Issuu

Otudeko’s forced exit stands, Odukale sold voluntarily

Nume Ekeghe and Kayode Tokede

Tinubu Immortalises Buhari, Renames

University of Maiduguri After Him

Says he was a patriot in deed, not word Akpabio: He was a principled, dutiful leader Abbas: He was no ordinary figure in our national journey NGF: He was a statesman, patriot and committed servant of Nigerian people Yusuf, Buhari’s son, thanks nation for staggering show of love

deji Elumoye in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu, at a special Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting, yesterday in Abuja, renamed the University of Maiduguri after the late former President Muhammadu Buhari as part of initiatives to immortalise him. Tinubu disclosed the rechristening

at the expanded FEC Session held in honour of Buhari at State House, Abuja. He said the university was renamed as a mark of honour for the former president in recognition

of his contributions to education and national development, particularly in the North-east.

He stated that the university’s new name would be a lasting legacy to

commemorate Buhari’s impact on Nigeria’s history.

The president, in an emotion-laden tribute, hailed Buhari’s devotion to Nigeria, saying his “patriotism lived

Tinubu arrived the Council Chambers, where majority of the

Abdulrazaq, at Special FEC Meeting in honour of late former President Buhari at the Presidential Villa Abuja ... yesterday .

L-R: Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umar Radda; Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau; President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio; Vice President Kashim Shettima; President Bola Ahmed Tinubu; the children of Late Former President Muhammadu Buhari, Hadiza Buhari; Yusuf Buhari; Fatima Buhari, and Halima Buhari; Speaker, House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas , and Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, and Kwara State Governor and Chairman of Governors Forum Abdulrahman

PACT TO BOOST RURAL ELECTRIFICATION...

L-R: Secretary to Ekiti State Government, Prof. Habibat Adubiaro; Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, and Managing Director, Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Abba Aliyu, at the REA Stateby-State Round table engagement and signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Ekiti State in Abuja…recently

ADC to FG: Without Full Audit, You Cannot Waste Billions to Repair, Quietly Sell Refineries

Queries if government was selling scrap or sovereign assets

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

African Democratic Congress (ADC) has demanded a full audit of Nigeria’s refineries, citing recent reports that successive governments have spent nearly $18 billion on the rehabilitation of the three major refineries in the country.

In a statement by ADC’s National Publicity Secretary and Coalition Spokesperson, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the party questioned whether the Tinubu administration had been deceiving Nigerians, having recently spent over $2.8 billion on the refineries, before declaring that they were moribund.

ADC stated with deep concern the recent confirmation by the Tinubu administration and the leadership of Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) that the federal government was proceeding with the full privatisation of Nigeria’s state-owned refineries.

According to the coalition party, “This development, coming just months after government officials claimed the Port Harcourt and Warri refineries had resumed partial operations, raises fundamental questions about transparency and policy coherence.”

The federal government had recently announced that the refineries were already operating.

ADC said, “It is, therefore, curious that the same government, having spent such humongous amounts on the refineries, is now planning to sell them off.

“ADC is concerned about the perennial waste and underhanded dealings in the name of turnaround maintenance that never turned anything around but the personal fortunes of those involved. We believe this must not continue.

“We are, however, suspicious of the current moves being made by the government to sell off the refineries outright without giving full considerations to alternative options and without consultations with critical stakeholders.

“Selling off the refineries under the prevailing circumstances is, indeed, conducive for all sorts of criminal dealings, whereby national assets could be deliberately devalued and sold to cronies.”

ADC called for a full and independent audit –financial, technical, and structural – before any sale or privatisation could be contemplated.

The party said successive APC administrations had poured over $18 billion into the so-called rehabilitation of Nigeria’s refineries, stressing, “The current administration is reported to have spent another $2.8 billion under the same pretext. Yet there

is no verifiable increase in refining capacity, no observable cost efficiency, and no fuel security benefit accruing to the Nigerian people.

“Instead, the same refineries have remained idle or dysfunctional, while the government continues to fund the importation of refined petroleum products.

“Even Africa’s foremost industrialist, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, whose private refinery now stands as the only viable refining asset in the country, has publicly stated his doubts that these government-owned refineries can ever work again.

“And he is right to doubt. The infrastructure is obsolete, the operations are hollowed out, and the entire value-chain has become a black hole for public funds. So again, we must ask: what exactly is being sold, and why now?”

The statement said, “The truth is that if the intention all along was to privatise the refineries, then the years of huge public spending is at best a waste, and at worst a scam.

Emmanuel Addeh in

Solar Sister, a women-centred social enterprise that empowers rural communities with access to clean energy, yesterday announced that it had so far trained and created economic opportunities for 12,000 women entrepreneurs across Nigeria and other African countries.

Speaking in Abuja at a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Project Launch and Stakeholder Event, Chief Executive of Solar Sister, Olasimbo Sojinrin, said the organisation remains at the intersection of women’s economic empowerment, energy access, and climate action across the continent.

The Solar Sister STEM career launch, the group said, is a flagship event designed to kick off a

nationwide initiative focused on empowering 300 girls aged 11–14 from all-girls secondary schools across six Nigerian states, including Bauchi, Akwa Ibom, Oyo, Enugu, Kano, and Kwara to pursue careers in STEM.

This roundtable engagement, she said, serves as a catalytic meeting of education leaders, clean energy stakeholders, development partners, government agencies, and industry champions to deliberate on the importance of gender inclusion in STEM education.

For 15 years of its existence, she explained that the organisation headquartered in the US, has been building a network of women entrepreneurs in different communities who are distributing a range of clean energy products, including solar lamps, solar home

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

A group, Ogoni Liberation Initiative (OLI), has called for accountability for the $300 million compensation paid by Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) for the development of Ogoniland.

President of OLI, Douglas Fabeke, made the demand at a special birthday party held in his honour in Port Harcourt, yesterday.

Fabeke said information available to the group showed that the money

was paid to the immediate past government of Rivers State through an Out-of-Court settlement.

He stated that several letters written by the group to the former Group Managing Director (GMD) and management of NNPCL, demanding explanation on the $300 million payment, were ignored.

Fabeke stated, “But since then, we have written several letters to the former GMD, letters that were ignored. We demanded accountability.

“We demanded action. Instead of answers, we met a wall of silence. We then demanded his removal from office and he was eventually replaced.

“There is information with valid evidence confirming that

systems, and clean cooking products.

“And a lot of times, these women are the only access point for clean energy in their communities. And when we started 11, 12 years ago in Nigeria, there were many communities that never touched and felt what solar is,” Sojinrin stated.

In her intervention, the Executive Secretary, Renewable Energy Association of Nigeria (REAN), Dr Oluwatosin Akande, said the association amalgamates all the renewable energy developers, enterprises, operators, providers and original equipment manufacturers. She stated that the event was a testament to the shared commitment to building an inclusive, innovative, and resilient Nigeria, one where young girls are equipped, inspired, and empowered to lead in STEM.

“Government cannot, in good conscience, expend public funds on assets under the guise of rehabilitation, only to turn around and offer them for sale – without accountability on the investments already made and without any public reckoning. In other climes, those responsible for such transactions would have faced judgements.”

Abdullahi stated, “The ADC believes that before any conversation about privatisation can proceed, there must be a comprehensive forensic audit of all funds allocated to refinery rehabilitation from 2010 to date.

Ogoni Group Demands Accountability for NNPCL’s $300m Compensation

$300 million had been paid to the Rivers State Government via an Out-of-Court settlement under the former administration, but the management of NNPCL has failed to brief us nor respond to our several letters.”

He, however, said the management of NNPCL recently acknowledged a demand notice from OLI’s legal team, and vowed to approach the court to recover the resources meant for the development of Ogoni people.

“We ask, where is the 300 million dollars’ compensation? Who authorised the payment to the state government, instead of the Ogoni people, the rightful victims and stakeholders in this matter?

“Who represented the Ogoni people during the out-of-court settlement? What was that money used for? We are demanding full disclosure. We are demanding that justice be done and seen to be done.

The group wondered why NNPCL decided to pay the money into Rivers State account instead of Ogoni people, who were directly affected by oil-polluted environment. He stated, “On the 14th July, 2025, the NNPCL acknowledged our demand notice through our legal representative. The organisation shall embark on a legal battle, one that will shake the history of Nigeria, to recover all the resources of the Ogoni people.

Ajanaku Takes Helm as Ondo Information Commissioner, Vows to Revolutionise State’s Communication

The newly appointed Commissioner for Information and Orientation in Ondo State, Idowu Ajanaku, has officially assumed duty, pledging to reposition the state’s communication architecture and enhance public engagement.

He also emphasized the need for unity among media stakeholders, promising to foster harmony and collaboration to achieve effective information dissemination.

He also reflected on his humble beginnings and years of experience

working with former Lagos State Governors Babatunde Raji Fashola and Akinwunmi Ambode, affirming he is ready to deploy his expertise to lift the ministry to a high pedestal.

“I rose from grass to grace, learning the ropes from scratch. I am ready to deploy every experience I’ve gathered to promote the administration of Governor Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa and the enormous potentials of Ondo State to the global community.

“This ministry will be lifted to a high pedestal. All hands must be on deck as we take on this collective task,” he said.

In his welcome remarks, Mr. Lanre Akarakiri expressed delight at the commissioner’s arrival, describing it as timely and strategic.

“You are coming on board at a time when the state’s information apparatus needs the touch of a seasoned professional. We believe your wealth of experience will bring the desired transformation,” he said. The ceremony featured a prayer session and welcoming remarks from members of the ministry’s management team, who expressed delight at the commissioner’s arrival and pledged their full cooperation.

Fidelis David in Akure

Abuja

COURTESY VISIT OF THE SEDC MANAGING DIRECTOR TO NEMA...

L-R: Director, Finance and Accounts, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Alhaji Aminu Boyi Ringim; Director, Relief and Rehabilitation, NEMA, Alhaji Abdullahi Adamu Usur; Director General, NEMA, Mrs. Zubaida Umar; Managing Director, South East Development Commission (SEDC), Mr. Mark Okoye; Special Assistant to the Director General, NEMA, Hajiya Rakiya Bello Umar; Director, Planning, Research and Forecasting, NEMA, Dr. Onimode Abdullahi Bandele; and Deputy Director, Disaster Risk Reduction, Dr. Evan Ugoh, during the courtesy visit of the SEDC Managing Director to NEMA headquarters in Abuja, yesterday

Adedeji: OAGF Key to Upholding Accountability in Tax Revenues, Compliance

Says despite technological advances, lapses in withholding tax deductions, stamp duty administration, VAT remittances persist Ogunjimi declares taxation lifeblood of Nigerian economy

James Emejo in Abuja

Executive Chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Dr. Zacch Adedeji, yesterday, declared that the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation (OAGF) was a pivotal partner in efforts to improve tax compliance, accountability, and revenue performance in the country.

Adedeji said given the OAGF’s central role in financial controls and

disbursements across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), it had a crucial responsibility in ensuring that taxes collected were shielded from leakages and misappropriation.

The FIRS boss spoke at the opening of FIRS-OAGF stakeholders’ engagement in Abuja, with the theme, “Enhancing Tax Compliance through Collaboration.”

Adedeji said besides playing the role of treasurer, the Accountant

General of the Federation (AGF) was the chief accounting officer of the federal government, who conducted financial reporting and management of government funds.

He lamented that despite technological advances achieved in payment platforms, including the federal government’s Government Integrated Financial and Management Information System (GIFMIS) as well as FIRS’ TaxPro MAX

platform, “We continue to observe lapses in withholding tax deductions, VAT remittances, and stamp duty administration from the MDA space.”

He said those gaps, many of which were due to technical limitations and knowledge deficit on tax compliance requirements, had resulted in significant revenue losses and recurrent audit issues.

The FIRS chairman said the workshop was not just an opportunity to

UBA’s LEO Becomes Africa’s First Chatbot to Enable Cross-Border Payments

Revolutionises remittances with PAPSS instant payment service

Africa’s Global Bank, United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, has announced its Artificial Intelligence chatbot, LEO, is now enabled to carry out cross-border payment transactions.

By this, LEO becomes Africa’s first AI-powered chatbot to facilitate cross-border payments, offering customers a seamless and instant way to transfer funds across the continent.

The platform leverages the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) developed in partnership with the African Export-Import Bank (Afrexim Bank), and allows individuals, traders, and corporates to transfer money in local currencies between African countries where the Central Bank has approved PAPSS operations.

Commenting on this milestone, Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, UBA, Oliver Alawuba, said as Africa’s global bank, UBA is driven by the need to constantly push boundaries and deliver services that speak to the needs of today’s Africa.

“The introduction of cross-border payments on LEO, in partnership with PAPSS, reflects our commitment to digital innovation, Pan-African integration, and customer-centric banking. This is not just a banking upgrade; it is a bold leap into the future of African finance,” he stated.

UBA PAPSS Instant Payment through LEO offers unmatched benefits including instant payments within a few seconds; availability via self-service channels; lower

transaction processing fees and zero charges on the beneficiary.

Speaking more on the benefits, Group Head, Retail and Digital Banking, Shamsideen Fasola that enhanced security and confidentiality and wider options for remittance products are other benefits that customers stand to gain from the service.

“This is a transformative step in Africa’s financial services landscape. With LEO now fully integrated with the PAPSS infrastructure, UBA customers can send and receive money across African borders in their local currencies within seconds.

“We’re not just simplifying transactions - we’re fostering intraAfrican trade and breaking down longstanding barriers to financial

Otu Appoints Prof Francisca Bassey Substantive UNICROSS Vice Chancellor

Bassey Inyang in Calabar

The Cross River State Governor and Visitor to the Cross River State University, UNICROSS, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, has approved the appointment of Prof. Francisca Bassey as the institution’s substantive vice chancellor, in a bold move aimed at strengthening its academic leadership. According to a statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Anthony Owan Enoh, the appointment, which takes immediate effect,

follows the recommendation of the university’s Governing Council after what government sources describe as “a rigorous, merit-based and transparent selection process” involving some of the brightest academic minds within and outside the state.

The statement said the governor’s approval underscores his administration’s unflinching commitment to meritocracy, inclusivity, and the empowerment of capable Cross Riverians in strategic roles.

“Her appointment reflects the governor’s belief that leadership in

higher education must be driven by competence, integrity and vision,” the statement noted.

Otu congratulated Professor Bassey on her well-deserved elevation and urged her to offer bold, transformative leadership that would not only consolidate existing gains but reposition UNICROSS as a dynamic hub of academic excellence, research, and innovation.

“You are stepping into a role that demands courage, creativity, and character,” the governor said in a message conveyed to the new vice chancellor.

inclusion,” Fasola stated. With this innovation, UBA is empowering account holders, traders, and corporates to transact quickly and efficiently across African markets, formalizing informal trade flows and supporting the broader goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

As the first bank to enable crossborder payments via its chatbot on the continent, UBA continues to lead in innovation, customer experience, and digital banking transformation.

share knowledge, but also a strategic turning point to co-design solutions that will close the existing gaps and build a smarter, more efficient, and technology-driven tax compliance culture in the country.

Adedeji said, “When government institutions are tax-compliant, the message it sends to the private sector and to citizens is powerful – that no one is above the law, and that transparency begins at home.

“Our credibility as public institutions is tested, first, by our own adherence to tax regulations. If we must grow revenue to meet our national development priorities, then we must begin by ensuring that public sector actors play by the rules and help others do the same.

“That is why this engagement is not another conference, it is a joint mission. It is a collaborative task to standardise systems, deepen understanding, address operational inefficiencies, and align our collective responsibilities within the public finance management ecosystem.”

He stated that the success of the engagement depended not only on the brilliance of the discussions, but also on the actions taken thereafter.

Adedeji said participants must commit to building stronger bridges between FIRS and OAGF, establishing clear reporting and escalation channels for tax remittance lapses, and embed compliance education in the internal

training curriculum for public finance officers, as well as design feedback loops to ensure that both GIFMIS and TaxPro MAX evolved to meet shared needs.

In his remarks, the AGF, Mr. Babatunde Ogunjimi, said taxation was the lifeblood of the Nigerian economy, adding that improving tax compliance is not just a fiscal priority but a national imperative.

Ogunjimi stated that one of the key objectives of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda was to diversify revenue sources and reduce reliance on volatile oil revenues.

He said this could only be achieved through collaboration among revenue-generating agencies and other stakeholders.

The AGF pointed out that the engagement provided a unique platform to foster synergy between FIRS and OAGF, align strategies, and address challenges hindering optimal tax collection and remittances.

He said by leveraging technology, strengthening accountability, and promoting transparency and probity, the federal government could significantly enhance compliance and boost government revenue for sustainable development.

Ogunjimu said the engagement also provided an opportunity to address Tinubu’s desire to achieve $1 trillion economy by 2030.

PSC: FG Needs to Update Policing Statute to Capture Evolving Trends in Cyberspace

Linus Aleke in Abuja

The Police Service Commission (PSC) has expressed the urgent need for government to review extant legal instruments governing policing in the country to capture evolving trends in the cyber domain.

A statement by PSC, stated Chairman of the Commission, DIG Hashimu Argungu (rtd), emphasized the relevance of robust legal frameworks that can keep pace with technological advancements.

Speaking at the official unveiling of a book titled “Law, Science and Technology: Jurisprudential Interrogation of the Internet of Everything (IoE)”, authored by Awar Oliver Gwajime, the Chairman noted that in law enforcement, stakeholders are already

witnessing how digital surveillance, big data, and artificial intelligence are reshaping the operational landscape.

Argungu stressed the Internet of Everything (IoE) is rapidly redefining how people live, work, govern, and enforce laws. He stated that this has implications for national security, privacy, human rights, and governance.

Represented by the Head of Press and Public Relations of the Commission, Mr. Ikechukwu Ani, the Chairman noted the book was timely and challenges policing stakeholders to think critically about the evolving interface between jurisprudence and digital innovation, adding that the book is a commendable contribution to the intellectual resources needed for a more informed, responsible and

adaptive justice system.

He noted the book boldly explores the convergence of law, science, and technology in the digital era. “Law, Science and Technology: Jurisprudential Interrogation of the Internet of Everything (IoE),” he said, is more than just a title - it is a statement of purpose and vision. Noting the author is an example of the untapped potential that lies within the walls of our institutions, Argungu described him as a shining example of discipline, diligence, and thirst for knowledge.

He stressed his journey should inspire others in public service to push beyond traditional boundaries and contribute meaningfully to scholarship, policy, and national development.

35TH ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF ANCHOR INSURANCE...

L-R: Executive Director, Technical, Anchor

NECA Commends FG’s Initiatives to Improve Business Climate, Reduce Cost of Doing Business

Says CBN’s recent reforms stabilising monetary environment Laments NASS’ disruptive oversight functions

Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) has commended the federal government for initiating key reforms aimed at improving Nigeria’s business climate and reducing the cost of doing business in the country.

National President of NECA, Mr. Ifeanyi Okoye, gave the commendation in his welcome address during the 68th Annual General Meeting of the association, held in Lagos on Wednesday.

Okoye said the reforms included Nigerian Tax Act 2024, regulatory reform initiatives, and the renewed hope Buy Made in Nigeria.

He said multiple taxation was a longstanding issue and a major concern that had undermined the private sector’s competitiveness by increasing operational costs, inflating product prices, reducing sales, and, ultimately, eroding profits.

Okoye stated, “We, therefore, commend the federal government for enacting the Nigerian Tax Act 2024.

“We particularly acknowledge the Act’s business-friendly provisions, including the phased reduction of Company Income Tax (CIT) from 30 per cent to 25 per cent, the consolidation of over 50 minor taxes, tax relief for small businesses earning below N50 million annually, and the exemption of essential commodities from Value Added Tax (VAT).”

He urged the government to ensure full and effective implementation of

the Act in order to realise tangible improvements in the cost of doing business.

The NECA president also commended the government for initiating moves that could address multiple regulatory burdens imposed on businesses by various government agencies at federal, state, and local levels.

He said, “These overlapping and often conflicting mandates among Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) have led to excessive charges and hindered the ease of doing business.

“This situation adversely affects the competitiveness of locally produced goods and services.

“We, therefore, appreciate the federal government’s ongoing efforts to streamline regulatory frameworks through the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC).

“We commend the leadership of PEBEC for initiating critical reforms and, in particular, for establishing the PEBEC Regulators’ Forum (PRF), which provides a platform for resolving operational and regulatory bottlenecks.

“We hope the forum prioritises the harmonisation of regulatory functions among government agencies to eliminate duplications and inefficiencies.”

Commenting on the Buy-Madein-Nigeria policy of the President Bola Tinubu administration, Okoye said poor patronage of locally made products had long hindered the growth of Nigerian businesses.

He said the poor patronage persisted,

in spite of earlier interventions to address it through Executive Orders 003 and 005 that were issued by late President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration.

“We, therefore, applaud President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the ‘Renewed Hope Nigeria First’ policy,” Okoye stated.

“This directive mandates all federal Ministries, Departments, and Agencies to give priority to Nigerian-made goods, services, and expertise in public

procurement,” he added.

The NECA president stated that public procurement was a vital fiscal tool for stimulating domestic production, supporting private sector growth, and enhancing national competitiveness.

He said, “NECA remains committed to engaging with relevant government bodies, particularly in Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E), to ensure proper and effective implementation of this important policy.”

NECA also commended Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) for its recent reforms and interventions, which had begun to stabilise the monetary environment.

It, however, stated that more coordinated efforts were required to align foreign exchange (FX) and interest rate policies.

According to NECA, an improvement in FX availability will strengthen the naira, leading to lower inflation and interest rates.

NECA expressed concerns over the manner the National Assembly had been carrying out its oversight functions, to the detriment of the organised private sector. Okoye said, “We are deeply concerned about the increasing frequency of invitations extended to our member-companies by various committees of the National Assembly, often on matters that fall within the jurisdiction of the executive arm of government.

Malaria Eradication: Stakeholders Divided Over Creation of New Agency

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

Stakeholders in Nigeria’s health sector on Thursday expressed divergent views over the proposed establishment of a National Agency for Malaria Eradication, as canvassed in a bill currently before the senate.

The bill, sponsored by Senator Ned Nwoko (Delta North), seeks to create a dedicated agency to lead the charge against malaria in the country.

However, during a public hearing held at the National Assembly, strong disagreements emerged

Nation’s Industrial Growth: SON Vows to Continue to Protect, Growth of Local Manufacturers

Director General, Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke, yesterday reiterated SON’s commitment to continue to protect and the growth of local manufacturing companies in the country in the bid to enhance industrialisation of the nation.

Okeke said such development would also reduce the production of sub standards products and thereby accelerating the economic growth of the country.

Speaking in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital on Thursday while declaring open a one-day Stakeholders’ Forum for Manufacturers, MSMEs, Importers and Exporters, Okeke said the protection of

local manufacturing companies remains a main agenda of the present administration in its tasks to discourage importation of goods and services.

The theme of the workshop is “Standards: The Pillar for Innovation, Safety and Sustainable Development”.

The DG, represented by the SON Director, Corporate Affairs, Mrs. Talatu Ethan said: “One of the cornerstones of this administration’s industrial policy is the ‘Nigeria First Policy’”.

“This is not just a directive from above, it is a challenge to every Nigerian to look inward, support homegrown solutions, and raise the quality of local production.

“For this vision to be meaningful, we must anchor it on credible

quality infrastructure.

“At SON, we are responding by scaling up our certification, training, and monitoring systems to give Nigerian-made products the credibility they deserve

“Let me make this clear promoting the “Nigeria First Policy” is not about excluding others: it is about preparing ourselves.

“It is about positioning Nigerian entrepreneurs, artisans, and manufacturers to compete favourably, not just within our borders, but across West Attica and beyond.

Standards are how we translate patriotic intention into economic success.

“Today’s workshop is a platform for knowledge sharing. Yes, but more than that, it is a space for reorientation.

over its necessity and implications.

Leading opposition to the bill was Chief State Counsel at the Federal Ministry of Justice, Imarha Reuben.

Reuben warned that the proposed agency would duplicate the functions of existing institutions and run counter to the recommendations of the Orosanye Report, which advocates streamlining government agencies to enhance efficiency.

“The Federal Ministry of Justice is opposed to the National Agency for Malaria Eradication (Establishment) Bill 2025 (SB 172) to avoid duplication of functions in line with the implementation of the Orosanye Report,” Reuben stated.

Echoing similar concerns, Chairman of Nigeria’s Malaria Technical Working Group, Dr. Kolawole Maxwell, recommended strengthening existing structures rather than creating new ones.

Maxwell argued that the country should focus on malaria elimination, not just eradication, and warned against further fragmentation of the health sector.

He said, “We recommend that the current target of eradication be refocused on elimination.

“The malaria programme should be housed within a coordinated government structure to ensure effective implementation.

“Creating a new agency will only lead to further fragmentation.”

A representative of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Fraden Bitrus, also stressed the need for enhanced coordination and resource mobilisation.

Bitrus opposed the establishment of a new agency.

However, not all stakeholders were opposed to the proposal.

President of Environmental Health Officers Association, FCT Chapter, Ismaila Dankogi, backed the bill. Dankogi argued that a specialised agency would allow the country to shift its strategy from curative to preventive measures in tackling malaria.

Similarly, Executive Director of Community Vision Initiative, Dr. Chioma Amajoh, popularly known as “Mama Malaria”, voiced strong support for the agency. Amajoh described such agency as a much-needed springboard for a coordinated national response to the disease.

She said, “Clinical case management of malaria in Nigeria has failed to stem the scourge.

“This bill is a unique opportunity to institutionalise a results-driven approach.”

52nd AAAN AGM/Congress Begins in Ibadan

The 52nd Annual General Meeting and Congress of the Association of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria (AAAN) begins today in Ibadan, bringing together key stakeholders from across Nigeria’s advertising and marketing ecosystem for three days of industry-defining dialogue, networking, and celebration.

The event which will take place at JAGZ Hotel in the Iyaganku area of Ibadan is themed, “Charting Bold Paths Forward”.

The theme reflects the industry’s collective commitment to innovation, resilience, and transformative leadership in a fast-changing environment.

The event will be declared open by Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State who will be joined by other dignitaries, including the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris Malagi.

The conference is expected to drive high-level conversations around policy, regulation and the future of the creative economy.

Major highlights of the day will be keynote addresses by Mr. Idowu Akinde, CEO of Impact Hub Lagos, and Bolanle Osotule, General Manager, Brand Marketing and Advertising at Airtel Nigeria.

This will be followed by a high-

level panel discussion moderated by Oluwatobi Williams, Creative Director at 7even Interactive. Panelists expected at the session include Damola Richard Salvador, MD/CEO, Digisplash Limited; Dr. Seun Fakorede, Executive Adviser, Youth & Sports to the Oyo State Governor; Josiah Akinola, Senior Category & Channel Manager, Nigerian Breweries; George Onukwu, Executive Director, TBWA\Concept. According to AAAN President, Lanre Adisa, the theme of this year’s congress is a direct response to the shifting terrain of marketing communications.

Insurance Company Limited, Mr. Ikuomola Adebisi; Board Member, Mr. Akin Taiwo; MD/CEO, Dr. Ebose Augustine Osegha; Chairman, Dr. Nsikan Linus Nkan; Company Secretary/Legal Adviser, Mr. Ime Umoh; and Board Member, Prof. Paul Udofot at the 35th Annual General Meeting of Anchor Insurance Company Limited held in Lagos ... yesterday

PHOTO: SUNDAY ADIGUN

Dike Onwuamaeze

Hammed Shittu in Ilorin

States Oppose Amendment of Electricity Act, Say It‘ll Burden Nigerians with N5tn Unpaid Subsidies

Decry lack of consultation by FG, urge senate to halt deliberations Insist ongoing move will undermine progress in power sector

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja Nigeria’s subnational governments have demanded an immediate halt to the ongoing amendment of the recently passed Electricity Act (EA), arguing that if the move succeeds, it will see the transfer of over N5 trillion in subsidies from the federal government to power consumers.

Coming under the Forum of Commissioners of Power and Energy (FOCPEN), the states decried what they described as the lack of consultation by the federal government and the industry regulator, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), concerning the extant matter.

In a lengthy statement released by the Chairman of the Forum, Eka Williams, who doubles as the Commissioner of Power and Renewable Energy, Cross River State and its Secretary, Omale Omale, who is the Commissioner of Power, Renewable Energy and Transport, Benue State, the group expressed profound surprise and concern regarding the proposed Electricity Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025.

The ‘unexpected’ legislative move, it said, comes barely two years after the landmark Electricity Act 2023 was signed into law, and a period during which many states have only just begun to establish and operationalise their electricity markets under the new decentralised framework.

With more than 16 states having passed their electricity laws since

the enactment of the Electricity Act by President Bola Tinubu, the Nigerian subnational governments argued that the amendment if successful will strip them of the powers confered by the existing law.

“The amendment bill proposes the creation of numerous federal institutions, agencies and Funds, whose operational and administrative costs are to be directly passed on to electricity consumers, thus resulting in higher electricity tariffs for consumers. The imposition of additional financial burden on electricity customers already struggling with high electricity tariffs for Band ‘A’ service is unacceptable, especially when states are actively pursuing cost-reflective tariffs tied to improved quality of service.

“In addition, the bill specifies mandatory contributions from consumers and market participants to fund the Power Consumer Assistance Fund (PCAF). Consumers, including those in states with cost-reflective tariffs, would bear the cost of subsidies through tariff surcharges, even in the face of widespread non-payment and market losses. By this provision, the amendment bill would also transfer over N5 trillion in unpaid subsidies to electricity consumers, worsening affordability and equity in electricity access,” the commissioners argued.

FOCPEN noted with dismay the absence of any prior consultations with state governments, or their relevant commissioners and state electricity regulatory bodies

I nu B u Immor TALIS

cabinet members and the leadership of the National Assembly were already seated, about 5:25pm for the memorial session.

After the recitation of the national anthem, the president opened the tribute session with a solemn eulogy to the memory of the late president.

He stressed that Buhari was respectful without pretence to his peers and was kind to those who served under him, adding that in death, he maintained the serenity that defined him in life.

Tinubu stated, “Today, we gather under a heavy shadow, drawn from the silence that surrounds a departed

goal of civilisation is the attainment of justice. Justice is the bone that holds human society together. It was justice, as he understood it, that President Muhammadu Buhari pursued – often misunderstood, but always with sincerity.

“When you are in power, your friends know you; when you are out of power, you know your friends. In death, President Muhammadu Buhari has proved to the world that he is, indeed, the greatest son of Africa. May Allah grant his soul eternal rest and reward him with Aljannah. May Allah forgive his shortcomings,” he prayed.

On behalf of his boss, President Bola Tinubu, Shettima expressed gratitude to Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina State for the reception and kind gesture accorded the federal government delegation throughout their stay in the state.

“We have been together with the governor right from London to Nigeria. He gave a warm reception and all the necessary support,” he said, adding that Tinubu was personally pained by the loss of his friend, brother and political soulmate.

Shettima assured that the federal government, under the leadership of Tinubu, “will continue to protect the image and dignity of Buhari’s family and the entire people of Katsina State.”

He revealed that he will proceed to Abuja with the family of the late former President to attend a Special Valedictory Federal Executive Council (FEC) in honour of the deceased.

Earlier, Governor Radda, said the

during the drafting and presentation of the crucial amendment bill on the floor of the senate.

According to the commissioners, the unilateral approach undermines the spirit of cooperative federalism and threatens to reverse the gains made in decentralising Nigeria’s electricity sector.

Describing it as an unconstitutional overreach and backdoor constitutional amendment, the governors maintained that the federal government was seeking to reintroduce constraints and ambiguities that were expressly removed by the fifth alteration of the Constitution.

In addition, they argued that several provisions of the amendment bill egregiously violate foundational principles

leader and the immense weight of a life whose absence will be felt for generations.

“We meet to honour a man whose presence once commanded this very room, whose voice once summoned the best in us, and whose convictions never bowed, even to the strongest winds of public opinion.

“President Muhammadu Buhari, former Head of State and former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, has gone to rest. He was first among soldiers in war, first among citizens in peace, and first, without ambition or flattery, in the hearts of his fellow citizens.

deceased rendered selfless service to the nation, maintaining that nobody can dispute the fact that he was an honest and just person.

He thanked President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima for honouring the remains of Buhari, saying, “We, the people of Katsina State, don’t have a word to thank the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“We appreciate President Bola Tinubu, who has shown compassion, respect for the people of Katsina State and the nation entirely. Tinubu has allowed 25 members of his cabinet, under the leadership of Vice President Shettima, to be in Katsina State.

“The 25 Ministers supported us at this trying moment, and we also thank the President for declaring a public holiday on the day Buhari was laid to rest,” Governor Radda added.

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, said the late Buhari has an important place in the national history of Nigeria, appealing to all Nigerians to continue to pray for the repose of the soul of the former President, as reminded by Islamic clerics.

“We want to thank all of you on behalf of the 25 ministers, as directed by Mr President, for finding time to offer prayers for our President and also participate in this national assignment. Indeed, former President Buhari belongs to Daura, Katsina, Nigeria, and the world,” the Minister said.

Earlier, the prayer session was opened by the former Minister

“Yet it was in the quiet and unadorned settings of his private life that his true greatness was revealed: pious without show, just without cruelty, humane without sentimentality, temperate without coldness, and sincere without guile.”

The president added, “Steady in posture and spirit, dignified in bearing, and commanding by his very presence, his example guided all who encountered him. Still, it endures.

“To his peers, he was respectful and without pretence. To those who served under him, he was kind without condescension. And, to those whom he loved most intimately, he was

of Communication and Digital Economy, Prof. Ali Pantami, who emphasised the need for constant prayers for all the departed souls, including late President Buhari.

Pantami further observed that prayer for the departed soul should not be restricted to a number of days.

Islamic scholars who offered prayer included Prof. Ibrahim Makari of the Abuja National Mosque; Sheikh Yahaya Jingir, Bishop of Katsina; Mamman Musa; Khalifa Mohammad Nasir; and Malam Hassan Daura, among others.

Other dignitaries present at the

trustee for the next two or three weeks when they will decide how to proceed and reach a strategic decision on what to do with the shares and also look at FBN’s plan for capital raise to meet CBN requirement”, a source familiar with the deliberations told THISDAY last night.

It will be recalled that following shareholders infighting, Oba Otudeko was charged to Federal High Court based on a criminal complaint by Otedola-led FBN management - the infighting among shareholders left the CBN concerned that FBN may not meet the new capital requirement if the infighting continues. The apex

of true constitutional federalism, and threaten the successful implementation of a decentralised electricity market.

Notably, the subnational governments pointed out that the planned amendment subordinates state laws to federal provisions, even within intra-state electricity markets and imposes rigid timelines and conditions on states, effectively allowing the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to retain overriding authority, even in areas where states have exclusive jurisdiction.

“The amendment bill, if passed, will create a constitutional conflict between the federal government and states, as well as legal and regulatory conflicts between

unfailingly tender, loyal, and good. His life was a rebuke to vice and a refuge for virtue.

“The purity of his private character gave radiance to the discipline and integrity of his public service. Even in death, he maintained the serenity that defined him in life: not a sigh, not a groan, just a quiet submission to the will of God. Such was the man Nigeria has lost. Such was the man for whom our nation now mourns.”

Tinubu said, “President Buhari’s life was one of austere honour. He stood, always, ramrod straight; unmoved by the temptation of power, unseduced by applause

prayer session included Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State; former Secretary to Government of the Federation, Ambassador Babagana Kingibe; former Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN); Ambassador Adamu Daura; former Katsina State Governor, Aminu Masari; former Zamfara State Governor, Senator Abdulaziz Yar’adu, and former National Security Adviser, Babagana Monguno.

Others were former DirectorGeneral, National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Ahmed Rufai; Business Mogul, Mohammed Indimi; Buhari’s nephew, Mamman Daura, former FCT Minister, Muhammad Bello, the Emirs of Katsina, Daura and Bade; the Sultan of Maradi from the Niger Republic, and thousands of sympathisers from various walks of life.

bank working with the Attorney General decided to seek a none legal solution to the infighting, resulting in the exit of Oba Otudeko in return for withdrawing the criminal complaint and prosecution by First Bank.

The result is the movement seen in the market on Wednesday when a total of N324.47 billion value for 10.47 billion units of shares in off-market block trading on First Holdco Plc shares, took place on the floor of the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX). Oba Otudeko, the erstwhile Chairman of FirstHoldco, was forced to sell off over 20 percent of shares linked to him. Also, another

federal and state regulators, undermining the principle of cooperative federalism and potentially inviting judicial challenges,” they emphasised.

Besides, the state governments maintained that the electricity amendment bill 2025 surprisingly seeks to entrench a subsidy regime in the power sector, arguing that it will further exacerbate the financial burden on the federal government and states, undermining efforts to achieve a sustainable and self-financing power sector.

In the same vein, the states stressed that the amendment bill, if passed, will create policy, legal and regulatory conflicts between federal and state agencies/ regulators, significantly increasing regulatory uncertainty and risks for both federal and state-level investors in the electricity market.

“The bill seeks to bestow upon NERC an overriding regulatory jurisdiction over electricity distribution, electricity distribution tariff design and implementation, and consumer protection within state electricity markets and centralise the regulation and enforcement of technical standards within states electricity markets under the NEMSA.

“These provisions contravene sections 13 and 14 of the second schedule of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and undermine the constitutional powers of States’ Legislatures to make laws for electricity distribution within their territories,” the states maintained. They affirmed: “The total lack

and unafraid of the loneliness that often visits those who do what is right, rather than what is popular.”

Tinubu said Buhari’s life was a quiet courage, a righteousness that never announced itself, adding that “his patriotism was lived more in action than in words”.

While acknowledging the services of the late president to the nation, Tinubu said, “His life traced the arc of Nigeria’s journey. Born before independence, he became a young soldier in the struggle to keep our nation whole.

“In war and in peace, he served with vigilance and determination, as if the task of watching over Nigeria had been assigned to him alone. From the battlefield to the corridors of power, he remained faithful to the task. He governed the North-Eastern State and stood as Head of State.

“Years later, he returned to chair the Petroleum Trust Fund, which he administered with Spartan rigour and complete fidelity to the public good.”

Tinubu further recognised the role played by Buhari in the present government under the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

He stated, “Yet, with all that he had achieved, his most enduring legacy would be carved in democracy. In a time when many had lost hope that change was possible, Muhammadu Buhari put his faith in the people of this country.

“We stood together, he and I. Alongside others drawn from across the political spectrum, regions and tongues, we formed an alliance that

long-term shareholder, the HassanOdukale family, voluntarily exited the bank and sold five percent of their holdings in a mega transaction as they sought better shareholder value elsewhere.

It was gathered that the off-market deal was executed at a fixed price of N31.00 per share on NGX as the lender’s stock price yesterday gained 9.9 per cent to close at N32.2 per share.

A source had told THISDAY that the transactions were negotiated deals, which meant the trades were arranged privately between parties and then reported to the

of engagement and consultation with states, who are now primary drivers of electricity sector development, in the drafting of this amendment bill is a serious concern. Effective and sustainable reforms require collaborative efforts between federal and subnational governments.

“The amendment bill threatens to dismantle the progress and positive reforms initiated by the Electricity Act 2023, which has been widely hailed as a pivotal step towards a more reliable and efficient power sector. This untimely amendment risks undermining President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s key policy achievements in the energy sector.”

Noting that Electricity is a concurrent legislative matter under the 1999 constitution, the forum advocated that any future considerations for an amendment of the Electricity Act 2023, must be preceded by broad-based consultation and collaboration with state governments to ensure that federal legislation complements, rather than undermines nascent state electricity markets.

“FOCPEN firmly believes that this is not the opportune time for an amendment to the Electricity Act 2023, as the Act is still in its early implementation phase. In addition, several states have commenced the process to operationalise their electricity laws and create viable state electricity markets. In this regard, the forum calls on the National Assembly to halt further consideration of the bill,” the states demanded.

enabled Nigeria to experience its first true democratic transfer of power from one ruling party to another.

“When he was sworn in as our party’s first elected president, he led with restraint, governed with dignity, and bore the burdens of leadership without complaint.

“Those who knew him most intimately understood that the authority of that exalted office never changed him. In the face of pressure, he remained calm. In the face of crisis, he remained resolute. In the face of triumph, he remained modest. Most remarkably, he retained his jovial spirit.”

The president explained that Buhari left the scene when his administration came to an end without any form of interference on his government.

According to him, “When his tenure ended, he returned to Daura; not to command from the shadows or to hold court, but to live as he always had, never seeking to impose his will but content to let others carry the nation forward.

“President Buhari was not a perfect man – no leader is – but he was, in every sense of the word, a good man, a decent man, an honourable man. His record will be debated, as all legacies are, but the character he brought to public life, the moral force he carried, the incorruptible standard he represented, will not be forgotten. His was a life lived in full service to Nigeria, and in fidelity to God.

“Now, he rests. And we who

Senate President Godswill Akpabio

COASTAL COMMUNITY ADVOCACY PROGRAMME...

L-R: Head Environmental Health Office, Ikorodu Local Government, Sanitarian. Idowu-Adeyoyin Adeyemi; Representative of Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI) Corps Marshal and Head Environmental Services Unit, Kick Against Indiscipline Corps, Assistant Corps chief, Dr. Mayowa Adeyeye; Baale Ojogbe, in Ikorodu Local Government, Chief. Olukayode Olomo; Baale Igbodu, in Ikorodu Local Government, Chief. Adeyemi Banjoko; Director in the Office of Sanitation Services, Office of Environmental Services, Mr. Fagbolade Rahaman; Representative of the Permanent Secretary, Office of Environmental Services and Director Education Unit, Office of Environmental Services, Mrs. Monsurat Banire and Director Environmental Impact Assessment Department, Dr. Olasunkanmi Sojinu, during the Coastal Community Advocacy Programme, held at Ikorodu Local Government Event Hall, Lagos State.... yesterday

NELFUND Disburses Interest-Free Loans to Over 396,000 Students Across Nigeria

Opens job portal for early access to employment opportunities

Targeting efficient education financing, Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), yesterday, announced the successful disbursement of tuition and upkeep loans to over 396,000 students across the country, many of whom were first-generation entrants into higher NELFUNDinstitutions. also said it was developing a centralised job portal to give beneficiaries early access to

employment opportunities in Nigeria and abroad.

Managing Director of NELFUND, Akintunde Sawyerr, disclosed the developments yesterday during a media engagement series in Abuja to mark one year since the scheme was launched.

Sawyerr said the agency did not guarantee jobs, but it was set to play a pivotal role towards youth employment.

Sawyerr, during the agency’s 2025 media engagement held virtually,

described the job initiative as a transformative step in democratising access to higher education through sustainable, interest-free financing.

He credited the administration of President Bola Tinubu and the Renewed Hope Agenda for the political will that led to the establishment of NELFUND, describing the fund as a foundation for the future.

“Our mandate is bold but clear: to provide equitable education finance that gives every Nigerian child a fair chance, regardless of background or

income,” he said.

Since the launch of the application portal in May 2024, Sawyerr stated that over 645,000 students from all 36 states and the FCT had submitted applications.

According to him, a fully digital loan platform, built to global standards, had been deployed to streamline applications, verification, and disbursement.

In addition to supporting university students, the fund expanded its reach to include technical and

Akwa Ibom Community Protests Abandonment of 21-year Health Centre by NDDC

The people of Ikot Udo Ossiom in Ukanafun Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State have protested the abandonment of a comprehensive health centre under construction by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

The community stated that the project which started in 2004, a period of 21 years, has remained uncompleted and neglected by the commission.

During a peaceful demonstration by Ikot Udo Ossiom and neighbouring villages at the site of the uncompleted hospital, the community urged the NDDC to complete the project and make it available for use by thousands of people in all the surrounding villages. The vital facility, a 24-bed hospi-

tal, the community said, has been abandoned for over two decades by the interventionist agency.

In a briefing by the Ikot Udo Ossiom (IUO) initiative, a community-based, Not-for-Profit and Non-Governmental Initiative, in Southern Afaha Clan in Ukanafun, the group stated that the demonstration was to bring to light the excruciating healthcare situation in Ikot Udo Ossiom, southern Afaha, a clan comprising over 32 villages.

Chairman of the Forum, Oku Udoetor and Secretary, Nsidibe Umoren, said that since the creation of Ukanafun as a local government area, the said clan had existed without any healthcare facility.

“It was in 2004 that the people of Ikot Udo Ossiom approached the management of the NDDC and informed them that in their community there are over 32

villages occupied by thousands of people without any hospital, health centre or even a dispensary.

“The villagers appealed to the NDDC to kindly site one health facility in Ikot Udo Ossiom which would take care of the medical needs of people in the villages.

“After inspection of the proposed site, the NDDC informed the village that it does not pay compensation for land and economic trees, given that the said land sited for the project belonged to individuals but not the community.

“A community leader in the village who lives in Lagos, Mr. Ray Ekpu, decided to pay compensation to the owners of land and economic trees. He did this so that the NDDC does not take the project away from the village. The village expressed its gratitude to Ray Ekpu for his humanitarian gesture which made

Sultan Congratulates Deji of Akure on 10th Anniversary

Onuminya Innocent in Sokoto

The Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has congratulated Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, Odundun II, the Deji of Akure, on his 10th anniversary on the throne.

In a congratulatory message, the Sultan praised the Deji for his remarkable charisma and exemplary leadership, noting that his reign has spurred notable development within the Akure Kingdom.

The congratulatory message which

was signed by Sa’idu Muhammad Maccido, Secretary of the Sultanate Council Sokoto said Deji has demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities, and his reign has been marked by significant progress and growth in the Akure Kingdom.

The Sultan commended the Deji’s ability to foster collaboration among fellow Obas, emphasizing that such efforts contribute to the peace, unity, and overall progress of both the kingdom and Ondo State.

“I am impressed by the Deji’s commitment to promoting unity

and cooperation among traditional rulers in Nigeria,” the Sultan said.

The Sultan also highlighted the cordial relationship he shares with the Deji, which has strengthened the ties between the Sokoto Caliphate and Akure Kingdom.

“The Deji and I have shared a cordial relationship over the years, which have always been a source of joy for me. Our connection not only strengthens the ties between the Sokoto Caliphate and Akure Kingdom but also deepens our mutual understanding and respect,” remarked the Sultan.

it possible for the health facility to be warehoused in their village,” the group stated.

It stated that in 2004, the NDDC awarded a contract for the construction of a 24-bed comprehensive health centre in Ikot Udo Ossiom, Southern Afaha Clan, but said that till today it remains uncompleted and abandoned.

The consequences of this neglect are devastating, the IUO said, noting that its people, particularly the elderly, pregnant women, and children, suffer from limited access to medical care, resulting in high child mortality rates, low life expectancy, and various healthcare-related issues.

vocational education, aligning with national employment and skills development objectives, Sawyerr said.

He said rapid adaptations to address technical challenges, such as digital wallet failures, with a new migration process enabling disbursements through commercial bank accounts.

He acknowledged that the journey had not been without hurdles. Issues ranging from data integrity at institutional levels to misinformation and verification delays had posed challenges, he said.

Nonetheless, he said NELFUND remained committed to transparency, responsiveness, and continuous improvement.

“We are not just administrators of a loan scheme,” he stated. “We are custodians of a national trust.”

He called on the media to play a critical role in informing the public and maintaining accountability, stressing the need for continuous dialogue and public engagement.

“What we are building is not just a fund,” he said. “It is a future where no child is denied education due to poverty or circumstance,” Sawyerr said.

Sawyerr stated that it would aggregate listings from both the public and private sectors, as well as international employers interested in recruiting Nigerians.

According to him, this would commence from 2026.

“We don’t just give a loan and leave students on their own. This job portal is our way of supporting

their journey towards economic stability,” he said.

He stressed that students would only begin repayment after securing employment, stating that this would begin after their National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme.

Sawyerr stated, “If you don’t have a job, you don’t pay. And when you eventually get a job, your repayment starts fresh.

“Once employed, 10 per cent of the beneficiary’s monthly income is deducted automatically by the employer and remitted to NELFUND, following verification through the NELFUND employment register.

“If an employee is laid off or resigns, the deductions stop. And in the event of death, the loan is written off. The family is not harassed.” Speaking on the non-refund of fees to students who had paid before NELFUND disbursed the funds to their institutions, the managing director appealed to institutions to return the fees to such students. According to him, schools have a moral and professional duty to return these funds to students.

“We’ve received multiple petitions from students who paid under duress, only to find their fees had also been paid by “InstitutionsNELFUND.must refund this money. It’s disappointing that some schools have ignored this responsibility,” he said. He stated that investigative bodies, like the ICPC and EFCC, had stepped in to question certain institutions over delays or refusals to refund.

Segun James

The Global Peace and Conflict Management (IGPCM) and the Lagos State Directorate of the National Orientation Agency (NOA) have agreed to formulate a strategic partnership to upscale moral reorientation and social reengineering among students across the country.

The partnership was reached when NOA management led by its Director, Dr. Mustafa Adedeji hosted a high-powered delegation from IGPCM recently.

Dr. Kenneth Rafua, Chairman of IGPCM, said the purpose of the visit was to seek strategic collaboration with NOA in achieving their mandate of sensitizing children in

schools on the importance of moral soundness, amid the increasing tide of immorality in the country.

He expressed concern over the growing wave of greed, social media influence, religious intolerance, and general moral decadence, which he noted has altered societal values and led to widespread chaos.

Rafua highlighted IGPCM’s intervention capabilities in resolving issues such as marital conflicts and land disputes, encouraging alternative dispute resolution methods instead of police involvement, which he said often results in extortion.

In response, the Director of NOA in Lagos, Dr. Mustafa Tukur, acknowledged the social and moral vices among students and reiterated NOA’s commitment to confronting

them head-on. He shared some of the initiatives rolled out under the leadership of the NOA Director-General, Malam Lanre Issa-Onilu, to include sensitization against the “Get-Rich-Quick” syndrome among youth and citizens and the establishment of zonal offices across the six geopolitical zones to deepen grassroots engagement, Tukur emphasised NOA’s multiagency collaboration model and the establishment of specialized departments to tackle diverse societal challenges.

He assured IGPCM delegation of NOA Lagos’s readiness to collaborate with the organisation, saying its doors are widely open to impactful collaborations aimed at fostering national development.

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Funmi Ogundare and Kuni Tyessi in Nigeria

Pers P ective

The Quest to Broaden Perspectives on Nigeria’s Arts Ecosystem

Ayoola Ajanaku

In an era where the narrative of Africa’s creative industries are shifting from the margins to the mainstream, strategic collaborations have become pivotal in reshaping how Nigeria’s artistic ecosystem is perceived, nurtured, and projected. The Legacy Arts Foundation (LAF) in conjunction with The Osahon Okunbo Foundation (TOOF) has engineered a unique window via the selection of twenty talented Nigerian painters for Old Masters by New Masters, an intensive twoweek international art masterclass taking place in Lagos from 7-18, July 2025. This novel initiative, presented in partnership with the Belgian Embassy, will be led by acclaimed Belgian Professor Wouter Steel and celebrated Nigerian artist and scholar Dr. Bolaji Ogunwo.

At the heart of this initiative lies an urgent proposition: that talent alone is not enough. For decades, Nigerian artists have captured the imagination of local collectors and international audiences alike. From the earthy abstractions of Yusuf Grillo to the social commentaries of Ben Enwonwu and Bruce Onobrakpeya, Nigerian art has never lacked ingenuity. Yet, the structural scaffolding via mentoring frameworks, archival discipline, and strategic market access has often lagged behind the sheer creative output.

When Old Masters like Professor Wouter Steel and Dr. Bolaji Ogunwo stand before young Nigerian artists, they do more than transfer skills; they open up hidden vaults of knowledge, remind us of our roots, and offer roadmaps to navigate a complex, often unforgiving art market. They embody what has endured: discipline, deep scholarship, commitment to craft, and a sense of history.

On the other side stand the New Masters, the emerging generation whose bold experimentation, artistic fluency, and unfiltered voices are reshaping the narrative of what African art can be. They are not blank slates; they are sponges and mirrors absorbing the past, reflecting the present, and projecting new possibilities for the future. What this masterclass represents, therefore, is continuity. It says that no generation should stand alone, disconnected from its ancestors or descendants. It says that every brushstroke is not just a solitary act, but a dialogue across time.

The masterclass will provide participants with hands-on training in classical European painting techniques. It will culminate in a public exhibition of participants’ works on July 21 in Lagos and a special event in Abuja at the Belgian Ambassador’s residence on July 24. This value-driven synergy

forged between LAF and TOOF stands as a bold quest to broaden perspectives in Nigeria’s art ecosystem, deepen capacity, and bridge generations in the country’s dynamic art scene.

Spearheaded by respected art scholar Professor Wouter Steel of the Royal Arts Academy, Antwerp, alongside Nigeria’s own renowned artist and academic Dr. Bolaji Ogunwo, this masterclass series exemplifies the deliberate interweaving of local legacy and global best practices. Hosted with the support of the Belgium Embassy in Nigeria, the

initiative embodies the spirit of artistic diplomacy using cross-border knowledge exchange to catalyse fresh ideas, expand artistic vocabularies, and mentor emerging artists.

“We are grateful to The Osa Okunbo Foundation (TOOF) for joining us in making this opportunity accessible to more artists, and proud to work alongside the Belgian Embassy to facilitate this cross-cultural exchange,” said Niyi Adenubi, Founder of the Legacy Arts Foundation. “It’s an honour to be able to support artists whose work reflects the

greatness of our nation and inspires me personally.”

“Nigerians are innately creative and that ingenuity shines across every sector, including the arts. But without access and the right infrastructure, creativity often fades before it ever finds its voice. That’s why we chose to support this initiative: to open the door for more deserving artists to participate and be seen. Because in the end, it’s not just about the work they create today, it’s about the legacy they leave behind. Our culture deserves that investment. So do our people,” says Okunbo, Founder of TOOF, while speaking on the partnership with Legacy Arts Foundation.

In addition, Belgian Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency, Ambassador Pieter Leenknegt said, “Old Masters for Future Masters is the long overdue meeting between the visual tricks from the Low Countries’ pictorial traditions and the strong neorealist undercurrent in Nigerian contemporary art. Tapping into that connection with a bi-national teacher duo and budding artists in Lagos is truly thrilling and holds a renewed promise for our bilateral cultural relations.” This is a reminder that art, when strategically leveraged, is a powerful instrument of diplomacy.

This year’s expanded cohort is made possible through the support of The Osahon Okunbo Foundation (TOOF), which is sponsoring 10 of the 20 selected artists. TOOF’s generous contribution complements LAF’s sponsorship of 10 participants, doubling the reach and impact of the program.

In a nutshell, this synergy is more than a training series; it is an intentional ecosystem approach that redefines how stakeholders engage: from skills transfer to market access, archival preservation to innovative practice. It invites collectors, curators, gallerists, and art enthusiasts to see the Nigerian art landscape not merely as a marketplace, but as a living, breathing reservoir of stories, heritage, and transformative power.

The masterclass is a recurring decimal that the conversation must not stop. In a nation teeming with budding talent yet hampered by infrastructural gaps, the medley of LAF, TOOF and the Belgian Embassy in Nigeria to leverage the arts workshop of the Old Masters and New Masters is a welcome idea. It’s a microcosm of what is possible when stakeholders come together with a shared purpose. It demonstrates that building an art ecosystem requires more than individual brilliance; it demands intentional spaces where old masters pass the baton, new voices emerge with confidence, and both are equipped to navigate an increasingly globalised art economy.

•Ayoola Ajanaku is a Communications and Advocacy Specialist based in Lagos, Nigeria…

At Buhari’s Fidau, Shettima Says Late Ex-President Pursued Justice With Sincerity

Vice-President Kashim Shettima has said the late former President Muhammadu Buhari in his lifetime pursued justice with utmost sincerity.

He further stated that even in death Buhari has also proven to the world that he was, indeed, one of the greatest sons of Africa.

Shettima stated this yesterday during the 3rd day prayers (Fidau) offered for the repose of the soul of the former Nigerian leader, at his residence in Daura, Katsina State.

“Ibn Khaldun reminds us that the goal of civilisation is the attainment of justice. Justice is the bone that holds human society together. It was justice, as he understood it, that President Muhammadu Buhari pursued – often misunderstood, but always with sincerity.

“When you are in power, your friends know you; when

you are out of power, you know your friends. In death, President Muhammadu Buhari has proved to the world that he is, indeed, the greatest son of Africa. May Allah grant his soul eternal rest and reward him with Aljannah. May Allah forgive his shortcomings,” he prayed.

Shettima assured that the federal government, under

the leadership of Tinubu, “will continue to protect the image and dignity of Buhari’s family and the entire people of Katsina State.”

He revealed that he will proceed to Abuja with the family of the late former President to attend a Special Valedictory Federal Executive Council (FEC) in honour of the deceased.

Earlier, Governor Radda, said the deceased rendered selfless service to the nation, maintaining that nobody can dispute the fact that he was an honest and just person.

He thanked President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima for honouring the remains of Buhari, saying, “We, the people of Katsina State, don’t have a word to thank the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“We appreciate President Bola Tinubu, who has shown compassion, respect for the people of

Katsina State and the nation entirely. Tinubu has allowed 25 members of his cabinet, under the leadership of Vice President Shettima, to be in Katsina State.

“The 25 Ministers supported us at this trying moment, and we also thank the President for declaring a public holiday on the day Buhari was laid to rest,” Governor Radda added.

Daura, Katsina, Nigeria, and the world,” the Minister said.

Earlier, the prayer session was opened by the former Minister of Communication and Digital Economy, Prof. Ali Pantami, who emphasised the need for constant prayers for all the departed souls, including late President Buhari. Pantami further observed that prayer for the departed soul should not be restricted to a number of days.

Minister of State Agriculture, Senator Aliyu Abudullahi, on behalf of the members of the Federal Executive Council (FEC), prayed Almighty Allah to cover the grave of Buhari with mercy and admit him into Aljannah. Islamic scholars who offered prayer included Prof. Ibrahim Makari of the Abuja National Mosque; Sheikh Yahaya Jingir, Bishop of Katsina; Mamman Musa; Khalifa Mohammad Nasir; and Malam Hassan

Daura, among others. Other dignitaries present at the prayer session included Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State; former Secretary to Government of the Federation, Ambassador Babagana Kingibe; former Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN); Ambassador Adamu Daura; former Katsina State Governor, Aminu Masari; former Zamfara State Governor, Senator Abdulaziz Yar’adu, and former National Security Adviser, Babagana Monguno.

Deji elumoye in Abuja

08033025611 s M s O n LY

2027: What APC Stands to Gain If Kwankwaso Stages Comeback

Chukwuma Eze writes about what the all Progressives Congress, stands to gain if eventually a founding member of the party in 2013 and former Governor of Kano State, dr Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, returns to the ruling party ahead of the 2027 general elections.

By all standards, former Kano State Governor and seasoned statesman, Senator Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, remains one of the most formidable political minds of modern Nigeria—a Northern lion, bold and unyielding, yet deeply committed to the silent majority who toil, sweat, and hope for a government that sees, feels, and acts in their interest.

Across the Nigerian political terrain, political parties often parade slogans, logos, and mottos. But at the heart of any meaningful governance lies not the colour of a party flag but the calibre of the people waving it.

The acronym may read APC, PDP, PRP, or ADC—yet what truly matters are the men and women who inhabit those structures. And in that regard, Kwankwaso is not just a political figure; he is an institution, a bridge between the government and the governed, and a symbol of pro-people policy orientation.

His rumoured defection back to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), if and when it materializes, should not be viewed through the narrow lens of party loyalty or political convenience. Rather, it must be seen as a strategic return of conscience to the center of power for the benefit of ordinary Nigerians.

A Wind of Ideological Reconciliation

In politics, timing is everything. And now, more than ever, the APC appears to be undergoing a subtle ideological renaissance. The party that once seemed rigid in its economic posture is slowly embracing policies that mirror Kwankwaso’s long-held views: a government with compassion, one that is both responsive and responsible.

Evidence? The gradual shift toward restoring dignity to the naira by considering international transactions in the local currency is a strong pointer. The official exchange rate of the dollar to naira has seen a downward trend—a welcome relief to the business community and the masses alike. This is no small gesture—it marks a philosophical shift from dollar-dependence to naira pride. It aligns with Kwankwaso’s persistent advocacy for strengthening national sovereignty in economic matters. His economic philosophy, deeply rooted in local content and home-grown solutions, finds a new home in the current recalibration of APC’s fiscal ideology. Furthermore, the federal government’s current contemplation of reviewing petroleum pricing mechanisms is no coincidence. It is a political nod to one of the very issues that caused Kwankwaso to distance himself from the APC years ago.

In his view—and rightly so—no policy can be justified if it bleeds the people dry. Fuel, being the artery of national life, must not become the dagger in the back of the poor.

Even more telling is the stabilization—and in some cases, reduction—of food prices across the country. This is no propaganda. The joy of the common people in local markets, whose faces now reflect hope rather than despair, is the clearest testimony. Foodstuff prices, which once spiraled out of control, have been brought to relative calm since last year. The signs are positive, and from all indications, this trend is expected to continue. This is a strong endorsement of the current administration’s agricultural and economic policies—policies that are beginning to reflect the pro-people ethos long championed by Kwankwaso.

The People’s General: A Leader with a Compass

Kwankwaso is not a man who floats with political winds. He is a man of principles. Even when the APC reached out to him in the past, he was clear and unambiguous: he would not return unless the party retraced its steps from anti-people policies. That firmness is what makes him both respected and feared. He is

not a political merchant who trades his values for appointments. He is a political craftsman, forging coalitions, not for self-glory, but for national recovery.

And now, with the ouster of Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje as APC national chairman—a

development that removes a long-standing thorn from Kwankwaso’s political side—the ground is fertile for his return. The political atmosphere is healing. Old wounds are drying. Bridges once burnt are being rebuilt with the bricks of national interest.

Kwankwaso’s return would not merely be a reunion; it would be a renewal—a baptism of purpose for a party in dire need of direction. His experience, his structure, his unblemished popularity in the North, and his mastery of political grassroots mobilization will no doubt reposition APC, especially ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The Strategic Imperative of Being Inside the System

There is an old Hausa proverb that says, “Ba za ka iya gyara rijiya daga waje ba”—you cannot repair a well from outside. The lesson? You cannot influence governance meaningfully from the periphery.

For years, Kwankwaso has remained an active commentator on national issues.

His Red Cap Movement, Kwankwasiyya, has inspired millions with its messages of social justice, educational empowerment, and peoplefirst policies. But to truly engineer the change he preaches, to channel his people-oriented ideology into national policy, he must be an active player in the ruling system. He must sit at the table, not merely shout from the window. This is not a call to compromise. It is a call to contribute. Nigeria needs builders, not just critics. The country requires engineers of reform, not just lamenters of decay. And few are as equipped, as tested, and as people-aligned as Kwankwaso.

-Eze writes from Abuja.

NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the online edition on www.thisdaylive.com

Eno Moves to Assert Authority as Akwa Ibom APC Leader

Etim Etim writes that Governor Umo Eno of akwa Ibom State who also doubles as the State Leader of the all Progressives Congress has taken steps to unite all the party’s groups and factions in the state.

Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State who defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in June, 2025 has taken immediate steps to affirm his authority as the leader of the party in the state, dispelling earlier speculations that he was headed for a collision with President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio over the headship position. Within a week in July, the governor met separately with over 1,200 members of the State Executive Committee and over 600 key leaders or stakeholders from across the state, using the platforms to set the ground rules and appreciate the leaders for receiving him.

Addressing the stakeholders who included former Petroleum Minister, Chief Don Etiebet; deputy governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi; former deputy governors, Nsima Ekere and Mrs Valerie Ebe; wife of Senate President, Mrs Unoma Godswill Akpabio; eminent lawyer, Chief Assam Assam (SAN); Senators and House of Representatives members, among many others, the governor acknowledged publicly that the defection was one of the most grueling endeavours and emotionally, physically and psychologically sapping challenges he’s had to endure in his political career. He compared the experience to that of a truck driver whose vehicle is laden with heavy cargoes and suddenly has to make a U-turn in the middle of the road. ‘’The physical, emotional and psychological toll is enormous’’, he said.

He spoke of his plans to build the party into a formidable fighting machine; his

support for President Bola Tinubu and eagerness to work with the Senate President for the benefit of the people. He then laid out four key guidelines for party members: Nobody should claim to be a party leader in his constituency unless it is sanctioned by him; all camps and factions are dissolved; no derogatory remarks or insults in public communications; past bitter experiences should be abandoned and unity is the watch word.

In the weeks leading up to the governor’s defection, some persons have pronounced themselves leaders of the party in their local government areas; federal constituencies and senatorial districts. The actions created controversies and caused disaffection and disharmony in the party. In one

local government, one person reportedly died in a fracas that broke out over party leadership.

In my own LGA, there has been palpable tension because a woman who is only associated with the community by marriage has pronounced herself as party leader.

Sir Victor Antai, executive director at NDDC also ruffled many feathers when he was anointed party leader of his senatorial district – an area with a considerable number of eminent politicians such as the incumbent deputy governor and three former deputy governors; serving and former senators.

By dissolving such arbitrarily created positions, the governor has put out small fires that would have become infernos. He announced that he’d be the one to appoint Local Government political leaders after due consultations.

The governor also asked members to forget their past bitter experiences in order to forge a united, harmonious political platform. Before he joined the party, APC was largely in factions and camps, headed by different warlords and kingpins. Every action and decision was viewed through the prism of whose camp stood to benefit and lose.

Chief Etiebet broached on the issue of past misgivings and injustice in his speech, but said he was ready to let go the past. He commended the governor for being a ‘’solver of problems’’.

NOTE:

Tinubu, Let History Be Your Guide

Shina Adewoye advises president Bola tinubu on the need to allow equity and justice guide his actions as number one citizen of Nigeria.

It is beyond argument that you are a great strategic politician, calculating, and gifted with exceptional foresight. In over three decades of active political engagement, you have consistently demonstrated your capacity to navigate stormy waters and overcome daunting challenges. You pursued your ambition with determination, and history will always remember your eventual emergence as the President of Nigeria.

More than that, you have etched your name into the political consciousness of not just the Yoruba people, but the entire African continent.

However, this letter is not meant to sing your praises or glorify your well-known political mastery. Rather, I write to you as a concerned son of the Yoruba soil, as a fellow thinker who believes that true greatness is measured not by how much power one acquires, but by how that power is exercised.

Asiwaju, as President, you are now the custodian of the fate of over 200 million people those who voted for you and those who didn’t; those who agree with your ideology and those who don’t.

In a democracy, legitimacy is not just derived from the ballot but from justice, fairness, and inclusion. The philosopher, Socrates once said: “The secret of change is to focus all your energy not on fighting the old, but on building the new.” It is in this spirit that I urge you to reflect on the present situation in Osun State.

Since your assumption of office, the posture of some of your party members in Osun has presented you in a manner that does not align with the statesman many of us believed you would become. The ongoing withholding of local government allocations for over five months despite the fact that the funds are meant for primary school teachers, healthcare workers, and traditional rulers is a troubling development. These are not politicians. They are fathers, mothers, and breadwinners. Inflicting hardship on them indirectly, for political motives, is neither democratic nor just.

While some may attempt to convince you that this is strategy, I ask: at what cost? For what shall it profit a leader if he wins re-election but loses the moral support and goodwill of his people? Political philosophy teaches us that the legitimacy of power must rest on justice. Justice, as Plato puts it, is giving each their due not punishing the many for the actions or affiliations of the few.

Governor Adeleke may not belong to your party, but every indication shows that he supports your government. He deserves to be engaged. The Yoruba worldview of our

Of Internal Sabotage against Gov Eno

Etim Etim writes about moves being made by some political office holders and their aides in akwa ibom state to sabotage efforts of Governor Umo Eno to solidify the recent defection of top government officials to the all progressives congress.

There’s been a flurry of articles in recent times warning Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno of certain elements who recently moved into APC with him, but have displayed signs of disloyalty to the governor and his new party. The writers painstakingly cautioned that these people might be secretly working to sabotage his re-election in 2027. In a well-written piece posted last night and signed by Camillus Ukoette of Mbiasong Ward 5 in Nsit Ibom LGA, the writer cited a case of a commissioner in the governor’s cabinet, who attended a defection event in his community, received the party flag and other paraphernalia, but sneaked out without signing the party register. He warned that such people are up to no good.

The governor had made it clear that all his appointees must join APC with him or resign their appointments, and a good number of them had complied with it. But these whistleblowers are alarmed that some of the appointees are playing cloak and dagger game.

Omoluabi ethos does not embrace vendetta. We believe in equity, fairness, and the wisdom of elders who guide all children with an open heart, regardless of past differences. I fear that those encouraging this political strategy may not genuinely care about your legacy. They are consumed by transient ambitions and fail to recognize the historical weight of your decisions. Asiwaju, history is a strict judge it remembers not only the crowns we wear but the crosses we impose on others. Your name, already cemented in Nigeria’s political history, will outlive your tenure. The question is: what emotions will it evoke in the hearts of the people when it is mentioned decades from now?

We must not forget: you once experienced a similar injustice as Governor of Lagos State, and you spoke passionately against it. What you resist when it affects you must not become what you enforce when it favours you. To do otherwise would be to violate the very principles you once stood for.

Dear Asiwaju, shortly after your victory, I read a column in the Nigerian Tribune by Dr. Lasisi Olagunju titled “Bola Tinubu, oun t’o lọọ da lo da yii o.” It was blunt and insightful. If you haven’t read it, please do. Often, the truth we need comes from those who have nothing to gain from flattering us.

As President, you are no longer a party leader alone you are the father of the nation. The time for partisanship has passed; the moment for statesmanship is now. Osun people like all Nigerians look up to you. Many are still willing to support you. But trust, once broken, is not easily restored.

I appeal to the philosopher in you, the legacy-builder in you, the Awolowo-influenced visionary in you. Let justice prevail. Restore the allocations to Osun’s local governments. End this avoidable hardship. Rein in those who seek to use your name for their narrow aims. Govern not as a victor, but as a unifier.

As the Yoruba say, “T’á bá fi òdodo kọ’lé, ilé náà máa dá gbà.” (If we build with justice, the house will stand firm.)

I pray for your success as President. May your name be remembered not for the pains inflicted, but for the peace restored; not for political conquests, but for democratic convictions upheld. You owe the Yoruba race, and indeed all Nigerians, the gift of fairness and unity. Do not let political convenience rob you of a legacy of justice.

-Adewoye writes from London, the United Kingdom.

Destiny Young, a well-known IT specialist who is a founding member of the party, recently wrote about some government appointees who are in the habit of denigrating the party in their social media posts. He wrote: ‘’How can you explain a situation where some aides to some elected officials and aides to some of the governor’s appointees, will come on the social media to denigrate the governor and the president, including making derogatory remarks about the president?’’.

Do these indicate that some people in the party might be (or would be) stealthily working to undermine the governor in his new party in 2027? Perhaps. But there’s no cause for alarm, and from all indications, the overwhelming majority of APC members are in full support of the governor and they will work for his overwhelming re-election.

I acknowledge that there would always be intrigues and plots in a large political party, especially one formed through mergers. There’s no doubt that many in the PDP are not comfortable with the governor’s decision. It’s therefore possible that some aides and assistants whose principals have lost their perceived privileged positions might be presenting some form of post-trauma disorder symptoms. But they are in the minority, and even then, there are plans to checkmate such tendencies.

I understand that the governor would be meeting with all organs of the party in the state in the coming weeks. This would be followed by a stakeholders’ meeting of the party in which leaders and elders from every nook and cranny of the state will come together in a formal process of harmonization. Later in the year, there would be a renewal of the party’s register that will call for registration of new members and re- registration of old members. Every member would be expected to get back to his or her polling unit to register. ‘’In every step of the way during these processes, saboteurs and pretenders would be identified and weeded out’’, a senior party official said.

But beyond this, Governor has

brought an unbelievably high energy into the party and reawakened a large number of members, including me, who had lost interest in it. ‘’Now, we have a governor’’ is a popular refrain among many of us who had become dormant, staid and dejected. Such a high level of enthusiasm is enough to counter any negative feelings in some of us. In addition, the governor’s personal appeal and high job approval ratings will also count for him when it’s time to hit the hustings.

But even with all the subterfuge that may occur, my conviction is that given the renewed strength of APC in the state; the caliber of its leaders; the collective strength of its members (both new and old); and the incumbency factor, President Tinubu; Senator Akpabio and Governor Eno will return not less than 60% of the votes in Akwa Ibom in the next election.

The opposition (whether ADA; ADC or PDP) in the state has become weaker and will face several hurdles, the most potent of which is lack of funding. Who will be the opposition governorship candidates in Akwa Ibom State and what is the level of their financial capacity? Senator John James Akpanudoedehe is so far the leader of ADC coalition in the state, but who will lead the PDP? Will the people of Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District who are eagerly waiting to produce Eno’s successor in 2031, support a new candidate or they will stick with the incumbent to finish his term?

I have been closely involved in the opposition governorship campaigns of 2015, 2019 and 2023, and from my experience, I know how difficult it is for opposition to muster the needed resources to launch a successful electoral assault and unseat an incumbent governor in the state.

Make no mistake, in Akwa Ibom elections, money talks at every level - from the day you declare interest to run to the election day.

As soon as you declare an intention to run, your supporters (and even pretenders) will bombard you every day with requests for financial support to meet personal needs. Show me one person in the PDP or the coalition who can sustain such an endeavour now. As I said, I am not perturbed by any sign of artifice that may be. Governor Eno has made the right decision and Akwa Ibom people are all with him.

-Etim writes from Uyo, Akwa Ibom State Capital.

Paul Obanua: Our Vision is to Make Rhodium45 Luxury Bulletproof Cars Mainstream Worldwide

Step into a world where luxury and security are seamlessly intertwined, where every drive, every journey, is elevated by premium pleasure, precision, perfection and protection. Texas Armoured Direct stands at the pinnacle of armoured luxury, delivering more than just vehicles. The company offers a lifestyle where elegance, performance, and uncompromising protection travel hand in hand. With a global reach and a flawless reputation among heads of state, very high-net worth individuals, executives, and celebrities, Texas Armoured Direct is redefining what it means to travel with prestige, pleasure and protection. In this interview with Paul Obanua, Chairman of Texas Armoured Direct, who drives the vision and passion of the Rhodium45 Ultra Luxury Series Vehicles, talks about the world’s most exquisite bulletproof cars, each a masterpiece of design and engineering, curated for those who demand nothing less than the best and purest. Obanua discloses the U.S.-based company’s mission to make ultra luxury armoured vehicles mainstream across the globe. He has the sense, science, and space to make that happen...

What inspired Rhodium45 ultra-luxury armoured supercars?

What inspired Rhodium45 Ultra-luxury Amoured Supercars is that we’ve been into amoured bulletproof cars: BR6-level ballistic-resistant bulletproof cars for some time but we also discovered there there’s a niche market of people that they just don’t want to be in another SUV that looks like secret service SUV; something that is clunky and all of that and that’s not what we do actually. What we do at Texas Armoured Direct, which is the parent’s company, we customise Cadillac Escalade 2025, for example, Mercedes Benz G63, Lexus LX600, Range Rover Autobiography, or Range Rover SV, as we customise them to become BR6-level bulletproof, meaning that they can withstand and they absorb energy from high caliber bullets, hand grenade, et cetera.

But then, there’s still this other niche market we discovered that they just don’t want to stop there, they want the finer things of life this market demands that their cars look like they are private jets their cars interior the comfort of their cars are as good as they are mega yachts they are private jets and so on. So, that market exists and we start offering that services as well. But then we still did not want to stop there. We said okay if this market exists, we’re going to serve it. Because what exists out there currently is either your high-end cars are bulletproof or some people buy customized interior high-end cars as well; luxury finish, ultra-luxury finish but not what we offer. So, we are at the intersection of high-end luxury finish with elect electronics intelligence in the car with added advantage of the assist-level bulletproof which I call life insurance before the facts. You know how the life insurance policy operates. Life insurance policies are after the facts, after the eventualities.

But the BR6-level armoured protection is life insurance before the facts. That’s how we view it. So, if you’re getting all this ultra-luxury, high-end electronics intelligent smart automation in your car we just believe it is only natural for you to also be protected. That is what we also found out from our clients. They want that. So, they want protection. They want the luxury that matches the luxury level of their private jets, yachts, and their homes. That’s what inspired to go in that direction.

But we are not stopping at that. We are looking at a bigger picture. The bigger picture is, how do we at Rhodium45 ultra-luxury amoured cars make bulletproofing mainstream? There was a time seatbelt were only for race car drivers. Then, he became mainstream, and then it became a regulation issue. It now became a government-mandated feature in cars and you’re required to actually wear it. So was airbag. The airbags were meant for rich guys. But

from there it became a special, added feature in luxury cars. From a special, added feature in luxury, the airbag has gone mainstream. Who says bulletproofing of a car cannot become mainstream? Who says cars cannot form standard BR6-level armoured vehicles. That is the solution we are trying to provide. We are working with research labs here in the U.S. and some universities. Additionally, we about to come up with armoured cars manufactured to be armoured cars; not customising on the chassis of existing vehicles like we do today. We’re working from customisation [which we do currently by customising the chassis of Escalade SP, Range Rover SV, Lexus LX600, Mercedes Benz G63 AMG, etc.] to rolling out, in a couple of years, our own chassis which is bulletproof. From there we begin to work on bringing the price down. Therefore, it will come to a point that when you can afford Mercedes Benz S-Class, S580, you can afford our cars that will come as standard bulletproof vehicles. Bulletproof will be a standard feature just like the seatbelts and the airbags. That’s the big difference and we have the technology already.

The question is why doesn’t that exist? Why is not mainstream today? One, it is very expensive and it is heavy. Therefore, it is not being mass produced. So, we want to be the ones that will introduce these standard armoured vehicles at scale to reduce the retail price and the cost of production. Secondly, why do we want to produce such cars as standard from the chassis level? We’ve found the technological solutions to reduce the weight. The challenge with BR6 armoured cars is the weight. That is why it hard to armour electric vehicles because the batteries in EV vehicles are already very heavy. So, you don’t want to put on those vehicles another 2,000 pounds of weight. But we have solution, a composite solution that can bring that weight down to 500 pounds. Five hundred pounds is just about four people in a car which any car can support. We have that solution now. What we are working on now is to produce it as OEM [original equipment manufacturer]. That’s the big story here. The opportunity we have is that we are based here in North America, precisely in the U.S. Having this operation in the U.S. gives us a lot of advantages. It is not easy for manufacturers of cars to break into the U.S. market. Besides, the U.S. market is still the holy grail for every automobile manufacturer. Until you export to the U.S., you’ve not hit your sweet spot as an automobile manufacturer. The U.S. is the jackpot for every automobile manufacturer. Therefore, we are excited that we are a U.S. company. We also leveraging scientific breakthrough in lighter-weight armoured vehicles with the same energy-absorbing capacity of a BR6-level of an armoured vehicle. Let me emphasise that we’re already working with some universities and research labs on that to now deploy

this at scale where we can reduce the weight from 2000 pounds to 500 pounds. In fact, we’re even working towards 200 pounds of weight using composite materials. It’s even a solution that can withstand armour-piercing bullets. But we’re not going to go as far as that. We’re going to go as far as BR6-level that is civilian-approved.

You talk about Comfort. What are the specifics people can look forward to?

We have 42-inch TV that partitions [recessive partition] you from the driver. You have motionfriendly stylings. You have 360-view camera. It’s a total command-and-control centre you have there actually. You have your mini-iPad where everything is controlled. The vehicle has a champagne regenerator; in some cases, even coffee maker, surround sound system and fibre optic skylight. The automobile has luxury finish Italian leather. You can collapse the seat to become a bed. Anything you can imagine is inside the car.

How long does it take to build this vehicle?

It takes 90 days, from going through armouring customisation to BR6-level armouring which protects you from eight calibre bullet, hand grenade, and the fuel tank is also protected. After that, it will undergo the ultra-luxury finish of the interior. But this is not the big story. The big story is that we’re bringing to the world of making it a standard for your car to be bulletproof. What we do now is just customising existing chassis. We are in the next couple of years going to launch OEM-brand Rhodium45 bulletproof armoured cars. We will build it from the ground up. That’s the big story. Right now, we’re offering it as custom product.

Will you like to talk more about your customised cars being ‘life insurance before the fact’?

You know how insurance policy works: the policy becomes effective when one dies. That’s when the compensation is paid. The protection is not on the deceased. It is on the family. In this car of this armoured car, it will prevent its owner against certain eventualities. While life insurance offers some protection for the deceased’s loved ones, Rhodium45 Ultra-luxury Armoured Supercar protects you from dying from attacks or some certain eventualities -anything can kill you due to external attacks via firearms. This is just an analogy to drive the point home. That’s why we call it life insurance before the facts. We use that as some form of analogy to underscore the fact that you’re protected. An individual who’s living in opulence should get the needed protection. For example, you have more gun violence in America than anywhere else in the world. An example is the epidemic of road rage. I have been accosted; it’s an experience I still remember. On doesn’t

need to have an axe to grind with anybody to be shot anywhere in the world these days. One could run into the wrong guy. It could be a stray bullet. That’s why we’re thinking about the big solution. The big solution is that we’re looking at being part of that 1% of the number of cars on the road being bulletproof, and then we can move down the line of bringing in mainstream. Our commitment is to produce bulletproof cars with the view of making bulletproof cars mainstream, just like seatbelts were once a rarity, they became mainstream. Airbags were once a rarity, and they became mainstream, and we have found a solution to make that happen. You’ve been in the automobile industry for some decades. How has this business evolved for you? I’ve been into, I’ve been into transportation for a while. I mean, a lady once asked me because I’m a member of Eastern Polo Club. I also tried to learn how to fly at some point. So, a fellow member asked me, ‘What do you like about Polo?’ I said, ‘I love everything that moves.’ Every time she sees me, she’s ‘Oh, that’s the guy that loves everything that moves.’ I love movement. I’m very kinetic-friendly. I love cars first of all. So, my first experience in the automobile business was in transportation. I used to have a haulage company back in Nigeria, back in 2005. I had a big operation. I hauled for Lafarge. I hauled for Dangote. I was helped by Alhaji Lanre Shittu, may his soul rest in peace. Back in the day he was like my mentor. I bought all my trucks, Mack trucks, from him. trucks, back in the days. I had over 25 Mack trucks. We did that business; it was growing and then we moved on. When I relocated to the U.S., we saw another gap in the transportation space per delivery and rideshare by making automobiles available to drivers based on rentals after we found a gap that some individuals did not have the right vehicles for rideshare or delivery. We did that for a while and moved up the value chain. We decided to start going into manufacturing; or, let’s say production. Now, it’s not just providing transport service but providing the equipment to serve. Where we are today at Texas Armoured Direct and moving into Rhodium45, we’re in the custom-manufacturing of bulletproof cars, using the chassis of high-end cars. We’re now in manufacturing—custommanufacturing, that’s where we are now. But the next step which is Rhodium45 Ultra-luxury Armoured Supercars, we will be OEM. We’ll not be using the chassis of other high-end vehicles. We’ll be producing our own chassis and these will come pre-built as bulletproof chassis. That is with a view and goal and aim of making bulletproof vehicles mainstream. We want to pioneer that.

Paul Obanua

The Rhodium45 interior

polity

Buhari’s Shocker: I Look Forward To Leaving, And When It’s Time, I Go To My Grave

By Femi Adesina

Why should one be so sad about the death of an 82-year-old man? Not just sad. Dolorous. Mournful. Devastated. At 82, you are not exactly a young man, and anything can happen.

But not when you are Muhammadu Buhari, soldier of soldiers, an officer and gentleman. Not when you had survived a life threatening illness that lasted the better part of the year 2017, and you came out of it fresher and more vigorous.

I didn’t expect President Buhari to leave, at least not in the next 10 years. For two days in March, I was with him in his Kaduna home, which had just been renovated, and which he moved into about three weeks earlier from his Daura, Katsina State homestead.

I met him with almost all the newspapers in the land spread on the table before him. He was reading one. That his winsome smile, and I asked how he was doing. He said very well, since he was free from the troubles of Nigeria. We laughed.

Typical of him, he asked after the welfare of my family, and how I was doing. We then discussed many things about our country particularly the vast, ungoverned borders between Nigeria and neighboring countries in the North. The length is about 1,500 kilometers.

“Only God can effectively man it,” he said, and laughed.

It was Ramadan, and I joined at dinner. The former First Lady, Aisha, was around, and offered me some roasted meat (Suya).

Less than two weeks later, he travelled to London for what was said to be a routine medical trip. It lasted almost four months, and he never returned, at least not alive.

When President Buhari was brought back home for burial on Tuesday, July 15, having died two days earlier, I looked at the grave that had been dug at a favorite spot he used to sit in the courtyard of his modest home. There was the narrow inner part, and the words of Thomas Gray in his Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard came to my mind: “Beneath those rugged elms, that yew-tree’s shade, where heaves the turf in many a mould’ring heap, each in his narrow cell forever laid, the rude forefathers of the hamlet sleep.”

Each in his narrow cell forever laid. So, Baba Buhari, my boss and senior friend would be laid in this narrow cell? Well, it’s the lot of mortals. Doomed to die. All mortals must go one day. Good grief!

As he was laid to rest forever in that narrow aperture, I remember one thing the President had said to me on March 30, 2023, exactly two months to our leaving office.

I had told him I was planning to write a book, and I needed sessions of interview with him. He consented. I asked many questions which later formed major part of my book, Working with Buhari: Reflections of a Special Adviser, Media and Publicity (2015-2023). And the last question was; Mr President, after here, what next? And he said:

“I’m looking forward to leaving. And from there, I go to my grave at the appointed time.”

The appointed time came on Tuesday, but I must confess that I was shocked at the casual way the President had talked about going to his grave. Wasn’t he fazed by the prospect? Did it not scare him? And I said to myself; this man, he neither fears life nor death. He seems so sure of his God.

I had known Muhammadu Buhari at close quarters two clear years before he became President. But we had been talking on phone about three years before then.

My mother, that stately, urbane woman, had died in August 2013, aged 75. We were having part of the obsequies in Lagos, and I’d invited many people, including Major General Buhari, former military head of state.

To my utmost shock, he came! And not only that, he stayed through the Christian ceremony. Bigot? That’s the man they say never wants

to hear about any other religion, except Islam. A man who wanted to Islamize Nigeria. My respect for him went several notches higher. I didn’t think I would ever work in government, and didn’t even want it. But with a Muhammadu Buhari as President, I gladly had a change of mind, which lasted eight years and beyond.

I resumed work on June 1, 2015, and never forgot the things he told me: don’t let anybody stop you from seeing me, whether in the office or at home. Whenever you have to see me, just come.

Another. I’m a General, and I can argue. Don’t be intimidated. Argue with me. If you have a better point, I’ll agree with you.

I had opportunity to test that second instruction just nine days later. Bukola Saraki and Yakubu Dogara had wangled their ways into the leadership of the National Assembly, against the preference of their party, the APC. Though rebellious, what they did followed constitutional order. So I told the President we needed to congratulate them. He balked. But I stood my ground. He said no, I also said no. I said it would portray him as undemocratic. At the end of the day, he reasoned with me and the statement was written, with him just adding one word. Keeping to his word is part of the famed integrity. Argue with me. If you have a better point, I’ll agree with you.

I’m not writing another book, or am I? Let the reader please forgive me for the lengthy piece.

When his first Chief of Staff, Mallam Abba Kyari died in 2020, and I went to condole with him, President Buhari thanked me, and said: “We shall all go one day. Only that we don’t

know the time.” Now we know. July 13, 2025.

A patriot who loves his country, especially the ordinary people. When insurgency reached its peak in 2021, and he held a meeting with security chiefs, he was virtually pleading: “Wipe out these people. Kill them. They are haters of humanity. They don’t deserve to live. Nigerians love me, they trust me, that’s why they keep voting for me. Wipe them out. Kill them.”

Lt Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru was the Chief of Army Staff then. He pledged that as soon as the platforms they were expecting came, they would finish the job in a short time. Sadly, Attahiru died in a plane crash one week later.

Somebody had suggested at the meeting that maybe the country should hire mercenaries. The President said no. He said our military fought in Burma, in Congo, and in Biafra. They proved themselves. Why then mercenaries?

“See what Buba Marwa is doing at NDLEA. Simply fantastic. And we have many more like Marwa in the military,” the President said.

Some people claim he was never aware of anything. I laughed. And still laugh. His memory was amazing. I had taken issues concerning some people to the President for his intervention. And he usually helped, as long as it was not against his principles. One day, in our 5th or 6th year, I took a matter to him at home. He listened carefully, then said:

“Adesina, each time you have brought a private matter to me, you have come to speak for somebody. You have never asked for something personal.”

Humility and simplicity. Don’t look far, when you have seen Buhari. When a President has retired to his quarters for the night, nobody

can bring him down again. Nobody, I say. Bayo Omoboriowo was his Personal Photographer, and one of my staff in the media department. He had put together a photo book on the President, which he planned to launch at the State House Conference Centre. The President had been duly invited as Special Guest of Honor.

The night before, Bayo approached me that I should lead him to remind the President. A dutiful, pleasant young man, I obliged. When we got to the residence, the President had gone up for the night. Brickwall. We were still scratching our heads in dismay, when President Buhari emerged from a side door.

“I had gone up, but I saw you through the cameras, and decided to come down to see you.” Astounding. Astonishing. Shocking. When we told him why we came, he said he had appointed somebody to represent him at the event. We screamed, and went flat on our bellies, pleading. He looked at us, smiled paternally, and said he would come. He did, and his presence made all the difference.

One day, former EFCC Chairman, Farida Waziri, gave me a message to the President. When I delivered, he said, “Ah, Farida Waziri. One of the women I respect most in the country.” What she wanted got done. Pronto! Permit me again to share two more stories. President Buhari had just removed Ita Ekpenyong as DG DSS, and replaced him with Lawal Daura. When he gave me the name to announce, and because there had been loud murmurs of nepotism in appointments, I asked him why he didn’t pick a man from South-south to replace a South-southerner. His reply:

“When key positions are to be filled in the country, a search is conducted, the three best people are presented to me. If I then bypass the best person because of where he comes from, his language or religion, Allah will judge me for it. That’s what informs my decisions.”

Very considerate man. The Anyiam-Osigwe family holds annual lectures at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs in Lagos, to which they bring illustrious international speakers, presidents, prime ministers, and the like. In 2016, the theme was on corruption, and their partners all over the world told them there was no better person to handle the topic than the Nigerian president.

I told President Buhari, and he said he was willing to deliver the lecture, but he wouldn’t want it in Lagos because of the hardship it would cause for people through disruption of traffic and movement. Could they consider Abuja as venue?

I told the Anyiam-Osigwes, and they agreed to Abuja. They booked the International Conference Centre, and built the platform and other decorations with N5 million.

The night before the lecture, I heard that the President had been convinced to send a Minister to read his speech. I went to meet him at home, and reminded how he had promised to personally deliver the lecture. I also told him how much the organizers had spent on getting the hall ready.

“In that case, I must go,” said the President. And he went.

I must stop, though there are hundreds of stories still to tell. How he refused the gift of an SUV from a contractor, instruction he gave Minister Babatunde Fashola to build the Second Niger Bridge, Lagos/Ibadan, Enugu/Port Harcourt , and Abuja-Kaduna-Kano expressways, how Mele Kyari, NNPCL GMD told me Buhari never asked for a dime from the corporation that was gravy train for many former leaders, what the President told me after his son, Yusuf, had a bike accident, how his friends paid the fees of his children through school, his phone chats with Rev Chris Okotie, Duro Onabule, Tunji Braithwaite, among others. President Buhari was an icon, a unique man. Perfect? No man is. His shortcomings, as little as they are, have been interred with his bones. The good he did lives after him.

*Adesina was media adviser to President Buhari for 8 years

Late Muhammadu Buhari

Chinedu Eze

Nigerians who seek visa to travel to major countries in Europe, the United States and Asia, spend over N75 billion annually on non-refundable payments for visa, THISDAY investigation has revealed.

According to the investigation, over 60 per cent of visa requests are rejected with many of the applicants having to apply again and again, making new payments.

While some of them are given, many are not, no matter how many times they tried; so, they lose the money paid for these visa requests.

For instance, the US embassy interviews applicants in different groups a day; if the number of applicants are conservatively put to 300 applicants per day, (the number is obviously higher than this) at the cost of N299, 700 per applicant (the current cost of visa application), it will come to N89, 910, 000.

If this is multiplied with the five days of a working week, it

will amount to N449, 550, 000; multiplied by four weeks, which is one month, it will rise to N1,798, 200, 000 and N21, 578, 400, 000 when multiplied by 12 months.

For the UK visa request, 200 applicants were chosen for six months visa, which cost N279, 000 with total of N55, 800, 000 per day, amounting to N55, 800, 000 a week, N1.1 billion a month and N13.3 billion a year. This is excluding the £1,070 for 24 hours and £500 for five working days applicants pay for priority visa.

Schengen, which is about 27 countries charges N161,015 per applicant, which is N241,522,500 a week and N966,090,000 a month and N11,593,080,000 per annum. Conservative calculation of the non-refundable payments by Nigerian applicants for these three major visas is N46, 471, 480, 000 and together with the projection of the cost of visa to Canada, China, Indonesia, India, Malaysia and others amount to about N75 billion repatriated from

Nigeria annually.

The UK visa cost did not include the applicants who request for two years, which costs about N969, 699; applicants who request for 5 years visa, which cost about N1 732, 188 and applicants who request for 10 years visa, which cost about N2, 161, 918, as at July 14, 2025.

THISDAY learnt that conservatively over 3000 Nigerians make this request every year and the fees are also non-refundable.

It is the view of many that Nigerians should cut down their request for foreign trips because embassies have seen visa fees charged Nigerians as huge sources of generating revenue and that many Nigerians who travel overseas do so for emotional reasons; just to be like the Joneses, a band wagon effect triggered by different types of competition, from village to neighbours in the city and to colleagues and contemporaries trying to overdo themselves.

“I have witnessed over time that some of these trips we do

NIMASA Shuts Down ShellPlux,

overseas is a waste of money. Some of us travel because our neighbour travelled and he and his family are showing off the pictures on social media; that our kinsman who used to beg me for money travelled and I want to also travel because he is showing off a lot in the village; that the man who has a shop after mine travelled and I also want to travel. These non-serious issues are the compelling reasons why many Nigerians travel. It is really an ego trip, seeking for validation, status symbol and rivalry. We know there are those who travel for business, importers, exporters, manufacturers, diplomats, top public servants, resource persons etc. but I can tell you that in Nigeria, when an average citizen feels he has started making money he will arrange for a trip and he will be willing to pay anything and his desire to travel increases as he is rejected by the embassies,” a travel consultant told THISDAY.

Managing Director of Travel Lab Nigeria Limited, Mrs. Shalom

Asuquo, explained that beyond those that travel overseas to show off, there are serious travellers who travel for business, holiday and other reasons. These are Nigerians who have been travelling over the years who have long term visas and are way off financially. In addition, there are students who travel overseas for studies and there are many of them, especially in the UK, US, Canada and recently China.

On the cost of visas, Asuquo noted that there are other fees outside the cost of visa applications that are paid for the UK visa like VIP and other services and on the Schengen, she said “there are tourist, transit, student and medical visas, the later seem to cost most in addition to cost of health insurance.”

She said that Nigerians travel to Italy for tourism, religion, leather goods and to do other kinds of business, while France is for tourism, perfume and fashion and Germany for aviation, automobile products, education and trade. Denmark is

for conference while Switzerland for diplomacy, conferences and banking. Nigerians have over the years faced strict visa conditions from many countries, especially Western nations, despite the fact that they relatively charge Nigerians more for visa. One of the reasons is demand. Many Nigerians want to leave their country for the so-called greener pastures overseas. According to sources, there was a spike in the number of Nigerians leaving the country due to bad governance, especially since 2016 due to constricting economy and from 2020 due to clamp down on activists, which gave rise to so many Nigerians seeking asylum in other countries, especially the youths. According to reports, the main reason Nigerians decide to move is usually to find better job opportunities and higher standards of living for themselves and their families.

NIMASA said the enforcement action follows persistent noncompliance by the facilities with the provisions of the ISPS Code, despite several formal warnings. The move, NIMASA stressed, aligns with global best practices and is in accordance with Section 79(f) of the ISPS Code

The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), in its role as the Designated Authority for implementing the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code in Nigeria, yesterday shut down ShellPlux and TMDK Terminals, both located in the Ijegun-Egba area of Lagos.

Implementation Regulations (2014), which mandates the closure of any facility that remains in violation for over three calendar months.

Speaking on the development, the Director General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, emphasised the Agency’s commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime domain.

He added, “In wielding the big stick, we acted only as a last resort,” he said. “Our primary goal is to enforce safety and security practices across Nigerian ports and jetties. At a time when we are collaborating with the United States Coast Guard to lift the conditions of entry on vessels from Nigeria, we cannot afford lapses that

jeopardize our progress.” Mobereola added that the facilities would be reopened once all compliance requirements are satisfactorily met, acknowledging their important role in service delivery and trade facilitation.

“The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Adegboyega Oyetola is committed to enhanced sustainable trade

facilitation for the maritime sector in a safe and conducive environment The ISPS Code, an amendment to the SOLAS Convention, was developed by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to enhance maritime and port security, particularly for facilities engaged in international trade,” he said.

Eromosele Abiodun

Q2: PTML Customs Achieves 34.1%

Revenue Increase Using B’Odogwu

Eromosele Abiodun

The Ports Terminal Multi-services Limited (PTML) Command of Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), has said it achieved a total collection of N204,725,634,459.55 for the first half of 2025 which is N52,077,116,927.50 higher than the N152,648,517,532.05 collected at the same period last year. This shows a remarkable 34.1 per cent increase in this half year’s collection above the 2024 figures.

According to the Customs Area Controller of the Command, Comptroller Tenny Daniyan, despite initial challenges encountered while utilising the platform, there has been improvements with over 90 per cent stakeholder utilisation and compliance level on the platform

He also disclosed that the command generated a sum of N301,890,791,315.50 from the B’Odogwu platform since it’s roll out on November 11,2024.

On trade facilitation, he revealed

‘FAAN,

that since January, the command started receiving cargo from far east/ china in addition to Europe and America ships calling at the port

The CAC affirmed that while the command holds the number one record of fastest cargo clearance time of two hours in line with the Time Release Study, only declarations made with integrity can enjoy the benefits of faster clearance.

Speaking on volume of trade, Daniyan announced that for the first six months of 2025, 52 vessels were berthed, 13,431 containers were received and 30,400 assessment was done.

He also stated that due to the peculiar nature of the command as the area for pilot phase roll out for B’Odogwu, in line with directives from the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, they have intensified their existing stakeholders’ engagement through intensive training sessions for officers and customs agents.

“Despite the teething challenges which we are surmounting as the pilot area of the B’Odogwu implementation, we have received increased user acceptance supported by sustained training and seamless user experience feedbacks.

“Despite these improvements in trading opportunities, our antismuggling and enforcement drives remain intact without compromise. The practical hands-on sessions have paid off as most of our stakeholders are knowledgeable about the system and its workings. These training sessions are in batches and still ongoing to ensure everyone is carried along,” he said.

The CAC also expressed gratitude to the CGC for believing in PTML and designating the area for initial roll out of the B’Odogwu platform. He described it as a revolutionary home-grown trade platform that has become an enduring legacy for trade facilitation and revenue collection

Not Ministry Should Lead Design for Airport Master Plan’

Stories by Chinedu Eze

Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, has deplored past interferences in the aviation agencies by the Ministry of Aviation in some areas of operation and infrastructure development, saying that the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) is in the best positioned to lead the design and execution of Nigeria’s airport master plan.

Speaking at the 25th Airport Business Summit and Expo (ABSE) in Lagos, Kana stressed that FAAN’s operational experience makes it the ideal driver of Nigeria’s aviation

infrastructure blueprint.

“FAAN must be in the driver’s seat. They understand the terrain and the operational realities. The Ministry can support, but FAAN should lead,” he said.

Kana explained that the masterplan process must be driven by those with direct oversight of airport operations and infrastructure development. He added that FAAN’s technical knowledge and real-time engagement with airport issues give it an advantage in crafting an executable, long-term plan.

This call for role clarity comes amid broader conversations at ABSE 2025 around private investment, concession frameworks, and aligning

Nigeria’s aviation growth with global best practices.

Speaking during his opening remarks, Kana unveiled Nigeria’s aviation investment drive stating the country has launched an ambitious roadmap to attract private sector capital into its aviation sector, focusing on partnerships, infrastructure, and global compliance.

“We will continue to strengthen critical infrastructure without overburdening public finances. We believe this is achievable,” he stated.

Kana confirmed that major airports in Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt, along with cargo terminals and maintenance hangars, are already under concession arrangements.

Customs Promises to Support NAHCO on Commodity Export

NAHCO’s efforts at operating a globally acceptable standard export processing centre, received a boost when the Comptroller – General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Mr. Bashir Adewale Adeniyi told the management of the ground handling company that it has Customs’ full support to operate the NAHCO Export Packaging & Processing Centre (NEPPC).

Adeniyi, who gave the assurance during a visit to NAHCO Head Office and the Nahco NEPPC in Lagos recently, said it remained his duty as the number one Customs Officer in the country and even as a private individual, having seen the extent of investment in the centre, to

support the operation of the centre.

This is more so as the centre is tailored exclusively towards the exportation of Nigerian commodities.

He said: “I commend what you are doing here. And whatever you are doing, and it is improving the economy of the country, especially exports, I am all for it.”

Adeniyi therefore instructed the CAC, Cargo Terminal Command, Mr. MT Awe to perfect the procedures required and ensure that the NEPPC goes full blast.

Adeniyi, who came in company of his top team in Lagos including ACG Charles Orbih, Zonal Coordinator, Zone A; Mr. MT Awe, Comptroller, Murtala Muhammed Airport Command, Hajj & Cargo Terminal; Comptroller EJ Harisson, Murtala

International Airport Command; Comptroller MS Shuaibu, FOU Zone A and other top officials of the Service stated that NCS is interested in any cargo processing center designed to ensure compliance with global standards.

He also said Customs was not only about generating revenue but also about supporting businesses that will create employment and bring in much-needed foreign exchange.

Responding, the GMD/CEO, Nigerian Aviation Handling PLC, Mr. Olumuyiwa Olumekun, said he was very delighted to receive the Customs C-G, describing the visit as a very needed encouragement the Company requires in its efforts geared towards boosting the country’s agro-exports through the airports.

FanMilk Earns B Corp Certification

Air WAtCh

Punitive Measures for Crimes Committed Overseas

Chinedu Eze

Travel agents and others have called on the federal government to introduce a law that will punish Nigerians who commit crimes while in overseas in order to rebuild the country’s image and reduce the number of Nigerians who engage in illicit activities outside of Nigeria.

Nigerians in travel and tourism sector lament that few number of the citizens have damaged the image of the country and acquired notoriety for the most populous black nation in the world, noting that their actions influence the perception of other countries about Nigeria and also influence their visa policies directed at Nigeria.

Some of the Nigerians who spoke to THISDAY said the federal government could suspend the passport of those who are identified as engaging in crimes outside the country; so that when their passport is made invalid they must come back to Nigeria and go to Immigration, where they would be taken to Immigration Court and punished if found guilty.

According to them, punishment could range from paying penalties, suspension of passport for as long as 10 years or prison sentence.

The Managing Director of Travel Lab Nigeria Limited, Mrs. Shalom Asuquo, who spoke to THISDAY, said Nigeria has penchant for flouting the laws of the countries they travelled to, noting that when United Arab Emirates (UAE) resumed diplomatic relations with Nigeria, they couched their visa policy in such a way that it removed low income earners from coming to their country from Nigeria; so those who could come are those with substantial funds in their accounts as tourists and those with permanent residence visa.

But unfortunately, the new policies were being flouted because those given 96 hours stay were flouting it; so, in the latest visa policy the country gave more stringent conditions for Nigerians travelling to UAE.

“Despite the conditions given in the visa policy when they started last year, Nigerians were still absconding. Nigerians given 96 hours visa still defaulted. That is tourist visa. They overstayed. So, they have cancelled tourism visa. So, it means that the more the people default, the more they bring in more stringent conditions. This time those who are absconding are well to do Nigerians who can meet the financial conditions for the visa they obtained.

“So, for us to mitigate this abuse, Nigerian government should enact a law that will punish any Nigerian who travels abroad and breaks the law of that land. The punishment could be by way of withdrawing offenders’ passports by the federal government for as long as 10 years. For him to get the travel document back, he must return to Nigeria. The Nigerian embassy in that country will give him a document to return to Nigeria. And when he arrives in Nigeria, he will be detained.

gets blocked or backfires, we simply find another way to bypass it; never sitting down to resolve the root issue.

“Now that visa reciprocity is hitting home, people are shouting. But we must understand that when reviewing foreign policy, especially visa policy you don’t act on impulse. There are five or six core dimensions any serious country considers: Trade, Tourism, Diplomacy, Security, or National pride/sovereign interest. When Nigeria crafted its visa rules and imposed certain requirements on countries like the US or the UK, none of these pillars were properly analysed or prioritized. We’ve raised red flags over the flaws in these policies yet no one listened. So, what did the US do? They didn’t start a war. They simply mirrored our visa policy. That’s the easiest and most diplomatic form of pushback and it makes you feel it immediately,” she said.

Speaking in the same vein, travel expert and the organiser of Akwaaba African Travel Market, Ambassador Ikechi Uko, said: “It is high time Nigerian government made a firm response to Nigerians damaging the image of the country abroad by enacting a law to punish those who engaged in illicit behaviours while out of Nigeria.”

He recalled that he had canvassed for this in the past, noting that it is the most effective way to minimise the obnoxious activities of Nigerians outside the country.

“Although punishing them after they have been punished abroad could be termed double jeopardy but Nigeria needs to punish and criminalise bad behaviour abroad. That is one of the ways to control bad behaviour and the way to minimise it,” Uko further said. Uko however said that he would not recommend punishment for Nigerians who default on visa expiry period because it is a consular problem, “but if you commit real crime you should be punished. Overstaying of visa is a consular problem,” he said.

Also, the President of the National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA), Yinka Folami, told THISDAY that the situation has reached the level where Nigeria must enact law to punish Nigerians who commit crimes overseas and damage the image of the country. He said that Nigeria should push for the legal framework and the National Assembly should make a law, which will serve as deterrent to anyone carrying Nigerian passport who commits crimes overseas.

“I think we have come to the point where Nigeria has to make a law that will punish those who damage its reputation abroad. It they could get on with the legal framework, why not? We cannot fold our arms and allow people to destroy the image of our country. I think it is about time we know there are consequences about this. It is just Nigerians damaging the image of their country abroad,” he said.

Group

Comms/e-Business Editor

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)

FanMilk has received the global B Corp Certification, becoming the first largest Fast Moving Consumer Good (FMCG) in West Africa to have obtained the certification!

According to Manager Director for FanMilk Ghana and Francos, Lionel Parent, the B Corp certification has become the gold standard for proving a business’s genuine commitment to social and environmental impact.

“Originating in the US in 2006, the B Corp movement now spans 103 countries and 160 industries, with over 9,500 companies certified worldwide – a clear signal to consumers, employees, and investors that a company is using business as a force for good.

“B Corps certification cuts through the noise offering consumers and stakeholders

a trusted, globally recognised benchmark. As a result, becoming the first largest multinational in West Africa to receive B Corp status not only complements our Danone Impact Journey (DIJ) pillars of Health, Nature and People, but verifies our efforts at the highest known level, worldwide,” the managing director said.

“FanMilk is one of only five FMCG companies in West Africa to have achieved this certification. Certainly, the process for B Corp certification is rigorous, as it relies on intense impact assessments from employees, to customers, governance, the communities in which they operate as well as the environment, but it provides a certified mark of trust for consumers when purchasing,” adds Lionel.

“We have to do this for our national pride, we have to protect the image of our country. It is the activities of such people who damage our image that these countries are giving us stringent visa conditions. So, without travel documents, those unscrupulous Nigerians will not be able to go anywhere,” she said.

Asuquo said even those Nigerians that have residence permit will not travel if the federal government withdraws their passport, noting that they will be made to come back to Nigeria and be sanctioned.

Asuquo also said that what the US and the UAE did to Nigeria in their visa policies has prompted a conversation on Nigeria’s diplomacy, its focus and reciprocity mechanism.

“It’s actually a good thing that this conversation is coming up now. But let’s be honest Nigerians don’t solve problems; they circumvent them. And when that shortcut

United Arab Emirate, in September 2022, issued visa sanction to Nigeria due to the unruly behaviour of Nigerians in Dubai, who allegedly engaged in cult fights. This and other criminal activities, including the despicable and inglorious attempt to steal Automatic Teller Machine forced UAE authorities to ban Nigerians travel to the Middle East country.

If the law is enacted it would be extended to those who engage in drug trafficking, financial fraud and other crimes, which caste the country in bad light. It is largely believed that if Nigeria introduced deterrent measures against its citizens who commit crimes overseas, it will smoothen the relationship between Nigeria and many other countries, enhance more intelligence collaboration and also build trust between Nigeria and other countries.

In addition, many countries will develop less stringent visa policies for Nigerians and they will also report cases involving Nigerians to the federal government.

Dandjinou: gTLDs Will Enhance Brands’ Presence Online

ICANN’s Vice President, Stakeholder Engagement for Africa, Pierre Dandjinou, speaks about the recent report on the New Generic Top-Level Domains and the opportunities for brands to bridge existing knowledge gap. Emma Okonji presents the excerpts:

Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), recently released a report on the New Generic Top-Level Domains (gTLD) for brands. What are the opportunities for brands, as highlighted in the report?

ICANN recently contracted a survey of over 2,000 marketing leaders in eight countries: Brazil, China, India, Mexico, Nigeria, South Africa, the U.K., and the U.S. The purpose of the research was to paint a picture of the evolving digital marketing landscape by understanding the key challenges, priorities, and trends that are top-of-mind for marketers today. ICANN also wanted to understand the current level of awareness of and perceptions toward gTLDs in light of the next round of the New gTLD Programme, which is set to open in April 2026.

The results of the survey showed that a majority of marketing leaders believe gTLDs have strong potential for enhancing brand presence online; however, a knowledge gap is preventing many brands from taking advantage of the opportunities that a gTLD can bring. According to respondents, these opportunities include enhanced brand differentiation (46 per cent), improved customer trust (45 per cent), better control over online presence (44 per cent), and improved search engine optimization (SEO) (44 per cent).

gTLDs enable businesses in specific countries, sectors, or niche markets to create exclusive, descriptive, and memorable labels on the Internet. For brands, operating or using a customized TLD can increase brand visibility and provide enhanced security and greater control over online presence.

What are some of the key findings of the research report in relation to brand’s perception about gTLD?

The research shows that half of those surveyed believe that gTLDs have strong potential for enhancing brand presence online. Similarly, 48 per cent believe gTLDs are useful for specific branding strategies.

What are the challenges for brands and how can brands tap into the gTLD to unlock their rich potential?

According to the results from the survey, marketing leaders are facing significant challenges in standing out from competitors (53 per cent), attracting and engaging

the right audience (52 per cent), and keeping pace with digital trends (47 per cent). And, when considering business challenges for the next 12 months, the same challenges were named.

Our research reveals that marketing leaders around the world believe that gTLDs can empower businesses to create memorable online identities, strengthen brand recognition, and build stronger connections with target audiences. Over half (52 per cent) of respondents believe gTLDs have strong potential for branding and online presence, and 48 per cent view them as useful for specific branding strategies. This recognition is particularly strong in emerging markets; 74 per cent of Nigerian and 61 per centof Indian marketing leaders acknowledge the strong branding potential of gTLDs.

Given details of the report, what concrete steps should brands take to bridge the knowledge

gap around gTLD?

Now is the moment for brand owners to consider applying for a gTLD, yet our research shows there is still a lack of awareness. I encourage your readers to visit the New gTLD Program: Next Round website to learn more about the program and what it can mean for communities, organisations, and businesses around the world.

What are the opportunities for brands to embrace ICANN’s New gTLD Program: Next Round?

The New gTLD Program offers a rare opportunity to manage and operate a key part of the Internet ecosystem and to create a unique space online that you can use in a variety of meaningful ways. This is a decision that should not be taken lightly because running a gTLD means that you are operating an Internet registry, a key piece of Internet infrastructure. That requires significant technical, financial, and operational resources. However, with appropriate planning and resources, managing a gTLD can be a powerful and innovative way to help achieve long-term business goals.

The New gTLD Program: Next Round application window is set to open in April 2026. Businesses that are considering applying for a new gTLD are encouraged to visit the Next Round website for more information and resources that were created to help you make the right decision about applying for a gTLD.

Can you expatiate on the Domain Name System (DNS) and how it could make the internet more accessible?

The DNS is what makes the Internet navigable by turning Internet Protocol (IP) addresses, which are a series of numbers, into memorable names, like icann.org.

Part of ICANN’s work is to enable the stable expansion of the DNS through the introduction of new generic top-level domains. This also includes Internationalized Domain Names (IDNs), which incorporate characters from different scripts, enabling people to use domain names and email addresses in scripts used in languages around the world.

The New gTLD Program: Next Round presents an opportunity for entities and communities around the world to apply to operate a gTLD in a local script. As of today, 26 different scripts representing over 300 languages are currently supported in the DNS and can be applied for in the Next Round.

The International Telecommunications Union (ITU), said in its ‘Facts And Figures 2024 Report’ that 2.6 billion people remained unconnected to the internet globally. How can ICANN help to bridge the connectivity gap and make the internet an integral part of life for the global masses?

The expansion of the DNS through the introduction of IDNs has helped to reduce linguistic barriers to accessing the Internet by enabling people to navigate online using their own language and script. According to the International Telecommunication Union, many of the 2.6 billion people who are not yet online are from communities that speak and write in languages other than English.

One of the most meaningful ways to address the connectivity gap is by introducing gTLDs and domain names that use more local languages and scripts. When people are empowered to connect to the Internet using their own language and script, they are more likely to have a satisfying and productive online experience.

From the research report, Nigeria is among the over 2,000 marketing leaders from eight countries of the world that were surveyed. How will you describe the growth of digital marketing in Nigeria and the awareness around gTLDS in Nigeria?

Our survey revealed that 54 per cent of all respondents are primarily focused on increasing brand awareness and visibility, followed by improving customer retention (45 per cent) and expanding into new markets (40 per cent). In Nigeria, these priorities are similarly reflected, with 58 per cent of marketing leaders focused on brand awareness, 47 per cent on customer retention, and 42 per cent on market expansion. This alignment underscores the global nature of branding challenges and opportunities.

The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

Thaakar: Sophos Will Demystify Cybersecurity in Nigeria

Sales Director for Africa at Sophos, Prish Thaakar, with 18 years of experience in cybersecurity, who was in Nigeria recently, speaks about the need to address the existing cybersecurity gap through AIpowered tools and expert-driven Managed Detection and Response solutions, which provide worldclass security regardless of in-house expertise. Agnes Ekebuike presents the excerpts:

What inspired Sophos to host its channel partner event in Lagos, and how does it align with your broader strategy for the Nigerian market?

We chose Lagos because Nigeria is a strategic growth market for Sophos, and our partners here play a leading role in regional cybersecurity. This event reinforces our partner-first strategy by investing in training, collaboration, and shared innovation. It’s a platform to align with our partners and co-create the future of cybersecurity in the region.

How is Sophos tailoring its cybersecurity solutions to meet the unique challenges faced by Nigerian businesses?

Our solutions are designed to be powerful, but easy to use and deploy — ideal for Nigeria’s dynamic business environment. Through Sophos Central, we offer unified visibility and control across endpoints, networks, email, and cloud. And with Sophos MDR, we provide expert threat hunting and response for companies that may not have in-house security teams.

Can you elaborate on the role of Nigerian partners in Sophos’ pan-African expansion?

Nigerian partners are not only local leaders but also regional enablers. Many are expanding their service offerings beyond Nigeria and supporting businesses across West and Central Africa. Their expertise, agility, and proximity to key markets make them essential to Sophos’ goal of delivering cybersecurity everywhere, at scale.

What specific support structures or incentives does Sophos offer to empower its local resellers and distributors?

We offer a comprehensive support structure, including, Sophos Partner Care, 24/7 support to help partners manage operations efficiently; Sophos Customer Success, a dedicated team focused on customer onboarding, adoption, and retention, and Certification and enablement

programs – to build deep technical and sales capability

Sophos is known for its synchronised security approach. How is this being received in Nigeria, and what adoption trends are you seeing?

The reception has been very strong. Nigerian customers appreciate the efficiency and automation that synchronized security brings. By connecting endpoint, firewall, email, and cloud defenses through Sophos Central, organizations gain real-time visibility and automated threat response. We’re seeing especially strong adoption in financial services, government, and mid-sized enterprises.

With the rise of AI-driven threats, how is Sophos evolving its product suite to stay ahead of the curve?

We’ve made significant advances in AI and machine learning, which now power our detection engines, behavioural analysis, and threat response workflows. Sophos X-Ops, our global intelligence unit, continuously integrates new data into our solutions, allowing us to identify and stop novel attacks, including those that leverage AI themselves. This is a major reason why our MDR service is so effective in the region.

Cybersecurity awareness remains a challenge in many developing markets. What initiatives is Sophos undertaking to educate Nigerian SMEs and big enterprises?

We invest heavily in partner-led awareness campaigns, technical workshops, and executive briefings across Nigeria. Our goal is to demystify cybersecurity and help organizations

of all sizes understand practical steps to protect their digital assets. We also provide free tools, like phishing simulators and ransomware protection guides, which are particularly valuable for SMEs.

Are there plans to collaborate with local institutions or government bodies to strengthen national cyber resilience? Yes. We are exploring partnerships with universities, technical institutes, and government stakeholders to improve cyber resilience. Publicprivate collaboration is key to developing skills, standards, and awareness. We aim to be a trusted partner in both the private and public sectors as Nigeria strengthens its national cybersecurity framework.

What are Sophos’ key priorities for the Nigerian market over the next 12–18 months? Our top priorities include: Expanding MDR adoption across sectors; deepening partner enablement and certification; accelerating MSP growth through Elevate, and supporting critical industries (e.g., financial services, healthcare, public sector) with tailored, scalable solutions We are focused on being not just a vendor, but a strategic ally in Nigeria’s digital and cyber transformation.

How do you see the cybersecurity landscape in Nigeria evolving, and what role will Sophos play in shaping it? Nigeria is at a tipping point, digital innovation is accelerating, and so are cyber risks. We see the future marked by increased cloud adoption, more targeted attacks, and greater regulatory focus on data protection. Sophos will continue to play a leadership role by providing AI-powered defenses, building local cybersecurity expertise, and enabling partners to deliver world-class protection tailored to local needs.

Dandjinou

Thaakar

NCS’ FOU Intercepts Foreign Currency at Seme Border, Hands Over to EFCC

Eromosele Abiodun

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Zone A, Ikeja has announced a significant breakthrough in its ongoing efforts to combat the movement of illicit financial flows within the country with the interception of foreign currencies at Seme border.

This was disclosed by the Comptroller of the Unit, Comptroller Mohammed Shuaibu, during a brief handover ceremony held t at the Unit’s conference hall in Ikeja, Lagos.

According to Shuaibu, “Our operations patrol team was on routine surveillance along the Babapupa bush paths near the Seme border when they intercepted a Nissan Almera suspected to be a smuggled vehicle Upon sighting our officers, the driver abandoned

the vehicle and fled into the bush to evade arrest.”

Addressing officers of the Unit, representatives from the EFCC, and members of the NCBN crew, he disclosed that an examination of the vehicle revealed the concealed sum of $20,000 and 110,000 West African CFA Francs, with a total estimated value of N30,861,651.00.

He emphasised that the seizure is a testament to the dedication of his officers adding: “This arrest underscores the relentless commitment of our personnel to thwart the activities of illicit financial flow operators and protect the Nigerian economy. It reflects our concerted efforts to combat smuggling and restore law and order along our borders.”

Shuaibu commended his officers for their dedication and assured that the unit remains vigilant in its mission

to eradicate smuggling.

The seized currencies were handed over to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for further investigation and possible prosecution.

Speaking, EFCC’s Zonal Directorate 1, Assistant Director Shehu Mohammed, who represented the Zonal Coordinator, commended the NCS for the interception. He emphasised the effective collaboration between both agencies:

He said, “This seizure and subsequent handover of undeclared foreign currency highlight the strong synergy between our agencies and our joint commitment to enforcing financial laws in Nigeria.

The EFCC will conduct a thorough investigation to identify the individuals involved and determine the appropriate legal action.”

Access Bank Highlights Investor Confidence in Nigerian Bonds Amid FX Stabilisation

Access Bank has highlighted a resurgence in investor appetite for Nigerian fixed income instruments, as elevated bids were recorded across the bond curve despite prevailing liquidity constraints in the financial markets.

Speaking during a live appearance on CNBC Africa, Treasury Team Lead at Access Bank, Kolawole Komolafe, noted that the renewed demand though measured is reflective of shifting sentiment as investors recalibrate portfolios in response to stabilising macroeconomic indicators and attractive yield levels.

Komolafe said: “There’s a notable uptick in buy-side activity, especially across

medium to long-tenor bonds. While the pace of this demand is relatively cautious, we’re seeing elevated bids, which signal improved confidence in sovereign instruments.” The fixed income market opened the week on a bearish note, with traders observing significant activity in benchmark bonds such as the FGN 2031 and 2033 papers, which were quoted at yields of 16.90 per cent and 16.70 per cent, respectively. Average bids on benchmark papers rose by 10 basis points, further reflecting the shift in market positioning. In the Treasury Bills and Open Market Operations (OMO) space, the March 17, 2026 OMO paper emerged as the most actively traded instrument, with yields rising from 20.20 per cent on

Friday to 20.50 per cent by Monday. There was also notable demand for the newly issued 9th July one-year Nigerian Treasury Bills (NTB), which traded around 15.45 per cent.

Commenting on the money market, Komolafe noted that the system is currently running on a repo position of approximately N250 billion, with overnight rates spiking above 32 per cent, underscoring the illiquidity challenges that continue to weigh on the short end of the curve.

On the foreign exchange front, Komolafe acknowledged recent volatility driven by profit-taking from some foreign direct investors (FDIs), but credited recent interventions by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) with stabilising the market.

RMB Clinches Top Honours at Global Finance Awards

Rand Merchant Bank (RMB) has emerged a standout performer at the 2025 Global Finance Awards, clinching two major accolades for its leadership in financial services.

The investment and corporate banking arm of FirstRand Bank was named Best Transactional Banking Provider in Africa and Best Overall Cash Management Provider in South Africa at the 25th edition of the prestigious World’s Best Treasury and Cash Management Awards.

The bank in a statement noted that Global Finance’s selection process included submissions from banks and service providers, and

input from industry analysts, corporate clients, technology specialists and independent research.

Commenting on this feat, Head of Treasury and Trade Solutions at RMB, Lizelle Pienaar said: “We’re proud to be recognised for the work we do in supporting our clients across the continent. These awards reflect our commitment to combining innovation, digital transformation, and operational excellence, along with deep market insight, to deliver value to our clients in a fast-changing world. With more than 35 countries covered in Africa from a deal perspective, and offices in key financial centres globally, we bring both scale and local

knowledge to our clients. Clients today are looking for more than just products. They want insight, innovation and strategic partnership, and we’re proud to walk that journey with them.”

Head of Treasury and Trade Solutions, RMB Nigeria Oluwaseyi Onanuga, added: ‘’ the recognition by Global Finance marks a proud moment for the group and affirms the strength of RMB’s Pan-African strategy. It reinforces our commitment to delivering world-class transactional banking and cash management solutions that meet the evolving needs of clients across the continent. As we continue to expand our footprint, we are focused on replicating this success

Reckitt Awards N48m to Health Startups Through Accelerator Programme

Mary Nnah

Reckitt Nigeria, a global leader in health, hygiene, and nutrition, has concluded the 2024 edition of the Reckitt Access Accelerator Programme in Lagos, awarding N48 million to four social enterprises-Geotek, HealthTracka, MN Environmental Services, and Preggify - each receiving N12 million in seed funding to scale their health and hygiene solutions. These innovative businesses

will utilise the funding to scale their health and hygiene solutions, promoting hygiene practices in communities across Nigeria.

The innovations range from access to clean water, at-home health tests, provision of public toilet facilities, and maternal care, aimed at promoting hygiene practices in communities across Nigeria. Akbar Ali Shah, General Manager, Reckitt Sub-Saharan Africa, reaffirmed the company’s mission and

long-term commitment to locally driven innovation.

“At Reckitt, we take pride in offering products that are simple, safe, and effective; products that improve lives in meaningful, measurable ways. We, however, also recognise that the true impact goes beyond product delivery. Solving the world’s toughest hygiene challenges, especially in underserved communities, requires scalable, locally driven innovation.”

(Iraq),

Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria),

Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE)

Merey (Venezuela).

Nume Ekeghe

Rally in Dangote Cement, 29 Others Push Market Cap Above N82trn

Kayode Tokede

The Nigerian stock market capitalisation yesterday crossed the N82 trillion mark, driven by a rally in key stocks such as Dangote Cement Plc, BUA Cement Plc and 28 others

The Nigerian Exchange Limited All-Share Index (NGX ASI) gained 1,316.79 basis points or 1.02 per cent to close at 130,283.87 basis points from 128,967.08 basis points it opened for trading

with Year-to-Date returns settled at +8.6per cent and +26.6per cent, respectively.

Also, market capitalisation rose by N833 billion to close at N82.418 trillion from N81.585 trillion it closed for trading the previous day.

Sectoral performance was mixed as the NGX Industrial Goods Index gained 9.1 per cent and NGX Consumer Goods advanced by 0.5per cent , while the NGX Banking Index dipped

by 2.3 per cent, NGX Insurance Index dropped by -0.9 per cent and NGX Oil & Gas index depreciated by 0.6 per cent.

On market outlook, Afrinvest Limited said, “we anticipate a modest performance on the bourse, as selective buying offsets profit booking.”

However, investor sentiment, as measured by market breadth closed negative as 30 stocks gained, while 46 lost. BUA Cement emerged the highest price

gainer of 10 per cent to close at N112.20, per share.

Dangote Cement followed with a gain of 9.99 per cent to close at N473.30, while Chams Holding Company rose by 9.96 per cent to close at N3.09, per share.

First Holdco rose by 9.94 per cent to close at N35.40, while ABC Transports appreciated by 9.85 per cent to close at N5.69, per share. On the other side, Haldane McCall, MeCure Industries, Berger Paints, John Holts, May

& Baker Nigeria, RT Briscoe led others on the losers’ chart with 10 per cent each to close at N4.68, N11.70, N33.75, N9.00, N15.30 and N3.42 respectively, per share.

FTN Cocoa processors shed 9.97 per cent to close at N6.32, while Academy Press lost 9.96 per cent to close at N7.50, per share.

The total volume traded dipped by 89.8 per cent to 1.193 billion units, valued at N42.756 billion, and exchanged in 37,418 deals.

A Mutual fund (Unit Trust) is an investment vehicle managed by a SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) registered Fund Manager. Investors with similar objectives buy units of the Fund so that the Fund Manager can buy securities that willl generate their desired return.

An ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) is a type of fund which owns the assets (shares of stock, bonds, oil futures, gold bars, foreign currency, etc.) and divides ownership of those assets into shares. Investors can buy these ‘shares’ on the

floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

A REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) is an investment vehicle that allows both small and large investors to part-own real estate ventures (eg. Offices, Houses, Hospitals) in proportion to their investments. The assets are divided into shares that are traded on the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

GUIDE TO DATA:

Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira as at 16 Jujy-2025, unless otherwise stated.

DAILY PRICE LIST FOR MUTUAL FUNDS, REITS and ETFS

Seyi vodi @ 50: Celebrating a Legacy of Societal Impact, Fashion and Pillar of entertainment

For Seyi Adekunle, popularly known as Seyi Vodi, who is set to clock 50 on July 19, his life’s trajectory stands as a compelling story of resilience, innovation, and societal impact. From an early foray in the banking sector which didn’t go as expected, to building one of Nigeria’s most recognisable fashion empires, Vodi has transformed adversity into opportunity. A geology graduate turned fashion mogul, he is the founder of the Vodi Group—a thriving conglomerate with ventures spanning fashion, training, cleaning services and textiles. Highly regarded for dressing Nigeria’s elites, politicians and celebrities, as well as global powers and VIPs, Vodi is also a philanthropist and cultural icon whose work transcends tailoring. With over 500 employees, numerous community projects, and recognition as an Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON), his influence extends into entertainment, youth empowerment, and national development. As tributes pour in from across the country,Vodi’s golden jubilee is not just a celebration of age, but of excellence, generosity, and enduring legacy. Precious Ugwuzor writes

Born five decades ago in Lagos, South West Nigeria, Seyi Adekunle, better known as Seyi Vodi, can best be described as a perfect specimen of God’s grace, as his journey has been one of grass to grace. The founder and chairman of Vodi Group, his transition from uncertainty to stardom began when he failed a test to work in the banking sector.

A native of Osun State, while he had attended the aptitude test with great excitement and optimism, his inability to land the job largely shaped his vision. Even though he later secured another banking job, it eventually collapsed—becoming a blessing in disguise—as he immediately rolled up his sleeves and delved into tailoring, having had a little idea of how to sew from his tailor friends, from whom he learnt how to make boxers and shirts shortly after his mandatory NYSC in Akwa Ibom State.

Embracing Fashion with Purpose…

A graduate of Geology from the University of Maiduguri, his decision to pursue a career in fashion is one he will forever appreciate, as it has brought him before kings and queens, princes and princesses—he has become their go-to person for traditional, corporate, and even casual wear.

His brand has grown so extensively, giving him a nationwide reach, with clients from across the country. Today, Vodi Group includes subsidiaries such as Vodi Clean, Vodi Training Institute, Vodi Debbo, and Vodi Textile.

A Homegrown Brand with Global Appeal…

With over 500 staff in his employ, his new fashion house in Mabushi, Abuja, has immediately become a tourist site for both Abuja residents and foreigners.

It is a must-visit for highly influential members of society, including celebrities. He is also a brand of choice for governors, senators, and politically exposed persons who rely on his creativity for their wears.

As he hits the fifth floor, he continues to receive goodwill messages from friends, associates, and those whose lives he has touched.

Gift to Humanity

According to Nigeria’s famous stand-up comedian and entertainer, Gbadamosi ThankGod Benard, known by the stage name Koboko Master, Vodi is a gift to humanity, a detribalised Nigerian, and a pan-African per excellence.

Describing Vodi as a known among influential personalities for his craft and creativity in fashion, which makes his clients stand out with confidence on both formal and informal occasions, he said the recipient of the national honour Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON), has been lauded for using his talent to touch the lives of less privileged persons by constructing water projects, bridges, renovating school blocks, and other community-based services.

In his congratulatory message, Koboko Master said Seyi Vodi has, over the years, demonstrated support towards the growth of entertainment in Abuja and the country

at large, adding that the backing Seyi Vodi has given entertainment has been a contributory factor in turning around the sector into a revenue generator and a platform for creating employment for talented young Nigerians.

He said, “50 is indeed a significant milestone worth celebrating. It is not just a number but speaks to five solid decades of God’s grace, protection, love, and uncommon favour. We celebrate a remarkable trailblazer whose creativity has redefined Nigerian fashion and whose generosity continues to touch countless lives in our country irrespective of tribe and faith.

“As you mark this golden milestone, we honour not just your success as a fashion entrepreneur, but also your unwavering support for the entertainment industry and your deep commitment to humanitarian causes. Your work speaks of excellence, style, and compassion. May this new chapter bring you even greater achievements, lasting impact, and the fulfillment of all your dreams. Here’s to 50 fabulous years and many more ahead.”

Also among those who have congratulated him on his 50th birthday anniversary was Abuja-based public relations consultant, Alex Nwankwo, popularly known as AlexReports, who extolled the celebrant for remaining a model of hard work, integrity, humility, and compassion, adding that despite his many achievements, Seyi Vodi has remained in touch with his friends from the days of his humble beginnings.

Golden Jubilee Activities…

Already, Vodi has embarked on a series of activities in preparation for his Golden Jubilee birthday, where top businessmen, politically exposed individuals, renowned entertainers, and youth organisations are expected to be in attendance. But first, he held a family thanksgiving in expression of gratitude to God for the gift of life, grace of health, and opportunity for growth. He was also a panellist at the National Youth Entrepreneurship & Empowerment Programme (YEEP 2025) Summit, organised by Activate Success International Foundation at the NAF Conference Centre, Abuja, on July 15, 2025. His staff also recently held football competition in his honour.

Expectedly, Seyi Vodi’s 50th birthday has drawn widespread attention, especially from the fashion and entertainment circles, where he wields influence as the man behind Vodi Tailors, one of the most popular fashion brands in the country.

As he celebrates this golden milestone, Seyi Vodi stands not only as a symbol of entrepreneurial success but as a beacon of hope, inspiration and community impact. His journey from modest beginnings to becoming one of Nigeria’s most influential fashion figures reflects a life defined by vision, resilience and service. With a legacy already etched in creativity, philanthropy and national influence, the next chapter promises even greater accomplishments for a man whose story continues to inspire generations.

L-R: PR Consultant, Alex Nwankwo; celebrant, Seyi Vodi; and CEO Skyewise Group, Dr. Elvis Abuyere

L-R: The celebrant, Seyi Vodi; CEO Oseme Construction Mrs Simeon; CEO Niger Delta Restaurant, Mrs. Irene and Koboko Master

Seyi Vodi as the man of the people

education is a Right, not Privilege: Reflections from Access Bank’s UK Polo Day 2025

Access Bank’s UK Charity Polo Day 2025 recently transformed the elegant grounds of Windsor’s Guards Polo Club into a rallying point for educational equity. Partnering with Fifth Chukker and UNICEF, the event went beyond sport and spectacle to spotlight a powerful message: that every child, regardless of background, deserves the right to learn as It united global stakeholders in a shared mission—to break barriers and build futures through education. Precious Ugwuzor reports

Last Saturday, the lush fields of Guards Polo Club in Windsor came alive with the rhythmic thunder of hooves and the crack of mallets on ball. But beyond the glamour of the game and the splendour of the setting, something far more profound echoed through the manicured greens: a call to action, that education is not a privilege for the few but a fundamental right for every child, everywhere.

This powerful message was the heartbeat of the Access Bank UK Charity Polo Day 2025, an annual event hosted in partnership with Fifth Chukker and UNICEF. The initiative has evolved from a sporting showcase into a global platform for philanthropy and social advocacy, focused especially on bridging the educational divide in Nigeria’s underserved communities.

From Elegance to Empowerment

In many circles, polo remains a symbol of luxury and exclusivity. Yet, in the hands of Access Bank and its partners, the sport has become a powerful metaphor for access and equity. Over the past decade, the Charity Polo Day has gone beyond the paddocks to deliver measurable impact on the ground. The funds raised have been used to construct 60 fully equipped classroom blocks in Kaduna State, with additional 60 being constructed, thereby providing educational access to more than 14,000 children.

The transformation is nothing short of remarkable. What began with one small, under-resourced school serving barely 400 pupils has blossomed into a robust educational movement, creating not just school buildings but centres of hope where futures are reimagined.

This year’s edition of the Polo Day sets an even more ambitious target: to build additional classroom blocks, effectively multiplying the impact and ensuring that even more children, especially girls and those from marginalised communities, are given the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive.

The event’s underlying philosophy is simple but bold: Education changes everything. It is the single most effective weapon against poverty, inequality, and ignorance. And through the lens

of this initiative, education is portrayed not as a luxury to be earned but as a birthright to be honoured.

A Collective Commitment across Continents

Stretching across the pristine lawns of Windsor to the dusty roads of Kaduna, this initiative is powered by a shared vision and a coalition of global changemakers. At the heart of the polo day is a spirit of cross-continental solidarity, Africa and Europe, public and private sector, finance and philanthropy, working together to expand the frontiers of access to education.

Jamie Simmonds, CEO of Access Bank UK, captured this sentiment in his address at the event. “This is more than a spectacle,” he said. “This is a bridge between continents, between privilege and purpose. Every time the ball moves across this polo field, we are moving a child closer to their future.”

Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, Chairman of Access Holdings PLC and one of the visionaries behind this project, emphasised the importance of building legacy. “What we are doing here today is beyond charity,” he remarked. “It is a deliberate investment in the future of Africa. Because when we educate children, we equip them to shape their communities, their countries, and the world.”

Roosevelt Ogbonna, Group Managing Director/CEO of Access Bank, reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to long-term transformation, stressing that education is not optional, it is foundational. “We believe that sustainable leadership in business must be matched by social responsibility. That is why we continue to invest in initiatives like this, that have the power to transform not just lives, but entire communities.”

Supporting these efforts is UNICEF, the world’s leading child rights agency. Their role is critical, not just as a beneficiary of the funds raised, but as a strategic partner ensuring that every naira and pound

donated translates into bricks, books, and brighter futures. With UNICEF’s involvement, the project is governed by rigorous accountability, local engagement, and sustainable delivery models tailored to the real needs of the children and communities it serves.

When Luxury Meets Legacy

The UK Polo Day continues to attract an impressive blend of guests: philanthropists, diplomats, royals, captains of industry, media executives, and policymakers, all united by a shared cause. This year, the event featured thrilling matches involving global polo legends like Adolfo Cambiaso and his daughter Mia Cambiaso, showcasing not just the elegance of the sport but its power to connect generations and continents.

Yet, the true magic lay beyond the boundaries of the field. The conversations, the commitments, and the pledges made in Windsor will ripple far beyond its gates, into classrooms yet to be built, children yet to be enrolled, and lives yet to be touched.

This seamless fusion of luxury and legacy, of opulence and obligation, underscores the potential of corporate citizenship. It is a reminder that powerful institutions, when guided by purposeful vision, can rewrite narratives, redefine possibilities, and restore dignity.

A Vision for Equity

In Nigeria, as in many parts of Africa, the barriers to education are both structural and systemic. The obstacles are real, ranging from inadequate infrastructure and economic hardship to gender discrimination and insecurity. And yet, the desire to learn remains undiminished.

This is why initiatives like Access Bank’s Charity Polo Day are not just timely, they are transformational. They represent a deliberate choice to level the playing field, to ensure that no child is

denied an education simply because of where they were born or what their parents earn.

By placing education at the centre of its CSR strategy, Access Bank is reinforcing a vision of equity, where every child, regardless of background, has a chance to read, write, and dream.

“Education is not a privilege,” Ogbonna reminded the audience, “It is a human right. And we all have a role to play in defending and delivering that right.”

Beyond Charity: A Strategic Imperative It is tempting to view such events as only charitable gestures. But that would be to understate their strategic value. Supporting education is not merely a moral duty, it is an economic and developmental imperative. A society that educates its children is a society that secures its future workforce, fosters innovation, reduces crime, promotes health, and enhances governance.

In other words, the ROI on education is immeasurable and enduring.

That is why Access Bank’s investment in education is aligned not just with its values, but with its business ethos: to be a catalyst for inclusive growth. And it is why the Polo Day continues to grow in scale, ambition, and influence.

A Rallying Cry for All

As the final match drew to a close, the applause was not only for the players but for the cause. In that moment, the glamour of polo gave way to the gravity of purpose. From London to Lagos, Windsor to Kaduna, the message rang loud and clear: education must be accessible to all. It is the foundation upon which dignity is built, prosperity is achieved, and peace is sustained.

Access Bank’s UK Polo Day 2025 did more than raise funds: it raised consciousness. It reminded us that access requires effort, but the cost of exclusion is far greater. It proved that when vision meets action, and privilege meets purpose, the result is lasting impact. Because in the end, a classroom is not just four walls, it is a launchpad for dreams. And every child deserves a seat.

L-R: Roosevelt Ogbonna, Managing Director/CEO, Access Bank; Paul Usoro, Chairman, Access Bank; Emir of Kano, Mohammed Sanusi II; Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, Chairman, Access Holdings; Paquito de Narvaez, a polo player; Dikko Umar Radda, Katsina State Governor, and Mohammed Bago, Niger State Governor, at the Access Bank UK Polo Day 2025 at Guards Polo Club, Windsor...last Saturday

GroundbreakinG ceremony of awolowo House TecHnoloGy mall...

L-R: Managing Director, Wemabod, Mr. Bashir Oladunni; Chairman, Wemabod, Mr.

Odua Investment

Mrs Funsho Olaniyan;

Supreme Court Strikes Out AMCON’s Appeal in N24.6bn Debt Dispute

wale igbintade

The Supreme Court has struck out an appeal filed by the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON), declaring it incompetent, in its prolonged legal battle with Suru Worldwide Ventures Nigeria Ltd. and its Managing Director, Mr. Edward Akinlade, over a disputed N24.6 billion debt claim.

In a ruling delivered on Monday, the apex court sitting in Abuja struck out the appeal, marked SC/ CV/865/2021 on grounds of incompetence.

Justice Uwani Musa Abba Aji delivered the lead judgement, with Justices Ibrahim M. Musa Saulawa, Emmanuel Akomaye Agim, Chidiebere Nwaoma Uwa, and Abubakar Sadiq Umar concurring.

“This notice of appeal, having been withdrawn for being incompetent, is hereby struck out,” Abba Aji stated, effectively ending AMCON’s legal challenge.

The dispute stemmed from a banker-customer disagreement between Suru Worldwide Ventures and Oceanic Bank Plc (now Ecobank Nigeria Plc).

Suru had alleged gross mismanagement of its account and challenged the unexplained escalation of its

restructured debt from N8.3 billion in 2012 to N24.6 billion in 2013, despite receiving no additional loan facility.

In 2011, Suru initiated Suit No. FHC/L/CS/450/2011 at the Federal High Court against Ecobank and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), citing questionable debt restructuring practices and alleged “creative accounting.”

CBN was later struck out as a party.

AMCON joined the dispute in 2016, claiming it had acquired the

alleged debt from Ecobank, and filed a counterclaim seeking to recover N24.2 billion from Suru and Akinlade. However, both the Federal High Court and the Court of Appeal dismissed the counterclaim.

The trial court found it to be an abuse of court process, referencing multiple lawsuits filed by AMCON on the same issue and its failure to obtain declaratory reliefs in an earlier suit (FHC/L/CS/218/2014).

The court held that AMCON had

exhausted its right to litigate the matter. Dissatisfied with the rulings, AMCON filed an appeal to the Supreme Court in 2021.

But the apex court ruled on Monday that the notice of appeal was incompetent and dismissed it after it was withdrawn.

Meanwhile, Suru Worldwide Ventures issued a Pre-Action Notice to AMCON demanding over N23 billion in special damages for the alleged unlawful occupation and

destruction of its property, the Best Western Hotel, located at No. 12 Allen Avenue, Ikeja, Lagos. According to the notice, AMCON operatives and armed security agents allegedly forcefully took over the hotel in a predawn operation on September 22, 2017, without prior notice, damaging the property and traumatizing guests and staff.

Suru contended that the takeover was based on a Federal High Court order that was later set aside by

the Court of Appeal, and that all of AMCON’s counterclaims had been dismissed at both the trial and appellate levels.

The company demanded the nullification of any transactions AMCON might have entered into concerning the disputed property; and an injunction restraining further interference; and N23,087,390,000 in special damages for financial losses, brand damage, and destruction of assets.

NEMA Hosts Team on Food Security Crisis Preparedness

emmanuel addeh in Abuja

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has received the technical team for development of the Food and Nutrition Security Crisis Preparedness Plan (FNSCPP), which was on a consultative visit to the agency’s headquarters in Abuja.

The visit was part of the team’s broader national consultations aimed at collating and harnessing inputs for a plan that would strengthen Nigeria’s early warning and preparedness systems in response to food and nutrition insecurity, especially in

communities impacted by conflict and climate-related shocks.

The Director General NEMA, Mrs Zubaida Umar received the team that was led by Dr. Ritgak Tilley-Gyado, Senior Health Specialist at the World Bank, and included representatives from the Federal Ministries of Agriculture and Food Security; Budget and Economic Planning; Health and Social Welfare; and Finance.

Welcoming the team, Umar, a statement from her spokesman, Manzo Ezekiel, described the engagement as both timely and

Troops Apprehend 15 Suspected IPOB-ESN Agitators, Revenue Agent in Abia, Anambra, Enugu

linus aleke in Abuja

The Nigerian military has said that troops of the Joint Taskforce, South-East, Operation Udo Ka, have apprehended 15 suspected IPOB-ESN agitators, including one collaborator commissioned to collect taxes from locals in Ihiala LGA, Anambra State.

The military also revealed that troops of Operation Delta Safe thwarted oil theft worth over N291.4 million.

It noted that two IPOB/ESN criminals were killed and eight abducted hostages rescued during a coordinated and intelligence-led operation in Abia, Anambra, Enugu and Imo States.

Speaking during the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) biweekly

briefing on activities of troops across all theatres, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye, further noted the troops recovered N1.5 million from the IPOB-ESN commissioned revenue agent in Ihiala.

General Kangye also disclosed that troops of Joint Taskforce South-South, Operation Delta Safe, recovered 201,345 litres of stolen crude oil, 29,730 litres of illegally refined AGO, and 1,759 litres of DPK between 10 and 17 July 2025.

He further expressed gladness that farmers in the North-East, particularly northern Borno, North-West, North-Central, and other areas affected by conflicts, have resumed farming activities as troops have significantly degraded terrorists, bandits, and other criminal

elements that hitherto obstructed farming activities in the areas.

He said that troops have been conducting aggressive foot and aerial patrols across farming communities in all theatres to guarantee security of farmers.

According to him, “Troops of Operation Udo Ka sustained an offensive posture throughout the week under review. They eliminated two suspected IPOB/ESN members, arrested 14 of them, and rescued six kidnapped victims in Aguata and Ihiala LGAs of Anambra State, as well as Isiala-Ngwa South, Arochukwu, and Okigwe LGAs of Abia and Imo States.

“Similarly, two kidnapped victims were rescued during an intelligenceled operation conducted in Udi LGA of Enugu State on 14 July 2025.

critical, given the increasing scale and complexity of food security challenges in the country. She reaffirmed the Agency’s commitment to a coordinated national framework anchored in real-time data, clearly defined response triggers, and inclusive partnerships.

She said: “Nigeria is at a critical juncture in its food security landscape. We must transition from reactive to anticipatory response models. This collaboration presents a pathway toward a more structured, timely, and impactful system of intervention.”

In her remarks, Tilley-Gyado emphasised the pivotal role of NEMA in the development of the plan, citing the Agency’s nationwide operational capacity and its central role in emergency preparedness and coordination.

Tilley-Gyado said: “This is more than just an emergency response plan. It is a long-term preparedness blueprint. Once indicators are triggered, every institution must understand its role and act without delay.”

She disclosed that Nigeria has already met critical thresholds qualifying it for crisis response financing. However, accessing such support requires that there must be a well-defined and coordinated response architecture.

Dr Tilley-Gyado also commended NEMA’s leadership and stressed the importance of harmonizing efforts, avoiding duplication, and ensuring that resources reach the most vulnerable populations.

Discussions during the meeting focused on key priorities, including: Integrating early warning systems

into national emergency operations; establishing standard crisis escalation protocols and aligning federal, state, and community-level structures for cohesive planning and implementation.

Meanwhile, Umar, has reaffirmed the commitment of the agency to work with regional bodies such as the Permanent Interstate Committee for Drought Control in the Sahel (CILSS) to address food and nutrition security challenges across Nigeria.

She gave the assurance on Wednesday, 16th July 2025, while receiving a delegation from CILSS at the Agency’s headquarters in Abuja.

The visit, led by Mr. William Maman Massaoud, Regional Food and Nutrition Expert of CILSS, was part of the organization’s regional mission to strengthen institutional cooperation and assess the progress of member states in early warning and food security mechanisms.

In her remarks, the Director General NEMA appreciated the role of CILSS and its partners in promoting food security and combating drought and desertification in the Sahel and West African region.

She acknowledged the development of the Cadre Harmonisé analysis tool in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), describing it as a valuable framework for assessing and classifying food and nutrition insecurity in the region.

She highlighted the importance of the Food Security Strategic Framework 2025- 2050, stressing the need for multi-sectoral coordination and sustainable investment to build

resilience. “The launch of projects such as the Project for Strengthening and Innovating Food and Nutrition Security Information Systems (PRISISAN) underlines CILSS’s commitment to supporting countries like Nigeria in building integrated national information systems that enable timely decision-making,” she added.

Speaking on NEMA’s contributions, the Director General outlined the agency’s technical support for food and nutrition security efforts, including the provision of hazard and vulnerability data, agricultural livelihood inputs, and emergency response planning. She said NEMA continues to play a vital role in the bi-annual Cadre Harmonisé analysis and in coordinating emergency food security interventions during the lean and rainy seasons.

Responding, Massaoud commended Nigeria’s leadership in the regional food security space, praising NEMA for integrating early warning systems into operational planning since the adoption of the Cadre Harmonisé in 2015.

He described Nigeria as a model for other Sahelian countries and emphasised the importance of validating systems, fostering knowledge exchange, and strengthening institutional links amid rising climate and humanitarian risks.

The engagement concluded with both parties reaffirming their commitment to deepen cooperation, particularly in the areas of institutional capacity building, post-disaster recovery interventions, food assistance, and agricultural livelihood support for affected communities.

Nurudeen Adisa; Group Chairman, Odua Investment Company Limited, Otunba Bimbo Ashiru; Independent Director,

Company,

Group Director, Odua Investment Company, Mr. Segun Olujobi and Group Chief Investment and Business Development Officer, Odua Investment Company, Mr. Yemi Ajao during the groundbreaking ceremony of Awolowo House Technology Mall in Lagos on Wednesday

PHOTO: ABIODuN AjALA

Corporate SoCial reSponSibility...

L-R: Chairman parents teacher association, Mr. Abubakar Trance; principal junior secondary school dutse sagwari Abuja, Dr. Funsho Usman; CEO Magastart media communication, Dr.

student, Ifetayo monjolaoluwa; Director Sales and Marketing

Carlton hotel,

during the

ceremony

Insecurity: Nigerian Military No Longer Imports Drones Anymore, Says EIB Group

Says military relies on home-grown solutions, local manufacturers

akinwale in Abuja

EIB Group, an intelligence and surveillance company, has revealed that the Nigerian military no longer imports drones and other military hardware in prosecuting the ongoing war against terror in some parts of the country. Chairman of EIB

Group, Mr. Bright Echefu, disclosed this on Thursday in Abuja while fielding questions from journalists after a media tour of its facilities in the nation’s capital. Echefu stated, “We are doing a lot in the area of equipment production for the security agencies in Nigeria, and that’s because of

the policies of the government. I can tell you Nigeria doesn’t import drones anymore; they rely on local manufacturing companies like ours.

Even bombs are also produced locally and a lot of things.

“DICON has been producing bullets for a long time, and even started producing assault rifles. So,

a lot of the things currently used in the North-east and some other locations are actually home-grown solutions. And we’re grateful to this government. It has never been better.”

Asked why the country was still experiencing the current level of insecurity considering the kind of

NCC Unveils Framework to Boost Digital Growth, Penetrate Unserved Areas

DBI seeks digital policy for 27m Nigerians with disability

oghenevwede ohwovoriole in Abuja

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has unveiled a General Authorisation Framework (GAF) to enhance digital growth in the country, empower underserved and unserved communities.

NCC Executive Vice-Chairman (EVC), Dr. Aminu Maida, who spoke during the unveiling ceremony in Abuja, Thursday, noted that the sector had become a symbol of innovation and progress, revolutionising communication, access to information, and shaping business operations in the country.

The EVC who was represented by the Executive Commissioner, Stakeholder Management, Rimini Makama, highlighted the tremendous progress made so far in the telecommunications sector in the past 24 years. He said, “This progress has

been driven by the rapid uptake of mobile technologies, surging data consumption, and an increasing appetite for digital services.

“But we are now at a turning point, where the nature of innovation demands a regulatory paradigm that is not only responsive but enabling.

“Broadband penetration continues to grow, while digital literacy is on the rise. These are creating a solid foundation for a vibrant digital economy driven by accessibility, innovation, and inclusivity Technological innovation is accelerating across the world and nation.”

He emphasised the need for a regulatory paradigm that was not only responsive but enabling, allowing innovators to experiment and innovate without unnecessary restrictions, adding that the framework was introduced as a key initiative to achieve this goal.

“The framework has introduced three key instruments that would

provide a platform for innovators to test and validate their ideas, assess risk, and measure outcomes before deployment,” he explained, adding that the success of the framework depended on the active participation of stakeholders.

These include mobile network operators, service providers, infrastructure companies, OEMs, startups, civil society, and academia.

The EVC also stated that the framework seeks to promote inclusive innovation, expanding access, closing connectivity gaps, and empowering underserved communities.

“This is an objective that lies at the core of the NCC’s latest initiative, the General Authorisation Framework. By adopting this approach, we are providing a platform for innovators of various sizes, whether they are startups or established companies, to demonstrate feasibility, assess risk, and measure outcomes before deployment.

Corps Member Donates Laboratory Equipment to Abuja School

adedayo akinwale in Abuja

A member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Marvelous Otarigho has donated laboratory equipment to Government Junior Secondary School, Life Camp, Abuja.

Speaking at the unveiling of the laboratory, Otarigho said the project has the ability and power to transform learning and spark innovation in the minds of the students.

She stated: “Today is not just

the unveiling of a room filled with equipment. It is the beginning of a journey where knowledge will no longer be limited to pages in a textbook, but students will experience learning firsthand through discovery, and experimentation.”

Otarigho stressed the unveiling coincided with the 2025 Nelson Mandela Day - a day set aside by the United Nations towards making a difference in the communities - an occasion for everyone to take action and inspire change.

She added: “At the time I

resumed my service year, I was assigned to teach basic science, a subject some of the students were not good at hence, their lack of interest in the subject.

“Upon resumption, I did my best to make the subject more attractive to them, thereby making them perform better. In the process of doing this, I saw that a major reason why the students are not much interested in basic science is that there is no laboratory to demonstrate some of the teachings in practical terms.

“This model encourages experimentation and responsible innovation while safeguarding consumer rights and public interest,” he said.

Earlier, the Director of Licensing and Authorisation Department, NCC, Mr. Usman Mamman, disclosed that GAF was the outcome of extensive research, cross-departmental collaboration, and evaluation of global best practices and local industry dynamics.

Mamman described it as a flexible and forward-looking approach to licensing that promotes innovation while ensuring regulatory oversight, consumer protection, and market integrity.

the technology the company had at its disposal, Echefu maintained that security had improved drastically considering what happened in 2008 and 2010 during the peak of Boko Haram activities.

Echefu said, “Security is broad. So, depending on what area of security you’re talking about. Now these elements we are referring to as our threats have been there for a very long time. They are within us. Some are living in communities.

“You can’t just go to a community and destroy everybody there because of one person. So, what we’ve done, or what is happening, is that there are isolated picks, isolated targets. Do you understand my point? And that process is an ongoing process.

“Compared to what it was in 2008, 2010 during the major Boko Haram activities, a lot has improved right now. It’s just unfortunate that the military does not publicise what successes they’ve recorded.”

Echefu added, “You won’t believe the amount of successes that have been recorded by the armed forces of Nigeria. But you know, they are very quiet about their things.

‘If only you can go deep into finding out, if I tell you how many have been neutralised, you’ll be shocked. You will be shocked by the numbers.

“And again, you know, recently there was a jailbreak in Niger

Republic, a lot of elements from that side also have migrated into Nigeria. So, you can understand that the pressure on the Armed Forces of Nigeria is quite heavy, but they are doing extremely very well. We’ve lost a lot of soldiers trying to save the country. Do you understand? So, a lot has gone into it. They are doing a lot, a whole lot, I’m speaking from experience.”

When asked how the company operated at night since most of their operation was surveillance, Echefu said they were able to carry out surveillance at night with the help of advanced technology. According to him, “We have equipment that can allow us use heat emissions from the body - a way to tell that somebody is actually hiding in that place. Technology has gone past that, you can find anybody, even if you are in a hole.” Echefu believed Nigeria had the capacity to end insurgency with the amount of local companies that were investing heavily, adding that most of the products are produced locally without the help of foreigners.

He revealed that the company already had a presence in 13 states of the federation, where they were currently deployed.

The chairman added they were currently in talks with the Benue State government to help the state in tackling its security issues.

Warri Ward Delineation Crisis: Ijaw Leader

An Ijaw Leader in Delta State, Chief Joseph Wuruyai, has cautioned the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC) on its recent call on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to prioritise the implementation of prior court judgments related to the Warri Federal Constituency before conducting the fresh wards delineation exercise.

Chief Wuruyai, a former chairman of the defunct Egbema and Gbaramatu Communities Development Foundation, (EGCDF) and Chairman of the Gbaramatu Host Communities Development Trust (GHCDT) in a statement issued in Warri yesterday, said the call of the OPC amounts to rewriting the history of the Ijaw people in Delta State.

“The Oodua People’s Congress

demands on INEC is laughable and it is totally out of context. It is an attempt to rewrite our history. Asides the fact that the OPC is dabbling into issues that doesn’t concern them, their outrageous demands on INEC shows their ignorance of the issue at stake.

“Let’s assume the so-called OPC are stakeholders (which they are not), how many of their members have visited the areas that INEC physically visited to access and based their report on? Are they saying that they, that have never visited the area, are more informed than INEC that did?”, he asked.

Wuruyai further said: “Let’s assume the table is turned around.

If an Ijaw man who lives in Delta State uttered a proclamation that Lagos State does not belong to the Yoruba people and that the names of

the cities there were falsely changed to Yoruba names, how would the southwest people react?

“My advice to the OPC and any other foreign group or groups of people is that they should not stoop so low and make a fool of themselves, especially on issues that is none of their business or that they have no clue over,” he added. He charged the southwest people, particularly its leaders, to not allow a splinter group bring down their reputation especially on issues that does not concern them.

“The Yoruba people are perceived to be intellectuals. But by this awkward statement from the OPC they are proving to be shallow minded. However, I would differ because I don’t want to believe that it is every Yoruba man that is in support of the action of the OPC.

Ifetayo Adeniyi;

Wells

Mr. Jerry Aloye;

handover

of ultra modern solar toilet built by Dr Ifetayo to junior secondary school dutse sagwari in Abuja on Wednesday

Sylvester idowu in Warri

adedayo

DistinguisheD Alumnus AnD unilorin AmbAssADors...

Former Vice Chancellor, University of Abuja, Prof. Abdul’Rasheed Na’Allah (l) and Elerinmo of Erinmo-Ijesha, Oba Michael Odunayo Ajayi, Arowotawaya II, displaying their awards at the investiture of the University of Ilorin Distinguished Alumnus and Unilorin Ambassadors at the university main auditorium... Wednesday.

2027: ADC, APC Intensify Battle to Harness Members of CPC Bloc over Buhari’s Votes

Kachikwu alleges plot to hijack party, warns against ‘political gangsters’ South south leaders urge ADC to throw open its presidential ticket, say Obi afraid to compete Former envoy, Yisa Gana, quits PDP for ADC

Chuks okocha and sunday Aborisade in Abuja

There’s a simmering battle between the African Advanced Congress (ADC) and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to lobby and woo politicians of the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) bloc into their fold in order to inherit the late former President Muhammadu Buhari’s northern votes ahead of the 2027 elections.

The bloc of the CPC peopled by those otherwise known as the main apostles and followers of Buhari is already divided and spread between the ADC and the APC.

The Interim National Publicity Secretary of the ADC, Mr. Bolaji Abdullahi, said several of Buhari’s close allies in the CPC had joined

the opposition coalition.

He also said Buhari’s legacy would be better preserved by the coalition, stressing that the APC which alienated and vilified the late president during his lifetime, was now striving to use his death to play politics.

Unfortunately for the ruling party, he argued that the people understood the intrigues they were involved in.

Abdullahi specifically said a majority of the members of the CPC bloc in the APC, particularly from the entire North were already with the ADC and expressed confidence that the death of the former president would only confirm the fact that CPC members belong to the ADC since that allegedly was his wish when he was alive.

“As you can see, there is a strong representation of CPC and Buhari

loyalists in the senior ranks of the coalition — the likes of Babachir Lawal, Abubakar Malami, Isah Pantami, Emeka Nwajuba, Nasir El-Rufai, Rotimi Amaechi, Rauf Aregbesola and the rest of them.

“Those are Buhari’s people and their presence in the leadership of the coalition indicates that that is where Buhari stood.

“Why would they remain part of the APC? Is it because they enjoy the humiliation and the exclusion they have suffered or because they have watched the government demonise the legacy of Buhari while he was alive?” he asked.

Abdullahi accused the Tinubu-led administration of scapegoating Buhari for Nigeria’s economic difficulties and blamed Buhari for almost every

economic woe.

“So, why would Buhari followers or loyalists remain with the APC?”

A chieftain of the ADC coalition, Dr. Salihu Lukman, who was National Vice Chairman, North-West, of the APC, had also said Buhari’s death marked the end of an era in which political endorsement from the late president practically guaranteed electoral success.

Lukman, who stated this when he featured on Arise TV, noted that what people must learn, especially in the coalition, was the fact that they don’t had somebody with the kind of intimidating profile like that of the late President Buhari.

He said: “Our leaders must have a kind of team spirit. It is not about succeeding to defeat APC and Tinubu, but succeeding to produce a new, fresh

Ortom: Why I Worked against PDP in 2023

Says party abandoned equity and fairness

A former governor of Benue State, Samuel Ortom, yesterday, said he worked against the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 general election because his party abandoned justice and fairness

Speaking on Arise Television, yesterday, Ortom claimed that the PDP failed to uphold fairness and equity by not unanimously backing a southern candidate.

According to Ortom, “We had thought the PDP would uphold equity, fairness, and justice. But unfortunately, they did not.

“I couldn’t understand how, after eight years of a northern presidency,

the party would support another northern candidate.”

Ortom, a member of the thenG5 governors, withdrew support for Abubakar in the election and backed Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP).

He said, “For us in the G5, it was about equity. We believed the presidency should go to the south. That was why I worked against the PDP in 2023.

“Even if I lost my senatorial election after serving eight years as governor, it didn’t matter. I wanted it to be known that there are still people who believe in justice, equity, and fairness.

“Politics is selfish. When your

interests are not protected, you look elsewhere. Yes, Wike is my friend, we worked together, and he remains my friend.”

Ortom said although he chaired the PDP panel, which recommended throwing the presidential ticket open instead of zoning it to the south, he could not override the collective will of the committee members.

Ortom added that the final decision rested with the party’s national executive committee (NEC).

“I was chairman of the zoning committee, but I couldn’t override what the majority wanted. I simply reported the committee’s position to the NEC, and they chose to throw

the ticket open,” he said.

Ortom said he was committed to supporting a southern presidential candidate in 2027 to ensure the zone completes eight years.

He said if the PDP fielded a presidential candidate from the north, he might back a candidate from another party.

He said Abubakar and the PDP leadership didn’t provide an inclusive environment for members who supported Wike.

“That’s why we went different ways. Wike supported Tinubu, and I supported Peter Obi. Others chose their own path. That’s how we ended up with the current government,” Ortom said.

political template that will begin to meet the expectations of Nigerians.”

But the Director of Publicity of the APC, Bala Ibrahim, said Buhari’s loyalists remained ideologically aligned with the ruling party, saying it was not possible for them to dump the APC.

According to him, “They are people of different ideologies. They are more comfortable with and in APC. Yes, Buhari’s passing created a vacuum, but believe that it would serve as an opportunity for party introspection.

“Yes, the political atmosphere will change for our party. But it is not a vacuum that will deform the party. It is a vacuum that will push the party into sobriety. The party is working hard to reconcile, reassess the situation, and see to it that there is a very good sense of mending,” he said.

Kachikwu Alleges Plot to Hijack ADC

The 2023 presidential candidate of the ADC, Mr. Dumebi Kachikwu, has raised the alarm over what he described as a coordinated plot by a coalition of political figures to hijack the party.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, Kachikwu accused some prominent politicians, including former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar of orchestrating the scheme, warning that the ADC was not for sale and could not serve as a platform for political opportunism.

Kachikwu described the group behind the move as a “political gang,” not a genuine coalition, insisting that many of those trying to seize the party’s structure were not registered members of the ADC.

According to him, individuals such as Atiku, Peter Obi, Nasir El-Rufai, and Rotimi Amaechi remained members

of their respective parties, the PDP, Labour Party, SDP, and APC

“Yet, they are now claiming to lead a coalition under the ADC’s banner. These men are not ADC members. They are outsiders trying to exploit a leadership vacuum in our party to push their personal ambitions,” Kachikwu declared.

He alleged that the group was offering bribes of up to N20 million to ADC state chairmen in a bid to force their resignation and pave the way for new leadership loyal to the coalition.

Kachikwu explained that after Nwosu’s tenure lapsed, no convention was held to appoint new leadership, creating a legal and constitutional void within the party.

He revealed that the ADC has since written to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for guidance and approached the courts to resolve the impasse.

S/South Leaders Urge ADC to Throw Open 2027 Presidential Ticket

Some political leaders in the South South have asked the national leadership of the ADC, led by former Senate President, David Mark, to throw the party’s 2027 presidential ticket open to all geo-political zones in the North and the South.

They made the call in a statement by President of the South-South Emerging Leaders’ Forum, Benjamin Kolowei, in Abuja.

The forum faulted the call by former presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, that the ticket be zoned to the South, stressing that an open ticket would be a more democratic way of selecting the party’s presidential candidate for the poll.

Chuks okocha in Abuja

EYE SCREENING FOR 500 CATARACT SURGERY TO MARK BISHOP MIKE OKONKWO AT 80...

L-R: Charity Azubuike; beneficiary, Ajoke Aminu; beneficiary, Chairman, Planning

Screening Programme, Rev Tony Samson; and Hospital

80th birthday in Lagos…yesterday

Atiku’s Camp Hits Back at Keyamo, Insists

Presidential Aide, Onanuga Mocked Buhari

Momodu quits PDP for ADC

Chuks Okocha in Abuja and Laleye Dipo in Minna

The Atiku Abubakar camp, has fired back at Festus Keyamo over his claim that the opposition figure fouled the memory of the late former president, Muhammadu Buhari with his resignation from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the period of national mourning.

This was as the Publisher, Ovation International, Aare Dele Momodu, has left the PDP for the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Beside the reference to Buhari, Keyamo, in his X post also flayed Atiku over his continued use of the coat of arms in his official communica-

remain must carry the memory of his life as a standard to guide us. Let us honour him not only with words, but with humility in power, discipline in service, compassion in governance, and fearlessness in the pursuit of justice.”

Tunubu said, “On Tuesday, July 15, 2025, a grateful nation bid farewell to one of her most illustrious sons. It was a profound honour for me, alongside Vice President Kashim Shettima, to lead his funeral procession to Daura and witness his burial in the dignified manner befitting a great and noble leader.

“In this period of national mourning, I once again extend my heartfelt condolences to Hajia Aisha Buhari, her children, the entire Buhari family, the government and people of Katsina State, and all who knew and loved him.

“Our gratitude will remain with President Buhari’s family members who provided him with the comfort and strength to serve our nation in various capacities throughout his over 50 years of public service. We honour his service, reflect on his legacy, and pray for the peaceful repose of his soul.

“Mai Gaskiya, The People’s general, the Farmer President – your duty is done.”

Earlier, President of Senate, Godswill Akpabio, described the late president as a principled leader who stood for honour over popularity.

Akpabio said, “President Buhari was not perfect. No leader is. But he was principled. Where others sought glory, he sought duty. He walked, with steadiness and often in solitude, along the ridge of national conscience. His toughness was born not of pride, but of patriotism.”

Akpabio, who served as Niger Delta Affairs Minister under Buhari,

tions, saying he had no legal basis to use such after leaving office as vice president.

Responding hours after, Atiku’s special assistant on public communications, Phrank Shaibu, attacked Keyamo.

‘’Ordinarily, your latest sanctimonious outburst would not deserve a response. But since you’ve taken it upon yourself to play the unsolicited role of moral compass in a government drowning in contradictions, it is only fair to set the record straight—if not for your sake, then for the benefit of the Nigerian public.

‘’Let us begin with the obvious: you serve in an administration where a senior official, your colleague, @

praised his former boss as a “sentinel of Spartan simplicity” and “a Nigerian whose loyalty to this nation was never up for sale”.

The senate president stated, “As a minister in his cabinet, appointed by him, I saw President Buhari unplugged. He was not flamboyant—far from it. His voice was measured. His steps, deliberate.

“His public demeanour, austere. But beneath that calm exterior beat the heart of a patriot—unyielding, unbending, and utterly uninterested in personal comfort when duty called.”

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon Tajudeen Abbas said, “President Buhari was no ordinary figure in our national journey. He embodied quiet strength, moral clarity and an unshakable sense of duty.

“At a time when society was seduced by materialism, he chose a life of modest means and meaningful service. He was devoted to family and steadfast in his Islamic faith. His humour and humility softened his disciplined exterior.

“Buhari’s belief in the brevity of life and the certainty of judgment shaped his ascetic lifestyle and guided his public conduct. He lived not for applause or affluence but for principle, for country and for the cause of a better Nigeria. To me, he was more than a leader. He was a mentor, a moral compass and a source of guidance.”

NGF eulogises Buhari as a statesman, patriot and committed servant of Nigerian people

Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF) eulogised the late former leader, describing him as a statesman, patriot, and devoted servant of the Nigerian people.

Chairman of the forum and

not moved by Atikus exit from PDP, says Niger party chair as admin sec joins APC

aonanuga1956, had the moral indecency to publicly excoriate former President Muhammadu Buhari barely hours after his death was announced.

“His statement—published before Buhari’s body even touched Nigerian soil—was a scathing attack laced with bile and revisionism. Yet we did not hear your voice. You neither condemned the insensitivity nor reminded your colleague of ‘sympathy or empathy’. Where was your so-called bounden duty then?

‘’But suddenly, Atiku Abubakar’s resignation letter from the PDP— which he had every right to make public in response to false claims about his political future—has become your moral crisis. The same Atiku who

Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman Abdulrazaaq, in a tribute, also described Tinubu’s gesture towards according befitting burial to his predecessor as historic and symbolic.

The governors prayed for the repose of the late leader’s soul and also called on God to continue to bless the Nigerian nation.

Abdulrazaaq, in his speech, stated, “On behalf of my colleagues at the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, I extend our heartfelt condolences to Your Excellency, Mr. President, the government and people of Nigeria, and the family of our late former President, Muhammadu Buhari.

“We gather today to pay tribute to a man whose life was woven into the very fabric of our nation A soldier, a patriot, a statesman, and above all, a devoted servant of the Nigerian people.

“Across the North and South of our great nation, his legacies remain visible and impactful.

“Mr. President, your gesture toward your brother and predecessor is both historic and symbolic. It reflects a spirit of national unity and respect for service that resonates with Nigerians and sets a worthy example for generations to come.

“The state burial accorded President Buhari reflects the esteem in which he was held — not just by this administration, but by the Nigerian people.

“It also speaks volumes about your personal commitment to honouring those who served this nation faithfully.

“We pray for the peaceful repose of General Buhari’s soul.

“May God grant his family strength and comfort, and may the Almighty continue to bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria”.

Minister of Aviation and Aerospace

honoured Buhari with a dignified tribute, even when people in your circle chose to desecrate his memory with political venom.

‘’Spare us the hypocrisy. Your desperate attempt to deflect public attention from the rot within the APC, and the internal decay within your own government, is transparent. Nigerians are mourning not just a former President, but also the steady collapse of governance, civility, and coherence under your watch.’’

Defending Atiku for using the coat of arms, he said, ‘’On the issue of the Coat of Arms: Atiku Abubakar is a former Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

‘’The use of a ceremonial letterhead

Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, said Buhari was a man of integrity served Nigeria without blemish.

Keyamo, who served as Minister of State under Buhari, said his former boss led by example and was a moral and ethical compass in governance.

Keyamo said, “One consensus in the midst of these different emotions, opinions and reactions from friends, foes and associates alike is that President Muhammadu Buhari served this country completely unblemished. Whether you choose to judge him harshly or kindly, the general consensus is that he embodied honesty and integrity in public office.

“He was a president who led by example, who walked the talk, who inspired integrity, uncompromising transparency and accountability in public office. He was a moral and ethical compass in governance.

“He served this country with a good conscience, the fear of God and extraordinary discipline. In my immediate reaction after his death, I wrote that ‘they don’t make them like him anymore; not given to the primitive acquisition of unearned wealth, frugal in living, austere in lifestyle, not inclined to showboating and incredibly honest to the core.”

Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, said Buhari left a legacy of service and dedication to the pristine values of discipline, hard work, and honesty.

Pate said, “In no small measure, the outpouring of eulogies from leaders across the world attests to former President Buhari’s stature as a significant and well-respected leader. He lived an eventful life hedged around sacred principles. He lived and died an honourable man.

“It was deeply stirring to see

bearing the Coat of Arms on a formal letter of resignation is not an impersonation—it is a nod to the office he once held, much like former U.S. Presidents retain their presidential seals for formal communications. There is no confusion there—only the confusion of a man eager to pick a fight where none exists.

‘’And if your obsession with technicalities was matched by even half the commitment to rule of law, perhaps we would not have witnessed the daily desecration of our courts, the assault on press freedom, or the economic asphyxiation of Nigerians under the Tinubu administration.

‘’In closing, the real tragedy is not Atiku Abubakar’s letter—it is

hundreds of people withstand hours of heat on the roadsides -- from Katsina to Daura -- to say their goodbyes to Mai Gaskiya.

“But there seems to be a very small but vocal minority who, despite the solemnity of the occasion, has tried to diminish the place of President Buhari in the pantheon of Nigeria’s remarkable leaders. To those on this foolhardy pursuit, I say, as the pages of Nigeria’s history are written in the future, President Buhari’s name will remain indelible.”

The minister added, “To those, who are concerned about extracting political tolls from President Buhari’s passing, I suggest they should rather take lessons of leadership from his life - a man who rose from humble beginnings, spent his life in service of the motherland, embodying uncommon integrity and earning the love and admiration of his people.”

Son of the deceased, Yusuf Muhammadu Buhari, who attended the session alongside three of his sisters, thanked Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, wife of the president, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, and the wife of the Vice President, Nana Shettima.

He also appreciated the leadership of the National Assembly, the service chiefs, members of the Federal Executive Council, and the nation, at large, for the honour done his father and family, including condolence messages and visits.

Other dignitaries that delivered tributes at the session included Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Dr. Didi Walson Jack; Ministers of Budget and Economic Planning, Atiku Bagudu; Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake; Works, Senator Dave Umahi; and Women Affairs, Hajia Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim.

your government’s failure to provide Nigerians with dignity, direction, or hope. If your silence over Bayo Onanuga’s desecration of Buhari’s legacy is anything to go by, you have no moral standing to lecture anyone on decorum or timing.

‘’Please, be well guided—by principle, not by partisanship,’’ he stated

However, Dele Momodu, in his letter of resignation addressed to the chairman of the party in owan ward 4, Owan East Local Government in Edo State, he said, ‘’I wish to inform you of my decision to resign from our political party, PDP, with immediate effect.

‘’My reason is simple and straightforward. Our party has been unarguably hijacked by anti democratic forces, from within and outside, in broad daylight.

‘’It is, therefore, honourable to abandon the carcass of the party to them while the majority of us earnestly sign up with the new coalition party known as the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

“I will forever treasure the kind support you gave me at all times. Thank you, Sir,’’ he wrote, signing off his membership of PDP.

We’re Not Moved By Atiku’s Resignation from Party, Niger Party Chairman Declares Niger State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Tanko Beji, has said the party was not moved by the resignation of former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar from the party.

Beji, who in Minna, yesterday, added that his resignation has also not created a vacuum within its ranks.

“His (Atiku’s) resignation is a good thing for him, it is also a good thing for our party, one person goes five persons come in. It is good we wish him the best of luck just like he wished us the best of luck.

“Atiku met us in the party, he left before and came came back, people didn’t leave the party, he left for ACN people didn’t leave the party, when he didn’t get what he wanted he came back now he has left again let him go.

“Political party is a thing of goodwill if he thinks leaving the party will make him win the presidency, we will wait and see,” Beji declared. Meanwhile, the Administrative Secretary of the PDP in the state, Alhaji Jibrin Akwanu, has resigned from the party and registered with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Akwanu told THISDAY that he left the party because “its ship was sinking and everything is dilapidating.”

Committee, Bishop Mike Okonkwo at 80, Rev. Chinedu Nkere; celebrator, Bishop Mike Okonkwo; Coordinator of Eye

Service Manager, Eye Foundation, Ikorodu Branch, Lasisi Wasiu during the eye screening for 500 cataract surgery to mark Bish Mike Okonkwo

PHOTO: SUNDAY ADIGUN

T I nubu Immor TA l IS e S b u HA r I , r en A me

REVENUE RECOVERY SUMMIT…

L-R:Representative of the Chief of Judge of Lagos, Hon. Justice Hakeem Oshodi; Chairman, House Committee on Finance, Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon.. Femi Saheed; Permanent Secretary, Citizens Mediation Bureau,Mrs. Aderinsola Olanrewaju; Lagos Attorney General / commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro (SAN); former Deputy Chief of Staff to the President of Nigeria (office of the Vice President) and former Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Lagos State, Mr. Ade Ipaye, and Lagos Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary,Mr. Hameed Oyenuga,. during the Lagos State Ministry of Justice Revenue Recovery Summit in Lagos...recently

Police Arrest Landlord, Two Others for Kidnap, Murder of Ondo Varsity Students

Fidelis David in akure

The Ondo State Police Command has arrested a landlord and two others for the alleged kidnapping and murder of two students of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA).

The state Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, disclosed this in Akure, the state capital, while speaking with journalists on the recent achievements of the

Command.

Lawal said that the two victims are Abah John Friday, 25, and his friend, Okah Andrel Eloho, 19.

Narrating the incident, Lawal said the police launched an intensive investigation into the reported abduction of two students of AAUA, who went missing on June 20, 2025, and through forensic tracking, detectives recovered an iPhone 14 Pro Max belonging to one of the victims from a suspect

NCDC Confirms Outbreak of Dengue Fever in Edo State

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in abuja

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has confirmed an outbreak of dengue fever in Edo State between June 9th and 13th, 2025.

In response to the rising risks and threats of disease outbreaks, NCDC said it was alerting the public and stakeholders of its ongoing, coordinated national response to recent surges in these infectious disease outbreaks.

The centre said it is working closely with state governments, health partners, and communities to strengthen surveillance, provide treatment supplies, deploy rapid response teams, and other communication and community engagement efforts to contain outbreaks and reduce their impact.

According to the centre, Nigeria

is already experiencing a rising incidence of cholera, while yellow fever and dengue fever are beginning to be detected in some states.

The NCDC said it confirmed the outbreak Dengue Fever through laboratory testing and underscores the growing risk posed by vectorborne diseases.

A statement by NCDC last night said that the centre is collaborating with the Edo State Ministry of Health, in leading response efforts, including enhanced surveillance, risk communication, mosquito control, and clinical management support.

“Residents are advised to look out for symptoms such as high fever, headache, muscle or joint pain, sore throat, and swollen glands. Prompt medical attention is essential.

YABATECH Matriculates 11,800 Students

Funmi Ogundare

Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) yesterday matriculated 11,828 newly admitted students into its full-time and flexible learning programmes for the 2024/2025 academic session.

A breakdown of the admission of students showed 6,076 into the National Diploma, 4,063 into the Higher National Diploma, 437 into B.Sc (Ed) and 1,252 into the Centre for Open Distance and Flexible E-learning CODFEL).

The Rector of the poly, Dr. Ibraheem Abdul, who addressed the students, emphasised on the significance of their admission, saying that it is not just about academic entry, but an initiation into a culture of excellence,

innovation, and character development.

The selection process, he stated, involved rigorous screening, including the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and internal assessments by the college.

“Your admission is a reflection of your academic strength and determination,” Dr. Abdul said, noting that only the most qualified candidates earned a place among thousands of applicants.

He reminded the new students of the college’s strict code of conduct, particularly regarding decent dressing, mandatory 75 per cent class attendance, zero tolerance for cultism and banned groups, religious harmony and mutual respect, participation in entrepreneurship and ICT training.

in Lagos.

He said further investigation led to the arrest of Ojo Michael, who confessed to participating in the robbery, abduction, and eventual murder of the victims.

Mayor of London

The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has concluded his visit to Lagos, which was aimed at strengthening the UK-Nigeria economic relationship and celebrating the deep cultural ties, shared vibrancy, and global influence of the two dynamic cities of London and Lagos.

The visit marked the growing importance of Nigeria as a key

He noted that the police also arrested Oladele Femi, who allegedly masterminded the crime, while the body of the female victim was recovered in a bush near Ode-Ekiti, and efforts are ongoing to recover

the remains of the male victim.

He also said that the landlord, Oladele Femi, confessed to initiating the plot and aiding in the concealment of the murders.

Equally, the CP explained

Ondo, Edo, and Lagos States.

Concludes Lagos Visit to Deepening UK-Nigeria Ties

partner in the UK’s global trade and investment strategy, particularly in sectors such as fintech, innovation, and the creative economy.

Alongside the visit, the Mayor of London led a trade delegation of 27 London-based companies in fintech, enterprise technology, and sustainability, supported by the Mayor’s growth agency, London & Partners.

Under the leadership of Howard Dawber OBE, Deputy Mayor for Business and Growth, the agency facilitated a series of high-level engagements in Nigeria. The delegation connected with Nigerian policymakers, investors, and creators through curated events aimed at fostering collaboration and unlocking new business opportunities across Africa. This visit marked the first official trip by a sitting Mayor of London to sub-Saharan Africa, underscoring London’s commitment to build long-term, cross-sector partnerships that support inclusive growth, digital transformation, and cultural exchange.

Agusto & Co Upgrades Odu’a Investment Credit Rating

Sunday Okobi

Odu’a Investment Company Limited (OICL), the investment holding company jointly owned by the six South-west states of Nigeria, has announced that the leading credit rating agency, Agusto & Co, has upgraded its corporate rating to ‘Aa-’ with a Stable Outlook in its recently released 2025 Corporate

Rating Report.

The Head of Branding and Communication of the company, Victor Ayetoro, said the upgrade from the previous rating of A+ to Aa- reflects Odu’a Investment’s improved operating income and cash flow, driven by higher dividends from portfolio companies, increased investment returns from non-equity assets,

and stronger rental earnings.

He noted that the rating also acknowledges the company’s strategic repositioning, including divestments from underperforming assets and reinvestment in high-yielding portfolios managed by reputable asset managers.

from ‘A+’ to ‘Aa-’

Commenting on the rating, OICL Group Chairman, Otunba Bimbo Ashiru, said: “This rating upgrade confirms our board’s commitment to prudent financial management, strategic portfolio optimisation, and sustainable value creation for our shareholders. It underscores Odu’a Investment’s resilience and adaptability in navigating economic headwinds while pursuing growth in critical sectors of the economy.”

Etsu Nupe: Don’t Leave Security to the Government Alone

Laleye Dipo in Minna

The Etsu Nupe and Chairman of the Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, has challenged Nigerians not to leave the security of the country to the government alone, insisting that security is everybody’s business.

Speaking against the backdrop of the increasing spate of insecurity across the country, Alhaji Abubakar tasked Nigerians to brace up and support the security agencies to surmount the escalating insecurity in the country

The monarch, who was exchanging views with the Niger State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Adamu Abubakar Elleman, in his palace in Bida, declared that: “All the citizens, including myself, owe it a duty to assist the various security agencies in ensuring that they function effectively and diligently to ensure that Nigerians go to their beds with their two eyes closed.”

The Etsu Nupe stressed the urgent need for stakeholders to unite, pool resources together, and re-strategise on how best to confront the challenges of growing threats of banditry, kidnapping and other security concerns in society.

Jay-Z’s Firm to Manage Afrobeat Singer, Ayra Starr

Yinka Olatunbosun

Ayra Starr has officially joined Jay-Z’s Roc Nation as a management client, expanding her global reach while remaining signed to Mavin Records in Nigeria.

This strategic partnership focuses on international bookings, branding, endorsements, and

touring efforts, leveraging Roc Nation’s extensive global infrastructure.

Roc Nation will manage Ayra Starr’s international bookings, branding, and touring efforts, positioning her for global festivals, brand collaborations, and the United States/European tours.

Meanwhile, Ayra Starr remains

signed to Mavin Records for her music releases in Nigeria, while Roc Nation handles her international management.

Ayra Starr has teased her upcoming single ‘Hot Body’ expected to be released under Roc Nation’s management. Other Nigerian artists like Tiwa Savage, Wizkid, and Burna Boy have also partnered Roc Nation, making

Ayra Starr’s inclusion a notable milestone for Afrobeats globally. This partnership signifies a major boost in Ayra Starr’s international visibility, opening doors for high-profile collaborations, strategic branding, and wider industry reach. With Roc Nation’s guidance, she is poised to take her music to new heights globally.

Marketsquare Holds Free Medical Outreach in Abia State

Ayodeji Ake

Marketsquare, owned by Sundry Markets Limited (SML), a leading indigenous grocery retailer in Nigeria, has recently completed a transformative week-long free medical outreach that positively affected the lives of thousands of

people in Abia State through the initiative: ‘Marketsquare Cares’.

Emmanuel Patrick Isangediok, head of Marketing at SML, stated that the Aba programme embodies the company’s unwavering commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR) dedicated to ensuring that

the residents in the communities where Marketsquare operates live healthier lives.

“Marketsquare recognizes the critical challenges in healthcare access within Nigerian society.

As a responsible entity, we view this medical outreach as our contribution to bridging the

gaps in healthcare delivery across the nation,” he stated. The Abia State free medical outreach programme was organised by Marketsquare in collaboration with Pro-Health International (PHI), a nongovernmental organisation, and the Abia State Government.

that men of the Police Command arrested 10 other suspects and recovered a stolen Toyota Corolla in connection with a vehicle theft syndicate operating across

DISCUSSING ENERGY SECURITY…

L-R: Chairman of occasion and former Vice Chancellor, University of Lagos (UNILAG), Prof. Rahmon Bello; Chairman, International Energy Services Limited (IESL), Dr.

Keynote Speaker and Chairman, AA Holdings, Mr. Austin Avuru, and Managing Director, IESL, Adebayo Ige, at the third Dr Diran Fawibe

in Osun Police Nab Notorious Bandit, Recovers AK-49 Rifle, Others in Sokoto

Arrest

suspected armed robbers, kidnappers, cultists, car thieves

Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo and Onuminya Innocent in Sokoto

The operative of Sokoto State Police Command have made a significant breakthrough in their fight against banditry and kidnapping, arresting a notorious bandit, Buba Magaji, from Julirkol Village in Silame Local Government Area, Sokoto State.

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as Oyedele ebenezer Olufemi, now wish to be known and addressed as Oyedele ebenezer Olawale All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as ray ma Oparah, now wish to be known and addressed as remigius mgbeojirikwe ambrose Oparah. All former documents remain valid the general public should please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as Garba fa TimO OmOwunmi now wish to be addressed as abdulGaniyu fa TimO OmOwunmi All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as alaPe rOfiu alaba , now wish to be known, called and addressed as alaPe rafiu alaba All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note

I formerly known and addressed as Iheanyichukwu Godwin nze, now wish to be known and addressed as nze Godwin iheanyi. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as TaiwO Oluwa TOyin JulieT, now wish to be known and addressed as ubi nnaKe JulieT.All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

CORRECTION OF NAME

I, OHANEHI TONNA CHRISTOPHER, that my name was wrongly captured in my NIN as OHANEHI TONNA CEASAR. My correct name is OHANEHI TONNA CHRISTOPHER, and henceforth should be known and addressed as OHANEHI TONNA CHRISTOPHER. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

Similarly, police in Osun State have arrested five suspects alleged to have been involved in armed robbery, kidnapping, car theft, secret cultism, and murder.

According to a statement by the Sokoto Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ahmad Rufai, Magaji’s arrest was made possible by a tip-off that identified him as a close associate of the Lakurawa bandit syndicate, a group responsible for terrorising residents and perpetrating crimes across multiple local government areas.

The statement noted that operatives from the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit acted swiftly on the intelligence, arresting Magaji on July 13, 2025, at about 1600hrs.

During the investigation, Magaji confessed to his involvement in criminal activities linked to the syndicate and revealed the location of an AK-49 rifle he had concealed in the bush along the Silame axis. A subsequent search of the

Ibrahim Oyewale in lokoja

area on July 16, 2025, led to the recovery of the rifle, a magazine, and 22 rounds of live ammunition.

The Commissioner of Police, Sokoto State Command, Ahmed Musa, praised the effectiveness of actionable intelligence and the dedication of the AntiKidnapping Unit, stating that the operation disrupted the activities of the Lakurawa syndicate and commending the vigilance of citizens who

provided the crucial tip-off.

“The arrest of Buba Magaji and the recovery of the AK49 rifle and ammunition are significant victories in our relentless pursuit of criminal elements plaguing Sokoto State,” the commissioner said.

The police command reassured the public of its commitment to combating kidnapping, banditry, and all forms of criminality, with investigations into Magaji’s

activities and the wider Lakurawa syndicate network ongoing.

The arrest of Magaji and the recovery of the AK-49 rifle and ammunition are significant victories in the fight against banditry and kidnapping in Sokoto State.

The Sokoto State Police Command urged citizens to continue providing valuable information to aid in the fight against crime and criminality

Kogi NGOs Task Ododo on Implementation of Campaign Manifestos INEC Extends CVR in Anambra

Adedayo Akinwale in abuja

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has extended the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) in Anambra State.

INEC National Commissioner and Chairman, Information & Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, in a statement issued yesterday, said the decision was taken after its regular weekly meeting.

He said the meeting reviewed the ongoing preparation for the forthcoming off-cycle governorship election in Anambra State and further update on applications for registration by new political parties.

Olumekun noted: “The commission is pleased with the turnout of registrants in Anambra State and the peaceful conduct of the CVR in all the 326 registration centres in the State.

“As of yesterday, Wednesday 16th July 2025, 96,085 new voters have successfully registered in nine days. On average, the Commission registered over 10,600 voters per day.

“In addition, 12,595 voters applied for transfer of their registration both within and outside the State while 7,061 persons applied for the update of their records or the replacement of their damaged or lost Permanent Voters Cards (PVCs).

“The CVR in Anambra State ends today. However, in response to appeal from citizens, the Commission hereby extends the exercise for three more days. It will now end on Sunday 20th July 2025.”

The Kogi NGOs Network (KONGONET) has tasked the State Governor, Usman Ododo, to remain committed to his campaign manifestos particularly the central theme of good governance and inclusive leadership.

This was contained in a position paper by the KONGONET on the theme, “The Synergy for Socio-

economic Development ,uniting the State and Non State actors for greater impact,” presented at fifth annual general meeting (AGM) held in Lokoja yesterday.

“The KONGONET hereby seizes this opportunity of her 5” Annual General Meeting (AGM) today to address an issue of great importance: Effective implementation of campaign manifestos: A call

for state wide stewardship and consistent engagement based on Gov. Usman Ododo’s campaign manifesto.

“Kogi KONGONET, as the apex coalition of diverse nongovernmental organisations committed to fostering sustainable development in Kogi State, hereby presents this position paper in alignment with the theme of our 2025 AGM.

“This gathering underscores the critical importance of synergy between state and non-state actors in driving socio-economic progress, good governance, and inclusive development.

“Good governance is central to the effective and efficient utilisation of public resources to promote sustainable development and achieve the greatest good for the greatest number of citizens.”

FG Reaffirms Commitment to Uphold Rights of Inmates

Michael Olugbode in abuja

The federal government has reaffirmed its commitment to uphold the rights and dignity of all persons in held behind bars.

The commitment was made yesterday in Abuja by the Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, during the commemoration of Nelson Mandela International Day 2025 and the presentation of the audit

report of six custodial centres across the North-east.

The minister, who was represented at the event sponsored by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in collaboration with the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) by the Director, Joint Services, Federal Ministry of Interior, Nasiru Usman, said holding discussion on prison reforms on Nelson

Mandela Day is profoundly symbolic as late South African President’s legacy reminds us that justice, dignity, and humanity must remain central to how we treat even those behind bars.

He said: “Let me reaffirm the federal government’s commitment to upholding the rights and dignity of all persons in custody, in line with the Nigerian Constitution and our international obligations.

The Nelson Mandela Rules which is the United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners remains a central reference point for our correctional policies and reforms.” He added: “Today’s presentation of the prison audit report marks a critical milestone. Evidence-based assessments such as this are essential for shaping effective and humane correctional reforms.”

Avuru, Fawibe, Others Harp on Collaboration to Guarantee Energy Security

Energy experts have called for the development of a national framework and strategic collaborations to guarantee sustainable energy access and security in Nigeria.

They made the call during the third Dr. Diran Fawibe Annual Lecture Series, themed “Development of National Framework and Partnerships for Sustainable Energy Access and

Security,” in Ibadan, Oyo State.

The event was jointly organised by International Energy Services Limited, the Centre for Petroleum Energy Economics and Law (CPEEL), and the University of Ibadan.

The experts and panellists who spoke at the event included the Chairman of AA Holdings and pioneer Chief Executive Officer of Seplat Petroleum Development

Company Plc, Mr. Austin Avuru; Group Chairman of International Energy Services, Dr. Diran Fawibe; former Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Prof. Rahamon Bello; CEO of International Energy Services Ltd, Mr. Bayo Ige, among other speakers.

Delivering the keynote address, Avuru emphasised the urgent need for Nigeria to prioritize energy sufficiency, accessibility,

and affordability. He noted that achieving energy security was fundamental to national growth and development.

“We must use our natural resources to solve our energy problem. Nigeria must build internal refining capacity and establish a framework that guarantees long-term energy security. We must plan for the inevitable,” he said.

SEC DG to Lead Discussions at Comercio Partners Economic Outlook

Nume Ekeghe

Director-General of the Securities and Exchange Commission(SEC), Dr. Emomotimi Agama, is slated lead discussions at the Comercio Partners’ Half year Economic Review and Outlook. Comercio Partners, in a

statement, said that Dr. Agama will deliver the keynote address on the theme of the event, “Reconfiguration: From Global Trade to Quantum Innovation, a New Economic Era Emerges.”

The event, which is scheduled to hold on Wednesday July 23rd in

Lagos, will also feature two panel sessions and the formal presentation of the Comercio Partners Review of the Economy in H1’25 and Outlook for H2’25.

Speakers for the first panel session which will discuss Nigeria’s economic frontlines include: Prof. Philip

Alege, President of Nigerian Association of Macroeconomic Modellers; Award winning film producer and Managing Director/CEO J-15 Media Network, Mr. Femi Adebayo; and Dr. Muda Yusuf, Chief Executive Officer, Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise(CPPE).

Diran Fawibe;

Annual Lecture Series held in Ibadan…yesterday

FACTFILE

with Lanre Alfred

…truth behind the headlines, conspiracies, cover-ups, trials and triumphs

Before We Crucify Bayo ojulari

Let me say this as plainly as possible: I know a media hit job when I see one. And what has just been unleashed against Bayo Ojulari, the Group CEO of NNPCL, smells not just of calculated sabotage, but of that uniquely Nigerian cocktail of political mischief, misplaced entitlement, and old-guard bitterness masquerading as public concern.

I’ve watched the manufactured outrage rise like poorly staged theatre. Suddenly, a coalition with the conveniently self-righteous name “Coalition of Nigerian Patriots for Good Governance” emerges with fire in its lungs and venom on its lips. Their target? Not some long-serving cabal draining NNPCL from within for years. No. Their ire is for the man who’s barely warmed his seat—Bayo Ojulari.

Let’s be honest: this isn’t about refineries. This is about resistance to reform. I’ve covered this industry long enough to know that the louder the outrage, the more terrified someone is of losing access to old, rotten privileges.

The accusation? That Ojulari “suspiciously” shut down the nation’s refineries after assuming office. Suspicious, they say. But if you’ve spent even a minute understanding how broken those facilities are, or more importantly, how long they’ve been broken, you’d know that what Ojulari did was less a shutdown and more an intervention. A necessary pause before reengineering. And frankly, if you were expecting him to continue the charade of “rehabilitation” without a proper technical audit or performance management framework, then you’re part of the problem.

Let’s not pretend we don’t know how these refineries have functioned. They have been black holes, swallowing billions without results, testrunning without refining, “functional” on paper but failures in reality. If anyone claims otherwise, I challenge them: show us the data. Show us the output. Show us the petroleum products that rolled out of Warri, Kaduna, or Port Harcourt in those magical test runs.

The truth? These refineries have been a national embarrassment. Bayo Ojulari didn’t break them. He inherited them. And from where I sit, he’s doing the one thing no one before him dared to do: tell the uncomfortable truth, then act on it.

Now, the coalition also claims he wants to privatise NNPCL assets and sell them to “cronies.” That’s rich. Because if anyone knows Ojulari’s track record, at Shell, at Renaissance, across every major energy corridor on this continent, you’d know he doesn’t operate in crony circles. He doesn’t curry favour. He builds structures. He fixes things.

So let me ask: if he wanted to sell off national assets to friends, would he begin by opening NNPCL’s books, publishing operational data, and introducing transparency protocols unheard of in the company’s recent history? Would he be inviting scrutiny, encouraging independent audits, and pledging performance-based reforms if his goal was clandestine looting? I think not.

What I see in Ojulari is not a saboteur. I see a man who understands that national pride means nothing when pipelines are broken, refineries are rusting, and a nation as oil-rich as Nigeria is still importing fuel like a beggar.

I’ve seen this before. Every time a competent technocrat arrives with a map in one hand and a mirror in the other, the old guard panics. They cry sabotage, corruption, and “institutional capture.” Why? Because their games don’t work in the light. Ojulari has dared to switch on the light. Even the allegation of crude oil diversion reeks of desperation. It’s the kind of half-truth you plant

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Buhari’s Moral Co M pass and p u B li C s ervi C e certain ethnic or regional groups, the sense of betrayal felt acute, especially given the trust he had cultivated through years of personal honesty. These dynamics highlight a delicate balance: trust must be earned anew in each policy decision, rather than being merely inherited from personal reputation. A ruler who demonstrates personal restraint can shake the public’s cynicism—but only to the extent that their administration consistently enforces the same standards across all levels of power. And yet, to judge Buhari solely by the weaknesses of his government is to miss the deeper question. What happens when a morally upright individual is placed at the helm of a morally broken system? Buhari tried to steer a bureaucracy bloated by patronage and haunted by inertia. He brought personal sincerity to a structure designed for self-interest. And while he spoke often of reform, few could point to enduring systemic overhauls. There were attempts to promote transparency—like the launch of the Open Treasury Portal in 2019, aimed at publishing real-time government expenditure—but even that portal was marred by ghost transactions and inflated figures, according to BudgIT’s 2020 report. He did not restructure the civil service. He did not radically modernise the judiciary. Procurement remained opaque, oversight agencies remained weak, and corruption adapted, evolved, and often flourished—sometimes right under his nose.

The force of personal example was powerful, but insufficient. A nation does not change because a single man is honest; it changes because systems force everyone else to be.

Still, people remembered. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the Director-General of the World Trade Organisation, spoke of his “undeniable discipline.” William Kumuyi, founder of the Deeper Life Church, praised his contentment and restraint. Aisha Buhari, his wife, described him as a man who lived and died for Nigeria. Even Olusegun Obasanjo, often his fiercest political critic, acknowledged Buhari’s honesty. “We disagreed on policy,” Obasanjo said, “but no one can deny Buhari’s honesty.” Perhaps the most telling tribute came from a roadside trader in Kano: “Even if he does nothing, he won’t steal.” That kind of trust is not easily earned. In a country where betrayal

when you know the public is tired, angry, and ready to believe the worst. But again, I ask: Where’s the evidence? Where are the logs? The manifests? The shipping documents?

We’ve come to a dangerous place in this country where reformers are crucified not because they failed, but because they succeeded in ruffling the right feathers. And believe me, Bayo Ojulari is ruffling the right feathers. The ones that have been feeding fat on opacity and poor governance. Since he assumed office in April, he has not only outlined an ambitious five-year strategy that includes attracting $60 billion in investment, boosting production to 3 million barrels per day, and expanding domestic refining capacity, he’s also rolled up his sleeves to start doing the work. And let’s not romanticise that work. It’s messy. It’s painful. It steps on toes. But it is necessary. And yet, we pretend he woke up one morning and decided to derail the President’s economic agenda? That’s laughable. If you understand anything

Late Muhammadu Buhari

often seems baked into politics, Buhari’s restraint stood out—not as a tactic, but as a truth. But moral leadership cannot stop at the self. There must be systems. There must be consequences. There must be reform that survives beyond one’s tenure. Buhari’s story, then, is not one of moral failure—it is one of moral incompleteness. He brought integrity to the presidency but lacked the boldness or ruthlessness

about President Tinubu’s calculus in leadership, you’d know he doesn’t back weak horses. Ojulari wasn’t thrown into that position to preserve the past—he was placed there to dismantle it and chart a future.

Of course, dismantling old networks makes enemies. Of course, those who no longer have the keys to the kitchen will cry foul. I get it. But they should at least spare us the sanctimony.

I’ll say this again: this is not a refineries’ debate. This is a legacy war. It’s about whether the NNPCL remains a political cash cow or becomes a professionally run, globally competitive energy company. And let me tell you, that decision has already been made. The tide has turned.

It’s also amusing, if it weren’t tragic, that those screaming about refineries being “shut down” are the same people who clapped when those same refineries were cannibalised, looted, stripped, and milked dry by decades of mismanagement. Where were these coalitions then? Where was the patriotic fervour when billions were burned in the name of “Turn Around Maintenance” that turned nothing around?

Here’s what I think: we have to stop being a nation that eats its best minds. Bayo Ojulari is one of the best this industry has produced in decades. And rather than applaud his courage, his competence, and his refusal to play dirty politics, we are sharpening knives.

To those whispering about “Ojulari’s plan to dominate NNPCL,” I say this: Maybe domination isn’t the problem; maybe it’s the kind of domination that scares you. The kind that doesn’t ask for kickbacks. The kind that doesn’t take a cut. The kind that rebuilds institutions instead of hollowing them out. If we want to have a serious conversation about the petroleum sector, let’s have one. Let’s talk about pipeline security. About real-time data management. About local refining capacity. About credible audit trails. But let’s stop pretending Bayo Ojulari is the villain. He’s not. He’s the man cleaning up a mess we all chose to ignore for too long. So, before we crucify Ojulari, let’s ask ourselves: are we reacting to failure, or are we punishing success?

Because I, for one, know a reformer when I see one. And I know what it costs to be the man who says “no” in a room that’s used to “yes.” Ojulari has said “no” to the old ways. And that, not refinery shutdowns, is the real reason he’s under attack.

Let’s not be complicit in the takedown of our own future. Let’s not crucify the man sent to rescue us from the rot we’ve normalised.

to make others live by the same creed. He governed with clean hands but allowed too many others to stain the system. And the paradox of his legacy is that he leaves behind both admiration and disappointment. He showed that it is possible to lead without greed, but also that it is not enough.

As I reflect on Buhari’s journey, I am struck by a simple truth: moral integrity sets the horizon, but

it does not chart the course. Leaders of conscience can illuminate the highest ideals—but without the ballast of strong institutions and the courage to apply principles impartially, good intentions will drift inexorably into compromise. For aspiring leaders, the lesson is twofold. First, cultivate a personal ethic that resists the seductive ease of privilege and self interest. Second—and perhaps more daunting—build systems that outlast any one individual’s lifespan: independent judiciaries, transparent procurement processes, and unflinching oversight bodies. Moral leadership is not solely a matter of character; it is also a question of architecture.

Nigeria has always longed for a leader it can believe in. Buhari, for many, was that figure. But belief must give way to expectation. The future must demand more. We must move beyond celebrating leaders for what they do not take and begin to judge them by what they give, build, and enforce. Buhari’s moral compass pointed north—but a compass alone cannot carry a nation. It must be matched with energy, with discipline, with institutional vision.

In the end, Buhari bequeathed to Nigeria a paradox that stirs both admiration and frustration. He proved that a head of state could live unencumbered by corruption. Yet he also showed us that the purity of personal example, on its own, cannot bend the vast forces of patronage, inertia, and political expediency. When we speak of “Mai Gaskiya,” the truthful one, let us remember the truth of his tenure: that personal integrity is a precious, but incomplete, remedy for the ailments of governance. The true challenge lies in transforming individual virtue into collective virtue—an enduring inheritance for the generations that follow. In that endeavour, Buhari’s life offers both inspiration and caution, reminding us that moral leadership demands more than clean hands; it requires an unwavering dedication to shaping institutions that keep those hands honest. Buhari’s memory should remind us not only of what is possible in the moral character of a leader, but also of how urgent it is to embed that character into the state’s architecture. That, perhaps, is the work left unfinished. And that, perhaps, is the question the next generation must answer.

Ojulari

Super Falcons Focused on S’final Ticket as they Battle Zambia Today

Duro Ikhazuagbe

Nigeria’s Super Falcons have their eyes on the semifinal ticket as they take on Zambia’s Copper Queens

this evening in one of the quarterfinal fixtures of the delayed Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON 2024) in Casablanca, Morocco. Kickoff is 5pm Nigerian time.

Dortmund Set to Edge Fenerbahce, Everton in Scramble for

Ndidi’s Signature

Super Eagles midfielder, Wilfred Ndidi, is set for a major career move with Bundesliga giants, Borussia Dortmund, reportedly targeting the Leicester City star.

According to Africafoot, Dortmund, eight-time German Bundesliga champions, are among several top European clubs interested in signing the 28-year-old Nigerian international.

Despite being contracted to Leicester City until June 2027, there are growing indications that Ndidi’s future may lie away from the King Power Stadium.

According to reports, Dortmund’s interest aligns with recent reports linking Ndidi to a possible £9 million release clause inserted in his contract following Leicester’s relegation.

However, Leicester are believed to be holding out for around €15 million as they seek to maximise profit from one of their most valuable assets.

In addition to Dortmund, Fenerbahçe have reportedly opened talks

with Ndidi’s representatives, while Premier League sides Manchester United and Everton are also monitoring the situation. Still, sources suggest Dortmund could have an edge due to their status as a Champions League club and their history of attracting top African talents.

Ndidi, who has earned 65 caps for Nigeria, has been a key figure at Leicester since joining from Genk in 2017.

However, with the Foxes now in the English Championship, the defensive midfielder is believed to be considering his options as he looks to return to top-flight football.

The Leicester City star’s camp remains tight-lipped, but a move to Germany could be on the cards before the summer transfer window close

House Committee on Sports Pledges Support for Sam Okwaraji U-16 Football Tournament

Members of the House of Representatives Committee on Sports have thrown their weight behind the forthcoming maiden Sam Okwaraji National U-16 football championship for secondary schools in the country.

The committee made the pledge recently when they received members of the organizing committee of the championship at the National Assembly Complex, Abuja.

Welcoming the delegation, Chairman of the committee, Hon Kabiru Amadu in company with his Deputy, Hon Mohammed Buba Jajere and a member of the committee, Hon Adamu Hashimu, commended them for taking the initiative of immortalizing the former Super Eagles player who died in active

service for the country. They promised that the committee will give them all the necessary support towards ensuring they organize a seamless competition.

“ I’m happy that this tournament is being put together by some patriotic Nigerians to honour a football icon whose patriotism and sacrifice seems to have been forgotten after his demise in the colours of the country more than thirty years ago.

“ As a Committee whose mandate includes ensuring that the country’s sports is well positioned, we’ll support the tournament because it will help in grassroots football development in the country and I urge you not to relent in ensuring that the championship holds as scheduled”, he stated.

NTF-CBN Senior Open Championship to Serve off July 21

The 46th CBN Senior Open Tennis Championship will serve off at the Package B of the Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abuja on Monday, July 21, with the preliminary matches also slated to begin today, the Nigeria Tennis Federation (NTF) announced yesterday.

The yearly championship is organised in conjunction with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

The championship which has become a major on the Nigeria’s tennis calendar and a key platform for identifying and nurturing local talent, offers young players from across the country the opportunity to compete at a national level and gain exposure to international selection pathways.

The Acting Director of Corporate Communications, CBN, Mrs. Hakama Sidi Ali, reaffirmed the

Bank’s longstanding commitment to nation-building and the vital role young people play in national development.

“Over the years,” she said, “this championship has helped young talents, providing them with a constructive outlet and a chance to showcase their abilities on a national stage”. Also, the NTF acknowledged the CBN’s continued support, describing it as instrumental in sustaining the growth of the sport and strengthening Nigeria’s representation in major competitions such as the Davis Cup and the African Games.

This year’s event will feature a full range of categories: men and women’s singles and doubles, as well as wheelchair tennis for both men and women, reinforcing the Bank’s commitment to inclusive participation.

For the nine-time African champions, this clash with the Copper Queens is another opportunity for the Justine Madugu ladies to restate their authorities over the Zambians who denied them the bronze at the last edition here three years ago.

Coach Madugu didn’t mince words when he said in a pre-match analysis that thunder will not strike twice against his ladies. He’s well informed about the potency of the Zambians, with Barbra Banda and Rachael Kundananji posing the biggest threat to Nigeria’s quest for a tenth

African title.

“We are working on our strategies offensively and defensively, having watched Zambia play and having taken note of their strengths and weaknesses individually and collectively. We know the key players of Zambia that are being mentioned and the threats they can pose if they are given opportunities, so we have spoken to the players that they must be fully-ready.

“There will be no room for errors. We must be alert at all times and have self-belief and confidence, and be motivated to achieve victory as we get close to the accomplishment of Mission X,” observed Coach Madugu

yesterday.

For a fact, Super Falcons have played below their strength at this edition, despite having some of the most celebrated players in their fold.

In the three matches they have played in this edition, Super Falcons barely scraped to win against Tunisia and Botswana. The Algerians exposed the team as lacking that cutting edge needed to really give their fans that assurance of “Mission X” is achievable.

It however remains to be seen how the return of midfield ace, Deborah Abiodun, suspended for the clash with the Algerians on Sunday and Esther Okoronkwo back to the team could affect Nigeria’s fortunes.

Should Madugu brave it all and play Jennifer Echegini from the start, perhaps, Nigerians in the throes of another missed Men’s World Cup, May have something to celebrate hitting the Last Four at the expense of the ambitious Zambians. The winner of the match between Nigeria and Zambia will progress to the semi finals to confront the winner of the encounter between Cup holders South Africa and Senegal. On the other side of the draw are the Atlas Lionesses of Morocco (who are also ambitious, dedicated, well-organized and fearless) and the never-to-be-underrated Lady Fennecs of Algeria.

Distressed D’Tigress Worried as Flight Tickets Trickle in from NSC

Reigning African basketball champions, D’Tigress of Nigeria, are worried about their ability to successfully defend their title in Abidjan when the 2025 Afrobasket takes the tip-off on July 25.

It was learnt yesterday that the National Sports Commission (NSC) has started to buy flight tickets for the players called to camp on Wednesday, July 16. “These tickets that were purchased on Wednesday are coming more than one month behind schedule,” an informed source said yesterday, stressing that the NSC officials were meant to have delivered the ticket to the players in May.

By the programme of the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) as approved by the NSC, the players were meant to have received their flight tickets to Abuja for the national camp latest in June.

Another to Basketball source revealed that all the players who are largely based in the US and Europe were rerouted to Abuja after the NSC rejected the federation’s old pattern of running one camp in the USA before the final team list is drawn up. Nearly all the players listed for the 2025 Afrobasket are based abroad.

“When the NSC insisted that every stage of the camping be held in Nigeria, the NBBF rolled out the plan for camping, including an international tournament in Abuja, which was meant to be the last

stage before the final list of players is drawn up,” a marketer for the NBBF said in Abuja on Wednesday.

“We are deeply involved with organizing the tournament, but marketing it became very difficult as the days went by, chiefly because the players were not in the country. Nobody was sure of anything. It would have been an easy sell-out to the Abuja community if D’Tigress were in town by June as planned. This is not good for the country.”

Some of the players were expected on Thursday in Abuja after they got tickets to the camp.

It is not exactly certain how many of the players can be in town for the Homecoming Tournament, originally set to begin in Abuja on Saturday, 19th, and wrap up on Monday. Togo and Kenya are still expected to play against the African champions.

The Homing Coming tournament was designed to be a huge morale

round off to the camping, but it has now become the start of their camping and perhaps the only meaningful session the team can have before they board the flight to Abidjan. But even as they prepare to enter the African championship with little or no training, no clear itinerary has been built for the Afrobasket, as the tickets have not been purchased. The NSC officials said last week the challenge rested largely on flight availability as they had not been able to secure enough seats for the team.

Nigeria’s Men Reclaim Crown at 2025 ITTF Africa West Regional Championship

Nigeria’s Men team reclaimed their crown at the 2025 ITTF Africa West Regional Championships yesterday with a commanding victory over Côte d’Ivoire in the final.

Earlier in the tournament, the Nigerian women’s team, led by Ajoke Ojomu, continued their regional dominance with a flawless run, defeating Benin Republic, Ghana, and Guinea to retain their title. The four-day event also served as a qualifier for the 2025 African Championships, scheduled to take place later this year in Kigali, Rwanda.

After narrowly losing the title to Togo in 2024, the Nigerian men returned with renewed determination.

Playing on home soil in Lagos, they powered through the group stage, dropping only a single set, ironically to Côte d’Ivoire.

From the quarterfinals onward, the trio of Matthew Kuti, Taiwo Mati, and Abdulbasit Abdulfatai delivered a series of dominant performances, culminating in a 3-0 sweep of the Ivorians in the final.

The singles competition continues today, Friday, July 18, with intense battles expected.

Defending men’s

Super Falcons are battle-ready for Zambia’s Copper Queens in the quarterfinals of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Casablanca, Morocco...today

singles champion, Oba Oba Kizito of Côte d’Ivoire, will face stiff competition from Nigeria’s Taiwo Mati and Matthew Kuti, both former champions. Players from Togo and the Benin Republic are also in strong contention for podium finishes. Guinea’s Maret Camara made a strong impression by topping Group 9 with a 3-0 win over Ghana’s James Marfo. Meanwhile, Nigeria’s Matthew Fabunmi suffered the country’s only singles defeat so far, narrowly losing 3-2 to Benin Republic’s Atanda Adou in Group 11.

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

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Buhari Stirred the Soul of a Nation

Isit here in the solemn quiet of my office in the Federal Capital, while the nation moves northward to Daura, drawn by duty, memory, and the unspoken gravity of a final farewell. But though my body remains in Abuja, my spirit travels alongside his cortege—trailing the dust of Katsina, stirred by remembrance, heavy with reverence.

How does one mourn a man who lived with such austerity yet stirred the soul of a nation?

We knew him not from afar. We walked his convictions. We saw, up close, how trust could be literal and sacred at once—at the PTF, where idealism didn’t merely dream, it acted. We didn’t manage a Fund; we managed a covenant. Not a culvert was funded that hadn’t been prepared. Not a project escaped scrutiny. And not a single one failed. In a land often accustomed to the tragedy of misused promise, that period was a rare chapter of unbroken execution.

Those of us who hawked knowledge—technical, procedural, strategic—were not just respected, we were rewarded. Merit mattered. And the man at the top? He wanted no applause. He merely wanted it done, and done right.

There, in the lean offices of the PTF, we learned that vision without vanity could move mountains. That a nation’s soul could be stirred—and its body

mended—with the most frugal tools, if only honesty governed the hand that held them. Buhari proved, in those years, that a single incorruptible

DA k U k U P ETERSIDE

man, surrounded by disciplined and knowledgeable Turks, could—not just in theory but in truth—restore a nation’s honour and glory. He showed that patriotism could wear khaki, carry silence, and wield spreadsheets. Now he returns to Daura—not to retire, but to rest. And as we bid him farewell, let no one say Nigeria lacked an example. He gave one. Clear, austere, and resolute. We may never see another like him—not because such men no longer exist, but because few are willing to walk with such solitude through the minefields of power. So let us not grieve only. Let us remember—accurately, gratefully, and with pride. For once, idealism was not a mirage. For once, a Nigerian institution did not fall to rot or greed. For once, we served a man who led with clean hands and cleaner intent. You knew him, Hadi. As did I. And because we did, we must carry that fire forward. May his soul find the rest it deserves. And may we never forget what he once made possible.

•Tanimu Yakubu is DG Budget and Planning, MInistry of Finance, Abuja

Buhari’s Moral Compass and Public Service

In the quiet moments that follow the passing of a leader, a nation is compelled to reflect not just on what was done, but on who the person truly was. Muhammadu Buhari’s death has reopened that conversation in Nigeria, not in anger or celebration, but in contemplation. He was a man often described in simple terms: austere, disciplined, incorruptible. And yet, these same qualities, so admired in his private life, sit uncomfortably alongside the complicated legacy of his time in public office. The gap between Buhari’s moral compass and the moral weight of statecraft is where the story becomes truly reflective. In that space lies the tension between character and consequences—between being good and doing good.

I find myself returning repeatedly to the image of Buhari as a lone sentinel of probity. In a nation where ostentation is sometimes mistaken for success, his frugal lifestyle felt almost subversive. He lived simply: a modest home, a small entourage, and a work schedule that eschewed pomp. He paid his electricity bills, avoided lavish ceremonies, and chose to live without the typical grandeur associated with power. For millions of Nigerians, that simplicity resonated like a quiet protest against decades of elite excess. In a country exhausted by leaders who flaunted stolen wealth and treated public office as a reward for loyalty, Buhari was something else—someone

who did not steal, did not hoard, and did not bow to the seduction of a corrupt system.

There was dignity in his restraint, and it became a powerful symbol of his character. To see a President or leader of his stature move through daily life without expectation of privilege was—paradoxically—both reassuring and unsettling. It reassured because it demonstrated that integrity need not be a rhetorical flourish; it unsettled because it forced us to ask why so few before him had displayed the same restraint. Ordinary citizens felt that even if he did nothing else, at least he would not rob them. That sentiment became his greatest political currency. It won him not just elections but deep emotional trust. In many ways, Buhari did not have supporters—he had believers. But personal virtue, as noble as it is, does not always translate into public good. Running a nation is inherently a collective endeavour: it demands robust institutions, vigilant watchdogs, and a willingness to enforce standards, even when it may bruise the powerful. Here, Buhari’s presidency exhibited a curious dichotomy. On one hand, he spoke constantly of anti corruption, lending moral authority to bodies like the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission. On the other hand, his administration sometimes seemed content to rest on symbolic gestures. This approach, rather than concrete actions, disappointed the public and eroded their trust. High-profile arrests gave way

to charge-and-release cycles; institutional reforms were launched with fanfare but lacked sustained follow-through. Buhari, the man of honour, often failed to hold others to the same standard. And in a society where corruption is rarely subtle and almost always systemic, his silence, abdication or hesitation became complicity in the eyes of many. The same presidency that rose on the promise to end corruption saw some of the most brazen financial misconduct in recent memory.

In 2022, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arraigned the Accountant-General of the Federation, Ahmed Idris, for embezzling over N109 billion. Despite Buhari’s anti-corruption rhetoric, the prosecution dragged, and no significant convictions followed during his tenure. The Auditor-General’s 2020 report revealed that over N300 billion in public funds were unaccounted for across MDAs, yet few consequences followed. Government under his watch borrowed recklessly, and by the time Buhari left office in May 2023, Nigeria’s public debt had ballooned to N77 trillion, up from N12.6 trillion in 2015—a six-fold increase. While Buhari himself was not personally implicated in theft, the system he presided over remained vulnerable and largely unrestrained.

The contradictions extended beyond money. His appointments, which tilted heavily toward the North, sent troubling signals in a diverse country already

strained by ethnic suspicion. Of the 47 top security and intelligence appointments made during his first term, 35 came from the North, and 31 were Muslims. These figures raised concerns about inclusivity, national cohesion, and the perception of a government run through narrow identity lenses. The public’s perception of nepotism became difficult to ignore. Farmers across the Middle Belt and South reeled from deadly herder attacks—over 7,400 people were killed in farmer-herder conflicts between 2015 and 2021, according to the International Crisis Group—while many felt Buhari’s government offered muted responses or lacked urgency. His critics pointed not just to what he did, but to what he failed to do. Why did he hesitate to sack underperforming officials ? Why did he remain loyal to individuals facing credible allegations of abuse, mismanagement, or excess?

Buhari’s brand of leadership also shaped public expectations in ways both inspiring and challenging. When he vowed to defeat Boko Haram ‘within months,’ many believed him, buoyed by his military background and reputation for decisive action. However, when those promises fell short, the disappointment was palpable, cutting deeper precisely because the promise had been credible. Similarly, when sectors of the population saw apparent favouritism toward

Continued on page 38

Late Muhammadu Buhari

L-R: Hon. Mulambo Haimbe, Zambia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, President of the Republic of Zambia, Hakainde Hichilema and Nigeria’s Acting High Commissioner to Zambia, Mrs. Chinyere Epelle, during the visit of the Zambian President to the Embassy to sign the condolence register and sympathise with Nigeria on the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari … yesterday