Says Nigeria has e-visa policy for US, many other nations’ citizens; US has declined reciprocal footing for Nigerians UK launches e-visas for Nigerian study, work applicants
Recalls how ex-Speaker saved him from removal as Borno gov Says culture of secrecy in public service must be broken
Jonathan: Adoki is a good example of how Buhari victimised, persecuted my ministers Issues surrounding OPL 245 still not sorted, Makinde insists Ex-AGF was one of those that persuaded Jonathan to concede 2015 poll, El-Rufai recalls
Facility to supply petrol, diesel to Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe Oil falls as possible OPEC+ hike pause signals waning demand
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
Dangote petroleum refinery will construct storage tanks in Namibia to hold at least 1.6 million barrels of petrol and diesel to supply refined fuel to southern Africa, a Reuters report has said.
Quoting two sources, it said that the move underscores the refinery’s ambition to dominate fuel supply in Africa and beyond, potentially reshaping energy trade flows in the region and boosting access to refined products for southern African nations.
The 650,000 barrels per day refinery, built at a cost of $20 billion by Africa’s richest man Aliko Dangote, started operations last year and has been ramping up production and seeking new markets.
The sources, who Reuters said were briefed on the development, said the storage tanks would be used to supply petrol and diesel to Botswana, Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
Dangote was also considering supplying fuel to southern Democratic Republic of Congo, the sources said.
A Dangote spokesperson did not respond to a request for comment. It was not immediately clear how much the project would cost, but the second source said construction of the storage tanks would begin shortly in the port city of Walvis Bay.
A Namibia Ports Authority official confirmed the plans to Reuters and said the storage tanks would
be housed within the Walvis Bay harbour.
A source said last month that a Dangote petrol cargo was heading to Asia, the first time the refinery was selling the fuel outside the West Africa region. Dangote refinery says at full capacity, the plant would produce enough to meet demand in Nigeria, which has sharply cut imports of processed fuels, and export the rest. Meanwhile, oil futures sank yesterday as the escalating global trade war and the possibility that the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies (OPEC+) may halt output hikes flashed warning signs for energy demand, a Bloomberg report said.
West Texas Intermediate (WTI) futures fell as much as 2.6 per cent to trade below $67 a barrel after Bloomberg reported that the cartel is discussing a pause in further production increases from October. Brent was selling for $68.90 per barrel last night. The early-stage deliberations are taking place as President Donald Trump unveils a new round of tariffs, including a 50 per cent rate on Brazil, which sends some oil to the US.
Traders are probably interpreting the OPEC+ talks as a sign that “the market may not be able to cope with more oil,” said Ole Hansen, head of commodity strategy at Saxo Bank A/S. “We are potentially seeing the risk of an oversupplied market” once the peak demand period ends, he
said. The US-led tariff war has intensified in recent days, and Trump’s latest salvo of demands has overshadowed earlier deals with major trade partners including China and the UK, which had served to mollify investors. Now,
the market is facing some of the highest tariff rates in US history, setting the stage for an uncertain period for global growth.
Oil has edged higher this week even after OPEC+ decided over the weekend to raise output by more than
expected in August. Energy Aspects said it expects global oil demand to rise by less than 1 million barrels a day in the third and fourth quarters amid pressure from US tariff policies. Houthi attacks in the Red Sea have sunk two cargo vessels and
left multiple crew members dead. The escalation has notably failed to inject a risk premium into oil prices, with investors reluctant to buy on geopolitical developments after a standoff between the US and Iran spared energy infrastructure.
The Comptroller General of Customs (CGC), Mr. Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, yesterday declared that wildlife trafficking has become increasingly linked with other forms of organised crimes including money laundering, arms smuggling, and illicit currency flows.
Adeniyi also disclosed that the service had intercepted a 40 foot container loaded with 10,603 donkey genitals along the Kaduna–Abuja Expressway.
Speaking during the seizure and handover of donkey genitals intercepted at the Customs Government Wharehouse Karu, Abuja, he said the interception was carried out under coordinated surveillance
by officers of the Special Wildlife Office (SWO) domiciled within the Customs Intelligence Unit (CIU). Adeniyi, said the seizures further confirmed the persistence of illegal wildlife trafficking networks in exploiting Nigeria’s corridors.
Represented at the occasion by the Assistant Comptroller of Customs, National Public Relations Officer (PRO), Mr. Abdullahi Maiwada, the CGC explained that after proper documentation and compliance with procedure, the seized items will be officially handed over to the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), “in line with our commitment to inter-agency collaboration and statutory mandates”.
He said the seizure was not an isolated incident, explaining that the SWO had in the past 12 months, uncovered and disrupted multiple
Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt
Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), as part of activities marking its 25th anniversary celebration, yesterday, held an arts and culture parade along the major streets of Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital.
The street parade featured representatives from the nine states included in the commission, namely, Abia, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, Imo, Ondo, and Rivers. The representatives, donning their tribal costumes with their carnival floats, moved from the Port Harcourt Polo Club in GRA, through Stadium
Road and culminated at the Yakubu Gowon Stadium, Port Harcourt.
Speaking during the event, NDDC Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, said the art and cultural parade was to create relationship among the people of the Niger Delta.
Ogbuku said, “We thank God for giving us a clement weather today so that the Niger Delta people can celebrate today. So, sit back, be comfortable, watch the display. Laugh with whoever you want to laugh with.
“We are here today to foster conviviality amongst ourselves as the people of the Niger Delta; to network amongst ourselves, to build relationships and to bond as
a people.
“That is why people have come from different states; maybe, people who have never met themselves before are here to celebrate the Niger Delta.
“Just the way we did during the sports festival, which was the first of its kind, we are here today in Port Harcourt to still build conviviality amongst ourselves, love among the people of the Niger Delta. We might differ in tribes, but Niger Delta is one, Nigeria is one.” In his remarks, Chairman of the NDDC governing board, Mr. Chiedu Ebie, said the event had provided opportunity for Niger Deltans to showcase their rich culture.
illicit wildlife trafficking operations across the country.
According to Adeniyi, the recoveries included six African grey parrots and the arrest of one suspect on December 10, 2024 at Kano, the interception of two live pangolins, five Mona monkeys, two Tantalus monkeys, one baby baboon and an African grey parrot at Lagos Airport in May 2025.
He said in separate operation, there was an arrest of one suspect in Ikom area of Cross River State linked to seizures of 213 parrot heads, six eagle heads, 128 hornbill heads, and other exotic species.
Furthermore, on January 13, 2025, the service handed over rescued tortoises to the National Park Service in Oyo State.
Also, several seizures involving taxidermy specimens, such as life-sized lions, zebra hides, gorilla
parts, and pangolin scales have been recorded in various ports and logistics routes nationwide.
He said one such cases involved 119.4kg of pangolin scales found in a container concealed in sacks around Calabar area of Cross River State.
In another development, 120 African grey parrots were rescued and one suspect arrested in Fufore area of Adamawa State.
Adeniyi said, “These figures underscore the scale, sophistication, and profitability of the illegal wildlife trade.
“The Nigeria Customs Service considers this an issue of national importance, not only from an ecological standpoint but also because wildlife trafficking is increasingly linked with other forms of organised crimes including money laundering, arms smuggling, and illicit currency flows.”
Kasim Sumaina in Abuja
The Minister of Steel Development, Shuaibu Abubakar Audu , yesterday in Abuja said President Bola Tinubu will headline the maiden edition of the National Steel Summit, scheduled to hold this July in Abuja.
The summit, he said, aims to rebuild, renew and unlock Nigeria’s steel potential, with a focus on collaborative action for sustainable growth and global competitiveness.
The minister, while appraising the current status of the sector, urged investors to explore opportunities
and identify various policies and infrastructural needs, noting that the Ajaokuta steel mill, which has been slowed down by bureaucratic bottlenecks, needs an overhaul.
Audu said: “Ajaokuta, which is the bedrock of the nation’s industrialisation and 90 per cent completion, presently needs a technical audit to reevaluate the comatose state of the project.”
At the summit, he said, the sector will adopt a consensus way forward for the revival and sustainable development of the steel sector.
“Despite the chequered history of
steel development in Nigeria which dates back to 1958, the present Renewed Hope Administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is already pushing the right buttons to ensure the emergence of a virile Steel industry in Nigeria along the following key mandate instructions.
“This present administration is trying to position Nigeria as a major steel hub for Sub-Saharan Africa, contributing significantly to national GDP, creating a robust and competitive steel industry that services critical sectors of the economy,” Audu said.
CBN to extend implementation timeline Alleges sector now dominated by single southern ethnic group Declares development
Arewa Economic Forum (AEF), yesterday, alleged that the new regulatory and supervisory guidelines for Bureau De Change (BDC) operations released by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), which set new minimum capital thresholds for the subsector, posed threats to northern entrepreneurs.
AEF, a coalition of northern business leaders, intellectuals, technocrats, and grassroots stakeholders, particularly stated that the recapitalisation
requirements was a “direct threat to thousands of legitimate northern entrepreneurs and their families”.
Speaking at a media briefing on CBN’s new BDC recapitalisation policy, AEF Chairman, Alhaji Ibrahim Dandakata, said the drastic increase in capital levels had adverse implications for northern operators, in particular.
In May 2024, the apex bank introduced new recapitalisation for BDCs, requiring Tier 1 operators to have a minimum capital base of N2 billion.
They were authorised to operate nationally, establish multiple branches, and appoint franchisees with prior approval.
Tier 2 BDCs were also required to possess N500 million minimum capital threshold. They were, however, limited to operations within a single state, with a maximum of five branches, and were not permitted to appoint franchisees.
Prior to the new regulatory framework, the minimum capital requirement for obtaining a BDC licence in the country was N35
million.
However, Dandakata, who spoke alongside Member, Board of Trustees, North Central, Association of Bureaux De Change Operators of Nigeria (ABCON), Alhaji Abdul Wahab Yusuf, said the new capital requirements represented an astronomical increase of over 1,300 per cent to 5,600 per cent, depending on the tier. He said the burden was “clearly unattainable for many sincere and long-standing BDC operators, especially those who have conducted their business transparently and by
A major confrontation is brewing between the Senate Public Accounts Committee and the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC), Bayo Ojulari.
The lawmakers yesterday issued a stern ultimatum to the boss of the state-owned oil giant to account for N210 trillion in financial discrepancies or face the full weight of the law, including arrest, prosecution, and public exposure.
At a heated session held at the National Assembly on Thursday, senators expressed outrage over NNPC’s persistent refusal to comply with multiple invitations, the nonappearance of its top leadership, and what they described as “insulting” attempts to evade accountability.
Chairman of SPAC, Senator Aliyu Wadada, said, “Let it be understood clearly. We are not pleading. The invitation extended to the NNPCL CEO to appear was not optional. This committee derives its powers from the express provisions of the Nigerian Constitution and relevant legislative frameworks. Anyone too big to comply with the law should consider relocating.”
Wadada warned that the Senate would not hesitate to invoke its constitutional powers to summon, arrest, and prosecute any public officer who undermines its authority.
The current impasse stems from glaring inconsistencies in NNPCL’s audited financial statements, which the committee insists must be resolved.
At the heart of the issue is the company’s reporting of N210 trillion in assets and liabilities that remain
unexplained and unsupported by documentation.
Wadada said, “What we have said, and continue to insist, is that NNPCL must account for the N210 trillion reflected in its audited financial statements.
“There are discrepancies such as an unsubstantiated accrued expense of N103 trillion, when only N3–N5 trillion appears on the profit and loss account. The asset figures are equally vague and unsupported. That is why we’ve raised the alarm.”
The senator clarified that the committee had not accused NNPC of theft, but insisted that proper documentation and explanation must accompany figures of such magnitude.
He said, “The figures as submitted cannot be accepted. They were not netted off properly, and the documents lack coherence in both liabilities
and assets. We are not auditors for NNPCL—it is their responsibility to explain their records. Until they do so, the sum of N210 trillion remains in question.”
The committee’s frustration was further compounded by the NNPC’s apparent disregard for legislative procedure.
According to Senator Wadada, the consistent absence of the Group Chief Executive Officer from committee hearings reflects not only disrespect for the institution of the Senate but also a broader lack of transparency.
AEF further stated that out of the over 1,600 registered BDCs in the country, over 90 per cent of those able to meet the new capital requirements were based in the south, with Lagos alone accounting for the overwhelming majority. It alleged that the sector was currently dominated by a single ethnic group.
Dandakata said in “stark contrast, less than 10 per cent of compliant BDCs are owned by northerners, despite the fact that northern traders have historically driven and sustained this sub-sector”.
He said that included operators in long-established hubs, such as Wapa in Kano, Zone 4 in Abuja, Broad Street in Lagos, and major market areas in Sokoto, Minna, Benin, and Port Harcourt.
He said, “Meanwhile, in comparable economies across Africa and beyond, the capital requirements for BDC operations are significantly lower than what is now being proposed in Nigeria.
“Our investigations reveal that countries, such as South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Ghana, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and even India maintain substantially more accessible and affordable licensing thresholds, enabling broader participation and fostering financial inclusion without compromising regulatory oversight.”
The forum argued that the high capital requirements had dire implica-
tion for northern BDC operators.
Dandakata said, “If left unaddressed, this policy will wipe out the entire northern participation in the BDC space, a sector that has been pivotal to job creation, forex accessibility, and informal financial services in the region for decades.
“We cannot overlook the dangerous security implications of this development. Northern Nigeria is already reeling from the devastating effects of terrorism, rural banditry, and youth unemployment.
“Throwing thousands of BDC operators out of work will only add fuel to a volatile fire.”
The forum, therefore, called on President Bola Tinubu to give the group’s concerns the “serious and urgent attention they deserve”. It added, “This is not merely an economic policy matter, it is a pressing national security issue.”
AEF urged the National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, to assess the broader implications of the CBN capitalisation policy for BDCs and act swiftly to prevent the socio-economic fallout that could result from the mass displacement of legitimate BDC operators, especially in northern Nigeria.
The AEF chairman added, “As someone deeply attuned to the region’s fragile security dynamics, we believe it is well within his mandate to ensure that economic exclusion does not compound existing threats to peace and stability.
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
Vice President Kashim Shettima has called for immediate and united action to close Nigeria’s widening skills gap, describing it as a national priority critical to economic transformation.
That was as the federal government hinted at a proposal for the review of existing skills training centres across several Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) of government to align their work and functions with national development goals.
Shettima, who spoke on Thursday during the sixth meeting of the National Council on Skills (NCS), at State House, Abuja, stated that the council’s mandate was to develop a strategic workforce capable of meeting Nigeria’s evolving economic demands.
“What binds us together supersedes whatever divides us. We have to make this country work. We need to fill in the skills gap,” he said.
The vice president pointed out that the council had a mission to strategically position Nigeria’s
workforce to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving economy.
He stated, “This council was established with a clear mandate to drive the strategic development of the skilled workforce that can contribute meaningfully to national growth and prosperity.”
Shettima described the session as an open forum where positions were aired and important decisions were taken, emphasising that stakeholder engagement, consensus-building, and decisive leadership were essential to fixing Nigeria’s skills and employment crisis.
The Niger Delta Power Holding Company Plc (NDPHC) yesterday said it was planning to free and commercialise about 200mw of its roughly 2,000mw stranded electricity by the end of this year, with the signing of new Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) with eligible off-takers and traders.
Managing Director of the NDPHC, Jennifer Adighije, disclosed this during a visit to the newly established Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) in Abuja, where she led a delegation of senior executives to strengthen collaboration and discuss sector challenges with the leadership of the organisation.
Speaking at the event, she stated that the agreements which are currently awaiting regulatory approval are part of a broader strategy to unlock stranded capacity, improve liquidity, and ensure commercial sustainability of the governmentowned generation company.
She said: “...Now that we’re also improving our mechanical availability, we can significantly improve on commercialisation of our stranded electricity. The Electricity Act (EA) has also empowered us now to go into successful bilaterals with bankable customers, off-takers and traders.
“And I can tell you that we have already signed some PPAs with some traders and some off-takers, which are before the regulator for
approval. I’m sure you know that for us to activate those transactions, we will need to get the approval of the regulator, which is already ongoing.
“So before the end of the year, we should be able to commercialise about 200mw of our stranded electricity, which are (awaiting) approvals before the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) as we speak.”
She noted that the company’s recent improvement in plant availability has positioned NDPHC to ramp up supply and meet off-taker demands once regulatory greenlight is received, adding that the revival of key assets, including the Omotosho and Alaoji power plants, will further enhance generation capacity.
List 2.88bn shares on NGX, LSE GTCO now financing powerhouse, says LSE
Eromosele Abiodun in London
Group Chief Executive Officer, Guaranty Trust Holding Company (GTCO), Mr. Segun Agbaje, has stated that yesterday’s listing of the company’s shares on the London Stock Exchange (LSE) will unlock opportunities for Nigeria and Africa, stressing that GTCO’s success is a testament that the story of Nigeria’s macro-economic environment is changing.
The company listed a total of 2,288,250,000 shares after the cancellation of its Global Depository Receipts (GDRs), which was listed on the LSE 18 years ago.
With yesterday’s listing, GTCO emerged the first financial institution in Nigeria to be listed on the LSE and the third company in Nigeria to do so after Seplat Energy Plc and Airtel Africa Plc.
In a related development, Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc’s Public Offer of 2,288,250,000 Ordinary Shares of 50 Kobo each at N70.00 per share was listed at the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) yesterday.
With the listing of the additional 2,288,250,000 ordinary shares, the total issued and fully paid-up shares of Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc has now increased from 34,136,979,514 to 36,425,229,514 ordinary shares of 50 Kobo each.
While speaking to newsmen after the listing, Agbaje stated, “We have delisted the GDR, which means it is now listed on the secondary market
like the new shares.
“It means that anytime you want to raise capital, you can come back to the London Stock Exchange, you have created another opportunity for you to raise capital. That is why we call it the best of both worlds, you have the Nigeria Exchange Limited (NGX) and we have the LSE.”
Clarifying why the bank took the decision to list on the LSE, he said, “We have to unlock Nigeria and Africa. We wanted to see whether the macro story of Nigeria has changed, whether you can go out and raise money in the international market. It is always good to have options.”
Agbaje stated, “What we have gone through, it’s tough, really is, but we’re here. So, emotions aside, I want to start by thanking the London Stock Exchange. I want to thank everybody who has joined us today.
“And it just always reminds me that it is never the easy road. It’s always the right road that gets you where you’re going to go to. Every time we go on the road, we have to fight the Nigerian problem, and we always have to come through it.
“But it’s just about doing things properly. It’s always about doing things right, having the right values, and I think it’s paid off greatly for this organisation.”
He explained, “I was talking to a gentleman who I will leave nameless at this point. He was a financial editor, and I said to him, you must always find balance between not being scary and telling the truth
To Boost Ease of Doing Business, Digital Transformation, CAC Begins AI-Powered Company Registration
James Emejo in Abuja
The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) has announced the official commencement of the use of its new AI-Driven Intelligent Company Registration Portal (ICRP) effective July 6, 2026.
The landmark innovation marks a new era of faster, smarter, and more efficient company registration in the country. With ICRP, users can now complete name reservation and company registration seamlessly — similar to opening an email account.
Key features of the ICRP include accessibility all-day and through the week, including weekends. Others are AI-guided name search and reservation, real-time validation, user-friendly interface, abd secure and transparent processing
A statement from the commission further reaffirmed its continued commitment to ease of doing business, digital transformation, and excellence in service delivery. The commission encouraged all stakeholders, entrepreneurs, and business owners to take advantage of the new platform.
and telling it like it is.
“I think, for my board and all those who have been with me, one of the most important things to us is always to play by the rules. Tell it like it is, and then we will live with whatever the outcome is.
“I must thank all those who work tirelessly, the lawyers, the bankers and then a small group of people in Guaranty Trust who basically gave their lives over the last few
months to make it happen. My role is always the simplest.
“I dive in at the end and I go on the road and tell a story, but everybody who’s behind and has worked hard deserves all the kudos.
You can’t tell a good story if you don’t have a good background. The story only works because of the hard work.”
Agbaje added, “They tell me now the city’s getting calls, people want
to do this deal. I wish them the best in life. I definitely don’t want to do the deal again. I think having done it once is more than enough.
“So, please, thank you. Thank you. Thank you very much. We remain humbled, we remain grateful, and we will always try to do things properly.
Thank you very much.”
Head of International Primary Markets, London Stock Exchange Group, Tom Attenborough, described
GTCO as a financial powerhouse, which had achieved what its peers could only dream of. Attenborough stated, “We are really delighted to welcome you all to open the market to celebrate the recent fundraising and, of course, the list of your ordinary shares. You know, there is photographic evidence of the original sort of Global Depository Receipt listing back in 2007.
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
Nigeria and France have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening cooperation across trade, security, education, and culture, as both countries continue to explore mutual opportunities built on decades of strong diplomatic relations.
Issues bordering on the above dominated discussions at a meeting between Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, and French Ambassador to Nigeria, Marc Fonbaustier, at the Tafawa Balewa House, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja.
Nigeria and France have enjoyed diplomatic relations since October 1, 1960, with strong collaboration in areas, such as counter-terrorism, trade, and cultural exchange. Nigeria
is France’s largest trading partner in sub-Saharan Africa.
At the meeting, OdumegwuOjukwu praised the cordial ties between President Bola Tinubu and his French counterpart, Emmanuel Macron, stating that the personal bond between the two leaders has helped advance bilateral relations.
She expressed Nigeria’s readiness to operationalise various agreements signed during Tinubu’s state visit to France in November 2024, including those on energy, infrastructure, and education.
The minister called on France to encourage more of its investors to explore the Nigerian market, while also acknowledging the expansion of Nigerian banks, such as Access Bank, First Bank, Zenith Bank, and United Bank for Africa into the French financial space.
She assured the ambassador that French investments were safe in Nigeria, and that the Nigerian government was actively engaged in creating an enabling business environment for existing and prospective investors through the introduction of measures to ensure fiscal responsibility, transparency, accountability, and adherence to due process.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu commended the French government for its support in Nigeria’s counter-terrorism fight and expressed optimism that continued collaboration, particularly in the areas of defence and intelligence, would further improve regional stability.
She highlighted Nigeria’s ongoing efforts in the North-east through military engagement, rehabilitation of displaced communities, and socio-economic programmes aimed
at de-radicalisation and reintegration. She said, “We will continue to count on France’s support in the campaign against terrorism and insurgency in Nigeria, particularly through continued strategic cooperation and assistance.” Odumegwu-Ojukwu also requested France’s support for Nigeria’s candidates in international organisations and urged French businesses to tap into the emerging investment climate under the auspices of MEDEF – the largest federation of entrepreneurs in France.
She emphasised the importance of strengthening educational cooperation, citing the signing of an agreement on student exchange between the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND) and Campus France, while also expressing concern over irregular migration and its effect on Nigeria’s global image.
Juliet Akoje in Abuja
The House of Representatives has launched an official investigation into accusations of fund misappropriation, regulatory violations, and unethical practices linked to the country’s student loan scheme. Lawmakers cautioned that such issues could jeopardize one of Nigeria’s most crucial educational support initiatives. During the opening session of
the public hearing, Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas, affirmed the legislature’s resolve to prevent the student loan initiative from being undermined by administrative inefficiencies, weak oversight, or intentional misconduct. Abbas stated that public trust and the credibility of the programme are at risk, stressing that lawmakers would not remain passive while serious allegations were ignored. The investigative hearing,
organized jointly by the House Committees on Public Accounts and Students Loans, aims to examine allegations of delayed fund releases, lack of openness, and potential collusion among stakeholders involved in administering the loan scheme. Abbas called the investigation both a constitutional duty and an ethical obligation to safeguard the interests of young Nigerians who rely on the scheme to pursue higher education.
Referring to Sections 88 and 89 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), Abbas reminded the audience that the National Assembly holds the legal authority to scrutinize the performance of any entity responsible for implementing its legislation. He reiterated the investigation was not designed to target individuals unfairly, but rather to expose systemic failures, improve procedural efficiency, and reinforce transparency in the use of public resources.
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
President Bola Tinubu earlier this week detailed Vice President Kashim Shettima to fly to London from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, to check on ailing former Nigerian leader, Muhammadu Buhari, following reports that he was undergoing treatment in an undisclosed London hospital, THISDAY learnt yesterday.
Shettima had on the invitation of the Ethiopian Prime Minister, Dr. Abiy Ahmed Ali, attended the official launch of Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative (GLI) in the country’s capital last week, where he used the opportunity to explore Ethiopia’s success in agriculture.
A reliable source told THISDAY
that as soon as Tinubu received information that Buhari had been admitted to the London hospital, the President, who was scheduled to travel to St. Lucia, called the Vice President, directing him to proceed to London to check on the former President and report back to him.
News had recently broken that former Buhari had fallen ill and was recuperating in the hospital. But in response to the reports that Buhari was confined to an intensive care unit, his former Special Assistant on Digital Communications, Bashir Ahmad, last Thursday admitted that although Buhari was unwell, the 81-year-old former Nigerian leader was not in a bad condition. Besides, he stated that Buhari was already
on the path to full recovery.
He wrote on X: “In light of the recent media reports suggesting that former President Muhammadu Buhari is critically ill and has been admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), we find it necessary to set the record straight.
“It is true that former President Buhari is unwell and is currently receiving medical attention. However, contrary to the exaggerated claims circulating in the media, he is stable and responding well to treatment and we are optimistic about his full recovery.
“We appreciate the outpouring of prayers and goodwill from his supporters and well-wishers around the world. We continue to pray for his complete and speedy recovery.”
But Tinubu reportedly asked the Vice President to ascertain the former President’s condition and ensure that whatever support was needed to enhance his health was provided immediately.
The source stated that Shettima flew into London in the early hours of Monday, and spent time with Buhari, relaying Tinubu’s message to him and later connecting him with the Nigerian leader on phone.
The source said: “Vice President Kashim Shettima flew to London on Sunday night, arriving in the early hours of Monday. He visited the former President in the hospital and spent hours with him after delivering President Tinubu’s message of concern and wishes for a quick recovery.
“As a matter of fact, I think the Vice President connected both the President and his predecessor on a call before leaving the ailing former President. I am told he also visited former Head of State, Gen. Abdulsalam Abubakar, who at the time was also in London recuperating.”
It was unclear why the visit was kept a secret, but when contacted about whether the visit took place and, if it did, why it was not made public, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications (Office of the Vice President), Stanley Nkwocha, confirmed that Shettima was in London, but said he could not confirm if he visited the two Nigerian leaders.
He insisted that the visit was a
Deji Elumoye, Chuks Okocha and Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja
Vice President Kashim Shettima, yesterday, relived his near-removal experience as governor of Borno State during the days of former President Goodluck Jonathan.
Shettima said it was the “courageous intervention” of former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Aminu Tambuwal, who told Jonathan he had no power to remove an elected governor, that saved him.
The vice president spoke yesterday at the public presentation of “OPL 245: The Inside Story of the $1.3 Billion Oil Block,” a memoir written by former Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Mr. Mohammed Bello Adoke (SAN).
Shettima also named Adoke, whom he said frustrated at the Federal Executive Council (FEC) the proposal to remove him, and another cabinet member, Kabiru Turaki, SAN, who backed Adoke’s stand.
President Bola Tinubu, recently, re-
moved Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State from office by suspending him, and declared a state of emergency in the state over political rivalry with a member of the president’s cabinet, Nyesom Wike. Tinubu not only had the support of his cabinet, but the National Assembly also approved the action. The suspension is yet to be lifted.
But Shettima recalled at the book launch how a “courageous” National Assembly had saved his office. He canvassed that the culture of secrecy in Nigeria’s public institutions should be broken, calling for transparency and accountability in the country’s public service.
The vice president urged former and current public officials to summon the courage to document their life and stewardship while in service.
Jonathan, who was represented by former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, lamented that the government that succeeded his launched a manhunt against key officers of his
administration, citing Adoke as proof. Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, said the book and the broader discussion it elicited were not just about the oil block, but about how Nigeria governed its resources, how decisions made in government echoed through generations, and how public officials must balance legal clarity with national interest, even when under pressure.
Immediate past governor of Kaduna State, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, said books like the one being launched would be necessary, not only to set the record straight, or give opportunity to those persecuted to vent and put things in perspective, but also to encourage a culture of memoir writing in public service.
The author, Adoke, said he had forgiven those behind his ordeal, stressing that he has not set out to denigrate anyone, but to set the record straight.
The Oil Prospecting Licence 245 was awarded to Malabu Oil and Gas in 1998 by the administration of Sani
Abacha, a former military head of state. But the deal was later revoked by the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo in 2001.
The oil block later became the focus of global corruption investigations, criminal prosecutions, and civil lawsuits after Malabu sold its entire stake to Shell and Eni for $1.1 billion in 2011.
The oil companies also paid a $210 million signature bonus to the Nigerian government.
Adoke oversaw the Shell-Eni deal during his tenure as AGF from April 2010 to May 2015.
Speaking at the launch, Shettima revealed that Adoke, Tambuwal, Turaki prevailed on Jonathan to abandon a plan to impeach him as governor of Borno State.
He explained that in the last four years of the Jonathan administration, he was the most demonised serving governor and “was a public enemy number one.”
The vice president stated, “Former President Goodluck Jonathan, with
whom we have sheathed the sword and have now recalibrated our relationship, was mooting the idea of removing the Borno governor and Aminu Tambuwal, the then Speaker of the House of Representatives, had the courage to tell the president that Your Excellency, you don’t have the power to remove an elected councillor.
“The president was still not convinced. He mooted the idea at the Federal Executive Council. I admire Mr. Mohammed Bello Adoke for his courage and for his conviction and for his capacity to stand for what he believes in.
He told the president that Mr. President, you do not have the power to remove a governor, not even a councillor.
“They sought for the opinion of another SAN in the cabinet, Kabiru Turaki, who concurred with the opinion of a senior colleague. That was how the matter was laid to rest. That was how my relationship with Adoke and Tambuwal became eternally sealed.”
PRESIDENCY: WE NEVER STOPPED ISSUANCE OF FIVE-YEAR NON-IMMIGRANT VISAS TO US CITIZENS
Onanuga, in a statement, said upon assumption of office over two years ago, the Tinubu administration issued a service-wide directive that Nigeria implements all bilateral agreements with other nations and adhere to the principle of reciprocity in diplomatic relations.
Relatedly, the British High Commission (BHC) announced that from July 15, 2025, most individuals applying to enter the United Kingdom (UK) on study or work-related visas will no longer receive a physical visa sticker (vignette) in their passport.
A statement by BHC revealed that, instead, successful applicants will be issued an e-visa, a secure, online record of their immigration status, stating that this change marks a major step in the UK government’s transition to a modern, digital immigration system.
Meanwhile, the presidency reiterated that the US government’s claim of reciprocity as the reason for its current visa policy towards Nigeria did not accurately reflect the situation.
It said, “The Nigerian government has not deviated from granting US citizens a five-year multiple-entry non-immigrant visa, just as the US has continued to grant the same to Nigerians.
“The 90-day single-entry Visa validity period only applies to the newly introduced e-visas, a short-term visa category for tourists and business people who may not wish to undergo the standard visa application process and wait.
“The e-visa replaces the now obsolete visa-on-arrival, which was inefficient and often used as a means of extortion. The e-visa is a fast, online process that does not require the applicant to go to the embassy. Applicants receive the e-Visa within 48 hours of submitting their application.
“The e-visa policy aligns with President Tinubu’s efforts to boost investment, trade, and tourism in the
country, as well as promote the ease of doing business for non-nationals. Moreover, e-visas are a widely adopted global policy in dozens of countries.
“Although Nigeria has an e-visa policy for citizens of the US and several other countries, the US has not reciprocated this gesture for Nigerians.”
While emphasising that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs had clearly stated the position of the Nigerian government on the recent adjustment made by the United States’ non-immigrant visa policy for Nigerians, the presidency assured that the ministry and other senior government officials “will continue to engage with the United States to address the unfavourable restrictions in a just and fair manner that reflects the mutual respect and partnership that so exist between our two friendly nations”.
The presidential release stated, inter alia, “Contrary to misinformation and fake news circulating online, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has never stopped issuing 5-year multiple-entry visas for US citizens, in accordance with the principle of subsisting bilateral agreements and reciprocity.
“Immediately after assuming office, President Tinubu’s administration issued a service-wide directive that Nigeria implement all bilateral agreements with other nations and adhere to the principle of reciprocity in diplomatic relations.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has clearly stated the position of the Federal Government of Nigeria on the recent adjustment made by the United States’ non-immigrant visa policy for Nigerians.
“The ministry and other senior government officials will continue to engage with the United States to address the unfavourable restrictions in a just and fair manner that reflects the mutual respect and partnership
that so exist between our two friendly nations.
“We want to reiterate that the US government’s claim of reciprocity as the reason for its current visa policy towards Nigeria does not accurately reflect the actual situation.”
The statement added, “In the spirit of cooperation, mutual understanding, and partnership that have characterised the relationship between Nigeria and the United States over the decades, the Tinubu-led administration will continue to dialogue and engage with US authorities to resolve any issues that have led to the recent developments.”
The United States had on Tuesday issued a stringent visa rule against Nigeria under its latest Revised Visa Reciprocity Policy.
The US Department of State announced updates to its reciprocal non-immigrant visa policy, impacting several countries, including Nigeria.
A release by the US embassy in Nigeria revealed that the action, which took immediate effect. It stated that most non-immigrant and non-diplomatic visas issued to citizens of Nigeria will be single-entry visas with a three-month validity period.
According to the statement, “Those U.S. non-immigrant visas issued prior to July 8, 2025, will retain their status and validity. We wish to underscore, that as is standard globally, visa reciprocity is a continuous process and is subject to review and change at any time, such as increasing or decreasing permitted entries and duration of validity. You can view the latest information on visa reciprocity schedules for all countries at travel.state.gov.
“U.S. visa criteria and standards are designed to protect the integrity of U.S. immigration systems. These standards are based on global technical and security benchmarks. The U.S. Mission is working with the Government of Nigeria to ensure that Nigeria can meet the criteria.”
Meanwhile, according to the statement by the British High Commission, related to UK’s visa template tweak, the change applied only to study or work visa applications submitted on or after July 15, 2025.
Applicants who applied before July 15 will continue with the current process, including leaving their passport at the Visa Application Centre and receiving a vignette.
The statement said visit visa applications will continue to receive the visa vignette sticker for the time being, adding that despite the removal of the vignette for study or work visas, all applicants must still attend a Visa Application Centre (VAC) to provide their biometric information as part of the visa processing procedure.
It further said once a decision was made on their visa application, applicants will receive an email from UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) with the outcome and instructions to create a UKVI account, to access their e-visa.
Speaking on the new rule, Chargé d’Affaires, British High Commission, Gill Lever, said, “We’re making it easier and faster for Nigerians to travel to the UK. From 15 July 2025, most people applying for study or work visas will get a digital eVisa instead of a visa sticker in their passport.
“This is a further big step to a fully digital UK immigration system, making the process more secure, more efficient, and more convenient for students, professionals, and families.
“However, if you’re applying as a dependant, like a spouse or child, of someone who is studying or working in the UK or if you are applying for a visitor visa, you’ll still receive a visa vignette sticker in your passport for the time being.”
The statement further revealed that e-visas had already replaced Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) for individuals granted leave for over six months. Customers with a UKVI account could use the View and
totally private one,
Prove service to securely share their immigration status with third parties, such as employers or landlords (in England).
It advised applicants to apply online and submit application through the official website via gov. uk; and attend a Visa Application Centre (VAC) to submit passport and biometrics information.
“If visa does not require a visa vignette sticker, he can take your passport home the same day; after visa is granted, follow the instructions in his decision notification, and if advised create a UKVI account and link it to his current passport,” it further advised.
He said the book served as an access card to the next phase of hearings in the court of public opinion, and emphasised that public service must be remembered, scrutinised, and preserved as part of national history.
According to Shettima, “Each of us, who has had the privilege of serving this country, owes the people an account of our stewardship. Our stories are not ours alone. They belong to the nation. They belong to history.
“There is silence to preserve relationships. There is silence to protect secrets too delicate to disclose. And there is silence for memories we would rather forget. But as a generation of leaders, we must summon the courage to document our journeys.”
The vice president described Adoke’s personal reflections in the book as courageous, saying the former minister’s claim of being “bloodied but unbowed” would resonate with anyone who has walked the corridors of power in Nigeria.
He stated, “There is no doubt that those named in this book will tell their own side of the story. That, indeed, is how history finds its balance. Every witness must speak. Every accused person must speak. Every participant must speak.
“Life itself is a litigation with no end. There is no final adjournment in the pursuit of justice. There is no permanent discharge in the reckoning of history. We are always being summoned — not by a judge, but by conscience and by posterity.” Shettima emphasised the need for public officials to see themselves as custodians of national memory, stressing that the importance of storytelling is not in perfection, but in the necessity of preserving the truth for future generations.
He said, “The courts may close. The
UBA ANNOUNCES STRATEGIC EXPANSION INTO KEY MARKETS ACROSS AFRICA
reinforces with the Group’s intention to deliver innovative financial solutions to its fast-growing global customer base. The strategy demonstrates UBA’s unique position as Africa’s global bank and ability to leverage growth opportunities in emerging and leading African markets.
The Group commenced its Pan African journey, with its entry into Ghana in 2004, followed by rapid expansion into 18 additional African markets. Today, as a resilient and future-focused institution, UBA continues to push boundaries by connecting Africa to the world and the world to Africa.
Mr Alawuba highlighted the Group’s expansion plans, disclosing that the Group is excited about the vast opportunities that the new markets present, a testament to UBA Group’s confidence in the African economy, providing world-class banking services that meet the continent’s evolving needs.
“UBA’s vision is clear - we are building a truly global institution anchored in Africa, but serving customers across continents. Further strategic expansion positions us to unlock new opportunities, support
intra-Africa trade, and deliver worldclass banking experiences wherever our clients choose to do business,” Alawuba said.
“In Europe, UBA has operations in the United Kingdom and upgrading its license in France, expanding its capacity to serve cross-border trade, investment flows, and the African diaspora, complementing our over 40-year presence in NY. These moves signal a clear message of UBA’s intent to reshape the competitive landscape”, Alawuba further said.
As part of the Group’s plan to expand its global presence, UBA, in January, announced plans to open operations in Saudi Arabia. Operating in twenty African countries and the United Kingdom, the United States of America, France and the United Arab Emirates, UBA provides retail, commercial and institutional banking services, leading financial inclusion and implementing cutting edge technology. United Bank for Africa is one of the largest employers in the financial sector on the African continent, with 25,000 employees’ group wide and serving over 45 million customers globally.
Acting Group Politics Edito r DEJI ELUMOYE
Email: deji.elumoye @thisdaylive.com
08033025611 SMS ONLY
Sharon Eboesomi writes about the legislative experience of those calling the shots at The Presidency including President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Wife of the President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu and Chief of Staff to the President, Hon Femi Gbajabiamila, among others.
For much of Nigeria’s democratic journey since May 29,1999, executive power has often been portrayed as the pinnacle of political ambition, overshadowing the legislature, which, though constitutionally co-equal, has struggled to match the influence and visibility of governors and presidents.
However, a deeper exploration of Nigeria’s Fourth Republic reveals a significant but underreported trend: the emergence of a political class that seamlessly transitions between legislative chambers and executive offices, acquiring valuable institutional memory and tactical depth in the process.
This evolution has birthed a new hybrid of elite men and women whose paths to executive authority were paved through years of legislative debate, committee negotiations, and parliamentary coalition-building.
Unlike technocrats who rise through bureaucracy or political outsiders who arrive on waves of populism, these leaders come equipped with an intimate understanding of Nigeria’s federal power structures, the psychology of legislators, and the mechanics of policy formulation and oversight. They understand the floor as much as the podium.
In recognition of this emergent dynamic, OrderPaper Nigeria, the country’s leading parliamentary think tank, has launched the Icons of the Fourth Republic, a data-driven documentation of political actors whose impact spans both the legislative and executive arms of government.
The initiative coincides with the 26th anniversary of Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999 and aims to chronicle 25 years of governance transition and legacy-building. The project aims to publish an unprecedented Book of Records and a soon-to-be-unveiled digital archive, both of which will be unveiled at a high-profile event in Abuja, the nation’s capital.
OrderPaper is offering Nigeria what has long been missing: an institutional memory of those who have shaped its democratic trajectory through service across both branches of government.
At the core of the Icons initiative lies a compelling observation: the most strategic actors in today’s presidency are former lawmakers. They include President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Wife of the President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu; Chief of Staff to the President, Hon Femi Gbajabiamila, and Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume.
Collectively, this group possesses a staggering amount of legislative experience spanning decades in the National Assembly, and they now occupy the most influential positions in Nigeria’s executive hierarchy.
This cohort did not stumble into power; their journeys represent the growing institutionalisation of what OrderPaper calls the Flex pathway - the Facility for Legislative and Executive Exchange.
This phenomenon, first captured in a 2024 OrderPaper report, explains the increasing cross-pollination between the legislature and executive, particularly under the Tinubu administration, which boasts the highest number of former lawmakers in top executive roles in Nigerian history.
This isn’t just political recycling; it’s a deliberate strategy that leverages the strategic and procedural acumen of legislators in the complex world of executive governance.
As Nigeria contends with mounting economic challenges, security threats, and governance fatigue, the value of leaders who understand both how laws are made and how policies are executed becomes more apparent.
These Icons are not only executing national policies, they are reshaping the presidency itself into a more legislative-conscious institution, capable of navigating the fragile equilibrium between ambition, consensus, and constitutionality.
Their stories, rooted in legislative beginnings reveal how Nigeria’s presidential power is
increasingly shaped by its parliamentary past.
Bola Tinubu
President Bola Tinubu’s political evolution is the blueprint of Flex. He began his public service journey in the short-lived Third Republic
as a Senator representing Lagos West in 1992. Though that senate lasted barely a year before the military interrupted the democratic process, the experience gave Tinubu a foundational grasp of the interplay between federal legislative structures and national governance.
-Eboesomi writes from Abuja.
NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the online edition on www.thisdaylive.com
Laleye Dipo writes on the leading role played by the Niger East Senator, Alhaji Mohammed Sani Musa, to get the buy in of his colleagues and stakeholders nationwide for the passage of the four executive tax bills recently signed into law by President Bola Tinubu.
When the idea of the four Presidential Tax Bills was first muted and made public, it naturally received negative reactions from several stakeholders especially those in the northern part of the country, the Organised Labour, state governors as well as the chambers of commerce in the region and across the nation
Though the four bills, the Nigeria Tax Bill, the Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, the Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Bill, and the Joint Revenue Board (Establishment) Bill were designed to improve revenue generation, plug wastages and other ways through which the old legislation were exploited to circumvent the collected revenues the oppositions were very stiff to the extent that at a stage the promoters almost abandoned the struggle but for the determination and support of some Nigerians including Mohammed Sani Musa, Senator representing Niger East Senatorial District of Niger state who incidentally is also the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance on whose laps the bills fell.
Suffice it to say that one of the most contentious aspects of the reform is the proposed Value Added Tax revenue-sharing formula. This is understandable because it is a big pipe through which funds are pumped to the sub national governments.
Therefore without giving the then VAT proposal a fight will be sacrificing a guaranteed source of income. Added to this is the proposed derivation formula which Instead of chickening out and following the band wagon Senator Musa who is a professional took the bull by the horns to ensure
the buy in of not only his colleagues but also majority of Nigerians.
He convinced his colleagues and others opposed to the passage of the bill in the national assembly that he is a northerner like them with his mother being an indigine of Kano State by birth and upbringing while his father is from Niger state, so cannot embark on a project that will financially bring down or stiffle the region. This to a large extent soften the hardline positions of Senators and some other members of the northern part of the country to the bills Musa did not stop there he personally chaired most of the stakeholders forum held to sell the bills, exposing it’s benefits to those that attended the fora.
At the celebration of this year’s May Day,
Musa was at the 123 Army barracks field in Minna, the Niger state capital where workers gathered for the celebration. It was at this event that Senator Musa unveiled some of the benefits in the bills for Nigerian workers among which is the exemption of workers in both the public and private sectors of the country earning N1m and below from paying tax.
The disclosure seriously overwhelmed workers at the event leading to loud ovation.
Musa actively participated in all the conferences and workshops held to explain the provisions of the bill and often help to change the mind sets of participants
“I feel we should not miss the golden opportunities provided by President Bola Tinubu with these tax bills”, Musa said when asked why he put so much vigour to the campaign for the passage of the bills.
“I resolved to put all I have to convince my colleagues and Nigerians to support the bills I am happy we all bought into it. We will all see the benefits when the implementation of bills begin next year” he said.
Special Adviser to Niger state Governor Mohammed Bago on political Affairs, Nma Kolo, was elated by the roles played by Senator Musa not only as it affects the passage of the tax bills but his general representation of the constituency and Niger state since he was elected into the national assembly.
“He is a nationalist and will do everything to promote the development of the country once convinced it is for its betterment”, Kolo said Now that the bills have been passed into law, Nigerians earnestly await its benefits from January, 2026.
L-R: Minister of State Petroleum Resources (Oil), Heineken Lokpobri; Group CEO, NNPC Limited, Bayo Ojulari; Minister of State Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo; Executive Secretary, Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board, Felix Ogbe, and Managing Director, Engineering Automation Technology Limited (EATECH), Dr. Emmanuel Okon, during the visit to the firm’s booth at the Nigerian Oil and Gas Energy Week in Abuja... recently
Seriki
Adinoyi in Jos
The Plateau State Police Command on Thursday arraigned 22 suspected killers
of wedding travelers who were mobbed in Mangun community of Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State.
The victims, comprising men, women, and children were traveling in an 18-seater bus from Basawa community in Sabon Gari LGA, Kaduna State, to attend a wedding ceremony in Qua’anpan when they ran into the assailants.
Thirteen of the travellers were killed, while many others were injured.
Arraigning the suspects before the State High Court, the prosecuting counsel, S.I. Ikutanwa, sought the court’s permission for the suspects to take their plea on the four-count charges.
But the defense counsel, Garba Pwol objected to the plea
Following a thorough investigation conducted by the Lagos State Government in collaboration with all relevant regulatory agencies, Purple Lekki, has been formally cleared of any structural or building code violations.
The company extended its deepest condolences to the family as it remained mindful of the emotions surrounding this event.
“While the root cause of the accident is still undergoing investigations by the authorities, we have been cleared to open to businesses and customers. We understand that safety is a continuous process, and out of a strong sense of responsibility and commitment to our customers, we will be implementing additional safety protocols and safeguards to avoid a repeat of such an incident,” it said.
Speaking on the reopening, the CEO of Purple, Mr Olaide Agboola, said: “As part of our ongoing commitment to the well-being of our customers and stakeholders, we will be implementing additional safety measures to further strengthen our infrastructure and operational protocols. Our goal is not just to meet expectations, but to exceed them moving forward.”
Purple said it remained committed to safety and standards and “will continue to work with external experts to ensure the facility remains a secure and trusted space for the community at large.”
application, citing that two of the 22 suspects were minors, which rendered the charges incompetent.
According to the defence
counsel, the two suspects in question were 13 and 17 years old, and the law does not allow minors to be exposed to such proceedings. The defence counsel
Onuminya Innocent in Sokoto
In a bold move, the Sokoto State Obidient Movement stakeholders have categorically rejected Kenneth Okonkwo’s assertion that only a northern candidate can defeat President Bola Tinubu in 2027.
asked the court for time to file objection.
Responding to the defence counsel’s position, the prosecuting counsel argued that since two
of the suspects were below 18 years, their names should be expunged, and the remaining 20 suspects be made to take their plea.
The movement, which is part of the nationwide coalition supporting Peter Obi’s presidential bid, reaffirmed its support for the former Anambra State governor, citing his proven nationwide appeal and the need to dismantle power imbalances.
At a press briefing in
Sokoto, the movement’s spokesperson, Abubakar Yawale, presented a detailed rebuttal of Okonkwo’s claim, emphasising that it undermines Nigeria’s democratic spirit and ignores Peter Obi’s proven nationwide appeal.
“We reject Okonkwo’s assertion in its entirety,” Yawale said. “It is a divisive and misguided claim that seeks to perpetuate the very power imbalances we seek to dismantle. Peter Obi’s candidacy represents a beacon of hope for a Nigeria where merit trumps region and ethnicity.”
Blessing Ibunge inPortHarcourt
The United Nations Child Education Fund (UNICEF) and its partner, IHS Nigeria, has expressed satisfaction that the recently donated Oxygen Plant at the Eleme General Hospital, in Rivers State, is helping to bridge health gap in the state
and its environs.
Officials of the UNICEF and IHS Nigeria officials made this observation when they visited the plant located at the general hospital in Eleme, Eleme Local Government Area of the State.
During the handover of the plant to the Rivers State Government
last year, it was revealed that the facility has the capacity to produce 123 cylinders and 720,000 litres of oxygen every 24 hours.
The plant, as it was learnt, was built under a Public-Private Partnership involving UNICEF, the Canadian Government, IHS, and the Rivers State Ministry of Health through the State Hospital Management Board.
Speaking during the visit to the facility, the Director of Sustainability at IHS Nigeria, Titilope Oguntuga, noted that the oxygen plant has saved lives and is helping to bridge health gaps in the eight other states where similar plants are located.
Hammed Shittu in Ilorin
About 40 school principals, vice, head teachers and teachers are currently undergoing professional training in Kwara State.
The state branch of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) under its study circle organised the three
days workshop in conjunction with the national secretariat of the union.
Addressing the participants at the opening ceremony of the event, state Chairman of NUT, Comrade Yusuf Agboola, urged the participants to go back to their respective schools and
replicate the knowledge acquired.
Agboola added that “this workshop marks yet another significant step in our collective efforts to empower teachers through lifelong learning, collaboration and peer support.”
“The study circle initiative is one the most impactful strategies for professional development within our union.
“It provides a platform for grassroots engagement, mutual learning and critical dialogue aimed at improving both classroom practice and union consciousness.
Folalumi Alaran in Abuja
The Concerned Northern Forum (CNF), a foremost civil rights advocacy group in Northern Nigeria with over four million registered members, has declared its opposition to the reported governorship ambition of former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), describing him as a “recycled political liability” and “unfit to hold public office.”
Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCT) has evacuated 210 beggars, scavengers, including children from under bridges and other public places in the nation’s capital city.
Speaking at a press conference held in Kaduna, the Convener of the group, Aliu Sanni Mohammed, said the forum could no longer remain silent while individuals with controversial public records continue to seek political rehabilitation at the expense of the people.
“As Nigerians and stakeholders in the politics of Kebbi State, we categorically reject Mr. Abubakar Malami’s ambition to contest for the governorship seat in 2027 or any political office at all,” the CNF declared.
According to the forum, Malami’s tenure as AGF was riddled with allegations of corruption, abuse of power, and gross betrayal of public trust, including his alleged interference in anti-graft investigations, questionable wealth accumulation, and acts that undermined Nigeria’s justice system.
The exercise yesterday by Operation Sweep Abuja Clean team was aimed ridding Abuja of destitute, traders and one-chance syndicate.
The Acting Director, Social Welfare, Social Department Secretariat (SDS), Mrs. Gloria Onwuka, said that a breakdown of those evacuated shows that there 58 women, 72 children and 80 men.
She said those evacuated so far were taken to the FCT Rehabilitation Centre in Bwari, where they would be profiled and evacuated to their identified states of origins.
Onwuka noted that due to outcry over nuisance and criminal activities, the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, directed officials of the department to step up arrest of destitute.
Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo
In order to properly position the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State for victory at the 2026 state gubernatorial and the 2027 general election, a leading governorship aspirant on the
platform of the party, Omooba Dotun Babayemi, has commenced a meet-the-people-at-the-grassroots tour to the 332 wards in the state. Babayemi, who recently concluded a month-long consultative meetings with leaders and stakeholders of APC in the
state by visiting each of the 30 local governments and the Area Office Modakeke, said that the tempo of awareness already being created within the party should not be lessened.
For the flag-off at Iwo where he covered five wards, the popular
governorship aspirant visited Isale Oba 1 and 2, Kidigbo 2, Oke-Adan 2 and Molete 3, urging members of the party to ensure the return of President Bola Tinubu in 2027 and as well to ensure that the party was enthroned in the state.
Chinedu Eze
The harsh visa policies against Nigerian travellers, introduced recently by the United States (US) and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), have continued to raise concerns among Nigerian government and her travelling citizens.
There are fears that Nigeria, a major power in Africa, is slowly becoming sidelined, following the strict visa policies introduced against its travellers.
Travel experts posit that this may
be a prologue to other diplomatic hostilities that may arise; unless Nigeria rises to the occasion, adopting defiance and reciprocity to counter their antagonism.
The United States Department of State on Tuesday, announced an update to its non-immigrant visa policy for Nigerian citizens.
According to a press release issued by the US Embassy in Abuja, most non-immigrant and non-diplomatic visas issued to citizens of Nigeria will be single-entry visas with a three-month validity period and the
new visa restrictions take immediate effect. However, the embassy clarified that “those US non-immigrant visas issued before July 8, 2025, will retain their status and validity.”
The statement explained that the move was part of the department’s global visa reciprocity process, which the embassy described as continuous and is subject to review and change at any time, such as increasing or decreasing permitted entries and duration of validity. It also explained the rationale behind the policy update, noting that “US
visa criteria and standards are designed to protect the integrity of US immigration systems,” adding that these standards are based on global technical and security benchmarks.
On the same Tuesday, the United Arab Emirates in a surprise move introduced stricter visa rules for Nigerian travellers to further reduce the number of Nigerian passport holders that come to their country.
According to the new visa policy, Nigerian travellers between the ages of 18 and 45 are no longer eligible to apply for tourist visas
unless accompanied by a sponsor or unless they meet newly defined conditions.
In addition, transit visa applications by Nigerian nationals have been suspended entirely, effectively barring stopovers in the UAE for onward travel.
Individuals above 45 years applying for a tourist visa must now present a personal bank statement for the past six months, showing a minimum monthly balance of $10,000 or its naira equivalent.
In addition, all travellers to
the UAE are required to show proof of hotel reservations and sufficient funds (5,000 dirhams) to cover their stay. The new round of visa restrictions for Nigerian nationals, introduced less than a year after both countries resolved a longstanding diplomatic rift over visa issuance, indicates that UAE may have foreclosed the assumption that Nigeria is a target market for tourism.
L–R: Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr. Aminu Maida, receives the WSIS 2025
and Knowledge) from the Secretary-General of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), Doreen Bogdan-Martin, following t he
Awareness Programme (DAP) as winner of the category, held in Geneva, Switzerland… recently
The $1.5 billion Lekki Deep Seaport is fast establishing Nigeria as a maritime hub for West and Central Africa, with expanded international transshipment operations to key regional destinations including Togo, Benin Republic, Ghana, and Abidjan.
Speaking with journalists during a tour of the port in Lagos, the Deputy Chief Operating Officer of Lekki
Port, Mr. Daniel Odibe, disclosed that the port is targeting a throughput of 500,000 Twenty-foot Equivalent Units (TEUs) by the end of 2025—up from 287,000 TEUs handled in 2024. Despite operating below its full potential, Lekki Port remains focused on maximizing its capacity. Odibe acknowledged that out of the installed capacity of 1.2 million TEUs, “we are currently handling just about 20 percent.”
He noted that the shortfall was due to the prevailing macroeconomic challenges, particularly the removal of fuel subsidies and the depreciation of the Naira, which have dampened import volumes.
However, he affirmed that they have started to witness signs of recovery, revealing that the port processed 222,000 TEUs in the first half of 2025 alone.
According to him, “Cargo volumes
are gradually picking up. The naira is stabilizing, and transshipment to landlocked and neighboring countries has increased.”
Responding to questions, Odibe revealed that Lekki Port now receives between 10 to 12 vessels monthly, with a marked improvement in transshipment operations across the region.
“Our international transshipment footprint now includes Togo, Benin
Republic, Ghana, and Abidjan. Operational efficiency is also improving, with vessel turnaround time averaging 48 hours, truck turnaround time at one hour and 25 minutes, and cargo dwell time at 16 days “ he said.
Meanwhile, the Managing Director of Lekki Port, Mr. Wang Qiang, who was represented by the Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Young Qiang, said the port would not waiver on
its commitment to global standards. According to him, “We continue to raise the bar, setting new benchmarks as West Africa’s deepest seaport. The results of our commitment to excellence are visible in the transformative impact we are making on maritime trade in Africa. We are leveraging technology and operational efficiency to drive regional integration and shape the future of trade.”
Stories by Chinedu Eze
Economic Commission for West African States (ECOWAS) said it has embarked on the promotion of free movement of people across the nations of the sub-continent, encouraging the removal of barriers at the boundaries to enable citizens move freely.
The commission said it was the encumbrances to free movement that have retarded economic development of the region because they inhibit inter-state trade and travel.
ECOWAS Commission in a recent meeting at Accra Weizo, held last week in Ghana, disclosed the efforts it has been making to facilitate free movement and goods across West African states.
The Director in Charge of Enterprise, ECOWAS Commission, Dr. Tony Elumelu, in his presentation at the Accra Weizo conference held recently in Accra, Ghana, said ECOWAS has been working assiduously to promote the free movement of persons, goods
capital, and services within the community and the efforts made so far are yielding fruits.
According to him, at the heart of our integration efforts lies the Free Movement Protocol, a visionary policy that has revolutionized the way “we travel and conduct business within our region.
“By enabling citizens of ECOWAS member states to travel freely within the region, this protocol has not only promoted people-to- people diplomacy but also facilitated trade and investment, thereby fostering economic growth and development.
The protocol’s impact cannot be overstated, as it has removed a significant barrier to intra-regional travel and commerce, allowing us to harness the full potential of our collective resources and talents,” he said.
He further said: “By enabling citizens of ECOWAS member states to travel freely within the region, this protocol has not only promoted people-to- people diplomacy but
also facilitated trade and investment, thereby fostering economic growth and development. The protocol’s impact cannot be overstated, as it has removed a significant barrier to intra-regional travel and commerce, allowing us to harness the full potential of our collective resources and talents.”
Elumelu said ECOWAS has harmonised tourism policy that has been instrumental to facilitating the development of tourism infrastructure, products, and services across the region, thereby enhancing the overall tourist experience.
“Furthermore, our hotel classification system has ensured that tourists can expect a certain standard of accommodation, regardless of the country they are visiting, which has undoubtedly boosted confidence in our tourism industry. By promoting intra-regional travel, we are not only generating revenue but also fostering greater understanding and appreciation of our diverse cultures and traditions,” he added.
Major Nigerian travel industry player, FCM Nigeria has secured the coveted title of Nigeria’s Leading Travel Management Company at the World Travel Awards 2025.
The recognition, often hailed as the ‘Oscars of the travel industry’, represents a defining moment for both the company and Nigeria’s position on the global travel management stage.
The announcement was made during the Africa & Indian Ocean Gala Ceremony held in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, where the continent’s most distinguished travel professionals, industry leaders, and hospitality pioneers gathered to celebrate excellence across the travel and tourism sector. FCM Nigeria’s victory in this highly competitive category underscores the company’s unwavering commitment
to redefining industry standards and challenging conventional approaches to travel management. Since its inception, FCM Nigeria has deliberately chosen to forge an unconventional path in an industry known for its adherence to traditional methodologies. The strategic approach has consistently set the company apart from its competitors, enabling it to anticipate market shifts, embrace emerging technologies, and deliver solutions that exceed client expectations across diverse sectors.
The World Travel Awards recognition serves as global validation of FCM Nigeria’s unique positioning within the travel management landscape. Established in 1993, the World Travel Awards celebrates excellence across all sectors of the travel, tourism, and hospitality industries, with winners
determined through a rigorous voting process involving travel industry professionals and consumers worldwide.
Receiving the award on behalf of the organisation, Group Managing Director of Finchglow Holdings, Mr. Bankole Bernard, reflected on the significance of the achievement:
“This award represents far more than recognition, it’s a powerful validation that our unwavering commitment to innovation and customer-centric service resonates on a global scale. Throughout our journey, we’ve consistently approached travel management through the lens of relevance, responsiveness, and continuous reinvention. This recognition reinforces our determination to continue pushing boundaries and setting new industry benchmarks.”
The National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA) has expressed its readiness to collaborate with the federal government in advancing Nigeria’s travel and tourism agenda.
This was made known during a courtesy visit to the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, recently.
Welcoming the NANTA delegation, the minister affirmed the government’s openness to
stakeholder engagement, noting that effective leadership is built on active feedback and collaboration. “Every good leadership takes feedback from stakeholders,” he stated.
Speaking on behalf of the Association, NANTA President, Mr. Yinka Folami, commended the minister for his responsiveness and dedication to reform. He remarked that NANTA members have closely followed the Minister’s work and are impressed by his consistency in matching promises with action.
“Your prompt response to our request for this engagement is one of many examples of your commitment to positive change,” Folami noted.
Group Business Editor
Eromosele Abiodun
Deputy Business Editor
Chinedu Eze
Comms/e-Business Editor Emma Okonji
Asst. Editor, Energy
Emmanuel Addeh
Asst. Editor, Money Market
Nume Ekeghe
Correspondents
KayodeTokede(CapitalMarkets)
James Emejo (Finance)
Ebere Nwoji (Insurance)
Reporter Peter Uzoho (Energy)
He further highlighted NANTA’s contributions to national development, emphasizing that the 50-year-old Association, proudly Nigerian, continues to promote the country positively across Africa, Europe, the United Kingdom, America, and beyond.
In his remarks, Tunji-Ojo assured the delegation of the Federal Government’s support for well-organized and credible bodies such as NANTA. He expressed his deep pride in Nigeria’s cultural richness and the resilience of its people, describing Nigerians as hospitable, productive, and uniquely gifted.
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), said in a strategic move to bolster indigenous airline development and foster sectoral reforms, it has approved the commencement of flight operations by the newly launched Enugu Air through a partnership with XEJET, pending the conclusion of its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) process.
The Authority said the approval aligned with the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development’s 5-PointAgenda, which prioritises the promotion of local carriers, ease of doing business, and regulatory reform in Nigeria’s aviation sector. According to a statement issued
Chinedu Eze
O+016il and gas exploration in Nigeria started with holistic importation of equipment, technical and service personnel for years until Nigerians began to gain knowledge in the industry and today, Nigerians have become major players.
Over a decade ago, air shuttle service by aviation companies in the oil and gas industry was dominated by foreign organisations like Bristow Helicopters and CHC of Canada under Aero Contractors. However, in the last few years, indigenous companies like OAS Helicopters, Caverton Helicopters, Toucan Aviation and others made an in-road to providing services to major oil and gas companies and actualising the local content policy of the federal government in the sub-sector.
But the company that has blazed the trail with consistent growth among the indigenous oil and gas shuttle service providers is OAS Helicopters. The company is providing efficient service to top oil and gas companies and has continued to record success with a growing reputation in safety and inimitable service delivery.
Recently, the company, which partners with Abu Dhabi Aviation (ADA) expanded its fleet with the delivery of AW139 helicopter to boost capacity. Group Chairman of OAS Helicopters, Captain Evarest Nnaji, who announced the successful delivery and integration of the 6th Leonardo AW139 helicopter into the OAS Helicopters fleet, said it was acquired through “our valued strategic partner, Abu Dhabi Aviation.”
THISDAY learnt that the aircraft is a brand-new Year 2025 model and it is first Phase-8 AW139 helicopter in Nigeria.
“This asset is designed to enhance our clients deep water oil and gas support experience as it offers the highest possible safety standards, which underscore our profound commitment to reliability, comfort and efficiency in the industry,” he explained.
THISDAY gathered that the Leonardo AW139 helicopter has state-of-the-art avionics and autopilot systems, long-range capability and superior speed; enhanced safety through redundant systems and advanced situational awareness tools and ideal for both offshore and onshore rotary-wing missions in challenging environments
According to Leonardo, the manufacturer of the aircraft, modern helicopter operations require a combination of flexibility, high performance, proven technologies, and exceptional safety features.
“The multi-mission AW139 brings an unrivalled pedigree, as the best-selling twin-engine helicopter in its class with more than 1,000 units in service with customers worldwide.
by the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at the NCAA, Mr. Michael Achimugu, the arrangement allows Enugu Air to operate scheduled commercial flights using XEJET’sexisting operational framework.
XEJET has successfully completed a full variation process, integrating the Embraer 170 aircraft into its Operations Specifications (OpsSpecs) in accordance with the NCAA’srigorousfivephasecertificationsystem.
“Thisvariation authorises XEJET to conduct scheduled flights on behalf of Enugu Air in compliance with all existing NCAA regulatory provisions,” the statement affirmed.
“Boasting superior performance, advanced safety design features, and state-of-the-art avionics, the AW139 can carry up to 15 passengers in a spacious cabin, all with the best power reserve of any helicopter in its class. The AW139 is part of the AWFamily of advanced rotorcraft. This shared DNA enables customers to benefit from the common design philosophy, safety features and high-performance flight characteristics that are the hallmarks of the AW169, AW139 and AW189 family,” the company stated on its website.
“This fleet expansion reinforces our long-term strategy of deploying mission-ready, technologically advanced platforms to meet the increasing demand for reliable, high-performance rotorcraft services in Nigeria and West Africa,” Nnaji further said.
Also in 2023, AOS Helicopters acquired Leonardo AW-139, 2023 model. The AgustaWestland AW139, now known as the Leonardo AW139, was another 15-seat medium-sized twin-engine helicopter developed and produced by the Anglo-Italian
helicopter manufacturer, AgustaWestland (now part of Leonardo).
It is marketed at several different roles, including VIP/corporate transport, military use, offshore transport, fire-fighting, law enforcement, search and rescue, emergency medical service, disaster relief, and maritime patrol.
“It is also necessary to share with you the short story behind its acquisition and timely delivery to Nigeria. At agreement, OAS consented to provide the aircraft within six months of contract signing. But due to financial and technical capacity we and our technical partners have mustered and deployed in the industry over the years, this aircraft through the manufacturers, Leonardo, was procured and delivered in Nigeria within three months (90 days). A feat not common nowadays with Saudi Arabia multiple aircraft back-orders running in upper tens,” the company said when the equipment was acquired in 2023.
This indicates the consistency OAS Helicopters has maintained since it started providing oil and gas shuttle services. The company has also shown that Nigerian aviation service providers to oil and gas sector have excelled the stringent conditions demanded by the sector, which were only being met in the past by foreign companies. This also shows how far Nigerian companies have grown in providing the right equipment, the highly skilled personnel and the professionalism.
Recently, in a gesture that reaffirms the enduring strategic alliance between OAS Helicopters and Abu Dhabi Aviation, the Group Chairman of OAS Helicopters, visited the headquarters of its partners.
The meeting highlighted the deepening partnership between both aviation leaders and underscored their shared commitment to operational excellence, technological advancement, and long-term investment in aviation services across Africa and the Middle East.
The company said the visit represented another step forward in strengthening bilateral cooperation and advancing joint objectives in oil and gas aviation support services.
The landmark meeting marks a renewed commitment between OAS and ADA to scale joint efforts and expand their footprint in the African and Middle Eastern aviation markets. Discussions focused on deepening investment in rotary-wing support operations for offshore oil and gas, with a shared vision of raising service standards, safety, and efficiency across the region.
However, Kudos should be given to the federal government which from 2010 began to deliberately enforce the local content policy in the oil and gas industry, including the air shuttle service providers, which hitherto was dominated by foreign companies. Despite the tough conditions, Nigerian companies started meeting the requirements to provide that critical service.
Oil exploration and production companies always emphasise on safety, efficiency, professionalism and state-of-the-art equipment. These conditions are being met by Nigerian operators like OAS Helicopters. It is also worthy of note that some foreign oil and gas shuttle service providers spent years in Nigeria without giving their Nigerian pilots and engineers commanding roles until recently. This shows how far Nigerians have come in providing this important service to the oil and gas industry.
Recently, VivaJets’ CEO, Erika Achum, explained how hassle-free air mobility is needed to unlock efficiency, speed, and strategic advantage in the oil and gas sector.
As Rotary District 9111 welcomes its new governor, Rtn. (Prince) Henry Olubowale Akinyele, anticipation builds for a year of dynamic leadership and community transformation. In this interview with select journalists, Akinyele outlines ambitious expectations that promise to elevate the district to new heights with a legacy rooted in service and a future focused on collaboration. Following his three decades of service, Akinyele is stepping into his new role as Rotary District 9111 governor, imbued with a clear mission to strengthen communities, expand membership, and drive impactful projects. In this interview with THISDAY, he shares his expectations for the year, the ‘royal’ touch behind his inauguration, and how his background as a statistician and entrepreneur will shape his leadership. Akinyele also explores the ambitious roadmap for Rotary’s future under his guidance. His decades-long journey embodies the spirit of ‘Service Above Self’.
Congratulations on your emergence as 9111 district governor. What are your expectations for the year?
First of all, I am so excited. I’m so happy that God has spared our lives to see this day. I envisioned a district that is wellgrounded in our communities in terms of impactful projects at the end of the year. Of course, I envision a district that is more strengthened, particularly in terms of membership and raising funds for our foundation. What we are doing here is bringing an opportunity to the door of members of our society in terms of public image. So, those are some of the expectations for the year.
Globally, are there changes this new Rotary year that are different from the last Rotary Year?
Thank you very much. I must first say that Rotary missions remain unchanged. Our mission remains; what changes is leadership. There are quite a number of things that will change as we move forward with this number one. There’s always a global shift in various aspects, including technology, focus, and global needs, among others. So, definitely, a team is developed every year to meet global needs. That has made a difference, particularly with the leadership change from the Rotary International area president to the level of industry governors and, of course, club presidents.
With new leadership, everyone brings their creativity, professional experiences, and more into play. With a background spanning 30 years in this organisation and a wealth of experience, one has had the opportunity to be mentored by our past decision-makers, as well as benefit from the experience of being a businessperson. Of course, with a background in someone who is trained as a statistician and audio tester, we expect a lot of creativity, which also enhances our performance. We want to go through here with a focus on impactful projects, and also fund our materials to experience what Rotary is all about.
At the same time, we want to encourage our clubs, which serve in different communities, to undertake bigger and broader projects. We want to encourage them to collaborate, so they can achieve something significant that society can truly feel the impact of. We also intend to extend our collaborations to corporate organisations for partnerships, because the government provide all that society needs alone. We want to bring all our resources, including our social capital, together to ensure they can strengthen the district and positively impact society.
No doubt you are looking forward to the July 13 inauguration as the Rotary District Governor.
Anyway, I have assumed office as a district governor from the first of July. You know, like I said, virtually is so structured. I was trying to put a testament. A few seconds after midnight, I was still awake, so I opened my computer system to check my status. I have assumed the role of district governor since the fourth of July.
Why is the ceremony tagged ‘royal installation’?
I have a royal background. Prince Felix Akinyele, my father, the Baba Ewe of African Church Archdeaconry in Ondo, is a descendant of the great Faughwaju Ruling House of Iforeland, the first settlers in the present Ondo Kingdom. Thus, making him a beneficiary of the royal blood of that dynasty. My brother, His Royal Highness, Engr. Raymond Abiodun Akinyele is the current Ekii of Ifore, the traditional ruler of the Ifore Community in the Ondo Kingdom. My mother, the Iya Ijo of the African Church Archdeaconry, Ondo, and the Grand Matron of the African Church, Akure/Ondo Diocese, is from the Leyo Ruling House of the Ondo Kingdom. But in short, it’s because of the grandeur or the excitement you want to convey through the event that’s reflected in the real installation.
What signature projects should be expected from District 9111 under your leadership?
There are quite a number of projects that need to be done. Clubs are expected to run projects in all these areas and focus areas at the district level. The first step is to monitor clubs to ensure they undertake suitable projects that meet the needs
this we have done before. We have zoomed off it. Yes, we have staff projects. Membership is very key to the district. The more we are, the better we have, so many hands to do the job. Therefore, our network force is going to be our membership. Therefore, it will be a major project for the year. Additionally, Rotary has a foundation that has been recognised as one of the best in the world by the Chinese community in the US. In fact, for 16 consecutive years, we have received the highest rating as a foundation that will use your money, which is almost the total sum, for the purposes requested. So, we encourage Rotarians to make contributions into this foundation and also to make use of the money in the foundation by assessing every available grant right so as a start project last year, the district initiated a peace study course in collaboration between university and within that short period of one year, we’ve been able to graduate 100 peace scholars at that level.
It’s a three-month programme. We intend to look at the long-term results of this. Let’s assume it’s the next step: 12, 10, or five years. We have about 10,000 peace activators in our communities. When there is peace, everything will be driven. We aim to encourage organisations and partners to make contributions, enabling us to commission this project. We will be running some additional projects. Our club want to do a mass eye screening for students in public schools. Many students in public schools are visually impaired. We will run this project through our clubs. They will identify public schools in their communities and collaborate with all parties involved in this project. We are also going to get sick bays into some of these public schools. Some students, when they are ill, the school ask them to go home.
You have been part of Rotary for 30 years. Please tell us your story up to the point of becoming the second governor of District 9111.
My journey into Rotary, like you said, has spanned
that if a Rotarian is in any organisation, whether in the church or your spirit, you will discover a trait of leadership in every material. So, I discovered that, because I joined so early, Rotary has been able to change my life in terms of giving back to society. What initially attracted me was the motto: ‘Service Above Self’. But when somebody can serve people above yourself and all that, and it’s beyond religion. So, I looked at it, and it has shaped my life by teaching me how to give back to society, how to lead, and also how to connect with others. It has also built my social capital. The journey has been so much fun. I thank God that we’ve been able to reach this level.
Have you always planned to be a district governor of the Rotary Club?
It wasn’t planned from the beginning, but having progressed through the hierarchy from being a club member to serving as club president, district officers at various levels, and chairing several committees, among other roles. It has really shaped my life. Rotary is truly beautiful because we do a great deal of things for people in need. There are times when we send money. Rotary is deeply involved in the situation in Ukraine, including the plight of those displaced and all related issues. So, people put down their funds to help those they don’t know. That is the beauty of Rotary, and that is why Rotary is different, because when you give to people in your area or street, which is also good, there’s every possibility they will make you a chief. There’s every possibility they want you to make you the CDA chairman, etc.
But in Rotary, you give to someone you don’t even know. If you look at the theme for last Rotary year, it was the ‘Magic of Rotary’ that was the theme for last Rotary year, and when the area president was interviewed, she gave her experience of visiting an African country and commissioning a water project in a village. She noticed that the children in that village looked scared and shocked. They
used to go to the stream to get water, so they’ve been. They had seen some people coming to the village to lay pipes, but did not know what was going on. When they opened the pipes and saw clean water gushing out, they were in shock. Last Rotary year, we performed almost 1000 cataract surgeries. As of the last count, about a week ago, we have done over 980 cataract surgeries. There was a 17-year-old girl who was blind because of a cataract in her eyes. It was like magic when she regained her sight after the surgery.
So far, so good. Was there a point at which you felt tired of these things? Have you ever reached a point where you wanted to quit, and what kept you from doing so?
Well, I haven’t experienced that, even though I’ve had to contend with the home front and my business endeavours. One of my staff said, ‘Sir, if you put all this energy you put into Rotary into our business, the company will be on a different level. I have never reached a point of calling it quits; that is the truth.
Many non-Rotarians have different opinions about Rotary. How would you describe Rotary to such people? What does Rotary stand for? It’s an organisation of professionals, business leaders, and community leaders who come together to positively impact their society and make a difference in the world. Rotary is an organisation where you can build your leadership skills. It equips us with the skills, and then it provides us with the right platform to impact society. What I’m saying, in essence, is that your contribution to a project may not be more than N20,000, but imagine N20,000 in 100 places. So, if you have taken your N20,000 to do a project or to serve someone, you’re not going to be as impactful as when our resources are put together
District 9111 is relatively new. You are the second governor. How do you intend to make it a strong district? How will your academic and professional background impact your role as a district governor? So yes, I’m a statistician by training. You know, I’ve been in business all over since I left school, I’ve been in business and in different kinds of business. I’m into printing services. I’m into hospitality and, of course, also some logistics, and I do branding as well. When you look at this background, it will be evident that I have extensive experience in project management. This will help significantly in developing projects, including non-fiscal projects, and the statistical background will enable us to analyse the terms very well. So, it will be the analytical side of leadership where we can compare statistics, perform variations, and examine the results. So it’s having this background to assist me in doing that. What specific activities or programmes do you have for 2025-2026?
Beyond the star project, there are other activities scheduled between now and the end of our tenure. Yes, as you said, by this time next week, on the 13th, we will have the installation ceremony, the one you mentioned earlier. That’s an activity that everybody is looking forward to. Then, throughout the year, we participate in a programme called the Root Exchange, where our youth travel abroad. You go to another district. So, we’re going to run that programme. We are going to run a friendship programme where Rotarians will visit other countries. We’ve lined up series in several countries where they will go and meet another routine; exchange to Kenya, Zurich, the United States, and other places. Next month, we will host the Rotary Youth Leadership Academy. We are able to bring together 300 to 400 young adults, aged 15 to 25, for a camp to train them for leadership roles. It’s about eight to nine days of a leadership campaign. So, all these programmes will run, alongside many other programs, over a year. In Rotary, every year, every month is designated for a specific cause. This July is dedicated to maternal and child health. Next month will be another programme. So, every month, Rotary has programmes designated for execution, in addition to the ones mentioned earlier.
Oluchi Chibuzor
President of the NigerianTurkish Business Council, Dele Kelvin Oye, Esq., has called for increased support for women and youth-led enterprises in Nigeria, describing them as key drivers of inclusive economic growth and national development.
Oye, an Honorary Life VicePresident and 22nd National President of NACCIMA and former Chairman of the Organized Private Sector of Nigeria (OPSN), made the call in Owerri, Imo State, during the Youth and Women Day, an event organised by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) as part of activities to mark the 25th anniversary of the agency.
While delivering the
keynote address at the forum which brought together stakeholders from the public and private sectors, development partners, entrepreneurs, and civil society groups, Oye emphasized the need for increased partnerships among stakeholders to unlock new opportunities for Nigerian women and youth, particularly in the areas of trade, technology, and education.
Oye who called on federal and state governments to adopt policies that promote access to capital, innovation hubs, skills acquisition, and inclusive economic frameworks that reflect the needs and aspirations of women and young people noted, “As President of the Nigerian-Turkish Business Council, I want to assure
you that partnerships between Nigeria and Türkiye—and other global allies are actively working to open new doors in trade, education, and investment.
“Our goal is to ensure that women and youth-led businesses benefit directly from these global linkages. We are promoting technology transfer, capacity building, and bilateral trade to empower those at the grassroots.”
He underscored the need for deliberate policies that support gender inclusion and youth empowerment, noting that innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable growth can only be achieved when these critical demographics are prioritised.
Oye reiterated the need to expand the scope of women and youth empowerment programmes by the commission.
Omolabake Fasogbon
Nigeria’s ambition to become a leading digital economy is being threatened by high cost of internet data and devices that continues to limit business access, Chief Executive Officer of Quomodo Systems Africa, Oluwole Asalu has warned.
Speaking against the backdrop of recent figures released by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), indicating a broadband penetration increase to 48.15% in April 2025 from 44% in December 2024, Asalu stressed that the current progress is not enough.
“This figure remains well
below the 70% national target and represents more than a statistical shortfall. It’s a foundational gap that is stifling innovation, restricting business growth, and excluding millions from the digital economy,” he said.
He maintained that digital infrastructure, including affordable broadband, reliable power supply, accessible data centers, and seamless cloud integration must be treated as national priorities.
“Without this infrastructure, our investments in artificial intelligence, fintech, cybersecurity, and remote work will remain fragmented and fail to deliver at scale,” he pointed out.
The tech expert in a media parley in Lagos, recently commended the just launched National Broadband Alliance for Nigeria (NBAN), however worried that its goals are being undercut by obstacles such as Right of Way (RoW) charges imposed by some state governments.
“Even with nearly 29% of Nigerians using the internet regularly, many more are left out because of high data prices and expensive smartphones. We need to reduce import duties, stimulate local smartphone assembly, and consider targeted subsidies for broadband to democratize digital access.”
The West Africa Container Terminal (WACT)-APM Terminals
Nigeria has marked a major milestone in its community development efforts with the graduation of over 500 beneficiaries from its capacity building initiative, ‘WACTpreneur.’ The ceremony, held recently celebrated participants from the Onne and Ogu host communities, comprising mostly women and a few men.
WACTpreneur is a capacitybuilding programme designed to equip community members with essential skills in business management and entrepreneurship. The initiative, which runs in batches, is aligned with one of WACT’s core CSR pillars—Training and Development.
In his remarks, WACT- APM Terminals Nigeria Managing Director, Jeethu Jose stated, “WACTpreneur is more than just training—it’s an investment in the future of our host communities. My dream is that WACT is
in each and every heart and we touch each and every family in the coming years. I promise you, standing here on behalf of WACT and APM Terminals, the good work and the collaboration with the community will continue.”
The WACT- APM Terminals, Senior People Business Partner, Chinelo Obienyem said,
“Through this program made possible by WACT’s commitment to community development, the participants have gained essential skills and knowledge to navigate the complexities of small business management. This comprehensive training and mentorship program has equipped our graduates with the tools necessary to succeed in their businesses. Over six months, they covered critical topics such as merchandising, customer relations, supply chain management, record-keeping, credit sales, sources of finance, integrity in business, cash flow management, amongst many other topics,” he said.
The Vice Chairperson of Ogu/Bolo, Barr. Christiana Tamunobereton-Ari lauded the impact of the programme on local livelihoods while also urging participants to maximize the training, “They did not just give us fish, they taught us how to catch the fish which is the skill. It now boils down to us. Please, use the skill which has been to you. We are reassuring WACT that we are going to reproduce what they have given to us,” she said.
Also speaking, the Community Development Committee Chairman, Onne, Eleme LGA, Chief Sunday Dudu praised WACT for their dedication to the development of the Onne Community.
“WACT has become synonymous with development in Onne. The company is doing tremendously well, and as we speak, several impactful projects are currently underway in the community,” he said.
Policymakers and private sector leaders at the West Africa Business Summit (WAES 2025) have called for stronger coordination, practical reforms, and production-focused policies to unlock the full benefits of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Among several strategic conversations held during the summit, one of the key panel sessions, titled “Overcoming Barriers to Harnessing AfCFTA for Stronger Intra-Regional Trade in West
Africa”, featured high-level perspectives on production, trade fairness, and cross-border coordination.
Moderated by Yvonne Ike, Head of Sub-Saharan Africa at Bank of America, the panel brought together distinguished voices including Nigeria’s Minister of Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole; Benin’s Minister of Industry and Commerce, Shadiya Alimatou Assouman; Abubakar Suleiman, MD/CEO of Sterling Bank;
Farouk Gumel, Vice Chairman of Tropical General Investments (TGI) Group; and Jubril Enakele, CEO of IRON Capital Partners.
Farouk Gumel urged stakeholders to recognise that informal systems of trade already function across the continent and must be understood rather than overridden. “We need to understand the difference between Africa and Africans. It is a tribal continent. The tribal connectivity is the driver of African trade today.”
Kayode Tokede
The Nigerian stock market yesterday extended its bullish run to the seventh consecutive trading session, gaining N1.76 trillion to cross the N78 trillion by market capitalisation.
The N1.76 trillion gain in one-day is on the backdrop of price uptick in Guaranty Trust Holding Company (GTCO) Plc that listed 2.29 billion ordinary shares of 50 kobo each. Amid the listing, the stock price
of GTCO gained 2.84 per cent or N2.50 per share to close yesterday at N90.50 per share, bringing its market value to N3.3 trillion as of July 10, 2025.
The market capitalisation of the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) that opened for trading at N76.970 trillion gained 2.28 per cent or N1.76 trillion to close at N78.726 trillion.
The NGX All-Share Index gained by 2,457.13 basis points, or 2.01 per cent to close at 124,446.80 basis
points with the Month-to-Date and Year-to-Date returns improving to +3.7per cent and +20.9per cent, respectively.
On market outlook, Afrinvest Limited said, “on the back of unmet bids at the last primary market auction vis-à-vis broad-based moderation in yields across offers, we anticipate the bourse to stay bullish in tomorrow’s trading session, as traders rotate into equities.”
On sectors, performance was
broadly positive, as the NGX Insurance index appreciated by four per cent, NGX Banking Index gained 3.9per cent, NGX Consumer Goods Index added 1.2per cent, and NGX Industrial Goods advanced by 0.3per cent, while the NGX Oil & Gas index remained unchanged.
Market breadth remained strongly positive, with 70 stocks advancing against just 10 decliners, signaling widespread bullish sentiment across sectors.
FTN Cocoa Processors, UPDC, United Bank for Africa (UBA), Consolidated Hallmark Holdings, Haldane McCall and Caverton Offshore Support Group recorded the highest price gain of 10 per cent each to close at N6.82, N4.62, N39.60, N3.30, N4.73 and N8.36 respectively, per share.
Red Star Express followed with a gain of 9.99 per cent to close at N12.22, while ABC Transports up by 9.97 per cent to close at N4.30, per share.
On the other hand, Neimeth International Pharmaceuticals led the losers’ chart by 9.91 per cent to close at N9.00, per share. Legend Internet followed with a decline of 9.88 per cent to close at N7.21, while Industrial & Medical Gases Nigeria declined by 7.36 per cent to close at N34.00, per share. Cadbury Nigeria depreciated by 6.22 per cent to close at N55.00, while Livestock Feeds declined by 5.67 per cent to close at N9.15, per share.
The 2025 100 Most Notable Africans Leadership and Business Summit, held recently in Kigali, Rwanda, convened influential leaders from across the continent to chart a path toward economic self-reliance, trade liberalisation, and sustainable development. Centred on the theme “Shaping Africa’s Future Through Collaboration and Partnership,” the summit underscored the need for African nations to leverage internal strengths—particularly in agriculture and mineral resources—to drive industrial growth, reduce poverty, and move away from dependency on foreign aid. Championed by Project Director Africa of the 100 Most Notable Peace Icons, Dr. Kingsley Amafibe, who has resiliently curated a platform that celebrates African excellence while fostering dialogue around economic liberation and collaboration, the summit also recognised 100 distinguished individuals as Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa, who have made significant contributions to peace and nation-building across the continent. Precious Ugwuzor reports
The urgent need to liberalise trade and harness homegrown solutions to Africa’s developmental challenges took centre stage at the recently concluded 100 Most Notable Africans Leadership and Business Summit 2025 held in Kigali, Rwanda.
With the theme “Shaping Africa’s Future Through Collaboration and Partnership,” the summit brought together influential leaders, policymakers and entrepreneurs who called for a shift away from dependency on foreign aid and towards a renewed focus on intra-African collaboration, resource development, and industrial growth.
The gathering became a rallying point for reimagining Africa’s economic future through the lens of self-reliance, agricultural transformation, and mineral resource optimisation.
Meanwhile, the summit also afforded the organisers the opportunity to honour individuals who have made impact in nation-building across the African continent through the 100 Most Notable Peace Icons Awards.
Shaping Africa’s future Through Collaboration and Partnership
The 100 Most Notable Africans Leadership and Business Summit in Kigali 2025, the capital of Rwanda has come to a successful end but not without the key takeaways from the event where stakeholders highlighted the need to countries in Africa to look inward to proffer solutions to its economic challenges.
Speakers at the event believe that Africa has what it takes to build its economic empire and solve its developmental problems without relying on foreign aid.
It was an opportunity to raise the consciousness of leaders to look within their nations and explore their abundant mineral resources and capacity in agriculture to lift people out of poverty, grow industries and create wealth for the good of the continent.
In his remarks, the Project Director Africa, 100 Most Notable Peace Icon Africa, Amb Dr. Kingsley Amafibe while speaking on the topic, “Shaping Africa’s future Through Collaboration and Partnership” said creating a platform like African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is a step in the right direction, connecting over a billion Africans to trade in one single market, bringing in their areas of strength to complement each.
He said the summit is a large platform for industrialists, policymakers, political office holders,
and key stakeholders in the African economic landscape to share ideas on how to work together for the good of the continent.
Opening the summit, Amb Ibrahim Zanna, Nigerian High Commission to Rwanda, spoke about leadership and strategic partnerships in Africa.
Governor of Jigawa state, His Excellency Umar Namadi, who was represented by the Executive Chairman State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Prof Haruna Musa, while delivering his keynote speech on “Food Security: A Catalyst for Galvanising Positive Change and Enshrining Tranquility In Africa” said agriculture has potentials to make the country attain food security and for export purpose.
While expressing concern that the continent still imports food, the governor said Jigawa is making a massive investment to reposition agriculture as a key revenue generator, especially from the export of food produce.
Other speakers, including the Founder & and Chairman, Asian African Chamber of Commerce & Industry and World Peace Diplomacy Organisation, Prof. GD Singh; Psychiatrist CEO, African Global Health, Morocco, Dr. Imane Kendili; and Deputy Governor, Edo State, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, were all in unison in their call for Africa to rise up and activate its sleeping giant.
Others who spoke at the event include President Psychotherapeutic and counseling research institute and West African Regional Director AMHROA Network, Dr. Sa’adatu Adamu; Founder, Property Wealth Corporation UK, Dr. Daniel Moses; Deputy Director General, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Prof. Nicaise Ndembi; Founder and CEO, 63 Inc., Malik Shaffy Lizinde; Dr Chuka Nwachukwu; Chairman Amanda Group, Eur ING DR Chinedu Ogwus; Rahim Bah, Dr. Femi Joshua, Dr. Michael Odere; Commissioner of Finance Cross River State, Emmanuel Uduh; Amb Daniel Obah, Ruqayya Tofa-Basheer, Aisha Adamu Rufai and host of others.
100 Most Notable Peace Icons Awards
Then came the awards and 100 prominent Africans were recognised as they bagged the honour of 100 Most Notable Peace Icons Africa. The award was organised by 100 Most Notable Peace Icons to honour individuals who have made impact in nation-building across the African continent.
Those who made the list include, Psychiatrist CEO, African Global Health, Morocco, Dr. Imane Kendili; Regional Director, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Prof Nicaise Ndembi; Mallam Umar Namadi, Executive Governor
of Jigawa State; Rt Hon Dennis Idahosa, Deputy Governor of Edo State; and Dr Abdelhak Najib from Morocco.
Others include Hon. Prof. Mthuli Ncube, Hon. Dr. Pedzai Scott Pakupwanya, Dr. Torhile A. Uchi and Dr. Angel Nationota; His Excellency Rt. Hon. Peter Odey; Dr. Mncedisi Dube, Muyiwa Fatosa, Chinedum Ucheoma, Dr. Daniel Moses, Mr. Michael Odere, Amb. Dr. Tosin Ladejobiq, Hon. Sekibo, Rahim Bah, Dr.Amit N. Thakker, EBS, Eur Ing Dr. Chinedu Ogwus, Dr.George Kelly D. Alabo, and Chief Chris Agara. Not left out were Dr Peter Chuka Nwachukwu, Alhaji Abdul Chukkol, Mathew Elvis Ekpeohanreste, Ruqayya Tofa Basheer, Dr.Nimi Briggs Torhile, Mrs. Lois Andrew (Lola Andy), Ramalan Rotimi Buhari, DCP Dr.Usman Musa, Munyakazi Sedate, Bruce Melodie, Dr Abdelhak Najib, H.E Amb Prof Smelly Dube, Mrs.Asu Kunemofa, Professor Haruna Musa, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, Dr.Steve Ayiyi, Chief.Prof, Dr GD Singh, Engr. Gbenga Komola Fense and Rear Admiral Kashimu Bushi. According to Dr. Amafibe, the honour was to encourage and spur them to continue using their platforms in various life endeavours to promote peace across Africa. He stated that the development of the African continent is largely hinged in the peace and stability of various nations, urging that all hands should be on deck to raise the bar of brotherliness across board.
ALHAJI JANI IBRAHIM BECOMES THE PRESIDENT OF
L-R: First Dep. President, NACCIMA, Dr. Emi Membere-Otaji; Attorney General of
and Minister of
Hon.
Wale Igbintade
Justice S.B. Belgore of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court, Abuja, has nullified arbitration proceedings initiated at the Inter-
national Chamber of Commerce (ICC), London, against indigenous energy firm, Aiteo Eastern E&P Company Limited, declaring the actions a violation of subsisting court orders.
The arbitration, which concerned the financing arrangements for Oil Mining Lease (OML) 29, estimated at over $2 billion, was set aside in its entirety for proceeding in defiance of injunctive orders issued by the
court on January 21, 2021.
Delivering the ruling in Suit No. FCT/HC/CV/079/2021 on July 8, 2025, Belgore declared all steps taken in Arbitration Nos. 25880/AZR and 25881/AZR
Sunday Aborisade in Abuja
In a powerful reaffirmation of the legal rights of bank customers in Nigeria, the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on Thursday enforced a judgment against Keystone Bank, sealing its Regional Head Office in Abuja’s Central Business District.
The enforcement followed the bank’s refusal to comply with a court order to pay over N202 million to Agricultural Productivity Enhancement Limited (AGROPRO LTD), a longtime customer.
Court officials, led by legal practitioners Messrs Shamsudeen Ubanoma and Maryam Mohammed, carried out the enforcement order in the full glare of the bank’s staff, customers and passersby.
The dramatic sealing of the bank’s premises underscored a growing
intolerance for banking institutions that breach fiduciary trust and ignore the rule of law.
The judgment traces back to a 2024 decision of the FCT High Court which ordered Keystone Bank to immediately pay AGROPRO LTD the sum of N202,890,426.96, being the total value of a fixed deposit, plus accrued interest as of January 25, 2021.
The court found that the bank had unlawfully withheld AGROPRO’s funds without a valid court order, a move that both the High Court and the Court of Appeal have now declared illegal.
AGROPRO LTD’s legal representative, Victor Abakpa, while speaking with journalists, described the judgment as not just a victory for his client but a win for every Nigerian bank customer.
He said: “This is about the sanctity
of contractual agreements and the obligation of banks to honour their commitments to customers.
“When a bank begins to act like a recovery agency or a judge, it loses its role as a neutral fiduciary institution.
“Keystone Bank had gone on appeal to contest the initial judgment. But on May 9, 2025, the Court of Appeal upheld the trial court’s decision, ruling that the bank had no right to withhold AGROPRO’s funds over claims related to the Central Bank of Nigeria’s Anchor Borrowers Scheme, a separate and unrelated transaction.
“The appellate court found that there was no lawful justification for Keystone’s actions and reiterated that banks are not permitted to act on suspicions or third-party claims without judicial backing. It emphasized that doing so constitutes a grave violation of a bank’s fiduciary duty.
“The broader implications of this ruling are far-reaching. At its core, the case serves as a warning to financial institutions about the limits of their power and the primacy of customer rights in banking relationships. Banks are custodians of public trust.
“Any abuse of that trust erodes confidence in the financial system and invites increased regulatory scrutiny.
“In the AGROPRO case, the bank’s decision to withhold N202.8 million, despite the maturity of a fixed deposit investment, illustrates a troubling trend where banks assert authority they do not have.
“Such practices, if left unchecked, would undermine the credibility of the banking system and discourage investment and savings, cornerstones of economic development,” Abakpa said.
as “null, void, of no effect, and incapable of conferring any legal right or obligation” on the 1st to 16th defendants, including any award that might have resulted.
The lawsuit was filed by Tempo Energy Nigeria Limited against Aiteo and a host of other financial and corporate institutions, including Africa Finance Corporation, Ecobank Nigeria Limited, First Bank, GTBank, Fidelity Bank, and Shell entities, among others.
Other listed parties included Citibank Europe Plc (UK), Citibank N.A. (London), FBN Trustees, Zenith Trustees, and several Nigerian banks and trustees.
The court found that the arbitration was conducted despite the interim order issued in January 2021 restraining all parties from taking further steps pending the hearing of a motion for interlocutory injunction.
Belgore emphasised the parties remained bound by the interim order and reiterated the matter would proceed to hearing on September 29, 2025, subject to the outcome of any pending appeals.
In a further blow to the erring parties, the judge awarded N500,000 in costs each against the 2nd and 16th defendants - Africa Finance Corporation and Dame Elizabeth Gloster in favour of the claimant. The costs are to be paid before the next hearing.
The ruling followed an oral application by Tempo Energy’s
counsel, Kehinde Ogunwumiju, SAN, who urged the court to invalidate all actions taken in breach of its orders, describing the arbitration as a direct affront to judicial authority.
Ogunwumiju referenced documents attached to the affidavit of facts - including admissions by the 1st defendant (Aiteo) that it participated in the arbitration “under protest” and informed the court that the ICC panel proceeded despite being made aware of the Nigerian court’s order.
In defence, Aiteo’s counsel argued that the company had informed the arbitral tribunal of the court’s injunction and did not consent to the process, asserting it should not be held liable for contempt. However, the court rejected these submissions and concluded that the participation, regardless of protest, violated its injunctive powers and warranted the nullification of the entire arbitration process and outcome.
The underlying dispute had been delayed for over four years after some defendants appealed the interim orders.
The Court of Appeal, however, dismissed their appeal on April 25, 2025, labelling it “hopeless” and a “reckless abuse of court process.” With the appeal dismissed, the High Court resumed proceedings, and the claimants promptly sought judicial redress for the arbitration conducted in defiance of its orders.
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
A thousand youths from across northern states of the country are to be trained in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) as part of efforts at empowering youths from the region. The training is part of efforts of US-based organisation, Zumunta Association USA Inc, which plans to host its 2025 Annual Convention between July 14-25 in Lafia, Nasarawa State.
The association which was formed in New York, US in 1991 has since its inception given scholarships to over 5,000 science students in
Northern Nigeria in the value of above N100 million.
Addressing a press conference in Abuja on Monday, the President of the Association, Mr. Sunday Bitrus, said apart from the ICT Training, a medical outreach would be organised between June 14-23 at the Gudi General Hospital, Akwanga, Nasarawa State to provide top medical care for members of the public. Bitrus, who disclosed the association is non-partisan and non-religious organisation dedicated to representing the rich cultural heritage and traditions of Nigeria, and also promoting a positive image
of the country globally through the impactful actions of its members, said Zumunta Association remains committed to serving the needs of members, partnering with host communities and promoting unbiased, inclusive discourse on national development.
He noted: “Our flagship Scholarship Programme has transformed the lives of over 5,000 science students in Northern Nigeria, with over N100 million disbursed since inception. We receive more than 810,000 applications annually, a testament to the scale of need - and a call to action for donors and partners.
The federal government and the European Union have agreed on a €20 million initiative between museums to support film festivals and digital creative industries.
The synergy came into light yesterday in Abuja, when a high-level delegation from the European Union led by the EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS Ambassador Gautier Mignot, paid a courtesy visit to the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa.
The agreement was part of a broader effort to harness Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage to drive economic growth, create jobs, and promote national unity.
At the engagement, Musawa disclosed plans to produce a ‘Unity Song’ featuring Nigeria’s major artists, to promote national unity and address security concerns through music.
“Culture is central to civilization and growth. We must harness our rich cultural heritage to drive economic growth, create jobs, and promote national unity,” she said.
Also, an upcoming Creative Economy Summit to convene stakeholders, coordinate activities, and avoid duplication of efforts in the creative industry were also highlighted.
The summit aims to drive strategic collaboration, investment, and innovation in Nigeria’s creative sector.
In the same light, Musawa also
stressed the need for data-driven interventions to guide policy decisions and maximize impact in the cultural sector.
According to her, data mapping will be crucial in informing cultural and creative economy interventions, ensuring that efforts are targeted and effective.
Both the federal government the and EU partners expressed commitment to deepen their cooperation in the cultural sector, with a focus on capacity building, digital skills development, and job creation. In future, the parties will harness the creative industry for job creation and economic growth, and align projects with international best practices while ensuring they are tailored to Nigerian realities.
Minister of Youth, Ayodele Olawande,
in a strategic meeting with Richard Brook, Assistant Vice
Olukoyede: Politicians hiding looted funds in crypto wallets Says fraudulent investment schemes spreading like wildfire across Africa
By Wale Igbintade
Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has issued a strong warning about the growing use of virtual assets and fraudulent investment platforms to launder stolen public funds and defraud unsuspecting Nigerians.
Speaking at a public engagement in Lagos to mark Africa Anti-Corruption Day, Executive Chairman of EFCC, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, described the rise in cryptocurrency-related fraud and fake investment schemes as a major emerging threat to Nigeria’s anti-corruption war.
Olukoyede’s remarks were delivered on his behalf by Mr. Ahmed Ghali, Acting Zonal Director of EFCC’s Lagos Zonal Directorate 2, at the event held
at the commission’s office on Okotie Eboh Street, Ikoyi.
“Fraudulent politicians are already perfecting schemes and hiding their loot in cryptocurrencies to evade the investigative dragnet of anti-corruption agencies,” the chairman warned.
According to him, “Stolen funds and unexplained wealth are being warehoused in wallets.”
Olukoyede called for frank dialogue among stakeholders, stressing that the path forward lies in public education, tech-driven enforcement, and early detection.
“Virtual assets and investment fraud, like other fraudulent activities, are preventable. The escape route is adequate knowledge and understanding,” he said.
Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja
The European Union (EU) has said Nigeria is capable of playing leadership role in advancing the cause of women participation in democratic governance, especially in Africa.
Head of the European Union (EU) delegation to Nigeria and the ECOWAS, Gautier Mignot said that Nigeria was supposed to be leading and serving as a model for other countries in Africa and around the world.
The envoy who made this observation in Abuja during a media parley by the House Committee on Constitution Review organised by the Policy and Legal Advocacy Center (PLAC) in Abuja said some African countries like Luanda and Kenya have achieved equality in women and men representation in politics.
His words: “When I arrived here in Nigeria last September, really surprised me to see that Nigeria is really lagging behind.
“But look at countries like Rwanda or Kenya in Africa. Look at Mexico, which was a country I was posted in before, which has perfect equality in women and men representation in politics.
“And I believe that Nigeria’s vocation is not to lag behind. Nigeria’s vocation is to lead and serve as a model and as an example for others in Africa and around the world.”
On his part, the Executive Director Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC) Clement Nwankwo expressed dissatisfaction over what he described as low level of women representation in government both at the state and national level.
He regretted that Nigeria is fast becoming the worst in terms of low women representation in the African continent.
According to Nwankwo, the situation is further compounded by the people’s cultural beliefs and religion, lamenting that the Nigeria is losing votes on global stage due to low representation of women.
He clarified that while virtual assets, such as cryptocurrencies and digital tokens, were not inherently illegal, their misuse was increasingly enabling illicit financial flows across the continent.
He highlighted the EFCC’s proactive efforts in dismantling such schemes.
“We are ahead in every material
sense, and there are enormous proofs of operational successes - especially the breakthrough in the investigation and prosecution of the infamous CBEX scam,” he stated.
Olukoyede also urged members of the public to take greater responsibility through due diligence and timely
reporting of suspicious transactions. He stated that many scams thrived because of investor negligence and delays in notifying law enforcement. He said, “No investment scam can succeed without the negligence of investors. People hardly alert the EFCC until they have already been
defrauded.”
The
Bennett Oghifo
Nigeria has continued to witness troubling rise in fatalities from road traffic crashes this year, as recent data and tragic incidents show a deepening crisis on the nation’s highways.
The first quarter of the year was marked by several tragic incidents.
Nigerians wake up daily to disturbing reports of containers tragically dropping from trucks on passenger buses, cars and bystanders on the roadside; fuel tanker accidents crushing innocent people to death or igniting fire that claim scores of lives, consuming vehicles, buildings and other goods.
Between January and March 2025 (Q1), the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) recorded 2,650 crashes, resulting in 1,593 deaths and 9,298 injuries.
Compared to the same period in 2024, the number of fatalities rose by a staggering 8.3%, signalling an increase in the severity of these accidents with injuries jumping by 7.4% within the same period.
Among the deadliest corridors was the Jos–Lafia–Makurdi route, where 1,539 lives were lost in the first three months of the year - a chilling reflection of the high-risk nature of certain highways.
A recall of few examples shows on January 11 (Plateau State), a bus crash left 19 dead and 11 injured; January 22 (Ilorin, Kwara), a trailer-truck collision claimed 18 lives; February 1 (Ore–Lagos Road, Ondo), two buses collided and got burnt, killing 30; and on February 14 (Kano), a collision between a trailer and a goods vehicle killed 23, injuring 48.
While full data for April to
June (Q2) has yet to be released by the FRSC, early signs suggest no improvement.
A few examples will suffice: On April 19, Ife–Ilesa Road, Osun State, a collision between a trailer and a Toyota Hilux killed five people, including a child.
On May 5, Abuja–Lokoja highway (Gada Biyu), a Peugeot bus tyre burst, plunging into a ditch and killing one person with six injured.
On June 1, Kano Zaria Expressway (Chiromawa Bridge), a bus veered off the bridge, 22 athletes were killed.
On June 7, Kyaramma, Jigawa State, a head-on collision between two VW Golf cars resulted in the death of nine with several others injured.
Five people died and several others were injured in an accident
on Lagos-Ibadan Expressway (Soka area) involving trucks, cars and taxis.
In July, within just 48 hours between July 5 and 6, a total of 39 lives were lost in three separate crashes in Kano, Lagos and Ogun states.
On Zaria–Kano highway, 21 people were killed when a Toyota Hummer bus driving against traffic collided head-on with a trailer.
In Ogun State, 10 lives were lost on the Ijebu Ode–Obada Expressway due to wrong overtaking.
In Lagos, eight people died in a crash on the Mile 2–Badagry Expressway, caused by over speeding. All three crashes were linked to human error: wrong-way driving, reckless overtaking, and speeding. These repeated patterns are some of the issues the FRSC was set up to address.
Sunday Okobi
In her expressed commitment to improve healthcare services in Ogun State through her pet project, Ajose Foundation, the First Lady of Ogun State, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, has unveiled the first Endoscopy machine at the Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital (OOUTH), Sagamu, Ogun State. According to a statement issued and made available to THISDAY
yesterday by the Press Officer, Office of Ogun First Lady, Kemi Oyeleye, the machine was donated through Mrs. Abiodun’s partnership with Naykas health care incorporated, a United States-based medical team that has annually been providing free medical care and surgeries to the indigent citizens of the state.
The statement noted that the medical team, which visits Ogun State annually to provide free
medical care to indigent citizens, has been instrumental in enhancing the hospital’s capabilities, noting that the teaching hospital had been receiving modern equipment from the collaboration to enhance health service delivery at the hospital. The first lady, who appreciated the management of OOUTH for its support and collaboration of the institution’s medical personnel with the US team, advised the people to seek medical intervention early
while it could be treated.
The team lead, Dr. Musbau Kasumu, in an interview said the new endoscopy machine would significantly enhance the hospital’s diagnostic capabilities enabling medical professionals to conduct detailed examinations and treatments of internal organs and tissues, adding that the advanced technology would improve patients’ outcomes by enabling more accurate diagnoses and targeted treatments.
L-R: The wife of the Deputy Senate President, Hajiya Laila Barau Jibrin; wife of Lagos State Governor, Dr. Mrs. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu; representative of the First Lady of Nigeria and wife of the Vice President, Hajiya Nana Shettima; and Chairman of Ikoyi-Obalende Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Hon. Fuad Atanda-Lawal, at the inauguration of Senator Oluremi Tinubu Primary Health Care Centre constructed by Ikoyi-Obalende LCDA in Lagos… recently
Deji
The Presidency, last night, punctured comments made by a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Boss Mustapha, on the contribution of President Bola Tinubu to the 2015 electoral victory of former President Muhammadu Buhari,
describing the former SGF’s claims as a disservice to recent political history.
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Mr. Tope Ajayi, issued a rebuttal via his verified X handle, @TheTope_Ajayi, stating that President Tinubu’s influence was pivotal to Buhari’s emergence not just as a presidential candidate
but ultimately as president.
The presidential media aide’s reaction followed Mustapha’s remarks at the public presentation of “According to Mr. President: Lessons from a Presidential Spokesman’s Experience” — a memoir by former presidential spokesperson, Mallam Garba Shehu — where the former
SGF claimed that the merger which birthed the All Progressives Congress (APC) contributed only three million votes to the 15.4 million total votes that resulted in Buhari’s victory. Ajayi, however, faulted the assertion, saying it was an unfortunate and revisionist take on one of the most significant political shifts in Nigeria’s
Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja
Senator George Akume has vowed not to step down as the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) to be become the Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Akume affirmed this yesterday in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Yomi Odunuga.
The rebuttal followed media insinuations that he was one of the top politicians angling for the position of APC chairman vacated by Dr Abdullahi Ganduje.
“I am not in a hurry to abdicate my responsibility and the task that the President of the Federal Republic has placed before me. I am a firm believer in the principle that whatever God plans for you will surely come
to pass. So, I can’t be in a race that I am not interested in.
“Everything that I have been in life has been given to me by the Almighty God through the instrumentality of people including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. To say that I am one of the prominent politicians gunning for the position of the APC Chairman is completely false because I am in the process of ensuring that the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President and the government is realised so that Nigerians can enjoy the true dividends of democracy that they crave for. We are working day and night to deliver on these promises under the supervision of the President and we are totally committed to this,” Akume said.
The statement described the report as nothing but a fabrication meant
to distract the SGF from the key responsibilities entrusted with him by President Bola Tinubu.
It insists Senator Akume was not jostling with anyone for the post of either the APC National Chairman or any other post in the party, noting his main focus, was to ensure that he did not in any way betray the intrinsic trust that President Tinubu reposed in him in ensuring that the Renewed Hope Agenda of the ruling party and the government was achieved within the targeted time frame.
“While Senator Akume believes that there are qualified candidates in the North-Central to vie for the National Chairmanship position should the party decide to zone the position to the North-Central geopolitical zone, he is of the opinion that what is paramount
Kuni Tyessi in Abuja
The Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) has threatened to delist tertiary institutions which fail to properly utilise funds allocated to them for intervention projects.
Its Executive Secretary, Sonny Echono, gave the warning in Abuja at a two-day strategic workshop for directors of physical planning, academic planning, and Information Communication Technology (ICT) drawn from schools benefitting from the Fund.
Echono said the workshop reflected the Fund’s commitment to reinforcing the country’s tertiary education system by closing gaps in its processes and procedures, particularly through a better understanding of its intervention guidelines.
He emphasised that TETFund would not stand by while some institutions fall short of expectations.
“Let me reiterate that institutions which fail to access, utilise or retire funds in accordance with TETFund guidelines or that underperform in key academic or operational benchmarks may face delisting as beneficiaries.
“This policy is not punitive but rather a mechanism to safeguard the integrity and effectiveness of our interventions,” he said.
Echono explained that the primary aim of the gathering was to build the capacity of key personnel responsible for planning, implementation, and monitoring of TETFund-supported projects.
“Our aim is to ensure that every institution represented here is well equipped to align more effectively with the Fund’s operational procedures for greater efficiency, accountability, and developmental impact.
“This engagement is more than a routine meeting: it is a strategic
convergence designed to address recurring implementation bottlenecks, improve compliance, and enhance institutional performance.
“It is our collective responsibility to ensure that the gains from TETFund interventions are not only sustained but amplified through timely and judicious utilisation of resources,” he added.
Echono also highlighted strategic priorities that will shape the Fund’s direction in 2025 and beyond.
On the agency’s Scholarship for Academic Staff (TSAS), he said TETFund had earlier suspended foreign training component effective January 1, 2025.
He said: “First, regarding the Academic Staff Training and Development (AST&D) intervention, as you are all aware, the Fund has suspended the foreign training component of the TETFund Scholarship for Academic Staff (TSAS), effective January 1, 2025.”
to him is to help in fast-tracking national development in line with the government’s Renewed Hope Agenda instead of getting entangled in the politics of who becomes the National Chairman of the party.
“The Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation would appreciate, in the principle of fairness, that professionalism and the ethics of journalism should be taken seriously in reportage especially in writing stories that are as sensitive as this which are capable of heating the polity,” the statement said.
Fourth Republic. According to him: “Former SGF Boss Mustapha did a disservice to our recent history with that unnecessary glib at the book launch today.”
He stressed that regardless of the eventual 2015 general election, Buhari would never have stood as the APC’s presidential candidate without the intervention and influence of then-national leader of the party, Bola Tinubu.
He stated: “There is no way he (Buhari) would have won the election to be president without first becoming the presidential candidate of his party APC.
“General Buhari would not have won the APC primary election at the Teslim Balogun Stadium, Lagos, in 2014 without President Tinubu, who mobilised the APC governors and the South West delegates to move Buhari’s way.”
Ajayi’s insisted that President Tinubu played a central role in uniting the different blocs that formed the APC, and in securing support for Buhari across the South-West — a region previously elusive to the former
military ruler.
He further pointed out that despite Buhari’s strong base in the North, which routinely gave him 12 million votes in previous contests, he failed in three presidential elections — in 2003, 2007, and 2011 — until the 2015 coalition galvanised new national appeal.
“Every effort and support that made it possible for President Buhari to win should never be diminished,” Ajayi added, insisting that Tinubu’s role in achieving that milestone must be recognised for what it truly was — decisive.
“The 2015 election marked a watershed in Nigerian democracy, being the first time an incumbent president was defeated at the polls.
“APC’s victory was largely attributed to the strategic merger of major opposition parties — including Tinubu’s Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), Buhari’s Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP), and factions of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and the new Peoples Democratic Party (nPDP).”
Tonukari: Employing Over 600 Academic, Non-academic Staff in 2yrs Shows Oborevwori’s Commitment
Insists visitor, not governing council can discipline polytechnic rector
Omon-Julius Onabu in Asaba
Delta State Commissioner of Higher Education Commissioner, Prof. Nyerhovwo J. Tonukari, has said that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has demonstrated serious commitment to the development of the four state-owned universities as well as other tertiary institutions in the state, including the employment of more than 600 academic and non-academic staff in tertiary institutions in two years of his administration.
The commissioner revealed this yesterday during a flagship public affairs Voice of Delta Radio programme, “Orientation Panorama,” under the auspices of the State Orientation and Communication Bureau in Asaba.
Prof. Tonukari commended Governor Oborevwori for prioritising adequate funding of education since he assumed office in 2023, noting that the impressive record of accreditation of most of courses even in the relatively young tertiary institutions was a function of adequate funding.
He asserted that aside the relief the institutions have brought Delta, many parents across the country were
craving to transfer their children and wards to Delta State-owned universities, polytechnics and other tertiary institutions owing to the standard of academic programmes, high level of moral discipline as well as conducive learning environment put in place by the state government.
According to him, the governor built and inaugurated the Faculty of Agriculture and Environmental Science buildings in Dennis Osadebey University Asaba, the Administrative Building, Vice-Chancellor’s Lodge, the Registrar and Chief Librarian official residences at the Southern Delta University Ozoro as well as other mega infrastructure development at the Delta State University Abraka, University of Delta Agbor and other tertiary institutions in the state.
Nevertheless, Prof. Tonukari explained the name change from Delta State University of Science and Technology Ozoro to ‘Southern Delta University Ozoro’ was to enable the university authorities develop more academic programmes for accreditation by the National Universities Commission (NUC), assuring Deltans that Faculty of Law and other professional
programmes can be added to the university because of the name change. The State Higher Education Com- missioner further disclosed that the Southern Delta University campus in Orerokpe was making tremendous progress, saying in the near future, faculties of Law, Art and Social Sciences would be added to complement the Faculty of Management Sciences in line with ongoing major reforms, transformation and staff capacity building in the state’s education sector. In the area of research and inventions, Prof. Tonukari disclosed that a prototype fuel-powered light generator was developed by some lecturers in collaboration with students at the Delta State Polytechnic, Otefe-Oghara, noting the state government was encouraging the institution to make a perfect prototype that could be mass-produced in the future.
Tonukari said while fielding questions from callers: “Many parents across Nigeria are craving to transfer their children to Delta State Universities and other tertiary institutions, because of the standard of education in the state. Our students graduate on time. A four-year programme is a four-year programme.
Senate Committee
on
and
Ighodalo: I feel betrayed with the judgement, battle for better state continues Tinubu, Wike hail verdict, president urges gov to be magnanimous in victory, rally citizens for devt
Deji Elumoye, Chuks Okocha, Olawale Ajimotokan, Alex Enumah in Abuja and Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City
A five-member panel of the Supreme Court, yesterday, affirmed the election of Senator Monday Okpebholo as Governor of Edo State.
The panel, in a unanimous judgement, held that the appellant failed to prove allegations of non-compliance as well as claim that Okpebholo did not win lawful votes cast during the September 21, 2024 governorship election in Edo State.
But the candidate of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the election, Mr. Asue Ighodalo, said he felt betrayed by the Supreme Court judgement.
But Ighodalo declared that the battle for a better Edo State would continue.
President Bola Tinubu, All Progressives Congress (APC), and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, congratulated Okpebholo, on his electoral victory, but urged him to be magnanimous in victory and rally the people for the development of the state.
Justice Mohammed Lawal, who read the lead judgement, stated
that the Court of Appeal and Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal were in order in dismissing the case of Ighodalo for lacking merit.
Ighodalo had approached the apex court for an order setting aside the judgement of the lower court for being perverse for affirming the Edo tribunal’s verdict, which had earlier held that Okpebholo was the lawfully elected as governor.
Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had declared Okpebholo of APC winner of the September 21 governorship election.
INEC said Okpebholo won majority of the votes cast at last year’s governorship election in Edo State.
According to INEC, Okpebholo polled 291,667 votes to emerge winner, while Ighodalo came second with 247,274 votes. The candidate of Labour Party (LP), Olumide Akpata, finished a distant third with 22,763 votes.
Dissatisfied, Ighodalo and PDP approached the state election petition tribunal to challenge the result. They claimed that the governorship election was invalid because of alleged non-compliance with the provisions of the Electoral Act 2022. They had also prayed the court to nullify the declaration of Okpebholo as the winner on the ground that the
election was marred by irregularities.
However, the tribunal, after considering the oral and documentary evidence presented before it by all parties, came to the conclusion that the petitioners failed to prove their allegations of non-compliance and over-voting, amongst others.
The tribunal subsequently dismissed the case of Ighodalo and PDP and affirmed INEC’s
declaration of Okpebholo as lawful winner of the governorship poll.
Not satisfied still, Ighodalo approached the appellate court to challenge the verdict of the tribunal, but was again told that he failed to present a convincing case. It added that while he had called 19 witnesses to support its case, a majority of the witnesses called lacked the necessary competence to
give evidence because they were not at the polling units to witness first hand, how the alleged irregularities and over-voting occurred.
Ighodalo, however, disagreed with the findings and conclusions of the appellate court, describing the judgement as perverse and accordingly approached the Supreme Court to redress his grievances. He claimed that the appellate court pervertedd justice and misdirected itself when it unanimously held that the appellant did not prove the allegation of non-compliance and over-voting amongst others. However, the apex court, in its conclusion held that the case of the appellant lacked merit, and that it had not find any tangible reasons to deviate from the judgement of the two lower courts.
The Interim National Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Rauf Aregbesola, has called on party members to unite in their efforts to dislodge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general election.
Aregbesola made the call at a meeting with party members in Akure, the Ondo State capital.
The former governor of Osun State emphasised the need for party members to put aside their personal interests, differences and work towards a common goal of defeating the APC.
He noted that the ADC has garnered significant support from prominent opposition figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party’s Peter Obi, who were backing the party as a coalition movement platform aimed at challenging President Bola Tinubu in the next election.
He said: “Let us work together, let us put personal interest aside and let’s get united. It is that unity we want. We should remember that
we have many elections ahead. We have the presidential.
“We have the national Assembly and state assemblies elections. We still have time but with big task. If we unite, we won’t be defeated in the elections. Unity is very paramount in this situation,” he said.
Also, candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party in the 2024 Ondo State governorship election, Gbenga Edema, said the essence of the meeting was for Aregbesola to brief members of ADC in the state on affairs of the coalition.
“Less than two weeks ago, the coalition decided to adopt the ADC, African Democratic Congress, as the party for which we are going to
manage our affairs as a political party.
“So ever since then, we have not had the opportunity or the privilege of somebody at the level of the National to brief us. And you see that when he came, he gave us a lot of insight.”
A former Nigerian Premier League board member and Head of Media, Akin Akinbobola, said the coalition was on the right path, lamenting that Nigeria was sinking and there’s need to quickly salvage her from sinking.
“Our leader has spoken to us on the need for people of progressive minds, people of like minds, to come together and rescue this country from the titanic situation that we have found ourselves.
Sunday Aborisade in Abuja
In a sobering resolution that cast a spotlight on both bureaucratic accountability and the human cost of institutional failure, Senator Neda Imasuen, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions, has revealed Senate’s resolution on the death of a two-year-old killed by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Delta State.
The other of the resolutions to the two major petitions was the termination of a longtime WAEC employee.
Addressing members of the press after a full Senate session, Senator Imasuen spoke candidly about the emotional weight of the petitions, particularly the one
involving the NDLEA, which he described as “very, very personal” due to its devastating impact on a young family.
According to the Senator, the NDLEA did not deny culpability in the death of the child, nor the injury sustained by the deceased boy’s sibling, who now faces potential blindness and the prospect of multiple surgeries.
The agency had initially offered N25 million in compensation—a sum the Senate Committee flatly rejected.
Imasuen said, “In clear conscience, we could not accept what they were offering. We told them to return with something more reasonable. Something befitting of what it means to lose a child and face the trauma of a second child potentially going
blind. But they came back with the same N25 million.”
Moved by the gravity of the situation, the Ethics Committee recommended N200 million in compensation to the bereaved family, along with a full assumption of medical expenses for the surviving child by the NDLEA.
The Senate adopted this recommendation but acknowledged the constitutional limitations of enforcement without executive backing.
He said, “Our Order 40, Sub 6, does not empower us to impose sanctions directly. We can only recommend and appeal.
“That is why we are calling on the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, himself a father and grandfather, to intervene and ensure that this family receives justice.”
Sunday Aborisade in Abuja
In a move that formally ended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s tenure as chairman of two strategic Senate committees, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, has removed her as Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Diaspora and NonGovernmental Organisations (NGOs). Akpabio named Senator Aniekan Bassey of Cross River State as her successor.
The announcement, made at the close of plenary, yesterday, marked
a significant shift in committee leadership dynamics, bringing to an end months of speculation following Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension from Senate activities in March.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, was first appointed Chair of the Senate Committee on Local Content shortly after her inauguration in November 2023. However, on February 4, 2025, her leadership of that committee was abruptly terminated during a controversial reshuffle of committee chairs led by Senate President
Akpabio. She was then reassigned to head the Diaspora and NGOs Committee. The reshuffling raised eyebrows, as it followed Akpoti-Uduaghan’s highprofile oversight activities within the oil and gas sector.
The action led to speculation of political undercurrents behind her removal.
Just a month later, on March 6, she was suspended from the Senate for six months over allegations of misconduct during the reshuffle process.
Delta State Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme (right), representing Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, receiving an award from the Chairman, Artisans and Market Women Association, Delta State, Chief Ifeanyi Abanum (middle), during the Informal Sector Artisans’ Day celebration in Asaba, yesterday
Troops kill 24 terrorists, recover weapons in north-east Peace Corps tasks FG on strategic, inclusive, multi-sectoral approach NAF airstrikes hit convoy of migrating terrorists in Kebbi, Zamfara, kill scores Army chief urges national ban on open grazing, pushes for ranching policy
Alex Enumah, Linus Aleke and Juliet Akoje in Abuja
The federal government has restated its determination to ensure that justice was served for both victims of terrorism and terrorist suspects within a framework that would respect the rule of law and human rights.
Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, restated this commitment at the official flag-off of Phase seven of the Kainji mass trials of terrorist suspects.
Represented by the Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation, Mohammed Babadoko Abubakar, the minister commended the collaborative efforts of the National Counter Ter-
HOW
rorism Centre, Office of the National Security Adviser (NCTC-ONSA), and various local and international stakeholders for their ongoing support and contributions to the trials.
A statement by the National Counter Terrorism Centre, Office of the National Security Adviser (NCTC-ONSA), said the mass trial was part of the federal government’s continued commitment to combating terrorism, violent extremism, and strengthening the nation’s criminal justice system in line with international best practices.
Also, the National Coordinator of the National Counter Terrorism Centre, Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), Major General Adamu Garba
Laka, stated that the trials represented Nigeria’s unwavering pursuit of justice and a reaffirmation of its resolve to confront terrorism through lawful and transparent means.
He said, “It is truly encouraging to see the convergence of the judiciary, law enforcement, legal practitioners, and partners, once again united in purpose and duty. These trials are a cornerstone of our national commitment to upholding the rule of law while addressing terrorism and violent extremism.”
The Nigerian Army has said troops
of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), in collaboration with its Air Component, Civilian Joint Task Force, and hunters, have killed no fewer than 24 Boko Haram/Islamic State West African Province (ISWAP) terrorists in the North-east operational theatre during coordinated kinetic operations.
A statement by Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, Headquarters, Theatre Command, Operation Hadin Kai, Captain Reuben Kovangiya, also revealed troops recovered a cache of arms and ammunition during the joint kinetic operations.
He stated the kinetic operations which took place between 4-9 July 2025 were a continuation of the series of
coordinated offensive operations across the North-east theatre of operations.
“In one of the ambushes conducted at Platari on 4 July 2025, the gallant troops, while lying in wait, made contact with JAS/ISWAP terrorists mounted on bicycles moving from the Sambisa Forest axis to the Timbuktu Triangle. The terrorists were immediately subdued with heavy fire, leading to the neutralization of three terrorists.
“Similarly, following intelligence on the movements of the insurgents around the Komala general area, troops sprang another ambush on the terrorists, neutralizing another fighter. On exploration of the general area, troops recovered motorcycles
headlines may fade. The official records may be revised. But the conscience of a nation never adjourns. In that eternal courtroom, we are all on trial—not only for what we did, but for what we dared to remember. For what we dared to reveal. And for what we dared to pass on.
“This culture of accounting for our place in history shall remain our solemn pact until we draw our final breath. It is a duty that binds us to one another and to the generations yet unborn.” Jonathan, represented by Anyim, lamented that the succeeding government launched what many people saw as a manhunt against key officers of his administration, citing Adoke as evidence.
He said, “But today, he’s alive, he’s healthy, he’s here to tell his story. Let me, therefore, use this occasion to congratulate Mr. Bello Adoke, my friend and my brother, for his doggedness and to say that I am pleased to join you in celebrating this victory.
“I am to state, as always, that it is acknowledged among all civilisations that any society or organisation that does not promote justice and fairness will neither have peace nor make progress.
“The essence of the author’s effort in documenting his memoir is not only to put the record straight, but to contribute to the cause of truth and justice as the foremost pillars of nation building.
“To some people, the occasion may be a book presentation, whereas to others, it may mean different things, the book launch means a celebration of victory over persecution.”
Makinde said the book and the broader discussion it provoked was not just about the oil block, but also about how Nigeria governed its resources, how decisions made in government echoed through generations, and how public officials must balance legal clarity with national interest, even when under pressure.
He said, “It is about the gaps in our institutional frameworks, from discretionary licensing regimes to unclear accountability lines that leave room for international actors to take liberties with our sovereignty and for local actors to act with impunity.
“It must be said that not everyone agrees with positions taken in this book, nor should they be.”
Makinde stated that what Adoke did was to offer his account with names, dates, context, and consequences, and place before the court of public opinion, long after the courts of law had had their turn.
He said, “This is how historical narratives are built. We must not be silent about our history and records must be kept.
“We live in a country where records are passed, where narratives are quickly lost in headlines, and where legal complexity is often weaponised.
“In this context, Mallam B’s decision to document his side of the story is
not just brave, it is necessary because history must not only be recorded, it must also be contested, clarified and understood.
“OPL 245 was on a different scale. That block had an estimated 9 billion barrels of crude, which is enough to shift the national GDP outflow.
“So I’m not surprised that the court was caught in a web of contested ownership, cross border litigation and accusations running three continents. Up till now, the issue, surrounding OPL 245 is still not sorted.”
El-Rufai, on his part, said “We don’t try it enough in this country. We don’t pass enough of our experiences —both good and bad to next generation
“I’m looking forward to reading the book, because I really want to understand the role of various actors, because I’ve had discussions on OPL 245, several times with President Buhari. I had a special relationship with him, I had access to him, everyone knows.
“And everyone also knows that Mohammed Bello Adoke was one of those that stood and persuaded President Jonathan to actually concede the 2015 election. So, we should actually thank him and the APC government of 2015, not persecute him.
“I want to understand because I’ve had discussions when this was going on several times with President Buhari, and I did not have the impression that he had any interest in the matter other than allowing due process to proceed. So, I want to understand. I
want to read it, and I want to learn as well.”
However, the author said he had forgiven those who had hands in his ordeals, adding that he is not out to vilify anyone, but to set the record straight.
Adoke stated, “While I’m not attempting to review the book, it is important to assure you all that I did not set out to denigrate anyone, but to set the record straight and provide valuable insights into a transaction that was not only carried out in furtherance of the national interest, but also to safeguard Nigeria’s economic interests as it relates to the exploitation of our hydrocarbon resources.
“Although I was not a party to the 2006 settlement agreement, which preceded my appointment as Attorney General of the Federation of Nigeria and Minister of Justice, my traducers, state and non-state actors alike, ensured that I suffered immense public opium, loss of reputation and family lives for the role I played in ensuring the implementation of an agreement in 2011 notwithstanding that I was only carrying out the lawful directives of the president in the exercise of his executive powers under the constitution.”
The former AGF stressed that the book had revealed the damaging role of anti-corruption campaigners – local and international – especially when the motives were less than altruistic, and left with unethical conduct and desire to achieve nothing more than
to destroy hard earned reputations.
He emphasised that their use of unethical and illegal tactics, as was done in his case, was to satisfy vested interests and predetermined outcomes.
Adoke stated, “The OPL prosecution revealed disturbing incidents of connivance, conspiracy to pervert the cost of justice and downright suppression of exculpating evidence to secure a conviction at all cost,
“The amount of public funds expended on this malicious prosecution and unmotivated civil suits is outstanding. Nigerian taxpayer should not be made to carry such a needless burden. There must be consequences for ill-conceived and malicious prosecution conducted at public expense.”
Adoke said while the Milan prosecutors in Italy were found guilty of suppressing exculpatory evidence, punished and jailed for eight months, nothing happened to the investigators and prosecutors of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), who indulged in illegalities to satisfy their pay masters.
He explained, “Permit me to say that I have forgiven all those who had a hand in my ordeal. With the public presentation of this book, I say boldly and clearly that I admired the courage of Ibrahim Mustapha Magu in coming forward to make up with me, apologise to me, and sympathise for the role each and every one of them played in my travail. I have forgiven him.”
and spare parts, knapsack sprayers, pesticides, and terrorists’ food items.
“Relatedly, troops conducted a night ambush on the same day at terrorists’ hideouts around the Kawuri general area in Konduga Local Government Area. During the deliberate operations, the resilient troops came into contact with the insurgents.
“Consequently, two terrorists conveying logistics were immediately eliminated, while others fled with gunshot wounds. Troops also recovered packets of salt, food seasoning, detergents, and other sundry items.
“In the same vein, troops on 5 July 2025 intercepted terrorists attempting to access the Madarari Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) camp in Konduga Local Government Area.
“The troops swiftly engaged the insurgents, killing one terrorist, while others escaped with traces of gunshot wounds.”
Peace Corps Tasks FG on Strategic, Inclusive, Multisectoral Approach
The Peace Corps of Nigeria, has called on the federal government to adopt a more strategic, inclusive and multi-sectoral approach in tackling the worsening insecurity in the country.
According to the Corps, the increasing crime rate including terrorism, banditry and kidnapping was a consequence of widespread youth unemployment and socio-economic exclusion.
National Commandant of the Peace Corps of Nigeria, Ambassador Dickson Akoh, who made this assertion said it was high time the federal government recognised the role of youth empowerment in preventing violence and building peace.
He spoke at a media interaction in commemoration of the 27th Anniversary / 2025 Founder’s Day Celebration of Peace Corps of Nigeria, which held on Thursday in Abuja.
“As we gather to celebrate this 27th anniversary, we are not only reflecting on our legacy, but also reaffirming our commitment to the future. This moment is a call to action, to rededicate ourselves to the values that brought us this far and to strengthen our resolve to serve Nigeria with even greater passion and purpose.
Duro Ikhazuagbe
Nigeria berthed the quarter finals of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations last night following Super Falcons’ 1-0 victory over Botswana.
Chinwendu Ihezuo’s 89th minute
lone strike earned the nine-time African champions the qualification to the quarter final despite a near lackluster performance in Casablanca, Morocco.
The victory over Botswana catapulted Super Falcons to top
Galatasaray President, Dursun Özbek, has spoken about the club’s ongoing pursuit of Super Eagles Striker, Victor Osimhen, making it clear that any potential move for the Napoli striker will not come at the expense of the club’s financial stability.
The Istanbul giants want to retain the Nigeria international following his outstanding performances during a loan spell last season.
The Nigeria international scored 37 goals in 41 all-competition appearances and was crowned the top scorer in the Turkish Super Lig, decisively contributing to the club winning a domestic double.
Everything indicates that while Galatasaray are prepared to meet the asking price of 75 million euros, they propose paying in five installments, whereas Napoli are only open to one or two at most.
Napoli have once again requested
bank guarantees from Galatasaray for the deal to go through, while Osimhen himself is also demanding assurances for the payment of his promised €16 million-plus salary, Italian newspaper Il Mattino reported on Wednesday night. Özbek was firm in his stance, insisting that their cautious and sustainable approach to transfers applies to all targets, including Osimhen.
“Everything is progressing normally at Galatasaray. We have never taken any action that would put Galatasaray in financial difficulty, and we will not do so,” he told Radyospor.
“This situation also applies to Osimhen’s possible transfer.”
Osimhen’s other suitor, Al-Hilal, have the financial muscle to trigger his release clause, but the striker remains intent on continuing his career in Europe despite the lucrative offer on the table from the ambitious Saudi Pro League side.
Wikki Tourists of Bauchi, Barau FC of Kano, Kun Khalifat of Owerri and Warri Wolves on Thursday booked tickets to play in the Nigeria Premier Football League in the 2025/2026 season.
The Bauchi boys who prior to the deciding encounter have two points from two matches as against Yobe who had four points in their kitty came out strongly at the Stephen Keshi Stadium Asaba and wasted no time in scoring four goals in the first half against their helpless opponents.
Also at the same venue, home team Warri Wolves bounced back to
the NPFL after seeing off Crown FC 2-1 to top the Southern Conference with 6 points.and superior goal aggregate.
At the Delta State University of Science and Technology Ozoro, Barau FC had the better part of Doma United FC whom they defeated 2-0 to book the other ticket from the Northern Conference while Khun Khalifat recorded another 2-1 victory over Osun Utd to complete the ticket of the Southern Conference. With this result the four teams will now compete in the country’ s top plight next season.
Fresh faces are expected to shine today as new champions will be crowned at the 2025 Valuejet Lagos Para Table Tennis Championships.
Now in its 7th edition, the three-day tournament has drawn over 100 athletes from within and outside Nigeria. It has become a vital platform for discovering and nurturing para table tennis talent.
One of the tournament’s most notable alumni, Isau Ogunkunle—Africa’s sole table tennis medalist at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games—hailed the event as a springboard for aspiring athletes.
“I recall how this tournament brought me into the spotlight in 2019. Since then, I’ve competed in two Paralympic Games and won a medal in my second appearance. I’m now aiming for gold in Los Angeles.
I believe this year’s edition will unveil new talents who can follow a similar path,” said Ogunkunle, who also clinched gold at the 2025 National Sports Festival.
The final day will feature seven finals across singles and doubles events. The Lagos State Government has reiterated its commitment to supporting para sports.
According to Lekan Fatodu, the Director General of the Lagos State Sports Commission (LSSC), the state remains dedicated to promoting inclusivity through sports.
“Each year, we witness remarkable achievements in para table tennis. Lagos has become a hub for para sports development, offering opportunities for athletes to showcase their talents and potentially represent Nigeria on the global stage,” Fatodu said.
of Group B on maximum six points ahead of second-placed Algeria on four points. The Algerians in earlier fixture drew goalless with Tunisia.
This is the first time that the Super Falcons will win back-to-back games in the WAFCON.
Like it was in the 3-0 win over Tunisia in their opening group game, it was not a vintage performance by Falcons. They would certainly have to
step up their game in the knockout rounds were they to make true their mission to win a record-extending 10th WAFCON.
Botswana resolute defence and impressive goalkeeper kept the star-studded out until two minutes from time when substitute striker Chinwendu Ihezuo sneaked behind the defence to tap home the match winner.
Mexico-based Ihezuo is now the Super Sub having scored twice
after coming off the bench.
The Nigerians were again wasteful in front of goal, like was the case against Tunisia, before that last-ditch effort saved them their blushes on the night.
The Algeria versus Tunisia clash pitted two familiar North African neighbours against each other, the much-anticipated Maghreb derby at Stade Père Jégo offered intensity and grit but ultimately lacked the cutting edge, as neither side
managed to break the deadlock. Tunisia, who came into the match desperate to respond after a humbling 3-0 defeat to Nigeria in their opener, showed far more discipline and attacking intent than in their previous outing. Yet despite their renewed purpose, they failed to convert promising opportunities into goals, extending their scoreless run at WAFCON finals to five consecutive matches.
Former English Premier League referee, Mark Clattenburg has revealed that he was close to committing suicide after former Super Eagles star, Mikel Obi accused him of racist comments during a game.
In October 2012, the Premier League was hit with a big controversy, after Chelsea lodged a complaint about Clattenburg, one of the highly-rated officials, for saying racist statements to Mikel.
At the time, former Chelsea player Ramires said he heard Clattenburg say to Mikel, “shut up you monkey” during a 3-2 loss to their close rivals Manchester United. And that was what prompted the move.
But after a series of investigations, Clattenburg was cleared of any wrongdoings and allowed to return to officiating in the league after almost two weeks.
According to a statement issued by the English FA, per USA Today, Mikel himself did not hear the comment, neither did any play around them at the time. Rather, it was only Ramires that heard it.
If Clattenburg had been found guilty, his career would likely have ended. Nonetheless, he bounced back from the problem, and went on to officiate the Euro 2016 final and the Champions League final.
The 50-year-old referee stopped officiating in the Premier League since 2017, as he left for a role in Saudi Arabia.
Meanwhile, in a recent interview, the Englishman spoke about the issue with Mikel. He revealed that it was a critical point in his life, and he even contemplated taking his life.
“The Obi Mikel situation affected me a lot and affected my family a lot,” Clattenburg told Daily Mail.
“I think that was the closest I’ve ever been to, a, suicide and, b, finishing. If I didn’t have a way out and I couldn’t referee any more, what can I do?
“I remember my mobile phone, everybody gets the notifications, and it was a Sky Sports notification [saying] ‘Mark Clattenburg accused of racial discrimination against two Chelsea players’. And I had a new
born, she was only six months old. “It was the worst 12 hours. I remember not sleeping. I didn’t go to bed. I was soul searching because I didn’t know what I had said, so I’m trying to work out if I had said something in the heat of the moment. That was the hardest thing, thinking I had done it.
Mikel left Chelsea five years after that incident, ending his 11-year stay at the club. He won multiple trophies with the club, including the Premier League and the FA Cup.
Defending champions, South Africa, has declared that it is not letting up its dominance of African athletics as the 2025 CAA U-18/U-20 Championships beckons in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The Rainbow nation said it is ready to make a statement with the young athletes they will parade in the championships holding at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena, Abeokuta from July 16 to 20.
From the maiden CAA U-18/U-20 Championships in Cote d’Ivoire in 2019, South Africa has beaten off strong competitions from Nigeria and Kenya in both categories, though Nigeria and Kenya officials are optimistic of making adjustments to the calculations this time in Abeokuta.
Athletics South Africa, who is parading world junior champion in the men’s 100m Bayanda Walaza, Njabulo Mbatha 400mh, Tumi
Ramokgopa women’s 100m is determined to maintain the status quo.
“The South African delegation is made of 70 strong athletes and that is how serious we take these Championships just like all others before this edition,” Media consultant to ASA, Sifiso Cele said. “The mandate given to each athlete is simple, “Bring the African title home.”
“But we realise that to be crowned African champions, we have to compete with best there is in the continent to prove our mettle. We will take no opponent lightly and therefore we worry about each event and each lineup.
“We definitely believe Nigeria, Kenya and Ethiopia are amongst the countries to watch, but it would be foolish for us to ignore the other countries who have equally prepared.
“The athletes we bring to this
contest are hungry for success and some of them are world champions in their own right and world achievers alike. But the South Africa attitude will be to respect every opponent so that the guard is not lowered at all,” Cele started. He added that this 2025 championships in Abeokuta will be exciting as many countries are looking to expose talents that would likely form the core of their teams to Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.
“I think it would be reasonable for us to predict that these Championships will be explosive, exciting and produce records. We can selfishly hope South Africans will be amongst those top achievers.
”We thank Nigeria for hosting this Championship at short notice, after it was moved from Algeria. The last time we gathered here as a continent was at the African Senior Championships in Asaba.”
OF 5,725
L-R: General Secretary, Nigerian Bar Association, Mr. Adesina Adegbite; Life Bencher, Chief Adeniyi Akintola (SAN); former President, Nigerian Bar Association, Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN); Leader of the Senate and Life Bencher, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele (CON); immediate past Chairman, Body of Benchers in Nigeria, Chief Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN); and Life Bencher, Aare Olumuyiwa Akinboro, after the induction of 5,725 new lawyers to the Nigerian Bar at the Body of Benchers Complex in Abuja, yesterday
The Yoruba including myself are conflicted about President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Since the return to civil democratic rule in 1999, he had actively sought to mentor me. At a point, he actually offered to sponsor me for the governorship of Ekiti state and urged me to cross over to Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN. This is the most compelling of all such gestures. In the Afenifere primaries in 1999, he fought tooth and nail to get me selected as the senatorial candidate of the Alliance for Democracy, AD. If I were to hazard a guess for this infatuation, it has to, mostly, be his consciousness of the role I might have played in the media during the 1993-1998 annulment crisis.
We drifted apart when I was tapped to direct the President Olusegun Obasanjo’s reelection campaign in 2002-2003. There may be additional reasons for his indulgent attitude but the latter I believe is the primary reason. So why have I not heeded his generous overtures? Yes you guessed right. It mostly has to do with partisan divergence and my relationship with President Olusegun Obasanjo.
Even with all these counter currents, I still enjoy a good personal relationship with him. When I visited him, in the company of my son) at his London residence years back he wanted my son to be friends with Seyi and he committed to bringing the two together and he did.
What eventually decided my political position was the fulfillment I found in national politics especially with the facility provided by the Obasanjo presidency. It was a pleasant experience for me to find the opportunity to apply my political science background towards making Nigeria a viable nation.
Quite fulfilling was also the fact that Obasanjo’s presidency was a rainbow coalition of happy warriors from all the nooks and crannies of Nigeria. And the former President could not be bothered about your prior partisan inclination, even if you dine and wine with the late Senator Abraham Adesanya on a daily basis. He was fond of employing me as a proxy and sounding board for tantalising the Yoruba, even as I did not wane in bonding with my peers across the length and breadth of Nigeria.
When the issue of Tinubu’s presidential ambition materialised, I went to see him (Tinubu) and told him that I was going to support and actively campaign for the emergence of the president from the South-East. The information was the subject matter of my column the following day. In the event, my exertions in this respect was not limited to media advocacy, I emerged the Director-General of the Peter Obi presidential campaign. In the rough and tumble campaign that followed we gave as much as we received.
The sheer magnitude of the Obi tsunami caught all unawares especially in Lagos state. The peculiarity of his victory in Lagos bothers
on the fact that it is Tinubu’s home state and the other is the massive margin of the victory. Knowing fully well he stands to gain nothing from the disclosure, it was many thanks to the PDP collation officer in Lagos state who availed the public of the genuine results of the election.
After the judiciary decisively turned into the enabler of the Tinubu/APC electoral shenanigans and the red chambers fell under the gangster leadership of Godswill Akpabio, Nigeria firmly took its first steps towards one party dictatorship. State-capture is another lingo for the appropriation of the entire three organs of government, the judiciary, legislature and the executive.
The most intriguing aspect of this emergent phenomenon is the personalisation of the state implied in the spree of naming national institutions after himself. It is all the more strange given that throughout his two terms tenure as governor of Lagos state I cannot recall any precedent for this behaviour. What I do remember is Tinubu’s rejection of a street named after him by his successor, Babatunde Fashola. He promptly rejected this recognition and proposed Dr Nurudeen olowopopo as a worthy alternative. We should be worried about this (personalisation) because it often serves as a precursor for a sit-tight in office ambition. If he proves such speculations wrong and depart Abuja after what promises to be a turbulent incumbency it is all but certain that his successor will be compelled to reverse the egregious effort at such personalisation (except the first lady or the first son happens to be his successor). If there is no ulterior motive behind this troubling initiative then what is it all about in the first place. Obviously, I borrowed the caption of this essay from the camp of President Bill Clinton. When asked what he thinks would determine the presidential election of 1992 in the United States, US, (James Carville, speaking for Bill
Clinton) responded ‘It is the economy, stupid’. It has since gone on to become additional lingo to the vocabulary of politics. In this electoral cycle, the dominant theme of the forthcoming election is the estrangement and outrage of the Islamic North at President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the latter seems not to give a hoot.
The Yoruba would say ‘omo eni o sedi bebere, ka fileke sidi omo elomiran’ (you cannot adopt another person’s child over your own, who doesn’t measure up to standard). This adage did not gather sufficient steam in the last electoral cycle for the reason that no Yoruba man was sitting on the throne as president (and seeking reelection). Now, the situation has altered dramatically with Tinubu as a president angling for another term.
In an election that is shaping up to become a Tinubu vs Islamic North blowout, the South West electorate is under duress to provide a block vote for one of their own. Given the operative philosophy of what is dubbed the ‘turn by turn’ Nigeria Ltd, it is unpardonable naivety and ignorance to think otherwise.
It is going to be a predictor of the demonisation of fellow Yoruba who aim to vote and campaign independent of this herd mentality. Matters may then progress to become a warrant for another Wetie moment in Yoruba history.
If, in 2023, when he was just a candidate, he could, ‘single handedly’ pull off the feat of clinching the presidency, how would he now fare with the arsenal of the almighty presidency behind him?
I have been hoping for Nigeria to reach this point of inflection in which the throw of the dice is between two fight-to-finish power players in a balance of terror situation. The probability of the forthcoming presidential election in 2027 spiralling into a massive breakdown of law and order is far higher than the projection of a peaceful election.
Nigeria has this dodgy tradition of muddling through and somehow eluding the consequences of the dystrophy it has blindly set in motion. May there be no repetition of this rogue luck on 2027.
In 2023, part of me was silently hoping that Buhari would push through his covert sponsorship of former Senate president, Ahmed Lawan to succeed him. That would be the kind of radicalisation that can potentially upend Nigeria.
If we cannot agree that the present constitutional structure is irredeemable then let the logic of gridlock force a resolution. Any constitution that enables Nigerian presidents to indulge in an nation shattering power grab, is, by definition, a very bad constitution and deserves not a second longer of survival. Hiding surreptitiously behind the facade of multi party democracy to run a quasi unitarist dictatorship is worse than outright dictatorship itself.
Where on earth, except a banana republic do you coerce and steamroll the replacement of a national anthem within a breakneck record of three days.
Without the annually remitted billions of dollars, (including the proceeds of yahoo plus syndicates) that are pumped into the economy of Southern Nigeria by diaspora Nigerians, Nigeria would have probably gone under water. Meanwhile, in the dispensation of this manna from heaven, Northern Nigeria are largely precluded.
In addition to the legacy of a repetitive countrywide poor governance and other historical inhibitors, government patronage and largese is the critical life support. Unfortunately, the prevailing neo liberal economic dispensation has targeted much of the Nigerian free booty. Hence, (subjectively speaking), the North has got more axe to grind with the harbinger of this ‘misfortune’ Increasingly, the utility of Nigeria’s power politics players, for me, lies in their capacity to accelerate Nigeria towards the appointment we have with fate. I’m less interested in the governance capacity or lack of it than Tinubu’s preparedness to provoke a balance of power breakdown of the system. He keeps poking his fingers at whatever remains of a disappearing northern hegemony. Those who are bitter with him and desperately want him out of power will only get my support with an immediate sign up to the return Nigeria to constitutional sanity. I’m not at all in any hurry to trade Tinubu for a reconditioned Buhari or any Northern or Southern power monger.
I want to take my destiny into my hands not in the hope that the next president will be better than Tinubu. I do not want another president to have any potential to grow into a monstrous leviathan. The way to this destination is to constitutionally denude the Nigerian presidency of ever being in a position to contemplate evolution into another bull in a China shop. For those who want Nigeria to constitutionally remain in situ, they need to suffer the consequences and partake of the degradation and pain others have endured within a country that is structurally rigged against rationality. So far, Tinubu is making a good job of bringing all of us to this realisation.
For all I care, Tinubu may decide to fill all federal government vacancies with the people of Lagos state, if this is the catalyst required to spark a constitutional crisis and political meltdown (that will provoke a constitutional overhaul) then so be it.
For quite a while, Nigeria has been sinking deeper and deeper into the Rehoboam complex. In a fit of insanity, king Rehoboam, the son and successor to King Solomon, was counselled by his fellow delinquents to declare the escalation of his father’s iniquities as his mission in office. Rather than pledge an amelioration of their plight, Rehoboam committed to besting his father’s cruelty. “Whereas my father did lade you with a heavy yoke, I will add to your yoke: my father hath chastised you with whips, but I will chastise you with scorpions. Nigeria has become a partaker of this legacy.