THEWILL NEWSPAPER, November 12, 2023

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NOVEMBER 12, 2023 2023

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L A G O S F A SA S H I O N W E E K LAGOS F HION WEEK

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Despite Challenges, Lagos Presents Signs of Greatness • Still Nigeria's Top Investment Destination • Game-Changing Multi-BillionDollar Infrastructure Unfolding • Hosts 38km Fourth Mainland Bridge, Longest in Africa • Undoubtedly, Africa's Music & Entertainment Capital

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Digital

Onah Nwachukwu Editor, THEWILL DOWNTOWN

T

he fashion season is gradually coming to an end. Designers showcased and presented their collections and left it to us to decide who did a great job.

And so this week, we bring you a summary of the designers at Lagos Fashion Week. There were several offsite, stand-alone shows, each doing its best to put up a great show, but the best by far was the Atafo show— it was enthralling.

I mentioned this before, so I won’t bore you with more talk about the Atafo show; I’ll only say that the designer set a standard that will be very hard to beat.

Fashion shows in Nigeria ought to take a cue from it.

Another designer who did a great job of his stand-alone show was Sisiano. The collection was unique, and the team beautifully orchestrated the show; the designer gave his all.

It didn’t just stop with the fashion shows; the retail part of the Lagos Fashion Week experience left me asking myself one question: With the rather expensive purchase cost of Nigerian designer brands, how easy is it for anyone to support the industry? It boils down to the cost of production. With the cost of raw materials at a record high, it leaves the designers no choice but to price their merchandise at a high rate, making it difficult for us to actually “Buy Nigerian.”

I also ask myself: What is the solution to this problem?

V O L 3 N O. 4 6 • N O V E M B E R 1 2 , 2 0 2 3

As you read this, we should be on the final day of the GTCO Fashion Weekend, which brings us to the end of the fashion season. I’m hoping their runway has an impressive lineup.

In other news, our magazine is fully interactive. Click on the page title on the content page to take you straight to that page or on the instructions underneath the QR codes on page 16 to take you to the playlist.

Until next week, enjoy your read.

LAGOS FASHION WEEK

THE MOST EPIC FASHION SHOWDOWN

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NOVEMBER 12, 2023 T H E W I L L N E W S P A P E R • www.thewillnigeria.com

COVER

Despite Challenges, Lagos Presents Signs of Greatness • Still Nigeria's Top Investment Destination • Game-Changing Multi-BillionDollar Infrastructure Unfolding • Hosts 38km Fourth Mainland Bridge, Longest in Africa • Undoubtedly, Africa's Music & Entertainment Capital

BY AMOS ESELE, OLUSINA OLAOLU, SAM DIALA, JUDE OBAFEMI AND MIKE JIMOH

G

overnor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, was upbeat last weekend about the state’s attractive greatness within the context of an improving African continent.

Far away in Marrakesh, Morocco, at the African Investment Forum, the governor who sported his usual smooth haircut and looking very dapper in a navy-blue suit charmed his audience with his concise wording of his government’s sustained vision for the world’s sixth megacity.

Of the United Nations recognised 33 megacities globally, three exist in Africa: Cairo in Egypt, Kinshasa in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Lagos in Nigeria.

In Africa, Lagos leads in terms of the size of its population, commercial and economic centrality to the country’s GDP. “As the biggest black city in the world growing at about 3.5 per cent annually, Lagos has the potential

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and power that requires constant planning”, to keep it in tune with applied metrics in the areas on infrastructural developments, he said, during a boardroom session on leveraging cities for national development attended by private investors, fund managers and development partners.

Sanwo-Olu highlighted the need to prioritise infrastructural development, so as to address the challenges posed by an ever-expanding population due to daily migration attracted by the city’s possibilities and disclosed that four years ago his administration envisioned it in a 6-point agenda that has measurable achievements, particularly in the area of transportation, which facilitates ease of movement to markets, shopping malls, entertainment centres, schools and work.

“The state, in its relations with the rest of the world, would be predictable, believable, resilient, and have all of the trappings of a mega city,” Governor SanwoOlu told the investors, adding that, “what that means is that we have a city and the audacity to make it first among equals is our responsibility. To do that, we have cleaned up our regulatory environment; we

have opened up our doors to ensure all the red tape has been removed,” he said.

LAGOS AT A GLANCE As the smallest state in Nigeria with a land mass measuring 3,577 square kilometres and an estimated 20 million population, 4,193 persons per square kilometre and a host to 2,600 communities going by the 2002 National Population Census, during which the government independently enumerated 4.5 million households, Lagos presents a sharp social contrast.

In a national macro-environment, which presents low growth, high inflation, a depreciating Naira and exchange rate volatility, Lagos is faced with the possibility of deepening urban poverty in the context of scarce resources, poor shelter and infrastructure, traffic gridlock, chaotic environment, leading to social instability.

But as the commercial nerve of the country with a skilled labour force, ability to generate over 70 per cent of its internally generated revenue and THEWILLNIGERIA

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...Lagos Presents Signs of Greatness contributing substantially to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product, Lagos presents the government with the power to control its chosen development strides through committed leadership and attract investors seeking safer havens and diversifications for their funds following the disruptions caused

by COVID-19, the ongoing war in Ukraine and the Israeli-Hamas conflict.

As Sanwo-Olu told his audience in Morocco, subsequent governments in the state have designed a policy framework often codified as points agenda, to tackle the challenges in infrastructural development.

ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT In its effort to place Lagos on a global spotlight among the world’s most outstanding cities, the state government is firing from all cylinders.

For a state that the African Property Investment in 2019 predicted would accommodate 30 million people by 2035, with 86 immigrants from within the country and the ECOWAS region entering the state daily to stay, according to former Governor Akinwumi Ambode, the unmatched drive by the government towards aggressive infrastructure development is understandable.

As a result, the government expands its annual budget to accommodate humongous capital projects in various sectors which fuel the explosion in wealth creation.

Consequently, the state budget has increased in geometric progression, hitting N1.768 trillion in 2023, up from N287.68 billion in 2019, representing a 514.5 percent jump.

The state government approved a 2023 Budget of N1.768 trillion, which is made up of N1.020 trillion (Capital Expenditure) and N748.097 Billion (Recurrent Expenditure-Debt Charges inclusive), resulting in a Capital to Recurrent ratio of 58:42.

MULTI-BILLION DOLLAR INFRASTRUCTURE PLAN The Lagos State Government has instituted a multi-billion dollar infrastructure funding plan to accommodate the gigantic projects meant to catalyse rapid economic development in the planned mega city. This includes the Fourth Mainland Bridge, which will cost $2.5 billion and will be constructed by a Portuguese company, Mota-Engil Group, and two Chinese ventures.

The bridge will be built under a public-private partnership (PPP), meaning that the construction companies would bear part of the costs of the project.

It is expected that motorists will pay tolls on the bridge from which parts of the loans will be recouped.

The bridge will be 38 kilometres long, connecting Lagos Island (Langbasa in Lekki) to Itamaga in Ikorodu. It is a dual carriageway with provision for BRT (Bus Rapid Transport) and future expansion. It is expected to become the longest bridge in Africa, featuring three toll plazas, nine interchanges, 4.5 km Lagoon Bridge and other added features.

The construction of the bridge will last four years.

This bridge, like the planned new airport, will be a game changer in Lagos as it will help ease traffic congestions in the city, cut travel time and decongest the other routes.

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With a population of over 20 million, Lagos is certainly living up to its expectation as the largest city in Africa. Currently, the longest bridge in the continent is Egypt’s 6th October Bridge, measuring 20.5 km.

billion, the deep seaport is equipped with state-of-theart technology, such as biometric scanners and facial recognition systems. It is expected to ease cargo congestion that costs billions of dollars in annual revenue.

THE RAIL PROJECT

INVESTMENT DESTINATION

Governor Sanwo-Olu further revealed that the rail project being executed by the state government will gulp over N100bn. Lagosians are thrilled that the project is progressing well. It consists of the Blue Line (Okokomaiko – Marina) which commenced operations in September and the Red Line (Agbado – Marina), the construction of which is ongoing.

Data from the National Bureau of Statistics, NBS, showed that Lagos attracts the highest investment inflow among the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

As expected, the train has commenced operations.

Both the Red and Blue lines will carry over 20,000 passengers daily when fully operational. It goes without saying that these projects will undoubtedly stimulate the growth of the GDP of Lagos, estimated at $180 billion currently, about half of Nigeria’s GDP, and position it as a 21st-century megacity.

As part of the transportation development, the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) has a fleet of 21 ferries, up from seven in 2019 for water transportation.

AIRPORT, SEAPORT EMERGE In addition, the state also plans to build an airport near Epe to serve the growing population in the Lekki area where the deep seaport is located.

“This investment will power our long-term infrastructure projects, demonstrating confidence from international and local partners in our growing economy,” Governor Sanwo-Olu had said.

The Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Public-Private Partnerships (PPP), Ope George, confirmed the state government's readiness to construct the airport, stating that the construction will commence in 2023. The project will cost US $900 million and cover 3,500 hectares of land.

“

Built within four years at the cost of about $1.5

I am delighted to be here on my very first trip to Nigeria as Assistant Secretary for Economic and Business Affairs, at the US Department of State.

I just arrived last night from South Africa and already I can see why everyone finds Lagos to be such an electric place.

The energy here is palpable

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From Q1 2022 to Q2 2023, Nigeria received a total capital importation of $7.489 billion with Lagos hosting $5.096 billion or 68 percent of the total investment inflow, compared with the FTC which ranked a distant second with $2.233 billion or 29.8 percent.

With its huge population, Lagos stands out as a unique city with amazing capacity to fuel an explosion in wealth creation. Its uniqueness resides in the fact that every aspect of human endeavour is accommodated – finance, education, energy, manufacturing, service, real estate, transportation, mining, agriculture, tourism, sports, entertainment, telecommunication, media and MSMEs. There are 11, 643 registered SMEs in Lagos State, as stated by the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) and National Bureau of Statistics Collaborative Survey.

The state has over 8,000 registered companies.

Nigerian Stock Exchange trades over N37 trillion Naira market capitalization – one of the largest in Africa Lagos Computer Village has over 10,500 business transactions that generate $2 billion annually. It is the hub of technology incubation in the state.

HUGE REVENUE, HUGE DEBTS Lagos has the largest IGR according to NBS. It generated N267.23 billion in HY 2021: PAYE N152.66 bn, Road Tax N6.98 bn, MDAs N41.26 billion. The latest figures released by the Debt Management Office indicated that the state recorded the highest domestic debt as of the end of Q4 2022 with N807.

21bn; this was followed by Delta State with N304.

25bn and Ogun State with N270. 45bn Lagos recorded the highest external debt with US$ 1.26 billion, followed by Kaduna with US$569.38 million as of Q4 2022.

SPORTS Here, Lagos is living up to its name as the centre of excellence as it undertakes massive sports infrastructure development aimed at transforming the city into a premier destination for sports in Africa and globally. Towards this end, the Lagos State Government has constructed and renovated stadiums, arenas and other sports facilities across the state.

When Governor Sanwo-Olu revealed that his administration had started building 10 ministadiums to be completed in early 2022, the aim of continued infrastructural development, in terms of sporting facilities, was obvious.

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COVER

...Lagos Presents Signs of Greatness These arenas have been completed and commissioned and added to several other completed projects, including the upgraded Mobolaji Johnson Arena, revamped Teslim Balogun Stadium, Agege Stadium, and Rowe Park Sports Centre, which can now host major international tournaments. The state government has been able to fund these projects through the Lagos Sports Trust Fund, established to finance youth sports programmes.

Yet, more needs to be done to accomplish the lofty goal of making Lagos comparably competitive against other sporting destinations in Africa and beyond. Attracting greater private sector financing remains key to sustain this rapid sports infrastructure development.

On the positive side, the government's focus on training more coaches and sports administrators will definitely strengthen the sector. The progress made so far confirms Lagos' enormous potential to become a world-class hub for sports.

The sports infrastructure drive brings many benefits, including engaging youths in positive activities over crime and creating jobs. After two decades, the national football team has returned to playing games in Lagos due to improved facilities. In 2021, Lagos hosted the Aisha Buhari International Women's Football Tournament, attended by FIFA President, Gianni Infantino. The state's status as a sports hub has seen it being preferred as host for African Basketball tournaments, wrestling, boxing, table tennis, badminton and long distance race competitions, such as the internationally recognised annual Access Bank Marathon.

With Lagos' efforts to upgrade existing venues and build new state-of-the-art facilities, the city is realising its vision of developing sports for socio-economic growth. Lagos provides a model that governments across Nigeria should emulate to revive sports and empower youth nationwide. Though challenges remain, the city's future as a premier destination for sports in Africa shines brightly.

THE FLIP SIDE The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU), a sister publication of The Economist of London, in a 2023 Global Liveability report, said Lagos is now the fourth worst city to live in the world.

According to the EIU, Lagos was ranked above Algiers, the capital of Algeria; Tripoli, Libya’s capital; and Damascus, capital of war-torn Syria.

The report surveyed 173 cities and used 30 qualitative and quantitative factors across five broad categories: stability, healthcare, culture and environment, education and infrastructure.

Lagos was the second worst liveable city in 2022 after holding the position for two consecutive years and was only behind Damascus which has been held down on the list by social unrest, terrorism and conflict.

EIU said Lagos moved up the ranks after seeing improvements in healthcare and education but added that corruption is still a problem.

“Even at the bottom of our rankings, cities such as Lagos (Nigeria) and Algiers (Algeria) have gained ground, with some improvements in their healthcare and education systems. Both are in countries that are

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energy exporters and have to some extent benefited from higher global oil and gas prices,” the report reads.

“Although corruption continues to be an issue, some additional public funding has been made available for infrastructure and public services, which have also benefited from the decline in COVID -19 o cases.”

The ease of doing business (EDB) is a challenge in Lagos, according to an EDB survey in 2021.

Lagos came 20th on the list, scoring an overall average of 5.28. In infrastructure and security, the nation's commercial nerve centre scored 3.71; in transparency and accessibility to information, it scored 6.49; in the regulatory environment, it scored 3.62 while in skills and labour, it scored 3.62.21.

The overpopulation of Lagos contributes to the huge environmental challenges, such as noise pollution, blocking of rain water ways which results in flooding and endangering the life of the residents.

Just like in business, sports also presents a flip side. The increasing levels of insecurity in the state has to be given attention. It must ramp up its maintenance culture to secure long-term availability of these infrastructure projects, encourage a sporting mindset among children and youths, engage with role models to inspire a new generation of sports champions and deal with the wanton predilection for extortion in and around sports facilities by statebacked hoodlums and thugs.

INSECURITY AND CRIME Career criminals at one time in Lagos lamented that things had become so difficult that there was virtually nothing to steal anymore. How true! The period of inactivity for men of the underworld began with the lockdown during COVID-19 from March 2020.

With businesses shut down, those running them safe and secure in their homes, burglars, petty thieves and armed robbers were sent on compulsory vacation. It was a season of drought for most of them with some blaming the deadly virus for the calamity.

No sooner was the virus contained than another disaster befell the criminals: Currency swap and

“

Lagos has its challenges, no doubt...But the huge infrastructural developments... and the enviable advancements in the economy, which have made Lagos the most attractive investment destination in Africa, cannot be discounted

the introduction of new naira denominations by the Central Bank of Nigeria. Although people moved around freely unlike during the COVID-19 lockdown, there was barely enough money in circulation to tempt any self-respecting thief into action.

With time, more money was pumped into circulation by the CBN, thus prodding the robbers into action and metro reporters of Nigerian newspapers reporting their activities correspondingly.

The series of robberies that ensued in some parts of Lagos prompted some chairmen of Community Development Associations to send an SOS to Governor Sanwo-Olu. Incidents of violence and crime have been reported in popular places like the Mike 2 area where hoodlums clashed with police and disrupted activities for several days.

For instance, recent occurrences include kidnappings and armed robberies in Green Land Estate and abduction at Lanre Bus Stop in Igando area of the state, where the victim was forcibly taken from his vehicle, leaving his abandoned car by the roadside with its headlights on.

Another alarming incident occurred on Salvation Army Street in Oshodi and Governor’s Road in Ikotun, where eyewitnesses reported that a group of criminal elements, numbering about six, riding on two motorbikes, each carrying three individuals, dispossessed innocent citizens of their valuables, including cash and mobile phones.”

Two months before the incident, the Lagos State Command of the Nigeria Police Force arrested 32 suspects for criminal activities, according to SP Benjamin Hundeyin. During the raid, the police recovered 25 firearms, 75 live cartridges, 12 of them expended, and a toy gun.

The gunsmiths busted in Adata Village of Ibeju-Lekki were clearly not fabricating toy guns.

“They were manufacturing real firearms based on “actionable intelligence,” Hundeyin said.

With the spike in crime in the state, law enforcement agents have been equally hard at work, nabbing criminals in their numbers as evidenced by recent arrests of criminals who seem to have been adapting as well.

Reports of thieves masquerading as dispatch riders to vandalise vehicles abound. They specialise in removing the brain box of cars. There have been cases of thieves driving luxury cars and jeeps to rob unsuspecting victims who might mistake them for affluent or decent people. Currently, men dressed in costly suits and driving expensive cars, perhaps to evade the police, have reportedly been involved in stalking and robbing rich preys.

When contacted for comments, Police Public Relations Officer, SP Hundeyin, asked to be sent a text message but he failed to reply.

However, Lagos State has a Security Trust Fund in place since 2007. The Fund is aimed at equipping the police and supporting its operations, as well as improving the welfare of its personnel. With this, the state government has managed to keep the city safe, enabling shops and petrol filling states to remain open well into the night.

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...Lagos Presents Signs of Greatness VISITORS' VIEWPOINTS

ENTERTAINMENT CAPITAL

The Assistant Secretary for Economic and Business Affairs at the US Department of State, Ramin Toloui, last Monday, said he understood why everyone he spoke with about Lagos found the city as ‘such an electric place,' saying, ''The energy here is palpable.''

Lagos is also a music and entertainment hub in Africa with the acclaimed Nollywood, Afrobeats and global fashionistas firmly rooted in the city that never sleeps. Music and entertainment particularly appear to be one of the new drivers of the economy not only in the state but in the country as A-Class artistes with large followings across the world find a home in Lagos. The entertainment sector also drives the booming tourism and hospitality sectors which bring in huge revenues for the state government.

Toloui, who flew in from South Africa, on a visit to the city, stated this in a keynote lecture on Intellectual Property Protection at the Africa Creative Market where he was a guest. ''I am delighted to be here on my very first trip to Nigeria as Assistant Secretary for Economic and Business Affairs, at the US Department of State. I just arrived last night from South Africa and already I can see why everyone finds Lagos to be such an electric place. The energy here is palpable, '' the Assistant Secretary said.

Excited at the reception given to him, Toloui, expressed gratitude to Dr Inya Lawal from Ascend Foundation Studios for partnering with the US Mission in Nigeria to organite IP programming within the Africa Creative Market, adding, '' I would also like to thank her partner at Paramount, Bada Akintunde Johnson, and Herbert Wigwe for supporting the event.''

He also appreciated the Chairman and CEO of 21st Century Technologies, Wale Ajisebutu, "for hosting us at your beautiful state-of-the-art location and for taking the time to join us today, as well as our colleagues at the US Mission in Nigeria who helped us organise today’s event."

Earlier in August, the Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade at the US Department of Commerce, Marisa Lago, led a delegation of the Global Diversity Export Initiative Trade Mission to Lagos on the last lap of their three-nation African tour which had earlier taken them to Ghana and South Africa, and she testified to what she described as the "electric pace" in Lagos .

"I am also especially pleased to be in Lagos. While it is my second time in Nigeria, it is my first time in Lagos. As a native and resident of NYC, I am loving Lagos’ electric pace! The innovative energy in Lagos, and especially here at the Microsoft Garage, is palpable. And the results that flow from this energy won’t benefit just Nigeria, as ideas originated here (will) inevitably grow beyond the Garage’s walls and Nigeria’s borders. You will have an impact on the world!," she told her hosts.

Only last month, the German Chancellor, Olaf Scholz, was in Lagos and he enjoyed a guided tour of the Lagos waterways as he visited the University of Lagos, Akoka , through the UNILAG waterfront, thus becoming the first foreign leader to visit the university through the waterfront.

THEWILL recalls that former British Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, who was on a visit to deliver the Anyiam Osigwe Annual Lecture in Lagos a few years ago, also attested to the fun of the nightlife in Lagos by visiting a place of choice during his visit. Also, the French Prime Minister, Emmanuel Macron, was a guest at the Africa Shrine in Ikeja, Lagos during one of his visits to Nigeria a few years ago as he reminisced about his early life in Nigeria. When Facebook CEO Mark Elliot Zuckerberg visited, he jogged on the streets of Lagos, a plus for security in the state.

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LAGOS VIEWPOINT The Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr Gbenga Omotoso, is optimistic about the success of government strategies to make Lagos a liveable megacity in the world. Upon enquiry, he sent a note to THEWILL which contained answers to many questions in the area of infrastructural development and the flip sides.

The state government has initiated a six-pillar policy programme named T.H.E.M.E.S to solve problems through good governance. The six pillars are Traffic Management and Transportation; Health and Environment; Education and Technology; Making Lagos a 21st Century state; Entertainment and Tourism; Security and Governance.

On gridlocks in Lagos, for example, Omotoso said that of the 60 gridlock points identified, 41 have been resolved; 13 are in the works and six are on the drawing board. Six troublesome roundabouts have been reconfigured – at Allen Avenue, Maryland, Ikotun, Lekki 1 and Lekki II, and Ajah.

He said, “The human element in the Lagos traffic situation is the biggest problem, although it is often overlooked. Some motorists get reckless, disregarding the regulations in a manner that calls to question their claim to have been licensed to drive.

But the government has responded with a law that prescribes forfeiture of vehicles for driving against the traffic. Such vehicles stand to be impounded and auctioned.”

On flooding during the rainy season, he described flooding as a natural and global phenomenon, which “we will always experience, no thanks to climatic changes that have got the world worried.”

“

He said, “In Europe, Germany, The Netherlands,

Like other growing cities around the world, Lagos has its challenges. But the challenges are being tackled with boldness, creativity and wisdom. This approach points to a glowing future for Lagos

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France, Italy and Belgium, among others, suffered devastating effects of flooding last year. In New York, motorists were being ferried away in their cars by furious floods. Some train stations were shut.

Holidaying police officers were recalled. It was an emergency of a frightful scale.

“Lagos, which is below sea level, with an average elevation of 1.5m above sea level, did not experience such calamities, despite the fact that it had an unusually high volume of rains because it was well prepared. At the same time, many other states, such as Jigawa, Taraba, Delta, Rivers and Cross River were badly affected.

“What we experience in Lagos are flash floods, which dissipate in one or two hours after a downpour.

The water disappears because there are functional drainage systems.

“Lagos has been investing heavily in its drainage facilities since 2004 when the state designed the seven systems that link the whole of Lagos with drainage channels. Old facilities are cleared regularly, even as new drains, which are highly efficient, are being built.

Besides, Lagos has set up a Resilience Office, the first of its kind in Nigeria, which envisages challenges and how to tackle them.”

Omotoso is unperturbed about negative reports on the state like the EIU report, because such “reports have not stopped the state’s phenomenal growth.”

Why have investors - and tourists – found Lagos to be a worthy destination, despite such jaundiced reporting? He asked and answered, “The Lekki Free Trade Zone keeps attracting manufacturers, with more than 40 already operating in the area.

“The Lekki Deep Seaport is the biggest in West Africa. The Dangote Refinery is the world’s largest.

Machines are roaring at the Dangote Fertiliser and Petrochemical Company. The audacity of many businesses has found expression in Lagos - courtesy of the enabling environment provided by past and present administrations," he stated.

Lagos, he maintained, tops the chart of Africa’s Foreign Direct Investments (FDI) with about $1.03b.

It is also the continent’s start-up capital.

“Our youths are setting up hubs where they are using technology to resolve everyday challenges. They are attracting the attention of tech giants, such as Microsoft, Facebook and others. Our music rules the world, pulsating on the airwaves in big cities and at night clubs all over the world. Our youths are setting the pace in the creative sector. Our movies are popular in many parts of the world,'' Omotoso added.

CONCLUSION Lagos has its challenges, no doubt, said Omotoso.

But the huge infrastructural developments, he contends, and the enviable advancements in the economy, which have made Lagos the most attractive investment destination in Africa, cannot be discounted.

“Like other growing cities around the world, Lagos has its challenges. But the challenges are being tackled with boldness, creativity and wisdom. This approach points to a glowing future for Lagos," he said.

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NEWS

L-R: Government Relations Advisor, Heritage Energy Operational Services Limited (HEOSL), Mr. Babajide Ololajulo; General Manager, Government, Joint Ventures and External Relations, Mr. Adesola Adebawo; Chief Executive Officer, HEOS, Mr. Ado Oseragbaje; Executive Secretary, Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Engr. Simbi Kesiye Wabote; Director Monitoring and Evaluation, Mr. Akintunde Adelana; Director Legal Services, Mr. Mohammed Umar and Director Planning, Research and Statistics, Mr. Abdulmalik Halilu, after the visit of HEOS to the Board's liaison office in Abuja on November 9, 2023

NCDMB ES Counsels IGP Probes Brutal SPO Abducted, Attack on NLC 5,368 Result Sheets Heritage Energy, Indigenous President Ajaero Lost in Boat Mishap Firms on Corporate Governance, NC Compliance in Bayelsa – INEC T he Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered an investigation into circumstances surrounding the alleged assault on the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Joe Ajaero.

The Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, confirmed the development to journalists in Owerri, capital of Imo State.

“Consequently, he has directed the Deputy InspectorGeneral (DIG) in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department to take over the matter with the primary objective of ascertaining the true facts surrounding the incident.

“The DIG is to address any ambiguities that may exist as the Police have been inundated with different versions of the incident, thereby making investigation imperative to clear the conflicting accounts.

“The Nigeria Police Force understands the importance of transparency and accountability in maintaining public trust", Adejobi said on Friday.

The Force Spokesman reiterated the IGP’s assurances to the public, especially the leadership of organised labour, that a thorough and unbiased inquiry will be conducted to provide clarifications.

Adejobi urged organised labour and the public to remain calm, as the IGP has personally intervened to address the issues surrounding the incident.

“Investigation has commenced, and the Nigeria Police Force guarantees that it will be followed to a conclusive end, and appropriate actions will be taken based on the findings of the investigation", he said.

THEWILL recalls that suspected thugs, allegedly aided by security operatives in Imo, on Wednesday, November 1, brutalised Ajaero.

The NLC President, other national leaders of NLC and TUC, were at the state Secretariat in Owerri to protest among other grievances, the backlog of unpaid salaries and allowances, pensions, gratuities, and noncompliance with the National Minimum Wage Act.

FROM DAVID OWEI, YENAGOA

A

Supervising Polling Officer (SPO), assigned to Registration Area-06 Ossioma in Sagbama Local Government Area of Bayelsa State has been abducted while waiting to board a boat at Amassoma Jetty.

In a statement signed by the Independent National Electoral Commission’s Head of Voter Education and Publicity in Bayelsa, Mr Wilfred Ifogah, said that a boat mishap claimed a total of 5,368 result sheets going to ward 17 Koluama in the Southern area of the state.

“We wish to confirm that a boat carrying election personnel to Registration Area-17 Koluama in Southern Ijaw LGA capsized.

Fortunately, no life was lost as all the election personnel numbering 12 and the boat operator was rescued.

“We, however, lost our result sheets, power banks and luggage containing personal effects of staff. The total number of registered voters in the affected Registration Areas is 5,368 and the number of PVCs collected is 5,311. INEC is making efforts to ensure the conduct of election in the affected area,” he said.

On the abducted SPO, Mr Ifogah said security agencies have been notified. Meanwhile, sporadic gunfire was heard around 3 am on Saturday, in Brass LGA, raising fears among residents of the town.

T

he management of Heritage Energy Operational Services Limited (HEOSL) and other indigenous oil and gas companies have been advised to adopt strict corporate governance guidelines in their operations if they want their firms to grow sustainably.

The companies were equally encouraged to comply with the provisions of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development (NOGICD) Act and to consult regularly with the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB).

The Executive Secretary of the NCDMB, Engr Simbi Kesiye Wabote, handed out these pieces of advice on Thursday when the Chief Executive Officer of HEOSL, Mr Ado Oseragbaje, and other key officials of the firm visited him at the Board’s liaison office in Abuja. He identified the lack of corporate governance as the biggest drawback of most indigenous oil and gas companies and deplored the situation where owners and directors of indigenous operating oil and gas firms serve as contractors to their company, thereby contravening corporate governance procedures and delivering poor services.

The prevalent negative practice, he warned, could negatively affect the divestments of assets by some international oil and gas entities to indigenous firms. The Executive Secretary commended the management of Heritage Energy Operational Services Limited for turning around the fortunes of their company and advised that they employ competent hands to manage sensitive positions, while also instituting corporate governance guidelines.Speaking further, Wabote underscored the need for oil companies to always comply with the provisions of the NOGICD Act, including the remittance of one percent of the value of contracts to the Nigerian Content Development Fund (NCDF) as mandated by section 104 of the NOGICD Act. He reiterated that NCDMB serves as an enabler of business, emphasizing that the agency’s regulatory decisions are always taken from a pragmatic point of view. He encouraged oil and gas companies to approach the Board regularly for discussions, even when they have challenges with complying with the NOGICD Act. He assured that “when you hold quarterly meetings with the key teams of the Board, we will support and guide you and there will not be any hitches.”

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11

POLITICS

NOVEMBER 12, 2023 WWW.THEWILLNIGERIA.COM

Tinubu’s Cabinet Retreat: Charting a Course to Progress, Prosperity

BY AYO ESAN

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resident Bola Tinubu organised a retreat for members of his cabinet last week, as a way of setting an agenda for his administration.

At the retreat, he charged his 48 ministers, advisers and other aides to put aside their personal interests and focus on his government’s immediate task of pulling Nigeria out of poverty.

Before the retreat, the ministers would have only seen each other and sat together at the weekly National Executive Meeting. The retreat therefore provided an opportunity for Tinubu not only to speak with his cabinet members about his expectations from them but also to set an agenda and discuss the task ahead.

The event also provided the opportunity for interactions between the cabinet members and the permanent secretaries.

The cabinet retreat is not a new development. In the past, successive governments in the country had often organised cabinet retreats at the beginning of their tenures. Starting from the Olusegun Obasanjo Administration, ministers were required to undergo some kind of refresher courses in the form of retreats.

The Ministerial retreat under former President Olusegun Obasanjo was a serious affair. Political commentators believe the retreat ensured that the ministers managed their ministries well and through this Nigeria was able to achieve debt forgiveness and other achievements recorded by that administration.

The Umaru Musa Yar’Adua Administration could not be properly assessed because of ill-health.

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“

We are not looking backwards; we can’t compare and give excuses. This is our country. We have to build it; we have to renew its foundation

The Goodluck Jonathan Administration also organised a retreat for ministers, but political watchers believe that although there were some brilliant professionals in the cabinet, the former President failed to provide proper coordination.

Setting the tone for the retreat penultimate Wednesday, President Tinubu said, “With strong determination, we have brought together the best brains, the best hands to navigate the future of this country.

“We are not looking backwards; we can’t compare and give excuses. This is our country. We have to build it; we have to renew its foundation. We have to give hope to the people, to Nigerians still in doubt whether democracy and economic growth will be the pathway to their prosperity.

“I’m here to assure you and to walk with you, the best brains we can put together in civil service, the brains that we can put together in our democratic parliament that have been chosen for us by the public.

Tinubu raised hope in the future, saying, “A great Nigeria is possible and a greater Nigeria will come under your commitment, guidance and resolute determination to give the country a direction.

“I’m with you. And please be rest assured that this great country is one family in one house, though geographically located, partitioned and living in different rooms. But we are all one family

Under former President Muhammadu Buhari, aside from the general ministerial retreat, there were sectoral ministerial retreats.

“We are here to make allegiance and give direction to that one family, making sure that relationships can only be stronger if we give hope to our people. We can only achieve our mission with boldness and determination and collaboration.

So, political analysts believe that Tinubu was only following tradition by organising a cabinet retreat. They only wish that the event will yield the desired results.

“As I’ve stated before, no one succeeds alone. You in the civil service, you must not see a minister as.. He or she will come and go and you will be there. You must make

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NOVEMBER 12, 2023 T H E W I L L N E W S P A P E R • www.thewillnigeria.com

POLITICS

...Charting a Course to Progress, Prosperity

“

a positive team for the good of this country.

“Yes! I admit and accept the assets and liabilities of my predecessor. It is part of the definition in my professional background.

If you are performing well, there is nothing to fear. If you miss the objective, we’ll review it. If there is no performance, you will have to leave us. No one is an island and the buck stops on my desk

“But you are in this ship. You will make good of it, but not wreck it. You are a member of a great family. Don’t see that minister as opportunistic. See, him or her as a partner with whom we must take the ship forward.

Navigate it through turbulence and clear weather.

“We are lucky we have a nation. Challenges are all over the world. You can see the chaos all around you. But be focused, like a man driving in a tunnel. Don’t look atthe sky, don’t look up, face your direction. Be committed to the value and principle of the results that will affect you, your neighbour and the entire nation.

“We’ve spent the last six months reviewing and evaluating ourselves, we’ve come a long way, but we set the agenda. Healthcare is a priority. Education of our people is a must. There is no other weapon against poverty than education. You have the opportunity to change things.

The climax of the retreat was the signing of performance bonds by ministers and permanent secretaries alongside President Tinubu, who charged all implementing authorities to unfailingly demonstrate diligence, innovative thinking, commitment and an unrelenting focus on results.

“Recently, three days ago, we received the Chancellor of the Republic of Germany and his delegation of investors.

One of their key complaints and the question is whether they can bring their capital, repatriate their dividend or, if not satisfied, take their capital away. The Minister of Trade and Investment was called upon by me to explain further that those obstacles are gone, never to come back again. We are open for business. That is why we established the Result Delivery Unit.”

Outlining the key recommendations from technical sessions of the retreat, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, announced that the retreat had raised the approval threshold for public procurement and encouraged open bidding for transparency.

The President asked his Special Adviser on Policy and Coordination, Ms. Hadiza Bala Usman, to immediately reactivate the tracking system in a way that maximally leverages cutting-edge digital innovation to provide realtime oversight capability for the benefit of all Nigerians.

President Tinubu charged his ministers to perform or be sent packing. He said.

“If you are performing well, there is nothing to fear.

If you miss the objective, we’ll review it. If there is no performance, you will have to leave us. No one is an island and the buck stops on my desk.

It recommended formulation of a standardised checklist detailing appointment criteria for ministers and heads of agencies and also, improved alignment of the budget for the Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to the President’s vision, strategic goals and relevant Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).

“I assure you, you have a free hand. You must be intellectually inquisitive to ask how, why, when and why it must be immediate. You have the responsibility to serve the people.

“Yes, we are talking about the population of this country.

What do you do with it? Make it an asset or a liability?

Focus on its progress and come up with bold endeavours.

We have great talents around the world, the biggest intellectually sound country in Horn of Africa.

Other key recommendations are to evaluate the efficiency of previous Federal Government Intervention programmmes and conduct of proper pre-and postproject assessments to determine the efficacy of the programmes; improve the judicial process by allowing promoted judges to complete pending cases in their new positions and revive the executive-legislature conference/tripartite meetings to discuss pre-budget issues ahead of time and to define consequences and accelerate prosecution of individuals, including lawmakers, who do not complete contracts awarded to them.

“Yes, we have challenges in the Sahel, we have challenges of climate change, the south and north of Nigeria is battered, with ocean surge, we have desert encroachment in the north, but we are still blessed with arable lands. We can do it; we can build our country.

On policies and priorities for the Renewed Hope agenda, the retreat recommended reforming the economy to deliver sustained inclusive growth; reforming tariff structure to enable trade, while still supporting domestic production.

“I’ve taken a young lady, very dynamic Hadiza Balla Usman, to head that delivery unit. If you have any complaints about her, see me. If you’re ready to work with her, stay there. Delivery, yes! We must achieve it for the sake of millions of people.

“It’s not about theorising. It’s about practical determination and focused evaluation. Yes, it is our country. We have no other one. Let’s be proud that we are Nigerians. We can do it. We can show leadership. We can fight to make democracy a lasting reference for the rest of Africa.

“Don’t be afraid to make decisions, but don’t be antagonistic of your supervisor. If they are wrong, debate it. I stand before you and I’ve claimed on several occasions and I’m saying today again as the President, I can make mistakes, point it to me and I would resolve that conflict, that error. Perfection belongs to God Almighty. But you are there to help me succeed. I must achieve success by all means necessary.

“We will transform the economy to work for millions of our citizens. We must take 50 million people out of poverty. We must build a healthcare system that works for all. Look around. Don’t be wicked. Look at the standard of education, look at the classrooms and look at the roads. We can only spend money, we will find it, but we cannot spend the people.

“There is no crime in borrowing. Thank you, World Bank, for being a lending friend. But let your achievement be homegrown. The determination that Nigeria can do it is here.

“We have great minds, great intellectuals, great intellects and all that we need.

“If it had not started six months ago, we are here to switch off the light, make you included and make all Nigerians included. Our path to tomorrow is charted for our children and grandchildren. Don’t be selfish about it.

Tinubu charged his ministers further, “Let us look forward. Let us be determined that corruption will go, progress will be achieved and there will be better wages for our workers. Living wages.

“Because a memo is submitted to you doesn’t mean that is the end of that matter. Think through it. Be inquisitive.

Ask how, when and why.

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Would this retreat fall into a development platform or a mere talk show with no concrete achievements?

Speaking with THEWILL, a public affairs commentator, Paul Okoye, said he believes that the retreat will not be like past ones.

“President Tinubu showed seriousness in the handling of the affairs of the retreat. The signing of a performance bond is unique. All the ministers will be on their toes to perform.

“I think it is a new beginning and we are looking forward to it. Ministers will perform; they would not want to lose their jobs”.

Also speaking with THEWILL, a political commentator, Comrade Bayo Ajani, said, “We should not be sceptical.

Tinubu has done well in Lagos and I am sure he is eager to deliver at the federal level. He is determined and the performance bond is a sign that the retreat will bring positive results.”

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NOVEMBER 12, 2023 T H E W I L L N E W S P A P E R • www.thewillnigeria.com

POLITICS

Uneasy Calm in Rivers Over Fubara – Wike Feud

BY AYO ESAN

R

ivers State is currently enjoying artificial peace, no thanks to a recent imbroglio between the Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike. Both men have embraced ceasefire, following the timely intervention of President Bola Tinubu.

The question is whether the ceasefire is sustainable.

How soon will the two gladiators go back to the arena? Will they maintain a lasting peace? These are questions that only Fubara and Wike can answer on their own.

One can see that life is back to normal, with everyone going about their business without hindrance, but political analysts believe that “the current peace is artificial. The ceasefire is temporary” Fubara has kept talking, but Wike has remained silent as far as the feud with his godson is concerned.

Last Thursday, Fubara acknowledged that Wike is his “oga” (boss). He said this in Port Harcourt, Rivers State capital, when they met for the first time since the political crisis in the state. The event was the rededication service of the 2023/2024 Legal Year of the Rivers State Judiciary, held at Saint Cyprian’s Anglican Church, Hospital Road in Port Harcourt.

On the feud with Wike, Fubara said: “My oga (boss) remains my oga. Whatever that has happened is in the past. I have not sent anybody to malign anybody.”

He described the political crisis as a thing of the past, adding that although it had been a trying time for the state, the misunderstanding would pass. He promised his administration would deliver for the people.

Penultimate Saturday, Fubara also apologised to the people of the state over the recent political crisis in the state, following his feud with Wike.

The Rivers governor, who described the crisis as “regrettable anxieties of the last few days,” however, said it was important to make sacrifices for peace to reign.

Fubara stated this in a statement titled, ‘Peace Is Priceless,’ which he personally signed and issued in Port Harcourt.

While making reference to the alleged bombing of the Rivers State House of Assembly complex and the division among state lawmakers, the governor explained that his visit to the House was to assess the level of damage caused by the fire that resulted from the incident and undertake remedial measures to protect lives and property within the Assembly complex.

“

I assure the people of Rivers State that peace will certainly prevail and we shall continue to work together to advance the peace, security and progress of our state

the security agencies to thoroughly investigate the incident and report it to me.

“Shortly after, I got reports that the state House of Assembly had broken into two factions: One claiming to have impeached and suspended the House Leader and three others, preparatory to initiating an impeachment action against me and the other faction impeaching the Speaker and Deputy Speaker, thus sparking off a form of political crisis.

He thanked President Tinubu for his intervention, which he claimed opened a series of communication channels aimed at arriving at a peaceful resolution of the crisis.

“I wish to thank the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Tinubu, for his fatherly intervention which opened a series of communication channels to facilitate the timely resolution of the festering crises.

I wish to also thank our elders who are currently intervening in the matter.

The statement reads, “My dear good people of Rivers State, I consider it necessary to issue this press statement on the developments of the past few days in our dear state.

“Let me clearly state that my actions are aimed at restoring peace and stability in our state. I am a man of peace and as governor; the advancement of our state is my primary concern.

“Late on Sunday, October 29, 2023, I was inundated with reports that the hallowed chamber of the Rivers State House of Assembly had been gutted by fire. The blaze was successfully put out by the fire service, after which security agencies took control of the situation.

“Consequently, no sacrifice is too much for me to make to achieve this objective. Furthermore, as leaders, it is the collective responsibility of the immediate past governor of the state and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, and my humble self, to leverage our positions and influences within and outside the state to advance the progress, security and well-being of our people.

“My visit to the assembly complex on Monday, October 30, 2023, was to assess the level of damage and undertake remedial measures to protect lives and property within the assembly complex. I charged THEWILLNIGERIA

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“We must, therefore, not allow circumstances that could retard all efforts at achieving greatness for our

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people to prevail.

“On our part, we are always willing and ready to embrace the path to lasting peace and tranquility with a commitment to consummating all efforts and initiatives by Mr President and other well-meaning Nigerians, including my brother governors and the elders.

“I assure the people of Rivers State that peace will certainly prevail and we shall continue to work together to advance the peace, security and progress of our state.

“As governor, I sincerely apologise to the good people of Rivers State for the regrettable anxieties of the last few days, while thanking you all for your concerns, and continued support, love, and prayers. May God continue to bless our dear Rivers State?”

THEWILL recalls that a political crisis ensued when the state lawmakers loyal to Wike attempted to impeach Governor Fubara. The House of Assembly was torched and as the issue degenerated into chaos, security agents allegedly shot at the governor.

Rumours about the Rivers State House of Assembly’s plan to impeach the state governor precipitated a protest. The impeachment move was spearheaded by legislators loyal to Wike, led by the Speaker, Martins Amaewhule.

It started with the removal of the Majority Leader, Edison Ehie, apparently a Fubara loyalist. Within a few hours, the governor mobilised a counter offensive, which saw his loyalists “impeach” Amaewhule and replace him with Ehie, who was sacked by the Wike group a few hours earlier.

Hundreds of youths then marched to Amaewhule’s official residence in solidarity with the governor.

Their mission was to evict the ‘impeached” Speaker and usher the new one into the building. But things went awry for them.

The men of the Rivers State Police Command moved in at this stage and arrested over 100 youths.

The Commissioner of Police in the state confirmed this and warned the youths not to lend themselves to political violence in a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, Grace Ihunwo.

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EDITORIAL

NOVEMBER 12, 2023 WWW.THEWILLNIGERIA.COM

Greater Lagos in The Works

A drive through the major streets in the mainland and the island, even the waterways on a bright day, will surely gladden the heart of any pessimist and compel him to have a change of mind and agree that something good can come out of Lagos

R

ecent infrastructural developments in the city of Lagos, Nigeria's commercial capital, are pointers to a Greater Lagos in the works.

Ongoing projects embarked upon by the Lagos State Government, back-to-back, are, indeed, huge and massive.

A drive through the major streets in the mainland and island, even the waterways, on a bright day will surely gladden the heart of any pessimist and compel him to have a change of mind and agree that something good can come out of Lagos.

Without an iota of doubt, great efforts of past and present governments in transforming Lagos into a megacity that residents and visitors alike will be proud of are beginning to yield positive results.

The recent inauguration of the Yaba, Oyingbo-Ebute Metta and Tejuosho - Yaba flyovers, among others, are testimonials to the concerted efforts to change the face of Lagos.

The six-pillar policy programme, tagged T.H.E.M.E.S and aimed to solve problems in Lagos State through good governance, is surely right on track. The six pillars are Traffic Management

NIGERIA BUREAU: 36AA Remi Fani-Kayode Street, GRA, Ikeja.

Lagos, Nigeria. info@thewillnigeria.com / @THEWILLNG, +234 810 345 2286, +234 913 333 3888 EDITOR: Olaolu Olusina @OLUSINA LETTERS/OPINIONS: opinion.letters@thewillnews.com

and Transportation; Health and Environment; Education and Technology; Making Lagos a 21st Century state; Entertainment and Tourism; Security and Governance.

The railway infrastructure, which costs over N100bn, include the Blue Rail Line that was recently inaugurated along the OkokomaikoMarina axis and the ongoing Red Rail Line which runs from Marina to neighbouring Alagbado in Ogun State. These are simply amazing as Lagosians and Nigerians at large now know what a working railway system looks like, especially with the electric trains deployed on the Blue Rail Line.

Truly, the Lagos Masterplan is working and the labour of past and present leaders in the face of obvious challenges are now paying off. While it must be noted that the task of governing and administering a sprawling state like Lagos is very daunting, the achievements recorded so far are no mean feats to be envied by a lily-livered leader who may want to give up easily.

It is interesting to note that the Lagos State Government now boasts a multi-billion dollar infrastructure funding plan to accommodate the gigantic projects meant to catalyse rapid economic development in the planned mega city. This includes the $2.5 billion Fourth Mainland Bridge

to be constructed by a Portuguese company, Mota-Engil Group, and two Chinese ventures.

Continuity and perseverance have therefore paid off in the case of Lagos and kudos must be given to the leaders right from the solid foundation laid by the then Governor Bola Tinubu who is now the President of Nigeria.

Following Tinubu's footsteps in Lagos, his successor, Babatunde Fashola, consolidated on what he met on ground and for eight years, he made an indelible mark before handing over to Akinwunmi Ambode, who continued on the masterplan for four years.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who is on his second term in office, has not disappointed in any way as his openness and proactiveness have further helped in pushing the T.H.E.M.E.S policy. His leadership qualities and sincerity of purpose stood him out during the COVID-19 pandemic and he has continued to exhibit uncommon commitment to the realisation of a Greater Lagos.

We therefore call on all to rally around the amiable governor as he continues to push through the development agenda of Greater Lagos despite the obvious challenges and flip sides of life in the state of over 23 million people.

THEWILL NEWSPAPER TEAM Publisher/Editor-in-Chief

Business Editor – Sam Diala

Photo Editor – Peace Udugba

Austyn Ogannah

Copy Editor – Chux Ohai

Head, Graphics – Tosin Yusuph

Editor – Olaolu Olusina

Cartoon Editor – Victor Asowata

Deputy Editor – Amos Esele

Entertainment/Society Editor – Ivory Ukonu

Circulation Manager – Victor Nwokoh

Politics Editor – Ayo Esan

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Guest Art Director – Sunny Hughes

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OPINION

NOVEMBER 12, 2023 WWW.THEWILLNIGERIA.COM

Balancing Employment Opportunities Between Citizens And Expats in Nigeria

BY SUFUYAN OJEIFO

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hereas needs attract investments, a 2019 NBS report showed that the natural resources and the economic opportunities in Nigeria have continued to attract Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs) by investors across the world, which culminated in $19.07 billion capital inflow to Nigeria in 2018 of which $7.78 billion represented FDIs while capital inflows from January to May 2019 amounted to $14.2 billion of which $2.87 billion represented FDIs.

will also be responsible for authorizing Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) to provide the data on quota utilization of the companies to ascertain the numbers of expatriates working in Nigeria. The NIS, under the direct supervision of the Ministry of Interior, is responsible, among others, for issuing all Nigerian travel documents, including the biometric visa; the issuance of residence permits to foreigners in Nigeria; border surveillance and patrol; and, enforcement of laws and regulations.

Credible feelers indicate that Nigeria is working on some measures to improve nationalisation levels and get foreign companies to employ more Nigerian nationals.

This will overtime help to balance employment opportunities between ALTHOUGH NIGERIAN NATIONALS Nigerians and expatriates (expats) in foreign CONSTITUTE ONLY 59 PER CENT companies operating in the country. The Federal OF TOTAL JOBS IN NIGERIA, THEIR Ministry of Labour and Employment, with the WAGES ACCOUNT FOR LESS THAN National Directorate 45 PER CENT OF TOTAL WAGES of Employment (NDE) and relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies, according to feelers, plan to create 20 million job opportunities which will be attractive to Nigerians by 2025. This forecast employment figure can largely be actualised and driven by the proposed revenue outcome of certain measures being worked out by the Ministry of Interior and the Nigeria immigration Service (NIS).

The NIS, according to feelers, will, under the emerging arrangements, provide complete data on expatriates working in Nigeria. Since the arrangements would largely run on Public Private Partnership, the private component of the project will provide the details of the required data. The details will include, but not limited to, information on companies with Expatriate Quotas, the status of occupied quotas, individuals occupying those quotas with their dates of entry in Nigeria, last renewal dates and next renewal due dates. The PPP synergy will ensure that NIS shares the data of all incoming and outgoing expatriates with a new visa and assists with enforcement to ensure compliance.

Specifically, the measures being fine-tuned are expected to generate higher employment for Nigerian nationals in the private sector by closing the wage gap (cost of labour) between expatriates and the Nigerian labour force, making it more attractive to hire Nigerians.

Although Nigerian nationals constitute only 59 per cent of total jobs in Nigeria, their wages account for less than 45 per cent of total wages. Furthermore, the wage gap between expatriate and Nigerian employees is projected to remain, even after the rollout of measures being fine-tuned must have happened. By 2024, it is expected that the average salary of expatriates will amount to less than 45 per cent above their basic salary annually. This is projected, on the average, to increase the earnings of Nigerian nationals and bridge the wage gap to less than 20 per cent between expatriates and nationals. This is expected to bring significant changes in all sectors of the economy and trigger higher nationalization driven by profitability impact.

As earlier adumbrated, the Ministry of Interior and the Nigeria immigration Service will play significant roles in the measures being finetuned to balance out employment opportunities between Nigerian nationals and expatriates in the country. The Ministry of Interior will be responsible, among others, for providing complete data on quota issued to all companies and

Revenues from foreign investment in Nigeria have been payments made to the NIS, and taxes remitted to the Federal Inland Revenue Services (FIRS). However, while the law provides for payment of taxes such as the Personal Income Tax Act (PITA) cap P8 LFN, 2007, as amended, which forms the legal basis for taxation of employment income, including those earned by Expatriates working in Nigeria, there is no existing legal framework for the new revenue source that the measures in the works target. However, the narrative is expected to change soon as a new regulatory framework would be unfolded to provide legal and regulatory context.

The Ministry of Interior and the NIS will supervise the legal and regulatory aspect of the significant measures. In fact, the principal law governing expatriate employment in Nigeria is the Nigeria Immigration Act, 2015 and the Immigration Regulation, 2017. Any foreigner who intends to work in Nigeria must obtain the consent of the Comptroller General of immigration. This consent is obtained in the form of an Expatriate Quota by the company or organization, which permits them to employ expatriates to specifically approved jobs and for a specific period with a view to training Nigerians under them and transferring these requisite skills during their period of employment as provided under Section 8 of the Immigration Act. The objective of the expatriate quota is to avoid the indiscriminate employment of expatriates in situations where qualified Nigerians can fit into those positions. Expatriate quota is granted for an initial period of three years, renewable for two years subject to a total life span of 7 years, within which such relevant skills ought to have been transferred to qualified Nigerians who were under-studying such expatriates. The new measures in the works will ensure this is done or else there will be sanctions and enforcement of the same.

This will go a long way to stem the tide of brain drain or talents moving out of the country.

•Mr Ojeifo, journalist and mediapreneur, is based in Abuja and can be reached via ojwonderngr@yahoo.com •Continues online at www.www.thewillnews.com

President Tinubu on Path of History With Economic Reforms

BY OCHE ECHEIJA EGWA

B

y nature, most people would like to dodge payment of taxes if the system allows it. It’s not surprising that some easily agree with the saying that tax collectors rarely have many friends. But, for governments, taxes are a major policy instrument for shaping, and reshaping, the economic destinies of their countries. In this regard, President Bola Tinubu’s sense of urgency can be understood.

At his inauguration on May 29, 2023, economic transformation topped the President’s agenda.

With the historic precedence in Lagos State as a former Governor (1999-2007), the President knows the dynamics and centrality of fiscal and tax reforms in dictating the vibrancy, competitiveness and inclusiveness of an economy, especially in tackling debilitating poverty.

Barely a month in office, the President swung into action, appointing a seasoned and national award-winning career officer, Adewale Bashir Adeniyi, MFR, as Acting Comptroller General of Nigerian Customs Service (NCS), which was roundly applauded. Adeniyi was confirmed four months later, in October, for making a clear difference in revenue generation, trade facilitation and staff motivation.

To further improve the reforms, the President changed the gatekeeper of another major revenue earner, the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), by appointing his former Special Adviser on Revenue, Zacch Adedeji, a first-class graduate of Accountancy, as the acting Chairman/CEO of that agency.

Adedeji, at a young age, served as Commissioner for Finance in Oyo State under the late Governor Abiola Ajimobi, bringing on board a wealth of experience on tax reforms. Adedeji was confirmed by the Senate on October 31.

Walking his vision for economic turnaround, President Tinubu inaugurated an all-inclusive Presidential Committee on Fiscal and Tax Reforms headed by a renowned expert, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele.

To avoid a trickling-down, and enhance implementations, the committee captured the critical people in the various sectors of the economy, including farmers, traders and students. The mandate was clear: simplify the tax system for more efficiency and effectiveness.

In less than two months, the committee tendered its report, October 24th, 2023, detailing the “Quick-wins’’ that will ameliorate noticeable burdens within a month.

The President had directed reduction of tax regimes to a single digit, following the disclosure by the Chairman of the committee that Nigerian economy was struggling with 60 legal taxes, across the federal, state and local councils, and additional illegal taxes that brought the total to about 200, which was clearly a disincentive to starting and growing businesses, particularly to the lifeblood of economies, small and medium enterprises.

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While the tax reforms were going on Nigeria, at a study tour, October 10-30, 2023, organised by the Peoples Republic of China, in Beijing, with focus on Public Finance and Government Budgets for Developing Countries, Prof. Young Ho, said regular tax reforms were redemptive measures by governments, citing oft-celebrated lifting of 700 million Chinese citizens out of poverty.

NIGERIA’S MAIN REVENUE-EARNER FOR MANY YEARS, CRUDE OIL, IS FAST LOSING VALUE IN THE GLOBAL MARKET, WITH RISING ALTERNATIVES FOR ENERGY AND FLUCTUATING PRICES THAT AFFECT PLANNING AND IMPLEMENTATION OF BUDGETS, PARTICULARLY UNHEALTHY FOR FOREIGN EXCHANGE RESERVES

Sharing the Chinese experience with participants from ten countries, including Nigeria and bureaucrats from the African Union (AU), Prof. Ho, who is an Associate Dean, School of Public Finance and Taxation, at the Central University of Finance and Economics, Beijing, said tax reforms must be regular, and purposeful to reflect the vision and direction of governments.

Other participants at the conference were from Rwanda, Lesotho, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Cambodia, Tajikistan, Oman, Pakistan and Kenya.

“China has grown exponentially by using tax as an instrument for development, like prioritizing on Foreign Direct Investments that will impact the economy.

We had a tough time in eliminating double taxation and we had to start using either the credit or exemption method,’’ she noted.

To cure the Chinese economy of multiple taxation, the tax expert emphasized that the country invested heavily in innovative technology, that provided solutions to plug leakages, and provided access for voluntary payments, through websites and apps, which is a path Nigeria had taken with focus on data mining by the FIRS. •Oche Egwa is Assistant Director of Information in the Presidency.

•Continues online at www. thewillnews.com

NOVEMBER 12, 2023 • VOL . 3 NO. 51 WWW.THEWILLNIGERIA.COM

SUPPLEMENTARY BUDGET: FG SEEKS N1.7TRN WAYS AND MEANS LOAN FROM CBN

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380,000

NLNG Not Responsible For Hike in LPG Price – Official / PAGE 34

N14.38trn

FG Earns N14.38trn From Extractive Sector in 2 Years – NEITI

EDITOR Sam Diala

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Q3’23: Zenith Bank Plc Set For N20trn Assets Mark on Huge Revenue Haul I

(N’trn)

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11.73

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ASSETS BASE OF BIG 4 BANKS IN Q3 2022

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n a curious twist of events, the Federal Government has asked the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) for a loan of around N1.7 trillion to help it fund the 2023 supplementary budget, two sources familiar with the development told THEWILL on Thursday and Friday.

President Bola Tinubu signed the N2.17 trillion supplementary budget into law on November 8, 2023.

THEWILL gathered that the Ways and Means advance request has thrown the Governor of the Central Bank, Olayemi Cardoso, into a dilemma due to the controversies surrounding the previous loans granted to the Federal Government by the apex bank during the presidency of Muhammadu Buhari, which stood at about N22.7 trillion on May 29, 2023, when the administration ended.

Ways and Means is a short-term or emergency loan provision that allows the government to borrow from the CBN to meet budget shortfalls.

The six-month-old Bola Tinubu Administration has introduced reforms it hopes will help spur productivity and improve government receipts.

One of the sources, asking to be anonymous, said the request for the loan was made by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun.

When THEWILL contacted Mr Edun for clarification and clarity on the development, he said the CBN was in a better position to respond to questions on the matter, adding that he is abroad and may not be fully up to speed on developments.

CBN’s Director of Corporate Communications, Dr. Isa Abdulmumin, was unavailable for comments on the subject.

The Tinubu administration’s request for a N2.18 trillion supplementary budget has generated a lot of controversy across the states.

Well-meaning Nigerians are worried that the items presented in the budget do not pose any urgency to warrant the huge sum of money being expended on the supplementary spending plan.

They further observed that the luxury items for which President Tinubu wants to commit huge resources at these austere times, when the government is going cap

ASSETS BASE OF BIG 4 BANKS IN 2021

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Source; Banks’ Reports.

enith Bank Plc, Nigeria’s largest financial services institution by market capitalisation (N1.04 trillion currently), is set for the N20 trillion assets mark by year-end amid strong balance sheet growth on massive revenue haul for the period ended September 30, 2023.

The Tier-1 financial services institution ended its 2023 nine months’ operations with total assets of N18.13 trillion against N11.34 trillion in the corresponding period of 2022, representing a 59.8 percent growth.

The figure was also a significant increase of 47.8 percent compared with the December 2022 record of N12.28 trillion.

“The bank could hit N20 trillion assets by year-end, given the trend in its growth trajectory since the year; and that will be a huge plus for the most capitalised financial services institution listed on the Nigerian Exchange,” said Abimbola Matthew, a financial analyst.

Commenting on the significance of strong assets quality, Professor of Finance and Accounts at the Nasarawa State University, Keffi, Muhammad Mainoma, had told THEWILL that strong assets base is strategic to the development of any business because an enterprise is handicapped if it trades with a lean balance sheet.

“Strong asset base signifies that a business is strategically positioned to take advantage of its environment. For a bank, there is no time that people will not need money. Once a business is focused

and invests in areas that people always need, it will not lose. This explains the continuous growth (in assets) despite the difficult operating environment,” Mainoma, a former President of the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN), had said.

Operating in an atmosphere of choking macroeconomic challenges, Zenith Bank declared a 114 percent increase in gross earnings from N620.57 billion in the nine months of 2022 to N1.32 trillion in the reporting period.

Unlike in the nine months of the previous year, when results followed the ‘normal’ growth trajectory, Zenith Bank Plc posted a pre-tax profit of N505.03 billion in the review period against N202.54 billion prior, representing a 149.3 percent growth.

The post-tax profit also rose by 149 percent to N434.17 billion in the reporting period from N174.33 billion in nine months of 2022.

The loan book grew significantly to N5.78 trillion compared to N3.88 trillion in the corresponding period, representing a 48.9 percent growth.

THEWILL had previously tracked Zenith Bank’s loan performance which showed that the NGX premiumlisted financial services institution granted expansive facilities in loans and advances totaling N11.3 trillion in five year period: 2016-2020.

As a measure of customers’ confidence, Zenith also recorded a remarkable growth in customer deposit

NOVEMBER 12, 2023 T H E W I L L N E W S P A P E R • www.thewillnigeria.com

BUSINESS WEEKLY

...Zenith Bank Plc Set For N20trn Assets Mark on Huge Revenue Haul which jumped to N13.38 billion against N8.04 billion recorded in the nine months of 2022, representing a growth of 66.04 percent.

Like its peers, Zenith Bank harvested its lot from the forex windfall arising from the massive devaluation of the Naira by the CBN on June, 14, 2023. The group raked in N378.12 billion in nine months from forex revaluation against N11.14 billion in the corresponding period of 2022, representing a huge jump of 3,294 percent.

In a statement accompanying the financial statements, the group said that “Interest income increased because of the growth in risk assets as well as the effective pricing thereon.

“The non-interest income growth is largely driven by the revaluation gain due to the unification of exchange rates during the year. The costto-income ratio reduced from 55.8 percent in Q3 2022 to 37.8 percent in the current period.”

Zenith Bank closed its last trading day (Friday, November 10, 2023) at N33.05 per share on the Nigerian Exchange (NGX).

Zenith began the year with a share price of N24.00 and has since gained 37.7 per cent on that price valuation, ranking it 66th on the NGX in terms of year-to-date performance.

Zenith Bank is the 10th most traded stock on the Nigerian Exchange over the past three months (Aug 14 - Nov 10, 2023). The stock has traded a total volume of 928 million shares—in 22,930 deals—valued at NGN 31.2 billion over the period, with an average of 14.7 million traded shares per session.

Findings showed that a volume high of 75.4 million was achieved on September 4th, and a low of 4.34 million on October 19th, for the same period. The table below details the last 10 trading days of activity of Zenith Bank on the NGX.

The group raked in N378.12 billion in nine months from forex revaluation against N11.14 billion in the corresponding period of 2022, representing a huge jump of 3,294 percent

...FG Seeks N1.7trn Ways And Means Loan From CBN in hand borrowing, is contrary to any iota of reason.

While Nigerians have not complained about aspects of this supplementary budget that would be of benefit to the citizens such as infrastructure and defence , the areas relating to luxury items, are considered totally reprehensible.

These include the proposed request for N4 billion for the renovation of the residential quarters for the President in Abuja; renovation of the residential quarters of the Vice President (Abuja) – N2.5 billion; renovation of Dodan Barracks, Lagos, official residence of the President – N4 billion; renovation of official quarters of the VP (Lagos) – N3 billion; construction of office complex in the Presidential Villa – N4 billion; purchase of presidential yacht – N5 billion; purchase of vehicles for the Office of First Lady – N1.5 billion; purchase of SUVs for the Presidential Villa – N2.9 billion; and replacement of operational vehicles for the Presidency – N2.9 billion.

As observed by some well-meaning Nigerians, these details that constitute waste, luxury and greed, have sparked outrage in an understandable sense.

While undergoing screening at the Senate in September, Cardoso said CBN will be repositioned to grow the size of the Nigerian economy to an ambitious value of $1 trillion in Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in the next eight years.

He also vowed to embrace a culture of compliance and internal control of commercial banks, halt the continuous fall of the Naira in the foreign exchange market and tackle the rising inflation rate.

Cardoso emphasised the need to restore the apex bank’s independence and credibility by refocusing on its core mandate and ensuring a culture of compliance.

“Much has been made of past CBN forays into development financing such that the lines between monetary policy and fiscal intervention have become blurred.

“In refocusing CBN to its core mandate, there is a need to pull the CBN back from direct development finance interventions into more limited advisory roles that support economic growth.”

Nigeria’s inflation surged to 26.72 per cent last month, 0.92 basis points higher than the 25.80 per cent recorded in the previous month. The increase reflects the impact of the removal of petrol subsidy and the devaluation of the official exchange rate on consumer prices, particularly food.

On addressing the rising inflation, Cardoso noted that the new CBN leadership would “adopt an evidence-based monetary policy and shall not be making decisions based on a whim.”

Cardoso said there are short, medium and long-term measures to address the worrisome foreign exchange rate, dimension of inflation and deficit financing.

He said there is a need to have a stable exchange rate if Nigeria must be prosperous, adding that the measures will include economic diversification, and operations such as ensuring rules that are open and transparent for foreign direct investment.

“There are two very important issues that we would have to address. It is an operational issue.

Right now, you have a situation about the figures. We are aware of unsettled obligations by the CBN. The immediate priority is to verify the authenticity and extent of what it holds; once we do that we need to promptly find a way to take care of that.

“It will be naive for us to expect that we will be making too much progress if we are not able to handle that side of the foreign exchange market. We cannot reasonably expect serious foreign direct investors or portfolio investors and now we are talking about short-term terms in place.

“We cannot expect that those players who generally have an impact on our market will do so if we do not have an open and transparent system that everybody understands and can rely on, not subject to review without any notice,” he said.

A top bank executive who would not want his name published told THEWILL that if the Tinubu-led government has resorted to ways and means at this early stage, the CBN governor should be ready to suffer Godwin Emefiele’s fate because it is the President that calls the shots.

Stakeholders Laud NNPC/Aiteo JV Nembe Crude Oil Grade Launch

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takeholders and industry experts have commended the recent NNPC/ Aiteo Joint Venture Nembe Crude Oil Grade describing it as a huge milestone in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.

Engr. Okwudili Akobundu who runs a private oil and gas services firm in Port Harcourt said the development has opened another window of advancement for Nigeria.

“It has opened a new window of advancement for the country, in the areas of oil and gas. It is commendable that an indigenous firm, Aiteo, is driving the project. The gains are huge,” Akobundu told THEWILL. An oil and gas analyst, Ayodele Tokede, said the feat was achieved at the most opportune time: “This is coming at the most opportune time when the country is in dire need of money and the notorious act of oil theft is being contained.”

Engr Amayebo Cookey commended Aiteo THEWILLNIGERIA

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for its courage and zero tolerance for lack of professionalism.

He said, “Aiteo has pass through very challenging times. It has suffered a lot of sabotage and man-made industry obstacles. I am happy their determination has paid off.”

OML 29, an asset located onshore Nigeria, is operated by Aiteo Eastern Exploration & Production Ltd, Africa’s leading indigenous hydrocarbon producer, following a historic acquisition from Shell in 2014.

The Nembe Crude was previously blended with the popular Bonny Light grade and exported via the Bonny Oil & Gas Terminal.

The unique selling point of the Nembe Crude Oil grade with an API gravity was highlighted by both the Aiteo E & P and NNPC Limited Leadership at the Argus Conference in London.

The Nembe Crude Oil grade also has a low sulphur content and low carbon

footprint due to flare gas elimination, fitting perfectly into the required spec of major buyers in Europe.

Two cargoes of 950,000 barrels each of the Nembe Crude Oil grade have since been exported to France and the Netherlands.

With its attractive Assay of API 29 and low sulphur content, the Nembe Crude Oil grade commands a premium to the global Brent benchmark.

With the NNPC-Aiteo OML 29 JV back onstream, Nigeria now boasts of an additional crude oil export of 2 Cargoes at 950,000 barrels each per month and 1.2 Bcf of export gas monthly.

This remarkable achievement signals the commencement of activities at Nigeria’s newest crude oil terminal, the Nembe Crude Oil Export Terminal (NCOET), which was licensed in line with the extant laws and Crude Oil Terminal establishment regulations. *Continues online at www. thewillnews.com

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BUSINESS NEWS

L-R: Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX), Temi Popoola; President, Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers (CIS), Mr. Oluwole Adeosun; Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodu and Chief Executive Officer, Chapel Hill Denham Group, Bolaji Balogun, during 2023 CIS Conference held in Abeokuta, Ogun State on November 9, 2023.

NNPC Foundation Trains Youth Corps Members on Financial Literacy

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n its bid to build the capacity of youth towards making them employers of labour, the NNPC Foundation, in partnership with Kudimata Nigeria Limited, a financial education outfit, have trained the Batch C members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in basic financial literacy skills.

The training, which aligned with the objectives of Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) scheme of NYSC had its maiden edition featuring Batch B stream in the past months. So far over 118,000 youth corps members have been trained in financial literacy, while about 70,000 are being trained across the 37 NYSC orientation camps in the country.

Speaking during the training, the Managing Director, NNPC Foundation, Emmanuella Arukwe, described financial literacy as not only the bedrock of all successes in the ever-competitive labour market, but a journey towards attaining self-actualization, thereby heralding the trajectory to sustainable prosperity of the nation.

She implored the corps members to leverage on the knowledge garnered from the training to avert white collar job syndrome, adding that the NNPC Foundation is committed to impacting the youth corps members to become employers of labour.

“We are partnering with both NYSC and Kudimata to bring financial literacy to the corps members, as this will help them make better-informed decisions. We are very passionate about young people and NYSC is a veritable ground as it cuts across 20 to 30 years old youth, thus, making it the right demography,” she stated.

According to her, “This programme cuts across the 36 states of the country including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). This is the first step towards a series of programmes that will culminate in instilling entrepreneurship in the Corps members.

After this training, those who pass the examination by 70 per cent will move to the next stage. The next stage will keep them better informed on how to run businesses to ensure success in their businesses. Thereafter, we will do a pitching where those who are properly trained will be selected and be given start-up kits to go ahead and be on their own,” the MD added.

Addressing unemployment as the greatest problem of young graduates, she said, “We are aware of unemployment as a challenge plaguing young graduates and we recognize the need to empower the youth through capacity building of this magnitude for them to empower the whole nation. This training will help reduce unemployment and underemployment in Nigeria, thereby making the corps members employers of labour.”

In her remarks, the FCT Coordinator, NYSC, Shokpeka Winifred expressed her profound gratitude to both NNPC Foundation and Kudimata Nigeria Ltd for their unwavering support to empower the corps members to enable them to become selfreliant individuals and wealth creators.

The NYSC official described the training as a platform for young people to learn the best ways of managing their finances, while also grooming them to become good managers of resources.

“Going forward, I’m confident that they will put what they have learnt to use by utilizing their funds well as they are now aware of how to earn, maintain and multiply their finances. We are striving to see them becoming business owners tomorrow through further mentorship,” the Coordinator concluded.

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NLNG Not Responsible For Hike in LPG Price – Official

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he Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas Limited (NLNG), says the company has not increased the price of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG).

Andy Odeh, general manager, External Relations and Sustainable Development, NLNG, dismissed the alleged report of the increase in a statement issued in Port Harcourt on Wednesday.

He said the company cannot be blamed for any current surge especially as NLNG has so far delivered over 380,000 metric tonnes of LPG to the domestic market.

He said, “NLNG has noted media reports insinuating that a price hike by the company is responsible for the surge in the domestic LPG, commonly known as cooking gas.

“The reports insinuated a price hike by the company and predicted that scarcity looms as a consequence.

“NLNG dismisses these media reports as speculative and indicative of a fundamental misunderstanding of Nigeria’s intricate market dynamics.”

Mr Odeh said the company has grown the nation’s domestic LPG market volume from 50,000 metric tonnes in 2007 to over 1.3 million metric tonnes of both domestic and imported LPG in 2023.

“NLNG currently delivers over 450,000 metric tonnes per annum of Butane – the main product in cooking gas – and has embarked on domestic propane supply to further grow the market.

“The company has committed its entire Butane and Propane production to the domestic market from 2023, accounting for approximately 40 per cent of the total market volume.

“Since the beginning of the year, NLNG has delivered over 380,000 metric tonnes of LPG using the company’s dedicated LPG vessel,” he added. *Continues online at www. thewillnews.com

Cadbury Nigeria Grows Revenue by N59bn in 9 Months

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adbury Nigeria Plc has announced a turnover of N59.2 billion for the ninemonth period ended 30 September 2023, representing an increase of 39 percent over N42.54 billion recorded in the same period in 2022.

This followed the approval of the unaudited financial statements of by the Company’s Board of Directors.

The Company’s gross profit rose by 95 percent from N8.4 billion in 2022, to N16.31billion in 2023, while its operating profit for the period under review, increased by 191 percent from N3.3billion to N9.65billion.

In a statement issued by the Company, Oyeyimika Adeboye, its Managing Director, attributed Cadbury Nigeria’s net revenue growth of 39 percent versus same period in the previous year, to effective execution of sales and marketing activities and implementation of pricing actions required to cover rising cost of goods sold.

The statement noted that the continued devaluation of the Naira, FX scarcity, and rising inflation remain a major issue resulting in margin erosion driven by the higher cost of manufacturing. *Continues online at www. thewillnews.com THEWILLNIGERIA

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BUSINESS NEWS

L-R: Head of the Cybercrimes, Federal Ministry of Justice, Jemila AkaagaAde; Cybercrime Programme Officer, British High Commission, Idongesit Udoh; Chairman, Senate Committee on ICT Cyber Crimes, Sen. Afolabi Salisu; representative of the Solicitor General/ Permanent Secretary, Federation Ministry of Justice, Mrs Gladys Odegbaro and representative of the IGP, Henry Uche Ifeanyi, during the opening ceremony of Cyber Security Awareness Campaign in Abuja on November 8, 2023.

FG Earns N14.38trn From Extractive Sector in 2 Years – NEITI

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he Nigerian Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) on Thursday said the federal government revenue-generating agencies remitted a total of about N14.38 trillion as revenue from the extractive sector to the Federation Account (FA) between 1 January 2020, and 31 December 2021.

The Deputy Director/Head of Communications and Stakeholders’ Management at NEITI, Obiageli Onuorah, in a statement on Thursday, said the revenue-generating agencies include the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), the Nigerian Upstream Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), the Ministry of Mines and Steel Development (MMSD), and the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS).

Mrs Onuorah said a breakdown of the remittances showed that mineral revenue accounted for N6.40 trillion (about 44.5 per cent of total remittances) for the period, while other non-mineral revenue (excluding VAT) contributed N4.80 trillion (about 33.37 per cent of total remittances).

She explained that the information and data are contained in the latest Fiscal Allocation and Statutory Disbursement (FASD) report published by the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) which covered the period 2020-2021.

Mrs Onuorah said the Executive Secretary of NEITI, Ogbonnaya Orji, while presenting the highlights of the report, stated that the information and data contained in the latest FASD reports reviewed processes that characterized all transactions within the sector.

“It looked at an independent assessment of financial transactions in the areas of revenue receipts and payments and how the processes weighed on the scale of transparency and accountability in the oil and gas sector during the period under review.

“Other areas that NEITI focused on, in this report, were projects executed, deployment to capital projects and recurrent expenditure and how these aligned with the core responsibilities of the agencies, the government and citizens’ expectations.”

The statement noted that the report, which is the fourth in the audit cycle, revealed that overall remittances to the Federation Account for the period increased by about 14 per cent.

Out of a total mineral revenue of N6.40 trillion, the report said the DPR now NUPRC accounted for the highest contribution of about N2.71 trillion, or 18.83 per cent of the total remittances, followed by FIRS with N2.13 trillion, or 14.81 per cent, and NNPC with N1.55 trillion, or 10.8 per cent, while the least contribution was from the Solid Mineral with N13.33 billion, or 0.09 per cent.

The report, according to the statement, revealed that the contribution by the NNPCL declined significantly by 56 per cent, along with the FIRS, whose contribution also dropped by 10 per cent.

It said the decrease in the revenue remittances by both the NNPCL and FIRS was attributed to the decrease in revenue generated from crude oil exports in 2021.

Similarly, it said non-mineral revenue of about N4.80 trillion (or 33.37 per cent of total remittances), increased by N3.86 billion from 2020 to 2021, with the highest contribution of N2.69 trillion, or 18.71 per cent coming from the Company Income Tax (CIT), followed with N2.025 trillion, or 14.08 per cent from the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and N85.25 billion, or 0.59 per cent from other tax sources. *Continues online at www. thewillnews.com

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NESG Moves to Strengthen Food Safety

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he Nigeria Economic Summit Group (NESG) has announced its partnership with some stakeholders to strengthen interventions to promote food safety in the country.

Dr Tayo Aduloju, NESG Chief Executive Officer-designate, in a statement on Thursday, said the partnership would be between the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.

According to him, the just-concluded workshop on: “Food and Feed Expertise Coordination” targeted high-level officials and technical experts from the Nigerian food industry and regulatory bodies.

Aduloju said Nigeria’s commitment to uphold the highest food safety standards was paramount to its wellbeing and progress.

He said the country had over 70 million hectares of agricultural land-a massive potential for economic growth and development, adding that effective regulatory, institutional and policy framework was needed for agriculture to thrive.

According to him, the private sector plays a crucial role in the agricultural value chain, enhancing productivity, opening markets, and attracting investment.

“Frameworks that address the gaps in food and feed safety systems will not only improve the well-being of citizens, but also impact Nigeria’s position in international trade.

“To benefit effectively from the African Continental Free Trade Area (AFCTA), reforming food and feed safety systems in Nigeria is inevitable,” he said.

The statement quotes the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, as saying that deliberate efforts were being made to ensure that the country attains the required National Health Security status.

Pate noted that the ministry would validate the revised National Policy on Food Safety and Quality and its Implementation Plan 2023 and also launch the first National Integrated Guidelines for Foodborne Disease Surveillance and Response.

“The revised policy will look at new and emerging areas that will improve the regulatory, enforcement and data-gathering system to ensure it is more effective, efficient, and robust,” Pate said.

He, however, said his ministry prioritised food safety as a serious element of public health that required concerted efforts.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the three-day food safety expertise workshop builds on 2022 Food and Feed Safety Transformation Dialogue – where stakeholders tasked the government to pass the National Food Safety and Quality Bill into law, saying it is important to the health and wellbeing of Nigerians.

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BUSINESS WEEKLY

Nigeria’s Endless Search For Foreign Investments

BY MARCEL OKEKE brand new cabinet spent all their time scouting for investors (Nigerians and foreigners).

For close to one week, the entire Nigerian contingent was involved in ‘town hall meetings’ with Diasporan Nigerians and parleys with other top business persons attending the confab from wherever.

Unsurprisingly, a few days after the UNGA jamboree, the United States issued a strongly worded travel advisory to its citizens against making trips to Nigeria.

Specifically, on September 20, the US Department of State warned US citizens “to reconsider travelling to Nigeria due to increased risk of crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping and armed gangs in the country.”

The “do not travel” warning specifically mentioned Borno, Yobe, Kogi and Adamawa States due to terrorism and kidnapping; Bauchi, Gombe, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, and Zamfara states due to kidnapping.

A similar warning was issued for Abia, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Enugu, Imo and Rivers (with the exception of Port Harcourt) due to crime, kidnapping and armed gangs.

While placing these states on Level 4—the highest risk category—the US warned that the security situation in those states was fluid and unpredictable due to widespread terrorist activity, inter-communal violence and kidnapping.

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enator Adams Oshiomhole practically shocked the entire world the other day, during the screening of the new helmsman at the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Dr Olayemi Cardoso and his deputies at the Chambers of the Nigerian Senate.

Oshiomhole had told his colleagues, the soon-to-be bosses of the CBN and their teeming well-wishers that the fact that “Western institutions are clapping for Nigeria” regarding its economic policies means that “we are not getting it right.” For emphasis, Oshiomhole who is also a former President of the Nigeria Labor Congress (NLC) said each time “the West” is clapping for us as regards our economic policies, it means we are not getting it right. “We want Nigerians to be the ones clapping for us,” he emphasised.

Truly, economic policies of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Administration have been (perhaps unwittingly) plunging the Nigerian economy into the woods. Apparently being goaded and prodded by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank (agents of “the West”), the Tinubu administration has removed fuel subsidy and unified the exchange rates of the Naira (in the forex market).

These policies and their adjunct initiatives have so far unleashed untold hardship and pains on Nigerians.

Rather than counting any gains of its policies, the Federal Government has been battling with cobbling together some packages of mere “palliatives” to assuage the suffering and impoverishment of the citizenry.

In this milieu and wild ‘applause’ from the IMF and the World Bank, the government has practically been trotting the globe to woo foreign investors to invest in Nigeria. Thus, at the recent 2023 United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in the US, President Tinubu and his

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Rather than any such investments coming into Nigeria, many multinationals that have been doing business in Nigeria for decades are closing down—and leaving the country “Violent crime—such as armed robbery, assault, carjacking, kidnapping, hostage taking, roadside banditry and rape—is common throughout the country.

Kidnapping for ransom occurs frequently, often targeting dual national citizens who have returned to Nigeria for a visit, as well as US citizens with perceived wealth. Kidnapping gangs have also stopped victims on interstate roads,” the advisory stated.

A few days before the UNGA outing, President Tinubu made a similar trip to India at the invitation of that country’s Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, just to be one of some African Heads of Government to participate in the G-20 meeting being hosted by the ‘Land of Nehru’.

Ahead of the days for the meeting, Tinubu practically ‘couriered’ almost all members of his cabinet from their inauguration venue to India, again, to scout for foreign investors. And for a couple of days before the G-20 meeting proper, the Nigerian contingent was deluding

itself with ‘marketing Nigeria’ to Indian investors and Diaspora Nigerians in that country. The Tinubu team was so engrossed in the ‘marketing Nigeria’ business that it began flaunting a huge sum of US$14 billion as “already booked” and sealed business deal during the outing.

Alas, where are these much-flaunted foreign direct investments (FDIs)? Rather than any such investments coming into Nigeria, many multinationals that have been doing business in Nigeria for decades are closing down and leaving the country.

The policies of the Tinubu Administration in its almost five months have made them asphyxiated and they are moving to more business-friendly environments.

The British pharmaceutical giant, GlaxoSmithKline (GSK),which has operated in Nigeria for over half a century, closed shop recently. Similarly, PZ Cussons Nigeria—a household name in Nigeria, also left the country recently.

Other such big corporate names are almost being rendered bankrupt by the import and impact of the Naira floatation/devaluation policy. The two leading breweries—Nigerian Breweries Plc and Guinness Nigeria Plc—each reported huge losses in their audited first-half 2023 financial statements.

The same with Unilever Nigeria Plc, Cadbury’s Nigeria Plc, Nestle Nigeria Plc, MTN (Telecom) Nigeria and a host of others. Each one of them reported losses owing to “foreign exchange exposure” during the first-half 2023.

Although some, like Nigerian Breweries, have attempted to whittle their losses through upward adjustments of prices of their products, they are being confronted by consumer resistance due to largely weakened purchasing power. All things being equal, it is not unlikely that the second half of 2023 would even be worse than the firsthalf in the finances of these companies.

This is because the losses in their financial statements are policy-induced: the sharp and sudden weakening of the Naira exchange rate vis-à-vis the dollar remains unforeseen and unplanned for. Similarly, the quantum jump in the cost of doing business which is traceable to fuel subsidy removal took businesses by surprise— against their budgets and forecasts for the year.

Prices of petrol, diesel and other production inputs and machineries have practically gone through the roof since end-May 2023; and businesses have been hard hit.

It is therefore not an irony that while Tinubu and his cabinet are junketing all over the place looking for foreign investors, reports from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) show that Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs) inflow into Nigeria is on a sharp decline.

Specifically, of the US$1 billion foreign capital that came into Nigeria (capital importation) in the second quarter 2023, FDI accounted for the least: only 8.35 per cent or US$86.03 million. Portfolio investment (‘hot money’) accounted for 10.37 per cent or US$106.85 million while ‘Other investments’ (trade credits, loans, currency deposits and other claims) accounted for the lion’s share: 81.28 per cent or US$837.34 million.

While total capital importation stood at US$1.53 billion in the second quarter of 2022, by end-June 2023, it has dropped by 33 per cent to stand at about only US$1.0 billion. This remarkable decline between the two corresponding quarters goes to underscore the mounting challenges in the way of foreign investment inflow into Nigeria. These challenges include the very high cost of doing business in Nigeria, the unstable political and security environment (as itemised in the US travel advisory), and the widespread corruption especially among government agencies.

Ironically, the United States which is warning its citizens against travelling to Nigeria, occupied the topmost position (by country of origin) as source of capital importation into Nigeria, according to the NBS data.

During the second quarter 2023, US$271.92 million investment or 26.39 per cent of total capital importation into Nigeria came from the US. Therefore, the US stance (travel advisory) vividly shows that the proverbial fish has started ‘rotting’ from the head: what becomes of the rest of the body? Others would most likely queue behind the US! •Okeke is a practising Economist, Business Strategist, Sustainability expert and ex-Chief Economist of Zenith Bank Plc THEWILLNIGERIA

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SHOTS OF THE WEEK Photo Editor: Peace Udugba [08033050729]

L-R: Chief Marketing Officer, MTN Nigeria, Adia Sowho; Founder and Creative Director, AFRIFF, Chioma L-R: President and Chairman of the Governing Council, Chartered Institute of Personnel Management Ude and CEO, Design Week Lagos, Titi Ogufere, at the opening night of the Africa International Film (CIPM), Mr. Olusegun Mojeed, receiving a plaque from the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Festival (AFRIFF) held at Cube 65, Victoria Island on Sunday, November 5, 2023.

Sanwo-Olu, during a courtesy visit at the Lagos House, Marina, Lagos State on November 7, 2023.

L-R: Director, Corporate Communications & CSR, Airtel Nigeria, Femi Adeniran; Executive Chairman, L-R: Pioneer District Gov, Rotn. Julius Adelusi-Adeluyi; District Gov, Rotary Club of Ogba, District 9110, FIRS, Mr Zach Adedeji; Minister of Finance/Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun; CEO, Rotn. Ifeyinwa Ejezie; Group Chairman, NGX Group, Alhaji Umaru Kwairanga and President, Rotary Club Airtel Nigeria, Carl Cruz, and Chief Legal & Regulatory Affairs Officer, Airtel Nigeria, Shola Adeyemi, after of Ogba, District 9110, Rotn. Awojide Awesun, at the 40th anniversary/Installation of the 41st President their meeting in Abuja on November 6, 2023. of Rotary Club of Ogba, District 9110, in Lagos on November 6, 2023.

L-R: Head of Partnerships, Moniepoint Inc., Efemena Ogie; CEO, Fidelity Bank, Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe; Group CEO, Moniepoint Inc., Tosin Eniolorunda and Executive Director, Lagos & South West, Fidelity Bank, Ken Opara, during a visit by the Moniepoint team to Fidelity Bank HQ in Lagos on November 6, 2023.

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L-R: Company Secretary, Uto Ukpana, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, MTN, Mr Karl Toriola; President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio; Deputy Senate President, Jibrin Barau and Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, during a courtesy visit to the President of the Senate in Abuja on November 2023.

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Herbert Wigwe Takes Philanthropy to New Heights

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ENTERTAINMENT &SOCIETY WEEKLY EDITOR Ivory Ukonu

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anking magnate Herbert Onyewunbu Wigwe ise one wealthy banker who despite having a thing for luxury, isn't too keen about flaunting it. As much as he loves the good life, Wigwe gives much attention Continues on page 40

SERIAKE DICKSON FLOATS PRIVATE UNIVERSITY

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wning a private university in Nigeria now seems to be a status symbol of some sorts, considering the number of very important personalities venturing into the educational space. A former Governor of Bayelsa State, Seriake Dickson, is the newest member of this growing club of private university proprietors.

UTCHAY The Image Physician

Continues on page 40 THEWILLNIGERIA

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ENTERTAINMENT &SOCIETY WEEKLY

Patriotism Plays a Key Role in How we Project Nigeria – Ngozi Utchay Image branding specialist, Ngozi Princewill Utchay, speaks with IVORY UKONU about her profession and how her skills can be used to help business executives, entrepreneurs, fast-rising professionals and high-profile individuals polish, project and optimise their corporate or social image, using a sophisticated approach and global best standards. Excerpts:

H

ow did you get into image and personal branding?

I believe that we are all born with different gifts and anything that comes fairly effortless to one is usually a gift. Image branding is something that I have always done informally because people have always pointed it out to me. For instance, if someone wants to do something or put together an outfit and seeks an opinion, I am usually the go-to-person. I think that is how it all started. When people hear today that this is what I do, they are truly not surprised because this is me. They say I have always had that grace and elegance. I think it’s just something I was meant to do and so I transitioned from doing it informally to formally and it keeps getting more defined. You know, with greater definition comes greater fulfillment in what you do.

You studied French language at the University of Ibadan.

Knowing how particular French people are about etiquette, would you say that sort of contributed to you getting into image branding as a career?

Yes, I did study French with a minor in German at the university, but I don’t know if it’s that or the other way round. I did so well in my A levels that I could have done any other course, but I chose to study French. In a sense, I guess it had already chosen me because I love languages. Besides there was no pressure to do anything because we already had a lawyer, an engineer, etc., in the family and so I could do what I wanted. My father thought I would go into diplomatic service, but I sort of charted my way and gravitated towards the things that I enjoy doing.

What were you doing before settling for image and personal branding as your career?

When I first got married, I joined my husband in building our hospitality business, the Prime Group, which includes the popular Prime Chinese Restaurant. But before then, I worked in the French Embassy, that is, in the cultural department. You know, like I said, I wasn’t under pressure, I have always done things that I enjoyed doing. I also worked with the Trinidad and Tobago High Commission.

I have always sort of gravitated towards that scene.

At the time you started, there were not too many people doing image and personal branding. Did you ever think you would succeed at it?

I think that when it comes to passion, when you over think it, you may not likely start. I think you should just go with the love you have for whatever it is that you are doing. I wasn’t thinking of failure when I started. I felt assured about the way it would go and since I started, so many more people have gone into it. The more important part of this is that I blended two things that I hadn't seen anyone else practise together. I really just want to see people discover and develop their authentic selves. And now I see more people doing etiquette and combining it with personal branding.

Isn’t there a difference between etiquette and image branding?

From an insider’s point of view, they are two very different things.

If you take, for example, public relations with image, you are presenting yourself and so the PR aspect would be a public perception of you. Although they are connected, etiquette and personal branding are not traditionally lumped together.

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To a lay man, how would you distinguish etiquette from image branding?

They are actually three: Etiquette is how you interact with other people. Image is your overall self-presentation and how you see yourself, while branding has to do with perception and your reputation.

How well received was image consulting when you began to market it?

It was very well received. When I started the now rested 'Genevieve' Magazine made me an offer as a columnist. Also, companies were calling me to give them proposals. So, people saw the value of what I was offering and keyed into it. I have always said that if people don’t understand what you offer or if it is new to them, then it is a fantastic opportunity for you. It means that the field is wide open and there is so much potential for you to build on it.

Besides teaching Business and Dining Etiquette at the Lagos Business School, do you own a finishing school?

For now, I run the programme once in a year and so, I don’t know if there is any point dedicating the entire year to maintaining a finishing school. It is something that I am building up at my own pace, I am not under any pressure or working with anyone’s timeline. But with time, I know it will crystallise. I have a vision in my head on how I want to go about it, but for now it is a school that converges annually and after the cycle, we look forward to another. It is more cost effective that way.

Utchay

Utchay

You are the host of ‘Future First Ladies’. What is the story behind it?

I started it in 2015. A lady that I admire approached me to put together something for her daughter and some of her friends, you know, just to teach them basic things that they need to do. That is how it started. But you know what I said earlier about definition, in fact with time it metamorphosed into a mentorship programme.

People like to restrict the title ‘first lady’ to wives of governors or Heads of State or even pastor’s wives, but this is quite limiting. A definition from Collins Dictionary for instance, talks about leading

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ladies in a particular profession. So, it’s not just about the wife of a governor or pastor.

Our goal is to prepare young ladies to be leaders in a fully rounded way. I have had outstanding women in different fields of human endeavour become parts of this highly subsidised annual finishing school that aims to 'democratise' the traditional finishing school for the benefit of the wider society, while also providing mentorship. I am very interested in people being fearless about pursuing their dreams, being themselves, going out to actualise their own vision. You know, being equipped for life, so to speak, because when you don’t know, you are likely to make mistakes. Ignorance is not bliss; it is actually quite dangerous.

The annual school gives attendees as much information as possible, including little things, such as how to carry oneself and how to sit on a stage. Little things you that help one to be graceful, you know.

It isn’t just your talent or your business ability that can carry you through. If you are building a brand, there are other things that one has to be aware and conscious of. For instance, how do you handle office politics and how do you handle office culture? How do you identify role models or interact with them? So, the school is more or less like a big sister giving a younger sister advice or life lessons.

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NOVEMBER 12, 2023 T H E W I L L N E W S P A P E R • www.thewillnigeria.com

ENTERTAINMENT &SOCIETY WEEKLY many people tell you, you will still doubt yourself until you actually begin to see and believe in yourself.

My thinking is that the social media has a lot to do with how detached the youths are. The cyber world influences them so much that may not even reflect reality. And so, depending on how much they have given themselves to that cyber world, they cannot detach it from reality. For me, it’s quite sad and this is one of the reasons why I work with the youth.

It is very important that we pass on the right values because we have seen the statistics, there are lots of casualties. We have to stop, think and begin to equip them with the right tools needed to succeed in life.

It is a huge concern and the earlier we rein it in, the better.

Speaking of First Ladies, have you had sessions with any?

There have been opportunities. Informal ones. There is always an element of discretion in this work.

Gender wise, who are your biggest clients?

I organise training sessions for organisations. In that case, it is a fusion of both sexes. However, I love to work with women.

Many of the conferences I get invited to are conferences that have to do with women empowerment, like the Women in Business (WiMBiZ).

Does this mean that men are not particularly receptive to personal and image branding?

I feel that perhaps people are more comfortable having one on one sessions with members of their own gender because I have a male friend who is equally doing well in this field and has quite a number of male clients. So, it all boils down to who you are more comfortable sharing intimate details or what they consider embarrassing. That is what I suspect.

What has been your biggest challenge in this business?

I haven’t seen any big challenge in a sense that anything that could present itself as a challenge I have seen as an opportunity or something that I had to find a way to resolve. Again, when you see obstacles, you have to find your way around them and not allow yourself to be discouraged. I know that some people who may not be well trained in this business pull things off the internet and pass it off as theirs. I don’t see them as a challenge. That happens in Nigeria with every profession. If they see that some money could be made from something, they jump on it immediately, whether they like it or not, certified or not and not even minding that they may be misinforming people.

Is your profession regulated in Nigeria?

Not quite. It will require a lot of work to get that done. But I do think that if you are going to teach something, at least be sure of what you are teaching and just have some form of integrity.

What has been the most striking feedback you got from your client since you embarked on this journey?

I really don’t want to sound immodest, but I have gotten very good feedback. I love speaking and what is most important to me is being able to pass knowledge or make somebody see things they couldn’t see before; help open their minds to endless possibilities. I love to see people grow confident in themselves. Nevertheless, I have had fantastic feedback from the work I do.

How do you think image perception and branding can help change the current narrative about Nigeria to the outside world?

Before we start rewriting, we need to do some form of housekeeping. I am not comfortable with us just putting out a cosmetic image out there. It has to be more natural, working from the inside out. There are some things about Nigeria that need to be promoted constantly, such as how Nigerians are very hospitable and creative people. We are doing so much with so little, in spite of our infrastructural problems. There is also the Nigerian spirit, which is resilient. It doesn’t matter what you throw at Nigerians, they will make a joke out of it and I think that is very special.

We help to run a few other countries. So, there is something about Nigeria that can’t be ignored. Despite the fact that there are a few misguided ones who think fraud is the way out, there are many Nigerians who want to do the right thing. These are the facts and figures that we need to compile and put out there as well, to counter whatever negative narrative about Nigeria that is out there and begin to project the good things about us.

We need to curate our own image by compiling things that are unique about us that the world needs to hear about. We can’t leave it to other people to do for us. Also, patriotism has a huge role to play in all these. We can’t go out there and trade insults and pull down one another. The world will help us do that more. A lot of work needs to be done, but it can be done simultaneously; put out a more balanced perspective while also working on our psyche as a nation.

The younger generation seem to be detached from reality; they are generally not in sync with some things that are important enough to shape their lives. How can image branding and perception help to correct this?

Image starts from within you. If everyone thinks, for instance, that you are good at what you do but you don’t believe it, no matter how

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What would you consider your biggest achievement in life so far?

Just remaining true to myself. There is a lot I choose to walk away from because I don’t think it is authentic. I want to run the race that God has given me. I don’t want to run anyone’s race. I want to run mine and be contented doing it.

What would you say must have significantly shaped you to be who you are today?

My faith. I am a Christian. I realize that I have a God who loves me so much and I put my hand in his and walk with him every day. They say when you kneel before God, then you can stand before any man. So, if God’s approval is most important to me, then I am going to be able to easily turn down things that God will not approve of.

“

Utchay

We need to curate our own image by compiling things that are unique about us that the world needs to hear about. We can’t leave it to other people to do for us.

Also, patriotism has a huge role to play in all these. We can’t go out there and be insulting ourselves and pulling ourselves down, the world will help us do that more. A lot of work needs to be done but it can be done simultaneously; put out a more balanced perspective while also working on our psyche as a nation

You do have a very peculiar style. You are always in navy bue, black, red and white. Any particular reason why you are drawn towards these colours?

Maybe because I like simplicity. That is not to say I don’t admire what others wear, but for myself, I like simple clean lines and that defines me because they suit me.

What are some of the things you enjoy doing when you aren’t working?

I am a tennis enthusiast, I collect African art and I am an amateur artist.

Utchay THEWILLNIGERIA

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ENTERTAINMENT &SOCIETY WEEKLY STORIES BY IVORY UKONU

FAMILY CELEBRATES 5TH ANNIVERSARY OF ANTHONY ANENIH’S DEATH

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ot too long ago, the family of late Chief Anthony Anenih hosted dignitaries to their patriarch's fifth memorial anniversary. The ceremony began with a memorial service at the St. Paul Catholic Church, Benin City, Edo State.

This was followed by a memorial lecture delivered by Dr. Sam Amadi, Director of Abuja School of Social and Political Thoughts and Visiting Professor at the Emerald Energy Institute, University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

Popularly known as Mr Fix it, late Anenih was an embodiment of intellectualism.

Anthony Anenih Jnr, eldest son of the departed politician, while eulogising Anenih his late father at the memorial said his father led a very disciplined lifestyle which endeared him to a lot of people. He described him as one who did not play ethnic and religious cards as a politician, but was able to unite all regions together and build a formidable political party in the country. Some of the dignitaries in attendance at the event included former Governor of Delta State, Chief Onanefe Ibori; Chief Tom Ikimi, Senator Monday Okpebholo, Hon. Friday Itula, Hon. Pascal Ugbomhe, Andrew Egbadon, Blessing Agbebaku, Speaker, Edo State House of Assembly, Hon. Frank Okiye, former Speaker, Edo State House of Assembly,

Dr. Anthony Aziegbemi; Edo State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Chairman, Clifford Odia; Joe Odionwe, Prince Clem Agba and Christopher Omi Imoisili.

Anenih died in 2018 at the age of 85 in an Abuja hospital after a brief illness. Two years before then, he had survived an eight-hour heart surgery which was carried out in the United Kingdom.

The late Anenih served as an orderly to a former GovernorGeneral and later, President of Nigeria in the First Republic, Nnamdi Azikiwe, shortly after his return from the International Police Academy in Washington DC. He was elected as civilian Governor of the old Bendel State (now Edo and Delta States). His tenure was however cut short by the military takeover of December 1983.

Anenih was Deputy National Coordinator of the Olusegun Obasanjo Campaign Organisation in the 1999 and 2003 general elections. He served as Minister of Works and Housing in 1999 and became Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the PDP. He was however involved in several controversies, part of which was the alleged N300 billion fraud in the transport sector under the Olusegun Obasanjo Administration.

Continued from page 38

Herbert Wigwe Takes Philanthropy to New Heights to social interventions. Education and healthcare are two areas that he believes would make the greatest impact on the people. He has wasted no time taking care of education by recently laying the foundation of his private university, Wigwe University, in Rivers, his home state. In fact the institution is poised to receive its first set of students by September 2024 when lectures are expected to commence.

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With the health sector, he has begun to make commendable strides through his HOW Foundation. He recently adopted 25 primary healthcare centres in Rivers State, at least one in each local government area, for the purpose of refurbishing and rejiging them with quality equipment and manpower and to also run them for five years before handing them over to the state.

However, his heart belongs to education.

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Continued from page 38

Seriake Dickson Floats Private University Dickson’s university, Hensard, which was recently given approval to commence operations, is Bayelsa’s first private university. Besides being the founder of the institution which he established through the Henry Seriake Dickson Foundation, he is also the chairman of the university’s board of trustees. The university is said to be positioning itself to drive entrepreneurship, leadership and skills acquisition. It will also pursue academic excellence, character

formation, discipline and commitment to service, produce leaders, entrepreneurs, and champions of economic and social change.

According to Dickson, students of Hensard will be taught entrepreneurship and encouraged to become real entrepreneurs while in school through exposure to practical involvement in the running, overseeing and management of businesses. The former governor said this would be done in their chosen fields and under the mentorship of the school.

Dozy Mmobuosi Unveils New Lagos Club, 1472 FC Okosi

ALEX OKOSI MAKES UK POWERLIST FOR 3RD CONSECUTIVE YEAR

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igerian-born tech expert and Managing Director of Google Africa, Alex Okosi, has been recognised in the United Kingdom's 2023 Powerlist. The Powerlist, in partnership with J.P. Morgan, honours incredible men and women across a wide range of industries, including business, science, technology and the arts.

This marks the third consecutive year that Okosi has been recognised and included in the list of outstanding black achievers.

Okosi was honoured alongside other notable individuals at the celebration of black excellence awards which was held late last month at the JW Marriott Grosvenor House London hotel.

Okosi was first selected for the UK Powerlist in October 2021 after joining YouTube in 2020, following a long and illustrious career at Viacom International Media Networks Africa, now Paramount International Networks. He was appointed as the Managing Director of Emerging Markets for YouTube in Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA). He also introduced entertainment brands like MTV Base, Comedy Central, BET and Nickelodeon in Africa. He was selected for a second time in 2022. He is currently responsible for leading Google’s vision, fostering partnerships, and advancing cutting-edge technologies on the continent.

Mmobuosi

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igerian businessman, Dozy Mmobuosi, is set to introduce a new football club in Lagos called Club 1472, as his attempt to purchase Sheffield United has collapsed.

Mmobuosi was close to finalising a deal to acquire ownership of the English club for around £115 million. However, the takeover fell apart due to an agreement not being reached. His relationship with the current owner of Sheffield United, Prince Abdullah, deteriorated to

the point that the Championship side’s ownership deal is now in serious doubt.

Nevertheless, Mmobuosi, who was embattled a few months ago, has established a new team, named 1472 FC, in Lagos.

This new club is expected to compete with teams like Sporting Lagos and Inter Lagos.

Club 1472 has registered with the Nigeria National League, which is the second tier of the Nigeria Premier Football League.

Coach Otega Deniran will lead the team in their upcoming matches. The 43-year-old was at the centre of a Hindenburg Research which alluded that his company, the Tingo Group, was an exceptionally obvious scam. The company denied the Hindenburg report claims, which it said contained errors of fact and misleading and libellous content and appointed legal counsels to review the report's claims.

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ENTERTAINMENT &SOCIETY WEEKLY STORIES BY IVORY UKONU

Oba Adetoyese Odugbemi To Honour Dele Momodu With Chieftaincy Title

ANULI AJAGU RETURNS TO NOLLYWOOD S ocialite turned preacher, Anuli Ajagu, has returned to Nollywood, 30 years after she left the industry to join her husband's business concern while also strutting the Lagos social scene.

Now based in Canada, she is returning, through Brampton Productions and RevAnuli Inc, with a movie titled, ‘Praise Party,' an exciting family-friendly Nollywood film, billed to hit the cinemas this weekend.

The star-studded movie boasts an exceptional cast, including Kunle Remi, Keppy Ekpenyong, Eberechukwu Bayray Nwizu, Tina Mba, Sola Fosudu, Chioma Nwosu, Arinze Okonkwo, among others.

Written and produced by Ajagu herself and directed

by Obi Martins, a US-based Ajagu thespian, ‘Praise Party' illustrates the dynamics of mental and emotional trauma. Set in Nigeria, it also highlights the importance of community, seeking professional help and how taking responsibility, counselling, faith, courage and forgiveness can be therapeutic; bringing healing and restoration to hurting souls. The movie, which began garnering international accolades way ahead of its cinematic release on July 8th won the coveted ‘Best International Film,’ at the prestigious Charlotte Black Film Festival, North Carolina.

The film was also an official selection and screened at the Canada China International Film Festival (CCIFF) opening weekend, on July 15, 2023, in Montreal Canada.

On August 31, at the CCIFF closing gala awards in Montreal, Ajagu was awarded ‘Best Producer,’ for ‘Praise Party.’ Fresh out of the university, she wrote and produced a stage production called ‘Painful Silhouette,’ directed by a friend and co-thespian, Victor Dugga. It was a contemporary play, a ticketed event and people showed up, including the General Manager of Plateau

Radio Television at the time, Leo Keyen. The performance received a standing ovation and spontaneous recognition from Keyen. He offered her an opportunity to collaborate with the Plateau Radio Television Corporation (PRTC) as a scriptwriter, and to come up with 13 episodes of scripts with exciting moral messages like she had done with 'Painful Silhouette.'

That stint was, however, short-lived, having been interrupted by political instability in Nigeria, forcing her and her family to relocate to Lagos from Jos, NorthCentral Nigeria, in 1993. While working behind the scenes as a props personnel at the Nigerian Television Authority, NTA, Lagos, fate landed her a role in the then newly launched soap opera, ‘Fortunes.’

Ajagu’s portrayal of Gloria alongside Ramsey Nouah’s character made her a household name.

Following this, in 1995, Ajagu took a break from the entertainment industry to start a family and focus on other things. Alongside her husband, Rev Ausbeth Ajagu, they both became a recurring decimal on the social circuit and graced frequent covers of magazines until they both disappeared from the scene. Now in her 50s, she picked up her dream of over three decades and fanned its spark into a flame.

A prolific writer, she has over 300 published articles in various media including columns that she wrote for National Dailies and Magazines in Nigeria.

In addition to making inroads into Nollywood, Anuli is a minister of the gospel and is the President of Divine Heritage Gospel Ministry. Her husband, Ausbeth now leads a prayer network called Pentium Global Prayer Network, under Pentium Ministries which he runs.

King Sunny Ade’s Son Dedicates Political Victory to Late Mum

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eorge Olawande Adegeye, one of the sons of celebrated Juju musician, Sunday Adegeye, a.k.a King Sunny Ade, with his late wife, Risikat Ajoke Adegeye, has retained his seat in the Federal House of Representatives by securing an electoral victory at the Court of Appeal which upheld his election as the representative for Amuwo-Odofin.

The affirmation follows the dismissal of petitioners from the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, challenging his victory in the February 25 general election.

Other petitioners include the All Progressives Grand Alliance Adegeye (APGA), and the Zenith Labour Party (ZLP), as well as their respective candidates in the comprising Justices M.L. Shuaib, J.E election. Their primary contention Ekanem, and P.A Bassi, unanimously revolved around Adegeye’s ruled that the appellants lacked the sponsorship by the Labour Party authority to determine a political (LP) and his prior membership party’s membership or choose its in the party before the election. candidate for an election. While However, the Court of Appeal panel, dismissing the appeals, the Justices

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agreed with the counsel to Adegeye and LP on an objection filed earlier regarding the case being a pre-election matter and held that the National Assembly Petition Tribunal lacked the necessary jurisdiction to have entertained the matter initially and therefore struck them out. Overwhelmed with joy, Olawande dedicated the judgment to his beloved mother who sadly passed away two years ago, the people of Amuwo Odofin Federal Constituency, as well as the executive and members of Labour Party.

Recall that a few weeks back, the juju maestro remembered his late wife on her second death anniversary. Her death occurred about the time he was planning to officially open his mega lounge and clubhouse, The Royal Majesty Place in Lagos. The opening had to be postponed until weeks later.

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Obey-Fabiyi

MEET OREOLUWA, LATE ALABA LAWSON'S SON WITH EBENEZER OBEY

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bout two weeks ago, Chief Alaba Lawson, the first female President of Nigeria Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines Agriculture (NACCIMA) passed on at the age of 72.

Lawson who was also the first female President, Federation of West African Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FEWACCI) died at her resident in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

Until her death, Lawson was an accomplished woman. She was the Iyalode of Egbaland; the Matron of Nigeria Association of Women Journalists; Past Chairman, Board of Governing Council, Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, Ogun State (MAPOLY); Past President, Abeokuta Chamber of Commerce, Past President, Ogun Council of Chambers of Commerce, Past President, Odu’a Chambers of Commerce; Global Convener, NACCIMA Business Women Group (NAWORG), Fellow and Council Member, Institute of Directors (IoD), member, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Council Member, Nigerian-British Chambers of Commerce (NBCC), Chairman Board of Trustees, Nigerian Quality Infrastructure Forum(NIQIF); matron, Women In Logistic and Transport (WILAT), Chairman, ABESTONE Microfinance Bank etc.

Despite her multiple accomplishments which was public knowledge, not many knew that music legend and juju miliki exponent, Evangelist Ebenezer Obey Fabiyi fathered one of her six children, Oreoluwa Obey-Fabiyi. The son who is her last child is a graduate of Igbinedion University, Okada, Edo State. Unlike his sons who took after him by charting a course in the music industry, Oreoluwa towed a different path. He is a civil engineer by profession who works in the maritime sector and is the veteran musician's sixth son and seventh child. He is happily married with a son.

n about two weeks' time, all roads will lead to Gbonganland in Osun State when politician cum journalist, Dele Momodu will be conferred with the chieftaincy title of the Akinrogun of Gbonganland The Momodus alongside his wife, Mobolaji ancestral home. Chieftaincy who will also be decorated titles would also be conferred with the title of Yeye on other deserving Nigerians Akinrogun of Gbonganland. at the ceremony which will The event coincides with the have the Ooni of Ife, Oba celebration of the Olufi of Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Gbongan, Oba Adetoyese Ojaja II, as the royal father Oyeniyi Odugbemi I’s 25 of the day, while the Special years on the throne.

Guest of Honour will be The chieftaincy title is very Governor Ademola Adeleke significant to Momodu as of Osun State.

Gbonganland is his mother's

Meet Uzodinma, Ngozi Okonjo Iweala's Son Who Tied The Knot With German Lover thesis work in creative writing at Harvard. The novel depicts a child soldier in an unnamed African country. The book, published in 2005 and adapted as an awardwinning film in 2015, was mentioned by 'Time Magazine,' 'The New York Times,' 'Entertainment Weekly,' 'The Times and Rolling Stone.' He completed a multi-year study of HIV/AIDS in Africa, the result of which The Elsas and the Iwealas became his second book, 'Our Kind of People' Last weekend, Dr Uzodinma which was released in 2012.

Iweala, the first son of Ngozi He later released another novel Okonjo-Iweala, the director titled 'Speak No Evil,' published general of the World Trade in 2018, which highlights the Organisation, WTO, quit the life of a gay Nigerian-American bachelor's club when he boy named Niru. A graduate of married his German born lover, Columbia University College Lotta Elsa traditionally. Despite of Physicians and Surgeons, the fact that the traditional he was a fellow at the Radcliffe ceremony took place in faraway Institute for Advanced Study Heidelberg in Germany, his at Harvard University. A famous mother ensured that all recipient of several awards and aspects of the traditional marital recognitions, while at Harvard, rites were observed. While all he earned the Hoopes Prize of the attention focused on the and Dorothy Hicks Lee Prize for mother's dancing skill with Outstanding Undergraduate many not having seen that side Thesis, 2004; the Eager Prize of her before, as she slugged for Best Undergraduate Short it out on the dance floor to an Story, and the Horman Prize for array of Nigerian music with Excellence in Creative Writing. her daughter inlaw, not many In 2006, he won the New York know that the groom is as well Public Library's Young Lions accomplished as his mum.

Fiction Award and in 2007, he Despite being a surgeon, Dr was named as one of 'Granta' Iweala is very passionate about magazine's 20 best young writing and has authored quite American novelists. Dr Uzo is a number of publications the CEO of the Africa Centre, a including novels. He wrote the culture and policy institution, novel 'Beasts of No Nation,' a museum for African art in which is a formation of his America.

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ENTERTAINMENT &SOCIETY WEEKLY STORIES BY IVORY UKONU

OMOWUNMI DADA IS 2023 GLOBAL ARTIST-INRESIDENCE AT US VARSITY N

ollywood actress, Omowunmi Dada has achieved a new milestone by becoming the 2023 Global artist-in-residence at the esteemed University of Michigan in the United States.

Fuelled by a Title VI grant from the U.S. Department of Education and coordinated by African Studies, ASC, in partnership with the Department of AfroAmerican and African Studies, DAAS, the Global Artist-In-Residence Initiative involves the actress collaborating with DAAS language instructors. Together, they will craft audio-visual materials for teaching African languages and actively participate in the vibrant University of Michigan, U-M campus community.

The actress revealed that she will be collaborating with fellow language instructors to impart the knowledge of African languages.

“I am absolutely honoured to be named the 2023 Global Artist in Residence at the African Studies Center, ASC and the Department of Afro-American and African Studies, DAAS of the University of Michigan, USA! “I will be working with DAAS language instructors to develop audio-visual

materials for teaching African languages, while also engaging with the U-M campus community and local schools. Can’t wait to share the beauty of the rich African culture and the incredible journey of Nollywood with everyone!” she stated.

Dada The actress expressed her joy saying, “Through this unique opportunity, I am excited to Nollywood and African filmmaking at engage with faculty, staff, and students events organized in partnership with at the University of Michigan, sharing various U-M schools, departments, the rich tapestry of African culture and and local organizations. Through the incredible journey of the Nigerian these initiatives, she aims to impart movie industry, of which I am proud to knowledge about Nigerian culture to be a part. the next generation.

"Together, we will explore the Expressing her enthusiasm, the actress captivating stories, diverse traditions, and the creative spirit that defines Africa, shares her honor in serving as the Global Artist in Residence, representing fostering a deeper understanding Nollywood, one of Africa’s most vibrant and appreciation of Africa and Africans film industries. in ways that promote the culture of collaboration between the United States Omowunmi Dada holds a Bachelor of Arts (B.A. Hons) in Creative Arts from and the continent of Africa". the University of Lagos. With nearly Beyond the campus, Dada will connect a decade of experience, this awardwith elementary, middle, and high winning actress, presenter, and model school students and teachers in has consistently captivated audiences Southeast Michigan. Her outreach on screen. extends to making presentations about

Why Younger Musical Artists Refuse to Join Pman – Pretty Okafor N igerian musician, Pretty Okafor who was re-elected president of The Performing Musicians Employers' Association Of Nigeria (PMAN) has revealed why some young artists are reluctant to join the association.

He said, “The younger generation of artists do not want to join PMAN because they believe that the association will have authority over them. That is why the association cannot help them in times of crisis.

We cannot use members’ dues to serve non-members.

“As for our veteran members, there are programmes put in place to secure them even when they are retired. Some of them receive royalties

as members of the Musical Copyright Society of Nigeria. As for the ones who are up to 65 years, they receive a monthly pension from PMAN.” The singer, who faced no opposition at the just concluded PMAN election, clinched victory with a total of 50 votes, as announced by the electoral chairman during the PMAN’s national conference in Lagos State. Additionally re-elected were Sunny Neji as 1st VicePresident, Zaaki Azzay as 2nd Vice-President, Michael Stevens (Ruggedman) as Chairman of the Media Committee ex-officio, and Boniface Itodo (Aitabonny) as General Secretary. In the same vein, popular singer and talking drummer, Aralola Olamuyiwa, aka Ara, was sworn-in as the new PMAN Governor for Lagos State.

She was also issued a certificate Okafor of return.

TENI AKPATA SHARES TESTIMONY OF SURVIVAL

Davido Withdraws Support For Male Hawker Who Disguises as a Woman

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Teni said she later recovered her singing voice without undergoing surgery. The singer described her healing as a testimony, adding that ‘Tears of the Sun’ – her new album would be released on November 17.

“July 2023, I was diagnosed with a life-threatening throat infection while recording my second album,” she said.

“After different bouts of temporary voice loss, doctors advised me to undergo a major operation or risk permanent voice loss. September 2023, I was hospitalised after repeated cases of exhaustion. Ahh my eyes have seen… I had lots of injectables in five days.

“October 2023, mildly recovered my singing voice after seeking medical assistance despite not undergoing surgery. November 2023, I am fully back on stage. I finished my album ‘Tears of the Sun’, set to be released on November 17. My new single ‘Malaika’ is my song of praise and thanksgiving to God for his mercy and grace.”

Teni gained prominence after releasing ‘Fargin’ in 2017. In 2021, the singer delivered ‘Wondaland’, her debut album. Teni has established a name for herself in the Nigerian music industry with many hit songs.

avid Adeleke, a.k.a Davido, has “Yes, it is true. My name is Eniola, my aborted his mission to help parents gave me Sultan and I am a guy. a physically challenged male The reason why I am behaving like a girl is hawker who disguised himself as because of help,” he said. a woman. The hawker identified as Asked why he decided to dress like a Akpata Eniola started to gain attention after woman, he said he was abused by his skit maker, Ebuka Emmanuel, a.k.a family as a child despite being born Brain Jotter, shared a video of their disabled. He said his mother disowned inger Teniola Akpata has revealed that encounter. him and he started to fend for himself by she was diagnosed with a throat infection Brain Jotter said that during their making and selling beads in a beer parlor. while recording her second album. In conversation, he learned that the Sultan added that he later thought the bead a video she posted on her social media, she street hawker was also a makeup artist. business was unsustainable so he decided detailed her journey while battling with throat Moved by Eniola’s situation, he decided to learn how to do makeup in Osun. He said infection and temporary voice loss. to help by transferring N400,000 to her he started dressing as a woman to disguise The singer disclosed that she was diagnosed bank account. his identity from his abusive family. He also with the life-threatening infection in July. She Eniola revealed that she is a native of said when he started his makeup business, Adeleke said she sought medical assistance and was Osun State who relocated to Lagos to a woman refused to pay him because he advised to undergo surgery to avoid losing her make ends meet. Reacting to the video was dressed like a man. He added that he voice permanently. to be a man. He also said he acts like a via X, Davido drew the attention of his decided to continue dressing as a woman to woman because he needs help. uncle, Governor Ademola Adeleke of be successful in his business.

Osun State to her. He also asked for her location.

Responding to Davido’s post, Adeleke said he had directed his office to get in touch with Eniola. The governor said he would assist Eniola in advancing her education or improving her makeup teve Gukas is a Nollywood filmmaker, director and features, for that matter and any time at all. I had to go to receiving their training to make a film, which gives them skills. Shortly after, a blogger claimed producer who believes that films should be used to film school, come out of film school and find money for ‘A a calling card for the industry. And the rest can be unto that the hawker is a man named Sultan address the ills of society. The filmmaker from Plateau Place in the Stars’, which is my first directorial feature after them". who disguised himself as a woman to State is now mentoring upcoming directors, guiding them film school, having done ‘Keeping Faith’ before attending Speaking furthermore on the project the filmmaker said, deceive people into giving him money. through the intricacies of the film industry—an opportunity film school.

"So I have always nursed the idea of doing this. The idea “Nigerians fell for this scam and it is he missed in his early career. This has inspired him to "I know that we did get a window of what training and metamorphosed and became First Features, and based on sad. According to the group of people embark on a new project he calls ‘First Features.’ support could be with the New Direction Initiatives with that, we called for first-time feature directors. These people that helped the said disabled lady "The idea was to define, nurture, support, train and M-NET Africa, where aspiring directors and writers were have yet to make a feature film, but the criteria was to before, na man, his name is Sultan, he provide an enabling platform for the next generation of shortlisted and provided with training to some degree. create a short film before. disguises as a woman,” the blogger film directors. So that is the initiative that First Features But only the person who came out tops got to direct short Although the filmmaker said the project is hugely capitalwrote. is. It started about three years ago when we had a year of films". intensive, Native Films provided the large chunk of the Brain Jotter also expressed his identifying the talents, providing training, working on a He also said that he "was worried about the degree and funding and Michelangelo Productions. disappointment with the hawker. story, and then beginning actual production. We produced extent to which people provide training, as it has become "The joy of seeing these young directors go from doubting Reacting to the discovery of Eniola’s three of these films last year. And we resumed this year a revenue stream for some people whose idea was to themselves to becoming fully confident on set and seeing real identity, Davido asked the Osun with the fourth and are getting ready for the fifth," he said. provide training to make money. Still, more was needed governor to abort the mission.

"I came up with the idea of first features because, starting to support the people who were trained on how to get into their imaginations come into reality is very gratifying; it is something I enjoy watching, and I say that more because “Excellency dem job us !! Dem say nah as a director, I didn’t have a platform that would make the industry and how to progress. I had always thought man. ABORT MISSION,” he wrote on I technically hand-hold them all through the training it possible for you to find support and people to hold of training younger directors, not just teaching them but X. Explaining why he disguises as a process as a director myself", Steve says. your hand through the first experience for making your also following up with making it possible for the person woman, Eniola, confirmed his gender

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Steve Gukas Empowers Emerging Nollywood Directors

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First Sons And Daughters With Attitude They are neither elected into office nor hold any specific position in government. Yet they enjoy limitless privileges as presidential progenies.

THEWILL looks at first sons and daughters with attitude. Michael Jimoh reports…

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hen Seyi Tinubu boarded a presidential jet on Sunday October 8 from Abuja only a few people in Aso Villa knew about it. By the time he landed in Kano barely an hour later, millions of Nigerians were speedily informed. In no time, too, photographs of Seyi disembarking along with some of his close friends surrounded by a phalanx of security officials were everywhere. There were some with Kano State government officials receiving the First Son on the tarmac. In all of them, Seyi was the centre of attention, bearded and in his funny get-up – a darkcoloured kaftan and, incredibly, a face cap.

As anyone would imagine, the president’s son coming to town would have been big deal to some people in Kano, and even a bigger deal to players and spectators at Usman Dantata Polo Ground where the 2023 Polo Tournament final took place.

Seyi himself is a polo aficionado, has a polo club STL Team in Lagos so missing the final in Kano would have been unthinkable. Who can blame him for his passion?

In times past, hundreds of soccer fans riding heavy duty motorbikes in long convoys from either side of the Niger Bridge invaded venues of finals between Bendel Insurance and Enugu Rangers in Benin City or Enugu. Now, here was the president’s son having the same itch with a grander, faster and safer mode of transportation at the ready.

Besides, the Kano jaunt was not the first such trip for the First Son. Sources say he is “known for travelling regularly with the presidential jet either in the company of his father or in those of his associates.”

Last July, for instance, Seyi was sighted walking towards one of the presidential jets in the FCT destination unknown. The image shows a backpack strapped to a sky-blue jallabiya Seyi wore, complete with his trade mark face cap. His latest jaunt however drew criticism from Nigerians claiming “abuse of public asset.”

Though unelected, Seyi got all the presidential treat from when he departed Abuja to when he arrived Kano. Writing for Premium Times on October 9, Abdulrahman Abdulmalik reported that he “was thereafter chauffeured to the Usman Dantata Polo Ground amidst tight security provided by gunwielding detachments of the Nigeria Police Force and the State Security Service. After the final matches of the two-week tournament were played and awards handed to winners, the waiting presidential jet then transported Seyi Tinubu and his party back to Abuja.”

Continuing, Abdulmalik reported that Seyi’s “use of the presidential plane for a private event to satisfy his personal passion immediately triggered a firestorm of criticism by some Nigerians.”

First among them was a London-based Nigerian journalist Jaafar Jaafar who questioned the morality of using a public property for a private event. “Here’s Tinubu’s golden child, Seyi,”Jafaar harrumphed on X, “travelling in a presidential jet to watch polo in Kano…

Even if our laws are vague on this, one thing is clear: this is an offence to the moral code of leadership.”

Aliyu, a commentator on the same platform, agreed with Jafaar. “The use of presidential jets for personal or non-official purposes by public officials can raise concerns about transparency and accountability.

Seyi alighting with friends from presidential jet in Kano.

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Seyi himself is a polo aficionado, has a polo club STL Team in Lagos so missing the final in Kano would have been unthinkable. Who can blame him for his passion?

In times past, hundreds of soccer fans riding heavy duty motorbikes in long convoys from either side of the Niger Bridge invaded venues of finals between Bendel Insurance and Enugu Rangers in Benin City or Enugu

It’s essential for leaders to uphold ethical standards and set a good example for the public. Transparency and adherence to rules can help combat corruption and ensure that government resources are used responsibly.”

Still on the presidential jet matter, a surgeon Bello

Anka focused on the number of security detail with Seyi during the flight to and from Kano. “What about the misuse of a special forces unit as his bodyguards?

See them in the pictures. The other day, he went skateboarding in Abuja with them running by his side.

This is just a continuation of the culture of impunity from the previous government, perhaps on an even grander scale this time.”

The comment from @ajaGunSEgun was tongue in cheek: “Buhari's daughter did the same thing, and I think it is high time the Nigerian government added the offices of the son and daughter of the president to the already created offices of the President and the First Lady so Nigerian government affairs could finally become a family affair.”

If there’s anything Seyi’s misadventure achieved, it is to anger many Nigerians, Abdumalik sniffed, insisting that it “has continued to irritate not a few taxpayers who lament inappropriate deployment and abuse of a key national asset.”

Of course, as most Nigerians know, Seyi would not be the first to willy-nilly appropriate a presidential jet for private use. Hanan, youngest daughter of former President Muhammadu Buhari, set the pace when, on January 9 2020, she flew in one of the aircraft from the FCT to Bauchi and back. What was her mission?

A private photography session. Her action drew criticism almost immediately just as Seyi’s.

Farooq Kperogi a Nigerian professor thundered thusly from the U.S: “An unprecedented abuse of presidential powers.” Comparing Hanan’s abuse of privilege three years ago and Seyi’s now, an X user by name Bashar noted that “Buhari merely sought the title of ‘President’ without understanding or respecting the sanctity of the office. The audacity to let his daughter, Hanan, use a presidential jet for a mere photo tour in Bauchi was the beginning of this mockery. Now we see Tinubu’s progeny, Seyi, hopping on the same jet for a polo match in Kano. It’s not just about the laws, it’s about ethics, morals and respect for the position.

Our leaders must do more than just occupy an office; they must uphold its dignity.”

Though the Presidency kept mum on Seyi’s pleasure ride to and from Kano early in October, his father President Bola Ahmed Tinubu himself became very vocal on another privilege the son may have abused.

Late last month, the president bristled about family members inviting themselves to the weekly Federal THEWILLNIGERIA

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...Sons And Daughters With Attitude Executive Council meetings.

He specifically mentioned his first son. “Last week, I noticed people sneaking in and out of this council,” PBAT warned.

“People had access to this place when they should not have. I saw the photograph of my son, Seyi, sitting behind…

That is not acceptable. I will announce to you here the people who are supposed to be here.”

He proceeded to do just that, naming Hadiza Usman, Special Adviser on Policy Coordination, Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Hakeem MuriOkunola, Principal Private Secretary and Damilotun Aderemi, Private Secretary.

“These are the people who are granted the exception to be here when we are conducting the business of the nation,” Tinubu said. “Unless I sent for you, don’t come.”

Mark Thatcher son of former Prime Minister Margret Thatcher had his own bit of scandal when it emerged he was involved in an arms deal between the UK and Saudi Arabia. Dubbed Al Yamamah Deal, the UK was contracted to supply warplanes worth $43b through BAE (British multinational arms, security and aerospace company) to the Saudis. First sales and shipment was in 1986. The allegations became public in 2001. With payoffs running into billions of dollars, Prince Bandar who at the time was son of Defence Minister Prince Sultan was said to have received kickbacks from the deal. Also mentioned was Mrs. Thatcher’s son alleged to have received some slush funds from the transaction.

Seyi with Kano State government official and security.

Of course, Mr. President duly informed the Secretary to the Federal Government George Akume and Head of the Civil Service Mrs. Folasade Yemi-Esan for prompt action, adding that “unless they are your staff that are included, no one should have access to the FEC meeting, except I have announced their names to you.”

Presidential Progenies Behaving Badly?

That question cropped up following Seyi’s recent wanderlust, his bias for using presidential jets for private jaunts. Did Seyi behave badly in appropriating an official property for private use? Did Hanan herself also take laws into her hands by acting similarly three years ago?

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Though the Presidency kept mum on Seyi’s pleasure ride to and from Kano early in October, his father President Bola Ahmed Tinubu himself became very vocal on another privilege the son may have abused.

Late last month, the president bristled about family members inviting themselves to the weekly Federal Executive Council meetings

For most Nigerians and judging by the responses so far, the answer is yes. But some also point to parental indulgence. For Jaafar, erstwhile President Buhari “set a bad example by allowing his daughter access to the aircraft.” Therefore, Seyi Tinubu following in Hanan’s footsteps was only too natural – two instances of presidential progenies taking laws into their hands and damning the consequences. In that, they are both in good company and from the very country Nigeria borrowed its presidential system of government - the United States of America.

Hunter Biden second and only surviving son of President Joe Biden is currently embroiled in a firearm possession charge. Aside that, the 53-year-old has been involved in the worst of all possible scandals that ever could beset a first family starting from 2014.

From being an alcoholic to substance abuse, Hunter has fathered a child with a woman not his wife. He refused paternity until DNA tests proved otherwise.

He now pays child support to the woman Lunden Alexis Roberts, an exotic dancer from Arkansas.

As if pursued by the Furies, Hunter was charged with tax evasion by the IRS. He also paid a backlog of taxes to government. And then, there is the more worrisome accusation of benefitting from shady business dealings with the Chinese and Ukrainians when he travelled to those countries with his father when he was Vice President to Barack Obama.

Worst of all is Hunter’s personal life which was unravelling bit by painful bit at a dizzying pace after his older sib Beau died of brain cancer in 2015.

His brother’s death shattered Hunter turning him more and more to alcohol and drug abuse, reckless spending and forsaking his domestic duties leading his estranged wife Kathleen Buhle to accuse Hunter of “spending extravagantly on his own interests THEWILLNIGERIA

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(including drugs, alcohol, prostitutes, strip clubs, and gifts for women with whom he has sexual relations) while leaving the family with no funds to pay legitimate bills.”

Thankfully, Hunter survived the alcohol and substance abuse but the case of firearm possession is pending in court.

Back in time across the Atlantic, Hunter’s counterpart

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But investigators could never prove anything against any of the principal actors. Prince Bandar himself made nonsense of the bribery allegations declaring that "If you tell me that building this whole country...out of $400bn that we misused, or got, $50bn, I'll tell you, 'Yes. So what? We did not invent corruption…This has happened since Adam and Eve. It's human nature.”

More tellingly was the remark of then UK Defence Secretary Michael Heseltine who denied any wrongdoing. “The government had no knowledge and no dealings involving commission arrangements.”

Mark himself pointedly noted that he did not use his mother’s influence to benefit from his business dealings, thus stopping investigation into Al Yamamah dead on its track, prompting reporters to evoke an Arab proverb: "The dogs bark, but the caravan moves on."

The caravan also seemed to be moving on even while dogs were barking in a neighbouring country to Saudi Arabia back then when two presidential sons called the shots in Iraq. The story of Saddam Hussein’s sons Uday and Qusay recall memories of Ottoman princes revelling in their excesses, who could do no wrong, and were simply above the law all through the period their father presided over Iraq for nearly two and half decades from 1979.

Uday was a confirmed alcoholic, serial rapist and psychopath for whom human life mattered little or nothing. He achieved notoriety for his erratic behaviour, displaying a sadistic pleasure in torturing members of the Iraqi football team if they lost matches.

For his brutality, some Iraqis tried to assassinate him but only succeeded in paralysing him thus paving the way for Qusay to emerge fully into public service and possible successor to Saddam. With more powers bestowed on him, Qusay soon outrivaled his senior sib in savagery, hunting down opponents to the regime and eliminating them.

A Sunday Times investigation, for example, showed that Qusay “was responsible for the killing of many political activists,” ordering “the killing of Khalis Mohsen al-Tikriti, an engineer at the military industrialization organization, because he believed Mohsen was planning to leave Iraq.”

Fortunately for Iraqis, the caravan did stop while the dogs backed. As the American forces closed in on Iraq during the second invasion, Qusay withdrew one billion dollars in cash from the central bank hoping to bee-line it with Uday out of his ravaged country.

The planned escape failed. Uday and Qusay were subsequently killed in a shootout with American forces in a private residence in northern Iraq in 2003 thus bringing to an ignominious end the reign of presidential progenies behaving badly in a brutal dictatorship.

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Passion to Grow Rugby Already Exists in Nigeria – Johnson Nigerian professional professional rugby player currently working to develop grassroots rugby programmes and grow the sport locally, Olatunbosun Johnson, speaks with JUDE OBAFEMI about his vision for building the rugby culture and infrastructure in Nigeria, the challenges and opportunities for the future of Nigerian rugby and overcoming obstacles like lack of funding and facilities, as well as his plan to take the national rugby team to the global stage. Excerpts:

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Creating awareness of Rugby amongst the people is all powered by funding and there is a lot that investors can do to make this happen

s a professional rugby player, do you believe Nigeria has the potential to follow in South Africa's footsteps and win the Rugby World Cup in the future? Why or why not?

Yes, Nigeria has the numbers and the talents. We have the strength, genetics and most importantly, the intelligence and the world knows this. If we can invest in our grassroots development, it will only take a couple of years. We just need the right investors, educators, trainers and more to help grow the sport.

I dedicate myself to making sure rugby gets developed in my community. I offer as much free coaching as I can to the community and the passion these kids show towards the game is alarmingly fascinating. It only fuels the drive to want to help develop more and that's what it takes. The passion, the camaraderie of sport. With such efforts, we can only grow better, although it's difficult because it needs financial backing, which is a challenge that we have to fight through if we are to help develop the sport.

Apart from funding, what other obstacles stand in the way of Nigeria building a strong national rugby team that could compete at the global level? How can these challenges

be overcome, especially with your noble objective of training a new generation of champions?

There's so much, but I will name a few. A FUNCTIONAL LEAGUE: Rugby is not the national sport of Nigeria. It is football, what Americans call soccer. It is therefore a challenge for us to get the attention of the Federal Government and the public to buy into the sport.

INVESTORS: I must bring it up again. Rugby needs funding, simply put. Equipment, coach education, training, competitions, exposure to better opposition to improve standards, grassroot development. All of these things can't be done without funding. Raising awareness of the sport among the people is also powered on funding and there is a lot that investors can do to make this happen.

GRASS ROOTS DEVELOPMENT: I use myself for an example. I have been coaching rugby in schools for free for the past 10 years. But, it cannot grow beyond what it is if there isn't adequate funding to get the required manpower, the required training, required equipment, required exposure, etc. I'm so happy that a country like South Africa, which embraces the sport so much, has proven to the world that Africa can be the best if the necessary support and attention is given to them.

I'm currently trying to help develop university rugby across the country and that cannot work if you do THEWILLNIGERIA

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...Rugby Already Exists in Nigeria – Johnson not have the right support and investors to come in, otherwise. I can bet my father's last dollar that in the next five years of consistency, Nigeria can put together a team that will compete against the best in the world. Coaches have come and seen what our kids can do and they all see the problem. It's a challenge which needs help if we are to overcome.

Can you tell us about your journey in rugby and how you became involved in the sport?

That is a very interesting story. I started playing rugby in secondary school. I played for six years before joining my first rugby club called Young Lions. Thereafter, I moved to Addax Petroleum Rugby Club where I played for a couple of years before I transferred to Cowries Rugby Football Club for a year. My last move was to Racing RFC where I still play today. Going down memory lane, it all started when my coach, Mr Williams, walked into school with the oval ball. I used to be more into football, but my classmates were not comfortable playing football with me because they felt I was way too rough.

The day they found out that I was playing rugby, they were overjoyed and asked me not to come back. For me personally, I grew to love Rugby even more. I have become so invested in it and its values that till this day I still play and invest my time in coaching and refereeing as well.

How is interest in rugby growing among young people in Nigeria? You are targeting a younger set of rugby talents. Are more kids getting inspired to play the sport today?

This isn't something that can be explained. It is something that needs to be experienced. You should see the passion among Nigerian kids when they play rugby.

It is unbelievable. I would encourage anyone available to come and watch these kids at the British International School on November 25, 2023 and see how talented they are. Come and see how much passion flows in their

Updated coaching tactics and strategies, protective gear and the likes are necessary as well. We do not have access to such equipment. In fact, access to use the equipment that foreign clubs do not need any more will go a long way in developing these kids as we introduce them to the game and grow their interests.

What are the qualities and skills that you believe young Nigerian athletes should focus on to become successful rugby players?

Personally, I would focus on the elementary basics and the values of the sport. These are very important areas.

Even at the professional stage, you need those areas to be very strong and to deliver results.

for the game

veins

What kind of training facilities and rugby programmes exist today in Nigeria to help develop talented youth players? How can these be expanded or improved?

Facilities at regular stadiums and school pitches will go a long way. We have rugby balls and cones which we managed to get the kids to learn the basics, but this is far from what is required to help the sport develop.

Rugby balls are expensive and hard to come by. The rugby posts to practise proper kicking against potential international games are important to have in place. Scrum machines, contact shields, tackle pads and bags, all of these equipment are quite expensive and if they are provided, will boost the development of the game. also the Technical Director of Rugby development in Lagos State. TurboCrestSports manages grassroost development training in high schools to help develop the sport.

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...FG's Social Intervention Programmes were supposed to be benefiting as of 2018, based on the programme’s objective of reducing intergenerational poverty through the cash transfers coupled with skills and business training.

It was not long before the selection process and cash transfer amounts became subjects of government criticism. Accusations of selective patronage favouring one section of the country were followed by allegations of corruption, stealing and mismanagement of funds. Till date, I don't know anyone nor have I seen someone who knows a beneficiary.

The way forward requires a holistic and coordinated approach, learning from both successes and failures of past programmes. The current administration under President Bola Tinubu has launched new programmes without as much as careful considerations and a rethinking of the past failures.

The Renewed Hope Conditional Cash Transfer Programme, National Social Safety Net Expansion Programme, Renewed Hope Shelter Programme for the Poor, Refugees and Internally Displaced Persons, Renewed Hope Business Grants and Loans for Vulnerable Market Women, Farmers and Traders should present an opportunity to refine and improve existing strategies, but after a careful rethinking of strategies.

The Renewed Hope Conditional Cash Transfer Programme, with its ambitious goal of delivering financial intervention to 15 million households, marks a significant step. I don't support any state funded programme that doles out money to the supposed poor and vulnerable in the society. The bulk of the monies are siphoned and don't go to those they were designed to help.

There are more efficient and credible means of helping

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Can you share any specific initiative or programme that you are currently involved in to promote rugby and develop talent in Nigeria?

I think I mentioned that in our conversation, but let me still buttress. We run a company called TurboCrestSports. It has been running rugby in Nigeria for over 15 years. I was

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the very poor and vulnerable in our country that limits the theft and mismanagement of state funds. Free or subsidised transportation is a major programme that can be used. Free fertiliser to rural dwellers to help improve farm yields, free education through secondary school, free skill acquisition training and free start up kits, as well as free healthcare and feeding programmes are more effective than purported cash distribution.

As we do this, we will need a comprehensive data infrastructure. Establishing a robust data infrastructure is fundamental to the success of any social intervention programme. The government should invest in gathering accurate and up-to-date data on poverty, vulnerability and demographic information to ensure targeted and effective interventions.

Furthermore, clear policy frameworks are essential to drive social protection agendas. Coordination between different intervention programmes is crucial to avoid duplication of efforts and ensure a unified approach towards poverty reduction. In addition, social intervention programmes should be designed with long-term stability in mind.

As the landscape of social intervention programmes in Nigeria evolves, it is essential to critically assess past experiences and incorporate lessons learned into future initiatives.

The challenges are immense, but with a commitment to transparency, data-driven decision-making and community empowerment, Nigeria can forge a path towards social interventions that truly transform lives.

As President Tinubu's government embarks on this journey, the nation has a unique opportunity to build a legacy of impactful and lasting change for its citizens.

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We also started a programme to develop rugby in universities across the country, but that is currently on hold until we are able to fund the project to get about 150 universities involved. We are the pioneers of beach rugby in Nigeria and our pioneering annual event "Sandie Beach Rugby" is approaching the 11th edition on the 26th of November 2023 at the Landmark Beach oniru, Lagos Nigeria.

We are also preparing for the second edition of our international rugby sevens tournament "Turbo 7s" at the British International School on November 25, 2023 where we will have teams from Ghana, Togo, Benin Republic, Cameroon, Burkina Faso invited to come compete against Nigerian local teams. These competitions are intended to help build the sport, not only in Nigeria but also in West Africa.

The schools programme is all managed by our academy called the Wolverines Rugby Academy, but the challenges I have mentioned earlier still hold us back. So, if there are supporters or investors out there who can help us, we don't mind. Please, reach out (laughs). Hopefully, there are some supporters and investors reading.

Are there any role models or rugby teams that you think young Nigerian players should look up to for inspiration and learning?

Yes, the SpringBoks of South Africa, which is now the greatest rugby nation of all time in the history of the sport. They are specific names like Pieter-Steph Du Toit, Duane Vermeulen, Ox Nche, Farf De Klerk, Kwaga Smith, Chelsen Kolbe, Eben Ebzebeth, Bongi Mbonambi!, Siya Kolisi! The leader to be idolised .(laughs) should I continue? Viva Africa! Well done South Africa! *Continues online at www. thewillnews.com

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www.thewillnigeria.com •November 12, 2023

Hurray as Aiteo Returns With a Bang And New Nembe Crude Oil Grade F or those that have keenly followed the trajectory of Benedict Peters and his company, Aiteo, the country's largest indigenous crude oil producer and operator of OML 29, a joint venture with the NNPCL, the announcement of its return to crude oil production and the introduction of a new Nembe Crude Oil Grade into the international market, after more than three years of non-production due to chronic crude oil theft and sabotage in the Niger Delta, was just a matter of time.

Its return to production is also timely, occurring at a period when the nation urgently needs to raise production to increase foreign exchange earnings.

Like some of its contemporaries operating onshore assets in the Niger Delta, Aiteo has been at the mercy of crude oil thieves and saboteurs that illegally siphoned crude from its well heads and distribution pipelines. The unchecked criminality forced it to shut down operations and return to the drawing board to rethink and rejig its production and evacuation strategy.

After considering a couple of strategies, I recall Benedict Peters excitingly telling me several months ago that he had figured out an alternative means of production and evacuation. Today, because of this resilient businessman's critical thinking ability, an ingenious strategy was developed and Aiteo has returned to production of around 50, 000 barrels per day with a plan to scale up to 100, 000 barrels per day in 2024. It has so far exported two cargoes of 950,000 barrels each of the Nembe Crude Oil grade with its attractive Assay of API 29 and low sulphur content to buyers in Europe.

This is no small feat by any measurement at all. The NNPCL, which co-owns OML 29 with Aiteo, in a statement on November 7, 2023, announcing the major development said, "With the NNPC-Aiteo OML 29 JV back onstream, Nigeria now boast of an additional crude oil export of 2 Cargoes at 950,000 barrels each per month and 1.2 Bcf of export gas monthly.

"This remarkable achievement signals the commencement of activities at Nigeria’s newest crude oil terminal, the Nembe Crude Oil Export Terminal (NCOET), which was licensed in line with the extant laws and Crude Oil Terminal establishment regulations.

"The terminal was conceived as a Floating Storage and Offloading Vessel (FSO) with a storage capacity of two (2) Million Barrels and the ability to offload crude oil to any export tanker from AFRAMAX to Very Large Crude Carriers (VLCC).

"It has a loading capacity of 25,000 barrels per hour and will be exporting over 3.6 million barrels of Crude oil monthly at full scale of operation.

"Currently, hydrocarbon production from OML 29, which was hitherto constrained due to evacuation challenges owing

to the security issues around the Nembe Creek Trunk Line (NCTL) corridor, has now been debottlenecked through a collaborative and creative approach that led to the innovation of the Alternative Crude Oil Evacuation Solution."

Other indigenous players with onshore assets can adopt similar strategies to revive their production and evacuation. Nigeria needs to regain the top spot as Africa's largest producer.

As Aiteo continues its significant return to crude production in Nigeria and grows its solid minerals explorations opportunities in Southern and Central Africa, Nigeria will surely reap the benefits of these bold moves.

Like my Warri brothers will say, 'Nothing do you bro, carry go'.

Congratulations to my big brother and friend, Benedict, the entire Aiteo team, the NNPCL and Nigeria for this feat. This clearly affirms my conviction that all our problems are surmountable only if we sincerely want to solve them.

Time to Rethink FG's Social Intervention Programmes In the quest to alleviate poverty, reduce inequality and foster stability, Nigeria has witnessed a plethora of social intervention programmes over the past decade. Despite their noble objectives, these initiatives have encountered significant challenges and there is an urgent need to rethink and reevaluate their effectiveness. This imperative becomes even more pronounced when examining the global context, particularly in the West, where even with

verifiable data and deterrence against corruption, social intervention programmes are often marred by malfeasance.

The trajectory of social intervention programmes in Nigeria reveals a mixed bag of successes and failures, pointing to the critical need for a strategic re-evaluation of the current approach.

I will begin by looking at the Federal Government's social intervention programmes in the country since the 2004 National Economic Empowerment and Development Strategy (NEEDS), a medium-term development plan for Nigeria from 2003 to 2007 adopted by the administration of President Olusegun Obasanjo.

The programme aimed to achieve four main goals: Wealth creation, employment generation, poverty reduction and value reorientation.

It had four main pillars: Reforming the way the government works, growing the private sector, implementing a social charter for the people and reorienting the values of the people.

The programme also had a state-level counterpart, the State Economic Empowerment and Development Strategy (SEEDS), and a local-level counterpart, the Local Economic Empowerment and Development Strategy (LEEDS), to ensure alignment and coordination among the three tiers of government.

According to the World Bank, the programme achieved some notable results, such as macroeconomic stability, debt relief, improved governance and transparency, increased foreign direct investment and enhanced human development indicators.

However, the programme also had some challenges and gaps, such as weak institutional capacity, poor infrastructure, low agricultural productivity, high inequality and regional disparities, as well as persistent insecurity and conflict. The major plank that affected the performance of these programmes was a lack of accurate statistics on poverty, especially income poverty.

Subsequent administrations, including those led by Umaru Yar'Adua, Goodluck Jonathan and Muhammadu Buhari, introduced various social protection programmes.

These initiatives targeted areas, such as universal primary education, reduction of child mortality, improving maternal healthcare and youth empowerment.

While some progress was made, disruptions due to changes in government leadership and, in some cases, poor programme design hindered sustained success.

The Community and Social Development Project (CSDP), adopting a bottom-up approach, emerged as a notable success. Operating in 29 of Nigeria's 36 states and benefiting 23 million Nigerians, CSDP empowered communities to drive decision-making, supporting marginalised groups in implementing micro-social infrastructure projects.

However, under the Muhammadu Buhari Administration, the Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) programme was introduced as part of the 2016 Social Intervention Scheme, aiming to lift vulnerable households out of poverty. Among all these social intervention programmes, this promised to herald a new regime of direct government-to-people relief.

It was designed to be an expansion on the previous "Care of the People" (COPE) programme started in 2007. But it wasn't or was it? You be the judge.

The government committed $1.3 billion in funding and received a $500 million World Bank credit for the CCT programme. The programme was aimed at providing monthly cash transfers of N5,000 to poor households identified through a national social register, with additional funds for priority cases. Over 297,000 households Continues on Page 47

Like some of its contemporaries operating onshore assets in the Niger Delta, Aiteo has been at the mercy of crude oil thieves and saboteurs that illegally siphoned crude from its well heads and distribution pipelines PAGE 48

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