FRIDAY 26TH SEPTEMBER 2025

NUPRC Approves TotalEnergies’ $510m Oil Asset Sales Deal with Shell, Agip

Agreement still subject to ministerial consent Commission clarifies cancellation of Total/ Chappal deal Lokpobiri urges global investors to tap fresh prospects in Nigeria’s oil sector Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja The Nigerian Upstream Petro-

leum Regulatory Commission by TotalEnergies Exploration cent contractor interest in Oil Production Company (SNEPco) (NUPRC) has signed off on a and Production Nigeria Limited Mining Lease (OML) 118 to and Nigerian Agip Exploration Sales Purchase Agreement (SPA) to assign its entire 12.5 per Shell Nigeria Exploration and Limited (NAE).

According to the details of Continued on page 9

Friday 26 September, 2025 Vol 30. No 11128. Price: N400

www.thisdaylive.com TR

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Jonathan Begins Consultations Ahead of 2027, Meets David Mark and Other ADC Leaders

Opposition party tells ‘undecided’ members to quit their parties now, denies association with ADA

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

Jonathan, yesterday, took a step Congress (ADC) in no less a Jonathan, who publicly met his rumoured bid to return to of faith and met with leaders critical consultation ahead of with politicians and party power, met the ADC stakeholdFormer President Goodluck of the African Democratic the 2027 presidential election. leaders for the first time since ers at the home of their National

Chairman, Senator David Mark.

Seen in a viral video as he Continued on page 9

World Bank Backs FG’s Groundbreaking Ward Initiative Bagudu moves to boost rural economy, CBN supports expansion with new MPR

James Emejo in Abuja and Nume Ekeghe in Lagos The World Bank has commended Nigeria’s Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme, which aims to translate Nigeria’s macroeconomic reforms into real, grassroots benefits across all 8,809 wards nationwide.

The federal government initiative also aims at stimulating economic activity, boosting food security, generating jobs, and reducing poverty by directly supporting at least 1,000 economically active individuals per ward.

The new Country Director, World Bank, Mr. Matthew Verghis, gave the commendation during a meeting with KANO APC HOLDS STAKEHOLDERS’ MEETING...

Nigeria’s Minister of Budget L-R: Chairman of the Senate Committee on Petroleum (Downstream), Senator Abdulrahman Kawu Sumaila; Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Continued on page 9 Jibrin; and the immediate past National Chairman of the APC, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, during the Kano APC stakeholders meeting in Abuja, yesterday

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THISDAY • FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2025

Group News Editor: Goddy Egene Email: Goddy.egene@thisdaylive.com, 0803 350 6821, 0807 401 0580

NEWS

Hungarian Ambassador on Courtesy visit to Minister of Water Resources...

The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev (R), received the Hungarian Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency Loránd Endreffy (immediate L) and Economic Counsellor of the Embassy of Hungary, Ms. Judit Beres on a courtesy visit to his office ... yesterday

In Boost for Merger Deal, AMCON Sells 34% Stake in Unity Bank to Providus Kayode Tokede The Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) yesterday sold its 34 per cent total equity stake in Unity Bank Plc to Providus Bank, marking a significant boost to a merger deal between the two financial institutions.

THISDAY gathered that the sale of the 34 per cent total equity stake in Unity Bank was transacted through a crossed deal on the floor of the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) to the preferred bidder, 24 hours ahead of their Court-Ordered Meeting to approve the scheme of merger.

Findings by THISDAY on NGX revealed that the transaction was completed involving four billion Unity Bank shares at N1.66 per share, amounting to over N6.5 billion in value. A total of three deals was carried out on Unity Bank shares on the Exchange on September 25, 2025.

A source noted that the bid

was acceptable to AMCON. The sale of anything above five per cent shares would have required prior approval of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), and the suspension of Unity Bank shares also lifted to facilitate trade.

The merger marks a milestone for Providus Bank, which began operations in June 2017.

In less than 10 years, Providus Bank has emerged as one of the fastest growing financial institutions in the country. Providus is a digitally focused lender, popular among Nigeria’s tech-savvy customers and SME ecosystem.

Through this merger, Providus aims to transform from a niche player into a national bank, leveraging Unity Bank’s over 211-branch network spread across all 36 states and the FCT. The move aligns with Providus’ broader strategy to deepen its retail presence and diversify its customer base.

Additionally, Providus Bank would significantly benefit from scale in retail banking as it would expand its footprint from a largely digital operation to a full-fledged national player.

It also brings in a strong SME lending pipeline, especially in agriculture, mining,

Stakeholders have called for Nigeria’s Just Transition Guideline Action Plan (JTGAP) to prioritise inclusivity, ensure social protection, and create opportunities for marginalised groups as the country moves towards a low-carbon economy.

Speaking at the “Just Transition for All: Ensuring Inclusive Voices Workshop,” organised by National Council on Climate Change (NCCC), in collaboration

with International Labour Organisation (ILO), in Abuja, participants stressed that the transition must not only tackle climate change but also safeguard jobs, empower vulnerable groups, and foster equitable growth.

ILO’s National Project Coordinator, Stephen Agugua, outlined the core principles of the transition, stressing the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions across energy, transportation, agriculture, and industry.

Agugua explained that

new value across its retail, SME, and digital channels.

Per the court order by Hon. Justice D.I. Dipeolu, Unity Bank shareholders will decide whether to approve a cash consideration of N3.18 per share or opt for a share swap under which every 17 Unity Bank shares convert

into 18 shares in the enlarged Providus Bank.

If approved, Unity Bank’s assets, liabilities, intellectual property, and ongoing legal matters will be transferred to Providus. Unity Bank will be dissolved, with Providus continuing as the surviving entity.

FIRS Turns Grief into Commitment, Assures Families of Fire Victims of Lifelong Care Sets up trust fund, job offers, education sponsorship

Nume Ekeghe

Director; Onyemelukwe Nkem Agnes, 54, Senior Manager; and The Federal Inland Revenue Ifaranmaye Peter, 48, Deputy Service (FIRS) has pledged Manager, were honoured at a lifelong support to the families solemn memorial service in of its four staff members, who Lagos yesterday. Their families lost their lives in the recent gave moving tributes that Afriland Towers fire on Lagos described them as remarkable Island. individuals whose lives were The deceased, George Faith defined by humility, integrity, Ekelikhotse, 57, Assistant and service.

Director; David Oluwafemi Speaking at the ceremony, Sunday-Jatto, 51, Deputy FIRS Executive Chairman, Dr. Zacch Adedeji, assured the grieving families that the service would provide comprehensive welfare support, including a trust fund, guaranteed job op-

Nigeria’s Just Transition Plan Must Leave No One Behind, Stakeholders Insist Michael Olugbode in Abuja

ecommerce, hospitality, and entertainment sectors, which both banks already support.

Providus plans to integrate its technology stack into Unity Bank’s branch network, enhancing service delivery and cost efficiency.

The bank believes the combined entity will unlock

while climate mitigation policies will inevitably affect existing jobs, careful planning could turn the shift into an opportunity for millions of Nigerians.

He said, “As we are adapting, some jobs might be lost. But if this is well managed, the jobs that will be created will be more than the jobs that will be lost.”

He added that reskilling, social protection, and strong policies would be key to ensuring no one was left behind.

portunities, and full educational sponsorship for the children of the deceased.

Adedeji said, “In FIRS, we do not see ourselves as an institution; we are family. And in every family, when one is lost, we all feel the emptiness.

“To the families, I say this: we believe in you, we stand with you, and we will continue to walk with you. Please, be confident that you are not alone.

“This tragedy has shaken all of us, but it also reminds us of the truth, that when we are lost together, we can walk in the

middle of the mirror whose lives are touched by ourselves.

Our matriarchal colleagues lived lives of service.”

He told the families, “We stand with you. And we will continue to walk with you.

Please be confident in knowing that you are not alone.

“I personally pledge that this institution will be a pillar of support for you during these difficult times. Also, I know one of my colleagues has two students, some abroad and some here. So, also, I have directed and committed trust funds specifically to you.”

NASENI Harps on Research Commercialisation for Nigeria’s Economic Growth Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja The Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, has reaffirmed that research commercialisation remains central to Nigeria’s economic development.

Speaking at the North-central

Sensitisation Programme on the NASENI Research Commercialisation Grant Programme (NRCGP), at the Agency’s headquarters in Abuja, Halilu stressed the importance of addressing financial and administrative setbacks often faced by research projects.

The EVC who was represented by NASENI’s Research Director, Prof. Abdulmalik

Onuwe, stated that the NRCGP was designed to support viable research and development initiatives in the country, which also propagates NASENI’s mission and vision.

According to him, the application process is fully digitalised, transparent, and does not require physical presence or long administrative procedures.

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NEWS

STANBIC IBTC SUSTAINABLE FINANCE SUMMIT 2.0...

L-R: Chief Executive, Stanbic IBTC Bank, Wole Adeniyi; Partner, Tech Risk and Assurance, KPMG Nigeria, Lawrence Amadi; Adjunct Faculty and Director, Tech-Leap Initiative, Lagos Business School, Olu Akanmu; Head, Sustainability, Risk and Capital Management, Stanbic IBTC Holdings Plc, Tosin Leye-Odeyemi; and Acting Chief Executive, Stanbic IBTC Holdings Plc, Kunle Adedeji during the Stanbic IBTC Sustainable Finance Summit 2.0, held at the Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos ... yesterday PHOTO: SUNDAY ADIGUN

Tunji-Ojo Says Over 52,000 Officers of NIS, NCoS, FFS, NSCDC Promoted in Two Years Under Tinubu Promises consistent promotion

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, said as part of ongoing efforts to combat insecurity in the country, President Bola Tinubu ensured that age-long career stagnation of officers in the country’s paramilitary services was stopped.

Tunji-Ojo spoke at the decoration of newly appointed Deputy Comptrollers, Controllers, Commandants General of the four paramilitary agencies under the Ministry of Interior – Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and Federal Fire

Service (FFS).

The minister said the decorated officers were direct beneficiaries of the reforms put in place to prioritise merit, welfare, and rapid promotions.

Tunji-Ojo said since Tinubu came into office about two years ago, over 52,000 officers had been promoted across all paramilitary services. He

stated that the elevation of the new DCGs was more than a promotion, but a presidential appointment anchored on merit, competence and transparent processes.

He told the newly decorated officers, “Your appointment came as a result of presidential approval. It is not just promotion but appointment.

PIA: HCDTs Have Reduced Communities, Oil Firms Conflict, Says Senate Committee Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

The establishment of Host Communities Development Trusts (HCDTs) by International Oil Companies have significantly reduced conflicts between host communities and firms operating in their domain, the National Assembly has said.

Chairman, Senate Committee on Host Communities, Senator Benson Agadaga, made the observation during the inauguration of projects by TotalEnergies EP Nigeria Limited at the Obagi

Oilfield Host Communities Development Trust (HCDT) in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area of Rivers State on Wednesday Agadagba acknowledged that there was reduced hostility in the oil industry, and also relative peace in the Niger Delta due to the achievements of Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) through HCDT. He charged the Nigeria Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) to take stringent measures against International Oil Companies (IOCs) that

failed to adhere to the PIA provisions on setting up and implementing HCDT. Agadagba said, “Host communities are no longer as hostile as before because all of us are expecting that the PIA will give us the required dividends and now, we are seeing them.

“There is a pronouncement on the PIA for IOCs to set up the HCDT and where they fail to do so after three months, they will be sanctioned. Those who have not done it will be sanctioned because this is the only hope of peace and stability in the

oil producing areas.

“We no longer want disruptions in our productions, we need maximum production; we need to meet up with targets at least, two million barrels per day, so we don’t want any interruptions.”

He challenged other HCDTs, who were yet to implement theirs, to emulate what the Obagi HCDT had done.

“None of you is here on courtesy, whether you deserve it or not. If you are good enough to be DCG, then you are good enough to be CG.” The minister stated that the officers’ examinations were independently conducted and marked by the National Army Resource Centre, and later ratified by the board.

He stressed that federal character was applied to ensure inclusiveness across all geopolitical zones, but said seniority and merit remained the sole basis of the appointments.

Tunji-Ojo commended the president for reforms that had restored dignity to the services, saying stagnation has long deprived competent officers of deserved career progression.

He said, “Many officers retired without attaining positions they merited, not because they lacked competence but because promotions were irregular.

Today, this administration has promoted over 52,000

officers in just two years.”

He recalled that vacancies for DCGs had in the past remained unfilled for 10 to 12 months, but said the Tinubu administration had broken the jinx by consistently filling such positions.

Tunji-Ojo said more than 80 per cent of those decorated as DCGs were promoted to ACG under the current government.

He listed welfare interventions, including increased salaries, peculiar allowances, eradication of career stagnation, and approval of life pensions for retired DCGs and CGs. “This government has shown more support than any other in the history of the country. It believes that to whom much is given, much is expected,” he said.

The minister charged the officers to give their best to the country, stating that Nigeria deserves their loyalty, innovation, and commitment to excellence.

Glo Renews Ofala Sponsorship, Reaffirms Commitment to Take Festival to Global Stage

telecommunications major sponsor of the festival, contribute N11.2 trillion to Electricity Gas Turbines Arrive Leading solutions provider, Globacom, said at a press conference GDP, up from about N10.9 has announced the sponsor- held by the Ofala Festival trillion in 2024. Domestic of this year’s edition of Organising Committee at Ime tourism expenditure is also Bayelsa, APC Chieftain Hails Diri ship Ofala Festival scheduled to Obi, Obi’s Palace, Onitsha, expected to be around N6.1 Olusegun Samuel in Yenagoa

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Bayelsa State, Festus Daumiebi, has lauded the State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, on the arrival of the electricity gas turbines in the state and developmental achievements so far.

Daumiebi said the governor’s promise of 24 hours uninterrupted power supply in Bayelsa state is being fulfilled with the procurement of the 60 megawatts independent gas turbine power plant which has arrived in Yenagoa.

THISDAY observed four trucks conveying the imported gas turbines from the state capital for onward movement

to the site already built for its installation.

Residents of Yenagoa, the Bayelsa capital had been experiencing epileptic power and water supply for many years, which led many businesses to leave the state in the past. However, there is now optimism that the new gas turbines will bring succour to many businesses and homes.

hold in Onitsha, Anambra State, in October, 2025.

The annual event is a customary obligation performed by His Royal Majesty, Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe, the Obi of Onitsha.

The two-day celebration will comprise the Iru Ofala on October 17 and the Azu Ofala on 18th.

Globacom, which is the

on Thursday that it had supported the event since 2011 because of its faith in the nation’s huge cultural heritage and its potential to create employment and boost revenue generation.

It restated its commitment to take the festival to the global stage.

“In 2025, Nigeria’s tourism sector is projected to

trillion, while international visitor spending is forecast at about N803.2 billion.

“These figures show not only recovery from the disruptions of recent years, but strong growth. They underscore a simple truth: culture and tourism are not luxuries, they are vital to our economy, our identity, and our future.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2025 • T H I S D AY

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NEWS

20TH ANNIVERSARY OF CORPORATE GOVERNANCE NIGERIA...

L-R: Chief Operating Officer, Society for Corporate Governance Nigeria (SCGN), Dr. Omotola Bamigbaiye; Programme and Training Officer, Damola Ajiboye; Board Member, Rabi Isma; Chief Executive Officer, Chioma Mordi; and Head, Business and Strategy, Mr. Oluleye Olamide at a press conference on the 20th Anniversary of Corporate Governance Nigeria held in Lagos, yesterday

Rabiu: Era of Businesses Relying on CBN for Forex Now over with Tinubu’s Reforms Predicts Naira’ll exchange to dollar at N1,300 before end of 2025

Deji Elumoye in Abuja President of BUA Group, Alhaji Abdul Samad Rabiu, has hailed President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms for easing the cost of doing business in Nigeria and stabilising access to foreign exchange.

Rabiu also stated that reliance on the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) for forex by businesses had “virtually disappeared”.

The business mogul made the observations when he spoke with newsmen at State House, Abuja, on Wednesday, after a closed-door meeting with Tinubu.

Rabiu expressed optimism that the exchange rate would continue to stabilise, predicting that the naira could appreciate to between N1,300 and N1,400 to the dollar before the end of 2025.

He stated, “I expect that the exchange rate is going to strengthen even further. I expect that the rate should come down to maybe N1,300, N1,400 before the end of the year. And this

is something that we should all celebrate.”

He explained that recent monetary reforms and liberalisation measures has eliminated the need for businesses to depend on the CBN for foreign exchange, saying private operators now have greater access to FX abroad through banking channels, credit cards, and international payment systems.

He said, “If I may add, you have seen that the CBN is doing quite a lot, and businesses today do not actually need foreign exchange from the Central Bank of Nigeria.

“The reliance or need for foreign exchange from the central bank has virtually disappeared and, of course, we also know that companies and businesses alike are able to get FX abroad, using the ATM and credit cards. These are all positives.”

Rabiu said the federal government deserved credit for the improvements, stressing that the decisive policies of the

Tinubu administration are laying the foundation for “a stronger economy, a more stable currency, and a better future for businesses and Nigerians alike”.

On food prices, the BUA chairman maintained that conditions were gradually

Africa’s leading ratings agency, GCR, has raised Jaiz Bank Plc’s national scale long-term issuer rating from BBB-(NG) to BBB (NG), with the Outlook revised from Positive to Stable.

The credit ratings are assigned to legal entities, measuring the relative ability of an issuer within a given country to meet its short-term financial obligations.

Announcing the development, Managing Director/ Chief Executive, Jaiz Bank,

Dr. Haruna Musa, yesterday, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to building a resilient financial institution that contributed meaningfully to Nigeria’s economic growth.

In a statement, Musa said, “We are pleased to announce that GCR Ratings has upgraded Jaiz Bank Plc’s national scale long-term issuer rating from BBB-(NG) to BBB(NG).

“This milestone reaffirms our focus on deepening financial inclusion, driving innovation, and upholding the principles of ethical,

He stated, “If you look at the prices of food items last year and what we have today, you’ll see that there is a significant reduction in all the commodities, prices of food items.

“So I think we just need to be a bit more patient, clearly, things are getting better and

we must continue to support the government.”

Rabiu insisted that the progress being witnessed in the economy stemmed from the vision and leadership of Tinubu, urging Nigerians and businesses to sustain their support for ongoing reforms.

ITF DG Justifies Proposed Plan to Export Skilled Manpower Amid Country’s Deficit Declares products finishing bane of Nigerian artisans, partners Italy for upgrade

James Emejo in Abuja

the export of local talents at a period when the country is The Director-General/Chief in dire need of skilled labour Executive, Industrial Training to achieve its industrial targets.

Fund (ITF), Dr. Afiz OluwaHowever, addressing jourtoyin Ogun, yesterday said it nalists while on a spot check is working with the Federal of trainees undergoing project Ministry of Industry, Trade and management examination as Investment to ensure that the part of the second phase of country’s skilled manpower the SUPA training programme is exported to other countries. in Abuja, he said the benefits The ITF boss objected to of skilled labour export outcritics who have opposed weighed its shortcomings for the country.

Ogun said sending skilled manpower to other countries had the potential to attract foreign exchange which the

Citing Strong Growth, Ratings Firm, GCR, Upgrades Jaiz Bank to BBB James Emejo in Abuja

improving, with clear signs of reduction in the cost of key commodities.

He cited his company’s interventions in the rice market last year as an example of how private sector efforts were complementing government reforms.

Shariah-compliant banking.”

He stated that the upgrade reflected the non-interest bank’s strong financial performance, robust risk management practices, and steady progress in strengthening its balance sheet and profitability.

Musa said, “The recognition consolidates Jaiz Bank’s leadership as Nigeria’s pioneer non-interest bank.

“We remain committed to creating sustainable value for all stakeholders and contributing to the growth of the Nigerian economy.”

country so desires, thereby supporting livelihoods, stability and growth of the economy.

He said currently, ITF was already training trainers in leatherwork and fabrics, focusing especially on international finishing standards.

He said while Nigeria produces strong shoes, bags, and garments, their finishing often falls short, adding that the fund is currently partnering with Italian institutions to send trainers abroad to “upgrade their skills in finishing”.

Nonetheless, Ogun stated that the examination was for

ITF trainees, who have just completed their training under the Chartered Institute of Project Managers of Nigeria (CIPMN).

He said, “We made it clear to Nigerians that after training, there must also be examinations. Training without assessment is incomplete.

Equally, if the examinations are not of high quality, then the training itself has little value.

“That is why we are committed to raising our trainees to international standards, starting with this first examination in project management.

NSITF Witnessing Improved Service Delivery, Says SERVICOM

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

SERVICOM, a federal government agency mandated to carry routine performance assessment of ministries and departments has scored the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) high in its assessment of the Fund’s service delivery for the past one year.

A statement signed by NSITF

Deputy General Manager, Corporate Affairs, Alex Mede, said the report of the assessment by SERVICOM released in Abuja on Wednesday, showed the ten Regional and State Branch offices made significant progress in their service to customers.

NSITF said SERVICOM Office carried out evaluation of its regional offices in Abuja, Jos Regional and Branch offices;

Asaba, Kano, Enugu, Port Harcourt, Maiduguri, Lagos and Owerri.

According SERVICOM, the objective of the evaluation was “to ensure citizen-focused service delivery” while “identifying gaps in service delivery and making recommendations to the Fund to improve customer satisfaction and accountability.”

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Japan Ends Africa Exchange Plan for Nigeria, Ghana, Others after Anti-immigration Uproar Cancelled deal was struck by Nigeria’s Tinubu during last month’s visit

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja Japan has scrapped the “Africa Hometown” initiative, a plan to promote cultural exchanges between regional cities and four African countries, including Nigeria, Ghana, Mozambique, and Tanzania, due to what it described as misinterpretations and disinformation.

Although it was meant to pair Japanese cities with African countries for grassroots exchange, the reports sparked fears of mass immigration,

with the Japanese people rejecting the deal which was struck when President Bola Tinubu visited the Asian country in August this year.

A correction by the Nigerian government and official clarifications from Japan failed to stem concerns, leading to the abandonment of the initiative amid heightened focus on foreigners in Japan.

The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) had designated Kisarazu as the hometown for Nigeria under the initiative as part

of its efforts to deepen cultural ties between two countries.

“JICA, in a ceremony announced on the sidelines of the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9), also named the cities of Nagai in Yamagata Prefecture the Hometown of Tanzania, Sanjo in Niigata Prefecture the Hometown of Ghana, and Imabari in Ehime Prefecture the Hometown of Mozambique.

“JICA aims to further strengthen existing relationships with the four African

World Bank Backs FG’s Groundbreaking Ward Initiative

and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu, in Abuja, yesterday.

Bagudu in his remarks, intimated his guests that the groundbreaking ward initiative was designed to boost rural economy and that the raft of policy initiatives being introduced, coupled with reform were to ensure economic transformation .

This was as the Central Bank

of Nigeria (CBN) reiterated confidence in the country’s macroeconomic outlook, insisting that its recent decision to reduce the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) by 50 basis points would stimulate and expand growth without undermining the stability of the naira.

In an interview on TVC yesterday, Director of Monetary Policy at the apex bank, Dr. Victor Oboh, explained that the

rate cut was carefully designed to ease borrowing costs for small businesses and households, while Nigeria’s strong external buffers and stable exchange rate would prevent capital flight.

Speaking further, Verghis, the new World Bank Country Director, congratulated Nigeria on the bold reforms undertaken so far, describing them as a “development breakpoint” that could reset the country’s

countries by connecting municipalities with those nations,” a statement by the federal government said last month.

The reversal came amid heightened focus on foreigners in Japan, just two months after a surge of support for antiimmigration party Sanseito in Japan’s upper house elections.

“Reactions spread based on misunderstandings,” President of the Country’s Aid Body, the JICA, Dr. Akihiko Tanaka, said at a press conference yesterday evening. “The public uproar

placed an excessive burden on local governments,” he added.

One of the cities was dealing with about two hundred phone complaints a day, the Asahi newspaper, one of Japan’s oldest and most influential news outlets reported.

Before long, non-Japanese, including SpaceX Chief Executive, Elon Musk, also stepped into the fray. “If this continues, there will be no Japan, just some islands where Japanese people used to live,” he commented on a

trajectory.

The country director said, “Nigeria’s recent decisions represent a critical moment.

Such choices are not easy, but they create opportunities for a new path.

“The World Bank stands ready to continue supporting Nigeria in maintaining these reforms and increasing their impact.”

On the Renewed Hope Ward

Development Programme, he emphasised the importance of utilising proven approaches.

He said, “The challenge is not just in designing new programmes but in building on what already works. Existing projects such as NG-CARES and the Nigeria for Women Project have established effective structures.

“We are eager to expand on these models, bring in global experience from India, China, and Kenya, and provide both technical and financial support to strengthen implementation.”

Verghis further emphasised the importance of aligning grassroots development with long-term national priorities.

He said, “We understand the objectives are jobs, prosperity, and inclusion. For the poorest, immediate support is needed; for the youth, opportunities for productivity; for the nation, a pathway to sustained growth.

These are challenges we want to work with you to address.”

Verghis’s first official engagement with the ministry since taking office reaffirmed the strong partnership between Nigeria and the World Bank in promoting inclusive growth, poverty alleviation, and sustainable development.

In his remarks, Bagudu, urged

Jonathan Begins Consultations Ahead of 2027, Meets David Mark and Other ADC Leaders

walked into the expansive residence of the former Senate President in Abuja, others with Mark were former Minister of Sports and ADC spokesperson, Malam Bolaji Abdullahi as well as a former National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Mr. Kola Ologbondiyan, among others.

While details of the meeting remains shrouded in secrecy as no one was willing to share, sources claimed the former president has begun consultations ahead of the 2027 polls following increasing pressure to get in the ring and ‘save’ the nation.

Although expectations were that even if Jonathan was going to throw his hat in the ring, he would run on the platform of his party, the PDP, his meeting with ADC leaders, sources added, was not unconnected to the need to work together with like-minds and have a formidable opposition to challenge the incumbent president, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu.

Much as Jonathan has yet to openly consented to running even though the pressure increases each day, party sources said the consultation was also some morale-boosting therapy for a man, who felt betrayed by some of his closest allies in the 2015 polls.

According to the source, Jonathan still tops the list of the potential candidates to give Tinubu a tough challenge in 2027 since the north seems to be more comfortable with a man that is constitutionally limited to a term of four years than the others who might renege on any understanding reached

once power exchanged hands.

Stakeholders, therefore, considered yesterday’s meeting a major development for the opposition parties in general as their possible unity against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) could change the equation in 2027.

Also, earlier yesterday, the ADC directed its members to resign from other political parties, but it remained silent on the timeline for compliance.

Peter Obi, a member of the coalition party, had yet to disclaim his membership of Labour Party (LP).

National Publicity Secretary of ADC, Bolaji Abdullahi, disclosed the new directive while addressing journalists in Abuja, after a caucus meeting attended by top party leaders and political figures.

Abdullahi said, “Though final order has been given to all members to resign membership of other political parties, the caucus was silent on the timeline.”

The caucus also announced that all issues concerning African Democratic Association (ADA) had been concluded.

According to Abdullahi, “The coalition has rested everything concerning the ADA. That means they are not interested in the registration or otherwise of the association.”

On the 2027 presidential race, Abdullahi said ADC’s presidential aspirants had agreed to back whoever emerged winner of the primaries.

“All the presidential aspirants have agreed to support whoever wins the primaries election,” he stated.

The ADC spokesman further

revealed that the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) would soon announce dates for primaries in Osun and Ekiti states ahead of the off-cycle governorship elections in both states.

Those present at the meeting included National Chairman, David Mark; former Vice President Atiku Abubakar; National Secretary, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola; former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir el-Rufai; former Sokoto State Governor, Senator Aminu Tambuwal; and former Rivers State Governor, Chibuike Amaechi.

Obi was however absent at the meeting but sent his apologies and reaffirmed his commitment to the coalition.

ADC: FG Ignoring Insecurity, Hunger at Home, Faults Shettima’s Speech at UNGA

African Democratic Congress (ADC) has accused the federal government of failing to address worsening insecurity and economic hardship in the country.

ADC said, in a statement yesterday by its Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Jackie Wayas, that Vice President Kashim Shettima’s speech at the 80thsession of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), which focused on the plight of Palestinians, was a missed opportunity to secure global support to tackle the crises ravaging Nigeria.

Continues online

President Bola Tinubu piece of misinformation posted on X.com. The original post wrongly claimed Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba wanted to import “millions of Africans and Kurds.”

the World Bank to support the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme, aimed at boosting economic activities at the grassroot.

The minister noted that the new initiative would help achieve President Bola Tinubu’s target of a $1 trillion economy by 2030.

The minister said, “The objectives, among others, are to promote sustainable and inclusive growth at the ward level, which will contribute to national development.

“This will support the $1 trillion GDP target by 2030 and help lift all Nigerians out of poverty.”

He stated that the programme, recently approved by the National Economic Council (NEC) and coordinated by the ministry, is a transformative initiative aimed at driving bottom-up growth.

The minister added, “This programme will map economic opportunities in all 8,809 wards across the country and support economically active citizens to generate more value.

“It is about creating sustainable and inclusive growth from the grassroots. The objective is clear: to support our ambition Continued on page 36

NUPRC Approves TotalEnergies’ $510m Oil Asset Sales Deal with Shell, Agip

the agreement, TotalEnergies will transfer 10 per cent of its interest to SNEPco at a cost of $408,000,000 while NAE will pay $102,000,000 for the remaining 2.5 per cent.

The NUPRC said in a statement yesterday signed by its Head, Media and Strategic Communications, Eniola Akinkuotu, that pursuant to Section 95 of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021, the commission carried out due diligence on SNEPco to ascertain their financial capacity and technical competence.

“SNEPco and NAE have demonstrated both technical and managerial competence to optimally contribute to the upstream operations (explore, develop and produce) in OML 118. They already maintain a participating interest in the asset.

“Based on the presentations and documents submitted, there is clear evidence that they have access to funding to meet their financial obligations,” the commission said.

The NUPRC further stated that TotalEnergies, a committed operator in Nigeria’s vibrant upstream sector, had also paid the statutory application fee for the deal.

The commission noted that SNEPCO and NAE will bear the decommissioning and abandonment liabilities owed

by TotalEnergies to the federal government with respect to the divested interest.

The upstream regulator explained that the divestment is subject to a ministerial consent in line Sections 95(1), (2), (7), (11) and 12 of the PIA. The Commission therefore

said it expects SNEPco and NAE to pay 5 per cent and 2 per cent respectively of the transaction purse on the total value of $510,000,000 as premium on ministerial consent and processing fees.

The assignees are also to give an undertaking in favour of the Commission that they will bear all the decommissioning and abandonment liabilities and the host community liabilities owed by TotalEnergies, the statement added.

Also, the NUPRC yesterday issued an official clarification on the status of the TotalEnergies and Chappal Energies deal which first received ministerial consent on October 28, 2024.

The clarification, according to a statement by the spokesman of the commission, Akinkuotu, became imperative due to a

series of media enquiries.

The NUPRC added that the withdrawal of consent for the deal does not foreclose future divestment by any of the parties.

NUPRC had in 2024 conveyed a grant of ministerial consent to the transfer of TotalEnergies’ entire 10 per cent participating interest in the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) and Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) Joint Venture – excluding OMLs 23, 28 and 77 – to Telema Energies Nigeria Limited (owned by Chappal Energies).

Specifically, the divestment involved TotalEnergies’ 10 per cent participating interest in Oil Mining Leases (OML) 20, 21, Continued on page 35

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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2025 • THISDAY

NEWS

A Presidential Consultation?...

Former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan (left) on a visit to the residence of the National Chairman, African Democratic Congress (ADC), Senator David Mark, in Abuja, yesterday...

In Stunning Fall, Ex-French President, Sarkozy, Handed 5-year Jail Term Convicted of attempt to raise campaign funds from Libya

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja Former French President, Nicolas Sarkozy, was sentenced to five years in jail yesterday for criminal conspiracy over attempts to raise campaign funds from Libya and will soon become the first former president of France to serve time in prison.

The sentence was harsher than many expected and marked a spectacular downfall for Sarkozy, who was president from 2007-2012. He will spend time in jail even if he appeals the ruling - which he said he would do.

As he exited the courtroom, Sarkozy, visibly moved, expressed his anger at what

he said was a “scandalous” ruling, Reuters reported.

“If they absolutely want me to sleep in jail, I will sleep in jail, but with my head held high,” he told reporters, adding that he was innocent. “I will not apologise for something I didn’t do.”

“What happened today ... is of extreme gravity in

of late dictator Muammar Gaddafi. He was acquitted by the Paris court of all other charges, including corruption and receiving illegal campaign financing.

However, the prison sentence is enforceable immediately, with the judge saying Sarkozy would have just a short period to put his affairs in order before prosecutors call on him to head to jail.

That should happen within a month.

“We were shocked because when we started hearing the decision being read out, This major reform implies we thought his innocence that each certificate, diploma, would be recognised,” one honour or award paraded by of his lawyers, Jean-Michel anybody anywhere in Nigeria Darrois, told reporters. “We must mandatorily be earned hope the appeals court will from an accredited institution see things more clearly and and must be identifiable, trace- will recognise his innocence.” able, verifiable, and validatable Sarkozy, who has always at the click of buttons. denied the charges, was ac-

regard to the rule of law, and for the trust one can have in the justice system,” he said of the ruling, as his model and singer-songwriter wife Carla Bruni stood by him.

Sarkozy was found guilty of criminal conspiracy over efforts by close aides to procure funds for his 2007 presidential bid from Libya during the rule

FG to Begin Nationwide Crackdown on Fake Certificates, Honours from Next Month Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The federal government has directed a nationwide enforcement of the regulations in the national policy for Nigeria Education Repository and Databank (NERD) regarding academic credential verification processes from October 6.

This follows the growing outrage over the abuse of academic honours and persistent certificate racketeering by some individuals and syndicates nationwide.

The directive was contained in a service-wide circular issued by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, a copy of which was seen by THISDAY. At the end of the deadline, Ministries, Department and

Agencies (MDAs) as well as all higher institutions in Nigeria, whether civilian, military, private or public, are to commence the implementation of an intensive but structured verification of the academic credential of all staff and intending staff.

This will done through the National Credential Verification Service (NCVS) of the NERD programme and thereafter ensuring compliance for each new recruitment by obtaining an instant NCVS clearance affirming the authenticity of each academic credential presented anywhere within Nigeria before confirmation of appointment.

The circular also directed that henceforth, an NCVS clearance becomes part of the documentation for each

employee.

The clearance is to, among others, contain a National Credential Number (NCN) that belongs to that credential and ancillary document security codes assigned to each verified and validated academic credential for record purposes.

cused of making a deal with Gaddafi in 2005, when he was France’s interior minister, to obtain campaign financing in exchange for supporting the then-isolated Libyan government on the international stage.

The judge said there was no proof that Sarkozy made such a deal with Gaddafi, nor that money that was sent from Libya reached Sarkozy’s campaign coffers, even if the timing was “compatible” and the paths the money went through were “very opaque”.

But she said Sarkozy was guilty of criminal conspiracy between 2005 and 2007 for having let close aides get in touch with people in Libya to try and obtain campaign financing. From May 2007, he was president and covered by presidential immunity, the court added.

Civil Contractors Disclaim FG’s Reasons for Contracts’Termination The Federation of Construction Industry (FOCI), a body of building and civil contractors, has disputed the Minister of Works, David Umahi’s claim that contractors’ poor performance was responsible for the termination of contracts.

The President and Chairman of the Governing Council

of the group, Vincent Barrah, refuted the claims at a news conference during the organisation’s 69th Annual General Meeting yesterday in Abuja.

Barrah explained that FOCI has had issues with the Ministry of Works since 2024 regarding contract termination, re-awarding of existing

contracts as new ones, and the imposition of fresh contract conditions.

He added that other issues included the non-provision of standard contract conditions, unpaid signed work certificates, non-acceptance of price variations, and several other concerns. He explained that the termination of contracts

has forced many construction workers out of jobs.

“We are aware that where contracts are mutually terminated between the ministry and contractors due to unconducive conditions introduced by the ministry, we read in the newspapers that the termination was because of poor performance.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2025 • T H I S D AY

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T H I S D AY • FRIday SEPTEMBER 26, 2025

Politics

Acting Group Politics Editor DEJI ELUMOYE Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com 08033025611 sms only

Gov Yusuf’s Policy Transformation of Education Sector in Kano

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The education policy of Kano state Governor, Mallam Abba Yusuf, has turned around the educational sector in the state following the declaration of state of emergency.

n a year when over a million Nigerian students wrote their Senior School Certificate Examination, it was Kano State that stood out, carrying the banner of academic excellence to the very summit of the nation’s performance chart. The 2025 NECO results have placed Kano not only at the head of the federation but also at the heart of a new story which is a story of revival, resilience, and reward for visionary leadership.

When Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf declared a state of emergency in education last year, many thought it was rhetoric, the kind of political statement that usually fades once the campaigns are over. But Yusuf did more than talk. He gave life to his words by allocating a groundbreaking 30 per cent of the state’s annual budget to education, the highest in Nigeria, and then rolled out an Education Recovery Plan that touched every layer of the system.

The results of that decision now speak louder than any campaign promise. Out of 1,358,339 candidates nationwide, 818,492 secured five credits including Mathematics and English, while 1,144,496 obtained five credits regardless of the two subjects. Yet it was Kano’s 68,159 candidates who took the spotlight, outshining Lagos and Oyo to claim first position in the nation.

But Governor Yusuf did not stop there. As part of the deliberate policy, on Thursday, September 18, 2025, he added fresh fuel to Kano’s education revolution by recruiting 4,315 former BESDA volunteer teachers into permanent and pensionable service.

The event which took place at the Sani Abacha Indoor Stadium, where he handed appointment letters to the new recruits, the governor’s voice carried both hope and warning: “Dedication, integrity, and character-building must be your compass as you shape the future of our children.”

This was not an isolated gesture. It builds on earlier approvals including 5,500 teachers in 2023, 5,632 in 2024, and another 4,000 in May 2025, all absorbed into the teaching workforce from the BESDA voluntary scheme.

Perhaps, it is noteworthy that with Thursday’s recruitment, the governor has raised the army of educators even higher, reinforcing the frontline of a war against ignorance that Kano seems determined to win.

To further oil the machinery of reform, Yusuf announced the recruitment of 2,616 additional teachers, a ₦200 million vehicle loan scheme, and the distribution of 444 motorcycles and 300 computers to strengthen school supervision and evaluation. In addition, the governor directed the reopening of Shehu Minjibir Boarding Primary School with 180 pupils, upgraded another school in Ungogo into a boarding facility, and ordered the engagement of 17,000 watchmen to protect schools across the state.

Undeniably in Kano’s classrooms, the story of this victory is written in chalk dust, fresh paint, and renewed hope. At Rumfa College, where peeling walls and broken desks once defined the learning environment, newly refurbished classrooms now echo with optimism.

“For the first time in years, we feel empowered to teach,” said Malam Abdullahi, a senior teacher.

“These results are not by chance; they are the fruits of deliberate investment.”

Parents, too, have felt the transformation.

The burden of uniforms and textbooks has been lifted, replaced with free supplies provided by the state. “My daughter got her uniform, books, and sandals without me spending a naira,” said Aisha Ibrahim, a mother of three in Gwale. “I used the money I saved to enroll my two younger children. This is why I believe Kano is shining today.”

The students themselves are the proudest storytellers. At Government Girls Secondary School, Dala, a cluster of jubilant graduates huddled together, celebrating their performance.

“We had good teachers, new classrooms, and the encouragement to push harder,” said 17-year-old Fatima Sulaiman, who dreams of becoming a

doctor. “This is not just our success, it is Kano’s success.”

Observers see in this outcome more than just numbers, they see a revival. Years of neglect had left Kano’s education sector crumbling, with rising out-of-school children and collapsing infrastructure. Governor Yusuf’s interventions—rehabilitating schools, training teachers, offering scholarships, and pushing girl-child education—have stitched back the torn fabric

of public education in the state. The Nigeria Union of Teachers, which earlier named him “Education Governor of the Year,” now calls this success the natural harvest of purposeful governance.

Governor Yusuf himself, visibly elated, captured the spirit of the moment.

“Our reforms are clearly yielding results, and this outstanding performance by our students proves that Kano is on the right path. Education

remains our top priority, and we will continue working tirelessly to ensure no child in Kano is left behind,” he said.

Beyond Kano, the nation is taking notice.

Professor Grace Nnamani, an educationist at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, described the feat as “a wake-up call to other states.” She remarked: “Kano has shown that with serious investment, public schools can compete with the best anywhere in Nigeria. The model should not just be admired; it should be replicated.”

Similarly, Dr. Mohammed Adamu, a policy analyst based in Abuja, said the achievement points to what Nigeria must do to fix its education crisis. “The success story in Kano is proof that education must not only be funded but funded with vision. This is the kind of leadership that should inspire a national rethink on how we prioritize our children’s future,” he noted.

Indeed, Kano’s triumph in NECO 2025 is more than a milestone—it is a manifesto for Nigeria’s future. It shows that classrooms can be rebuilt, confidence can be restored, and excellence can be cultivated if leaders treat education as a sacred duty rather than an afterthought. What happened in Kano is not a miracle; it is the logical consequence of vision, investment, and courage.

Therefore, as Nigeria grapples with the challenge of millions of out-of-school children and a struggling public school system, Kano has lit a lamp that others can follow. The state has become a model of what is possible when leaders invest in the minds of the young, and in doing so, invest in the destiny of the nation.

The echoes of this success will not end with the publication of NECO’s results. They will ripple into the universities, the industries, and the communities of tomorrow. They will shape a generation of doctors, engineers, teachers, and dreamers who will look back and say: in 2025, Kano chose education, and by choosing education, it chose the future for itself, and for Nigeria.

The Ogun State We Deserve

Tolu Odebiyi writes on the need for all stakeholders in the Ogun State project to work in unison towards ensuring that the Gateway State becomes a model of peace and prosperity.

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comeback opportunity.

Meanwhile, zoning has emerged as a pressing issue. Since Ogun’s creation, Ogun West has never produced a governor. With Governor Dapo Abiodun completing his second term in 2027, the call for rotation is stronger than ever. Aspirants such as Senator Adeola “Yayi” Solomon (Ogun West), Ambassador Sarafa Ishola (Central) and many others yet to identify are already shaping the coming contest.

The stakes are high. If Ogun’s political class allows rivalry to overshadow unity, the people will once again be denied the development they deserve.

hen Ogun State was created on February 3, 1976, from the old Western State, it was not merely another boundary drawn on Nigeria’s map. It was conceived as the “Gateway State”—a bridge between cultures, economies, and opportunities. Nearly half a century later, Ogun remains central to Nigeria’s story: a cradle of education, home to industrial corridors, and a custodian of Yoruba heritage.

Yet, for all its promise, Ogun has not fully lived up to its potential. The state continues to wrestle with political divisions, uneven development, and neglected infrastructure. The Ogun State we deserve must be one that rises above rivalry to embrace unity, statesmanship, and vision-driven governance.

From Legacy to Opportunity Ogun’s history is rich. Missionary schools such as St. Peter’s School, Ake (1843)—Nigeria’s oldest primary school—and Baptist Boys High School, Abeokuta, which produced Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Olusegun Obasanjo and Chief MKO Abiola, made Ogun an intellectual powerhouse. Agriculture and trade further cemented its position as a hub of prosperity.

Today, as Lagos expands, Ogun functions as Nigeria’s foremost industrial corridor.

Ota, Agbara, Sagamu, and Ifo host cement plants, breweries, and factories that feed the nation’s economy. Yet this growth coexists with neglected rural communities, underfunded schools, and healthcare gaps. Modern highways like Lagos-Ibadan pass through Ogun, but

many internal roads remain impassable.

Ogun has the pedigree of greatness. What it needs is the political will to match history with present opportunities.

The Challenge of Division Since 1976, Ogun has produced leaders of thought, icons of art, and titans of commerce. But too often, politics has been marked by rivalry rather than unity. Defections, factional disputes, and personality-driven battles have weakened governance and slowed progress.

The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has delivered some gains but faces internal cracks that threaten cohesion. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), on the other hand, is working to rebuild its grassroots base, eyeing 2027 as a

Peace-Building and Statesmanship Peace is more than the absence of conflict—it is the deliberate act of reconciliation and inclusion. Ogun’s diversity—Egba, Ijebu, Yewa, Remo—should be a strength, not a source of rivalry. Leaders must choose dialogue over rancour, forgiveness over grudges, and collaboration over conflict.

But beyond peace lies a higher calling: statesmanship. A politician thinks about the next election; a statesman thinks about the next generation. What Ogun needs are leaders who can imagine the next 20 years, not just the next ballot.

-Odebiyi, a Senator during the Ninth National Assembly, writes from Lagos.

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

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T H I S D AY • FRIday SEPTEMBER 26, 2025

politics

Raw Shea Butter: Kwara to Open Nigeria’s Second Largest Processing Plant

As Trump Roasts the UN, Kwara State has finalised plans to establish Raw Butter Processing factory in Kaiama, the American Allies Wonder... Shea Northern senatorial district of the state.

President of the United States, Donald J. Trump, returned on September 23, 2025, with an incendiary speech at the UN General Assembly in New York. Chido Nwangwu delivers insights and relevant context to discuss Trump’s fistful of stones against his named enemies and undiplomatic swipes to his allies in Europe, and elsewhere.

Trump gave Hamas, Putin another red card and set upon the host of this global powerhouse event.

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ithout mincing words, President of the United States, Donald Trump, did not leave anyone in any shadow of doubt about his low regard for the United Nations. During his controversial speech to the UN General Assembly (UNGA) in New York on September 23, 2025, he said that “The United Nations has not been a partner as the US negotiates peace around the globe... The UN has not been effective…. Not only is the U.N. not solving the problems it should, it, too often, is actually creating new problems for us to solve.” The Republican President cites the sympathetic disposition of the global organization to global migration and facilitations of peaceful resolution of most conflicts (where it can) as very revealing: “The best example is the number one political issue of our time: the crisis of uncontrolled migration.

It is uncontrolled.” Mercifully and with a hint of I-told-you-so, he asserted: “Your countries are being ruined.”

He bluntly told his European allies that their countries were going to “hell!”

He left no one confused as to his core position. It is anchored on “America First” and doing business with other countries with the critical addition of tariffs.

For Trump, the European allies should pay or be ready to become servants of the threatening forces across their long borders.

While Trump continues to raise fears of the “other” countries and cultures as existential threats, Harry S. Truman, the 33rd President of the United States (1945–1953), took the position that “The United Nations is designed to make possible lasting freedom and independence for all its members.”

Antonio Guterres, United Nations SecretaryGeneral, took a long look at the UN and the world in a September 2025 publication to state that “Eight decades later, one can draw a direct line between the creation of the United Nations and the prevention of a third world war.”

Various American Presidents and different leaders on the international arena hold the United Nations to different levels of respect.

While some commend their efforts and work, some hold the UN in measured disregard.

From the formative years of the UN, European leaders, American Presidents and others have provided the strong shoulders and resources to carry forth the global reach of its founding. They united to fund and extend the capacity to support the countries in need or at war. The UN continues to make nonviolent interventions with the soft power of

caring and supporting troubled communities and countries with encompassing necessities through disasters and conflicts. They have achieved those goals working through their huge logistics.

The United Nations, since it was established in 1945 “provides leadership to make the world a safer, collaborative.” The UN Charter was signed on June 26, and came into effect on October 24.

Most times, a leader’s agenda of interests holds the key to understanding the different perspectives.

Some of those reflect their long-held ideological background and view of the competitive battle and quests for leverage around the world.

They could be positions emerging from the changing geopolitical transformations and dynamics of a region.

It could be a move to secure access to strategic raw materials, precious minerals or entry into a large and profitable market. Of course, there could be a number of other considerations to enhance the arsenal of power and influence of a country!

On the issues of climate change and other environmental matters, which he characterized as a ”con job” by former President of the United States Barack Obama, Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong noted that she “will keep making the case for climate action because it is in our national interest and in the world’s interest.”

Second, Trump’s stated demographic preferences for international relations and migration seem to minimize the extraordinary skills and successes of young Africans.

Third, he appears patronizing in the manner of interaction and has inadequate channels to engage African countries and leaders.

Fourth, his anti-immigration, anti-migrant education visa programs and shutting off many scholarship opportunities for Africa’s needy but brilliant students need to be revisited.

President Trump remembers the personal memories from the UN event: “These are the two things I got from the United Nations - a bad escalator and a bad teleprompter”.

He said that his wife, Melania Trump nearly fell due to an escalator problem.

-Dr Nwangwu is the Founder of the first African-owned, U.S-based newspaper on the internet, USAfricaonline.com, and established USAfrica in 1992 in Houston. He served as an adviser on Africa business to Houston’s former Mayor, Lee Brown.

Follow him on X @Chido247.

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wara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has applauded the ban on exportation of raw Shea butter by President Bola Tinubu, saying the step will encourage more production and strengthen the local value chain of the prized cash crop.

The President’s directive came just as Kwara State prepares to launch its 50-tonne Shea processing factory in Kaiama, the second largest in the country and the biggest owned by a state government.

The Shea butter factory is one of the many economic projects of Governor AbdulRazaq.

According to Governor AbdulRazaq, the presidential directive will spur local production, improve quality, and generate jobs across the value chain.

He said the Shea butter factory in Kaiama is meant to stimulate economic activities in Kwara North, given its potential to hire several local workers, including women farmers and pickers.

“Locating the factory within Kaiama puts the people at the centre of local Shea production, ensures local ownership of benefits, such as job creation, reduced post harvest losses, and value retention in Kaiama,” the Governor said in a statement.

“This project exemplifies backward and forward integration as it combines raw material sourcing, processing, and market access in one locality.”

Kwara and Niger states, among others, are the hearts of Shea nut trees in Nigeria. Kwara North alone is credited with over 250,000 nature and producing trees spread across 6,000 hectares of land.

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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2025 • THISDAY

POLITY

Faith, Values & Education: Reforming Nigeria’s Curriculum to Protect The Next Generation

By Gloria Amiida Adebajo-Fraser

CAN, the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, and the Association of Traditional Religion Practitioners.

The Council would vet all religious content for fairness, doctrinal integrity, and constitutional compliance.

This inclusive approach would foster trust, prevent bias, and build ownership across communities.

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ducation is not only about literacy and numeracy; it is the foundation for shaping values, beliefs, and future citizens. When education is used fairly, it builds bridges across communities. But when it becomes a weapon of indoctrination, it sows division, mistrust, and strife. Nigeria today faces such a crossroad with the Federal Ministry of Education’s 9-Year Basic Education Curriculum on “Religion and National Values,” a policy document produced by the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC).

Allegations have surfaced that this curriculum contains teachings that elevate one religion while diminishing another, directly contradicting Nigeria’s constitutional principle of secularism. Specifically, references in the curriculum for Primary 1–3 (pages 17 and 46) present Islam as supreme while dismissing foundational beliefs of Christianity. Left unaddressed, such biases risk inflaming sectarian tensions in an already fragile society.

This report examines the issues at stake, the constitutional and historical context, lessons from other nations, and—most importantly—what reforms are urgently needed to ensure fairness, inclusivity, and peace.

The Problem in the Curriculum The current controversy focuses on two passages: 1. Page 17 – Islamic Studies (Sarah and Tahdib): Pupils are taught that Prophet Mohammed is the seal of all prophets, sent to the whole world, and that the Qur’an is the final guidance of Allah to mankind.

2. Page 46 – Same curriculum: Pupils are taught that Jesus (Prophet Isa) is not the Son of God and that He was never crucified.

From a Christian perspective, these statements are deeply offensive and undermine the essence of their faith. The crucifixion and divine sonship of Jesus are non-negotiable doctrines in Christianity. To teach otherwise in a compulsory school curriculum is not only provocative but also a direct assault on Christian identity.

Although NERDC claims that Christian Religious Knowledge (CRK) and Islamic Studies are to be taught separately, evidence shows that in many Northern states CRK teachers are deliberately not employed. This forces Christian pupils to sit through Islamic instruction, creating an environment of coercion and indoctrination.

Constitutional Safeguards Being Ignored The Nigerian Constitution clearly rejects religious domination: Section 10: “The Government of the Federation or of a State shall not adopt any religion as State Religion.”

Section 38(1): “Every person shall be entitled to freedom of thought, conscience and religion…including freedom…to manifest and propagate his religion or belief in worship, teaching, practice and observance.”

By including derogatory teachings about Jesus Christ in a compulsory curriculum, the state effectively privileges one religion over others. In practice, when CRK is unavailable in some states, Christian pupils are compelled

Recommendations

Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa

to sit under Islamic indoctrination. This is a constitutional violation and a betrayal of Nigeria’s secular foundation.

The Missing Third Voice: Nigeria’s Traditional Religions One striking omission in this entire debate is Nigeria’s indigenous faiths—the traditional religions that shaped morality and spirituality before Islam and Christianity arrived. Colonialism and missionary activity demonized these faiths, branding them “pagan” or “diabolical.” But history tells a different story.

Ifa (Yoruba religion) is today recognized globally as an intangible heritage of humanity

by UNESCO. Its corpus of wisdom (the Odu Ifa) contains teachings on justice, integrity, communal responsibility, and respect for nature.

Proverbs such as “Iwa l’ewa” (character is beauty) highlight the Yoruba understanding that good moral character outweighs outward appearances.

In Igbo cosmology, Odinani emphasizes truth (Eziokwu bu ndu – Truth is life).

Across the Niger Delta, ancestral traditions stress justice and retribution for wrongdoing.

Ironically, while Ifa priests are respected in academic circles abroad and Ifa philosophy is studied in universities in the U.S. and Brazil, Nigeria itself marginalizes this heritage in its classrooms.

As Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka has repeatedly argued, suppressing indigenous faiths weakens cultural identity and leaves a vacuum often exploited by extremists. Former President Olusegun Obasanjo himself has acknowledged participating in traditional rites alongside Christianity, recognizing their cultural significance.

A river that forgets its source dries up.

Nigeria cannot continue to erase its indigenous faiths while struggling with inter-religious conflict. Inclusion of traditional religion in curricula is not only fair but essential for preserving heritage and strengthening moral values.

Shared Moral Values Across Religions All major religions practiced in Nigeria— Christianity, Islam, and traditional religions— contain moral codes that shape good citizens.

The curriculum should emphasize these

unifying principles rather than sow division.

Christianity: The Bible teaches love, honesty, and humility. “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it” (Proverbs 22:6). Jesus summarized morality as: “Love your neighbor as yourself” (Mark 12:31).

Islam: The Qur’an emphasizes justice, compassion, and respect. “Indeed, Allah commands justice, good conduct, and giving to relatives and forbids immorality, bad conduct, and oppression” (Qur’an 16:90).

Ifa Religion: The Odu Ifa stresses good character and truth. One verse declares: “Iwa rere l’eso eniyan” (Good character is the ornament of a person).

These teachings converge on the same truth: society flourishes when children are raised to be truthful, compassionate, respectful, and just. Instead of amplifying doctrinal differences, Nigeria’s curriculum should highlight these shared values.

Lessons from Other Nations Indonesia (Muslim-majority): Ensures every child is taught their religion by teachers of the same faith. No pupil is forced to learn another faith.

India (multi-religious): Offers optional religious studies but emphasizes civic and moral education as a unifying subject.

Ghana (Christian-majority but secular): Introduces moral and civic education rooted in universal values, leaving faith-based teaching to optional streams.

Nigeria must adopt similar safeguards.

Compulsory religious instruction without equal representation only fuels resentment.

Moral and civic education, highlighting honesty, respect, unity, and justice, should be the common foundation for all pupils.

Why Religious Leaders Must Be Involved The present crisis stems partly from the insular design of the curriculum. If the curriculum had been vetted by leaders of all faiths—Christian, Muslim, and Traditional—offensive or biased content would never have passed.

Proposed model: Establish a National Religious Curriculum Review Council with representatives from

1. Immediate Removal of Offensive Content: Expunge statements denying Christian doctrines or claiming religious supremacy.

2. Faith-Specific Instruction: Pupils should be taught only the religion of their choice (CRK, Islamic Studies, or Traditional Religion Studies).

3. Equal Teacher Recruitment: Federal and state governments must employ qualified teachers for all recognized faiths. Refusal to employ CRK teachers is systemic discrimination.

4. Optional Religious Studies: Where equal teacher provision cannot be guaranteed, religious studies should not be compulsory.

5. Curriculum Review Council: Religious leaders from Christianity, Islam, and traditional faiths should be mandated to co-create and review the curriculum.

6. Emphasis on Moral and Civic Education: The unifying subject across all pupils should be civic and moral education, grounded in shared values across religions.

7. Inclusion of Traditional Religion: Indigenous faiths like Ifa, Odinani, and others must be respected and integrated to preserve cultural heritage.

Conclusion Nigeria stands at a delicate point in its history. Sectarian violence, terrorism, and distrust already plague the nation. To allow a biased curriculum to shape young minds is to plant seeds of future conflict.

The Federal Government must urgently act: respect constitutional rights, expunge offensive content, and design a truly inclusive curriculum that reflects all faiths—Christianity, Islam, and traditional religions alike.

Education should unite, not divide. If Nigeria can embrace its diversity and highlight shared moral values, it can raise a generation that values truth, justice, and peace. As the Qur’an teaches, “Do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just” (Qur’an 5:8). As the Bible affirms, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God” (Matthew 5:9).

And as Ifa wisdom reminds us, “Good character is the guardian of destiny.”

The path forward is clear: inclusivity, fairness, and justice. Anything less is a betrayal of Nigeria’s children and its future.

“Religious studies must be compulsory in all Nigerian schools. At a time when moral decadence, drug abuse, and foreign internet-driven excesses threaten our children, religion offers the values and discipline to keep them grounded. It is a safety net that builds emotionally strong youths, resistant to destructive trends, and prepares them to become principled leaders. If we fail to embed this foundation now, we risk losing the next generation “.

•Princess Gloria Amiida Adebajo-Fraser MFR. The National Patriots.

17

THISDAY • FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2025

PERSPECTIVE

The New Vista of Kabiyesi Rashidi Ladoja Beckons

By Ayoola Ajanaku

I

n the annals of Ibadan existential parameters and Yoruba cultural history, few figures embody the duality of politics and tradition.

As profoundly as Olubadandesignate, Kabiyesi Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, who held the revered title of Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland and former governor of Oyo State. For decades, he has traversed the delicate line between partisan leadership and stewardship, leaving indelible footprints in both arenas. He ascends the throne of his forebears via the cultural role that crowns his storied trajectory. The vista that lies before him is not merely one of retirement from active politics but a Renaissance influence rooted in heritage, wisdom, and statesmanship.

The DNA of this revered statesman began when he was born on September 25, 1944. Rashidi Ladoja rose from humble beginnings in Gambari, Ibadan, to become a towering figure in business and politics. A chemical engineer by training, he first distinguished himself in the corporate ecosystem, working with Total Nigeria before venturing into private enterprise. Yet, his deeper calling emerged in the public square, where his charisma, intellect, and relentless pursuit of justice earned him a place in Nigeria’s often turbulent political space.

His years as governor of Oyo State (2003-2007) remain a defining chapter.

Though marred by political intrigues that include a controversial impeachment and eventual reinstatement. Ladoja left behind enduring legacies in education, urban development, and grassroots development. His tenure was marked by the pragmatism of a technocrat and the empathy of a leader attuned to the pulse of his people.

From a helicopter perspective, politics is only one part of his story.

For Ibadan, a city whose identity is deeply intertwined with its traditional institutions, Ladoja’s cultural journey was equally significant. His ascension much earlier to the revered position of Otun Olubadan - the second in line to the throne signalled not just the continuation of his service, but a preparation for an even higher calling within the storied hierarchy of Ibadan chieftaincy.

For Ladoja, politics and tradition have never been mutually exclusive.

Both have served as platforms for service to humanity. One window through governance and the other through custodianship of culture. In the Yoruba worldview, leadership is not confined to elections or offices; it is an eternal duty that evolves with time and circumstance.

Thus, his odyssey from Agodi

Kabiyesi Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja

Government House to the Ibadan traditional council chambers appears less a shift and more a natural continuum.

It reflects that the Yoruba traditional institutions face the challenge of asserting relevance in a rapidly modernising Nigeria. For many, the presence of figures like Ladoja who combine modern political experience with deep cultural grounding offers a unique opportunity for renewal.

Unlike many traditional personas who come from purely aristocratic or cultural backgrounds, Ladoja brings the rare combination of modern governance experience, business acumen, and political savvy. He understands the mechanics of power, the nuances of negotiation, and the demands of public accountability. These skills position him as more than a ceremonial elder; they make him a custodian capable of

bridging generational divides.

His political journey, though turbulent, has also been instructive.

The impeachment saga of 2006, which temporarily truncated his governorship, tested his resilience and highlighted the fissures within Nigeria’s political architecture. Yet, his eventual reinstatement by the courts underscored his faith in justice and his refusal to capitulate under pressure.

Such experiences have sharpened his sense of endurance, a virtue that traditional leadership in the 21st century demands.

The road ahead presents challenges.

The politics of succession within Ibadan’s chieftaincy hierarchy has historically been fraught with disputes, reforms, and even litigation. Ladoja himself has not been immune to controversies surrounding chieftaincy reforms initiated

by successive governments in Oyo State.

Yet, his measured approach, balancing respect for tradition with insistence on due process, has often placed him as a moderating voice. As soon as he ascends the throne of his forbears, this reputation for balance will be tested and perhaps consolidated.

There is also the broader question of how traditional rulers in Nigeria can remain relevant in an era dominated by elected officials and modern state institutions. Like a recurring decimal, Ladoja’s hybrid experience offers him an edge. He knows the limits of power in both systems and is thus well-positioned to craft a role that is both respectful of tradition and attuned to modern governance realities.

For the people of Ibadan, Ladoja represents continuity. His life mirrors the city’s ethos: resilient, ambitious, and deeply rooted in heritage. Ibadan, with its sprawling landscape and layered history, has always been a city of paradoxes - modern yet traditional, urban yet communal, cosmopolitan yet culturally proud. In many ways, Ladoja personifies these paradoxes, embodying the city’s quest to harmonise its past with its future.

His vista, therefore, is not merely personal. It is emblematic of Ibadan’s evolving identity within Nigeria’s federation. It is about positioning the city’s traditional stool not just as a cultural relic, but as an institution with moral voice, societal relevance, and enduring influence.

In a nutshell, as Kabiyesi Rashidi Ladoja embarks on this new chapter, what beckons is neither a retreat into ceremonial obscurity nor a mere continuation of old routines. It is the possibility of redefining what it means to be a traditional ruler in modern Nigeria.

A custodian of heritage, mediator of conflicts, a voice for development, and above all, a statesman for the ages.

The new vista before him is one of wisdom applied to service, of tradition infused with modernity and leadership that transcends offices and titles. For Ibadan, for Oyo, and for the Yoruba nation, Kabiyesi Rashidi Ladoja stands as a bridge between what was, what is, and what can yet be. Indeed, the vista beckons, and Kabiyesi, ever the servant leader, is poised to answer. In alignment with the “Omoluabi” ethos, it is most appropriate for this author to pay homage to the throne of his Royal Highness.

“Kabiyesi oooooo!!!’

“Ki’iiii Ade pe lori!!!”

“Ki’iiii Bata pe lese!!!”

“Ki’iiii irukere di abere!!!”

“Ase a pe lenu!!!”….

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

21

T H I S D AY • FRIday, September 26, 2025

BUSINESSWORLD R A T E S

MONEY MARKET

A S

A T

REPO

Group Business Editor Eromosele Abiodun Email oriarehu.eromosele@thisdaylive.com

08056356325, 07034471123

S e p te m b er

S & P INDEX

2 5 , 2 0 2 5

S & P INDEX

EXCHANGE RATE

OPR

25.34%

CALL

23.25%

INDEX LEVEL

595.26

1/4 to daTE

0.24%

N1,526,27/ 1 US DOLLAR*

OVERNIGHT

25.18%

1-MONTH

21.37%

1-DAY

0.10%

YEAR TO DATE

-10.99%

*AS AT THUR, Sept. 25, 2025

3-MONTH

22.41%

MONTH-TO-DATE

0.24%

Nigeria Loses $2bn Annually to Expatriate Pilots as Domestic Carriers Make U-turn on Training Indigenous Counterparts Chinedu Eze It has emerged that Nigeria spends over $2 billion annually on expatriate pilots who fly for schedule commercial airlines, charter service operators, and private jet owners.

It was learnt that Nigerian airline operators and aircraft owners pay expatriate pilots about $7,000 per month, and those that have about 3000 flight hours can insist on more, since most of the private aircraft owners and charter operators have foreign pilots.

The key reason for having a lot of expatriate pilots in the country is because Nigerian airlines have stopped training indigenous pilots on the grounds that after training they leave the airline that trained them and move to other airlines when offered bigger emoluments.

According to industry experts, this is hurting the aviation industry because young Nigerians who have Commercial Pilot Licence from the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria, cannot be

taken by airlines to type rate (specialize in particular aircraft types) and build their flight hours because after the training they leave the airline and go to another airline where they would be paid higher.

In different parts of the world, including the United States, pilots sign bonds with the airline that trained them; that they will work for certain number of years with the airline and would be free to leave, if they wished, after that number of years. But in Nigeria, the Nigeria Civil

Aviation Authority (NCAA) refused to protect the bonds, a situation that gives trained pilots the opportunity to leave the airlines that trained them to other airlines after being trained by a particular airline.

This has given rise to poaching, whereby airlines pay more to attract pilots trained by other airlines.

This has also led to higher salary package for pilots, as airlines jostle to employ the pilots that have acquired the required flight experience like Captains and Senior Flight Officers. It has

also led to animosities and rivalries among local airlines.

In addition, it has led to the unemployment of many Nigerians that have trained as pilots but are yet to build flight hours and also type-rated on particular aircraft types. In 2010, the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) put the number of unemployed Nigerian pilots at 300, but in the last 15 years, that number must have doubled, and this is despite the fact that pilots are highly sought after in the world.

THISDAY investigation revealed that Nigerian airlines pay expatriate pilots more than what they pay to their Nigerian counterparts. They pay them in dollars and are granted more holidays than they do to their Nigerian counterparts. So, they lose money engaging them, but they feel it is better than spending whopping amount of money on training pilots that usually leave to other airlines after their training.

The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

L-R: Assistant Director, Corporate Communications, Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Dr. Segun Alabi; Director, Membership Services Nigerian Institute of Mangement (NIM), Abayomi Folarin; Honorable Life Vice President Chambers Of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Remi Alo; Director-General of LCCI, Dr. Chinyere Almona; Deputy President LCCI, Leye Kupoluyi; Registrar/Chief Executive Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria (CIPM), Oluwatoyin Naiwo; President AIESEC ALUMNI Nigeria, Marcel Mba and Legal Officer, Nigeria Employers’​Consultative Association (NECA), Tomiloba Babarinde during a press conference on 41st Omolayole management lecture held in Lagos… recently

‘FG Economic Policies Have Advanced the Nation’s Economic Stability’ Hammed Shittu in Ilorin

The Chairman of Basic Metal Sector, Iron and Steel Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (BMSISMAN), Mr. Lekan Adewoye has said that, the economic policies put in place by the federal government have advanced the economic growth and stability of the nation.

Fielding questions from journalists in Ilorin, Kwara state capital on the state of the nation, Mr. Adewoye said that, the removal of fuel subsidy and stabilisation of foreign exchange rate have brought a strong economic stability to the country.

He acknowledged the positive impacts of the petroleum subsidy removal on the nation’s economic.

“I think things have

changed. At the initial stage, we could see a sharp increase in the prices of commodities, but now that things are stabilising.

We can begin to say that prices of commodities are coming down gradually. I know you can also attest to the fact that the price of rice is gradually coming down.

“So I think Nigerians should just be patient. I

believe the government is doing the right thing and all of us will have to wait and see the result of this very necessary policies of the government,” he said.

Adewoye however appealed to Nigerians to be patient with the President on the economic reforms being implemented by his administration.

He also urged Nigerians to reelect Tinubu in the 2027

general elections to enable him fully implement his economic policies.

He maintained that giving Tinubu another four years would enable Nigerians to feel the positive impacts of his economic policies.

Noting the concerns of some Nigerians on the removal of petroleum subsidy, Adewoye noted that other presidential candidates in the last

general elections also pledged to do the same thing.

Adewoye said, “The performance of the president is fantastic. I know people have some concerns, but I think what is important for us is to look at where we were when this administration came on board in 2023.

The story continues online on

www.thisdaylive.com

M a r k e t d ata A s at T h u r s d ay, S e p t e m b e r 2 5 , 2 0 2 5

BONDS

Description Price Yield Change Updated Time (%) ^16.2884 17September 98.79 17.24 0.00 25, 2025 MAR-2027 September ^19.94 20103.83 16.91 -0.01 25, 2025 MAR-2027 ^13.98 23September 94.18 17.00 0.00 25, FEB-2028 2025 ^21.00 20September 108.03 16.91 0.00 MAR-2028 25, 2025 ^14.55 26September 107.42 16.45 0.00 APR-2029 25, 2025

BILLS Maturity NTB 9-Oct25 NTB 6-Nov25 NTB 4-Dec25 NTB 8-Jan26 NTB 5-Feb26

Discount Yield

Change (%) Updated Time

16.32

16.42

September -0.01 25, 2025

16.47

16.79

September -0.01 25, 2025

17.17

17.75

September -0.01 25, 2025

16.55

17.38

September -0.01 25, 2025

18.69

September -0.01 25, 2025

17.50

CLEARED NAIRA-SETTLED NDFS

CPs Maturity SALC CP II 3-OCT-25 SIBP CP I 11DEC-25 CILE CP V 11-DEC-25 EULL CP IX 18-JAN-26 SKIS CP XV 23-JAN-26

Discount Yield 20.89

20.98

19.06

19.85

22.69

23.83

19.93

21.26

20.47

21.94

Change (%)

Updated Time

September -0.01 25, 2025 September -0.01 25, 2025 September 0.00 25, 2025 September 0.00 25, 2025 September 0.05 25, 2025

Contract Current Tenor Contract Rate ($/₦) (Month) NGUS OCT 13M – 28 2026 NGUS NOV 14M – 25 2026 NGUS DEC 15M – 30 2026 NGUS JAN 16M – 27 2027 NGUS FEB 17M – 24 2027

Updated Time

September 25, 2025 September 25, 2025 September 25, 2025 September 25, 2025 September 25, 2025

22

FRIday, September 26, 2025 • T H I S D AY

BUSINESSWORLD

Air watch

Nigeria Seeks ICAO Support, Canvasses Re-election to Governing Council

Stories by Chinedu Eze

Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has urged the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) to deepen its technical and institutional assistance for developing nations.

Speaking at the 42nd ICAO Assembly in Montreal, Canada, Keyamo canvassed for targeted help to manage the country’s rapid growth in air traffic, which is increasing by

more than eight per cent annually.

Keyamo urged ICAO to support Nigeria in safety oversight, climate-resilient infrastructure, and digital transformation, saying that this is crucial because “no nation should be left behind in the pursuit of a truly global, inclusive, and future-ready aviation ecosystem.”

He stressed Nigeria’s long-standing commitment to ICAO, having been a council member since 1962 and having ratified every

major international air-law instrument.

The minister also showcased Nigeria’s leadership in promoting aviation safety across Africa, particularly through its hosting and funding of the Banjul Accord Group’s Aviation Safety Oversight Organization (BAGASOO) and Accident Investigation Agency (BAGAIA).

The regional commitment is part of Nigeria’s broader strategy to become West Africa’s most competitive aviation hub.

Onyema: UK Govt Powered Air Peace’s London Flights Nigeria’s major carrier, Air Peace, has described its approval to operate scheduled flights from Nigeria into both London Gatwick and London Heathrow Airports as a historic milestone for the Nigerian aviation sector.

He therefore attributed the breakthrough to the support that the airline received from the UK

government.

The Chairman of Air Peace, Dr. Allen Onyema, who disclosed this in |Lagos, said the achievement was remarkable because it has taken seven years for any Nigerian airline to secure such access, underscoring the resilience of the airline and the support it has enjoyed from the United

Kingdom.

Onyema commended the British Deputy High Commissioner for Lagos, Jonny Baxter, describing him as “a diplomat par excellence” whose unwavering commitment and fairness ensured that Air Peace received everything necessary to begin its operations into the United Kingdom.

The Managing Director/ CEO of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, has been elected as the Vice President of Airport Council International (ACI), Africa.

FAAN said in a statement that the election is evidence of Kuku’s good leadership and efficient ways she has been managing the agency, which is in charge of 26 airports owned by the Federal Government of Nigeria.

The agency also disclosed that this election has elevated Kuku from

her previous role as Regional Advisor for Africa to a permanent member on the ACI World Governing Board.

The ratification took place during the 34th ACI Africa General Assembly held in Lusaka, Zambia at the weekend.

FAAN also explained that with 56 member states across Africa, ACI Africa plays a vital role in advocating for the

interests of aviation across the continent.

The ACI World Governing Board oversees approximately 2,100 airports globally and is comprised of 814 members across 169 countries. In her new position, Kuku will champion initiatives aimed at promoting safe and passenger-centric airports and enhancing connectivity throughout Africa.

FAAN MD Elected as VC of ACI Africa

Group Business Editor Eromosele Abiodun Deputy Business Editor Chinedu Eze Comms/e-Business Editor Emma Okonji Asst. Editor, Energy Emmanuel Addeh Asst. Editor, Money Market Nume Ekeghe Correspondents KayodeTokede(CapitalMarkets) James Emejo (Finance) Ebere Nwoji (Insurance) Reporter Peter Uzoho (Energy)

SAHCO to Handle Air Tanzania Ground Services in Lagos Skyway Aviation Handling Company (SAHCO) Plc has secured the contract to provide ground handling operations to Air Tanzania at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, Nigeria.

SAHCO is providing comprehensive ground handling services, which includes Passenger Handling, Baggage Handling, Ramp Handling, Cargo Handling and Warehousing and other aviation related services.

Air Tanzania would be flying from its hub at Julius Nyerere International Airport, Dar es Salaam, three times in

a week to Lagos.

Speaking on the development, the Managing Director/CEO of SAHCO, Mrs. Adenike Aboderin, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Air Tanzania to Lagos and are honored they have chosen SAHCO Plc as their trusted ground handling partner. This contract is a testament to our team’s expertise, state-of-the-art equipment, and unwavering dedication to operational excellence and safety. We are fully prepared to support Air Tanzania’s new service, ensuring a seamless and efficient experience for their passengers and cargo.”

A i r Watch

Boosting Intra-Africa Travel, Tourism

Chinedu Eze After many years of travelling to Europe, US and Middle East for holidays, Nigerians and other African travellers are beginning to realise that Africa could be a better destination to spend their holidays.

Africans are just beginning to realise that Africa may have more than the things that take them to other destinations for holidays and they are beginning to appreciate the natural endowments that litter across the African continent, hence the current drive to promote intra-Africa tourism, which is gaining momentum in recent times.

Also, the stringent visa policies introduced by European, Middle East as well as US governments helped to make Africans realise that they could spend their money on the continent, helping their own economies to grow and also supporting their own airlines.

This is one of the major reasons why Air Tanzania decided to establish direct flight from Dar es Salaam, Capital of Tanzania to Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial megacity.

Air Tanzania last week officially launched direct flights between Dar es Salaam and Lagos marking a new era of connectivity, trade and cultural exchange between Nigeria and Tanzania.

The historic route was unveiled at a glamorous ceremony in Lagos.

The launch event brought together senior representatives of the Nigerian and Tanzanian governments, tourism, business executives, logistics operators and members of the African diaspora in Nigeria.

Tanzania Ambassador to Nigeria, Selestine Kakele, hailed the launch as “the dawn of a new chapter; a bridge across the skies connecting two magnificent nations, Nigeria and Tanzania, and two great cities: Lagos on the west coast and Dar es Salaam on the east.”

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development in Nigeria, Festus Keyamo, represented by Mrs. Janet Oputa, congratulated Air Tanzania and pledged government strong support for the new service. He emphasised that the route would enhance trade, tourism, and cultural exchange while also advancing the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM).

Tanzanian Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Transport, Prof. Godius Kahyarara, who led the Tanzanian government delegation to the launch, said: “What Air Tanzania is aiming at is to ensure that the national carrier connects to major destinations on the continent. Air Tanzania has already connected to other sub-regions of Africa and it is now connecting to West Africa, starting with Lagos.

This is important because Nigerians are already travelling to Tanzania through other hubs in the East and Southern Africa, but now, the indigenous carrier has introduced direct flight in order to reduce the flight hours and also for passengers to reap the benefits of direct flights.”

According to Kahyarara, “We do our part to ensure that we reduce the time of commuting between the countries. Of course, apart from this airline, we have now the longest electrified standard gauge railway, which is under construction. It is going to connect all landlocked countries that are neighbours to Tanzania.

“Nigeria is one of Africa’s largest economies. For us, this represents a great opportunity to open up Tanzania by establishing direct air transport services that connect our two nations.

This connection will strengthen trade, investment, and people-to-people ties between Tanzania and Nigeria.”

He also hailed the leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania, whose vision has positioned Air Tanzania among Africa’s leading carriers, with 16 modern aircraft and with an average fleet age of 4.5 years.

Kahyarara, said Tanzania decided to invest in its national carrier to grow its economy, create jobs and develop its tourism sector.

The CEO of Air Tanzania, Peter Ulanga, highlighted the opportunities and invited Nigerian travellers to explore Tanzania’s world-class attractions; from the Serengeti and Mount Kilimanjaro to Zanzibar’s beaches.

Ulanga celebrated Nigeria’s energy, culture and entrepreneurial spirit and announced plans to expand cargo freighter operations, saying that the airline would improve its capacity to 54 tons. This will open new trade flows for Nigerian yams to Tanzanian, coffee from East Africa; building commerce and fuelling prosperity.

The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

23

T H I S D AY • FRIday, September 26, 2025

BUSINESSWORLD

Aviation

As Aircraft Maintenance Facility Berths in Lagos

For the past 30 years, there have been plans by the Nigerian government to establish a major aircraft maintenance facility, but the plans have remained elusive until last week when Air Peace, with government’s affirmation, made substantive commitment to establish one at Lagos airport, writes Chinedu Eze

G

enerally, Airlines spend more money on fuel and aircraft maintenance, but in developed countries of the world, airlines pay less for maintenance because the facilities are readily available to the airlines. In Africa, the situation is different because most African countries do not have major aircraft maintenance facilities, a situation that compelled African airline operators to ferry their aircraft overseas for major checks and maintenance.

To achieve this, the airline must use its naira revenue to purchase dollars, a tall order given exchange rate fluctuations.

Also, Nigerian airline operators buy spares and then park the aircraft to wait for its slot time. In ferrying the aircraft overseas, the airlines pay the pilots, pay for fuel, pay for long haul flights and also pay for accommodation.

The aircraft could be losing revenue of N4 million daily if it is Boeing 737 or its equivalent. This means that besides cost of fuel, which takes over 50 per cent of the cost of operation, cost of aircraft maintenance is the next.

This is why the Group Chief Executive Officer of Ethiopian Airlines, Mr. Mesfin Tasew, believes that one of the challenges of African airlines is maintaining their aircraft overseas.

He believes that an airline will do

better if it maintains its fleet locally and this brings to the fore, the importance of establishing a major Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility in the country.

To address the aircraft maintenance challenges in Nigeria, Air Peace, last week, made the bold steps toward establishing major MRO facility at the Lagos airport.

During the ground-breaking ceremony, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace, Dr. Allen Onyema, disclosed that in 2024, the airline spent about N180

billion on aircraft maintenance. The total number of aircraft managed by other airlines is almost equal or a little more than Air Peace fleet and this means that Nigerian carrier spend about double that amount in aircraft maintenance annually.

Onyema, expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, emphasising that without their support the project would not have started.

The project, which is in collaboration

with Embraer of Brazil, is slated to be completed in 15 months.

“The truth has to be told. And I have a reason for telling this truth. We paid for this land eight years ago, but it took the coming of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and that of our Honourable Minister of Aviation, for us to get it.

I’m not a politician, but I like saying things the way they are. The coming of Mr. President and the appointment of a square peg into a square hole in the aviation sector have driven aviation to the stars and the moons, and we are the beneficiaries,” Onyema said.

Onyema who also spoke about the huge cost of maintaining Air Peace fleet overseas, said: “Last year alone, I was told by my chief financial officer that we expended over N180 billion on maintenance abroad. So the amount we spent to buy spare parts and to maintain our aircraft abroad is alarming. With an MRO like this, with a maintenance, repair, and overhaul station like this one, Nigeria will start attracting foreign investment because all our airlines all over the world, be it from Europe, be it from America, both continents of America, both North and South America, they will also bring their planes here for servicing.”

The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

How Segilola is Mining Nigeria’s Untapped Talent - Women Madhurii Sarka-Amoda

F

or decades, mining has been defined by the near absence of women in technical and leadership roles. Globally, women account for only 8–17 per cent of the mining workforce, according to a 2021 report by McKinsey & Company, with even fewer in leadership roles. This is more than a gender gap; it is a capacity crisis.

This is where Segilola Resources Operating Limited (SROL), operators of the Segilola Gold Mine (Nigeria’s first large-scale gold mine), decided to step in.

In Osun State, the Segilola Gold Mine, is proving that gender inclusion is not charity; it’s strategy. Multiple studies have shown that diverse workforces deliver stronger performance and financial returns, yet mining continues to lag behind. To bridge the gap, Segilola’s flagship upskilling program recruit’s women with drive, not prior experience, and trains them for roles once traditionally male in the industry – from pit controllers to dump truck operators.

The model is powerful but simple: combine technical training with mentorship, break down psychological barriers, and build a pipeline of women who can, and do, operate at the highest technical levels. By focusing on potential rather than stereotypes, we are redefining competence in mining.

The results are transforming lives. Take

Tosin Atanda. She joined SROL as kitchen staff with no experience in mining operations. With access to training, mentorship, and a culture that asked “why not?” instead of “why her?”, Tosin rose from waitress to spotter, to dump truck driver to laser technician, and is now one of our female pit controllers. In her own words: “When I started, I couldn’t ride a bicycle talk less of drive a car and certainly not the massive dump trucks but watching other operators made me ask myself—why not me?

That question changed my life.”

Or consider Tejumade Mohmoh, who joined with limited mining experience. In a work environment designed to foster learning, she gained skills, confidence, and a voice

in impactful mining projects. Today, she testifies not only to her own growth but also to a system that works when women are equipped to thrive.

These stories are not isolated examples. Each woman represents not only a story of personal breakthrough but also a step towards an industry that represents the full spectrum of talent available.

The impact of our upskilling program is two-fold: • Operational strength: a more diverse skilled workforce drives innovation, productivity and safety • Social legacy: each woman who has upskilled inspires a generation and provides female representation where there previously wasn’t and inspiring young girls to see themselves in those careers.

This is not just about Segilola—it’s a blueprint for Nigerian and even African mining. What if more companies across the continent redefined talent pipelines in this way? The ripple effects could reshape not just mining, but entire local economies.

The truth is this: mining, like every industry, is only as strong as the talent it harnesses. Ignoring half of that talent is no longer an option.

Empowering women is not a side project; it is a strategic imperative.

Africa’s mining future will not be measured only in ounces of gold

“In Osun State, the Segilola Gold Mine, is proving that gender inclusion is not charity; it’s strategy.

Multiple studies have shown that diverse workforces deliver stronger performance and financial returns, yet mining continues to lag behind. To bridge the gap, Segilola’s flagship upskilling program recruit’s women with drive, not prior experience, and trains them for roles once traditionally male in the industry – from pit controllers to dump truck operators.” extracted, but in the human potential we choose to unlock.

• Madhurii Sarka-Amoda, Community Development & Stakeholder Manager for Segilola Resources Operating Limited (SROL), wrote from Lagos.

24

FRIday, September 26, 2025 • T H I S D AY

BUSINESSWORLD

PERSPECTIVE

As Globacom Raises Competition Bar In any perfect competition, consumers are always the beneficiaries because of its impact on product offering and quality of service. In over two decades of the deregulation in Nigeria’s telecommunications market, competition has enhanced value for money, writes Raheem Akingbolu

T

he Nigerian market is not new to competition, especially in the fast moving consumer goods, food and drinks and financial sectors. Since 1999, when the country returned to democracy, market competition became a springboard for the nation’s economic growth. For instance, the marketing communication industry steadily increased in fortune and development as a result of its contribution to the building of local brands, especially in the telecommunications sector.

Until 2001, when the telecommunication industry was deregulated, the highest spenders on Advertising, Public Relations and other legs of marketing were players in the financial and manufacturing sectors.

The advent of the Global System of Mobile (GSM) communications was to later change the status quo because of the impact of creativity on the growth of telecommunications brands.

In particular, the emergence of a local operator, Globacom, sent an instant wake-up call to other brand owners to look outside the box in arriving at their marketing solutions.

Prior to the introduction of GSM telephony into the market, the number of connected phone lines in the country was a mere 450,000 for an estimated population of over 120 million people at the time.

Also, the level of investment in the telecommunications sector was put at $50 million.

Between 2001 and now, the sector has remained a major revenue earner to the federal government.

At the beginning, the battle was solely between

MTN and then Econet Wireless Nigeria, while Mtel, owned by Nitel, was also struggling to add its voice. In 2002, a fourth Digital Mobile License (DML) was issued to Globacom (Glomobile).

In what look like a deliberate attempt to strengthen the competition in the market, in 2008, the Nigerian Communication Commission (NCC), the regulatory agency of government in charge of the sector, took a step further by awarding licence to Emerging Market Telecommunication Services Limited, otherwise known as ‘Etisalat’.

Since that moment, the operators have left no stone unturned in building desired equity status for their brands.

Glo as Game Changer

However, Globacom’s entrance into the market turned out to be the best and most revolutionary epoch in the annals of GSM mobile business in Nigeria.

The brand, which came with a bang in a market already dominated by two leading brands, launched out with an offensive strategy that almost caught already established operators gasping for breath with ambitious and popular per second billing.

It was the most revolutionary offer in the market which instantaneously paved the way for the brand Glo in the market.

This brand initiative was launched with the thematic campaign: ‘Magic Ball’. Since the launch, the brand’s advertising theme

campaigns have been reviewed and adjusted over the years.

Some of the strong creative platforms the Glo brand have been positioned since launch in the market place are: ‘On your marks’; ‘Turning dreams into reality’ (Documentary); ‘Glowing continent’; ‘We live where you live’; ‘Rule your world’; ‘We’ve got people talking’; ‘Glo CAF’; ‘Football made in Africa’; ‘Marathon’; ‘The more campaigns’; ‘More technology’; ‘More people’; ‘More friends’; ‘More millions’ and ‘More youth’.

The brand is obviously the most unique GSM brand that has experimented with a plethora of advertising agencies and has equally savoured the creative edges of these agencies than others.

Quite a good number of advertising agencies have had a bite of Glo’s juicy jumbo advertising account. Some of these agencies are: Insight Grey, Bates Cosse, LTC and lately Verdant Zeal. The brand, which presently but quietly engages the services of some avant-garde creative shops is also said to have nurtured an in-house creative team headed by Joe Atunwa.

the brand unveiled two new products- Glo TalkMasta and Welcome Bonus for both new and existing subscribers. The new products are part of Globacom’s commitment to enhancing communication experience and delivering value far beyond customers’ expectations.

The new products are part of Globacom’s commitment to enhancing communication experience and delivering value far beyond customers’ expectations.

Glo TalkMasta offers additional free minutes on calls to encourage customers to have enriching conversations. The second product, Welcome Bonus, is a game-changer for every new subscriber joining the Globacom family. As the GLO line is activated, there is an instant welcome gift – a bonus on calls.

During the product launch, Globacom representative, Ande Abdulrazaq, stated, “For Globacom, the launch is not just about infusing new products into the market but it is about delivering on a promise.” Abdulrazaq explains the rationale behind the launch of the two products. “We understand how important it is to stay connected in today’s fast-paced world.

Communication is the bridge that keeps us in touch with people and moments that matter the Driving Digital Future most. With these new products, we are making At a time, complacency appears to have sure that connection is not just affordable but set in for the promoters of other brands, accessible, seamless, and enriching.

Globacom, as a leading digital solutions provider has come up with another game The story continues online on changing strategy. www.thisdaylive.com At a well attended event on Monday,

Nexamont Acquires 21.4% Punuka Law Firm Receives Risk Management Award Equity Stake in Royal Exchange Nexamont has announced that it has acquired a 21.4 per cent stake in Royal Exchange Plc. In a corporate disclosure from the Company Secretary, OOT Nominees, which was filed on the Nigerian Exchange Limited, it said

the stake was acquired via the secondary market.

The Company Secretary said, “Royal Exchange Plc received a letter from Nova Finance Securities Limited, the Financial Advisers to Nexamont Company Limited, notifying it that Nexamont has

acquired 1,770,499,535 units of ordinary shares of Royal Exchange Plc through the secondary market.

It added, “This represents at least a 21.4 per cent equity stake in the company. Pursuant to Rule 17.13 (a), Part II of the Rulebook of Nigerian

Exchange Limited, the company wishes to inform the Exchange, its shareholders and the investing public that Nexamont Company Limited is now a beneficial owner of 1,770,499,535 ordinary shares in Royal Exchange Plc.”

Marconi.NG EPC Appoints Unuigbe as Chairman Marconi.NG EPC Limited, formerly the Eni/Saipem EPC division, has appointed Ahonsi Unuigbe, Founder/CEO of Petralon Energy as Chairman of its Board of Directors.

By this appointment, Ahonsi, who is the Chairman of the Nigerian Stock Exchange Limited, (NGX) and was recently appointed to the board of Africa Oil Corp, a Canadian TSX-listed Oil and Gas company, will bring his extensive boardroom experience, knowledge of the oil and gas industry,

capital markets and corporate governance to bear in this new board leadership role.

“This appointment is a natural extension of our work at Petralon Energy. Both companies share a commitment to local content, a belief in the power of strategic partnerships, and a drive to create lasting value for all stakeholders”, enthused Ahonsi, who had described his appointment as the Chairman of Marconi.

NG EPC Limited as “an honour”. I look forward to partnering with

Marconi’s shareholders and leadership team as well collaborate to build on their decades of experience to drive the company’s next phase of growth”, he

added, in a statement that signaled his commitment to creating value by leveraging the power of teamwork, vision and innovation.

A leading law firm, Punuka Attorneys & Solicitors, has received the ‘Distinguished Support for Risk Management Development in Nigeria Award’ presented by the Chartered Risk Management Institute (CRMI).

The award was presented at CRMI’s Dinner & Award Night held recently in Lagos.

A Partner, Ebelechukwu Enedah and an Associate, Halima Abdulsalam, represented the law firm at the event.

The firm, in a statement by the management led by Dr. Anthony Idigbe (SAN), said

the recognition was a significant honour and underscored its ongoing commitment to advancing the practice of risk management in Nigeria.

“At Punuka, we understand the critical role risk management plays in safeguarding institutions, enhancing regulatory compliance, and building sustainable business resilience.

“Over the years, we have supported and championed initiatives that promote awareness, training, and capacity development across industries,” the statement read.

UNIBEN Student Win Car in MTN Campus Invasion

Edomwonyi Osariemen, a 200-level student of the Faculty of Engineering, University of Benin, has won a brand-new 2025 Alsvin Mikano car at ongoing ‘MTN Go MAD Campus Invasion’ campain.

Osariemen, was one of the hundreds of students

who participated in the raffle draw. His lucky draw earned him a brand-new 2025 Alsvin Mikano car.

Speaking after winning, Osariemen said: “I still can’t believe this happened to me.

While I participated

in the raffle draw, I only came to enjoy the event with my friends, and now I’m leaving with a brand-new car.

This has changed everything for me.”

Other students also won laptops, MTN Mifi, and airtime

worth thousands of naira. One of the participants, Daniel, said: “I didn’t win the car, but I won a laptop, and it means a lot. Even beyond the prices, this event gave us confidence to showcase our talents and connect with opportunities.”

25

T H I S D AY • FRIday SEPTEMBER 26, 2025

Property & environment

Lagos Needs at Least 500,000 Additional Housing Units Annually to Meet Demand, Says Govt Bennett Oghifo The Lagos State Government has bemoaned the state of housing deficit it is grappling with, saying though “reliable data is scarce”, but it needs “at least 500,000 additional housing units annually to meet demand.

Delivery falls short at less than 20,000 units per year.”

The Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Housing (Lagos State Real Estate Regulatory Agency LASRERA), Barr. Barakat Odunuga-Bakare, stated this in a speech she delivered at the Seminar of the Association of Estate Agents in Nigeria (Lagos State Chapter). She presented the “Government’s Perspective on Issues and Concerns of the Real Estate Agency and Regulatory Consultancy in Lagos.”

The Special Adviser, who was represented by the Director of Lands, Monitoring and Compliance Development, LASRERA, Mrs. Akibola Temitope Adenike,

said, “Without accurate data on housing stock, land availability, and property transactions, both government and practitioners operate in the dark.”

Another concern, she said, “is affordability. A significant portion of Lagos residents – almost 70% by some estimates – live in rental accommodation. Access to housing finance remains difficult, and where mortgages exist, interest rates are often too high for the average citizen.

This pushes people toward informal arrangements and unregulated operators.”

The government then complained about the nuisance caused by unregistered real estate agents.

The key issues and concerns, according to the Special Adviser, are the proliferation of quacks, adding, “The presence of untrained and unlicensed individuals continues to undermine the profession. According to LASRERA’s records, while over 1,000 practitioners have

registered in Lagos, the number of unregistered operators is far higher. These quacks are responsible for many fraudulent transactions – from multiple sales of the same property to collecting rent for apartments that do not exist.”

She said reports reaching LASRERA show that real estate–related complaints rank among the top five consumer complaints in Lagos. Tenants complain of unfair rent hikes and hidden charges, while buyers face title fraud and delays in property delivery.”

She said, “Despite the LASRERA Law, compliance remains a challenge. Many practitioners either do not know about the law or deliberately ignore it. Government is therefore strengthening monitoring and sanction mechanisms, while also engaging stakeholders to encourage voluntary compliance.”

The government, she said, was also responding in practical

ways, by “Strengthening LASRERA – expanding registration, simplifying online verification of agents, and providing platforms for reporting fraudulent practices.

“Public Sensitisation – campaigns toeducate citizens on the importance of engaging

registered practitioners.“Dispute Resolution Mechanisms –promoting alternative dispute resolution (ADR) to quickly and fairly resolve property disputes without prolonged court cases. “Affordable Housing Initiatives –ongoing housing schemes through the

Ministry of Housing and joint ventures with private developers to deliver new homes across Lagos. “Digitisation and Transparency –deploying digital platforms to improve title registration, transaction recording, and data collection to foster investor confidence.

L-R: Partner, Hill City Solicitors, Ayorinde Akinboyo; Chairman, Lagos chapter, Association of Estate Agents of Nigeria (AEAN), Adeolu Ogunbanjo; Director, Department of Lands Monitoring and Compliance, LASRERA, Temitope Akinbola; and Representative of National Association of Realtors, Dr Adeniyi Tinubu, during a seminar organised by AEAN in Lagos… recently

Lagos to Process About 6500tons Organic Waste Generated Daily to Cut Methane Emission Bennett Oghifo The Lagos State Government has presented a grand plan to process about 6,500 tons of organic waste generated in the state daily to cut the emission of methane, a contributor to global warming.

The Managing Director of Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), Mr. Muyiwa

Gbadegeshin, announced the launch of the project, which is being done in collaboration with Proganics Limited, during a of stakeholders, recently.

The stakeholders included; hospitality companies, eateries, event centers, hotels, and manufacturers of food and beverages, among others.

The LAWMA Chief Executive said, “Sorting of organic waste

is very critical for us to achieve the clean Lagos of our dreams.

This is because 50% of our waste in Lagos is organic, and that means we have about 6,500 tons of organic waste daily.

And if we continue to take this organic waste straight to the landfill, what happens is that we will continue generating large quantities of greenhouse gas, specifically methane, which is

a major contributor to global warming, to climate change, this is something we need to stop as a matter of urgency.”

Gbadegesin said, “Waste, in general, contributes about 20% to the increase in global temperatures that we’re all experiencing. So that’s why the policy of the administration is to lower this organic waste. That’s lowering methane. Mr. Governor,

made a commitment to this at COP 28 in Dubai. What we’re doing here is to put that into action by inviting stakeholders, facilities like hospitality, eateries, event centers, hotels and also manufacturers of food and beverages, who are some of the major generators of organic waste, and we’re enlisting them in collection of this organic waste, separate collection sorted. They are going

to be sorting it separately, and then we’re going to take that to an organic waste processing facility.” He said, “Proganics has established a processing plant that can take about 200 tons of organic waste daily.

So, it’s a small plant, but it’s something that will provide a good alternative treatment source for organic waste from the hospitality sector.

FG to Solar-power Nigeria’s 417 Grazing Reserves Bennett Oghifo The federal government, through the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development and the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), has formalised a strategic partnership to deploy solar-powered grids across all the 417 grazing

reserves in Nigeria.

The ministry said in a statement on Linkedin that the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which was signed on Friday 12th September, 2025, in Abuja, “marks a milestone in the government’s efforts to revamp the livestock sector under the

Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”

The Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, underscored the significance of the partnership, noting that it would transform pastoral livelihoods and unlock the potential of Nigeria’s grazing

reserves.

“Today, we are not just signing a document; we are ushering in a new era of sustainable development.

For too long, the immense potential of Nigeria’s 417 grazing reserves has been hindered by lack of infrastructure. By pro-

viding solar-powered grids to rehabilitated reserves, we are laying the foundation for a more secure, productive, and peaceful future,” he stated.

The Minister further explained that the initiative will bring wide-ranging benefits, including “the provision of clean,

renewable energy will power irrigation systems, improve year-round access to fodder and water, enhance education and healthcare, strengthen security, and create jobs. Millions of pastoralists and livestock keepers across the country will benefit from this intervention.”

JMG Marks World Clean-Up Day with Action for Cleaner, Greener Future Fadekemi Ajakaiye In celebration of World CleanUp Day 2025, JMG Limited, a leading provider of integrated electromechanical solutions in Nigeria, took its sustainability message to the streets of

Gbagada, Lagos. Top executives and staff swapped their suits for gloves and waste bags, clearing plastics and solid waste from the community where the company’s largest workforce operates.

The exercise went beyond sanitation, encouraging residents

and staff to embrace recycling, separate their waste properly, and take shared responsibility for building a cleaner, healthier environment in the community they call home.

Themed ‘Textile and Fashion Waste,’ and celebrated annually

L-R: Uche Emmanuel, Chief Financial Officer; with Rabi Jammal, Group General Manager; Kemi Ajose, Protocol Officer; and Benedict Odamah; Manager, Quality, Health, Safety and Environment, all of JMG Limited; during the 2025 World Clean-up Day, in Lagos... recently

on the 20th of September, this year’s World Clean-up Day seeks to address textile and fashion waste, one of the fast-growing environmental challenges, with a global volume of 92 million tons yearly, overwhelming waste systems, polluting waterways, and fueling the climate crisis.

In light of this, the Group General Manager of JMG Limited, Rabi Jammal, reaffirmed his strong commitment to environmental sustainability, expressing his delight in actively participating in the clean-up exercise to raise awareness about the importance of a cleaner environment.

He stated that JMG champions environmental preservation and has taken the responsibility of clearing waste in its community as one of its core values built around safeguarding the environment, as enshrined in the ethics of World Clean-up Day.

The JMG boss affirmed that sustainability is incorporated into the company’s ISO certification, as well as in the adoption of its clean energy solutions, which resulted in the installation of solar power at its headquarters to reduce carbon emissions, which are hazardous to humans and the environment.

In his remarks, JMG Limited’s Quality, Health, Safety and Environment Manager, Benedict Odamah, noted that the scheme would have a significant impact on the organisation’s personnel, as it encourages them to take an active role in cleaning the environment, eliminating waste, and promoting awareness on proper disposal and recycling.

He said it is also about enlightening the host community on sustainability and putting JMG as a corporate organisation at the forefront of ecological conservation.

On some of JMG’s clean energy practices, Odamah pointed out that the company’s installation of solar power at its headquarters and in its areas of business is to reduce carbon footprint and that the oragnisation has a sourcing hub where waste is segregated as soon as they are produced, for recycling.

Consequently, the Company’s Marketing Executive, Goke Atiba, said JMG is very proud to give back to its community, citing its donation of solar panels and inverters to power Primary Healthcare Centres in Lagos State.

A resident of the community, Kayode Adebayo, also remarked, “Seeing JMG roll up its sleeves to clean the environment where they do business shows they genuinely care about our environment and our wellbeing.

It gives us hope that together we can make a real difference.”

26

T H I S D AY • FRIday, SEPTEMBER 26, 2025

business/MOnEYGUIDE

Joda: TAJBank Has Surpassed CBN’s Minimum Capital Requirement Kayode Tokede

TAJBank, Nigeria’s fastest growing non-interest banks, has met the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN’s) new minimum capital requirement for national non-interest banks, the Managing Director/CEO of the bank, Mr. Hamid Joda has said.

Joda confirmed the capitalisation feat during his interactive chat with journalists on the sidelines of an investment summit in Abuja. With the compliance with the required minimum capital base as directed by the CBN, TAJBank has joined the rank of few banks that had

already met or exceeded the CBN’s revised capital thresholds scheduled for enforcement from March 2026 by the apex bank.

Speaking on the achievement, he said: “I am happy to report that through the leadership of our bank’s board, which is led by an industry doyen, Alhaji Tanko Isiaku Gwamna, and support of our valued shareholders and investors, TAJBank has fulfilled the mandatory recapitalization requirement and is now fully prepared for a more customer friendly, innovative banking services delivery to our growing customers nationwide.

“Let me also use this opportunity to commend the CBN Governor, Mr Olayemi Cardoso, and the management of the apex bank for the recapitalization initiative, which by all assessment standards, will reposition Nigerian banks for competitiveness in the rapidly changing global banking space.”

“I want to assure all our shareholders, new investors and customers that TAJBank will continue to prioritize their interests in our operations in the management’s sustained drive to add value to every kobo invested in the bank, ” Joda assured.

L-R: Commercial Strategy Director for Africa, Ultimum Limited, Patrice Tchoupe; Commercial Director, South East & South South, Ultimum Limited, Tonye Briggs; ExSuper Eagles National, Nwankwo Kanu; Marketing Director, Ultimum Limited, Toyin Nnodi and Business Development & Commercial Support Director, Ultimum Limited, Frankeric Ngassam at the official Trade launch of the Razzl brand into the South-East and SouthSouth markets in Asaba... recently.

MARKET INDICATORS

Women Empowerment: Sterling One Foundation,DBNRollOutWIRAProgram As part of their commitment to driving inclusive growth and economic empowerment for women across Nigeria, Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN), in collaboration with Sterling One Foundation, and with support from Agence Française de Développement (AFD), has launched the Women Investment Readiness Accelerator (WIRA) program.

This innovative initiative is designed to help womenowned businesses gain the skills, resources, and access to funding they need to grow, scale, and succeed in today’s competitive business environment.

Speaking on the launch, Managing Director/CEO of Development Bank of Nigeria Plc, Dr. Tony Okpanachi, stated: “At DBN, we believe that empowering women entrepreneurs is not just the right thing to do, it’s smart economics. With the support of Agence Française de Développement (AFD), programs like WIRA can provide the guidance, mentorship, and access to capital that women-led businesses need to thrive, scale, and create lasting impact across Nigeria’s economy” CEO of Sterling One Foundation, Olapeju Ibekwe,

added: “Women are a powerful force in Nigeria’s economy, and their success benefits us all.

Yet across Africa, women entrepreneurs face a $42 billion annual financing gap, receive less than 10% of total investment despite owning nearly 60% of SMEs, and secure only around 5% of venture capital when led by female CEOs. With WIRA, we’re going beyond just helping them stay afloat, we are giving them the tools, connections, and confidence they need to grow, compete, and succeed on a bigger stage.”

LCFE Lists N23.4bn Eko Rice Contracts The Lagos Commodities and Futures Exchange (LCFE) has officially listed Eko Rice Classic Contracts valued at N23.4 billion, marking a major milestone in the transformation of Nigeria’s agricultural and commodities sectors.

A total of 3,000 contracts were listed at an initial price of N60,000 each, appreciating by 10% to N66,000 at the close of first trading, a strong indication of investor confidence and market potential.

This landmark listing highlights LCFE’s ongoing commitment to reforming Nigeria’s commodities ecosystem by fostering greater transparency, liquidity, and investment opportunities across the value chain.

“Nigeria is an agrarian

nation, yet for many years, we lacked a commodities exchange that truly reflects the value of our natural resources. Today’s listing marks a new chapter in our economic history.The launch of Eko Rice Paddy Contracts is a collective step towards diversifying our economy away from crude oil.” said Dr. Emomotimi Agama, Director General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Lagos State Commissioner for Agriculture, Abisola Olusanya, speaking on behalf of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, praised LCFE for the initiative. “This listing demonstrates that a wellstructured agricultural sector can drive economic growth and generate sustainable

employment for millions.

Eko Rice will play a vital role in reducing rice importation and boosting Nigeria’s foreign exchange earnings.”, she asserted.

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of LCFE, Akin AkeredoluAle, described the Eko Rice Classic listing as a pivotal development for Nigerian agriculture. “This is more than just a contract listing — it’s a watershed moment for Nigeria’s commodities market. The 23.4 billion Eko Rice Classic Spot Contract shows that agriculture is not only viable but bankable. It sets a benchmark for quality and reinforces the vital role of commodity exchanges in national development.”

MTN Partners Group to Promote Nigerian-made Products Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

As part of its corporate social responsibility, MTN Nigeria has partnered a group, Make In Nigeria, for an exhibition, conference aimed at showcasing locally made products and

services in Port Harcourt.

The event titled, “The Fussion- A Tech and Agro Expo”, brought together vendors from all over the country showcasing their locally made products and speakers from Nigeria and abroad.

Speaking on the

sideline of the exhibitions, Edidiong Umoh, Enterprise Business Channel Analyst, Eastern Region of MTN, said the firm is partnering with organisers of the event because it aligns with their core value which is to give local vendors visibility.

MONEY AND CREDIT STATISTICS (MILLION NAIRA) NOVEMBER

Month

Money Supply (M3)

108,966,480.44

-- CBN Bills Held by Money Holding Sectors

19,796.18

Money Supply (M2)

108,946,684.26

Quasi Money

72,672,756.90

-- Narrow Money (M1)

36,273,927.36

---- Currency Outside Banks

4,652,527.74

---- Demand Deposits

31,621,399.62

Net Foreign Assets (NFA)

17,347,112.78

Net Domestic Assets(NDA)

91,619,367.66

-- Net Domestic Credit (NDC)

115,576,757.67

---- Credit to Government (Net)

39,616,629.91

---- Memo: Credit to Govt. (Net) less FMA

0.00

---- Memo: Fed. and Mirror Accounts (FMA)

0.00

---- Credit to Private Sector (CPS)

75,960,127.77

--Other Assets Net

12,147,461.96

Reserve Money (Base Money)

30,871,571.25

--Currency in Circulation

4,878,125.22

--Banks Reserves

25,993,446.02

--Special Intervention Reserves

278,860.37 • Source - CBN

Money Market Indicators (in Percentage) Month

November

Inter-Bank Call Rate

28.88

Minimum Rediscount Rate (MRR) Monetary Policy Rate (MPR)

27.50

Treasury Bill Rate

18.00

Savings Deposit Rate

6.56

1 Month Deposit Rate

8.48

3 Months Deposit Rate

9.53

6 Months Deposit Rate

12.13

12 Months Deposit Rate

14.22

Prime Lending rate

18.39

Maximum Lending Rate

31.06

NSE

NSE MARKET INDEX % Change

CAP

0.75%(52%YoY)

Index

0.9% (29%Y/D) • Monetary Policy Rate - 27.50%

OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE As At 6TH JANUARY , 2025

The price of OPEC basket of twelve crudes stood at $76.18 a barrel on Monday, compared with $75.89 the previous Friday, according to OPEC Secretariat calculations.

The OPEC Reference Basket of Crudes (ORB) is made up of the following: Saharan Blend (Algeria), Djeno (Congo), Zafiro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basrah Medium (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).

27

T H I S D AY • FRIday, SEPTEMBER 26, 2025

mARKET NEWS

Positive Momentum Resurfaces as Stock Market Gains N279.37bn Kayode Tokede Investors’ positive sentiment resurfaced on the Nigerian Exchange Limited yesterday as gains in Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (GTCO), and Oando Plc lifted the market capitalisation by N279.37 billion.

As GTCO appreciated by 1.98per cent to close at N92.80 per share, stock price of Oando gained 9.50per cent to close at N49.00 per share, the market capitalisation closed for trading at N89.343 trillion, about N279.37 billion or 0.31per cent from N89.063 trillion it opened for trading.

Consequently, the NGX

P R I C E S MaiN Board

F O R DEALS

All-Share Index closed for trading at 141,149.04 basis points, representing an increase of 432.94basis points or 0.31per cent from 140,716.10 basis points the stock market closed for trading the previous day.

The 0.31 per cent increase in NGX ASI yesterday drives the Month-to-Date (MtD) and Year-to-Date (YtD) returns

S E C U R I T I E S Market Price

quantity traded

performance to +0.6per cent and +37.1per cent, respectively.

Sectoral performance was mixed as the NGX Banking advanced by one per cent, NGX Oil & Gas gained 0.7per cent and NGX Consumer Goods appreciated by 0.3 per cent, while the NGX Insurance dipped by 0.4 and

T R A D E D value traded ( N )

A S O F

MaiN Board

the NGX Industrial Goods index closed flat.

As measured by market breadth, the stock market sentiment was positive as 31 stocks gained relative to 21 losers.

The data by NGX revealed that Mecure Plc led the gainers table, advancing by 9.89 per cent to close at N26.10 per

share, followed by Oando that gained 9.50 per cent to close at N49.00 per share.

McNichols appreciated by 9.31 per cent to close at N3.64 per share; Chams Plc gained 9.24 per cent to close at N3.43 and stock price of Legend Internet Plc grew by 9.18 per cent to close at N5.35 per share.

S E P T E M B E R / 2 5 / 2 5 DEALS

Market Price

quantity traded

value traded ( N)

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2025 • T H I S D AY

28

MARKET NEWS 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 24 September 2025, unless otherwise stated.

Offer price: The price at which units of a trust or ETF are bought by investors.

Bid Price: The price at which Investors redeem (sell) units of a trust or ETF. Yield/Total Return: Denotes the total return an investor would have earned on his investment. Money Market Funds report Yield while others report Year- to-date Total Return.

NAV: Is value per share of the real estate assets held by a REIT on a specific date.

DAILY PRICE LIST FOR MUTUAL FUNDS, REITS and ETFS

MUTUAL FUNDS / UNIT TRUSTS

AFRINVEST ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD aaml@afrinvest.com Web: www.afrinvest.com; Tel: +234 818 885 6757 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Afrinvest Equity Fund 570.57 575.78 43.54% Afrinvest Plutus Fund 378.24 378.24 0.00% Nigeria International Debt Fund 100.00 100.00 17.65% Afrinvest Dollar Fund 113.21 113.21 4.59% AIICO CAPITAL LTD ammf@aiicocapital.com Web: www.aiicocapital.com, Tel: +234-1-2792974 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AIICO Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 20.66% AIICO Balanced Fund 7.46 7.55 30.53% AIICO Eurobond Fund 100.00 100.00 7.52% Web:www.anchoriaam.com, Tel: 08166830267; 08036814510; 08028419180 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Anchoria Money Market 100.00 100.00 20.11% Anchoria Equity Fund 1.65 1.65 26.25% Anchoria Fixed Income Fund 383.84 389.24 48.71% ARM INVESTMENT MANAGERS LTD enquiries@arminvestmentcenter.com Web: www.arm.com.ng; Tel: 0700 CALLARM (0700 225 5276) Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ARM Aggressive Growth Fund 47.68info@anchoriaam.com 49.12 34.49% ARM Discovery Balanced Fund 981.66 1,011.26 23.50% ARM Ethical Fund 94.10 96.94 37.24% ARM Eurobond Fund 1.20 1.20 11.36% ARM Fixed Income Fund 1.33 1.33 23.01% ARM Money Market Fund 1.17 1.17 18.40% ARM Shariah Fixed Income Fund 1.10 1.10 12.28% ARM Short Term Bond Fund 1.04 1.04 5.09% ARM Short Term Eurobond Fund 1.00 1.00 20.72% AVA GLOBAL ASSET MANAGERS LIMITED info@avacapitalgroup.com Web: www.avacapitalgroup.com; Tel 08069294653 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn 114.68 114.68 14.64% AVA GAM Fixed Income Dollar Fund 1,240.56 1240.56 21.83% AVA GAM Fixed Income (Naira) Fund 1.00 1.00 19.00% AVA GAM Money Market Fund AXA MANSARD INVESTMENTS LIMITED investmentcare@axamansard.com Web: www.axamansard.com; Tel: +2341-4488482 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn 0.00 0.00 0.00% AXA Mansard Equity Income Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00% AXA Mansard Money Market Fund CAPITAL EXPRESS ASSET AND TRUST LIMITED info@capitalexpressassetandtrust.com Web: www.capitalexpressassetandtrust.com; Tel: +234 803 307 5048 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn 0.00 0.00 0.00 CEAT Fixed Income Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 Capital Express Balanced Fund(Formerly: Union Trustees Mixed Fund) CARDINALSTONE ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED mutualfunds@cardinalstone.com Web: www.cardinalstoneassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 (1) 710 0433 4 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn 1.05 1.05 15.22% CardinalStone Fixed Income Alpha Fund 1.12 1.12 10.37% CardinalStone Equity Fund 1.57 1.59 33.23% CardinalStone Dollar Fund 1.11 1.12 11.51% CardinalStone Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 20.76% CardinalStone Balanced Fund CHAPELHILL DENHAM MANAGEMENT LTD investmentmanagement@chapelhilldenham.com Web: www.chapelhilldenham.com, Tel: +234 461 0691 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Chapel Hill Denham Money Market Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 Nigeria Bond Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 Paramount Equity Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 CORDROS ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmgtteam@cordros.com Web: www.cordros.com, Tel: 019036947 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Cordros Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 0.00% 115.07 115.07 12.80% Cordros Fixed Income Fund 121.54 121.54 10.87% Cordros Halal Fixed Income Fund Cordros Dollar Fund ($) 116.81 116.81 7.14% Cordros Milestone Fund 0.00% CORONATION ASSETS MANAGEMENT investment@coronationam.com Web:www.coronationam.com, Tel: 012366215 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Coronation Money Market Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 Coronation Balanced Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 Coronation Fixed Income Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 EDC FUNDS MANAGEMENT LIMITED mutualfundng@ecobank.com Web: www.ecobank.com Tel: 012265281 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 EDC Nigeria Balanced Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 EDC Nigeria Halal Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 EMERGING AFRICA ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmanagement@emergingafricafroup.com Web:www.emergingafricagroup.com/emerging-africa-asset-management-limited/, Tel: 08039492594 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Emerging Africa Money Market Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 Emerging Africa Bond Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 Emerging Africa Balanced Diversity Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 Emerging Africa Eurobond Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 Emerging Africa Halal Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 FBNQUEST ASSETS MANAGEMENT LIMITED invest@fbnquest.com Web: www.fbnquest.com/asset-management; Tel: +234-81 0082 0082 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn FBN Money Market Fund 100 100 19.93% FBN Bond Fund 0 0 11.67% FBN Dollar Fund 133.82 133.82 7.40% FBN Halal Fund 160.12 160.12 13.66% FBN Specialized Dollar Fund 126.34 126.34 7.81% FBN Blended Dollar Fund 446 450.4 37.18% FBN Balanced Fund 444.63 449.02 51.72% FBN Smart Beta Equity Fund 491.29 498.15 6.06% FCMB ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED fcmbamhelpdesk@fcmb.com Web: www.fcmbassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 462 2596 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Legacy Money Market Fund (LMMF) 1.00 1.00 0.00% Legacy Debt Fund (LDF) 1.44 1.44 5.06% Legacy Equity Fund (LEF) 3.91 3.91 10.76% Legacy USD Bond Fund (LUBF) 5.08 5.19 36.24% FCMB-TLG Private Debt Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00% FSL ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED Adeniran.Daniel@fsl.ng Web: https://www.fsl.ng/asset-management ; Tel: +2348062727759 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn FSL Money Market Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 FSL Euro Bond 0.00 0.00 0.00 FSDH ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD coralfunds@fsdhgroup.com Web: www.fsdhaml.com; Tel: 01-270 4884-5; 01-280 9740-1 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Coral income fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 Coral money market fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 FSDH HALAL FUND 0.00 0.00 0.00 FSDH dollar fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 Coral Balanced Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00

HILLCREST CAPITAL MANAGEMENT dabbey@hillcrestcapmgt.com Web: https://hillcrestcapmgt.com/; Tel: +2348075144540, 0214540094 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Hillcrest Balanced Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 LOTUS CAPITAL LTD fincon@lotuscapitallimited.com Web: www.lotuscapitallimited.com; Tel: +234 1-291 4626 / +234 1-291 4624 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn LOTUS HALAL FIXED INCOME FUND 1,292.37 1,292.37 11.00% LOTUS HALAL INVESTMENT FUND 2.87 2.92 26.48% LOTUS HALAL EQUITY EXCHANGE TRADED FUND 50.97 56.33 66.26% LOTUS WAQF ENDOWMENT FUND 1,200.82 1,200.82 8.73% MERISTEM WEALTH MANAGEMENT LTD info@meristemwealth.com Web: www.meristemwealth.com/funds/; Tel: +2348028496012 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Meristem Equity Market Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 Meristem Value ETF 0.00 0.00 0.00 Meristem Growth ETF 0.00 0.00 0.00 Meristem Fixed Income Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 Meristem Dollar Income Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 Meristem Money Market Mutual Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 MANGO ASSET MANAGEMENT jetadafe@mangoam.com Web:https://mangoam.com/; Tel: +234 7030839517 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Mango Naira Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 20.23% NORRENBERGER INVESTMENT AND CAPITAL MANAGEMENT LIMITED

enquiries@norrenberger.com

Web: www.norrenberger.com, Tel: +234 (0) 908 781 2026 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Norrenberger Money Market Fund (NMMF) 0.00 0.00 0.00 Norrenberger Islamic Fund (NIF) 0.00 0.00 0.00 NORRENBERGER DOLLAR FUND (NDF)-----($) 0.00 0.00 0.00 NORRENBERGER TURBO FUND (NTF)-----(N) 0.00 0.00 0.00 PAC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD info@pacassetmanagement.com Web: www.pacassetmanagement.com/mutualfunds; Tel: +234 1 271 8632 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn PACAM Balanced Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 PACAM Fixed Income Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 PACAM Money Market Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 PACAM Equity Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 PACAM EuroBond Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 SCM CAPITAL ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED info@scmcapitalng.com Web: www.scmcapitalng.com; Tel: +234 1-280 2226,+234 1- 280 2227 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn The Frontier Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 SFS CAPITAL NIGERIA LTD investments@sfsnigeria.com Web: www.sfsnigeria.com, Tel: +234 (01) 2801400 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn SFS Fixed Income Fund 1.12 1.12 19.01% SFS REIT 150.68 150.68 8.37% UH REIT/SFS 59.77 59.77 12.90% STANBIC IBTC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD assetmanagement@stanbicibtc.com Web: www.stanbicibtcassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 280 1266; 0700 MUTUALFUNDS Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Stanbic IBTC Money Market Fund Stanbic IBTC Bond Fund Stanbic IBTC Dollar Fund (USD) Stanbic IBTC Shariah Fixed Income Fund Stanbic IBTC Enhanced Short-Term Fixed Income Fund Stanbic IBTC Absolute Fund UPDC REIT Stanbic IBTC Balanced Fund Stanbic IBTC ETF 30 Fund Stanbic IBTC Ethical Fund Stanbic IBTC Guaranteed Investment Fund Stanbic IBTC Imaan Fund Stanbic IBTC Nigerian Equity Fund SIAML Pension ETF 40 Stanbic IBTC Aggressive Fund Stanbic IBTC Conservative Fund

STL ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED Web: WWW.STLASSETMGT.COM; Tel: 8136115170 Fund Name STL MONEY MARKET FUND STL BALANCED FUND STL DOLLAR FUND

UNITED CAPITAL ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD Web: www.unitedcapitalplcgroup.com; Tel: +234 01-6317876 Fund Name United Capital Money Market Fund United Capital Sukuk Fund United Capital Fixed Income Fund United Capital Nigerian Eurobond Fund United Capital Global Fixed Income Fund United Capital Stable Income Fund United Capital Equity Fund United Capital Balanced Fund United Capital Wealth for Women Fund United Capital Children Investment Fund VETIVA FUND MANAGERS LTD Web: www.vetiva.com; Tel: +234 1 453 0697 Fund Name Vetiva Banking Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva Consumer Goods Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva Griffin 30 Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva Money Market Fund Vetiva Industrial Goods Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva S&P Nigeria Sovereign Bond Exchange Traded Fund QUANTUM ZENITH ASSET MANAGEMENT & INVESTMENTS LTD Web: www.quantumzenith.com.ng; Tel: +234 1-2784219 Fund Name Zenith Balanced Strategy Fund Zenith Income Fund Zenith Income Fund Zenith Money Market Fund ZEDCREST INVESTMENT MANAGER LIMITED Web: www.zedcrestwealth.com; Tel: +2348075881240 Fund Name Zedcrest Money Market Fund Zedcrest Fixed Inocme Fund Zedcrest Dollar Fund REITS Fund Name SFS REIT UPDC REIT

10.00 259.03 1.60 135.27 139.68 5,168.20 11.59 9,098.19 440.00 4.33 383.20 849.27 40,092.09 505.00

10.00 259.03 1.60 135.79 143.18 5,170.86 11.59 9,194.05 440.00 4.39 383.86 859.95 40,650.63 505.00

18.87% 0.13% 1.31% 0.83% 1.30% 0.02% 1.64% 42.72% 7.32% -97.84% 8.33% 70.44% 58.21% -37.65%

11,991.49 8,844.46

12,156.79 49.80% 8,881.21 30.13% jemenike@stlassetmgt.com

Bid Price 100.00 1,373.20 105.26

Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn 100.00 21.27% 1,393.13 38.32% 105.26 5.26% unitedcapitalplcgroup.com

Bid Price 1.00 1.19 1.94 122.95 1.22 123.53 1.82 2.12 1.67 1.08

Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn 1.00 18.60% 1.19 14.84% 1.94 10.79% 122.95 10.57% 1.22 3.52% 123.53 1.97% 1.84 40.66% 2.13 27.00% 1.68 29.80% 1.08 7.96% funds@vetiva.com

Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn 14.86 14.96 37.16% 33.42 33.52 104.65% 50.64 50.84 32.98% 1.00 1.00 19.62% 49.02 49.22 7.53% 144.15 146.15 2.93% service@quantumzenithasset.com.ng Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn 32.75 33.14 53.98% 39.79 40.18 49.47% 29.66 29.66 6.29% 1.00 1.00 19.67% investmentoperations@zedcrest.com Bid Price 1.00 1.34 $ 1.41

Offer Price 1.00 1.34 $ 1.41

Yield / T-Rtn 21.15% 33.96% 17.91%

NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

0.00

0.00%

8,881.21

30.13%

The value of investments and the income from them may fall as well as rise. Past performance is a guide and not an indication of future returns. Fund prices published in this edition are also available on each fund manager’s website and FMAN’s website at www.fman.com.ng. Fund prices are supplied by the operator of the relevant fund and are published for information purposes only.

This

Weekend

Friday, SEPTEMBER 26, 2025 • T H I S D AY

Group Features Editor: Chiemelie Ezeobi chiemelie.ezeobi@thisdaylive.com

07010510430

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Weekly Magazine UTH

& R E ASO

Felicia Agubata: Scaling Women in Engineering and Building a Diverse, Resilient Profession

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Friday, SEPTEMBER 26, 2025 • T H I S D AY

Cover

Felicia Agubata: Scaling Women in Engineering and Building a Diverse, Resilient Profession

Engineeringhaslongbeenamale-dominatedprofession,buttrailblazerslikeEngr.FeliciaNnennaAgubata,PhD,isreshapingthatnarrative in Nigeria and even Africa. A leading electrical engineer and advocate for women in STEM, Agubata holds a B.Eng. in Computer Science & Engineering, a Master’s in Electrical & Electronics Engineering, and a PhD in Communication Engineering. Since joining the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) in 2002, she has served in key roles including Special Project Officer for the rehabilitation of 13 control towers, Coordinator of the Project Management Office, and currently Deputy General Manager and Head of Terrestrial Services at Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos. She was part of the team that delivered the Controller Pilot Data Link (CPDLC) system, earning multiple commendations and international scholarships. As the then President of the Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEN), Dr. Agubata led initiatives such as SheEngineer – Invent It, Build It and the SheEngineer 30% Club, promoting scholarships, mentorship, STEM laboratories, and female leadership in aviation and engineering. At the sidelines of the recently concluded Nigerian Engineering Week, Dr. Agubata shared her journey, insights, and the initiatives she has championed to ensure that women not only join the profession but thrive in it. Chiemelie Ezeobi reports

“I

joined the service in 2002 as a young electrical engineer, and I have risen through the ranks to my current level. It has not been a stroll in the park working in a male-dominated space “ Engr. Felicia Nnenna Agubata PhD, said at a recent interview held at the Engineering week celebration venue. Notwithstanding the challenges , she insists that engineering, at its core, is not gendered.

“The one thing I tell myself is, if they can do it, I can also do it. From our learnings in school, engineering is not gender-biased; it is not for any particular gender.

The exams, teachings, and learnings are not gender-sensitive. We (males and females ) were all in the same engineering classes, and the benchmark for acceptable performance was the same for everyone,” she added.

The exams for males and females are the same.

Cultural Barriers and Childhood Lessons The challenges for females become manifest at the workplace. “Entrenched cultural and religious biases and practices , including mindsets that are tainted by early childhood exposures and prejudices tend to stand in the way of open and collaborative work environment .

This engenders divisiveness or a “ a we vs they mentality.

By virtue of the numerical superiority of males and the fact that more males are embedded at the strategic management levels historically , women tend to interpret this as their being inferior which is not the case . Suffice it to say , the seeming dominance of the profession by males reflects more of societal biases towards female education and grooming and not necessarily a measure of the intelligence of one gender vs the other.

Intelligence is randomly distributed in both male and female gender pools .

Gender does not confer intelligence and ability Growing up, many girls were given dolls and cooking utensils, while boys were given robots and other toys that allowed them to explore.”

Even as children, Dr. Agubata notes, engineering principles were at play. “Yet, as children, we were unknowingly doing engineering — making kites with paper and sticks, building paper boats, rolling tyres powered by force and motion, and creating balloon cars. Those were all engineering principles at work, though we didn’t realise it then.”

Overcoming cultural biases has been central to her advocacy. “Coming into the workplace, those cultural biases often

as aviation, automotive, and energy.

“Companies and organisations were encouraged to commit to employing at least 30% women in their workforce.

Many signed on, and some even exceeded the target, for example, Heirs Holdings implemented 50 per cent.

This initiative led to groundbreaking appointments, including the first female managing Director in FAAN and the first female Director of Engineering at NAMA since their inceptions.”

Today, more women hold leadership positions within the profession. “We now have female branch chairpersons and division leaders in the Nigerian Society of Engineers. Although we are not yet where we want to be, the train has already left the station. We are no longer where we used to be, and I must commend the Royal Academy of Engineering for their interventions in Africa.

Felicia Agubata

caused women to be held back. The feeling was that, because of culture, women were not supposed to be seen or to take on certain tasks.

But some of us are differently wired. We believe engineering is not gender-based, and we should work collaboratively with respect, while also understanding African culture and context. Collaboration allows us to achieve a lot, and that has been true in engineering in Nigeria.”

Inventing Opportunities: SheEngineer – Invent It, Build It A milestone in Dr. Agubata’s advocacy was her presidency at the Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEN) in 2018, when she launched the Invent It, Build It programme. Sponsored by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), the project team travelled across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones to inspire girls to pursue STEM careers.

“We realised that each zone had its peculiar challenges. In the South, it was easy to discuss STEM with girls because they were already in school. But in the North, the girl child enrollment was poor, We had to first appeal to parents to allow the girls to attend school and encouraged them to go into STEM. With NNPC’s support, we awarded 81 scholarships, covering education from primary to university level. Today, some of those students are already in

university studying engineering.”

Science laboratories, the first of their kind in Africa, were established in schools in Bauchi and Benin City, bringing real-world STEM learning to children. Role models from the communities were introduced so children could see what success in engineering looked like.

Through these efforts, APWEN secured the Royal Academy of Engineering Africa Catalyst Grant, transforming STEM advocacy and teacher training in Nigeria. “With that grant, we not only supported students but also trained science and technology teachers to use modern, hands-on methods in teaching, instead of relying only on theory,” she says.

SheEngineer 30% Club: Bridging the Gender Gap Later, Dr. Agubata launched SheEngineer: Invent It, Build It, focusing on training STEM teachers and developing a diversity and inclusion policy for professional engineering institutions in Nigeria.

That policy was endorsed by COREN and implemented by the Nigerian Society of Engineers, leading to the election of the first female Deputy President of the society in 2021, who, by progression, became the first female President in 2024 since its founding in 1958.

In 2022, she initiated the She Engineer 30% Club, focusing on increasing female representation in leadership across industries such

Mentorship Beyond Borders Dr. Agubata’s vision extends beyond Nigeria. “We are mentoring the Institution of Engineers Kenya, helping them set up their first Women’s Summit and mentorship programme. Under the She Engineer 30% Club, we also run mentorship schemes pairing younger women with established engineers to ensure they not only study engineering but also stay in the profession.”

She stresses that diversity is not just about gender. “Diversity and inclusion are about ensuring equity, collaboration, and representation across different backgrounds, including cultures, disciplines, and abilities. We insist on bringing women on board not simply because they are women, but because they are competent and bring value.

That is why we continuously focus on upskilling women through training and workshops, ensuring they have the skills and opportunities to thrive in engineering.”

Bravery Over Perfection Dr. Agubata is candid about the “bravery deficit” among women, which she sees as a barrier to progress. “Women often believe that they are born to be perfect. This perfection mindset creates what I call the bravery deficit, and it is one of the reasons why there are fewer women in government and leadership. When applying for jobs, for example, a man who meets just 10 per cent of the criteria will still apply. A woman, however, will wait until she ticks every single box 100 per cent before applying.

The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

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Friday, SEPTEMBER 26, 2025 • T H I S D AY

news

The Women Who Hold Communities Together: Inside the 2025 August Meeting in South-east

L-R: Dame Rita Mbah; Executive Chairman, Enugu State Tourism Board, Enugu State, Joy Egolum; Corporate Affairs Manager (East), Nigerian Breweries Plc, Honourable Ngozi Enih; Honourable Commissioner for Children, Gender Affairs and Social Development, Enugu State, and Chinwe Ude; Zonal Business Manager (East), Nigerian Breweries Plc, at the 2025 Annual Enugu Women August Meeting held in Enugu

I

gbo women have consistently played a vital role in the affairs of their communities. Since the 1940s, Igbo women have gathered at an annual August Meeting (Nzuko Umu Nwanyi) to discuss socio-economic matters about their communities.

This annual gathering brings together women from Nigeria and the diaspora to contribute to the growth and preservation of Igbo heritage. Over the years, the umu nwanyi (women of the community) have not only contributed economically to their communities but have also played important roles in quelling conflict and preserving the unity of the Igbo people.

This year, the women gathered again in the South East to continue this age-old tradition. The three-day affair was a vibrant celebration of culture, community, and the resilience

Photos of Women at the 2025 Annual Enugu Women August Meeting

of Igbo women. Against a backdrop of vibrant cultural traditions, the women discussed matters of economic and political development and awarded the humanitarian contributions of their members.

Among the many partners present at the event, one brand that caught my attention with its approach was Amstel Malta, a leading premium malt drink. While brands typically support events on the day of, Amstel Malta took the more thoughtful approach of supporting women as they were travelling to the event.

In collaboration with Zaron and Air Peace, the brand curated in-flight packages filled with beauty essentials; a thoughtful gesture that acknowledged their worth and reflected genuine solidarity with the gathering.

On the final day of the event, Amstel Malta extended this spirit of care by offering Zaron-led

makeovers and refreshments to the women in Enugu and Abia states.

These small yet meaningful acts ensured the women felt celebrated and supported throughout the gathering.

While corporate sponsorship of cultural events is not unusual, the approach here reflected something more deliberate. Rather than treating the August Meeting as just another platform for visibility, Amstel Malta aligned its presence with the values of the gathering: community, resilience, and recognition of women’s work.

The 2025 August Meeting reaffirmed the pivotal role Igbo women continue to play in shaping both culture and society.

It also highlighted how tradition creates room for contemporary partnerships, where brands must do more than place logos

on banners; they must show respect for the heritage and humanity of the communities they align with.

But more importantly, the gathering was a reminder of what has always been true: that women are the backbone of cultural continuity. They sustain values, mediate conflict, build economies, and carry traditions into the future. To honour them is to honour the very fabric of society.

As future August Meetings unfold, it is not the scale of sponsorships that will be remembered, but the sincerity of gestures. For the Igbo women who gathered in the South East this year, the event was another chapter in a long story of resilience, leadership, and unity.

And for those watching closely, it offered a powerful lesson: that the measure of progress is not only in policies or profits, but in how we value the women who quietly sustain the heart of our communities.

Charterhouse Lagos Celebrates Opening of New Boarding House for Secondary Students Uzoma Mba

Charterhouse Lagos marked a major milestone on 31 August 2025, as the school officially opened its new boarding house and welcomed the first cohort of secondary students.

The occasion, filled with colour, culture, and community spirit, signalled the beginning of an exciting new

chapter for the first British independent school in Nigeria’s economic capital.

The celebration brought together students, parents, and staff just ahead of the 2025/26 academic year.

Guests were treated to traditional music and dance, creating an atmosphere of joy and anticipation on the school’s expansive campus.

The event also coincided with Charterhouse Lagos’ first anniversary, following the launch of its primary school in September 2024. The dual celebration highlighted how far the school has come, from construction to establishing itself as a world-class centre for learning within just a year.

Welcoming families, Director of Education John Todd reflected on

the journey so far, sharing a timeline of the school’s rapid development and acknowledging the collective effort behind its success. “Thank you for being part of this incredible journey,” he said. “This school was built on a vision to deliver the very best of British education here in Lagos, and today’s opening of our boarding house shows just how much we have

achieved together in such a short time. We are not only creating an outstanding place of learning but also a true home where students can feel safe, supported, and inspired to thrive,” he said.

Mark Healy, newly appointed Head of Secondary, shared his excitement about the future: “I am proud to be the founding Head of Secondary at Charterhouse

Lagos. My experience leading secondary schools across three campuses in Doha has prepared me for this wonderful opportunity to provide world-class education here in Lagos.”

Following the formalities, parents and students enjoyed guided tours of the new facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, a fully resourced library, and specialist science laboratories.

Restore Citizens’ Dignity, Strengthen Democracy, PFN Tells Government As Nigeria prepares to celebrate its 65th independence anniversary, the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) has called on government at all levels to empower citizens, punish corruption without fear or favour, and guarantee the independence of the electoral process to strengthen democracy.

Speaking in Lagos at a press briefing to mark the fellowship’s 40th anniversary, Tuesday, PFN’s President, Bishop Wale Oke, lamented that “Nigerians are in agony and in pain. They are struggling to survive more than ever before.

Please, listen to the cries of the populace.”

He therefore called on governments to take

urgent action to rescue the economy, describing the current situation as one of the darkest in Nigeria’s history.

Oke expressed concern over the collapse of the naira, describing it as not just an economic tragedy but a humiliation for citizens.

He said: “When you devalue people’s money, you devalue their lives.

I never thought I would live to see one dollar at ₦1,500. In 1985, with ₦500, I got $865. At that time, one naira was almost equal to one pound and two dollars. What has happened to us?”

He warned that unless decisive steps were taken to stabilise the currency and rebuild confidence, Nigerians would continue to lose

faith in their leaders.

On governance, the PFN leader insisted that Nigeria’s fight against corruption must be insulated from politics.

He cautioned that the EFCC and ICPC must not be turned into instruments of persecution, stressing: “Let’s punish corruption wherever it is found.

Anybody guilty should

be severely punished.

But the anti-corruption agencies must operate neutrally, without government interference.”

The faith-based organisation also placed emphasis on the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral system, calling for complete autonomy for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

32

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2025 • THISDAY

NEWS

Alao Presents his autobiography to Speaker Obasa...

L-R: Broadcast Journalist, Mr. Taiwo Olapade; Veteran sports Journalist, Dr. Mumini Alao; Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa; and Lagos State Commissioner for Establishments, Training and Pensions, Mr. Afolabi Ayantayo, during Dr. Alao’s presentation of his autobiography to the Speaker in his office at the House of Assembly Complex, Alausa, Lagos ... recently

Trademark Conflict: CAC Orders KPMG Advisory Services to Change Name Within Six Weeks Wale Igbintade Following the July 10, 2025 judgment of the Court of Appeal in Lagos, which nullified the registration of KPMG Professional Services, the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) has directed a company operating under the name KPMG Advisory Services to change its name within six weeks to avoid confusion with KPMG Nigeria, a leading professional services firm.

The directive contained in a letter dated September 19, 2025, and signed on behalf of the Registrar-General by Chidimma Laureen Nwite, stated the business name KPMG Advisory Services (BN 2145583), registered on October 11, 2010, was mistakenly approved despite the prior registration of KPMG Nigeria.

The CAC said the order was issued pursuant to Section 30(1) of the Companies and Allied Matters

Act (CAMA) 2020, which prohibits the registration of names that are identical or confusingly similar to existing entities.

It warned that failure to comply within the stipulated period would trigger enforcement action.

A copy of the letter was also sent to the law firm Idowu Sofola & Co. for record purposes.

This development follows the July 10, 2025, judgment of the Court of Appeal in Lagos, which nullified the

CAC’s registration of KPMG Professional Services after a two-decade legal battle.

In a unanimous decision delivered by Justice Abdullahi Mahmud Bayero, the appellate court granted all four reliefs sought by KPMG Nigeria against the CAC (first Respondent) and KPMG Professional Services (second Respondent).

The court held that the registration of the second Respondent’s name was improper and misleading under Section 662(1)(d) of

Abia State has commenced the process of putting in place sustainable social protection system following the launching of the European Union-funded Supporting Sustenable Social Protection System in Nigeria (SUSI).

At the event, the Abia State Social Protection Council was also formerly launched to steer the implementation of the SUSI project.

The development partners,

the name - the Court of Appeal overturned that decision.

Justice Bayero ruled there was no legally binding merger agreement and described the evidence relied upon by the lower court (including newspaper articles) as inadequate.

He emphasised that KPMG Nigeria had historical precedence, having registered KPMG Audit (1969), KPMG Tax Consultants (1990), and KPMG Consulting long before the disputed name was approved.

The court further criticised

the CAC for allowing a conflicting name to remain on the register, holding that “one cannot give what one does not have — nemo dat quod non habet.”

The appellate court ordered the CAC to strike KPMG Professional Services from its register, cancel its certificate of registration, and issue a perpetual injunction restraining it from using the name.

It also directed an inquiry into damages for profits earned under the disputed name.

FDI: Okpebholo Secures $250m Investment Deal with Euro-Africa

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

merce spanning 98 countries across Europe and Africa to the tune of $250 million.

The agreement, according to Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has a statement by the governor’s signed a business agreement Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, with the European African said Okpebholo signed the acChamber of Commerce and cord during the 2025 Edo State Industries (EuroAfrica CCI), a Global Investment Summit, coalition of chambers of com- which took place in Glasgow,

UNICEF, EU, ILO Place Abia on Firm Footing to Start Social Protection Scheme, Launch SUSI Project Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia

CAMA 1990, now Section 852 of CAMA 2020.

The dispute dates back to 2002 when KPMG Nigeria filed an originating summons challenging the registration of KPMG Professional Services, arguing that the name was deceptively similar and could mislead the public.

Although the Federal High Court dismissed the suit in 2005 - holding that an alleged merger between KPMG Nigeria and Akintola Williams Deloitte meant the plaintiff had lost its rights to

including the EU, UNICEF, and the International Labour Organisation(ILO) were all on hand to demonstrate their commitment to make Abia develop a robust, responsive, and sustainable social protection system that supports development.

The SUSI project which has UNICEF and ILO as implementing partners, with the federal government, would also make it possible for Abia to prioritise development of inclusive and equitable policies that address

the needs of its vulnerable population.

The EU Ambassador to Nigeria and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Ambassador Gautier Mignot, said the SUSI project which commenced in Nigeria in 2024 is fully funded by EU to the tune of €13 million.

“This project is aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s social protection system, expand coverage for the most vulnerable, and ensure no one is left behind,” he said.

Scotland, United Kingdom.

The agreement establishes a framework for strategic investment in Edo State, with EuroAfrica CCI committing to inject $250 million over a period of three to five years.

According to the statement, under the agreement, investments will be channeled into key sectors including agriculture and agro-processing, mining and solid minerals, technical education and skills training, renewable energy, and

green infrastructure.

Governor Okpebholo, through the Office of the Secretary to the State Government, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to creating an enabling business environment through streamlined registration processes, transparent land administration, and where applicable, tax incentives.

He emphasised that the government will uphold transparency, accountability, and strong institutional support

to ensure that these investments translate into jobs, opportunities, and sustainable development for Edo people.

On its part, Euro-Africa CCI, represented by its Director General, Amb. Dr. Kingsley Obasohan, pledged to work in line with Edo State’s and Nigeria’s local content policies to guarantee that investments directly empower Edo citizens by building capacity, creating employment, and expanding industrial value chains.

Royal Gardens Estate Residents Cry Out Over Bulk Metering Service, Charges Residents of Royal Gardens Estate in Ajah, Lagos, have declared themselves victims of injustice, urging the Lagos State House of Assembly to intervene in their prolonged crisis with developer, Trojan Estate, over electricity supply and service charges.

Appearing before the House Committee on Housing, chaired

by Mr. Segun Ege, the Chairman of the Royal Gardens Estate

Residents Association (RGERA), Mr. Anthony Ogbebor, said the community had endured unfair practices for more than a decade, which worsened in the last 18 months.

According to him, the most pressing issue is the controversial bulk-metering system introduced after the estate’s communal generator failed to meet demand.

Under this arrangement, all

households are connected to a single meter in the common area, leaving residents collectively liable for the entire bill.

“Right now, I have over 4,000 units on my prepaid meter but no electricity because of the block meter system. We have met our obligations but are being punished by a system that is clearly against the law,” Ogbebor lamented.

33

THISDAY • FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2025

NEWS

MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE AS GRAND PATRON OF NAAS...

L-R: Member National Association Agricultural Students (NAAS), Ms. Rose Ifeduko; Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari and the National President, NAAS, Comrade Basheer Abdualazeez, during the appointment of the Minister as the Grand Patron of the National Association of Agricultural Students in Abuja ... yesterday Photo: ENOCK REUBEN

Tinubu Felicitates NUPRC CEO, Gbenga Komolafe on 62nd Birthday Rejoices with Senator Saliu Mustapha too As Akpabio applauds Mustapha’s ‘uncommon leadership’ in senate

Deji Elumoye and Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu has felicitated the pioneer Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regula-

tory Commission (NUPRC) and interim Chairman of the African Petroleum Regulators Forum (AFRIPERF), Gbenga Komolafe, as he clocks 62.

The president, in a release issued on Thursday by his

Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, “joins members of the Komolafe family, friends, and NUPRC staff to celebrate the accomplished engineer and lawyer whose 35 years in the oil sector have

been characterised by innovation and excellence.”

In another celebratory development, President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, extolled the Senator representing Kwara Central, Senator Saliu

Restructuring Must Be Pursued as Unifying Force, Not Divisive Weapon, Declares SGF Says it’s key to sustainable devt Omehia launches book on restructuring Nigeria

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has said restructuring must be pursued as a unifying force, and not as a divisive weapon.

The former governor of Benue State also said the idea was not just a political demand but a strategic imperative for sustainable development and enduring unity.

Akume, who spoke, yesterday, in Abuja at the public presentation of a book: “Restructuring Nigeria: The

Way Forward,” by Celestine Omehia, added that it must be done with a spirit of patriotism, dialogue, peace and pursued as a unifying force, not a divisive weapon.

Emphasising what President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had said, Akume, who was represented at the occasion by one of his aides, Prof. Bolaji Babatunde Bernard, said, “restructuring is not about breaking up Nigeria; it is about strengthening the federation by devolving responsibilities, empowering subnational governments, and creating a governance structure

that brings power closer to the people.

“Indeed, many of the reforms already being implemented by this administration point clearly in that direction.

The removal of fuel subsidy and the unification of the foreign exchange market are bold fiscal steps aimed at empowering states through improved revenue allocation and stronger economic governance.

“The ongoing tax reforms are designed to broaden the fiscal space and ensure that federating units can generate

No Evidence Paracetamol Causes Autism During Pregnancy, Says WHO Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja The World Health Organization (WHO) has said there is currently no conclusive scientific evidence confirming a possible link between autism and use of acetaminophen (also known as paracetamol) during pregnancy A statement posted on

its website said: “WHO emphasizes that there is currently no conclusive scientific evidence confirming a possible link between autism and use of acetaminophen (also known as paracetamol) during pregnancy”.

It said that globally, nearly 62 million people (1 in 127) have autism spectrum disorder, adding that a diverse

group of conditions are related to development of the brain.

According to WHO, although awareness and diagnosis have improved in recent years, the exact causes of autism have not been established, and it is understood there are multiple factors that can be involved.

and retain more resources to serve their people.

“Equally significant are the ongoing conversations on the establishment of state police, which would deepen security at the grassroots, and the push for greater digital and infrastructure investments that enable states to become engines of growth in their own right.

Mustapha, for what he described as an “uncommon display of leadership, deep commitment to legislative duties, and impactful representation” since joining the 10th National Assembly.

Akpabio made the remarks in a personally signed birthday message released Wednesday, in celebration of Senator Mustapha, who also holds the traditional title of Turaki of Ilorin Emirate.

Meanwhile, President Tinubu acknowledged Engineer Komolafe’s inspiring story from humble beginnings in Igbara Oke, Ifedore Local Government in Ondo State, to the peak of academic and professional exploits.

The NUPRC Chief Executive had served as Executive Director (Commercial) in the Pipelines and Petroleum Marketing Company (PPMC) and Group General Manager, Crude Oil Marketing Division at the defunct Nigerian National

Petroleum Corporation.

As the head of Nigeria’s upstream regulator, Engineer Komolafe has played a pivotal role in ramping up oil production to meet OPEC’s quota, increasing revenue, reducing oil losses to a 16-year low and gas flaring to 7.16% while scaling up the average daily gas production to 7.59 billion standard cubic feet (BSCFD).

Under Engineer Komolafe’s watch, the NUPRC has rolled out 24 transformative regulations, of which 19 have been gazetted to operationalise key provisions in the Petroleum Industry Act. These high-impact reforms, including the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Measurement Regulations and the Advanced Cargo Declaration Regulation, have helped address long-standing gaps in the monitoring and accountability of upstream activities.

North-East Democracy Group: Ali Pate’s Transformation of Nigeria’s Health Sector Exciting

Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi

The Democracy and Good Governance Forum, NorthEast, has commended the performance of the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, for transformation of the country’s health sector.

The Democracy and Good Governance Forum North East is a non-governmental organization, non-political and non-religious body that usually itemizes and identifies the contributions of individuals or groups most especially citizens of the north east sub

region devoid of any political or religious differences.

The organization has been in the forefront advocating peaceful coexistence amongst the diverse ethno-religious groups in the subregion, as well as repeated calls for government to end the age long insurgency activities in the North-East.

Chairman, Democracy and Good Governance Forum North East, Comrade Sulaiman Ahmad Bauchi, in a statement, made available to newsmen described Prof. Mohammed Ali Pate as a performing minister whose wealth of experience and exposure has closed the health

gap Nigeria was experiencing in the past, calling on President Bola Ahmad Tinubu to continue to support him.

According to him, “From his days at the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the World Health Organization, as Minister of State for Health during former President Goodluck Jonathan administration and now currently, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Prof. Mohammed Ali Pate deserves commendation for his commitment towards transforming the health sector generally.

34

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2025 • THISDAY

NEWS

Glo renews Ofala sponsorship...

L-R: Globacom’s Brand Specialist, Chisom Nwakalor; Royal Cabinet member, Chuka Oboli; Retails Sales Chief, South East, Mr. Mike Ehumadu; Chairman, Marketing and Communications sub-Committee on Ofala Festival, Mr Nnaemeka Maduegbuna; Globacom’s representative, Mr Sola Mogaji; Royal Cabinet member, Chief Chuma Umunna, and Globacom’s Brand Specialist, Chinyere Achusim, at a press conference held to announce details of the 2025 Ofala festival at Ime Obi, Obi’s Palace, Onitsha, Anambra State, ... yesterday

Low Voter Registration Worries Kaduna, Wants INEC to Deploy More Machines Commission approves promotion of 471 staff

John Shiklam in Kaduna and Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

Kaduna State Government has expressed concern over the low turnout of eligible citizens in the ongoing voter registration exercise.

Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting yesterday in Kaduna, the Commissioner for Information, Ahmed Maiyaki, said Governor Uba Sani had directed government officials to adopt pragmatic measures to ensure participation of citizens in the exercise.

Maiyaki said the meeting was convened to assess existing challenges and design strategies to improve registration figures across the state.

He said preliminary data from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) showed that Kaduna and other parts of the Northwest were trailing behind in

the exercise.

The commissioner said the stakeholders’ engagement involved local government chairmen, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and the media.

He stated, “The government is deeply concerned about ensuring stronger citizen engagement in this exercise.

“This is not about partisanship; it is about encouraging all segments of society to participate actively in the democratic process.”

He commended local government chairmen that launched sensitisation campaigns, and added that the meeting was for experience-sharing and coordinated planning.

Meanwhile, INEC approved the promotion of 471 junior staff from Grade Level 3 to 6.

INEC National Commissioner and Chairman,

Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, in a statement, said the decision was taken during its weekly meeting held yesterday in Abuja.

Olumekun said the meeting, chaired by INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, reviewed

Presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in 2023, Mr. Peter Obi, has drawn attention to the striking contrast between leadership conduct in the United States and Nigeria, saying, “Our public conduct and behaviour must change.”

Obi, who departed Lagos on September 24, for visits to Washington and Chicago with a stopover in Atlanta, was on a three-day trip to the US. On arrival at Hartsfield– Jackson Atlanta International Airport, regarded as the busiest in the world, Obi noted its

scale and economic impact.

He said the airport handled over 100 million passengers annually—five times the total traffic of all Nigerian airports combined—and generated about $32 billion annually for the City of Atlanta and $70 billion for the wider metropolitan area and the State of Georgia.

According to him, Atlanta City itself ran on an annual budget of about $3 billion (over N4.5 trillion).

“Its current Mayor, Mr. Andre Dickens, a former businessman turned politician, has prioritised public

2025 promotion of 471 deserving junior staff (GL 03-06) of the commission on the recommendation of the Appointment, Promotion and Disciplinary Committee (APDC) in line with the Staff Conditions of Service.

“A total of 515 staff were shortlisted for the exercise,

out of which 214 met the requirements for promotion to GL07, 134 to GL06, 106 to GL05 and 17 to GL04.

“The promotion of junior staff concludes the first phase of the exercise. Next is the promotion of senior staff, which has also commenced in earnest.”

Atiku: Presidency Engaging in High-level Propaganda, Disinformation to Smear Me Chuks Okocha in Abuja

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has accused the presidency of engaging in high-level propaganda and disinformation against him.

A statement by his Media Adviser, Paul Ibe, stated that they had noted with concern a certain self-styled “media consultant,” bearing Kola

Peter Obi in US, Declares Nigerians’ Public Conduct and Behaviour Must Change Chuks Okocha in Abuja

the preparations for the forthcoming Anambra State governorship election, Area Council election in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and the conduct of party primaries for the Ekiti and Osun state governorship elections.

He stated, “In addition, the meeting approved the

safety, youth opportunities, crime reduction, and a $15 minimum hourly wage for council workers. Dickens’ personal worth is estimated at about $10 million,” he said.

Obi disclosed that he met the Mayor and both travelled on the same flight from Atlanta to Washington.

He observed that at the airport, on board, and on arrival at Ronald Reagan National Airport, there was no special announcement of Dickens’ presence, no aides carrying his luggage, and no preferential treatment during boarding or disembarkation.

Johnson, who issued press releases in the name of the former Vice President.

Ibe said the Atiku Media Office’s investigations pointed directly to the presidency, which in its desperation to smear opposition leaders, has resorted to hiring faceless mercenaries to fabricate fake stories and circulate unauthorised statements on Atiku.

The statement particularly noted what it described as “offensive false claim” attributed to the Kola Johnson, who

stated that an Atiku administration would be dominated by a single ethnic group.

“This disinformation is part of a calculated propaganda project designed to ridicule Atiku in the media.

“Let it known that Atiku Abubakar has never engaged one Kola Johnson as a media consultant, aide, or associate.

Any statement issued in that name is fake and should be disregarded.

“We urge media houses that have published such falsehoods to immediately

retract them.

“We caution Nigerians, especially the media, to remain vigilant against the propaganda schemes of the Tinubu administration, which now include circulating fabricated statements through compromised journalists.

“For the record, authentic information from Atiku Abubakar is only released through the Atiku Media Office, signed by his Media Adviser, Paul Ibe, or the Special Assistant on Public Communications,” it said.

Gombe to Host Maiden Health Summit, as Pate, High-Level Stakeholders, Global Partners Deliberate on Health Sector Trajectory in Gombe

Segun Awofadeji in Gombe

Gombe State is set to scale up its health sector reforms under Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, as it hosts its first-ever Health Summit, alongside the commissioning of landmark projects and key policy documents.

This was disclosed yesterday by the Commissioner for

Health, Dr. Habu Dahiru, while briefing newsmen on the government’s preparations for the event.

According to him, the twoday summit, scheduled for October 2-3, 2025, will bring together leading stakeholders from within and outside Nigeria to deliberate on strategies for strengthening healthcare systems in Gombe State.

The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, Hajiya Amina Mohammed, members of the National Assembly Committees on Health, health specialists, development partners, civil society organizations, and other key actors in the sector will be in attendance.

35

THISDAY • FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2025

NEWS

OLAM AGRI CROWN ANGELS GRADUATION...

L-R:General Manager/ Head of Marketing, Olam Agri, Bola Adeniji; Commissioner, Ministry for Commerce and Investment, Kano State, Hon Shehu Wada Sagagi; Chairman, Arewa Consultative Forum, Kano State Chapter, Dr Goni Farouk Umar; a graduate of Crown Flour Angels (CFA) baking academy, Aminu Halima; Managing Director, Wheat-Milling Business Unit, Olam Agri, Nitin Mehta during certificate presentation to 355 fresh graduates of the CFA initiative in Kano, ... yesterday

2027: Ganduje, Barau, Bichi Rally Kano Stakeholders for Tinubu’s Re-election Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

Former National Chairman of All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Ganduje, and Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin, yesterday, led other critical stakeholders of the party in Kano State to declare support for the re-election of President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general election.

Speaking with newsmen after a closed-door meeting in Abuja, Ganduje said the APC stakeholders were united and resolved to work hard to ensure that the party took over the governorship seat in Kano State in 2027.

Other stakeholders at the meeting included Minister

of State for Housing, Alhaji Abdullahi Atta; Senator Kawu Sumaila; Chairman, House Committee on Appropriation, Hon. Abubakar Abubakar; former Governor of Kano State, Senator Kabiru Gaya; Sulaiman Bichi; Hon. Mohammed Garba; and dozens of serving and former national and state assembly members and commissioners.

Ganduje stated, “We examined the progress, the successes that we have achieved in our great party in Kano State.

“We are also here in order to assure Mr. President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, that our party in Kano State, we are

solidly behind him.

“We appreciate his policy reforms. We appreciate the good work that he is doing for the country. We appreciate the good work he is doing for Kano State. And we appreciate all the appointments that

he has made for the people of Kano State.

Ganduje added, “You all know what happened during the last election. We were about to win the election, but unfortunately we could not win the election.

investors to seize emerging opportunities in Nigeria’s ‘rapidly transforming’ oil sector, citing strong reforms, enhanced production capacity, and regional influence as key drivers of growth.

Speaking during a keynote remark at the United States– Nigeria Council’s session on oil sector collaboration, held on the sidelines of the ongoing United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) 2025 in New York, Lokpobiri highlighted the country’s renewed policy focus and expanding market potential.

“At the heart of Nigeria’s renewed energy agenda is a clear and deliberate policy direction: to open our oil sector to deeper, smarter, and more strategic partnerships,” the Minister stated. “The time to invest is not just now — it is ripe,” a statement by his spokesperson, Nneamaka Okafor, said yesterday.

Lokpobiri argued that before President Bola Tinubu took the reins of power in 2023, there hadn’t been any serious investment in the nation’s oil and

politicians from other political parties that have come into our own party.”

The Kano stakeholders also declared that the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) administration in the state would be sacked.

Jonathan: Like Audu Ogbeh, I Don’t Begrudge People Chuks Okocha in Abuja

Former President Goodluck Jonathan said as a principle, he never held grudges against people on account of their past actions against him, even if he were hurt.

Jonathan emphasised the importance of forgiveness

and moving on from the past, especially in the political arena, for national cohesion and development.

His special adviser, Ikechukwu Eze, said the former president made the statement during a requiem mass held in Abuja in honour of the late Chief Audu Ogbeh.

NUPRC Approves TotalEnergies’ $510m Oil Asset Sales Deal with Shell, Agip

22, 23, 25, 27, 28, 31, 32, 33, 35, 36, 43, 45, 46, 74, 77 and 79.

However, months after the approval, Chappal Energies, according to the NUPRC, failed to consummate the deal. This, it said, was despite extensions graciously granted by the commission.

Based on this development, the commission stated that the ministerial consent for the deal was withdrawn on May 29, 2025.

“Also, the withdrawal of a ministerial consent does not in any way rule out the possibility of a future divestment by the interested parties provided such an asset sale is in line with extant laws,” the commission said.

The NUPRC affirmed that in line with Section 6(h) of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), it remains committed to promoting an enabling environment for investments in upstream petroleum operations.

Meanwhile, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, has called on global

But since after that, our party has remained intact.

“Our party has remained solid. And because of the good policies of Mr. President, and also because of our political dexterity in the state, we are able to attract many important

gas sector for over a decade, but stressed that with renewed focus, the sector is experiencing rejuvenation.

“Recall that for over 10 years, prior to the coming of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Nigeria did not have any new investment in the oil sector but with the reforms we have carried out, which have created an atmosphere that is globally competitive and attractive, we now have new investments running into billions of dollars.

“All inactive blocks during the period of no investments, are in the basket now and up for grabs. We have longstanding relationships with US and US companies. Beyond these relationships, there are new opportunities for new investors, both in the upstream sector and other sectors,” he added.

The minister noted that under the leadership of Tinubu, Nigeria’s oil sector has witnessed significant progress over the past two years, including increased production output and a more attractive investment climate.

“Thanks to bold reforms and globally competitive fiscals, Nigeria has significantly ramped up production and repositioned itself as a dependable energy hub across West Africa and the continent,” he said.

Lokpobiri attributed this transformation to the successful implementation of the PIA, which he described as a “robust, investor-friendly legal framework” that is driving growth and restoring investor confidence.

He also emphasised Nigeria’s commitment to energy transition efforts, affirming that the country would continue to leverage its fossil fuel reserves to finance its energy mix, while adhering to international climate agreements.

“We are fully aligned with the Paris Agreement, and remain committed to cleaner, more sustainable exploration,” he said.

“Our doors are open, our laws are clear, and our environment is conducive — now is the time for U.S. and global investors to become part of Nigeria’s energy success story,” he stressed.

Jonathan had joined family members, friends, and wellwishers to pay final respects to the late elder statesman, renowned politician, and farmer.

In a tribute, Jonathan described Ogbeh as a humble and forgiving individual who never held onto resentment, just like his attitude to life.

He stated, “Chief Ogbeh was a man who did not seek revenge. He believed the past

should be left behind and that we must keep moving forward.

“In that sense, he was just like me. If you hurt me today, I will forgive you. I don’t carry grudges against people. I believe the past is past—and I move on.”

Reflecting on his personal relationship with the deceased, Jonathan recalled their close friendship dating back to his time as deputy governor.

Tinubu to Lead APC Govs to Owerri Sept 30 to Unveil Book on Party’s 10 years in Office To commissions Uzodimma’s projects

Amby Uneze in Owerri

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will be in Owerri, the Imo State capital on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, leadinggovernors of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the party’s leadership to unveil a book written

by Governor Hope Uzodimma of the state, highlighting the achievements of the APC within 10 years of coming to power.

During the visit, Tinubu and his entourage are expected to formally unveil for public use, some key legacy projects embarked upon by the 3R Government of Uzodimma.

Uzodimma dropped the hint about the president’s

planned visit while speaking to newsmen yesterday after inspecting the projects slated for commissioning.

Top on the list include the rebuilt 26 kilometers OwerriMbaise-Obowo-Umuahia road, a new Flyover linking Port Harcourt and Onitsha cum improvement on the Maria Assumpta Cathedral Owerri Round-about, and a brand new ultra modern Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu International Conference Centre (EIICC), Owerri.

Uzodimma said, “The APC is set to celebrate a decade of leadership in Nigeria with a significant meeting in Owerri, Imo State.

36

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2025 • THISDAY

NEWS

decoration ceremony of new DCGs...

The Interior Minister, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo and the CDCFIB Secretary, Major General Abdulmalik Jubril (rtd) flanked by CGs and top government officials during the decoration ceremony of new DCGs in Abuja... yesterday

Concerned Indigenes Call on Tinubu to Declare State of Emergency in Kogi Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The Movement for the Emancipation of Kogi State, (MEKSTA), has called on President Bola Tinubu to declare a state of emergency in Kogi state, as a result of sundry issues bedevilling the state, including what it described as the virtual lack of governance.

In an open letter yesterday, the group stated that it was constrained, less than two months after its initial alarm, to remind Tinubu of the imperative of acting decisively to arrest the drift into full-blown anarchy.

Critically, MEKSTA stressed that the state bordered by nine other states is a peculiar and sen-

sitive state since any combustion whatsoever emanating from Kogi state holds ominous potential for national conflagration.

The statement was signed

by Hon. Obafemi Medaiyese (Yagba Federal Constituency constituency); Joseph Mebatonije (Kabba-Bunu/Ijumu Federal Constituency); Yusuf Kpareke (Lokoja/Kotonkarfe Federal Constituency); Jimoh Ozovehe (Adavi/Okehi Federal Constituency) and Nurudeen Adaviriku (Okene/Ogori-Magongo).

Others included: Isiaka Momoh (Ajaokuta Federal Constituency); Ojonimi Adegbe (Idah/ Igalamela-Odolu/Ofu/Ibaji Federal Constituency); Mark

Onucheyo (Dekina/Bassa Federal Constituency) and Husseini Saidu (Ankpa/Omala/Olamaboro Federal Constituency) “We wish to begin by drawing your attention to the contemporary reality of minimum governance in Kogi State today.

Whereas Rivers State where you declared a State of Emergency March 18, 2025 to stem possible sociopolitical inflammation with potentially dire socioeconomic consequences was in contest between two political leaders, the situation in Kogi State is more scary.

“True, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo is the face of governance in Kogi State. It is

World Bank Backs FG’s Groundbreaking Ward Initiative

of achieving a $1 trillion GDP by 2030 and lifting millions of Nigerians out of poverty.”

He noted that the country was learning from other countries while developing a uniquely Nigerian approach.

Bagudu said, “We have examined China’s experience of lifting 852 million people out of poverty, India’s rural transformation, and Kenya’s bottom-up strategy.

“Nigeria can incorporate these lessons, but with a model that reflects our constitutional federalism and ensures all three tiers of government take responsibility.”

He also highlighted Nigeria Agenda 2050, the country’s longterm strategic plan, as a key driver of national development.

According to him, “Agenda 2050 is ambitious but achievable.

It reflects our national consensus—enshrined in Chapter Two of our Constitution—that all tiers of government must work together to deliver economic, social, and environmental objectives.

“Our duty is to translate this vision into actionable five-year plans and annual budgets that are people-centred and resultsdriven.”

Bagudu expressed sincere gratitude to the Bretton Woods institution for its ongoing support, particularly during the last 28 months of economic reforms, emphasising that the bank had remained committed to Nigeria through a difficult yet transformative period.

He said, “The World Bank team has collaborated with us not just as partners but as members of the same team. We could not have achieved the results we have today without your support.

“Together, we have taken bold steps that are beginning to restore macroeconomic stability and inspire confidence at home and abroad.”

The minister stressed the importance of maintaining the momentum of reform.

He said, “Our reforms have demonstrated the value of staying the course in the right direction. With effective policies and difficult but necessary choices, we are beginning to see results. The task now is to build on these achievements and ensure that no willing Nigerian is left behind.”

Bagudu also reaffirmed the ministry’s role as a coordinating body rather than a competing

one.

He said, “This Ministry is not in competition with any other. Our role is to coordinate, convene, and ensure that all levels of government work towards the same goal: inclusive prosperity for every Nigerian.”

Meanwhile, the CBN has explained that its recent decision to reduce the MPR by 50 basis points would stimulate growth without undermining the stability of the naira.

He also pointed to fresh policy measures, including a new 75 per cent Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) on non-TSA (Treasury Single Account) public sector deposits, designed to mop up excess liquidity.

“We expect the rate cut of 50 basis points to have a significant impact on the real economy.

This cut should support economic recovery, particularly by lowering borrowing costs, with credit channeled towards growth-enhancing sectors. We expect sm all businesses and similar enterprises to benefit,” he added.

He dismissed concerns that easing monetary conditions could weaken the naira.

According to him, with foreign reserves above $43

common knowledge, however, that very much like his colleague, Siminalayi Fubara in Rivers State, Ododo was wholly and totally installed by his immediate predecessor and consanguinal relative, Yahaya Bello. Very early in the life of his administration, Ododo announced to his constituents in Kogi Central that Bello’s word takes precedence over his on any and every issue.

“Your Excellency might have also seen a recent video clip where newly ‘elected’ members of the Kogi State House of Assembly paid homage to Yahaya Bello in his Abuja home and were expressly told by Bello that they’ve merely been invited to

‘come and chop,’ and are total ‘yes men’ under his watch. That is the level of totalitarianism enthroned in Kogi politics since the tragic advent of Yahaya Bello in 2016, the quantum vice grip he exercises on governance in the state.

“For the record, all the bills passed by the Kogi State House of Assembly since 2016, have been generated from Government House, Lokoja. Mr President may wish to deploy official and intelligence resources at his disposal to double-check on this. This is not the kind of democracy you fought for from deathly trenches under military fascism when General

Sani Abacha held Nigeria at its jugular,” the group argued.

Besides, it decried a ‘dangerously uncanny dimension’ to the political situation in Kogi State, with the recent emergence of a ‘new extension’ to the Kogi State power dysfunction, called Habibat Oyiza Tijani Onumoko, the Accountant-General of the state.

The group said that she has become a veritable political “third force,” consummating the gubernatorial tripod of: Ahmed Ododo; Yahaya Bello and Habitat Onumoko, with all three of them being blood relatives from Ebiraland in Kogi State.

billion, stable exchange rates, narrowing spreads between official and parallel markets, and strong capital inflows from remittances and portfolio investors, the local currency remains resilient. “We do not expect any adverse impact of the rate cut on the strength of the naira.

Our fundamentals are robust,” he stressed.

On how the CBN intends to keep inflation in check despite the rate cut, Oboh highlighted fiscal and structural measures such as increased agricultural output, improved security in farming communities, and competitive dynamics in the downstream petroleum sector, which have begun to ease transport costs.

“The harvest season will also soften inflation. The prevailing rate continues to attract foreign inflows from portfolio investors and remittances, with good liquidity in the FX market.

We don’t expect the rate cut to affect the strength of the naira,” he added.

Still on inflation taming and the decision to subject non-TSA public deposits to a 75 per cent CRR, he said: “A key measure was subjecting all non-TSA public deposits to a

75 per cent CRR, to control excess liquidity that may pose an inflation threat, which could fuel inflation. These decisions are to encourage economic recovery, and on the other hand, we are not oblivious of the risks and threat to inflation.”

Oboh acknowledged that households struggling with high living costs might not feel the impact immediately, but he emphasised that the monetary transmission process is already underway.

“When the MPR is lowered, borrowing costs for banks are reduced. If commercial banks can access funds more cheaply, they are expected to lower lending rates to households and businesses. Lower borrowing costs will cut production costs, which will then reduce product prices. This will increase purchasing power and help households cope with the cost of living,” he noted.

The CBN’s latest action, Oboh explained, also aligns with the global wave of monetary easing, citing recent decisions by the US Federal Reserve and the Bank of Ghana, which had also cut rates.

“The MPC reviewed global trends. We are aware of the

global uncertainties around tariffs, trade wars, and the rest of them, and that is what the governor meant when he said he is very cautious about what happens at the global level.

“MPC also took cognisance of recent monetary policy decisions taken by many central banks and also our peers at the global level. Many major central banks are cutting rates to stimulate growth and jobs,” he added.

Looking ahead, Oboh maintained that the outlook for inflation and broader economic conditions would determine the MPC’s next steps.

“The outlook showed that going into the rest of the year, we would expect inflation to trend downward. The pace will be encouraging, and if that happens, the MPC will take the best decision in the interest of the country.

“What I would like to say is to assure investors and all Nigerians that the outlook is very optimistic, and the macro indicators are also moving in the right direction, and the MPC will be guided by data, even as we approach the next MPC in November. The entire outlook for the macro economy looks optimistic.”

FRIday september 26, 2025 • T H i s d ay

37

NEWS

CONDOLENCE VISIT...

Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, signing the condolence register during a condolence visit to the Ibru family over the passing of Olorogun Oskar Ibru at their Apapa residence, Lagos…yesterday

Katsina Unmasks 3,488 Ghost Workers, Certificate Forgers, Others on LG Payroll Francis Sardauna in Katsina

The Katsina State Government has uncovered 3,488 ghost workers, certificate and birthday forgers, and underage employees under its local government payroll as part of ongoing efforts to revamp the local government system in the state.

The defaulters were the 3,488 personnel uncovered by the also indulged in other government through fraudulent acts such as illegal a Biometric Screening promotions and absconding Committee on the staff of from duty. the 34 local government He said out of the 50,172 councils and Local Education Authorities.

Presenting its findings at the State Executive Council Bassey Inyang in meeting, the Chairman of Calabar the committee, Abdullahi Gagare, said some of The Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Otu, has sworn in two new judges into the state’s judiciary, charging them to uphold integrity, fairness, Chieftaincy hierarchy to and the independence become Olubadan. of the courts in the The nomination of Ladoja as Olubadan followed the demise of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin on July 7, two Adibe Emenyonu in days after his 90th birthday. Benin-city Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, who has been A High Court in Benin City, on his annual vacation, is Edo State, has struck out expected back in Ibadan to a charge against a former present the Staff of Office to Publicity Secretary of the Oba Ladoja at the historic Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Benin branch, Mapo hall in Ibadan.

Some of the dignitaries Douglas Ogbankwa.

This followed a nolle and well-wishers expected at the installation ceremony scheduled for the Mapo Hall have started arriving..

Ibrahim Oyewale inLokoja

The NECAS Network of Entrepreneurial Women (NNEW) is set to celebrate its 20th anniversary on October 8-9, 2025, with a theme of “Evolve, Elevate, Celebrate”, highlighting the organisation’s commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs and promoting economic stability.

The 20th anniversary celebration will feature high-level dialogues, exhibitions, and trade

birth dates, fake certificates, underage employment, ghost workers, absenteeism, illegal promotions, and cases where staff positions were sublet to others,” he added.

dispensation of justice.

Following the swearing in of the judges, Edu Glory Bassey, Esq., and Irem Melody Bassey, the number of judges in the state has increased to 32.

In his address, Otu commended the judiciary for adhering to due process in judicial

appointments and urged the new appointees to rise above political influence and societal pressures.

“Your elevation has come at a time when the judiciary is under intense public scrutiny. The nation is yearning for courageous and morally upright judges who can

restore confidence in the Temple of Justice.

You must avoid undue closeness with the political class, resist being used as instruments for political vendetta, and ensure that your rulings are rooted in law and common sense,” Otu said.

Edo Court Strikes out Charge against Lawyer Ogbankwa prosequi filed by the Attorney-General of the state in Charge No: B/ CD/60C/2025, dated August 4, 2025.

The withdrawal followed an application made by the Director in the state Ministry of Justice, Mrs. Stella Okojie, who led other lawyers,, while Mr.

Douglas Ogbankwa, who appeared for himself,, did not oppose it.

The matter, which was eventually struck out by the presiding Judge, Hon Justice Helen Ogbevoen, ended 18 months of legal battle between the state and the lawyer.

In a comment after the

withdrawal of the case, Ogbankwa indicated that he has been vindicated after the politicallymotivated charge fueled by the immediate-past administration of the state.

“The law has eventually taken its course, and justice is served in this matter,” Ogbankwa stated.

Kogi Commits to Quality Healthcare Service Delivery

NNEW Celebrates 20 Years of Empowering Kogi State Government has its commitment to Women in Economic Devt reiterated providing quality healthcare

Mary Nnah

engaging in fraud,, and refusing to appear before the committee.

“The committee uncovered serious irregularities, including falsification of

C’River Harps on Judicial Integrity, Independence, Swears in Two Judges

Ibadan Agog as Ladoja Set to Be Crowned 44th Olubadan

Ibadan, capital of Oyo State is filled with excitement and expectation as the people prepare for the installation of Oba Rashidi Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland today.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that the weeklong programme for the installation of the Olubadan of Ibadan will come to a climax today Ladoja, who celebrated his 81 birthday yesterday , a businessman, former senator and governor of Oyo State, rose through the Olubadan

staff screened by the committee, 46,380 were successfully verified while 3,488 wxere removed for presenting fake credentials, absconding from duty,

showcases, as well as recognition and awards for pioneers and partners who have championed women’s economic empowerment.

The event will also mark the unveiling of NNEW’s 10Year Strategic Plan, a bold roadmap for the future that focuses on expanding access to finance and markets, strengthening mentorship and leadership pipelines, and driving digital transformation and innovation in women-led enterprises.

service delivery to the people at the grassroots level across the state.

In line with the determination to ensure

quality healthcare service delivery at the grassroots level across the state, the government has commenced the upgrading of no fewer than 256 primary healthcare centres.

The state Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley

Fanwo disclosed this while speaking with journalists during the media tour of the ongoing rural infrastructure development by the present administration in Mopamuro Local Government Area yesterday.

Fanwo and his counterpart, the Commissioner for Works,

Mohammed Yusuf, have led the ongoing media tour of projects across the state to the Kogi West senatorial district.

The duo inspected newly remodeled and constructed healthcare facilities in Mopamuro and Kabba/ Bunu Local Government Areas.

PINL Engages 35,000 Niger Delta Youths in Pipeline Surveillance Blessing Ibunge inPort Harcourt

Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL), the company in charge of surveillance operations in the Eastern Corridor of the Trans Niger Pipeline (TNP) said it has engaged the services of over

35,000 youths of the Niger Delta region on security of oil infrastructure and other critical national assets.

This as Nigeria’s gas production output has been reported to have risen to 7.59billion standard cubic feet in the month of July according to the Nigerian Upstream

Petroleum Regulation Commission (NUPRC).

General Manager, Community Relations and Stakeholders Engagement of PINL, Dr Akpos Mezeh, announced the figure of the youth employment during the monthly stakeholders’ meeting with

host communities along the Trans Niger Pipeline in Port Harcourt.

Mezeh said with the additional responsibilities of securing gas assets in the Eastern Corridor, more surveillance jobs have been created for youths in the region.

C 38

FRIday september 26, 2025 • T H i s d ay

NEWSxtra

INSTITUTE OF CHANGE MANAGEMENT CONFERENCE…

L-R: Panelist, Mr. Morolayo Igekele; Chairman, Planning Committee, Institute of Change Management(ICM) 2025 Annual Conference, Dr. Yemi Aremo Adeyemi; Registrar, ICM, Mr. Joseph Anetor; Director, Admin and Human Resource, Lagos State Public Service Staff Development Centre, Mrs. Mojisola Sofowora; representative of the Keynote Speaker and Information Technology Consultant,Dr. Chris Uwaje; President/ Chairman, Governing Council, ICM, Mr. Osewele Nat; Member, Governing Council,ICM, Dr. Orungbeja Babatunde; immediate past Managing Director/CEO, Distell Wines and Spirits, Mr. Steve Ighorimoto, during the annual conference of institute in Lagos…yesterday

‘Prevention of Violent Extremism Must be Local, Multi-dimensional’ Lawmaker urges security strategy review to halt killings in Plateau

Linus Aleke in Abuja The National Coordinator of the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), Major General Adamu Laka, yesterday stated that for the prevention of violent extremism to be effective, it must be local, contextual, and multi-dimensional in its approach.

Lawmaker Calls for Review of Security Strategy

to Halt Killings in Plateau He also noted that development solutions, economic inclusion, social services, and governance are central to preventing terrorism, banditry, and violent extremism.

This is just as a member of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Hon. Joseph Bukar, has called for a review of the nation’s security strategy to halt

NBC Begins 2025 Youth Empowered Tour the most impactful youth

The Nigerian Bottling Company (NBC) Limited, a leading consumer packaged goods company and member of the Coca-Cola Hellenic Beverage Company (CCHBC), has announced the flag-off of the 2025 Youth Empowered (YE) Tour, with Kaduna hosting the first stop on September 29 and 30, 2025.

Now in its eighth year, the YE initiative, launched in 2017, has become one of

development programmes in Nigeria and across 28 countries where Coca-Cola HBC operates. Having already surpassed its ambitious goal of reaching one million young people across these locations by 2025, the initiative continues to expand as a platform for nation building, skills development, and real-world career preparation.

Speaking on the new edition, Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Director at NBC, Soromidayo George, said the programme reflects NBC’s consistent investment in Nigeria’s socioeconomic development.

“At NBC, we believe Nigerian youths are central to the country’s progress.

By empowering them with practical skills, mentorship, and opportunities, we are not only shaping their individual futures but also contributing to the nation’s collective growth. The Youth Empowered initiative is a demonstration of our commitment to nurturing the next generation of innovators, leaders, and change-makers,” George said.

the incessant killings in the state.

General Laka spoke at the official opening of the maiden National Summit on Preventing and Countering

Violent Extremism (PCVE) in Abuja.

General Laka, who was the keynote speaker, also stated that security responses must be rights-respecting

and well-coordinated.

Restating that violent extremism will not be solved by any one institution acting alone, he emphasised that it is

a collective endeavour that demanded clarity of policy, rigour of evidence, and the humility to learn from communities that are the first line of defence.

Age Falsification: Court Refuses to Order Arrest of Senior Police Officers

Alex Enumah in Abuja

A High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), yesterday turned down the request by the Inspector General (IG) of Police, seeking the order for an arrest of five former senior police officers charged with

forgery and age falsification.

The request by prosecution counsel, Rimamsomte Ezekiel, was predicated on the absence of the defendants in court for their scheduled arraignment.

The defendants’ arraignment on a 14 count criminal charge before Justice

Halilu Yusuf of the High Court of the FCT, could not take place due to the inability of the police to effect personal service on them.

When the matter was called, Ezekiel who is an Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP), expressed disappointment that the

defendants were absent in court despite being served with the charge.

He told the court that investigators made several attempts to serve the defendants through their known residential addresses only to discover that they have relocated.

Afenifere, DAWN Commission, South-west Govs to Project Region’s Initiatives

SundayOkobi

The Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, and other governors in the South-west states will join Afenifere leaders and other leaders in the Southwest region to host over 800 regional stakeholders who will engage directly with the

federal government on various policy initiatives affecting the region in particular and Nigeria in general.

The summit, with the theme: ‘Strengthening Democracy Through Dialogue: Assessing Progress, Charting the Future’, will be jointly organised by Afenifere, the

pan-Yoruba sociopolitical organisation, and the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN) Commission. According to the organisers, the two-day citizengovernment engagement summit is scheduled for October 9 and 10 in Akure, the Ondo State capital.

The Steering Committee Chairman, Dr.Akin Onigbinde (SAN), stated that the summit aims to create a structured dialogue mechanism between the South-west region and federal and state authorities, in order to ensure regional voices inform national policy decisions.

Sokoto Commends UNICEF for Recognising Health Care Efforts Onuminya Innocent in Sokoto

The Sokoto State Government has expressed its appreciation to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) for acknowledging its efforts

in prioritising healthcare and nutrition.

This recognition comes after UNICEF commended the state government for increasing its health budget, describing the move as a model for advancing child and

maternal welfare.

The state Deputy Governor, Idris Muhammad Gobir, who represented he state Governor, Ahmed Aliyu, thanked UNICEF for its partnership, and assured them of continued

collaboration.

“A healthier population contributes more to community development.

We will continue to work with UNICEF to improve healthcare, nutrition, and education across Sokoto State,” he said.

FXTM’s Platform Deepens Retail Participation in Global Markets Nume Ekeghe

Global trading provider, FXTM, has said its newly introduced FXTM Edge platform is already making inroads in Nigeria by simplifying access to foreign exchange and commodities markets while lowering

entry barriers for retail participants.

Speaking at a media roundtable in Lagos, Specialist, Education and Media at FXTM, Adaeze Uzochukwu, noted that Edge was designed specifically with Nigerian users in mind, given their

reliance on mobile channels and the challenges that have traditionally hindered retail trading.

He said: “Many Nigerians are interested in trading but are held back by complexity, high costs, or lack of experience. FXTM Edge was built to remove those

barriers and give everyone a chance to participate in global markets confidently.”

With a minimum deposit requirement of just $50, compared to the $200 previously needed, FXTM Edge lowers the entry threshold for Nigerians looking to trade.

39

THISDAY • FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2025

FRIdaysports

Group Sports Editor: Duro Ikhazuagbe Email: duro.ikhazuagbe@thisdaylive.com

0811 181 3083 SMS ONLY

Manchester Utd to Spy on Ebenezer as Flying Eagles Land in Chile Duro Ikhazuagbe The stocks of Nigerian youngster, Ebenezer Harcourt, have continue to grow as former English Premier League giants,

in Chile.

The 15-year-old goalkeeper Manchester United, are plan- got his break when featuring ning to send their top scouts to for the Nigerian Home-based spy on him in action as the U20 Eagles in final group match of World Cup kicks off Saturday their fiasco adventure in the African Nations Championship (CHAN) in Zanzibar mid year.

Harcourt was subsequently listed in Super Eagles provisional squad for World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and South Africa.

But as Flying Eagles No 1 Frankfurt, and Konyaspor.

But the Nigerian international goalkeeper at the U20 World striker began training with his Cup in Chile, it will be the Galatasaray teammates, albeit he did not participate in all the drills. Yesterday, the club shared more pictures of the Super Eagles star in training with his Galatasaray’s teammates.

Afterwards, they revealed their squad for their upcoming Super Lig fixture against Alanyaspor on Friday, and Osimhen’s name was there.

This means that he will be part of the team for the game today.

U20 WORLD CUP

Osimhen to Start from Bench for Gala Today Turkish Super Lig champions Galatasaray have confirmed that Super Eaglesstriker Victor Osimhenwill be available for selection for their game against Alanyaspor on Friday.

Osimhen has been out of action since sustaining an ankle injury while on international duty with the Super Eagles of Nigeriain their 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier against Rwanda.

The 26-year-old marksman has been recovering since then.

The injury even made him miss Galatasaray’s last three games against Eyupsor, Eintracht

perfect opportunity for the Red Devils scouts to have thorough assessment of his capabilities.

Harcourt made history with Sporting Lagos when they won the Gothia Cup in Sweden in their inaugural appearance and he also made the CAF Best XI for the 2025 U20 AFCON in Egypt.

Manchester United’s Cameroonian first choice keeper, Andre Onana, is on loan with Turkish Super Lig club side Trabzonspor.

The loan move became necessary to relieve him of the

role at Old Trafford following several gaffes last season, thereby leading United to finish the season poorly.

Apart from the Nigerian youngster, United are also reported to be on the trail of another young goalkeeper, Charlie Hardy, 16, from Derby County.

Hardy has played five times for England’s U16 and is going through formalities to complete a move to Manchester United.

Meanwhile, the Flying Eagles arrived in the city of Talca

yesterday afternoon ahead of their participation in this year’s FIFA U20 World Cup finals. Group F games involving Nigeria, Norway, Saudi Arabia and Colombia will take place in Talca.

The two-time World Cup runners-up were received by officials of FIFA and the Local Organizing Committee, as well as officials of the hotel. The team later trained in the evening.

The Flying Eagles are lodged at Hotel Diego de Almagro in Talca.

Sadjo, Affigbo Crowned Champions of Olojo 5km Road Race The ancient city of Ile-Ife witnessed a thrilling display of athleticism on Thursday as Ismail Sadjo and Affigbo Esther Chihurumnanya emerged winners of the maiden edition of the Olojo 5km Road Race, held in conjunction with the iconic Olojo Festival.

Sadjo clinched the men’s title with a commanding time of 15 minutes and 15 seconds, earning the top prize of N1 million.

Elated by his victory, he gushed: “I’m so excited to win the first edition here in Ile-Ife, it means a lot to me” In the women’s category, Affigbo Esther Chihurumnanya delivered an equally impressive performance, crossing the finish line in 17 minutes and 38 seconds to claim her own N1 million prize.”

“I’m so happy to make history as the first champion of this race,” she said. “This

victory means a lot to me.”

Affigbo’s triumph adds to an already stellar season, having previously won the 2025 Imo Youth Marathon and the 2025 MASA Isonyin Marathon.

The Olojo 5km Road Race holds the distinction of being the first of its kind recognised by the Athletics Federation of Nigeria to be staged alongside a cultural festival. The race was flagged off by HRH Sooko Adeleke Odewade, one of the event’s promoters, in partnership with the Aladefa family, renowned for their contributions to Nigerian sports.

Representing the Aladefa legacy was Taiwo Aladefa, the first Nigerian to break the 13 second barrier in the 100m hurdles, a gold medalist at the 1995 African Games and Olympic semifinalist in 1996 in Atlanta, USA.

Affigbo Esther Chihurumnanya displaying the dummy cheque of the N1million she won yesterday at Ile-Ife

Nigeria’s Flying Eagles on arrival in Talca ahead of the kickoff of the Under-20 World Cup in Chile this weekend

NFF: No Plans to Amend Statutes at 2025 Annual General Assembly The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has insisted that it is not planning to amend its Statutes at the Annual General Assembly scheduled to begin tomorrow in Ibadan.

In a press statement issued in reaction to the petition filed by former President of Nigeria’s Players’ Union, Prince Harrison Jalla to FIFA, NFF’s Director of Communication, Dr Ademola Olajire, said: “For the avoidance of doubt, there are no plans to amend the NFF Statutes at the 2025 Annual General Assembly, scheduled for 27 September 2025. Any suggestions to the contrary are unfounded.

“As part of standard procedure, a workshop will take place on 26 September 2025 with the participation of officials from delegates representing the Members of the NFF as well as FIFA and CAF officials.

“The purpose of this forum is to deliberate proposals for new NFF Statutes, in line with the principles of good governance

and international best practices recommended by FIFA and CAF. It is important to emphasize that this consultation process is still at an early stage. Only after a common direction is agreed upon with

NFF Members may a General Assembly be convened specifically to consider and adopt the proposed Statutes,” the statement noted.

The NFF reaffirms its commitment to working closely with its

General Assembly Members, as well as with FIFA and CAF, to ensure that all processes related to its Statutes are conducted with due process, transparency, and full adherence to global best practices.

TYB Golf Club to Commission Projects for Independence Day Tourney Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja The management of TYB International Golf Resort and Country Club, Abuja has lined up for commissioning a number of infrastructural projects that will have far-reaching benefits for members to commemorate Nigeria @65 Independence Golf Tournament.

The Chairman LOC Independence Committee, Dr. James Agbonhese, announced this yesterday at a media briefing to unveil Nigeria @65 Independence

Golf Tournament schedule.

The projects to be inaugurated today September 26, include, a midway hut – constructed by Chief Samuel Ayanmele, a backnine starter shed constructed by Brigadier General DM Onoyiveta (rtd) and a golf cart bay.

Agbonhese said the tournament promises to be exciting and memorable, with a week-long calendar of activities.

He said the tournament had been thoughtfully put together to celebrate the nation’s 65th Independence Anniversary, as well

as the enduring spirit of unity, friendship, and camaraderie that golf represents.

“As we prepare to tee off on Saturday, 27 September, we are reminded that this event is more than just a sporting competition.

It is an opportunity to reflect on the values upon which our dear nation was founded—unity, perseverance, discipline, and excellence,” Agbonhese said.

He thanked sponsors, participants, and supporters whose commitment and contributions made the event possible.

T H I S D AY • FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2025

Price: N400

back page lead photograph

25th Anniversary and Commendation Night of the Office of the Public Defender...

Lagos High Court Judge, Hon. Justice Olabisi Akinlade; Chief Judge of Lagos State, Hon. Justice Kazeem Alogba; Member of the House of Assembly, Hon Oladipo Olayinka Ajomale; Representative of the Governor of Lagos State, Hon. Commissioner, Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs. Bolaji Cecilia Dada; Hon. Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro (SAN); Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary, Mr Hemeed Olanrewaju Oyenuga; Director, Office of the Public Defender, Mrs. Olubunmi Adesomoju; (Rtd) USA Circuit Judge, Court of Appeals, Ann Claire Williams and Lagos High Court Judge, Hon. Justice Olubunmi Abike-Fadipe, during the 25th Anniversary and Commendation Night of the Office of the Public Defender (OPD) at Civic Center, Victoria Island, Lagos ... recently

DakukuPeterside Beneath the Surface

Africa’s Long Memory, Palestine’s New Moment

A

sovereign Palestinian state has long existed in the moral imagination of the Global South, both as a promise and a test of its ideals. It is the promise that people who suffered dispossession, military occupation, and the bureaucracies of humiliation might yet recover political agency. And it is the test of whether our international system—so fluent in the language of rights—can translate words into durable arrangements of law, borders, and governance that keep civilians safe and give societies room to breathe. For Africa, this is not an abstraction. It is memory with a pulse, a mirror that reflects the continent’s own passage from liberation movements to the craft of state-building, from martyrs’ cemeteries to ministries with budgets and auditors.

Across the continent, recognition of Palestine is not a diplomatic novelty, but a continuation of older, deeply rooted solidarities. The PLO’s observer status at the Organisation of African Unity in 1974 and the proclamation of the State of Palestine in Algiers in 1988 were not mere gestures. They were the punctuation marks in an extended sentence of shared struggle.

Algeria, Angola, Mozambique, and Tanzania offered more than sympathy; they offered training grounds, safe houses, and the intangible endowments of friendship under pressure—intelligence, logistics, and the morale that comes when another geography affirms that your suffering is legible and your strategy is sane. The PLO–ANC relationship is etched into this archive: exile offices, joint workshops on political organisation, the study of how to negotiate without compromising one’s core demands, and that stubborn insistence that international law—however imperfect—is a powerful tool when memory is disciplined into evidence.

This is why, when Western capitals periodically rediscover Palestine, Africans often respond with a composed déjà vu. As Fidel Amakye Owusu notes, what appears new in Paris or Ottawa is old in Accra, Algiers, and Addis Ababa. Africa’s embrace of a two-state formula has never been a romantic reflex.

It is a grammar learned from bitter experience: draw borders that restrain adventurism; embed security in reciprocal commitments rather than unilateral domination; make dignity administrable through courts, civil registries, and accountable police, not just poetry and flags. Owusu’s point about upgrading Palestine from UN observer to full member exposes the granite of power—the P5’s veto prerogatives—but it also expresses Africa’s long habit of leaning against unyielding doors until the hinges groan. The continent knows how slowly the dial moves; it moves anyway.

Yet, recognition by itself is insufficient, perhaps even anaesthetising if it is not matched by action.

The stubborn difficulties remain. Borders must be more than lines on maps that have already been eroded by settlements, bypass roads, and geographic

President Bola Tinubu fragmentation, which turn daily life into a maze. The status of Jerusalem entangles theology, law, and memory in a complex knot; any arrangement that ignores one of these strands will inevitably unravel. Within Palestinian politics, legitimacy is contested: the PLO’s international standing, the Palestinian Authority’s administrative capacity, Hamas’s control of Gaza, the long postponement of elections, and the urgent question of a unified security doctrine that protects civilians and accumulates international credibility rather than squandering it. For Israelis, insecurity is equally real: rockets, cross-border raids, the fear of regional encirclement, and the trauma that shapes public opinion as profoundly as any manifesto. A reflective politics must carry these truths at once—not to flatten them into false equivalence, but to refuse the lazy moral arithmetic that excuses violations of humanitarian law under the alibi of necessity.

Abdal Karim Ewaida’s reminder that African recognition grew from “deep historical, political, and human ties” gestures toward a more useful future: revive solidarity as a verb. That means culture as diplomacy—book fairs that pair Gaza poets with Nigerian novelists; film festivals in Lagos that host Palestinian directors alongside South African documentarians of the anti-apartheid era; museum exhibits that place West Bank checkpoints and Soweto pass laws in the same analytical frame without collapsing their differences. It means economics as empathy—joint agrotech pilots on arid-land farming; telemedicine links between teaching hospitals in Ibadan and Ramallah; vocational exchanges that train municipal technicians to keep water flowing and grids stable. And it means institutions as the architecture of hope—civil service training on procurement integrity, police reform modules on community safety, and electoral management workshops that drill into the dull excellence of logistics, chain of custody, and results transmission.

So, what does this mean for Nigeria—beyond the vocabulary of ‘support’ that can become an alibi for

inaction? First, it means clarity. Nigeria can reaffirm a two-state framework, as embedded in international law and humanitarian norms, while insisting that civilian protection is non-negotiable. This is not performative balance; it is strategic coherence. Abuja can work the concentric circles of influence: within the African Union to harmonise positions and to shield smaller states from bilateral pressure; in the Non-Aligned Movement to keep the conversation anchored in decolonisation and legal remedies; in the UN General Assembly to sponsor resolutions that have teeth—on settlement freezes, the protection of medical facilities, and unimpeded humanitarian corridors—rather than ritualistic edits to worn paragraphs.

Second, it means choosing work that tends to be invisible. Nigeria can be a art of the ecosystem that can help build the operating system of a future Palestinian state, so that when flags rise, citizens can also obtain passports, courts can issue binding decisions, and budgets can be audited without fear. Imagine a Nigeria–Palestine Governance Fellowship hosted in Abuja, with rotations through the Office of the Head of the Civil Service, the Budget Office, and an integrity clinic co-taught by EFCC and ICPC alumni. Add scholarships in public health, trauma surgery, water engineering, and municipal management, targeted not just at elite universities but at polytechnics and teaching hospitals where practice is the pedagogy.

Third, it means convening. Nigeria in conjunction with other natiions, can host quiet track-II and track-1.5 dialogues, including Islamic and Christian leaders with credibility among their own communities, municipal mayors who manage the dirty pragmatics of roads, rubbish, and reservoirs, business networks that can route reconstruction supplies through Nigerian ports, and humanitarian actors who understand that aid without logistics is merely theatre. These conversations do not replace negotiations, but they strengthen the social fabric that any agreement must rely on when the first inevitable shock arrives.

Fourth, it means storytelling at home. Government communication should be consistently pro-civilian, grounded in law, and cautious with language in a country where interfaith relations are delicate and sometimes fragile. Nigeria’s diaspora can help carry this message beyond official channels: academics to frame debates with evidence; artists to humanise statistics; tech founders to prototype tools for transparency—live dashboards of aid flows, open-source maps of damaged infrastructure, registries that protect orphans and reunite families.

Fifth, it means managing risk with clear eyes.

There will be pressure—from powerful states that prefer quietism, from domestic actors who yearn for performative outrage, from information campaigns that thrive on provocation. Nigeria should anticipate these currents. Establish a cross-ministerial working

group comprising Foreign Affairs, Humanitarian Affairs, Information, Finance, Interior, and Digital Economy to coordinate policy, public messaging, diaspora engagement, and cyber hygiene.

All of this unfolds amid uncertainty that no prose can smooth. Consider three near-term scenarios. In the first instance, a wave of recognition gathers at the UNGA, while the Security Council remains locked; then the work is to make de facto statehood less fictional—functional ministries, visible service delivery, and a political horizon that is credible enough to suffocate militancy’s moral oxygen. In the second stage, diplomacy stalls and violence cycles; then the task is protection: humanitarian corridors that actually function, electricity and water services that can be restored after strikes, and schools that reopen quickly because their supply chains were pre-positioned during calmer periods. In the third, borders and Jerusalem’s status inch toward a framework; then African technical missions—on elections, policing, municipal service delivery—can serve as stabilisers, the quiet brace that keeps a fragile arrangement from buckling under its own necessary compromises.

It is tempting to conclude with uplift, but precision serves better. A sovereign Palestinian state is a moral horizon and a logistical ordeal. It asks Palestinians to consolidate legitimate institutions with democratic mandate and professional security services; Israelis to accept that a neighbour’s permanence is not a threat to be managed but a precondition for their own enduring security; Arab states to align rhetoric with sustained financial and political investment; Western states to be consistent in their application of international law; and Africa to remember its sternest lesson: freedom without institutions is brittle, institutions without justice are brittle too.

If Nigeria brings anything distinctive, let it be the long memory of a federation that has survived stress tests and the practical habits learned from them. We know that amnesties and accountability can coexist if sequenced with care, that community policing and national security are complements when trust is built patiently, and that procurement rules are not clerical fictions but the foundation of fairness. We know that dignity is granular: a border crossing that does not humiliate, a clinic that keeps the lights on, a magistrate who is not for sale, a school where a child can plan next week without dread.

Statehood will not redeem history. However, it can redraw the possibilities of the future. Africa has walked that narrow edge between despair and design before and, more than once, found footing where none seemed possible. Nigeria can help steady the balance—quietly, consistently, and with the patient ambition that turns recognition into reality, slogans into services, and solidarity into the ordinary mercies of a life lived without fear.

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