Buhari’s Passing is an Irreparable Loss, It's Pain Beyond Words, Says Family
Thanks Tinubu, Shettima, King of England, others for role in burial, says it is comforting FG honours late president at national memorial service
Deji Elumoye in Abuja, James Sowole in Abeokuta, Wale Igbintade, Segun James and
World Bank: Gas Flaring Created 389m Tonnes of Carbon Pollution in 2024
The fossil fuel industry pumped an extra 389 million tonnes of carbon pollution into the atmosphere last year by needlessly flaring gas, a World Bank report has found, in an “enormous waste” of fuel that heats the planet by about as much as the country of France.
Flaring is a way to get rid of gases such as methane that arise when pumping oil out of the ground. While it can sometimes keep workers safe by relieving buildups of pressure, the practice is routine in many countries because it is often cheaper to burn gas than to capture, transport, process and sell it.
Global gas flaring rose for a second year in a row to reach its highest level since 2007, the report found, despite growing concerns about energy security and climate breakdown, The Guardian
UK reported. It found that 151 billion cubic metres (bcm) of gas were burned during oil and gas production in 2024, up by 3 bcm from the year before.
“Flaring is needlessly wasteful,” said Zubin Bamji, the Manager of the World Bank’s Global Flaring and Methane Reduction partnership (GFMR), which wrote the report. “(It’s) a missed opportunity to strengthen energy security and improve access to reliable power,” he added.
In many cases, observers complain, the rules to prevent needless flaring are weak and poorly enforced, and companies have little incentive to stop doing it because they do not have to pay for the pollution it causes.
The report found that nine countries – Russia, Iran, Iraq, the US, Venezuela, Algeria, Libya, Mexico and Nigeria were responsible for three-quarters
The family of former President Muhammadu Buhari, for the first time since his passing penultimate Sunday, released a public statement yesterday, describing his demise as an irreparable loss and pain beyond words.
Acknowledging the support and show of love by Nigerians across the board, the family specially appreciated all those who participated in the burial and prayers for Buhari.
The release by former spokesperson to the late president, Malam Garba Shehu, stated that the Buhari family particularly expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima.
The family also thanked King Charles III of England, the United Nations Secretary General, governors, and other dignitaries, as well as all Nigerians for their prayers and role in the burial of Buhari.
The press release stated, "The most senior member of the Buhari family, the family of the late president, Muhammadu Buhari, Malam Mamman Daura has, on behalf of the family expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his wife, the first lady, Senator Remi Tinubu for their role and that of government of the federation before, and after the passing of the former president.
“Muhammadu Buhari’s demise
of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, Ogbagba II, also passed on.
Buhari died at the age of 82 years, and Adetona was aged 91, and reigned for 65 years, having ascended the throne in 1960.
In a tweet on his verified X, Tinubu said, "Last Sunday, within hours, I lost two men I held in the highest esteem: my dear predecessor, President Muhammadu Buhari, and Kabiyesi, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona Ogbagba II, the Awujale of Ijebuland, who joined his ancestors after over 65 remarkable years on the throne.
"Kabiyesi was more than a royal father to me. He was a confidant,
is an irreparable loss and its pain is beyond words, but the general reaction and kind expressions give us the strength to cope with the loss of our esteemed family member and former leader of the country.
“It is truly comforting to receive such support from the president and the vice president, Kashim Shettima, who went to the United Kingdom, and here in Daura, for the days he and the ministers spent during the mourning period.
“These have instilled confidence in all of us to face this loss with courage. We are deeply grateful to the president on his thoughtful gestures in declaring a public holiday and renaming the University of Maiduguri after Buhari.”
The statement additionally said, “Our gratitude also goes to leaders of the various countries around the globe who either came in person, sent representatives, sent letters, or placed personal telephone calls to commiserate with us.
“Of special note were those of the King of England, King Charles 111, the Secretary General of the United Nations, the Deputy Secretary General, Amina Mohammed, the Chairman of the African Union, and that of the Committee of Heads of State and Government of ECOWAS countries, and our former Head of State, Abdulsalami Abubakar.
“The family is equally grateful to Vice President Kashim Shettima in his own person and his wife, and to all
a guide, and a man of truth whose wisdom never failed to steady those who sought it.
“In over six decades on the throne, he ruled with rare dignity, candour, and courage, always putting the people first with an unmistakable sense of duty.
"I am in Ijebu-Ode today to honour his legacy at his eighth-day Fidau prayers. Oba Adetona's demise has left an enormous void within the traditional institutions in Yorubaland and Nigeria in general.
“His voice, leadership, and generosity will echo far beyond Ijebuland. May Almighty Allah grant him Aljannah Firdaus and
(DBS), amongst others. Commenting on the award, the Group Managing Director/Chief Executive of Zenith Bank Plc, Dame Dr. Adaora Umeoji, OON said, “We are absolutely thrilled to be recognized as Nigeria’s Best Bank by Euromoney. This award is not just a testament to our relentless pursuit of excellence, but also a validation of the unwavering trust and confidence our customers have placed in us. We are once again reminded that our success is not just about us, but about the impact we continue to have on the financial ecosystem. We will continue to work tirelessly to support the growth and development of our economy and uphold the highest standards of governance, integrity and transparency that has earned us this recognition”. She dedicated the award to Zenith Bank’s customers across the globe for their loyalty, and to the Founder and Chairman, Jim Ovia, CFR, for his visionary leadership and commitment to excellence which formed the foundation for the bank’s successes. She also thanked the Board for their guidance, as well as the staff for their unwavering dedication to building a formidable and best in class global financial institution that will outlive
of all gas flaring in 2024. Most of the worst offenders were countries with state-owned oil companies.
Despite efforts to stop the practice, the intensity of flaring, the volume flared per barrel of oil produced –had remained “stubbornly high” over the last 15 years, the report found.
The International Energy Agency (IEA) has called for the elimination of all flaring except in emergencies by 2030. The value of gas flared last year, which would have been worth about $63 billion at EU import prices for 2024, is more than half of the upfront costs that the IEA says are needed to stop the practice altogether.
The report, which used satellite data to estimate flared gas, was produced by the GFMR, which is made up of some of the world’s most polluting governments and companies.
Its funders include European energy
state governors, especially those of Katsina, the host governor, Dr Dikko Umar Radda; Professor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State, and all those who visited us in the UK and Daura from Adamawa, Kano, Kwara, Lagos, Kaduna, Imo, Nasarawa, Bauchi, Sokoto, Kebbi, as well as the several former governors, including Dr Peter Obi for their compassionate words of condolence.
“Your empathy has touched our hearts deeply, and we are truly grateful for your kindness. We express our deep appreciations to former Vice Presidents Atiku Abubakar, Architect Namadi Sambo, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, and Ambassador Babagana Kingibe as well as to the President of Senate, Godswill Akpabio, the Speaker, House of Representatives, Honourable Tajuddeen Abbas, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, and the other leaders and members of the National and State Assemblies.
“We do sincerely thank the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, and his predecessor in office, Boss Mustapha, the current Chief of Staff, Honourable Femi Gbajabiamila and his predecessor, Professor Ibrahim Gambari, former and serving members of the cabinet in both administrations for their activities in these events and their comforting words.
“We are very pleased with the amazing gestures of our traditional leaders, notably the Sultan of Sokoto,
comfort all who mourn him."
Calling on Nigerians, especially those of the Yoruba stock, to unite, strengthen their bonds, and honour Adetona's legacy, Tinubu urged citizens to embrace a culture of truth and uphold the values of integrity exemplified by the late monarch.
He said, "We have to be more united, bonded in the spirit that he left behind, cherish his legacy, and appreciate him in death. His legacy will endure, it is left for you and I to reflect the culture and the value he presented."
Reflecting on the legacy of the late monarch, Tinubu hailed Oba Adetona as a principled and fearless leader
generations.
Zenith Bank’s track record of excellent performance has continued to earn the brand numerous awards including being recognised as the Number One Bank in Nigeria by Tier-1 Capital for the sixteenth consecutive year in the 2025 Top 1000 World Banks Ranking, published by The Banker. The Bank was also awarded Bank of the Year (Nigeria) in The Banker’s Bank of the Year Awards for 2020, 2022 and 2024; Best Bank in Nigeria from 2020 to 2022, 2024 and 2025, in the Global Finance World’s Best Banks Awards; Best Bank for Digital Solutions in Nigeria in the
firms such as BP, Eni, Equinor, Shell and TotalEnergies, as well as major oil-producing countries such as the US, Norway and the United Arab Emirates.
Meanwhile, Nigeria recorded a 12 per cent increase in gas flaring volume in 2024, according to the latest World Bank’s Global Gas Flaring Tracker Report, despite local efforts by the upstream regulator, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC).
“Nigeria experienced a 12 per cent increase in gas flaring in 2024, marking the second consecutive year of rising flaring volumes. Oil production increased by only 3 per cent, which resulted in an 8 per cent increase in flaring intensity from 11.0 m³/bbl in 2023 to 12.0 m³/bbl in 2024, which is more than twice the global average flare intensity.
“Over recent years, as international oil companies have steadily divested
the Shehu of Borno, the Emir of Gwandu, and the host emirs of Katsina and Daura, as well as the various emirs and chiefs from all over Nigeria and the neighbouring countries who came in person or sent representatives.”
The Buhari family stated, “We have been honoured by the large turnout of religious leaders, Islamic, Christian and of other faiths, community leaders, women, youth and politicians of various leanings whose surge in Daura was both challenging and reassuring.
"The family in Daura is also thanking past and serving security and intelligence, police and military leaders, permanent secretaries, and the rank and file civil servants, community groups and associations, civil society, and the media of communications.
"It expresses its appreciation to the nation's business leaders who visited Daura, in the persons of Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Abdul Samad Isyaka Rabiu, Alhaji Muhammadu Indimi, Alhaji Dahiru Mangal, and Kola Adesina.
“We also take this opportunity to thank the entire citizens of this country and those of other nations represented by their missions in Nigeria.
“All of Nigeria came out in force to bury Buhari and condole with us and pray for him. We are deeply grateful for the visits, the condolence messages, and prayers on him. We are thankful to all.
“We respect your prayers as I and the family go through this period.
whose life embodied the fundamental values of dignity and honour that define the Yoruba race.
According to him, "Today marks a very great day in the history of our nation and, particularly the history of our race, the Yoruba race. You can’t find any further definition of our culture. If you go further from Awujale, you will learn a lot.
"For me standing before you today, I thank God Almighty that I stand before you as the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Our history would not have been completed carefully and richly if I failed in the last election. I was successful because of your support
Euromoney Awards 2023; and was listed in the World Finance Top 100 Global Companies in 2023.
Further recognitions include Best Commercial Bank, Nigeria for five consecutive years from 2021 to 2025 in the World Finance Banking Awards and Most Sustainable Bank, Nigeria in the International Banker 2023 and 2024 Banking Awards. Additionally, Zenith Bank has been acknowledged as the Best Corporate Governance Bank, Nigeria, in the World Finance Corporate Governance Awards for four consecutive years from 2022 to 2025 and ‘Best in Corporate Governance’ Financial Services’
onshore assets, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) and several smaller, mainly indigenous companies have acquired these assets and begun to operate them. In 2024, flaring at upstream oil and gas facilities operated by NNPC (and its wholly owned subsidiaries) and these smaller companies, constituted 60 per cent of Nigeria's gas flaring and contributed to 75 per cent of the flaring increase.
“It is likely that many of the smaller companies are seeking to maximise oil revenues in response to higher prices from 2022 onwards, which has brought with it higher associated gas flaring. These companies may also lack the expertise and funding to undertake capital intensive gas utilisation projects.
“Funding may also be an issue for NNPC, which has previously had difficulties funding its share of investment costs where it is a non-
May the Almighty Allah bless and reward you all.”
FG Honours Buhari at National Memorial Service, Says He Exemplified Integrity
The federal government, yesterday, honoured Buhari at a national memorial service, describing him as a disciplined and principled leader whose life and service exemplified conviction, patriotism, and integrity.
Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, stated this yesterday at the national church service, which was part of the activities observed to mourn the former president. Akume, during the service, also charged Nigerians to reflect on the enduring legacies of the late president.
He said, “Though not perfect, he fought a good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith. His legacy in national security, social protection, and institutional reforms – including the Petroleum Industry Act – will remain part of Nigeria’s development history.”
The SGF also commended President Bola Tinubu for approving the renaming of the University of Maiduguri to Muhammadu Buhari University, Maiduguri, in honour of the late president’s contributions to national development.
He described the gesture as one
and the blessing of late Awujale.
"I went to him and he said, 'you are winning that election and you will win second term. Go ahead.' Today he is no more. He is gone. God has blessed us. If you listened to the richness of his wisdom, I'm extremely proud of him."
The president added, "Awujale brought pride to the Yoruba race. He was always there for us in time of need. I remember the role he played during the June 12 struggle. Baba was steadfast and courageous.
operating partner. The opportunity for using associated gas for power generation, given the lack of access to energy for millions of Nigerians continues to be a challenge with commercial and regulatory issues, electricity grid stability, and limited project financing.
“Furthermore, gas export opportunities remain limited as most smaller companies have no commercial access rights to the most fields that continue to flare are small and isolated, making projects to use the gas challenging and expensive,” the report added.
that was not merely symbolic but also about inspiring future generations to lead with courage and sacrifice, as Buhari did.
The solemn memorial service was attended by the representative of President of the Senate, Deputy Senate Majority Whip Onyekachi Nwaebonyi; members of the National Assembly; Ministers; top government officials; former Secretary to the Government of the Federation; retired Permanent Secretaries; and other dignitaries. Similarly, the leader of Northern Regional Caucus in the House of Representatives, Hon. Al Hassan Ado Doguwa, paid tribute to Buhari, describing him as a distinguished military leader and a committed democrat.
In a statement, Doguwa, who represents Doguwa/Tudun Wada Federal Constituency in Kano State, expressed his profound sorrow upon learning of Buhari's passing.
Reflecting on the former president’s legacy, Doguwa said, “President Buhari was a mentor, a paternal figure, and a revered national icon whose impact will be remembered for generations. “His integrity was exceptional, his honesty rare, and his character defined by dignity, purpose, and unwavering principles aimed at advancing Nigeria’s collective well-being.”
Doguwa emphasised that Buhari’s more than 60 years of public service were defined by discipline, honesty, and deep patriotism.
"I am happy that I honoured him with Grand Commander Of Nigeria honour. We have to be one, bonded in the spirit he left behind. We have named some institutions in his honour. Awujale legacy will continue to endure."
Africa for four consecutive years from 2020 to 2023 by the Ethical Boardroom.
The Bank’s commitment to excellence saw it being named the Most Valuable Banking Brand in Nigeria in The Banker’s Top 500 Banking Brands for 2020 and 2021, Bank of the Year 2023 and 2024 at the BusinessDay Banks and Other Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards, and Retail Bank of the Year for three consecutive years from 2020 to 2022 and in 2024 at the BAFI Awards. The Bank also received the accolades of Best Commercial Bank, Nigeria and Best Innovation in Retail Banking,
Tinubu highlighted the pivotal role of the late Awujale in Nigeria’s democratic history, stressing that the country's narrative would be incomplete without acknowledging his profound contributions. He also expressed deep gratitude for the support he received from the late paramount ruler during his campaign for the 2023 presidential poll, stating that the monarch’s prayers for a resounding victory played a significant role in his
Nigeria, in the International Banker 2022 Banking Awards. Zenith Bank was also named Most Responsible Organisation in Africa, Best Company in Transparency and Reporting and Best Company in Gender Equality and Women Empowerment at the SERAS CSR Awards Africa 2024; Bank of the Year 2024 by ThisDay Newspaper; Bank of the Year 2024 by New Telegraph Newspaper; and Best in MSME Trade Finance, 2023 by Nairametrics. The Bank’s Hybrid Offer was also adjudged ‘Rights Issue/ Public Offer of the Year’ at the Nairametrics Capital Market Choice Awards 2025.
Deji Elumoye, Olawale Ajimotokan and Juliet Akoje in Abuja
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
Ekperikpe Ekpo
E1 RACING CHAMPIONSHIP IN MONACO...
FG Eyes $10bn Revenue, $5bn Investment in Green Hydrogen Development
Shettima seeks less reliance on volatile oil market
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
Vice President Kashim Shettima at the weekend said that there was the need for Nigeria to reduce its overreliance on the volatile global fossil fuel markets by attracting significant investment into the development of Nigeria's domestic green hydrogen industry.
Shettima spoke as it was revealed that Nigeria's green energy roadmap indicates that the country is seeking to attract $5 billion in private investments and create 500,000 new jobs by 2035, including in manufacturing, tech and logistics as well as $10 billion annual revenue from hydrogen exports.
Speaking in Abuja at the ‘Nigeria 4H2 Project Results Workshop and End of Project Stakeholders Interaction’, the vice president noted
that the project will stimulate job creation across various sectors, from engineering and manufacturing to logistics and research.
The Nigeria 4H2 project is a German-supported initiative focused on exploring and developing green hydrogen-to-fertiliser production in Nigeria. It's a technical and stakeholder-led study evaluating the country’s potential in producing hydrogen using renewable energy such as solar and wind.
In his address themed: “Unlocking Nigeria's Green Hydrogen Potential: A Renewed Hope for a Sustainable Future’’, read by his Special Adviser on Economic Affairs, Dr Tope Fasua, Shettima stated that although Nigeria's vast reserves of hydrocarbons has fueled growth, the clarion call for a sustainable, decarbonised future
remains real.
Shettima stated that the Nigeria 4H2 project represents Nigeria's strategic response to this global imperative, to unlock Nigeria's vast and untapped potential in green hydrogen, a clean, versatile, and abundant energy carrier that can revolutionise the economy.
“Green hydrogen, produced from renewable sources such as solar and wind power, offers a compelling pathway to diversify our energy mix, reduce our carbon footprint, and create new economic opportunities.
“Nigeria is uniquely positioned to become a leader in this burgeoning industry. We are blessed with an abundance of sunlight and wind resources that can be harnessed to generate the clean electricity required for green hydrogen production,” the
vice president added.
Shettima stated that this requires the collective genius, capital, and commitment of every stakeholder, including government agencies, private sector entities, academic institutions, and international partners.
“The economic ramifications of this project are colossal. By positioning ourselves as a major producer and exporter of green hydrogen, we can create a new stream of revenue, reduce our reliance on volatile fossil fuel markets, and attract significant foreign direct investment,” he added.
In his intervention, the Director General, Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, said that developed and emerging economies are racing to diversify their energy portfolios
Nigeria's First E&P Seals Deal to Unlock Tanzania’s Oil Block
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
In a significant step toward advancing regional energy development in SubSaharan Africa, First Exploration & Petroleum Development Company (FIRST E&P) at the weekend announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC) for the technical assessment and potential development of the Mnazi Bay North Block in southern Tanzania.
The MoU signing ceremony took place at the TPDC Head Office in
Dodoma, with senior executives from both organisations, representatives of the government of Tanzania, and members of the media in attendance.
The strategic partnership, a statement said, represents a major milestone in unlocking Tanzania's abundant energy potential and advancing regional energy security.
By fully funding the assessment phase, FIRST E&P said it is demonstrating both its confidence in the block’s significant gas prospects and its long-term commitment to supporting Tanzania’s energy development.
The ultimate objective, it said, is to advance to a license agreement and develop the opportunity into a world-class producing asset.
In his remarks, Managing Director and Chief Executive of FIRST E&P, Ademola Adeyemi-Bero, highlighted the company's proven track record and strategic vision.
He said: “Our success in Nigeria, built on deep technical expertise, a high-performance team, and an entrepreneurial mindset, has positioned us to deploy our capabilities beyond our home market.
“We believe Tanzania holds world-
class hydrocarbon resources and its strategic location positions it as a natural energy hub for the region. With the right investments and partnerships, Tanzania can play a pivotal role in improving energy access, enabling cross-border distribution, and driving regional energy security across Sub-Saharan Africa.” Adeyemi-Bero further emphasised the importance of the partnership, stating: " We are confident that this MoU marks not just the beginning of a project, but the start of a long-term, mutually beneficial relationship between FIRST E&P and the government and people of Tanzania.
Oil Theft: Army Arrest 62 Suspects, Destroys 14 illegal Refining Sites in Niger Delta
Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt
Troops of 6 Division, Nigerian Army has arrested 62 suspected oil thieves and deactivated 14 illegal refining sites in communities in Niger Delta region.
The troops also seized five boats, and confiscated over 350,000 litres of stolen petroleum products across their joint operation area.
In a statement by the Acting Deputy Director, 6 Division Army Public
Relations, Lt. Col. Danjuma Jonah, revealed that the achievement was made July 14 and 20, 2025 in Rivers, Bayelsa, Delta and Akwa Ibom states.
He said in a significant push to sustain the onslaught against oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and associated crimes in the region, the troops dismantled the illegal bunkering enclaves and disrupt their supply chains.
Danjuma said the feats were
achieved through various operations conducted in collaboration with other security agencies.
He said: "In Rivers State, around an abandoned wellhead at Joinkrama 4 in Ahoada West Local Government Area (LGA), troops deactivated six illegal refining sites.
"Six large ovens, reservoirs, and receivers containing approximately 300,000 litres of stolen crude oil and 21,000 litres of Automotive Gas Oil
(AGO), were handled in line with subsisting operational mandate. Other items recovered at the site included a generator set, welding machine, and several shovels".
At Obiafor in Ogba/Egbema/ Ndoni LGA (ONELGA), several illegal refining sites were dismantled. Three dug-out pits were discovered, two filled with over 5,700 litres of stolen crude and one containing unquantified stolen AGO.
with low-carbon sources, particularly hydrogen.
In line with this, Abdullahi who was represented by the Director, Renewable Energy, ECN, Ibrahim Sulu, stated that in fulfillment of the commission’s primary mandate, it has drafted a national hydrogen policy and strategy, a document which provides a comprehensive framework.
Part of the document, he said, is the implementation of a roadmap that seeks to attract $5 billion in private investments, create 500,000 new jobs by 2035, including manufacturing, tech and logistics as well as $10 billion
annual revenue from hydrogen exports. He said: “The policy recommended the following phased activities to be developed and implemented by the National Hydrogen Council…Phase 2 (2028–2035) Scale hydrogen exports via Lekki Port. Attract $5 billion in private investments. Economic & Environmental Impact Projections: 500,000 new jobs by 2035 (manufacturing, tech, logistics). GDP: $10 billion annual revenue from hydrogen exports. Emissions: 20 per cent reduction in industrial CO2 by 2030.”
IACE Seeks PPP Arrangements to Bridge Nigeria's Annual N7tn Infrastructure Gap
Inducts 138 persons into organisation
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
The Institute of Appraisers and Cost Engineers (IACE), a division of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) has reaffirmed Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangements as a vital mechanism for infrastructure financing and delivery, putting the country's annual deficit at over N7 trillion.
At the end of its 2025 national technical conference in Abuja, IACE attributed the mixed success of PPPs to issues like cost overruns, delays, and financial viability concerns, identifying robust cost engineering as key to unlocking the full potential of the partnerships.
The conference themed: “Optimising Cost Engineering, Valuation, and Engineering Economy for a Sustainable Future", was hosted by IACE Chairman, Ike Iwenofu and chaired by the President of the NSE, Margaret Oguntala, while the lead presenter was Dr. Wilson Alli.
A communiqué released after, said the said conference deliberated on the critical role of cost engineering, valuation engineering, and engineering economy, underscoring these disciplines as foundational tools for every engineer, essential for the profession's relevance and sustainable endeavors.
According to the group, this necessitates their integration into engineering curricula to foster professional excellence, improve decision-making, achieve cost savings,
and enable effective risk management for optimal project outcomes and reduce waste.
“Participants acknowledged Nigeria's persistent annual infrastructure deficit, estimated at over N7.1 trillion, reaffirming PPPs as a vital mechanism for project financing and delivery. Discussions highlighted the mixed success of PPPs due to issues like cost overruns, delays, and financial viability concerns. Robust Cost Engineering (CE) was identified as fundamental to unlocking the full potential of PPPs for Nigeria's infrastructure transformation.
“Systemic weaknesses, including inadequate cost estimation, poor risk allocation, insufficient life-cycle costing, and misapplication of value engineering, contribute significantly to project failures.
“Cost engineering applies scientific principles and techniques, manages project costs through estimation, analysis, control, value engineering, and risk management, optimising costs throughout the project's lifecycle for enhanced accuracy, savings, improved decision-making, and reduced execution risk,” the IACE added.
Besides, the organisation underscored the importance of prudent financial decision-making, highlighting the critical role of hedging and financial risk management in combating losses and mitigating uncertainties in capital-intensive projects.
L-R: President, DANGOTE Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote; Spanish former tennis player/ex-ATP No. 1, Rafael Nadal and Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu at the E1 Racing championship in Monaco at the weekend
SEND-FORTH DINNER FOR ENGR. AHMADU KIDA MUSA...
L-R: Dr. Bolaji Ogundare, Group Executive Director, Pan Ocean and the Newcross Companies; Alhaji Aminu Yusufu, Non-Executive Director, Pan Ocean and the Newcross Companies; Engr. Ahmadu
Enugu Electricity Regulatory Commission Issues New Tariff, Crashes Band A
Freezes Bands B, C, D and E Tariffs
Gideon Arinze in Enugu Enugu State Electricity Regulatory Commission (EERC) has issued a new tariff to MainPower Electricity Distribution Limited, the utility company that succeeded Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC), for electricity distribution in the state, reviewing electricity
cost for Band A from N209/kWh (per kilowatt-hour) to N160 kWh, effective from August 1, 2025. That was contained in the Commission's Order No. EERC/2025/003, titled, “Tariff Order for MainPower Electricity Distribution Limited 2025,” issued by the commission at the weekend.
EERC said its decision
NDLEA Arrests Wanted Drug Baron on the Run for Seven Years
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
Operatives of a special operations unit of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have arrested a wanted 60-year-old alleged drug kingpin, Okpara Chigozie, who had been on the run for seven years.
A statement by the spokesman of the anti-narcotics agency, Femi Babafemi, said Okpara was caught attempting to ship large quantities of cocaine and methamphetamine to the Southeast and other parts of the country.
He disclosed that Okpara has been on the wanted list of NDLEA since 2019 and was eventually nabbed at his hideout at 72 Micheal Ojo Street, Isheri in Ojo area of Lagos state on Sunday 13th July 2025 following the interception of some of his consignments at 5:45am same day at Ilasamaja along ApapaOshodi expressway.
Babafemi said in the early morning operation, a team of NDLEA officers acting on credible intelligence arrested one of Okpara’s couriers, 51-year-old Achebe Nnamdi while heading to Onitsha, Anambra state in a white Toyota Sienna vehicle.
He said the agency’s sniffer dogs were subsequently brought in to search the vehicle after which 7.6 kilogrammes of cocaine and 900 grammes of methamphetamine were found hidden in body compartments of the space bus, adding that a follow up operation was promptly carried out at Okpara’s hideout in Isheri where additional 1.8 kilogrammes cocaine and 1.3 kilogrammes methamphetamine were recovered from his residence.
Babafemi said at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) Ikeja Lagos, NDLEA operatives in a joint operation with Aviation Security personnel of the
Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) last Wednesday recovered 7,790 pills of tramadol and rohypnol from the luggage of an Italy-bound passenger, Omoregie Nice Uyiosa.
The suspect who was going to Italy via Istanbul on Turkish Airlines flight claimed he purchased the drugs himself, hoping to sell them in Italy at higher prices.
In another arrest at the Lagos airport, NDLEA operatives at the export shed last Thursday intercepted 17 parcels of skunk, a strain of cannabis, weighing 1.7 kilogrammes concealed in packs of popular cereal, Golden Morn, going to Pakistan as part of a consolidated cargo.
A suspect, Chioba Uchenna who presented the consignment for shipment was arrested.
In Lagos, NDLEA operatives on Saturday raided Sarah Sam Hotels located at 115 Ogudu road in Kosofe where different party drugs are being distributed and sold.
The raid followed credible intelligence and surveillance which confirmed a suspect Obayemi Oyetade as the arrowhead of the drug network. Babafemi said at the time of the operation, 1.3 kilogrammes Chocolate Cannabis, 900 grammes of gummies and 22.9 grammes of skunk were recovered from Obayemi’s room in the hotel, which is a 20-room facility run as a family business, housing his mother and siblings. Other items recovered from the hotel include three vehicles.
He said three suspects: Onyeka Madu, Monday Nwadishi and Emmanuel Madu were on Saturday arrested during an intelligence-led raid at Narayi High Cost area of Chikun Local Government Area, Kaduna State, where 742.866 kilogrammes of skunk, and Colorado, a synthetic strain of cannabis were seized from them.
from N209 to N160 Per Kwh
was cost reflective, insisting that tariff must reflect power generation subsidy by the federal government for the benefit of electricity consumers.
It predicated its action on the Enugu State Electricity Law 2023, which empowers the commission to regulate the activities of operators in power generation, transmission, and distribution in and exclusively for the state.
The law, signed by Governor Peter Mbah in September 2023, is pursuant to the 2023 constitutional amendment, which firmly established the legislative authority of the states on electricity matters within their states. This was followed by the passage of the Electricity Act 2023, that repealed the Electric Power Sector Reform Act, 2005, and introduced major changes, such as the separation of distribution and supply operations, and
empowers states to regulate their own electricity markets.
Further clarifying the development, EERC Chairman, Chijioke Okonkwo, said the reduction in tariff became imperative following the commission's review of MainPower’s tariff and licence applications as the new subsidiary company (SubCo) that operates in Enugu State.
Okonkwo stated, “We reviewed their entire costs, using our Tariff Methodology Regulations 2024, and the supporting Distribution Tariff Model to get an average price of N94.
“The price is low because the federal government has been subsidising electricity generation cost which charges only N45 out of the actual cost of N112. That was how we came about the average tariff of N94 as cost reflective tariff at our level as a subnational electricity market.
“Breaking this across the various tariff bands means that Band A will be paying N160 while other Bands B, C, D, and E are frozen.
“Band A, at N160 will help MainPower to manage the rate shock, and if the subsidy is removed, the savings will assist them in stabilising the tariff over a defined period of time. Nevertheless, at all times, the tariff will be cost reflective and will not require any state subsidy.”
He noted, however, that the N160 Band A tariff could be difficult to sustain should the federal government remove the generation tariff subsidy currently being enjoyed by electricity consumers throughout the country, as tariffs would most likely rise beyond these new rates.
“But until then, it is only right that Ndi Enugu - Band A customers enjoy the reduced
tariff effective August 1, 2025," the Commission's Chairman added. EERC also said it had put in place monitoring and evaluation systems and guidelines to ensure MainPower’s compliance with service commitments so that its customers did not pay more for less power.
It said, “MainPower is obliged to publish daily on its website a rolling seven-day average daily hours of supply on each Bank A feeder no later than 9am of the next day.
“Where MainPower fails to deliver on the committed level of service on Band A feeder for two consecutive days, MainPower shall report this to the Commission within 24 hours.
“Where MainPower fails to meet the committed service level to a Band A feeder for seven consecutive days, the feeder shall be automatically downgraded to the recorded level of supply.”
Appeal Court Nullifies CAC’s Registration of ‘KPMG Professional Services’
Upholds KPMG Nigeria’s exclusive name rights
Wale Igbintade
The Court of Appeal, Lagos Division, has nullified the registration of the business name, “KPMG Professional Services”, by the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), ruling in favour of KPMG Nigeria in a long-running dispute over name rights.
In a unanimous decision delivered on July 10, the appellate court granted all four reliefs sought by KPMG Nigeria against CAC (First Respondent) and KPMG Professional Services (Second Respondent).
Justice Abdullahi Bayero delivered the lead judgement, with Justices Abimbola O. Obaseki-Adejumo (presiding) and Abubakar Mahmud Talba concurring.
The court held that CAC’s registration of the second respondent’s name was improper and misleading under Section 662(1)(d) of the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA) 1990, now Section 852 of CAMA 2020.
KPMG Nigeria, comprising its audit, tax, and consulting arms, had filed an originating summons in 2002 challenging CAC’s approval of a new entity using the name, “KPMG Professional Services.”
The firm argued that the name was deceptively similar to its own and capable of misleading the public.
In 2005, the Federal High Court dismissed KPMG Nigeria’s suit, stating that a purported merger between KPMG Nigeria and Akintola Williams Deloitte disqualified it from claiming exclusive rights to the name.
The court also upheld the second respondent’s counterclaim and ordered KPMG Nigeria’s name to be struck off the register.
However, the Court of Appeal overturned that decision, and held that the alleged merger was “inadequate and unsubstantiated”.
It ruled that newspaper reports relied upon by the lower court did not constitute credible evidence of a merger, nor did they prove that
KPMG Nigeria had ceased to exist or relinquished its naming rights.
Bayero stated, “Only a valid merger agreement can define the nature and extent of a merger. What is shown here, at best, is a functional collaboration or partial merger involving just one component, KPMG Audit - which itself is not supported by binding legal documents.”
The appellate court further stated that KPMG Nigeria had longestablished registration of entities using the KPMG name, including KPMG Audit (1969), KPMG Tax Consultants (1990), and KPMG Consulting.
It held that CAC violated CAMA by registering a similar name without first deregistering the pre-existing ones.
Quoting the law, the court observed, “The Registrar of the First Respondent essentially slept on its duty not to register a business name, which is identical with or similar to one already registered under which business is or will be carried on.
“There is no statutory requirement for a third party to first petition the CAC before seeking judicial redress. The Fst Respondent’s failure to perform its statutory duty justifies the Appellant’s resort to the courts.” Citing authorities, including Niger Chemist Ltd v. Nigeria Chemists Ltd (1961), Automobile Association of Nigeria v. Registrar of Business Names (1968), and Ewing v. Butter Corp. (1917), the court allowed the appeal and granted all the declarations sought. Bayero added, “The Registrar cannot assign a business name already held by another entity. One cannot give what one does not have – nemo dat quod non habet.”
The Court of Appeal declared that the second respondent, KPMG Professional Services, was not entitled to use or register the name. The court also ordered CAC to remove the second respondent from its register and cancel its certificate of registration.
Musa Kida, current Chairman of NNPC Limited, and Mr. Steven Fadeyi, Group Managing Director, Pan Ocean and the Newcross Companies, at the send-forth dinner for Engr. Ahmadu Kida Musa organised by Pan Ocean and the Newcross Companies in Lagos…recently
$40M FACILITY FROM FCMB TO FUND THE CONSTRUCTION OF PHASE 1... L-R: Executive Director, Wholesale Banking, First City Monument Bank (FCMB), Mr. Obaro Odeghe; General Manager, ITB Nigeria, Mr. Antoine Nasr; General Counsel, FCMB, Mrs. Funmi Adedibu; Managing Director/CEO of the bank, Mrs. Yemisi Edun; President of TotalEnergies Staff Housing Cooperative Multipurpose Society Ltd. (TEHC), Mr. Louis Ogbeifun; the Treasurer, Mr. Sebastian Okpere; Group Managing Director, ITB Limited, Mr. Gaby Massoud, and Sales, Marketing and Development Director, Eko Atlantic City, Mr. Pierre Edde, at the signing of a $40 million facility from FCMB to fund the construction of Phase 1 of TEHC’s Louisville residential apartments in Eko Atlantic City, Lagos…recently
Air Peace’s Abuja-Heathrow Fares Activated, Round Trip Tickets Start from N1 Million
Chinedu Eze
Nigeria's major carrier, Air Peace Limited, has opened its fares on the much awaited Abuja-London
Heathrow operations, with fares starting from N1 million.
In a press statement by the airline's spokesperson, Mr. Efe Osifo-Whiskey, the airline said
NGO Inaugurates Borehole in Niger, Empowers Women Miners
A Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), the Nigerian Indigenous Women in Mining and Natural Resources Organisation (NIWIMNRO), has commissioned a newly-constructed borehole in Kuchiko-Camp, Suleja Local Government Area of Niger State, bringing relief to residents who have battled water scarcity for years.
The borehole project, commissioned at the weekend, is part of NIWIMNRO’s efforts to empower women in the artisanal mining sector and improve living conditions in mining communities.
Before the intervention, residents of Kuchiko-Camp, including women miners, relied on contaminated water from mining sites for drinking and household use, a practice that exposed them to severe health risks.
Speaking at the commissioning, the team lead of NIWIMNRO, Felicia Dairo, said the project was borne out of the organisation’s engagement with women miners who raised concerns about the lack of safe drinking water.
“We had a capacity-building training for women in Abuja. After that training, during an interactive session, they told us about the challenges they go through, especially in terms of water,” she said.
According to her, a visit to the community revealed that the same water used to wash minerals was also being consumed by residents.
“We all know that is not safe and comes with health hazards. As an organisation championing gender inclusion, sustainability and growth in the mining sector, we decided to come together to see how we can support these women and by extension, the entire community,” Dairo said.
She described the borehole as a
life-changing project.
“If you ask me, we brought life to the community. Water is life, and that is what we brought to KuchikoCamp,” she added.
Dairo said the project was carried out solely by the organisation, with support from community leaders and officials from the federal and state ministries of solid minerals who helped identify the location and facilitated engagements with the people.
She noted that while there are prospects for partnerships, the organisation has not yet received financial support from any partner.
“We have potential partners and we are looking forward to supporting our initiative. But currently, it is just the organisation that pulled the resources together,” she said.
The Assistant Director at the Niger State Ministry of Soil and Mineral Development, Halima Ibrahim, who is also the Artisan and Small-Scale Mining Officer in the state, said the ministry collaborated with NIWIMNRO to identify the community’s needs.
“When we visited, we saw the water they were using for mining activities, and we were told that was the same water they used for domestic activities. That prompted their eagerness to do something for the community,” she said.
Ibrahim said the ministry continues to support informal miners, especially women, by helping them form cooperatives and facilitating their formalisation into the mining sector.
“Globally, the word ‘informal mining’ is more appropriate. The government sees the potential for wealth generation and employment through these miners. We are working to formalise their activities rather than criminalise them,” she said.
the fares have been activated on direct international flight services from Abuja to both London Heathrow and London Gatwick Airports, effective October 26, 2025.
Air Peace said it is the first Nigerian carrier to offer direct services from Abuja to both of London's major international airports, further solidifying its role as a leader in regional and intercontinental aviation.
Travellers originating from any of Air Peace’s domestic
destinations across Nigeria can now book through fares via Abuja to either Heathrow or Gatwick using a single ticket, eliminating the need for multiple bookings or baggage re-checks, it said.
Travellers from London can access multiple destinations across Nigeria using a single Air Peace ticket through Abuja every morning. These destinations are: Lagos, Port Harcourt, Enugu, Benin, Warri, Owerri, Kano, Yola, Gombe and Asaba, for
now. Other destinations will be added later, the statement added.
The airline said it would provide a distinct competitive advantage, enabling passengers to travel between Nigeria and the United Kingdom with greater ease, efficiency, and value, due to the possibility of choosing multiple cities' entry and exit points.
It has also introduced the cheapest fares ever, starting from N1 million round trip with a huge baggage allowance, Air
Third Lateef Jakande
State governments, dignitaries and media chiefs have confirmed attendance at the Third Lateef Jakande Memorial Lecture, organised by the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), in honour of the former governor of Lagos State.
The Lateef Jakande Memorial Lecture holds on Wednesday, July 23, at Edmark D'Podium International Event Centre, 31 Aromire Road by Adeniyi Jones Road, Ikeja, Lagos, starting from 10am.
A statement by NGE, signed by Eze Anaba and Onuoha Ukeh, President and General Secretary, respectively, said
Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, will deliver this year's lecture, with the theme, "Journalism and the Challenges of Nation-Building in a Multi-Ethnic Society."
The statement said Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, will be Special Guests of Honour.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mallam Mohammed Idris, will be Guest of Honour, with other Special Guests, such as Founder of United Nigeria Airlines, Professor Obiora Okonkwo, and Chairman, Air
Peace Airlines, Dr. Allen Onyema. Media chiefs, such as former presidential adviser, Chief Femi Adesina; Managing Director of Punch Newspapers, Joseph Adeyeye; Director of News, Television Continental (TVC), Stella Din-Jacobs; and former Commissioner for Information, Osun State, Mrs. Funke Egbemode, will serve as discussants on the main paper.
The statement said Proprietors, Managing Directors, Editors-in-Chief, and editors of Nigerian newspapers will be present at the lecture.
The Lateef Jakande Memorial
Peace added.
"With a proven track record of challenging the status quo and pioneering transformative routes in African aviation, Air Peace continues to raise the bar with the announcement of the Abuja–London service.
“This latest offer, round-trip fares starting from just N1 million and unmatched domestic connectivity is yet another bold step in democratising international air travel for Nigerians," the statement said.
Lecture series aims to celebrate Alhaji Jakande's remarkable contributions to journalism, public service, and governance.
“His legacy serves as a model for future generations, and we are proud to continue this tradition,” the statement said. The lecture series began in 2023 with a paper delivered by Chief Felix Adenaike, Fellow of NGE, and continued in 2024 with Prince Nduka Obaigbena, Chairman of THISDAY/Arise TV, delivering a paper on the theme, "Rapidly Changing Media Landscape: Survival Strategies."
Tinubu Rejoices with Ex-police Affairs Minister, Maj Gen David Jemibewon at 85
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
President Bola Tinubu has congratulated the former Minister of Police Affairs, Major-General David Medayese Jemibewon, (rtd), on his 85th birthday.
General Jemibewon served the nation in many capacities as a military officer including military governor of the Western State from August 1975 to March 1976, as General Officer Commanding First Infantry Division, and later as Adjutant General of the Nigerian Army.
After retiring from the army, General Jemibewon returned to school to study law and later practised law.
He served as Minister of Police Affairs from 1999 to 2000 and is credited with undertaking specific reforms in the force.
The president, in a release issued on Sunday by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, joined the family and friends of the retired general to celebrate this special occasion.
President Tinubu commended General Jemibewon for his decades of service to the nation and salutes his courage, discipline, and patriotism. He prayed that God Almighty will keep the General in good health and grant him many more years.
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
SIDELINES OF AFREXIMBANK ANNUAL MEETING...
DSS DG Recommits to Human Rights, Frees 12 Suspects, Pays Compensation
Linus Aleke in Abuja Director-General of Department of State Services (DSS), Mr. Tosin Ajayi, on Saturday released a suspect who had been in the custody of the secret police since 2022, bringing to 12 the number of suspects released in July alone.
The gesture came two months after DSS paid N20 million as compensation to a Jos-based businessman mistakenly shot during a 2016 operation.
The agency said the moves were made in demonstration of Ajayi’s respect for human rights.
After ordering the release of Abdulyakini Salisu, the service tendered an apology to him. The director-general directed the service to pay Salisu N10 million as "initial compensation" and further support.
The initial compensation, security sources hinted, was an indication that Salisu might get more.
Sources quoted the director-general as saying the compensation was a gesture of remorse by DSS to the victim, who, before his arrest, operated a stone quarry on Zuba-Kaduna expressway.
Salisu, like a former detainee released by the director-general, was to enjoy free medical services at the DSS hospital for as long as he wished, Ajayi directed.
The sources disclosed that Salisu was the third celebrated case of several suspects set free by the secret police since Ajayi assumed office.
According to the sources, on July 1, the DSS boss ordered
the payment of an undisclosed amount running into several millions of Naira as compensation to 11 persons arrested in Osun State on terrorism-related charges.
The sources said Mohammed Adamu, Adamu Abubakar, Mohammed Bindi, and Baba Kura Mallam were among the 11 persons set free on July 1, 2024 and compensated by the DSS boss.
The sources further disclosed that the director-general had ordered that all officers involved in the embarrassing arrests of the released suspects should face disciplinary action.
Another source disclosed the case of Mohammed Ciroma Jr., a 400 Level Computer Science student at Modibbo Adama University, Yola. After reviewing
his case, disclosed the source, the director-general ordered the service to assist in the student's reinstatement at his school, with a promise to grant him full scholarship to be funded by the service.
Before the release of the 11 artisans in Osun State the DSS boss ordered the service to pay N20 million to one Jos-based businessman, who was mistakenly shot by DSS operatives on the trail of a notorious gunrunner.
The victim and the gunrunner bore similar names.
A top DSS officer, speaking on condition of anonymity, said, "When the committee set up by the DG drew his attention to the case of the artisans and the Jos-based businessman, among many other cases, he ordered the
ADC to Tinubu: Junior Diplomats Cannot Represent Nigeria, Appoint Ambassadors Now
African Democratic Congress (ADC) warned that President Bola Tinubu’s failure to appoint ambassadors to Nigeria’s foreign missions will have disastrous consequences for the country’s foreign relations and make Nigerians suffer abroad.
In a statement issued by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, ADC regretted that this was the longest Nigeria had gone without duly accredited ambassadors in any of its foreign missions. It said
if the embarrassing absence of ambassadors was allowed to continue, other countries would soon start to downgrade Nigeria and the citizens will bear the brunt.
ADC observed that the Tinubu administration’s refusal to appoint ambassadors after two years in office reflected the scale of its ambition for the country and its utter lack of understanding of what it took to govern an important country like Nigeria.
According to Abdullahi, “Since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu recalled Nigeria’s 109
ambassadors from across the world in 2023, none has been replaced, leaving our country no voice or representation when decisions are taken that affect our country and our citizens.
“A most recent consequence of this vacuum is the escalation of visa and other consular issues between Nigeria and the duo of the United States and UAE.
“Yet, the government has failed to demonstrate any urgency to remedy this embarrassing situation. Junior diplomats or charge de affairs cannot take the place of ambassadors, as
they are limited in access and recognition.
“This inexplicable absence of representation has affected the quality of our engagement and relationships with the countries hosting our missions all over the world, and if the government does not act fast to remedy this situation other countries may also start to downgrade their representation in Nigeria to the level charge de affairs as a form of protest at a time that Nigeria needs to put her best foot forward in pursuit of economic diplomacy.”
committee to expedite action on their cases.
“This led to the quick resolution of their cases from among the several cases before the committee.”
The officer added, "The DG gave a clear directive that he wouldn't mind the source of any information bordering on the plight of persons who were unjustly detained by the service.
"In fact, he ordered his public relations department to update him on reports - no matter the source - on persons who may have been unjustly detained or
unfairly treated by the DSS.
"When officers drew the DG's attention to a report on Salisu by Sahara Reporters, he immediately ordered the committee to confirm if Salisu's matter was among the several cases being investigated, and give him a detailed report within 48 hours.
"Upon realising via the report that Salisu's case was that of a mistaken identity of a man linked to kidnapping, the DG immediately ordered his release and, typically, initially compensated him with N10 million."
About 10,000 people are to receive free medical treatment during a three-day medical outreach organised by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in collaboration with the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) and the Eternity Ministry in association with another Ministry from the United States of America (USA).
The outreach, which is taking place at the CAN Secretariat in Bauchi, is
also teaching a few people on skills acquisition and entrepreneurship after which the beneficiaries will be empowered with a token amount to start up small businesses.
Leader of the Team from the USA, Tobe Momah, who is an Associate Professor of Family Medicine at the University of Mississippi Medical Center over the weekend, stated that he was inspired to come to Bauchi in 2025 for the annual mission trip.
"We normally spend three
days in a community doing free medical care, free surgeries, and showing the love of Jesus to the population. And Bauchi came to our mind. We reached out to the Christian Association of Nigeria, the Pentecostal Association of Nigeria, and Eternity Ministries, and Christian Medical Doctors Association of Bauchi."
"In Bauchi, we were able to develop a relationship, including the Nurses and the Students. Right now,
we have about 250-300 volunteers from Eternity Ministries, Christian Medical Doctors, Fellowship of Christian Nurses, and Christian Medical Doctors students.
“So, right now, we have dental surgery going on at a hospital. We have orthopedic surgery. We have general surgery. We have hysterectomies, myomectomies. And here in the CAN centre area, we are seeing patients free of charge, giving them medication.
Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has urged governments at all levels to create family-friendly policies, including affordable and accessible childcare, generous and flexible parental leave and promotion of fathers’ participation in care-giving to help prospective parents balance career and family goals.
UNFPA Executive Director, Dr. Natalia Kanem said this yesterday during the commemoration of the 2025 World Population Day with the theme: ‘Empowering Young People to Create the Families They Want in a Fair and Hopeful World’ organised by the state government.
She stated that ensuring access to sexual, reproductive health and rights is a cornerstone for sustainable, inclusive societies, adding that this would give them the hope for a better tomorrow supportive of their choices and protective of their rights and where they, and their children would thrive.
Represented by the Gender, Reproductive Health Analyst of UNFPA in Bauchi, Deborah Tabara, Kanem reiterated the commitment of the fund in partnering with the state government.
She said the partnership would harness the dividend of the state’s youthful population in developing programmes, strategies, plans, and budgets that promote inclusivity and equality.
“UNFPA remains an agency for reproductive Health and our mission is to deliver a world where all pregnancy is wanted, all maternal
birth safe and all young persons achieve their potential.
“Family-friendly policies including affordable and accessible childcare, generous and flexible parental leave, and promotion of fathers’ participation in care-giving can help prospective parents balance career and family goals.
“Investing in comprehensive sexuality education is another imperative that supports informed choices. Intergenerational understanding is crucial to build trust and strengthen solidarity and fairness across generations,” she said.
Also speaking, Commissioner for Budget, Economic Planning and Multilateral Coordination,Hajiya Amina Katagum, said that this year's theme called for considerations on the crucial role young people play globally, in Nigeria and in Bauchi state.
Represented by Abubakar Bununu, Special Adviser to Governor Bala Mohammed on multilateral coordination, Katagum added that it recommended that government and stakeholders listen to young people and respond to their needs and desires.
She explained that this would contribute positively to the development of their societies and create the families they want.
“It is our responsibility as governments, the private sector and other key stakeholders to build a more equitable, sustainable and caring world where young people are empowered to pursue the lives they want for themselves and their families,” she said.
Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi
Chuks Okocha in Abuja
L-R: Patience Okala, representative of the Honourable Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment; Dr. Amany Asfour, President, African Business Council; Bashorun J. K. Randle, Chairman, NEPAD Business Group Nigeria (NBGN); and Mr. Goodie Ibru, former Chairman, NBGN, at the recently held High-Level Business Forum on Operationalising the AfCFTA, on the sidelines of the Afreximbank Annual Meeting in Abuja, co-hosted by NBGN and ABR
PUBLIC NOTICE FEDERAL MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT
In accordance with the provisions of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Act CAP E12 LFN 2004, which makes it mandatory for proponents of all new major developmental activities to carry out Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) of their proposed projects, the Federal Ministry of Environment hereby announces twenty-one (21) working days Public Notice for information and comments on the draft ESIA report submitted by First Exploration and Petroleum Development Company Limited.
Brief Project Description:
The proposed project will entail the construction of a 25km gas export pipeline from First E&P's Anyala Field (PML 53) to the Offshore Gas Gathering System (OGGS) pipeline for onward supply to the Nigeria Liquified Natural Gas (NLNG) Plant in Bonny, Rivers State. The project is located shallow offshore, Niger Delta, Nigeria with dept ranging from 20-68m (66223 feet) and approximately 45km South of Bayelsa State coastline.
The Display Centers Are:
* Bayelsa State Ministry of Environment, Yenegoa,
* Federal Ministry of Environment office, Yenegoa, Bayelsa State.
* Federal Ministry of Environment, Environmental Assessment Department, Environment House Independence Way South, Central Business District, Abuja-F.C.T
* www.ead.gov.ng
Duration of Display:
st th Date: 21 July 18 August, 2025. Time: 8:00am-4:00pm Daily.
ALL COMMENTS SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE HONOURABLE MINISTER, FEDERAL MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT HEADQUARTERS, MABUSHI, ABUJA - FCT TH AND VIA info@ead.gov.ng ON OR BEFORE 25 AUGUST, 2025.
Signed PERMANENT SECRETARY For: Honourable Minister
GIN MARE LAUNCH...
Missing N6trn: SERAP, Others take Tinubu Govt to ECOWAS Court over
Chuks Okocha in Abuja Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) and four concerned Nigerians have filed a lawsuit against the government of President Bola Tinubu over “failure to publish the report of the forensic audit carried out on the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) which allegedly indicted high-ranking officials and politicians over missing N6 trillion from the commission between 2001 and 2019”.
Following allegations of grand corruption, the late President Muhammadu Buhari had in 2019 ordered a forensic audit of NDDC’s operations.
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, also recently alleged that the wife of a former minister collected N48 billion over 12 months “to train
Niger Delta women”.
The four concerned Nigerians in the suit are: Prince Taiwo Aiyedatiwa; Chief Jude Igbogifurotogu Pulemote; Ben Omietimi Tariye; and Princess Elizabeth Egbe.
In the suit number ECW/CCJ/ APP/35/25 filed last Friday before the ECOWAS Community Court of Justice in Abuja, the plaintiffs sought, “A declaration that the failure of the Nigerian government to publish the NDDC forensic report amounts to a fundamental breach of the country’s international human rights obligations.”
They also sought, “An order directing and compelling the Nigerian government to publish and ensure access to information to the NDDC forensic report which has been submitted to the government but remains shrouded in secrecy.”
The plaintiffs wanted, “An
Failure to Publish NDDC Report
order directing and compelling the Nigerian government to adopt and ensure effective measures to address transparency and accountability gaps in the spending of public funds budgeted for the NDDC.”
The plaintiffs argued, “The Nigerian government has violated our right to know the truth about the corruption allegations documented in the NDDC forensic report. The obstruction of the publication of the report is perpetrating impunity and the cover-up of the allegations documented in the report.”
According to them, “Implicit in freedom of expression is the public’s right to open access to information and to know what governments are doing on their behalf, without which truth would languish and people’s participation in government would remain fragmented and illusory.”
They said, “The Nigerian government has failed and refused
to publish the NDDC forensic report and has failed to provide any reasons or grounds for withholding the report from the plaintiffs and the Nigerian public.”
According to the plaintiffs, “The Nigerian government has the legal obligations to guarantee and ensure transparency and access to information regarding the NDDC forensic report as a component of the right to seek, receive, and impart information of all kinds.”
The suit filed on behalf of SERAP and the four concerned Nigerians by their lawyers, Kolawole Oluwadare, Kehinde Oyewumi, and Andrew Nwankwo, read in part, “There is an overriding public interest in the publication and disclosure of the NDDC forensic report.
“The Nigerian government’s continuing failure to publish the NDDC forensic report denies the
Senate to Natasha: Stay Away from National Assembly, No Court Ordered Your Recall
Sunday Aborisade in Abuja
The Senate has rejected claims by suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan that she was entitled to resume plenary duties on Tuesday this week, declaring that there was no court order mandating her immediate recall.
In a statement yesterday by the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, the Red Chamber
emphasised that recent judicial pronouncements have been deliberately misinterpreted by Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan. The Senate cautioned her against any attempt to force her way into the chamber under what it described as a "false pretext."
He said, “This is the third time we are stating clearly that there is no subsisting court order requiring the Senate to recall Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan before the conclusion of her suspension.”
The development followed the suspended Senator’s public assertion that a recent ruling by Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court, Abuja, entitled her to resume legislative functions.
However, the Senate has countered that this interpretation was legally inaccurate and not grounded in the actual content of the judgment.
According to Adaramodu, the court merely offered a
non-binding recommendation, suggesting that the Senate might consider reviewing its Standing Orders and reassess the suspension.
“There was no mandatory or positive order from the court compelling the Senate to recall the suspended Senator,” the Senate spokesman reiterated.
In addition, he said the court found Senator AkpotiUduaghan guilty of contempt of court.
Cybercrime: Troops Nab 183 Suspected Internet Fraudsters, Cultist
Linus Aleke in Abuja
The Nigerian Army yesterday said that troops of Headquarters 63 Brigade Nigerian Army, in collaboration with Sector 1 Joint Task Force South-south, Operation Delta Safe, apprehended no fewer than 183 suspected internet fraudsters during a raid in Warri, Delta State.
The Army also revealed that troops in Ezionun Community on July 19, 2025, nabbed one suspected cultist identified as Igbe Lucky Chika, a 26-year-old member of the Viking confraternity.
A statement by Acting Assistant
Director, Army Public Relations, 63 Brigade Asaba, Capt. Iliyasu Rijau, stated that the raid operation was carried out on July 19, 2025, following a tip-off on the activities of the suspected cybercriminals.
He noted that the suspects, all males between the ages of 16 and 29, were arrested in some apartments that served as an internet fraud training centre within the area.
"Items recovered from the suspects include 274 assorted laptops, 87 assorted mobile phones, nine laptop chargers, one table phone, and two WiFi devices. The suspects and the recovered items are currently
undergoing preliminary investigation, and necessary action will be taken," Rijau said.
The Nigerian Army assured the public that it will continue to work tirelessly to rid society of cybercrime and other forms of criminality.
In a related development, troops deployed to Ezionun Community on July 19, 2025, apprehended a suspected cultist identified as Igbe Lucky Chika, a 26-year-old member of the Viking confraternity.
Rijau disclosed that items recovered from him included a locally made firearm, an axe, a cutlass, two mobile phones, and a Toyota Camry with
in Delta
registration number Delta ASB 41 BE. Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect was a member of the Viking cult group and would be handed over to the relevant security agencies for further investigation and prosecution.
The Commander, 63 Brigade, Sector 1 Joint Task Force, Operation Delta Safe, Brigadier General MA Shonibare, applauded the troops for their professionalism and diligence in carrying out the operation.
He also urged the public to continue supporting the military in its efforts to maintain peace and security in the region.
plaintiffs the ability to truly study the report and hold the government to account, as well as damages the rule of law and violates the plaintiffs’ other rights.
“The information sought is not classified information for reasons of national security, as the NDDC forensic report relates to issues of transparency, accountability and human rights, which are covered under the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.”
The plaintiffs further said in the suit, “Access to public information is a fundamental human right protected by Article 9 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which require the Nigerian government to respect, promote and ensure it.
Nigeria has ratified both human rights treaties.
“Article 9 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights include a positive obligation on the Nigerian government to
allow the plaintiffs to access the NDDC forensic report under its custody and control.
“Access to information is a basic tool for building citizenship, and the plaintiffs have the right to participate in matters of public interest, such as pursuing accountability and justice for victims of corruption documented in the NDDC forensic report.
“These matters of public interest are part of the ideals underlying the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and other human rights treaties to which Nigeria is a state party.
“Access to information regarding the NDDC forensic report would enable the plaintiffs to effectively exercise their human rights and to hold the Nigerian government to account for the allegations documented in the report.”
The suit read further, “Public access to the NDDC forensic report would also promote democratic participation, and empower the citizens to hold the Nigerian government accountable and to control corruption in the country.
Michael Olugbode in Maiduguri
Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum, has charged all the chairmen of the 27 Local Government Area of the state to ensure the swift and effective implementation of the new N70,000 Naira minimum wage.
He gave this charge at the weekend during a high-level meeting held at the Government House, Maiduguri.
The meeting was attended by the state leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC) and Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), Zulum directed the LGA chairpersons to come up with a workable solution for the minimum wage implementation.
He said: “All local government chairpersons should go back to their localities, engage with relevant stakeholders and come up with a workable solution to the salary problem at the local government levels.”
The governor added that: “I want to stress that the payment of 72,000 minimum wage has been fully implemented for state civil servants and all primary school teachers in Borno.”
Zulum also warned against retrenchment of staff at the local government level, stating: “We are not in support of staff retrenchment at the local government level as I direct you to institute a mechanism that will lead to the implementation of the minimum wage.” He said: “I want to appeal to workers at the local government level to be patient. We are working closely with the 27 local governments to ensure the implementation of the minimum wage.”
Meanwhile, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry for Local Government and Emirate Affairs, Modu Alhaji Mustapha, stressed that implementing the NN70,000 minimum wage for local government staff has been stalled due to the over bloated number of employees.
L-R: Mr. Loannis Simos, Premium Spirits Director, Nigerian Bottling Company; Ms. Oyinkansola Afolabi, Brand Manager, Gin Mare; Mr. Goran Sladic, General Manager, Nigerian Bottling Company; Ms. Ibiyemi Dada, Senior Brand Manager, Brown Forman; and Mr. Chris Christodoulakis, National Sales Director, Nigerian Bottling Company, at the Gin Mare launch in Lagos…recently
C ongr atulations
ENGR. AMAKULO CHRISTOPHER CHUKWUEMEKA
(FNSE)
on your conferment as Fellow, Nigerian Society of Engineers.
Some are born leaders, while others are moulded by experience - you embody both. There is therefore no doubt that the Nigerian Society of Engineers (FNSE) fi n d s y o u e m i n e n t l y w o r t h y o f b e i n g conferred with its prestigious Fellowship.
This is a milestone, one that transcends the limitations of time, and illuminated by years of Commitment and visionary r e p r e s e n t a t i o n o f t h e e n g i n e e r i n g profession.
As you celebrate this achievements, we accompany you in joy and pride, asking that the Almighty continues to endow you with opportunities to amplify your influence in the engineering community and beyond.
This is an honour well deserved! Congratulations, Engr. Chris Amakulo, FNSE!
Best wishes from your friends
OSAMGBI ISICHEI (PhD.)
DR. (MRS.) ANI ODUNAYO B.
USMAN-DANGOTE AISHATU ISA (MRS.)
ABDULSALAM HAFSAT (MRS.)
REX ELEM (PhD.)
ANAS AMINAH NASIR (MRS.)
ENGR. FREDRICK IKIOUMOTON UGO.
IYELOLU ADENIKE BUKOLA (MRS.).
ENGR. BASHUA HAKEEM AJIBOLA.
SAM-JAMES L. BLESSING (MRS.)
ENGR. ALAYAKI GANIYU ABIODUN
AKANJI OLUSOLA
ANTHONY ANDEM
OBASIMBA MACDONALD OHAZURIKE
OLUNWA MARTHA CHINYERE (MRS.)
OBRAKO-IHEKWABA CHIOMA MBELAKPO ANITA (MRS.)
ENGR. KEKU GODBLESS
RUFUS-SPIFF MAUDLINE
CELEBRATING OUR MATRIARCH
With thanksgiving to God for the gift of our beloved mother, Ambassador Ibironke Olufunke Adefope, we announce her transition to glory on Monday 9th June 2025.
Events in her honour will take place as follows:
July 24th, 2025
Night of Tributes and Thanksgiving
Venue - Tutu’s Events Place, Opposite Ventura Mall, Samonda, Ibadan
Time - 5pm
July 25th, 2025
Commendation Service
Venue - All Saints Church Jericho, Ibadan
Time - 9am
Homegoing Service
Venue - Cathedral of St Peter, Aremo Ibadan
Time - 11am
Private Interment to follow (Immediate Family Only)
Reception to follow
Signed, The Children.
“The memory of the righteous is blessed”. Proverbs 10:7
www.thisdaylive.com
Monday July 21, 2025
opinion@thisdaylive.com
A NEW DAWN FOR NIGERIA'S SECRET POLICE?
Perhaps for the first time in decades, the DSS apologises for its mistakes, writes TAJUDEEN KAREEM
See page 21
LEADERSHIP IS INFRASTRUCTURE AYISAT AGBAJEOKUNADE argues why Africa must codify its future
See page 21
EDITORIAL
THE HAZARDS OF NOISE POLLUTION
Leaders who thrive are those who build unity through understanding, argues LINUS OKORIE
WHY GENERATIONAL INTELLIGENCE IS THE REAL LEADERSHIP SKILL
Walk into any office today, and you are likely to find a 24-year-old who just launched a side hustle sitting beside a 58-year-old who is been with the company for more than 23 years. One is asking for mental health days; the other quietly remembers when lunch breaks were optional. The tension between generations is not new, but the assumptions leaders make about them still are. And perhaps the most damaging one today is that millennials are impatient and Gen Z is lazy. Across every perspective worth considering, it is seen that this assumption is false. It is important to know that no generation has a monopoly on hard work, brilliance, or solid work ethic. If anything, the differences we see are rooted in context, not character. But when leaders fail to understand this, they misread their people, mishandle potential, and miss big opportunities. This is where generational intelligence comes in. And if you're not developing it, you’re already falling behind.
The workplace is louder than ever with complaints like "Gen Z doesn’t want to work" or "Millennials are entitled" or "Boomers don’t get it." These are generalizations, which are costing companies time, trust, and talent.
Look closer, and you will see the problem is not the people, but the leadership. More specifically, the leaders lack generational intelligence, the ability to understand and adapt to the values, communication styles, and motivations of different age groups.
Instead of cultivating cross-generational trust, too many leaders default to outdated mindsets. They ignore the nuances, and expect loyalty without listening. They reward old-school behaviors without acknowledging new-world realities. This evidently result into disengagement, quiet quitting, and open resentment.
In 2023, Pew Research reported that when you control for age and experience, work ethic is remarkably consistent across generations. This means Boomers were not inherently more driven in their 20s than Gen Z is today. They were just shaped by different events, expectations, and economies.
Deloitte data shows Gen Z is juggling multiple roles, self-learning new skills on YouTube, and rejecting workplace toxicity with the kind of backbone previous generations wish they had. They’re not avoiding hard work, but avoiding unnecessary work. And who can blame them?
Gallup’s 2024 report drives it home that engagement shoots up when leaders adapt to generational needs. It plummets when they try to force a one-size-fits-all culture. This clearly show that we have been wrongly labelling our talents with baseless societal stereotypes.
To lead with generational intelligence, you first need to know who is at the table:
Traditionalists, born between 1928 and 1945, are mostly retired but still present in boardrooms or advisory roles. They value consistency, hierarchy, and honour. They’ve seen wars and recoveries. They need and deserve our respect.
Baby Boomers, born from 1946 to 1964, grew up in an era of economic optimism. They equate
time on the job with dedication. Promotions are rewards for staying, not just doing.
Gen X, born between 1965 and 1980, are resourceful, self-directed, and skeptical of topdown leadership. Most of them were raised by busy parents who went to work or war, so they became fiercely independent by default. They also believe in job loyalty.
Millennials, born from 1981 to 1996, are purpose-driven, tech-savvy, and collaborative. They crave meaning, feedback, and growth. Often misunderstood as entitled, so they’ll leave fast if they’re not growing.
Gen Z, born between 1997 and 2012, are digital natives, socially conscious, and emotionally honest. They want work that aligns with their values, leaders who listen, and schedules that don’t crush their mental health.
Each of these groups brings something unique to the workplace. And none of them is better or worse; they are just different. The smartest leaders today are the ones who understands this uniqueness, work with everyone regardless of when they were born, and adjust their approach without losing the plot. This is generational intelligence.
It starts with curiosity. Instead of assuming your Gen Z employee is entitled, ask what matters to them. Instead of dismissing your Millennial manager’s need for feedback, consider how they grew up on instant connection. Instead of side-eyeing your Boomer colleague's need for structure, realize they associate process with excellence.
Work ethic is not generational, but it shows up differently. Gen Z won’t stay late to impress you. They will stay late if they believe in the mission. Boomers won’t ask for recognition. But it does not mean they don’t want it. Millennials may demand remote flexibility, not to slack off, but to work smarter.
Leaders with generational intelligence does not flatten these differences. They leverage them. They know that managing tasks is the bare minimum. The real job is in leading people who see the world differently.
At work, Millennials and Gen Z really prioritize clarity over confusion, autonomy over micromanagement, and purpose over empty perks. They don’t want to be babysat. They want to be believed in. If they’re not learning, growing, or
have their values clash with the company’s, then don’t expect them to stick around.
The habits that frustrate them are easy to spot. Leaders who overpromise and under-deliver. Managers who default to "because that’s how we’ve always done it." Cultures that reward tenure over impact. But here’s the upside: Millennials and Gen Z gives it everything when they feel safe, seen, and supported. They’ll show up with ideas, challenge what’s broken, and bring energy that sparks movement. But only if you meet them halfway.
First, drop the stereotypes. No one wants to be managed like a meme. Second, ask instead of assuming. For an example, if you want to know what motivates your team, then ask them. Create one-on-one check-ins that go beyond KPIs. Third, create space. Space for voice, failure, and feedback that actually changes things. Millennials and Gen Z are not afraid to speak up. They are only afraid that you won’t do anything with what they say.
Leading Millennials and Gen Z employees doesn’t mean bending over backwards. It means treating them like adults who bring something different to the table. You don’t have to become their friend. But you do need to stop being their critic.
Multigenerational teams are our reality in today’s workplace. The leaders who will thrive are those who don’t try to force uniformity, but build unity through understanding. Imagine the force of a workplace where Boomers bring stability, Gen X brings strategy, Millennials bring collaboration, and Gen Z brings innovation. This is what happens when generational intelligence becomes the norm, not the exception.
If you still think Millennials and Gen Z is lazy, then you’re not paying attention. But if you're willing to listen, adapt, and lead with intelligence, you will unlock the kind of workplace culture that every generation wants to be a part of. And maybe, just maybe, we will all stop blaming each other long enough to build something great together.
Okorie MFR is a leadership development expert spanning 30 years in the research, teaching and coaching of leadership in Africa and across the world. He is the CEO of the GOTNI Leadership Centre.
Perhaps for the first time in decades, the DSS apologises for its mistakes, writes TAJUDEEN
KAREEM
A NEW DAWN FOR NIGERIA'S SECRET POLICE?
In the dark corridors of Nigeria's most secretive security agency, a quiet revolution is unfolding. Where once the Department of State Services (DSS) operated in shadows with little accountability, a new leadership philosophy is emerging—one that places human dignity alongside national security.
The transformation began with a simple but profound gesture: an apology. When Director General Oluwatosin Ajayi ordered the release of Abdulyakini Salisu last Saturday, along with a N10 million compensation package, he wasn't merely correcting a mistake. He was signalling a fundamental shift in how Nigeria's premier intelligence agency views its relationship with the citizens it serves.
Salisu's story reads like a cautionary tale of security overreach. A businessman who operated a stone quarry along the Zuba-Kaduna expressway, he found himself swept into the DSS dragnet in 2022, a victim of mistaken identity in a kidnapping investigation. For two years, he languished in detention while his business crumbled and his family wondered if they would ever see him again.
"We are fallible because we are humans," Ajayi told his officers, words that would have been unthinkable from previous DSS leadership.
"But whenever we realize our mistakes, we shall be man enough to own up, apologize, and where possible, pay compensation."
This philosophy has translated into unprecedented action. In the past two months alone, the DSS has released 12 suspects and paid out millions in compensation. The most dramatic case involved 11 individuals arrested in December, last year, at Ilesa, Osun State on terrorism charges, originally suspected of being Boko Haram operatives learning to manufacture explosives. All were released on Saturday with substantial financial compensation after investigations revealed the arrests were unfounded.
The financial commitment is staggering by Nigerian standards. Beyond Salisu's N10 million and the Jos businessman who received N20 million for being mistakenly shot in 2016, the agency has given financial compensation to the Osun detainees. These aren't token gestures—they represent a serious acknowledgment of harm caused and resources redirected from operations to restitution.
Most telling is the case of Mohammed Ciroma, a 400-level Computer Science student at Modibbo Adama University, Yola, who was among those wrongfully detained. Not only was he released and compensated, but the DSS has committed to funding his complete education through a full scholarship. It's a gesture that transforms a victim into a beneficiary, turning institutional failure into individual opportunity.
The reforms extend beyond financial compensation to systemic changes.
Ajayi has established a review committee to examine all cases inherited from previous leadership, created a 48-hour response protocol for investigating reported injustices, and ordered his public relations department to monitor media reports about potential abuses regardless of source.
"The DG wouldn't mind the source of any information bordering on the plight of persons who were unjustly detained," disclosed a senior DSS officer who spoke anonymously. When Sahara Reporters published Salisu's story, Ajayi immediately ordered an investigation rather than dismissing it as hostile media coverage.
The operational philosophy has shifted as well. DSS operatives no longer publicly display weap-
ons, reflecting Ajayi's belief that effective security work should be covert rather than theatrical. Officers involved in wrongful arrests now face disciplinary action—a level of internal accountability previously absent.
This transformation aligns with President Bola Tinubu's directive that no citizen should suffer human rights abuse under his administration.
But Ajayi's approach goes beyond political compliance to embrace a fundamental reconceptualization of security work. Where previous DSS leadership might have viewed accountability as weakness, Ajayi frames it as professional responsibility.
The contrast with past practices is stark. Nigeria's security agencies have long operated with virtual impunity, treating citizens as potential threats rather than people to protect. Human rights organizations have documented arbitrary detention, torture, and extrajudicial killing for decades, with little consequence for perpetrators.
What makes Ajayi's reforms particularly significant is their proactive nature. Rather than responding only to court orders or public pressure, the DSS is voluntarily identifying and correcting past mistakes. The agency isn't claiming innocence—it's accepting responsibility and making amends.
Critics might argue that compensation cannot undo years of wrongful detention or restore destroyed livelihoods. They're right. But in a country where security agencies rarely acknowledge error, much less compensate for it, these gestures represent a seismic shift in institutional culture.
The ultimate test will be sustainability. Can these reforms survive the test of time? Will the compensation culture persist when public attention wanes?
Most importantly, will the preventive measures— better intelligence gathering, improved oversight, enhanced training—reduce future mistakes?
For now, Abdulyakini Salisu is free, his bank account heavier by N10 million, with access to medical care at DSS facilities. Mohammed Ciroma can complete his education with government funding.
These individual stories of redemption hint at something larger: the possibility that Nigeria's security apparatus can evolve from predator to protector, from threat to shield. In the secretive world of intelligence, such transparency feels revolutionary.
Whether this paradigm shift becomes permanent depends on institutional ommitment, public vigilance, and leadership continuity. But for the first time in decades, Nigeria's secret police are practicing accountability rather than just preaching it.
Kareem
is a public policy analyst in Abuja
AYISAT
AGBAJE-OKUNADE argues why Africa must codify its future
LEADERSHIP IS INFRASTRUCTURE
If bad leadership is Africa’s oldest problem, why haven’t we institutionalized a solution? For decades, conferences, headlines, and think tank reports have echoed the same refrain: that Africa’s development is held hostage by poor leadership. We cite corruption, policy inconsistency, and weak institutions as the culprits, yet we seldom ask how leaders arrive in power so unprepared to govern in the first place.
The truth is, Africa doesn’t suffer from a leadership vacuum. It suffers from a leadership pipeline problem. Across the continent, there is little structure in place to deliberately educate, prune, and prepare future leaders for the civic, ethical, and technical complexities of leadership. We continue to replace leaders, hoping for different outcomes. But leadership is not a product of elections alone; it is a function of design. If we want better leadership, we must build systems that consistently produce better leaders. That means embedding leadership development not just in classrooms or workshops, but in law, where it gains the protection, permanence, and funding it needs to survive.
The depth of the leadership deficit: Africa’s leadership challenge is not anecdotal; it’s structural and well-documented. According to the Ibrahim Index of African Governance (IIAG), over half of African countries have shown stagnation or decline in the areas of political participation, rule of law, and government accountability over the last decade. Despite moments of progress, the overall trend points to institutional fragility rather than resilience. The issue is not just who is in power, but how unprepared public leaders are to govern in a world of growing complexity.
This reveals a painful irony: Africa is rich in youth, talent, and aspiration, yet poor in the systems required to translate that promise into effective leadership. In most countries, there is no formal, legally grounded structure to identify, train, and incubate future publicsector leaders. Civic education is patchy and until that changes, Africa’s leadership crisis will persist, regardless of who holds office.
Why education and service must be central to leadership formation: Leadership in the public sphere requires institutional intelligence. While academic achievement is important, degrees do not automatically confer civic wisdom. They do not teach how to navigate trade-offs in public policy, how to build institutional trust, or how to implement reform amidst political complexity.
Across the world, high-performing governments institutionalize this blend of education and service.
In Singapore, the Civil Service College ensures that leadership development begins early, linking career progression with training in policy and governance. India’s LBSNAA produces Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officers who undergo rigorous leadership education, scenario planning, and ethical instruction. France’s ENA (now replaced by INSP) historically served a similar purpose: producing technocrats grounded in national development priorities.
Africa has the talent to build its equivalents. But without laws, mandates, and funding streams, these efforts will remain fragmented and unsustainable.
The Codification of the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy: In 2022, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu launched the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy (LJLA) as a structured solution to a growing problem: the widening gulf between public leadership and leadership readiness. LJLA set out to provide young professionals with direct immersion in the machinery of government, while grounding them in ethics, service, and systemic thinking.
The LJLA model is built around a 12-month immersive fellowship. Fellows are competitively selected and embedded within ministries, departments, and agencies across Lagos State. They attend highlevel policy briefings and contribute to the design and implementation of public programs. Their experience is supplemented with structured learning modules covering public administration, budgeting, law, strategic communications, and systems design.
What sets LJLA apart is not just its proximity to power, but its intellectual rigor and civic orientation. Fellows participate in policy debates, community engagement, and international policy trips, such as the 2024 and 2025 benchmarking visits to India and Singapore. These trips offered fellows an avenue to analyse how other nations build enduring systems and return home to reflect on local adaptation.
June 2025 marked a defining moment for the academy. The Lagos State Government signed the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy into law, officially transitioning it into a statutory institution. The law establishes a formal governance structure, including a board with mandated gender diversity, and secures the academy’s legal continuity beyond political terms. While fellow selection criteria have been consistently applied in practice, codification signals that such frameworks are expected to remain transparent, merit-based, and institutionally protected.
Why does this matter? Because leadership development, when left to informal initiatives or short-term programmes, is vulnerable to shifting political priorities or outright neglect. By codifying LJLA, Lagos State has sent a clear signal: that the business of grooming future leaders is as vital as the physical infrastructure they will manage. Codification transforms leadership into something structural, durable, and nonnegotiable. This is how Africa protects its future— by making leadership permanent.
Codifying Leadership Pipelines Across Africa Africa is home to the world’s youngest population, with over 60% of its citizens under the age of 25. Without deliberate pipelines, this vast talent pool is often left disengaged, unemployed, or recruited into informal patronage networks rather than empowered to lead public transformation.
A few countries have begun experimenting. Rwanda’s National Leadership Institute (NLI) offers high-level training to public officials, Ghana’s National Service Scheme mobilises youth in leadership roles, and Kenya’s Leadership Internship Programme provides entry-level experience.
What these models offer, the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy amplifies with its legal codification. When a leadership development program is enshrined in law, it gains protection from political turnover, formal oversight, and consistent funding. Imagine if every African country embedded a national civic fellowship into law: a program that selects promising young citizens through transparent, merit-based processes; immerses them in real government functions; provides ethics and policy education; and measures long-term civic impact. This is not idealism. It is institutional design, and it is long overdue.
Mrs. Agbaje-Okunade is Executive Secretary, Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy
Editor,
Editorial Page PETER
ISHAKA
Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com
THE HAZARDS OF NOISE POLLUTION
The authorities may do well to enforce the law
Last month, the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) intensified its clampdown on environmental violations, sealing off several facilities across the mainland over persistent noise pollution, and other infractions. According to the agency that has from time to time, sealed some hospitality facilities and worship centres, noise pollution has become a perennial problem that is posing a serious threat to the sanity, stability and peace of mind of the state’s residents. We believe the Lagos authority is on the right path in acting against those causing noise pollution. We encourage other states to pay similar attention, particularly to enforce existing laws or to promulgate regulations for the good of all.
Scientists have determined that noise, ordinarily, is not a bad thing. But it becomes a pollutant in the environment when it rises to unbearable levels. In Nigeria, noise specifically emanates from electricity generating sets at home and offices, and from indistinct high volume music blaring at street-sides as vendors of all sorts compete for attention. Noise also emanates from vehicle engine and horns in traffic, construction sites, etc. But the real purveyors of noise are the religious organisations that have, in a bid to outdo one another, become a nuisance in most urban and rural areas across the country. We believe that people can worship their God without disturbing the peace of others in the solitude of their homes and offices.
to health. In several communities across the country, churches, mosques, hotels, event centres, lounges, clubs and party organisers tune their sounds to high heavens without any regard for the convenience or well-being of others.
Experts are concerned that pollution worsens spirals underlying health issues, particularly cardiovascular challenges like blood pressure levels and stress related diseases
T H I S D AY
EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU
DEPUTY EDITOR WALE OLALEYE
MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO
DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU
CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI
EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA
GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU
DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE
Meanwhile, experts are concerned that pollution worsens spirals underlying health issues, particularly cardiovascular challenges like blood pressure levels and stress related diseases, sleeping disorders, fatigue, as well as hearing problems. It should also be a source of concern that regardless of robust regulations the federal government instituted to curb noise pollution, there has been lack of will to enforce them. For instance, there is the National Environmental (Noise Standards and Control) Regulations of 2009 that has all manner of provisions which the government believes will enthrone a healthy environment for all, the tranquility of their surroundings and their psychological well-being. The regulation prescribes the maximum permissible noise levels, a facility or activity to which a person may be exposed, for the control of noise and for mitigating measures for the reduction of noise.
It is unfortunate that Nigerians are forced to adapt to unbearable noise levels in their environment, even at the risk of their mental and physical health. The World Health Organisation (WHO) sees noise pollution as one of the most dangerous environmental threats
DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI
SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH
ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI
CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI
DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO
TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com
In all these rules, the government stipulates maximum permissible noise levels from a facility in the general environment. There are exemptions for those who can prove that high noise level from their facility is inevitable. But they are required to apply for a permit to emit noise in excess of the permissible levels. Besides, whoever considers that the noise levels being emitted, or likely to be emitted, may be higher than the permissible levels are expected to complain in writing.
To engender a tranquil environment, government at all levels must begin to enforce their laws on noise pollution.
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.
THE LEGACIES BUHARI LIVED FOR
In life, President Muhammadu Buhari was known for his quiet, austere demeanour and a deep sense of duty. In death, he leaves behind a legacy that transcends his towering frame and military mien, one defined by a relentless quest for nation-building through infrastructure, institutional reforms, and developmental vision.
As his presidency drew toward its twilight in 2023, Buhari often made it clear that he was more concerned about how history would judge his stewardship than with the fleeting praises of the moment. He never missed an opportunity to remind his cabinet members, ministers, and top civil servants that their collective responsibility was to deliver real change, a change anchored on nine priority areas that included economic growth, anti-corruption, infrastructure, health, education, and security.
At the Mid-Term Ministerial Performance Review Retreat in Abuja, the late President had given what many described as a stern but visionary charge. He called for synergy, focus, and acceleration. “We must close the gaps in our implementation efforts to ensure that we attain set targets by 2023,” Buhari had declared, showing no intention of leaving his legacy to chance or rhetoric.
That was quintessential Buhari: a man who, though often criticised for his silence in the face of political turbulence, was focused on the bigger picture, the building of a country that would endure beyond individual office holders.
He spearheaded the establishment of institutional delivery frameworks like the Central Delivery Coordinating Unit and quarterly coordination meetings for priority areas. His focus on results, not just plans, became a defining feature of his administration’s latter years. He gave clear marching orders for the capacity building of MDAs, insisting that performance should be a culture, not an exception.
To many Nigerians, especially the ordinary citizens and rural dwellers, Buhari's tenure is etched in the hundreds of infrastructural projects that began dotting the landscape under his leadership, roads, bridges, railways, airports, and power projects that redefined the concept of federal presence.
He was equally resolute in stabilizing the economy. Despite global headwinds, including the COVID-19 pandemic, he remained committed to fiscal discipline, domestic revenue mobilization, and support for small and medium-scale enterprises. Buhari’s administration pursued industrialization, invested in healthcare, and initiated one of Africa’s
largest Social Investment Programmes, impacting millions of vulnerable Nigerians through direct cash transfers and youth-focused empowerment schemes.
True to his military roots, Buhari believed in the strength of structures. But beyond bricks and mortar, he laid foundations for institutional reforms meant to outlive his presidency. He was deliberate in championing digital transformation, retooling education to meet modern demands, and sustaining Nigeria’s vaccination and public health efforts.
Even in his final days, Buhari spoke more of what must still be done than what had been achieved. He was a leader conscious of legacy, not for vanity, but for posterity.
Today, as the country mourns the loss of a former Head of State and two-time President, Nigerians are not only reflecting on what Buhari left behind but also on what he stood for: service, discipline, and silent dedication to national progress.
History will remember Muhammadu Buhari not just for the legacies he dreamt of, but for those he truly lived for.
Aliyu Umar Aliyu, Head, Strategic Communications (BPSR)
Constitution Review: As S’West Govs Canvass True Federalism, State Police...
Fidelis David reports that as the House of Representatives Committee on Constitution Review holds public hearings across the country, governors from South West geo-political zone are making a strong case for true federalism and state police.
No doubt, despite going through many reviews, the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has often been criticised as an instrument bequeathed to Nigeria by the military.
Notwithstanding, the National Assembly has not relented at getting the task of delivering a new constitution done for the country, with a focus on addressing various issues, including federal structure and power devolution, local government autonomy, and strengthening the electoral process.
Interestingly, in a bold move, Governors Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo, Ademola Adeleke of Osun, and Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti have jointly advocated the need for true federalism and state police in the ongoing constitutional review process.
Speaking at the South-West Centre B Public Hearing of the House of Representatives Committee on Constitution Review in Akure, the Ondo State capital, the governors said the current centralized policing structure is unsustainable due to growing insecurity in the country, citing the success of the Amotekun Corps in community policing, deterrence, and intelligence gathering.
The governors also called for a review of the revenue allocation formula, suggesting that states should receive not less than 50% of revenue from the federation. This, they argued, would enable states to harness their resources and revenues for local development.
Specifically, Governor Aiyedatiwa advocated for a constitutional amendment to establish state police, citing the success of the Amotekun Corps in community policing, deterrence, and intelligence gathering.
He also called for a review of the revenue allocation formula, suggesting that states should receive not less than 50% of revenue from the federation.
“Ondo State aligns with the progressive aspirations of the South-West Geo-political
Zone in advocating for true federalism that reflects socio-political, cultural and economic realities of the federating units.
“This would be in tandem with true fiscal federalism where states have full control over their resources and revenues, while remitting about 40% of their revenues to the Federal Government.
“Still on fiscal federalism, it will serve the cause of fairness and justice to have a review of the current revenue allocation formula which is skewed in favour of the federal government. Ondo State is of the opinion that not less than 50% of revenue from the federation should be allocated to the states”, he noted.
Aiyedatiwa further proposed that Section 44(3) of the Constitution be amended to remove control over minerals, mineral oils, and natural gas from the Exclusive Legislative List to the Concurrent Legislative List. This, he said, would enable state governments to harness their mineral
wealth for local development.
“It is an understatement that State Governments and the people experience a lot of agonies from the activities of miners, including illegal miners, quarries and others that engage in mineral exploration activities. This is because State Governments have little or no control over this sector.
“It hinders State Governments, especially oil-rich States from harnessing their mineral wealth for local development, while illegal mining continues to flourish due to weak Federal Government oversight and poor local enforcement mechanisms.”
Creation of More States, LCDAs
Aiyedatiwa further said the State is not opposed to the creation of new States as requested in some of the proposed bills, but strongly oppose excising any part of its territory to merge with any new state or join an existing one.
According to him: “It is also of interest to the government and people of Ondo State that additional local governments be created in the State, just as Lagos State Local Development Council Areas (LCDAs) are being proposed for
Suffice to say, one thing is clear: the push for true federalism and state police and resource control is gaining momentum, and it may just be the key to unlocking Nigeria’s full potential. This is because, as the country continues to grapple with the challenges of governance and security, it is clear that a more effective and responsive system is needed.
inclusion in the Constitution as fully-fledged Local Government Areas.
“In Ondo State, we have functional 33 LCDAs duly created by the State Government. We strongly advocate that the proposed bill be expanded and these 33 LCDAs in Ondo State be recognised as fully-fledged Local Governments in the First Schedule of the Constitution.”
Electoral Reform/Electronic Voting
Deputy Governor of Osun state, Kolawole Adeusi, who presented the position paper of the state on behalf of Governor Ademola Adeleke highlighted the need for electoral reform, particularly, the need to reduce the cost of conducting elections in Nigeria and advocated for electronic voting.
His words: “The cost of governance is too high. Make it less attractive so that it doesn’t become a matter of life and death”.
He equally spoke on the importance of decentralizing the government.”
Resource Control
His Ekiti State counterpart, Biodun Oyebanji who was represented by the Attorney General of the state, Dayo Apata (SAN) further proposed that Section 44(3) of the Constitution be amended to remove control over minerals, mineral oils, and natural gas from the Exclusive Legislative List to the Concurrent Legislative List.
The governor who called for equal political representation for women and persons with disabilities (PWDs) equally asked for total ban on the movement of cattle and livestock in addressing constant feud between herders and farmers in the country.
He added that the review should accommodate formal recognition of traditional rulers in the constitution.
Aiyedatiwa
Adeleke
Oyebanji
Kayode Tokede
On the back of 27.84 per cent Yeartill-Date (YtD) return, the Nigerian stock market joined six others as the best performing exchanges in Africa helped by the federal government reforms.
As of July 18, 2025, the Nigerian Exchange Limited All-Share Index (NGX ASI) increased to its highest peak of about 131,585.66 basis points, about 27.84 per cent YtD growth from 102,926.40 basis points it opened for trading this year.
Nigeria’s reforms in the foreign exchange market, fuel subsidy removal, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) banking sector recapitalisaton directive, foreign investors taking advantage of undervalued stocks among others have played a critical role in the Nigeria’s stock market performance this year.
A data seen by THISDAY showed that Malawi Stock Exchange at 229.85
per cent YtD is the best performing Exchange in Africa, followed by Lusaka Securities Exchange and Ghana Stock Exchange with 154.45per cent and per cent, YtD, respectively.
According to the data, the Stock Exchange of Mauritius and Zimbabwe Stock Exchange are the only two worst performing Exchanges in Africa.
As of July 18, 2025, the Stock Exchange of Mauritius returns stood at negative 1.81 per cent YtD, while that of Zimbabwe Stock Exchange depreciated by 8.95 per cent in its YtD returns.
The Malawi Stock Exchange (MSE) strong performance this year has been largely driven by soaring banking sector earnings and share prices, heightened retail and institutional investor activity amid limited supply, and a cautiously improving macroeconomic environment building investor
confidence.
MSE’s in the last two-year also led others in returns, followed by Lusaka Securities Exchange, Ghana Stock Exchange and NGX ranked forth.
Malawi’s mild economic recovery and stabilisation of foreign exchange reserves are gradually easing inflation and liquidity pressures—though inflation remains high at 28 Year-onYear (YoY) and growth expectations have been trimmed for 2025 at 3.2 per cent.
Analysts in Malawi cited improved capital markets financial literacy and investor education as contributing to heightened participation and confidence.
The momentum on Lusaka Securities Exchange is built on improved regulation, product innovation, and the democratization of investing—especially via mobile platforms.
While liquidity remains relatively
Ss deliberations for the 2026 national budget intensify, stakeholders from across Nigeria’s agriculture sector have issued a call for urgent reforms, inclusive policies, and increased budgetary allocation to agriculture. This is just as they noted with dismay the continued decline in federal allocation to agriculture, falling to just 1.2 per cent of the
national budget in 2025, a sharp drop from the 4.2 per cent allocated in 2024.
The demand came after the 3-day National Stakeholders Consultative Meeting on the 2026 Agriculture Budget, held in Lagos.
(FMAFS), GIZ Global Programme AgSys Nigeria, the Community of Agricultural Non-State Actors (COANSA), and the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development of the ECOWAS Commission.
The meeting was jointly organised by ActionAid Nigeria, the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security
The forum brought together over 130 participants, including members of the National Assembly, federal and state ministries, civil society groups, research institutions, farmer organisations, the media,
limited (with only 22–25 listed companies), the exchange is deepening through SME and bond listings, institutional interest, and gradually rising foreign participation.
Earnings transparency, continued consumer and energy sector listings, and Zambia’s commodity-linked growth outlook all suggest sustained optimism for the rest of 2025 and beyond.
However, the Nigerian stock market so far in 2025 has seen a mix of economic reforms, robust corporate earnings, enhanced investor engagement and renewed confidence in the capital market fostered by progressive government policies.
Capital market operators said a major catalyst for the market’s performance has been the series of economic reforms introduced by the Nigerian government, particularly the removal of the fuel subsidy, the unification of foreign exchange windows, and the transition to a
floating naira regime.
Although initially met with resistance and uncertainty, these reforms have begun to yield positive outcomes, especially in improving policy clarity and attracting foreign portfolio investors who had been previously discouraged by Nigeria’s complex and inconsistent foreign exchange landscape.
The increased transparency in foreign exchange management has helped reduce volatility and encouraged the return of offshore capital into the domestic market.
Another critical factor underpinning this rally is the strong earnings posted by many listed companies. The banking and industrial goods sectors have delivered solid financial results, reinforced investor confidence and attracted income-focused investors with their generous dividend declarations.
Despite operating in a volatile
macro-economic environment marked by currency fluctuations and inflationary pressures, several companies demonstrated remarkable resilience, returning to profitability and exceeding market expectations. Investor activity has also intensified, particularly in the financial services sector, which accounted for more than 66 per cent of total trading volumes during the review period.
Speaking on the market performance, Vice President, Highcap Securities Limited, Mr. David Adnori stated that investors are trading based on sentiment.
He stated President Bola Tinubu reforms further energised the stock market since market participants have hope in his ability to rejig the economy and implement economyfriendly policies.
systems transformation. They expressed deep concern about the multiple crises plaguing the sector, including climate change, insecurity, low investment, and poor budget performance.
This figure was attributed to insecurity, displacement of farmers, climate-induced disasters like floods and droughts, and soaring food prices. RATES AS AT July 18,2025
and development partners. Participants reviewed Nigeria’s agriculture policies, assessed the implementation of the National Agricultural Technology and Innovation Policy (NATIP), and examined alignment with the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP), the 2014 Malabo Declaration, and the 2025 Kampala Declaration on food
Capital Territory would face acute food and nutrition insecurity at crisis levels during the 2025 lean season.
One of the most pressing concerns raised was the rising hunger and food insecurity levels.
The stakeholders cited projections that over 30.6 million Nigerians across 26 states and the Federal
Sunday Ehigiator
Non-performing loans (NPLs) in Nigeria’s banking sector stood at 4.2 per cent in January 2025, remaining well within regulatory limits despite mounting macroeconomic pressures and a slight dip in banks’ capital adequacy.
This was disclosed by Dr. Bandele A.G. Amoo, a member of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), in his personal statement following the committee’s January meeting.
Amoo noted that the sector has continued to demonstrate resilience, with total banking industry assets rising by 12.68 per cent to N17.98 trillion year-on-year. “Deposits surged by N11.05 trillion, while credit grew by N0.59 trillion over the same period. Liquidity also remained strong, as reflected by a liquid assets-to-third-party funds ratio of 50.6 per cent,” he stated. However, he pointed to a marginal decline in the Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR), which
slipped to 14.8 per cent in January from 15.2 per cent in December 2024 a signal of rising risk-weighted exposures that could constrain future credit expansion.
He said: “The Nigerian Financial system continues to be resilient and strong. Banking industry assets grew by12.68 per cent to N17.98 trillion in January 2025. Industry credit and deposits increased by N0.59 trillion and N11.05 trillion, respectively as of January 2025 compared with their levels in the preceding year. Bank liquidity remained adequate in January 2025, reflected by a high ratio of liquid assets to third-party funds at 50.6 per cent. “The Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) declined to 14.8 per cent in January 2025 from 15.2 per cent in December 2024, thereby exposing banks to more risk-weighted assets and under supporting credit growth, even as interest margin to total operating income rose by 8 per cent. Meanwhile, non-performing loans (NPL), as a proxy of credit risk, stood at 4.2
per cent in January 2025.”
He added that the financial soundness indicators (FSI) trend for other financial institutions also showed strong safety levels. Their
The federal government has been tasked to utilise the Universal Services Provision Fund (USPF) to build key network infrastructure across the country in order to provide Internet connectivity.
Paradigm Initiative, an organisation dedicated to digital literacy and accessibility stated this during the launch of a new board game, known as Digital Rights and Inclusion Board Learning Experience (DRIBLE).
Speaking, the Executive Director of Paradigm Initiative, Mr. Gbenga Sesan, said, people should demand that the government utilise the USPF to provide infrastructure needed for Internet connectivity across the country.
He argued that state’s government must attract Internet access to their state by making lane cable more cheaper, noting that the federal government must invest in providing critical infrastructure for internet connectivity in the country .
Emma Okonji
Telecommunications operators (Telcos) under the aegis of the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), have expressed deep concern over the increasing wave of vandalization and theft of telecommunications infrastructure across the country.
ALTON, in a statement jointly signed by its Chairman, Gbenga Adebayo and its Publicity Secretary, Damian Udeh, said since the federal government’s interventions earlier
savings and domiciliary deposits fell by N 0.17 trillion 0.80 per cent and N 0.96 trillion 2.40 per cent respectively, in January 2025. He added: “These Fintech-driven
MFBs have played a key role in advancing the nation’s financial inclusion drive and the growth of the MFB subsector. Through technological innovation and
the use of data analytics, these MFBs have enabled faster and more efficient delivery of financial services to the underbanked and unbanked.”
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)
According to him, “And one of the solutions that we have proposed, which is very clear, is that there’s something called the Universal Services Provision Fund (USPF) that Nigeria has; it has millions of dollars that you can spend. Instead of using it to fund the political dream of politicians, use it to extend access. There is no reason why any campus in Nigeria today, even those of them inside villages, there’s no reason why they should not be connected by fiber.”
Commenting, the Chief Operating Officer, Paradigm Initiative, Nnenna Paul-Ugochukwu, said, “The goal of the learning experience would be instrumental in raising awareness of digital rights among the youth, building their capacity to address digital rights and inclusion issues in their communities.
“It’s a learning experience for players to learn about digital rights and inclusion issues, which include opportunities, challenges, barriers, impacts on the community. It’s a training tool as well that we use to train stakeholders.”
this year to support industry sustainability, its members have committed unprecedented levels of investment in network optimisation and capacity upgrades. New systems are being deployed, transmission equipment modernised, power systems overhauled, and thousands of kilometers of fiber optic networks currently being laid and expanded. The Telcos are however worried about the level of vandalisation of such telecoms facilities across the country.
According to the statement, “Our industry has not seen this scale of
investment in recent years. We are working round the clock to improve the quality of service nationwide and we cannot afford these setbacks.
Unfortunately, between May and July, 2025, multiple incidents of vandalism were recorded across cell sites in Rivers, Ogun, Osun, Imo, Kogi, Ekiti, Lagos, Federal Capital Territory Abuja and many other states.
“These acts of sabotage have significantly disrupted network services, causing widespread connectivity blackouts leading to degradation of services and
severely impacting millions of subscribers.
“The affected infrastructure, primarily belong to our members, as well as other network operators and those who depend on us for connectivity. Critical components such as power cables, rectifiers, fiber optic cables, feeder cables, diesel generators, batteries, and solar systems are vandalised and stolen from active sites. These are not mere materials, but they are the backbone of our digital economy, security systems, and national communications grid.”
Foremost Capital Surpasses N60bn in Assets Within 6 Months
Kayode Tokede
Foremost Capital Limited, a Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)-licensed asset management company, has recorded a major feat in its investment drive with its Assets Under Management (AUM) surpassing N60 billion within six months of operations.
The company is offering a diverse range of conventional and Shariahcompliant investment products, including portfolio management,
Chinedu Eze
The President of the National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA), Mr. Yinka Folami, has excoriated some foreign airlines that sell dollar-only tickets in the country, saying that it infringes on global practices, describing it as an exercise that is direct affront on Nigeria’s sovereignty.
Folami also described cross-border trading as the ‘greatest infidelity and a sin’ against the local market
Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia
In its drive to push locally manufactured goods to the international market, Abia State government has set up the Aba Export Growth Lab, strategically located at the industrial and commercial hub of the state. Governor Alex Otti inaugurated the Export Growth Lab complex sited at the premises of the state-owned Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic Aba, saying that it would not
fund management, liquidity optimization, and financial advisory services.
The impressive performance of the innovation-driven investment company, now currently redefining wealth creation for clients across Nigeria and beyond, is coming at a time when many investors are pulling out their funds from other entities.
Speaking on the achievements of the client-focused and futurist company, the Managing Director/
operators and this happens when a foreign registered travel agent sells tickets emanating from Nigeria and funds emanating from the transaction are domiciled in another country, or when local travel agencies in Nigeria connive with foreign agents to engage in the unlawful act.
He made this known while speaking as a Special Guest on Mainland FM 98.3. ‘Creative Naija’ programme in Lagos at the weekend.
He explained that sale of dollar only tickets does not only exclude
only boost business but also put Abia on the pedestal for exportation. He noted that, being a beehive of manufacturing, Aba has always deserved a whole lot more support than it has been gettiing over the past decades hence the time has come to change the narrative.
“So, what we have come here to do is to support our people to structure their production, standardise, package and brand their products in such a way that it will be competitive in the international market,” he said.
CEO, Mr. Emmanuel Akehomen, told journalists at the sidelines of an investment forum held weekend in Abuja that the vision of the Board is to transform Foremost Capital into Africa’s most trusted and innovative asset manager, pioneering the convergence of conventional and ethical Investment solutions to unlock sustainable value for clients.
He explained: “The unparalleled growth recorded in the short span of its operations has continued to solidify the company’s position not
over 70 per cent of licensed Nigerian agents but it also undermines the Naira, pointing out that with improvements in market liquidity, the resolution of remittance issues, FX stabilisation, and enhanced transparency by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the rationale for USD-only ticketing is no longer valid.
He therefore urged the concerned international airlines to accommodate the naira and engage in standard practices, as it is done in other countries.
Otti stressed the need for manufacturers to adhere to international standards, saying that there’s no shortcut to gainning acceptance in the global market because “international market is not deceived”.
He noted that the global market was structured in a manner that makers of inferior goods would not get a foothold hence “if you cannot compete globally, don’t even try because you will just waste your time”.
He said that Abia has set its foot on the right path of breaking
as a new entrant, but as a purposedriven and performance-oriented market player that is determined to be at the forefront of the asset management industry in Nigeria.
“Our company operates with an unwavering commitment to transparency, client success, and strategic transformation, admirable traits that continue to distinguish it in a crowded marketplace.
“Within the first 6 months of operations, we have been able to surpass N60 billion in Assets Under
Folami commended the CBN’s ongoing reforms and emphasised NANTA’s commitment to support the government in fostering economic progress.
Addressing the menace of cross-border trading, Folami condemned the actions of global merchants, who according to him, bypass licensed Nigerian agents to sell travel products directly to consumers, resulting in capital flight, job losses, and diminished market control.
into the global market with its homemade goods, pointing out historical records showed that many countries, including Japan, developed after the war through export of goods.
Otti, however, stated that by setting up the Export Growth Lab “we are not saying, don’t import” since importation of goods “is not a bad thing. But, we are saying that the things that we are producing in Aba and Abia, that we can sell them beyond the borders of Aba and Abia”.
Oluchi Chibuzor
Nume Ekeghe
Solewant Group Industrial Park Making Nigeria the Hub for Coated Pipes in Africa
With the inauguration of an ultra-modern Pipe Bend Multi-Layer Pipe Coating Plant, Solewant Group’s state-of-the-art industrial park and Africa’s largest-pipe coating facility, spanning 132,000 square meters in Alode, Eleme Local Government Area (LGA) of Rivers State, has become a game changer in the federal government’s efforts to make Nigeria the hub of steel pipe manufacturing in Africa.
Speaking during the commissioning of the Pipe Bend Coating Plant, the Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Solewant Group, Mr. Solomon Ewanehi explained that the Modern pipe bend coating plant, provides reliable multi-layer coating protection on non-linear steel pipe structures, including but not limited to, Buckle arrestors, Pipe Bends, Pipeline Field Joints, short run pipeline, pipeline spools, pipeline Risers, pipeline Tie ins, Tie backs and to mention but a few in accordance with the current ISO Standards. He added that Solewant Group has been innovating and impacting industries for 25 years.
According to him, several years ago, they identified a critical challenge, that irregular shaped pipeline fittings often suffer from inadequate coating protection, leading to coating failures, corrosion of pipelines, pipeline Leaks, revenue loss and environmental damage.
In addressing these concerns and major issues, he said the company’s team of innovators and engineers, in partnership with Euro-American OEMs, who were on ground during the official commissioning, developed and built a state-of-the-art Pipe Bend Coating Plant at the Solewant Group Industrial Park in Eleme, Onne, Nigeria. “The facility enables us to apply multi-layer coating systems with precision and accuracy, ensuring enhanced protection, Reduced maintenance, Increased pipeline integrity,” he said.
With this cutting-edge technology, they are committed to delivering high-quality solutions, by providing end- to-end pipeline solutions to oil, gas and water industrial assets owners.
He explained that other facilities within Solewant Group’s industrial park include a multi-layer pipecoating plant, concrete weight coating plant, steel pipe manufacturing and metal fabrication facility, pipe storage and preservation area, and laboratory.
He declared that Solewant Group, which was established 25 years ago, has delivered over 100 high-impact projects to international oil companies (IOCs ) and engineering, procurement and construction (EPC ) companies, including the manufacturing of steel pipes, anti- corrosion and mechanical protection on steel pipes, protection of pipeline field joints, and fabrication of pipes for over two decades, making Solewant Group a leading African provider of coated steel pipes to oil and gas industries.
Speaking on advancing Local Content, Solewant’s
Group CEO said: “The Group has significantly contributed to Nigeria’s local content development by establishing Africa’s largest pipe coating plant, capable of providing three working shifts during production. This reduces reliance on imports and handling diverse and enhances in-country capacity”.
According to him, by offering world-class pipeline coating solutions and now providing multi-layer coating systems on non- linear steel structures that comply with ISO 2016, Solewant Group has bolstered Nigeria’s foreign exchange reserves and contributed to the nation’s industrial growth.
He spoke about the challenges experienced so far, saying that: “The Solewant Group has navigated significant challenges on its journey to becoming a leader in the oil and gas industry. This includes stiff competition from multinational companies.” Ewanehi stated that the Solewant Group faced fierce rivalry from multinational corporations.
To compete globally, Ewanehi stated that the company focused on innovation, adherence to international standard organisation (ISO) specifications, by adopting cutting-edge solutions, such as automation of our factories, establishment of multi- layer coating protection of linear and nonlinear pipeline technologies, which cater to the specific demands of Africa’s oil and gas environment.
He noted that establishing state-of-the-art industrial area spanning 132,000 square meters involved significant financial and logistical hurdle, pointing out that Solewant overcame these challenges by leveraging on partnerships, advanced project management and a commitment to long-term value creation for its clients.
“The oil and gas sector in Nigeria lacked robust local manufacturing and service capabilities.
Solewant Group invested in creating Africa’s largest pipe coating plant and advanced facilities to reduce dependency on imports and enhance Nigeria’s industrial capacity,” he said.
He added that the achievements underscored Solewant Group’s resilience and innovation.
“This has positioned the group as a key player in Africa’s energy transition. The insights gained through overcoming these challenges provide invaluable lessons for industry stakeholders. At Solewant Group, innovation drives everything we do. From Manufacturing, addressing coating challenges on pipelines, on complex pipe fittings to delivering Africa’s most advanced pipeline solutions, we remain committed to quality, reliability, and sustainability. With our cutting-edge technologies and deep industry expertise, we are providing, protecting pipelines, preserving
“Solewant Group, which was established 25 years ago, has delivered over 100 high-impact projects to international oil companies (IOCs) and engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) companies, including the manufacturing of steel pipes, anti- corrosion and mechanical protection on steel pipes, protection of pipeline field joints, and fabrication of pipes for over two decades, making Solewant Group a leading African provider of coated steel pipes to oil and gas industries.”
assets, and powering the future of oil and gas infrastructure,” Ewanehi explained.
Speaking at the event, an elated Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe, commended Solewant Group for unveiling an ultra-modern pipe bend coating plant.
Represented by the General Manager, Capacity Building Development, NCDMB, Esueme Kikile, Ogbe noted that Solewant Group has largely contributed in boosting the oil and gas industry. That Solewant Group has become an example of an in- country capacity building creator to Nigerian Content Development.
Ogbe said with the initiative, the firm has become a major service company in pipe coating, in pipe manufacturing, pipe coating and now providing reliable multi-layer coating systems on nonlinear steel pipe structures in the country.
On the benefit of promoting local content in the industry, Ogbe said; “NCDMB is encouraged by this action, because at NCDMB our mandate is very clear, to build the capacities of Nigerian people and Nigerian companies to participate actively in the oil and gas industry.
“So, what Solewant has done today is just a manifestation of NCDMB’s continuous campaign to invest locally in Nigeria, to ensure that local companies have opportunities to play in the areas where international companies are playing,” he added.
On his part, Chairman of PETAN, Engr. Wole Ogunsanya, said the initiative will massively impact on the oil and gas industry, as it helps to stop all forms of leakages, corrosion and loss of crude oil and gas and other hydrocarbons.
Ogunsanya who was represented by the Chairman of GGI International Nigeria Limited, Engr. Innocent Akuvue, noted that the benefits of the plant to the country are numerous, stressing that as PETAN members, they build in-country capacities, provide job opportunities to engineers, technicians and artisans which enhances the economy of the nation.
“This is what we are preaching. PETAN is building capacities in-country; PETAN is building specialisation in-country, and this is what it is; you can see what happened today.
One of us, proudly a member of PETAN, has demonstrated in-country capacity, in-country innovation, in-country creativity. The initiative is a boost to Nigerian Content; that is why you have the key officers of NCDMB here today,” he added.
Today, Solewant Group operates diversified portfolios, namely - Solewant Nigeria Limited, Pipe and Metals Industries Limited, Field Joint Coating Limited, Solewant Specialty Protective Coatings and Paints Limited, as well as Solewant Energy Institute. Solewant’s multi-layer pipe coating plant is strategically located in Alode-Eleme- Onne, within Nigeria’s oil and gas corridor.
The facility is designed to handle high-volume manufacturing of steel pipes and coating products, fabrication and coating application solutions —fusion bonded epoxy (FBE), threelayer polyethylene (3LPE), and 3-to-5-layer polypropylene (5LPP) to concrete weight coating systems, field joint systems, insulation, Cathodic protection (CP) systems and Energy training solutions.
Equipped with world-class Euro American technologies, from the company’s Dutch partners, KEMA Coatings (Canada), Raychem RPG of Indian, CANUSA CPS of Canada, this commissioning altered the landscape of Nigeria’s industrial capabilities.
“Today, Solewant Group operates diversified portfolios, namely - Solewant Nigeria Limited, Pipe and Metals Industries Limited, Field Joint Coating Limited, Solewant Specialty Protective Coatings and Paints Limited, as well as Solewant Energy Institute. The facility is designed to handle high-volume manufacturing of steel pipes and coating products, fabrication and coating application solutions —fusion bonded epoxy (FBE), threelayer polyethylene (3LPE), and 3-to-5layer polypropylene (5LPP) to concrete weight coating systems, field joint systems, insulation, Cathodic protection (CP) systems and Energy training solutions.”
The company’s growing reputation has led to a surge in contracts from key players like Shell, Chevron, EXXONMOBIL, TOTAL Energies, First E&P, NLNG, NGIC, and other clients.
At a time when the world demanded more sustainable and efficient energy systems, Solewant Group responded with innovation, integrity, and impact.
Meanwhile, Solewant Group is hosting the 9th Energy Summit in Onne, themed “Emerging Technologies and the Future of Sustainable Energy Development in Africa,” on November 27 and 28, 2025. In recent years, Solewant Group has continued to break new grounds. From acquiring its first set of painting and coating equipment to executing its first contracts for oil and gas operators, Solewant Group has demonstrated what resilience looked like in practice.
• Ibrahim, a Nigerian Content analyst, writes from
Mohammed Ibrahim
Yenagoa, Bayelsa State
Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Solewant Group, Mr Solomon Ewanehi
L-R: Managing Director/CEO, SSPC/Group Executive Director, Solewant Group, Mr. Matthew Aganren; Director, Solewant Group, Mrs Nancy Ewanehi; and others during the commissioning of ultra-modern Pipe Bend MultiLayer Pipe Coating Plant, in Alode, Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State.
Report: UK Businesses Look to Africa as Strategic Growth Partner
Kayode Tokede
New research by UK-based Strategy Management Partners has revealed that a growing number of British businesses are identifying Africa as a key strategic growth region - drawn by structural reforms, demographic momentum, and rapid digital transformation across the continent.
The research, based on a survey of senior decision-makers from 250 large UK-based companies, finds that 50 per cent are already active in African markets and planning to expand further.
An additional 28 per cent, it added, are considering entry, signalling a clear uptick in long-term interest from international businesses with the resources to scale regionally.
The findings challenge
Oluchi Chibuzor
INGRYD Academy has announced that it has partnered with Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA), to offer discounted tech certification programmes quarterly to Nigerians across the federation.
The partnership, it said, will address a critical challenge facing Nigerian tech professionals in the global job market.
Announcing the partnership recently in Lagos, INGRYD Academy Managing Director/CEO, Khadijat Abdulkadir said the partnership would see INGRYD Academy offer internationally recognized tech certifications at a 70 per cent discount, reducing costs from $1,000 to $250 for
outdated perceptions of Africa as a high-risk or secondary market. “Instead, they highlight key drivers behind renewed commercial interest: 61 per cent of UK leaders cited Africa’s large and growing consumer markets as a major draw. Another 61 per cent pointed to the continent’s rapid pace of digital and technological adoption. While 50% highlighted the potential of Africa’s young, skilled, and digitally native population,” it said.
The study also suggests that Africa is no longer viewed simply as a market for philanthropic initiatives or short-term gain.
“Only 20 per cent of respondents cited philanthropic motives, while most are focused on building commercially viable, long-term operations. Initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), are also
laying the groundwork for significant economic growth. With 23 countries already implementing preferential tariffs, the framework is expected to facilitate smoother intra-regional trade, enable market scale, and support more efficient supply chains. These structural improvements are making Africa more attractive to global firms with the ambition to operate at scale.
“However, despite rising optimism, significant operational and policy challenges remain. The top four barriers to investment cited by UK business leaders were: political and country risk (68%); safety and security issues (66.4%); regulatory barriers and tariffs (60.4%); and the complexity of cross-border transactions (60%). Addressing these issues will be crucial to unlocking Africa’s full potential for UK investment,” it added.
Partner to Offer Tech Certification Programmes
Nigerian students. Abdulkadir described the partnership as a game-changer for Nigerian youth seeking global employment opportunities.
According to her, “The average person who now has to pay $1,000 to get certified through INGRYD will receive it for no more than $250. This exclusive partnership with ISACA for the next five years positions our graduates to compete globally. It is one thing to give them practical skills to do the work, but when you look at the global market, everybody wants to know what you are certified in. Organizations globally want to know if you have the right accreditation and certification.
“INGRYD Academy’s
certification programmes cover high-demand tech fields including software engineering, full-stack development, data science, cybersecurity, cloud computing, DevOps, and blockchain technology. The programmes run for 3-6 months with a maximum of 200 learning hours, combining instructor-led sessions with hands-on practical training.”
She added, “Under the new partnership, ISACA’s fundamentals training will be integrated into INGRYD’s existing curriculum, and graduates will receive a complimentary one-year ISACA student membership, providing access to a network of over 85,000 professionals across 190 countries.”
Group Commits N50m Grants to Fund 10 Climate Change Focused Start-ups
Provident Green Club of Lagos, has made a commitment to fund 10 Nigerian climate change focused start-ups with grants to the tune of N50 million.
This was disclosed by the President, Provident Green Club of Lagos, Mr. Eke Njoku, at the maiden edition of the Generation Green X conference, themed: ‘The Future is Now’, which held in Lagos.
Njoku explained that in addition to the fund, the 10 selected start-ups will have the opportunity of getting guidance from industry leaders in one year of mentorship and incubation.
According to him, the project represents the club’s commitment to strengthening
advocacy on the subject of climate change, building climate resilience by supporting environmentally conscious start-ups and encouraging youth innovation in circular economy.
“The Generation Green X conference is our way of going in search of ideas that could easily die and could never see the light of day or those who have even started a business but are struggling, need guidance, direction or funding. We encourage them to come and pitch in front of judges who are competent industry leaders, from where we would pick 10 finalists. Afterwards, we pair the 10 finalists with mentors who will take them through one-
year period of mentorship, incubation, and acceleration.
“During this period, we would provide them with financial support and help them set up their businesses. What we have committed to as a club is to provide each start-ups with up to five million naira in funding, per idea. It is an advocacy grant which will go to them at the end of the one year mentorship period,” he said.
On her part, the Special Adviser, Climate Change and Circular Economy, Lagos state, Titilope Oshodi, emphasized the need for start-ups to deploy strong economic, environmental, social and governance (ESG) framework in building solutions.
Bitget Annual Trading Competition Launches With $6m Prize Pool
Kayode Tokede
Bitget, the world’s leading crypto exchange and Web3 company, has officially opened registration for KCGI 2025, the most anticipated trading competition of the year, featuring a massive 6 million USDT prize pool, brand-new segments, and early-bird rewards that make joining early a winning move.
According to Bitget CEO Gracy Chen, “From team battles to bot duels, KCGI
2025 isn’t just a tournament, it’s a spectacle. This year’s edition takes competition to the next level with enhanced challenge modes, region-based leaderboards, and incentives for everyone from strategic captains to high-velocity newcomers. Whether you’re a pro with a polished strategy or a rookie with something to prove, the game is on. There is a spot with your name on it. “Every year during KCGI we witness traders across the globe strategize, synchronize
L-R: Managing Partner of INGRYD Academy Netherlands, Bert Van Den Hurk; Founder and Chief Executive Officer INGRYD Academy, HRH Khadijat Abdulkadir and Chairman of INGRYD Academy, Rex Mafiana at the launching of the partnership between Ingryd Academy and Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA) held in Lagos… recently
and innovate.
“There’s a lot of community and teamwork involved, KCGI is our way of showing gratitude to our top traders. That said, we’re excited to kick off this year’s competition with 6 million USDT up for grabs and a range of dynamic challenges ahead. We’re inviting our community to lead, win, and shape the future of trading.
“This year’s 6 million USDT promotion pool is packed with surprises.
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).
Stock Market Gains N3.4trn in One Week Ahead H1 Corporate Earnings
Kayode Tokede
The stock market section of the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) gained N3.4 trillion in one week, driven by investor anticipation of a strong half-year (H1) ended June 2025 corporate earnings by listed companies.
The NGX All-Share Index (ASI) surged past the 131,000 psychological mark for the first time, to close at 131,585.66 basis points or 4.31 per cent week-on-week (W-o-W)
gain from 126,149.59 basis points it opened for trading.
As a result, the NGX ASI monthto-date (MtD) and year-to-date (YtD) returns improved to +9.7 per cent and +27.8 per cent, respectively.
Also, market capitalisation rose 4.3 per cent to N83.241 trillion as of July 18, 2025 from N79.803 trillion it opened for trading. Meanwhile, sectoral performance was mixed, with the Index Industrial Goods index gained 19.2 per cent, posting the most significant
gain, followed by advances in the NGX Banking Index that appreciated by 5.36 per cent and NGX Consumer Goods index that rose by 1.34 per cent.
On the flip side, the NGX Insurance index declined by 3.6per cent and NGX Oil/Gas Index declined by 0.76 per cent.
The rally was driven by strong demand for cement bellwether that include Dangote Cement that gained 15.5 per cent and BUA Cement that advanced by 31.3
per cent.
Also, investor sentiment, as measured by market breadth closed positive as 49 stocks gained, 54 lost, while 44 remained unchanged.
Eunisell Interlinked led the gainers table by 32.59 per cent to close at N17.90, per share. BUA Cement followed with a gain of 31.28 per cent to close at N123.40, while Associated Bus Company went up by 28.41 per cent to close to N5.65, per share.
On the other side, Academy Press led the decliners table by 24.32 per cent to close at N7.00, per share. RT Briscoe followed with a loss of 22.73 per cent to close at N3.40, while Cutix declined by 19.57 per cent to close at N3.70, per share.
The Nigerian equities market has been on bullish run, buoyed by improved investors sentiment and enhanced funds inflow. The market defied prevailing macro headwinds, as the moderation
in headline inflation rekindled buying interest across key sectors, notably in blue-chip stocks within the banking, industrial, and consumer goods spaces. Speaking on stock market performance for this week, analysts at Cordros Research said, “We expect investors’ broad-based sentiment to be shaped by the outcome of the upcoming MPC meeting, as participants evaluate its impact on yields and equity valuations.
TRADED ASOF JULY/17/25
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 17 Jujy-2025, unless otherwise stated.
DAILY PRICE LIST FOR MUTUAL FUNDS, REITS and ETFS
DIGITAL ASSET MARKETS
with Nicky Okoye ( digitalassets@anabelgroup.com )
National Wealth vs Debt Asset Management
Nicky Okoye discusses the strategic impact of digital asset markets in the growth and dynamics of the global markets and dives deep into the monumental forces that are driving the growth of the next hundred trillion dollars in global GDP. In this series of essays, policy makers, legislators, enterprise executives and investors can gain strategic positioning variables as they unfold in real time.
Astrategic study of national wealth as provided by most economic think tanks will give a standard listing of national wealth in relation to nominal gross domestic product (GDP). Whereas this is very important to understand what is going on within the nation state’s economy under review especially if you are studying market penetration, demand and supply for specific industrial ecosystems, it does not provide a true reflection of the wealth position of that particular nation state. Unfortunately, many economic reports and financial journals present their analysis of a Nation at the nominal GDP figure, when providing an assessment of the total wealth and potential of a nation state. In my opinion, this approach can be misleading, as it only calculates the demand and supply within that particular nation state, and it doesn’t even take into account the purchasing power parity of the citizens of that Nation. The purchasing power of local citizens are themselves influenced heavily by several factors but the most important influencing factor has got to be the purchasing power parity and the overall access to credit of the citizens of that Nation State in question. The inability of an economy of a nation state to extend credit to most of its citizens can and does impact the resultant GDP of that Nation. So when comparing the GDP of a typical western Nation such as the United States or the United Kingdom for instance, a closer look at citizens’ access to credit must be studied as it is a major factor in the final nominal GDP figures. This currently is not the case, and this clearly demonstrates that there is an unbalanced method of comparing national economies that has been going on for as far back as when the western World established the Bretton Woods rules for the global financial systems. This must be addressed, if Nigeria and Africa are to be have a hope for the future. As the digital asset markets and the resulting crypto ecosystems continue to grow across the World, the true value of national wealth and national net-worth are being determined and will be clearly defined. We must consider to take further steps to calculate the true National networth of nations, which requires that we subtract the total national debt from the total asset value, resulting in a net asset value figure, which will give us a very interesting view of the wealth and the opportunities in National economies across the World. If we go even further by totalling total consumer debt or total household debt and then correlate this into a ratio to be compared with GDP, the resulting figures would completely redefine our understanding of national wealth.
Debt Asset Management
National debt tends to fuel national spending, and in most economies, new national debt is issued to cover the old debt when due. Effectively pushing the can down the road. Total United States debt is placed at $36.3 trillion according the US treasury Department. When this figure is distributed to every US citizen, the national debt comes to just over $105 thousand per capita, meaning that every US citizen owes one hundred and five thousand dollars on behalf of the Nation. Total United States GDP is recorded at just over $26.2 trillion according to the IMF. This means that US national debt is well over 100% of US GDP. And it doesn’t end there. Total US household debt (consumer debt) is recorded at $18.2 trillion according to the US treasury dept, this places US household debt per capita at Fifty three, three hundred US dollars ($53.3 thousand). For reference, US household debt includes consumer credit card debt, student loans, car loans and home mortgages. In other words, between US GDP per capita which IMF places at $60.3 thousand per capita, the total US National debt per capita at $105k, is far in excess of US GDP. And if you subtract US household debt per
capita, from US GDP, the resultant net position of juts seven thousand US dollars ($7,000.00) per capita leaves much to be desired. If you further subtract the US National debt per capita which I have said is currently over $105k, then you get a very negative figure. To be honest, this negative net economic value, is the case for most western Nations. In fact Japan’s national debt is over 250% of GDP.
So when we take national and household debt service into account, we observe that most of the western economies have evolved almost completely into financial service economies. Debt service is king and the moment we eliminate debt service obligations from GDP, the final figures will fall drastically. To put this another way, if we eliminate credit from most western economies, consumer spending will fall drastically and with it, it drags down nominal GDP of the entire western World.
How then do we accurately value an economy that is built mostly on credit and debt?
In contrast, the Nigerian economy is somewhat of a cash and carry economy. Credit is only available to the very few elite. And only recently has credit been extended to community based artisans in terms of micro finance, through micro finance banks and Fintech operators.
National consumer debt in Nigeria is not yet significant enough to effect national net-worth, however national debt is currently at ninety one billion US dollars ($91 billion), which is still less than 30% of Nigeria’s GDP. This means that Nigeria’s credit worthiness, in terms of debt service should be viewed much heavily than most western Nations, if Debt to GDP ratios are used as a yard stick. If we look at Nigeria’s household debt to GDP, then Nigeria will come out on top, because most households in Nigeria are debt free.
National Wealth
If we take things a step further to calculate national wealth based on net asset values, including the emerging introduction of the digital asset markets across Africa, which provides a framework and basis for valuing national wealth, then Nigeria and most of Africa will be considered havens for investment. If we integrate this with our fast growing youth population, then there is not much more to discuss. Nigeria and Africa are the certainly the investment destinations of the future, without question.
So how do we break out of the current quagmire, that records most of Africa as poor based on nominal GDP figures, which
do not take into account our national asset values, purchasing power parity, our low household debt and low national debt to GDP ratios?
The answer is simply, we need to define, develop and implement a Digital Asset Markets Strategy at the National, SubNational and at the Enterprise levels. I have made this case over the last five articles of this Digital Asset Markets series, and as the series continues to expand, I will continue to make the case for how the digital asset markets will reposition Nigeria and Africa’s financial markets and financial systems. The first step for policy makers is to fully understand the value of national assets, net asset values and national net-worth. Then we need to better appreciate the place of the debt management within the grand scheme of financial markets. The debt asset management dynamics as observed in the western World means that we either haven’t fully understood how the west structures their capital markets or we are too timid to follow closely exactly what the west does and simply copy it.
A closer look at the United States National Debt
According to the United States Treasury Department, US national debt is currently at $34.4 trillion. And it is distributed in this way:
* United States Federal Reserve holds 15% of the total debt amounting to $5.2 trillion
* United States private mutual funds (not including US pensions funds) holds 11% amounting to $3.7 trillion
* United States general public holding savings bonds hold 17% amounting to $5.7 trillion
* United States Intragovernmental debt (US agencies) hold 20% amounting to $7 trillion
* United States depository institutions 5% amounting to $1.6 trillion
* United States Sub-Nationals and Municipal authorities (States and Local Governments) hold 5% amounting to $1.7 trillion
* United States Pension Funds over 3% amounting to $1 trillion
* United States Insurance Companies just over 1.2% amounting to $480 billion
* Other countries hold a total of 15% which amounts to $5 trillion
* Japan holds 3% which amounts to just over $1.1 trillion.
* China holds over 2.2% which amounts to $820 billion.
* UK holds over 1.98% which amount to 680 billion.
This US National debt asset management distribution has effectively shielded the United States Treasury from having to wholistically retire the debt. In fact, much of this debt is due for retirement this year. However capital market experts indicate that if the US Federal Reserve reduces interest rates then we will witness a large scale re-issuing of US debt to replace current outstanding treasury bond issues. Whereas what the Federal Reserve eventually does is totally up to its leadership, we have witnessed in recent time attempts to influence the Fed Chairman Powell, coming from unusual places including the White House.
Nigeria’s National Debt Position
According to the Debt Management Office of Nigeria, total national debt is at one hundred and forty nine trillion (N149t) naira or ninety one billion ($93.1b) USD. Which is made up of over N70 trillion ($43.8b) in external debt and over N78.7 trillion ($49.2b) in local (domestic) debt.
An attempt to reposition the Nigerian economy, using the Digital Asset Markets strategy must be approached from two directions:
1. Debt Asset Management: A complete securitization of the debt position for National and Sub-national debt. This means that all debt on the official books can be converted into secondary securities, and then tokenised into digital assets. This approach means that we can retire all existing debt and free-up balance sheets, making the authorities eligible for additional credit to fund infrastructure and enterprise development. Digital Tokens created from this approach will be sold locally as well as internationally in a strategic framework using digital asset markets strategic platforms that we are currently working on.
2. Asset Tokenisation: A complete tokenisation of existing National and SubNational real World assets as defined by current calibrations. National real World Assets include but are not limited to real estate, minerals, rights of way, hard infrastructure in various industries, digital telecommunications spectrum, moveable and unmoveable assets etc.
The Digital Asset Markets in Nigeria will be an exciting journey, and we look forward to redefining the wealth and national asset base of not juts Nigeria but for all of Africa.
•Dr Nicky Okoye Global Investment Advisor
Business Special
Omoniyi: Digital Twins Tech ‘ll Boost Pipeline Management, Oil & Gas Sector
In the complex world of pipeline integrity management, ensuring operational excellence is a top priority. With the increasing demand for energy and the growing complexity of pipeline networks, operators face numerous challenges in maintaining safety, efficiency and reliability. Pipelines transport over 70 per cent of Nigeria’s crude oil, but one minor failure can trigger environmental disaster, community unrest and multi-million-dollar losses. An engineer with over 20 years experience in the oil and gas industry, Gbenga Omoniyi , recently spoke to journalists on the transformative potential of adoption of digital twins in pipeline management among other issues. Ayodeji Ake presents the excerpts:
Can you elaborate on the concept of digital twins in pipeline integrity management and their significance in the oil and gas industry?
Adigital twin is a virtual replica of a pipeline that continuously updates with real-time data from sensors. Think of it as a living, breathing virtual replica of a pipeline that updates in real-time using sensor data. In simple terms, it’s like having a virtual doctor checking your pipeline’s health conditions every second. It helps companies monitor, predict and prevent failures, ensuring pipelines remain safe and efficient.
How do digital twins leverage sensor data and analytics to enhance pipeline integrity management and what are the key advantages?
Sensors installed along the pipeline surface collect data—pressure, temperature, corrosion levels—and send it to the digital twin. Engineers use this data to detect leaks, predict wear and tear and optimize maintenance schedules. There are multiple advantages. It prevents leaks and failures, detects risks before accidents happen, reduces maintenance costs-optimizes repair schedules and improves safety by ensuring pipelines operate efficiently, as well as supports sustainability by helping to reduce environmental impact. And the good thing about this is that companies using digital twins cut costs, improve productivity, reduce downtime, and make better decisions, leading to higher profits.
Let’s shift the conversation to the commercial side. Is there a growing market for digital twin technology. How can the average member of the public benefit or invest in this emerging technology?
Absolutely! The global market for digital twin technology is growing rapidly and is projected to surpass $100 billion within the next decade. This surge is driven by industries such as manufacturing, aerospace, energy and, significantly, oil and gas. In our sector, the need for operational efficiency, safety and sustainability is driving commercial demand. We are seeing major oil companies partnering with tech firms to deploy digital twin platforms across upstream, midstream, and downstream operations.
How can the average member of the public benefit or invest in this emerging
technology?
First, it enhances career opportunities in that young professionals can build rewarding careers in this space by improving their skills in data analytics, simulation, machine learning, and industrial internet of things (IoT). Many organisations are investing in talent development, and now is the time to join that wave. Secondly, it creates investment opportunities, especially for those looking to invest financially. They can buy stocks of tech companies developing digital twin solutions (like Siemens, PTC, or AVEVA). There is an avenue for investing in energy firms that are actively adopting digital technologies, as they are likely to lead the industry and support local startups or innovation hubs working on digital transformation in energy or manufacturing. It also opens up entrepreneurial ventures in that Nigerians and other Africans with technical backgrounds can build solutions or consultancy services that help traditional companies digitize their operations. There’s room for homegrown innovation.
What role should the government play to support wider adoption and public benefit and what are the commercial opportunities for businesses and startups in this space?
Government has a crucial role to play in policy and regulatory support for digital innovation in critical infrastructure, incentives for local startups and R&D initiatives in advanced technologies, investment in STEM education and digital training to close the competency gap, public-private partnerships that encourage knowledge transfer and local content development and a digitally enabled oil & gas sector has the potential to boost national productivity, reduce environmental impact and create new economic opportunities.
Tech startups can focus on specialized areas like sensor integration and IoT hardware development, simulation and AI modeling platforms, cloud-based data analytics solutions and cyber security for industrial digital systems. In addition, service providers that can help legacy oil and gas companies transition from traditional systems to digital ecosystems are in high demand. There’s also room for local innovation—solutions tailored for the
unique challenges of operating in regions like West Africa or the Gulf of Guinea.
How do digital twins help prevent pipeline failures, inspections, maintenance and environmental pollution?
They detect early signs of corrosion, pressure drops, and structural weaknesses, allowing companies to fix issues before they become major problems. In regions like the Niger Delta, where pipeline vandalism and environmental degradation are prevalent, digital twins could drastically reduce incidents and ensure safer communities and cleaner ecosystems. In 2023, a Gulf of Guinea operator used a digital twin to detect a pressure drop. The early warning prevented a pipeline spill and saved over $3 million in cleanup costs. Digital twins enable continuous monitoring, reducing the need for costly and time- consuming physical inspections. This allows companies to allocate resources more efficiently and focus on proactive maintenance.
Can digital twins detect corrosion before it happens? How do digital twins help with corrosion monitoring and improve safety in aging pipelines?
They work by continuously collecting data from sensors placed along the pipeline—measuring data like pressure, temperature, and chemical composition—and using advanced algorithms and AI models to predict where and when corrosion is likely to occur. This allows engineers to intervene early, apply protective measures, or schedule maintenance before any real damage happens, saving both time and cost while improving safety. Digital twins identify weak points, track material degradation, and simulate stress tests, ensuring pipelines remain safe for extended use.
What role does AI play in pipeline life extension and can digital twins help with regulatory compliance and specifically, can you tell us what makes digital twins different from the traditional simulation models in pipeline management? AI-powered digital twins analyze historical data, predict future risks, and recommend proactive maintenance, making pipeline management smarter and more efficient. Yes! Talking about digital twins with respect
to compliance, they provide detailed reports on pipeline conditions, helping companies meet safety and environmental regulations. Regarding the difference, digital twins is more advanced. A simulation is a one-time test, while a digital twin keeps updating with real-world data, making it more accurate.
Can you elaborate on the importance of pipeline life cycle management and how digital twins support this process?
Pipeline life cycle management involves managing a pipeline from design to decommissioning. Digital twins provide realtime insights at every stage, helping companies optimize performance, reduce costs, and ensure safety throughout the pipeline’s lifespan. Digital twins provide real-time insights at every stage—design, construction, operation, and maintenance—helping companies optimize performance and reduce costs. During design and construction, engineers use digital twins to simulate different materials, environmental conditions, and stress factors, ensuring pipelines are designed and constructed for maximum durability and efficiency. By targeting specific sections for repair or replacement, companies can save millions in infrastructure costs. Digital twins enable this targeted approach by providing detailed insights into pipeline conditions.
Are digital twins used in subsea pipelines and what’s the future of digital twins in pipeline integrity management?
Yes! Subsea pipelines face harsh conditions, and digital twins help monitor underwater corrosion, pressure changes, and structural integrity. Digital twins will become more intelligent, integrating AI, IoT and machine learning to provide fully automated, predictive maintenance solutions.
What are the biggest challenges in using digital twins for pipeline life extension?
Well, as we all know, there are two sides to a coin. While the benefits derivable from digital twins adoption are numerous, there also some challenges. The challenges include: data integration, cybersecurity risks, competency gap and high initial costs, but advancements in technology are making adoption easier. Some companies struggle with data security, system compatibility, and high costs. But as technology improves, these problems are becoming easier to solve.
Omoniyi
CONDOLENCE MESSAGE
TO THE LATE FORMER PRESIDENT BUHARI FAMILY AND APPRECIATING HIS EXCELLENC Y, PRESIDENT BOLA AHMED TINUBU, GCFR, PRESIDENT, FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA
With deep sorrow and a profound sense of national
loss, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the family of our departed elder statesman, former President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, and to the entire people of Nigeria.
President Buhari was not only a statesman of immense stature
nwave
g commitment to Nigeria’s unity and development.
In mourning his passage, we also celebrate a life wholly devoted to public service—first as a soldier who defended our sovereignty, and later as a two-time Head of State who led with courage, resilience, and a vision for a stronger Nigeria. His legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
I also wish to extend my heartfelt condolence to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for leading the nation in honouring this great son of Nigeria with a befitting state burial. Your exemplary leadership and participation in the final rites demonstrated deep respect for the ideals of unity, service, and national gratitude.
Your Excellency, your personal presence, moving tributes, and the unprecedented dignity with which the Federal Government organised the final rites and state funerals have not only comforted the bereaved family but also reassured the nation that Nigeria will never forget its heroes.
Your immense sacrifice for accompanying remains of the late former president, by road from Katsina to Daura. And also your tireless commitment in traveling back from Daura to Katsina. The national outpouring of respect, and the meticulous coordination of the burial arrangements speak volumes of your unwavering respect for history, loyalty to national values, and deep appreciation for the sacrifices made by President Buhari in p r e s e r v i n g N i g e r i a ’ s u n i t y, s t a
advancement.
May Allah (SWT) grant the soul of the late President eternal rest and comfort his family, close associates, and the Nigerian people during this period of grief
His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR President, Commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces Federal Republic of Nigeria
His Excellency, Late Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR Former President of Nigeria
Dr. Ibrahim Shehu Shema, CON, FNIM Chairman, Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) Signed:
FEaturEs
How the Nigeria Armed Forces Resettlement Centre isTransiting Retirees from Service to Self Reliance
After 35 years of active service to the nation, 542 senior Non-Commissioned Officers last month, officially retired from the Nigerian Armed Forces—leaving behind the regimentation of military life for the uncharted waters of civilian existence. Their transition was marked by a poignant passing-out ceremony at the Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre (NAFRC), Oshodi, Lagos, following a rigorous six-month vocational training designed to equip them with the tools, knowledge and confidence needed to begin life anew. Chiemelie Ezeobi writes that the event was not only a celebration of their sacrifice and service, but a hopeful glimpse into their future as entrepreneurs, community leaders and productive citizens
course
It was a moment of reflection, pride and transition at the Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre (NAFRC), Oshodi, Lagos, as 542 senior Non-Commissioned Officers passed out after a six-month preretirement course, formally marking the end of their military service and the beginning of a new chapter in civil life.
Drawn from the Nigerian Army (362), Nigerian Navy (134), and Nigerian Air Force (46), the retirees had spent the last three and a half decades serving the nation in various capacities, enduring the rigours and demands of military life. But on this occasion, the boots and berets gave way to hope, laughter, and a new sense of purpose.
They had joined the Armed Forces as young men and women—disciplined, idealistic and resolute in their commitment to defending the territorial integrity of Nigeria. Over the years, they rose through the ranks, fought battles both visible and invisible, served in volatile regions, kept vigil over national assets and endured personal sacrifices.
Now, with the passing out of Course 1/2025, their stories continue—not as soldiers in uniform but as citizens empowered with new vocational and management skills, ready to thrive in civilian life.
A Centre with a Purpose
Speaking at the ceremony, the Commandant of NAFRC, Air Vice Marshal Bashir Mamman, announced that the Centre has trained over 53,000 military personnel, para-military officers, and allied armed forces members since inception.
“The Centre has remained committed to its core mandate of providing vocational and entrepreneurial training to retiring personnel of the Armed Forces,” he said. “This, in turn, enables them to contribute meaningfully to their various communities and prevents them from becoming a liability to society.”
The six-month training course, which was conducted entirely at the NAFRC in Oshodi, Lagos, equipped participants with practical skills in management, fashion, fine arts, soap and cosmetics production, agriculture, woodwork, building and civil engineering, electrical installation, auto mechanics, welding and fabrication, music, food processing, and information technology, among others.
The curriculum is designed not only to prepare participants for self-employment but also to encourage them to become job creators, thereby contributing to national development in retirement.
Building for the Future
According to AVM Mamman, some reforms and infrastructural upgrades have been undertaken under his leadership and these include the renovation of the NAFRC Headquarters reception, refurbishment of the Corporal and Below Quarters, and the construction of a seat-out area for participants.
“We also energised the Lt.-Gen. T.A. Lagbaja Block, furnished participants’ accommodation, installed solar panel streetlights and procured a Toyota Hilux,” he added. “We took delivery
of a Jet Mover Ambulance to improve healthcare services and commenced the quarterly training of Mid and Senior Level Cadre Officers in Entrepreneurship and Management.”
In partnership with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), the Centre also introduced lectures on the importance of business registration, aimed at educating participants on legal recognition, business credibility, access to financial services, and tax benefits.
Despite these strides, the AVM acknowledged that challenges persist.
“Delayed release of funds, healthcare and maintenance requirements, and feeding logistics have continued to pose serious constraints,” he said. “Nonetheless, the Centre continues to explore progressive solutions, including the development of NAFRC’s 30-hectare agricultural land at Epe, Lagos, to expand capacity in agriculture, waste management and renewable energy.”
A New Digital Frontier
As part of its drive towards modernisation, the Centre has begun upgrading its Information Technology facilities to host a vibrant website and an e-learning platform. “This will allow participants who may be unable to physically attend courses to still benefit from the programme,” AVM Mamman explained. “It will also enable us to track the vocational progress of graduates over time.”
NAFRC is also extending its training beyond military personnel. Youths from the surrounding communities have begun to benefit from the Centre’s Corporate Social Responsibility initiative, which provides free vocational training. Plans are also underway to institutionalise
similar training for widows and orphans of deceased personnel.
AVM Mamman thanked President Bola Tinubu for approving an increment in the starter packs for participants, and also expressed gratitude to the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and the Service Chiefs for their strategic support and leadership.
Tribute to Courage, Sacrifice and Discipline
Representing the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, at the event, Major General Aligbe Obhiozele, Commander of the Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), lauded the retirees for their unwavering service and dedication to the nation.
“Today’s ceremony is a tribute to your courage, sacrifice, discipline, resilience, selflessness and unwavering commitment,” he said. “As you transition to civilian life, remember that you now become the planners and executors of your personal daily activities. This may sound exciting, but it requires discipline and effective time management.”
He urged them to maintain their honour and integrity even outside the barracks. “The society will continue to expect a high standard of ethics and conduct from you,” he added.
“You must prove that you passed through a disciplined system and be positive influencers in your communities.”
According to him, their respective communities would now look to them to support local safety and security efforts, including tackling community-based crimes.
“Please, be advocates of peace and make yourselves available in providing such assistance within the ambit of the law,” the COAS advised.
Charge for New Realities
While commending their service, the COAS did not shy away from cautioning them about the potential pitfalls of post-service life.
“Challenges may include inadequate resources, poor health management, extravagant lifestyle, and deceit by fraudulent individuals,” he said. “It is therefore unwise to venture into unfamiliar businesses or live beyond your means.”
He reminded them that the essence of the training at NAFRC was to equip them for these realities. “I enjoin you to apply the experience and skills you have gained for a productive economic life. You are and will always remain heroes of our land.”
He expressed appreciation to the leadership of NAFRC for sustaining a high standard of human resource development and pledged continued support from the Armed Forces to transform the Centre into a globally recognised institution of excellence in vocational training.
“I thank President Bola Tinubu for his unwavering support for the Armed Forces and the welfare of both serving and retired personnel,” he concluded.
A Bittersweet Farewell
For the retirees, the passing out ceremony was more than a formality—it was a solemn, reflective and proud moment. Having spent over three decades in the disciplined world of the military, adjusting to civilian life would be a significant shift. Yet, many expressed optimism and enthusiasm for the new journey ahead.
“NAFRC has opened our eyes to what is possible beyond military service,” one of the retirees said. “I am leaving here with the confidence that I can sustain myself and even employ others.”
Another retiree noted: “The soap-making and agriculture training have given me a new purpose. I plan to start a farm and teach my children everything I’ve learnt here.”
In a world of uncertainty, these 542 men and women, now former warriors, have returned to society not as burdens, but as builders—armed not with weapons, but with skills, values, and a renewed sense of purpose. The uniform may be gone, but the discipline and patriotism remain.
Major General Aligbe Obhiozele, Commander of the Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC) and Commandant of NAFRC, Air Vice Marshal Bashir Mamman with Course 1/2025 542 senior Non-Commissioned Officers at their passing out parade at the Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre (NAFRC), Oshodi, Lagos, after their six-month pre-retirement
L-R: Rear Admiral Shettima; Major General Aligbe Obhiozele, Commander (TRADOC); Commandant of NAFRC, Air Vice Marshal Bashir Mammam; and National President DEPOWA, Mrs. Oghogho Musa
27TH VALEDICTORY SERVICE AND GRADUATION CEREMONY...
L-R: Head, Chinese Unit, University of Lagos (UNILAG), Dr. Adetoro Banwo; Professor of Biology (Modern Science Building) UNILAG, Prof. Kayode Amund; Director of Administration, Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), Nigeria and Oversea, Pastor. Tope Dada; Director, Confucius Institute, UNILAG, Prof. Wu Shuang; Administrator/CEO, Grace Schools, Mrs. Iyiola Edun; and the Principal, Grace Schools, Dr. Bernard Akintelure, during the 27th valedictory service and graduation ceremony of Grace high School class of 2025 held in Gbagada , Lagos yesterday
ADC: Respect Tinubu’s Wishes, Don’t Reelect Him
if He Fails to Provide Stable
Restates commitment to conducting transparent presidential primary election Explains why Obi, El-Rufai are exempted from fully joining coalition party Ex-DG of
Chuks Okocha in Abuja
PDP governors' forum, Maduabum, joins ADC
The African Democratic Party (ADC) has reminded Nigerians that President Bola Tinubu requested that he be voted out if he failed to provide stable and affordable power and charged the electoral to keep the president’s wishes.
The President had during his campaign tour in December 2022, said, “If I don’t give you Constant Electricity for 4 Years, when I come back for 2nd Term, Don’t vote for me.”
The ADC, in a series post by its National Publicity Secretary, Malam Bolaji Abdullahi, on his X handle, reminded the president of his covenant with the electorate.
“Today, we just want to take some time to remind President Tinubu that he promised Nigerians uninterrupted electricity within four years. Yes, that’s right, Mr. President promised us 24/7 power. All by himself.
“Yet today, the facts speak louder than Mr. President’s penchant for broken promises. Since Tinubu took office, electricity tariffs have jumped by 240%, but the grid has collapsed 12 times, plunging millions of homes and businesses into repeated darkness.
“Over 90 million Nigerians still lack electricity, while many get just 4 to 6 hours a day under Tinubu’s failed Band
FCT
A–E system. In rural communities, most of Nigeria’s 50 million families remain completely off the grid, with no access to electricity at all.
“Yet, Mr. President still has not moved the needle. In 26 months, there has been no major power sector reforms, no clear roadmap, and no sense of urgency.
“We are past the halfway mark of this administration, and millions of Nigerians are still charging their phones at mobile charging kiosks, and spending hundreds of thousands to fuel their generators.
“Mr. President, on this fine Sunday morning, we ask:
“Where is the light?
“What happened to your promise?
“And how much longer do Nigerians have to wait in the dark?
“Mr. President, you once said: ‘If I don’t give you electricity, don’t vote for me.
“Well, Nigerians are listening. And come 2027, we intend to grant your wish.” Abdullahi wrote.
Meanwhile, the ADC has reiterated its commitment to conducting free and fair presidential and governorship primaries, adding that it reserved the right to use direct, indirect, or consensus methods, based on the decision of its National Executive Committee.
But some members of the coalition party have said a former Anambra State
governor, Mr. Peter Obi, waas not eligible to contest the 2027 presidential election under its platform due to his continued membership in the Labour Party.
Speaking with news men in Abuja, Abdullahi said the party exempted Obi and Mallam Nasiru el-Rufai to complete some election processes in their Legacy Political Parties.
Former Vice-President, Atiku Abubakar has last week officially disengaged from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), leaving only Peter Obi to do so.
Responding to this question, he said, ''Well I can speak specifically in respect of Peter Obi and Malam Nasiru El-Rufai. Those are the two leaders of our party that we are aware of their situation.
''They were granted leave to complete the process of elections, the by-election and the election of their governorship candidates, like the case of Mr. Obi in their legacy parties. Because they have people who have obtained nomination forms to contest election on the platform of those parties.
''So, it's only logical and fair that they are allowed to complete that process. But they are solidly in the coalition and as soon as that process is completed, they will move in fully.
''I have not heard Peter Obi or Abubakar Atiku say if it's not them,
then it's nothing. It's their supporters or people who purport to speak for them that are saying this.
“Whether it's Peter Obi or Alhaji Atiku Abubakar or any other aspirants on the platform of African Democratic Congress understand that this is democracy and we are not going to anoint any aspirant or candidate.
''Like our chairman has emphasised, we don't have a predetermined agenda. We don't have any favorite candidate. We are going to provide a level playing ground and a transparent process for the emergence of our presidential candidate.
''I'm not aware, therefore, that any of these aspirants have directly said that it's either them or they are no longer be part of the coalition. It's okay for supporters to continue to say what they want to say.
“But they don't necessarily represent the sentiments of people that they claim to support. And that's why we say that for us in ADC, we are going to maintain strict internal democracy.
''And if anybody has any preferred aspirants or candidates, what I would advise them is to get a membership card of the ADC so that they will be in a position to vote for these aspirants when the time comes to elect a candidate for the party,'' he explained.
However, Obi is yet to officially
Residents Lament Spike in Insecurity as Residence of Ghanaian High Commissioner Burgled
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has witnessed a concerning surge in insecurity, leaving residents feeling vulnerable and anxious.
THISDAY gathered the spike in criminal activities, including kidnappings, burglaries, and armed robberies, has sparked widespread concern among residents, who are now demanding increased security measures to safeguard their lives and property.
The situation, security experts said, is particularly worrisome given the FCT's status as the seat of government and hub of diplomatic activity.
Residents are also calling on
security agencies to take decisive action to address the situation, deploying more intelligence assets and conducting targeted operations to dismantle criminal networks and bring perpetrators to justice.
Respondents who spoke to THISDAY about the troubling security situation in FCT stressed that only through sustained efforts can the territory regain its reputation as a safe and secure environment for residents and visitors alike.
Just last week, there was a report that the residence of the Ghanaian High Commissioner to Nigeria was burgled by yet-to-be-identified hoodlums.
Sources close to the High Commission revealed the hoodlums
entered through the back of the house and carted away one 65-inch TV set, gas cylinders, and two 5-kg bags of rice from the residence.
This ugly incident took place barely a week after the death of Ghanaian woman Freda Arnong, who encountered a one-chance criminal syndicate.
It was gathered that Freda, who closed from a house fellowship near the CBN Institute, Maitama, on July 1, 2025, died on Sunday, July 6, 2025, at the National Hospital Abuja, while the official residence of the Ghanaian High Commissioner to Nigeria in Maitama was burgled on Thursday, July 10, 2025.
Further findings revealed that the Ghanaian High Commissioner is also
alleged to have fled his residence due to heightened insecurity in the territory.
Earlier this month, precisely on July 12, 2025, a 23-year-old lady, identified as Grace Godwin, was allegedly killed by suspected onechance criminal syndicates, and her corpse was dumped by the roadside in the Jabi area of FCT. There are several other unreported cases of one chance criminals making life difficult for residents.
Meanwhile, in a related development, another unidentified woman was found unconscious along the Kubwa–Deidei Road around 10:30 p.m. on July 8, 2025, and was rushed to the Trauma Centre at National Hospital, Abuja.
resign from the Labour Party—a move that disqualifies him under the ADC constitutional guidelines.
According to the party’s constitution, only card-carrying members without any ongoing affiliation with other political parties are allowed to seek public office under the ADC.
Specifically, the third schedule of the party’s rulebook, which outlines the conduct of primaries, and Article 8 on membership, both prohibit aspirants from maintaining ties with any other political group.
This clause now presents a clear roadblock for Obi, who is still seen as a key figure in the Labour Party. Nevertheless, Obi’s media aide, Tanko Yunusa, has confirmed that his principal remained a member of the Labour Party, adding that if there was ever a change in political affiliation, it would be made public.
In another development, the immediate past Director-General of the Peoples Democratic Party
Power
(PDP), and two-term member of the House of Representatives, Hon CID Maduabum, has defected from the PDP to the ADC.
Maduabum, in a statement personally issued in Abuja, pointed out that the PDP, which he served with pride, has been hijacked by self-serving, unscrupulous elements, who were more interested in personal power grabs than in party discipline, internal democracy, or national interest. The PDP, he added, was now a shadow of its former self, stressing that the party has descended into chaos, internal betrayal, and systematic destruction by diverse forces, who have no regard for the principles upon which the party was founded. According to him, voices of reason were, sadly, no longer welcome, with genuine reformers vilified or silenced.
"I can no longer, in good conscience, remain in a house that has been stripped of its moral compass and overrun by opportunists" he declared.
Bayelsa State has made a request for the creation of 25 additional local government areas separate from the existing eight in the state.
The state also proposed fiscal federalism, establishment of state police, electoral as well as judicial reforms.
The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Biriyai Dambo, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, presented the state’s position at the ongoing public hearing organised by the South South Centre A (comprising Bayelsa, Delta and Edo) of the House of Representatives’ Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution at the DSP Alamieyeseigha Banquet Hall in Yenagoa on Saturday.
According to Mr. Dambo, creating new councils in the state had become necessary as the extant local government areas were overpopulated with some having more than 150 communities.
The state also contended that it had the resources to fund the proposed councils, which were
created by the House of Assembly in line Section 8(3) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
In proposing the restructuring of the country based on the principles of fiscal federalism, Bayelsa canvassed full control of all natural resources located onshore and offshore the federating states and that 40 per cent tax be paid to the federal government while states retain 60 per cent of the revenue from their resources.
On state police, the state averred that its establishment will strengthen the capacity of states to fight crime and provide adequate security.
It also noted that the agitation for state police was in the spirit of true federalism and that Nigeria was ripe for state policing.
The state’s position equally included review of the local government system and local government autonomy, review of the exclusive and legislative list, electoral reforms to strengthen the Independent National Electoral Commission as well as judicial reforms.
Linus Aleke in Abuja
BCA BOOK LAUNCH IN LONDON...
Bakare: Nigeria at Crossroads, Calls for Revolution of Core Values
Declares our system not broken, designed to fail, no level of cosmetic reform’ll fix it Says nation needs moral overhaul, warns of country’s collapse Warri South legislature backs Tinubu, Oborevwori, Agbateyiniro for second term
Fiery cleric and former presidential hopeful, Pastor Tunde Bakare, yesterday, in a sermon, said the Nigerian system was not broken, but designed to fail the people, adding that no amount of cosmetic reform would fix it.
Bakare said what Nigeria needed was a complete overhaul, a value revolution. He declared that the country was at a moral and political crossroads, and must now choose between collapse or complete revolution – not of bloodshed, but of values, structure, and leadership.
Ministering before his usually large congregation at The Citadel Global Community Church in Lagos, Bakare warned that the current political architecture was unsustainable, as it was propped up by corruption, tribalism, injustice, and impunity.
He stated, “The system is not broken, it was designed to fail the people. And no amount of cosmetic reform will fix it. What Nigeria needs is a complete overhaul—a value revolution.”
He decried a situation where criminals were rewarded with office while men and women of integrity were side-lined or silenced.
Bakare said, “This country is bleeding. It is governed by men who do not know justice, who are far from righteousness. A nation that celebrates looters and punishes truth-tellers cannot survive.”
He called for a revolution, not one of arms, but of conscience.
According to him, “This is not a call to violence. This is a call to a new way of thinking, a shift from selfish ambition to selfless service. We need a new breed of leaders, visionary, righteous, competent, and just."
Bakare also took a swipe at the Church, saying many religious leaders
In the sermon, titled, “A Disgrace to Grace,” Bakare lamented the deterioration of Nigeria’s political system, describing it as rotten, unjust, and incapable of producing peace or prosperity.
Adeleke Flags Off Dualisation of Ila Orangun Township Road
Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo
Governor Ademola Adeleke remained undistracted by unsubstantiated statements on national television by some politicians, particularly a governorship candidate as he flagsoff the dualisation of Ila Orangun township road and the second phase dualization of Osogbo - Ikirun - Ila Odo Kwara State Boundary Road.
“The said politician and few others have said all sorts of things which are at variance with the reality and facts of our achievements in the infrastructure sector across Osun State. In a statement issued and made available to THISDAY over the weekend by Olawale Rasheed, the governor’s spokesman said: "These misrepresentations and misinformation have only strengthened my resolve to push ahead with the all-inclusive infrastructure upgrade and delivery of good governance in our dear state”, Governor Adeleke was quoted as saying yesterday while hosting some Osun elders who paid a courtesy visit to him."
According to the governor, his administration has positively
transformed Osun State as acknowledged by local and international bodies, citing several reports by federal agencies and non-governmental groups, which rated Osun very high across all indices.
He flaunted several awards on infrastructure revolution, health sector excellence, new examination performance rating, digital economy innovation, agricultural mechanisation, sport sector reforms, business sector enhancement, water sector upgrade and artisanal cooperative empowerment, declaring: “our excellent performance was affirmed by patriots, lovers of true developments, friends and even foes.
“The latest national table on states fiscal transparency for 2025 first quarter places Osun in number 5 position out of 36 states. Our administration is transparent, accountable, and compliant with due process requirements.
“Our critics are worried by our extraordinary performance within less than three years, hence their resorts to name calling, blackmail and libelous allegations. We will not get distracted by petty politicking and desperate attempts to stop our rigorous service to the people.
have abandoned their prophetic role in society in exchange for comfort and closeness to power.
He accused sections of the clergy of compromising truth, enabling corruption, and turning their pulpits into political platforms.
“How can we claim to represent Christ and yet remain silent in the face of wickedness?” he asked, stressing, “The Church must lead the value revolution.”
According to him, the revolution Nigeria needs must begin with an inward transformation, a revival of moral values, civic responsibility, and principled leadership.
Bakare said, “Until we realign our national values with justice, equity, and truth, no constitution or election will save us.
“The hour has come. The old order must give way to the new. We cannot build a great nation on a foundation of lies, greed, and oppression. The soul of Nigeria is at stake.”
Warri South Legislature Backs Tinubu, Oborevwori, Agbateyiniro for Second Term
Warri South legislative arm
endorsed President Bola Tinubu, Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, and Chairman of Warri South Local Government Area, Agbateyiniro Weyinmi Isaac, for a second term in office.
The endorsement was carried out over the weekend, following a unanimous voice vote by members of the legislature after Agbateyiniro unveiled the detailed stewardship of his administration within one year in office.
Leader of Warri South Legislative Arm, Hon. Joy Ejumudo, who presided over the special plenary, explained that the decision by
the assembly to endorse Tinubu, Oborevwori and Agbateyiniro for second term was consequent upon the excellent performance of the trio as chief executives at the federal, state and local government levels. The Warri South Local Government boss, while presenting his scorecard before the councillors, prominent political leaders in Warri South, and critical stakeholders, disclosed that his administration had engaged a team of engineers to immediately commence the reconstruction of over 73 shops recently engulfed by fire at the densely populated Igbudu Market, Warri.
Okpebholo Denies Threatening Peter Obi, Says Remark Based on Security Concerns
Chuks Okocha, Folalumi Alaran in Abuja and Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, yesterday, denied threatening the presidential candidate of Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 general election, Mr. Peter Obi, but only raising security concerns.
Okpebholo had during the weekend in Uromi, Esan North East Local Government area of the state asked Obi to obtain clearance in order to prevent crisis as reportedly recorded during a previous visit where he (Obi) came to Edo to donate N15 million to St. Philomena Hospital College of
Nursing Science and Midwifery for an on going project.
The governor also said failure by Obi to obtain permission from him as the new Sheriff in town, he should face the consequences of his choice.
Responding to the criticisms that trailed his comments, Okpebholo, said his remark was strongly rooted in security concerns and not a threat to Obi.
He regretted that his remarks were given various misinterpretations and political colouration, rather than the true import of his statement.
In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, he said the “position is particularly relevant in light
of the rising attacks and abductions of religious leaders, especially Catholic priests and Christian clerics.
“It is imperative to state clearly that the Governor did not issue any form of threat to Mr. Obi, but rather emphasised the need for high-profile individuals, particularly politically exposed persons, to notify and seek security clearance from the governor before embarking on any public engagements within the state.
“When such protocols are ignored, it creates serious security vulnerabilities, not only for the visitor but also for citizens who may be caught in avoidable threats," Itua said.
Meanwhile, a former National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Olisa Metuh, has called on President Bola Tinubu to call Okpebholo to order over his ban on Obi from entering Edo State without security clearance.
“As the Chief Security Officer of Edo State, it is the governor’s constitutional responsibility to safeguard the lives and property of all residents and visitors alike. This duty includes ensuring that adequate security measures are put in place during high-profile visits or events that may attract large crowds or media attention.
TINUBU: WITHIN HOURS, I LOST TWO MEN I HELD IN HIGH ESTEEM LAST SUNDAY
success.
Tinubu stated, "I could recount the June 12 episode, our episodes in his palace were for real determination to reverse the annulment of June 12 presidential elections, Baba was steadfast and resolute to the support.”
The president said, "That he lived to see the calendar as a 91-year-old and to be honoured with the Grand Commander of the Niger, I am proud to even go through that motion and the emotional attachment that I have with him.”
Earlier at the Igbeba, Ijebu-Ode residence of Oba Adetona, Tinubu prayed at the tomb of the late Awujale of ijebuland.
He spoke in private with the
widows, children and other members of the immediate family of the late Awujale, commiserated with the family, and prayed that Almighty Allah will forgive the late Oba Adetona, and grant his widows long life.
At the Igbeba family court, the president was received by the immediate members of the late Awujale's family, led by Oloori Agba Iyabode Adetona, Oloori Adekemi Adetona, Oloori Modupe, children, among many other relations.
Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, described the late Awujale as more than a monarch, but the voice of the voiceless, a revered patriarch whose enduring legacy will continue to inspire leadership.
"Under Oba Adetona’s leadership, Ijebu land witnessed unprecedented leadership, Kabiyesi upheld the dignity of Ijebu culture and upheld the dignity of the Yoruba race, his reign brought prestige to our land," Abiodun stated.
Acknowledging the presence of Tinubu and his wife, Oluremi Tinubu, at the fidau prayer, the governor expressed gratitude for their support and highlighted that the state’s local initiatives served as a powerful extension of the president’s Renewed Hope vision, fostering lasting legacies of prosperity.
In his Islamic sermon, the Imam, Professor Kamaldeen Balogun, whose teachings were grounded in justice and equality for all, emphasised the
importance of remaining mindful of the connection between this worldly life and the hereafter.
The president was accompanied to the fidau by some governors, led by Chairman of Nigeria Governors' Forum, Abdulrazaq Abdulrahman; and Minister of Finance, Wale Edun; Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo; Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake; and Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijjani, among others. The 8th day fidau was held amid tight security at the Dipo Dina International Stadium, IjebuOde, and attended by eminent personalities.
Wale Igbintade in Lagos and Sylvester Idowu in Warri
Mr. Papa Madiaw Ndiaye, Chair, Ecobank (left), and Dr. Alim Abubakre, Founder, TEXEM UK and Director of BCA, at the BCA book launch in London...recently
DRAINAGE TOUR TO PARK VIEW ESTATE...
L-R: Special Adviser on Environment, Engr. Olakunle Rotimi-Akodu; Honourable Commissioner
Office of Drainage Services, Engr.
Adegbite and
Senators Back Bill to Create Anioma State
Otu aligns with states creation, women inclusion, state Police As Bayelsa, Delta, Edo insist on fiscal federalism, resources control, more LGAs Uzodimma, Otti differ on state creation as Kalu says review process most comprehensive, inclusive in Nigerian's history
Central Senator, Natasha AkpotiUduaghan, is redefining grassroots development through innovation and technology.
A major milestone in Nigeria’s quest for equitable state creation and inclusive development is beginning to take shape, as an overwhelming number of senators in the 10th National Assembly have reportedly declared support for the creation of Anioma State proposed to become the sixth state in the Southeast geopolitical zone.
With about 90 Senators, well above the required two-thirds constitutional threshold, reportedly already backing Senate Bill 481, there are indications that the initiative has gained unprecedented national traction.
Leading voices from across party lines, religious and regional affiliations were said to have rallied behind the movement, anchored by Senator Ned Nwoko, who represents Delta North Senatorial District.
The bill, formally introduced in the Senate as part of the ongoing constitutional amendment process, sought to promote equity, national cohesion, and federal balance by addressing the historical underrepresentation of the Southeast in Nigeria’s state structure.
Sources listed those publicly endorsing the proposal as including the Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin; Senate Leader, Michael Opeyemi Bamidele and Senate Leader, Abba Moro.
They also included former governors Adams Oshiomhole (Edo), Seriake Dickson (Bayelsa), Orji Uzor Kalu (Abia); and Southeast political heavyweight Victor Umeh.
The proposal was also said to be enjoying the backing of former Ogun State Governor, Gbenga Daniel; FCT Senator Ireti Kingibe; former Plateau Governor, Simon Lalong; and Anambra North Senator, Tony Nwoye.
Their unified support underscored the national character of the movement and signalled its strong prospects for legislative and eventual executive approval.
Nwoko, in a letter dated May 27, 2025, urged Senate President Godswill Akpabio and his colleagues to back the bill, citing the urgent need for justice, equity, and inclusive development.
According to political analysts, the Anioma State proposal has now moved from mere agitation to a concrete legislative reality.
While the Red Chamber advanced national conversations around federal restructuring and state equality, Kogi
In a bold empowerment initiative that blended education, entrepreneurship, and technology, Senator Natasha has trained and empowered 250 constituents in cutting-edge fields such as drone technology, renewable energy, data analytics, and advanced welding.
Eighty of the beneficiaries were trained specifically in drone operations geared toward environmental sustainability, security, and infrastructure monitoring.
Otu Aligns with State Creation, Women Inclusion, State Police
Cross River State Governor, Bassey Out, has advocated the creation of new states, greater inclusion of women and persons with disabilities in governance, and the establishment of state police as part of ongoing efforts to amend the 1999 Constitution.
Speaking through his deputy, Hon. Peter Odey, at the South-South Zonal Public Hearing on the Constitution Review held at the Metropolitan Hotel in Calabar, Otu said the exercise was both timely and historic.
He emphasised the need for a constitutional framework that responds to evolving political, social, and economic realities.
“This exercise resonates strongly with the hope and aspiration of our people. Our desire is a more inclusive, just and effective framework of governance,” he stated.
He reminded the audience that sovereignty rests with the people and described the review process as a reaffirmation of the social contract between government and citizens.
“The constitution must evolve with time. Any document that governs over two hundred million people must reflect contemporary needs and expectations,” Otu said.
Bayelsa, Delta, Edo Insist on Fiscal Federalism, Resources Control, More LGAs
The governments of Bayelsa, Delta and Edo States, weekend, insisted on and demanded a proper fiscal federalism and resource control wherein states were allowed to control and manage their resources and pay taxes to the federal government at the House of Representatives Committee on Constitutional Review public hearing.
The states, who spke at the DSP Alamieyeseigha Memorial Banquet
Hall Government House, Yenagoa, venue of the public hearing for South South Zone A, comprising Bayelsa, Delta and Edo States also demanded among others, state police, devolution of powers to federating units, increased derivation formula, judicial and electoral reforms and creation of more local government areas.
These were some of the issues canvassed at the hearing by government representatives from Bayelsa, Delta, and Edo States, as well as ethnic nationalities, traditional rulers, pressure groups, women, and youth groups.
Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State, in his remarks, advocated that the constitutional review process should create opportunities to address the injustices suffered by the people of the Niger Delta, the inequitable distribution of resources, the need for fiscal federalism, and for States to be saddled with the responsibilities of creating local government areas they can adequately fund.
He said the cornerstone of any robust democracy lay in the fundamental right of the citizens to amend the Constitution that laid the foundation of their governance.
He stated that a review of the
Constitution ensured that it was not a static document, but rather a dynamic instrument that evolved in response to the changing needs and aspirations of the populace.
Governor Diri stressed that the crux of the demands of Bayelsa State was a firm commitment to the establishment of a federal system and structure that was “genuinely just, equitable, responsive, and demonstrably dedicated to the holistic development of not just the state or the Niger Delta region but also the Nigerian federation.”
The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Biriyai Dambo, SAN, who articulated the position of the state government, among other demands, called for the creation of additional 25 local government areas for the state lamenting that the eight local government of the state is an injustice to the rich oil and gas producing state.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State, represented by the Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme, called for environmental justice for oil producing communities, local government autonomy and upward review of the derivation principle and revenue allocation formula for states to control their resources.
The Edo State Governor Senator Monday Monday Okpebholo represented by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr Samson Osagie, said the state backed legislative, judicial, and electoral reforms with electronic transmission of election results and the creation of state police but was against carving any part of the state for the formation of another state.
Earlier, Majority Leader and Deputy Chairman of the House of Representatives Constitution Review Committee, Prof. Julius Ihonvbere, said his Team A, covering Edo, Bayelsa and Delta states, was in the South South zone to consult with people of the three states and hear from them on the areas that needed to change in the Constitution.
According to Ihonvbere, only a transparent and participatory process would guarantee development in Nigeria.
Uzodimma, Otti Differ on State Creation
Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, and his Abia State counterpart, Governor Alex Otti, have taken different positions on the
unfolding issue of states creation. While Uzodimma called for the creation of additional states in the South East geo-political zone as well as the making of rotational presidency in Nigeria a constitutional matter, Otti called for the development of an inclusive governance model in the states, one that would give every major clan a say in the allocation of resources, a seat at the decision-making table and the structural leverage to advance their political and economic interests.
Uzodimma further argued that the issues of indigeneship and state police in Nigeria should be taken more seriously, and that the lawmakers working on the Constitution review should strive to fashion what truly reflects the thinking of the people.
Speaking at the public hearing on the review of the 1999 Constitution in Owerri on Saturday, July 19, 2025, Uzodinma advocated the creation of at least two additional states in the South East zone to address underrepresentation in national institutions.
Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has described the recent exit of its former presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, as a normal and temporary setback.
not just within the PDP, but also across Nigeria’s political landscape. He emphasised that the party was focused on strengthening its structure and unity, while also repositioning itself ahead of future political contests. Atiku Has Left Before, PDP Will Remain Stronger, Acting Chair, Damagum, Declares
Acting National Chairman of the party, Ambassador Umar Iliya Damagum, who stated this while speaking to journalists in Bauchi explained that it was not the first time the former Vice President had left the party, adding that
such moves were not unusual in Nigerian politics.
Ambassador Damagum assured the people that the PDP remained committed to its founding ideals and was working towards addressing internal challenges,
Union Bank Marks Decade-high Staff Promotion Rate for Outstanding Performance
Lagos, Nigeria — Union Bank of Nigeria Plc, a leading institution in the Nigerian financial sector, has concluded its annual staff assessment and performance evaluation exercise, resulting in the promotion of approximately 24 percent of its employees, the highest promotion rate recorded by the Bank in the past 10 years.
This milestone reflects Union Bank’s enduring commitment to recognising and rewarding
excellence, nurturing talent, and fostering a high-performance culture. Promotions were awarded across various departments to employees who consistently demonstrated outstanding achievement, integrity and dedication to the Bank’s values and growth objectives.
Commenting on the development, Yetunde Oni, the CEO and Managing Director of Union Bank, said: "At Union Bank,
we are steadfast in our mission to reimagine what is possible for our customers, our communities and ourselves as dedicated professionals. These promotions not only recognise individual excellence but also reflect the Bank's ongoing commitment to rewarding those who continually advance our shared ambitions."
Union Bank remains committed to the highest standards of professionalism, ethics and
accountability throughout the organisation. The Bank is passionate about creating opportunities for growth, rewarding merit and supporting all employees throughout their career journeys. By celebrating top performers and maintaining robust standards, Union Bank of Nigeria is well positioned to deliver sustainable value to its stakeholders and the wider community.
Sunday Aborisade in Abuja, Tony Icheku, Amby Uneze in Owerri, Olusegun Samuel in Yenagoa and Bassey Inyang in Calabar
for The Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab; Former Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Otunba. Femi Pedro; Permanent Secretary,
Mahamood
Director Drainage Construction and Dredging, Engr. Dapo Ajadi, during a drainage tour of Park View Estate, Ikoyi, Lagos over the weekend
GLOROUS SISTERS OF JESUS HOUSE PROGRAMME…
L-R: Guest Speaker/Consultant, ENT Surgeon, Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Idi-Araba, Dr. Moronke Akinola; Wife of Provincial Pastor in-charge of Redeemed Christians Church of God (RCCG) Lagos Province 36, Mrs. Ebunoluwa Dania, and Chairperson of the occasion/ Proprietress,l HiSeed Schools, lkosi, Pastor (Mrs.) Olaitan Olayinka, during Glorious Sisters of Jesus House Programme Themed: Rejoicing in His Glory held in Lagos...recently
Four People Kidnapped, Shops Looted by Bandits in Bauchi
Gunmen kill community leader, student in Rivers
Segun Awofadei in Bauchi and Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt
Four people have been kidnapped while shops were looted by bandits in Gyale Village, in Mansur District of Alkaleri Local Government Area, Bauchi State.
Similarly, gunman suspected to be an assassin has killed the Vice Chairman of Obelle Council of Chiefs, in Obelle town, Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The Bauchi State Police Command, which confirmed the incident,
through its Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), CSP Ahmed Mohammed Wakili, yesterday said that, “On the 20th, July 2025, at about 15.00 hours, that is (Sunday), the Command received an information from Mansur Outstation through the Village Head of Gyalr via Mansur.”
According to him, “On the 23.30.00 hours, a large number of bandits through Yankari Game Reserve, invaded Gyali village and ransacked five local provisions stores in the village. Thereafter, they withdrew four people,
WAEC Debunks Rumours of 2025 WASSCE Cancellation
Funmi Ogundare
The West African Examinations Council (WAEC), Nigeria, weekend , denied widespread rumours circulating on social media that the 2025 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) for school candidates has been cancelled.
Acting Head of Public Affairs, WAEC Nigeria, Moyosola Adesina, in a statement, described the claim as false and the work of mischief-makers, stressing that the examination has not been cancelled and that marking of scripts had already been completed.
“Results are expected to be released on or before Thursday August 4,” she said. The viral misinformation, dated
Saturday, July 19, alleged that the Federal Ministry of Education and WAEC had nullified the exam due to large-scale malpractice, including coordinated question leaks and unauthorised digital dissemination of materials.
The council, Adesina noted, refuted the existence of any such directive and emphasised that all official communication from it is only disseminated through its verified platforms and accredited media outlets.
“We urge stakeholders and the general public to disregard the said publication,” she said She reaffirmed the council’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of its examinations and warned against the spread of false information intended to incite panic among candidates and parents.
namely Tasiu Malam Yahaya, 32 years old, Hakilu Ubayo, 15 years old, Abdul Aziz Suleiman, 28 years old, and Rabiu Ganjuwa, 16 years old,
all of Gyale. They were the owners of the shops, taken to an unknown destination.”
The PPRO added that, “On receiving the information,
the Commissioner of Police, Banchi State Police Command, Sani OmoloriAliyu, instructed D.P.O., Alkaleri, and other relevant
state security agencies, such as the vigilance group and the hunters group, to lead a patrol, special hunters were deployed to the scene.”
Obi Thanks Nigerians for Goodwill Messages on His 64 Birthday
Obidients donate N500,000 to 100 patients in Sokoto
Chuks Okocha in Abuja and Onuminya Innocent in Sokoto
Former Anambra State governor and the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour party, Peter Obi, has commanded Nigerians for wishing him well on his 64th birthday.
This is just as The Obidient
Movement in Sokoto State donated N500,000 to over 100 hospitalised patients at the Maryam Abacha Women and Children Hospital in Sokoto, as part of the celebrations to mark Obi’s birthday.
Obi in a statement said: ‘’From the bottom of my heart, I sincerely thank everyone for the outpouring of goodwill and birthday wishes I received worldwide.
‘’I remain deeply grateful to all who marked the day in one way or another, not to mention Nigerian youths, the Obidient family and the members of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, renowned for their apostolate to the poor.’’
According to Obi, ‘’As for me, while I deeply appreciate the gestures of celebration, I must once again reiterate that I do not personally celebrate birthdays. I recall vividly when I turned 50, during my time as Governor. Many institutions and individuals approached me with elaborate plans for the occasion.
Katsina Gov Involved in Road Accident
Francis Sardauna in Katsina
The Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda was involved in a minor road accident this evening along the Daura - Katsina Road,
while carrying out his official duties in service to the people of Katsina State.
This was contained in a statement issued to journalists by his Chief Press Secretary, Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed
last night.
“We are pleased to confirm that the governor is in good health and stable condition, with no serious injuries sustained.
“Governor Radda remains
in high spirits and expresses his gratitude to Almighty Allah for His protection, as well as Katsina citizens and well-wishers for their prayers and concern”, the statement said.
‘Sponsored Plots to Derail Presidential Amnesty Programme’ll Fail’
The Ijaw Youth Network (IYN) has condemned recent attacks and blackmail by a group called “Niger Delta Concerned Youths for Change” against the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr Dennis Otuaro.
The IYN in a statement
signed by its President, Frank Ebikabo, and Secretary, Federal Ebiaridor, described the group’s allegation of mismanagement of the programme against Otuaro as “baseless, malicious, and unfounded.”
According to the group, the attacks and blackmail were part of a coordinated campaign to give the PAP administrator a bad name and distract him from the remarkable work he is doing in the Niger Delta.
The group stressed that “all such wicked plots to derail the programme will fail like others before them.”
They stated that the serial attacks and blackmail smack of pure hatred for Otuaro because he had blocked all loopholes which the misguided attackers and blackmailers and their sponsors were using to siphon funds meant for execution of the programme’s mandate.
Aviary Club Celebrates 29th Founders’ Day, Champions Youth Mentorship
Sunday Aborisade in abuja
As the Aviary Club of Nigeria celebrated its 29th Founders’ Day last Saturday, the organisation reaffirmed its mission to build a legacy of leadership, integrity and youth empowerment across Nigeria and beyond.
Founded on July 19, 1996, the Aviary Club has evolved from a small circle of friends into a global fraternity of professionals committed to philanthropy, civic responsibility and excellence in leadership.
The celebration, which spanned chapters nationwide and
internationally, marks nearly three decades of sustained commitment to nation-building through service.
Speaking on the significance of the anniversary, President of the Club, Sir Odia Eromosele, in a statement made available to THISDAY in Abuja, described the day as “a moment of reflection,
recommitment and rebirth.” He said: “This month is more than an anniversary. It’s a call to realign with the values that brought us together—honour, integrity and service. Founders’ Day reminds us that we are part of something timeless and greater than ourselves.”
Police Probe Officers over Arrest of LASU Student, Mercy Attababa
Sunday Ehigiator
The Zone 2 Police Command has launched an internal investigation into the conduct of officers involved in the controversial arrest of Lagos State University student, Ms.
Mercy Attababa, following the circulation of a viral video that sparked outrage on social media.
In an official statement released the Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) in charge of Zone 2, Adegoke
M. Fayoade, acknowledged public concern over the incident, which many described as heavy-handed and lacking due process. The arrest of Ms. Attababa was based on a petition filed by Mr. Emeka Okoye, who accused her and
several unnamed individuals of assault and threatening his life. Okoye claimed that on July 13 and 14, 2025, a group of armed persons, suspected to be cult members, invaded his residence and issued violent threats to him and his family.
University of Maiduguri Alumni, Students Reject Renaming Institution after Buhari
Wale Igbintade
Alumni and students of the University of Maiduguri as well as concerned indigenes of Borno State have rejected the renaming of the institution to Muhammadu Buhari University by President Bola
Tinubu to immortalise the immediate past president.
The renaming, announced at a special Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting held in Buhari’s honour on July 17, has drawn widespread criticism both within and outside the university.
President Bola Tinubu on Thursday, July 17, 2025, during an expanded Federal Executive Council (FEC) at the Presidential Villa in Abuja announced the renaming of the university after Buhari in honour of the former Nigerian leader.
Projecting their argument, the
groups in a joint public petition addressed to President Tinubu, said the university is more than just a name, as it is a powerful symbol of resilience, academic excellence, and cultural heritage — especially in the face of insecurity that once threatened the North-east region.
MONDAYSPORTS
Boniface Affirms Leverkusen Stay Amids AC Milan,
Kunle Adewale
Nigeria and Bayer Leverkusen striker, Victor Boniface, has reaffirmed his commitment to the club, dispelling rumors of a potential move elsewhere this summer transfer window.
In an exclusive interview with German outlet, Bild, the 24-year-old Super Eagles forward expressed his desire to remain with the Bundesliga runners-up, emphasizing his ambition to win titles and contribute to a successful season under new head coach Erik ten Hag.
“Absolutely, my future is here. From my side, it’s 100 percent clear that I’m staying,” Boniface told Bild.
“I have three years left on my contract, I want to win titles with Bayer, have a great season.”
His comments come after a tumultuous transfer window that saw him linked with clubs like AC Milan, Galatasaray, and Saudi’s Al-Nassr.
A potential move to the Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr collapsed in the winter window last January when they opted for Aston Villa’s Jhon Durán instead.
Reflecting on the failed transfer, Boniface remained unfazed, stating, “It is what it is. The transfer didn’t happen, I’m still here.”
Despite interest from AC Milan, who are reportedly undergoing a
squad overhaul, Boniface dismissed the speculation.
“Even when things weren’t going so well for me last season, I spoke to (sporting director) Simon Rolfes and told him: I love it here.”
His focus is now on a strong pre-season to ensure peak fitness for the upcoming campaign.
Boniface’s decision is a significant boost for Leverkusen, who have lost key players like Florian Wirtz, Jonathan Tah and Jeremie Frimpong this summer.
Under ten Hag, the club is navigating a major squad rebuild following Xabi Alonso’s successful tenure, which included a Bundesliga title and DFB-Pokal triumph.
The 2025 edition of the International Pairs Golf Competition wrapped up in thrilling fashion over the weekend at the prestigious Ibom Hotel and Golf Resort, with the duo of Julius Fadairo and Essiet Udeme clinching the top prize. The pair emerged champions after posting a combined total of 74 stableford points over 36 holes.
Donning the jersey of Seplat Energy, the wining pair opened their campaign with 36 points and closed with 38 points, edging out a highly competitive field to claim the coveted first-place position. With the win, Fadairo and Udeme will fly Nigeria’s flag at the International Pairs World Finals, at the renowned Sun City Golf Resort in South Africa in October.
Sponsored by Seplat Energy, Pepsi, Suzuki by CFAO,
RwandAir, and True Blue Energy, the fiercely contested tournament also saw the team of Ganiyu and Eddie secure the second spot with a total of 70 stableford points tying Nsenobong Akpabio and Edidiong Idiong who also recorded 70 points.
In fourth place were Madudu and Orok, while Walter and Onofiok rounded out the top five finishers of this year’s competition.
In the guest category, exinternational footballer Jonathan Akpoborie came out on top, finishing with a total of 54 points over two days.
Speaking after the event, Remi Olukoya, Nigeria’s representative for International Pairs expressed
satisfaction with the tournament’s turnout and reaffirmed his commitment to enhancing future editions.
“We are committed to continually improving the quality of our events to give participants a memorable experience,” Olukoya said.
He also expressed gratitude to the sponsors; Seplat Energy, Pepsi, Suzuki by CFAO, RwandAir, and True Blue Energy for their continued support and fruitful partnership.
South Africa long-serving coach, Desiree Ellis, has boasted that her team know how to stop the Super Falcons as both teams clash in a blockbuster WAFCON 2024 semifinal on Tuesday in Casablanca, Morocco. Kick-off time on Tuesday is 5pm.
Banyana Banyana of South Africa had to stop a spirited Senegal after a dramatic penalty shootouts .There were no goals in 120 minutes of action as the winner had to emerge in the shootouts to reach the semifinal
of the competition.
The Super Falcons, on the other hand, cruised past Zambia 5-0 to reach the last four.
By the numbers, Nigeria dominate most categories: best attack (nine goals), best defence (no goals conceded).
With the draws chart of the 46th edition of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) annual Senior Tennis Championship released on Sunday, action will begin today in the men and women’s singles categories of the tournament serving off at the tennis courts of the package “B”of the Moshood Abiola Stadium, Abuja. The doubles events will commence on Tuesday at the same venue. The men’s singles will feature Round of 64 while the women’s singles is round of 32.. The men’s and women’s doubles will be decided in the Round of 16 and
same Round of 16 applies to the wheelchair category.
Some of the top players expected in action include; Sylvester Emmanuel, Imeh Joseph, Aanu Aiyegbusi, Oyinlomo Quadri and the women’s singles defending Champion, Mary-Love Edward among others.
Acting Director, Corporate Communications of CBN, Mrs Hakama Sidi Ali, reaffirmed the apex bank’s continued support for the championship. The tournament which started with the qualifiers on Friday, 18 July, will end on Saturday, 26 July, 2025.
Fresh off a strong performance at the recently concluded ITTF Africa West Regional Championships, Nigerian table tennis players are brimming with confidence as they prepare for the WTT Contender Lagos, scheduled to
kick off on Tuesday, July 22, at the Molade Okoya-Thomas Hall, Teslim Balogun Stadium, Lagos.
Matthew Kuti and Ajoke Ojomu emerged as singles champions, with Nigerian athletes dominating the semifinal rounds across multiple categories.
Men’s singles semifinalist Taiwo Mati highlighted the importance of the regional tournament in preparing them for the international stage.
“I’m really pleased with our performance at the regional championships. The level of play definitely helped us get into top
The 2025 edition of the Women’s Premier Basketball League will kickoff off on Tuesday at the indoor Sportshall of the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City Edo State, as defending champions, Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries Basketball take the tipoff with First Deep Waters.
The annual elite women basketball league is sponsored by Zenith Bank Plc in collaboration with the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF).
After two morning games at
form for the WTT Contender Lagos,” Mati said. “There’s no doubt the WTT will be more challenging, given the caliber of international players coming to Lagos. But the regional event showed that many of us have made significant improvements. Personally, it helped me identify areas I need to work on before the tournament kicks off.”
Mati, who received a wildcard entry into the main draw of the men’s singles, expressed optimism about the prospects of African players, noting that the performance gap between them and the rest of the world is steadily narrowing.
Ajoke Ojomu, who clinched her first regional title after two previous final appearances, is also heading into the WTT Contender Lagos with renewed confidence.
However, their most recent meeting in the WAFCON ended in a 2-1 victory for South Africa. Ellis led South Africa to a first-ever WAFCON three years ago also in Morocco.
“There’s a fire, a collective memory. We know what this match (vs Super Falcons) means. We know what it takes to beat Nigeria,” she confidently told cafonline.com on Sunday.
BANK
the same venue on Tuesday, First DeepWaters will file out against the Champions at 1pm as the Olukoya girls will be expected to show the stuff that made them the best in the country last year.
The first match of the day will be played between Sunshine Angels and Bayelsa Blue Whales at 9am while the second game slated for 11am will see First Bank and Delta Force tango for honours.
In the last game of Day one scheduled to start at 3pm, IGP Queens will try Dolphins for size.
The Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Zenith Bank Plc, Dame Adaora Umeoji, has assured stakeholders that the women basketball league which the company has been sponsoring for about 20 years would be getting bigger and better every year.
Activities to formally flag off the 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season will be flagged off with an Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Abuja.
In a letter of invitation to the clubs, the NPFL Chief Operating Officer, Davidson Owumi stated that the AGM will hold on Monday, July 28 at the Abuja Continental Hotel, (the Old Abuja Sheraton Hotels) while the arrival date for all participants is Sunday, July 27.
Part of the agenda of the AGM will be the draw ceremony for the fixtures of the new season slated to start on August 22nd.
“In addition to the various reports that will be presented
Umeoji expressed delight over how the competition has produced national team stars over the years just as D’Tigress have been ruling the continent by winning the AfroBasket in the past four editions courtesy of the products of Zenith Bank Women Premier League.
at the AGM, we are also going to conduct the framework for the fixtures of the new season”, Owumi told NPFL Media. Chairman of the Board, Hon Gbenga Elegbeleye will lead the meeting with the board members and the 20 clubs that played in the last season. The four promoted clubs will be formally admitted to the NPFL just as the four relegated clubs will be attending their last meeting as part of the elite league. President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau is expected to declare the meeting open with a number of exinternational players in attendance to add colour to the draw event.
Victor Boniface...staying put at Bayer Leverkusen
L-R: Esset Udeme, Chief Executive Officer of Falcon Golf Development, Remi Olukoya and Julius Fadairo shortly after the presentation of trophies to winners at the 2025 International Pairs Golf Championship in Uyo
WAFCON IN MOROCCO
ZENITH
LEAGUE
8TH DAY FIDAU PRAYER FOR LATE AWUJALE OF IJEBU LAND...
L-R: Son of the late Kabiyesi, Ade Adetona; Daughter, Aboderin Adetona, Former Governor of Ogun State, Aremo Olusegun Osoba; Wife of the Governor of Ogun State, Mrs Bamidele Abiodun; Governor Dapo Abiodun; President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, during the 8th day Fidau Prayer for the late Awujale of Ijebu land, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona … yesterday
MAHMUDJEGA
VIEW FROM THE GALLERY
Buhari Has News for Us
In 1984, Peter Enahoro [alias Peter Pan] began his obituary in Africa Now magazine on the death of Guinean President Ahmad Sekou Toure by disagreeing with Mark Anthony’s statement in Shakespeare’s novel Julius Caesar. Anthony had said, “The evil that men do lives after them; the good is oft interred with their bones.” Dammit, said Peter Pan, it is the other way round; people bury the sins when a man dies and remember only the good deeds. He said so because he was going to unearth some of Toure’s sins, including the death in detention of the eminent Guinean diplomat Diallo Telli, second Secretary General of the Organisation of African Unity [OAU, today known as African Union, AU].
With the passing last week of President Muhammadu Buhari, cumulatively the second longest person to rule this country both as a military ruler and later as a two-term civilian president, there was ample room for both adherents of Mark Anthony’s and of Peter Pan’s approaches to comment on his very long public service career. Which one is preferable? Maybe we should use the wisdom of the small boy who was sent to deliver a money gift to a cleric. Now, in the North, a gift should be rewarded with tukuici, a small token for the person who brought it. In the North too, clerics are stereotypically greedy. This clergyman, after collecting the gift, put the bearer in a difficult position by asking, “Should I give you tukuici or should I pray for you?” The boy preferred the money, but one cannot reject prayer, so he said, “Please mix the two for me.”
What are the mourners, admirers, critics and commentators all saying? Buhari earned many epithets during the years of his two-part rule, in-between, and afterwards. Those epithets summarized people’s views of him and his rulership record. There were the unchanging epithets for life, including that he was tall, gangling, light skinned, ramrod stiff, too serious, hardly smiling, Spartan, not interested in wealth, suspicious of many people and of many institutions including politicians, civil servants, economists, legislators, businessmen, Western governments, trade unionists, journalists, civil society types and prominent clerics. During his military rulership days, Buhari earned many epithets. Such as Patriotic; he said “this and future generations of Nigerians have no other country but Nigeria. We must stay here and salvage it together.” Tough; his Administration hauled into detention hundreds of politicians and businessmen, in fact everyone who was suspected of abusing security votes, contract awards or import licenses during the four years of the Second Republic. No nonsense; because his Special Military Tribunals, each headed by an Army General, handed down sentences of up to 300 years to convicted persons. Draconian; because Buhari promulgated rapidfire decrees including the Constitution [Suspension and Modification] decree 1 of 1984; State Security [Detention of Persons] Decree 2; Public Officers [Protection Against False Accusation] Decree 4 [and its notorious clause, “any story that is false in any
material particular and/or embarrassing to the Federal Military Government”]; Banking [Freezing of Assets] decree 6; Federal Military Government [Supremacy and Enforcement of Powers] decree 13; and Special Military Tribunal [Miscellaneous Offences] Decree 20 of 1984, which provided tough punishment for everything from tampering with NEPA and NITEL cables to exam malpractice to hard drug pushing.
One newspaper gave Buhari and Idiagbon the epithet Deaf Duo, because they ignored NBA’s restraint and backdated decrees, including to provide capital punishment for cocaine pushers. He got the epithet Dictator; War Against Indiscipline [WAI] was so tough because the youthful WAI Brigades flogged street hawkers, those who urinated in the open and bus drivers who overloaded their vehicles. Super Patriot; because Buhari made every Nigerian to hoist the national flag on his house. Later on, Idiagbon warned that flags should not be hoisted “come rain, come shine,” but must be hauled up at 6am every morning and brought down at 6pm, as is done in military barracks. Unbending; because in May 1984, Idiagbon suddenly appeared on NTA at 7pm, announced the closure of all borders and an immediate change in currency. It was done so secretly that even members of the Supreme Military Council did not know about it, because the wife of one them was caught up with a lot of old money at his Kaduna ranch. Cruel; Buhari’s regime got General T Y Danjuma to hire Israeli secret agents to steal Alhaji Umaru Dikko from London streets and bundle him into a crate to be smuggled to Nigeria. Buhari’s military-era cabinet was of high quality,
but ministers trembled when they were about to be appointed. Chike Ofodile, who became Buhari’s powerful Attorney General and Minister of Justice, said he was sitting in his Onitsha office two days after the coup when soldiers arrived in a Land rover. While his office staff and family members wailed, Offodile was whisked away to Enugu, hauled into a plane and taken straight to Dodan Barracks in Lagos where, to his amazement, he was appointed Attorney General. He then asked for permission to phone his wife and tell her to stop crying.
Brooked no dissent; when the revered Sheikh Abubakar Gummi criticized the execution of cocaine pushers in 1985, Buhari went to the Armed Forces Command and Staff College at Jaji and warned clerics to hands off government matters or else. At the end of that month, the former Grand Khadi of Northern Nigeria learnt that his pension was stopped.
Sudden fall; the day after Eid el-Kabir in August 1985, Buhari/Idiagbon regime was suddenly overthrown in a coup. He was clamped in detention for the next three years, while Idiagbon, who was in Saudi Arabia, promptly returned home and was detained. They soon earned the epithet Clean Hands; all over Africa when a government was overthrown, the first accusation against it was of corruption. Throughout the years of Buhari and Idiagbon detention, no corruption allegations were levelled against them. Instead they were accused of human rights abuses; then Deputy Inspector General of Police Muhammadu Gambo went and threw open the gates of NSO cells, and we saw white-collar criminal suspects crammed in cells. Not many Nigerians sympathized with them.
For six years after his release from detention, Buhari lived a quiet life in Kaduna, mostly off the public eye, only attending social events in the houses of his close associates. Until General Sani Abacha increased fuel prices in 1995, instituted the most transparent use of the proceeds by channeling them into a Petroleum Trust Fund [PTF] with Buhari as Chairman, to be directly invested in infrastructure. Buhari earned the epithet Truthful in that role, but others gave him the epithet Lopsided, saying some parts of the country benefited more than others.
All over the North, Buhari’s military rule and PTF records earned him the epithet Mai Gaskiya, i.e. the honest one. Buoyed by it, Buhari suddenly waded into party politics in 2002 and joined, not the ruling PDP but the opposition ANPP. Huge crowds of youths mobbed him when he appeared at social events in Northern cities. He acquired another epithet, Shelltox Maganin Kwari, i.e. insecticide that kills roaches and mosquitoes. While the youth and down-trodden adored him, top Northern politicians, businessmen, traditional rulers and clerics were all wary of him.
A political cult soon evolved around Buhari. He got the epithet Perennial because he contested for the presidency five times, in 2003, 2007, 2011, 2015 and 2019, on the platforms of ANPP, CPC and APC, the
first three unsuccessfully. Buhari’s political cult became the most potent in Nigeria since the First Republic. In 2011 he won 12 states outright in presidential elections, but he lost to President Goodluck Jonathan. In 2015, having joined with others to craft the APC mega opposition alliance, Buhari got the epithet Comeback Kid when he became the first person in Nigeria’s history, and one of only few in Africa, to defeat a sitting president in elections. Man with the Longest Coattails, because numerous people grabbed it and rode to governorship and legislative positions in 2015. Baba Go Slow; because Buhari’s presidency got off to a slow start in 2015. It took him months to make key appointments, including of ministers. He however answered the epithet by saying, “Those who were going fast, where did they go to?” A more enduring epithet was Cabalism, that he was surrounded by a cabal of close friends and aides. Remarkably, his former Chief of Staff Prof Ibrahim Gambari lent credence to the charge last week when he said cabal members by-passed him and sent memos to Buhari. Spartan; Buhari dressed simply, was averse to opulence, and was never accused of a corrupt deed. He was accused of lopsided appointments; he fought National Assembly over budget padding; some Northern youths called him Yawale because he was said to love foreign travel; he had long bouts of illness; age was telling on him; he grappled with tough decisions such as oil subsidy which he replaced with Under Recovery; he allowed slight naira devaluation because states could not pay salaries; he rarely changed ministers or military service chiefs; he suffered the misfortune of economic recession and Covid-19 under his watch; he threw out mercenaries that Jonathan regime hired; he succeeded in degrading Boko Haram, only to see kidnapping and banditry explode in the North West; he approved a very ill-advised last minute currency change. Post presidency, Buhari’s popularity had considerably waned and his political cult was virtually dissolved. His death in London and the burial in Daura, in which the Federal Government, Katsina State government and the community pulled all stops, however evoked national emotions and sympathies.
Anyway, to all those opposition politicians, former detainees and media commentators who have spent decades heaping negative epithets on Muhammadu Buhari, remember what Richard Nixon told reporters in 1962. Nixon lost the presidential election to John Kennedy in 1960. Two years later, against the advice of his aides, he ran for Governor of California and lost. Nixon felt the news media played a big role in his defeat. When he emerged from his campaign headquarters, dozens of newsmen were waiting. He said, “Gentlemen, I have news for you. I have retired from politics. You will not have Richard Nixon to kick around anymore.”
I imagine Muhammadu Buhari telling Nigerian newsmen, “I have news for you. I have passed away peacefully. Pray for me if you want to, but you will not have Muhammadu Buhari to kick around anymore.”
Buhari