Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti; Group Managing Director, ipNX, Ejovi Aror and Abia State Chief Information Officer, Gerald Ilukwe, at the kick-off of the Abia State Internet, Wide Area Network & Managed Network Services Project on March 21, 2025.
Nigeria vs. Zimbabwe: A Disappointing Draw That Exposes Familiar Flaws
BY JUDE OBAFEMI
On Tuesday last week, the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo played host to a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier that carried immense weight for Nigeria’s Super Eagles. Facing off against the Warriors of Zimbabwe, this match was more than just another fixture - it was a litmus test for Eric Chelle’s fledgling tenure as head coach and a chance to build on the momentum from his debut 2-0 victory over Rwanda just days prior. With South Africa pulling ahead in Group C, Nigeria needed a win to close the gap and assert their dominance at home. Instead, the Super Eagles stumbled to a 1-1 draw, conceding a late equaliser that has left their qualification hopes hanging by a thread.
Eric Chelle’s appointment as Super Eagles head coach brought with it a promise of renewal. His debut against Rwanda showed a high-pressing, aggressive style that overwhelmed the Amavubi, with Victor Osimhen’s brace underlining the potency of a revitalised attack. In Uyo, Chelle stuck with a similar blueprint, deploying a 4-1-3-2 formation that leaned heavily on attacking flair. The starting lineup—featuring Stanley Nwabali in goal, a back four of Bright Osayi-Samuel, William Troost-Ekong, Calvin Bassey, and Ola Aina, Wilfred Ndidi anchoring midfield, and an attacking quartet of Samuel Chukwueze, Ademola Lookman, Alex Iwobi, Moses Simon, and Osimhen—signaled intent to dominate Zimbabwe from the outset.
The first half saw Nigeria control possession and press high, forcing Zimbabwe goalkeeper Washington Arubi into several early saves. However, the intensity that defined the Rwanda win waned as the game progressed.
While Chelle’s substitutions - bringing on Tolu Arokodare for Chukwueze in the 59th minute and later Victor Boniface for Osimhen in the 87thsuggested a commitment to maintaining attacking pressure, they also exposed a tactical misstep. Replacing Osimhen with Boniface, another forward, rather than reinforcing the midfield left Nigeria vulnerable in the closing stages.
Zimbabwe capitalised on this imbalance, with Tawanda Chirewa’s 90thminute equaliser punishing a fatigued and overstretched Super Eagles side.
Chelle’s post-match comments hinted at this fatigue: “We made a great first half with lots of intensity and aggression, but maybe the players were a little tired.” Yet, this admission raises questions about his game management. While the Rwanda victory gave a glimpse into his ability to impose a proactive style, the Zimbabwe draw revealed a lack of adaptability when the initial plan faltered.
The decision to persist with an attacking setup, even as Zimbabwe grew into the game, suggests that Chelle’s tactical evolution is still a work in progress - one that must balance ambition with pragmatism if Nigeria is to navigate the qualifiers successfully.
Osimhen remains the heartbeat of this Super Eagles team. Fresh off his two-goal heroics in Kigali, the Galatasaray striker delivered again in Uyo, scoring the opener in the 74th minute with a trademark header. The goal, set up by a pinpoint Ola Aina cross after Moses Simon and substitute Arokodare combined, highlighted Osimhen’s aerial abilities and predatory instincts. It was his 25th international goal, placing him second on Nigeria’s all-time scoring list, just 12 shy of Rashidi Yekini’s record.
Yet, Osimhen’s brilliance could not mask the team’s broader struggles. Despite his early threat - testing Arubi with a volley and a header in the opening 10 minutes - he was often isolated, with Nigeria’s midfield failing to provide consistent service. His substitution in the 87th minute, reportedly at his own request due to fatigue, proved costly. While Victor Boniface is a capable replacement, the shift did nothing to shore up a midfield and a defense that had already begun to creak. Osimhen’s performance was a microcosm of Nigeria’s campaign: moments of individual excellence undermined by collective inconsistency.
Other key players underwhelmed. Ademola Lookman, so effective against Rwanda, squandered a golden chance in the 61st minute, firing into the side netting. Wilfred Ndidi,
typically a defensive rock, missed a clear opportunity to double the lead and was caught out of position for Zimbabwe’s late goal. Alex Iwobi showed flashes of creativity - his 64th-minute cross to Arokodare nearly yielded a second - but lacked the decisiveness to unlock Zimbabwe’s resolute defense. The Warriors’ backline, marshaled by Gerald Takwara and Munashe Garananga, deserves credit for stifling Nigeria’s attack, but the Super Eagles’ wastefulness in front of goal was self-inflicted.
The draw against Zimbabwe must be viewed through the lens of Group C’s fiercely competitive landscape. South Africa’s 2-0 win over Benin on the same day stretched their lead to six points, with 13 from six matches. Nigeria, now on seven points, sit fourth behind Benin (8) and Rwanda (7), with Lesotho (5) and Zimbabwe (4) still in the mix. With only the group winner guaranteed a spot at the 2026 World Cup and the four best runnersup advancing to a playoff, Nigeria’s path to automatic qualification is narrowing.
The Super Eagles have four matches remaining: home and away ties against South Africa and Benin, plus games against Lesotho and Rwanda. To finish top, they will need to win all four, a tall order given their current form, while hoping South Africa drop points. The alternative, a secondplace finish and a playoff berth, remains viable but precarious, requiring Nigeria to outpace other runners-up across CAF’s nine groups. This draw, coupled with South Africa’s consistency, underscores how Nigeria’s early stumbles - three draws and a loss in their first four games - continue to haunt them.
What does this result reveal about Chelle’s long-term vision? His emphasis on high pressing and attacking football is a departure from the more cautious approaches of past coaches, signaling a desire to harness Nigeria’s wealth of offensive talent. The Rwanda win suggested this could work, but the Zimbabwe draw exposed its limitations when execution falters or fatigue sets in. Chelle’s insistence that “my job is to make the choices, and their job is to accept my choice” reflects a strong-willed manager intent on imposing his identity, yet it also hints at a rigidity that could prove costly.
For this vision to succeed, Chelle must address Nigeria’s inconsistency, a recurring theme in this campaign. The Super Eagles have oscillated between brilliance and mediocrity, a trait that predates his tenure but one he must now confront. Defensive lapses, like the one that gifted Chirewa his goal, and a failure to kill off games when ahead point to deeper structural issues. Chelle’s challenge is to instill resilience and tactical discipline alongside his attacking ethos, particularly in high-stakes home matches where dropped points are inexcusable.
ogannah@thewillnews.com
A Dangerous Precedent: Tinubu, Wike, Fubara and the Rivers State Takeover
Thedecision by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to suspend the Rivers State Government, including Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy and the State House of Assembly, has ignited a firestorm of debate across Nigeria.
On March 18, Tinubu declared a state of emergency in the oil-rich state, citing a breakdown of governance stemming from the bitter feud between Fubara and Nyesom Wike, the former governor now serving as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.
The President appointed Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, a retired naval officer, to run the state as sole administrator, effectively sidelining elected officials. This move, justified by Tinubu under Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, has drawn sharp criticism from legal experts, opposition leaders and civil society groups, who argue it oversteps constitutional boundaries and threatens Nigeria’s fragile democracy. The judiciary, particularly the Supreme Court, now faces a defining moment to determine whether this action holds water or sets a dangerous precedent for executive overreach.
The root of this crisis lies in the political tug-of-war between Wike and Fubara, a rivalry that has paralysed Rivers State for nearly two years. It began shortly after Fubara took office in May 2023, when tensions flared over alleged control of the state’s funds and political machinery. Wike, a powerful figure in the Peoples Democratic Party and Fubara’s predecessor, expected to maintain influence over his successor. Fubara, however, moved to assert his independence, sparking a feud that escalated into chaos.
Key flashpoints included Fubara’s demolition of the House of Assembly complex in December 2023, which he claimed was structurally unsound and the defection of 27 lawmakers loyal to Wike, a move the Supreme Court later ruled unconstitutional in another bizarre ruling. By February 2025, the apex court declared that Rivers State had lacked a functioning government for two years, pointing to the absence of a legitimate legislature and Fubara’s failure to re-present the 2025 budget (The governor tried to represent the budget but the House of Assembly leadership dodged). Tinubu seized on this ruling, alongside reports of pipeline vandalism, to justify his emergency declaration. Now this is where I strongly disagree with the President.
Section 305 of the Nigerian Constitution grants the president power to declare a state of emergency if there exists a “clear and present danger” to public order, safety or the federation’s stability. The process requires the National Assembly’s approval within two days if the President acts alone, a step Tinubu followed, securing a controversial voice vote from both chambers of the National Assembly on March 20. Hell-bent on approving the President’s emergency declaration, the leadership of the National Assembly opted for voice vote when it was obvious they did not have the 240 votes needed in the House of Representatives and 73 votes in the Senate, a key constitutional requirement. I have been asking myself whether it is possible to determine 2/3 approval by voice vote? LOL. The National Assembly in my opinion violated the constitution. I also will like to state here that the constitution remains silent on whether this power extends to suspending elected officials or dissolving democratic institutions. Section 1(2) insists that Nigeria must be governed only in accordance with its constitutional provisions, while Section 188 outlines impeachment by the state legislature - not presidential fiat - as the sole method to remove a governor.
Some legal scholars have been quick to point out this gap, arguing that Tinubu’s suspension of Fubara and the assembly lacks explicit constitutional backing. Historical examples, such as Olusegun Obasanjo’s 2004 emergency in Plateau State, where the governor was removed, remain contested and never fully validated by the Supreme Court, casting doubt on their legitimacy as precedent. Again, in my opinion, Obasanjo’s action was illegal and unconstitutional.
There is enough to point to Tinubu’s action as a blatant overreach, a power grab dressed up as a stabilising measure. The situation in Rivers, while chaotic, hardly amounted to the kind of existential threat Section 305 envisions - think widespread violence or a total collapse of order, not political infighting. Compare this to the northern states plagued by terrorism or the Southeast reeling from killings and intimidation, where Tinubu has not declared emergencies. Why Rivers, then?
Many point to Wike’s fingerprints. The optics make it appear like a stitch-up between Tinubu and Wike to wrest control of the state. It is a power grab and reckless executive overreach to secure victory for the President in 2027 election. This position is echoed by figures like Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Wole Soyinka, Femi Falana, labour unions and several others.
The appointment of a sole administrator to replace an elected government strikes a particularly sour note. It harks back to military rule, when unelected officials ran states at the behest of a central authority. Democracy, however flawed in Rivers, demands that the people’s mandate - Fubara and the assembly were elected, after all - be respected. Suspending them hands the President a tool that could easily be wielded against other states for political
ends.
Imagine a future where any governor falling out with Abuja risks the same fate. Letting this stand invites dictatorship masked as democracy, a sentiment also shared by the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project, which has sued Tinubu over the “unlawful” suspensions. Even the All Progressives Congress’s Felix Morka, defending the move, admitted Fubara “trampled on democracy,” but that critique cuts both ways—does Tinubu’s response not do the same?
A better path was open to the President. He could have called Wike and Fubara to the table, using his stature to broker peace without torching democratic structures. Mediation, not suspension, aligns with Nigeria’s federal system, where states enjoy autonomy under the Constitution.
Fubara’s missteps, like the assembly demolition, deserved scrutiny—perhaps even legal consequences—but unseating an entire government oversteps the mark. Patience might have spared Nigeria this constitutional quagmire. Instead, the sole administrator, Ibas, has sacked all Fubara’s appointees, running Rivers State like a fiefdom answerable only to Abuja—a far cry from democratic governance.
Reactions have been swift and fierce. Seven PDP governors, led by Oyo’s Seyi Makinde, have dragged Tinubu and the National Assembly to the Supreme Court, arguing that Section 305 does not empower the president to suspend elected officials or appoint administrators. They challenge the voice vote’s legitimacy, insisting it fell short of the two-thirds majority required for such a proclamation. Even within Tinubu’s camp, the Presidency defends it as a “temporary reset,” not a takeover, but that rings hollow when elected voices are silenced.
The Supreme Court now holds the key. It must decide whether Tinubu’s actions align with the Constitution or violate its core tenets. Yet the court’s record is patchy—decisions in cases involving former Senator President Ahmed Lawan, Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Hope Uzodinma have raised eyebrows for apparent political bias. This case, though, feels clearer. The lack of a dire emergency, the bypassing of impeachment processes, and the imposition of an unelected ruler all clash with democratic principles. A ruling against Tinubu could reinstate Fubara and the assembly, sending a message that presidential power has limits. Failure to do so risks normalising executive impunity, a blow to Nigeria’s 26-year democratic experiment.
Rivers matters because Nigeria’s democracy hangs in the balance and the region has a history of volatility which the current administration must do everything in its power to avoid given that it is the region with the country’s cash cow - crude oil. If President Tinubu can suspend one state government on shaky grounds today, what stops him - or his successors - from targeting others? The judiciary must rise to the occasion, not just for Rivers’ people but for the nation.
Restoring the elected government in Rivers State would affirm that power flows from the ballot, not Abuja’s whims. President Tinubu missed a chance to lead by example, to show that disputes can be settled without dismantling democracy. Now, the Supreme Court must clean up the mess. It owes Nigeria a verdict rooted in truth and justice, one that ends this standoff and shores up a system already buckling under strain. Anything less, and the cracks in this democracy will only widen.
The lack of a dire emergency, the bypassing of impeachment processes, and the imposition of an unelected ruler all clash with democratic principles. A ruling against Tinubu could reinstate Fubara and the assembly, sending a message that presidential power has limits. Failure to do so risks normalising executive impunity, a blow to Nigeria’s 26-year democratic experiment
