Issuu

US Midterms: Rubio Weighs Leaving Trump Administration as Oil Price Slumps Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja and Sunday Ehigiator in Lagos

United States Secretary of State,

Marco Rubio, is considering leaving President Donald Trump’s administration following the Republican Party’s crushing defeat

in the midterm elections, as political uncertainty in Washington and prospects of a diplomatic resolution to the war with Iran weigh on global

oil prices. People familiar with the matter said Rubio and his advisers were reviewing options for his political

future, although he had yet to make a final decision on whether to resign from his positions as America’s top diplomat and national security

adviser. According to Bloomberg, which Continued on page 8

CBN Report: Fiscal Deficits Impact Naira, Spike Interest Rates... Page 5

Friday 6 November, 2026 Vol 31. No 11534. Price: N400

www.thisdaylive.com TR

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& REASO

Shettima to Jim Ovia At 75: Your Greatest Wealth are The Institutions, Lives You Built... Page 7

Tinubu Departs Abuja Today for Two-state Visit to Akwa Ibom, Rivers Ekiti promises 90% votes for president at rally

Deji Elumoye, Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja and Gbenga Sodeinde in Ado Ekiti

President Bola Tinubu will depart Abuja today, November 6, for a

two-state visit to Akwa Ibom and Rivers states. This was announced in a release by the presidential Adviser

on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga. The announcement came as

Vice President Kashim Shettima, yesterday, said Tinubu had kept faith with his promise to rebuild

Nigeria through bold and necessary Continued on page 8

FHC’s Lifu Overrules FHC’s Lima,Voids 1,503 ADC Candidates; Who Will INEC Obey? Sacks David Mark-led exco Atiku: It’s panic from Sokoto rally Chuks Okocha, Alex Enumah, Sunday Aborisade in Abuja and Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano In a ruling that has shocked the whole country and put democracy in obvious danger, Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court, Abuja, yesterday, sacked the Senator David Mark-led Exco of African Democratic Congress (ADC), some 71 days to the presidential election. By the ruling, Lifu effectively voided the candidacies of no fewer than 1,503 people, including the presidential candidate of ADC, Atiku Abubakar, for the sake of one man, Nafiu Bala Gombe. Interestingly, on July 2, 2026, Hon. Justice Musa S. Liman also of the Federal High Court (FHC) in Abuja delivered a judgment in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/1637/2025 Continued on page 8

ON THE SIDELINES OF AFRICA FINANCIAL INDUSTRY SUMMIT...

L-R: Managing Director/CEO, Access Bank PLC, Roosevelt Ogbonna; Chairman, Access Holdings Plc, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede; Managing Director, International Finance Corporation (IFC), Makhtar Diop; and Vice President for Africa, International Finance Corporation (IFC), Ethiopis Tafara, at an agreement signing between Access Holdings and IFC on the sidelines of the Africa Financial Industry Summit (AFIS) 2026 in Luanda, Angola, on Wednesday

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2026 • T H I S D AY

THISDAY • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2026

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

NEWS

LAUNCH OF THE NEW DSTV AND GOTV PACKAGES...

L-R: Senior Vice President, DStv Media Sales, Doris Ohanugo; Executive Head, Corporate Affairs, Caroline Oghuma; Chief Executive Officer, Kemi Omotosho; Senior Vice President, Content Nigeria, Dr. Busola Tejumola; and Senior Vice President, Communications, Tope Oshunkeye, all of MultiChoice, a CANAL+ company, at the launch of the new DStv and GOtv packages held at The Royal Box, Victoria Island, Lagos, on Wednesday

CBN Report: Fiscal Deficits Impact Naira, Spike Interest Rates

Says fiscal expansion remains major source of exchange rate instability Study advocates legally binding fiscal rule establishing a ceiling for budget deficits relative to gross domestic product, others

James Emejo in Abuja Nigerias persistent budget deficits are exerting significant pressure on the naira, fuelling exchange rate instability and complicating efforts to lower interest rates, a Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) research has disclosed. The study, published in the CBN Journal of Applied Statistics, identified government’s fiscal imbalances as a major driver of currency depreciation, warning that sustained borrowing and spending pressures could undermine monetary stability, restrict credit to businesses and weaken private-sector investment. The findings provide further insight into the consequences of a prolonged fiscal expansion, particularly as the federal government continues to rely heavily on domestic and external borrowing to finance its widening budgetary requirements. Titled, “Budget Deficit Dynamics and Macroeconomic Performance in Nigeria” and authored by

Ndubuisi E. Uguru, the research examined the relationship between fiscal deficits and major macroeconomic indicators using annual data spanning 1981 to 2024. Employing a Vector Autoregressive (VAR) framework, the researcher established that budget deficits were a primary source of exchange rate fluctuations, accounting for a substantial proportion of currency movements in the immediate period and contributing to sustained depreciation over time. The research also found that fiscal imbalances exert delayed upward pressure on interest rates and could trigger a contraction in money supply, suggesting that monetary authorities might be forced to adopt restrictive measures to contain the consequences of government’s expansionary fiscal operations. The study stated, “The results revealed that budget deficits are a primary driver of exchange rate depreciation, accounting for a

substantial share of exchange rate fluctuations in the immediate period and triggering a sustained currency decline, while also exerting delayed upward pressure on interest rates and paradoxically inducing a significant contraction in the money supply likely reflecting defensive monetary tightening.” The implications are particularly

The federal government yesterday expressed concern over the declining electricity supply in some parts of the country, particularly in Abuja, Lagos, Ogun, Kwara and Oyo States, blaming gas constraints, ongoing maintenance and reduced generation from hydropower plants. In a statement in Abuja by

financing obligations and further deficits. It also highlighted the evolving relationship between investment and other macroeconomic variables, noting that investment was largely determined by its own dynamics in the short term but became increasingly influenced by inflation and money supply over the longer term.

Afrinvest boss says billionaire backed him when firm’s future was uncertain, adds 15-year-old debt now fully repaid in June

James Emejo in Abuja

Group Managing Director of Afrinvest (West Africa) Limited, Mr. Ike Chioke, has credited billionaire businessman, Mr. Tony Elumelu with providing a $1 million personal loan that helped the investment firm

Blames gas issues, ongoing maintenance, cut in hydropower generation 44 of 300 stranded containers leave Apapa ports after 12 years the Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe, the government said it had noted complaints from Nigerians in the affected areas, especially those he said had recently enjoyed noticeable improvements in power supply before the current downtimes. The statement signed by the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Minister of Power, Adeola Adelabu, also acknowledged the inconvenience caused to

with budget deficits accounting for 100 per cent of their own variations initially and retaining approximately 53 per cent of their influence by the tenth period. The finding suggests that fiscal pressures could become self-reinforcing, making it increasingly difficult to reverse the cycle of borrowing, rising

Ike Chioke: How Elumelu’s $1Million Personal Loan Helped Rescue Afrinvest After Global Financial Crisis

FG Expresses Concern Over Poor Power Supply in Abuja, Lagos, Ogun, Others Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

significant for an economy where government borrowing competes with private-sector demand for credit, potentially increasing financing costs for businesses and constraining investment. Fiscal pressures and monetary policy constraints The reserach established that the country’s fiscal imbalances tend to perpetuate themselves,

households, businesses and public institutions. “The ministry acknowledges the inconvenience this has caused households, businesses and public institutions, and understands the frustration of Nigerians who had begun to see the benefits of steadier supply. We recognise what every hour without power means for individuals, families and businesses, and we do not take it lightly,” the minister said.

navigate a severe financial crisis in the aftermath of the global financial meltdown. Chioke disclosed that Elumelu extended the loan in 2011, when Afrinvest was struggling to rebuild and recapitalise its business, describing the intervention as a decisive act of confidence that helped the company survive a period of considerable uncertainty. In a letter of appreciation dated October 14, 2026, Chioke said he had fully repaid the loan in June, bringing to a close a 15-year financial obligation to the chairman of Heirs Holdings. The Afrinvest chief, however, said the repayment went beyond settling a longstanding debt, describing it as an opportunity to honour a commitment to a benefactor who had placed his confidence in him at a critical point in his entrepreneurial journey. At the time the loan was extended, Chioke said, Elumelu’s intervention was not merely a bet on Afrinvest’s business prospects but a personal endorsement of his integrity, determination and conviction that the company could

recover from its difficulties. He said the support had played an important role in the firm’s eventual transformation into a diversified financial services group serving a growing client base and contributing to the development of Nigeria’s capital market. He said, “At that critical juncture, when the future was far from certain, you made the remarkable decision to lend me US$1 million of your personal funds. “You placed your confidence not simply in the prospects of a business, but in me as an individual, my integrity, my determination and my conviction that Afrinvest could emerge stronger from adversity.” “That gesture meant more to me than I could adequately express at the time.” Chioke said the firm’s subsequent growth had reinforced the significance of Elumelu’s decision to provide the funds when the outcome remained uncertain. He said, “Your faith in me, and in what we were trying to build, has been vindicated,” he said,

adding that he hoped Elumelu took satisfaction in knowing that his generosity had helped make Afrinvest’s progress possible.

Beyond repayment Chioke said he was particularly moved by Elumelu’s reaction when he informed him in June that he was ready to repay the loan. According to him, the transaction represented more than the discharge of a financial obligation; it was a matter of preserving the integrity of a commitment made to someone who had supported him when that support mattered most. While the debt had now been fully settled, Chioke said his gratitude would remain enduring. The Afrinvest boss also used the experience to draw a connection between Elumelu’s personal intervention and his broader efforts to expand access to capital and business opportunities for entrepreneurs across Africa through the Tony Elumelu Foundation.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2026 • THISDAY

NEWS

COURTESY VISIT TO DANGOTE PETROLEUM REFINERY...

L-R: General Manager and Head of Stena Bulk USA, Mr. Johan Jäwert; Group Chief Operating Officer, Caverton Offshore Support Group (COSG), Rotimi Makanjuola; Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) COSG, Ms Pauline Sessou-Diop; General Manager/Head of Crude and Fuel, Stena Bulk, Mr. J.R. Gardner; Chief Executive Officer, COSG, Mr. Olabode Makanjuola; incoming Chief Executive Officer, Stena Bulk, Philip Eriksson; and Chief Executive Officer, Stena Bulk, Mr. Erik Hånell, during the visit of executives of the Stena Bulk, Sonangol Shipping and Trading, NNPC Shipping Ltd and Caverton to Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemical in Lagos on Wednesday

FCCPC Moves Against Producers of Poorly Fortified Vegetable Oil, Salt

Tunji Bello: consumers should be able to trust quality of products they buy, the benefits those products are expected to provide Survey finds 12% of vegetable oil, 2% of salt samples deficient in essential micronutrients

James Emejo in Abuja

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has moved against manufacturers of inadequately fortified vegetable oil and salt after a nationwide survey uncovered lapses that could undermine efforts to tackle

micronutrient deficiencies and hidden hunger in the country. The vommission said it had issued directives compelling defaulting producers to comply with mandatory food fortification requirements, warning that consumers must not be deprived of the nutritional benefits expected from products sold

in the Nigerian market. The intervention followed an assessment conducted in partnership with the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN), which found that 12 per cent of vegetable oil samples and two per cent of salt samples tested were inadequately fortified.

The survey, which examined 200 samples comprising 100 vegetable oils and 100 salt products, was conducted over two months across randomly selected markets and households in northern and southern Nigeria. The findings raise concerns about the effectiveness of

NUSA Unveils Interim Leadership, Names Mozimo Caretaker Chairman Drone operators seek nationwide expansion, prioritise regulatory engagement, professional standards, capacity building, others James Emejo in Abuja The Nigeria Unmanned Systems Association (NUSA), has elected Mr. Okosubide Mozimo as chairman of its caretaker committee. The body represents drone operators and other stakeholders in the unmanned aviation sector. The committee has a mandate to stabilise the association, reconcile stakeholders and organise a credible elective Annual General Meeting (AGM). According to a statement signed yesterday by Mozimo, the committee emerged at a stakeholders’ meeting and election held on October 31. The meeting also elected Capt. Damilola Olufemi Adelana as Vice President, while Femi Adekoya emerged Financial Secretary. The new leadership succeeds the administration of retired Air Vice Marshal Femi Idowu, who led the association from its inception. In his acceptance speech, Mozimo said the committee

would prioritise internal reconciliation, membership revalidation and the organisation of an elective AGM within its tenure. He thanked members for their confidence in the committee, and paid glowing tribute to AVM Idowu for his visionary leadership and his service to the association and the nation. He also pledged to expand the association’s membership nationwide by bringing more government agencies, drone operators and other stakeholders into its fold. Mozimo said the committee would strengthen engagement with regulators, promote professionalism and invest in capacity building to support the development of Nigeria’s unmanned aviation industry. He also identified collaboration with government agencies, oil and gas operators and the agricultural sector as key to unlocking the economic potential of drone technology. The new chairman expressed appreciation to members for

the confidence reposed in the committee and commended Idowu for providing the association’s initial leadership and laying the foundation for its growth. He called on members, regulators and other stakeholders to support the committee in building a safer, more professional and commercially viable drone ecosystem. Mozimo is an electrical and electronics engineer with a master’s degree in project management and an MBA from Robert Kennedy College, University of Cumbria, Switzerland. He is Managing Director of ARCO Worldwide Services Limited, a commercial drone operator certified by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), and was involved in establishing ARCO Aviation Academy, described by NUSA as Nigeria’s first NCAA-approved drone pilot training academy. However, Adelana, a former offshore helicopter pilot with Bristow Helicopters Nigeria, is

the founder and chief executive of U.F.O. Aerials Services Ltd. He is also identified by the association as Nigeria’s first NCAA-designated remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS) inspector and has contributed to the development of the country’s RPAS regulatory framework.

Nigeria’s large-scale food fortification programme, which seeks to combat micronutrient deficiencies through the addition of essential vitamins and minerals to commonly consumed foods. Commenting on the findings, Executive Vice Chairman/ Chief Executive, FCCPC, Mr. Tunji Bello, said consumers were entitled to trust the quality of products they purchased and the benefits those products were expected to deliver. He stressed that consumer protection extended beyond resolving complaints and tackling harmful business practices to ensuring that consumers received the actual value and benefits associated with products in the marketplace. Bello also said manufacturers had a responsibility to maintain appropriate quality standards and ensure that their products complied with relevant regulatory requirements. The commission stressed that such deficiencies contribute to

hidden hunger, a public health challenge with significant consequences for vulnerable populations, particularly preschool children and women of reproductive age. Under the national food policy, manufacturers are required to fortify designated food products with essential micronutrients, including iron, folic acid, vitamin A, zinc and iodine, depending on the product category. The FCCPC’s findings suggest that some consumers may not be receiving the nutritional benefits expected from products marketed as fortified foods. The exercise also exposed weaknesses in the digital monitoring of manufacturers and their products. The commission identified poor participation by vegetable oil producers in the Digital Fortification Quality Traceability Plus (DFQT+) platform, developed by GAIN to improve the tracking of fortified foods from production to consumption.

UN Envoy, IPCR DG Warn Against Weaponising Hunger, Misinformation Ahead of 2027 Elections Michael Olugbode in Abuja A United Nations envoy and the Director-General of the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR), Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, have called for stronger measures to prevent electoral violence in Nigeria, warning against the exploitation of economic hardship, misinformation and disinformation to destabilise the 2027 general elections. The call was made during a meeting between the UN Special Representative of the SecretaryGeneral, Leonardo Santos Simão,

and Ochogwu in Abuja, where they discussed Nigeria’s preparedness for the forthcoming elections and strategies for ensuring peaceful political participation before, during and after the polls. Simão, who is in Nigeria on a working visit as part of a pre-election assessment, engaged critical stakeholders on emerging threats to electoral stability and the need to strengthen early warning, prevention and response mechanisms. The discussions focused on political violence, electionrelated tensions, misinformation,

disinformation and the growing influence of technology in shaping political narratives. Ochogwu expressed confidence in Nigeria’s institutional capacity to prevent and manage electionrelated violence, noting the country’s law enforcement agencies, military and intelligence services had the capacity to contain threats and prevent isolated incidents from escalating into widespread violence. He however stressed the need to strengthen existing preventive mechanisms rather than allow political tensions to degenerate into violence.

THISDAY • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2026

NEWS

MIDDLE BELT LEADERS VISIT TINUBU...

L-R: Dr. Poju Bitrus; Taraba State Governor, Agbu Kefas; former Chief of Army Staff, General Ishaya Bamayi (rtd); former Speaker of House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara; Mr. Thomas Etuh, President Bola Tinubu; former Minister of Defence, General Theophilus Danjuma; All Progressives Congress National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda; Plateau State Governor, Caleb Muftwang; and Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (rtd), during the visit of Leaders of Middle Belt to the president at the State House, Abuja, yesterday

Shettima to Jim Ovia At 75: Your Greatest Wealth are The Institutions, Lives You Built Says he belongs to rare generation of entrepreneurs who turned private ambition into public value Deji Elumoye in Abuja

Vice President Kashim Shettima has felicitated renowned banker, entrepreneur and philanthropist, Dr. Jim Ovia, on his 75th birthday, describing him as one of the quiet architects of modern Nigerian enterprise. He particularly said Ovia’s greatest achievement is not the wealth he created, but the institutions, opportunities and people he has raised along the way. The Vice President, in a message issued on Thursday, reflected on

his longstanding friendship with the founder of Zenith Bank Plc, saying there comes a point in a successful life when achievement is measured less by accumulation and more by what remains useful to others. “At 75, Jim has reached that enviable season of life where the evidence of success is everywhere, yet its most important dimensions cannot be captured on a balance sheet. A bank can be valued. Buildings can be priced. “Investments can be counted. But how does one put a figure on the confidence given to a

young entrepreneur, the education made possible for a child, or an institution built strongly enough to continue without its founder?”, he asked. Shettima observed that Ovia’s remarkable journey offers an important lesson about the nature of enduring success, noting that while many people build businesses, only a few succeed in building institutions capable of surviving their own immediate presence. His words: “Jim understood quite early that enterprise is ultimately an act of faith in the

N70,000 Transport Allowance: TUC Insists on Sustainable Salary Increase Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja The Trade Union Congress (TUC) has reaffirmed its demand for a sustainable salary increase as alternative to another wage award, insisting the N70,000 transport allowance agreed between federal government and Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) is not enough to address workers’ hardship. In a communique issued at end of its emergency National Administrative Council (NAC) meeting held on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, TUC said a salary increase offers a more meaningful intervention to improve purchasing power and living standards. The communique signed by Secretary General, Comrade Nuhu Toro, said NAC reaffirmed its position as stated in its press release of October 21, 2026, emphasizing that minimum wage is a statutory floor and not a ceiling on workers’ earnings. TUC said it is demanding salary increase and not another wage award, particularly in view of federal government’s failure to

fully implement wage award palliative agreed on October 2, 2023, which was intended to run until new minimum wage was signed into law on July 29, 2024. Under that agreement, workers received an average of only three months out of ten months agreed upon. “The Council maintained that a sustainable salary increase offers a more meaningful intervention to improve workers’ purchasing power and living standards,” it said. The NAC also acknowledged positions of some of its publicsector affiliates - SSAUTHRIA, NUAHP and SSASCGOC - noting they are consistent with earlier position of Congress. It stressed workers’ welfare cannot be advanced by disregarding collective bargaining rights of affected unions or undermining their legitimate representation. It reaffirmed TUC as a recognized trade union centre with legitimate mandate to represent, defend and negotiate for members in line with ILO Conventions 87

and 98, and resolved to pursue constructive and result-oriented engagement with government towards implementing resolutions of its October 8 meeting in Abuja. The Council noted TUC is on path of long-term institutional renewal under leadership of Comrade (Engr.) Festus Osifo, acknowledging such journey is not without distractions and resistance, but resolved to remain resolute and consolidate gains through collective decision-making. On accountability, TUC reaffirmed its accountability to National Executive Council (NEC), highest decision-making organ between Delegates’ Conferences, saying it has acted in accordance with NEC directives and Constitution. It therefore resolved leaders should refocus efforts on securing salary increase by engaging stakeholders and refraining from public exchanges on matter, stressing Congress believes in purposeful, result-oriented leadership that delivers tangible benefits rather than distractions or unsustainable interventions.

future. When he founded Zenith Bank, he was not merely opening another bank; he was making a wager on Nigerian talent, technology and possibility. The institution that emerged from that conviction has become part of the architecture of our economy. “But what I admire even more is that his imagination did not end with banking. He carried the same belief in human possibility into education and philanthropy. Through scholarships, investments in learning and the institutions he has established, he has increasingly devoted his accomplishments to enlarging the possibilities available to another generation.” The Vice President said his personal relationship with Ovia had also afforded him the privilege of encountering the man behind

the public accomplishments. Shettima described the celebrant as a friend whose warmth, discipline and constancy have endured through the changing seasons of public and private life. “Friendship teaches us things that public reputation cannot. Over the years, I have come to know Jim beyond the impressive statistics attached to his name. I have seen a man of immense accomplishment who remains curious, composed and deeply invested in the progress of others. There is strength in that constancy. “Life, eventually, asks each of us a simple question: after all the striving, who is better because we were here? At 75, Jim Ovia can look around our country and find part of the answer in thousands

of lives, careers and institutions that have been enlarged by his vision.” The Vice President prayed for continued health, wisdom and fulfilment for the celebrant, saying the nation still has much to gain from the experience and perspective of accomplished Nigerians such as Ovia. “On behalf of my family, I celebrate my dear friend, Dr. Jim Ovia, at 75. May the years ahead bring him the quiet satisfaction that comes from seeing seeds planted over a lifetime become shade for generations one may never meet. I wish him good health, abiding peace and many more years of purposeful service to Nigeria and humanity. Happy birthday, Jim,” Shettima further stressed.

TETFund Raises Concern Over Poor Adoption of Digital Learning Resources in Tertiary Institutions Kuni Tyessi in Abuja The Executive Secretary of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), Architect Sonny Echono, has expressed concern over the slow adoption of digital learning resources across tertiary institutions in the country, warning that poor utilisation is undermining investments made to improve the quality and accessibility of education. Echono stated this, at the TwoDay Strategic Engagement with Heads of Beneficiary Institutions, Chairmen of Governing Councils and Bursars, held at the National Universities Commission (NUC) Auditorium in Abuja. He lamented that despite significant investments in digital educational resources, several institutions were yet to fully integrate the platform into their academic activities, even

as TETFund continues to pay subscription and maintenance fees on their behalf. According to him, the platform provides access to more than 400 digital libraries, academic publications, educational materials and anti-plagiarism tools, enabling students and lecturers to access valuable learning resources beyond the limitations of physical classrooms. The TETFund boss urged chairmen of governing councils to ensure that their institutions enroll students and teaching staff on the platform, stressing that technology-driven learning was essential to making Nigerian tertiary institutions globally competitive. He also criticised older institutions that still submit paper-based applications instead of using the Fund’s online processes.

On campus security, Echono warned that tertiary institutions remained vulnerable to security threats, calling for stronger measures to protect students, lecturers and other members of their communities. He said TETFund had introduced a special security infrastructure intervention covering perimeter fencing, surveillance systems, solar street lighting, communication equipment and patrol vehicles. He also linked campus safety to the need for improved student accommodation, disclosing that less than 15 per cent of students currently reside on campus. He urged institutions to take advantage of TETFundsupported public-private partnership arrangements to develop hostels and reduce students’ exposure to security risks outside campus.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2026 • THISDAY

EIGHT

Education Minister, Alausa, Unveils 26 Education Reforms, Disburses N372.6bn in Student Loans

Sunday Ehigiator

The federal government has highlighted 26 education initiatives introduced under the President Bola Tinubu administration, covering university reforms, student financing, teacher development, technical education, research, digital learning, and infrastructure. The Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, outlined the initiatives in an A–Z document titled From Reform to Results, which he shared on his X account recently. The document, which covers the Nigeria Education Sector Renewal Initiative (NESRI), highlighted programmes designed to expand access

to education, strengthen institutions, promote research and innovation, and equip young Nigerians with practical skills. Among the major interventions is the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, which has processed 1,659,853 applications, with a total of N372.62 billion reportedly disbursed to beneficiaries across 319 institutions. The fund comprises N192.89 billion paid as institutional fees and N179.73 billion disbursed as upkeep allowances. The government also highlighted its agreement with the Academic Staff Union of Universities, which provides for a 40 per cent increase in academic staff remuneration,

alongside revised allowances and improved welfare provisions. Under the Campus Mobility Initiative, the government said it had deployed 780 electric tricycles across 48 universities to improve transportation within campuses. The Diaspora BRIDGE programme, designed to connect Nigerian experts abroad with local institutions, has recorded 1,141 registered experts, with 16,675 students benefiting across 107 tertiary institutions. On teacher development, the document disclosed that 53,553 teachers had registered on EduRevamp, while 51,794 registrations

were recorded for the first cohort of the Accelerated Teacher Professionalisation Pathway. It added that the government had invested N2 billion in the programme, which targets 250,000 teachers by 2027. The administration also listed its Free Technical Education initiative, which provides tuition, boarding, textbooks and uniforms to students in federal and selected state technical colleges. According to the document, 38 federal and state technical colleges have been rehabilitated to improve facilities for practical skills training. On girl-child education, the government reported that 7.19

FHC’S LIFU OVERRULES FHC’S LIMA, VOIDS 1,503 ADC CANDIDATES; WHO WILL INEC OBEY? (Hon. Leke Joseph Abejide v. African judgment, was another case filed The plaintiff in the suit marked: of the law. Democratic Congress & 4 Ors.) to reopen the same dispute? FHC/ABJ/CS/1819/2025, claimed The judge subsequently granted regarding the leadership of the Before Justice Lifu’s ruling, ADC that following the resignation of the reliefs sought by the plaintiff African Democratic Congress (ADC). had on its list 28 governorship former National Chairman of ADC, and declared as unconstitutional, Justice Lima had dismissed candidates, 108 senatorial hopefuls, Chief Ralph Nwosu, he (Gombe) unlawful, null and void, all actions the suit then, determining the 352 House of Representatives was qualified to assume the party’s and decisions taken by the Mark-led court lacked jurisdiction over an standard bearers, and 1,015 Houses of leadership. executive on behalf of the party. internal party affair and that the Assembly picks for the 2027 general He specifically prayed the court The ruling came with grave plaintiff lacked standing and failed election. to restrain the Mark-led executive implications, as the congresses and to exhaust internal remedies of the However, with the Lifu ruling, from parading themselves as leaders convention that produced former party. especially against its timing, the fate of the party, on the grounds that Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Justice Lima then directed INEC of 1,503 people have been affected in the process that produced them other candidates vying for elective to recognize the party leadership and the most egregious manner, leaving violated constitutional provisions offices both at the state and federal engage with them, while awarding them in a quandary, and the entire as well as ADC’s guidelines. levels were conducted by the Markcosts against the plaintiff. nation in speculation over what Those sued included ADC, Mark, led national executive. Justice Lifu, by his judgment might happen next as the country Rauf Aregbesola, Independent yesterday is effectively overruling inches towards the 2027 elections. National Electoral Commission Atiku: It’s Panic from Justice Lima’s (worthy of note is both The bigger question on the lips (INEC), and Nwosu, as first to Sokoto Rally Justices are of equal and coordinate of the public is: which of these two fifth defendants, respectively. jurisdiction) July judgment which conflicting judgments will INEC now However, the defendants asked Atiku condemned the court declared David Mark led Exco as comply with? the court to dismiss the suit for judgement that removed the Mark legitimate, valid and directed INEC Lifu, in the judgement, held that being incompetent and lacking leadership of ADC, saying it is a to recognise it. the emergence of Mark as National merit, explaining that the suit as panic response to Wednesday’s Four months after Justice Lima’s Chairman of ADC as well as the constituted fell within the internal Sokoto rally by ADC, which attracted directive to INEC to recognise other members of his executive matters of a political party, and a massive crowd of supporters. Mark-led Exco, Justice Lifu has violated the constitution and the therefore outside the jurisdiction Describing it as a calculated declared that same Exco as existing guidelines of the party. of the court. attempt to weaken ADC and in contravention of the party’s A former National Deputy Delivering judgement in the frustrate his candidacy, Atiku, in constitution. Chairman of ADC, Gombe, had matter, yesterday, Lifu disagreed a statement by Director of Strategic Atiku in his immediate reaction, approached the Federal High Court, with the defendants, holding that Communication of ADC Presidential said the latest case raised serious Abuja, to challenge the emergence their emergence as executives of Campaign Council, Phrank Shaibu, legal concerns: “Why, after that of the Mark-led executive of ADC. ADC did not follow the due process said the timing of the judgement

million girls were benefiting from direct interventions across 21 states under the Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment, while 3.7 million girls were enrolled in junior and senior secondary schools. It added that more than 422,720 girls had completed life-skills programmes, while over 10,000 schools had benefited from improved classrooms, water, sanitation and hygiene facilities, as well as teaching and learning materials. Another major intervention is the HOPE-Education programme, supported by $552 million in World Bank funding, which targets 29

was telling. According to the statement, “It came barely a day after a mammoth crowd turned out in Sokoto to welcome him and attend the launch of the ADC campaign. “The people of Sokoto came out in their thousands because they are hungry for change and believe in our promise to make life affordable again. “What we witnessed in Sokoto is only the beginning. The people of Kebbi will have their say, and so will Nigerians across the country as our campaign moves forward.” Atiku stated, “My roots are in Northern Nigeria, but my candidacy belongs to all Nigerians. There is a difference between being from the north and being a candidate only for the north. “Hunger and hardship do not respect regional boundaries. Nigerians across the country are suffering under this government, and they deserve a leader with a credible plan to make life affordable again. “The timing of this judgement is no coincidence. It is part of a strategy to weaken my support in the north and frustrate a campaign whose message is resonating across the country. “But the ruling party’s greatest miscalculation is to assume that my support ends in the north. What we saw in Sokoto, what we will see in Kebbi and across the country, is the strength of a national movement.” Atiku said the judgement also raised serious legal concerns,

Alausa million children, more than 500,000 teachers, 65,000 public schools and 10,000 non-formal learning centres.

stressing, “Justice Musa Liman of the same Federal High Court had already dismissed the challenge to the David Mark-led leadership in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/1637/2025. “The court upheld the defendants’ objections on jurisdiction, standing and the failure to exhaust internal party remedies, and resolved the substantive issues in their favour. “Why, after that judgement, was another case filed to reopen the same dispute? This is a calculated attempt to circumvent a subsisting judgement. We will challenge this judicial manoeuvre at the Court of Appeal.” Atiku urged ADC supporters to remain calm and law-abiding and not to let the judgement weaken the momentum generated in Sokoto, saying the campaign train is already in Kebbi and would continue across the country. He stated, “Our journey to rescue Nigeria from the hardship imposed by the APC government is a long one. Our Affordable Life campaign will continue because Nigerians deserve relief from this crushing cost-of-living crisis. “We urge our supporters to remain resolute, take our message from house to house and door to door, and stay peaceful and focused. There is no shaking.”

TINUBU DEPARTS ABUJA TODAY FOR TWO-STATE VISIT TO AKWA IBOM, RIVERS economic reforms. the APC rally. interventions in Ekiti. account for the work already done Shettima spoke in Ado-Ekiti, The rally will be his third, out of Shettima acknowledged the as well as the tasks ahead. the Ekiti State capital, during the the proposed 12, since he flagged off sacrifices made by the citizens, He said, “We know the sacrifices All Progressives Congress (APC) the re-election campaign in Kaduna saying the people are already reaping you have made, and we are ADC: APC Wants to Set presidential campaign rally, where last month. the benefits of the administration’s beginning to reap the benefits Nigeria on Fire the people declared that 90 per The visits will give the president tough decisions. of those difficult decisions. His cent of their votes would be for the opportunity to engage with He stated that while the Excellency, President Bola Ahmed ADC described yesterday’s the president. political stakeholders, party members, commitments were being fulfilled, the Continued on page 44 Continued on page 43 Onanuga stated, in the release, that and supporters, while emphasising Tinubu government had returned to Tinubu will first visit Uyo, the Akwa unity, political stability, and a shared Ibom State capital, to inaugurate commitment to national progress. US MIDTERMS: RUBIO WEIGHS LEAVING TRUMP ADMINISTRATION AS OIL PRICE SLUMPS landmark projects completed by the first reported the development, committed to Trump and the Make tion easier than it would be under he wants to distance himself from Governor Umo Eno administration, Shettima: Tinubu Has Rubio had spoken with officials America Great Again movement. the new congressional arrangement. the politically damaging Iran conflict and attend a political rally. Kept His Promise of at the White House about stepping Rubio’s reported consideration of Democrats are expected to and position himself for a future To give the president a rousing Rebuilding Nigeria down but was asked to remain an exit comes after Republicans suf- investigate several administration political comeback. reception, Eno declared today a Through Bold Reforms in the administration. There is, fered significant losses in Tuesday’s initiatives, including operations Rubio has consistently defended work-free day in the state. however, no timetable for any midterm elections, with Democrats against alleged drug-smuggling the decision to launch military Among the projects Tinubu is Shettima, yesterday, said Tinubu possible departure. securing control of both chambers vessels in the Caribbean Sea, in attacks against Iran, although he scheduled to inaugurate in Uyo had remained faithful to his promise The White House and State of Congress in a development that which Rubio was involved. has also sought to maintain some are the new International Terminal to rebuild Nigeria through brave Department dismissed the report, could constrain Trump’s legislative The former Florida senator distance from the conflict. Building, the International Airport and crucial economic reforms. describing it as false. agenda and intensify investigations has emerged as one of Trump’s He has concentrated on Hospital, and the Ibom Aviation That was as the people of Ekiti Assistant Secretary of State for into his administration. most trusted officials, having implementing Trump’s Venezuela Village, all located at the Victor Attah State declared that 90 per cent of the Global Public Affairs, Dylan Johnson, The electoral setback has also transformed from a rival during policy, including the operation that International Airport. total registered voters in the state The president will also inaugurate would be delivered for the president said, “This is complete and total raised questions about the future the 2016 Republican presidential resulted in the capture of President the Airport-Okopedi Road in Nsit in the forthcoming presidential poll. fake news based on the word of of the administration’s foreign primaries into a key member of Nicolas Maduro and subsequent anonymous sources, befitting a policy, particularly the US-Israeli the president’s inner circle. engagement with his successor, Atai and Okobo local government Meanwhile, opposition figures in war against Iran, which has generRubio and Vice President JD Delcy Rodriguez, over efforts to areas, and Ring Road 3, linking Idoro the state, including the candidates tabloid.” Johnson added that Rubio had not ated domestic political pressure and Vance have also frequently been unlock the country’s oil reserves. Road to Ikot Ekpene Road through of Social Democratic Party (SDP), discussed leaving his position and uncertainty in international energy mentioned as possible contenders to He has also overseen increased Uyo and Ibiono Ibom. Allied Peoples Movement (APM), would continue serving in Trump’s markets. succeed Trump as the Republican economic pressure on Cuba as Other projects include the AKWA- and Peoples Democratic Party A departure by Rubio before Party’s presidential candidate in Washington seeks to weaken the GIS Office Complex, Command and (PDP) in the last governorship administration. Similarly, White House January could enable Trump to 2028. Communist Party’s decades-long Control Centre, and ARISE Palm election, declared their support spokesperson, Beni Rae Harmony, nominate a replacement before However, his reported considerhold on power. Resort. for the president, citing the positive described the report as a fabricated Democrats assume control of the ation of leaving the administration On Saturday, Tinubu will leave impact of the federal government’s Continued on page 44 story, insisting that Rubio remains Senate, potentially making confirma- has raised questions about whether for Port Harcourt to take part in

THISDAY • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2026

NEWS

UNVEILING OF TOKENISATION TECHNOLOGY BY PROVIDUSUNITY BANK...

L-R: Divisional Head, Digital Banking, ProvidusUnity Bank, Mr. Elliott Sangoleye; Director, Specialist Sales, Acceptance, West Africa, Mastercard, Mr. Oyewole Talabi; Executive Director/Chief Financial Officer, ProvidusUnity Bank, Mr. Deoye Ojuroye; and Group Head, Card Business and Solutions, ProvidusUnity Bank, Mr. Lanre Ogundare, at the unveiling of TokeniSation Technology by ProvidusUnity Bank, in Lagos ... recently

NJC Recommends Appointment of 28 Judicial Officers Directs Imo Judicial Service Commission to shortlist Acting CJ for interview Hands down one year suspension without pay to three others

Alex Enumah in Abuja The National Judicial Council (NJC), has recommended the appointment of a Grand Kadi for Plateau State and 27 other candidates as Judicial Officers. Meanwhile, the NJC has also recommended the suspension of three judges for one year without pay, over various infractions. The body, took the decision at its 112th meeting held on November 3, 2026, under the Chairmanship of

the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Hon. Justice Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun. According to a statement by the NJC’s Deputy Director (Information), Kemi BabalolaOgedengbe, 24 out of the 28 candidates recommended for appointment as Judges came from the High Courts of Kano, Ebonyi, Edo, Adamawa and Ogun States. “One candidate was recommended for appointment as Grand Kadi of the Plateau

State Sharia Court of Appeal, while another was recommended as Kadi of the Adamawa State Sharia Court of Appeal. “Two others were recommended for appointment as judges of the Adamawa State Customary Court of Appeal”, the statement read in part. Those recommended includes; Hon Kadi, Tijjani Jibrin Zololo, as Grand Kadi, Plateau State Sharia Court of Appeal; while those recommended for appointment

as Judges for the Kano State High Court are; Nafisah Yusuf Hassan; Halima Yahuza Ahmad; Abdullahi Abdulsalam Bature; Musa Ibrahim Umar. While Amaga Dickson Edmund was recommended as a judge of the Ebonyi State High Court, the following were recommended for Edo State High Court; Osawaru, Benson Osagie; Omoruyi, Taiye Osayanmon; Adamaigbo, Dorothy Ibhade Usiobaifo, Festus Osagie; Oiwoh, Pius Idemudia; Amune,

Oborevwori Turns Sod for $70million Poultry Feed Facility in Ogwashi-Uku Omon-Julius Onabu in Asaba

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has performed the sid-turning ceremony for the construction of a $70 million integrated animal feed manufacturing facility in Ogwashi-Uku, Aniocha South Local Government Area of Delta State, being constructed by Olam Agri, a subsidiary of Africa Grains and Mills Limited. The facility, which is designed to produce an average 450,000 metric tonnes of poultry feed annually and nearly 100,000 tonnes of aquafeed, will serve farmers across the South-South and South-East regions, while

addressing the challenges of high feed costs and inadequate supply. Speaking at the ceremony, Oborevwori said that the investment is a major boost to the state’s industrialisation and agricultural development drive, adding that the investment was a direct outcome of the Delta State Economic and Investment Summit held in August 2026 and another significant milestone in the implementation of his administration’s M.O.R.E Agenda. He noted the absence of a major animal feed manufacturing facility in the region had remained a major constraint to livestock and poultry production, forcing

farmers to depend on supplies from distant locations, particularly the South-West and Middle Belt. Animal feed accounts for between 60 and 80 per cent of livestock and poultry production costs, making its affordability critical to farmers’ survival and the availability of animal protein. He expressed confidence that the new facility would reduce transportation costs, improve access to feed and ultimately make chicken, eggs and fish more affordable, he observed. The governor added that the project would provide a reliable market for local farmers

Nigerian Youth Must Lead Global Tech Space, Says NITDA DG Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano.

The Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Abdullahi, has said Nigerian youths must take the lead in the global technology space, stressing that the agency is working to make that a reality. Inuwa, who spoke in an

interview with journalists at the Global Tech Africa (GTA) Conference 2026 held in Kano on Thursday, described the event as a platform for using technology to accelerate industrialisation, expand market access and strengthen regional trade across Africa. He said NITDA is committed to supporting Nigerian tech and innovation as a pathway

to national prosperity and job creation. “We want to support Nigerian tech and innovation and make sure our youth are leading in global technology. We can’t build prosperity in isolation, we need to build stakeholders in a productive manner, that is why we are supporting conferences like this in the country,” he said.

producing maize, soyabean and other agricultural raw materials, thereby strengthening the agricultural value chain and improving food security. Oborevwori disclosed the state government provided approximately 99.99 acres of land for the investment without charging the company for the allocation and also paid the necessary compensation to facilitate the land acquisition and take-off.

Majebi Samuel; and Imuekemhe, Emike Jessica. Adamawa State High Court has Sa’ad, Aminu; Musa, Ibrahim Ulenda; Giwa, Sadiq; Mijinyawa, Musa Bala; Ibrahim, Japhet; Bakari, Aliyu and Ahmadu, Yakubu. For Ogun State High Court, the following were recommended: Oke, Olakulehin Luqman Abiola; Obienu, Adebimpe Folusho; Daudu, Fatimat Adeola; Kadiri, Rafiat Bolanle; and Osho, Oludotun Olaniyi. While Abubakar Ishaku was recommended as a judicial officer in the Adamawa Sharia Court of Appeal, Elshama Gwama Dimas; and David Benjamin Pembi are to be appointed as Judges of the Adamawa Sharia Customary Court of Appeal. According to the statement, all recommended candidates are expected to be sworn-in by their respective State Governors without delay. Meanwhile, the NJC has directed the Imo State Judicial Service Commission to include the name of the most senior Judge of the State High Court, the Acting Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Ijeoma Agugua, in the list of candidates for appointment as substantive

Chief Judge of the State. “The decision followed the consideration of a petition dated June 11, 2026, by Mr. Bob Kay Njemanze, who challenged the exclusion of Justice Agugua from the shortlist submitted by the Imo State Judicial Service Commission. “In considering the petition, Council noted that although the State Judicial Service Commission has the constitutional responsibility to advise the NJC on suitable candidates for appointment as Chief Judge, the Council retains the authority to determine the suitability of persons presented to it. “It consequently directed its Secretariat to formally request the Imo State JSC to include the name of Hon. Justice I. O. Agugua in the shortlist”, the statement added. Meanwhile, it disclosed that in the area of discipline, the council considered nine investigation reports concerning petitions against judicial officers over their handling of cases, and subsequently approved the recommendation of one-year suspension without pay for three judicial officers as well as additional restrictions on the elevation of two of those suspended.

2027 Campaigns: Presidency Seeks Caution in Use of Artificial Intelligence by Parties

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

The Presidency on Thursday called on politicians to seek caution in the deployment of Artificial Intelligence (AI) as 2027 general elections campaign gathers momentum. Presidential spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, canvassed responsible and cautious deployment of AI in the course of political activities and campaigns ahead of the 2027 polls. He warned that while the scientific breakthrough has had positive effects, it is now

imperative to put guardrails in place to protect the sanctity of democratic institutions and public trust. Onanuga made the call on in Beijing, China, while delivering a paper, “AI and the Future of Global Communication”, at the 7th World Media Summit organised by Xinhua News Agency and the People’s Government of Beijing Municipality. According to him, social media, including X, Facebook and TikTok, are inundated with AI-generated videos and images

to promote political interests and entertain. His words: “We are in the thick of the political season and campaigns ahead of the 2027 general elections, where new political leaders at the national and sub-national levels will be elected. AI, for good and bad, has become a powerful tool for electoral contests for politicians and their supporters. “Some political actors use AI to spread falsehoods, some use it satirically for entertainment, and some highlight candidates’ achievements”.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2026 • T H I S D AY

T H I S D AY • FRIday NOVEMBER 6, 2026

Politics

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

As Keyamo Moves to Reposition Aviation Sector...

Gabriel Atumeyi, in this piece, explains how Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo, saved the federal government from a multibillion naira judgment debt, restored a dormant revenue stream for the aviation sector.

inister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN), has again demonstrated the faculty for which he is most reputed: an instinct for identifying and resolving a problem that has confounded successive administrations On October 20, 2026, Keyamo signed a landmark agreement in Abuja between the Federal Government and Bi-Courtney Limited, drawing to a close a dispute that had festered for the better part of two decades, since the concession of the Murtala Muhammed Airport II terminal was first awarded in 2003 and litigated through the courts for the near entirety of the intervening years. This followed months of negotiations with the management of BiCourtney Limited for what would later be described by its Chairman, Chief Wale Babalakin (SAN), as a good deal that would encourage others to always explore alternative conflict resolution mechanisms with the government. Every minister who inherited that file faced the same fork in the road. One option was to keep fighting it out in court. While it seems safe and familiar —just brief counsel, approve the money, and wait to see how it all played out. It was also the path that had yielded, over 20 years, nothing but legal bills, adjournments, a judgment debt compounding with every season, and revenue losses accrued by the federal government. The other path was negotiation. It was riskier and less conspicuous, with no guarantee of success. It meant a minister would have to sit down with a man who had already won in court and convince him to give up part of that victory in return for something he could actually use. Keyamo chose the second choice. In the end, it was a win-win situation for both parties. Bi-Courtney relinquished billions of naira of the Supreme Court judgment debt and its interest claim, and in return obtained certainty, restored rights, room to expand its apron and permission to move regional African flights to MMA2 to the extent of capacity. FAAN waived historically accrued concession fees predating the settlement, and in return recovered a revenue stream dormant since 2003. The General Aviation Terminal was confirmed as Federal Government property, operated by FAAN. The concessionaire resumed payment of concession fees. Government extinguished a nine figure judgment debt, confirmed ownership of a strategic asset and reopened a revenue line that two decades of litigation had kept shut. Neither party walked away with everything. However, both walked away with something worth having. Keyamo conducted it himself. He did not retain external service like others would have done, did not paper a retainer, did not agree a success fee, and did not consign the brief to a silk with ties to his political circle. He led the negotiation alongside his team at the Ministry, saved the judgment debt, restarted the revenue stream, and demonstrated that government can resolve complex commercial disputes without converting them into a jobs programme for the legal profession. For a Senior Advocate transplanted into public office, the temptation is

to regard a dispute of this magnitude as an opportunity to make money. Which is a familiar tendency in this country in recent years, and it has

cost us dearly. Keyamo again won the hearts of many Nigerians with his loyalty to President Bola Tinubu and his show

of patriotism to the country. Such qualities are rare among public officers in today’s Nigeria. What Babalakin said at the signing gives the resolution its final weight. The man who had won in court, and who had every legal entitlement to enforce his judgment, chose instead to surrender it for certainty, and he explained why. The resolution, he said, would encourage those who feel daunted when they have issues with government that there is a possible resolution. That sentence deserves to be read twice. It is the concessionaire, not the minister, making the case that predictability of resolution is itself an economic asset, that investors watch how a government behaves when it is owed money, and draw their conclusions. He spoke of completing abandoned buildings that had become an eyesore, of creating well paying jobs, of not disappointing the nation. This is what a settlement sounds like when both parties intend to honour it. After the settlement was reached, Babalakin made statements regarding job creation. He explicitly stated that the agreement would “create well paying jobs” and “unlock investment”. He also mentioned that the project would create “thousands of direct and indirect jobs” in fields such as construction, civil engineering, hospitality, facility management, and supply chain logistics. -Atumeyi writes from Lagos.

Faleke: Sustaining Social Contract with Ikeja People Politics may be won at the ballot box, but representation is ultimately measured in the streets, homes and everyday experiences of the people. Against this backdrop, Jonathan Eze examines the social contract between Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Finance, Hon Aboodun Faleke and his constituents in Ikeja Federal Constituency.

olitical representation derives its true significance from the ability of elected officials to translate public trust into tangible improvements in the lives of the people. Beyond electoral victories, political affiliations and the rhetoric of public office, the enduring measure of leadership lies in its capacity to respond to the aspirations of citizens through purposeful interventions, accessible governance and measurable development. It is against this background that the political journey of Hon. James Abiodun Faleke, representing Ikeja Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, deserves recognition. Since his election to the National Assembly in 2011, Faleke has cultivated a political presence characterised by constituency development, infrastructure investment, economic empowerment and legislative engagement. His political experience, however, predates his entry into the National Assembly. Having served two terms as Chairman of Ojodu Local Council Development Area, he acquired valuable experience in grassroots administration and the complexities of community development. That background has remained an important influence on his approach to representation, particularly his emphasis on interventions that address the everyday needs of residents. Infrastructure as a cornerstone of representation One of the most visible aspects of Faleke’s constituency interventions is his commitment to infrastructure development. In a densely

populated and commercially vibrant constituency such as Ikeja, functional roads, reliable electricity, effective drainage and accessible public facilities are indispensable to economic productivity and improved living conditions. His road rehabilitation programme has attracted considerable attention. Reports in August 2023 documented the inspection of 30 roads undergoing rehabilitation across Ikeja, Ojodu and Onigbongbo, with additional projects planned and drainage incorporated into the programme. Further reports in January 2026 documented additional construction under an expanded road development initiative. The significance of these projects becomes clearer when viewed from the perspective of residential communities, particularly in Ojodu, where infrastructure development must extend beyond major access roads to the streets connecting neighbourhoods.

From Aina to Adebowale, Obafalabi, Oremeta, Raimi and Zinzou streets, among other adjoining communities, the impact of functional infrastructure is felt in the daily experiences of residents. These roads serve commuters, traders, artisans, schoolchildren and families whose economic and social activities depend on accessibility. For residents of these neighbourhoods, a rehabilitated road represents more than an engineering accomplishment. It facilitates mobility, reduces transportation difficulties, supports commercial activities and enhances the general quality of life. Electricity infrastructure has equally featured in his constituency development agenda. The reported provision of a 500KVA transformer serving Zinzou, Soyemi, Raimi and parts of Aina Street demonstrates attention to the essential infrastructure requirements of residential and business communities. Similarly, his Light Up the Streets in Ikeja initiative has been associated with the installation of more than 50,000 solar streetlights, according to his party’s published profile. Properly maintained, these facilities can improve nighttime visibility, support commercial activities and contribute to safer neighbourhoods. Collectively, these interventions reflect an understanding that sustainable urban development must be rooted in infrastructure that responds to the practical realities of everyday life. NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the online edition on www.thisdaylive.com

THISDAY • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2026

PERSPECTIVE

Hamzat’s Promise Campaign as Brand Proposition for a Changing Lagos In this brand analysis, Raheem Akingbolu examines how Dr Kadri Obafemi Hamzat’s 100-point manifesto, The Lagos Promise (Ileri Eko), seeks to translate governance commitments into everyday value for Lagosians, strengthening public trust and shaping a new narrative of development, inclusion and accountability

very morning, millions of Lagos residents set out with familiar concerns. How long will the journey to work take? What will transport cost today? Can a family member receive medical attention without spending hours searching for care? For young graduates, the concern is often finding a job or gaining the experience needed to build a career in a competitive economy. These questions shape household decisions and business activity across the state. They also influence how residents judge those who govern them. A policy may sound convincing at a public presentation, but its value becomes clearer when it affects the cost of getting to work, the availability of healthcare, the quality of a school or the ability of a small business to remain open. Against this backdrop, Dr Kadri Obafemi Hamzat’s The Lagos Promise (Ileri Eko) enters the political conversation. Unveiled on 30 October 2026 at the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative Arts, formerly the National Theatre, Iganmu, the 100-point manifesto sets out proposals for the next phase of Lagos development. Its seven pillars are People First, Renewal, Opportunity, Machinery of Government, Inclusion, Security and Resilience, and Everyday Dignity. The document raises an important question about the relationship between government and the people it serves: what should residents expect from public institutions, and how can those expectations be met? Its proposals cover transport, healthcare, education, housing, enterprise, security and public administration. The challenge will be to turn this broad programme into services and improvements that people can identify in their communities. For a commuter, governance may mean spending less time on the road. For a trader, it may mean predictable charges and a better route to market. A parent may measure it by the quality of a nearby health centre or school. These are the everyday tests against which the manifesto’s ambitions will eventually be judged. There is also a brand dimension to the document. In business, a brand earns recognition through the experience people have with a product or service, not simply through advertising. Government is no different. Public confidence grows when institutions perform consistently, respond to complaints and deliver what they have promised. The words ‘The Lagos Promise’ will carry weight only if residents can connect them with results. The expression ‘Gbese ni Ileri’, which presents a promise as a debt, gives the manifesto a pointed message about responsibility. A public commitment should not end with an announcement. It creates an obligation to explain what will be done, how it will be funded, who will be responsible and when people can expect to see progress. That is the standard by which the proposed programme must be assessed. Transport is one area where the consequences of policy are felt almost immediately. For workers and traders, a long journey takes time away from family, business and rest. Unpredictable travel also makes it difficult for employers to plan and for small businesses to move goods efficiently. Improving mobility is therefore an economic and social concern, not merely an infrastructure ambition. Hamzat’s proposals include increasing the state’s bus fleet from 1,000 to 4,000, extending the Blue Line to Okokomaiko and developing the Green Line from Marina to the Lekki Free Trade Zone. The agenda also includes an interchange between the Red and Blue rail lines at the National Theatre, the Fourth Mainland Bridge, the Lekki-Epe Regional Road and the second phase of the Opebi-Mende Link Bridge.

Dr Kadri Obafemi Hamza

The proposed Omi Eko water transport programme is another significant part of the plan. It envisages 140 kilometres of water corridors, 15 ferry routes, 25 terminals and jetties, and 75 electric vessels. For communities along the waterways, a reliable ferry service could offer an alternative to congested roads. Its success, however, will depend on safety, affordability, dependable schedules and convenient connections with other transport services. The enterprise proposals address a different but equally pressing concern. Small businesses, from neighbourhood shops and workshops to growing service companies, provide livelihoods and support local economic activity. Their ability to grow is often affected by the cost of doing business, access to finance, infrastructure and the complexity of dealing with public agencies. The manifesto promises a more supportive environment, including better access to resources, skills development and a coordinated approach

to lawful charges. Financial assistance alone will not resolve the difficulties facing business owners. They also need reliable power, access to customers, clear regulations and public institutions that do not make routine processes unnecessarily difficult. The impact of the proposed reforms will be seen in whether traders, artisans, manufacturers and service providers find it easier to register, operate, expand and employ others. Young people face another transition: moving from education into work. Employers increasingly look for practical experience and technical skills alongside academic qualifications. Hamzat’s agenda includes digital skills programmes, vocational training, internships and stronger links between education and industry. These initiatives could help prepare young people for available opportunities, provided the training is relevant and leads to employment, enterprise or further professional development.

Healthcare is perhaps the most personal measure of public service. A pregnant woman, a parent with a sick child or an older person managing a chronic condition needs more than a policy announcement. They need a facility within reach, trained health workers, essential medicines and a system that can respond when treatment is required. The manifesto proposes to expand healthcare access and strengthen public facilities across the state. The commitments include increasing Maternal and Child Centres from 10 to 15 and extending Ilera Eko coverage to one in three residents. Proposed hospital projects include a 150-bed Massey Children’s Hospital, a 280-bed Ojo General Hospital and a 150-bed Somolu General Hospital, as well as new general hospitals at Ogombo and Ibeju-Lekki. The manifesto also proposes upgrading 100 primary healthcare centres. The emphasis on primary care deserves attention. Large hospitals are important, but local health centres are often the first place residents turn for routine treatment, preventive services and early diagnosis. Their value depends on staffing, equipment, medicines, funding and proper supervision. Without these essentials, new buildings alone cannot provide the dependable service families need. Education and housing also feature prominently in the proposed programme. Building on EKOEXCEL, Hamzat’s manifesto sets out plans for teacher development, a review of teachers’ remuneration and a University of Medicine and Health Sciences. It also proposes internships and a leadership academy. On housing, it promises to complete 10 schemes and introduce mortgage arrangements with a 10 per cent deposit, single-digit interest rates and longer repayment periods. The details of funding and eligibility will determine how accessible these opportunities become. The inclusion agenda includes Obinrin Eko, Omo Eko, Iyi Eko and One Lagos, alongside a proposed Child Protection and Nutrition Agency. These initiatives place attention on women, children and other groups whose needs require specific public intervention. Hamzat’s experience as Deputy Governor since 2019 and his engineering background form part of the leadership case presented alongside the manifesto. The endorsement of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and senior party figures also frames the candidacy around continuity, while the proposals set out priorities for the next administration. The proposed Hamzat Compact is central to the manifesto’s accountability argument. It identifies 87 firm commitments and 13 aspirations, with measures intended to make performance more visible to the public. These include acknowledging complaints within 48 hours, providing answers within seven days and resolving them within 30 days. Town hall meetings across the five IBILE divisions, annual scorecards and an independent Performance Council are also proposed. Their value will depend on transparent reporting and whether public concerns lead to action. For Lagos residents, the final judgement will be made beyond the campaign platform. It will come from the journey that becomes shorter, the health centre that is properly equipped, the business that can operate without unnecessary obstacles and the public office that responds when approached. The Lagos Promise seeks to bring these expectations under the campaign theme, ‘Lagos... Forward Together’. But a public brand cannot be sustained by a theme or a list of commitments. Its standing will depend on what government delivers, how openly it accounts for its performance and whether people can see a difference in their daily lives.

T H I S D AY FRIDAY NOVEMBER 6, 2026 20 TR

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& RE A S O

Friday November 6, 2026 Vol 27. No 11525

opinion@thisdaylive.com

www.thisdaylive.com

SANI’S POLITICS OF CONVICTION In a forceful expression of loyalty, Uba Sani is determined to stand by the President at all costs, writes KABIR MUHAMMED

See page 21

BETWEEN CORRUPTION AND PRODUCTIVITY

JOSHUA J. OMOJUWA argues the need for the country to be more productive

See page 21

EDITORIAL

ADDRESSING THE BANE OF DEFORESTATION

See page 22

The number of attacks does not provide a complete picture of whether people are safer in their homes and communities, contends FELIX OLADEJI

NIGERIA’S SECURITY: BEYOND STATISTICS

Nigeria’s security debate has reached a point where the assessment of progress requires more than counting military operations and recording the number of attacks reported within them. After years of insurgency, banditry, mass kidnappings and communal violence, any credible indication that the frequency of attacks is declining deserves attention. The Defence Headquarters’ announcement that recorded attacks across military theatres fell by 73.3 per cent in October, from 367 in September to 98, therefore provides an important account of recent operational developments. The military also reported that troops neutralised more than 217 terrorists and criminal elements, arrested 333 suspects, rescued 349 kidnapped victims and recovered 105 firearms alongside 3,174 rounds of ammunition. These figures suggest considerable operational activity. But they also raise a broader question about how Nigeria understands and measures security: is the country becoming safer, or is the military reporting fewer attacks within the scope of its operational records? The distinction matters because security is ultimately experienced by citizens, not merely recorded by institutions. Military statistics can indicate the frequency of attacks, the scale of troop activity and the outcomes of particular operations. They are important for assessing the performance of security agencies and identifying changes across operational theatres. Yet they do not necessarily provide a complete picture of whether people are safer in their homes, communities and places of work. A decline in recorded attacks may represent operational progress, but the wider test of security is whether civilians are less exposed to death, kidnapping, displacement and the destruction of their livelihoods. The Defence Headquarters' announcement should be recognised within its proper scope. The reported 73.3 per cent decline compares the number of attacks recorded across military theatres in September and October. It is an official operational figure, not necessarily a comprehensive measurement of all forms of violence across Nigeria during the same period. The distinction is important because the country's insecurity is not confined to incidents that occur directly within the immediate operational activities of the armed forces. It also includes criminal violence, threats to rural livelihoods, displacement, attacks on communities and other forms of insecurity that may not be captured by a single military reporting framework.

The geographical distribution of the October figures also suggests the need for a more detailed assessment. Operation Enduring Peace recorded 29 attacks, Operation Hadin Kai recorded 27 and Operation Fansan Yamma recorded 24. Together, these three operations accounted for approximately 81.6 per cent of the 98 attacks reported by the Defence Headquarters. The remaining five operations accounted for the balance. This distribution indicates that the national figure is shaped substantially by developments in a few operational theatres. It also raises an important question about the differences between regions and communities: does a reduction in the overall number of attacks reflect a consistent improvement across the country, or are some communities continuing to experience serious threats despite the decline in the aggregate figure? A national average can conceal the uneven geography of insecurity. Where violence is concentrated in particular local government areas, a national reduction may not adequately describe the conditions faced by residents in those locations. Equally, the number of incidents does not necessarily correspond to the scale of their human consequences. A single attack can result in dozens of deaths, hundreds of injuries or the displacement of thousands of people. Another may produce no casualties but still disrupt transport, commercial activity and access to essential services. A useful assessment of security must therefore consider not only how many attacks occur, but also their severity, location, consequences and effects on civilian populations. The attack on Binnari community in Karim-Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State on October 23 demonstrates the importance of this broader perspective. A preliminary assessment reported by the National Emergency Management Agency, based on an on-the-spot assessment by the Taraba State Emergency Management Agency, recorded 62 people killed, 52 injured, 7,123 affected and 5,187 displaced. Associated Press reporting

described residents attempting to escape towards the Benue River, with bodies subsequently recovered from the river and surrounding areas. The figures reveal the extent to which a single episode of violence can disrupt an entire community and produce consequences that extend beyond the immediate loss of life. The Binnari attack does not, by itself, disprove the military's reported reduction in attacks. Nor should it be used to dismiss the operational achievements recorded by troops. Rather, it illustrates why military statistics and civilian experiences must be examined together. The reported decline may indicate that some operations have become more effective, but the existence of communities suffering mass casualties and displacement demonstrates that significant vulnerabilities remain. The relevant policy question is how to ensure that improvements in military operations translate into sustained protection for people living in areas exposed to violence. This requires closer attention to the relationship between intelligence, early warning and the protection of vulnerable communities. In many conflict-affected areas, residents are often familiar with the local geography, movement patterns and activities that may signal an emerging threat. Such knowledge can be valuable to security agencies, but it must be supported by reliable mechanisms for communicating information and receiving timely responses. Communities need to know that reports of suspicious movements or impending attacks will be taken seriously and that providing information will not expose them to retaliation. A security system that depends on public cooperation must also demonstrate that cooperation can produce protection. The capacity to respond after an attack is equally important. Military operations may disrupt armed groups and rescue victims, but effective protection also depends on how quickly security agencies can reach threatened communities, how reliably they coordinate with local authorities and how effectively they sustain a presence after an intervention. These questions are particularly important in remote areas where residents may face difficulties accessing emergency services and where the absence of state institutions can create opportunities for armed groups to operate. Oladeji is an incoming PhD student in the Department of English at Texas A&M University, where his research interests include African literature and security governance.

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In a forceful expression of loyalty, Uba Sani is determined to stand by the President at all costs, writes KABIR MUHAMMED

SANI’S POLITICS OF CONVICTION There are political declarations, and there are declarations that reveal something deeper about a politician’s convictions, relationships and understanding of the moment. Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani’s assertion that he can “take a bullet” for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu belongs to the latter category. Speaking on Trust TV’s Daily Politics programme on Tuesday, Governor Sani delivered an unmistakably firm defence of his support for the president, making it clear that neither public criticism nor the political consequences of his position would persuade him to retreat. “I have no apology for supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and I will continue to support him till the last minute,” he declared. It was a statement delivered with the confidence of a man who appeared fully conscious of the political implications of his position. More importantly, it was not presented as a casual expression of partisan allegiance. Sani sought to establish that his support was rooted in a relationship stretching back decades, shared political struggles, an assessment of Tinubu’s leadership and what he considers tangible benefits to Kaduna State. When pressed on whether he was prepared to take a political bullet for the president, the governor did not equivocate. Instead, he doubled down, expressing confidence that time would vindicate his position. “I can tell you today, tomorrow, and next tomorrow, that I will be vindicated,” he said. That response was perhaps the defining moment of the interview. It conveyed a politician prepared to own his choices rather than distance himself from them when the political atmosphere becomes uncomfortable. In a climate where political alliances are frequently subjected to the pressures of public opinion, Sani’s intervention was an emphatic declaration that he intends to stand by his convictions. To understand the intensity of Sani’s position, it is necessary to appreciate the history he invoked during the interview. The governor traced his relationship with Tinubu to 1994, when both were associated with the struggle to restore democratic governance in Nigeria. He recalled Tinubu’s involvement with the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) and his support for pro-democracy activists during the military era, a period when opposition to military rule carried enormous personal risks. Some activists were forced into exile, while others endured intimidation and persecution. Sani’s account placed his relationship with Tinubu within this difficult chapter of Nigeria’s political history. For the Kaduna governor, this shared

experience is not merely a footnote in their political relationship. It forms part of the foundation of his confidence in the president and informs his assessment of Tinubu’s commitment to democratic governance and the devolution of power. His argument, essentially, is that political relationships built through difficult historical experiences cannot be assessed solely through the calculations of present-day political convenience. This appeal to shared history gave his defence a personal dimension. Rather than relying exclusively on the conventional language of party loyalty, Sani presented his support as an extension of a relationship shaped by political struggle, mutual understanding and a common experience. Beyond their personal and political history, Sani also made a case based on what he described as the benefits Kaduna State has received under the Tinubu administration. He pointed to four federal university initiatives: the Federal University of Applied Sciences in Southern Kaduna, the Federal University of Education in Zaria, the Federal University of Petroleum Resources in Rigachikun, and the proposed conversion of Kaduna Polytechnic into a federal university of technology. He also cited the reconstruction of the Kaduna-Birnin Gwari road and the appointment of Kaduna indigenes to senior positions in the federal government. The governor was particularly deliberate in distinguishing benefits to Kaduna State from personal favours to him. “The favour he has done is not to me, because he has not given me. It’s to the state,” he said. That distinction was central to his argument. Sani sought to frame his relationship with the president not as a transaction between two politicians, but as a political partnership whose outcomes, in his assessment, should be evaluated in terms of development and representation for the people of Kaduna. Muhammed writes from Kaduna State

JOSHUA J. OMOJUWA argues the need for the country to be more productive

BETWEEN CORRUPTION AND PRODUCTIVITY

Nigeria has a corruption challenge. Everyone knows this. Before stating that while this is true, that it is not earning enough is its biggest challenge. A group of people who appear incapable of holding two non-contradictory truths in their heads heard that as ‘Nigeria does not have a corruption problem”. Because to hear what was really said is to have to face the real issue; Nigeria’s lack of productivity. If the Federal Government shared everything it expects to collect in 2026 equally among Nigerians, each person would receive about 114 dollars for the year. Nine dollars and fifty three cents a month. Roughly thirteen thousand naira. The calculation uses the exchange rate assumed by the budget. These numbers assume nothing else happens. No roads, no schools, no hospitals, no army, no salaries. Just the entire federal revenue divided by the number of Nigerians. New York City will spend 42.8 billion dollars on its public schools this year. Nigeria’s Federal Government expects to collect 26.3 billion. Now suppose we caught every thief tomorrow. Suppose not one naira was stolen, misapplied or diverted anywhere in the Nigerian public sector for the whole of 2026. The Federal Government would still have only 26.3 billion dollars with which to govern 230 million people. It would still be poorer than the schools of one American city. Corruption determines how much of the pot leaks. Productivity determines how big the pot is. Nigeria has spent three decades arguing furiously about the leak, we barely see that it’s quite a small pot. It is a claim about magnitude. No credible estimate of Nigerian public theft closes a gap of that size, because the gap is not a function of what is stolen. It is a function of what is produced. Here the most useful guide is Yuen Yuen Ang, the political economist whose book China’s Gilded Age asks why China grew so fast for so long despite vast corruption. Her answer begins with a methodological complaint that applies directly to us. Transparency International gives each country a single corruption score. A single score cannot distinguish between a country where officials steal public money and a country where officials sell privileges to businesses that then build things. Those are different phenomena with different consequences. Ang unbundles corruption into four types along two axes, theft against exchange, elites against non-elites. Petty theft is the low-level official diverting small sums. Grand theft is the elite looting the treasury. Speed money is the bribe a business pays a bureaucrat to obtain a permit or jump a queue. Access money is the high-stakes payment by a company to a powerful official for land, a contract or a licence. Her metaphor is pharmacological and it is exact. Petty theft and grand theft are

toxic drugs. They remove value and produce nothing. Speed money is a painkiller. It relieves the pain of obstruction without curing anything. Access money is a steroid. It stimulates growth and it damages the organs. China’s corruption, Ang’s data show, has been dominated by access money. Her Unbundled Corruption Index scores China at 27.2 overall, with access money its highest category. India scores 27.9, almost identical in aggregate, but dominated by speed money. Her conclusion is what concerns us. Both countries are rife with cronyism, she writes, but China has lower levels of the corruption that directly stifles growth. The mechanism was institutional rather than cultural. Chinese officials were paid poorly in formal salary but permitted large informal income tied to the economic performance of their own jurisdictions. An official whose private welfare depended on the factory operating had every reason to clear the obstacles in its way. He shared in the profit rather than extracting from it. Ang’s title is deliberate. America between the 1860s and the 1920s industrialised amid robber barons, bought legislatures and machine politics. Her finding from that comparison is the one that unsettles people. The rise of capitalism was not accompanied by the eradication of corruption, she writes, but rather by its evolution from thuggery and theft to access money. Rich countries did not become clean and then become rich. They became rich while corrupt, and then legalised what remained, as lobbying and campaign finance. This must not be read as the permission of corruption, at least not by thinkers and those who mean well. It is the opposite. Ang’s framework is a diagnostic instrument, and applied here the question it poses is which of the four types dominates in Nigeria. If our corruption is principally theft, grand and petty, then China’s experience offers no comfort whatsoever, because theft is the category her evidence shows to be purely destructive. Omojuwa is chief strategist, Alpha Reach/BGX Publishing

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T H I S D AY FRIDAY NOVEMBER 6, 2026

EDITORIAL

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com

ADDRESSING THE BANE OF DEFORESTATION

All stakeholders should do more to tackle the country’s faltering environment

Meanwhile, Nigeria’s remaining forests harbour rdinarily, forests are home to wildabout 4000 different species of plants including those life which perform a broad range of that have been found to be effective in the developcritical environmental and climatic ment of alternative medicine. There are also animals, functions. These include the mainteincluding birds that can only be found in Nigeria nance of constant supply of water and and nowhere else. But all these issues count for little ensuring clean air and prevention of given the state of the environment across the country. desertification, soil, and gully erosion. Forests also For instance, there are almost 3,000 erosion sites in harbour species, and at the same time have deep the Southeast. Flooding in Lagos is anything but oreconomic, aesthetic, industrial, and religious signifidinary. Rising temperature is increasingly becoming cance for humans. It is for these reasons that the reunbearable while agriculturists are struggling to velation by the Conservator General of the National adapt to the attendant climate variability with serious Park Service, Mr Ibrahim Goni, that Nigeria loses socio-economic implications. The National Park over 300 hectares of forest reserve daily should go Service that is charged with the responsibility of beyond mere lamentation. Especially since he has protecting swathes of forests and their biodiversity identified illegal logging and hunting as longstanding is lacking capacity apart from being threats to forest conservation inadequately funded and supported. in the country. Going forward, there is a need to Before Gani’s disclosure, a completely reset the country’s enviLess than 4 per cent of the country’s untouched forest report by the United Nations ronmental agenda. The fight against had similarly stated that Niinsurgency and banditry should be cover is left. More frightening is the fact that 1.5 million geria has the highest deforesramped up to rein in the devastation tation rate in the world, with and degradation of the natural entrees are felled every day owing to illegal logging an estimated 3.7 per cent of its vironment across the country. Enforest lost every year. Beyond vironmental remediation measures the issue of criminal encroachsuch as the Great Green Wall Proment, many of our forests are ject should be taken more seriously and adequately threatened by bush burning and illegal logging, a sifunded. Stringent statutory provisions should be put T H I S D AY tuation worsened by the absence of measures aimed EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU in place to protect the various ecosystems and their at their regeneration. As things stand today, only less DEPUTY EDITOR WALE OLALEYE biodiversity. than 4 per cent of the country’s untouched forest coMANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO Besides, there should be more transparency and DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU ver is left. More frightening is the fact that 1.5 million CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI accountability in the application of Ecological Funds trees are felled every day owing to illegal logging. EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN – the funds must be made to serve its purpose fulAbout 484 plant species are also threatened with exTHE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE ly and directly. Tougher measures should be put in tinction. place to checkmate wanton emission of noxious and Indeed, of all the five most critical factors that affect deleterious gases through gas flaring and use of outthe global environment, namely, air pollution, overdated machines. Electricity challenges in the country T H I S D AY N E W S PA P E R S L I M I T E D population, deforestation, climate change and global EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA should be addressed to minimise the use of power warming, the biggest threat to Nigeria’s environment GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, generating sets. The Green Recovery Project of the remains deforestation. This is without losing sight of ISRAEL IWEGBU Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF) must atthe waste management challenges, flooding, deserDIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, tract deserved encouragement and partnership. ANTHONY OGEDENGBE tification, gully soil and coastal erosion that bedevil DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI If we must reclaim our country from the hazards various parts of the country. Therefore, the need for SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH of nature, especially deforestation, several important environmentally and socially equitable approaches to ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI measures will have to be taken in the coming years forest management is imperative, especially at a time CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI by the government and other stakeholders. DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO the nation’s forests are being taken over by bandits TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com and sundry other criminals.

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

LETTERS

INEC, CANDIDATES AND THE GENERAL ELECTION

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) appears to have placed itself in a catch-22 situation by failing to demonstrate sufficient decisiveness and consistency in its handling of candidates’ lists ahead of the 2027 general elections. The relevant provisions of the Electoral Act, including Sections 29(1) on the submission of candidates’ lists; 29(2) on candidates’ qualifications; 29(3) on the publication of candidates’ particulars; 77(2) on party membership registers; 77(4) on the submission of membership registers; 77(5) on eligibility to participate; 77(6) on valid membership registers; 77(7) on failure to submit registers; 84(1)–(2) on the nomination of candidates; and Section 85 on the qualification of aspirants, provide a legal framework for electoral administration. Furthermore, the Supreme Court judgment of September 24, 2026, upholding the constitutionality of Sections 77(5), 77(6), 77(7) and 84(2), reinforces the need for clarity and consistent enforcement. These provisions should provide sufficient legal guidance for INEC to act decisively, subject to applicable court orders. However, the Commission’s apparent back-and-forth has created

uncertainty. Today, a candidate’s name appears on the list, tomorrow it disappears; and the following day, there are expectations that it will reappear. This inconsistency has opened the door to accusations, speculation and finger-pointing, familiar features of Nigerian politics. It has also provided opportunities for politically dependent supporters, whose livelihoods revolve around politicians, to drag the names and reputations of highly placed individuals into needless controversies.INEC must demonstrate firmness, consistency and independence in implementing electoral laws. Its decisions should be transparent, legally defensible and guided by established procedures rather than any other considerations. Ultimately, however, the beauty of representative democracy lies in inclusiveness, fairness and equal opportunity; a system in which every qualified citizen has a fair chance to participate, either as a candidate on the ballot or as a voter at the polling unit. Zayyad I. Muhammad, Abuja

THE BLACK AND WHITE OF THE MATTER

Many of the media showed a photo of two men, one dressed in formal white, the other in casual black, and it wasn't from some old western even though both are warriors in their own way. It was Pope Leo in his traditional white and Bob Dylan in black meeting at the Vatican. They serve as reminder that no matter how different people look they are similar under the hood, or in this case a hoodie. We should all look for the things in common rather than at the differences. Dennis Fitzgerald, 28 Landale St., Box Hill, Vic Australia

• THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2026 FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6,5,2026 ISDAY THISDAY •THISDAY THURSDAY, • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER NOVEMBER 5, 2026 5, 2026

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POLITY POLITY POLITY

Tinubu’s 2027 Electoral Strategy: How APC’s Expanding Tinubu’s Tinubu’s 2027 2027 Electoral Electoral Strategy: Strategy: How How APC’s APC’s Expanding Expanding Political Machinery IsReshaping Reshaping The Presidential Contest Political Political Machinery Machinery Is IsReshaping TheThe Presidential Presidential Contest Contest National Patriots Present a 25-State-Plus-FCT Scenario, Citing Political Realignments, Governors’ Networks, Membership Strength andDelivery Reform Delivery National National Patriots Patriots Present Present a 25-State-Plus-FCT a 25-State-Plus-FCT Scenario, Scenario, Citing Citing Political Political Realignments, Realignments, Governors’ Governors’ Networks, Networks, Membership Membership Strength Strength and Reform and Reform Delivery

By Princess Gloria Adebajo-Fraser Princess By Princess Gloria Gloria Adebajo-Fraser Adebajo-Fraser

“Building democracy is a Elections complex “Building“Building democracy democracy is a complex is a process. complex process. process. Elections are Elections are are onlybut a starting butintegrity their integrity is compromised, y a starting only apoint starting point if theirbutpoint integrity if their isif compromised, is compromised, isofthe legitimacy of democracy.” Kofi Annan» s the so legitimacy is thesolegitimacy democracy.” of democracy.” — Kofi Annan» — Kofi— Annan»

EEE

lections are not won onmedia socialtimelines. media timelines. lections are lections not won are not on social won on media socialtimelines. are contested structures, They areThey contested areThey contested through political throughthrough structures, politicalpolitical structures, grassroots organisation, public confidence, grassroots grassroots organisation, organisation, public confidence, public confidence, leadership thetoability to translate credible leadership crediblecredible leadership and the ability and thetoand ability translate translate national influence into votes. ionalnational influence influence into votes. into votes. As Nigeria the presidential 2027 presidential As Nigeria As Nigeria approaches approaches theapproaches 2027thepresidential 2027 these considerations ction,election, these election, considerations these considerations are central are central to are the central to the to the contest between the All Progressives ntest contest between between the governing the governing All governing Progressives All Progressives Congress its opponents. ngressCongress and its opponents. and itsand opponents. The National working projection identifies The National The National Patriots’ Patriots’ workingPatriots’ working projection projection identifies identifies states the Territory Federal Territory as potential states25 plus states the25plus Federal theplus Capital Federal CapitalCapital Territory as potential as potential victories for President Bola Ahmed toriesvictories for President for President Bola Ahmed Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Tinubu. This Tinubu. This This rather than a scientific itical political scenario,political scenario, rather scenario, than rather a scientific than a scientific opinion opinion poll, opinion poll, poll, examines nationwide organisation, evolving minesexamines nationwide nationwide organisation, organisation, evolving evolving alliances, alliances,alliances, governorship the administration’s vernorship governorship networks networks and networks theand administration’s theand administration’s orm record. reformreform record.record.

THE POLITICAL MACHINERY HE POLITICAL THE POLITICAL MACHINERY MACHINERY

Thehas APC hasextensive developed an extensive of The APCThe hasAPC developed developed an an extensive network network of network of governors, party executives and ward-level vernors, governors, legislators, legislators, partylegislators, executives party executives and ward-level and ward-level organisations. itsstrength governorship anisations. organisations. Reports place Reports itsReports place governorship itsplace governorship strengthstrength at 31Its states. Itscited leadership hasapproximately cited13 approximately 1 states. at 31Itsstates. leadership leadership has has approximately cited 13 13 registered members, although membership lion registered millionmillion registered members, members, although although membership membership be from distinguished from votes. actual votes. st bemust distinguished bemust distinguished actual fromvotes. actual 2023, Tinubu received votes, against n 2023, In Tinubu 2023,Inreceived Tinubu received 8,794,726 8,794,726 votes,8,794,726 against votes, against Atiku Abubakar’s 6,984,520 and Peter6,101,533. Obi’s 6,101,533. ku Abubakar’s Atiku Abubakar’s 6,984,520 6,984,520 and Peter and Obi’s Peter 6,101,533. Obi’s Rabiureceived Kwankwaso received 1,496,687. biu Kwankwaso Rabiu Kwankwaso received 1,496,687. 1,496,687. figures demonstrate theof importance of These figures These These figures demonstrate demonstrate the importance the importance of mobilisation, coalition-building and geographical bilisation, mobilisation, coalition-building coalition-building and geographical and geographical reach. reach. reach. Social media can amplify political messages; Social media Social can media amplify can amplify political political messages; messages; it cannot fornationwide functioning nationwide cannot it cannot substitute substitute for substitute functioning for functioning nationwide organisation. Campaign communication must reach anisation. organisation. Campaign Campaign communication communication must reach must reach farms, campuses and polling ets, markets, streets, streets, markets, farms,markets, campuses farms, campuses and polling and units polling units units ere citizens where where citizens decide.citizens decide.decide.

THE GOVERNORS AND THE HE GOVERNORS THE GOVERNORS AND THE AND THE PRESIDENT’S CAMPAIGN STRATEGY ESIDENT’S PRESIDENT’S CAMPAIGN CAMPAIGN STRATEGY STRATEGY

President Bola Tinubu A distinctive feature of thecampaign APC President Bola Tinubu Bola Tinubu A distinctive A distinctive feature of feature the APC of the campaign APC is itscampaign isPresident its is its emphasis on state-level organisation. phasis emphasis on state-level on state-level organisation. organisation. deserve to seeincreased how public The central electoral question is cumulative deserve deserve to see how to see increased how publicincreased revenues public revenues have revenues haveThehave central The central electoral electoral question question is cumulative is cumulative revenues and infrastructure investment. Critics highlight revenuesrevenues and infrastructure and infrastructure investment. investment. Critics highlight Critics highlight Its reported campaign arrangements ts reported Its reported campaign campaign arrangements arrangements involve political involveinvolve politicalpolitical into tangible development. nationalnational national strength, not simply number of states translated translated into translated tangible into tangible development. development. strength, strength, not simply not the simply number the number of the states of states foodtransport costs, transport pressures, insecurity persistent persistent food persistent costs, food transport costs, pressures, pressures, insecurity insecurity across partyincluding boundaries, ures across figuresfigures party acrossboundaries, party boundaries, including Osunincluding Osun Osun ThealsoEFCC hasestablished alsoa established a adedicated a candidate The EFCC The has EFCC hasestablished also dedicated a dedicated candidate a candidate carries. carries.carries. and household purchasing and household and household purchasing purchasing power. power.power. Governor Ademola Adeleke, Anambra Governor vernor Governor Ademola Ademola Adeleke, Adeleke, Anambra Anambra Governor Governor directorate to government monitor statefinances government Tinubu’s 2023 total of 8,794,726 provides the baseline. directorate directorate to monitor to monitor state state government financesfinances Tinubu’sTinubu’s 2023 total 2023 of 8,794,726 total of 8,794,726 provides provides the baseline. the baseline. Thesedeserve considerations examination These considerations These considerations examination deservedeserve examination through throughthrough Chukwuma Soludo andMinister FCT Minister Nyesom ukwuma Chukwuma Soludo Soludo and FCT andMinister FCT Nyesom Nyesom theFAAC utilisation of FAAC allocations. An illustrative An illustrative 11-million-vote scenario requires and the and utilisation theand utilisation of ofallocations. FAAC allocations. An illustrative 11-million-vote 11-million-vote scenarioscenario requires requires evidence, implementation records and measurable evidence, evidence, implementation implementation records and records measurable and measurable Wike. prominent figures ke. Other Wike. prominent Other Other prominent figures figures associated associated withassociated with with reforms and subnational 2,205,274 votes, representing approximately Federal reforms FederalFederal reforms and subnational and subnational governance governance aregovernance 2,205,274 are are 2,205,274 additional additional votes,additional representing votes, representing approximately approximately outcomes. outcomes. outcomes. campaign organisation President mpaign campaign organisation organisation include include Senateinclude President Senate Senate President interconnected. Theinitiate President may initiatepolicy, fiscal policy, 25.1% growth. interconnected. interconnected. The President The President may mayfiscal initiate policy, fiscal 25.1% growth. 25.1% growth. Our forthcoming publication, Nigeria’s Great Reset: Our forthcoming Our forthcoming publication, publication, Nigeria’s Nigeria’s Great Reset: Great Reset: Godswill Akpabio, former Zamfara Governor dswillGodswill Akpabio, Akpabio, former former Zamfara Zamfara Governor Governor but citizens encounter its practical results through A 12-million-vote scenario requires 3,205,274 but citizens but citizens encounter encounter its practical its practical results through results through A 12-million-vote A 12-million-vote scenario scenario requires requires 3,205,274 3,205,274 Rebuilding Today for a Prosperous Tomorrow, examines Rebuilding Rebuilding Today for Today a Prosperous for a Prosperous Tomorrow, Tomorrow, examines examines Abdulaziz Yari, Kaduna Governor Uba Sani and dulaziz Abdulaziz Yari, Kaduna Yari, Kaduna Governor Governor Uba SaniUba andSani and state andinstitutions. local institutions. additional votes, approximately 36.4% growth. state andstate localand institutions. local additional additional votes, approximately votes, approximately 36.4% growth. 36.4% growth. the historical implementation the historical the historical context, implementation context,context, implementation challenges challenges and challenges and and Peter Mbah. ugu Governor EnuguEnugu Governor PeterGovernor Mbah. Peter Mbah. This makes governors’ of expanded These are arithmetic scenarios, not polling forecasts. This makes Thisgovernors’ makes governors’ stewardship stewardship of stewardship expanded of expanded These areThese arithmetic are arithmetic scenarios, scenarios, not polling notforecasts. polling forecasts. consequences of national public consequences public public consequences of national of national reforms. reforms.reforms. President Tinubu’s Kaduna campaign engagement PresidentPresident Tinubu’s Tinubu’s Kaduna Kaduna campaign campaign engagement engagement allocations an important subject for public examination They demonstrate the scale of additional support allocations allocations an important an important subject for subject public for examination public examination They demonstrate They demonstrate the scale the of scale additional of additional support support is intended formedia policymakers, media practitioners, It is intended It is intended forItpolicymakers, for policymakers, practitioners, media practitioners, on October 24 illustrated the importance of regional October on October 24 illustrated 24 illustrated the importance the importance of regional of regional thecampaign. 2027 campaign. required. during the during 2027during the campaign. 2027 required.required. students, professionals, Nigerians in the diaspora students,students, professionals, professionals, Nigerians Nigerians in the diaspora in the diaspora mobilisation. bilisation. mobilisation. Nigeria’s constitutional requirements also Nigeria’sNigeria’s constitutional constitutional requirements requirements also include also include and theelectorate, wider electorate, including undecided andinclude the wider and theelectorate, wider including including undecided undecided voters. voters. voters. The National Patriots advocate a decentralised The National The National Patriots Patriots advocate advocate a decentralised a decentralised geographical spread. The has Supreme Court that Citizens THE CHANGING POLITICAL geographical geographical spread. The spread. Supreme The Supreme Court Court heldhas that heldhas thatheld Citizens deserve evidence of achievements, THE CHANGING THE CHANGING POLITICAL POLITICAL MAP MAP MAP Citizens deserve deserve evidence evidence of achievements, of achievements, approach: the President continue governing proach: approach: the President the President should continue shouldshould continue governing governing thedoes FCTnot does not possess a separate veto. the FCTthe does FCT not possess possess a separate a separate electoral electoral veto. electoral veto. acknowledgement of unfinished work and practical acknowledgement acknowledgement of unfinished of unfinished work and work practical and practical while governors and campaign organisations ile governors while governors and campaign and campaign organisations organisations sustain sustain sustain The National Patriots’ with the Tinubu The National The National Patriots’ Patriots’ scenario scenario beginsscenario with begins thebegins with the Tinubu won 12 states outright in 2023 while Tinubu won 12 won states 12 outright states outright in 2023 in while 2023 while proposals with clear costs, responsibilities and timelines. proposals proposals with clear with costs, clear responsibilities costs, responsibilities and timelines. and timelines. constituency-level engagement. nstituency-level constituency-level engagement. engagement. 12Tinubu statesinTinubu 12 states12Tinubu states won won 2023: inwon 2023:in 2023: the spread geographical spread requirement. satisfying satisfying the satisfying geographical the geographical spread requirement. requirement. Governors local economic grievances, Governors Governors understand understand localunderstand economic local economic grievances, grievances, Ekiti, Ogun, Ondo, Oyo, Rivers, Benue, Kogi, Ekiti, Ogun, Ekiti, Ondo, Ogun, Oyo, Ondo,Rivers, Oyo, Benue, Rivers, Kogi, Benue, Kogi, That distinction remains important. That distinction That distinction remains remains important. important. THE NATIONAL PATRIOTS’ THE NATIONAL THE NATIONAL PATRIOTS’ PATRIOTS’ sensitivities and development Kwara, Kwara, urity concerns, securitysecurity concerns, culturalconcerns, sensitivities culturalcultural sensitivities and development and development Niger, Borno, Jigawa and Zamfara. Niger, Kwara, Borno, Niger,Jigawa Borno, and Jigawa Zamfara. and Zamfara. expectations. They know which roads remain pectations. expectations. They know They which know roads which remain roads remain PROJECTION PROJECTION PROJECTION then identifies 13 additional statesWHERE It then Itidentifies thenItidentifies 13 additional 13 additional states won statesbywon bywon by WHERE ARE OPPOSITION’S THE OPPOSITION’S WHERE ARE THE AREOPPOSITION’S THE unfinished, hospitals require equipment finished, unfinished, which hospitals which which hospitals require require equipment equipment opposition candidates opposition opposition candidates candidates in 2023. in 2023.in 2023. The National Patriots’ 25-state-plus-FCT The National The National Patriots’ Patriots’ 25-state-plus-FCT 25-state-plus-FCT scenarioscenarioscenario and where farmers need support. NATIONWIDE RALLIES? d where andfarmers where farmers need support. need support. NATIONWIDE NATIONWIDE RALLIES? RALLIES? Atiku won eight:Yobe, Osun, Bauchi, Yobe, Atiku Abubakar Atiku Abubakar wonAbubakar eight: wonOsun, eight: Bauchi, Osun, Bauchi, Yobe, examines the APC’s organisational reach, political examines examines the APC’s the organisational APC’s organisational reach, political reach, political National leadership direction; subnational NationalNational leadership leadership defines direction; definesdefines direction; subnational subnational Kaduna, Katsina, Bayelsa, Taraba and Akwa Ibom. Kaduna,Kaduna, Katsina,Katsina, Bayelsa,Bayelsa, Taraba and Taraba Akwa andIbom. Akwa Ibom.The opposition’s The opposition’s nationwide campaign programmes The opposition’s nationwide nationwide campaign campaign programmes programmes realignments, governors’ networks and the realignments, realignments, governors’ governors’ networks networks and the and the leadership understands the terrain. dership leadership understands understands the terrain. the terrain. Peter Obi won five: Lagos, Plateau, Edo, Delta Peter Obi Peter wonObi five: won Lagos, five: Plateau, Lagos, Plateau, Edo, Delta Edo, Delta deserve deserve deserve scrutiny. scrutiny.scrutiny. administration’s capacity to communicate administration’s administration’s capacitycapacity to communicate to communicate its its its Under this proposed strategy, Under this Under proposed this proposed strategy, strategy, Tinubu Tinubu wouldTinubu would would andRiver. Cross River. and Cross andRiver. Cross Nigerians are entitled knowcandidates when candidates Nigerians Nigerians are entitled are entitled to know towhen knowto candidates when governing record. governing governing record. record. concentrate major engagements, including campaign centrate concentrate on major on engagements, majoronengagements, including including campaign campaign The Federal Capital Territory, also won by Obi The Federal The Federal Capital Capital Territory,Territory, also wonalso bywon Obi by Obi toeach visitgeopolitical eachzone, geopolitical zone,their howIt their intend to intend visit intend to each visitgeopolitical how zone,their how It remains a political assessment rathera than a remains It remains a political a political assessment assessment rather than rather a than opening and closing rallies, while eningopening and closing and rallies, closing while rallies,governors while governors leadgovernors lead lead inis2023, is assessed separately. in 2023, in is 2023, assessed assessed separately. separately. grassroots organisations are developing and which grassroots grassroots organisations organisations are developing are developing and which and which measured voter-intention measured measured voter-intention voter-intention forecast.forecast.forecast. extensive state-level programmes. ensiveextensive state-level state-level programmes. programmes. This distinction is The fundamental. Thepolicy scenario This distinction This distinction is fundamental. is fundamental. scenario The scenario alternatives theypresent will present to Nigeria’s alternatives policy policy alternatives they will they present will directly directly to directly toNigeria’s Nigeria’s democratic future depends on informed democratic democratic future depends future depends on informed on informed Therequires FCT requires separate political organisation The FCTThe requires FCT separate separate political political organisation organisation both retention of previous and examines examines bothexamines retention both retention of previous of previous victories victories and victories and communities. communities. communities. citizens, credible election administration and meaningful citizens, credible citizens, election credible administration election administration and meaningful and meaningful and ministerial is not an additional d ministerial and ministerial coordination; coordination; itcoordination; is not itanisadditional notitan additional possible changes in previously states previously by Consultations, possiblepossible changes changes in states inpreviously states carried carried by carried byConsultations, Consultations, coalition negotiations, media coalitioncoalition negotiations, negotiations, media media competition. competition. competition. governorship. vernorship. governorship. opposition candidates. opposition opposition candidates. candidates. appearances and engagement digitalareengagement are legitimate appearances appearances and digital andengagement digital legitimate are legitimate Political organisation provides the of PoliticalPolitical organisation organisation provides provides the machinery the machinery of machinery of Several 2023 narrow. margins were narrow. Atiku won Several Several 2023 margins 2023 margins were were narrow. Atiku won Atiku won campaign activities. However, rallies campaign campaign activities. activities. However, However, rallies provide rallies provide an election. Public confidence gives that machinery anprovide election. an election. Public confidence Public confidence gives that gives machinery that machinery FAAC: GOVERNORS MUST EXPLAIN AC:FAAC: GOVERNORS GOVERNORS MUSTMUST EXPLAIN EXPLAIN Osun by 10,421 votes Katsina byTinubu 6,762. Tinubu Osun byOsun 10,421by votes 10,421 and votes Katsina and Katsina byand 6,762. byTinubu 6,762. opportunities forengagement. direct public engagement. opportunities opportunities for directforpublic direct public engagement. democratic meaning. democratic democratic meaning. meaning. carried Benue just 2,096. DELIVERY carried Benue carriedby Benue just 2,096. by justby 2,096. ELIVERY DELIVERY Campaign organisations should explain their Campaign Campaign organisations organisations should should explain explain their their The ballot box the result. The ballot The box ballot determines box determines thedetermines result. the result. Other involved states margins. Obi led Other states Otherinvolved states widerinvolved margins. wider wider margins. Obi led Obi led programmes concerning security, employment, programmes programmes concerning concerning security, security, employment, employment, Principal Sources: INECpresidential 2023 presidential PrincipalPrincipal Sources: Sources: INEC 2023 INEC presidential 2023 election electionelection State governments have received increased State governments State governments have received have received increased increased Tinubu in Plateau by approximately votes, Tinubu in Tinubu Plateau in Plateau by approximately by approximately 159,000 votes, 159,000159,000 votes, infrastructure, education and costs. living costs.results; APC infrastructure, infrastructure, education education and living and costs. living results; APC campaign announcements; FAAC reports; results; campaign APC campaign announcements; announcements; FAAC reports; FAAC reports; Federation Account allocations following petrol-subsidy while Atiku eration Federation Account Account allocations allocations following following petrol-subsidy petrol-subsidy while Atiku lednearly in Bauchi by nearly whileled Atiku in Bauchi led in by Bauchi by110,000. nearly 110,000.110,000. Public scrutiny must apply consistently to every Public scrutiny Public scrutiny must apply must consistently apply consistently to every to every national media reporting; National Patriots’ political national national media reporting; media reporting; National National Patriots’ Patriots’ political political removal and associated fiscal changes. movalremoval and associated and associated fiscal changes. fiscal changes. Political realignments have altered the party. landscape Political Political realignments realignments have altered havethe altered landscape the landscape party.attendance Rally attendance should not be confused with Rally party. attendance Rally should not should be confused not be confused with with assessment. assessment. assessment. Governors use their state campaign Governors Governors should use should theirshould use statetheir campaign state campaign rallies to rallies torallies to since 2023. Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno joined the since 2023. since Akwa 2023.Ibom Akwa Governor Ibom Governor Umo EnoUmo joined Enothejoined verified the verified electoral support. verified electoral electoral support. support. •Princess Gloria Adebajo-Fraser, •Princess •Princess Gloria Gloria Adebajo-Fraser, Adebajo-Fraser, MFR, MFR, MFR, demonstrate precisely whatincreased these increased allocations monstrate demonstrate precisely precisely what these what increased these allocations allocations APC,cooperation while cooperation figures from other APC, while APC, cooperation while involving involving figuresinvolving from figures other from other FIPMD, President the National Patriots, FIPMD,FIPMD, is President is President ofisthe National of the of National Patriots, Patriots, have delivered to their constituencies. ve delivered have delivered to their to constituencies. their constituencies. demonstrates changing political relationships. parties demonstrates parties parties demonstrates changing changing political political relationships. relationships. REFORMS, PUBLIC CONFIDENCE REFORMS, REFORMS, PUBLIC PUBLIC CONFIDENCE CONFIDENCE a Political Strategist, Governance and Perception a Political a Political Strategist, Strategist, Governance Governance and Perception and Perception These provide rallies provide to showcase These rallies Theseprovide rallies opportunities opportunities toopportunities showcase to showcase These developments affect organisational structures, These developments These developments affect organisational affect organisational structures,structures, Management Consultant, Author, Management Consultant, Consultant, Author, Author, Researcher Researcher andResearcher and and roads, clinics, equipped AND THE 2027 DECISION Management mpleted completed roads,completed functional roads, functional clinics,functional equipped clinics, equipped schools, schools,schools, THE AND2027 THEDECISION 2027 DECISION although their on effects on individual votingAND decisions althoughalthough their effects theironeffects individual individual voting decisions voting decisions Publisher of Nigeria’s Great Reset. Publisher Publisher of Nigeria’s of Nigeria’s Great Reset. Great She Reset. is also She is She alsois also agricultural projects, transport icultural agricultural support, support, watersupport, projects, water water projects, transport transport remain to be established. remain to remain be established. to be established. The administration’s governing record will remain of thePresidential APCCampaign Presidential Campaign The administration’s The administration’s governing governing record will record remain will remain a Member a Member of atheMember APC of thePresidential APC Campaign improvements andprogrammes. employment programmes. provements improvements and employment and employment programmes. central to electoral debate. Council Strategic Communications Committee central to central electoral to electoral debate. debate. Council Council Strategic Strategic Communications Communications Committee Committee Governors should present figures, timelines and Governors Governors should present should figures, present timelines figures, timelines and and THE CUMULATIVE VOTE FACTOR THE CUMULATIVE THE CUMULATIVE VOTE VOTE FACTOR FACTOR Supporters fiscal reforms, increased government for theelections. 2027 elections. Supporters Supporters cite fiscal cite reforms, fiscalcitereforms, increased increased government government for the for 2027the elections. 2027 verifiable evidence of completed projects. Constituents ifiableverifiable evidence evidence of completed of completed projects. projects. Constituents Constituents

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2026 • T H I S D AY

T H I S D AY • FRIday NOVEMBER 6, 2026

Property & environment

Rising Through the Ranks: A Story of Resilience in Mortgage Leadership

Driven by purpose and a commitment to impact, Mrs. Anthonia Nnaebue, the new Managing Director of Cooperative Mortgage Bank Limited, tells Bennett Oghifo how she developed a deep passion for homeownership over the years- one that has evolved into a transformative leadership journey shaping Nigeria’s housing finance landscape within the mortgage industry.

hat inspired you to pursue a career in mortgage banking? My inspiration to pursue a career in mortgage banking stems from a deep desire to create stability and opportunity for families through homeownership. This is because Housing goes beyond shelter; it represents security, dignity, and a foundation for generational growth. As a woman in leadership, I am particularly driven by the impact access to housing can have on families and communities. This purpose, combined with the opportunity to strengthen institutions and influence sustainable housing solutions, has shaped and sustained my commitment to the sector.

Can you share your journey into leadership within Nigeria’s mortgage banking sector? My journey in the financial services sector has been one of growth, learning, and continuous evolution. I started my career in the stockbroking space with one of the subsidiaries of Wema Bank plc, where I gained strong exposure to financial markets, customer engagement, and business development. While those experiences shaped my foundation in finance, I was drawn to the mortgage sector because of the deeper impact it has on people’s lives through housing and wealth creation. In 2015, I joined Cooperative Mortgage Bank as a Branch Manager. From there, my journey progressed organically through different leadership roles, from Regional Manager to Chief Marketing Officer and each stage giving me broader insight into the business and the housing finance landscape in Nigeria. I later had the opportunity to serve as Managing Director of Global Trust Savings and Loans limited before returning to Cooperative Mortgage Bank as Managing Director. Looking back, my journey reflects resilience, consistency, and a strong commitment to growth within the sector. Having risen through the ranks, I understand the business from both operational and strategic perspectives, and that has shaped my leadership approach, one focused on people, institutional sustainability, and expanding access to mortgage solutions in Nigeria. What unique perspectives do you think women bring to leadership in the mortgage industry? Women bring a unique blend of empathy, resilience, collaboration, and long-term thinking into leadership within the mortgage sector. Because housing is deeply connected to families and communities, women leaders often approach decisions with a strong sense of social impact alongside business sustainability. In my experience, women also tend to foster inclusive leadership styles that encourage teamwork, relationship building, and stakeholder trust all of which are critical in the mortgage and housing finance space. At the same time, women in leadership have had to navigate and overcome significant challenges, which often builds a strong capacity for adaptability, discipline, and strategic thinking. Ultimately, diversity in leadership strengthens institutions, and having more women in the sector brings balanced perspectives that support innovation, growth, and stronger engagement with customers and communities.

to stay calm, objective, and solution-driven rather than reacting emotionally. Most importantly, I have remained grounded in my values and purpose. I remind myself that leadership is not just about position, but about impact, responsibility, and the ability to inspire confidence even during challenging times. That mindset has helped me grow through every stage of my journey. What operational challenges are most critical in delivering mortgage solutions today? One of the most critical operational challenges in delivering mortgage solutions today is affordability. With rising inflation, high interest rates, and increasing construction costs, many potential homeowners struggle to meet the financial requirements for longterm mortgage financing. Another major challenge is access to long term funding, which is essential for sustainable mortgage lending. We also face issues around property documentation, title perfection, and the slow pace of legal and regulatory processes, all of which can delay transactions and increase costs. In addition, customer expectations are evolving, so institutions must continuously improve operational efficiency, service delivery, and digital processes to remain competitive and responsive

Anthonia Nnaebue

been having to constantly prove myself in spaces that are still largely male-dominated. There are times when, as a woman leader, you feel you have to work harder, stay more prepared, and consistently deliver results before your voice is fully acknowledged. That journey can be demanding, but it has also shaped my confidence and resilience over the years. Personally, balancing leadership responsibilities with family life and personal expectations is something I continue to navigate. But I believe those experiences have made me a more empathetic, stronger, and

more grounded leader. They’ve taught me patience, adaptability, and the importance of leading with both strength and humanity. How have you navigated these challenges in your leadership journey? I have navigated these challenges by staying focused, continuously learning, and refusing to allow obstacles define me. Over the years, I have learned the importance of resilience and consistency showing up, doing the work, and letting results speak over time. I have also relied heavily on building strong relationships, listening to people, and maintaining emotional intelligence in leadership. In difficult moments, I try

Women bring a unique blend of empathy, resilience, collaboration, and long-term thinking into leadership within the mortgage sector. Because housing is deeply connected to families and communities, women leaders often approach decisions with a strong sense of social impact alongside business sustainability. In my experience, women also tend to foster inclusive leadership styles that encourage teamwork, relationship building, and stakeholder trust all of which are critical in the mortgage and housing finance space. At the same time, women in leadership have had to navigate and overcome significant challenges, which often What have been the most significant challenges you’ve faced in your role builds a strong capacity for adaptability, discipline, so far? Well, one of the biggest challenges has and strategic thinking.

How has your institution adapted to current economic realities affecting housing finance? Like many institutions in the mortgage sector, we have had to become more adaptive and strategic in response to current economic realities. Rising construction costs, high interest rates, inflation, and affordability challenges have required us to rethink how we structure and deliver mortgage solutions. As an institution, we have focused more on operational efficiency, stronger risk management, strategic partnerships, and creating products that are more flexible and accessible to customers. We are also paying closer attention to sustainability, customer retention, and digital efficiency to remain responsive in a changing environment. What is your outlook for the future of housing finance in Nigeria? I remain optimistic about the future of housing finance in Nigeria, particularly with the cooperative housing model adopted by cooperatives mortgage bank, the bank has continued to demonstrate sustainability and inclusiveness over the years. At Cooperative Mortgage Bank, we strongly believe that collaboration and collective ownership remain powerful tools for expanding access to housing finance, especially for middle and low income earners which is where the most gaps exist. Despite current economic challenges, the demand for housing in Nigeria is still very strong, and this presents significant opportunities for institutions that are innovative and customer oriented. Going forward, I believe the future of housing finance will depend heavily on strategic partnerships, cooperative driven structures, technology adoption, and the development of more flexible and affordable mortgage products. For us as an institution, the focus is on deepening access to homeownership through cooperative societies, strengthening trust with our customers, and building sustainable financing solutions that truly meet the realities of Nigerians. I believe that with the right policies, stronger stakeholder collaboration, and continued innovation, the mortgage sector still has tremendous potential for growth and national impact.

T H I S D AY • FRIday, November 6, 2026

BUSINESSWORLD R A T E S

MONEY MARKET

A S

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

08056356325, 07034471123

N ovember

S & P INDEX

5 , 2 0 2 6

S & P INDEX

EXCHANGE RATE

OPR

25.34%

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23.25%

INDEX LEVEL

595.26

1/4 to daTE

0.24%

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*AS AT THUR, November 5, 2026

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WPC: Dantsoho Showcases Tinubu’s Investor-friendly Maritime Policy, Return on Investment Chances Eromosele Abiodun

Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr Abubakar Dantsoho yesterday in London showcased President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s maritime policies stressing that ports in Africa’s biggest economy are yearning for global investment. He affirmed that the

speed of growth and development in the country’s ports signifies the huge opportunities investors should tap into adding that the current administration has put policies in place that are investment friendly. Addressing a select team of maritime investors from across the globe at the ongoing World Ports Conference, Dantsoho identified Nigeria’s huge

population, urbanisation, and infrastructural gaps in the ports as attractive opportunities for investment in its maritime and associated sectors. Dantsoho, who is the Vice- President of the International Association of Ports & Harbours (IAPH) and doubles as Chairman of the Port Management Association of West and

Central Africa (PMAWCA) told investors that Africa’s untapped resources remain the best destination for ports investment and development. He said government alone cannot fund development of bigger or deeper sea ports and other similar projects hence the need for investors to take advantage of such opportunities across the continent.

According to him, “Nigeria at independence in 1960 had a population of 45 million people. Today, about 60 years later, there are more than 260 million people. The investment needed in ports to meet this expansion and growth can only happen if the requisite private investment is attracted and retained which is what President Tinubu has created the enabling atmosphere for.

“In Nigeria, we identified that infrastructure gap especially in our ports’ development, and we realized that we must do something quickly, both in terms of the capacity to receive bigger vessels for import, and also the capacity to move higher numbers of cargo for export.”

The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

CONVERGENCE OF GLOBAL PORT LEADERS…

President, International Association of Ports and Harbours (IAPH), Jenns Meier, (1st Left); Managing Director Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) and Vice- President IAPH, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho (2nd Right); IAPh Vice President America Central & South, Vinicius Patel (2nd Left) and IAPH Vice President Asia South /West, East and Middle East, Ichio Motono (1st Right) during the ongoing Word Ports Conference in London… yesterday

Travellers Panic over Imminent Outrageous Airfares as Christmas Approaches Chinedu Eze

There are strong indications that domestic airlines will introduce outrageous airfares as Christmas holiday approaches, a development that is already creating panic among domestic air travellers. This happens every year as

Christmas holiday has become the highest season of the year when many Nigerians travel to their homes of origin to celebrate the Yuletide and the New Year with their relatives. Airlines over the years tend to increase the cost of tickets to destinations such as Port Harcourt, Benin, Calabar,

Owerri, Enugu, Warri, Asaba, Anambra, and even other destinations in the South West like Akure and Ibadan. Road travel has become less attractive due to insecurity and the fact that some critical road infrastructure linking the South East and the South West from other parts of the country

are dilapidated. This, many believed, would increase the number of people that travel by air and as demand increases, the price of air tickets will also increase. Reports indicate that the highest cost of flight ticket from Lagos to most of the South East destination during

the Christmas season of 2025 was about N499, 998 for oneway economy ticket; while return trips on related South East festive routes exceeded N700, 000. Also, during the Christmas season of 2024, peak flight ticket prices from Lagos to Owerri and other South East

destinations reached N450, 000 to 500, 000 for single one-way economy ticket. The high cost of airfares seemed to have pitted airlines against travellers who complained bitterly against the astronomical rise in fares. 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, N o v e m b e r 5 , 2 0 2 6 BONDS Description Price ^13.98 23FEB-2028 ^21.00 20MAR-2028 ^14.55 26APR-2029 ^14.55 26APR-2029 ^18.50 21FEB-2031

97.54 105.75 105.83 97.89 104.97

Change Updated Time (%) November 0.00 5, 16.10 2026 November 16.10 0.00 5, 2026 November 16.30 0.00 5, 2026 November 15.60 0.00 5, 2026 November 16.80 0.10 5, 2026

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BILLS Maturity NTB 3-Dec26 NTB 7-Jan27 NTB 4-Feb27 NTB 4-Mar27 NTB 8-Apr27

Discount Yield 17.01

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AGRO CP IV 7-DEC-26 DAIL CP II 26-NOV-26 JVIL CP XXIV 29-DEC-26 EMZO CP II 14-JAN-27 SKIS CP II 1-APR-27

Discount Yield 22.64

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22.43

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CLEARED NAIRA-SETTLED NDFS Change (%)

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November 0.00 5, 2026 November -0.01 5, 2026 November 0.00 5, 2026 November 0.00 5, 2026 November 0.00 5, 2026

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FRIday, November 6, 2026 • T H I S D AY

BUSINESSWORLD

Air watch

United Nigeria Airlines Closes 1st Tranche of N100bn CP Programme A i r Stories by Chinedu Eze United Nigeria Airlines has

closed the first tranche of itsN100 billion commercial paper (CP) programme after raising N22 billion. The issuance was oversubscribed with demand exceeding the N20 billion target, which reflects strong investor confidence in the airline’s financial performance, growth strategy and credit profile. In recognition of the strong response, United Nigeria Airlines absorbed 10 per cent of the excess subscription and returned the remainder to subscribers whose applications could not be fully allocated. Responding to the

development, the Managing Director of UNA, Mazi Osita Okonkwo said: “The level of demand we received is a clear endorsement of our business model, and financial performance as well as the confidence the market has in our growth plans. The proceeds will support fleet expansion and operations. We are grateful to the investors who participated and we look forward to more active engagement with investors as we continue with our CP and other capital market programmes.” The issuance was structured in two series, with tenors of 270 days and 364 days and the transaction was supported by investment-grade credit ratings

from two agencies; Agusto & Co. assigned ratings of A3 for the short term and BBB- for the long term, with a stable outlook. DataPro assigned ratings of A1 for the short term and BBB for the long term. The Managing Director of Meristem Capital Limited, Rasaki Salawu, who confirmed the development said: “We are proud to have served as Lead Issuing House for the registration of United Nigeria Airlines Limited’s N100 billion Commercial Paper Programme and the successful debut issuance of N20 billion under Series 1 and 2, which will support the company’s working capital needs.”

FAAN Boss, Director of Operations Honoured

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) celebrates two of its senior executives, the Managing Director/Chief Executive, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, and the Director of Airport Operations, Capt. Abdullahi Mahmood, following the conferment of on them. They were given professional and traditional honours in recognition of their leadership, service and contributions to their respective fields. Kuku was conferred with the prestigious Honorary Fellowship of

the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) at its Fellowship Investiture Ceremony held in Lagos. The Fellowship, the Institute’s highest membership distinction, recognises her exceptional career achievements and contributions to banking, financial services and aviation. With extensive experience spanning the Bank of Montreal, Ernst & Young, Bank PHB and the aviation sector, Mrs Kuku is now entitled to use the professional designation FCIB.

Similarly, Mahmood has been honoured with the distinguished traditional title of Barden Gabas of Mubi Emirate, Adamawa State, under the authority of His Royal Highness, Dr. Abubakar Isa Ahmadu, the Emir of Mubi. The title, historically associated with bravery and valour, recognises Capt. Mahmood’s leadership and service while entrusting him with greater responsibility towards promoting peace, unity and development within the Emirate.

Alieve Relieves Everyday Pain

In Nigeria, the day often begins before the sun is fully up. From the early morning rush to beat traffic to the race to meet deadlines, serve customers, close deals and keep businesses running, Nigerians have mastered the art of pushing through. For many, one job is not enough, and the pursuit of

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)

progress means juggling multiple responsibilities, side hustles and income streams. The hustle rarely stops, and neither do the demands of everyday life. Somewhere along the way, it becomes easy to forget that the human body has its limits. That reality is at the heart of CHI Pharmaceuticals’ latest campaign for Alieve, its pain relief brand, built around a simple but powerful truth “Man No Be Machine.” The campaign captures a familiar Nigerian experience: people often push themselves as though they can run endlessly, until headache, body ache or fever reminds them that they are human. When pain strikes, even the busiest person may have to slow down. And when there is still so much to do, getting back to speed becomes the priority. Powered by ibuprofen, Alieve is registered with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC)

and is available in three formulations: 100 mg/5 mL oral suspension for children, and 200 mg and 400 mg tablets for adults. With this range, CHI Pharmaceuticals is expanding its healthcare portfolio with a brand designed to address everyday pain and fever, supported by a communication platform grounded in the realities of Nigerian consumers. Chief Marketing Officer at TGI Group, Probal Bhattacharya, said, “We frequently push ourselves tirelessly every single day as though we are mechanical engines, but whenever pain strikes, we are quickly reminded that we are only human after all. While Alieve effectively steps in to soothe that physical discomfort, we truly recognize that ‘Man No Be Machine’. Alieve remains a caring companion, empowering hardworking individuals to overcome distressing ache and return to the hustle and their daily routines.”

Watch

FAAN, NAMA and Power Conundrum

Chinedu Eze The two major service providers in the

aviation industry, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and the Nigeria Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) spend over N34 billion on power from grid electricity annually. Recent review from the Ministry of Aviation indicated that this is in addition to other sources of power, from power generators to renewable energy. Two years ago, the ministry said Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) alone, consumes N1 billion worth of electricity monthly and additional high costs were incurred across other major travel hubs, with energy bills for Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja also surpassing N1 billion annually. To reduce the cost, FAAN has been working to restructure its aviation master plan to actively transition major international airports to solar energy. The agency has also suffered heavily from running high-capacity diesel generators overnight during non-peak hours, when no active flights are scheduled, at a very huge cost. In fact, reports showed that recent capital investments by FAAN on alternative power include a N8.73 billion allocation explicitly dedicated to modernizing airport power infrastructure to optimise grid utilisation and systematically eliminate reliance on diesel fuel. In the same vein, NAMA spends over N10 billion annually on power. Until recently it was using generators to power off grid installation located in different parts of the country. These installations provide safety critical services in the airspace; so, the power source that sustains the operations cannot be compromised. To end the hiccups in power supply from the grid, NAMA has steadily invested hundreds of millions of naira into transitioning several of its primary air traffic control and navigational aid stations (including Lagos, Abuja, Kano, and Port Harcourt) to solar power systems. These challenges bring to the fore the summit on power, titled, ‘Energy Costs and Business Survival’, organized by the Lagos Country Club last week in the third edition of its Business Forum. The major discourse at the summit was how Nigeria could provide reliable and stable electricity to bring down the huge resources organisations like FAAN and NAMA, big manufacturing companies,

medium and small scale enterprises spend on electricity, which amplify the cost of products and services they provide. Energy experts include Professor Barth Nnaji, former Minister of Power and Chairman/Chief Executive, Geometric Power; the Senior Energy Executive and Managing Partner, JDR Energy Limited, Ifeoma Ukabiala; the Executive Director JMG Limited and former President, Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Otunba Francis Meshioye and others, x-rayed the challenges business organisations face in Nigeria in terms of provision of power and its high costs. Meshioye in his opening remarks observed that businesses could create jobs, support families, stimulate local production, generate government revenue, and drive national economic development. He noted that when unsustainable energy costs put businesses under pressure, “we should turn the challenge from a threat to their survival, into an opportunity to rethink how Nigeria produces, consumes, and pays for energy.” He said that Nigeria could get out of the present power conundrum by making informed decisions, embracing innovation, deploying efficiency, methodologies, adopting cleaner production technologies and fostering collaboration The special guest of honour, Ifeoma Ukabiala, in her speech, painted a grim picture of what businesses go through in Nigeria due to inadequate supply of electricity and how the cost of power eat into the profitability of businesses. “The facts are sobering. This January (2026), the national grid collapsed twice in five days, on the 23rd and the 27th, barely a month after another collapse in December. On a typical day, the grid carries four to five thousand megawatts, against more than twelve thousand megawatts of installed capacity. “Our manufacturers spent about N1.35 trillion on alternative power in 2025, up 23 per cent in one year. Our Chairman, Otunba Francis Meshioye, knows this burden better than anyone from his years leading the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria. And the association tells us that around 35 per cent of production cost now goes to energy. Across the whole economy, the World Bank has estimated that Nigerian businesses lose about $29 billion every year to unreliable electricity. The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

T H I S D AY • FRIday, November 6, 2026

BUSINESSWORLD

News

L-R: Head, Client Services, Leadway PFA, Uduak Essien; President, Association of Digital Marketing Professionals (ADMARP), Elizabeth Ogunseye; Head, Business Development, Leadway PFA, Gbenga Dada; Managing Director, BrandEye Media, Femi Adelusi; Convener, Brandcom Awards, Joshua Ajayi and Team Lead, Brand and Communications, Leadway PFA, Tomisin Adeleye, during the presentation of the Most Outstanding PFA Company of the Year Award to Leadway PFA in Lagos… recently

Onyema Hails Fidelity Bank Over $400M Eurobond Repayment Chine Eze

The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of leading Nigerian carrier, Air Peace, Dr. Allen Onyema, has congratulated Fidelity Bank Plc on the successful repayment of its $400 million Eurobond at maturity, describing the achievement as a remarkable demonstration of financial strength, institutional discipline and visionary leadership. In a congratulatory message issued on behalf of the Board, Management and Staff of Air Peace Limited, Onyema commended the Bank for meeting its obligations throughout the five-year tenure of

the Eurobond, particularly its decision to fund the repayment entirely from internal liquidity. He attributed the milestone to the strategic foresight of Fidelity Bank’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, whose leadership, he noted, has continued to strengthen the Bank’s financial standing and reputation within Nigeria’s banking industry. Onyema further applauded the Bank’s successful completion of its recapitalisation ahead of the Central Bank of Nigeria’s stipulated deadline, describing both achievements as evidence of

FBS Re to Expand Operation to African Countries

Ebere Nwoji

FBS Reinsurance Limited,

has reaffirmed its ambition to become a leading reinsurance institution in Africa and the global market, with plans for regional expansion and a capital-raising programme to strengthen its growth. The Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer, FSB Insurance, Mr. Ganiyu Musa , has said that his company was pursuing regional expansion in line with the National Insurance Commission’s (NAICOM) call for Nigerian insurers to explore other markets. Musa, disclosed this at an insurance industry leaders’ forum organised by FBS Re in Lagos recently. He however said such expansion would depend on regulatory requirements, market conditions, risk appetite and the company’s financial capacity. The forum, with the

theme Connecting Leaders, attracted top industry executives and more than 40 chief executive officers from the insurance industry. Musa said FBS Re was established by experienced insurance professionals concerned about the state of the reinsurance market and the challenges facing the industry in Nigeria and across Africa. He described the company as a professionally owned and managed institution committed to strengthening local reinsurance capacity, retaining more insurable risks within Africa and supporting the Nigerian insurance market. “FBS Re remains proudly Nigerian, and we are committed to demonstrating that indeed a Nigerian reinsurance institution can build the expertise, the capacity, and partnerships required to compete successfully across Africa,” he said.

sound corporate governance and sustainable financial management. Highlighting the critical relationship between banking and aviation, he underscored the

importance of financially resilient institutions such as Fidelity Bank in supporting capitalintensive sectors, particularly aviation, where access to financing

remains essential to fleet development, operational sustainability and industry growth. He noted that strong partnerships between financial institutions and

indigenous enterprises are indispensable to strengthening Nigeria’s economic competitiveness and advancing the country’s broader development aspirations.

Access Holdings to Advance Africa’s Capital Mobilisation Agenda

Access Holdings Plc will advance the case for African financial institutions to convert scale into greater economic impact when leaders from across the continent’s financial ecosystem gather for the Africa Financial Summit (AFIS) 2026 in Luanda, Angola. Participating as a Diamond Sponsor alongside its flagship subsidiary, Access Bank Plc, the Group will bring its pan-African experience to discussions on one of the continent’s most pressing priorities: how to mobilise more capital for productive investment, deepen regional trade and financial integration, and expand access to finance for businesses and households. Chairman, Access Holdings Plc, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, will lead the Group’s delegation, which includes, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Access Bank Plc, Roosevelt Ogbonna and Executive Director, African Subsidiaries, Access Bank Plc, Seyi Kumapayi,. For Access Holdings, the conversation in Luanda goes beyond the growth of individual financial institutions. It is about how African institutions can use their reach, capabilities and partnerships to address the continent’s financing needs and create sustainable value for businesses, economies, communities and shareholders. Commenting on the Bank’s participation, Ogbonna, said: “Businesses need finance that moves across borders as easily as their ambitions do. At AFIS 2026, we will show how Access Bank is turning its pan-African scale into real value by connecting markets, supporting enterprise and

widening access to financial services.” These priorities reflect Access Holdings’ view that Africa’s

financial future will depend not only on the size or profitability of its institutions, but also on their ability to channel capital

towards the real economy, enable businesses to grow and connect African markets more effectively.

FACTFILE

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2026 • T H I S D AY

with Lanre Alfred

…truth behind the headlines, conspiracies, cover-ups, trials and triumphs

Awele Elumelu: When The Hard Road Becomes Her Crown S

he is the wind beneath no trumpet, yet she soars. In a world where greatness often arrives clad in spectacle, she moves like dawn, soft, sure and sovereign. She is not a woman of thunder, yet the earth remembers her footsteps. Awele Vivian Elumelu does not announce herself with fanfare, yet presence wraps itself around her like silk. She possesses the quiet confidence of one who understands that influence, true influence, does not need to shout. It simply is. A marathoner in every sense, on the track, in the boardroom, and in the hearts of communities across Africa. Yes, her name rings with transonic reverence, ultimately because she transcends her time. In the sacred chronicles of sports and leadership, few names resonate with power and persistence like Awele’s. Many remember her for the feats she accomplished in real time, many more for the lasting impact she incises on history. Interestingly, wealth is supposed to buy you the right to never sweat unless you are in a customengineered steam room; it is supposed to insulate your joints from the hard pavement of reality. Thus, when I look at the contemporary landscape of high society, particularly the digital showcases where the modern elite curate their lives, I am often struck by a profound sense of inertia. We are currently trapped in the cultural chokehold of what the digital vernacular terms the “baby girl life,” an ethos dedicated entirely to the worship of curated ease, sybaritic indolence, and the aesthetics of passive consumption. It is a world where status is measured by the stillness of one’s hands and the expensive passivity of one’s afternoons. Then enters Dr. Awele Vivian Elumelu. Last weekend, while the rest of the global plutocracy was perhaps nursing hangovers in five-star penthouses or discussing portfolio diversification over truffled eggs, the wife of multibillionaire Tony Elumelu was standing on the asphalt of New York City, shivering slightly in the crisp autumn air, surrounded by tens of thousands of strangers. She was not there as a spectator in a VIP hospitality tent, wrapped in cashmere and sipping warm cider. She was there as a runner, poised on the brink of her eighth global marathon, a grueling, bone-jarring, forty-two-point-two-kilometre odyssey through the five boroughs of New York. When I read her social media dispatch prior to the starter gun, I recognized immediately the voice of someone who has transcended the ordinary distractions of her social station. “Six years ago I joined virtually,” she wrote, reflecting on the digital proxy of the race that many endured during the dark years of global isolation. “Now, I finally get to experience the real thing, in person! This Sunday, I’ll be running the iconic New York City Marathon! Let’s run, NYC.” There was no affectation in those words. There was no corporate public relations team polishing the sentiment until it became a bloodless press release. It was the thrumming enthusiasm of a conqueror who understands that some things cannot be bought, cannot be inherited, and cannot be delegated to an assistant. You cannot hire a proxy to run forty-two kilometers through the streets of New York for you. The pavement of the Queensboro Bridge does not care who your husband is; the long, unforgiving stretch of First Avenue has no respect for your bank balance; and the hills of Central Park will break you regardless of your social pedigree. To watch a woman of her immense privilege willfully subject herself to the voluntary ordeal of the marathon is to witness a profound philosophical rebellion. It is a rejection of the golden cage. At fifty-six years of age, an era of life where convention gently suggests a retreat into the plush cushions of aristocratic leisure, Dr. Awele chose instead the democracy of sweat, the indignity of blisters, and the sublime terror of physical exhaustion. In doing so, she has offered the world, and Africa in particular, something far more valuable than any philanthropic donation: she has provided a living parable of self-mastery. To understand the weight of what Dr. Awele accomplished in New York, one must first understand the unique psychology of the city’s marathon. I have

Awele Elumelu

covered New York in all its seasons—its high-society galas at the Met, its tense autumn boardrooms in the Financial District, its artistic eccentricities in the lofts of SoHo. But the city is never more entirely itself than on marathon Sunday. It is a day when the hyper-fragmented, fiercely protective enclaves of the city dissolve into a single, roaring corridor of human encouragement. The race begins on the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, a sweeping architectural crescent that hangs over the cold waters of the Atlantic. As the runners gather on the spans of Staten Island, the wind can be brutal, a biting reminder of the elemental forces that govern the day. For Dr. Awele, who arrived with what I can only describe as the quiet, dangerous determination of a veteran long-distance runner, this was the beginning of an internal dialogue that has become the liturgy of her life. She has already conquered London. She has run through the historic, solemn avenues of Berlin. She has navigated the precise, clean loops of Tokyo. But New York is a different beast entirely. It is a noisy, chaotic, emotionally draining theatre. It demands not just physical conditioning, but a peculiar kind of psychological armor. You run through Brooklyn, where the crowds are thick and the music is loud; you cross into Queens, where the industrial landscape unfurls under a grey sky; you face the eerie, silent expanse of the bridge that leads you into Manhattan, where the only sound is the rhythmic, collective scuffing of thousands of running shoes against concrete and the heavy, synchronized breathing of a collective human lung. I have always believed that the way a person runs tells you everything you need to know about how they govern their life. Some have been known

to start a marathon with the reckless bravado of the insecure—they sprint out of the gate, their hearts hammering a frantic rhythm, only to hit the infamous “wall” at mile eighteen, reduced to a limping, broken shadow of themselves. Then there are those who possess the pacing of a strategist. Dr. Awele belongs to the latter category. Her posture is that of a woman who understands the relationship between time, energy, and distance. As a medical doctor and the Founder and Chairperson of Avon Healthcare Limited, she is professionally well-acquainted with the mechanics of the human body. She knows the exact moment when the glycogen stores empty, when the liver begins its desperate conversion of fat into fuel, and when the mind must step into the vacuum left by the body’s exhaustion to act as the supreme arbiter of doubt. When she crossed the finish line in Central Park, clocking her eighth completed marathon, she did not merely collect a medal; she reclaimed her sovereignty over her own narrative. “New York, I did it! 42.2KM #NYCMarathon,” she declared triumphantly. In that single moment of public celebration, she was completely detached from the traditional labels that society insists on attaching her to. She was not the “wife of the billionaire”; she was not the “corporate executive” sitting at the head of a mahogany table; she was a runner who had looked forty-two kilometers of unforgiving American asphalt in the eye and refused to blink. Over the years, I have developed a deep, almost visceral fatigue for the way the African elite are often portrayed, and indeed, the way many choose to portray themselves. We live in an era dominated by the hyper-visual, superficial architecture of Instagram

and TikTok, where the definition of success has been reduced to an endless loop of unboxing videos, chartered private jets, and the grotesque displays of wealth that lack any organizing principle of purpose or restraint. This “baby girl life” ideology is a poison disguised as a confection. It teaches a generation of younger women that the ultimate goal of female ambition is to find a position of luxurious dependency. Dr. Awele’s eighth marathon is an antithesis to this gaudy, modern myth of frivolity. It is a magnificent, public middle finger to the culture of idle consumption. Where others might wear heavy layers of diamond jewelry as the ultimate tokens of their social success, Awele collects marathons as proof of her internal tenacity. She wears her sweat as an ornament and treats her blisters as credentials. Consider the sheer physical cost of this choice. To train for a marathon while managing a major healthcare enterprise, serving on boards, and navigating the social obligations of one of Africa’s most prominent families requires a level of temporal discipline that borders on the monastic. It means waking up at four o’clock in the morning when the rest of Lagos or London or New York is still shrouded in sleep. It means lacing up your shoes when your muscles are screaming for rest, stepping out into the damp, cold dawn, and running for two, three, four hours at a time. It means a meticulously planned nutritional regimen that prioritizes function over indulgence. It is, in short, a form of voluntary suffering. Why would a woman who wants for nothing choose to suffer? The answer lies in the concept of self-mastery. Wealth can buy you comfort, but it cannot buy you character. It can buy you a softer bed, but it cannot buy you a deeper sleep. It can buy you the adulation of sycophants, but it cannot buy you the internal self-respect that comes from setting a brutal goal and achieving it through the sheer, unassisted work of your own lungs and limbs. For Awele, this running is not a hobby; it is a purposive philosophy. It is a self-hewn culture of discipline that she has integrated into her very identity. Each stride she takes across the great cities of the world is a step deeper into the infinite realm of self-knowledge. When you are at kilometer thirty-five, and your thighs feel as though they have been injected with liquid lead, and your lungs are burning with the dry heat of an overtaxed furnace, you are stripped of all illusions. You cannot hide behind your titles. Your bank balance cannot purchase an extra liter of oxygen for your blood. You are reduced to your essential humanity. You are nothing but your will against the distance. And to survive that reduction, time and time again, is to develop a patina of resilience that makes you utterly unshakeable in every other arena of life. Many spend their youth sacrificing their health to accumulate wealth, and then spend their old age sacrificing their wealth to claw back a fraction of their health. It is an absurd, tragic cycle of human error. As a medical practitioner, Dr. Awele understands this truth as a biological imperative. Her commitment to physical fitness is strategic. In my conversations with captains of industry over the decades, I have often noted that the most successful enterprises are those that are led by individuals who treat their own lives as a long-term enterprise. A thriving company, much like a well-conditioned body, demands discipline, balance, and an extraordinary capacity for adaptability. It requires the ability to endure periods of low growth, to manage stress without panic, and maintain a consistent velocity over a prolonged period. If you asked Awele, she would likely tell you that entrepreneurship is simply a marathon disguised as commerce; that leadership is endurance masked as enterprise. The very same traits required to conquer the forty-two-kilometer course in New York—foresight, patience, grit, the capacity to recover from a sudden cramp, the mental fortitude to sustain momentum when the scenery becomes monotonous—are the traits that dictate success in the boardroom of Avon Healthcare. Her life is a living argument that the preservation of body and mind is the first wealth of any enduring legacy.

THISDAY • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2026

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 4th November 2026, 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 890.66 902.81 43.90% Nigeria International Debt Fund 431.72 431.72 10.64% Afrinvest Plutus Fund 100.00 100.00 14.87% Afrinvest Dollar Fund 120.80 120.80 7.02% Afrinvest Halal Fund(AHF) 119.24 119.24 14.71% Web: www.alphamorgan.com, Tel: +2347018898523 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ALPHA MORGAN BALANCED FUND 3,300.66 3,323.94 50.26% 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 0.00 0.00 0.00 AIICO Balanced Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 AIICO Eurobond Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 Web:www.anchoriaam.com, Tel: 08166830267; 08036814510; 08028419180 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Anchoria Money Market 100.00 100.00 17.68% Anchoria Equity Fund 1.92 1.92 15.16% Anchoria Fixed Income Fund 587.99 596.63 43.71% ARM INVESTMENT MANAGERS LTD enquiries@arminvestmentcenter.com Web: www.arm.com.ng; Tel: 0700 CALLARM (0700 225 5276) info@anchoriaam.com Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ARM Aggressive Growth Fund 1.00 1.00 16.62% ARM Discovery Balanced Fund 1.26 1.26 5.01% ARM Ethical Fund 1.47 1.47 12.70% ARM Eurobond Fund 1.32 1.32 13.43% ARM Fixed Income Fund 1.25 1.25 13.78% ARM Short Term Bond Fund 1.08 1.08 4.99% ARM Shariah Fixed Income Fund 1.07 1.07 4.61% ARM Short Term Eurobond Fund 75.42 77.70 42.40% ARM Specialized Dollar Fund 1,456.37 1,500.28 38.03% ARM Money Market Fund 150.55 155.08 44.57% AVA GLOBAL ASSET MANAGERS LIMITED info@avacapitalgroup.com Web: www.avacapitalgroup.com; Tel 08069294653 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn 123.02 123.02 7.70% AVA GAM Fixed Income Dollar Fund 1,446.05 1446.05 21.55% AVA GAM Fixed Income (Naira) Fund 1.00 1.00 16.77% 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 1.16 1.16 14.15% CardinalStone Fixed Income Alpha Fund 1.26 1.26 6.62% CardinalStone Dollar Fund 2.99 3.03 67.06% CardinalStone Equity Fund 1.84 1.85 51.54% CardinalStone Balanced Fund 1.00 1.00 18.77% CardinalStone Money Market 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 Nigeria Dollar Income 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 16.02% 118.84 118.84 11.92% Cordros Fixed Income Fund 132.74 132.74 14.39% Cordros Halal Fixed Income Fund Cordros Dollar Fund ($) 119.36 119.36 6.10% Cordros Milestone Fund 308.95 311.10 37.88% 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 1.00 1.00 19.78% Coronation Balanced Fund 2.79 2.84 41.17% Coronation Fixed Income Fund 1.65 1.65 12.52% Coronation Premium Fixed Income Fund 1.11 1.11 13.63% Coronation Dollar Fund 1.03 1.03 4.89% CFG Asset Management Limited Portfoliomanagers@cfgafrica.com Web:https://cfgafrica.com/cfg-am/ , Tel: 02018870020 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn CFG Ethical Fund 1,224.13 1,224.13 22.41% CFG AM Naira Fixed Income Fund 1,060.76 1,060.76 13.94% CFG AM Fixed Income Dollar 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 assetmanagement@emergingafricafroup. EMERGING AFRICA ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED 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 First Asset Money Market Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 First Asset Bond Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 First Asset Dollar Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 First Asset Halal Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 First Asset Specialised Dollar Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 First Asset Balanced Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 First Asset Smart Beta Equity Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 First Asset Blended Dollar Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 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 FCMBAM Money Market Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 FCMBAM USD Bond Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 FCMBAM Debt Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 FCMBAM Equity Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 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 FIRST ALLY ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED blossom.omojughare@first-ally.com Web: https://first-allyasset.com/ ; Tel: +2348023217850 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn FAAM Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 17.63% 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 5,194.37 5,194.37 11.01% Coral money market fund 100.00 100.00 16.30% FSDH HALAL FUND 1,475.96 1,475.96 13.52% FSDH dollar fund 1.42 1.42 7.22% Coral Balanced Fund 14,435.66 14,540.13 34.67% 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 1,313.03 1,313.03 13.65% 3.92 LOTUS HALAL INVESTMENT FUND 3.99 41.21% 97.58 LOTUS HALAL EQUITY EXCHANGE TRADED FUND 107.85 66.42% LOTUS WAQF ENDOWMENT FUND 1,469.02 1,469.02 35.58% 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 Meristem Value ETF Meristem Growth ETF Meristem Fixed Income Fund 10.00 10.00 18.08% Meristem Dollar Income Fund 117.94 117.94 12.65% Meristem Money Market Mutual Fund 10.72 10.74 3.67% 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 16.40% 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) 100.00 100.00 18% Norrenberger Islamic Fund (NIF) 108.46 108.46 18% NORRENBERGER DOLLAR FUND (NDF)-----($) 105.72 105.72 12% NORRENBERGER TURBO FUND (NTF)-----(N) 109.81 109.81 14% 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 10.00 10.00 0.14 PACAM Fixed Income Fund 13.47 13.69 12.00% PACAM Money Market Fund 4.43 4.46 26.00% PACAM Equity Fund 3.24 3.26 66.00% PACAM EuroBond Fund 156.88 163.61 -2.00% 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 299.03 308.43 79.1% 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 0.00 0.00 0.00 SFS REIT 0.00 0.00 0.00 UH REIT/SFS 0.00 0.00 0.00 UPDC REIT 0.00 0.00 0.00 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 Guaranteed Investment 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 Balanced Fund Stanbic IBTC ETF 30 Fund Stanbic IBTC Ethical 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 Vetiva USD Fixed Income 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 Zedcrest Equity Fund

REITS Fund Name SFS REIT UPDC REIT EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS Fund Name Chapel Hill Denham Nigeria Infrastructure Debt Fund

0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

jemenike@stlassetmgt.com Bid Price 0.00 0.00 0.00

Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 unitedcapitalplcgroup.com

Bid Price 1.00 1.20 1.94 123.32 1.24 134.25 2.54 2.91 2.28 1.54

Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn 1.00 15.55% 1.20 9.83% 1.94 8.23% 123.32 5.88% 1.24 7.59% 134.25 15.25% 2.57 47.69% 2.93 41.15% 2.29 41.41% 1.54 40.93% funds@vetiva.com

Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn N93.25 N93.45 51.97% N23.82 N23.92 46.62% N39.66 N39.76 1.44% N125.97 N126.17 96.78% N150.41 N152.41 4.09% N1.00 N1.00 17.60% 1.18 1.18 1.77% service@quantumzenithasset.com.ng Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn 47.09 47.65 38.78% 52.83 53.32 32.10% 33.94 33.94 11.97% 1.00 1.00 15.55% investmentoperations@zedcrest.com Bid Price N1.00 N1.53 1.56

Offer Price N1.00 N1.53 1.56

Yield / T-Rtn 19.08% 14.00% 6.11%

2.07

2.09

102.78%

NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

11.00 0.00

0.00% 0.00%

Bid Price

Offer Price

Yield / T-Rtn

0.00

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.

T H I S D AY • FRIDay, NOVEMBER 6, 2026

business/MOnEYGUIDE

CREDICORP Disburses N53.5bn to 351,000 Nigerians, Unveils Scheme Boniface Okoro in Umuahia

The Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP) says it has enabled more than N53.5 billion in consumer credit for over 351,000 Nigerians since commencing operations, with women accounting for about 59 per cent of beneficiaries. The federal government-backed development finance institution disclosed this in Aba, Abia State, where it unveiled its USSD-based SPARK credit product targeting over 1,000 Abians and showcased consumer credit opportunities for market women, traders, youths and transport operators. Speaking at the showcase, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of CREDICORP, Engr. Uzoma Nwagba, noted that many shoemakers, traders and small business owners have struggled to expand

due to lack of funding, adding that the initiative was designed to bring affordable credit closer to the people to acquire productive assets including tricycles and vehicles. He stressed that consumer credit should not be reserved for a privileged few but should be accessible to working Nigerians seeking to improve their economic circumstances, reflecting the Federal Government’s policy in practical terms. The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of MOFI and member of CREDICORP Board, Dr. Armstrong Ume Takang, commended President Tinubu for supporting expansion of consumer credit, saying the initiative would help beneficiaries strengthen businesses, acquire assets and contribute to economic growth if used responsibly. Representing Governor Alex Otti, the Principal Secretary and Chief Strategy Officer, Mr.

Chinenye Mba-Uzoukwu, commended CREDICORP for bringing the initiative to Aba, which he described as a major economic centre known for resilience, creativity and entrepreneurship. He said the state government is creating an enabling environment for businesses, noting that activation of Geometric Power under the Otti administration and plans to increase its capacity from 141 megawatts to 500 megawatts are part of efforts to address electricity challenges and boost productivity in Aba and environs. Earlier, Executive Director of CREDICORP, Aisha Abdullahi, said Aba is associated with hard work and enterprise but financial constraints have limited entrepreneurs, urging prospective beneficiaries to carefully select products suited to their needs and repayment capacity and to use credit for productive purposes.

Beta Glass Q3 Revenue Rises to N40.37bn, Profit Hits N15.18bn Beta Glass Plc has reported an 11.7 per cent increase in revenue to N40.37 billion in the third quarter of 2026, compared with N36.15 billion recorded in the corresponding period of 2025, while gross profit rose by 21.3 per cent to N15.18 billion. The company disclosed this in its unaudited interim financial results for the third quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2026, released on October 30, 2026. According to the results, operating profit increased by 15 per cent to N13.73 billion in Q3 2026, from N11.93 billion recorded in the corresponding period of the previous year. Profit before tax also

rose by 3.5 per cent to N13.16 billion, compared with N12.71 billion in Q3 2025, while profit after tax increased marginally by 2.9 per cent to N8.77 billion from N8.52 billion. The company’s earnings per share similarly grew by 2.9 per cent to N14.62, compared with N14.20 recorded in the corresponding quarter of 2025. Commenting on the performance, the Chief Executive Officer of Beta Glass Plc, Alex Gendis, said the company’s revenue growth reflected strong commercial performance and increased sales volumes. “Our 11.7% revenue

growth in Q3 2026 reflects another quarter of strong commercial performance, backed by a double-digit increase in sales volume, driven by healthy demand from our key customers in the brewery, soft drinks, pharma, and cosmetics segments,” he said. He added that the 21.3 per cent increase in gross profit reflected gains from cost management and improved manufacturing efficiencies. The company reported that its earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) margin improved to 40.8 per cent in Q3 2026, compared with 37.6 per cent in Q3 2025.

FG, Moniepoint Enable Nigerians to Access N50,000 Emergency Relief Nume Ekeghe

Moniepoint Microfinance Bank has introduced a USSD channel through which eligible Nigerians can check their status and access the Federal Government’s N50,000 National Emergency Relief and Stabilisation Intervention (NERSI). The bank in a statement said customers can check their eligibility by dialling 557327# from their registered phone numbers and selecting the option to verify their status, without making any additional payment or providing extra documentation. The initiative, led by the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, is designed to provide

direct financial assistance to vulnerable Nigerian households to help meet essential needs amid prevailing economic pressures. As one of the payment providers selected by the Federal Government to facilitate NERSI disbursements, Moniepoint is leveraging its digital banking infrastructure to provide eligible beneficiaries with an accessible channel to receive the support. Commenting on the initiative, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Moniepoint Microfinance Bank, Babatunde Olofin, said the bank was pleased to support the Federal Government in extending the

intervention to eligible Nigerians. “We are pleased to enable our eligible customers to receive this relief support from the Federal Government’s NERSI initiative. At Moniepoint, we recognise its importance and are happy to contribute our technology and infrastructure to make the process seamless and secure in line with our avowed commitment to creating financial happiness for every Nigerian.” He urged customers to remain vigilant and use only the bank’s official USSD channel when checking their eligibility or accessing the funds.

MARKET INDICATORS MONEY AND CREDIT STATISTICS (MILLION NAIRA) October 2025

Month

Money Supply (M3)

119,037,577.07

-- CBN Bills Held by Money Holding Sectors

9,291.49

Money Supply (M2)

119,028,285.58

Quasi Money

79,681,419.97

-- Narrow Money (M1)

39,346,865.60

---- Currency Outside Banks

4,646,794.28

---- Demand Deposits

34,700,071.33

Net Foreign Assets (NFA)

34,804,442.84

Net Domestic Assets(NDA)

84,233,134.23

-- Net Domestic Credit (NDC)

99,199,655.08

---- Credit to Government (Net)

24,787,980.96

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

0.00

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

0.00

---- Credit to Private Sector (CPS)

74,411,674.12

--Other Assets Net

2,603,854.03

Reserve Money (Base Money)

36,641,142.21

--Currency in Circulation

5,057,881.01

--Banks Reserves

31,583,261.21

--Special Intervention Reserves

284,361.95 • Source - CBN

Money Market Indicators (in Percentage) Month

October 2025

Inter-Bank Call Rate

October 2025

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

27.00

Treasury Bill Rate

15.07

Savings Deposit Rate

7.43

1 Month Deposit Rate

11.37

3 Months Deposit Rate

11.32

6 Months Deposit Rate

11.12

12 Months Deposit Rate

11.78

Prime Lending rate

18.89

Maximum Lending Rate

29.56

NSE MARKET INDEX CAP

0.75%(52%YoY)

Index

0.9% (29%Y/D) • Monetary Policy Rate - 27%

OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE As At 24TH NOVEMBER , 2025

The price of OPEC basket of twelve crudes stood at $63.14 a barrel on Monday, 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).

T H I S D AY • FRIDay, NOVEMBER 6, 2026

mARKET NEWS

Haldane McCall’s Profit UP 30.2% as Asset Base Expands to N32.73bn Kaode Tokede

Haldane McCall Plc has reported a 30.2 per cent increase in net profit to N540.87 million for the nine months ended September 2026, supported by strong revenue growth and an expanding asset base, as the real estate company continues to deepen investments in

its property development portfolio. The company’s revenue rose by 59.4 per cent to N2.90 billion from N1.82 billion in the corresponding period of 2025, reflecting increased business activity and the potential contribution of its growing property portfolio to future earnings. Its total assets expanded by 55.4 per cent to N32.73

P R I C E S MaiN Board

F O R DEALS

billion, highlighting the scale of resources committed to business expansion and property development. A breakdown of the financial statements shows that property, plant and equipment increased substantially to N19.36 billion from N4.23 billion, while inventories and work in progress nearly doubled to N11.58 billion

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

quantity traded

from N5.88 billion. The company’s notes attributed the increase in inventories partly to N5.71 billion invested in properties under construction during the period. This growing development pipeline represents an important foundation for future revenue generation as projects progress towards completion and eventual

T R A D E D

value traded ( N )

MaiN Board

A S

O F

Commercialisation. Although cost of sales increased to N1.69 billion from N406.97 million, reflecting the higher cost associated with its business activities, Haldane McCall maintained positive operating momentum. Gross profit stood at N1.21 billion, while operating profit advanced by 37.1 per cent to N850.16 million.

n o v e m b er DEALS

Market Price

Other operating income of N348.8 million, compared with N3.29 million in the corresponding period of 2025, also supported operating performance. After finance costs of N30.67 million and income tax expense of N278.63 million, profit for the period increased to N540.87 million from N415.52 million.

5 / 2 6 quantity traded

value traded ( N)

TRIBUTE

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2026 • THISDAY

Osita Izunaso At 60: When Brilliance Meets Compassion By Kehinde Olaosebikan

here are brilliant men. There are also compassionate men. It is rare to find both in full measure in one man. In Distinguished Senator Osita Izunaso, currently representing Imo West in the Senate, you find both. That is why at 60, he is worth celebrating. If you have followed the political trajectory of Nigeria in the last three decades, you cannot miss the steady, cerebral presence of Osita Izunaso. In a political space often defined by noise and drama, he has remained that rare politician who does not need to fight to win respect. His weapon has been his brain. As the pioneer National Organising Secretary of the All Progressives Congress, APC, he brought intellect to organization at a very critical time in the life of today’s ruling party. While others were playing politics of noise and acrimony, Izunaso was playing politics of structure, strategy and stability. He organized, he strategized, he stabilized. He gave the party a thinking head. Those who worked with him then will tell you - he was calm, methodical, and brilliant. He did not just occupy office: he defined it. That same brilliance was evident when he was appointed Chairman of the National Automotive Design and Development Council, NADDC. Many saw it as a mere board appointment. Osita saw it as a policy platform. He brought fresh thinking to Nigeria’s automotive policy, pushing for local content, for industrial growth, for a future where Nigeria does not just import vehicles but builds them. He left the Council better than he met it. And today, in the 10th Senate, as the Distinguished Senator representing Imo West Senatorial District and Chairman, Senate Committee on Capital Market, he has brought that same brilliance to lawmaking. In a chamber where many compete for attention, Osita competes with ideas. Currently, the Nigerian Exchange Group is ranking as the world’s best performing equity market in U.S. dollar terms, delivering massive year-to-date returns (around 67%) and surpassing major global like Korea, courtesy of Senator Izunaso’s brilliantly and doggedly achieved legislations for the Nigeria Stock Exchange. The success in the stock market remains one of the greatest feats of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. It is unprecedented. He is prepared. He is cerebral. He is respected across party lines — by friends and even by opponents. He is not the loudest voice in the Red Chamber, but he is certainly among the most listened to. That is the power of brilliance that is steady. But if brilliance gave him a platform, compassion gave him a purpose. And that is where Osita truly stands apart from many in public life. Long before it became fashionable to talk about inclusion, Osita had already made Persons with Disabilities the centre of his public service. Through his Kpakpando

Osita Izunaso

Foundation, he built what many politicians have failed to build - a genuine bridge between power and the vulnerable. Kpakpando is not a foundation on paper. It is a foundation on ground. Over the years, it has provided wheelchairs, scholarships, business grants, medical support and, more importantly, dignity and voice to over 5,000 vulnerable Nigerians, especially Persons with Disabilities. He did not just give them charity; he gave them confidence. He did not just remember them during elections; he remembered them every day. They don’t actually need to come from his senatorial district or his state. Senator Osita Izunaso’s philanthropy knows no tribe or religion. He gives to all with love and hope. That compassion is always on full

display on his birthdays since the birth of Kpakpando Foundation on October 30, 2005. For his 60th, he went to the correctional centre and secured freedom for 12 inmates who had been awaiting trial. He organized free medical outreach for 700 constituents — men, women, young and old — who otherwise could not afford healthcare. He celebrated his birthday by giving others a reason to celebrate. That is Osita for you — brilliant in the head, big in the heart. He has turned intelligence into service and service into impact. Socially, he remains the same delightful company — warm, amiable, witty, pleasant. Those of us who have known him for long, know him as the humourist in the house. That humour has not left him; it

has only matured with wisdom. At 50, I wrote about a smart chap. At 60, I write about a complete statesmansmarter, steadier, more strategic, more compassionate, and more humane. While I wish my brother and friend, Distinguished Senator Osita Bonaventure Izunaso, OFR, Ph.D. a happy 60th birthday anniversary, I pray again as I did 10 years ago: May God give us children like Osita. Omo bi Osita lo wu mi. Happy 60th Birthday, the Great Kpakpando. May God grant you long life, sound health, greater wisdom and higher glory. May your next decade be more impactful than your last. Congratulations! •Olaosebikan is Chief Consultant, Midas Communications Ltd.

This

Weekend

T H I S D AY • FRIday, NOVEMBER 6, 2026

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

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Simbiat Asiru: The Global Vanguard of Contemporary African Luxury

T H I S D AY • FRIday, NOVEMBER 6, 2026

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Simbiat Asiru: The Global Vanguard of Contemporary African Luxury When Simbiat Asiru stitched her first dress under Simbby House of Fab in 2011, she wasn’t just making clothes; she was laying the foundation for a global movement. Fourteen years later, that small Lagos dream has been reborn as TÀBÍRA Studio, a contemporary womenswear label that has travelled from Abu Dhabi to Nottingham, from Instagram feeds to international runways, selling out as it goes. Now a global vanguard of contemporary African luxury, Asiru is proving that African design is not just part of the world’s fashion conversation, rather, it is leading it, MARY NNAH writes

n the ever-shifting world of contemporary womenswear, where trends rise and fall with the season, true staying power belongs to designers who offer something deeper than fashion; they offer identity. That is the story of Nigerian designer Simbiat Asiru, the fashion designer, stylist and creative director who has quietly built one of Africa’s most formidable fashion success stories. Asiru first founded Simbby House of Fab in 2011. For over a decade, she honed her craft, her clientele, and her commercial instincts. Then, in a bold, strategic move in 2025, she rebranded the business as TÀBÍRA Studio -a contemporary ready-to-wear womenswear label. The rebrand was more than a name change. It was a declaration: a new chapter, a highly sophisticated global outlook, and her emergence as an international leader in the contemporary fashion design sector. More Than Clothes: A Methodology Asiru’s design methodology extends far beyond conventional garment construction. To watch her work is to watch a rigorous exploration of expressive silhouettes, distinctive prints, and the intricate interplay of fabric, colour, and form. Her unique approach brings traditional cultural influences into a seamless conversation with contemporary luxury design, creating high-character collections that completely bypass fleeting trends. These are not just clothes to be worn; they are statements of confidence, individuality and timelessness. A Proven Track Record of Global Market Expansion What truly distinguishes Asiru’s journey is not just creativity, but commerce - a sustained track record of building a fashion infrastructure with true international reach. As early as 2017, long before many of her peers looked beyond Nigeria, she successfully expanded her commercial presence into the competitive United Arab Emirates market, marking a major milestone with a high-profile launch in Abu Dhabi. Today, that early ambition has blossomed into a truly borderless commercial entity. TÀBÍRA Studio now serves an active, premium customer base across the United States, Canada, Europe, Australia, and Africa. For Asiru, international growth is not simply about taking a brand into new markets; it is about engineering a distinct, recognisable aesthetic that commands commercial viability and resonates deeply with women across diverse global cultures; from a buyer

Models in the Olori Ara Dress, a highlight piece from TÀBÍRA Studio’s critically acclaimed ATUNBÍ II The Rebirth Edit collection

in Toronto to a woman in Lagos.

the highest global standards.

Bringing ATUNBÍ II to the UK Runway In 2026, Asiru brought TÀBÍRA Studio’s creative vision to the European stage with her critically acclaimed collection, ATUNBÍ II: The Rebirth Edit, showcased at Culture Fashion Show UK 2026. The collection was widely praised by fashion critics for its distinctive approach to contemporary luxury, masterfully uniting sculptural silhouettes and vivid custom prints. Among the standout moments was the Olori Ara Dress, a highlight design that captured the collection’s soul. Under the creative direction of Gemma Hall, Founder and Creative Strategy Director, the presentation served as a headline showcase on a premier platform celebrating high creativity, culture, and leading international design talent. Through ATUNBÍ II, the collection’s themes of renewal and transformation perfectly mirrored Asiru’s own career trajectory continually scaling and refining her design foundations to meet

Beyond the Runway: TÀBÍRA Studio’s Nottingham Commercial Success If the runway proved TÀBÍRA’s creative power, what happened next proved its commercial power. In July 2026, TÀBÍRA Studio bridged the gap between runway presentation and direct retail by hosting a highly successful physical fashion exhibition at the historic Oakleigh Lodge Social Club in Nottingham (NG6 9DD). The exhibition represented a major commercial milestone for the brand’s expansion into the United Kingdom ecosystem. Moving beyond digital retail, the physical setting allowed UK buyers and brand enthusiasts to engage directly with the label’s tailoring and textiles; to touch, feel, and truly experience the quality. The response was emphatic. The event resulted in an exceptional commercial response, with a significant volume of the collection selling out directly on the floor proving a robust, immediate market demand for Asiru’s work within the

competitive UK fashion economy. It was validation that British women wanted what TÀBÍRA was offering. Defining the Future of Contemporary Luxury Beyond her exceptional creative output, Asiru holds a Master of Science degree in Project Management from the University of Northampton. This academic background heavily complements her decade of entrepreneurial experience, bringing a rare, highly structured operational perspective to production schedules, international logistics, and brand scalability - the often-invisible engine behind any global fashion house. Her vision for TÀBÍRA Studio remains rooted in individuality, confidence, and timeless design. As TÀBÍRA Studio permanently develops its international footprint from Abu Dhabi to Nottingham, from runway to retail, Simbiat Asiru stands as a prime example of modern fashion leadership: an independent designer achieving global growth without ever losing sight of her creative vision. She is not just following the global conversation on contemporary luxury. She is leading it.

T H I S D AY • FRIday, NOVEMBER 6, 2026

features

For Chukwuemeka Ituma, Its Reward for Hard Work Royce Okolie

gainst the backdrop of Nigeria’s increasingly challenging business environment, characterised by economic uncertainties, infrastructural deficits, rising operational costs and numerous obstacles confronting entrepreneurs, building and sustaining a successful enterprise requires far more than ambition. It demands exceptional vision, innovation and foresight to excel. Yet, amid these challenges, a new generation of determined entrepreneurs continues to defy the odds, transforming obstacles Chief Chukwuemeka Enviable Ituma, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Enviable into opportunities, creating sustainable Group receiving notification for Vanguard Personality of the Year Award businesses and making remarkable contributions to the nation’s economic drive, innovative leadership and to strengthen Nigeria’s transportation development. outstanding contributions to Nigeria’s ecosystem through improved access For Chief Chukwuemeka Enviable transportation, mobility and business to vehicles, mobility solutions and Ituma, Founder and Chief Executive development landscape. related services. Officer of Enviable Group, these qualities Kumolu further noted that the rapid According to the Vanguard have become defining attributes of an expansion of Enviable Group under delegation, the collaboration further entrepreneurial journey characterised Ituma’s leadership had positioned demonstrates his commitment to by resilience, strategic expansion and the conglomerate as an emerging expanding opportunities within a determination to transform Nigeria’s force in Nigeria’s transportation the transportation value chain while transportation and mobility landscape. and mobility ecosystem. exploring partnerships capable of Over the years, Ituma has distinguished For the Vanguard editorial team, supporting business growth and himself among a new generation of the recognition represents an industry development. Nigerian entrepreneurs who are not acknowledgement of an entrepreneur The initiative also underscores merely identifying opportunities within whose business philosophy combines Ituma’s belief that strategic existing markets but are developing commercial success with the broader collaboration between Nigerian innovative business models aimed at objective of creating economic enterprises and established addressing critical economic challenges, opportunities for Nigerians. international manufacturers can creating employment opportunities and contribute to the development of more contributing to national development. Building an Emerging Business efficient and sustainable transportation His entrepreneurial exploits, particularly Conglomerate systems. in transportation, logistics, mobility At the centre of Ituma’s For an entrepreneur whose business innovation and business development, entrepreneurial achievements is interests are closely connected to have continued to attract recognition Enviable Group, a diversified business mobility and transportation, such both within Nigeria and beyond. organisation whose operations reflect partnerships provide opportunities The latest acknowledgement of his his ambition to develop sustainable to introduce innovative solutions, growing influence in Nigeria’s business solutions across different sectors of strengthen operational capacity and community came with his selection as the economy. support the expansion of services. Vanguard Young Entrepreneur of the From transportation and logistics Year, in recognition of his outstanding to mobility services, vehicle Awards Should Inspire Excellence, contributions to entrepreneurship, accessibility, digital platforms and Says Ituma transportation development, mobility strategic investments, the group has Responding during the presentation innovation, employment generation continued to pursue opportunities of his Young Entrepreneur of the Year and economic advancement. designed to address market needs Award letter, an appreciative Ituma The prestigious honour, which forms part while contributing to economic growth. expressed gratitude to the management of the Vanguard Personality of the Year One of Ituma’s defining strengths and editorial board of Vanguard Awards, celebrates Ituma’s entrepreneurial has been his ability to identify gaps Media Limited for recognising his accomplishments, visionary leadership within Nigeria’s transportation entrepreneurial contributions. and commitment to building sustainable industry and develop business models Beyond the personal significance businesses across critical sectors of the aimed at providing practical solutions. of the honour, he used the occasion Nigerian economy. Rather than limiting his to emphasise the importance In an official award letter dated October entrepreneurial activities to of celebrating individuals who 30, 2026, signed on behalf of the Board conventional transportation services, demonstrate excellence, innovation, of Editors of Vanguard Media Limited he has pursued a broader vision that dedication and commitment to societal by Mr. Eze Anaba, Ituma was formally incorporates technology, vehicle development. notified of his selection for the coveted ownership opportunities, fleet According to him, genuine recognition. management, logistics and strategic recognition remains a powerful The letter highlighted his entrepreneurial partnerships. instrument for inspiring positive journey, describing his transformation from This approach has enabled Enviable change, transforming mindsets and an individual with firsthand experience Group to position itself within different encouraging individuals to make in Nigeria’s transportation industry into segments of the mobility value chain, greater contributions to national the driving force behind a diversified with the objective of improving development. business conglomerate as an inspiring transportation accessibility while “I have always maintained example of resilience, innovation and creating opportunities for operators, that it is important to appreciate enterprise development. investors, entrepreneurs and other people, recognise their efforts and stakeholders. acknowledge their contributions to Recognition for Visionary His business expansion strategy society, regardless of the capacity in Entrepreneurship also reflects a growing recognition which they serve. Speaking during the formal presentation of the important role private-sector “An award is not just about of the award letter to the Enviable investment can play in addressing receiving a plaque or certificate. It Group boss, Charles Kumolu, who led Nigeria’s transportation challenges. is about acknowledging the impact the Vanguard delegation, explained Through these initiatives, Ituma someone is making in society and that the recognition followed a careful has continued to demonstrate that appreciating their contributions consideration of Ituma’s contributions entrepreneurship, when driven by towards national development,” to Nigeria’s business and transportation innovation and strategic thinking, can he stated. sectors. become an instrument for economic The Enviable Group boss explained According to him, the award empowerment and sustainable that recognition, when genuinely acknowledges the remarkable development. earned, could inspire recipients entrepreneurial journey of a businessman to develop a stronger sense of who has demonstrated exceptional Strategic Partnership with TVS responsibility towards society. determination in building enterprises Motor Company He maintained that awards should across transportation, logistics, mobility, Among the significant milestones not merely serve ceremonial purposes oil and gas, digital platforms, industrial highlighted during the award but should encourage recipients supply and strategic investments. presentation was the strategic to sustain their achievements “The Board of Editors of Vanguard partnership between Enviable and continue making meaningful Media Limited is pleased to inform you Tricycle Auto Parts Limited and TVS contributions to humanity. that you have been selected as the Young Motor Company⁠ , an international For Ituma, recognition is particularly Entrepreneur of the Year,” Kumolu stated, automobile manufacturer. important in a society where young quoting the official notification. The partnership represents an entrepreneurs face numerous obstacles He explained that Ituma’s selection important aspect of Ituma’s efforts in their efforts to establish and sustain was informed by his entrepreneurial

successful businesses. He noted that celebrating outstanding achievements could motivate emerging business leaders to remain focused despite the challenges associated with entrepreneurship. Why Merit Must Define Awards Speaking further, Ituma stressed that merit and credibility must remain the fundamental principles guiding the selection of recipients for prestigious awards. He observed that the respect accorded to internationally recognised honours is largely connected to the perception that they celebrate genuine achievements and excellence. “Why do we celebrate the Grammy Awards and other prestigious international recognitions? It is because we believe they are influential, credible and based on merit. Merit is extremely important because it gives recognition its true value,” he said. According to him, the credibility of any award depends largely on the integrity of the selection process and the significance of the accomplishments being recognised. He argued that when individuals receive honours based on genuine achievements, such recognition can inspire others to embrace excellence, innovation and responsible leadership. Ituma also recalled an African leadership recognition initiative associated with Pastor Chris, which celebrated young Africans who demonstrated exceptional commitment to transforming lives and improving their communities. “I also remember the African leadership recognition initiative associated with Pastor Chris, which identified and celebrated outstanding young Africans who were genuinely committed to making a difference in their communities. “Such initiatives go beyond presenting awards. They encourage young people to embrace leadership, develop their potential and contribute meaningfully to the advancement of society,” he added. He maintained that meaningful recognition should ultimately encourage individuals to become positive examples within their communities and professional environments. Inspiring the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs The Enviable Group founder further underscored the importance of recognising hardworking and visionary young Nigerians whose entrepreneurial activities are contributing to economic development. According to him, entrepreneurship remains one of the important pathways through which Nigeria can address unemployment, stimulate innovation and create sustainable economic opportunities. He observed that celebrating entrepreneurs who have demonstrated resilience and innovation could encourage other young Nigerians to explore opportunities in business rather than becoming discouraged by prevailing economic difficulties. Ituma noted that the impact of a credible award extends beyond the individual recipient, as it can influence the aspirations, attitudes and ambitions of others. He maintained that recognising excellence creates a culture in which hard work, creativity, integrity and meaningful contributions are appreciated and encouraged. For him, awards become truly valuable when they inspire recipients to achieve more while motivating others to pursue their dreams with determination. A Testament to Resilience and Determination Ituma’s emergence as Vanguard Young Entrepreneur of the Year adds to the growing recognition of his contributions to Nigeria’s entrepreneurial landscape. The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

FEatures

T H I S D AY • FRIday november 6, 2026

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

Mutfwang Uniting Plateau for Renewed Hope, Continuity and Shared Prosperity

Dr. Gyang Bere

here is an African proverb that says, “The man who carries his people in his heart will always find a place in their hearts.” This timeless wisdom reflects the political philosophy of the Executive Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, who has demonstrated a strong commitment to addressing the needs and aspirations of his people. His quest for selfless service and purpose-driven governance speaks to the enduring relationship between his administration and the people, reminding us that the true measure of leadership lies not merely in the authority one exercises, but in the sincerity of purpose, compassion and commitment demonstrated in the service of the people. Governor Mutfwang, who remains conscious of his social contract with the people of Plateau State, took a decisive political step on Monday, November 2, 2026, by inaugurating and setting in motion the Tinubu/Shettima and Mutfwang/Piyo Campaign Council, with the mandate of coordinating support for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Governor's re-election and the emergence of all APC candidates in the January 16 and February 6, 2027 elections. The significant political event brought together respected men and women of integrity, drawn from across the electoral wards of Plateau State, who have served the state and the nation in various capacities. At the helm of the campaign as Chairman is Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, with the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, serving as Adviser; Deputy Governor, Ngo Josephine Piyo, as Deputy Chairperson I; State APC Chairman, Hon. Rufus Bature, as Vice Chairman II; Hon. Dr. Bernard Doro, Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, as a member; and Sir Joseph Ari as Director-General, entrusted with the responsibility of coordinating the campaign's activities. The inclusive Campaign Council also has former Governors, Senator Joshua Dariye and Senator Simon Lalong, as members, alongside former Deputy Governor, Dame Pauline Tallen; Senator Simon Mwadkwon; retired Air Vice Marshal Napoleon Bali, Coordinator of the Southern Zone; serving members of the National and State Assemblies; all APC candidates for the National and State Assemblies; political stakeholders, community leaders and party faithful. Beyond the political significance of the occasion, the inauguration places an important responsibility on members of the Campaign Council to engage citizens with humility, respect and a clear understanding of the issues that matter most to them. Governor Mutfwang believes that the campaign should transcend the mere mobilisation of political structures. Rather, it should provide an opportunity for honest conversations about governance, security, economic opportunities, infrastructure, education,

Governor Mutfwang

healthcare, agriculture and the collective aspirations of the people of Plateau State and Nigeria. For Governor Mutfwang, the 2027 political journey will inevitably invite public reflection on the promises made, the decisions taken, the challenges encountered and the results recorded since he assumed office in May 2023. He has acknowledged the trust, support and confidence he has enjoyed from the people of Plateau State and has appealed to them to continue the journey with him in the forthcoming election, with the aspiration of positioning the state more prominently on Nigeria's national development landscape. From the outset, Governor Mutfwang's approach to governance has reflected an understanding that meaningful development must begin with the people. He has woven their concerns, aspirations and everyday challenges into his development agenda, translating these realities into practical interventions and implementing them systematically to improve lives and advance the collective prosperity of Plateau State. For the 2027 elections, Governor Mutfwang's message is anchored on a unification movement, built around the aspiration of bringing the people of Plateau State together under a common political direction under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC). He has emphasised a factual, issue-based and peaceful campaign that places the people at the centre of every conversation. The Governor's argument for a second tenure rests on the record of his first term: the task

of rescuing Plateau State from the brink of institutional and economic collapse, restoring confidence in governance, and laying a solid and enduring foundation for sustainable development across all sectors. Having undertaken the difficult work of recovery, reconstruction and repositioning, his administration is beginning to see citizens reap the benefits of these deliberate interventions. The security of lives and property remains a central responsibility of the Mutfwang administration and a defining priority of its governance agenda. Recognising that peace and security are indispensable to development, Governor Mutfwang has approached the challenge with a strong sense of responsibility, commitment and institutional coordination. His administration has revitalised Operation Rainbow, strengthened community-based security through the training and deployment of personnel and Forest Guards, and embraced technology by integrating modern surveillance systems into the state's security architecture to enhance intelligence gathering, monitoring and response capabilities. Equally significant is the Governor's sustained engagement and harmonious working relationship with the leadership of security agencies at the national and state levels. Through cooperation, regular consultations and coordinated security interventions, he continues to strengthen the collective capacity to address security threats, protect vulnerable communities and restore

public confidence. Governor Mutfwang has prioritised strategic investments across critical sectors of the state's economy, recognising that sustainable development must be built on infrastructure, human capital development and improved access to essential services. His administration has committed resources to transportation, healthcare, agriculture, education, water supply, energy, tourism and road infrastructure, with interventions designed to improve the quality of life of citizens and expand economic opportunities. In transportation, the introduction of subsidised Metro bus services has made public mobility more accessible and affordable, while investments in road infrastructure are opening up communities, facilitating the movement of people and agricultural produce, and strengthening commercial activities across the state. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's development footprint is increasingly visible in Plateau State, particularly through strategic federal infrastructure projects and humanitarian interventions aimed at improving connectivity, stimulating economic activities and enhancing the welfare of citizens. The ongoing construction of the Akwanga–Jos Road, the rehabilitation of the Sharram–Garram–Babban Lamba Road, and the recent approval of the Mararaban Jama'a–Kanke–Langtang– Shendam–Ibi Road, extending towards Taraba State, represent significant federal infrastructure interventions. Equally noteworthy are the humanitarian interventions of the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, through the distribution of relief materials and support to vulnerable individuals and communities. These gestures have provided meaningful assistance to beneficiaries, brought relief to households facing difficult circumstances and reinforced the importance of compassion and social protection in governance. The Director-General of the Campaign Council, Sir Joseph Ari, has extended an invitation to over 115 support groups and the people of Plateau State to come out and receive the President on Saturday Novermber 14, 2026, while highlighting the Federal Government's engagements and interventions in the state as evidence of its commitment to Plateau's development. However, as the African proverb reminds us, “Little by little, the bird builds its nest.” Great nations are not built in a day; they emerge through deliberate decisions, consistent effort, patience and enduring commitment. This principle underscores the development aspirations of President Tinubu and Governor Mutfwang for Nigeria and Plateau State respectively: a commitment to building on existing foundations, consolidating progress and creating a more prosperous future for generations to come. •Dr. Gyang Bere, ANIPR is the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Executive Governor of Plateau State.

THISDAY • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2026

NEWS

INAUGURATION OF ADMIN BLOCK DONATED BY ASR AFRICA...

L-R: Provost, College of Health Sciences, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Prof. Abdulgafar Jimoh; Vice Chancellor, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Prof. Bashir Garba, MFR; Managing Director/CEO, Dr. Ubon Udoh; and the Director of Physical Planning Unit, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Arc. Muhammad Hassan, at the inauguration of the admin block donated by ASR Africa at the university in Sokoto State

NDC: Tinubu’s Fresh $7.7billion Loan Request Makes 2027 Election Critical Opposition party urges Nigerians to vote massively for Obi, Kwankwaso on January 16 Accuses National Assembly of endorsing borrowing requests without scrutiny Says growing debt burden threatens future generations

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has intensified its campaign against the federal government’s borrowing policy, declaring that President Bola Tinubu’s latest request for a $7.7 billion external loan has made the 2027 general election a defining moment for Nigeria’s economic future. The opposition party has urged Nigerians to vote massively for its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and his running mate, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, on January 16, 2027, arguing that the country’s mounting debt obligations, fiscal challenges and alleged mismanagement of public resources require a change of leadership. The party’s position followed President Tinubu’s latest request to the National Assembly for approval of a $7.7 billion external

borrowing plan, equivalent to approximately N10.79 trillion, to finance the 2026 budget deficit. Describing the latest request as another addition to what it called the president’s borrowing spree, the NDC questioned the sustainability of the federal government’s debt strategy and accused the National Assembly of failing to subject loan requests to adequate legislative scrutiny. In a statement issued yesterday, the Spokesperson of the NDC National Presidential Campaign Council, Dr Constance Ikokwu, said Nigerians must use the forthcoming elections to demand accountability, fiscal discipline and responsible management of public resources. Ikokwu described the latest borrowing request as another indication of the government’s growing dependence on external loans, warning that the

consequences of accumulating debt would extend beyond the present administration to generations yet unborn. She said the party’s appeal for massive voter participation was inspired partly by the November 4,

The Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) has partnered the Sultan Foundation for Peace and Development to mobilise traditional and religious institutions in tackling the challenge of outof-school children and improving access to basic education across the country. The partnership, formalised through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), is aimed at identifying out-of-school children, facilitating their enrolment in schools

and strengthening community participation in school attendance, retention and completion. Speaking at the MoU signing ceremony, UBEC Executive Secretary, Dr. Aisha Garba, represented by the Deputy Executive Secretary (Technical), Rasaq Akinyemi, said the collaboration would strengthen the connection between government education policies and grassroots mobilisation. She said the administration recognises education as a critical foundation for national development and human capital

rising living costs and hardship should not surrender to frustration or political apathy but should recognise their votes as the most effective instrument for changing the country’s leadership. She said, “Truly, it seems

that right now, we cannot stop President Tinubu from his One Week! New Loan! One Week! New Loan! borrowing spree, which is already hitting the roof, because, regrettably, he has pocketed the National Assembly.

Dangote: Manufacturing Holds Key to Prosperity, Not Trading Economy Mary Nnah

President of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, yesterday said the country risks remaining trapped in poverty unless it abandons its heavy dependence on trading and imports in favour of manufacturing and domestic production. He stressed that no country

UBEC Partners Sultan Foundation to Tackle Out-of-School Children Kuni Tyessi in Abuja

2026 elections in the United States, where citizens demonstrated the power of electoral participation in determining the direction of governance. According to her, Nigerians facing similar economic pressures,

advancement, noting that UBEC’s interventions were designed to translate the government’s education agenda into measurable improvements in the basic education sector. Garba also acknowledged the policy direction of the Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Tunji Alausa, and the Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Said Ahmad, saying their commitment to expanding inclusive access, strengthening institutional coordination and improving learning outcomes continued to guide the Commission’s programmes.

had achieved lasting prosperity by selling what others produce. Dangote spoke at the 25th Annual Conference of Women in Management, Business and Public Service (WIMBIZ), in Lagos. He said the country’s continued celebration of trading at the expense of industrial production was undermining job creation, wealth generation and economic self-reliance, while policy inconsistency and inadequate electricity supply had made manufacturing increasingly

difficult for local entrepreneurs. Aftica’s richest man, in a keynote address titled, ‘The Geography of Opportunity: Why the World Needs What Africa Has’, further challenged Nigerian businesses, particularly women entrepreneurs, to move beyond conventional trading into production, processing and other value-adding activities, insisting that Africa’s enormous natural and demographic advantages would remain largely untapped without deliberate investment in industrial capacity.

He recalled his transition from trading to manufacturing, adding that the decision was driven by the realisation that the country’s business environment, particularly unreliable policies and poor power supply, had made industrial ventures difficult to sustain. He explained that a retreat by his group challenged its management to abandon dependence on import licences and embrace backward integration by producing locally what it had previously imported.

Mohbad: Court to Supervise Liam’s DNA Sample Examination

Esther Oluku

The prolonged paternity dispute surrounding Liam, the son of late Nigerian singer Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad, reached a significant stage on Saturday, October 31, 2026, as DNA samples were collected from both the child and the remains of the late singer under court supervision. The exercise followed an application filed by the late

singer’s wife, Omowunmi Aloba, seeking a court-supervised DNA test to establish Liam’s paternity. The court granted her application, paving the way for the sample collection exercise. The development comes amid prolonged legal proceedings surrounding the paternity question, which was initially brought into public attention by the late singer’s father, Mr Joseph Aloba, who has consistently questioned Liam’s paternity and sought a DNA test.

However, proceedings relating to his request have experienced delays. Following the court’s approval of the wife’s application, a welfare officer was appointed to supervise the process, while October 31, 2026, was fixed for the collection of the required samples. The exercise was conducted under strict court supervision and with a heavy security presence to forestall any breakdown of law and order.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2026 • THISDAY

NEWS

GRAND FINALE OF MALTINA TEACHER OF THE YEAR 2026 AWARDS...

L-R: Chief Brand and Marketing Officer, Union Bank of Nigeria, Mrs. Olufunmilola Aluko; Executive Governor, Lagos State, His Excellency, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; CEO, Nigerian Breweries and Chairman Felix Ohiwerei Education Trust Fund, Mr. Thibaut Boidin; Winner, Maltina Teacher of the Year 2026, Ms. Adeyemo Busayo; Federal Minister, Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Bernard Doro; and Federal Minister, Ministry of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, at the Grand Finale of the Maltina Teacher of the Year 2026 Awards held in Lagos...recently

2027: APC Flags Off Enugu Campaign in Nsukka, Vows to Deliver Mbah, Tinubu, other Candidates Gov highlights projects, promises more roads, jobs, infrastructure Charges electorate to sweep away opposition with their votes

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Enugu State on Wednesday officially flagged-off its campaign for the 2027 general elections, with party leaders and stakeholders pledging to mobilise voters across the state for the re-election of Governor Peter Mbah and President Bola Tinubu. The campaign flag-off, which held at Nsukka Township Stadium, witnessed a large turnout of party faithful, political office holders, traditional and

community leaders, as well as supporters from across the three senatorial districts. Speakers at the event described the mammoth crowd as a demonstration of the APC’s political strength in Enugu State, insisting the party was determined to consolidate its presence and secure victory for all its candidates in the forthcoming elections. Addressing the gathering, Governor Mbah highlighted his administration’s investments in

security, infrastructure, education, healthcare, economic development, and revival of moribund assets and completion of abandoned projects. He urged the people to assess his government’s performance through its achievements and ongoing projects, noting that the opposition had not even presented any manifesto. Reflecting on his journey to Nsukka ahead of the rally, Mbah said the ongoing dualisation of

the Penoks–T-Junction – UgwogoOpi-Nsukka road had significantly reduced travel time and improved safety. “I left the office a few minutes past 1pm. It took me two to three minutes to get to T-Junction from Penoks. And it just reminded me of how motorists could have spent so much time, sometimes up to 30 minutes or hours if we did not dualise that road. “From T-Junction all the way to Nsukka, I noticed that work was

NAICOM Warns Insurers Against Weak Governance, Poor Risk Management Amid New Capital Buffers

Declares recapitalisation does not guarantee insurance firms’ resilience Omosehin: True resilience is ability of an institution to anticipate risks, absorb shocks, adapt to changing circumstances, recover from disruptions and continue delivering value to stakeholders

Ebere Nwoji

The National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), yesterday warned insurance companies against mistaking successful recapitalisation for financial resilience, insisting that the quality, deployment and protection of capital will determine their ability to withstand emerging risks and remain sustainable. The Commissioner for Insurance, Mr. Olusegun Ayo Omosehin, gave the charge at the 8th Annual Insurance Directors’ Conference, organised by the College of Insurance in collaboration with NAICOM in Lagos. He urged insurance company directors to look beyond their institutions’ new capital positions and strengthen governance, risk management and board oversight.

Omosehin said meeting the recapitalisation threshold did not automatically make an insurance company financially sound or capable of absorbing shocks. He noted that institutions with substantial capital could still collapse if they were undermined by poor governance, weak internal controls, inappropriate investments, ineffective risk management and inadequate oversight by their boards. He said, “A well-capitalised institution is not necessarily a resilient institution. Experience across financial markets has shown that institutions with substantial financial resources can still fail due to poor governance, weak internal controls, ineffective risk management, inappropriate investments and inadequate board oversight. “Let me reiterate that a well-capitalised institution

is not necessarily a resilient institution. Experience across financial markets has shown that institutions with substantial financial resources can still fail due to poor governance, weak internal controls, ineffective risk management, inappropriate investments and inadequate board oversight. “True resilience is the ability of an institution to anticipate risks, absorb shocks, adapt to changing circumstances, recover from disruptions and continue delivering value to stakeholders.” He stressed that completing recapitalisation does not exempt any player from ongoing regulatory scrutiny, insisting that going forward, NAICOM’s surveillance would heavily scrutinise the quality of capital, risk management frameworks, transparency of financial returns, and prompt claims settlement.

He reminded directors that board seats are positions of profound fiduciary trust rather than honorary appointments, urging them to steer the industry toward greater economic impact and enhanced financial inclusion across Nigeria. He pointed out that there was change in insurance landscape noting that whereas insurance business has always been about managing uncertainty, the nature, scale and interconnectedness of risks confronting insurance institutions were changing at an unprecedented pace. The NAICOM boss said, “Climate-related events continue to increase in frequency and severity. Cyber threats are becoming more sophisticated and pervasive. Technological disruptions are reshaping business models and customer expectations.

going on right left, green, what have you. The contractor assured me that a realistic commissioning date is before the end of this year. “Another thing the road reminds me is that we have kissed empty Mondays goodbye. Once upon a time, we dreaded traveling on that road because of fear of attack. Today, we have kissed it goodbye,” he stated. According to him, the administration’s infrastructure programme is not merely about constructing roads, but also about reconnecting communities, expanding economic opportunities and promoting greater integration across the state. He cited the 40km OwoUbahu-Amankanu-Umualor-Ikem virgin dual carriageway, which connects to Obollo-Afor road as another intervention designed to improve connectivity, and now links communities in the northern part of the state, while also serving as a new gateway to the North Central part of the country. On education, Mbah said the Smart Green Schools initiative was fundamentally designed to transform the quality of learning and prepare children for a productive future and modern economy. He disclosed that the government had recruited more than additional 6,000 teachers, who were undergoing training at the state’s Centre for Experiential Learning and Innovation, as part of the efforts to move education in the state away from the traditional emphasis on memorisation and repetition towards critical thinking, creativity, innovation and problem-solving. In the healthcare sector, the governor said his administration was constructing Type-2 Primary Healthcare Centres across the

state’s 260 electoral wards, with each facility provided with healthcare personnel and accommodation, including a two-bedroom residential unit. On economic development, Mbah listed the reopening and operations of the Presidential Hotel, International Conference Centre, United Farm Products Limited, Songhai Enugu Integrated Farm and Sunrise Rice Flour Mill, among other investments, as evidence of the state’s efforts to stimulate economic activities and create employment opportunities. He also described Enugu Air as more than an airline, saying it represented the state’s readiness to attract investment, tourism and business opportunities. “Enugu Air represents more than an airline to us. It is our statement that we are open for business and we are open for tourism. We are open for people to come here and live. “So, in a few weeks, Enugu Air will have a direct flight to London. Before the end of the first quarter next year, we will also have a flight to the United States and China,” he enthused. The governor however acknowledged that more work remained to be done, particularly in road infrastructure, reiterating his administration’s commitment to its 10,000-kilometre road construction target. “We are not measured by our words; we are measured by our results. We don’t say things that we don’t deliver on. What we commit to, we deliver,” he said. The governor also highlighted his administration’s efforts to clear inherited pension and gratuity liabilities, disclosing that the state had approved N32 billion and started paying gratuity arrears dating back to year 2000.

THISDAY • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2026

NEWS

RUSSIAN ENVOYS VISIT JIMOH IBRAHIM...

L-R: Nigerian Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Jimoh Ibrahim; Director/ Russian Special Representative of Foreign Affairs for Human Rights and the Rule of Law, Grigory Y. Lukiyantsev; and Deputy Permanent Representative, Permanent Mission of the Russian Federation to the United Nations, Maria Zabolotskaya, during a visit by the Russians to the Ibrahim in New York, yesterday

Opposition Parties Plan Single Situation Room for 2027 Polls SDP warns members against participating in APC’s rainbow coalition Condemns sack of ADC candidates, sack of party’s leadership

Oghenevwede Ohwovoriole in Abuja

The National Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Prof Sadiq Gombe, has disclosed that the opposition parties would have a single situation room for the 2027 general elections, even as he foreclosed the party’s involvement in the All Progressives Congress (APC) rainbow coalition. He stated this at the party’s strategic discussions with its Governorship Candidates Forum (GCF), at the party’s national headquarters in Abuja on Thursday. According to Gombe, all the opposition political parties will have a single situation room to monitor the 2027 general elections. “We have a situation whereby our agents will come together, will train together. We have common situation room so that we will be our own INEC at the polling unit. We will be our own security at the polling unit, to make sure that there must be free, fair and credible elections come 2027,” he said. He also cautioned the party candidate against joining the APC rainbow coalition. He said, “We are not into any rainbow coalition whereby we will be candidates here and we will be professing for APC presidency. “We have taken a stand that as much as we are not part of anything to do with any rainbow coalition, if at all any member of our party engages in that, we have told the national and the party to discipline any member that goes into any rainbow coalition. “I want to assure you that SDP as a political party we don’t have anything to do with rainbow coalition. SDP is along with other political parties in the opposition doing everything possible to rescue

our dear country in a coalition of the Nigerian people, to make sure that we have some kind of understanding and alliances whereby we make sure that we have free, fair and credible elections. “As you are aware the sitting government, when it realizes that it lost touch with the Nigerian people based on bad governance and record in all areas of power and governance in this country, they resorted to something they call rainbow coalition. “But they are going around trying to find how they will infiltrate some political parties to cajole their members in a so-called rainbow coalition so that they can break our ranks.” He also stated that the SDP was not a party to those calling for the postponement of the general elections. “We want to assure Nigerians that we are not part of any attempt whatsoever of shifting the elections as a result of whatever. We are ready. We are doing everything possible to win the election at the national level and most of the states of the federation, down to the states houses of assembly.” On the failure of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to publish the names of his party’s candidates, he said, “We are still following the matter in court where they refused to publish the names of our candidates despite the fact that we followed all due process as enshrined in the Electoral Act, the constitution of the land and the constitution of our party, and party nomination that is exclusive to the internal affairs of the party,” he said. He also raised issues with the high court ruling that sacked the African Democractic Congress

(ADC) leadership led by David Mark and all the candidates. Gombe said, “We condemn everything possible towards the socalled disqualification of the ADC candidate, Atiku Abubakar. This is a democracy. We want Nigerians to be allowed to freely exercise their franchise.

“We will not allow anything that will truncate our democracy because we have come a long way in this journey. And the president and the party in power are the product of democracy. We will not allow that in a democracy to have an emperor and a dictator that will lead to the collapse of

our democracy. “We are calling on the judiciary to be up and doing to play neutral; equally the security agencies and INEC as an umpire. It has to show equity, it has to show that it has all it takes to be able to usher in free, fair and credible election.” According to him, “There are

issues around register of voters. There are issues around creation of some polling units and so on. SDP condemns all those issues and we want to assure Nigerians that we are going to do everything possible along with sister political parties to resist anything that will truncate our democracy.”

Kwara Rebuilders Accuses PDP Guber Candidate, Kawu, of Plot to Restore Saraki Dynasty Sunday Ehigiator

A sociopolitical group, Kwara Rebuilders has accused the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Kwara State, Engr. Kale Kawu, of prioritising the restoration of the political dynasty of former Senate President, Bukola Saraki, over the interests of the people. The group described Kawu’s alleged political commitment to Saraki as “ungodly and dead on arrival,” insisting that his ambition to govern the state was driven by a desire to revive the dynasty rather than serve the electorate. In a statement issued yesterday by its Kwara Central Media Officer, AbdulQuadri AbdulKabeer, the group criticised Kawu and his media team for responding to earlier criticisms with grammatical explanations instead of addressing what it described as substantive questions about his political intentions and governance agenda. Kwara Rebuilders said the response was an attempt to divert attention from concerns about Kawu’s alleged political loyalty to Saraki and accusations that he had copied and recycled previous manifestos. “We consider the response of Kawu and his team as a mere academic exercise that does not

treat the substantial issues,” the group said. It maintained that Kawu had previously made his intentions clear in a video message, which it claimed showed that his governorship ambition was tied to restoring the Saraki political dynasty. “His covenant is to Saraki, not the people of Kwara State. Kawu didn’t mince words in his earlier video message that his only motive for governorship is to restore and revive the Saraki dynasty, a dynasty where Kwara was ruled through proxy, with high-handedness and anyhowness being the order of the day,” the statement added.

The group also dismissed Kawu’s planned unveiling of a manifesto titled Covenant with Kwarans, describing it as an afterthought that would not convince voters. It argued that the PDP candidate’s alleged commitment to Saraki contradicted the idea of a peopleoriented political manifesto. “The guber agenda is built on an undemocratic covenant with Saraki that he cannot deny,” it said. Kwara Rebuilders further alleged that Kawu had pledged to restore the political dynasty and potentially use the state’s resources to advance Saraki’s reported 2031 presidential ambition.

It challenged the candidate to explain how such an alleged commitment could be reconciled with his proposed covenant with the people of Kwara. “The point remains that Kawu’s narratives are inconsistent and conflicting. He has been caught on tape literally genuflecting while making good of his covenant to his leader, Senator Bukola Saraki, that his mission is to restore the dynasty and surrender the state’s purse to pursue his 2031 presidential ambition. Where on earth does covenant to a dynasty equal to covenant to Kwarans?” the group queried.

Otu Decries Obientourage. Convoy Attack,unacceptable Vowsanomaly. Action

Bassey Inyang in Calabar

Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, has condemned the attack on the convoy of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, by suspected political thugs in the state capital, Calabar. In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Linus Obogo, Otu expressed deep sadness and concern over the attack, extending his warm empathy to the visiting presidential candidate and his

“I extend my deepest, most heartfelt sympathies to Mr. Peter Obi and his team over the deeply disturbing incident that occurred yesterday during his campaign visit to our state capital,” he declared, emphasising that Cross River State stands in firm solidarity with all political actors seeking to engage peacefully with the electorate. Otu said Cross River State remained an enclave of civil harmony and hospitality, making the ugly occurrence an

“As a government and as a people, our hearts go out to him, and we stand in firm solidarity against any act designed to instill fear or disrupt the peaceful exercise of political rights. “Cross River has long been cherished as the cradle of hospitality, warmth, and civil decorum in Nigeria; our culture is rooted in peace, harmony, and mutual respect for all people, regardless of political affiliation,” Otu said.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2026 • THISDAY

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OFFICIAL OPENING CEREMONY OF 2026 ALL AFRICA CHALLENGE TROPHY...

L-R: NILDS DG, Prof. Abubakar O. Sulaiman, in a warm moment with the former Minister of Women Affairs, Senator Dame Pauline Tallen, during the official opening ceremony of the 2026 All Africa Challenge Trophy (AACT 2026), held at the IBB Golf and Country Club, Abuja on Wednesday

Wike Blasts ASUU over UniAbuja Land, Denies Role in Ruling Against Uzodimma Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has berated the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) for opposing the reallocation of parts of the University of Abuja land, questioning the

union’s authority to challenge government’s decisions on land administration. Wike also denied orchestrating the Federal High Court judgement in favour of Senator Rochas Okorocha, which nullified the recognition of Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma

as the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for Imo-West Senatorial District in the 2027 elections. He made the remarks yesterday during his monthly media chat in Port Harcourt, where he addressed the controversy surrounding the

UniAbuja land dispute and allegations linking him to the legal battle against Uzodimma’s senatorial ambition. Taking a swipe at ASUU over its threat to embark on an industrial action if the FCT Administration failed to reverse the disputed land

Oyinlola: Wike My Boy, Not Leader, Says Minister Was in School When He Was Gov Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo

Former Governor of Osun State, Olagunsoye Oyinlola, has rejected the leadership influence of Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), insisting that the minister is not his leader. Oyinlola, also a former military governor of Lagos State, who remains a PDP member, made the declaration during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today. When asked whether Wike was his leader in the party, the former governor responded, “No, not my leader. You don’t say that kind of thing. Yes, I am a member of

the PDP, but he’s not my leader.” The retired general further suggested that Wike was more appropriately regarded as his junior, recalling that the minister was still in school when he served as military governor of Lagos State between 1993 and 1996. Asked whether Wike could be considered his boy, Oyinlola said, “He qualifies to be. When I was governor in Lagos, where was he? In school.” He also expressed reservations about remaining active in politics amid the prolonged crisis rocking the PDP, saying he would rather retire than continue in an environment where progress was difficult to achieve. “If we cannot go forward

positively, smoothly, then you go and sit at home at 76. When I joined politics, I said whatever I did not achieve when I become 65, that I will go and rest,” he said. On whether he was involved in the Rainbow coalition in Osun State, Oyinlola said nobody had approached him about the group. “Nobody has invited me to any rainbow. I don’t know the meaning of rainbow except the one I see,” he stated. Speaking on the PDP’s internal crisis, Oyinlola blamed some members for frustrating efforts to rebuild the party, insisting that certain forces within its ranks were working against its unity. He also acknowledged former

President Olusegun Obasanjo’s efforts to revive the party, saying the former Nigerian leader had continued to engage stakeholders on ways to reposition its structure. “We discuss. He’s been trying to ensure that the party is re-engineered. But those who don’t want it are working against it within the party. That’s the much I can say. “He has tried his best, let me say. But there are too many forces working against the unity of the party,” he said. Despite the challenges, Oyinlola maintained that the PDP was not dead, arguing that its grassroots structure across the country’s 774 local government areas could help restore its political strength.

allocations, Wike questioned why an academic union should interfere in matters he described as the statutory responsibility of the government. He said, “What is the business of ASUU on our land? How is ASUU the owner of land? Is it the union’s right?” The minister dismissed the union’s land-grabbing allegations, insisting that land administration and enforcement of the Abuja master plan fall within the jurisdiction of the FCT Administration. He also questioned the rationale behind the University of Abuja retaining more than 11,000 hectares of land, stating that vast portions of undeveloped land should not be allowed to obstruct government plans for development. Wike maintained that the FCTA’s decision to reallocate portions of the institution’s land to private developers and government agencies was part of its responsibility to regulate land use and promote development in the nation’s capital. He declared that the administration would not succumb to blackmail through threats of industrial action,

insisting that ASUU is free to approach the courts if it disagreed with the government’s position. Wike also described the allegations that he masterminded the court ruling against Uzodimma as mischievous. He said he was not involved in the legal proceedings and questioned how he could have influenced a case arising from internal APC disputes. “I didn’t go to court; I’m not from APC,” Wike said. He explained that the allegations emerged after Uzodimma publicly opposed the Rainbow Coalition initiative and, reportedly, warned his supporters against participating in the political arrangement. According to Wike, the timing of the court judgement led some people to wrongly attribute the legal action to him because of his political disagreement with the Imo governor. The minister, however, challenged Uzodimma to explain his opposition to the Rainbow Coalition, maintaining that their political differences should not be interpreted as evidence of his involvement in the court case.

appealed to the Isoko people to support the APC urging them to show love, through their votes, to his wife, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, who is from the area. His wife also appealed to the people to support Tinubu, her husband and other APC candidates, describing voting as a decisive instrument of political expression.

“Your vote is your voice, your strength and your weapon. Use it to vote for APC,” she told the gathering. Former Governor Okowa challenged party members to work towards delivering more than two million votes for Tinubu and Oborevwori in 2027, insisting that the party must also win other elective positions across the state.

2027: Oborevwori, Okowa Mobilise Delta APC for Tinubu, Seek Two Million Votes

Sylvester Idowu in Warri

The Delta State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has launched its 2027 election campaign in Isoko yesterday with Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa rallying party members to secure over two million votes for President Bola Tinubu and the party’s candidates.

At the flag-off rally in Oleh, Isoko South Local Government Area, Oborevwori urged Deltans to support the APC noting that his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) followed consultations with stakeholders and was intended to align the state with the Federal Government. He praised Tinubu’s economic reforms arguing that increased

revenue allocations had improved the financial capacity of state and local governments to execute projects and meet their obligations. He disclosed that 17,500 Delta students had benefited from the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) and encouraged more eligible students to apply for the scheme. Oborevwori also highlighted

his administration’s record in infrastructure, education and healthcare, while disclosing that the State Executive Council had approved the construction of police divisional headquarters in all 25 local government areas ahead of the proposed establishment of state police. At a separate rally in Ozoro, headquarters of Isoko North Local Government Area, the governor

THISDAY • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2026

NEWS

STAKEHOLDERS MEETING...

L-R: Vice Chairman, Eti-Osa, Grace Ajayi; Member, Nigeria Bar Association, Lagos Branch, James Sonde; Executive Secretary, Lagos State Lands Bureau, LUAC, Dr. (Mrs) Ololade Ajetumobi; Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Lands Bureau, Mr. Kamar Olowoshago; Nigeria Bar Association, Badagry Branch, Nnamdi Samuel; and Chairman, Nigeria Bar Association, Epe, Taiwo Ogunlajo, during a stakeholders meeting at the bureau’s conference room... recently

Military: Alleged Secret Ceasefire With Boko Haram Terrorists is False, Misleading Insists terrorists will not be allowed any haven in Nigeria Troops rescue 9 kidnapped victims, recover 108 livestock in Kebbi

Linus Aleke in Abuja and Onuminya Innocent in kebbi

The Nigerian military has finally broken its silence over an alleged three-month ceasefire agreement with Boko Haram terrorists, dismissing the report as false and misleading. The military also insisted that terrorists and other extremist fighters would not be allowed

to find safe haven anywhere in Nigeria. An international media outlet reported on September 9, that the Nigerian government had allegedly entered into a secret ceasefire agreement with Boko Haram. The foreign media outlet cited an investigation by The New Humanitarian. According to the report, “The

reported truce began in June after negotiations that secured the release of 360 civilians abducted from Ngoshe village, in the foothills of the Mandara Mountains near Nigeria’s border with Cameroon, The New Humanitarian reported.” Reacting to the alleged secret ceasefire, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Samaila Uba, said the number of terrorists killed and arrested by

troops of the Armed Forces and other security agencies within the period under review contradicted claims of a secret ceasefire. Uba, who spoke during a joint press briefing by the spokespersons of the Armed Forces of Nigeria and other security agencies, said, “I want to make it categorically clear that there is no ceasefire agreement with Boko Haram. “Considering the number of

FHC’S LIFU OVERRULES FHC’S LIMA, VOIDS 1,503 ADC CANDIDATES; WHO WILL INEC OBEY? judgement by Lifu as another playing with? This is not about Atiku them and will not sit down in silence in the electoral process. desperate attempt to cripple the Abubakar or David Mark. It is about while our democracy is taken away The Kwankwasiyya Movement opposition and deny Nigerians the democratic rights of Nigerians by the courts.” acknowledged ADC’s intention to the right to choose their leaders to freely choose their own leaders. ADC warned APC against appeal the judgement and urged in the forthcoming general election. It is about the rights of thousands pursuing a dangerous attempt all parties to pursue legal remedies The party asked its members to of candidates to participate in a to eliminate political competition peacefully, allowing the appellate remain calm as the court judgement democratic process.” through judicial controversies. process to determine outstanding would be appealed ADC maintained that the Abdullahi told THISDAY last questions without intimidation or In a statement by its National judgement was legally indefensible night that the party would file for political interference. Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji and would be challenged through stay of execution of the judgement It further warned that uncertainty Abdullahi, ADC said the timing of every available judicial process. and also file appeal to the Court of around the ADC leadership and the judgement, barely 24 hours after It explained, “Our objection Appeal against it, while reassuring nominations should not lead to the massive turnout at the ADC is particularly anchored on the that efforts to frustrate ADC would disenfranchisement of party members presidential campaign rally in Sokoto, subsisting judgement of Justice Musa continue to fail. and millions of Nigerians expecting exposed the growing desperation of Liman of the same Federal High a competitive 2027 election. the ruling All Progressives Congress Court, delivered on 2 July 2026 in Kwankwasiyya: Democracy The statement said, “Democracy (APC). Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/1637/2025, at Risk cannot thrive where political Abdullahi stated, “We have which affirmed the legitimacy of the competition is weakened by reasons to believe that the judgement David Mark-led NWC and directed The Kwankwasiyya Movement institutional uncertainty, selective had long been written on this case. INEC to recognise the leadership. expressed concern over the Federal application of the law or the The Sokoto rally was simply a trigger ‘’It is a settled principle of Nigerian High Court judgement, saying perception that state institutions that stampeded its delivery. jurisprudence that a court of democracy is at risk. are being deployed for partisan “Yesterday, Nigerians came out coordinate jurisdiction cannot sit on In a statement by the spokesman advantage. in their hundreds of thousands to appeal over, review, vary or nullify of the group, Dr. Habeeb “Our democracy must be demonstrate their support for the the subsisting judgement of another Mohammed, in Kano, it lamented protected. Opposition voices must ADC and our promise of making court of equal jurisdiction. the court ruling, including the process be respected. The rule of law must life affordable for them. “The ADC, therefore, rejects any that produced Atiku as the party’s prevail.” “Today, they are being told that consequential orders founded on presidential candidate for the 2027 the party that they support and the a determination that appears to elections. CD: Nigeria Drifting candidates that they have supported disregard these fundamental legal The movement said while Towards Dictatorship at all levels could be erased by the principles. However, we await the it recognised the constitutional stroke of a reckless judicial pen.” Certified True Copy (CTC) of the said authority of the judiciary to adjudicate Campaign for Democracy (CD) ADC questioned whether those judgement to ascertain its precise disputes, persistent legal battles warned that Nigeria risked sliding behind what it called a flawed terms, scope, and operative orders. over opposition party leadership into dictatorship, describing the court judgement had considered its “We have seen this script before. and candidate nominations were ruling sacking the ADC leadership far-reaching implications for the When they are scared that the creating uncertainty for opposition as a serious threat to opposition country, warning that the attempt opposition is gathering steam, parties ahead of 2027. politics and democratic competition. to invalidate the party’s leadership they use their judges in the courts According to the statement, The organisation, in a statement, could affect thousands of candidates to influence legally indefensible Nigeria’s democracy must be built alleged that the judgement, coming contesting elections at the local, state judgements. on political pluralism, institutional barely 72 days before the January 16, and federal levels. “But the millions of Nigerians that independence, equal treatment before 2027 general election, could effectively Abdullahi stated, “Do these are hungry and waiting for them the law, and protection of citizens’ undermine the participation of people understand what they are at the ballot box see right through rights to associate and participate opposition candidates and deny

terrorists we have neutralised, those arrested, the areas recovered, the people rescued and the successes recorded in our operations, it is evident that there is no such agreement. “We will continue to intensify operations against all terrorist and criminal groups, including Boko Haram, ISIS, ISWAP and kidnappers. Any criminal element in Nigeria that takes up arms

against innocent citizens will be eliminated or brought to justice.” Addressing concerns over the reported movement of ISWAP commanders and fighters into forests in southern Nigeria, Uba said the development was evidence of the military’s operational successes, insisting that the terrorists would not find safe havens in any part of the country.

Nigerians the opportunity to make meaningful choices at the polls. It expressed concern that the ruling, represented a dangerous development for Nigeria’s multiparty democracy. CD questioned the implications of a situation in which disputes involving opposition parties could have far-reaching consequences for their participation in an imminent general election. The organisation queried, “Is this still democracy? Is this still a country where the people choose? Or have we now entered the season where presidents are selected in courtrooms and the ballot box is only for show?” The group stated that the credibility of any government should be determined by its performance and its willingness to submit itself to the judgment of voters rather than by developments capable of weakening its political opponents. It challenged President Bola Tinubu and the ruling APC to allow Nigerians to assess his administration at the ballot box, insisting that electoral competition should not be compromised by controversies surrounding opposition parties. It asked, “Why are you afraid of Atiku? Why are you afraid of the ADC? Why are you afraid of a free contest?”

friends under the auspices of United Friends of Atiku Abubakar cautioned the judiciary and APC against endangering democracy through the courts. Addressing a press conference at the ADC national secretariat in Abuja, the national coordinator of the group, Alhaji Aliyu Audi, said they were moved by the court judgement by Lifu, despite a subsisting court order. According to Audi, “We are of the belief that we are all witnessing a dangerous escalation of the absurd in our nation. “We are issuing a stern and unequivocal warning: if this blatant institutional takeover by the incumbent administration continues, we can see that we are staring at the imminent breakdown of democracy in Nigeria. “Our intervention today is not a declaration that political parties, leaders, or candidates are above the law, neither is it an argument that the judiciary has abdicated its responsibility to adjudicate disputes. Rather, it is a solemn declaration that the administration of justice is being weaponised to execute a political agenda. “We must ask a fundamental, grave question: What is the value of an election if the options available to the electorate can be sustainably predetermined before election day through engineered institutional and judicial controversies?”

Group Cautions Judiciary, APC Against Endangering Democracy Through Courts A coalition of Atiku Abubakar

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2026 • THISDAY

NEWS

WE ARE TOGETHER...

L-R: Former President of the Senate, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki and a former Commissioner for Agriculture, Information and Communication, Solid Minerals Development and Youth Development, in Kwara State, Adenike Adesida, after the latter resigned her portfolio and joined the PDP... recently TINUBU DEPARTS ABUJA TODAY FOR TWO-STATE VISIT TO AKWA IBOM, RIVERS Tinubu, has remained faithful to Ilupeju and Ijesa-Isu, alongside “Other federal road interventions, the commitments we made to you. ongoing work on the Ikere switching from Aramoko and Ijero to Ifaki, “We have begun to fulfil those station. Oye, Ikole and Omuo, are at commitments, and we have returned “We have approved additional different stages,” he stated. to account for the work already electricity distribution lines and He added, “Our duty is to see done and the tasks that remain. transferred regulatory authority over the work through. Every unfinished We have come to seek the renewal your intrastate electricity market to road is a responsibility awaiting of your mandate, to continue the Ekiti State. We understand what fulfilment.” partnership we began and to finish these interventions mean to you.” On education, the vice president the work you entrusted to us.” He lauded the transformation stated that the Federal University The vice president appealed of Ekiti State into an electoral of Technology and Environmental to the people of Ekiti to replicate powerhouse, stating that the Sciences was established in Iyinthe mass support they gave the state “has become a litmus test Ekiti, while students at Ekiti State president in the 2023 presidential for elections in Nigeria”. University and Bamidele Olumilua poll, assuring them that the Shettima added, “You lead the University received education loans administration’s commitment to nation in speaking with a voice through NELFUND. their welfare “extends to healthcare that deserves respect and reflection. Recalling the new ICT Experience and electricity, two necessities upon We have returned to acknowledge Centre inaugurated at Ekiti State which the dignity of everyday life that voice and thank you for your University through TETFund depends”. warmth.” support, Shettima said the obligation He cited the conversion of the He justified his observation with of the Tinubu administration “is to former State Specialist Hospital in the recent re-election of Governor make sure that poverty does not Ikole-Ekiti into a Federal Medical Biodun Oyebanji under the APC shut the classroom door against Centre to complement the Federal platform. any child”, especially in Ekiti, the Teaching Hospital in Ido-Ekiti, Shettima also spoke on efforts land of professors. as part of efforts by the Tinubu by the Tinubu administration to He listed other federal administration to revamp healthcare. build roads in the state, stating government interventions in the On electricity, Shettima said, “We that work has proceeded on the state, including agricultural input have also turned our attention to Akure–Ikere–Ado-Ekiti road, while programmes that have brought your electricity needs. Equipment reconstruction has begun on the fertilisers and planting materials has arrived for the substations at Itawure–Aramoko–Ado-Ekiti road. within the reach of participating

farmers. Shettima restated the commitment of Tinubu to rebuilding the country, pointing out, however, that “the authority to continue with it rests with the Nigerian electorate”. He stated, “We seek your mandate to complete the work we have begun, fulfil the commitments we have made and carry this mission to its conclusion.” Shettima departed Ado-Ekiti with a clear and emphatic message from the people, who declared that 90 per cent of their votes will be for Tinubu in the forthcoming election. They attributed their support to massive infrastructure projects embarked upon by the federal government across the state, saying they have transformed lives and communities, creating a strong case for a second term for the Tinubu-Shettima ticket. In a significant show of bipartisan solidarity, the governorship candidates of PDP, APM, and SDP in the last governorship election in the state pledged their support for the president. In separate remarks, the

opposition candidates affirmed that they would mobilise their supporters behind APC to ensure the victory of Tinubu. They emphasised that their commitment went beyond party lines and was rooted in the unity and continued progress of Ekiti State. Oyebanji described the decision of opposition figures in the state to declare support for Tinubu as clear evidence of the positive impact of the federal government’s interventions in Ekiti. He said the people of Ekiti would reciprocate the president’s efforts by delivering an overwhelming mandate in the next general election. The governor declared, “We will use our votes to say thank you to a president who has given approval for so many federal roads and other critical projects in Ekiti State. The people of Ekiti will return the president with no less than 90 per cent of registered voters.” APC National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, said at the rally that Tinubu’s achievements deserved to be rewarded with a second term.

Yilwatda stated that the administration had eased the burden on small business owners who previously struggled under the weight of unaffordable taxes. He said, “Unlike in the past, when small business owners were being strangled by taxes they could not afford, the coming of President Tinubu has checked that excess. “The NELFUND student loan scheme, the construction of roads, the establishment and upgrading of federal institutions, and other interventions are clear manifestations of the President’s goodwill and his determination to improve the lives of Nigerians.” Director-General of the campaign council, Senator Abdulaziz Yari, urged the people of Ekiti to mobilise full support for the president’s re-election. Yari stated, “President Bola Tinubu has promised to bring even greater development to Ekiti State if given the opportunity to serve a second term. The people of the South-west must demonstrate their love and support by voting massively for him.

that India’s exemption was intended to facilitate medicine imports into Iran, while China’s was aimed at securing political support from Beijing. The development came amid mounting pressure on Iran’s oil export operations following the prolonged US naval blockade, while attacks on commercial vessels have continued to heighten security concerns across the Gulf. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations Centre reported at least four attacks on commercial vessels since the beginning of the month across the Persian Gulf, Strait of Hormuz, and Gulf of Oman. The Houthis also claimed to have targeted Saudi Arabia’s King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, although Saudi authorities did not confirm the reported attack. For Nigeria, Africa’s largest oil producer, the decline in international crude prices presents mixed implications for the economy. Lower crude prices could reduce Nigeria’s oil export earnings and government revenue, given the country’s heavy dependence on

petroleum exports for foreign exchange and public financing. Crude oil remains a major source of Nigeria’s foreign exchange earnings and accounts for a substantial proportion of government revenue. A sustained decline below $95 per barrel could narrow fiscal buffers, weaken external reserves and increase pressure on the naira. However, cheaper crude and petroleum products in the international market could potentially provide some relief through lower domestic petrol and diesel prices, with possible positive implications for transportation costs and inflation. The outlook for oil prices remains uncertain, with developments in Washington and the outcome of Qatar-mediated negotiations expected to influence market direction. A resumption of US military operations against Iran could trigger another surge in crude prices, potentially pushing benchmarks above $110 per barrel, while a successful diplomatic agreement could sustain downward pressure and keep prices below $90.

US MIDTERMS: RUBIO WEIGHS LEAVING TRUMP ADMINISTRATION AS OIL PRICE SLUMPS Some people close to Rubio reportedly believe he could return to the private sector and consider his political options after the 2028 election cycle. Others have suggested he may prefer to avoid a potentially divisive contest within the Republican Party, particularly if Vance decides to seek the party’s nomination. Meanwhile, the consequences of the Republican defeat have extended beyond Washington, with international oil markets reacting to expectations that Trump could face pressure to reconsider his military strategy against Iran. Crude oil prices fell for a fourth consecutive day yesterday, with Brent crude and West Texas Intermediate extending losses amid growing expectations that the administration could pursue diplomatic options to end the conflict. Brent crude futures fell by as much as 8.6 per cent to $94.66 per barrel, while US benchmark WTI dropped to $88.08, extending a four-day rout that reflected concerns about the potential easing of geopolitical tensions in the Middle

East. Earlier trading data showed Brent futures down 97 cents, or 1.03 per cent, at $93.65 per barrel, while WTI declined $1.14, or 1.29 per cent, to $86.98. The declines followed an over eight per cent plunge on Wednesday that pushed both benchmarks to their lowest levels since August 31. However, subsequent data from OilPrice.com showed some recovery, with Brent crude futures trading at $97.94, up 3.51 per cent, while WTI rose to $90.27, representing a 2.44 per cent increase. The S&P Energy Index, however, declined 4.77 per cent to 976.18. Market analysts attributed the initial sell-off largely to political developments in the United States, particularly the Democratic victories in the midterm elections and the possibility that the Trump administration could come under pressure to end the war. Trump, in an interview with Fox News, attributed the Republican losses partly to rising petrol prices, saying: “I think it’s the gasoline price.”

He had earlier told the Financial Times that there were no immediate plans to strike Iran. Vance also linked the Republican defeat to the conflict, writing on X, “The reason we lost is the war. Any honest conversation about where we go from here must start there.” In a separate interview with CNN, the vice president said both he and Trump were optimistic about the possibility of a negotiated settlement. “The president and I both feel really good about the prospect of potentially coming to a negotiated settlement,” he said. Rubio had similarly indicated on Sunday that Trump preferred a diplomatic resolution to the Iranian conflict rather than continued military action. Meanwhile, Qatar has continued to mediate negotiations between Washington and Tehran in an effort to prevent further escalation. Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs disclosed that a delegation from the Gulf country had held discussions in Tehran as part of efforts to reach an agreement. Reports by Qatari news outlet

Al-Jadeed suggested significant progress in the negotiations, including possible concessions by Iran on its nuclear programme and the release of frozen assets. However, a senior Iranian official swiftly dismissed the reports, contributing to a partial recovery in oil prices. In another development, Iran announced exemptions for some of its major trading partners from restrictions on shipping through the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Vice Chairman of the Iranian Parliament’s National Security and Foreign Policy Committee, Ahmad Hayat-Moghaddam, told the Iranian Student’s News Agency that India, China, Iraq and Qatar had been exempted from the transit restrictions. “We have currently exempted India, China, Iraq and Qatar from transit restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz. Ships from these countries pass freely,” Hayat-Moghaddam said. He explained that the exemptions were based on mutual interests and specific considerations. He stated

FRIday november 6, 2026 • T H i s d ay

NEWS

DLA: Osun’s 32nd Position in Fiscal Ranking Shows Adeleke’s Economic Failure

Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo

The Osun State Chapter of the Democratic Leadership Alliance (DLA) has knocked Governor Ademola Adeleke

CHANGE of name I formerly known and addressed as Osinachi Frances Okparachukwu now wish to be known and addressed as OSINACHI FRANCES OKONKWO. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Uche Irene Efangwu, am now known and addressed as Mrs Uche Irene Ogala. All documents previously issued in my former name remain valid, relevant and applicable to me, notwithstanding the change in my name.

I formally known and addressed Omolara Sarah as Folarin now wish to be known and addressed as Omolara Sarah Asimolowo. All formal documents remain valid. The general public should please take note. I,

formerly

known

OSHIOMEGIE PETER NOLASCO,

now wish to be known and addressed as OSHIOMEGIE PETER NOLASCO ADURASI. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note I formerly known and addressed as SALISU ADUNI BASIRATU, now wish to be known and addressed as SALISU ADUNI BASIRATU and my DoB was wrongly written as 5th September 1974, instead of 5th September 1975. All former documents remain valid, the general public should please take note. I, formerly known and addressed as MISS IJEBOR LOVETH IKHUEUMOHI, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS ELIJAH LOVETH IKHUEUMOHI. following my marriage to MR. ELIJAH EMMANUEL AYO. All former documents remain valid. The general public and relevant authorities should please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as OLATUNJI ZAINAB ABIOLA, now wish to be known and addressed as DADA-OLATUNJI ABIOLA ZAINAB, following my wedding with DADA ABIODUN ABEY.All former documents remain valid. The general public and relevant authorities should please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as AMINA ODEGHA-UMORU, now wish to be known and addressed as stated on my NIN as AMINA ODEGHA UMORU. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

I formally known and addressed as Nwobodo Benedicta Amaka now wish to be known and addressed as Maxwell Benedicta Amaka. All formal documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

That I, formerly known and addressed as MISS ADIDI JOSEPHINE IDOKPESI now wish to be known and addressed as MRS JOSEPHINE ADIDI STEPHEN-KANABE. FANMILK PLC and all former documents remain valid. The general public please take note. Correction of name and date of birth

That my name was wrongly recorded as NKWUDA THANKGOD, omitting my middle name Alex, that my correct full name is NKWUDA THANKGOD ALEX, that my dob was wrongly recorded as 1st of August, 2001 instead of 1st of August, 2003. All former document remain valid. The general public please take note.

over the poor fiscal performance of the state in BudgIT’s 2026 State of States assessment, with Osun ranked 32nd in the country. The report by BudgIT, a Nigerian civic technology organisation, has Lagos, Enugu and Bayelsa as Nigeria’s top-performing states, while Cross River ranked last among the 35 states evaluated. Reacting in a statement yesterday, the state chairman of DLA, Dr. Tosin Odeyemi, said Osun’s position is shameful and an indictment of the Adeleke administration’s inability to build a viable local economy. Odeyemi said the ranking has exposed the state government as one that has failed to translate huge federal allocations into real economic growth, fiscal discipline and sustainable development for the people

of Osun. According to him, “This ranking is not surprising to us. It only confirms what we have been saying, that Governor Ademola Adeleke has no economic blueprint for Osun.” “While states like Kebbi, Jigawa and Katsina are managing their resources prudently and ranking in the top 10, Osun, with all its potential, is ranked 32nd.”

“How can a state that claims to be spending billions on paper be ranked among the worst in fiscal performance? It shows the government is only good at propaganda while the state’s economy is in shambles.” The party said it was worrisome that states with far less federal allocation and without large industrial bases are outperforming Osun, which it attributed to lack

of fiscal discipline. “The table does not lie. It shows that Osun is being run on FAAC allocation alone with no effort to grow the Internally Generated Revenue. Governor Adeleke is waiting for Abuja money to pay salaries while other governors are building real economies,” the statement added. The DLA called on the governor to stop focusing

on frivolities and concentrate on revamping the state’s economy, blocking leakages and investing in productive sectors. It also urged Osun people to ask hard questions about how the state’s resources are being managed, insisting that the BudgIT report should be a wake-up call for the administration before the state slides into total fiscal emergency.

Former Kwara Commissioner, Adenike Adesida, Dumps APC, Cites Frustrated Ambitions

Yusuf Ebiti

A former commissioner in Kwara State, Hon. Adenike Harriet Adesida, has resigned her membership of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), citing growing difficulties in pursuing her political aspirations and meeting the expectations of her constituents under the party’s platform. Adesida has held several commissioner portfolios in the state, including Agriculture, Information

and Communication, Solid Minerals Development and Youth Development. However, she announced her decision in a formal resignation letter addressed to the Kwara State Chairman of the APC through the party’s Ward Chairman in Ora Ward, Ifelodun Local Government Area. In the letter, Adesida said her resignation took immediate effect, explaining that the decision followed extensive consultations with her political associates, supporters,

family members and business associates. She maintained that remaining in the APC had become increasingly incompatible with her political ambitions and her determination to fulfil the expectations of those looking up to her for leadership and representation. “This decision has not been taken lightly. However, following extensive consultations with my political associates, teeming supporters, family members and business associates, I

have come to the considered conclusion that it has become increasingly difficult to pursue my political aspirations and fulfil the expectations of the people who daily look up to me within my constituency under the platform of the APC,” she stated. Although she did not expressly accuse the party leadership of marginalisation or identify any specific grievances, her explanation suggested growing dissatisfaction with the political opportunities available to her within the ruling party.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has cautioned journalists against amplifying unverified election results, manipulated content and misinformation capable of undermining public confidence in the 2027 general election. The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Abia State, Prof. Sylvia Uchenna Agu, gave the warning at the ongoing 2026 Media Retreat and Press Week of the Correspondents Chapel of the Nigeria Union

Council, holding in Umuahia. Speaking on the theme: “Safeguarding Electoral Integrity in the Digital Age: INEC and the Media Ahead of the 2027 General Election,” Agu identified misinformation, disinformation, artificial intelligence-generated deepfakes, cloned voices and manipulated result sheets as emerging threats to electoral credibility. She urged media organisations to prioritise verification over speed, warning that the race to break news must

national stability and public trust. “The race to break the news must not break the nation,” she cautioned. She advised practitioners to cross-check election-related information with INEC before publishing and to avoid declaring results based on unauthorised sources, noting that failure to verify could expose news organisations to credibility challenges. Agu called on the media to support voter education by explaining relevant provisions

particularly those relating to voter accreditation, electronic transmission of results and transparency. She said the new legal framework had strengthened safeguards, citing provisions mandating the use of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) for accreditation and electronic transmission of polling unit results to INEC’s Result Viewing Portal (IReV), with penalties for officials who deliberately frustrate transmission.

A’Ibom Recruits 4,000 New Workers into State INEC Warns Journalists against Amplifying Unverified Election Results Public Service Boniface of Journalists (NUJ), Abia State not come at the expense of of the Electoral Act, 2026, Okoro inUmuahia Okon Bassey in Uyo

The Akwa Ibom State Government has recruited 4,000 new workers into the state public service to strengthen its workforce. According to the state Governor, Umo Eno, who disclosed this yesterday, the recruitment exercise is aimed at filling vacant positions, improving government operations and making public institutions more effective. The governor explained the reason behind the recruitment during the orientation programme for the newly employed workers at the Ibom Tropicana Entertainment Centre in Uyo. He said the appointments were based on vacancies identified across the public service and were not intended to unnecessarily increase the workforce. Eno said a staff verification exercise conducted at the beginning of his administration uncovered more than 2,000 ghost workers, alongside several retired employees, revealing gaps in the workforce and the need to recruit qualified personnel to fill vacant positions. “The decision reflects the administration’s effort to strengthen the public service and ensure that government departments have the personnel needed to carry out their responsibilities effectively,” he stressed. The governor tasked the new employees to regard their appointments as an opportunity to serve the people and contribute to the development of the state.

CEOs Must Take Responsibility for Organisational Culture, Experts Declare

Ayodeji Ake

Business leaders and chief executives have been urged to take greater responsibility for shaping organisational culture, with experts warning that workplace values are determined more by leadership behaviour than written policies. The experts stated this at the 2026 Beyond HR Conference and Excellence Awards

organised by HR Talent Hub and DAC Consulting, which brought together human resource professionals, business executives and entrepreneurs to discuss leadership, workforce management and organisational growth. The two-day conference,e with the theme: ‘Leadership, Growth and Business Success’, examined how effective leadership and people management could improve

employee productivity and business performance. Delivering a keynote address, Dr Mojisola Olubunmo said organisational culture reflects the attitudes, decisions and behaviours of those in leadership positions. She explained that employees are more likely to adopt behaviours demonstrated by their superiors than values contained in company policy

documents. “Organisational culture is what a business leader tolerates, rewards, encourages, accepts or punishes,” Olubunmo said. Using punctuality as an example, she noted that a chief executive who consistently arrived late despite an official resumption time of 8 a.m. could inadvertently encourage similar behaviour among employees.

EFInA, LBS Facilitates Evidence-Based Financial Inclusion Policymaking Enhancing Financial Inclusion and Advancement (EFInA), in partnership with Sustainable and Inclusive Digital Financial Services (SIDFS), an initiative of Lagos Business School, Pan-Atlantic University, has equipped 147 professionals with practical skills to apply financial inclusion data in policymaking, towards addressing key challenges across Nigeria’s financial inclusion ecosystem. Delivered through the Leveraging Financial Inclusion Data for Policymaking course, the initiative sought to strengthen participants’

ability to use evidence to inform policy decisions and support more inclusive financial systems. This focus is particularly relevant following the release of EFInA’s 2026 Access to Financial Services (A2F) Survey findings, as stakeholders work to translate the evidence into policies and interventions that respond to the needs of underserved populations. Over seven weeks, participants completed seven modules combining e-learning with live virtual sessions. They explored how financial

inclusion data, including insights from the Global Findex and A2F Surveys, can help identify gaps, understand the needs of underserved groups and inform policy priorities. The programme’s impact was reflected in improvements in participants’ knowledge and confidence. Knowledge accuracy increased from 72.5 per cent before the course to 88.5 per cent afterwards, while confidence in applying the skills rose by 21.5 percentage points. These gains point to stronger readiness among

participants to use data in their professional work and policy decisions. That strengthened capacity was put into practice through the course’s capstone assignments. They propose recommendations on issues such as agent banking geotagging, inclusive eKYC, consumer protection, open finance, Takaful, pension literacy and rural youth credit. These proposals address key challenges across Nigeria’s financial inclusion ecosystem and have the potential to inform ongoing policy discussions and interventions.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2026 • T H I S D AY

Tinubu to Flamingos:

Go For• Congratulates The U-17 Women's World Cup team for historic qualification for cup final in Morocco

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

resident Bola Tinubu has charged Nigeria’s cadet women’s national football team, the Flamingos, to go for the gold as they meet Japan in the final of the 2026 FIFA Under-17 Women's World Cup in Morocco. The President, in a release issued yesterday by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, told the young female footballers "Nigeria

is proud of you. Go for the trophy, Flamingos. "As the Flamingos prepare to face Japan in the final, Tinubu urged the players to remain focused, confident, and determined, assuring them of the prayers, goodwill, and unflinching support of the Nigerian nation “I encourage you to approach the final with the same fighting spirit and

belief that have brought you this far. I have confidence in your ability to make history by winning the coveted world title.“I call on all Nigerians to rally behind the young ambassadors of the nation, whose achievements continue to showcase Nigeria’s sporting excellence and inspire a new generation of girls to pursue their dreams uninhibited." The President congratulated the

UEFA CONFERENCE LEAGUE Terrific Arokodare Fires Brace as Ajax Hammer FC Midtjylland 6-1

Duro Ikhazuagbe

Flamingos, on their impressive victory over Brazil in Wednesday’s semi-final of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup. He described the team’s qualification for the final as a remarkable achievement that has brought immense pride and joy to millions of Nigerians at home and abroad. Tinubu also applauded the coaching

crew and all those whose hard work and support contributed to the team’s successful campaign. Meanwhile, Flamingos Head Coach, Akeem Busari, has declared that the team now want to put the icing on the cake by winning the U17 Women’s World Cup Saturday after they became the first African team to reach the championship game.

Aba Sports Club 1926 will welcome leading Nigerian and international golfers from November 25 through November 28, 2026, as the second edition of the Oris Pro-Am Championship takes centre stage. The event is sponsored by Oris Signature Hotel, and the the championship has already attracted over 150 professional golfers, including 15 players from other African countries, competing for a ₦35 million prize purse, while amateur participants will contest more than 60 prizes across various categories. Chairman of Oris Signature Hotel, Owelle Greg Okafor, described the championship as an opportunity to promote talent development and support tourism initiative of the government of Abia State. “As a sports enthusiast and community

builder, this is our contribution to developing local talent, showcasing our city and complementing government efforts to reposition Aba. This year’s edition coincides Aba Sports Club’s 100 years anniversary and it is great to be part of it,” Okafor said. The championship is also expected to spotlight Aba’s growing tourism potential, supported by the ongoing economic and infrastructural transformation initiatives of Governor Alex Otti’s administration. Local Organising Committee Chairman, Chief Greg Esotu, confirmed that professional entries had closed following overwhelming interest, while registration remains open for amateurs. “We have over 150 confirmed professionals, including 15 international players. The

“Let’s be focused and finish the job because it’s not yet done,” Busari charged. “The trophy is the major thing and what the country wants, it’s what we want as well. We just have to fight for it.” Japan beat defending champions North Korea 4-1 on penalties after fulltime scores stood at 1-1 to set up an interesting World Cup final. Kick-off time is 7.30 pm in Nigeria.

Golf: Oris Pro-Am Draws African Stars to Aba

competition will adopt a gross stroke-play format, with ₦35 million for professionals and over 60 exciting prizes for amateurs,” he said. Professional competition tees off Wednesday, November 25, with Category One amateurs joining on Thursday. Friday features the professionals’ final round, elite amateurs and ladies in the handicap 29–36 category. Other amateur categories conclude on Saturday, November 28, ahead of the prize presentation and closing ceremony. Golf Section Captain, Sir Bona Anyadiaso, assured participants of a seamless, world-class championship, while the club’s 68th President, Chief Nkene Enukeme, described the event as a fitting tribute to its century-long sporting legacy.

when on receiving a squared pass from Abdellah Ouazane, he took on defender Bakker with a brilliant pace and fired a thunderous shot for his second goal of the evening. The Nigerian forward was not done yet. He turned the provider of the effort which Wijndal buried inside the left post. Ajax added three more goals to make the night miserable for Midtjylland and their traveling fans inside the MCH Arena in Herning. First, Klaassen made it 4-1 when he ran onto a clever lofted pass from Thilo Kehrer and easily headed it home from close range, before Gloukh weaved past several opponents and unleashed a magnificent effort from the edge of the box inside the right post. Midtjylland were now a punch-drunk rabble, and Ajax made it six in the 82nd minute, when Marcos Leonardolifted the ball over Bakker and headed in from close range. It was an emphatic end to a blistering

second-half performance from Ajax, who remain beaten on the road just once since March. Midtjylland became the latest victims of a trend, in which Danish teams have now won just four of their 38 meetings with Dutch opponents in major European competitions

Portugal legend Cristiano Ronaldo announced yesterday that he was retiring from international football. The 41-year-old forward has scored 146 goals and won 234 caps for his country - both world records - since making his debut in 2003. He walked outof the Portugal camp in September after being told he would not start the Nations League match against Denmark, resulting in a £215 fine and a 30-day suspension.

"To the Portuguese people, the day has come for me to hand back the number seven shirt of our national team," Ronaldo said in an Instagram video. "I never felt it belonged to me alone, but for 23 years I had the privilege and responsibility of wearing it, defending it and carrying it with me into stadiums all around the world. "Today the time has come to pass it on to the future. It was not an easy decision, because some decisions are not made with the mind

• Tolu Arokodare scored a brace and an assist as Ajax hammered Midtjylland 6-1 in a UEFA Conference League clash in Amsterdam ...last night

Chairman of the Nathaniel Idowu Foundation, Yemi Idowu, has called for reforms in youth football development in Nigeria, urging stakeholders to focus on player development, proper nutrition and the creation of a fair system that allows young talents to thrive. Idowu made the call at the grand finale of the fourth edition of the 1XCup, which ended with Tonic Football Club of Ikorodu defeating Young Strikers Football Club of Lagos Island on penalties to emerge champions. Speaking on the state of grassroots football in the country, Idowu stressed the need for a change in attitude towards nurturing young players, noting that talent alone is not enough for success. According to him, young footballers require the right environment, opportunities and support systems to maximise their potential. He also highlighted the importance of nutrition, describing it as a fundamental aspect of youth development that is often overlooked. The football administrator further acknowledged the role of the media in promoting grassroots football and helping young players gain visibility. On the issue of age cheating, a challenge that has continued to affect youth competitions across the country, Idowu called for the establishment of a system that accommodates players at all

levels while ensuring fair competition. “We must create a structure that allows talented players to develop without compromising the opportunities available to genuine youth players,” he said. Idowu also applauded the organisers of the 1XCup for the successful organisation of the competition, describing it as one of the country's leading grassroots football tournaments. The Nath Boys FC proprietor, who attended the final as the Special Guest of Honour at the Inspire Sports Arena, Cappa, Oshodi, said the annual competition provides clubs and academies with a platform to showcase their players and gain exposure. “This is something that should make all of us proud. I have always supported initiatives involving children and young people because they create opportunities and inspire dreams,” Idowu said. He added that the tournament has the potential to become a major fixture on Lagos State's sporting calendar, inspiring young footballers to pursue their dreams and compete at the highest level. Idowu further praised the tournament organisers for hosting all matches at one venue, noting that the arrangement improved organisation and reduced logistical challenges for participating teams. He also commended the financial support extended to clubs during the competition.

alone - they are also made with the heart. "A journey that began in August 2003 and changed my life forever has come to an end." Today, Portugal will announce their squad for this month's Nations League fixtures - against Denmark at home and Wales away. The PFF said it will not "let this farewell take place without due tribute". A statement read: "It is our firm and immense desire to organise, plan, participate and actively collaborate in what will always be a fitting tribute to Cristiano Ronaldo's immense career, in which fans and the country can applaud and celebrate, once again, the player who has given us so much." Ronaldo played in six European Championships. Portugal were runners-up in 2004 and champions in 2016, but did not progress beyond the semi-finals of the World Cup during his career. Portugal captain since 2008, he won the inaugural Nations League in 2019 and in 2025. Ronaldo's great rival and Argentina legend Lionel Messi retired from international football on an emotional nightin front of an 85,000-strong crowd in Buenos Aires in October.

The Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the President on Grassroots Sports Development, Hon. Adeyinka Anthony Adeboye, has declared that the twoday grassroots sports summit being planned by his office later this month represents a major opportunity to redefine Nigeria's approach to grassroots sports development.Adeboye spoke yesterday at a well attended press conference at the Abuja National Stadium. The event attracted sports administrators, government officials, representatives of key institutions, journalists and other stakeholders, demonstrating growing interest in the forthcoming national summit.Addressing the gathering, Adeboye emphasised that the summit represents a major

opportunity to redefine Nigeria's approach to grassroots sports development through sustainable structures for talent discovery, participation and advancement. He stressed that Nigeria possesses enormous sporting talent, but that many promising youngsters remain undiscovered because of inadequate facilities, limited opportunities and the absence of structured development pathways. “Somewhere in Nigeria today, a future world champion is waiting to be discovered. Our responsibility is to ensure that such a child is not denied the opportunity to succeed simply because of where they were born or their family's financial circumstances,” he declared.The Presidential aide commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's commitment to

In-form Tolu Arokodare scored two goals and added an assist as Ajax demolished Danish Superliga leaders FC Midtjylland 6-1 to make it two UEFA Conference League wins in a row. The Super Eagles forward who is on a season long loan at the Dutch giants, was truly on fire last night as he gave the home fans so much to cheer. Ajax took the lead within the first opening 10 minutes. Owen Wijndal’s cross was palmed into the path of the Super Eagle but he fired narrowly wide via a deflection. Arokodare however atoned for that slip moments later when he headed in Oscar Gloukh’s subsequent corner kick. That was the fourth goal for the Nigerian from as many games. However, another Nigerian Friday Etim on the Danish side leveled scored one-all in the 28th minute. Seven minutes from return from the first half break, Arokodare restored Ajax lead,

RESULTS EUROPA LEAGUE AC Milan 0-2 Ferencvaros Anderlecht 2-0 Salzburg Cry’Palace 1-1 Hoffenheim Levski Sofia 1-0 Jagiellonia Lillestrom 0-1 Plzen Nijmegen 3-1 Omonia Sociedad 1-1 Lyon Sp’Prague 1-3 Bo’mouth CONFERENCE LEAGUE Ajax 6-1 Midtjylland Trabzonspor 0-1 Freiburg Atalanta 1-1 Kairat Almaty Aarhus 0-0 Braga

Ronaldo Calls Time on His Illustrious Portugal Career

Idowu Calls for Reform in Nigeria’s Youth Football Devt.

• SSA to President on Grassroots Sports, Adeyinka Anthony Adeboye (left) making a point at the press briefing on the Grassroots Summit ...in Abuja yesterday

Adeboye: We Want to RedefineNigeria's Approach to Grassroots Sports Devt. repositioning Nigerian sports, stressing that the recognition of sporting excellence must be complemented by deliberate investment in young talents across Nigeria's 774 local government areas.He explained that the summit would bring together government institutions, sports federations, private investors, development partners and other stakeholders to develop an actionable national roadmap. The participation of Ms. Seun Ojo, representing the Nigerian Economic Summit Group, further underscored the important role of NESG as the summit's technical partner in shaping discussions around policy, investment and sustainable sports development.Scheduled for November 18–19, 2026, at the Banquet Hall, State House, Presidential Villa,

Abuja, the summit, themed “Creating a New Pathway for Sustainable Grassroots Sports Development,” will focus on five strategic pillars: Participation, Talent Development, Infrastructure, Sports Economy and International Pathways. Among the distinguished personalities present were Comrade Philip Shaibu, Director-General, National Institute for Sports (NIS); Mr. Kumbi Titiloye, Chairman, Kwara United Football Club; and Ms. Seun Ojo, Head, Public Affairs & Public Policy, Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG). Also in attendance were Barr. Musa Ahmadu, Dr. Ademola Are, Chairman, Accommodation and Logistics SubCommittee; and Dr. (Mrs.) Kehinde Ajayi, Chairperson, Media Sub-Committee, alongside other members of the organising committee and summit sub-committees.

T H I S D AY • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2026

BACK PAGE CONTINUATION A NATION OF LAMENTERS

or fairness, but absence forfeits opportunities to influence outcomes, document failures and build pressure for reform. The practical response to a vulnerable election is organised scrutiny: informed voters, trained party agents, lawful observation and credible documentation. None makes manipulation impossible. Together, they can make it harder to conceal and easier to contest. Faith presents another question, and it deserves care. Nigerians do not need to choose between religious conviction and civic responsibility. Faith can sustain courage where institutions inspire fear; religious communities can nurture solidarity, defend dignity and challenge injustice. The problem begins when spiritual reassurance becomes an instruction to stop asking earthly questions. “Leave our leaders to God” may express trust in ultimate justice. Used to silence scrutiny, it grants public officials an exemption their offices do not confer. A governor must explain expenditure. A legislator must account for representation. A president must defend policies and their consequences. These obligations do not disappear because an officeholder shares our religion or receives a religious endorsement. Prayer can accompany a demand for answers. It cannot answer a budget question, investigate a failed contract or relieve an official of responsibility. The civic test of religious leadership is whether it helps people examine power with moral clarity, including when the powerful are friends, patrons or members of the congregation. Money complicates the argument further. Consider a struggling citizen who accepts N5,000 to attend a political rally. It is easy to condemn the transaction from a position of comfort. Hunger shortens the distance between an immediate need and a difficult choice. Attendance also tells us little about how that person will eventually vote. The more consequential question concerns those who turn deprivation into a political resource: who benefits when access to basic relief depends on loyalty rather than entitlement? A crowd assembled through inducements cannot establish that a programme has earned public confidence. Nor does temporary assistance discharge a politician’s obligations to the public. But shaming the recipient leaves the machinery of dependence intact. Challenging it requires scrutiny of political financing, credible alternatives to patronage and civic organisations that people can join without purchasing access. Economic insecurity limits political freedom; any serious programme of democratic renewal must address

Tinubu that relationship rather than lecture its victims. Our political memory also needs organisation. A promise remembered only when it is broken again is a weak instrument of accountability. Communities can keep a simple record: what was promised, by whom, when, and what followed. A proposed health centre should generate questions about its budget, completion, staffing and services, not merely photographs of a foundation stone. Citizens need to distinguish an announcement from an allocation, an allocation from expenditure, and expenditure from something that improves lives. This work need not wait for a national movement or a charismatic organiser. A residents’ association

can follow one drainage project. A professional body can scrutinise one policy affecting its members and the public. Journalists can return to an abandoned promise after its news value has faded. Civic groups can translate public documents into language communities can use. These efforts gain strength when they share evidence and persist. Their value lies in making evasion more difficult, one specific question at a time. Such participation carries costs. People may face threats, lose income or lack access to information. Not everyone can protest openly, and nobody should be casually instructed to risk their livelihood or safety. Collective organisation matters partly

because it can distribute burdens that would overwhelm an individual. Protecting civic space is therefore a responsibility of institutions and political leaders, as well as a demand citizens must sustain. Democracy cannot depend on exceptional personal bravery to exercise ordinary rights. Citizens must also examine the exceptions they make for themselves. We weaken the case against nepotism when we celebrate it as opportunity for our relatives. We weaken electoral standards when misconduct becomes acceptable because our preferred candidate benefits. This does not make a private inconsistency equivalent to abusing state power. It does reveal how public wrongdoing acquires social protection. A standard becomes credible when we apply it where doing so costs us something. As 2027 approaches, scrutiny should become more specific. What problem does a candidate propose to solve? What will the remedy cost, where will the money come from, and what trade-offs follow? What does the candidate’s record establish? How will citizens recognise progress or failure? Opposition parties must offer more than fluent descriptions of suffering. Incumbents must submit results to examination. Neither the promise of change nor the defence of continuity should excuse an absence of evidence. The election itself will settle less than campaign rhetoric suggests. No victory can instantly repair weakened institutions or resolve every policy conflict. The habits established before polling day must therefore survive it. Supporters should remain able to question those they helped elect. Defeated parties should retain the discipline to scrutinise government and improve their alternatives. Citizens should resist the idea that casting a ballot exhausts their role, or that celebrating a winner requires surrendering independent judgement. Nigeria’s predicament is not that its people have complained too loudly. Too much of that complaint has been denied a durable political form. Leadership failure must remain at the centre of the reckoning, but it cannot become the reason citizens abandon every means of demanding better. We are entitled to mourn what bad government has taken from us. We must also decide what we will organise to recover. The next question after “Nigeria is suffering” should be specific: what will we demand, from whom, and how will we keep asking until we get an answer? •Dr Dakuku Peterside is a management and leadership turnaround expert.

NIGERIA HAS WHAT IT TAKES, HOW DO WE CONVERT IT INTO VALUE?

logistics and the capacity to fulfill orders. When these conditions improve together, businesses can invest with greater confidence, raise productivity and compete effectively. A stronger domestic production base can then support employment, supplier development and export growth. Without a doubt, energy is central to this process because electricity supports almost every productive activity, from manufacturing and food processing to digital services. The World Bank reports that 62.5 percent of Nigeria’s population had access to electricity in 2024. Therefore, reliable and affordable supply is important for businesses seeking to expand production and control operating costs. The opportunity extends beyond increasing electricity generation. We can strengthen the entire chain from generation and transmission to distribution and productive use. Commercially sustainable electricity markets, targeted infrastructure investment and energy solutions suited to industrial requirements can help more businesses operate reliably. Energy investment delivers wider economic benefits when it enables factories to increase output, processors to preserve produce, enterprises to meet delivery schedules and investors to establish viable operations. Connecting energy planning with industrial development can therefore strengthen both sectors. Our people offer another important advantage. Nigeria has talented professionals, entrepreneurs, artisans and young people with the capacity to develop businesses and solve complex problems. The opportunity is to connect these capabilities more closely with productive enterprise. Education and technical training can become more responsive to industry needs. Businesses can invest in technology, workforce development and better production processes. Financial institutions can support viable enterprises, while public institutions can continue improving the conditions for businesses to establish, operate and expand. Talent creates greater economic value when skills are applied to opportunities. Our ambition should be to develop people who can build products, improve services, solve industrial problems and help Nigerian businesses compete. Exports provide an important measure of this competitiveness. The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) reported that non-oil exports reached

Mrs. Ayeni US$6.1 billion in 2025, an increase of 11.5 percent from 2024. This is the highest officially recorded value of non-oil exports in Nigeria’s history. Nigerian businesses exported 281 non-oil product categories to 120 countries. The performance demonstrates the opportunities available beyond our domestic market. Building on it will require more businesses capable of meeting international standards, producing consistently, fulfilling large orders and competing on quality and price. However, policy has an important role to play in making this possible.

It also presents an opportunity to deepen the capabilities behind our exports through processing, packaging, technology, logistics and local supplier development. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) offers an expanded regional market in which Nigerian businesses can build scale and strengthen their competitiveness. Market access creates an opportunity, but the ability to deliver value determines if a business succeeds. Our focus should be on helping Nigerian enterprises develop products and services that

customers choose because they are competitive, reliable and fit for purpose. Realizing these opportunities calls for deliberate choices. Nigeria has many sectors with potential, but investment and policy attention have the greatest impact when directed towards activities with credible commercial prospects, strong links to domestic capabilities and opportunities for productive employment. Infrastructure investment, access to finance, skills development and regulatory improvements can reinforce one another when aligned with clear economic priorities. Public incentives can help address specific constraints, while commercial discipline ensures that businesses develop the capacity to compete beyond the period of support. The results should be measured in terms of greater productivity, stronger industrial capacity, more productive employment, diversified exports and improved household incomes. These outcomes offer a clearer picture of economic value creation than activity alone. Meanwhile, the private sector has an important role in this process. Businesses can strengthen their contribution to the economy by investing in productive capacity, developing suppliers, building skills and improving efficiency. Financial institutions, educational establishments and public institutions can reinforce these efforts by supporting viable investment and developing the capabilities required for growth. When these contributions work together, the success of individual enterprises can create opportunities across industries and communities. Nigeria’s economic opportunity is in connecting what we already possess with what we can build. Our natural resources and talent can drive competitive, innovative industries. Backed by a scalable domestic market and a strengthened energy sector, Nigerian exporters can be positioned to drive industrial growth and capture global markets. The opportunity is to bring these elements together in a way that creates more value from every unit of labour, capital, energy and natural resources we deploy. Nigeria has what it takes. Our next phase of development should be defined by what we produce competitively, the markets we serve successfully and the prosperity we create in the process.

T H I S D AY • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2026

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138TH SESSION OF THE IMO COUNCIL IN LONDON...

L-R: Director General, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr Dayo Mobereola; Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Mrs Fatima Mahmood; Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr Adegboyega Oyetola and Nigeria’s Alternate Permanent Representative at the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Mr William Bwala, at the 138th session of the IMO Council in London, on Wednesday

DAKUKUPETERSIDE BENEATH THE SURFACE

A Nation of Lamenters

government can survive the anger of its people if that anger never acquires organisation. This is the uncomfortable possibility Nigeria must confront as 2027 approaches. We know how to describe our distress. At kitchen tables, in markets and across social media, the complaints converge: the cost of living, insecure livelihoods, fear on the roads, disappointment with public institutions. Yet agreement about what hurts has not become agreement about what we will demand, whom we will trust or how we will hold power accountable. Our grievances meet more readily than our efforts. Lamentation has its uses. It bears witness, punctures official complacency and reminds people that their suffering is shared. But testimony alone cannot repair the conditions it exposes. When every scandal produces another burst of outrage without sustained scrutiny, those responsible learn something dangerous: they need only outlast the noise. A public that remembers its pain but forgets

Tinubu its demands makes accountability easier to evade. This is not an indictment of citizens for failures

KOLAADESINA

imposed upon them. Leaders control public resources, appoint officials and exercise powers ordinary Nigerians do not possess. They bear the principal responsibility for the consequences. Electoral manipulation, poverty, intimidation and institutional weakness are real constraints, not excuses invented by an unwilling electorate. Any argument about citizenship that ignores these realities becomes a sermon delivered from safety. The question is how citizens can retain agency within unequal conditions and organise to change them. Shared suffering does not automatically produce shared political purpose. People can agree that hunger is intolerable while disagreeing about its causes and remedies. Ethnicity, religion, partisan attachment and dependence on political patrons shape those disagreements. Disagreement itself is not a democratic failure. The failure comes when loyalties make evidence irrelevant: when conduct we condemn in an opponent becomes

defensible in an ally. We do not need identical political preferences. We need standards that survive a change of names, parties and beneficiaries. The most disabling expression of resignation is the declaration that votes will never count. Such distrust must be taken seriously. People who have experienced electoral misconduct cannot be talked into confidence through patriotic exhortation. Electoral institutions must earn trust through their conduct; security agencies must protect participation; parties must organise competently and defend credible competition. The citizen cannot be asked to compensate indefinitely for institutions that fail to perform their duties. Yet distrust and surrender are different decisions. Withdrawal does not punish a political system that benefits from public disengagement. It can leave the field to those best equipped to dominate it. Participation offers no guarantee of victory Continued on page 47

GUEST COLUMNIST

Nigeria Has What It Takes, How Do We Convert It Into Value?

igeria has spent decades talking about its potential. We have the resources, talent, market and entrepreneurial drive. The opportunity before us is to translate these advantages into competitive industries, productive jobs and lasting prosperity. Natural resources alone do not create wealth, a young population does not guarantee a productive workforce, and a large market does not automatically translate into successful businesses. The value is in the productive capacity we build around these advantages. Therefore, our next phase of development offers an opportunity to connect these advantages more deliberately and build an economy that produces more, competes better and creates broader prosperity. Nigeria’s economy grew by 4.43 percent in real terms in the second quarter of 2026, according to the National Bureau of Statistics. This provides a positive foundation; the opportunity now is to strengthen the link between economic growth, productive capacity, employment and earning capacity of our people. The quality of our growth matters. We need businesses that produce more efficiently, industries that create

Executive Director/CEO, NEPC, Mrs. Nonye Ayeni valuable products, workers whose productivity and earnings improve, and Nigerian enterprises that win customers beyond our borders. These outcomes are within reach when the condi-

tions for production and enterprise work together. Consider natural gas; its value extends beyond the commodity sold to a buyer. Gas can supply fertilizer plants, petrochemical facilities and other industries that create products, employment and export earnings. Indorama Eleme illustrates this possibility. Its operations in Rivers State combine Nigeria’s gas resources with industrial investment, technology, production capacity and dedicated export infrastructure. The company commissioned a major urea fertilizer plant in 2016 and subsequently expanded its production capacity. In 2025, Indorama Eleme Fertilizer & Chemicals was Nigeria’s largest non-oil exporter by value, accounting for 13.13 percent of the country’s recorded non-oil export receipts, as reported by the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC). The significance is that natural resources can support much more than the sale of raw commodities. With the right investment and capabilities, they can become the foundation for industrial production and participation in global value chains. This is what converting potential into value

looks like. Nigeria can apply this approach in agriculture, solid minerals and other sectors. The priority is to identify activities in which we can compete commercially, develop the necessary capabilities and build businesses around genuine market demand. Local production creates lasting value when it is efficient, sustainable and capable of meeting customers’ expectations. Our domestic market provides a strong foundation for this ambition. Demand for food, housing, transport, healthcare, energy and technology creates opportunities for businesses to grow and achieve scale. The opportunity is to help more Nigerian enterprises meet that demand competitively while developing the capacity to serve regional and global markets. This requires an environment in which producing locally is commercially viable. Manufacturers need reliable electricity, efficient transport, access to finance and skilled workers. Agricultural processors need consistent supplies, storage and distribution networks. Exporters need quality certification, dependable Continued on page 47

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