FRIDAY 16TH MAY 2025

Tinubu Heads to Rome on Pope Leo XIV’s Invitation with Bragging Rights of 62%

3RD

Ndubuisi

and

in Abuja

PRESENTATION OF LETTER OF CREDENCE...

Rabiu: Dangote, BUA Groups Will Stabilise Cement Prices for FG Projects

Move targeted at supporting Tinubu’s

economic, infrastructure programmes Says granting strategic imports frustrates food hoarding, stabilise prices

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

Dangote and the BUA Groups have agreed to stabilise the price of cement without any increase in the near future for all contractors handling construction projects under the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government.

The Renewed Hope Housing projects, which include - Renewed Hope Cities, Renewed Hope Estates, and the Renewed Hope Social Housing Programme, among others, are a comprehensive Federal Government initiative designed to deliver affordable and inclusive housing for Nigerians nationwide.

Speaking to newsmen at the State House, Abuja on Thursday after meeting with President Bola Tinubu, Chairman of BUA group, Abdul Samad Rabiu, said the two companies have agreed to support President Tinubu’s initiative on addressing the huge housing deficit in the country.

His words: “We have decided. Alhaji Aliko Dangote of Dangote Cement approached me, and I concurred with him that we should do everything to support Mr President Renewed Hope Agenda, we have decided that we are going to freeze the price of cement for any contractor that is involved with the renewed hope project, or projects”.

He further explained “What it means is that any company or anybody that

is involved or that is doing a project that is under the Renewed Hope, the price of cement will be frozen. There will be no increase for the foreseeable future.

“We are doing that to support mister president’s renewed hope initiative. And that is something that Alhaji Aliko Dangote actually proposed. I must say, I must give him credit, and I concur with him. So we have agreed. We are going to do that.

“We are going to send out the letter sometime next week to the ministry. And I also want to commend the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, for the initiative he took to ensure that all the roads are concrete. Because concrete roads are more durable. They take much longer, you know, in terms of durability and the price is going to be cheaper than even bitumen,” Rabiu said.

He noted that cement prices in Nigeria, despite inflation and forex challenges, remain relatively competitive by international standards.

“Even at N10,000 per bag, that’s about $120 per ton, which is in line with global pricing,” he explained, adding that high production costs due to increased energy and spare parts expenses—mostly paid in dollars—have not deterred manufacturers from backing government projects.

To further drive this initiative, BUA’s Managing Director, Yusuf Binji, has

been appointed Chairman of the Cement Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (CEMAN), tasked with coordinating industry-wide compliance on price stability for Renewed Hope infrastructure projects.

Rabiu also revealed a broader sectoral reform aimed at strengthening capacity in the construction industry.

Cement manufacturers have agreed to contribute N20 to N30 per bag to revive the Cement Technology Institute

of Nigeria (CTIN), generating about N15 to N20 billion annually.

The funds will be used to train artisans and bridge the skills gap in construction.

“We’re revamping CTIN not just to train artisans, but to sustain the gains we’ve made in local cement manufacturing,” Rabiu stated.

According to him, Aliko Dangote will continue as chairman of the CTIN, while Mangal Cement’s Alhaji Dahiru

Mangal has been newly admitted to both CEMAN and CTIN.

On the food front, Rabiu also reported progress in stabilizing prices of essential staples through BUA Foods’ aggressive supply-side interventions.

He praised President Tinubu’s foresight in approving temporary duty waivers last year for key food imports, which allowed companies like BUA to bring in wheat, maize, and rice, forcing market prices downward.

“Rice is now about N60,000 per 50kg bag, down from N110,000 last year. Flour has dropped to N55,000 and maize to N30,000. This was made possible by the President’s bold six-month waiver policy, which disrupted hoarding and brought relief to consumers”, Rabiu said. He explained that strategic imports by BUA undercut the hoarding practices of speculators who stockpiled local paddy to drive prices up post-harvest.

Tinubu Pushes for Local Production

of Building Materials, Lauds Nigerian Architects

Emmanuel Addeh

President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring the local production of building materials used in the country to accelerate Nigeria’s plan to revitalise aging city centres.

The president also pledged to embed architecture into Nigeria’s national development framework, urging them to take the lead in building an inclusive future for all Nigerians.

Tinubu, who spoke at the 65th anniversary of the Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA) in Abuja, said

African Countries to Adopt 30% Value Addition on Exported Raw Materials

Oghenevwede Ohwovoriole in Abuja

The Director General Raw Materials Materials and Research Development Council, (RMRDC), Prof. Nnayelugo Ike-Mouso, has dislosed that African countries will discuss and adopt the legislation on the proposed 30 percentage value addition for exported raw materials.

He made the disclosure on Thursday in Abuja at the pre-event press briefing ahead of the Africa Raw Materials Summit 2025, slated for beteeen May 20 and 22, with the theme, “Shaping the Future of Africa’s Resource Landscape.”

“Now is the time for a bold, coordinated shift from extraction

to transformation, from exporting potential to industrialising value, and from economic vulnerability to continental resilience.

“Central to this transformation is the proposed 30 per cent Value Addition Mandate Bill, which the Raw Materials Research and Development Council has vigorously championed and is now under consideration at the National Assembly.

“This bill seeks to mandate that no less than 30 per cent of all raw materials be locally processed before export. It is not just a policy initiative; it is strategic economic common sense and a form of national defence.

“Through this bill, we aim to stem the tide of capital flight caused by

unprocessed exports, stimulate local processing industries, create sustainable jobs across multiple sectors, enhance our competitiveness in global markets, and build a strong, self-reliant African industrial base.

“The Africa Raw Materials Summit provides the ideal platform for African stakeholders to deliberate on this landmark initiative, adopt its core principles, and adapt similar policies across the continent,” he said.

He also spoke on the other aspects of the summit, adding that it has three core objectives, including mobilising continental consensus around the urgency of industrialising resource base through innovation and value addition.

his administration was already supporting the development of private sector-led clusters to fill the national need.

The president, who was represented by the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, praised the NIA’s role in shaping Nigeria’s built environment, hailing architects as custodians of spatial justice.

“Efforts are ongoing to revitalise aging city centres, adopt sustainable urban layouts, and integrate smart technologies to manage rapid urban growth. We are supporting the development of private sector-led clusters for local building material production, which will create jobs, reduce costs, and promote selfsufficiency,” the president added.

Stressing that their work directly

influences national identity, social cohesion, and economic vitality, the president explained that the anniversary was not merely a celebration of their legacy, but also a reaffirmation of architects’ crucial role in advancing the infrastructural renewal of the nation.

“Architecture is more than the design of buildings. It’s a noble profession that harmonises creativity with utility, aesthetics with resilience, and tradition with innovation. You are the custodians of our spatial justice.

“You ensure that our cities, homes, schools, hospitals, and public spaces are inclusive, resilient to climate change, and reflect our cultural heritage. Your designs influence how people live, interact, and prosper,” the president stated.

Highlighting key initiatives of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, he noted that architecture stands as a foundation of national identity, economic vitality, and social cohesion, emphasised that housing reforms cannot succeed without the leadership of architects.

“In the first phase, we plan to deliver over 20,000 housing units nationwide. With scalable plans to extend this to hundreds of thousands more, we target underserved Nigerians and enhance access to decent shelter. Urban renewal and slum upgrading projects.

“ In partnership with state governments, we have launched Slum Upgrading in 26 pilot sites to improve access to roads, potable water, sanitation, and renewable energy in informal settlements.

Raw Materials Export: Akpabio Says Nigeria Set to Lead Africa in Raw Materials Export

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, yesterday assured Nigerians that the passage of the Raw Materials Research and Development Council Amendment Bill by the National Assembly and its signing into law by President Bola Tinubu, would be a moral compass for the rest of the continent of Africa Akpabio, stated this while receiving members of the Raw

Materials, Research and Development Council on a courtesy call led by the Director-General, Professor Nnanyelugo Martin Ike-Muonso in his office on Wednesday.

A statement by his Special Assistant on Media, Jackson Udom, quoted the Senate President as saying: “if any of the values were to be added in Nigeria before exporting them, we would have had at least, a factory for those chains that would have also created jobs for our people

outside what the farmers are doing. Technological shifts would have also come in in terms of innovations.” He also noted “that having listened to the leadership of the council, it means that Nigeria is renewing its hope in terms of research, local production, input and value chain, regretting that it is quite unfortunate that we produce cocoa in Nigeria but end up importing same cocoa products from outside the country at a higher cost and without any input.”

in Abuja

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu received a letter of credence from the Russian Federation Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Andrey Podelyshev, during the presentation ceremony at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, yesterday

PHOTO: GODWIN OMOIGUI.

MALI’S AMBASSADOR PRESENTS LETTER OF CREDENCE TO TINUBU...

Tinubu Woos Goita, Seeks Stronger Bilateral Relations with Mali

Says Nigeria ready to support country’s democratic transition process Insists West African countries stronger in unity Receives letters of credence from Russia, Netherlands, Mali, Tanzania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Switzerland

Deji

President Bola Tinubu, yesterday, sought stronger bilateral relations with the Republic of Mali, despite that country’s military government.

Tinubu, who sent a crucial message to the Malian leader, General Assimi Goita, reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to support Mali’s democratic transition and deepen economic ties between the two nations, declared that West African countries were stronger when united.

The president spoke in Abuja, when he received Letter of Credence from

Ambassador of Mali, Cheick Oumar Coulibaly.

Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso pulled out of ECOWAS in January following disagreements with the regional body over its rejection of military takeover of government in the three countries.

Repeated efforts to restore democracy in the countries by ECOWAS failed, after several threats and imposition of sanctions, which did not change the situation in those countries.

The three countries soon sent a notice of exit to ECOWAS, when it was clear the regional body would not accede to their choice of leadership

and, eventually, formed the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) as against ECOWAS.

Although Tinubu left a window for reconciliation with the three countries, not much was heard on the situation until yesterday, when the Malian Ambassador presented his letter of credence.

Speaking at State House, Abuja, while receiving the Letter of Credence from Coulibaly, Tinubu reiterated his resolve and that of ECOWAS to work with Mali for stronger ties.

He stated, “We should strengthen our bilateral relations, and it is hoped that Mali will achieve its democratic

goals. We are open to any support we can render. I want you to see yourself as a member of the family here.

“For me, we are one in West Africa and Africa. The Alliance of Sahel States (AES) has made its position clear, but no nation can succeed alone. We see Mali as a brother and are ready to collaborate and exchange ideas. I can assure you that Nigeria is home for you. When you feel like seeing us, our doors will always be open.”

Earlier, the Malian ambassador thanked the Nigerian president for consistently providing leadership for the sub-region and the continent.

Education Ministry Kicks Against Establishment of New Institutions Amid Funding Challenges

Says House should suspend further

The Federal Ministry of Education has kicked against the establishment of new higher institutions of learning in the country by the House of Representatives due to funding challenges.

The ministry called on the House to suspend further initiation and deliberations on the Bill for an Act to establish the Federal College of Entrepreneurship and Skills Acquisition in Hawul Local Government Area, Borno State, at this time. It also urged the green chamber to prioritise adequate funding of existing higher institutions of learning rather than establishing new ones.

Director of Polytechnic of the ministry, Ejeh Usman, disclosed the objection on Thursday in Abuja during the public hearing for Bill for an Act to Establish the Federal College of Entrepreneurship and Skills Acquisition in Hawal Local Government Area, Borno State, as well as two separate bills proposing amendments to the Federal Polytechnics Act, CAP. F17, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004. Usman said the ministry observed that the establishment of a Federal College of Entrepreneurship fell under technical education, which was regulated by the National Board

for Technical Education (NBTE).

While supporting necessary amendments to strengthen polytechnic institutions, the ministry appealed for “prudent allocation of resources, prioritising existing institutions over establishing new ones to optimise the nation’s educational development”.

Usman stated: “Additionally, the ministry reaffirms the federal government’s policy on citing federal institutions equitably across states. This policy ensures that no state hosts more than one Federal Polytechnic at a time while guaranteeing that every state has at least one such institution.

“Currently, all states, except Sokoto and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), are engaged in this initiative. Therefore, the ministry urges the distinguished members of the Green Chambers to prioritise resource allocation towards the successful take-off of already established institutions rather than initiating new ones.

“Given prevailing funding constraints, the Ministry recommends suspending further initiation and deliberations on the Bill for an Act to establish the Federal College of Entrepreneurship and Skills Acquisition in Hawul Local Government Area, Borno State, at this time.”

Usman revealed that the ministry

deliberation

on establishment bills

had streamlined and expanded avenues for the establishment of private tertiary institutions.

States and individuals were encouraged to leverage the opportunity to contribute to national educational development.

The ministry pointed out that it had no objection to the proposed amendments except for the proposed amendment of the provision in Section 3(1) of the principal Act, which sought to insert the following new paragraphs: (i) A representative of the NBTE; (i) A representative of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN).

It explained that while both organisations served critical roles, their functions did not directly align with the responsibilities of the Polytechnic Governing Council.

It stressed that NBTE functioned as a regulatory body for technical education, whereas MAN focused on promoting manufacturers’ interests.

However, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, said the proposed legislations transcended the boundaries of bureaucratic reform, adding that they are deliberate instruments of transformation aimed at reshaping the educational landscape of the nation.

Abbas stated that the proposed legislations sought to democratise access to quality education in science, vocational training, creative arts, entrepreneurship, and business development.

“I wish to convey the fraternal greetings of the Head of State, General Assimi Goïta, and the highest appreciation of the Malian people for the Nigerian leadership and support,” he said.

Coulibaly stated that Nigeria had maintained its leadership role in Africa, and acknowledged the Nigerian military’s supply of troops for various UN peace missions on the continent and the sub-region.

The Malian ambassador stated, “The Head of State particularly told me that I was on a mission to the biggest country in Africa. He said he knows it’s not easy, but I should look for solutions as a diplomat. We know that Africans must solve African problems. I appreciate you as a leader and father in Africa.”

Tinubu also received letters of credence from five other envoys, and urged greater cooperation to promote global peace, understanding, and prosperity. They were Ambassador Bengt Van Loosdrecht of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, High Commissioner Selestine Gervas Kakele of the United Republic of Tanzania, non-resident Ambassador, Dr Sabit Subasic of Bosnia and Herzegovina; Ambassador Andrey Leonidovich Podelyshev of the

Russian Federation; and Ambassador Patrick Egloff of Switzerland.

Welcoming the Tanzanian envoy, Tinubu praised the country’s leader, President Samia Suluhu Hassan, for her courageous leadership and impactful contributions to the African Union. “We will continue to work together. You can see the situation across the world. No one can do it alone. We will continue to collaborate in areas of knowledge and technical know-how,” he said.

The Tanzanian High Commissioner acknowledged the significant impact of Nigerian investments in Tanzania, citing contributions from the Dangote Group, UBA, GTB, and Sahara Energy. “We should strengthen collaboration not only government to government but also people to people as we see in the film industry and sports. Nigeria has a vibrant and wonderful film industry, and it is collaborating with Tanzania,” the envoy stated. Speaking while meeting with the Russian ambassador, Tinubu highlighted Nigeria’s long-standing technical partnership with Russia and expressed a desire to expand cooperation in steel production, science, education, and nuclear energy to boost electricity supply.

Shettima: Europe, Africa Must Maximise Potentials For Transformative Development

Charges EU to be co-creator of continent’s prosperity Says Tinubu’s committed to sustaining Nigeria, Zambia fraternal brotherhood

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

Vice President Kashim Shettima has implored the European Union (EU) and Africa to maximise their potential for the continent’s transformative development.

He described the EU as Nigeria’s natural partner, whose investments in the most populous nation on the African continent have been assisting greatly in realising ongoing reforms by the administration of President Bola Tinubu. Shettima who stated this on Thursday during a meeting with a delegation of the EU led by its Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS,

Ambassador Gautier Mignot, at the Srare House, Abuja, called for deeper bilateral ties between Nigeria and the EU, saying the nation’s relationship with the regional body must advance from well-intentioned commitments to transformative results.

Accordingly, he pledged Nigeria’s readiness to continue to leverage Global Gateway, a strategic initiative of the EU to invest in smart, clean, and secure infrastructure as well as connectivity across the world, including Nigeria, by accelerating key projects like the high-speed rail links, improved ports and airports, renewable power plants, and vocational training centers.

Urging the continent and the regional body to maximise their potential, he said, “The EU are our natural allies and natural partners. I am guided by logic, rationality and not by sentiments. We see our relationship with the EU as a long-term goal because we have come a long way, and there is room for improvement.

“Our expectations as Nigerians and as Africans are clear. We want this partnership to graduate from well-meaning commitments to transformative outcomes. We want more joint ventures, deeper trade facilitation under the AfCFTA, unchangeable investments in energy, education and digital inclusion.”

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (L) received a letter of credence from the Malian Ambassador to Nigeria, Cheick Oumar Coulibaly, during the presentation ceremony at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, yesterday

PHOTO: GODWIN OMOIGUI

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

Elumoye in Abuja

LAST SENATE PLENARY FOR THE WEEK...

L-R: President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio; Senators Ali Ndume, Asuquo Ekpenyong and Titus Zam, during plenary, yesterday

Insecurity: AIG Allays Fears Over Influx of Northerners into Lagos, Southern Nigeria

Says there is nothing to be afraid of LCCI: Businesses suffered 33% loss in revenues to insecurity in Abuja

Dike Onwuamaeze

Assistant Inspector General of Police, Zone 2 Command, Lagos, AIG Fayoade Adegoke, said the influx of people from the northern parts of the country into Lagos and other parts of southern Nigeria posed no security challenge to life and property.

Adegoke made the clarification yesterday during the “2025 LCCI Security Meets Business Dialogue Series”, organised by Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI). He urged Nigerians to be vigilant and conscious of happenings in their neighbourhoods.

The AIG said, “People are scared seeing large influx of people from the north to the south. But I do not think that there is anything to be afraid of.

“All that we need to do is to be vigilant. We need to know what is happening around us and be security conscious. You do not need to feel unsafe.”

He said the intruders or marauders would not have it easy because they were coming to a place that was very organised, adding that there “is a lot we can do to contain the terrorists through application of technology, like drones, to stop those people”.

He also advised employers of domestic staff and those welcoming people to pass the night in their

homes to be wary. Adegoke stated, “Any time that we are employing domestic aids, we must not employ them in a hurry. But subject them to thorough vetting because we do not trust anybody these days.

“Everyone is so desperate to make quick money out of anything. It will be very dangerous to allow them to take advantage of you because some of them will go to the extent of killing their masters. So, we have to be careful who we put in our house and who sleeps.”

In his welcome address, President of LCCI, Mr. Gabriel Idahosa, declared that businesses operating in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, suffered 33 per cent loss in revenues between January 2023 and January 2024 due to rising insecurity, including kidnappings and violent crimes in Bwari and Kuje.

Idahosa said transport fares in the region surged by up to 250 per cent, while estate security fees rose by 20 per cent, underscoring how deeply insecurity inflates the cost of doing business and daily living in some parts of Nigeria.

He added that the Central Bank of Nigeria’s December 2024 Business Expectations Survey also ranked insecurity, high bank charges, and poor infrastructure among the top challenges facing Nigerian businesses.

He, however, said, “in the face of these challenges, there remains

a resilient optimism among firms anticipating solutions to the security challenges plaguing our nation.

“The takeaway is clear: peace and security are not accidental; they are products of intentional governance, inclusivity, and national unity.

“To make meaningful progress,

we must embrace a multi-pronged strategy. We must strengthen Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs). These collaborative frameworks will allow businesses and government security agencies to share intelligence, optimise resource deployment, and coordinate rapid responses to threats.

“More importantly, we need to invest significantly in cyber security infrastructure.”

According to him, “The challenges we face are formidable – yes – but they are not beyond our capacity to overcome. With unity of purpose, shared responsibility, and visionary

leadership, we can turn today’s crisis into tomorrow’s triumph. “Let this gathering serve as a call to action for all stakeholders, government, business, civil society, and our international partners, to commit to a safer, stronger, and more prosperous Nigeria.”

43rd AGM: Odu’a Investment Records Strong Performance Amid Economic Challenges

Declares N518m dividend, posts N82.26bn comprehensive income SWAgCo signs N10bn Joint Ventures with strategic partners

Sunday Okobi

The Odu’a Investment Company Limited (OICL) has declared a dividend payout of N518 million to its shareholder states for the 2024 financial year, marking a 21 percent increase over the N428 million declared in 2023.

The Group Chairman, Otunba Bimbo Ashiru, who disclosed these during the Group’s 43rd Annual General Meeting (AGM) held at the Lagos Airport Hotel Limited, Ikeja, yesterday, posited that: “As an organisation with a rich past and which is our common patrimony, we consider our roles as custodians

Senate Bill to Establish National Agency for Malaria Eradication Scales Second Reading

The Senate yesterday passed for second reading, a bill seeking to establish a national agency for malaria eradication.

The bill specifically proposes a centralised, autonomous, and fully resourced agency that would champion national policies for malaria eradication.

It is intended to coordinate interagency and sectoral responses with authority, mobilise and manage resources efficiently and transparently.

Through the agency, the federal government would invest in and support vaccine research, including genetic innovations being explored globally.

Leading the debate on the general principles of the bill on Thursday at plenary, its sponsor, Senator Ned Nwoko, explained the bill was

introduced because of the need to address the rising scourge of Malaria in the country.

Nwoko said the World Health Organisation’s 2024 report, explained that Africa records approximately 600,000 malaria deaths annually.

He said Nigeria accounted for over 184,000 of these deaths, being the highest burden globally.

He said: “Beyond the statistics, this translates to families devastated, futures aborted, and national productivity diminished.”

The Delta Central Senator explained that Malaria is not merely a public health issue, but also a structural crisis that impairs maternal health, drains economic productivity, and impedes national development.

He said: “Malaria accounts for approximately 11% of maternal

mortality in Nigeria, contributing to severe anaemia, miscarriages, stillbirths, and infant deaths, tragic outcomes that disproportionately affect our most vulnerable citizens.

“Economically, malaria bleeds the nation through the loss of millions of man-hours each year.

“The current health architecture is insufficient. The National Malaria Elimination Programme (NMEP) is policy-based but underpowered.

“The National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA) delivers care but lacks scale and support.

“The NCDC was stellar during COVID-19 but is peripheral in malaria matters. Even the Presidential End Malaria Council, Nigeria cannot continue to lead the world in malaria deaths.

very important and execute our duties as such.

“The current Board of Directors will continue to go the extra mile to re-craft the story of the organisation and work with management to deliver same. The year under review was challenging, but we have delivered what I believe is an exceptional performance under the prevailing economic conditions.”

The meeting saw the consideration and approval of the Audited Financial Statements for the year ended December 31, 2024, alongside the reports of the Board and External Auditors.

Meanwhile, at the AGM, the agribusiness investment vehicle of Odu’a Investment Company Limited (OICL), SWAgCo, has signed N10 billion Joint Ventures with strategic partners, including Starlink Global and Ideal Limited; PETAGULS

Cultivars and Seedling Technologies Limited; Foodlocker Limited, and British American Tobacco Nigeria Foundation (BATNF), in pursuit of its goal to agro-industrialise the Southwest region.

The Group chairman stated further that: “Despite a turbulent macroeconomic environment characterized by record inflation, exchange rate volatility, and high energy costs, Odu’a posted an 81 percent revenue growth with operating revenue climbing from N3.95 billion in 2023 to N7.15 billion in 2024.”

He noted that group also recorded a total comprehensive income of N82.26 billion, a staggering 773 percent increase from N9.23 billion in the previous year.

“During the year under review, OICL underwent key leadership transitions, notably the appointment of Mr. Abdulrahman Yinusa as the Group Managing Director/CEO effectively from June 1, 2024, following the retirement of Mr. Adewale Raji. “Other appointments included Mr. Olayemi Ajao as Executive Director, Investments and Business Development, and Otunba Lai Oriowo as Non-Executive Director.”

The Board expressed appreciation to former executives, especially Dr. Segun Aina and Mr. Adewale Raji, for their outstanding contributions to the Group’s legacy.

This figure includes N80.58 billion in non-cash fair value gains from revaluation of the Group’s equity investment portfolio. Ashiru added: “However, Profit Before Tax (excluding fair value gains) declined to N1.78 billion, reflecting the impact of inflationary pressures and strategic reinvestments across subsidiaries.

FCCPC Seals Illegal Consumer Protection Outfit, Arrests Operator for Impersonation

James Emejo in Abuja

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), in collaboration with law enforcement agencies, said it carried out an enforcement operation at No. 214 Aba-Owerri Road, Aba, Abia State, where it sealed the premises of an unlawful entity operating as the Community Crime Prevention Initiative of Nigeria (CCPIN).

The FCCPC’s action followed credible intelligence that CCPIN was falsely claiming affiliation with the commission and misleading the

public by representing itself as an “Authorised Consumer Protection NGO” of the FCCPC.

A statement issued by the commission’s Director, Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, further pointed out that the illegal entity had issued public notices alleging joint surveillance operations with FCCPC and was soliciting consumer complaints through unauthorised telephone lines.

The statement noted that “During the operation, the operator of the facility, Dr. Onwuka K. Okorie, was arrested on-site and is currently in police custody at World Bank Police

Station, Abayi-Aba, Abia State, pending further investigation and prosecution.

“A number of exhibits bearing FCCPC’s name, logo, and false enforcement materials were recovered from the premises.

“The Commission categorically disassociates itself from CCPIN and affirms that it neither authorises nor partners with CCPIN or any similarly styled organisation for enforcement or consumer protection operations, and does not delegate such powers to NGOs, private entities, or individuals without formal legal authorisation.”

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

World’s Biggest Off-grid Solar Firm Gets $80m to Provide Power to Nigerians

Emmanuel

Addeh in Abuja

In a major boost for Nigeria’s plan to raise electricity supply, Sun King, the world’s largest off-grid solar company, yesterday announced that it had secured an $80 million financing facility from a World Bank-backed programme to boost electrification in the country.

In a statement, the company said it secured the loan, its largest local-currency facility for energy access in West Africa to date, from the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and Stanbic IBTC Bank.

In all, the fund is expected to help finance the provision of electricity to as many as 4 million households over the next four to five years, adding to the 2 million Sun King already has funded.

“This financing enables households and small businesses to adopt clean, reliable solar power without prohibitive upfront costs. By combining public and private capital, the facility allows Sun King to extend local currency loans through its pay-as-you-go model while mitigating foreign exchange risks.

“This approach enables customers to pay in small installments, which improves affordability and capital efficiency, particularly for low-income and rural consumers,” the statement noted.

Sun King, a leading off-grid solar provider, designs, distributes, and finances solar systems across over 40 countries. With a network of more than 29,500 agents across Africa, the

company said it has sold over 27 million solar products.

Nigeria, where about 90 million people are estimated to have no access to electricity, has been a major focus of the World Bank’s electrification programmes. In December, the bank facilitated a $750 million loan to Nigeria for electrification using renewable power technologies.

It expects private investment of more than $1 billion to be attracted as a result and electricity access to be extended to 17.5 million people.

Demand for affordable solar solutions is growing rapidly in Nigeria, where nearly 40 per cent of the population lacks access to electricity. The facility will support Sun King’s expansion in the country, especially in hard-to-reach communities.

Inf LATI on De CLI ne S T o 23.71% Am ID Lowe R f

On the other hand, alcoholic beverages, tobacco, and narcotics; and recreation, sport, and culture were the least contributors at 0.09 per cent, and 0.07 per cent, respectively.

Food inflation declined yearon-year in April to 21.26 per cent, compared to 40.53 per cent in April 2024.

According to NBS, the significant decline in food annual inflation was technically due to the change in the base year for CPI estimation.

However, on a month-on-month basis, the food index dropped to 2.06 per cent from 2.18 per cent in March.

The decrease in food prices was attributed to the rate of decrease in the average prices of maize flour, dried okro, yam flour, soya beans, rice, bambara beans, and brown beans among others.

Core inflation, which excludes the prices of volatile agricultural produces and energy, declined to 23.39 per cent year-on-year in April, compared to 26.84 per cent in April 2024.

Month-on-month, core inflation stood at 1.34 per cent in April, from 3.73 per cent in the preceding month.

In the newly introduced sub-index, farm produce contributed 2.64 per cent to inflation; energy, 9.21 per cent; services 3.44 per cent; and goods 3.89 per cent.

Year-on-year, urban inflation was 24.29 per cent in April 2025 while the index stood at 1.18 per cent, month-on-month, compared to 3.96 per cent in March.

Rural inflation stood at 22.83 per cent year-on-year, in the review period. Month-on-month, the index dropped to 3.56 per cent, from 3.73 per cent in March.

At state level, headline inflation, year-on-year, was highest in Enugu (35.98 per cent), followed by Kebbi (35.13 per cent), and Niger (34.85 per cent), while Ondo (13.42 per cent), Cross River (17.11 per cent), and Kwara (17.28 per cent) recorded the lowest rise in prices. On a month-on-month basis,

T I nubu He ADS To Rome on Po P e Leo XIV’ S In VITATI on w ITH bRA gg I ng R I g HTS of 62% C HRISTIA n A PP o I n T ee S

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu will depart the nation’s capital, Abuja, for Rome, the capital of Italy, tomorrow on the invitation of Pope Leo XIV.

It also emerged yesterday that essentially, 62 per cent of all Tinubu’s appointments are Christians, according to data released to THISDAY by the presidency.

This has put paid to initial fears that the 2023 Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket would grossly lead to the under-representation of Christians in the current administration as well as accelerate the ‘Islamisation’ of the country.

This reality may help ameliorate the perception that Nigeria is a country where Christians are routinely persecuted.

The U.S. House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa recently approved measures urging President Donald Trump to impose sanctions on Nigeria due to the widespread persecution of Christians, following a congressional hearing on March 12.

Also, the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) recently called for Nigeria to be designated as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) due to deteriorating religious freedom conditions in 2024.

In its annual report released in March 2025, USCIRF urged the U.S. State Department under the Trump administration to designate Nigeria, along with Afghanistan, India, and Vietnam, as additional CPCs.

The fact that 62 percent of Tinubu’s appointees are Christians is significant and may help in the perception index.

Accompanied by top Catholic leaders, Tinubu, according to a release issued yesterday by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, will attend a solemn mass marking the beginning of the Pontificate of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV.

Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, will be formally installed to the exalted

office on Sunday, May 18, at St. Peter’s Square in the Vatican.

The Conclave of Cardinals elected him 27 days after his predecessor, Pope Francis, died on April 21.

In the Papal invitation sent by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Pope Leo XIV underscored the need for Tinubu’s physical presence “at this moment of particular importance for the Catholic Church and the world afflicted by many tensions and conflicts”.

Pope Leo further stressed, “Your great nation is particularly dear to me as I worked in the Apostolic Nunciature in Lagos during the 1980s.”

Tinubu’s entourage would include Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca OdumegwuOjukwu; Archbishop of Owerri and President of Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, Archbishop Lucius Ugorji; Archbishop Ignatius Kaigama of Abuja; and Alfred Martins of Lagos.

The Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Mathew Kukah, will also be on the president’s entourage. The president is expected back in Abuja on Tuesday, May 20.

Pope Leo XIV, born in Chicago in 1955, will be formally installed as the 267th pope during an inaugural Mass on Sunday, May 18, at 10 am local time at St. Peter’s Square, Vatican City.

The first American-born pope and a naturalised Peruvian citizen, he is also the first Augustinian to hold the papacy. His election on May 8 marked a historic moment, having succeeded Pope Francis. Known for his centrist views, Pope Leo XIV is believed to largely align with his predecessor’s progressive stance on social issues. He emphasises peace, dialogue, and humility in the priesthood.

During the installation, he will receive the fisherman’s ring and the pallium, symbols of papal authority.

The mass will be attended by world and religious leaders, following his first Sunday blessing on May 11, where he called for peace in Ukraine and Gaza.

however, inflation was highest in Sokoto (16.26 per cent), Nasarawa (16.02 per cent), and Niger (14.74 per cent), while Oyo (-6.45 per cent), Osun (-4.54 per cent), and Ondo (-3.44 per cent per cent) recorded the lowest rise.

Equally, at the sub-national, food inflation, year-on-year was highest in Benue (51.76 per cent), Ekiti (34.05 per cent), Kebbi (33.82 per cent), while Ebonyi (7.19 per cent), and Adamawa (9.52 per cent), while Ogun (9.91 per cent) recorded the slowest rise.

Month-on-month, food inflation was highest in Benue (25.59 per cent), Ekiti (16.73 per cent), and Yobe (13.92 per cent), while Ebonyi (-14.43 per cent), Kano (-11.37 per cent) and Ogun (-7.06 per cent) recorded decline in food inflation.

Boost to Economy

Reacting to the slowdown in inflation, former Vice Chancellor, Nasarawa

In the same vein, Seplat Energy Plc, one of Nigeria’s largest oil and gas explorers, has said it expects first-half revenue to exceed last year’s $1.1 billion after ramping up production this year.

But speaking at the just concluded 2025 Africa Energies Summit (AES) in London, United Kingdom, the Chief Executive of the NUPRC, Gbenga Komolafe, noted that from eight oil rigs in 2021, President Bola Tinubu’s recent reforms have significantly removed the bottlenecks and enhanced investment in the country’s oil sector.

The number of active oil rigs is a key indicator of the level of activity in the oil and gas sector, reflecting how much exploration and production work is currently underway. Each active rig represents an investment by an oil company to either discover new oil reserves or extract oil from known fields.

Komolafe, who spoke on the theme: “Igniting Nigeria and Africa’s Energy Future: Evolving Landscapes, Challenges, and Transformative Opportunities”, told the global audience at the event that Nigeria is now well positioned to tap into the projected $600 billion annual upstream investment required to grow Africa’s oil sector, estimated to hit about $3 trillion by 2030.

Quoting the International Energy Forum (IEF), the NUPRC chief executive pointed out that Africa’s energy need is projected to rise by 30 per cent by 2040, noting that to meet the projected demand, Nigeria has continued to play its part to attract the right investment to the sector.

“Africa’s own energy demand is poised to surge by 30 per cent by 2040, driven by rapid population growth, industrial ambition, and the rightful quest for universal energy access. Meeting this demand sustainably will require over $600 billion in upstream investments annually through 2030, according to a study conducted by the International Energy Forum (IEF) last year,” Komolafe said.

According to him, through the recent Presidential Executive Orders and the proactive stance of the NUPRC, Nigeria has redefined itself not only as a land of vast hydrocarbon potential but as a destination where opportunity

“Millions of Nigerians still live without reliable access to electricity, which limits opportunity and undermines resilience,” said the IFC Regional Director for Central Africa and Anglophone West Africa, Dahlia Khalifa.

“This investment enables scalable local-currency solutions that empower households and businesses with clean, affordable solar power. Beyond energy access, it supports rural employment, boosts productivity, and brings us closer to our shared goal of inclusive, sustainable development,” Khalifa added

The investment aligns with Nigeria’s Country Partnership Framework with the World Bank Group and contributes to Mission 300, a joint initiative with the African Development Bank (AfDB)

State University, Professor Mohammed Mainoma, said the decline represented a boost to investor sentiment and a positive signal in Nigeria’s Mainoma, who is also a Fellow of the Capital Market Academics of Nigeria (CMAN) and President of the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN), said, “The recent easing of headline inflation to 23.71 per cent in April 2025, as reported by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), is a positive signal, albeit modest, in the context of Nigeria’s ongoing macroeconomic adjustment efforts.

“From my perspective, there are several key implications for the Nigerian equities market and the broader economy.”

Mainoma added that a decline in inflation, even marginal, tended to boost investor sentiment, particularly in the equities market. He said decline suggested some easing in cost pressures and a potential shift in monetary policy stance.

meets ease of doing business, certainty, and investor value.

“The transformative impact has been remarkable. Our oil and gas sector has seen a significant surge in investment. New investors, empowered by clarity and quality, have entered our sector, oil and gas reserves and production have increased, while rig counts have surged from 8 in 2021 to 36 currently, with projections to reach 50 by the end of the year.

“This momentum reflects a bold new chapter; one driven by ambition, resilience, and opportunity. With 210.54 trillion cubic feet of natural gas reserves, the largest in Africa, and 37.28 billion barrels of crude oil reserves, Nigeria holds enormous reserves.

“Our national production target is 3 million barrels per day but achieving this requires continuous investment to unlock new basins and mature frontier fields to secure future energy needs that will match our fast-growing population. Therefore, it is safe to say that Nigeria is a major force and the rallying point in hydrocarbon conversation in Africa,” Komolafe added.

On recent licensing initiatives, the NUPRC boss explained that each of the awards and rounds was conducted with unprecedented transparency, unmatched competitiveness, and remarkable investor engagement.

Besides, Komolafe stated that the NUPRC has repositioned Nigeria as a prime destination for oil and gas investment, while reaffirming its commitment to global standards of excellence, innovation, and partnership. Highlighting the quality and accessibility of subsurface data in the country, he disclosed that through a landmark partnership with TGS-PetroData and other multi-client service providers, the NUPRC embarked on one of Africa’s most ambitious data acquisition and reprocessing campaigns, acquiring over 11,000 square kilometers of 3D seismic data as part of the broader 56,000 sq km Awalé project.

At the heart of the revolution, he said, is also Nigeria’s National Data Repository (NDR), which houses one of the most extensive seismic databases

launched in 2025 to expand electricity access across Africa.

“Off-grid solar provides the fastest and most scalable pathway to universal electrification across Africa. This investment exemplifies the kind of bold, all-hands-on-deck approach required to deliver reliable, affordable energy to millions at the pace Mission 300 calls for.

“With structured financing tailored to local needs, we can dismantle affordability barriers and scale up the proven impact of off-grid solar solutions. We commend IFC and Standard Bank for their leadership in advancing sustainable energy access,” Co-Founder, Sun King, Anish Thakkar said.

Chief Executive of Stanbic Bank IBTC Capital Ltd, Oladele Sotubo,

He stated that consumer-facing sectors, like fast moving consumer goods (FMCGs), may benefit from improved purchasing power, translating into better earnings and valuation potential.

Mainoma stated, “However, at 23.71 per cent, inflation remains significantly above the central bank’s comfort zone, so interest rates may still remain tight, which could limit liquidity available for stock market investments in the short term.”

On monetary policy outlook, the professor of accounting and finance who is currently Vice Chancellor of Prime University, Abuja, argued that a sustained easing trend could encourage the CBN to pause further rate hikes, or even consider rate adjustments that favour growth, especially in the non-oil sector.

“Investors will closely monitor CBN’s next move, as it has direct implications on portfolio flows and bond-equity allocations,” he said.

on the continent and records from over 10,000 wells, enabling both physical and remote access for thorough technical due diligence.

“This wealth of accessible, highquality data has not only empowered investor confidence during recent bid rounds but has firmly repositioned Nigeria as one of the most data-rich and investment-ready destinations in the global energy landscape,” Komolafe said.

He reiterated that the Nigerian oil and gas industry stands as the very heartbeat of the nation’s economy, contributing an astounding 95 per cent of foreign exchange earnings and nearly 70 per cent of government revenue, while creating jobs and establishing Nigeria as a strong player in the global energy landscape.

But he argued that if Nigeria is to sustain, accelerate, and truly harness the full potential of the sector for future generations, it must remain steadfast in advancing strategic initiatives that maximise government revenue, deliver tangible economic benefits to over 200 million Nigerians, and ensure consistent, attractive returns for valued investors.

To further consolidate the nation’s drive for energy security and production resilience, the NUPRC, he said, launched the bold and visionary initiative known as ‘Project 1 Million Barrels per Day (1MMBOPD)’.

According to him, at the centre of this initiative lies a propelling goal to increase Nigeria’s crude oil production by over 1 million barrels per day, in the mid-term, beyond the October 2024 baseline.

“This initiative was not conceived in abstraction, but in the context of real opportunity. It is a call to every oil and gas operating company, partners, and investors to revitalise dormant fields, rejuvenate brownfields, and deliver on the promise of existing assets in line with good asset stewardship,” he emphasised.

Since the launch of the project, he stated that Nigeria has achieved a notable increase in daily production, recently reaching 1.78 million barrels per day, up from a baseline of 1.46 million barrels per day in October 2024.

“Our message to you is therefore

commenting, described the initiative as ‘transformative’ for the country’s power sector.

Regarding economic sentiment and household impact, Mainoma explained that while 23.71 per cent inflation rate is still high, any reduction brings psychological relief to households facing months of eroded purchasing power. He added that for businesses, it may signal a gradual reduction in cost of raw materials and transport, improving operational efficiency and profitability.

In the area of real sector confidence, the academic affirmed that lower inflation, if sustained, improves business planning confidence, encourages capital expenditure, and supports credit expansion.

“It may also support the informal sector and SMEs, who are disproportionately affected by inflation volatility.

“This easing in inflation is not yet a turning point, but it is a hopeful marker. For the equities market, it may strengthen the case for long-term investment in growth-sensitive sectors.

simple and resolute: Nigeria is not only rich in natural resources; it offers a strategic landscape of high-yield opportunities for forward-looking investors,” Komolafe said. Also, Global oil giant, Shell Plc, paid $5.34 billion in taxes and other charges to Nigeria in 2024, more than any other country it operates in the world, a Bloomberg news report said yesterday.

The company’s payments to Nigeria increased from the previous year and came as the oil and gas company is on the verge of leaving Nigeria’s onshore production business after many decades of controversial operations.

Shell, which released the figures in a disclosure required under UK law, will continue to produce oil in the waters off the west Africa nation, the report stated.

Exiting onshore production in the Niger Delta, which is among Shell’s most emissions-intensive operations where the company is accused of causing widespread environmental pollution, is part of its effort to simplify its portfolio and “become a net-zero energy business by 2050,” the company said.

Besides, Oman, Brazil and Norway, where Shell has significant operating footprints, were next on the payments list after Nigeria and together received approximately $11.7 billion. The report published on Thursday covers charges related to extractive activities.

In the UK, the government refunded Shell about $32 million for decommissioning the Brent field and other North Sea production assets, down from a $43 million refund for those assets in 2023.

Since this report only includes extractive activities charges, this does not represent Shell’s total tax bill to the UK. The last disclosed payment from Shell to the UK government was about $6 billion in 2023, which was published at the end of 2024. Overall, Shell paid governments around the world about $28.1 billion in taxes and charges related to its extractive activities in 2024, down nearly 5 per cent from 2023. Shell’s full year adjusted earnings in 2024 were $23.7 billion, a roughly 17 per cent decline from 2023.

Dahlia Khalifa

STAKEHOLDERS ENGAGEMENT ON THE NATIONAL PREPAREDNESS AND RESPONSE CAMPAIGN...

L-R: Director, Humanitarian Affairs, Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Hajiya Jummai Katagum; Director General, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Mrs. Zubaida Umar; Director, Disaster Risk Reduction, NEMA, Dr. Idris Abubakar Mohammed; and Director, Planning, Research and Forecasting, NEMA, Dr. Onimode Abdullahi Bandele, during the Stakeholders Engagement on the National Preparedness and Response Campaign for 2025 Flood Disaster and Related Hazards organised by NEMA in Abuja, yesterday

FG Mulls Stoppage of Payments for Constituency Projects Amid Alleged Breach of Guidelines

OAGF, ministry of special duties partner to boost enforcement, compliance

within

its mandate to promote compliance with government guidelines and circulars on execution and payment for constituency projects. That was as Permanent Secretary,

Federal Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, Mr. Onwusoro Ihemelandu, requested that no payments should be made for constituency projects that were

not executed in line with the federal government’s guidelines and circulars, and duly certified by his ministry.

Ogunjimi gave the commitment

House to Probe Errors in 2025 UTME

As Obi

Chuks Okocha and Juliet Akoje in Abuja

The House of Representatives has resolved to launch an investigation into the technical glitch that caused widespread failure in the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

This decision was made after lawmakers adopted a motion of urgent public importance moved by Representative Adewale Adebayo at plenary on Thursday.

In a related development, the former governor of Anambra State and the presidential candidate of Labour Party, LP, in the last general election, Peter Obi, has warned against blame of technical glitches becoming a national crisis

Obi was reacting on the latest crisis that followed the out of the Joint Admission Matriculation Board (JAMB) that witnessed mass failure

The JAMB registrar, Prof Ishaq Oloyede had blamed the mass failure at the matriculation examination on what he described as technical glitches.

Meanwhile, the Joint Admissions

and Matriculation Board (JAMB) had released the results of the 2025 UTME on May 9, revealing an alarming failure rate.

Recall that an assessment by JAMB revealed a significant technical fault with more than 78% of candidates scoring below 200 out of the possible 400 points.

The Registrar of JAMB, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, disclosed that the responses of 379,997 candidates were compromised due to server-related issues at a press briefing held in Abuja on Wednesday

He explained that defective server updates in the Lagos and South-East zones interfered with the proper uploading of candidates’ answers during the first three days of the exams.

The fault, he noted, originated from one of the two technical service providers engaged by the board and went unnoticed before the results were released.

To remedy the problem, Oloyede announced that all affected candidates would be granted the chance to retake the UTME between May 16 and May 19, 2025.

While presenting his motion in the House, Hon. Adebayo highlighted the difficulties many candidates and their families endured, including traveling long distances to exam centers, only to be met with failure due to factors beyond their control.

He emphasized the need for a thorough probe to avoid a recurrence of such incidents.

Hon. Sada Soli from Katsina praised the JAMB Registrar for his openness in publicly acknowledging the error and issuing an apology.

He also recognized Oloyede’s contributions in enhancing the board’s revenue generation since assuming office.

However, House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas stated that it would be up to the committee leading the investigation to determine whether or not the Registrar should be formally commended for his handling of the issue.

On his part, reacting to the glitch-blame by JAMB, Obi said in a statement that he watched the press conference where the JAMB registrar blamed the mass failure on what he described as technical glitches.

At Inauguration of FCT Lottery Regulatory Office, Gbajabiamila Says Licences from Defunct NLRC Valid

Ejiofor Alike

The Director-General of the newly established Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Lottery Regulatory Office, Lanre Gbajabiamila, alongside the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), has officially launched a new office in Abuja as part of the deliberate efforts to streamline and invigorate the gaming industry in the FCT.

Speaking at the press briefing, Gbajabiamila reassured existing operators that all licenses previously issued by the now-defunct National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC) remain valid until expiration, adding also that the renewal fees remain the

same under the new FCT Lottery Regulatory Office.

Gbajabiamila announced the office’s readiness to begin full regulatory oversight of all lottery and gaming operations within the territory, urging operators to begin submitting applications for new licenses.

The FCT-LRO became necessary following the recent Supreme Court judgment in AG Lagos & Ors vs AG Federation & Anor SC/1/2008, which clarified that the FCT has the constitutional right to regulate gaming and lottery activities within its boundaries. Gbajabiamila promised a regulatory environment built on clarity, stability, and global best practices. According to him, the office aims

to unlock the economic potential of the gaming sector, while boosting investor confidence and increasing internally generated revenue (IGR) for the FCT.

“Our top priorities include collaboration with the Office of the FCT Minister and the FCT Internal Revenue Service (FCT-IRS) to ensure proper oversight, fair practices, and prompt revenue remittance,” he said.

Also speaking at the event, Acting Executive Chairman of the FCT-IRS, Michael Ango, praised the initiative as a strategic tool for economic growth, aligning with the broader vision of the Nyesom Wike-led FCT administration to transform Abuja into a world-class capital.

According to Obi, ‘’I recently watched the heartfelt press conference delivered by the JAMB Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, in which he acknowledged that technical glitches had affected the recently released JAMB results, impacting 379,997 candidates ‘’His open admission of fault and the expression of deep remorse stand out as a rare but commendable display of accountability in our public institutions.

when he received the permanent secretary who paid him a visit at the Treasury House in Abuja.

The AGF said his office will partner with the ministry to enforce compliance with government guidelines and circulars on execution and payment for constituency projects.

He promised that the guidelines on constituency projects will be made an important part of discussions at all OAGF engagements with its stakeholders, adding that the ministry will be given opportunity to make presentations at such occasions.

Ogunjimi further stated that in OAGF circulars on closure and capital projects, emphasis will also be made on compliance with the guidelines on constituency projects.

He advised the ministry to continue the engagement with relevant government agencies, stakeholders and the National Assembly to increase awareness on the guidelines and circulars.

In a statement issued by Director,

Press and Public Relations, OAGF, Mr. Bawa Mokwa, the AGF said, “We will give bite to these guidelines; we will ensure that this guideline is projected adequately and that it becomes part of the prerequisite documentation for all constituency projects.”

Earlier, the permanent secretary had also observed that despite federal government’s guidelines and circulars, many agencies had executed and paid for constituency projects without adherence to the guidelines and circulars and due verification.

He pointed out that this practice did not allow the government to get maximum value for the funds spent on these projects.

Ihemelandu therefore, appealed for collaboration between his ministry and the OAGF to guarantee that the guidelines were implemented fully and that no payments were made for constituency projects, unless after verification by his ministry.

The wife of the Inspector General of Police and National Chairperson of the Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA), Mrs. Elizabeth Kayode Egbetokun, has inaugurated a Police Officers’ Children Primary School (POWA Model School) and laid another foundation to construct a secondary school in her hometown, Sum, Bogoro Local Government Area of Bauchi State.

The commissioning ceremony held on Thursday was witnessed by top government officials from the national and state levels, executives of POWA nationwide, traditional rulers and other dignitaries.

Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, Mrs. Elizabeth Kayode Egbetokun stated the commissioning of the school marks a significant milestone in the journey towards a more efficient, effective and result oriented Police Officers Wives Association (POWA).

According to her, the school is a perfect example of POWA’s core values in action, as it demonstrates the association’s earnest support to the families of those who risk their lives in the service of Nigeria,

and also contributing its little quota towards the development of communities by providing basic social amenities.

She added: “This project stands as a demonstration of our constant commitment and love for children and education and also building a strong foundation for the betterment and future of not only the Police children but also all other children in this community. It is therefore a beacon of hope and a symbol of the strong bond between our community and the Nigeria Police force.

“It shows our commitment to investing in the future of our nation and ensuring our children gets the best education and preparing them for the challenges ahead. “As life they say is not a bed of roses”, but early preparation, provision of the right support and facilities, prioritizing all key elements of early learning is key to successful learning process which will culminate to a better future for the children.

“Furthermore, this great establishment is more than just bricks and mortar; it embodies a vision for a brighter future. It is a place where our children, the future doctors, lawyers, accountants, professors,

engineers, police and military officers and most importantly, leaders of POWA, will receive quality education that nurtures their mind, strengthens their character and prepares them for a successful life, she stated.

She added: “Locating this school within this community, under the watchful eyes of POWA and the Police Force, symbolizes a commitment to safeguarding our children’s wellbeing and fostering a sense of security and trust.

“It represents a partnership between law enforcement and the community, working hand in hand to create a safe and conducive environment for our children to learn.

“It is noteworthy that we understand the challenges faced by children of our dedicated officers and other children in our local communities, where parents often work long and unpredictable hours, making it difficult to provide consistent support and guidance, to this end, this school has been designed to bridge that gap by providing a safe and conducive environment where children can learn, grow and thrive alongside their peers.

Segun Awofadeji in Gombe

James Emejo in Abuja Accountant General of the Federation (AGF), Mr. Babatunde Ogunjimi, yesterday vowed to work

Congratulations

and keep hope alive

Our dear Bashorun, As my family and I celebrate and rejoice with you and yours on your 65th birthday, I am reminding you that we must stand firm on our quest for Nigeria’s progress. Because we have no other choice, particularly for our future generations. May God continue to strengthen and revitalise you and all our friends and associates to keep hope alive. Happy birthday, my brother and friend. Together, we rise.

ATIKU ABUBAKAR, GCON

Wazirin Adamawa Vice President, Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999-2007

Politics

Acting Group Politics Edito r DEJI ELUMOYE

Email: deji.elumoye @thisdaylive.com

08033025611 s M s O n LY

Momodu: The Babalawo of Nigerian Media

Sixty-five today, the publisher of Ovation International, Chief ayobamidele Momodu, is a pride, not just of

Chief Ayobamidele Momodu’s story of grass to grace is public knowledge. All of the information is already out there. This is because he discusses his life and its intricate trajectory at every given opportunity with glee and self-esteem.

At the punch of a button, you’d have all you need to knowabout this proud media guru and indigene of Edo State, who chose to “naturalise” in Yorubaland, making Ile-Ife, the source, his birth station. Little wonder, his other names include Ojutelegan Ajani.

With a bit of mild activism spurred by instinctive resentment to abuse of any sort, this celebrated writer has conquered where many could not even dare. And, where many had failed, Bob Dee, as everyone calls him, is not one to be stifled by the failures of others. He’d rather make his own mistakes and learn from them.

His indomitable spirit, typical of the average Nigerian – man or woman – who carries him or herself with rare confidence and self-worth, is also why life has been unable to relegate him in the scheme of things.

He does not only catch up with trends in journalism and communications in general, but he always makes a conscious decision at self-development, just to stay active on the job, timelessly. That he has remained relevant for several decades is not a function of accident.

His willingness and readiness to help others, no matter what the issues are, is one trait that speaks to his individuality, and clearly a reflection of his thorough upbringing and the tolerant Yoruba environment, where life began for him – diped in the milk of kindness and their cultural hospitality.

With an enduring voyage on the media landscape, cutting across imposing brands and years of solid experience before setting out to do something different, not before building solid and expensive contacts in this multidisciplinary calling, it simply belies logic that anyone at all would question whether or not Bob Dee is a journalist?

With tongue-in-cheek and evident cynicism, an aide to the Minister of the FCT, Lere Olayinka, during a recent interview on the Arise News Television, questioned Bob Dee’s journalism background. For convenient mischief, he’d rather he was a Babalawo because he studied Yoruba as his first degree. The effrontery alone is appalling!

A graduate of Yoruba and Master’s in English Literature from the University of Ife, (now Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife in 1982, Momodu got his first media job as staff writer with African Concord magazine, owned by the late Chief MKO Abiola, and later transferred to the Weekend Concord as a pioneer staff.

This graduate of Yoruba wrote the first cover story for the newspaper in March 1989, and contributed to other titles such as the National Concord, Sunday Concord, Business Concord and of course, his turf, the Yoruba newspaper, Isokan.

Bob Dee, the Yoruba graduate, said to have missed his calling as Babalawo soon became the literary editor within six months that he became the news editor of the Weekend Concord. He went on to edit May Ellen Ezekiel’s Classique, a celebrity magazine, an appointment that made him the highest paid editor in Nigeria.

From setting up his own public relations outfit, Celebrities-Goodwill Limited, and later, the prestigious Ovation Magazine, which brought the world to its avid readers in the comfort of their homes, what else could have qualified this amiable son of the soil as a journalist?

In spite of his several engagements and busy schedule, both as a politician and journalist, Bob Dee still maintains a column

away his accomplishments, as one of the names still contributing immensely to the growth of journalism in Nigeria, many years after cutting his teeth on the job, and in spite of his avowed Yoruba and English backgrounds?

Unfortunately, if the Babalawo reference was intended to demystify and mortify him, it might have turned out a fitting autograph for a man, who has a rich knowledge of journalism, and could, by his practice and exploits, predict events near accurately, in addition to setting agenda for Nigeria’s mercurial political economy.

Bob Dee is not one to be talked down on the job by any irreverent fellow, regardless of what degrees they lay claims to, especially when such characters have nothing outstanding to be recorded against their names in the same journalism.

A local product with global acclaim, Bob Dee, has built such a sprawling network of friends across the world that there’s hardly any door he cannot knock on, and he will never be denied entry. That could not be by chance or mere luck. Even if such elements were present, perhaps, it is largely a product of hard work, spanning many years.

While Bob Dee will never seek validation from anyone, particularly those not qualified to share space with him on anything, much less journalism, futile efforts to underwrite his deeds will never secure any recognition, let alone gain traction.

Decent professions or trades always protect their best except in a gathering of misfits, quacks, or amateurs.

Many congratulations to the worldrenowned Bob Dee, and happy 65th birthday.

Of Opposition Politics and Distractions in Enugu

Jaja Ifeanyichukwu writes that there appears to be no viable opposition to the second term bid of Governor Peter Mbah who has been delivering dividends of democracy to the good people of Enugu State.

During the 2023 general elections in Enugu State, President Bola Tinubu did not enjoy any visible electoral push from the All Progressives Congress (APC), the reason being that the party packaged an alternative to a vacuum by way of a governorship candidate.

The nomination of Geoffrey Nnaji as the APC’s gubernatorial candidate in the 2023 election remains one of the many mistakes by the opposition in Enugu State. This mistake has continued to haunt those who stood against the flow of popular opinion among the electorate.

It was the first demonstration of the absence of qualitative competitors in the face of the nomination of a consensus candidate in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The ruling party in the state got it right at its governorship primary such that the feeble voices of dissent experimented with drab opposition politics.

One of such instances of laidback opposition was the move by the defeated governorship aspirant on the PDP platform, Mr. Chijioke Edeoga, who was propelled by some godfather wannabes to contest the election on a different platform. Even under the Labour Party, it was obvious that the candidate was not the best choice to the PDP candidate, Dr. Peter Mbah.

So, for the APC, virtually everybody in Enugu State knew that the party was Governor Hope Uzodimma’s special purpose vehicle to demonstrate his desire for political expansionism in the Southeast.

It was therefore expected that the Imo State governor’s man, Nnaji, would be planted in the party to serve as his eyes and ears.

Another election cycle is approaching, and such a personality who has always lived in the shadows of Senator Uzodimma is raising his head as a potential gover-

norship flag bearer once again. And some Enugu people are already shouting, how?

Most of those who express worry how Uche Nnaji — for that is how we all know him — has the boldness to aspire again. As a Minister, our people have been wondering whether he understands the expectations of President Bola Tinubu and his Renewed Hope Agenda for Science, Technology and Innovation.

At a time when many public-spirited individuals are setting up incubation hubs to enhance the technological and ICT skills of young people, Nigeria’s Minister for Science, Technology and Innovation is searching for how to turn his ministry into a fulcrum of activities or a place for the harvest of ideas.

One expected that Minister Nnaji should have by now outlined the essential pillars of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda as they concern the crucial topics of Science, Technology and Innovation. Is

that too much to ask for?

If Nigerians are not worried that the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation has turned into a dry ground, those of us from Enugu State can no longer hold back on this, just for the mere reason that our son and brother sits in that office.

This writer feels that the rating of the minister in office serves as a huge red flag for anybody desiring to govern Enugu State. That concern becomes acute, when viewed against the background of the current yeoman’s job being done by the incumbent, who incidentally has been in office for just 23 months.

The people of Enugu State should not be pleased to hear that President Tinubu allowed Nnaji to leave the federal cabinet for the purpose of preparing for his governorship ambition. We can do without the unnecessary heat or incredulous noise that the minister’s governorship pursuit would bring to the state.

Nnaji is a happy and easygoing young man. There can be no doubt about that.

During his last chase of the governorship, all that voters heard from him during the campaign rallies were monosyllables and attempts at policy enunciation. The verdict of our people, including rural market women, was that “nkea esoho kwa” (This one does not follow).

As a state that has been blessed with charismatic leaders, beginning from the dapper Chief Jim Nwobodo, through the intellectually mesmerising Dr. Chimaroke Nnamani and elegant Sullivan Chime, it is obvious that Nnaji’s mere appearance on the gubernatorial ballot may be a distraction to younger elements.

-Dr Ifeanyichukwu writes from University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

NOTE:

www.thisdaylive.com

opinion@thisdaylive.com

WHEN COMMUNITIES

HEAL TOGETHER

BOLUWATIFE

ADETOKUNBO writes on the quiet revolution transforming mental healthcare in Nigeria's conflict zones

See page 21

NIGERIA AND BURDEN OF CONTRADICTIONS

JOSHUA J. OMOJUWA argues the need to value our own

See page 21

EDITORIAL

TAKING THE AGRICULTURAL PATHWAY

The regret expressed over result analysis errors came across as sincere, reckons

IFEANYICHUKWU AFUBA

WHAT WENT WRONG WITH 2025 UTME?

Did we have mass failure of candidates in the 2025 tertiary institutions' qualifying examination or a deplorable conduct of the scheme by the JAMB? While it would take time and independent investigation to unravel candidates' allegation of "wrong result", the role of JAMB generally, presents another case study in the difficulty of making the Nigerian system work. No, the trouble with Nigeria is not simply a failure of leadership. It goes beyond leadership and indeed beyond political leadership. The judiciary, the legislature, the civil service, security agencies, health sector workers, universities, to mention only a few sides of public service are as dysfunctional and corrupt as various executive arms of government. What seems more characteristic of Nigeria's public life is the unwillingness to uphold the common good. Personal, narrow and group interests are brought to override the larger societal interest in many decisions and execution of public programmes. Added to the vice of privatisation of policies is the near - absence of work ethics. We routinely chant "international best practices" without corresponding commitment to upholding standards. That is why service delivery is mediocre, bumpy and slow. That is why built infrastructure and facilities deteriorate in no time. As will be seen, JAMB's controversial outing this year cannot be situated far from this background. At no other time have we witnessed the barrage of outrage that greeted this year's entrance exams. While in the last ten years, results for 2020 and 2021 were considered poor, they did not receive the widespread protests nor intensity of criticism trailing the current exercise. JAMB had announced release of the 2025 result on Friday, May 9, with emphasis on the 78 percent below 200 mark score. In 2020, under 200 point score was 79 percent; and climbed to 87 percent the following year 2021. Yet, reactions to those results were not as strong as with this year's edition. Public response to result of the April 2025 higher institutions' entry exam was largely dismissive. Significantly, candidates and or their parents rejected the low scores on their slips as incorrect. They did so with such confidence and resolve that could not be ignored. As at Monday, May 12, 2025, about 8400 candidates had reportedly filled the formal complaint form demanding access to their scripts. Typical of Nigerian government agency, JAMB leadership's initial attitude to the outcry was playing the ostrich and deflecting the heart of the matter. Reacting after 72 hours of public outcry over the doubtful results, the Board's spokesman appeared on Channels television on Monday, to read the stilted official line of candidates' errors, omissions and challenges with digital demands as the issues. This technical slant featured prominently in a briefing by the Board's registrar to announce the results on Friday, May 9, 2025. However, as the resolve to take legal steps to compel JAMB to transparently authenticate the disputed results gathered momentum, the Board finally buckled. By Monday afternoon, the JAMB leadership was forced to set aside it's stereotype of candidate technical inadequacy to pledge a factfinding review of the examination package. While we await report of investigation into the doubtful results, it's necessary to draw attention to other controversial steps by JAMB with hope that corrective action will be taken going forward.

There were problems with the much advertised mock UTME test. Some candidates were posted outside their chosen States for the exam. Defending the arrangement, JAMB's Public Communication Advisor, Fabian Benjamin told journalists that not all computer based centres were available for the mock exam. "If centres for mock in Abuja are filled up and there were available centres in Nasarawa State, candidates will be sent there" Vanguard, April 15, 2025 reported. This still does not absolve the admissions body from responsibility to place candidates where they registered. JAMB conducts two major exams in a calendar year. What does it do with the considerable time at it's disposal? Is it asking too much to say the Board ought to confirm the availability of needed facilities before commencing sale of registration forms? The crux of the matter is that this oversight, this inconvenient relocation of candidates repeats every year. Where then is the supposed value of the mock exam as mirror towards successful main exam? Conducting hassles - minimal, mock exam which involves a tiny number of candidates, should not continue to be problematic. Another instance of the Board's wrong footing is the approved publication for those taking Literature. The novel chosen this year is The Lekki Headmaster by Kabir Alabi Garba. No problem about the literary quality of the work. But the print format of the publication is a big issue. The 63 page book, by standard setting, would run up to 90 pages. The text however, is in font size ten, instead of the preferred twelve point, making the printrun tiny. Additionally it is rendered in single line spacing with the result that the pages are tight. The compression poses problem of readability, a big challenge in an environment where electricity supply is not often assured. Exams by their very nature task the mental and attitudinal faculties of students. Saddling candidates with barely legible texts in the context of a very competitive exam is unhealthy. The selection of a visually deficient title as The Lekki Headmaster reflects poorly on JAMB. The decision calls into question the judgment that approved a publication with potential of unduly tasking candidates. Why didn't JAMB insist on stress - free, readable specifications for the adopted texts? What was the Board doing all year round that it could not find a suitable, eyes - friendly publication? The impression that follows this scenario is that of a conscious attempt to cut costs. Unfortunately, this would be at the expense of

some candidates' performance. Any situation that tends to put the candidate at disadvantage should be avoided.

JAMB also got it wrong on the timeline for commencement of the exam. The slip admitting candidates for the exam clearly stated that they were to report at the various centres by 6:30am. The Labour Party 2023 presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi, was therefore right in his indictful intervention on the matter. Obi's faulting of the time schedule was justified. An official indication that a "compulsory" public event will kick off by 6:30am is invariably a recommendation for those concerned to be on the road much earlier. Ordinarily, that would pass for insensitivity on the part of the organisers. But to prescribe such time schedules under the prevailing insecurity situation in the country and for a programme involving youths and teenagers is reckless and dangerous. What attitude could be more uncaring of responsibility to society? In suggestive admission of the scandalous time fixture, JAMB spokespersons denied the 6: 30am directive, emphasising that the exam proper started at 8am. It was difficult deciding which was more ridiculous; the barefaced lies about not having communicated 6:30am to candidates or 8am exam crap; or the bungled opportunity of candour and apology. It was a low moment for the organisation. Did it not bother the management what candidates who began accreditation by 6:30am and exams by 7.00am would think of these deceptions? What lessons would these manipulations teach them about sense of public service in their country? Again, JAMB wanted to curtail expenditure by shrinking the number of days the exams would run. And again, this was to be achieved at the detriment of quality. The exam dash embarked upon by JAMB would explain the early morning schedules and exploitation of candidates whose computer systems developed problems. There were reportedly no redress if the system hung for 30 minutes or an hour. In effect, the exams in some respect, became a crash programme focused on completing a task rather than upholding set standards.

Mercifully, JAMB's admission of responsibility for the controversial mass failure came as this essay was about being completed. JAMB Registrar Professor Ishaq Oloyede's press conference of Wednesday, May 14, 2025, was a display of humanity and humility so rare in Nigeria's public affairs. His sense of accountability was in sharp contrast to the officialdom of May 9 when the candidates and Nigerians were taken for granted. The regret expressed over result analysis errors came across as sincere and I think most Nigerians would accept the apology. Although some harm has been done, the opportunity of resit for affected candidates should mitigate the extent of loss. What remains is for the JAMB authorities to internalise the lessons surrounding this chain of events in achieving better performance subsequently. And let our public officials, in high and low offices, take inspiration from this hopefully born - again experience to make themselves servants of the people dedicated to the common interest.

Afuba writes from Awka

BOLUWATIFE ADETOKUNBO writes on the

quiet revolution transforming mental healthcare in Nigeria's conflict zones

WHEN COMMUNITIES HEAL TOGETHER

In Borno State, where insurgency has left deep scars, Dr. Fatima Abba Ali, an AIG Public Leaders Programme alumnus, is pioneering a community-based approach that is bringing mental health services to thousands of children who would otherwise go unnoticed and untreated.

It is a bright morning at a primary health centre in Jere, a local government area in Borno State. Community Health Extension Workers (CHEWs) equipped with tablets and laptops are meeting with young people, their fingers moving across screens as they conduct mental health assessments using digital tools that is changing the landscape of care in this region.

Among them was Y.J.K., a bright student whose life took a challenging turn after losing his father to Boko Haram violence as a toddler. Though he excelled academically, his behaviour had begun to change in recent years—withdrawing socially, staying out late, sleeping excessively, and watching his grades decline.

"Without this community screening, his condition might have remained undetected until it became far more severe," explains Dr. Fatima Abba Ali, the visionary Consultant Psychiatrist behind the Mentaccess project, which she upgraded and expanded as her reform project during her time as a participant in the AIG Public Leaders Programme, a capacity building initiative of the Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation facilitated by the Blavatnik School of Government, University of Oxford. "Instead, he was referred to the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, diagnosed with Social Phobia and substance dependence, and received the treatment he needed."

Today, Y.J.K. is back in school and thriving—one success story among the more than 29,000 children and adolescents who have been screened through this groundbreaking initiative, Catching Them Young.

"Research consistently indicates that more than half of mental health disorders emerge during childhood or adolescence," Dr. Fatima explains. "Borno State has endured over a decade and a half of security challenges, placing children and adolescents at the heart of this crisis."

This reality formed the foundation of Mentaccess, which operates on a simple yet powerful premise: early intervention saves lives. "Why not catch them young?" she asks, a question that has become the project's unofficial motto.

The methodology is innovative yet practical. At its core is a three-tier system that begins with community health workers conducting screenings using the Mentaccess digital tool —a mobile tool that enables real-time assessment of mental health conditions, even in areas with intermittent internet connectivity.

The Power of Community Trust: What makes this approach revolutionary is how it leverages existing community structures and trusted individuals to overcome long-standing barriers to mental healthcare.

"Previously, seeking help for mental health concerns was often a difficult journey marked by stigma and lack of awareness," Dr. Fatima notes. "Individuals frequently explored numerous avenues, such as spiritual and traditional healers, often delaying or entirely missing appropriate care."

The first tier of the Mentaccess system places Community Health Workers—individuals already known and trusted within their communities—at the frontline of mental health detection. They use the digital screening tool to identify potential issues and provide basic care for mild cases, while referring more complex situations up the care pathway.

For the second tier, specially trained Psychiatric Rehabilitation Providers deliver more intensive counselling. The third tier connects patients with

psychiatrists at the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital Maiduguri, sometimes through teleconsultation services for those in remote areas.

The Mentaccess digital tool is an important innovation that can address the mental health service gap in rural communities. It enables real-time screening that guides non-specialist health workers in identifying mental health disorders.

"Worldwide, we are witnessing how digital tools are being used to better healthcare access," Dr. Fatima says. "The Mentaccess digital tool allows operators to know the severity of cases, providing counseling and other basic psychological treatments for mild cases, and indicating cases that need referral to specialists."

This technological solution has not been without challenges. In areas where internet connectivity is inconsistent—often due to ongoing security issues, real-time data collection can be delayed. The project has adapted by developing offline functionality and establishing physical referral networks when digital communication is not possible.

Perhaps the most delicate aspect of bringing mental health services to traditional communities is navigating cultural attitudes. Here again, Dr. Fatima's approach demonstrates profound wisdom.

"We use indigenous healthcare workers who understand the nuances between various cultures in the state," she explains. "Efforts were also made to establish relationships and understanding among community gatekeepers, such as traditional leaders, spiritual leaders, and institutional leaders."

This cultural sensitivity extends to how mental health concepts are communicated. Rather than imposing external frameworks, the project identifies and encourages culturally healthy attitudes while gently discouraging stigmatising beliefs through awareness campaigns.

A Message of Hope: When asked about the most important message that needs to reach rural communities regarding mental health, Dr. Fatima is clear: "Mental health disorders, just like physical health illnesses, are treatable with appropriate treatment. People with mental health challenges should not be stigmatised as it can happen to anyone."

She emphasises that mental health conditions arise from a complex interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors—from physical illness and psychological trauma to financial difficulties. This holistic understanding informs the project's approach to treatment and prevention.

The AIG Public Leaders Programme, facilitated by the Blavatnik School of Government, University of Oxford, was instrumental in helping Dr. Fatima upgrade and implement the Mentaccess project. The programme, designed to support transformational public sector leaders, provided her with the resources, mentorship, and network needed to bring her vision to life.

JOSHUA J. OMOJUWA argues the need to value our own

NIGERIA AND BURDEN OF CONTRADICTIONS

Daniels is a Nigerian programmer who attracts jobs from all around the world. One day, he negotiated another one via his Twitter inbox. It looked like a straightforward negotiation between him and his unnamed client. Everything was going smoothly until the client asked Daniels for one detail; where are you from? Daniels answered that question in its shortest form, “I am Nigerian” he said. The next thing he got was, “Hello, I am sorry we’re not open to working with Nigerians at the moment. If there are changes in the future we will let you know”. That was meant to be the end of that situation.

There was indeed a twist. Daniels had posted, “I genuinely wished I lied about being Nigeria”, whilst sharing this story. This was one of those X posts that earned Nigerian leaders lashes and insults from different angles. It is hard to say most of them do not deserve it. Nigeria is here because of years of mismanagement and other outcomes of poor governance. X being extra though, the users were always going to point the fingers everywhere it ought to be. Within minutes, Daniels tweets had been dug out from the archive. One could excuse the tweets if they were from several years ago, but these ones were posts made in 2025, at times just some days from the post that generated the conversation.

“I miss Yahoo”, “money dey Yahoo, no gree anybody deceive you”, “bad or not, I give Yahoo boys accolades, do you know what it takes to convince someone you met online to give you $10k?” and other such similar posts. Some of the posts were posted this month, the same month Daniels came to taste the consequences of the life of crime he at least endorses. One of the toughest things for many Nigerians to do is to establish a connection between their choices and actions and some of the unwholesome realities of the country they complain about. How is it possible for someone to love cybercrime and cybercriminals and in the same breath cry about one of the consequences of their activities? Daniels is not alone on this front. We have witnessed some of our most corrupt, incompetent and unpatriotic leaders and former leaders preach to the country about morality, the need for competence in governance and patriotism.

Nigeria today is the compound effect of all our actions through the years. We have even formed self-defeating mindsets out of some of them. If I got appointed into a government position today, a lot of the ‘congratulations’ messages will be followed with requests of assistance. Those expectations are based on the understanding that I will help myself in that position. Some of those you manage to help will overlook whatever shortcomings of your time in office, others will blame you for not helping them and there will be those who’d accuse you of being corrupt. The fewest of the lot are those who can see that they are a part of an unwholesome cycle that makes corruption the norm.

We sneer at enterprise. Seyi Adekunle OON, known as Vodi, was delivering 400kg worth of finished fashion products in Freetown, Sierra Leone, the same Monday morning he had to endure slandering posts on social media. It was no surprise that it took other entrepreneurs to put his success as a fashion entrepreneur into context. Since 2001, Vodi has gone from a regular tailoring outfit to one catering to the needs of some of Africa’s richest and most powerful people. There is hardly a private spot in Nigeria that commands the sort of power the Vodi HQ in Wuse 2 has been able to attract; the crème of

Nigerian society, all of them queuing to do business with a man who has elevated the craft of tailoring into a mega business.

Despite the testimonials from his old clients whose lives had also changed since their first Vodi purchase, in the midst of evidence that the man continues to treat his business with the same seriousness and vigour it took him back when he was just another tailor, the average Nigerian mentality is to treat enterprise with sneers and suspicions, to look for blots on the escutcheon of success stories and to wait for those, “I told you so” opportunities. It remains shocking to me that we do not see that this mindset is deserving of our collective reality as one of the poorest people in the world.

We have mostly suffered the cost of poor leadership. This we have known and talked about for decades. What we refuse to acknowledge is, if the personalities of our leaders have changed through the years and the outcomes of leadership stayed the same, there appears to be an issue with the pool the leadership emerges from. Our leaders are us, we are our leaders. The fundamental difference is opportunity. The motivations and mentalities of the average Nigerian aren’t better than those of the average public office holder. You could argue that the average public office holder is more competent than the average Nigerian. So then, the only reason the average Nigerian ‘is better than’ the average Nigerian in public office is opportunity.

Our mindsets do not differ much either. We are happy to pay the extra sum for foreign products, including designer bags and shoes. Some Nigerians don’t even mind paying a little extra for knockoffs, but we hesitate when the time comes to pay fractions of those sum to buy Nigerian brands. The Nigerian brands who have built the structure to attract premium prices are derided for being overpriced whilst those that aren’t so accused must suffer from being talked about as tools of every imaginable crime, other than what they are; companies creating value and attracting money. We want to see our country and people become rich, but we are suspicious of wealth created from enterprise whilst we adore billionaire politicians with no known source of wealth creation. Then we cry about the state of Nigeria. We are special.

Omojuwa is chief strategist, Alpha Reach/BGX Publishing

Adetokunbo

Editor,

Editorial Page PETER

ISHAKA

Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com

TAKING THE AGRICULTURAL PATHWAY

It’s crucial to taking many of the youths out of the street

The prevailing economic downturn has worsted the capacity of Nigerians so much so that necessities of life, including food and healthcare are becoming luxuries. Available statistics paint a dire situation of millions of idle youths condemned to the street corner and economically inactive. A combination of sustained negative economic growth and an uncontrolled demographic bulge has put the country in a very difficult and potentially explosive situation. Given the foregoing, we welcome the recent declaration of emergency on food security by President Bola Tinubu whose administration has pledged to give practical effect to the much-talked about diversification of the economy from oil to agriculture.

A former European Union (EU) ambassador to Nigeria and Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Ms Samuela Isopi, once spoke to the “shockwaves already being felt on fuel, fertilisers and food prices,” even before the current crisis occasioned by the removal of petrol subsidy and merging of the Naira exchange rates. “Nigeria’s new economy should be focused on finding a path through difficult terrain, identifying opportunities and adopting a sustainable business approach,” she had admonished with little sign that anybody was paying attention at the time. For decades, there has been no real commitment to the agricultural sector which nonetheless still contributes the bulk of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in the country. More worrisome is that Nigeria continues to neglect cash crops like cocoa, oil palm and groundnuts, which for years constituted the mainstay of the country’s economy. In the early 1960s, Nigeria’s palm oil production accounted for 43 per cent of the world production, but nowadays it accounts for less than seven per cent of global output, with most of the production coming from dispersed smallholders. Meanwhile, Malaysia, which sourced its first oil-palm seed from Nigeria,

is the world’s second largest producer. The case of cocoa is lamentable because Nigeria used to rank among the first five largest producers before the neglect. Nigeria’s cocoa production which peaked at around 400,000 tonnes a year in the 1970s now accounts for far less. This is despite the best efforts of the National Cocoa Development Committee (NCDC) to rehabilitate old firms, supply heavily subsidised agro-chemicals, start new plantations or replant aged ones with highyield trees, and promote the local consumption of cocoa-based products to boost prices.

Nigeria continues to neglect cash crops like cocoa, oil palm and groundnuts, which for years constituted the mainstay of the country’s economy

T H I S D AY

EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU

DEPUTY EDITOR WALE OLALEYE

MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO

DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU

CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI

EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN

THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE

T H I S D AY N

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA

GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU

DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE

DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI

SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH

ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI

CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI

DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO

TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com

Letters to the Editor

Also, the famous groundnut pyramids, which hallmarked the groundnut boom in the 1970s started disappearing with the discovery of oil. Not even the establishment of the African Groundnut Council under the aegis of the African Union to promote the production, consumption and exportation of groundnut oil in six countries of Africa including Nigeria, has helped matters. Like the case of oil palm, groundnut production is done today mostly by small holders. Worse, the largely subsistence agricultural sector has not kept up with rapid population growth, and Nigeria, once a large net exporter of food, now imports most of its food products. Even with all the arable land, Nigeria is now a nation that cannot feed its people.

Due principally to this neglect, the economy is sadly over-dependent on the oil sector, which provides less than 25 per cent of GDP, despite accounting for more than 90 per cent of foreign exchange earnings, and about 65 per cent of government revenues. Oil has also created a culture of fast money through government patronage and corruption. Now that the Tinubu administration has started to demonstrate some seriousness in diversifying the economy from oil to others sectors capable of putting millions of our young people to work, hope is being rekindled. But for the whole idea to work, it would take a collaboration between the federal government and authorities in the 36 states.

Letters in response to specific publications in THISDAY should be brief (150-300 words) and straight to the point. Interested readers may send such letters along with their contact details to opinion@thisdaylive.com. We also welcome comments and opinions on topical local, national and international issues provided they are well-written and should also not be longer than (750- 1000 words). They should be sent to opinion@thisdaylive. com along with photograph, email address and phone numbers of the writer.

SEYI TINUBU

Since his father, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, became President of Nigeria, Seyi Tinubu has not been allowed to ‘drink water and drop cup’. It seems that for some, his mere existence, presence, and actions, no matter how benign, are now subject to public scrutiny, often laced with unfair criticism and unspoken resentment. The question begs to be asked: What exactly is the issue with Seyi Tinubu? Is it that he is his father's son? It started subtly when he was seen accompanying his father to official engagements, both foreign and local. This, for some inexplicable reason, sparked commentary. But I still struggle to see the problem. The President is not just the commander-in-chief; he is a husband, a father, a family man. Like any man in that position, it is natural, perhaps even emotionally necessary, to have moments where his children stand beside him. Seyi Tinubu’s presence on these trips is not a policy decision. It is not an official posting. It is simply a son supporting his father. In fact, I enjoyed watching him dance behind his father in Anambra. It was human. It was light. How is that criminal? We must learn to distinguish between optics and abuse of office. A leader, including his child on ceremonial or diplomatic trips, is a long-standing tradition across global political systems.

AND THE BURDEN OF HIS NAME

The Obamas, the Bushes, the Trudeaus, the Macrons, you name them. Family is often visible in public life, not because they wield power but because their bond with the leader is part of what humanizes the institution of leadership. Does Seyi’s presence obstruct governance? Is he signing deals or chairing state functions? No. So, again, what’s the fuss?

Then came the Iftar outreaches. This, too, ignited backlash. Why? During Ramadan, Seyi visited several northern states, sharing food and goodwill with young Muslims as part of a charitable gesture. This is something he has done in previous years, even before his father became President. Yet now, the same act is suddenly suspicious? Hypocritical even? Why do we in this country expend so much energy attacking shadows instead of confronting substance? It is as though we are committed to reading malice into every action of a man simply because he bears a certain surname.

And then there was the NANS drama, the allegation that thugs linked to Seyi Tinubu disrupted a factional student leadership inauguration. The accuser claimed he was kidnapped and beaten. But Seyi Tinubu strongly denied the allegation, calling it entirely false and defamatory. The so-called factional

President has reportedly retracted the claim. In another statement, “the recognized NANS President (whatever that means)" deemed the accusations politically motivated. On this particular issue, the CAN President in the north, Reverend John, Joseph Wayab, captures it succinctly when he said the President’s son should not be subjected to blackmail and propaganda just because he is Tinubu’s son.

There was also the curious case of Eedris Abdulkareem, who, rather than address the President directly, decided to “tell Seyi to tell his father.” Huh?

Is it that “Seyi Tinubu” makes for an easy headline that the moment you attach his name to anything, you can be sure it will trend? But why?

I hear things like “he is the de facto Vice President” in casual hangouts and cannot help but chuckle at the absurdity. The accusation is not just baseless, it is a betrayal of common sense. We have turned the man into a caricature of everything we think is wrong with the government, without any evidence or even a moment of sober reflection.

Chiechefulam Ikebuiro, chiechefulamikebuiro@gmail.com

BUSINESS WORLD

Hammed Shittu in Ilorin

An expert in International Maritime Law from the Department of Private and Property Law, University of Ilorin, Kwara state, Professor Abdulrasaq Owolabi Abdulkadir, has emphasised that the blue economy is not only vital for environmental stability and biodiversity but also central to food security, livelihoods, and the socio-economic well-being of the country.

To this end, he called for the urgent need to harmonise the

economic, social, and security dimensions of ocean sustainability.

Abdulkadir stated this in Ilorin while delivering the 280th inaugural lecture of the University titled, “Rascalism, Rascality and Resentment in the EBB of Marine and Blue Economy.”

According to him, “The Blue economy is not only vital for environmental stability and biodiversity but also central to food security, livelihoods, and the socio-economic well-being of Nigerians and other global nations.”

He highlighted how the Gulf of

Guinea has become a haven for piracy and maritime terrorism, serving as a stark reminder of the persistent threats plaguing the sector.

He also called attention to transnational crimes, deliberate destruction of marine life, illegal fishing, human trafficking, and the dumping of hazardous waste, such as the infamous MV Murevia incident, on African shores by developed nations.

Abdulkadir condemned these acts as manifestations of “radicalism, rascality, and resentment”, which according to him has continued to

hinder the potential of the marine economy and erode trust between local communities and governing bodies.

Drawing attention to the oil spills in Nigeria’s Niger Delta, he identified environmental degradation and corporate impunity as root causes of growing resentment, warning that, “militarised responses only escalate tensions and entrench criminality”.

The strategy of pre-emptive strikes and militarisation,” he said, “has not won peace, but has bred a ‘might is right’ order on the high seas.”

Abdulkadir advocated prioritising good governance over militarisation as a sustainable strategy to tackle piracy in the Gulf of Guinea.

He argued that meaningful governance reforms, rather than an over-reliance on military presence, would yield more lasting results in addressing the root causes of maritime insecurity.

The erudite scholar also criticised Nigeria’s dependence on private contractors for maritime security, describing it as an unsuitable and ineffective transplant of foreign models that do not align with

local operational realities. He stressed that only maritime enforcement actions sanctioned by the United Nations Security Council should be recognised as legitimate. He pointed out that, “Unauthorised actions between states pose serious risks to international peace and must be firmly rejected.”

Abdulkadir stressed that the oceans, as “common heritage of mankind,” must be protected through equitable, collaborative, and lawful frameworks that prevent environmental abuse and social injustice.

Experts Berate Nigeria for Neglecting Drone Technology for Intelligence Gathering, Surveillance

Aviation experts have called on the federal government to fully utilise the services of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) also known as drones to effectively gather information through surveillance, improve security in Nigeria and save lives of the citizens.

The experts said drones could save lives by reducing the presence of military personnel in harm’s way, save cost of air operation by using the equipment instead of aircraft and also use it in reconnaissance, mapping of areas under threat and embark on search and rescue mission.

This was part of the deliberations at the fifth edition of the International Drone Technology Expo and Conference (Dronetecx 2025) in Lagos.

The experts called on the government to harness drone technology for national development, youth empowerment and regulatory excellence.

Addressing participants at the event, Managing Director of the Dronetecx platform, Mr. Fortune Idu, stressed the growing relevance of Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS), especially for non-aviation sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, security, and disaster management.

Idu said: “This fast-growing industry opens immense opportunities for African youth. Drones are not just flying gadgets; they are economic tools that are creating jobs, enhancing efficiency, and improving lives across key sectors.

“Drone 101 is a public awareness initiative that equips SME operators and recreational users with essential safety knowledge,” Idu explained, adding; “It also aligns with the NCAA’s efforts to document, regulate, and standardise drone activity nationwide.”

This year’s edition of the conference focused on building awareness about safe and secure drone operations through a signature seminar series, with the theme: ‘Drone 101: RPAS – What to Know’.

In his speech, the Registrar of the African Aviation and Aerospace University (AAAU), Mustapha Sheikh Abdullahi, pointed out the role of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education in advancing

drone careers and innovation.

Also, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) said it remained committed to ensuring drone operations in Nigeria are safe, legal, and properly regulated, even in the absence of globally certified drone aircraft.

Speaking at the event, NCAA’s Director, Aerodromes and Airspace Standards and Head, Flight Safety Group, Mr. Godwin Balang, emphasised the authority’s proactive approach in addressing the unique regulatory challenges presented by unmanned aircraft systems.

He acknowledged that no drone in Nigeria currently meets the criteria for type certification, a reality that has forced the NCAA to chart its own path in crafting

regulatory standards.

Balang said the absence of certified drones has necessitated the creation of bespoke frameworks tailored to the Nigerian context.

Recognising the rapid growth of drone usage long before formal global regulations emerged, Balang noted that the NCAA began by issuing advisory circulars and has since advanced to implementing the Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations (Nig. CARs) 2023, which specifically address drone operations.

He described the regulations as a strong starting point, likening them to the early aviation rules that eventually led to the development of modern aircraft.

Balang said NCAA is working to approve drone training centres under a revised framework.

“So, in another two months, you will be able to have a school that is approved but we won’t call it approved training organization not to confuse it with type certificated aircraft but it is going to have NCAA approval then we will have people that would be able to go there and it will also be an incentive for any other person that would want to come into this. We’re just finalizing the process,” he said. Balang said the training centre would play a pivotal role in building local capacity for drone operations and in line with efforts to improve access and compliance, the NCAA has also advanced work on its drone registration portal.

Chinedu Eze

R-L: Director Cabotage Services, Nigerian Maritime Administration and safety Agency (NIMASA), Kabir Murnai; Executive, Maritime Labour and Cabotage Services, NIMASA, Jibril Abba; Director General, NIMASA, Dr Dayo Mobereola; Chairman/CEO Sea Transport Services Limited, Aminu Umar; Vice President, Nigerian Chamber of Shipping, Ify Akerele; Executive Director Operations, NIMASA, Fatai Taiye Adeyemi and SADG (Administration and Operations), NIMASA, Olatunji Ahmed during a Stakeholders Interactive Forum on the Operationalisation of the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF) in Lagos… recently

FG Urged to Decentralise Nigeria College of Aviation Technology

Stories by Chinedu Eze

Industry stakeholder and CEO of Starburst Aviation, UK, Captain David Olubadewo, has urged the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, to reconsider plans to decentralise the Nigeria College of Aviation Technology (NCAT) Zaria.

According to him, the school has achieved the status of an International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), Regional Centre of Excellence and remains one of the best aviation schools in Africa.

Olubadewo, who made the call recently in Lagos while fielding questions from newsmen, stressed that NCAT remained a unique institution and one of the best aviation schools in Africa.

“NCAT, as it is currently, is a great institution. It’s one of the best in

Africa, if not the best. Location-wise, everything about it is unique. It’s a centre of excellence. Therefore, the plan to decentralise it is ill-advised. Having observed aviation training institutions internationally, I can attest to NCAT’s unique and highly valuable attributes. Some people may not be able to say what I’m saying,” Olubadewo stated.

He argued that instead of splitting NCAT, the federal government should elevate it to a full-fledged university, akin to Embry-Riddle University, or affiliate it with top American universities specialising in aviation, noting that this would further strengthen NCAT’s regional centre of excellence position.

Highlighting Nigeria’s vast population and limited aviation schools, Olubadewo proposed establishing four new aviation schools: one in the South-East,

one in the South-West, one in the North-Central, and one in the NorthEast of Nigeria; creating new schools across different geopolitical zones of Nigeria to make aviation education accessible to diverse backgrounds and tribes, regardless of financial constraints.

“For me, I don’t believe the right thing is to split NCAT, even being a former pilot instructor in NCAT Zaria; at least I have worked there, and I know what the school is all about, and I would plead with him that it is a centre of excellence on its own. It should be supported and upgraded to a proper university.

“In Nigeria we should not be limiting people’s children or the future of their children because they are poor. No. We already have a class distinction in Nigeria and we shouldn’t be promoting that in aviation,” Olubadewo said.

Nigeria Presents Digital Trade Survey at Inaugural AfCFTA Forum in Lusaka

Nigeria, as Co-Champion of Digital Trade under AfCFTA is committed to building an, inclusive, and globally competitive digital economy under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, has said. She stated this on the sidelines of the inaugural AfCFTA Digital Trade Forum, hosted by the AfCFTA Secretariat in Lusaka, Zambia, where the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, with technical support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Regional AfCFTA Portfolio, unveiled the results of a first of

its kind national Digital Trade Survey and Mapping Exercise.

The minister had recently issued a nationwide call for submissions and led active stakeholder engagement to ensure participation in Nigeria’s Digital Trade Survey. The result is Africa’s first-ever Digital Services Directory—a resource offering detailed insights into Nigeria’s fast-growing digital economy and its potential to scale across the continent.

“I am proud to unveil the findings from Nigeria’s first-ofits-kind digital mapping effort,” Oduwole remarked during the forum. “This snapshot of 17 dynamic sectors provides deep insights

into our digital economy and the bold ambitions of its trailblazers. Through this national survey, we have confirmed Nigeria is not just participating in Africa’s digital revolution—we are helping shape it. We had set out to identify Nigeria’s digital service providers, pinpoint priority African markets, inform national policy, and shape Nigeria’s leadership in implementing the AfCFTA Protocol on Digital Trade.”

Some of the key findings, she said is that Nigerian innovation is powered by youth, with 41% of digital entrepreneurs under 35 years old-Over half of all surveyed digital services firms emerged in just the last three years.

Conference to Discuss E-Commerce in Cargo Haulage

The importance of e-commerce and how it impacts on logistics strategies, enhancing faster delivery demands and technology will be the main theme of discourse at the 2025 CHINET Aviacargo Conference that will be held in Lagos.

The conference will bring together key players in Africa’s logistics, aviation, export, and e-commerce sectors. This year’s theme, ‘How E-Commerce is Shaping the Future of Logistics in Africa’, will be analysied by seasoned experts in the sector.

The event, which will hold alongside the 21st Akwaaba African Travel Market, will highlight the rapid transformation of the supply chain, air cargo operations, and overall economic growth in Nigeria and the continent at large.

E-commerce has become a powerful driver of economic development across Africa, increasing the demand for efficient logistics, expanded aviation networks, and

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)

enhanced insurance frameworks.

According to Chair and Group CEO of Pacific, Vivian Lau, global trade in the e-commerce sector is projected to grow from $6 trillion in 2024 to $8 trillion by 2026, further reinforcing Africa’s position as a key player in the evolving digital marketplace.

In Nigeria, the impact of e-commerce is evident across various industries, particularly logistics, aviation, exports, and insurance. The rise of online marketplaces has significantly improved trade efficiency, creating a higher demand for better transportation networks, advanced warehousing solutions,

and seamless cargo movement. The aviation industry is also witnessing a surge in air freight services as businesses seek faster and more reliable delivery options for crossborder trade. Similarly, exporters are leveraging digital platforms to expand their reach to global markets, while the insurance sector is innovating to provide more tailored risk management solutions for online transactions and supply chain operations.

Despite the rapid progress in e-commerce, several challenges continue to hinder its full potential in Nigeria and the wider African market.

Firm Unveils AI Services to Accelerate Sector Transformation

Sunday Ehigiator

As part of efforts to contribute its quota towards the sustainable enhancement of the Artificial and Cyber security niche space in the Technology sector, Teknowledge has officially unveiled its AI-First Expert Technology Services in Nigeria. This, the firm announced yesterday in Lagos during its Nigeria CxO Summit 2025 which saw industry stakeholders and players tackle and provide technology driven solutions to the problems facing the sector.

On his part, Chief Revenue and Transformation Officer at TeKnowledge,Nidal Abou-Ltaif, pointed out that Nigeria has always been a nation of transformation right from the ancient trade networks of Kano to the fintech revolution and Nollywood’s global rise. Abou-Ltaif added: “Progress here has always been driven by purpose. Hence, today Nigerian business leaders aren’t just exploring AI, they are acting on it with urgency, focus, and vision.”

Air WAtCh

Bracing the Challenge of Airport Infrastructure Maintenance

Chinedu Eze

One major challenge of public infrastructure is the quick depreciation of facilities due to frequent usage and poor maintenance.

In Nigeria, the issue with poor maintenance culture is quite obvious, as concerned authorities rarely abort such wear and tear through pre-emptive remedial actions. So, public facilities degenerate to the alarm and discomfiture of the citizens.

A public thoroughfare shining after it has been built will develop potholes and become death trap for years before government will commission rehabilitation. Sometimes something tragic may happen to wake up a concerned government agencies to their responsibilities.

So, generally, Nigerians have imbibed it in their sub-consciousness that what is broken today may not be repaired in the foreseeable future, and they are sometimes shocked when immediate action is taken in contrast to their expectation. It is this disdainful disposition towards public infrastructure by government and its agencies that made many Nigerians to believe that government is not working, despite its efforts to sustain the country.

In the aviation industry, it is the same culture, neglect of facilities from the terminals to the runways, poor lighting, poor marking at the ramp and taxiways and sometimes, poor communication system.

But Nigeria has recorded a mileage in the aviation industry since President Tinubu’s administration, compared to what happened under the previous administrations. Under Buhari’s administration, the Managing Directors of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), were being changed in quick succession at the whimsy of the Minister. It was because of the frequent changes that stakeholders started complaining severely about the ministry’s interferences in the aviation agencies then.

But since Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku was appointed as the Managing Director and CEO of FAAN,

there seemed to be some stability, and she is the first female Managing Director in FAAN. Recent interviews with FAAN staff, revealed that Kuku is a silent achiever who would rather show you what she has done than to talk about it.

Recently THISDAY was part of the media team that carried out facility tour of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos and also gathered information on other airports in the country. The tour revealed tremendous transformation going on at different airports under the management of FAAN.

Touring through different parts of the Lagos airport and interview with senior officials of the agency, revealed a lot of progress has been made so far. In the area of training, FAAN under Kuku, has embarked on training of the agency’s personnel in different departments.

“We have made considerable strides in closing the training gaps that existed. It gives me great pleasure to report that we have trained a significant number of staff this year, equipping them with the skills needed to excel in their roles. Our safety efforts have been recognized internationally, particularly at the ACI event held in South Africa. We received awards for our commitment to safety, which speaks volumes about the dedication and hard work of our team in this vital area,” Kuku said.

Under Kuku, FAAN has trained 1674 Aviation Security (AVSEC) personnel, 211 engineers, 558 in operations, 3238 workers on safety, 55 on environmental services, 124 on security, 3933 on general training and 623 attended different conferences. Some industry stakeholders also benefited from some of the training by FAAN. Other accomplishments by FAAN under Kuku, include enhanced passenger facilitation and travel experience.

the story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

“Yet, as innovation scales, structural challenges persist. Fragmented systems, limited AI-specific talent, and evolving regulatory frameworks continue to slow widespread adoption. Nigeria’s National AI Strategy highlights the need for stronger cross-sector alignment to ensure that AI-driven progress is inclusive, sustainable, and strategic. Which is why TeKnowledge’s AI-First approach focuses on helping clients move from ambition to action, scaling solutions that are ethical, locally relevant, and built to last.”

Speaking at the Summit, Africa Territory Director, TeKnowledge, Olugbolahan Olusanya Stated that this initiative is an exciting milestone for the firm as it is one that reflects how far TeKnowledge has come and the future it is building together with its ecosystem.

He said, “Our new brand and AI-First Expert Technology Services model are grounded in what has always mattered most: people, trust, and progress.”

The management and staff of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) with heavy hearts announce the sudden demise of MR. JOHN, BULUS ZANGO on May 12, 2025 at the age of 54 years.

Late Mr. John, Bulus Zango joined the services, the defunct Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) on April 4, 2006.

Until his death, he was a senior officer in the office of the Commission Chief Executive, Head Office, Abuja.

May his soul rest in peace. Amen.

MR. JOHN BULUS ZANGO

29th December, 1970 - 12th May, 2025 BURIAL ARRANGEMENTS TO BE ANNOUNCED BY THE FAMILY.

Signed: MANAGEMENT

To Restore Dignity, Nurture Hope for Orphans, Elderly, Evangelist

Ebuka Obi’s Seraphic Foundation Begins New Chapter of Compassion

In a powerful display of compassion and commitment to community welfare, the Zion Prayer Movement Outreach recently unveiled the Seraphic Orphanage and Home for the Elderly in Mgbirichi, Ohaji Egbema, Imo State, marking the first-ever dual-purpose care facility for orphans and the elderly in the state. Chiemelie ezeobi writes that beyond being a shelter, it is a symbol of renewed dignity for the forgotten and a safe haven for the abandoned. Built by Evangelist Chukwuebuka anozie Obi through the Seraphic Home Foundation, the home offers free accommodation, food, medical care, and education to its residents, while stimulating economic and social development across the region

Anew dawn recently rose for the elderly and orphans in Imo State as the Zion Prayer Movement Outreach officially unveiled the Seraphic Orphanage and Home for the Elderly in Mgbirichi, Ohaji Egbema Local Government Area in Imo State.

This initiative, the first of its kind in the state, represents a bold stride towards inclusive social welfare and compassionate community development.

Inaugurated on April 21, 2025, by the Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma, the facility is set to redefine care for the most vulnerable members of society—offering them dignity, security and a renewed sense of belonging.

“This project is a watershed moment in the provision of care for the elderly, the needy, and the less privileged,” said Governor Uzodimma.

“Evangelist Ebuka’s decision to expand the ministry’s operations in Imo has placed the state on a path to greater global recognition. I foresaw this impact when I initially allocated land for the ministry’s headquarters in Ngor Okpala.”

The Seraphic Home, a vision realised by the founder and spiritual leader of Zion Prayer Movement Outreach, Evangelist Chukwuebuka Anozie Obi, was established through the Seraphic Home Foundation (SHF)—a non-profit organisation dedicated to uplifting disadvantaged lives through charity, education, and health support.

“THINkINg HOmE” aND BuIlDINg HOpE

In his welcome remarks, Evangelist Obi emphasised that the facility was born from a deep desire to serve God through service to humanity.

“This state-of-the-art facility will provide a safe

and nurturing environment for orphans and elderly individuals, offering them a sense of belonging and care,” he said. “The home will provide shelter, food, clothing, education, and healthcare—ensuring that residents receive the support they need to thrive.”

He extended an open invitation to elderly citizens without caregivers to benefit from the home’s free accommodation and care, describing the initiative as part of a broader national vision.

“More of such projects will be cited in other parts of the country,” he declared.

The Seraphic Home is a sanctuary that fuses compassion with infrastructure, designed not just to house the vulnerable but to empower them with holistic care, comfort, and purpose.

INFRaSTRuCTuRE wITH ImpaCT

Beyond its humanitarian intent, the orphanage and care home is also projected to serve as a stimulus for local economic and social development.

The facility is expected to Create employment for caregivers, administrators, security personnel, and maintenance workers; Stimulate economic growth through local procurement of goods and services; and Attract visitors and investors, positioning Imo State as a hub for socially responsible development.

According to Evangelist Obi, “The facility will also offer opportunities for community engagement and volunteerism, and serve as a platform for skills development and capacity building for caregivers and staff.”

The project aligns with the SHF’s broader mission, which includes the provision of educational scholarships to over 60 underprivileged children annually and funding for patients unable to afford

life-saving treatments and medical bills across various health establishments.

a VOTE OF CONFIDENCE IN THE STaTE

The decision to relocate the headquarters of Zion Prayer Movement Outreach to Zion City, Ngor Okpala, and invest in this significant infrastructure in Mgbirichi is viewed as a strategic move and a statement of trust in the state’s future.

“This initiative demonstrates that with the right vision and leadership, Imo State can become a hub for social innovation and community development,” said Evangelist Obi. “We thank His Excellency, Most Distinguished Senator Hope Odidika Uzodimma, for providing the enabling environment and security in the state for investments to thrive.”

Governor Uzodimma, in his remarks during the commissioning, reaffirmed his administration’s support for initiatives that improve the lives of ordinary citizens. “We are delighted that this impactful project is taking root in our state,” he said. “The presence of Zion Ministry in Imo affirms our capacity to be a beacon of hope for others.”

COmmENDaTIONS

The launch of the Seraphic Home has drawn admiration from community leaders, local residents, and religious organisations, many of whom have lauded the project as “long overdue” and “deeply needed.”

Mrs. Agatha Nwosu, a local market woman, described the home as a “Godsend” for families

struggling to care for aged parents or orphaned children. “For some of us, this is more than a charity. It is a chance at life for people who would otherwise have nothing,” she said.

Similarly, Mr. Obinna Eze, a teacher in Ohaji Egbema, noted the educational opportunities the home brings for orphaned children. “This is an investment in the next generation. These children will now have a shot at education, healthcare, and a future,” he observed.

With plans already underway to replicate the project in other states, Zion Prayer Movement Outreach is setting a new benchmark for faith-based organisations engaging in development work. For Evangelist Obi, the home is not the end—but a beginning. “We are just getting started,” he said. “God has called us to lift others. As long as we are blessed, we will continue to give.”

a mODEl FOR SOCIal TRaNSFORmaTION, NEw BEgINNINgS

The Seraphic Orphanage and Home for the Elderly stands as a shining example of what is possible when faith meets vision, and when leadership meets compassion. It tells the story of how one man’s calling to serve God has become a lifeline for many—and a model for others to emulate.

As the sun set on the inauguration day, there was a palpable sense of hope in the air—a feeling that something extraordinary had been planted in the soil of Mgbirichi. For the elderly who will now find comfort in their twilight years, and the children who will grow with love, education and support, the Seraphic Home is more than a building. It is a new beginning.

Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma, unveiling the home with Founder and Spiritual Leader of Zion Prayer Movement Outreach, Evangelist Chukwuebuka Anozie Obi (middle); and Senator Osita Izunaso, representing Imo West (Orlu) constituency (far left)

A safe and nurturing environment for orphans and elderly individuals

Aerial view of Zion Prayer Movement Outreach’s Seraphic Orphanage and Home for the Elderly in Mgbirichi, Ohaji Egbema Local Government Area in Imo State

Udoma: Seplat Energy Marks New Era with MPNU Acquisition

Kayode Tokede

On the back of its landmark acquisition of Mobil Production Nigeria Unlimited (MPNU), and revenue exceeding $1.1 billion, the Chairman of Seplat Energy Plc, Mr. Udoma Udo Udoma, has described the 2024 financial performance as the best in the corporate history of the company.

Speaking at the company’s post-Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Lagos, he described 2024 performance as “transformational,” solidifying Seplat’s emergence as Nigeria’s leading independent energy powerhouse.

Udoma affirmed that the company’s performance for the 2024 financial year not only met but reinforced the Board and management’s expectations.

“We achieved our key targets across production and operational efficiency,

delivering strong cash flow and shareholder returns. The acquisition of MPNU on December 12, 2024, has more than doubled our production and substantially expanded our reserves. These assets, with their world-class pedigree, mark a new frontier for our growth ambitions,” he added.

He explained further that, “We believe the future is very bright for the newly enlarged Seplat Energy. We plan to invest in both our Onshore and SEPNU businesses to increase production in both divisions, at the same time investing in maintenance and integrity activities to ensure the infrastructure will continue to support production well into the future. Our gas division will grow rapidly with the enormous gas resources offshore as well as the already established gas business onshore.”

Udoma noted that despite

current softening in global oil prices, the company is structured for long-term resilience.

The CEO of Seplat Energy, Mr. Roger Brown reinforced the chairman’s remarks, stating that Seplat’s business is in great shape, with production now three times larger and reserves almost twice as much as before.

“We operate 11 blocks, eight of which are under our management. We are also a dominant gas player in Nigeria,” he said.

He said, “The increased reserves and production that the Seplat Energy Producing Nigeria Unlimited (SEPNU) assets add to Seplat Energy’s operations is significant, making us to consolidate on our position as the leader, and this is a significant responsibility of stewardship of Nigeria’s natural resources, which we do not take lightly.”

Wema Bank’s Purple Academy Shines At GlobalCCU Awards, Paris

Wema Bank, Nigeria’s oldest indigenous bank, has been announced the gold winner of the 2025 Global Council of Corporate Universities Awards (GlobalCCU) Award for ‘Best Corporate University Culture.’ Held in Paris, the awards recognised the bank’s training institute, Purple Academy, for its excellence and strategic impact in driving learning culture.

Hosted every two years and considered the gold standard for corporate education, the GlobalCCU Awards played host to the world’s most innovative and high-impact corporate universities, evaluating nominees through a rigorous multi-phase process

led by an international jury. The award also celebrates corporate universities that demonstrate measurable value for people, business, society, and the planet.

“This win is more than just a global recognition of our learning strategy as a bank, it’s a powerful validation of what we have stood for over the past 80 years,” said Managing Director/CEO of Wema Bank, Moruf Oseni.

“At Wema, our transformation has always started with our people. Purple Academy is one of our promises in motion to equip every member of our workforce with the tools to grow, lead, and innovate as we evolve and adapt to our

SystemsNigeria, Olu Aruike during the signing of a $5 million investment to expand access to reliable, renewable energy in Nigeria through IFC’s $250 million DARES platform.

environment. To be globally recognized in this milestone year is a proud moment for us and everyone who has believed in our journey,” He concluded,

Speaking on why Purple Academy deserves the award, the Founder and Chairman of the GlobalCCU Awards, Annick Renaud-Coulon, shared, “Purple Academy is an outstanding Corporate University that is clearly the Best Corporate University Globally for driving a Learning Culture. It is a Corporate University that transmits, respects and preserves the Wema Bank cultural heritage and effectively evolves it as a principle which drives efficient actions.”

Bolt Claims 70% Share of Nigeria’s Lube Market, Eyes Expansion

Indigenous Nigerian manufacturer of lubricant products commonly known as engine oil, Bolt Super Lubricant, has said it is steadily gaining traction in the nation’s competitive lubricant market with its market share hitting 70 per cent in some regions.

The company projects wider national and regional expansion base on what it terms as a high-quality, Nigerian-blended product tailored for the local environment.

Speaking at the ongoing West Africa Automotive Show in Lagos, the company’s Head of Operations, Mrs Amaka Ogbuagu, described Bolt Super Lubricant’s engine oil products

as a response to quality gaps in the local lubricant market, particularly among foreign and some domestic brands.

“Bolt is a Nigerian oil – an indigenous lubricant made here in Nigeria. What sets it apart is its high viscosity and detergent properties. That is why cars that use Bolt don’t experience rust or quick blackening of oil,” she said.

According to her, many motorists who use imported products often encounter issues, such as oil burnouts, during medium-range trips.

“You fill your car, go to Benin City from Lagos and back, and it’s still the same. No engine rust, no black oil,” Ogbuagu said.

Backed by Sochi Energy, a Nigerian-owned company with a blending facility in Mowe, Ogun State, Bolt’s local manufacturing base gives it a price advantage, Ogbuagu noted, but clarified that “It is not exactly cheap. But for what is inside, it is affordable when compared to so-called foreign lubricants.”

According to Bolt’s Marketing Manager, Mr Chinagozim Onuoha, the product is available in Lagos, Anambra, Enugu and Delta states, as well as in Abuja, and recently in Plateau State.

He mentioned that the company has achieved a significant rise in market share with its share hitting 70 per cent in some locations.

Rotary Club’s Food Bank to Feed over 1,000 Indigent in Oshodi

Rotary Club of Ewutuntun, District 9111 in partnership with Ausbeth Technology Services Ltd, CSR will on Saturday, May 17 , 2025, distribute various food items, aimed to feed over 1,000 indigent in Ewutuntun and Mafoluku, Oshodi- Isolo Local Govt, Lagos to cushion the effect of inflation, rising cost of food prices and hunger.

Alamu stated that “ selected vulnerable groups- the widows, low-income earners, destitute, malnourished, orphans, and indigent have been identified by our members in their community, and provided with vouchers and are to receive the various packed raw food items.”

The Chairman of the Food Bank Project and past Assistant Governor Rotary District 9111,

The President Rotary Club of Ewutuntun 2024-2025, Rotarian Bukonla Alamu disclosed that, “the second batch of our impactful Food Bank initiative, in partnership with Ausbeth Technology Services Ltd, a CSR commitment to fighting hunger and supporting our community, will hold next Saturday between 9 am and 12 noon at Ibis Royale Hotel, Mafoluku Junction, Airport road, Lagos.”

Samson Okenyi stated “We are making a difference, one family at a time. The Food Bank Initiative was launched last year by the pioneer District Governor Rotary District 9111, Dr Wole Kukoyi and Elewu of Ewutuntun, HRH Oba Shakirudeen Kuti on Saturday, September 21, 2024.”

Okenyi added, “Over 1,000 families have benefited from the free Food Bank targeted to feed vulnerable families, and aimed to cushion the impact of rising food prices, inflation and hunger among the indigent in Ewutuntun and Mafoluku, Oshodi environs.”

Saharan Blend (Algeria), Djeno (Congo), Zafiro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basrah Medium (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).

Regional Vice President for Africa, International Finance Corporation (IFC), Ethiopis Tafara and Country Director, Husk Power

Peter Uzoho

Haldane McCall Pays N220.6m Dividend, Shareholders Endorse Capital Raise Plan

Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja

Shareholders of a leading real estate and hospitality company, Haldane McCall Plc have endorsed the N220.6 million dividend or 7 kobo per ordinary share of 50 kobo each, which is 32.5 per cent of the profit after tax.

The company’s directors were all re-elected by the shareholders at the first Annual General Meeting (AGM) after its listing on the Nigerian Exchange Limited

(NGX), reflecting confidence in their innovative leadership.

The shareholders have also approved the company’s plan for capital raise through Rights Issue to increase its share capital and N250 billion debt instruments in tranches to fund its group’s expansion programme.

Commenting on the company’s performance, a shareholder, Pastor William Adebayo, particularly commended the declaration of dividend, which he described

as a vital source of income for shareholders. Other shareholders showered encomiums on the company’s Board and Management.

The Group Managing Director, Edward Akinlade, assured the shareholders of better days ahead.

“Our financial results reflect not only our resilience in the face of a challenging economic environment, but also our commitment to continuous growth and value creation. We experienced a remarkable growth in our

financial metrics which is a good testament to our robust business model and effectiveness of our strategic initiatives. Haldane McCall delivers N5billion housing units in Nigeria, Benin Republic, Haldane McCall partners govts, others on affordable housing,” he said.

Corroborating him, the Chairman, Chief George Oguntade explained that the company shall continue to support its stakeholders.

“Haldane McCall Plc is committed to positively change the real estate development landscape in Nigeria and equally contribute its quota in supporting both State and Federal Governments in bridging the massive housing deficit in the country. We will not rest on our laurels and with the support of all our partners and stakeholders, we will deliver a stronger performance next year,” he noted. The company recorded 164 per cent in profit after tax

from N256.96 million in 2023 to N679.6 million in 2024. The growth in profits were driven by increase in revenue and the management divestment in non-core business which generated N20.82 million in the year under review. Haldane McCall in 2024 declared N3.64 billion revenue, about 109 per cent increase over N1.74 billion in 2023, primarily driven by N2.68 billion sale of land and building in 2024, up by 156 per cent from N1.05 billion in 2023.

THE GRAND FINALE OF TILERS COMPETITION...

L-R: Distribution Manager, Sika Nigeria, Okechukwu Anyibuofu; After Sales Manager/Expert Trainer, Bosch, Ibrahim Jalo; General Manager, Sika Nigeria, Adil Outgouga; Brand & Marketing Communication Manager, CDK Integrated Industries Limited, Abimbola Onagbade; Marketing Manager, Sika Nigeria, Teniola Adeoya; and Business Development Manager, Sika Africa, Gauthier Rabillier, at the grand finale of the Nigeria Tilers Competition 2025 held in Lagos on Tuesday

Kola Adesina: I’ve Strong Confidence in Tinubu’s Energy Sector Reforms

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

Group Managing Director of Sahara Group, Mr Kola Adesina, yesterday expressed strong confidence in President Bola Tinubu’s bold energy sector reforms.

In an interview for an upcoming State House TV documentary marking the second anniversary of Tinubu’s administration, Adesina, according to a statement issued by presidential spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, lauded the government’s policies for improving transparency, regulatory consistency, and expanding investment opportunities.

“The most significant shift I have seen—without a doubt—has been the government’s willingness to confront the long-term inefficiencies within the petroleum sector. President Bola Tinubu’s courage in removing the fuel subsidy and market distortions hasn’t been rivalled in the history of Nigeria,” he said.

Adesina noted that removing subsidies has created a more sustainable energy environment, enabling businesses and policymakers to plan more confidently and clearly.

He added: “The energy sector today is stronger and more sustainable. We can now plan. The macro and micro elements are beginning to work together, and there’s strong potential for long-term benefits.”

From a business standpoint, Adesina said the reforms have unlocked access to fair competition and significantly boosted investor confidence.

“For us, it’s about the free market, open market, and transparency. Nothing beats that. When there’s no clarity or consistency, investment becomes difficult. But now, we know how to price. It’s open to everyone in the market—whether investing or buying—and you know reform is here and guiding every process.”

He commended the Tinubu administration’s progress in critical infrastructure, particularly in the gas and power sectors, where the Sahara Group is active.

According to him: “Lately, there’s been significant momentum. We’re seeing more alignment between public policy and private sector expectations. The bottlenecks we faced are giving way to commonsense decisions. We can predict what’s happening and where the country is headed.”

Adesina further applauded the implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), describing it as a game-changer for policy clarity.

“PIA is now easier to relate with—unlike before when policy inconsistencies were the order of the day. Private sector players like us want to invest with the confidence that policy won’t change after we’ve committed scarce resources.”

In the power sector, Adesina welcomed recent efforts by the government to resolve long-standing financial obligations.

“We’ve seen movement on the payment of legacy debts, especially in the power sector. Once the government clears those debts,

new investors will come in, and existing ones—like us—will deepen our investments. There’s life in the business again,” he said.

He also highlighted encouraging developments in Nigeria’s energy transition, driven by Tinubu’s focus on natural gas and climate-conscious

solutions.

“Gas-to-power is gaining ground. We love what’s happening. We’ve invested, and we’re ready to invest more. CNG is now the order of the day—the President has made that a focal point. The carbon credit scheme is also expanding.”

Adesina stated that the Tinubu administration’s efforts in the last two years represent a solid foundation for Nigeria’s future, with the current energy landscape anchored on reliability, accessibility, and affordability.

“We’ve had a very complex

situation, and while the road ahead won’t be easy in the short term, things will improve. The foundation has been laid. It’s being worked on and re-engineered to ensure that prosperity can truly be democratised and felt by the last man, at the last mile,” he added.

Johnvents Launches into Rice Sector, Targets West African Markets

Fidelis David

In a bold move to enhance food supply and strengthen food security across Africa, Johnvents Group, a leading multinational agribusiness and manufacturing group has delivered its major vessel load of premium-quality rice, Johnvents Rice, to Senegal, marking the company’s official entry into the rice market.

The Head of Business, Johnvents DMCC, a subsidiary of Johnvents Group, Sanjay Puhorit, disclosed that the company sourced rice from Pakistan, which currently accounts for over 8 percent of the world’s rice exports, due to the commitment of Johnvents Group to nourishing Africa and creating sustainable agricultural value chains.

He added that the company’s new move is targeting at ensuring access to safe, nutritious, and affordable food for communities across African

National Stadium Concession: Court Begins Expedited Hearing in Alleged N50m Debt by GreenArps

As project awaits FEC approval

Alex Enumah

A High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in Kwali, Abuja, will on Friday commence full trial in an alleged N50 million debt suit against GreenArps Project Limited, linked with business mogul, Kessington Adebukuola Adebutu, popularly known as ‘Baba Ijebu.

The suit filed on behalf of a Technical Consortium to GreenArps Project Limited is specifically seeking an order of court directing the defendant to pay its remaining balance of N50 million as well as the interest that has accrued since 2023. The technical consortium had helped GreenArps to bid and win the concession of the National Stadium, Lagos, in 2023.

However, the commencement of full hearing is beginning at a time the project is said to be brought before the Federal Executive Council (FEC) for approval.

The consortium had dragged GreenArps Project Limited to court for allegedly refusing to pay them the remaining balance of negotiated fees and further services rendered; which directly led to the company’s successful concession bid.

At the last proceedings on May 9, trial judge, Justice Abdulraman Usman, fixed May 16, for commencement of speedy trial in the suit filed since January 10, 2025. Much progress has not been made in the trial owing to objection on grounds of jurisdiction raised by the defendant, who was yet to file a

defense in the matter.

The claimant, Raji Rasaq Adeshina, who sued on behalf of himself and other technical partners had in March, citing the alleged failure of the defendant, to file a defense, had urged the court to transfer the suit to the Undefended List and enter judgment in his favour.

But, the judge in his ruling declined to transfer the suit to the undefended list and rather ordered a Fast Track Procedure, and fixed May 9, for hearing.

Displeased with the ruling, the defendant on May 5, brought an application seeking a stay of proceedings on account of an appeal it lodged at the Court of Appeal, on May 2, against the April 9, ruling of the court.

continent.

Moreover, with this move, the company has entered a new phase of growth in food distribution, focused on sustainable and reliable supply chains.

According to Sanjay Puhorit, “We are excited to launch Johnvents Rice as our first rice offtake and proud to begin this journey in Senegal and Gambia with plans to expand into other African countries in the coming months.

“As the trading arm of a fully integrated agribusiness, we’re leveraging global expertise and regional insight to deliver high-quality food to the people who need it most.

“This milestone aligns with the broader growth and diversification strategy the Johnvents Group Board recently approved. The plan focuses

on scaling core verticals trading, FMCG, commodities export, retail, and agro-processing across key markets in Africa, the Middle East, Asia, North America, and South America.”

Meanwhile, Group Managing Director, Johnvents Group John Alamu explained that the shipment demonstrates the firm’s resolve to make a real impact, improving food accessibility while building resilient supply chains that connect Africa to the rest of the world.

“As an African-grown business with global aspirations, our goal is clear: to lead purposefully, trade with integrity, and nourish lives. Equally important is our long-term focus on strengthening local rice production here in Nigeria.

“We are investing significantly

in local capacity, from farming to processing, to ensure food selfsufficiency.”

He noted that the multinational agribusiness and manufacturing group is known for combining locally sourced raw materials, state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities, and sustainable practices to create long-term value across its supply chain.

“The company focuses on building partnerships that drive economic growth, environmental responsibility, and social impact. With our presence in six countries and a rapidly expanding product portfolio, Johnvents Group remains firmly positioned to become a leading force in transforming food systems and agricultural trade across Africa and the world.”

Lafarge Fails to Stop Suit against Sale of Shares to Chinese Firm

Alex Enumah in

Abuja

Efforts by Lafarge Africa Plc to stop the hearing of a suit seeking to stop its planned sale to Huaxin Cement Limited, a foreign company based in China, has hit a brick wall, following the dismissal of its motion challenging the jurisdiction of the court to hear the matter.

Besides dismissing the motion for being incompetent and lacking in merit, Justice Lewis Allagoa of the Federal High Court, Lagos, made an order directing the joining of interested parties, in the suit filed by Strategic Consultancy Limited.

The plaintiff, a Nigerian company and Shareholder in Lafarge dragged the cement company to court over its planned divestment of 83.8 per cent majority shares held by its parent company in the Nigerian cement industry.

Lafarge, which is listed on the

Nigerian exchange, acquired 83 per cent of the total shares of three federal government-owned cement companies during the privatisation exercises of 2001 and 2002.

The company had informed the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) of an internal restructuring by Holcim Group, the Swiss firm that holds 83.81 per cent of Lafarge Africa’s issued share capital.

Besides Lafarge, other respondents in the suit are; Holcim Group, SEC, and the Central Securities Clearing System (CSCS).

The plaintiff predicated the legal action on the grounds that the sale of Lafarge was done surreptitiously without affording it and the other minority shareholders the opportunity to acquire the shares.

It also argued that the purported sale to a foreign company that is not registered in Nigeria runs foul of regulations and statutes such as the

Companies & Allied Matters Act, 2020, the Securities & Exchange Act and the Nigeria Investment Promotions Act on the right of minority shareholders and prohibition of transactions with unregistered foreign entities. Responding, Lafarge had filed filed a Notice of Preliminary Objection, challenging the jurisdiction of the court to entertain the matter.

Delivering ruling in the motion on Thursday, Justice Allagoa, after hearing the submissions of Dr D.A. Awosika (SAN) counsel for the Plaintiff and Babatunde Fagbohunlu (SAN) counsel for the 1st defendant and Uzoma Azikiwe (SAN) Counsel for the second defendant, dismissed the preliminary objection by the defence team that the court lacked jurisdiction to entertain the suit. “The 1st and 2nd defendants’ motion objecting to the Court’s jurisdiction is hereby dismissed”, Justice Allagoa ruled.

in Abuja

WELLNESS TRAINING FOR NSIB STAFF...

L-R: Consultant Psychiatrist, Dr Olajumoke Koyejo; Founder, D’Bio Wellness and Selfcare & Training Facilitator, Dr Monica Hemben Eimunjeze; Representative

Investigation Bureau (NSIB), Mrs Maryam Shekoni; and Ambassador Jennifer Gbishe-Igoh,

Setting Up Forest Guards is Proof Tinubu in Full Charge, Declares Arewa Think-Tank

NYCP hails president, seeks community-led implementation

A Northern group, Arewa ThinkTank, has said the recent approval given by President Bola Tinubu for the establishment of armed guards to secure the nation’s forests against terrorism and other criminalities,

showed that the president was creative and in full charge of the country for the well-being of the citizenry.

This was as the Northern Christian Youth Professionals (NCYP), has also congratulated Tinubu for fulfilling one of his key campaign promises — the

revitalisation of the Forest Guard.

In a statement signed by the Convener of ATT, Muhammad Alhaji Yakubu, the group said the bold step taken by President Tinubu was unprecedented in the history of Nigeria.

Yakubu also called on all gov-

ernors to emulate the president in the same direction in order to rid the country of terrorists and their nefarious activities.

“We are excited following the approval given by President Bola Tinubu for the establishment of armed forest guards to secure

Nigeria’s 1,129 forests from terrorists and criminal gangs.

“We must say with the air of pride and satisfaction that we now have a president who is very close to the people, who does not detach himself from the people he is governing, who is feeling the pulse of the nation

Constitution Review: Kalu Seeks Australia, Rwanda Collaboration on Mining Reforms, Gender Equity, Security

Assures re-evaluation of capital punishment to align with IHRL standards

The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, has advocated collaboration with the governments of Australia and Rwanda to bolster Nigeria’s initiatives in increasing women’s participation in governance, enhancing national security, and strengthening the mining sector, among other areas.

Kalu, who also chairs the House Committee on Constitution Review, made this appeal during separate engagements with delegations from the Australian and Rwandan embassies in Nigeria.

The meetings, led by Australian High Commissioner, Leilani BinJuda, and Rwandan Ambassador, Christophe Bazivamo, took place at the National Assembly on Wednesday in Abuja.

In his remarks to the Australian delegation, Kalu emphasized Nigeria’s rich deposits of natural resources, noting that the mining industry offers immense prospects for economic expansion and national development.

He acknowledged Australia’s vast experience in mining and resource management, and called for cooperation in adopting best practices, technological advancements, and sustainable methods

for responsible mineral extraction in Nigeria.

Kalu also encouraged continued Australian support for Nigeria’s pursuit of gender equality and the protection of human rights, particularly within the ongoing constitutional review process.

He expressed hope that Australia’s success in advancing women’s rights could serve as a valuable guide as Nigeria seeks similar progress.

During the meeting, Kalu informed the Australian team about ongoing national discussions on the re-examination of capital punishment laws.

He described the issue as complex

and emphasized the need for thoughtful dialogue, highlighting that any alternatives must align with global human rights standards while also considering the perspectives of Nigerians.

He further stated that Nigeria aims to foster a conducive climate for foreign investment, ensuring that local communities also benefit from mining activities.

By partnering Australian mining firms, he said, Nigeria could spur job creation, stimulate local economies, and ensure its resources support national development.

On constitutional review, Kalu noted that significant amendments are underway, particularly the Gender Bills such as HB.1349, which proposes reserved seats for women in legislative

institutions.

He described the bill as vital for improving female representation and achieving gender balance in political leadership.

Addressing the Rwandan delegation, Kalu called for deeper ties between Nigeria and Rwanda, pointing out their shared goals of promoting peace, stability, and development in their regions.

He highlighted the longstanding relationship between the two countries, marked by mutual respect, and emphasized the need to expand inter-parliamentary relations.

Stronger legislative dialogue, he said, would allow both nations to shape policies that drive economic and social progress, as well as cultural exchange.

and providing remedy to it.

“We must also say that this move by Mr. President is very unprecedented and creative. We urge him to keep it up for the benefit of the people,” he said.

On its part, the Northern Christian Youth Professionals said as outlined on page 9 of the President’s Renewed Hope manifesto (2022), he has delivered on his promise, noting that this critical move marked a decisive step in addressing the security challenges posed by violent groups hiding in Nigeria’s forests.

A statement by the National President of the group, Isaac Abrak read: “We commend President Tinubu for not only remaining true to his word but also for demonstrating that he has listened to the consistent calls by our organisation and other concerned Nigerians.

“The revitalisation of the Forest Guard was the cornerstone of our campaign across the Northern region. At several campaign engagements, we urged Nigerians, especially those from vulnerable communities, to support President Tinubu, assuring them that he would establish community-based security outfits and recruit local youth to protect their forests and communities. Today, we are grateful that this vision is being realized.”

Abrak further said: “This achievement vindicates our decision to campaign vigorously for President Tinubu. To God be the glory.”

Boy Child Primary Target for Recruitment into Terrorism, Other Crimes, Says CDS Katsina Awards N150bn 160km Road Projects

Linus Aleke in Abuja

Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, yesterday, said boys were often primary targets for recruitment into terrorism and other non-state armed groups by violent extremists and other criminal syndicates.

Musa said the boys were sometimes seen as expendable assets in conflicts and criminal enterprises.

He spoke at a special event in Abuja organised by Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA) to mark the International Day of the Boy Child.

Lamenting that they were always robbed of their innocence and forced into a life of brutality and despair, the CDS stated that boys were always in great danger.

He said the military under his command would secure schools and communities for children to thrive.

Represented by Chief of Defence Civil-Military Affairs, Rear Admiral Olusanya Bankole, the CDS stated that beyond physical security, the military must also protect boys from socioeconomic vulnerabilities.

He stated, “In many parts of our country, the boy child faces significant educational disadvantages, contributing to the challenge of out-of-school children. Factors, such as economic hardship, cultural norms that prioritise early labour over schooling, and insecurity in conflict-affected regions disproportionately impact boys’ access to education.

“Without foundational education and skills, these boys are left vulnerable, increasing their risk of falling into poverty, engaging in illicit activities, or becoming susceptible to recruitment by criminal organisations, bandits, or extremist groups, who exploit

their lack of opportunity and sense of marginalisation.

“Poverty and lack of opportunity push many boys into child labour or make them easy targets for criminal elements to recruit. Therefore, by investing in economic empowerment programmes and creating jobs, we can protect our boys and their families from the desperation that can lead to harmful choices.”

The CDS also said regarding the boy child, “They need to understand their unique vulnerabilities and the critical role they play as future custodians of our nation. Their positive development is not just a social issue; it is a national security imperative.

“A generation of nurtured and protected voices is a generation less likely to be drawn into conflicts, more likely to be productive citizens, and better equipped to lead Nigeria towards peace and prosperity.

Pays N7bn liability for inherited projects

The Katsina State Government has awarded contracts for the construction of 160-kilometre urban and rural renewal road projects across the 34 local government areas of the state at the cost of N150 billion.

The State Commissioner for Works, Housing and Transport, Engineer. Sani Magaji, who disclosed this in an interview with THISDAY Thursday, said the N150 billion includes payment of compensation to those affected by the projects.

He explained that the road projects comprise 55.7 kilometres nine urban renewal projects, adding that 60 per cent of the projects are dual carriageway with a central median, drainage systems and solar-powered street lights.

He said the nine urban renewal projects include the recently inaugurated 24-kilometer Eastern Bypass, the N3.5 billion dualised Kofar Soro-Kofar-Guga roundabout and other ongoing dual carriageway road projects in the Katsina metropolitan area.

He said: “The total road projects that are awarded by the government of Governor Dikko Umaru Radda is more than 160 kilometers. This comprises urban and rural roads which some are dual carriageway while some are single lane.

“The cost of these road projects both dual carriageway and singles, is up to N150 billion. You know more than 60 per cent of these roads are dual carriageway. Two have been completed and commissioned while others are at various stages of completion.”

He however said the current administration of Governor Radda has paid the sum of N7 billion as liability for 10 inherited road projects from the last administration of former Governor Aminu Bello Masari.

He added that many road projects were abandoned by contractors at 30 and 90 per cent stages of completion due to lack of payment, while others were completed without full payment by the previous administration. Magaji said: “So many road projects were inherited by this government. Some were completed but the contractors were not or fully paid. Even the flyover at the GRA was completed and commissioned but yet we came and met N1 billion liability.

of Director General, Nigerian Safety

at the wellness training organised for NSIB staff in Abuja, yesterday

PHOTO: ENOCK REUBEN

Francis Sardauna in Katsina

Juliet Akoje in Abuja

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

INAUGURATION CEREMONY...

L-R: Representative of the Honourable Minister for the Environment, Dr Olabimpe Adenaike; Project Coordinator, Emeritus Professor Bode Asubiojo; Former Head of Service of the Federation, Prof Dapo Afolabi; Chief Executive Officer, AT&S, Mr Akin Oluwole; Acting Medical Director of the National Orthopaedic Hospital, Igbobi, Dr Wakeel Lawal; and Director, Research and Development, Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), Mrs AbdulWaris Solanke, at the inauguration of the Emeritus Professor Abiodun F Oluwole Air Quality Monitoring Station held in Igbobi, Lagos…recently

US Hails Private Sector Investment in Nigeria’s Healthcare Services

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

The United States Mission in Nigeria has described the heightened level of participation of private sector entities in the drive to provide quality healthcare for Nigerians.

It welcomed the launch of operations by a private firm, Cassona Global Imaging in the country’s health sector, saying the investment is a significant boost to the nation’s healthcare sector.

The Commercial Officer at the U.S. Mission in Nigeria, Blake Murray, who stated this at a ceremony on Thursday in Abuja, also described the partnership as a powerful accelerator in Nigeria’s healthcare modernization efforts.

He said, “Nigerian firms and public institutions collaborating with U.S. medical suppliers, like Cassona Global Imaging, have access to original equipment manufacturers, cutting-edge technologies, world-class standards, and critical service and warranty support”

He also noted that strategic partnerships between U.S. companies and Nigerian institutions can improve patient outcomes, reduce costs, expand access to healthcare, and advance disease prevention and control.

“The U.S. Mission in Nigeria is committed to deepening bilateral trade relations between the two countries.”

“Last year, two-way trade between

the United States and Nigeria hit a record $13 billion. Our shared goal is to promote two-way investment and deepen commercial ties between our nations.”

“The U.S. Department of Commerce and Nigeria’s Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment are set to launch the United States-Nigeria Commercial and Investment Partnership next month in Abuja, prioritizing collaboration in agriculture, digital economy, and infrastructure, including healthcare infrastructure.”

“This partnership is expected to unlock new opportunities for economic growth, job creation, and technological advancement in Nigeria.”

“By working together, the U.S. and Nigeria can address pressing healthcare challenges and improve the lives of millions of Nigerians.”

“The investment by Cassona Global Imaging is a testament to the growing interest of U.S. companies in Nigeria’s healthcare sector.

“It demonstrates the potential for mutually beneficial partnerships that can drive progress and prosperity in both countries.” He added.

In his remarks, the Chairman and CEO of Cassona Global Imaging Limited, John Chigbu said the company’s mission is to make quality healthcare accessible to all Nigerians.

“We sell our equipment at a fraction of the cost. A CT scanner

that would normally cost $1 million is available for $250,000. Not only do we sell it at an affordable price, we also finance it, allowing you to make a small down payment and pay the rest over 24 months.”

Chigbu also disclosed that the company’s equipment range includes ultrasound machines, X-ray machines, CT scanners, and PET scans, which will significantly improve disease diagnostics in Nigeria.

Chigbu raised concerns that the lack of access to quality healthcare has led to medical tourism, where Nigerians with means travel abroad for treatment.

“We need to reverse this trend. We need medical tourism to come into Nigeria, not the other way around. We need to make quality healthcare accessible to all, not just those who can afford it.”

“Cassona Global Imaging plans

to set up diagnostic centers and hospitals in Nigeria, equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment.

The company will also provide training for healthcare professionals, ensuring that they are proficient in using the equipment.”

“We’re not just building hospitals; we’re building a healthcare ecosystem. We’ll provide training, maintenance, and support to ensure that our equipment is always work-

ing. If it breaks down, we’ll fix it within 48 hours or provide a loaner.” He said the company is committed to localizing Nigeria’s healthcare system by recruiting and training Nigerian professionals.

“We need to build capacity in Nigeria. We need to train our people to take care of our healthcare needs. That’s why we’re recruiting Nigerian engineers and healthcare professionals to work with us.”

Appeal Court Reserves Judgements in PDP, AA, AP Appeals against Okpebholo’s Victory

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City and Alex Enumah in Abuja

The Court of Appeal has reserved judgements in three appeals against the judgements of the Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal, which affirmed the election of All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo, as Governor of Edo State. The three appeals were those filed by Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its governorship candidate, Asue Ighodalo; Action Alliance (AA) and its National Chairman, Rufai Omoaje; and Accord Party (AP) and

ECOWAS Court Finds Nigeria Guilty of Illegally Detaining Businessman, Abiodun, for 16 Years

Orders N20m compensation

Michael Olugbode in Abuja ECOWAS Court of Justice has ruled in favour of Mr. Moses Abiodun, a Nigerian businessman who has been in prolonged pre-trial detention since 2009, declaring multiple violations of his fundamental human rights by the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

In Application No. ECW/ CCJ/APP/56/22, Abiodun, the applicant, filed a suit against the Federal Republic of Nigeria, alleging that he was arrested by operatives of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) of the Nigeria police in November 2008 and had been detained ever since, initially for five months without charge, and subsequently on a remand order issued on March 23, 2009 by a Magistrate Court in Lagos State.

He stated that despite the passage of 16 years, he had never been formally charged, tried, or convicted of any offence.

He also contended that his prolonged detention violated his rights under the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and other international instruments to which Nigeria was a party.

The Nigerian government denied the allegations, and questioned the authenticity of the remand warrant presented by the applicant. It also challenged the admissibility of the case.

The ECOWAS court found that it had jurisdiction to hear the matter and that the application was admissible.

Upon examination of the merits of the case, the court found that the

applicant’s continued detention for about 16 years without charge or trial constituted a grave violation of his right to liberty under Article 6 of the African Charter and Article 9 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR).

The court also found that the prolonged unlawful detention infringed his right to freedom of movement, as guaranteed under Article 12 of both the African Charter and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.

On the alleged violation of his right to fair trial, the court equally held that detaining a person for 16 years without formal charges or a fair and timely trial was an egregious violation of Article 7(1) (d) of the African Charter.

its candidate, Dr. Bright Enabulele.

Besides the three appeals, the appellate court, on a date not yet disclosed, would also deliver judgement on a cross appeal filed by the governor challenging some aspects of the tribunal’s decision in the case of Ighodalo and PDP.

In another development, an Edo State High Court in Auchi invalidated the impeachment of Zibiri Muhizu Marvelous and Benji Ojietu from their positions as Chairman and Vice Chairman of the Etsako West Local Government Area, respectively.

A three-member panel of the court, presided over by Justice M. A. Danjuma, announced the decision to reserve the judgements yesterday, shortly after lawyers representing parties adopted and argued their final addresses for and against the appeals.

Damjuma, told the lawyers that their verdicts would be made known on a date that would be

communicated to them.

The appellants in their respective appeals marked: CA/ABJ/EPT/ED/ GOV/01/2025; CA/ABJ/EPT/ED/ GOV/02/2025; and CA/ABJ/EPT/ ED/GOV/03/2025), sought a reversal of the tribunal’s judgement for allegedly being perverse in law.

Okpebholo and APC also filed a cross appeal marked: CA/ABJ/ EPT/ED/GOV/04/2025) against part of the judgment in the case against the PDP and Ighodalo.

In arguing the appeals, lawyers to the appellants prayed the court to allow their appeals and reverse the judgements of the election tribunal delivered on April 2, while lawyers to the respondents urged the court to affirm the judgements by the tribunal and dismiss the appeals.

The governor’s lead counsel, Onyechi Ikpeazu, SAN, in the PDP case stated that the appellants failed to prove their allegations that the election was marred by irregularities.

The senior lawyer pointed out that the appellants conceded at the tribunal that if the votes, which they claimed were wrongly added, were deducted, Okpebholo and APC still scored the majority votes. In addition, Ikpeazu argued that as against the claim by the appellants that the serial numbers of the ballot papers were not filled on the Form EC25B, the form actually did not contain any provision for the recording of serial number. He added that what was provided for in the Form EC25B were spaces for the imputation of information about the quantity of materials received and quantity of materials returned. On the Form EC40A, which the appellants tendered at the tribunal, Ikpeazu stated that the serial numbers of the ballot papers were clearly indicated, stating further that while the appellants pleaded Form EC25D in their petition, they failed to tender the forms before the tribunal.

Again, Gunmen Kill Eight, Injure Scores in Plateau Community

Seriki Adinoyi in Jos

No fewer than eight persons have been killed at Wereng camp community of Riyom Local Government Council of Plateau State by gunmen who also injured several other persons, burnt houses and carted away farm produce from the community. The gunmen reportedly stormed the community late Wednesday night and shot their victims, who were mostly children and the elderly, before carting away farm produce.

A source from the community said the injured persons are now receiving treatment in hospitals in the community. He described the attacks as unprovoked, lamenting that enormous farm produce was carted away by the rampaging assailants.

The attack came just a few days after four persons were ambushed and killed by unidentified assailants in Dachidom village, also in Riyom LGA.

A member representing Riyom State Constituency in the Plateau

State House of Assembly, Hon. Dachung Dadon, confirmed the latest attack.

He said, “Eight members of my constituency were attacked and killed on Wednesday night in Wereng village. As I speak to you, the entire village has been ransacked by the assailants.” He condemned the recurring attacks, especially within his constituency, and called on the government and security agencies to take urgent and decisive action to halt the violence.

Edo high court nullifies impeachment of Etsako West LG chair, deputy

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Group Chief Operating Officer, Waltersmith, Alex Osho(left) and Founder, Weav Capital, Amaka Opara, at the Duale, Ovia & Alex-Adedipe (DOA) Africa-Focused investors and stakeholders’ wine and whisky experience event in Lagos…recently

Labour Party Chieftain Denounces Abure as Impostor, General Without Troops

Asks INEC to enforce the Supreme Court judgment

Wale Igbintade

A Labour Party (LP) chieftain in Abia State and youth advocate, Mr. Nwabueze Onwuneme, has responded to recent comments by the party’s former National Chairman, Mr. Julius Abure, criticising his leadership and alleging that he represents the shortcomings of a flawed political system.

Onwuneme’s remarks followed Abure’s comments during what he termed an “illegal stakeholders meeting” held at the party’s national secretariat in Utako.

At the meeting, Abure threatened

to reveal damaging details about the party’s campaign funds, claiming that Mr. Peter Obi and Governor Alex Otti would “smell like rotten eggs” if he spoke out.

In his response, Onwuneme described Abure as “an impostor” who has no regard for the Nigerian judiciary or the revered justices of the Supreme Court.

According to him, Abure should be behind bars for flagrantly disobeying the apex court’s ruling that voided his leadership of the party.

“Abure is morally bankrupt individual and an impostor who has no regards for the Nigerian

Police Re-arraign VDM for Cyberbullying Nollywood Actresses

Alex Enumah in abuja

The Inspector-General (IG) of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, yesterday re-arraigned a social media influencer, Martins Otse, also known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), before a Federal High Court, Abuja, for allegedly cyber-bullying Nollywood actresses, Iyabo Ojo and Tonto Dikeh.

Besides Ojo and Dikeh, VDM was also alleged to have cyberbullied a Nigerian producer and singer, Samuel Oguachuba, also known as Samklef, among others.

He was re-arraigned before Justice Musa Liman on fivecount charge, to which he pleaded not guilty.

Following his not guilty plea, his lawyer, Deji Adeyanju,

prayed the court to allow the defendant continue on the earlier bail granted by Justice Mobolaji Olajuwon of same Federal High Court.

The request was accordingly granted after the prosecution counsel, Victor Okoye, did not object.

VDM was on May 22, 2024, arraigned before Justice Olajuwon on same offences contrary to and punishable under Section 24 of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Act, 2015.

He was remanded and granted a N10 million bail on June 10, 2024, by the judge with two sureties who must be employee of reputable company or Level 17 officers in a federal civil service with evidence of three years’ tax clearance.

Gunmen Kill Anambra Lawyer, Client While Returning from Court

David-Chyddy Eleke in awka

Gunmen suspected to be assassins yesterday killed an Anambra State-based lawyer, Ifeanyi Iloakasi, and his client while returning from court.

Iloakasi, who is also a community leader and presidentgeneral of Aguleri community in Anambra East Local Government Area, was said to have been ambushed at the Nanka/Agulu boundary in Orumba North Local Government Area, where he was shot dead, including his client.

Many believe that the attack may be a targeted assassination. His client, who jumped down from the red Toyota Camry driven by the lawyer and took to his heels was

chased after and also shot dead.

Meanwhile, police in Anambra State have confirmed the attack, but stated that another victim survived the incident and has also been debriefed. The state Police Commissioner, Ikioye Orutugu, has also visited the scene of the event.

The spokesperson of the Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, in a statement said: “The Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, Ikioye Orutugu, yesterday at about 11:30a.m, led a team of senior officers to the crime scene at Egbebelu village, Nanka, Orumba North Local Government Area, where two persons were gruesomely murdered by yet-tobe-identified armed men operating on a motorcycle.

judicial system and the revered justices of the Nigerian Supreme Court. In other climes Abure should by now been in jail for brazenly disobeying the ruling of the highest court in the land which has specifically voided his leadership of the party and

should be in jail for contempt stating that such a character has a huge moral deficiency and unfit to criticize others.”

He further described Abure as “a general without troops,” alleging that his only path to political survival is by attacking

respected figures like Peter Obi and Governor Otti, two men he said have distinguished themselves in both private and public service.

Onwuneme challenged Abure to stop making veiled threats and instead provide facts to support his claims.

He called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to enforce the Supreme Court judgment that nullified Abure’s chairmanship position and bring an end to what he described as Abure’s “theatrical gimmicks.”

‘Police Need More Cooperation, Credible Information to Flush Out Criminals’

Gbenga Sodeinde in ado Ekiti

The Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Akure Zone 17 , Ajani Omolabi yesterday tasked members of public and stakeholders to always provide timely and credible information to the police on suspicious activities of criminals or persons with questionable characters in

NDDC Reiterates

Sunday Okobi

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, has reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to playing a strategic role in the development of education in the Niger Delta region.

their communities. He said this would assist the police in nipping crimes and criminality in the bud and to further ensure security of lives and property in every part of the country, and particularly in the Zone under his jurisdiction.

The AIG, who stated this in Ado-Ekiti, the Ekiti State capital, while addressing

stakeholders, during a one-day familiarisation visit to the state command, equally added that his doors are always open to accommodate such credible and reliable information.

Specifically the AIG urged the stakeholders, comprising religious leaders, transport unions, students unions, artisans as well as market leaders, among others, to always avail the police and other security apparatus, with necessary and credible information.

“I urge you stakeholders and members of the public to always avail the police and other security apparatus, with necessary and credible information. Police is your friend, we are paid to work for you,” the AIG emphasised.

Commitment to Educational Development in N’Delta

Speaking at the 2025 Moot Court and Mock Trial Competition for Faculties of Law in Universities in the Niger Delta region, Ogbuku emphasised that education is key to sustainable development, capacity building, poverty reduction, and violence eradication in the region.

The competition, which is part of the NDDC’s 25th-anniversary celebrations, brings together students from various universities in the Niger Delta region to showcase their advocacy skills and intellectual prowess.

The competition, which is expected to feature about 20 universities from across the region, promises to be bigger and more competitive than last year’s edition.

Ogbuku, represented by the Executive Director of Finance and Administration, Boma Iyaye, urged participants to engage in constructive and intellectually stimulating arguments that highlight the peculiarities of the region and proffer solutions that would inform future law-making and facilitate rapid and sustainable development.

PINL Enhances Nigeria’s Crude Oil Output to 1.48m Bpd

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

The aggressive strategies deployed by pipeline surveillance contractors like Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL) in ensuring the safety of the Trans Niger Pipeline (TNP) across 215 communities in Niger Delta region has contributed to the reported boost in the country’s crude oil output.

The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) had reported that Nigeria’s crude oil production rose to 1.48 million barrels per day (bpd) in April 2025, marking a modest increase from 1.40 million bpd recorded in March, 2025.

According to the regulatory body, the April figure represents 99 percent of the 1.5 million bpd quota allocated to Nigeria by the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC).

“The average crude oil production was 99 percent of the OPEC quota (1.5 mbopd),” the commission stated in its latest report titled: ‘Crude Oil and Condensate Production April 2025’. The report also revealed that total daily oil output, including condensates, averaged 1.68 million barrels per day in April. While the lowest daily output stood at 1.60 million bpd, the highest peaked at 1.73 million bpd.

Boro Day: PAP Boss, Otuaro, Celebrates Niger Delta Hero

The Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr Dennis Otuaro, has paid tribute to the cherished memory of the hero and icon of the Niger Delta, the late Isaac Boro, on the occasion of the 2025 Boro Day celebration.

In a statement, Otuaro described Boro as an uncommon visionary

and foresighted Ijaw man who dedicated his life to the struggle for fairness, equity and justice for the Niger Delta people and the advancement of socio-economic and political growth and development in Nigeria.

He noted that the Kaiama-born activist’s selfless service, sacrifices and legacy had remained the solid

foundation for sustained solidarity and advocacy for better living conditions for the people of the Niger Delta. The PAP boss said Boro deserved to be honoured and celebrated for the values that he stood and died for, in the interest of the Ijaw and Niger Delta people.

He stressed that Boro’s accomplishments would continue to resonate in the history of minority rights struggles. According to him, the impacts of the foremost freedom fighter’s struggle were evidenced in the several government agencies established to address the peculiarities and challenges of the region.

Atiku: PDP, APC LP, Others Planning Coalition to Unseat Tinubu in 2027

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has said that some members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party(LP), and other political parties are working on a coalition aimed at unseating President Bola Ahmed Tinubu

Atiku was said to have disclosed this in Abuja during a visit by stakeholders from Kogi East Senatorial District, led by former Kogi State Deputy Governor, Simon Achuba.

The former VP explained that the coalition being formed by the various political parties was to

present a united front to unseat the current administration led by President Tinubu.

Atiku said: “We have a coalition. All the major political parties are involved.

“In this coalition — the APC, PDP, Labour Party — all of us are involved. That is the way

to go in confronting such an incompetent and inefficient government.”

Former governor of Kaduna state, Nasir El-Rufai, has dumped the APC and is now aligning with the ongoing coalition plots as a member of the Social Democratic Party (SDP).

BanditsAbduct Monarch in Kogi

Abduct five, shot one in Kwara

Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja Hammed Shittu in Ilorin

Barely 48 hours after the Kogi State Police Command confirmed the arrest of 329 criminal elements in the state, suspected kidnapers have abducted a traditional ruler in Okoloke, a community in Egbe environ, Yagba West Local Government Area of the state.

Similarly, suspected bandits and kidnappers have reportedly abducted five persons, including a man identified simply as Duku, and shot another victim in Odo-Eku town in Isin Local Government Area of Kwara State.

THISDAY gathered that the monarch, Oba James Ogunyanda, was kidnapped by suspected bandits in his palace at the early hours of yesterday in Okokoke.

Egbe community, a gateway to Kogi State from Kwara State, has been under the siege of the bandits, kidnappers and suspected herdsmen killing innocent citizens indiscriminately.

In a swift reaction, the Chairman of Yagba West LGA, Mr. Tosin Olokun, has condemned the abduction of Oba James Ogunyanda, Ilufemiloye, the Obalohun of Okoloke, by suspected bandits. This was contained in a

statement signed by Adeyemi Babarinde, the chief press secretary, Yagba West Local Government Council, and made available to journalists in Lokoja yesterday.

“This reprehensible attack on a revered traditional ruler is a direct affront to our cultural values and peaceful coexistence. It is unacceptable and stands condemned.

“The security operatives in collaboration with local hunters have launched coordinated operations to rescue the abducted monarch and others held captive. Search efforts are ongoing, with intensified surveillance in key areas.

Oba Oniru Visits Law School, Reddington Hospital

In continuation of his royal courtesy visit to key stakeholders across Iru Kingdom, His Royal Majesty Oba Abdulwasiu Omogbolahan Lawal, Abisogun II, the Oniru of Iru Land, Lagos, has visited the Nigerian Law School and Reddington Hospital, both in Victoria Island as part of activities to mark his fifth coronation anniversary.

The Corporate Appreciation Tour, designed to honour institutions that have contributed significantly to the development of Iru Land, aligns with the monarch’s progressive vision tagged ‘Let’s Grow Iruland Together (#LeGIT).

At the Nigerian Law School, the monarch praised the institution’s role in shaping Nigeria’s legal landscape, describing it as vital

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS OLUCHI GLORY UGORjI, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS OLUCHI GLORY OPARA. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note

I, formally known, called and addressed as CHINWE ASSUMPTA EDOMWONYI OMOR, now wish to be known, called, and addressed as CHINWE ASSUMPTA EDOMWONYI OMOROTIONMWAN. Former documents remain valid. General public, and whom it may concern to please take note.

I, formally known, called and addressed as ELIZABETH AWU BASSEY, now wish to be known, called, and addressed as ELIZABETH ETIENO MFON Former documents remain valid. General public, and whom it may concern to please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as KELECHI NUELA OPARA, now wish to be known and addressed as KELECHI NUELA ASSURANCE FAGBOLAGUN

All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note

I, formerly known and addressed as COMFORT ENE IGOCHE, now wish to be known and addressed as COMFORT ENE OBAjE

All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note

COrrECtiON OF NAME

I, EDUNWOYE OLUWAFUNMILOLA IKEOLA, that on my bank account my name was wrongly written as EDUNWOYE FUNMILOLA IKEOLA instead of EDUNWOYE OLUWAFUNMILOLA IKEOLA, that my correct name is EDUNWOYE OLUWAFUNMILOLA IKEOLA. All former documents remain valid, the general public should please take note.

I, UZOEGBU PATRICK NWABUEZE CHIBUIKE wish to correct that letter ‘O’ was omitted in my name as UZEGBU CHIBUIKE PATRICK on my BVN, Driv- er’s license and bank details instead of UZOEGBU PATRICK CHIBUIKE, and also wish to add NWABUEZE to my name. Henceforth , I wish to be called and addressed as UZOEGBU PATRICK NWABUEZE CHIBUIKE All documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

to upholding justice and the rule of law. “As the final stage in the training of legal practitioners, the Law School ensures that our future lawyers are equipped with the knowledge, discipline, and ethical foundation to serve Nigeria with integrity,” he said.

Oba Lawal noted that the visit marked more than a ceremonial call. “It symbolises a growing and strategic collaboration between the palace and the legal education sector,” he stated.

Mahmoud Inaugurates 2025 FCT Hajj Ministerial Committee

Olawale Ajimotokan inabuja

As the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Administration commences preparations for the 2025 Hajj operations, the FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, has tasked the committee members with dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment to ensuring the welfare and successful participation of FCT pilgrims.

She made this call yesterday while inaugurating the seven-man FCT 2025 Hajj Ministerial Committee, chaired by the Senior Special Assistant to the Minister of State on Administration and Strategic, Dr. Abdullahi Kauranmata.

She reminded committee to, as a duty, ensure that every intending pilgrim from the FCT embarks on Hajj which is one of the obligations for Muslims with the highest standards of care, dignity,

and efficiency. The minister, who expressed confidence in the ability of committee members, stated that, “This year, we are guided by three key pillars: efficiency, transparency, and safety.”

“Every committee member has a role to play in upholding transparency and professionalism in all aspects while in the Holy Land,” and she urged the committee to proactively address issues from past experiences,” Mahmoud said.

She added that the Terms of Reference (ToR) of the committee included, but are not limited to, the general supervision and coordination of all FCT Hajj activities from Nigeria to Saudi Arabia until the return of the last flight back to Nigeria; providing advice and guidance during the course of the operation; ensuring that the welfare of the FCT pilgrims is given premium importance throughout the exercise.

Lagos Impounds 926 Vehicles, 33 Tricycles

Segun James

Following the refusal of some motorists to adhere to the strict traffic laws operational with the Alausa Central Business District of the state capital, Ikeja, Lagos state government yesterday disclosed that over 926 vehicles and 33 tricycles were arrested and prosecuted for various traffic offences in the last one year.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on CBD, Ms Bola Olumegbon-Lawal, who made the disclosure during the ongoing ministerial press briefing to mark the second year of the second term in office of Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, said that the offences,

included illegal parking, illegal U-turns, obstruction, one-way among others.

Olumegbon-Lawal said besides the fact that Tricycles banned are from operating with the CBD, some operators still dared the government by venturing into the exclusive zone.

“Over the past year, the Lagos State CBD Office has been dedicated to enhancing the business environment and improving the quality of life for residents and visitors alike. Our vision is to transform Lagos Central Business Districts into 21st Century Business Precincts, comparable to other major cities in the developed world.

LOSS OF DOCUMEN t

This is to inform the general public that the original Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) belonging to AVM C.T. Gudi (Rtd) in respect of a parcel of land situated at Phase 3, G.R.A, Port Harcourt, Rivers State], has been reported missing/lost.

All efforts to trace the said document have proved abortive.

SIGNED: AVM C.T. Gudi (Rtd)

Edited by: MJO Mustapha Email deji.mustapha@thisdaylive.com

Getting Ready for Hajj: Physically, Mentally and Spiritually (II) WORLD OF ISLAM

Hajja Saira/Virtual Mosque/IslamiCity Step 2: Mental Prep

Remember why you are here: to complete Hajj and go back home. You are not here to change the Saudi government or fix the ignorance of the ummah (community). You are not here to argue with different people about who is right and wrong. You might need to develop a mantra or phrase to remind yourself. A few people would remind themselves saying, “La jidaal,” or “No arguing,” if they started to get annoyed with a spouse, family member, or random uncle in the group.

Don’t compare your group to other groups. It’s very easy to get caught up in what other people ate or what their tents were like. Avoid going down that road and remind yourself that everyone’s test will be different, and no one has a problem - free Hajj. Focus on yourself, make incessant talbiyah [Labbayk Allahuma labbayk - I respond to Your call O Allah, I respond to Your call], and embody your submission to Allah (swt).

Minimize the distractions. This is one of the biggest struggles. There is a lot going on and sometimes it will be hard to focus. Try to set goals for yourself before the trip so you know what to work on. I saw many people complete the Quran in a few short weeks. Plan on getting to the Haram extra early if you want to pray inside.

Avoid getting into debates about different opinions and madhabs (schools of thought). Decide on what you are going to follow beforehand and don’t get confused when people tell you that your Hajj won’t be accepted. People find themselves waiting a lot and start to discuss these issues that end up creating confusion or hostility. Follow your group leader who is experienced and let others follow their leaders. Stick together and find an experienced person to follow. This may seem obvious, but a buddy system will help prevent you from getting lost. An experienced Hajji is full of tips and will make some of the rites easier to perform (such as the best time to throw stones and which area is easier to start from).

Keep calm with your roommates and carry on. If you are sharing a room with other people in Makkah or Madina take some earplugs or eye covers to help you get rest. You might be paired with a roommate that can be a test for you - just try to take things in stride and avoid getting upset or frustrated with the person. If you are annoyed, try to do nice things for the person and make dua for that person and yourself.

Use the full day of Arafah for worship—not just the time after Asr (late afternoon prayer). Many people fall into this trap and spend time sitting, eating, and talking on the most important day of Hajj and only start making dua after Asr. Separate yourself from people and focus on seeking forgiveness. The Prophet (pbuh) used to make dua the entire day and intensified the supplication after Asr. The same thing applies after Arafah when people revert to their old habits and lose focus while they are still on Hajj! Continue to keep yourself busy with reading, remembrance, and extra worship. Side point: plan to avoid the bathrooms at Muzdalifah. Eat and drink accordingly and use the bathrooms in Arafah before getting on the bus to Muzdalifah.

An experienced Hajji advised: “Treat tawaf (walking 7 times around the Kabah) like prayer and strive for khushoo [concentration].”

The virtue of tawaf is well known: it is recommended to perform tawaf in the Haram before praying 2 rakahs (units of prayer) as the ‘greeting’ of the masjid! One idea is to pick different dua or prayers for each round, or to pick the first round for seeking forgiveness, the second round for making dua for the community, etc. Performing tawaf can be a struggle given all the distractions. Try to avoid congested areas and the 2nd floor wheelchair drivers (who go fast and end up hitting peoples’ ankles). One recommendation is to avoid the first and second floor and only make tawaf and sai on the relatively un-crowded rooftop.

Ask Allah for help. This advice was given by an elderly woman sitting in the Prophet’s (pbuh) masjid. She said to always start your actions by asking Allah (swt) to help you. Allah (swt) can make anything happen - all we need to do is ask.

Step 3: Spiritual Prep

This important aspect tends to be ignored since many people focus on the external actions

of Hajj and then focus on trying to survive the trip. If you make this a priority ahead of time by taking a few steps to prepare then the struggle can be spiritually uplifting and rewarding.

Read the Inner Dimensions of Hajj notes based on a lecture by Shaykh Mokthar Maghraoui ahead of time to get in the proper spiritual frame of mind. The Shaykh describes the Hajj rites from a different perspective—beyond the walking and waiting, Hajj is an intense act of worship that has spiritual significance. Hajj is not just a physical journey but a surrendering of the heart to Allah (swt) with absolute submission. You will give up everyday comforts (even personal hygiene!) for a few short days as you purify the soul. Print the articles out and share with roommates.

Evaluate yourself before leaving for Hajj. Really take yourself to account. As one experienced Hajji stated, “Look at your personal weaknesses and flaws. Make tawbah (repentance) for all the sins you are committing and all the weaknesses you have. Do not go to Hajj with the intention of continuing on any known sin when you return. Your intention needs to be that you will discontinue it and fight it. This is very important. Hajj is not something a person does many times - so make sure you receive the full reward for completing it. Do not risk an unaccepted Hajj.” She also emphasized, “Don’t let the spirit of the group affect your spirit. If people on the bus are talking and socializing and you feel like doing the talbiyah then go ahead and start instead of wondering why others aren’t.”

Keep good companionship during the trip. I was blessed to have good friends as roommates during my journey. You might observe different types of people in your group: the complainers, the chit-chatters, the Debby-downers, etc. If you feel distracted, then keep to yourself since you don’t want the negativity to rub off and affect your experience. Make a pact with yourself that you will come back from Hajj and keep the complaints to yourself. There might be things that you don’t like but you will hold those complaints in your heart and share constructive criticism with the group organizer. Good friends will remind you and support you in this goal. Optimism is contagious!

Conclusion

Even as you prepare for the journey of a lifetime, keep in mind that unexpected events will probably occur. Every year is different, and every person’s experience is different. Savor the new experiences and focus on the positives. Yes, you will see strange and rude actions and plenty of ignorance. But you will also see grown men shed tears while gazing at the House of Allah (swt) and pleading for mercy and forgiveness. You will see millions of people unite from all corners of the world for one purpose alone: to fulfill the obligation of Hajj and surrender before their Creator. Reflecting on these facts creates a deep respect for our religion. How amazing is the call to prayer which transforms the chaotic amblings of millions of people into perfectly circular lines within the span of a few minutes? How amazing is our faith that pushes people to struggle and give up basic comforts because of a sincere desire to please their Lord? Revel in the voices chanting in unison, marching onward with a single hope, and with a bond that overcomes all walks of life. Witness the power of submission and obedience and how it transforms tired pilgrims into an army of the faithful.

Lastly, as one Hajji said, “Always keep in mind that Hajj is a test. You can prepare yourself as much as possible but nothing [completely] prepares you for the reality of the experience. You will experience highs and lows. There will be moments of great awe as well as moments of great frustration. Pack a bag of patience!”

Although Hajj is deemed as the journey of a lifetime, for many it will be a turning point and the beginning of the journey back to their faith. For a few people, Hajj will be an ongoing journey as they come back home and try to implement lessons in patience, physical sacrifice, and complete submission. As one scholar advised, “Take your Hajj back home with you. Be in your life as you were on Hajj.” May Allah bless your Hajj and accept all our good deeds. May Allah make things easy for you and allow you to come back safely. If you found this advice beneficial, please feel free to share with others and make dua for all the Hajj veterans who shared their experiences.

S’Africa’s Amajita Burst Flying Eagles Dream of Another U20 AFCON Title

Flying Eagles to play Egypt in Sunday’s bronze

Nigeria failed to reach the final of the 18th Africa U20 Cup of Nations as a composed Amajita soaked up all the pressure and

intensity from the Flying Eagles, and then landed the sucker punch midway into the second half to win 1-0 and condemn the seven-time

Osimhen Craves Double after Turkish Cup Victory

After he led Galatasaray to win the Turkish Cup on Wednesday night, Nigerian international striker, Victor Osimhen, has said he hopes to win the Super Lig title on Sunday to complete a league and cup double. The Napoli striker on season-long loan spell in Istanbul fired a brace as Galatasaray defeated Trabzonspor 3-0 to win the Turkish Cup.

But Osimhen who has scored 35 goals this season, became the first most prolific foreign player ever in Turkey as he surpassed the record of the Brazilian Jardel, which stood at 34 goals.

His dream of a double in this his loan spell in the Turkish club football will become a reality on Sunday if Galatasaray beat Kayserispor at home in Istanbul to hit 89 points with four games to spare. Bitter rivals, Fenerbahce are on 78 points and may not be able to reach 89 points even if they win all their remaining matches.

“We were fighting for three trophies, but we lost out on one,”

Osimhen said to Turkish local

media shortly after the cup victory on Wednesday night. “We won one trophy. On Sunday, we will fight for the fifth star (the Turkish Super Lig title).”

He however took to his social media handle to congratulate his teammates and fans for the cup win and the run up to another trophy in the offing. “I want to say a big congratulations to the whole team. We are very happy,” he said. “We showed a very good fight from start to finish. We also want to thank the fans. They were incredible from start to finish.”

Asked to speak of his future since his loan spell was ending with the last game of the Super Lig season, the Edo-born striker restated his earlier stand not to talk on the matter for now.

Top Italian sporting press reported late last week that Napoli President, Aurelio de Laurentiis, had accepted the 85million euro offer from Juventus despite his initial resolve not to sell Osimhen to a rival Serie A club.

NATIONAL SPORTS FESTIVAL

First Bank Restates Commitment to Sports as Gateway Games Begins

As part of its nation building and developing sporting talents initiative across the country, First Bank of Nigeria Limited, has thrown its weight behind the 2024 National Sports Festival (NSF) beginning in various sporting centres across Ogun State from today through May 30.

The Official Opening Ceremony has been scheduled for the MKO Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta on Sunday.

The Festival, tagged ‘Gateway Games’, will feature over 10,000 athletes drawn from across the 36 states and the FCT competing in both individual and team sports.

Regarded as Nigeria’s version of the Olympics Games, the multi-sport event offers a total of 2,150 medals in 549 events.

Endorsed by the National Sports Commission (NSC), The Gateway Games 2024 will focus on Football,

Basketball, Tennis, Volleyball and other games. The festival is expected to unite the youths, foster regional harmony, discover talents and build in them a sense of national pride.

A major new feature of NSF 2024 is the introduction of the Invited Junior Athletes category. This will allow junior athletes to compete alongside more experienced athletes, offering them an opportunity to exhibit their talent on a national stage.

Backed by a leading player in the banking sector, First Bank, one of the event’s sponsors has consistently demonstrated through its First@Sports initiative, its commitment to nation building and developing sporting talents while supporting legacy sports such as Polo, Golf and Tennis.

By sponsoring 2024 NSF, the bank has demonstrated its resolve to continually promote worthy initiatives.

Premier League Drama, FA Cup Final Live on GOtv

The penultimate weekend of the League season brings high-stakes action, alongside the FA Cup final at Wembley. With two rounds left to play, the fight for Champions League spots is wide open, and fans can catch all the drama live on GOtv.

Friday night kicks off the chaos, as Aston Villa host Tottenham at 7:30 pm, followed by Chelsea vs Manchester United at 8:15 pm. Villa and Chelsea are level on points, but Chelsea currently sit fifth. A win and slip-up for the other could prove decisive. Meanwhile, United and Spurs, 15th and 16th respectively, are Europa League finalists and could sneak into next season’s Champions League

regardless of league position. Saturday is reserved for the FA Cup Final at Wembley, where Manchester City face Crystal Palace at 4:30 pm. City are desperate to avoid a trophyless season. Palace on the other hand are chasing their first major silverware. The match airs live on on GOtv Channel 61 (SS Football). On Sunday, the biggest league clash sees second-placed Arsenal host Newcastle at 4:30 pm. Only two points separate the sides. A win secures Arsenal’s top-five spot; a Newcastle victory sends them second. It’s all to play for—and it’s live on GOtv Channel 62 (SuperSport La Liga).

champions to Sunday’s third-place match.

The Flying Eagles started with so much intensity and muscle-

flexing, but could have done with a lot more coordination and composure in the final third as the opportunities came and went

match

without any one being utilized. Forward Kparobo Arierhi could not get his head to a teasing cross by Clinton Jephta in the

22nd minute, and then missed target from six yards with only the goalkeeper to beat on the half-hour.

Three minutes later, Thabang Mahlangu could have profited from Amajita’s first real incursion upfront when goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt missed an inswinger, but captain Daniel Bameyi spirited the ball away from goal. Arierhi, always with the chances, bundled over the bar another cross by Jephta in the 37th minute, and two minutes later, after turning his marker, saw his shot diverted away from goal.

On the hour mark, Nigeria lost the dependable goalkeeper Harcourt to injury, and one minute later, substitute goalkeeper Ajia Yakub came close to bungling a simple cross with Kgomotso Madiba waiting for a slip. The slip came five minutes later, as Yakub again miscalculated the ball from a pull-out and defender Tylon Smith rose above him to head into the net.

Opportunities fell to substitute Mendos Rickson and Auwal Ibrahim later on, but the Flying Eagles could not find parity.

Flying Eagles are to play Egypt who similarly lost 1-0 to Morocco’s Under-20 team in the second semi final last night.

Aruna, Other Nigerian Stars Set for ITTF World Championships in Doha

Duro Ikhazuagbe in Doha

Nigeria and Africa’s top ranked player, Quadri Aruna is leading other African players to the 2025 ITTF World Championships scheduled to begin here in Doha, Qatar on Saturday.

Aruna will be in company with other Nigerian table tennis players like Hope Udoaka; Olajide Omotayo and Kabirat Ayoola; and Matthew Kuti & Ajoke Ojomu as he seeks global table tennis glory in the Middle East.

This year’s edition scheduled to hold from May 17 to 25 inside the state-of-the-art Lusail Multipurpose Hall and Qatar University Sports Complex, will mark a symbolic return to Doha, 21 years after the Qatari capital became the first Middle Eastern city to host the World Championships in 2004.

Players will compete across five major events: Men and Women’s Singles, Men and Women’s Doubles, and Mixed Doubles.

Aruna, the first African to reach the quarterfinals of the World Championships, will open his campaign in the Men’s Singles against Brazil’s Victor Ishiy—a familiar opponent he defeated 4-2 at the 2021 edition in Houston, USA.

The Nigerian star will be aiming to repeat that performance here in Doha.

Other African representatives in the Men’s Singles include Darara Dufera (Ethiopia) vs Oh Junsung (South Korea); Aly Ghallab (Egypt) vs Eduard Ionescu (Romania); Fabio

Rakotoarimanana (Madagascar) vs Darko Jorgic (Slovenia); Kokou Fanny (Togo) vs Alexis Lebrun (France); Wassim Essed (Tunisia) vs Juan Perez (Spain) and Mohamed El-Beiali (Egypt) vs Anton Kallberg (Sweden).

In the Women’s Singles, African champion Hana Goda of Egypt will

Botswana’s Letsile Tebogo Gunning for Doha Diamond League Glory

Paris 2024 Olympic Games champion in the men’s 200m Olympic champion will make his debut in World Athletics’ Diamond League’s 200m event here in Doha today.

The Botswana long sprint star took silver in the event behind American Noah Lyles at the 2023 Worlds in Budapest, Hungary

It will be the history-making Botswanan’s second outing over the 200m this season, following his thrilling home victory at the Botswana Grand Prix. He’s stepping up to his preferred distance after

finishing seventh in Xiamen and third in Shanghai/Keqiao in the shorter sprint. He will be up against Olympic champions Canadian Aaron Brown and Filippo Tortu of Italy as he builds up to the Worlds. “It’s going to be a very long season, but I’m more experienced and mature, and I’m ready to push my body to its limits and make every moment count,” he promised during light workout here in Doha yesterday.

In the women’s 100m, Jamaica’s three-time Olympic gold medallist

Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce will return to the circuit in the women’s short sprint here in Doha.

The return of Fraser-Pryce, one of the most decorated sprinters in history, to the Qatar Sports Club, has dominated headlines in the run-up to the series meet here.

The Jamaican star hasn’t competed at the Doha Diamond League since taking victory in the 100m in 2021.

There will be five other Olympic champions competing for honours at this Meet here in Doha.

face Australia’s Jiamuwa Wu in the first round.

Other key matchups include; Yousra Helmy (Egypt) vs Jocelyn Lam (New Zealand); Hope Udoaka (Nigeria) vs Giulia Takahashi (Brazil); Rochica Sonday (South Africa) vs Chen Xingtong (China); Mariam Alhodaby (Egypt) vs Sabine Winter (Germany) and Danisha Patel (South Africa) vs Andrea Todorovic (Croatia). The Mixed Doubles event will also feature strong African representation with Olajide Omotayo & Kabirat Ayoola (Nigeria) vs Mahmoud Helmy & Hend Fathy (Egypt); Fabio Rakotoarimanana & Hanitra Raharimanana (Madagascar) vs Hugo Calderano & Bruna Takahashi (Brazil); Matthew Kuti & Ajoke Ojomu (Nigeria) vs Sora Matsushima & Miwa Harimoto (Japan) and Milhane Jellouli & Amina Kessaci (Algeria) vs Ahmed Korani & Maryam Ali (Qatar).

With top talents from across Africa—including Nigeria, Egypt, Algeria, Tunisia, Ethiopia, Uganda, South Africa, Madagascar, and Togo—set to compete, the 2025 ITTF World Championships promises to be a thrilling showcase of skill, resilience, and continental pride.

South Africa’s Tylon Smith (left) celebrating with teammates shortly after scoring the lone goal winner against Nigeria at the U20 AFCON semi final in Egypt....yesterday

Quadri Aruna set to lead African top stars to the ITTF Championships in Doha, Qatar

EXChAnGE oF ToRCh oF UniTY...

Politics As A Vocation

The last time I was approached by a television reporter to comment on the life and times of Chief Ayo Adebanjo, my initial response was that I could not think of any aspect of his public life that has not been adequately covered in the interlude between his earthly passage and the burial rites. Besides, the deceased himself had written an autobiography on the occasion of his 90th birthday.

On further reflection I recalled his unlikely rapport with President Olusegun Obasanjo in his latter years. The open secret was the lifelong mutual antipathy between the two. Following the 1979 presidential election and the alleged bias of the former President against the candidacy of Chief Obafemi Awolowo (to whom Adebanjo was fanatically committed) a prior article of faith among the followers of Awolowo was the capacity to hold Obasanjo in virulent disdain.

To nonplussed inquiries about this improbable camaraderie, Adebanjo responded with the explanation that he had nothing personal against Obasanjo. He said the latter had transcended his anti-federalist status quo ideology to embrace the policy platform of the restoration of federalism aka restructuring.

I have recalled this antecedence to illustrate the concept of ‘Politics As A Vocation’ as propounded by the German sociologist, Max Weber. He proposed that the ‘pursuit of power often requires compromises and strategic decisions that may conflict with one’s moral beliefs. He restated this conflict as amounting to the distinction between the “ethics of conviction” (principle-driven, idealistic motives) and the “ethics of responsibility” (pragmatic, outcome-oriented consideration).

Weber argued that effective politicians must balance both ethical approaches; they should adhere to their convictions while also being mindful of the consequences of their actions.

In his response to the first World War and how it impacted the distressed German society, Weber characterised the effective politician as one who is capable of striking a judicious balance between the two ethics . Such politicians are generally located in the midstream of the ideological spectrum and are spatio temporal specific. As such they are commonsensical and non- doctrinaire. I have identified three historical statesmen whose careers have met the bar that Weber has erected, namely Abraham Lincoln, Nelson Mandela and Obafemi Awolowo. The first two, Lincoln and Mandela, are world historical figures. Localized to Nigeria, the third is of a less grandiose pedestal.

On his embrace of Democratic socialism, Awolowo, for instance,once argued. ‘In a country like Nigeria, the adoption of socialism had to be gradual. My belief in socialism as an ideal has not been based on the writings of Marx or Lenin. The methods of attaining socialism can differ from place to place. The mistake many people make is that they take the methods for the ideal itself. In Russia they had to use violence because there was no other way of supplanting those in power. Dictatorship was

all right in Russia, because they had not known any democracy in all their history. The same thing evolved in China. China had these war-lords who had their own dominions and past emperors were ruthless in dealing with the masses. Now you cannot say the same of Nigeria. There are no homeless people in Nigeria.

The London Spectator said of his second Inaugural address. “We cannot read it without a renewed conviction that it is the noblest political document known to history, and should have for the nation and the statesmen he left behind something of a sacred and almost prophetic character”.

In its historical applicability, it is difficult not to suspect that Weber had Abraham Lincoln in mind when he penned the essay.

Abraham Lincoln

In the Lincoln archetype, we found a near perfect congruence between theory and practice. In his unique charismatic pedagogy, he pondered . “At this second appearing to take the oath of the presidential office, there is less occasion for an extended address than there was at the first. Then a statement, somewhat in detail, of a course to be pursued, seemed fitting and proper. Now, at the expiration of four years, little that is new could be presented”.

“One eighth of the whole population were colored slaves, not distributed generally over the Union, but localized in the Southern part of it. These slaves constituted a peculiar and powerful interest. All knew that this interest was, somehow, the cause of the war. To strengthen, perpetuate, and extend this interest was the object for which the insurgents would rend the Union, even by war; while the government claimed no right to do more than to restrict the territorial enlargement of it. Neither party expected for the war, the magnitude, or the

duration, which it has already attained”.

Neither anticipated that the cause of the conflict might cease with, or even before, the conflict itself should cease. Each looked for an easier triumph, and a result less fundamental and astounding. Both read the same Bible, and pray to the same God; and each invokes His aid against the other. It may seem strange that any men should dare to ask a just God’s assistance in wringing their bread from the sweat of other men’s faces; but let us judge not that we be not judged. The prayers of both could not be answered; that of neither has been answered fully. The Almighty has his own purposes. “Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh!”

“If we shall suppose that American Slavery is one of those offences which, in the providence of God, must needs come, but which, having continued through His appointed time, He now wills to remove, and that He gives to both North and South, this terrible war, as the woe due to those by whom the offence came, shall we discern therein any departure from those divine attributes which the believers in a Living God always ascribe to Him?

Fondly do we hope--fervently do we pray--that this mighty scourge of war may speedily pass away. Yet, if God wills that it continue, until all the wealth piled by the bond-man’s two hundred and fifty years of unrequited toil shall be sunk, and until every drop of blood drawn with the lash, shall be paid by another drawn with the sword, as was said three thousand years ago, so still it must be said “the judgments of the Lord, are true and righteous altogether”

Mandela

Of Nelson Mandela, Peter Pham of the New Atlanticist wrote :”It was the example he left with his broad vision and pragmatic approach that will perhaps be his lasting legacy to those who follow. In 1988, he secretly offered to open negotiations with the apartheid regime. In Mandela, the greatness of soul that dreamed large was matched by a wisdom of mind directed to political realism. That grandeur is a rare combination, one which those who would be his heirs in South Africa and elsewhere on the continent will need to aspire to if they are to ever realize the vision of Madiba.

On the extreme right, Mandela was widely labelled a terrorist by prominent political figures in the Western world for his embrace of political violence. According to Thatcher, for instance, the ANC was “a typical terrorist organisation”.The US government’s State and Defense departments officially designated the ANC as a terrorist organisation, resulting in Mandela remaining on their terrorism watch-list until 2008.

On the left, some voices in the ANC accused him of selling out for agreeing to enter negotiations with the apartheid government and for not implementing the reforms of the Freedom Charter during his presidency.

Obafemi Awolowo

On the occasion of the 50th birthday anniversary of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, his deputy, Chief Ladoke Akintola had this to say. “To Chief Awolowo, passivity is a bane and inaction an anathema. How could it be otherwise to a life which thrives on industry and to a man with fanatical faith in hard work? That was why he made himself a terror to the demagogues and Mountebanks who, with neither a chart nor a rudder believed that they could steer the Nigerian ship of state to its destination….No pilot has a clearer vision and none a keener sense of mission than Chief Awolowo…In the political changes which took place in Nigeria from 1947 onwards, Dr. Azikiwe has been spasmodic and casual; Sir Ahmadu Bello has been leisurely and care-free; but Awolowo has been constant and calculating…

“To know Chief Awolowo as a man is to respect him. It has been my pride and pleasure to know him. He is by every standard a genius. His unimpeachable character, his faith in God, his confidence in his fellowmen, his personal devotion to duty and his loyalty…have conspired together to make him a great pillar of strength. He never lets a friend down…As a political leader, Chief Awolowo is miles ahead of his colleagues. His sincerity of purpose, his democratic leadership and inspiring example are yet to be equaled by any of the leaders of other major political parties in the country…Awolowo is the nearest approximation to Mahatma Gandhi. He is a good blend of Gandhi’s philosophy and Nehru’s dynamism and the only hope for democracy in Africa”.

Although this eulogy was a mocking backdrop to the scorched earth intensity of the fractional struggle that ensued three years later between the two leaders. After making sufficient provision for the flattery and permissible exaggeration, there is the element of honesty and extenuating validity in Akintola’s eulogy.

In Weberian tradition, it is the case that the conception of the professional politician almost always overlaps with charismatic leadership (based on personal qualities and the ability to inspire) and can be used as cause and effect explanations of cultural and social changes.

There were also Prophet Mohammed, Buddha, Alexander, Ho chi minh, Winston Churchill, Nnamdi Azikiwe, J.F Kennedy, Barack Obama, Adolf Hitler, Martin Luther King, Oduduwa, Chairman Mao etc The greatest of them all is the Jesus archetype. who became man in order to partake of man’s imperfections and vulnerabilities. Who had to experience humanity in order to become a perfect vessel and bearer for the consequences of the fall of man.

But now you have been united with Christ Jesus. Once you were far away from God, but now you have been brought near to him through the blood of Christ. In Jesus Christ we found a perfect reconciliation of “the ethics of conviction with the ethics of responsibility”

The late Obafemi Awolowo

L-R: Zonal Coordinator, National Sports Commission, Mrs. Evelyn Fabunmi; Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun; Team Leader, Torch of Unity, Mrs. Mbora Ikana; and Mr. Shedrack Weston, during the exchange of the Torch of Unity for the 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival, tagged Gateway Games 2024, at the City Gate, Interchange, Sagamu Expressway on Thursday